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“Embrace Us As Fellow Nigerians Seeking Prosperous Livelihood And Country” – Miyetti Allah Appeals To South Easterners

August 12, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Leadership of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State on Monday, August 12, 2024, strongly distanced the body from the alleged kidnappings and other criminal activities by two Fulani herdsmen in the Mgbakwu area of Awka, North Local Council of Anambra State.

In a video currently in circulation in the social media ,two suspected Fulani herders believed to be part of a spate of abductions and other criminal activities within Mgbakwu Area of the State were paraded

But a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders of Nigeria, MACBAN, Gidado Siddiki said that the group has equally been at the receiving end of the criminal activities of people masquerading as Fulani herdsmen.

MACBAN, a vital component of Anambra state non-indigenes Association, claimed that in recent times, it has lost eleven people and about 33 cattle to the criminal elements in the state.

According to the Association, the criminal activities of undesirable elements, are the reasons the Mgbakwu and other areas are unsafe.

They stated that it was also owing to the high insecurity that genuine members of the Association decided to seize business activities in the area.

MACBAN and the leadership of the non-indigenous communities while insisting that their members are law abiding residents, committed to lawful business activities, also called for an unfettered probe into the alleged kidnappings in the area.

They said the investigation has become urgent and necessary in the face of the bad image being given to the Fulani and other law abiding non-indigenes in Anambra State by a few misguided elements, pretending to be herders.

The umbrella body of the Anambra non-indigenous residents expressed its support for lawful actions against criminals and their activities, irrespective of ethnic, religious and other backgrounds.

“It is crucial to recognize that criminals do not discriminate between victims based on their backgrounds. They are driven solely by the potential for ransom.

“It is important to note that 11 MACBAN members have been reported missing in the same Community ( Mgbakwu) where the viral video was recorded .

“Our members have suffered significant losses ,including the killing of approximately 20 cattle owned by one Haruna Mohammed and the disappearance of 13 cows belonging to one Ibrahim Mohammad along with the owner himself ( Ibrahim Mohammad) in the same area .

“Our members have been legitimately and genuinely engaged in cattle breeding in the community for years .

“However, due to the deteriorating security situation at the beginning of this year, all our legitimate members left the area.” MACBAN noted .

The Association, further stated that the suspected criminal elements arrested and shown in the video are neither its members nor known to it.

It, therefore, urged Security Agencies and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough inquest into the criminal activities in the affected area with a view to fishing out and prosecuting those found culpable.

“We urge that any Fulani or individuals connected to these crimes be prosecuted to uncover any potential accomplices and prevent further criminal activities .

“MACBAN remains dedicated to assisting in the security of Anambra and the entire South East region .We also appeal to local communities to embrace us as fellow Nigerians who seek a prosperous livelihood and contribute positively to the country

“Having lived in Awka since 1986, and raised my family here. I strongly oppose any harm coming to our people in the South East ” Siddiki stated.

Reinstated Edo Deputy Gov Shuaibu Announces Resumption Of Duty, Govt Says Action Amounts To Impersonation

Ayodele Oni

August 12, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, on Monday, announced his resumption of duties and directed his personal staff to do the same.

He has also issued a warning to banks conducting transactions with his office without his explicit consent, and highlighted the illegality of such actions.

In a video address, Shaibu emphasized that those who have not returned to work since his reinstatement must do so immediately or face consequences.

Shuaibu had announced the appointment of some personal aides including Chief of Staff and media immediately after his victory at the court.

He clarified that the Federal High Court’s ruling on his reinstatement confirmed that his office has never been officially vacant.

Shaibu expressed his sorrow over the recent killing of a Police Officer assigned to the APC governorship candidate for the September 21 election, an incident that occurred shortly after his return to Edo State following the court judgment. He noted that some suspects have been apprehended in connection with the case

However, in a statement issued by Osa Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, the Edo State Government labeled Shaibu’s actions as a “clear case of impersonation.”

He said: “It has come to the attention of the Edo State Government that the former Deputy Governor, Comr. Philip Shaibu has been carrying out correspondence with different institutions and organisations both within and outside the State in a clear case of impersonation.

“In the interest of the safety of these organizations, we want to restate that Shaibu is not the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and every correspondence from him in that regard should be disregarded and considered a forgery.

“The issue of his purported reinstatement is still active in court and the next hearing for the two separate motions filed by the State Government and the Edo House of Assembly challenging the purported reinstatement by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court is fixed for 24 September 2024.

“The State through the Attorney General of Edo State and the Edo House of Assembly by their lawyers, Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, and Ken Mozia, SAN, respectively, had in the motions sought an order for a stay of the execution of the purported reinstatement and an order suspending the judgment and restraining Shaibu from parading himself or attending any official function as deputy governor pending the hearing and determination of the appeal.

“Therefore, the status quo is that His Excellency, Omobayo Marvelous Godwins, remains the deputy governor of Edo State and any correspondence carried out by any other person, including Philip Shaibu is an act of impersonation, and anyone who deals with him does so at his or her own risk.

“Security agencies are, by this notice, alerted to the potential breach of peace and are urged to hold Philip Shaibu responsible for any security breach in the State arising from his ignoble actions.”

International Youth Day 2024: Reps Assures Youths Of Brighter Future

Ayodele Oni

August 12, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives has highlighted various measures it is identifying with the youths to ensure a better and guaranteed future.

The house, in a message to Nigerians youths to commemorate International Youth Day 2024, with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” assured that the 10th House of Representatives remains committed to the welfare of the youths.

“With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 35, and approximately 110 million young people aged 15-34, the youth are a vital force driving our country’s future.

“Recognizing their potential, the House is committed to empowering young Nigerians as a key strategy for achieving sustainable development.

“In alignment with this commitment, the House introduced Agenda 6 on Inclusion, which focuses on integrating youth into national development processes.

“The establishment of two dedicated committees – the Committee on Youth Development and the Committee on Youth in Parliament in July 2023, further exemplifies this commitment.

“These committees play a crucial role in addressing youth-related issues and ensuring that young Nigerians have a voice in legislative matters.

“At a recent Town Hall Meeting with Youth Groups and Organisations, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, reinforced this dedication announcing the House’s commitment to engaging with the youth biannually.

“An initiative that aims to facilitate ongoing dialogue, ensuring that the concerns and ideas of young Nigerians are integrated into legislative processes.”

The statement, signed by the spokesman of the house, Akin Rotimi Jnr quoted, Speaker Abbas, that “the 10th House, under my leadership, has prioritized youth-oriented legislation and will continue to give issues affecting Nigeria’s youth the utmost attention that they deserve.”

He also urged the youth to remain patriotic and law-abiding, while seeking their belief that Nigeria would succeed.

Also, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth Development, Esin Martins Etim, PDP, Akwa Ibom, further stated: “Aligned with our Legislative Agenda, we are resolute in advocating for a youth-responsive budget to strengthen youth empowerment and broaden access to vocational and technological training.

“Our commitment is to formulate policies that advance digital literacy and open up opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

Chairman of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, APC, Oyo, added that “The 10th House of Representatives is dedicated to providing economic opportunities, fostering inclusion, and enhancing youth participation in governance.

“By prioritizing these areas, we aim to create a more inclusive and progressive Nigeria where the youth can thrive and contribute to national development.”

“My Husband Is Mother’s Boy” – Woman On Why She Tore Her Husband’s International Passport

Akinwale Kasali

August 12, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

The woman who tore her husband’s International Passport at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, has explained that one of the reasons she did so “is because my husband is a mother’s boy, a sister’s boy.

Nigerians were shocked as the viral video showed the angry and defiant woman took her husband’s International Passport as they arrived Nigeria and were going through Immigration, and tore it.

She then dared shocked onlookers including Immigration Officers, by asking them if the Passport was theirs.

They had arrived Nigeria from Europe with their three children, and as her husband pushed the last of three children, a baby the “pram”, he helplessly watched his wife tear his Passport and mocked him: “This is Nigeria, not Europe.”

Identified as Favour Igiebor, she justified her action. “I am not a mad woman, I went through a lot in his hands”, she stated.

Narrating her ordeal, Favour said she decided to do what she did because, “we are presently in nigeria and not in Europe.”

According to her, they have had family issues long before their return to Nigeria from Europe.

Igiebor, a content creator known for sharing content about her husband and kids on TikTok, spoke Monday amid outrage expressed by not a few Nigerians who have called for her arrest and prosecution.

In the video, she said, “This issue has been going on for a long time. And I have to do what I did. Don’t just look at my actions alone. I’m not a mad woman. I have gone through so many things. I have my own reasons.

“What if I had done this thing in Europe, where we came from? I don’t want him to go through much stress, which is why I did it in Nigeria. So many people at the airport that day saw me acting. It has been a family issue all the time. My husband even cannot speak about it. I suffered with him, and just like that, his family wants my suffering to be shattered.

“To be sincere, I did it so my husband would not return (to Europe). I have gone through pain. Many don’t know what I’m going through. My husband bought me an iPhone to calm me. It has been going on for years. He knows that I’ve not forgotten it; I’m just pretending to have gone past it.”

The woman apologised to Nigerians who were angry over her action, and to Nigerian immigration.

Igiebor further said her husband had neglected her for his family, adding, “My husband is a mother’s boy, sister’s and brother’s best brother. Making me the wife to be suffering. I did what I did for him to know that I’ve been bearing the pain.

“Those of you calling for my arrest should come and hold me responsible. I cry every time after three kids. They should let me reap what I have sown with him. My husband should come out and say what happened,” she stressed.

Igiebor did not provide specific details about the events that led to the passport destruction.

The Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, has began an investigation into the incident as her action broke the law. The NIS has vowed to prosecute her under Section 10(b) of the Immigration Act 2015 (as amended), with corresponding penalties outlined under Section 10(h) of the same Act.

According to a statement on Monday by NIS spokesman, Kenneth Udo, the incident is a violation of the law.

The NIS noted that her action could be a violation of Section 10(b) of the Immigration Act 2015 (as amended), which prohibits the willful destruction of Nigerian travel documents.

The act outlines specific penalties for such offences.

The statement further emphasised the Service’s dedication to enforcing the Immigration Act strictly to safeguard national security and preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s legal and diplomatic instruments.

Udo added that, “The Nigeria Immigration Service remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the provisions of the Immigration Act in the interest of national security, and to preserving the dignity and integrity of the nation’s legal instruments.”

Joseph Eboigbe Takes Over As New Edo SSG

Ayodele Oni

August 12, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Joseph Eboigbe has taken over as the new Secretary to the Edo State Government after the resignation of Osarodion Ogie.

Ogie tendered his letter of resignation last week to enable him concentrate on campaigns after being picked as the running mate of the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

In a statement on Monday, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie said the governor accepted the resignation after Ogie stepped down from his position to pursue his ambition to run as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.

According to him, “The governor thanks Ogie for his commitment and loyalty to the vision of building a vibrant and prosperous State championed by his administration in the last seven years.

“Governor Obaseki wishes Ogie the best in his aspirations and trusts that he will bring his wealth of experience to bear in pursuing his quest to serve Edo people.

According to him, “The governor has also approved the appointment of Mr. Joseph Eboigbe as the new Secretary to the State Government. The appointment takes immediate effect.”

He added: “Eboigbe served as former Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget and Economic Planning and later as Commissioner for Finance.

“He takes over as Secretary to the State Government to now run the final lap and continue the Governor’s Finishing Strong agenda.

“Eboigbe, a chartered accountant, had a 15-year stint at Deloitte before venturing into public service. He holds an Msc in Leadership and Strategy from the London Business School.”

Investigate Disbanded Ugochinyere’s Cmte Attempt To Mislead Nigerians, Ohaneze Group Tells Reps

James Orji

August 12, 2024

A Pressure Group in the South East, Ohaneze Think Tank, has called on the House of Representatives to investigate the activities of the disbanded Ikenga Ugochinyere’s led committee that was to investigate the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) under Engr Mele Kyari.

The Think Tank Group described the 15-man ad-hoc committee as scandalous, which must be investigated forthwith, adding that the co-chair of the controversial committee, Hon. Ugochinyere and some others were poised to impose their alleged sinister agenda on the House and the Nigerian public.

According to a statement signed by Dr Azubuike Ajuluchukwu and Dr Cletus Akinyili, Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator, in Enugu, the Group asked the lower chamber of the National Assembly to mandate the disbanded Committee to account for its embarrassing conduct, which interestingly came to light only after visiting the Dangote Refinery.

It similarly accused the committee of a premeditated stance to drag the hard-earned reputation of the Mele Kyari-led NNPCL to needless mud and altercations, maintaining that the committee’s activities were “a sham and mere distraction.”

The statement titled ‘Plea for removal of Ugochinyere as Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum (Midstream), read: “It’s heartening that after a public outcry, the House of Representatives finally dissolved the so-called committee that was supposed to investigate the frivolous allegations against the Group CEO of the NNPCL, Mele Kyari, by the so-called group of 15 members of the House.
“But the matter should not end there. That scandalous committee of 15-man led by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere must also be investigated as a deterrent.

“Ugochinyere has grossly abused his position as chairman of the Ad-hoc House Committee on Petroleum Products for reasons best known to him but which are hardly consistent with the public interest.

“Rather than facing the crucial task, the Ugochinyere-led committee jumped to a spiteful conclusion that Kyari and the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPR, Farouk Ahmed, should be sacrificed even before scratching the surface of a thorough investigation.

“It’s a shame that a man who claims to be a lawyer did not think about a fair hearing.
Hiding under the cloak of the Deputy Spokesman of the House, Rep. Philip Agbese, Ugochinyere ignited a media agenda against the NNPCL management, feeding his colleagues in the House, especially the leadership and the general public with falsehood and a deliberate attempt to destroy Kyari’s reputation by criticising him unfairly and dishonestly to please those whose bidding he was willing to do at all cost.

“But for the swift intervention of about 120 members of the House under the aegis of “1 Agenda”, Ugochinyere and his cohorts were poised to impose their sinister agenda on the House and the Nigerian public.

“The only way he and people like him can learn a lesson is for them to be investigated. What is their interest in the Dangote Refinery?
We align ourselves with the views of “1 Agenda” that the calls for Kyari’s removal are baseless, unfair and hypocritical.

“He deserves commendation for his leadership and transformation of NNPC Ltd, increasing crude oil production from 800,000 bpd to 1.6 million bpd.

“We have every reason to suspect that the calls for Kyari’s removal are targeted at the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the petroleum minister.

“We, therefore, call on the House not to stop at dissolution of the ad-hoc committee set up to implement the scandalous agenda of Ugochinyere and his ilk but also to investigate Ugochinyere’s interest in the Dangote Refinery further.”

Ekeoha Shopping Centre: The Torturous Journey To The Demolition, Remodeling And Reconstruction Of Over Four-Decade Abia Market

Suleiman Anyalewechi

August 12, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

On August 8, 2024, the Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, with enough fanfare and pageantry, flagged off the remodeling and reconstruction of the popular and bustling Ekeoha Market Aba, otherwise known as Shopping Centre.

The exercise, the Governor said, is to align the State of the over four decade old market with best national and international best standards.

But not minding the euphoria that heralded the flagging off ceremony, the reconstruction is not coming without stiff resistance from a large portion of the market’s traders and other users.

Only a few weeks back, a section of the Traders, under the aegis of concerned Ekeoha traders, had expressed serious reservations concerning the reconstruction efforts.

Yet, it was not as if they are totally unaware of the dilapidated State of most of the structures that dot the market. They are also conscious of the serious danger the poor state of the structures pose to their lives and the lives of other users of the market. But they appeared to have preferred looming disaster and threat to their lives, than to lose their prized business assets.

Not that they preferred death, but past bitter experiences offered no better option.

For one, earlier remodeling and reconstruction efforts at NgwaRoad and Ariaria International Markets, two of the high profile trading hubs in the commercial nerve centre of Abia State, had left a sour taste, too bitter to forget so soon.

Efforts between 2021 and 2023 to reconstruct the markets resulted in several thousands of original shop owners being left in the lurch.

Apart from not being carried along in the count down to the demolition, and reconstruction efforts, over 40, 000 traders and shop owners lost their shops.

Before demolishing their shops, no alternatives were provided. In the end, the reconstructed shops were handed over to political cronies, friends and family members of political office holders and party chieftains.

Apart from losing their shops, the original owners, most of who developed the properties with live savings, were not compensated.

Several died out of shock, while not a few had their businesses and other means of livelihood disrupted permanently.

However, Governor Otti, at the flag-off ceremony, promised that no original shop owner will lose his/her shop to the Ekeoha market reconstruction efforts.

“We are also conscious of the concerns about costs, but as a responsible Government, we have also taken proactive steps to ensure that financial leverages are provided to anyone genuinely interested in acquiring a shop, especially, the original allottees who shall retain the right of first refusal in the re-allocation process,” Governor Otti stated.

Reaffirming the position of the Governor, the developer, Rhino Homes and Properties, on Sunday, August 11, 2024, informed that a tripartite committee has been formed to work out the modalities for the issuance of the right of first refusal to original shop allottees.

A statement issued by its media office, and made available to The Source, stated that the committee will also determine the level of discount to be given to original shop owners, as well as favourable payments plans as the project progresses .

“The fear of losing shops expressed by shop owners at the Ekeoha Shopping Centre has been put to rest, as representatives of shop owners, developers and Government have formed a tripartite Committee and met to implement a transparent process in the shop allocation after the conclusion of each phase of the remodeling.

“This is in keeping with the promise of the Governor that no shop owner whose shop is affected in the remodeling will lose his/her shop as was witnessed in the past.

“The developer has also assured that existing shop owners will be given preference in the allocation of the shops.

“Shop owners are fully represented in the working committee and carried along in all the decision-making processes concerning the remodeling exercise”, the statement noted

The developer is represented on the Committee by Engr. Chinedu Onyeizu, and three others, while the Abia State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, heads the Government team.

The traders are represented by the Ekeoha Market leadership, led by Comrade Emeka Okeke.

The Source reports that market stakeholders had met on April 18, 2024, and May 22, 2024, to deliberate and work out details of the remodeling exercise.

However, it was not until June 6, 2024, at a townhall meeting that it was unanimously agreed by all parties to carry on with the project.

The developer has also assured that going by the about 30,000 shops and business premises to be churned out in the remodeling and reconstruction, there will be enough provision for both original allottees and new ones.

In the same vein, the President General, Abia State Amalgamated Traders Association, ASMATA, Sir Alphonsus Udeigbo, has reassured that no genuine original shop owner at the Ekeoha market will lose his/ her shop.

In an interview with this Magazine on Sunday, August 11, Udeigbo, who is, also, the Chairman of all Chairmen of Aba markets said that ASMATA will work in concert with the State Government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the ugly experience of the past does not repeat itself.

“Let me first admit the fact that the fears being expressed by our members at the Ekeoha market are well founded.

“We are all living witnesses to the sad development during past reconstruction exercises where original shop owners were driven out, and their shops given out without any form of compensation.

“But I want to assure those of them at the Ekeoha market that this Government in Abia State, presently, is their Government and all traders across the State.

“The traders are part and parcel of Dr Alex Otti’s administration, having played a key role in bringing it on board .

“The Government has the interest of the traders and members of the business community at heart. I want to inform all our members at Ekeoha market that their investments in terms of shops and others, as far as the remodeling exercise is concerned, are safe”, Chief Udeigbo noted .

Restraining Order On Enugu APC: South East Leadership Kicks, Petitions NJC Against Judge

Suleiman Anyalewechi

August 12, 2024

Enugu APC Chiarman - Barr Ugochukwu Agballah

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The South-east Zone of the All Progressive Congress, APC, has distanced the party from the legal suit that culminated in the restraining order slammed on the Ugochukwu Agballah-led Enugu state Working Committee, SWC.

The Source reports that Justice C.V. C. Ezeugwu of an Enugu state High Court had, on Thursday, August 8 2024, restrained Agballah, the Chairman and all the Enugu State APC Executive Members from parading themselves in their various positions pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice before him.

The restraining order was sequel to a motion ex-parte filed by a faction of the Enugu State APC led by the Acting Chairman, Nwafor Alphonsus Onyeacholam.

The presiding Judge who also barred the Agballah-led Executive from accessing the Party’s offices and properties, including bank accounts, have fixed August 13 for hearing on the motion on notice.

But in a statement at the weekend, Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the South-east National Vice Chairman described the development as strange.

He informed that the Party, has formally petitioned the National Judicial Council, NJC, seeking sanctions against Justice Ezeugwu for issuing such a strange restraining order without following due processes.

Faulting the order, the South East APC Vice Chairman, noted that the party contrary to required procedure, was neither joined in the suit nor served the proceedings.

Dr Arodiogbu also informed that no interim restraining order has so far been served on the APC as a party regarding the development in its Enugu State Chapter.

Furthermore, according to the statement, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, was not joined in the suit that resulted in the restraining order, contrary to the provisions of relevant sections of the 2022 Electoral Act .

He insisted that the glaring cases of oversight have tended to question the integrity and sincerity of the judicial processes that produced the restraining order.

The APC Vice Chairman, also, pointed out that the issuance of the order, without consideration of due processes equally poses serious challenges and implications for the APC as a party .

Dr Arodiogbu, in the statement, noted that aside the procedural errors, the Constitution of the Party bars members from exploring legal options without, first, exhausting all internal dispute resolution mechanisms

“Some of the parties and official positions stated in the media advertised interim order are completely unknown to the party and its constitution as amended .

“And that is why the Party insists that an opposition political party in Enugu State is involved in the media orchestrated crisis in our party

“A few months ago, it was kano State where the opposition party tried unsuccessfully to embarrass our National Chairman and Party with an ex-parte order .

“Now, it is Enugu State where forces are obviously afraid of our celebrated, hardworking State Chairman, Hon Ugochukwu Agballah, who has courageously weeded out very powerful moles and restored discipline and dignity to our Enugu State Chapter.

“The party has, also, petitioned the NJC against Justice CVC Ezeugwu for giving an ex-parte order to persons and offices unknown to the APC in a matter where the APC is not a legal party without putting the party on notice as required by the rules of court and as directed by the NJC.

“The party, hereby, informs the general public to disregard all media reports that the said ex-parte order of injunction is directed to APC, its offices and bankers.” Dr Arodiogbu stated .

The Source reports that much as the Agballah- led Executive, and the South East Leadership are pointing accusing fingers at the opposition for the travails of the APC, not a few observers believe that the problem may, afterall, be self inflicted.

For months, many of the party chieftains have cried out concerning the alleged high-handedness of the Agballah led SWC .

Before, and during the 2023 general elections, the embattled SWC orchestrated the suspension of many party stalwarts including the former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, the former Governor of the State Sullivan Chime, the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly and many others.

A few months back, the Agballah led SWC also slammed suspension order on some top Federal Government appointees from the state, including Dr Ginika, a Federal Commissioner with the Federal Character Commission.

In all, they were blackmailed and labelled moles and saboteurs who are out to undermine the interest of President Bola Tinubu by the embattled chairman.

Not a few are of the conviction that the estranged forces may have coalesced to fight back.

Instructively, the factional Onyeacholam camp has cited alleged gross abuse of office and highhandedness as reasons for their rebellion.

Sowore: Organizers Of #EndBadGovernance Protest To Sue FG Over Death Of Protesters

Akinwale Kasali

August 12, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Omoyele Sowore, one of the organisers of the #EndBadGovernance Protest has revealed plans to sue the Federal Government over the killings of protesters during the protests.

The protest aimed, according to the organisers, to draw attention to the hunger, suffering and bad governance in the land started on August 1, and ended on August 10, 2024.

It was planned to be peaceful, the Organisers had assured. But it was an assurance the Federal Government was skeptical about. The Government had expressed concern that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums and reduced to violence and looting and deaths.

True to the concern of Government,

the 10-day protest turned violent in some States, in the North.

It led to the torching of Government and private offices and businesses and residences. It led to massive looting in both public and private offices, businesses, and private residences.

Ultimately, it led to deaths on the side of protesters, especially those caught looting, and on the side of Security Agents who tried to make sure the protest was peaceful as assured.

But Sowore, a former Presidential Candidate, resident in the United States of America, stated that the Government was the first to escalate the protests into violence which then led to the death and wanton destruction of government and private properties in some States.

In an interview with The Punch Newspaper, Sowore stated that 17 persons were murdered in “cold blood” by the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking emphatically, he said: “We know of a Police Officer who was killed by a fellow policeman who rammed a water cannon armoured carrier into his van in Katsina State and an immigration officer who shot himself accidentally in Borno State.”

He expressed deep sorrow for those who lost their lives or were injured while exercising their constitutional right to protest peacefully.

He emphasized that the government was the first to bring violence to the demonstrations, using water cannons on peaceful protesters in Kano and firing bullets at protesters who were armed only with placards. So, he said:

“We will seek legal redress for the government’s actions on behalf of these unjustly attacked and detained compatriots, and we will never forget. One day, everyone who has committed these egregious crimes against the Nigerian people will be made to face the consequences of their crimes and the appropriate legal consequences for their actions.”

Addressing the issue of looting and vandalism both of which occurred during the protests, Sowore noted that the organisers had called for a non-violent protest and urged participants to avoid violence.

He also argued that the Government’s heavy-handed response initiated the violence, with security agencies using water cannons, tear gas, and live bullets against unarmed protesters.

“You Are A Walking Dead” – Otu Tells PDP, Rubbishes Opposition Party’s Profligacy Claim Against Him

The Source

August 11, 2024

By Stanley Ekpenyong, South South Bureau Chief

The opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Cross River state has incurred the wrath of the state government after it released a press statement accusing the governor, Senator Bassey Otu of profligacy and inability to account for funds that accrued to the state since coming to office.

Reacting, on behalf of Governor Otu, to the PDP’s tirades, Linus Obogo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, said in a press release made avilable to The Source, that there was no iota of truth in the PDP’s allegations, accusing the party of trying to incite the people against the Governor and merely struggling to remain relevant after a massive electoral defeat last year.

According to him, “the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has finally woken up from the dead after a lengthy period of lying in state, following its total trouncing at the 2023 governorship election…No doubt, the PDP, no matter how it struggles to croak, remains a party walking dead in Cross River State, and one desperately clutching at straws to justify its long waned influence.

“The PDP and its jaded members, for want of what to say, will always go back to their pastime, which is simply, dishing out beer parlour gossip. This is why the various figures the dead party bandied in their well-worn regurgitations are not only outlandish but patently false.

“It is obvious that the PDP has begun playing politics too early, even before the whistle is sounded ahead of 2027. But truth must, however, be told that, it is time for governance and not politics. So the famished party and its diminishing clan can wait until 2027.

“So, the Friday’s press statement by the PDP, is no doubt a glaring testament to the party’s diminishing relevance in the political landscape of the state. It is equally evident that the party is resorting to baseless accusations and sensationalism in a desperate attempt to regain political traction”

He accused the PDP of ignoring the achievements of the governor since taking office while deliberately feeding the public with falsehood.

“Putatively, PDP’s claim that Governor Otu failed to account for over 70 billion Naira received as intervention funds and N150billon as monthly allocations is not only unfounded but outright hogwash with fiendish intent to stir public angst Governor Otu. For a state that has consistently placed second to last among the 36 sub-nationals in revenue allocations, the PDP should tell Cross Riverians the magic or mystery behind the upsurge in the allocation to the state.

“In just one year, Governor Otu has prioritized infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, and social welfare programs, which have positively impacted the lives of many residents.

Moreover, the assertion that the administration has not adequately utilized the NG-CARES program funds is a gross misrepresentation of reality. On this, the PDP., as always, displayed a rather crass and monumental ignorance about what the NG-CARES is all about. It is a REIMBURSEMENT scheme which Cross River, like other states had earned following an independent verification process.

“That the administration of Otu transparently and successfully directed these resources towards critical areas, including cash transfers to vulnerable populations and community development initiatives clearly underscored his unwavering commitment to bettering the lot of the citizenry. The PDP’s claim of only 1,700 beneficiaries is also not reflective of the broader impact of these programs, which have reached thousands of Cross Riverians.

The PDP’s criticism of the budget allocations is also misplaced. Investments in the governor’s office and other administrative sectors are not merely frivolous expenditures; they are necessary for the effective functioning of government. A well-equipped office fosters efficiency and productivity, ultimately benefiting the citizens.

“On the PDP’s hypocritical stance on local government funding, it is ludicrous that the same party that unconscionably haemorrhaged funds meant for councils for nearly two decades is suddenly playing the role of an Ombudsman.

It is on record that under their watch, local governments in Cross River State faced stagnation and neglect. Since assuming the reins, Otu’s administration has been working strenuously to revitalize local governance structures and has made strides in ensuring that local councils are adequately funded and supported.

“Like a drowning man struggling to perch on a straw, the PDP, in its febrile attempt to announce its convalescence, is merely seeking to croak in order to be heard. It is the only way its allegation against the First Lady could be contextulised.

“Accordingly, the unfounded and baseless claims against the governor’s wife are not only defamatory but also reflect the PDP’s frustration at their inability to regain lost ground.

“No doubt, the PDP, no matter how it struggles to croak, remains a party “walking dead” in Cross River State, and one desperately clutching at straws to justify its long waned influence”, Obogo added.

Recall that in a statement at the weekend signed by Prince Mike Ojisi, its Publicity Secretary, the state chapter of the PDP had asked Governor Otu to account for billions of Naira the state has received since he took office.

The party also accused the the First Lady, Rev Eyoanwan Otu of amassing wealth and properties at the expense of the state’s funds.

Said the party “The Peoples Democratic Party Cross River State, notes with appalling concern Governor Otu’s inability to judiciously account for the over 70billion Naira that has entered the State coffers as part of intervention fund released by the President to cushion the effect of the economic crunch beleaguering the nation. Consequent upon the removal of Fuel Subsidy by the Tinubu’s administration and the subsequent meteoric increase in Federal allocation and other sundry intervention funds accrued to the state, Otu’s administration has received over N70billion as Palliative/Intervention Fund, which is different from the over N150billion received as monthly allocation between May 2023 to July 2024.

“Following the excruciating economic maladies, biting hunger and astronomical hike in price of food and commodities in Nigeria, orchestrated primarily by the APC’s anti-people removal of fuel subsidy, one would have thought that Governor Otu, in line with his much touted “People’s First” mantra as the lack of transparency and accountability in his Government is humongously alarming. “We call on Cross Riverians, Anti-graft Agencies, Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders and Stakeholders to beam their searchlight on the Government and demand for the true dividends of Democracy”

Continuing, the opposition party asked Governor Otu “to account for the over 31 Billion Naira received from the Federal Government as NG-CARES PROGRAM Fund”

According to the PDP, “the NG-CARES Program with a financial arrangement called Program-for-Results (PforR), has provided over 31billion Naira to Cross River State for five platforms namely; Cash Transfer, Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Enterprise Development Fund, FADAMA, and Public Workfare. Despite receiving over N31Billion between December 2023 and June 2024, Governor Otu has failed to account for the funds or provide tangible results.

“It is on record that Otu’s administration claim that 1,700 Persons have benefited from the fund. Assuming without conceding that this is true, it therefore raises concern about the utilization of the N31Billion and how much was received by each of the beneficiaries.

“Additionally, the state has received three tranches of Electronic Money Transfer (EMTL), each not less than N7billion, as well as billions from import duty, Companies Income Tax (CIT), Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), and Customs External Tariff Levies (CET).

“Rather than judiciously allocate these monies to programs and projects that are people-oriented and can ameliorate the plight of the people; Governor Otu’s Budget for 2024 includes questionable allocations such as;

—N5Billion for Renovation of Governor’s office

—N52.5million for printing 400 pieces of Almanacs.

—N36.75million for equipping and restructuring the Assembly Clinic.

To think that the production of mere almanacs cost more than the Assembly Clinics, underscores the point that Governor Otu and his cohorts have turned themselves into narcissistic kleptomaniacs.

–N273million for pilgrimage activities.

–N157.5 Million for Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) African.

—N262.5 million for CPA International.

—N210million for Health Programs for Ex- HoA members.

–N52.5 million for air conditioners, Fans and Water Dispensers”

The Party further alleged that “Just recently, the July 2024 FAAC allocation for the 18 Local Government Areas in Cross River State was paid, which amounted to the sum of N5.63Billion. Assuming that the allocation is equitably divided, each LGA would receive about N312.777million, which could significantly impact on the development we are desperately yearning for in the State”

Accusing the First Lady of acquiring illicit wealth at the expense of the state, the PDP said: “It is worrisome that even the Governor’s wife has been rumoured to have captured Local Government fund leveraging on her experience as former Director in the Local Government Service. Till date, LGAs are not funded by the State Government except through IGR. Rather than fund LGAs, the Governor’s wife is alleged to have erected gigantic edifices all over Calabar from her sudden mysterious wealth which is from corrupt enrichment from LG funds, while LGAs wallow in penury and the Urban Development Authorities have been rendered comatose with filthy streets. Yet, authorities are preying on overtaxed Petty traders struggling to make ends meet in a devastated economic environment.

“We therefore call on the Governor to atleast, have the decency to live up to his own “People’s First” mantra as the lack of transparency and accountability in his Government is humongously alarming. We call on Cross Riverians, Anti-graft Agencies, Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders and Stakeholders to beam their searchlight on the Government and demand for the true dividends of Democracy.

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