President Muhammadu Buhari has explained why he cannot interfere in the dispute between the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Muhammadu Sanusi II and the Governor of the state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Speaking while receiving the Governor and newly elected legislators on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, from Kano State on Friday, the President said the dispute between the Emir and the Kano Governor is constitutionally, not part of his brief.

The President said: “I know my role as the President of Nigeria. By the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Governor of Kano State has his own roles, once a matter is in the hands of the House of Assembly (like in Kano), the President has no constitutional right to interfere. I am here by the constitution, I swore by it, and I am going to stand by it. But let me tell you the bottomline of my understanding of the constitutional role is that peace and security of all Nigerians must be guaranteed, where the people are threatened, then I will use my constitutional powers.”

The President assured that separation of powers between the Federal Government and the states notwithstanding, he has enough grounds in the constitution to ensure that the security of Nigerians is not compromised.

He advised the elected officials to live up to the promises they made to their constituents to justify the confidence reposed in them.

“I hope you are mindful of your promises to your constituencies. You went round and you promised your constituencies. I hope the promises you made are within the resources of your State. If you made promises outside your resources, it will be your problem because you are going to stand again in four years’ time. This is very important and it is important for our party,” Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President quoted the President as saying.

Governor Umar Ganduje who led the delegation, thanked the President for Federal Government projects in the State including: the Kano – Abuja road reconstruction; the modern railway from Kaduna to Kano, and from Kano to Niger Republic; the gas pipeline from Ajaokuta to Kaduna and from Kaduna to Kano; dualisation of Kano – Katsina highway; as well as the construction and equipping of new terminal wing of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

He also apprised the President of efforts of his government to make life better for Kano citizens especially in terms of security and education.

“We have done a lot in the area of security, even installing CCTV cameras in black spots and all major routes into Kano state. We also have a multi-purpose vehicle for monitoring, which has helped in arresting kidnappers and Boko Haram terrorists. We have also established an army training area.”

He said the State has also curtailed herdsmen/farmers clashes by establishing settlements.

On the disturbing phenomenon of out-of-school children, the governor said, “We used to have One Million out-of-school children but now we are down to about 400,000 on account of the new education policy which now makes schooling free and compulsory from basic to secondary school, complemented with free feeding, free uniforms and free instructional materials.”

He said his administration had also recruited 600 teachers to teach mathematics and English as well as 3,000 teachers for Almajiri schools that will be incorporated into the normal school system.

The governor also requested for Federal Government intervention in the completion of the Kano River Irrigation scheme; the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre; and desilting of the 24 dams in the State.

https://www.apktwit.com/2020/02/why-i-cannot-interfere-in-emir-of-kano.html

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President Buhari on Friday received Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, newly elected APC legislators and elders from Kano at the State House, Abuja.

https://www.apktwit.com/2020/02/photosbuhari-receives-ganduje-and-kano.html

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A cargo van was seen on third mainland bridge this evening as it was destroyed by fire. Fire started by 4pm and no fire fighter was seen as of the time of filing this report. Below are the exclusive photos from www.apktwit.com

https://www.apktwit.com/2020/02/photos-cargo-van-catches-fire-on-third.html

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On Thursday February 6th, Nollywood star, Genevieve Nnaji looked effortlessly chic in her outfit to the 13th Annual ESSEENCE Black Women in Hollywood Award Luncheon which took place at Beverly Wilshire. See more photos below..

https://www.apktwit.com/2020/02/photos-genevieve-nnaji-steps-out-in.html

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Sen. John Owan-Enoh has been declared winner of the All Progressive Congress gubernatorial primaries in Cross River, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

Owan-Enoh represents Cross River Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

Announcing the result on Tuesday in Calabar, Mr Ali Magaji, Chairman of Electoral Committee, said that Owan-Enoh scored a total of 82,272 votes out of the 101,212 votes cast.

He said that Mr Edem Duke, a former Minister of Culture and Tourism got 7,367 votes while the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Usani Usani had 1,778 votes.

“As we are all aware, this exercise started on Sept. 30 with the distribution of materials to the various political wards across the state.

“The total number of accredited voters in the election was 106,212. We recorded 117 invalid votes and votes cast was 101,212.

“The election was conducted across the state in a peaceful manner under the watch of security agents and the Independent National Electoral Commission.

“With the powers conferred on me by the National Working Committee of the party, I hereby declare Sen. Owan-Enoh winner of the gubernatorial primaries in Cross River.

“He is now the candidates of the APC in Cross River ahead of the next year governorship election in the state,” he said.

Magaji called on other aspirants to work closely with Owan-Enoh with a view to win the state in 2019.

Speaking to newsmen after his victory, Owan-Enoh expressed happiness with the result, saying that the people of Cross River have spoken in unity.

He explained that the state was in dire need of leadership change and thereby solicited the supports of all stakeholders of the party ahead of the elections.

Owan-Enoh promised not to disappoint the mandate of the people if elected into office as governor.

http://www.metronaija.ng/sen-owan-enoh-wins-apc-gubernatorial-primaries-in-c-river/

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Kogi state Governor Yahaya Bello participated in the just concluded presidential party primaries in his hometown Agassa .

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-gov-yahaya-bello-at-apc-presidential-primary-in-kogi/

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Some members of aviation unions and the United Labour Congress on Friday disrupted flight operations for over four hours at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) of Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the unions who are affiliates of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) stormed the airport in their numbers and prevented passengers from checking in for flights.

NLC called a seven-day warning strike from Thursday over demands for the implementation of a new national minimum wage.

Unions in the aviation sector are Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, (ATSSAN), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) and the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP).

The airlines affected by the action were Air Peace and Arik Air, which led to confrontations between the airline officials and the unionists.

Reacting to the development, Mr Chris Iwarah, the Corporate Communications Manager, Air Peace, described the unions’ action as uncalled for because the airline’s workers did not belong to any labour organisation.

Iwarah said that all the airline’s morning flight schedules were affected by the restriction of passenger access to GAT by the unions.

” Early this morning some members of the aviation unions barricaded our terminal and prevented our guests from flying in protest of the implementation of the national minimum wage.

“This is very unfortunate because they have no right to force our workers to join unions or join their agitations for increased pay.

“We don’t know how your increased pay will benefit us as a people in Air Peace. So, going to stop our operation is simply an act of provocation and they have no such rights,” he said.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Lagos Airport Police Command, DSP Joseph Alabi, told NAN that security operatives were alerted of the situation and they quickly restored order.

“Our men are on ground and everywhere is calm. The unions are not preventing people from boarding and the airlines are carrying out their operations without any hindrance,” Alabi said.

For the second day running, the unions in compliance with the labour directive, barricaded the offices of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.

Also shut down were the headquarters of the Accident Investigation Bureau and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

The unions, in a joint statement, made available to NAN, stressed that the general strike in the sector would begin on Oct. 2 due to the ongoing NUATE delegates conference in Asaba.

The statement was signed by Mr Mohammed Safiyanu and Mr Olayinka Abioye, President and General Secretary, NUATE and Mr Illitrus Ahmadu and Mr Frances Akinjole, President and General Secretary, ATSSAN.

Other signatories were Mr Abednego Galadima and Mr Ocheme Aba, President and General Secretary respectively of NAAPE, and Mr Yahaya Gusau and Mr Rasaq Saidu , President and General Secretary respectively of ANAP.

http://www.metronaija.ng/minimum-wage-aviation-sector-unions-disrupt-flight-operations-in-lagos-2/

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The candidate for Social Democratic Party, SDP, in the just concluded 2018 governorship election in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore has accepted defeat in the election while vowing not to relent in championing his campaign for democracy and good governance.

The election result which was announced on Sunday afternoon by the state Chief Returning Officer, Professor Adeola Joseph Fuwape, Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, FUTA, Akure and declared inconclusive has Senator Ademola Adeleke of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP pulling the highest votes, but not enough to declare him winner, according to INEC.

Omisore, in a thank you message to his supporters and people of Osun in general said, “I am confident that while we might appear to have lost an election, we have won the greater victory; the clarion call by all our people for good governance and accountability”.

According to his statement which reads in part: “Omisore thanks all SDP Members and Supporters On the 22nd of May 2018, I took the bold decision to seek for election to the Office of Governor of Osun state under the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP). The past four months have been very exciting. I am delighted that our message of good governance and dignity has reached every corner of the state.

“Over the past four months, I have worked with committed people who have given time and resources to our shared agenda for restoration. I am confident that while we might appear to have lost an election, we have won the greater victory; the clarion call by all our people for good governance and accountability. We have positively impacted on electoral campaigns and elections in Osun state promoting inclusion, people centeredness and shied completely away from vote buying, voter intimidation and thuggery.The SDP campaign was factual, informed and inclusive.

“Our manifesto presented to the people an Agenda for Restoration of Good Governance and Human Dignity. Its five pillars spoke to our needs across all sectors, promoted access that would leave no one behind and reversal of reckless financial management of the current APC government in Osun state towards shared prosperity and economic growth.

“The reaction was swift, albeit as a ploy to win votes. Our campaign prompted payment of salaries, a commitment to push back on common uniforms and questionable mega schools. We have called attention to patronage driven public sector management and indeed engaged citizens in such a way that the demand for public accountability will continue to drive governance going forward, irrespective of which party leads the state.

“I must thank everyone who supported the Restoration Agenda for their commitment and work. This is the core of the democracy we seek. We have won the electoral battle in way hitherto unheard of in the state, and I daresay in contemporary democratic elections in Nigeria. You have all done well and I thank you. We shall continue in our demand for good governance, accountability and human dignity.

“My commitment to this remains total without any prejudice to the next steps we collectively workout. Our people’s votes have again been manipulated through vote buying, and exploitation of the hunger in our land. Only good governance and committed leadership can drive out this hunger.

“The quest for this continues. I enjoin you to sustained action noting as Mary Matthews states in the 1948 movie ‘State of the Union’ “Politicians have stayed professionals only because the voters have remained amateurs.” We shall continue to invest on democratic education and political awareness of our people, so vote buying is totally eliminated in the most peaceful and democratic ways.

“The SDP shall not leave the Osun state to corrupt wheeler dealers, but shall continue to commit to social justice and equity until we can be assured that our electoral processes are sanitized and give us the state of our dreams. I thank you all”.

http://www.metronaija.ng/osundecides2018-omisore-accepts-defeat/

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has directed massive deployment of personnel, mobile surveillance vehicles and sniffer dogs for the forthcoming Osun State Guber election.

A statement by Emmanuel Okeh, the Corps’ PRO and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja said Abdullahi Gana, Commandant General, NSCDC, gave the directives while addressing the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Operations Hillary Madu Kelechi.

The statement quoted Gana as saying that there was need for effective deployment of the corps to cover all nooks and crannies in Osun state before, during and after the election.

He ordered that, the deployment should comprise of personnel from Osun, Oyo, Kogi, Edo, Ondo, Kwara, Headquarters and other neighbouring states for the purpose of maintaining of peace, law and order before, during and after the election.

He said in addition to the operational officers deployed, three ACGs, six Commandants along with other senior officers from the rank of DCC to ACC below are to support the DCG Operations.

“They are to assist in supervising the deployment of personnel to critical areas, identified black spots, as well as to all the critical infrastructure within and around the state.

“This is for the purpose of deterring criminal minded persons that always take advantage of occasions like this to foment troubles in other to carry out their nefarious activities,” he said.

The NSCDC boss also approved the deployment of surveillance/Intelligence unit, SWAT, Medical and Disaster Rapid Respond Team, CBRN Unit , Special Forces and other specialised unit for the purpose of beefing up security in and around the State.

He charged personnel to work in synergy and collaboration with personnel of sister agencies deployed for the same purposes, adding that they must be good ambassadors of the Corps and diplomatic in their approach.

He cautioned the Corps not to condone any act of indiscipline or sabotage, as anyone found wanting or engaging in any sharp practices will face the wrath of the law.

The Commandant General admonished Osun people to be peaceful and resolute in the forthcoming election, saying that there is no gain indulging in violence act considering the fact that there is no alternative to peace.

“You must ensure that you all come out en mass to vote for the candidate of your choice without fear of molestation or favour, for whatsoever mistake you make now will affect the future of the state.

“The youths must also ensure that they shun any act of violence, thuggery, rigging, electoral malpractices, ballot box snatching and other social vices in other not to truncate the political and democratic processes.
“The law is not a respecter of anybody, therefore, whosoever engages himself in any act inimical to the peace of the state shall face the wrath of the law,” Gana warned.

http://www.metronaija.ng/osun-2018-nscdc-deploys-personnel-sniffer-dogs/

Kano state Governor Umar Ganduje has presided over the Swearing-in of His Excellency Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna as the new Deputy Governor of Kano State which was administered by the State Chief Judge in the presence of dignitaries and thousands of well wishers.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-nasiru-yusuf-gawuna-swears-in-as-kano-deputy-governor/

The Police in Sokoto State have warned politicians and their supporters against destroying campaign billboards and any act capable of triggering violence.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Murtala Mani, also warned against hate speeches and illegal assembly.

Mani gave the warning on Tuesday in Sokoto at a stakeholders meeting ahead of the 2019 general elections.

He stressed that political parties must inform the police of any meeting or procession, to ensure the safety of the general public.

The police commissioner said that the police would deal with anyone caught brandishing offensive weapons openly anywhere in the state.

” I urge all the political stakeholders within the state to play the game with decency, understanding and in accordance with the provision of the laws of the land and guidelines of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)” Mani said.

Also, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mr Abubakar Sadiq, said no fewer than 242, 546 new voters were registered during the concluded Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise.

Sadiq said that the state now has 1, 914, 414 registered voters, but added that 98, 589 Permanent Voter Cards had not been collected by their owners.

He added that the commission would also subject the total figure of registered voters in the state to appropriate scrutiny to arrive at the right figure.

The REC urged party leaders and loyalists to abide by INEC guidelines to ensure transparent and credible elections in 2019.

Earlier, Alhaji Maude Danchadi, the state Director of National Orientation Agency, described the meeting as timely and encouraged politicians to shun violence, hate speeches and inciting comments.

He said that the stakeholders meeting would be held in all local government areas in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that leaders of various political parties that attended the event pledged to abide by the rules and guidelines on conducts before, during and after the general elections.

NAN reports that there was questions and answers as well as presentations of publications on electoral matters and offences.

http://www.metronaija.ng/2019-police-warns-against-vandalism-of-campaign-billboards-violence/

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Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe Int'l airport in Abuja today (Monday). Governor Shettima is accompanying the Vice President to Lagos for launching of a book authored by Chief Jim Ovia, titled, Africa rise and shine (which gives history of Zenith Bank as pioneered by Ovia from early stage to $16b worth) which is taking place today in Victoria Island, Lagos.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-shettima-meets-osinbajo-at-abuja-airport/

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Wife of the Vice President, Dolapo Osinbajo at the 30 Books Challenge Award Ceremony In Abuja

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-dolapo-osinbajo-at-30-books-challenge-award/

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President Mohammadu Buhari has reportedly approved the extension of the Federal Fire Service Comptroller General, Joseph Anebi.

The development was disclosed through the official Twitter handle of the Federal Fire Service in the late hours of Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the extension was confirmed in an interview with the service Public Relations Officer (PRO), Ugo Huan on Sunday in Abuja.

Huan said that more information would be disclosed soon.

http://www.metronaija.ng/buhari-extends-federal-fire-service-boss-tenure/

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Governor Abubakar Sani Bello was on the site for inspection of Minna-Suleja Road, he expresses his frustration and anger on the slow pace of the work.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-gov-sani-bello-inspects-minna-suleja-road/

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Former vice president, Atiku Abubakar met with stakeholders in Kogi State today . He had a rousing reception and support.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-atiku-meets-pdp-stakeholders-in-kogi/

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President Buhari receives in audience H.E. Sharif Ismail, Acting Prime Minister of Egypt in State House on 13th Sep 2018.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-acting-prime-minister-of-egypt-sharif-ismail-visits-buhari/

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Absolutely stunning.....

http://www.metronaija.ng/stephanie-okereke-linus-stuns-in-new-photos/

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Senate President, Bukola Saraki with delegates and party executives in Benue State. He let them know that the urgent task before them involves ensuring the security of lives, rebuilding the trust of our people in government and working together to Grow Nigeria.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-saraki-meets-pdp-delegates-and-executives-in-benue/

Government Technical College, Osogbo wearing a new look courtesy of the federal government led by President Buhari.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-buhari-renovates-government-technical-college-osogbo/

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The Nigerian Army has warned that it will deal decisively with political thugs, kidnappers and other criminal elements caught with weapons during the 2019 general elections.

It further warned that it would dealt with anybody who might attempt to breach the peace during the exercise.

The Chief of Army Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja, after he met with Principal Officers, General Officers Commanding – GOCs and field Operational Commanders.

Buratai said he met with them for consultation and review of ongoing operations.

He assured that the army was prepared to ensure security before, during after the election.

“We must make it clear that all political thugs, militants, kidnappers and other criminal elements identified with weapons will be dealt with decisively.

“Our rules of engagement are very clear and they conform to international best practices. We are going to apply them to the letter,’’ he said.

On security, Buratai said that the Operation Lafiya Dole and other operations being conducted by the army across the country were being reviewed and reinvigorated to address identified challenges.

The army chief, however, expressed satisfaction with the performance of ongoing operations to tackle various security challenges in different parts of the country.

He promised that the army would strive to maintain the relative security and peace, and ensure that the confidence reposed in it by Nigerians was maintained.

Buratai also hinted of upcoming operations like “Crocodile Smile III in the Niger Delta and Python Dance III’’ (Egwu Eke) in the South-East without specifying when they would be conducted.

http://www.metronaija.ng/2019-army-vows-to-deal-with-political-thugs-militants-kidnappers/

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has disowned a recruitment advertisement purportedly by the corporation currently trending in the social media.

The corporation in a statement by its Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Mr Ndu Ughamadu, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the advertisement as phoney.

It advised unsuspecting members of the public to be wary of the scam.

“The advertisement, set in NNPC’s corporate colour with its logo and a corporate picture, sets candidates’ entry requirements to include Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Higher National Diploma (HND) and National Diploma, is fake.
READ ALSO Ebonyi Govt seals Abakaliki rice mill over alleged poison

“The recruitment announcement or invitation to recruitment interview of this nature appearing intermittently in the social media should be discountenanced,’’ it said

According to the statement, the NNPC is not carrying out any recruitment exercise now.

“The National Oil Company dissociated itself from the fake e-mail address to which unsuspecting prospects were asked to direct their Curriculum Vitae in the placement advert,’’ it added.
READ ALSO Why Nigeria can’t sever ties with S/Africa over killings – Ex-envoy

The corporation further reminded job seekers to note the antics of scammers who deploy, on social media platforms, such communication strategies as text messages, vacancy announcements and forged letters inviting them for non-existing job interviews.

These, it said, were tricks to extort money from them, and cautioned that any applicant who entertained such invitations would have himself or herself to blame.
READ ALSO Ajimobi and the Ayefele affair

It encouraged those who had already fallen victims to volunteer information to the law enforcement agencies.

The corporation stated that it would as usual advertise at appropriate time, vacancies in the corporation through the national dailies.

http://www.metronaija.ng/nnpc-disowns-phones-recruitment-exercise/

Acting Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, says politicians defecting from one party to another would not be shielded from prosecution by the anti-graft agency.

Speaking during a parley with editors in Lagos on Wednesday, Magu said there is no hiding place for such politicians in the fight against corruption by EFCC.

“The fact that a politician jumps from one party to another will not stop EFCC investigation; we don’t stop investigation until it is concluded.

“It is only the courts that have the powers to decide on whether to exonerate or convict any indicted politician,” said the EFCC chairman.

Responding to alleged interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Magu said that he had never received any instruction to stop any investigation.

“I am not the type you’ll ask to stop any investigation”, Magu said.

The EFCC chairman said it had become fashionable for anyone being investigated for corruption by the Commission to scream political persecution.

“With the general elections fast approaching, the resistance has assumed even frightening dimension with political motives imputed to most of our activities,” he said.

According to Magu, the media owes Nigeria a duty not to allow the corrupt to deploy their ill-gotten riches to corner the machinery of government.

The EFCC chief, therefore, urged the media not to lend their platforms to helping the cause of the corrupt that were shedding crocodile tears.

“We must all do what is right for our country, which is ensuring that those who steal our common patrimony are brought to justice,” Magu said.

According to him, the EFCC has so far revealed only about 10 per cent of the monumental corruption perpetrated in the past and urged all security agencies to prioritize anti-graft fight.

“You have not seen anything yet, we have not even touched 10 per cent of corruption perpetrated in the past,” he said.

The EFCC boss said banks needed to strengthen internal control and urged the Central Bank to re-appraise regulatory and ethical conduct of banks in order to win the fight against corruption.

According to him, EFCC has signed memorandums of understanding with the United Arab Emirates and Mauritius in its efforts to recover looted assets.

He expressed concern at the state of seized assets which were rotting away at various locations across the country.

On assets recovery, Magu said EFCC had recovered a total of N106.5 billion, $1.63 million, 629,000 British Pounds and 25,575 Euros this year.

He expressed the hope that EFCC would surpass the record of 189 convictions achieved in 2017, going by over 158 convictions secured between January and August this year.

http://www.metronaija.ng/no-hiding-place-for-defecting-politicians-efcc/

Vice President, Prof. Osinbajo presides over Federal Executive Council - FEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. 5th September, 2018.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-osinbajo-presides-over-fec-2/

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged world leaders to prevail on President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure that 2019 general elections is credible and violence-free.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, on Tuesday in Abuja, the party said that the advice was critical following the alert by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) on the elections.

It said that the call from the world leaders and international bodies was important, so that electoral desperation did not result in a large-scale political and humanitarian crisis in the country.

The PDP said that the independent report by USIP, which detailed the plots by the ruling party to ‘use intimidation tactics’ in the electoral
process, has vindicated its stand that the APC was not ready for credible elections.

According to it, the use of violence and intimidation by the APC in recent elections, including Ekiti governorship election and by-elections in Kogi, Bauchi and Katsina states, further validates USIP’s report.

The party added that USIP’s direct caution to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over manifest credibility doubts to deliver credible election, also placed a huge moral burden on the commission’s chairman.

It expressed worry over the desperation of the APC as reflected in the USIP report and called on all Nigerians and friends across the globe to rally in unity.

“Moreover, Nigerians are already decisive on a peaceful and united country, where compatriots live harmoniously and will do all to resist the divisive machinations, particularly ahead of the 2019 general elections.”

The PDP said that the APC should know that no amount of intimidation and harassment could break the will of Nigerians in their iron-cast resolve to rally on its platform to free the nation.

“Nigerians have witnessed enough violence, bloodletting and deaths and are not ready to allow such to prevail in the 2019 general elections,’’ it said.

http://www.metronaija.ng/usip-report-pdp-urges-world-leaders-to-advice-apc-on-credible-polls/

Ijaw Leader, Chief Edwin Clark has demand an unreserved apology from the Nigerian Police Force over the invasion of his Abuja residence.

In a statement signed by his lawyer, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Castle of Law, Chambers, Abuja, described the action of the police as despotic, an indication of clampdown on opposition voices in the country.

The statement reads: “”This afternoon , officers and men of the IGP Special Tactical Squad, a unit under the direct command of the Inspector General of Police, turned upside down and raided the Asokoro Residence of our Client, the foremost Politician, Nationalist and Elder Statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark on the pretext that they were in search for arms and ammunitions.


“However, despite the siege and search, they found nothing incriminating our Client.

“Our Client believes that the rather unfortunate pretext or reasons given by the Nigerian Police is just another figment of their wild imaginations.

“The fact that a man of Chief Edwin Clark’s stature could have his house raided in this uncivil, undemocratic and brazen manner by the Nigerian Police underscores an anomalous/despotic tendency and is an indication of the recent clampdown on opposition voices in Nigeria.


“Our Client at a graceful age of 92, has played a very active role in the promotion and restoration of peace and order in the Niger Delta Region, his patriotic disposition to issues of national affairs clearly puts him in a class of his own, second to none. It is also a fact that cannot be gainsaid or misconstrued that his inputs in the Federal Government Amnesty Programme for Niger Delta Militants clearly paved the way for the eventual resolution of the crisis”.


“Therefore, it can be safely concluded that our Client is not deserving of such humiliation and embarrassment as meted out to him by the Nigeria Police Force. In the final analysis, our Client finds the act of the Nigeria Police Force as reprehensible, inexcusable and absolutely unacceptable”.

“Consequent upon this, we demand that an unreserved public apology be tendered to our Client by the Nigerian Police Force.

http://www.metronaija.ng/police-invasion-clarke-demands-public-apology/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC ) has denied a newspaper report that it recently received N50 million from the government of Jigawa for logistics.

Dr. Mahmud Isah, the Resident Electoral Commissioner ( REC ) in the state, made the clarification in a statement in Dutse, on Tuesday.

Isah said that the commission had not received any form of support from the state government following the extension of the Continuous Voter Registration ( CVR ) last month.

“The attention of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Jigawa state has been drawn to a publication in Daily Trust of Tuesday, August 28, 2018 on page 4 captioned PVC: Jigawa supports INEC with N50m.


“The INEC Jigawa state office wishes to state in clear terms that it has not received any form of support/assistance from the state government during the extension period of the PVC/CVR exercise.

“The publication came to us as a surprise, as the commission since the commencement of the CVR in April 2017 to date, has been adequately funded by the national office.

“Hence, there is no reason why to lean on Jigawa state government or indeed any organisation for any form of logistic support,’’ Isah said.


He however stated that the state office of INEC holds the state government in high esteem as a major stakeholder in election matters.

But, he disagreed with the comment of state Deputy Governor on the issue of extending logistic support to it as contained in the publication by Daily Trust Newspaper.

The REC, therefore, urged the general public to regard the publication as baseless, unfounded and not true.

“In furtherance to this position of the office, we are calling on all politicians in the state to desist from making unguarded statements capable of truncating our democracy.


“We also want call on all media houses to always crosscheck their stories before going to press,” he added.

He said that INEC in the state remained resolute in its maintenance of transparency, credibility, fairness in all its electoral duties that will meet national and international standards.

“We will continue to maintain our neutrality at all times as an independent electoral umpire,” he emphasised.

http://www.metronaija.ng/inec-denies-receiving-n50m-logistics-support-from-jigawa/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Vice president, Prof. Osinbajo and Osun state Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Dep. Governor Osun State, Mrs. Titilayo Laoye-Tomori flanked by Oluwo of Iwo, Oba , Oba Adewale Akanbi and other FG & State government officials during his visit to Odo- Ori market and Abattoir.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-osinbajo-visits-odo-ori-market-and-abattoir-in-osun/

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday, expressed the appreciation of ECOWAS Member States for China’s increasing investment in the sub-region with the aim of building a prosperous and shared future.

The President was speaking at the opening of the High-Level Dialogue between Chinese and African leaders and business representatives in Beijing, China.

He noted that China was the largest investor in the sub-region in both private and public sectors, covering areas such as infrastructure energy, agriculture, mining and healthcare.

According to him, China also provides significant assistance in emergency humanitarian aid and response to climate change.

He said: “Various construction projects are now ongoing in the sub-region, including the construction of railway projects, power infrastructure, airports and numerous roads through Chinese financing.

“While it is pertinent to mention that Member States of ECOWAS are at different stages of development, President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to our sub-region has highlighted the need for even closer collaboration.

This he said was necessary “to enable more Chinese investment to support the cause of regional integration and development.

“We should also realise that while China’s help is vital, the main push to transform our economies must come from our own efforts and commitment.’’

He maintained that the ECOWAS region which accounted for some 30 per cent of Africa’s population and GDP had embarked on policies and strategies to stabilise and strengthen internal growth.

Buhari stated that Member States were making efforts at diversifying their economies and developing specific policies, targeting the most vulnerable groups, in order to ensure more inclusive growth.

In this regard, he added that Member States would continue to encourage Chinese State-owned companies and entrepreneurs to invest in the sub-region.

He said ECOWAS would also continue to welcome more Chinese tourists to visit West Africa.

The Nigerian leader stated that this would enhance “people-to-people exchanges, especially now that Member States are getting involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

“Our sub-region is endowed with enormous tourism potential. With China’s support, tourism related infrastructure should be developed to empower our citizens, create more employment opportunities among the teeming population and eliminate poverty.’’

The President also requested for visa facilitation for African businessmen and women, and students seeking to visit China.

He assured that ECOWAS Member States would continue to pay emphasis on encouraging more foreign direct investment in the sub-region.

“To this end, Member States are looking at the opportunities that the China International Import-Export initiative will offer our exporters to gain market access for their goods and services in China.’’

According to Buhari, such an opportunity will help in diversifying the economy of the sub-region from over reliance on primary agricultural and mineral products.

He said that the opportunity would subsequently correct the huge trade imbalance between China and the ECOWAS sub-region on a win-win basis for both parties.

While expressing appreciation for the strong engagement of China with the ECOWAS sub-region, the ECOWAS leader also thanked President Xi Jinping for the pledge to build a befitting Secretariat for the Commission.

He, therefore, reiterated the commitment of ECOWAS to deepening and strengthening institutions in the sub-region, through good governance, the fight against corruption, combating terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime.

“These are necessary actions if the right conditions for sustainable economic growth in West Africa are to be achieved,’’ he said.

http://www.metronaija.ng/chinas-investment-in-ecowas-member-states-excites-buhari/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, on Saturday pledged to furnish the newly built clinic of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Ede, Osun.

Adewole, who was in company with Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, said he was determined to ensure that the clinic was the best in the country.

“When I received a call from an NYSC official that the scheme needed drugs in Osun, I told her not to worry that I know someone I can call.

“To me the scheme is an instrument of national unity and I will continue to support it.

“I want to thank Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola who did not think twice before agreeing to support you with the needed drugs.

“I must augment what he has done, I haven’t been here, I want to assure you that between LAUTECH, between the commissioner and myself, we will furnish this clinic.

“We will give you your tables, your chairs and waiting bench so that you can start functioning properly.

“I want to make this clinic the best in the country and I want to tell you also that the president personally directed that we should all enlist you into the Health Insurance Scheme and we are working on this.

“The NHIS issue is being sorted out between the Ministry of Youths and Sports Development and Ministry of Health and we are going to get it done quickly so that every youth corps member is really provided for.” he said

Oyetola, who was the former Chief of Staff to Gov. Rauf Aregbesola, commended the NYSC for building the clinic and also making it available for public use.

He said the minister had informed him that the NYSC needed drugs and he had responded appropriately as someone who was concerned about effective healthcare delivery.

Oyetola commended the NYSC for building the clinic, saying it was in line with its corporate social responsibility.

The State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mr Emmanuel Attah, thanked the minister and the APC candidate for their support of the scheme.

Attah said the new clinic was the outcome of the collaboration between staff of the NYSC and other stakeholders.

He said the camp was the first in the country to have a bakery and garri processing plant, adding that efforts were being made to ensure that the facility was the best in the country.

http://www.metronaija.ng/osun-apc-guber-candidate-donates-n2m-drugs/

Former Big Brother naija 2018 housemates, Cee C, Bam bam and Teddy A at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018).

http://www.metronaija.ng/photo-ex-bbnaija-housemates-cee-c-bambam-and-teddy-a-at-2018-amvca/

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