The Presidency on Sunday reacted to the alleged harassment of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, by security agents.

DAILY POST had reported that Atiku, who returned to Nigeria after his stay in Dubai, on Sunday hinted that he was intimated by security operatives.

He was quoted as saying, “I arrived to Abuja this morning to a search by agents of the state, aimed at intimidating me and my staff.”

Reacting, the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in a series of tweet on Sunday, denied the alleged harassment.

Sirika maintained that Atiku’s claim was mischievous as the checks by the security agents was mandatory.

He, however, pointed out that the PDP presidential candidate was accorded full respect as expected.

The tweets read, “The claim by @atiku is a mischievous attempt to grab the headlines. Nigerians need to know that one of the resolutions of the Atiku team at their recently-concluded Dubai retreat was to embark on scaremongering. This is one of such.

“For the records, all incoming passengers on international flights go through customs, Immigration, health and security screening.
Where the aircraft is using the private, charter wing, as the PDP Candidate did, such arrivals are met by a team of the Immìgration, customs and other security agencies.

“They go to the arriving aircraft as a team. The airport authorities confirm that this is a routine process, applying to all international arrivals, including Ministers, unless the passenger is the President of Nigeria.

“The President, the Vice President and passengers aboard planes on the Presidential air fleet use the Presidential wing of the airport.

“It is also important to state that even in the Presidential Wing of the airport which the President of Nigeria uses, there is the presence of Immigration and other security officials who must stamp his or her passport on arrival.

“By standard procedure, all aircraft on international arrivals must first of all park at the international wing of the aircraft. They can move to the domestic terminal only upon the completion of the arrival processes.

“While it is true that the Task Force on Currency at the airport did the routine action of checking the former Vice President’s travel bag, he was accorded full respect as a former Vice President of Nigeria.

“These checks are mandatory, conventional, internationally applied and routine. No one is excused from them under our laws. These checks are carried out on all international arrivals and President Buhari does not get involved in them.

“Law-abiding citizens are encouraged to respect the laws of the country and our VIPs should not seek to be treated over and above the citizens they wish to serve.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/federal-govt-reacts-to-alleged.html

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Samuel Eto’o, former Cameroon and Barcelona forward, has tipped Liverpool ace, Mohamed Salah to win this year’s Ballon d’ Or award.

Recall that Salah was shortlisted for the 2018 Ballon d’Or award last month.

Barcelona star, Lionel Messi and Juventus forward, Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated the award in the past decade.

The pair had won an incredible five awards each, with Ronaldo equaling Messi’s tally last year.

But Eto’o, who played alongside Salah at Chelsea, has backed the Egyptian international to compete for the Europe topflight individual prize.

“I hope that Salah remembers the day we were together in Stamford Bridge dressing room after he’d had a poor performance,” he told Qatar’s Al Kass Sports Channel.

“I asked him to be patient and told him ‘You are a good player and you will become a great player’.

“Salah has turned into that big player and will write his own story through persistence and strong desire.

“The whole thing depends on Salah himself, he has unbelievable skills and is currently performing at a top level that’s allowing him to compete for Ballon d’Or.”

The 2018 Ballon d’ Or award will take place on 3rd December, 2018.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/ballon-d-or-2018-samuel-etoo-reveals.html

Minutes after the impeachment of former principal officers of the Ondo State House of Assembly, on Friday, suspected hoodlums stormed the assembly complex.

The hoodlums who were led by the state chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Jacob Dabo popularly known as “Idajo” attacked members of the house who were suspected to have plotted the impeachment of the former speaker, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun and his deputy Rt. Hon. Iroju Ogundeji.

The hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons such as bottles, cutlasses, sticks among others were also accompanied to the house by the state chairman of All Progressives Congress, APC, Ade Adetimehin as well as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Jimoh Dojumo.

During the fracas, the hoodlums had a field day as the security operatives left them unchallenged with the Commissioner of Police, Gbenga Adeyanju on ground.

Attacked by the hoodlums are the new speaker, Olamide George, his deputy, Abimbola Fajolu.

Others member of the house attacked included, Hon. Vincent Obadiah and Rt. Hon. Jumoke Akindele.

The hoodlums also attacked a journalist working with AIT, Abiodun Taiwo as well as his counterpart working with ITV, Ade Ilori.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/thugs-invade-ondo-assembly-beat-up.html

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III on Wednesday said dialogue and truth were panacea to the security challenges facing Nigeria.

He spoke during the presentation of a book on the former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Martin Luther: “How a Congress of Baboons Made a General,” in Abuja.

The monarch admonished Nigerians to engage in continuous dialogue because such was the best way in resolving every problem.

Abubakar called for forgiveness so as to build a solid new Nigeria.

He said: “There are problems facing us left, right and centre; insecurity problems everywhere. But we shall overcome them.

“Let keep on talking to ourselves, let us never get tired of dialogue.

“Let us never get tired of telling ourselves the truth because as you all know, the truth can set us free.

“There is hope, as long as there are good people like Gen. Agwai who are struggling to put things together and bring us together in such a forum, and that is what we need in this country.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/sultan-of-sokoto-reveals-solutions-to.html

Senate President, Bukola Saraki has reacted to claims by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) that he plans to increase salaries of Nigerian senators.

DAILY POST had reported that SERAP in a statement on its Twitter Page raised the alarm
over alleged plans by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki to increase salaries of Nigerian senators to N15m.

But in reaction, Saraki in a statement by his
Special Assistant on New Media, Olu Onemola, described the allegation as untrue.

He urged SERAP to get its fact right.

The statement reads, “Dear @SERAPNigeria, there is no such “alleged decision” to increase the allowances of Senators. An organization like yours needs to be more careful, especially when pushing out information meant for public consumption. Thank you.

“To avoid any doubt: there is no plan to amend the allowances of Senators. The tweet by @SERAPNigeria is baseless and untrue. The public should disregard this ENTIRELY.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/saraki-speaks-on-increasing-senators.html

Latest report as ahead of the 2019 general election in the country, the nation’s electoral body, INEC, have disclosed that it have removed thousands of names from the voter register.

According to report, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has removed over 300,000 names from its voter register as it continues preparations for 2019 general elections.

INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this when he received a delegation of ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission, led by the chairman of Sierra Leone’s National Electoral Commission, Mohamed Conteh, on Monday in Abuja.

Mr Yakubu said the names were removed from the register after the Automated Fingerprint Identification System was carried out on the biometry data of registered voters.

He said the commission had started the cleaning up of the register, adding that the commission would between November 6 and 12 display register of voters nationwide for claims and objections.

The INEC Chairman urged Nigerians to make use of the opportunity to assist the commission to identify names of ineligible voters for further clean-up.

“For the registered voters, we have been cleaning up on our own, using the AFIS. As at last week, before I travelled, I was told that over 300,000 names were dropped after the automatic fingerprints identification system.

“But the cleaning of the voter register is not the sole responsibility of the commission; it is also the responsibility of every Nigerian.

“That is why the law says that we should display the register for a period of six days between Nov. 6 and Nov. 12. We will display the voter register in 120, 000 polling units nationwide.

“I will like to use this opportunity to appeal to the citizens to check when we display the register so that they can draw the attention of the commission to the prevalence of any ineligible voter on the register so that we can further clean up the register,’’

Mr Yakubu told the mission that INEC was well prepared for the 2019 general elections.

“In fact we can say that the 2019 general election is perhaps the most deliberately well-planned election in our history.

“We have finished the strategic planning; we have finished our strategic programme of action, and we have completed the election project plan. We have issued the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2019 general elections.”

INEC Chairman addressing ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact Finding Mission on Monday in Abuja

Mr Yakubu also disclosed that the commission would by November 9 or 10 release statistics of political parties that nominated candidates for governorship elections to be conducted in 29 states and the State Houses of Assembly in all states.

Speaking earlier, leader of the mission, Mr Conteh, said that they were in Nigeria to gather relevant information and see how prepared INEC was for the general elections.

“This is a fact-finding mission to the Federal Republic of Nigeria ahead of the elections.

“As you are aware that it is common before we start any election, organisations such as ECOWAs come and see the conducting under which election is conducted and gather information in respect of the elections

“More importantly, meet with you as a major stakeholder, as Election Management Body that is responsible for the conduct of election to discuss with you and see how prepared you are for the election,’’ he said.

Another member of the delegation and former Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, Remi Ajibewa, said that the mission would use the visit to meet with other ‘electoral stakeholders’ in the country.

These, according to her, include security agencies, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and political parties to ensure the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2019.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/weve-removed-over-300000-names-from.html

Governorship candidate of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), in Lagos State, Owolabi Salis, has said his campaign is worried that it might lose the election to rigging and vote buying.

While speaking, on Monday, at a seminar organised by the Christian Ministries Welfare Initiative (CMWI), in Lagos, the governorship candidate said he was confident of winning if the election could be devoid of rigging and vote buying.

“We have been looking at our disadvantages in this election and we know we are going to win, but we know our weaknesses.

“One of them is vote buying and another one is election rigging. However, we are talking to the people over the issue of vote buying and are sensitising them on the need to protect their votes and not sell them.

“We are doing underground campaigns because we are beginning to see the spiritual importance of the AD. We are taking Lagos State and we are winning,” Salis said.

On the issue of the ongoing negotiation between the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Government over minimum wage increment, he said: “ If I were to be part of the labour union, one of the arguments I would put forward is that several years ago, when they approved N18, 000 as minimum wage, the exchange rate was N260 per one dollar, that means the minimum wage was $300 dollars then, so they were too slow, asking for review when the dollar was going up. The Nigerian economy is being shaped by the exchange rate, and demand and supply and the economy is presently in bad shape. Labour is just asking for wage without putting statistics down. The money is there, the government is getting more money. So where is the money to pay?

“When I become governor, I will focus on reducing the rate of poverty. The government taxes the rich, to support the poor but that gap has to be bridged. In Amercia for instance, Medicare is there for the poor people. If you are a rich man, you have to pay for your health services, and if you can’t pay, you buy insurance. Such can be applicable here. In housing, they have a lot of houses for poor people, it is even better than what some rich men have. So the house are given to poor people to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor and it works, I have done an extensive research on it and I plan to bring it home to Lagos.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/lagos-2019-we-fear-well-lose-to-rigging.html

The Benue State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Sunday alleged that the All Progressives Congress, APC, was buying the Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in the state.

PDP claimed that APC was “secretly” offering between N5, 000 to N10, 000 for each PVCs at the IDPs camp.

A statement signed and sent to DAILY POST by Bemgba Iortyom, PDP State Publicity Secretary urged the IDPs to shun such actions.

The state chapter of PDP also urged security agencies to investigate its claim and ensure that perpetrators were made to face the wrath of the law.

The statement reads, “PDP in Benue State has uncovered a scheme by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to buy voters cards belonging to internally displaced victims of Fulani herdsmen attacks some of who are presently taking refuge in camps in the state.

“Credible intelligence at our disposal indicate that APC is targeting to possibly manipulate and rig the 2019 elections in its favour through this scheme which the party launched on the day it staged a decamping ceremony inside the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camp at Daudu.

“To have staged a decamping ceremony inside an IDPs camp alone was a record showing of moral depravity and conscienceless desperation, yet APC went a step further down the path of infamy with their agents secretly offering monies ranging between N5,000 and N10,000 to displaced persons at the camp in exchange for their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) while the charade of a decamping ceremony lasted.

“The scheme has since then continued by the opposition party in the state with their agents going about secretly to IDPs camps and as well to residences housing those victims of herdsmen attacks offering to them various sums of money in exchange for their PVCs.

“This development is not only obnoxious and nefarious but directly targets to undermine the very institution of democracy which stands as the most prized asset Nigerians have next to the corporate entity of the country.

“Moreover, this scheme amounts to wickedly rubbing salt into the injuries of Benue IDPs who are suffering today because the APC controlled federal government failed to protect them from the swords, knives and bullets of Fulani herdsmen who have for years killed, maimed and plundered our land at will and unchallenged.

“We understand that APC presently is a failed political experiment only waiting to be consigned to the graveyard of history by Nigerians, as such the party may not be able to properly appreciate the value of the democratic culture which PDP painstakingly helped to nurture, yet the party must not be allowed to dangerously rock our ship of state in its dying moments.

“We, therefore, call on the good people of Benue State to rise up and condemn in the strongest possible terms this dastardly scheme by APC, and we urge all internally displaced persons to shun the devilish offer to sell their PVCs to the same party that has been responsible for their plight.

“Furthermore, we challenge security agencies to launch their own investigations into this matter and bring the perpetrators to book to safeguard and preserve our priceless institution of democracy, in the best interest of the Nigerian nation.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/2019-how-apc-is-buying-pvcs-of-idps-pdp.html

Mr Adams Oshiomhole, National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), says the party will approach the court on its ban by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from fielding candidates for elective positions in Zamfara State in the 2019 general elections.
Oshiomhole stated this on Friday in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the state of affairs of the party.
He said that INEC cannot disenfranchise the people of Zamfara from participating in any of the elections in 2019.
“With all due respect, INEC cannot award a state to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or any other political party.
“It has to be the decision of the people of Zamfara or any other people in any other state that is going to participate in any of the elections.
“I believe the court will look at the law and the rules, and as far as the legal advice we have gotten is concerned, we believe we are on good grounds.
“We want to see INEC as an impartial arbiter, and I trust that they will do their very best to maintain their name as an impartial arbiter,” Oshiomhole said.
He added that for now, the APC has confidence in INEC, even though according to him, the commission is being pressured by the PDP to do internal reorganisation.
The APC national chairman expressed optimism that the rule of law would prevail at the end of the day, adding that the party has confidence in the judiciary and would always abide by court rulings.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/2019-inec-cant-award-victory-to-pdp.html

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has insisted it will embark on a nationwide strike over the non-implementation of N30, 000 as the new national minimum wage, despite the National Industrial Court’s ruling in Abuja which has ordered that the action be suspended.

Mr Ayuba Wabba, President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

DAILY POST reports that the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja has restrained the organised labour from proceeding on a nationwide strike on Nov 6.

Wabba, reacting said the Labour-union was not aware of any court ruling and have not been served any notice.

“We have just concluded our joint organ meetings of the Central Working Committees of the Labour Centres of the NLC, Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the United Labour Congress (ULC) here in Lagos.

“The meeting is the final preparation for a full engagement with the government on the new National Minimum Wage and we have taken our decision to go on the strike.

“Our decision is to go ahead with the nationwide strike unless the government does the needful,” he said.

Also, Mr Musa Lawal, TUC General Secretary, also told NAN that the centre was not aware of any court ruling concerning the planned strike by organised labour.

“We are not aware because we have not been served any court order; we have taken our decision and we are going to stand by that,” he added.

The nationwide strike by organised labour is scheduled to commence on Nov. 6 over the new national minimum wage for workers in the country.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/new-minimum-wage-we-are-not-aware-of.html

Ahead of the 2019 general elections, the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), in collaboration with the African Union (AU), West Africa Network for Peace-building (WANEP), has launched the 2019 Election Violence Monitoring, Analysis and Mitigation (EMAM) Project.

The INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, speaking at the launch on Tuesday in Abuja noted that the project was a timely effort in achieving a peaceful 2019 election

Yakubu who was represented by INEC’s National Commissioner, Dr. Mohammed Leki, explained that the project will involve intelligence gathering process to mitigate election violence and take proactive actions “before things get out of hand”.

WANEP Executive Director, Chukwuemeka Eze, also speaking at the launch explained that the four-month long project will involve a real time monitoring, analysis and communication of several risks with periodic debriefing of key stakeholders.

Under the project, Eze said the monitors at the community, state and zonal levels will report threats, and incidents of electoral disputes and violence throughout the electioneering process to the National Election Analysis and Response Center.

“The center will provide timely analysed information to critical stakeholders including the national peace actors, security agents, electoral commission and other key institutions of the state, ECOWAS, AU and development partners for rapid response,” he said.

Eze however lamented that Nigeria had failed expectations of international community to lead the African Continent into electoral decorum and civility with recurring allegations of partisan security forces, partiality of the judiciary and lack of independence of the electoral commission, among others.

According to him: “Politicians are now comfortably pursuing their agenda along ethnic and religious lines than ideological lines. This threatens democracy, national cohesion and development.”

He therefore urged Nigerians to go beyond party and parochial interest in the forthcoming elections to enable the nation meet the expectations of providing leadership for the African continent.

Also speaking, the Head, Conflict Prevention and Early Warning Division of the AU, Amb. Fred Ngoga, said the AU would as part of its activities to observe the 2019 elections deploy a pre-electoral assessment mission in the coming weeks to consider the state of preparedness for the elections by all stakeholders and examine the political context within which the election will take place.

Ngoga who was represented by the Early Warning Officer, Peace and Security Department of AU, Ms. Mfrekeobong Ukpana, further explained that the outcome of the assessment would inform the deployment of long and short term observers.

He further expressed optimism that the launch of the project will lay and sustain the foundation of its engagements.

To this end, he urged all stakeholders to refrain from all acts of violence and use only legal and peaceful channels to address any disputes that my arise before, during and after elections.

He also reaffirmed the AU’s commitment and support to the Nigerian government and her citizens in ensuring the successful conduct of the 2019 general elections.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-inec-wanep-launch-election.html

The Nigerian Army, on Tuesday received a shipment of various ammunition.

The military in a terse statement posted on its official Facebook page, said the ammunition would further enhance its operational capabilities and combat efficiency.

See photos:

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/nigerian-army-receives-large.html

A 38-year-old tailor, Abdulrasheed Zakariyau, of Magaji Compound, Oke-Andi, Ilorin, Kwara State, has been arrested by the police for robbery and illegal possession of firearm. Operatives of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (F-SARS) of the Kwara State command arrested Zakariyau.

It was gathered that the security operatives arrested the suspect while they were on patrol along Sango area, Ilorin.

According to a police source, “When Zakariyau, who was riding a Bajaj motorcycle with registration No QX 368 LND, was stopped by the operatives, he could not produce documents of the motorcycle.

“During a search conducted on him by a team led by Inspector Victor Odion, a short dane gun, one locally made firearm and live cartridge, were found on him.”

The suspect was said to have initially claimed to be a member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) but was unable to identify himself as one, which led to his arrest.

“During investigation at F-SARS Police Command, it was discovered that the suspect was not a member of VGN and the guns in his possession at the time of arrest had no license.

“He confessed to the crime and revealed that he is a member of a robbery gang terrorising residents of Ilorin. Investigation is ongoing for arrest of his accomplices.

When contacted on the matter, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Kwara State Police Command, DSP Ajayi Okasanmi, said he was yet to be briefed on the case.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/police-arrest-tailor-for-motorcycle.html

Ethiopian lawmakers yesterday unanimously elected the country’s first female president, days after approving one of the world’s few “gender-balanced” Cabinets.

As seasoned diplomat Sahle-Work Zewde, 68, takes the largely ceremonial post, many celebrated Africa’s only current female head of state. Africa’s first female president, Liberia’s Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, left office this year.

Sahle-Work has worked in various United Nations organs and was the first director-general of the United Nations office in Nairobi. Until recently she was the U.N. secretary-general’s special representative to the African Union.

“Congratulations, Madam President! Women do make a difference. We are proud of you!” the female president of the United Nations General Assembly, María Fernanda Espinosa Garces, said in a Twitter post.

“In a patriarchal society such as ours, the appointment of a female head of state not only sets the standard for the future but also normalizes women as decision-makers in public life,” the chief of staff for Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said on Twitter.

Sahle-Work called Ethiopia’s recent transfer of power to the reformist prime minister “exemplary” and said she will focus on bringing together all sides to achieve peace in a country with multiple ethnic-based conflicts in recent months.

Ethiopian lawmakers last week approved a Cabinet with women making up a record 50 percent of ministers, including the country’s first female defense minister. A woman also leads the new Ministry of Peace, will oversees the powerful National Intelligence and Security Service and the Federal Police Commission.

The Horn of Africa power joined a handful of countries, mostly European, where women make up 50 percent or more of ministerial positions, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union and U.N. Women. Likely inspired, Rwanda two days later announced its own Cabinet with 50 percent women.

The country has received international recognition for female representation in government.

The moves in Ethiopia are the latest in sweeping political and economic reforms in Africa’s second most populous country since Abiy took office in April following months of nationwide anti-government protests demanding wider freedoms.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/ethiopia-elects-1st-female-president.html

The Edo State governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has assured of his administration’s commitment to sustain the One Million Trees for Peace Afforestation project on going in the state.

Obaseki made the commitment when he received members of the Board of Association of Bernadette Strebel World Peace (ABSWP) based in Switzerland and Spain, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Benin City on Wednesday.

The governor lamented that the forest cover of the state has dropped to less than six per cent, noting that replenishment through continuous tree planting is paramount.

“We are committed to the protection of the forest covers in the state in order to tackle climate change and preserve our beautiful state for future generations. We are ready to support the replenishment of our trees which are our heritage,” he added.

He assured that with the setting up of the Edo Forestry Commission, the state would be able to plant one million trees in two years.

Earlier, the president of the association, Mrs Bermadette Strebel, said the association in 2008, promised to support the Edo State Government’s Reforestation programme by raising one million trees to be planted in the state.

Strebel added that about 270,000 trees have been planted in the state since the inception of the project.

She noted that the world forests were depleting at an alarming rate and commended the governor Obaseki led administration for giving support to forest regeneration.

NYSC Scheme A Corner Stone In Rebuilding Nigeria – Minister

BY STELLAMARIES AMUWA, Abuja

The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mohammad Bello, has stated that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has become the corner stone in the rebuilding process of the project Nigeria with charming attractions for a seamless cultural mix which as it were, reflects the unifying and integration force which its founding fathers sought to achieve by its creation.

The minister made this known yesterday at the swearing in ceremony for the 2018 Batch C Stream 1 Corps members yesterday at the Orientation camp, Kubwa, Abuja.

According to the minister who was represented by the chairman, NYSC FCT governing board, Mallam Bashiru Mohammad, he assured the Corps members that the path they have chosen will not only go down the annals of history but shall regenerate their sociocultural, economic and political exposures. Adding that, hate speech and fake news are serious threats to national security and the nascent democracy.

He noted that the federal government and every patriotic citizen frowns furiously at it and urged Corps members to join hands with government to disarticulate, condemn and exterminate the dreaded virus of hate speech from becoming entrenched into norms and values. “Your welfare and security remains a top priority to government and I can assure you, we are on top of our game”.

Similarly, the NYSC, FCT coordinator, Ballama Bello stated that the scheme considers the welfare and security of Corps members an uncompromising obligation and would rest on its oars, within the best of their parameters and necessary resources and materials to address Corps members welfare and security.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/obaseki-pledges-support-for-one-million.html

In this interview by Prof. Muhammad Mustapher Akanbi (SAN) with KUNLE OLASANMI, he advised lawyers seeking the rank of senior advocate of Nigeria to follow due process and not get desperate in their bid to adorn the silk gown

Coming from a privileged background of an accomplished jurist father (late Justice Mustapher Akanbi), why did it take you a while to get elevated to the rank of a SAN?

Yes, I come from a privileged background in the sense that my dad was a renowned lawyer and he also made the Bench and rose to the level of the President, Court of Appeal. Unfortunately, he is now late. So, I met law at home because I came into this world and met my dad as a lawyer, and tried to follow his footsteps. And by the grace of God today, I’m a professor of law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. Even though it has not been as easy as one would have expected.
People would say that his father was the President, Court of Appeal, but it took a while. That’s normal because it’s a privilege not a right. When you apply, you put in everything that is required and pray for God’s grace. And if you get it, if God grants you His grace, you become SAN.

Arguably, most lawyers who aspire to the prestigious rank do so for the monetary benefits that come with the privilege, but you have just told well-wishers and friends that you are dedicating your SAN rank to the masses. Why are you doing so?
I did not make SAN because I wanted to make money; in my life and in my family, our motto is to give our all in the service of God and humanity.
I have aspired to get this silk because I want to use it to help the less-privileged in the profession and the society. So, it’s not about making money; it’s about being in a position to help others, and that was why I said I dedicate it to ordinary people; people who work quietly in their small cocoon trying to make it in life; I will be available for people like that. That is the reason why I studied law; to help the less-privileged.
How long have you been at the Bar?
I was called to the Bar on March 22, 1995. That means I’m 23 plus at the Bar.

Why is the rank conferred on only professors at the academic category?
Yes, when you are a professor, you have reached the peak of your academic career and you have become a leader in the academic field. So, if you want to become a leader in the professional field, the profession requires that only the best in academics will have the opportunity of aspiring for silk. So, it’s part of the criteria that you must have demonstrated great abilities and you must have also shown leadership. And by being a professor, it means that you have demonstrated leadership.
Well, I think those who get desperate and resort to untoward things, do not believe in God, they are not patient.
When you apply for the rank of SAN, it is not automatic. Like I said earlier, it is not as of right. So, why should you be desperate for something that is a privilege? You have people that have applied for more than eight or nine times and they have not gotten it.

How many times did you apply before you finally got it this time around?
I attempted it four times even though I wished I got it immediately, but God’s time is the best. But it will not get to a level where I will get desperate for anything in this world, that would make me to engage in something unbecoming of my status, first as a lawyer and even as a human being. If you come from a good home, you would not engage in things that are untoward.
Your late father led a crusade against corruption in Nigeria. With the current state of affairs in the country in respect of the fight against graft, what do you make of it?
Well, you know corruption is one big issue in Nigeria. It’s hydra-headed. And you can see that even though the government of the day has made fighting corruption as one of it’s mantras, it has not been easy. It has consumed some of the government’s appointees.
To fight corruption, you also have to be very clean. It is unfortunate that some of the current members of the government have not also been clean, and you can hear people say, “fight corruption but you must also ensure that you are not corrupt.”
Corruption is something that must be fought by everybody. Like the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen said, we should not leave it to government or institutions alone. Individuals in the society must fight corruption. If you make it a situation whereby it’s government that is fighting corruption and not the people, it will not succeed. We all must engage in things that would help reduce corruption; we must follow due process, we must follow rule of law, we must not be desperate because it’s desperation that makes people engage in corruption.

But do you see national consensus on tackling corruption in the country?
One thing is clear to me. Even though it will appear as if corruption has become so big that it will be difficult to reduce, I tell you, things are improving; people are now afraid of stealing openly. Before there was impunity; people stole openly; I’m not saying that people have stopped stealing but at least they now hide. Impunity is when you are doing it brazenly. So, that part of it that is brazen is gradually being reduced. It is going to take a long time because it did not start overnight; you know people have benefited. Some few have enjoyed corruption not knowing that the consequence of what they have enjoyed is what has brought Nigeria to this level.
.. But it is in our best interest and the country to have a national consciousness. Corruption must be reduced to the barest minimum.

Where things work, corruption will reduce. Where you have less corruption, things will work. There is a relationship between corruption and lack of infrastructural development.

So, we should all endeavour to fight corruption. Not only as a government but as citizens. That was what my father fought for even on his death bed. We only hope that his dream for Nigeria where corruption would be reduced, would one day surface sooner than we even expect.

Is your father’s dream for Nigeria being realised today?

I believe we will get there because nobody is enjoying the current state of things. Did you follow the election in Osun? Did you see the level of political consciousness? If you were told that in this country, there would be a difference of 300-plus in a governorship election, you would say it is not possible.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/imo-primaries-apc-elders-disown.html

A housewife, Hauwa Adamu on Wednesday begged a Mararaba Upper Area Court, Nasarawa State, to dissolve her marriage to Isyaku Na’Allah, over alleged inability to sexually satisfy her on bed, NAN reports.

Hauwa told the court that her husband has never satisfied her sexually because he only “lasts for two minutes on top of her.’’

She said that she married him under the Islamic rights and the union did not produce any child.

Hauwa also alleged that Na’Allah always accuses her of aborting their baby whenever she conceives, an accusation she denied.

Hauwa said that their childlessness was as a result of Na’Allah’s lack of “sexual performance.’’

She told the court that she was no longer interested in the marriage and begged the court to dissolve it.

Hauwa added that she would return the Sadaq (dowry) the respondent paid on her.

The respondent, Na’Allah, however, denied the allegations.

The judge, Mr Ibrahim Shekarau, adjourned the case until Oct. 29 to allow the parties to settle out of court.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/why-my-husband-cant-sexually-satisfy-me.html

Chinese Customs Authorities reported on Tuesday they had detected the first case of imported Zika virus in 2018 in a man who had recently traveled to the Maldives.

The tourist showed symptoms including a fever and rash when arriving at Baiyun International Airport on Oct. 19 in Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

Alarmed customs staff arranged a medical examination and found him Zika-positive two days later, the GAC said in an online announcement without identifying the patient, who was later quarantined at a local hospital.

Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can cause symptoms like fever, rashes and arthralgia, and in rare cases it can be lethal.

It has also been linked to brain abnormalities in unborn babies and the paralysing Guillain-Barre syndrome.

The GAC has urged people to protect themselves from Zika when traveling abroad and called for voluntary reports if travelers begin experiencing typical symptoms of the virus.

It has also vowed to step up efforts to ensure early detection.

China reported a total of 26 cases of imported Zika virus in 2016 and 2017.

It has recorded no local spread of the disease. (Xinhua/NAN)

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/china-confirms-first-case-of-imported.html

In this piece, ACHOR ABIMAJE reports that the crises generated over PDP primaries in Plateau State are threatening its prospect in the forthcoming general elections

It is no longer news that the senator representing Plateau South in the national assembly, Jeremiah Useini, has won the governorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to fly the party’s flag in the 2019 governorship election in the state.

But there are indications that the party may suffer a great setback in the February 2019 election if the allegation of inbalance that is rocking the party now is not addressed as another round of crisis is looming.

The PDP has zoned its governorship candidate to Plateau South Senatorial zone, which comprises of six local government councils.

These include Langtang North, Langtang South, Shendam, Mikang, Wase, and Quanpan Local government councils.

Useni is from Taroh ethnic stock in Langtang north local government council of the state. The member representing Langtang north/ Langtang South federal constituency and PDP flag bearer Hon. Beni Lar is also from Langtang North.

Similarly, Barrister Peter Dandam Kefas, the flagbear of the party for the Plateau South Senatorial zone is also from Langtang North local government council.

The trio are all from Tarok ethnic stock in the state.

The senator popularly called Baba Mai Tuwo is the former military administrator of the defunch Bendel state and also former minister of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

He won the Plateau PDP Governorship primaries conducted in Langfield Resort little Rayfield, Jos, on Sunday 30th September, 2018 in the state.

The results announced showed that a total of 13 aspirants participated in the gubernatorial primaries.

He defeated Johnbull Shekarau, the member representing Mikang /Quanpan, Shendam federal constituency and 11 others in a well organised and peaceful primary attended by 2,097 party delegates from the 17 local government areas of the state.

Before the PDP governorship primaries, Senator Ibrahim Mantu-led Committee set up by the Plateau PDP to dialogue with the party’s governorship aspirants had signed an undertaking with the 13 aspirants to support any candidate that may emerge as the governorship flag bearer of the party.

Recall that the State Working Committee of the party had earlier inaugurated a committee to dialogue with the 13 aspirants jostling to grab the party’s ticket in the 2019 governorship elections.

However, the former Senate President, Ibrahim Mantu, who headed a five-man committee came up with a resolution reached with all the 13 aspirants that anyone who emerges the Party flag bearer, would have the full corporation of the other 12.

While signing the agreement, the aspirants agreed that the campaign would be issue based and not assassination of character, promising not to decamp, but that they would rather unite and work with the wining candidate.

Mantu said, “It is a family affair and they had agreed to conduct themselves in a brotherly manner. They have five days to complete their assignment and we want them to base their campaigns on issues and not character assassination. I am confident that whoever emerges, we will all support him to change the change”.

It was gathered that 2,097 delegates participated in the PDP exercise and breakdown according to Local Government Areas were as follows: Shendam – 118, Qua’an Pan – 117, Mikang – 107, Langtang North – 147, Langtang South – 106, Kanam – 136, Kanke – 108, Pankshin – 124; Mangu – 159, Bokkos – 139, Wase – 90, Barkin Ladi – 119; Riyom – 107, Jos East – 104, Bassa – 157; Jos South – 120 and Jos North – 140.

The results showed that Senator Useni got 1,018, Rt. Hon. Johnbull Shekarau, 340, Sen. Victor Lar 249, Rt. Hon. George Daika 199, Hon. Nicholas Kemi Nshe 117; Dr. Ponyah Ibrahim 62, Godfrey Bawa 35; Yitman Maimako 4, Nandom Ishaku Pyennap 1, Arc. Sam Jatau 5, Sam Abashe 3; Engr. Jimmy Cheto 7 and Brig. Gen. Musa Gambo 0. 33 invalid votes were recorded.

Since the announcement of the results, there have been no disagreements among the aspirants unlike the situation in 2015 where after the governorship primaries most of the aspirants defected to other political parties to pursue their aspirations, while other disgruntled aspirants still remained in the PDP but voted against the party’s governorship candidate along with their supporters.

When contacted to speak on the outcome of the exercise, the State Deputy Chairman of the party, Hon. Amos Gombi said: “As you can see, everyone is at home with the outcome of the election. The processes were transparent and some of the aspirants have congratulated Senator Useni, they have gone to his house to congratulate him. As we speak, none of them has approached the Appeal panel to lay any complaint.

In order to avoid a possible defeat in the next general elections, a group under the auspices of PDP Youth Mandate Actualization Network has lamented the outcome of the party Senatorial primaries held in Plateau South Senatorial zone of the party where the Senatorial candidate and the governorship candidate are from the same tribe and the same council area.

The group feared that Senator Useni, the flagbear of the PDP governorship election in the 2019 is Taroh from Langtang North while Barrister Peter Dandam Kefas, the flagbear of the party for the Plateau South Senatorial zone is also from Tarok ethnic stock and from Langtang North LGA also.

The group called on the stakeholders to correct the inbalamce for the party to be able to record landslide victory come 2019 in the state.

Addressing newsmen in Jos, Barrister Noel Begun Dogari, a one-time assistant legal adviser of the PDP in the state

said “ Our inability to forsee these outcomes especially at the Senatorial district level is a major cause, we do not accept it and wish to sound it with a loud voice and in clear terms that the national Secretariat and all relevant organs of the party must step in and do all that is within its powers as enshrined in the written and unwritten constitution of our great party to address this matter”.

“We call for the adjustment of the imbalance in the southern zone and I believe the party is set to retake our mandate come February, 2019. Anyone who has followed the political history of our state would agree that it is always not a surprise that either Langtang North or Langtang South would win due to the imbalance in the creation of federal wards and constituencies as an ethnic group with the control of close to 30 federal wards in the zone. It will take as much as the brutal suppression of candidates from among the remaining ethnic groups as was the experience at the APC primaries before such capacity can deprive them”.

While speaking further, he stated that: “It is in a bid to cure this ugly development that our great party has enshrined in its constitution the doctrine of zoning of elective and appointive positions so as to avoid a situation of perpetual domination of any group within its membership .

“The mood of the people in four out of the six local government areas in the zone: Wase, Mikang, Quaapan and Shendam that comprise of the Southern zone of Plateau state has suddenly become melancholia once the Senatorial primaries were concluded. This is not unconnected with the facts that the Tarohs have enjoyed more than a fair share of the Senatorial slot in the zone since the return to civil rule in 1999.”

“Langtang North has produced four out of the five senators who have represented and still represent the Southern senatorial district at the chambers.”

According to him, Senator Silas Jangfa 1999- 2003, Senator John Shagaya 2007 -2011, Senator Victor Lar 2011 -2015, Senator Jeremiah Useni 2015 till date, adding that they must state that the miscalculations and highhandedness that characterized the party just before her ousting in 2015 steers them in the face as they foresee a populist revolt against the current status quo which may lead them to avoidable defeat

He said that as a concerned party faithful, they found the attempt to relive the past a clear case of recklessness on the side of their great party .

“We are average citizens of the state and feel the pain of mis-governance, poor performances, insecurity, lack of employment and deprivation .”

But in a swift reaction, Mr. John Akans, the publicity Secretary of Plateau state chapter of he People Democratic Party PDP told our correspondent in Jos that they is nothing much the party can done in this circumstances stressing that the problem is not the making of the party rather he blamed the people of Plateau southern zone for the problem.

According to him, it is now left for the stakeholders of the zone to addressed the wrong or injustice that has been melted out to other people of the zone adding that critical stakeholders from the zone are doing everything humanely possible to see what can be done.

“It is a problem that has been caused by the people of the zone. Thank God relevant stakeholders of the party from the southern zone are talking with the view to resolve the issue.” Akans said.

For Pam Dalyop a citizen of the state who spoke to our correspondent said PDP should as a matter of urgency address this inbalamce before it is too late or else Ithey may not get the support of other people from the zone who felt surcharge and would want to do anti party.

Be that as it may, the battle for Plateau 2019 would be between governor Lalong of the APC and former FCT minister JT Useni of the PDP..

He added that unlike the 2015 governorship election when governorship aspirants threw away the baby with the dirty water and the bath away after PDP primaries, this time around governor Lalong of APC will not have it easy as all the PDP aspirants and their supporters are intact ,none of them decamp after the governorship primaries, they all promise to support Senator J.T Useni to beat the incumbent governor Simon Lalong.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-as-zoning-threatens-plateau-pdp.html

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora,Mrs Abike Dabiri-Eriwa, has demanded for full autopsy and investigation from Kenya Government into the killing of a Nigerian, Mr Bamiyo Ashade, allegedly killed by the Kenyan police.

Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement by her media aide, Mr Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Sunday in Abuja said that the reported killing was contained in the briefing by the Nigerian High Commissioner in Kenya, Mr Sheidu Momoh.

Dabiri-Erewa said that the envoy who said this when he met with Nigerians in Kenya pleaded with them to remain calm.

She quoted the envoy as saying that he was on top of the situation and that he had met with the aggrieved Nigerians for four hours with a formal complaint to the Kenyan Foreign Affairs demanding full autopsy.

The Envoy, however, noted that contrary to the believe, the late Bamiyo Ashade, also known as Bamo, was not a student in Kenya but a Nigerian living in Kenya and had met with the family of the bereaved to commiserate with them with an assurance that justice will prevail.

“The deceased, Bamiyo Ashade, the second born in a family of three, was brutalised at his house in Four ways estate, Kiambu, on Monday Oct. 15, while the police officers allegedly tried to extort him despite finding out he had valid papers.

“However, he stood his ground, as he didn’t commit any crime. The officers then resorted to harassment and assault. Seeing that he was nearing his death, he was quickly rushed to a hospital, where he died.”

Dabiri-Erewa noted that friends and relatives had taken to the social media to condemn the police brutality directed towards Nigerians in the Diaspora and joined in calling for justice for Bamo.

She said that a family friend to the Ashades in Ibadan, Nigeria, Alhaji Sulaiman Adio, lamented that the family had lost two of their three siblings within six months, as Bamiyo’s elder brother died six months ago and thus, joined in the call for justice for the deceased.

“In view of the foregoing, we appeal to the Kenya Government to conduct thorough investigation into the gruesome killing of this young Nigerian and bring the perpetrators to justice accordingly’’, Dabiri-Erewa said.

The presidential aide also condoled with the family of the deceased and prayed God to comfort them in the best way.

The Presidential aide also said that full investigation had commenced into the circumstances of a Nigerian man who died after he fell from the 8th floor of his apartment due to the fear of being arrested by some officials of the Kenyan law enforcement agency in Nairobi.

The sad incident happened on Sept. 26, and the deceased was laid to rest, on Monday Oct. 15, at the Langata cemetery, Kenya.(NAN)

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/fg-condemns-killing-of-another-nigerian.html

The newly appointed High Commissioner of the Peoples’ Republic of Bangladesh, E.M.D. Shameem Ahsan has commended Nigeria’s growing relations with his country , assuring that he will support efforts for a deeper and richer relationship. The Envoy gave the assurance Thursday, when he visited President Muhammadu Buhari to submit copies of his credentials along side two other Ambassadors at the presidential villa, in Abuja. The High Commissioner who extended an Executive Visit invitation to President Buhari that will be reciprocated by his Prime Minister said, his country’s population of 160 million people had largely remained “self-sufficient’’ in feeding, adding that the experience on self-reliance on agriculture can be shared with Nigeria.The High Commissioner mentioned the visit of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Nigeria in 2010 at D-8 Summit. Mr. Ahsan drew the attention of the President about opening a resident Nigerian Mission in Dhaka which remains under its consideration. High Commissioner Ahsan thanked the Nigerian government for its constructive role on Rohingya issue especially at the UN.

Ahsan briefed President Buhari about the tremendous successes achieved at home and abroad under the dynamic leadership of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. President Muhammadu Buhari who warmly welcomed and congratulated the new High Commissioner of Bangladesh assured of an all-out support during his tour of duty. Mr. President who was thrilled by Bangladesh success story highly appreciated the generosity of the Hon’ble Prime Minister in hosting 1.1 million forcefully displaced Myanmar nationals. The President felt encouraged to learn that Bangladesh, despite its small geographic size and with a population of 160 million people, is already self-sufficient in food production. Both governments noted that there are huge potentials to expand bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and underlined exchange of high level visits. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama and Mrs. Pandora Chowdhury, wife of the High Commissioner were also present during the meeting. A career diplomat, Mr. Ahsan served as the Consul General of Bangladesh in New York before his first Ambassadorial assignment in Nigeria. Earlier, he served as Deputy Chief of Mission at Bangladesh Embassy in Washington DC and at Bangladesh Missions in Rome, Nairobi, Doha and Kuwait in various capacities. He also served as Director General (External Publicity) and (Europe) and held important positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka. Mr. Ahsan has written two books on diplomacy & international relations and contributed a good number of articles on various issues at home & abroad.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/bangladesh-envoy-visits-pmb-promises.html

It was all joy and jubilation as inhabitants of Ugbine Community in Oduna Ward of Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State took delivery of a transformer, facilitated by the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Barrister Omosede Igbinedion.
Omosede Igbinedion who promised the community of developments if elected fulfilled her promises to the community.
The residents who were elated prayed and danced showing appreciation for what the first female member from Ovia in the federal constituency has done for them.
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Residents who spoke with reporters during the installation of the transformer said they have always benefited from Omosede in facilitating developmental projects to their community.
They acknowledged the generosity of Omosede and thanked her for past projects and more developmental initiative which they anticipate.
Omosede Igbinedion has promised to facilitate more projects to the community.
Barrister Omosede replicated similar projects in other communities in Ovia.
The residents of Ovia said they would reward Omosede by voting for her in next years general elections.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/assurance2019-ovia-residents-pass-vote.html

The member representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Barrister Omosede Igbinedion, has been described as God sent to the people of Ovia in view of her efficient representation at the National Assembly.

Women from Ovia Federal Constituency gave the commendation during an empowerment programme organized by the Federal lawmaker.

Omosede Igbinedion who told the women that Governance is all about service to the people and uplifting them out of poverty said the federal government earlier promised these women through a scheme a financial grant of N50,000 each to enable them expand on their trade but since the federal government was not forthcoming in redeeming their pledge she decided to do the needful to alleviate the current economic crisis affecting these women and traders by using her own resources in fulfilling the failed promise of the federal government.

She insisted that her primary responsibility as the people’s Representative is the empowering of women and youth as well as attracting federal government presence to Ovia .

She presented the cash gifts to the women who could not hide their excitement and danced all day in appreciation of the wonderful initiative.

Speaking with reporters some of the beneficiaries thanked Barrister Omosede and prayed to God to continue to give her the resources to keep impacting on the lives of the people.

They called on her not to relent in her efforts in developing Ovia Federal Constituency while assuring her of their vote in next year general elections.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/assurance2019-excitement-and-praises-as.html

As Zamfara residents anxiously wait in anxiety over the possibility or otherwise of having the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) fielding candidates for all elective positions in the 2019 general elections, many in the economic sector have expressed fears of losses as campaigns nears. UMAR MOHAMMED (Gusau) and ANKELI EMMANUEL (Sokoto) reports.

It is not yet uhuru for the Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the expected legal action to redeem their chance of presenting candidates for the 2019 general elections might be a long wait after all.

Naturally, it is expected that Zamfara chapter of APC will want to do everything humanly possible to submit names of their candidate for now rather than casting aspersions.

However, it seems the cloud is still dark as legal processes are often not speedy as expected.

The journey towards 2019 got blurred after series of hidden but manifestly displayed battle of wit between political gladiators in the state APC took a twist for the worst.

Not a few in the state view the situation as pure battle of ego among the top echelon of the political hierarchy of Zamfara. All the over eight aspirants were by every standard qualified to handle whatever political position in the state. They were equally all matured politically to reach a genuine truce if sincerity of purpose is involved.

That however, was never to be as nobody was ready to tow the path of peace, negotiation and consensus prior to the primaries. This development therefore made it a near impossibility to conduct primary elections as all attempt were marred by violence.

Irked by the development, and in a bit to save its integrity, the nation’s electoral umpire, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) instantly wrote to the APC stressing why Zamfara APC cannot field candidates for any elective position come 2019.

In the said letter as signed by the commission’s acting secretary, Okechukwu Ndeche, Zamfara State chapter of APC was unable to meet up with INEC’s dateline on the conduct of party primaries.

The letter, written on the 8th of October titled, “Failure To Conduct Party Primaries In Zamfara State Within The Stipulated Time Frame” and sent to APC’s national chairman, Adams Oshiomole emphatically explained itself on the subject matter.

“You will note from the timetable that the conduct of party primaries is scheduled to take place between 18th August and 7th October, 2018. Kindly also referred to the last schedule communicated by your party to the commission on the dates of party primaries nationwide, including Zamfara vide your letter Ref. APC/NHDQ/INEC/19/18/51 dated 3rd October 2018. However, reports refined from our Zamfara office shows that no primaries were conducted by your party in the state. Notwithstanding that our officials were fully mobilised and deployed.”

Providing justifications for their position, INEC said the action was in conformity with the provision of section 31 and 87 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

It therefore emphatically reaffirmed that, “The commission does not expect that your party submit names of any candidates from Zamfara State.”

Succinctly put, INEC’s position in this narrative is that APC, as the ruling party, both at the national and state levels is therefore not expected to present candidates for any elective position come 2019: Governorship, National and State Assembly inclusive.

As expected, APC replied INEC saying primaries were duly conducted in Zamfara State hence, they will therefore file candidates for all elective offices come 2019.

Said Oshiomole to INEC, “We wish to state emphatically that nothing can be farther from the actual situation in Zamfara State.

Backing his position on the matter, Oshiomole said the report from APC Zamfara Electoral Committee proved that primaries were actually held between October 6th and 7th at Gusau City, King Hotel and candidates emerged via consensus.

Oshiomole further berated INEC for not waiting until the set dates of final submission before punching the bile.

While pundits continue to await what becomes the fate of the state APC in 2019, a strong contender for the state number one seat, Senator Kabiru Marafa, said Oshiomole’s claim was far from the truth as no such consensus ever happened in Zamfara.

With the stake getting high, the people of Zamfara State, who have been over the years weighed down with challenges of insecurity orchestrated by the activities of armed bandits, kidnappers and cattle rustlers, continue to pray for a peaceful resolution of the matter, hence for them, the matter at hand portents yet another grave danger for the ordinary citizen.

Without delay, aggrieved APC members rushed to the Federal High Court and State High Court seeking for action against the National Working Committee of the party and to declare INEC position an exercise in nullity.

At the federal high Court, Lawali M Liman was the plaintiff while at the State High Court, Sanusi Dan Alhaji, an aspirant of the Gusau State, constituency filed the suit.

Both courts heard the matter on Tuesday 16th October 2018.

At the State High Court, the suit was filed by Mahmud Magaji (SAN) on behalf of the plaintiff while Sani Katu stood in for the plaintiff, APC card carrying members and SANUSI Danalhaji.

Having carefully observed the motion on notice case, the presiding judge, Justice Mukhtar Yushau, issued an interim order asking all parties in the matter to maintain status quo pending the determination of the main suit.

He said, “The court is hereby directing all parties involved in the matter to maintain status quo and desist from taking any action.”

Earlier, counsel to the plaintiff, Sani Katu said the motion was asking the court to recognise the primary election conducted between 3rd and 7th October 2018 as indicated in their response to INEC.

The plaintiff was also seeking the court intervention to stop the National Working Committee from taking action contrary to the primary election already conducted in the state.

Counsel to the APC NWC, P M Lasco, expressed confidence with the outcome of the court, stressing that, asking parties to stay action pending the determination of the main suit was in the right direction.

While the legal tussle might tarry, the people of the state are already expressing mixed feelings over the whole debacle.

For some, it’s a matter of constitutional consideration. Others however, wondered why key players in the state APC have allowed themselves to be swallowed by ego to a point that, everybody is now a victim.

Much as they continue to scrutinise the scenario from varied dimensions, a good number of the locals are expressing fears over how it would affect the state negatively.

For some, it’s not about fielding candidates in 2019 general elections, but the state of affairs in the state ahead of that time.

Those that share this mindset are of the opinion that the development would naturally affect their economic, political and social life.

For the opposition parties in Zamfara State, happenings in the ruling APC is not unexpected. According to them, it goes to prove how incoherent those seeking elective positions in the party could be.

Some members of the opposition who spoke to LEADERSHIP Friday on conditions of anonymity vowed to take up legal action against INEC should it allow Zamfara APC feature candidate for any elective position come 2019 general election.

Zamfara To Lose Over N3bn If APC Is Not In 2019 General Elections-Expert

An economist from the Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State has raised concern over what he described as likely economic trauma on the state should APC not participate in the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking on the unpalatable but inevitable outcome of excluding the ruling party (APC) from an election in the state, the university don, who preferred not be mentioned said, all local businesses would suffer untold hardship.

According to him, it is an established norm globally that, brisk businesses often spring up especially during electioneering period.

Giving insight into how the loss might be, he said, those in printing and stationery business would be losing a great deal.

“These guys would be missing over N1bn cumulatively as all candidates will print posters, handbills, banners, billboards. Some of them will also print fliers, note books among others.

“In the real estate sector, agents, landlords as well as those involved in interior decoration will be missing over N500 million because most of the edifice that should be rented out as party secretariats and campaign offices would be laying waste.

“Those in the hospitability, entertainment and transport business, will be missing over N1bn as well. This is because most of the hotels that should ordinarily be busy with guests within the electioneering period would miss patronage.

“The praise singers are naturally parts of the winning strategies in the politics of this zone. But as it stands, they will not be having patronage too.”

He also affirmed that thugs who are used as agents of threat in the name of ‘Areaboyism’ would be missing over N500 million from all parties, as the demand for their hooliganism job will be minimal.

“Generally put, in the absence of the ruling party (APC) participating in the elections, other parties might not want to spend because the APC is considered to be the ideal party to bring out more money, hence they are in power in the state and would not want to be defeated. Therefore, businesses and other sundry activities stand to miss over 3billion naira cumulatively, he said.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/inecapc-faceoff-zamfara-may-lose-n3bn.html

Governors under the auspices of the Nigerian Governors forum have declared that they are not against the upward review of minimum wage.

Recall that the Nigeria Labour Congress are proposing N30,000 as the new minimum wage.

Speaking to journalist after the meeting of the NGF on Wednesday night, chairman of the forum, Zamfara State governor, Abdulaziz Yari said the issue was not just on agreed figure to be paid by the governors, but the ability or resources to take care of that agreed minimum wage.

According to him, some states are struggling to pay the current N18 thousand naira pointing out that some states are even owing several months of salary arrears.

He said, “like we said we can do minimum wage on any amount we need but the issue is the ability to pay the minimum wage agreed and in the last meeting which the minister of Labour attended with the negotiation committee and also the committee that we also set up.

“We made it clear that we are not against the upward review of salary, we are in tandem with the NLC to get the minimum wage reviewed but the problem we are having is the capacity to pay what is agreed.

“As at today most of the states are struggling to pay the N18 thousand minimum wage. Some states are paying between 35 to 50% of the minimum wage and some states are owing salary arrears.

“If we say we are going to do an upward review of the minimum wage .So, it is not about only reviewing it but how we are going to get the resources to cater for it.”

Yari also stated that the National President of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, was invited to brief the Forum on states’ performance in the use of London and Paris Club refunds.

The Federal Government disbursed the fund to states with the condition to use larger percentage of the money to pay workers’ salaries.

“Also sometimes ago London and Paris club refund was paid and part of the agreement was that we will deal with the issues of workers and it was a serious agreement that we signed with the minister of finance and the Federal government that the larger chunk of the money will be channeled to payment of salaries .

“Some states are in the process but one of the conditions critically accepted is to ensure that this funds was utilised according to the agreement.

“We invited the national president of the Nigerian Labour Congress to give us a details on how some states have performed.

“Some states that are not up to date have signed an MOU with the NLC and their representative in states on how they can overcome the issue of salary arrears and that has been done and it will be taken to the CBN so that those states will be paid,” he stated.

Yari also said that the forum received briefing on the forthcoming 24th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES) from Mr Laoye Jaiyeola, the Chief Executive Officer of the NES Group.

“Members commended the group for upholding the public-private dialogue and assured the team of the full participation of states as the summit will help align government policies and programmes with the needs of the private sector.”

Stating that the governors took far reaching decisions on the state of security in the country, Yari said that the decisions would be channeled to the right quarters for appropriate actions.

He noted “The issue of security is not what we will be disclosing in camera. We discussed about security and it’s not something I will come and talk about .We are channeling it to the appropriate quarters for the right action to be taken.

Yari also stated that an update was received from the NGF Secretariat on Polio and Primary Healthcare Under One Roof (PHCUOR).

He said governors expressed commitment to facilitate the development of a minimum package and investment plan for State Primary Healthcare Boards.

According to him, “We deliberated on several issues more especially on primary health care in which some many debates were raised and in health we are talking local governments function to state or federal.

“The governors also made it clear that the primary health care has nothing to do with the national but just domestic issues of the local government and the issues were raised and debated and a memo will be sent to the economic council so that it can be discussed,” Yari added.

Also speaking to reporters after the meeting, Wabba insisted that workers cannot continued to provide services on empty stomach.

He said even though Labour is prepared to dialogue on the minimum wage issue, but there is limit to it.

The NLC boss said: “All through history of minimum wage in Nigeria, it has never been given on a platter of gold.

“We thought the situation has changed, things have improved, and therefore, through collective bargaining and dialogue, we will be able to reach a compromise.

“If we do that, fine and good. Where that is not done, you should also know that no worker can continue to work on an empty stomach. That has been our message.

“We will continue to dialogue but there is also a limit to dialogue.”

Wabba said the challenge in the Nigerian economy especially the eroding of the purchasing power of the worker caused by continuous devaluation of the naira, the exchange rate, the increase in pump price of petrol and electricity tariff, have affected the Nigerian worker.

He observed that by law, the minimum wage ought to have been reviewed as far back as 2016 as previously agreed.

“All these factors put together necessitated the NLC and organized Labour to demand for a new minimum wage which is in tandem with best global practice,” he explained.

“He further stated: What we are telling the Governors is that the minimum wage is due and everybody must be committed to it, committed to it in the sense that every state was given an opportunity to…when the (negotiation) committee finished its work, we wrote individually to the state governments to send in input.

“Twenty one states responded in writing. Some quoted figures, some said, whatever is agreed, they are going to pay. Some have made statements that they are going to pay.

“So, for anybody to come under a platform and say ‘well, we have issue with that,’ I think the best thing is to go back to their states, put your workers together and say ‘I will not be able to pay.’”

“That is what I think is honourable, that is what I think is supposed to be done.”

However, the Labour leader said he pleaded with the governors that they should understand that the workers must earn a living from their salary as they provide critical services in the system.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/we-are-not-against-upward-review-of.html

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said it would resist any attempt by the federal government to implement a No Work No Pay policy.

NLC president, Ayuba Wabba while reacting to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) white paper on No Work, No Pay policy said workers would also implement a No Pay No Work policy.

He said, “The right to strike is a human and trade union right and can not be wished away, that’s why strike is legalized by our laws, and had been excised since colonial era to date.
“The right to strike is what differentiate a worker from a slave. Just like the right to strike, right to picketing, the right to work”.

He said that it is morally and legally wrong to apply a phrase in a body of law without respecting all other provisions of the same law, adding that the same law provides that a workers wage is due after 30 days, “where this and or any collective bargaining agreement is violated it is legally and morally justifiable for unions and workers to apply “No pay No Work.”

He warned that the threat of no work no pay can not therefore deter workers and trade unions from exercising the right to strike.

“There are clear procedures provided by law to embark on a strike, once the legal requirement is met no work no pay can not apply”, he said.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/we-will-resist-no-work-no-pay-policy-nlc.html

Lady Gaga has apparently confirmed her engagement to boyfriend, Christian Carino, by referencing her “fiancé, Christian” during a speech Monday at Elle’s 25th Annual Women in Hollywood Celebration.

The “A Star Is Born” actress wiped away a tear as she spoke and thanked “all the loved ones” in her life who take care of her every day.

Gaga and Carino, a talent agent, have been low-key about their relationship since they were first spotted together in January 2017.

It’s been a big month for Gaga, who was honored at the Elle event and is earning rave reviews and Oscar buzz for her performance in “A Star Is Born” with Bradley Cooper.

The soundtrack to the film debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 album chart this week, marking Gaga’s her fifth chart-topper and Cooper’s first.

Gaga was previously engaged to actor Taylor Kinney, who she dated for four years before Kinney proposed on Valentine’s Day 2015.

Gaga announced that she and Kinney were taking a break in 2016, following speculation they had split.

She posted a photo with the actor on Instagram at the time of her breakup with a caption that began, “Taylor and I have always believed we are soulmates.”

“Just like all couples we have ups and downs, and we have been taking a break,” Gaga wrote. “We are both ambitious artists, hoping to work through long-distance and complicated schedules to continue the simple love we have always shared.”

Gaga used her Elle speech to talk about the role women play Hollywood and referenced her own experience with sexual assault.
“We women in Hollywood, we are voices,” she said.

“We have deep thoughts and ideas and beliefs and values about the world and we have the power to speak and be heard and fight back when we are silenced.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/official-lady-gaga-is-engaged.html

Delta Air Lines has reported financial results for the September quarter 2018 with GAAP pre-tax income of $1.7 billion, net income of $1.3 billion and earnings per diluted share of $1.91 on record revenue of $12.0 billion. Returning $566 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, the airline also indicated September quarter 2018 adjusted pre-tax income of $1.6 billion, adjusted net income of $1.2 billion and adjusted earnings per diluted share of $1.80 The report released recently showed adjusted pre-tax income for the September quarter 2018 was $1.6 billion, and adjusted earnings per share were $1.80, at the high end of guidance. Adjusted earnings per share were up 16 percent compared to the prior year quarter, driven by revenue momentum, tax reform benefits and a four percent lower share count.
Results reflect a $30 million negative impact from Hurricane Florence. Commenting, Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer said “our solid eight percent revenue growth, combined with flat non-fuel unit cost performance, helped offset 85 percent of the $655 million fuel cost increase in the quarter. These achievements are a testament to the strength of the Delta business model and the hard work of the Delta people, and I am pleased to recognize their performance with an additional $395 million toward 2018 profit sharing.

“Our commercial momentum and improved cost trajectory give us confidence that we are on a path to deliver continued top-line growth and expand margins as we move into 2019,’’ Bastian added.
On Revenue Environment, Delta’s adjusted operating revenue of $11.8 billion for the September quarter improved eight percent, or $912 million versus the prior year. This quarterly revenue result marks a record for the company, driven by improvements across Delta’s business, including a nearly 20 percent increase in premium product ticket revenues and double-digit percentage increases in cargo, loyalty and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul revenue.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/delta-airlines-makes-net-income-of-13bn.html

As Kanye West continues to record his Yandhi album in Uganda,they have paid a visit to the country’s president.
Kim kardashian and kanye in Uganda

The Yeezy boss and his wife,Kim Kardashian were hosted by the president of Uganda,Yoweri Museveni today at State House.
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West in Uganda

The president tweeted alongside photos of them

I welcome American entertainment stars Kanye West and @KimKardashian to Uganda. I held fruitful discussions with the duo on how to promote Uganda’s tourism and the arts. I thank Kanye for the gift of white sneakers. Enjoy your time in Uganda. It is the true Pearl of Africa.

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West in Uganda

Team Kanye is based at the Chobe Lodge Murchison National Park located in northern Uganda.
Kanye West in Uganda

According to reports, the park is under lockdown and security remains very high.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/kim-kardashian-and-kanye-west-meet-with.html