A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and a member of the Abia state Advisory Council, Alhaji Suleiman Ukandu, has berated President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government over the current state of things in the nation.

He pointed out that Nigerians were tired of the present All Progressives Congress-led administration, saying that the party has failed in its promises to fix the nation’s economy.

Ukandu who made his feelings known, in an interview with newsmen in Umuahia, said that Buhari and his APC-led government cannot deceive Nigerians again with fake promises.

He stressed that every segment of the Nigeria society has decided that APC will go in the coming February presidential election.

According to Ukandu, “The bottom line is that the Nigerian masses have decided that Buhari and the APC should pack and go this year. Because, our presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar will bring structural transformation that will connote a quantum of change.

” APC has nothing to put on the table because their administration is becoming disastrous to the citizenry. Buhari made a lot of promises prior to 2015 election, none of the promises has been executed or fulfilled.

“Honestly, Nigerians are fed up with these government and its fake promises. The people cannot be fooled any longer, because, they have tested Buhari and found out he has failed in all facets of governance in the country.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/14/2019-administration-pdp-chieftain-suleiman-ukandu-fires-buhari-says-apc-drove-government-terrible/

Shehu Sani, the Senator representing Kaduna Central District at the National Assembly, yesterday described the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government’s order that the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Samuel Onnoghen should immediately vacate his office, as a “political assault on the sacred temple of justice.”

Sani, in another snide remark also likened the plan to prosecute the CJN in a tweet as “The buglers plan is to steal the bench and give it to a carpenter who will quickly dismantle it and turn it into a ladder, so that they can scale the fence and pilfer.”

The charges against Justice Onnoghen were filed and served on him last Friday at his official residence in Abuja preparatory for his appearance before the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, today.

But reacting, Shehu Sani, while condemning the FG decision, said the move against the CJN should be resisted and rescinded.

He tweeted, “The move against the CJN Onnoghen is a political assault on the sacred temple of justice; it should be resisted and rescinded.

“The government has moved in the crane to the Court in order to remove a Bench from the roof.

“This amount to throwing a bolt on the runway of our democracy and peace.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/14/senator-sani-condemns-fgs-plan-prosecute-onnoghen/

The Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Council (PDP-PCCO) on Sunday raised the alarm over the alleged secret execution of political opponents in Kogi State.

The organisation said no fewer than three members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), were murdered on Friday.

Spokesperson of PDP-PCCO in Kogi, Austin Okai Usman, in a statement entitled: “Kogi State Is Under Siege”, said: “Nigerians may recall that January 6 2019, this council uncovered a plot by the outgoing accidental Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello and his agents to roll out an elaborate agenda to roll out calculated violence in the state targeted at members of the opposition.

“Not only was this revelation made to the world and selected foreign missions, the council noted that the project will be bankrolled by the state government.

“Whereas agents of the screamed blue murder and employed all the outdated tricks to cover up their plot to endanger Nigeria’s democracy, the events of the last 3 days has clearly validated our intelligence report.

“It is for this reason that the attention of the highest echelon of the Nigeria Armed Forces, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force is drawn to the fact that on the last count, paid agents of the Kogi State Governor, provided with full security and supervised by a member of the cabinet of the outgoing governor, Yahaya Bello have summarily executed three (3) members of the opposition especially the Social Democratic Party (SDP) by gunshot.

“We note that this operation lasted for at least 2 hours 3 minutes starting from 1:30am on January 11 2019.

“While this ‘point and kill’ operation went on, every access members of the opposition had to security agents were either interrupted or cut off. Members of the opposition who could phone local police formations were ignored as the phone calls rang out.

“We also wish to draw the attention of the Embassy of the U.S and Germany as well as the High Commissions of the U.K. and Canada that perhaps the prediction of the disintegration of Nigeria by 2015 is still valid as all indices point to a fact that the date merely changed and that Kogi State, being a former capital of Nigeria with access to waterfront resources has been designated as the point from where the first shots signifying commencement of the 2nd Nigerian civil war will be fired.

“The PDP Presidential Campaign Council also notes that currently, at least 2 families in the over 210 electoral wards in Kogi State have at least 3 victims of political violence which comes in form of festering wounds, permanent disability or even death as the case is with the Ojo Enesi family in Okene, Kogi Central.

“In the last two years, the state government has openly invested state funds in the acquisition of military hardware – booths, camouflage, rifles, grenades, machetes and bullets some of which were seen on live television.

“We are concerned that if pump action rifles and AK47 can be used as though they were hand fans without consequences, the actors of last night could be emboldened to resort to IED’s, dynamites or even recruit suicide bombers to commit mass murder.

“It is pursuant to these developments that the PDP Presidential Campaign Council demand in immediate stop to the killings in Kogi State just as we call on the Presidency to prove that it is not complicit in this by instructing the Inspector General of Police to arrest the major actors who have been identified.

“We also invite the Nigeria Navy to without delay commence patrol of the water ways of Kogi State and show proof of same on camera because there are strong indication that some criminal gangs regroup there.

“We demand patrol by the Nigeria Army and the Department of State Services along identified hotbeds in the state especially between the hours of 7:30pm till 6:00am.

“While we challenge the Federal Government to prove it’s non involvement in this attempts to cause mass bloodshed in Kogi State, we urge members of the public to stay strong and recommit themselves to terminating the reign of those who embolden impunity and reward killers via the ballot.

“Our hearts remain with the families of the dead and we pray their souls find eternal repose.”

http://dailypost.ng/2019/01/13/secret-executions-going-kogi-pdp/amp/

The presidential candidate of Nigeria’s leading opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Atiku Abubakr Saturday visited an internally displaced person camp at Bukuru in Plateau State.

The camp houses people displaced from the herdsmen crisis ravaging the North Central.

The presidential aspirant, who grew up without his father, connected with the kids since he was in a similar condition while growing up in Jeddah Adamawa State.

Atiku Abubakar who spent a lot of time with the kids, asking them about their dreams and aspirations and hearing them out. He also made a 10 million naira donation to the children, before leaving the IDP.

There were tears of joy from some of the orphans and kids present as they hugged him and did not want to let go, a source in Abubakar’s campaign said in a statement.

“Atiku Abubakar having been in this situation before, understands the plight of these people and Nigerians need him to make life meaningful for the IDPs again,” an aide to the presidential candidate said.

“In fact, Nigerians need Atiku mainly for his empathy and human feelings. Nigerians need a president that will make human-friendly policies. His understanding of the needs of humans around him makes him a favourite for these IDPs and Nigerians in general.”

Nigerians will head to the polls in February 16th and the choice will be between a President Buhari former VP Atiku Abubakar.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/13/breaking-atiku-visits-idp-camp/

The Chairman of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Enugu State, Bishop Godwin Madu, has described the gale of endorsements for the re-election of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi by the people from various facets of the society as overwhelming and a sign of good leadership.

Bishop Madu, who spoke during the New Year prayer rally organised by Enugu State workers, on Friday at the new state secretariat, thanked God for the New Year and appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for entrusting the state to the hands of God.

Describing Ugwuanyi as “a kindhearted governor and a man we know for his dividends of democracy”, the PFN chairman commended him for making the welfare of the workers one of his administration’s priorities, stating that “we no longer thank the governor for payment of salaries regularly, but for paying the 13th month salary every year”.

The cleric told Gov. Ugwuanyi that it was because of the peace and good governance he has entrenched that “the labour force in Enugu State is standing behind you; the social community and the religious community are standing with you,” proclaiming that “your tenure as governor is eight years”.

Bishop Madu who agreed with the theme of the prayer rally that “All Power Belongs to God”, noted that “everywhere he (Ugwuanyi) went it is endorsement”. He added that Gov. Ugwuanyi has enjoyed such tremendous goodwill and support from the people because of his humility and uncommon style of leadership and prayed fervently for the governor’s victory at the March governorship election and more God’s blessings in his life and family.

Prayers were also offered by other clergymen for the progress of the state, Nigeria, workers/pensioners/union leaders, and successful and hitch-free general election.

In his address, Gov. Ugwuanyi applauded the organised labour in the state for initiating and sustaining the inspiring and highly uplifting religious event, “to give God praise and glory for the love and compassion He showered on us in the previous years and to seek His grace, guidance, protection and all round favour in this New Year”.

The governor, who pointed out that his administration committed Enugu State into the hands of God at its inception “because He alone was the reason why we are here”, stated that “we will therefore continue to seek His face in prayer at all times and in all circumstances”.

According to him, “prayer is the key to all things that are good and it has certainly been the key to our survival and progress as a state and as a people, especially in these challenging times”.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to things of God, the governor thanked workers in Enugu State and indeed all the people of the state for their unrelenting prayers, overwhelming solidarity, cooperation, support and endorsements, saying: “It has been a journey of praise and everything shall surely end in praise because Enugu State is truly in the hands of God.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/12/2019-enugu-guber-support-ugwuanyi-overwhelming-pfn-chairman/

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to lead his campaign in order to demonstrate his fitness for the country’s top job.

The group, through its National Chairman, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, made the call while addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday.

Oyinlola said, “President Muhammadu Buhari has indeed said Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu would do the campaign on his behalf.

“We do hope that he was misquoted, otherwise, Nigerians should simply ask him to step back from the contest and let his party put Tinubu forward as its candidate.

“President Buhari will go down as the first candidate in history to hire a proxy in a presidential contest. He is the one contesting.

“He should not be afraid to be the one to interface directly with Nigerians.

“We urge the Nigerian people to insist that President Buhari must show that he is fit and able for the nation’s top job by leading his own campaign and by being at the presidential candidates’ debate.

“Anyone who is afraid to come out and debate shoulder to shoulder with opponents and speak directly to Nigerians is not deserving of the mandate of Nigerians.

“It will be nice to see President Buhari join other candidates in the debate and answer questions on his stewardship so far and what else he has to offer. We sincerely look forward to that day.”

The CUPP also stated that the level of insecurity in the country will affect the conduct of the general elections if left unchecked and therefore, called on the president to do everything possible to overhaul the nation’s security architecture.

Beyond that, the coalition has also urged the president to sign the Electoral Act Amendment Bill in order to guarantee free and fair elections.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/12/cupp-challenges-buhari-prove-fitness-leading-campaign/

Rivers State governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has decried the neglect of the Niger Delta, despite the fact the region is suffering untold environmental hardship for keeping the country afloat.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Environment, Mr. Suleiman Hassan Zarma to the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Friday, Governor Wike said that environmental degradation caused by oil exploration is worse than insurgency.

He said: “While we support the fighting against insurgency, nothing is worse than environmental pollution. We suffer because we are allowing Nigeria to survive. We are suffering for Nigeria to survive. It is through our oil that Nigeria is surviving.

“We are dying because we are keeping the country alive. Nobody wants to give us the attention required. These people who are suffering because of the nation’s survival, why not give them priority to survive? “

He urged the Federal Government to withdraw funds from the Excess Crude Account to address the environmental challenges in Ogoni land. The governor said it should be done in the same manner that funds were withdrawn to tackle insurgency.

“They took $1 billion from the Excess Crude Accounts to fight insurgency. I say they should take $500 million from the Excess Crude Accounts for the Ogoni Clean-Up Exercise “.

He assured the Federal Ministry of Environment of Rivers State government’s support to achieve the goals of remediation of the Ogoni environment.

“If you had told me earlier that you were coming, I would have provided a helicopter for you to fly over Ogoni land. You will weep at the level of environmental damage “, the governor said.

The governor regretted that the Ogoni Clean up Exercise has been politicised, pointing out that the Ministry of Environment is handing over sites to contractors three years after Vice President Yemi Osinbajo flagged off the exercise. He said the two activities took place as elections approached.

“Three years ago, the President represented by the Vice President flagged off the clean up during the rerun elections. One month to the general elections, the Minister of Environment has come to hand over the sites.

“If I tell you I believe sincerely that you people want to clean up Ogoni land, I am telling you lies. Surprise me and prove me wrong “, he said.

He called on the Minister of Environment to investigate cases of deduction of funds from contracts awarded for the clean up exercise.

The governor urged the Federal Ministry of Environment to ensure that the benefiting communities are patronised during the clean up and all approved steps taken by Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

In his remarks, the Minister of Environment, Mr. Suleiman Hassan Zarma assured that the Ministry working with HYPREP would ensure that the clean up of Ogoni land is carried out.

He said that the Ministry would take steps to address the concerns raised by the Rivers State governor.

He said: “We are here to set the tone to enable the foundation laying of a robust inter-governmental collaboration which you have been doing especially in the environmental sector”.

He informed the governor that he was in the state to commence the handover of sites for the commencement of the clean up exercise.

Also reacting to the governor’s allegation, Niger Delta minister, Mr. Usani Usani told Saturday Sun in a telephone interview that the region has never been given the kind of attention the Buhari administration has been giving it in terms of development in the last 20 years. He added that President Buhari has done more on infrastructure for the Niger Delta than when those from the area were in charge of various government agencies.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/12/wake-fg-abandoned-niger-delta-wike/

Yet to be identified gunmen have reportedly killed a man, his only son, wife and granddaughter over a piece of land.

According to Vanguard report, the man identified as Edebiri and his family members were shot dead at their residence at Ugbogun village in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State.

Two of his daughters were said to have narrowly escaped death by the whiskers as they were in the room when the gunmen opened fire.

Narrating what happened, elder brother of the deceased, who gave his name as Pa Osaretin Oteh, said his brother might have been killed for refusing to give his land to a banned community development association.

He said his late brother refused to allow the CDA members take possession of the land. A daughter of the deceased, Sandra, said the gunmen pointed a gun to her head and demanded for money, phones and jewelleries, adding that she heard gunshot and opened her eyes to see her parents and siblings dead.

She said her father had informed them about threat to his life, but they did not take it seriously until the gunmen struck.

Her sister, Princess, said “They killed our father, mother, brother and my niece. We want the Police to find the killers.”

Police spokesman, DSP Chidi Nwabuzor, could not be reached for comments at press time.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/11/gunmen-kill-family-4-land-dispute/

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has distanced itself from the Federal Government’s Advisory Committee saying it has no relevance to the new National Minimum Wage agreement.

Mr Ayuba Wabba, NLC President, who spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigerian (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja, said the committee has no bearing with the agreement reached on the minimum wage.

NAN recalled that President Muhamamdu Buhari had on Wednesday inaugurated a Technical Advisory Committee on the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage and reiterated his commitment to its payment.

He said the committee would recommend “modalities for the implementation of the new minimum wage in such a manner as to minimise its inflationary impact, as well as ensure that its introduction does not lead to job losses’’.

“The work of this technical committee will be the basis of a Finance Bill which will be submitted to the National Assembly, alongside the Minimum Wage Bill,’’ he added.

According to Wabba, the Advisory Committee on minimum wage has no bearing with the agreement reached on the minimum wage.

“The Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige had told us that the committee is an internal process of the Federal Government.

”I think it is their own way of facilitating and mobilising their own resources for the implementation and also making sure that nothing is left undone and we do not have any problem with that.

“So, it is normal, I think, because initially we were thinking it is a committee that will renegotiate the new national minimum wage, but they said no, it is an internal process of government.

“So, it is not our problem, but essentially their own and it does not in any way affect our interest, government has the right to set up any committee and we are not even members of that committee, “he said.

He, however, said that he was informed that the committee was strictly on their own to guide government on how to implement the minimum wage, adding, “so clearly if it is how to implement, we do not have problem with that.

Wabba also said that the advisory committee would not in any way affect the timeline of Jan. 23 agreement reached between organised labour and the Federal Government on the transmission of Minimum Wage Bill to the National Assembly. (NAN)

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/10/minimum-wage-nlc-distances-self-fgs-advisory-committee/

An Ado-Ekiti high court on Wednesday sentenced one Alonge Ajayi, 22, to death by hanging for armed robbery.

Justice Lekan Ogunmoye held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubts and consequently found Ajayi guilty as charged.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 22-year-old robbed with guns on Oct. 30, 2017, at Ikere, Ekiti.

He was arraigned on Feb. 27, 2018, on a count charge of armed robbery but he pleaded not guilty.

According to the Prosecutor, Insp. Folashade Abe, Ajayi and two others had a gun duel with the police during which two of the robbers were killed and the convict arrested alongside his motorcycle.

Abe said that the gun duel happened some months after the convict and the others robbed one Mr Henry Afolayan and his family members of phones, N100,000 and other valuables as they were returning from church service.

Abe said that the armed robbers also came on a motorcycle.

She said that one of the phones was recovered from the convict when he was arrested, adding that two guns were recovered from him.

To prove its case, the prosecution represented by Mr Kola Kolade, called four witnesses and tendered exhibits including the two guns, five live cartridges, phones and one Bajaj motorcycle as well as a statement from the convict.

The convict was represented by Mr Kayode Oyeyemi, who did not call any witness for his defence. (NAN)

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/10/b22-year-old-hanged-ekiti-armed-robbery/

President Muhamamdu Buhari on Wednesday inaugurated a Technical Advisory Committee on the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage and reiterated his commitment to its payment.

Inaugurating the committee shortly before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, Buhari restated his committment to an upward review of the minimum wage “as it is time to do so’’.

The president had on Dec. 19, 2018 while presenting the 2019 Appropriation Bill at the joint session of the National Assembly announced his intention to constitute the committee.

He said the committee would recommend “modalities for the implementation of the new minimum wage in such a manner as to minimise its inflationary impact, as well as ensure that its introduction does not lead to job losses’’.

“The work of this Technical Committee will be the basis of a Finance Bill which will be submitted to the National Assembly, alongside the Minimum Wage Bill,’’ he added.

He, however, revealed that the Federal Government had engaged State Governments with a view to taking them along in determining any upward review of the minimum wage for workers.

“I want to make it clear that there is no question about whether the National Minimum Wage will be reviewed upwards. I am committed to a review of the Minimum Wage.

“Also, it is important to explain that even though the subject of a National Minimum Wage is in the Exclusive Legislative List, we have been meeting with the State Governors because it is imperative that the Federal Government carries the State Governments along in determining any upward review of the minimum wage for workers.

“This is especially necessary considering the prevailing public sector revenue challenges, which have made it extremely difficult for some of the governors to pay workers as and when due,’’ he said.

He said the federal government on its part had made adequate provision for the increase in the Minimum Wage in its 2019 Budget proposals which was submitted to the National Assembly on Dec. 19, 2018.

According to the president, the federal government will be able to meet the additional costs incurred in moving up all personnel who are currently earning below the new minimum wage.

“However, we anticipate that after the new minimum wage has been passed into law we will be going into negotiations for salary review for all the workers who are already earning above the new minimum wage. It is therefore important that we are properly prepared to meet these demands.

“We must therefore look at ways of implementing these consequential wage adjustments in a manner that does not have adverse effects on our national development plans, as laid out in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

”The ERGP sets appropriate targets for levels of capital expenditure, public debt, inflation, employment, etc.”

Buhari, therefore, expressed the hope that “the implementation of a new minimum wage does not adversely affect these targets, and thereby erode the envisaged gains for the workers.

According to the president, the committee, which will be chaired by an economist and financial expert, Mr Bismarck Rewane, is expected to complete its deliberations and submit its report and recommendations within one month from today.

He disclosed that terms of reference of the committee include;

A. To develop, and advise government on how to successfully bring about a smooth implementation of impending wage increases;

B. Identify new revenue sources, as well as areas of existing expenditure from where some savings could be made in order to fund the wage increases without adversely impacting the nation’s development goals as set out in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan

C. Propose a work plan and modalities for the implementation of the salary increases;

D. Any other suggestions that will assist in the implementation of this, and future wage increases. (NAN)

• From left; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; President Muhammadu Buhari; Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on the New Minimum Wage, Mr Bismarck Rewane and Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen Udoma Udo Udoma during the inauguration of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the New Minimum Wage at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday (9/1/19)

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/09/buhari-inaugurates-advisory-committee-minimum-wage/

President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the general elections are free and fair.

The president affirmed his commitment in a statement made on Monday, January 7, at the inauguration of 2019 APC Presidential Campaign Council which held ate the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

In his speech the president said he has given strict directives to INEC and security agencies to ensure that citizens vote for candidates of their choice without intimidation in any form.

He also said that the legacy he wants to leave is the “Enthronement of democracy as a system of government”. Adding that, “For democracy to be enthroned, elections must be free and fair”.

Below is the presidents full speech at the inauguration.

“Protocols:

I would like to welcome you all, the leaders of our party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the formal inauguration of the APC Presidential Campaign Council for the purpose of managing our campaigns for the 2019 general elections.

This is a historical moment and I consider it a great privilege to have been unanimously nominated by our party to run as its candidate, unopposed, for a second term of office as the president of our country Nigeria.

I thank God Almighty, and our hard working, long suffering, yet resolutely committed fellow citizens, for the continued investment of their trust in our own commitment and competence to redirect our country and its governance towards sustainable and wholesome development.

I congratulate all our party men and women across the country, who are seeking election alongside me, as well as those who have found it necessary to run on other political platforms.

I congratulate all the participants in the party primary process, who may not have gotten all they wanted, but who have accepted to continue the work of ensuring a healthy political process.

I urge all those with any remaining reservations, to recommit themselves to the central task of our victory in the elections and to the greater goal of uplifting this nation towards its manifest destiny.

Having waited for all the dust raised by the nomination exercise, and the carefully worked out reconciliation processes to ensure some measure of healing, we are better placed to put together an all inclusive campaign council, that will effectively engage the entire voting public throughout the length and breadth of our federation, and deliver a resounding victory for us at the general elections.

This Presidential Campaign Council was constituted with a conscious determination to ensure inclusiveness and excellence, and is expected to conduct a campaign based on our modest achievements to turn around our beleaguered nation from insecurity, stagnation and massive abuse of scarce public resources.

Nigerians voted us into power in 2015 because they put trust and confidence that we will make a great difference. We are now building on the experience of our successful outing in the 2015 elections. It is my hope that this wonderful team put together will anchor our campaigns to lead our party and its candidates to victory in the general elections in a few weeks’ time.

A victory for us as a party is a victory for all well meaning Nigerians, who are committed to CHANGE from an inglorious past; where those in positions of public trust willfully took for themselves what belongs to us all; where the security of our citizens was second place to their acquisition of unwholesome wealth; where our economic growth was sacrificed for the fleeting ease of import dependency.

We have in the last 3 years and 6 months reversed this downward slide that the PDP took us in its 16 years of misrule. We have restored the territorial integrity of our nation, thanks to our gallant men and women of our armed forces. We are systematically engaged in all the remaining corridors of insurgency, kidnappings, robberies, herdsmen and farmers clashes.

We have reset our national values: corruption is no longer condoned and is no longer seen as normal for public office holders. The agencies of government are no longer equivocal in dealing with anyone who flouts our laws.

The high and low are receiving jail terms, loots are being recovered, and Nigerians are increasingly displaying the timeless values of honesty, honour and decency. I congratulate us all for making these changes possible.

Our economy has become a prudently managed enterprise. Our resources are now working for us, as we ensure the delivery of key national infrastructure, which were left unattended over these past years.

The direct impact of our policies on improvements in roads, railways, and power supply are evident. There is greater evidence of economic diversification seen in growing local production of agricultural produce and solid minerals.

Our government has succeeded in the last four years in halting national drift, removing the shadow of insecurity and fear dominating our life and reviving our economy from decline to stability and growth. The macroeconomic health of our economy, indicated by several measurable factors such as a stable exchange rate, lower inflation, growing foreign reserves, has been applauded by independent local and international rating agencies.

In addition, the quality of elections since 2015 has continued to improve with declining levels of problems that have defined elections in the past. Free, fair and credible elections are the foundation of political stability and peace in any nation.

We have insisted that votes must count and have maintained a policy of non-interference in elections. INEC has so far since 2015, conducted fair and credible elections in 195 constituencies nationwide, which have been attested nationwide to be qualitatively better than previous elections.

Let me reiterate my commitment to free and fair elections. If there is one legacy I want to leave is the enthronement of democracy as a system of government. And for democracy to be enthroned, elections must be free and fair. That means citizens have a right to vote for candidates of their choice without intimidation in any form. I have warned INEC and security agencies to that effect.

We will keep insisting that votes must count. Our campaigns will be anchored on our performance in the last four years. There is no doubt that our party has succeeded in taking Nigeria to a new level of enduring peace, economic growth political stability, justice and progress. This is the new level we are promising Nigerians, the details of which we will take to Nigerians as we embark on our campaigns.

As we begin campaign in earnest, I implore our leaders to resist being provoked, remain focused and civil in our campaigns. Let us engage our citizens on issues and ask for reflection on the comparative difference between 2015 and 2019 on security, economy and corruption and abuse by those entrusted with leadership in Nigeria.

As we embark on the campaign to secure mandate for the next level, I want to acknowledge the sacrifices and contributions of all stakeholders who have endeavored to keep our party united, and our governance successful.

I urge members of this formidable team to always keep their eyes on the ball, which is the success of our party at the polls. I wish to appeal to all members to be guided by the enduring vision behind the formation and sustenance of our party, which is anchored, on sacrifice and imperative to salvage and stabilize our great and promising nation.

I appeal to all our members, and especially those who are in the campaign council, to unite and cooperate and ensure a smooth operation. Needless to add, Directorates could co-opt on full or part-time basic persons who could add value to our campaign and help us to attain success.

To my mind, the division of responsibility is clear enough. The Leadership that has formulated the campaign policy will supervise its execution; the Director-General will have overall responsibility for all aspects of the campaign, including field operations; while the Secretary will be responsible for all administrative and treasury-related activities of the council.

Even though we have only 40 days, this campaign is going to tax us all, because we intend to touch all corners of our great and vast country. But I must also add that, though we will all be deeply involved, I would like to assure the nation that I will do my part without making governance or my work suffer. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my co-chairman, will be fully in charge, and is going to be on 24-hour vigil.

That is to say, the operational buck of this campaign stops at his table, and I therefore urge all of us in the leadership of this campaign, in the field operations on the campaign trail and in the secretariat to consult with Asiwaju whenever guidance is needed.

It is on this note, and in the name of God, that I now have the pleasure of inaugurating the APC Presidential Campaign Council 2019.

Thank you all very much. God bless our country”.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/08/2019-polls-warned-inec-free-fair-buhari/

The National Vice Chairman of Christian Royal Fathers of Nigeria and member, South-east Council of Royal Fathers, Obi Gburugburu Ihim, Eze (Dr.) Oliver Ohanwe, has said that the entire South-east region will withdraw its supports for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election bid in 2019 if he did not show enough commitment to supporting a president of Igbo extraction in 2023.

Eze Ohanwe said that the people of the zone were worried about the discordant tones coming from notable personalities from other zones, which were at variant with the wishes and aspirations of Igbo people as regards the 2023 presidency.

The traditional ruler, who spoke to our correspondent on Monday in his palace in Ihim, Isiala Mbano local government area of Imo State, expressed sadness at the new development especially as monarchs from the zone were the first to endorse the president for the 2019 election.

Eze Ohanwe particularly picked holes with the statements credited to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, saying that such statements were capable of jeopardising Buhari’s chances in the 2019 election.

He said: “We, the Igbos, are worried because we feel, and rightly so, that it is our turn to produce the president in 2023 and this is why we have expressed our support for Buhari because of the belief that he is the one that can make that to happen .

“But we are worried when we hear statements coming from notable personalities, especially from the south west that Buhari will hand over to a Yoruba president in 2023. We are beginning to reassess our position and support for the president and unless he makes a firm commitment to Igbo president in 2023, he may lose our support.”

He said that the pains of the civil war are still in the minds of Igbo people and as Buhari has removed a similar burden from the people of the South west by declaring June 12 as a public holiday, the only way to heal the wounds of the civil war is to allow Igbo to produce a president in 2023.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/07/igbo-presidency-well-withdraw-support-buhari/

The Kogi State Presidential Campaign Council of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday put “all Nigerians, especially the high commands of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps as well as the general public on high alert as regards the discovery of a covert plan to truncate democracy and instigate total breakdown of order in Nigeria starting from Kogi State.”

“On the last count, four impeccable sources have confirmed that this plot has been bankrolled by the Kogi State Government, led by its accidental governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, and will start with a calculated attempt to harass the presidential candidate of our great party, His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar GCON, who is scheduled to visit Kogi State in a few hours from now,” the council said in a statement signed by its Head, Media and Publicity, Usman Austin Okai.

The statement said: “The Council wishes to remind Nigerians that reports were initially made about a well-funded exercise carried out by agents of the Kogi State government which targeted a mass destruction of campaign banners and other publicity materials of the PDP in Kogi State less than a week ago.

“It is therefore for the records that it is considered highly important to notify all lovers of democracy that indeed, the campaign of bitterness of the APC and the Kogi State Government against the PDP is set to adopt a new dimension starting from tomorrow.

Not only is the Council concerned about the clear attempt by the APC to erode a strong legacy of democracy and freedom bequeathed to it by the PDP, it appears desperate to score a new low by going against the towering personality of His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar GCON.

“Whereas we habour no fear of the unknown as regards tomorrow’s rally for which the Kogi Confluence Stadium, Lokoja has been approved for use, we sternly advise relevant security agencies to call the outgoing governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, and his band of urchins to order immediately.

“The PDP Presidential Campaign Council in Kogi State sternly warns agents of destabilisation recruited by the APC to refrain from endangering themselves by swimming against the tide in an attempt to oppose the will of a tremendous number of Nigerians who are determined to end the vicious cycle of retrogression, failure and bloodshed which the APC has visited on Nigeria and Nigerians.

“The Council also urges all leaders, elders, stakeholders, affiliate groups and supporters of the PDP to turn out en-masse for tomorrow’s rally and entertain not, fear of any kind.

“The United Nations, the African Union, the American government and the governments of the United Kingdom and Canada are also invited to take note of this latest attempt by Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State to abort democracy in Nigeria and urge an urgent intervention.

“The PDP on its part commits to abide by the laws of Nigeria and go about its mobilisation activities in line with the global standards which emphasis decorum, peace and constructive engagement of voters.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/07/pdp-alleges-plot-attack-atiku-kogi/

President Muhammadu Buhari, the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2019 general elections, will on Monday, January 7, 2019, inaugurate the party’s Presidential Campaign Council for the 2019 polls.

“The event will take place at 10:00am prompt at the International Conference Center, Area 11, Abuja. All guests are expected to be punctual,” Festus Keyamo, SAN, Director, Strategic Communications, APC Presidential Campaign Council (Official Spokesperson), said Saturday in a statement.

He disclosed that those expected to be present at the ceremony are those earlier announced as members of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.

On the list, according to Keyamo, are the following:

CHAIRMAN

President Muhammadu Buhari

CO-CHAIRMAN

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

DEPUTY CHAIRMEN

1. The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

2. The APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole

VICE CHAIRMAN NORTH

Senator George Akume

VICE CHAIRMAN SOUTH

Senator Ken Nnamani

DIRECTOR GENERAL

His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi

DEPUTY DIRECTOR GENERAL (OPERATIONS)

Senator A.O. Mamora

DEPUTY DIRECTOR GENERAL (COORDINATION)

Arch. Waziri Bulama

SECRETARIES

1. Adamu Adamu

2. Dele Alake

ZONAL DIRECTORS

a. North West: Senator Aliyu M. Wamakko

b. North East: Senator Muh’d Ali Ndume

c. North Central: Senator Abdullahi Adamu

d. South West: Sola Oke, SAN

e. South East: Sharon Ikeazor

f. South South: Senator Godswill Akpabio

DIRECTORATES

1. Director, Buhari Support Groups – Dr. Mahmoud Mohammed

2. Director, Strategic Communications – Festus Keyamo, SAN

i. Deputy Director – Abike Dabiri-Erewa

3. Director, Contact & Mobilization – Hadiza Bala Usman

i. Deputy Director South – Victor Eboigre

ii. Deputy Director North – Senator Bashir Nalado

4. Director, Election Planning & Monitoring – Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN

i. Deputy Director I – Baba Kura Abba Jato

ii. Deputy Director II – Chief Emani Ayiri

5. Director, Logistics – Dr. Pius Odubu

i. Deputy Director – Senator Umanah Umanah

ii. Deputy Director II – Nasiru Danu

6. Director, Policy Research & Strategy – Prof Abdulrahman Oba

i. Deputy Director – Prof. A.K. Usman

7. Director, Youth Mobilization – Hon. Tony Nwoye assisted by the APC Youth Leader Sadiq

i. Deputy Director North – Barrister Ismaeel Ahmed

ii. Deputy Director South – Jasper Azuatalam

8. Director, Admin – Onari Brown

i. Deputy Director I – Chris Hassan

ii. Deputy Director II – Abubakar Magaji Gasau

9. Director, Women Mobilization – Woman Leader Salamatu Baiwa

i. Deputy Director North – Binta Mu’azu

ii. Deputy Director South – Adejoke Orelope Adefulire

10. Director Security – Gen. A. Dambazzau

i. Deputy Directors – Brigadier General Gambo and Mr. U. Ukoma

11. Director Legal – Emeka Ngige, SAN

i. Deputy Director – Prof. Maman Lawan Yusufari

12. Director Field Operations – Mallam Nuhu Ribadu

13. Director Finance – Wale Edun

i. Deputy Director – Alhaji Adamu Fadan

COUNCIL MEMBERS

1. Chief Bisi Akande

2. Chief John Oyegun

3. Senator Ita Enang

4. All APC serving Senators

5. All APC serving and former Governors

6. All APC Members of the House of Representatives

7. All members of the National Working Committee of the APC

8. All Zonal Women Leaders

GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATES

All Gubernatorial Candidates (who would serve as Co-ordinators in non-APC States) are also expected to attend.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/06/buhari-inaugurate-apc-presidential-campaign-council-monday/

Novak Djokovic suffered his first defeat of the new season in the Qatar Open semi-finals on Friday, losing in three sets to Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut.

World number one Djokovic, who was pushed to the limit in his last two matches in Doha by Marton Fucsovics and Nikoloz Basilashvili, failed to find a way past a determined Agut who won 3-6 7-6(6) 6-4 in two hours and 35 minutes.

The 30-year-old Spaniard would face Tomas Berdych in the title clash after the Czech beat fourth-seeded Italian Marco Cecchinato 7-6(6) 6-3 in the other semi-final.

“I will remember this match all my life,” said world number 24 Agut, whose victory over Djokovic slightly improved his win-loss record against the Serb to 2-7.

“It was an unbelievable atmosphere. I workes every day to play this tennis. I know it’s difficult to play at this level. That’s why Novak is number one in the world. But I cannot be more happy than I am now.”

Defeat meant Djokovic, who won Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year in a spectacular return to form after elbow surgery, missed the chance to reach his sixth straight final.

The Serb cruised through the opening set before Agut dragged the contest into a decider by edging the tiebreak in the second set.

With the momentum swinging his way, Agut secured an early break in the final set before closing out the match.

“I wanted to give everything I had and fight until the last point,” added Agut, who will look to win his ninth ATP title in Saturday’s final.

“Finally I could turn the second set. Novak was up and it was tough. He was solid and I had to play good tennis. I had to play a lot of lines and serve well.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/05/tennis-djokovic-loses-bautista-agut-doha-semi-final/

The Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has empathized with the Nigerian Air Force NAF, and the entire officers and men of the Nigerian Army on the death of its personnel involved in counter insurgency in Borno, North East.

MURIC said that the achievements of the Nigerian Army in the past three years show the sharp contrast between Goodluck Jonathan’s army and that of Muhammadu Buhari.

It noted that while “one is lackadaisical, the other is serious. One diverts army funds, the other focuses on adequate funding of the army.”

NAF, yesterday announced the crash of one of its helicopters which occurred in Borno State.

It also announced the names of five officers who died in the crash: Flight Lieutenant Perowei Jacob (Pilot) in Command; Flight Lieutenant Kaltho Paul Kilyofas (Co-Pilot); Sergeant Auwal Ibrahim (Flight Technician); Lance Corporal Adamu Nura (Gunner), and Aircraftman Meshack Ishmael (Gunner)

In a statement issued on Friday, MURIC expressed solidarity with the army in its war of liberation against Boko Haram.

The statement, which was signed by the director and founder of the organization, Professor Ishaq Akintola, and forwarded to DAILY POST, reads: “We are hit with deep sadness by this tragic incident. These five officers died so that the rest of us can live.

“They will live in our hearts forever. They are the heroes of the war against insurgency and we appreciate their sacrifice. Our hearts go to their families and we pray that Allah will provide them with succour.

“We charge the Nigerian Army to expedite action in the normal procedures to compensate the immediate relations left behind by the five officers in order to rubber-cushion the effect of the loss of their bread-winners.

“MURIC calls on soldiers at the battle front to remain resolute in gallantry until the insurgents are totally eliminated or until they surrender so that these NAF officers may not have died in vain. You are not alone.

“Nigerians are solidly behind you. We multiply your number in spirit each time you advance on the enemy and we lie beside you in the trenches. Great heroes of our land, surge forward, that we and your families may not end up as captives of Boko Haram.

“We remind Nigerians to play their roles effectively by maintaining a positive mind and by praying for the soldiers at the battle field. We reaffirm our belief that Boko Haram has been technically defeated. What is happening now is that the insurgents are holding desperately to a single straw like drowning men.

“Insurgents who were controlling 17 local governments are now compelled to wage guerilla warfare. Churches and mosques are no longer being bombed and the incident of suicide bombing has stopped almost completely.

“The last Christmas few days ago is a glaring testimony. No single church was attacked. No bombs exploded. We salute the army for this great feat.

“Whether we appreciate it or not, the achievements of the Nigerian Army in the past three years show the sharp contrast between Goodluck Jonathan’s army and that of Muhammadu Buhari. One is lackadaisical, the other is serious. One diverts army funds, the other focuses on adequate funding of the army.

“We can all see the difference. Nigerian soldiers who used to flee at the sight of the enemy now take the battle to the same foe. Around this time in 2015 when Nigerians were preparing for the general elections, truck-loads of American dollars diverted from army funds were shipped all over the country to buy votes.

“But nothing like that is happening now even though elections are just five weeks away. This is why we are confident that Boko Haram will soon become history.

“We appeal to Nigerians to continue to support the Federal Government. We need unity to defeat our common enemy. We must give useful information about criminals to security agents because no matter how good they are, they cannot win the battle against criminals alone. Soldiers, policemen and other security agents need our goodwill and support to succeed.

“Finally, we appeal to all churches and mosques to always include our soldiers in their prayers particularly in their weekly assemblies. Let us also pray for a peaceful election and a prosperous Nigeria”.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/04/naf-helicopter-crash-muslim-group-lists-differences-jonathan-buharis-army/

President Muhammadu Buhari and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, have come under attack over appointment of Amina Zakari as its head of Collation Centre for the 2019 elections.

Zakari, said to be President Muhammadu Buhari’s niece, by her new appointment, will be responsible for announcing the result of the presidential election.

This has since stirred reactions online from Nigerians, including the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Giving his reaction to Zakari’s appointment, Omokri on his Twitter page, said Late Idi Amin would not make such appointement.

According to him, Zakari’s appointment is a ‘mockery of Buhari’s promise of a free and fair election.”

Omokri wrote: “How can INEC appoint Amina Zakari, President Buhari’s blood niece, as head of its collation centre for the 2019 elections?

“Even the late Idi Amin would not do this! This makes mockery of Buhari’s promise of a free and fair election.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/04/idi-amin-cannot-omokri-reacts-inec-appoints-buharis-niece-amina-zakari-head-collation-centre/

The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has berated the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Atiku’s anger came down on anti-graft agency for “failing to investigate how Alhaji Isa Funtua, a close ally of President Muhammadu Buhari, acquired Keystone Bank and 9Mobile (formerly known Etisalat).”

The former Vice President in a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communications, Phrank Shaibu, pointed out that “the EFCC has failed to investigate the acquisition of the bank and telecommunications company because of Alhaji Funtua’s closeness to President Buhari.”

The statement said, “It is not surprising that the EFCC has suddenly become prostrate and bluntly refused to investigate the acquisition of Keystone Bank and 9Mobile, which have been widely adjudged to be fraudulent, if not out rightly criminal.

“The EFCC, like many other agencies under the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government has once again displayed partisanship.

“More importantly, the said Isa Funtua has been known to be a major player in the Presidency whose influence and reach has been less than salutary.

“A recent picture showing the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr Godwin Emefiele bowing to Alhaji Funtua which recently went viral is proof enough of the stature of the President’s ally. The EFCC’s refusal to act therefore follows a familiar narrative”, he stated.

Atiku continued, “While we hold on to the piece of evidence that we have, it is no longer in doubt that underhand dealings took place in the acquisition of Keystone Bank and 9Mobile.

“The roles played by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), both agencies of government have been widely reported and not controverted. The days of playing the ostrich by the Presidency are over. No more hiding for them”, he added.

He referred the presidency to trending online reports which, according to him, “detailed how Alhaji Funtua reportedly bought over the bank and telecom outfit with funds provided by AMCON, whose Chief Executive Officer is a son in-law to the President’s friend.

“Considering that the EFCC and other related agencies would not act as a result of partisanship to the ruling APC, the only hope at this stage is the National Assembly which we urge should take up the gauntlet.

“The National Assembly as representatives of the people is the last hope. We cannot allow the looting and criminal acquisition of our collective patrimony.

“They plan to steal more if President Buhari wins a second term. The National Assembly and Nigerians must not allow them take away legacies we ought to bequeath to generations unborn. We must rally against nepotistic rule and entrenchment of parochial cleavages as we have witnessed under the APC.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/03/2019-atiku-blasts-efcc-tells-national-assembly-buhari-reportedly-acquiring-keystone-etisalat/

The protracted strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) may soon to be called off.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, who gave the hint in Onitsha, Anambra State said that funds had been provided to meet most of the demands of the union.

He said the Federal Government would make necessary efforts to ensure that the strike comes to an end this January.

According to Ngige, the issues that made ASUU to embark on strike were based on agreement which the union entered into with the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan which the administration failed to implement before President Muhammadu Buhari took over power.

To the minister, the Buhari administration is labour-friendly and is always concerned about the welfare of the nation’s work force.

On the new minimum wage, Ngige said that the Federal government was going through the process to fine-tune it in order to fulfill the requirements for effecting its implementation for workers. According to the minister, the new minimum wage would not be for government workers only, but would affect all workers in the country.

He told journalists that the bodies concerned about the new minimum wage had finished their work and passed it to the Federal Government.

He explained that the committee set up by the president on the recommendation of the former committee was to advise the Federal Government on the source of fund and substance of the new minimum wage and not to review the agreement reached by the government and labour.

The minister appealed for understanding among the representatives of labour, pointing out that it was not the intension of government to delay the implementation of the agreement reached with labour.

Ngige said that the Attorney General of the Federation would soon prepare an Executive Bill which would be sent to the national assembly over the new minimum wage to enable it have legal backing. “There is need not just to pay the new minimum wage, but to ensure its sustainability.”

The minister commended the Buhari administration for pulling the country out of recession and for the strides recorded in the agricultural sector, noting that Nigeria no longer import rice, thereby saving about N300million every month.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/02/fg-provides-funds-meet-ASUU-demands/

Former minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, on Tuesday revealed all cabal members who have allegedly hijacked President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

The list issued by Fani-Kayode includes names of Buhari’s very close associates and family members.

In a tweet, Fani-Kayode listed the cabal to include: Sani Zangon Daura, Mamman Daura, Ismaila Isa Funtua, Babagana Kingibe, Hamed Ali, Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazzau and Lawal Daura.

According to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, some are educated, reasonable while others are shallow, primitive and dangerous.

“Buhari’s cabal are: Sani Zangon Daura, Mamman Daura, Ismaila Isa Funtua, Babagana Kingibe, Hamed Ali, Abba Kyari, Abdulrahman Dambazzau and Lawal Daura.

“I know them ALL well. Some are educated, reasonable and fair-minded whilst others are shallow, primitive and dangerous,” Fani-Kayode tweeted.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/01/fani-kayode-exposes-cabal-members-hijacked-buhari-govt/

Unidentified gunmen in Plateau State on Sunday attacked and killed four persons in Nding community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.

DSP Terna Tyopev, the Police Public Relations Officers (PPRO) in the state police command confirmed the incident to the News of Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Jos.

Tyopev said the ugly incident occurred Sunday evening, adding that the villagers were attacked while returning to the village in a Peugeot 504 station wagon.

“Yesterday, at about 6: 15 p.m, we received a distress call from one Mr Samson Bitrus of Gwom Nding Village that at about 6 p.m. of the same day, some unknown gunmen attacked a Peugeot 504 Station Wagon on the way to the village.

“On receipt of the information, Mr Austin Agbonlahor, the Commissioner of Police in the state immediately assembled a team that went to the scene of crime but discovered on arrival that the attackers had left already.

“The team discovered that three persons were seen motionless and they were immediately taken to the Barkin Ladi General Hospital where they were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.

“Of the three injured persons taken to the hospital, one later died while the remaining two are still receiving treatment,” he said

The PPRO said the command had commenced investigation on the matter and called on citizens with useful information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators to urgently avail it to the police.

He advised residents of the state to be law abiding as they go about their lawful businesses.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/gunmen-kill-four-passengers-injure-two-plateau/

President Muhammadu Buhari’s support group has alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar was plotting to smuggle into Nigeria looted funds for the 2019 election.

Against this background, Buhari called on security agencies to stay at alert and double their efforts to “enforce provisions of the of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 (as amended).”

He spoke through his campaign team, Buhari Media Organisation, BMO, on Sunday.

A statement jointly signed by Niyi Akinsiju and Cassid Madueke, Chairman and Secretary of the BMO, said intelligence gathering showed the former Vice President has made promises to some foreign individuals to apportion a percentage share of some state owned assets to them.

The statement reads: “We have it on good authority that the PDP and its Presidential candidate are making strenuous efforts to bring in public funds stashed abroad including those from recent sales of assets in Angola which were acquired with illicit funds.

“We also know that the former Vice President has made promissory transaction commitments on a number of strategic national assets including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and a percentage holding in the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) to a foreign syndicate.

“All these are out of desperation and as a result of his inability to raise funds from governors elected on PDP platform, many of whom are themselves locked in stiff battles for their seats.

“It is clear to Atiku Abubakar and PDP elements that the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration has put in place a system that has made it difficult for the type of situation in 2015 where former Petroleum Resources Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke could warehouse $115,000,000 (One hundred and fifteen million dollars) which was then shared among party officials to influence electoral officials.

“They also know that even the EFCC is very much on the alert at local airports as seen in the manner its operatives have twice in recent times intercepted undeclared sums of money running into millions of dollars.

“So these opposition elements are now working out a more crooked way of bringing in money through the borders in order to circumvent the system before and during the February 2019 elections.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/2019-atiku-plotting-smuggle-nigeria-presidential-election-buhari-group/

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, weekend said it has sanctioned four airline operators for various degrees of violations of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, NCARs.

The airlines, which were not named by the regulator, include both scheduled and non-scheduled operators. Kano Confirming the sanctions, the General Manager, Public Affairs, NCAA, Mr. Sam Adurogboye said during “on the spot inspection carried out by NCAA Aviation Safety Inspectors (ASI) on those operators, a number of deficiencies, including non implementation of training programmes of maintenance personnel as required, irregularities concerning helicopter flight identification, deliberate violation of the regulations, performing maintenance programme without necessary approval and using outdated manual were discovered.”

According to Adurogboye, all these findings were found to be in violation of the Regulations. “Consequently, the various operators were fined ranging from one million and five hundred thousand naira only to Two million naira only, while the operator involved in deliberate violation of the Regulations had its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) suspended for 180 days.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/ncaa-fines-suspends-airlines-180-days-violations-ncars/

Former Deputy National Publicity of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Comrade Timi Frank, has claimed that there were ongoing plans by President Muhammadu Buhari government to arrest the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar; House of Representatives Speaker, Yakubu Dogara; and National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus.

Frank made this claim in a statement he signed and forwarded to DAILY POST on Sunday.

He also condemned in strong terms the ongoing police siege on Senator Dino Melaye’s Abuja home.

He said the government was plotting to arrest Melaye and keep him out of circulation ahead of the 2019 polls.

Frank described the invasion of the lawmaker’s residence as a part of the Buhari administration’s latest strategy to forcefully incarcerate vocal members of the opposition in order to pave way for APC’s victory in the forthcoming polls.

He added, “This is condemnable and unacceptable in a democracy.

“Earlier in the life of this dictatorial administration, agents of the Department of State Services, DSS, forcefully gained entrance into the residence of some Judicial Officers in the midnight, all in the name of anti-corruption crusade.

“The Nigeria police has now taken this impunity a notch higher by disconnecting water and power supply from the House of a Federal legislator for no justifiable cause. This is the second time the police would besiege Melaye’s house under the present Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris.

“We must all condemn this terrorist act being visited on a Nigerian citizen. Today it is Melaye. Tomorrow it might be you or me. Nobody is safe in this country any more.

“If you escape being mowed down by criminals and outlaws because of the inability of security forces to protect the people, the same security forces will come after you by breaking your house and disrupting your water and power supply, all in the name of trying to arrest you to face spurious charges.

“We know that no individual can be above the laws of a society, but when lawful agencies themselves break the law by turning themselves into political instruments of vendetta against perceived opposition figures, then they are invariably preparing grounds for chaos and anarchy to reign.

“They are doing this because they don’t want the 2019 elections to hold. They fear defeat and they are seeing defeat. They want to scuttle the elections and blame it on unrest and insecurity.

“Is it for nothing that the military that are battling to hold their own against Boko Haram insurgents in the northeast without success, recently announced that they will commence Operation Python Dance (operation intimidate opposition and rig elections for Buhari and APC) throughout the entire states of the federation in January?

“Is it for nothing that the police, whose over 100 of its personnel deployed to fight Boko Haram alongside the military in the Northeast recently abdicated their duty posts? Yet they have enough personnel to lay siege on Melaye’s house with a vow to stay there until they deliver him to jail.

“They recently delivered Deji Adeyanju to prison. Now they are after Melaye. I am aware of their plans to also arrest Senate President Bukola Saraki, the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, ex-Vice President and presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Speaker Yakubu Dogara and all those that matter in the opposition’s hierarchy in the country on trumped up charges.

“This is the time for all men of good conscience to rise and speak against democratic demagoguery now in full bloom in the country under Buhari. The fabrics of our nation are being torn apart and we cannot afford to remain silent while our country is being ravaged by flames ignited by a failed administration.

“I also urge the international community to note the illegal use of the nation’s security to crackdown on opposition figures by the present administration. I dare say that no amount of intimidation, arrest and persecution will stop Nigerians from voting out Buhari in the coming election. ‘How many opposition politicians police and soldiers go kill?’

“I hereby call on the international community to prevail on President Buhari to withdraw the police from Melaye’s house and free Deji Adeyanju because we are in democracy and not a military junta.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/30/dino-melaye-buhari-planning-arrest-saraki-atiku-secondus-dogara-timi-frank/

Cole, Abe Hint Of End To Crisis
The Campaign Organisation of Tonye Cole has reacted to a newspaper publication, which referred to Senator Magnus Abe as the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Rivers State.

A statement issued by Chief Ogbonna Nwuke, the Spokesman of the campaign team, said: “For the avoidance of doubt, the APC candidate in Rivers State is Tonye Cole. It is no longer a matter of speculation. In full public glare, Tonye Cole was presented with the APC flag in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. It is possible that the erroneous impression contained in the report of The Punch newspaper may have been as a result of the printer’s devil.

“While we hope that the newspaper would take steps to correct the error, we urge all Nigerians, Rivers people inclusive, to take note that APC has spoken clearly. Tonye Cole is the party’s preferred candidate. Nothing can change that.

“What is critical for us is to do things right and our candidate, Tonye Cole is doing everything in his power to build a strong foundation for meaningful cooperation, enduring unity and understanding within the party.

“We are focused on the task ahead. We want to assure all and sundry that we are determined to bring the benefits of democracy to our people. By the grace of God, we shall not be distracted.”

But in a recent development, the two APC governorship candidates, Tonye Cole and Senator Magnus Abe have hinted of a possible resolution of the crisis plaguing the party.

Abe, who is in court seeking to be declared the APC gubernatorial candidate, having emerged winner of the parallel direct primaries conducted last August, said: “We will do our best to ensure that APC is victorious in Rivers State. Let me also use this opportunity to appeal to our party members in Rivers State to remain calm and committed and continue to work for the party’s success.

“All challenges within the APC in Rivers State will be resolved and by God’s grace, the party will emerge victorious in the state not only in the Presidential election, but also in all other elections that are to take place in Rivers State.”

Ogbonna Nwuke said the official presentation of the flag to Cole should urge every member to sheath their swords.

He said: “It is our view that it is time for all who belong to our great party to close ranks. As members of APC, we are bound by a common affinity. We must demonstrate that party cohesion is much more paramount than our individual interests. We believe there is more that can unite rather than separate us.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/30/abe-not-rivers-apc-guber-candidate-cole-campaign-team-insists/

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Olisa Agbakoba SAN, has said the President Muhammadu Buhari does not deserve South-East votes because he has not done much for the geopolitical zone.

He stated this yesterday in a statement issued to journalists in reaction to Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo’s appeal to the Southwest to vote Buhari in 2019 to secure a Yoruba presidency in 2023.

According to Agbakoba, the VP was only making efforts to deliver his zone to the All Progressives Congress, APC, which in turn favours him.

He added that it is for the Southwest people to decide what they want.

For the South-East, he said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, promised to do a term and hand over to the South-East, which he described as a political statement.

Nevertheless, he advised the South-East to vote for Atiku.

‘’I advice the South-East to vote for the PDP. What has the APC done for the South-East? Atiku has promised to restructure the country.

“PDP may not be a better party but the vice presidency and promise of restructuring are major attractions,’’ he said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/29/2019-igbo-no-reason-vote-buhari-agbakoba/

Former Arsenal chairman, Peter Hill-Wood has died at the age of 82, NAN reports

Hill-Wood, who became the chairman of the club in 1982 after joining its board in 1962, presided over the appointments of George Graham and Arsene Wenger as managers.

They went on to win five league titles, five FA Cups, the League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup between them.

The club, in a statement on Friday, said, “It is with deep regret that we announce the death of former chairman, Peter Hill-Wood, at the age of 82.”

Ill-health forced Hill-Wood to step down from the position in June 2013.

Arsenal said he was also ‘instrumental’ to successful move from Highbury to Emirates Stadium in 2006.

“Peter and his family’s influence on the club cannot be understated… Our thoughts are with his wife Sally and his children Sarah, Julian and Charles,” the statement, posted on the club’s website, concluded.

Born in Kensington, London, on Feb. 25, 1936 and died on Dec. 28, 2018, Hill-Wood attended Eton College.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/28/former-arsenal-chairman-hill-wood-dies-82/

At least one naval officer killed as armed group seizes trove of weapons from two bases near Nigerian border with Chad.

Suspected Boko Haram fighters have attacked two military bases in northeast Nigeria, and briefly seized the headquarters of a multinational force comprising troops from Niger, Nigeria, Chad and Cameroon.

Nigerian authorities reported on Thursday that the fighters overran the multinational joint task force post (MNJTF) which lies in the fishing town of Baga, less than 10km from the Nigerian-Chad border, and sacked a naval base in Mile 3, some 5km from Baga.

A military source who asked not to be identified told the AFP news agency that Nigerian troops were "overpowered and forced to withdraw," adding that "the terrorists carted away gun trucks, ammunition and multiple rocket launchers from the base."

According to the source, the fighters from Boko Haram, who have repeatedly struck military outposts in the region in recent months, stormed Baga in several vehicles.

Muhammadu Buhari: 'I haven't failed' against Boko Haram

Troops from the two bases withdrew to another naval base at Fish Dam on the shores of Lake Chad, the military source said, adding that they decided not to pursue them to avoid running into an ambush, a strategy Boko Haram often employs against the military.

Nigerian Army Spokesman Sani Usman confirmed the attack, adding that one navy officer was killed.

"The troops along with their Nigerian Navy counterparts put up a very determined fight" all night, he said, adding that "the Nigerian Air Force component has also been mobilised and are engaging the fleeing terrorists."

Residents of the regional capital Maiduguri reported seeing six fighter jets flying towards Baga on Thursday.

Al Jazeera's Ahmed Idris, reporting from Calabar, Nigeria, said that the fighting around Baga continued on Friday morning.

"The fighters have surrounded Baga town for a number of hours, some are talking about 24 hours, and the battle is ongoing in that area. The army can only confirm that 'yes, there's been some fighting, but it has not lost control of this town of Baga', which is a fishing community.

"Some residents who have fled the town are saying that Boko Haram fighters were deep inside the town. One particular resident was saying that they even led morning prayers this morning in Baga town.

"But the military is not giving many details, only confirming that one personnel was killed, and that they are on a search and rescue in certain areas, an indication that probably some of their soldiers have been dispersed by Boko Haram.

"We were told by a military source that operations in that area are ongoing."
Millions forced to flee

In January 2015, Boko Haram overran the same MNJTF base and took control of Baga town.

Idris described those events as "one of the worst Boko Haram massacres in Nigeria."

"Boko Haram fighters overran that same military base, the multinational joint task force," he said."They took over arms and ammunition from that area and massacred more than 1,000 civilians."

Since Boko Haram launched its campaign in northeast Nigeria in 2009, the armed group has killed at least 27,000 people and forced more than two million to flee their homes.

Nigeria's military has been fighting the group since then and despite the government's insistence that it is near defeat, northern Nigeria is still beleaguered by heavy fighting.

Over the years, Boko Haram, which wants to form a breakaway state, has kidnapped thousands of adults and children.

Boko Haram attacks are a major issue for President Muhammadu Buhari as he seeks a second term in the upcoming election in February.

After a recent series of deadly attacks on Nigeria's military, Buhari and other officials have warned that the group has begun using drones as part of a resurgence.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/28/boko-haram-attacks-two-military-bases-northeast-nigeria/

Chelsea star, Eden Hazard, has brushed off talk of an imminent move to Real Madrid, by insisting he wants to become a legend at Stamford Bridge.

Hazard netted his 100th goal for the Blues, in their 2-1 victory at Watford on Boxing Day.

The game was finely poised between the two London teams before Hazard burst clear, set on his way by Mateo Kovacic and he showed composure to round Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster to reach his century in a Chelsea shirt.

The Belgian scored his 101st from the penalty spot in the second half, ensuring Roberto Pereyra’s strike was just a consolation.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hazard said: “(The 101 goals) mean a lot especially because we won today.

“One-hundred-and-one goals with this amazing club is something I will never forget!

“Now I think me, the fans and players want more. I want to score more goals for the club and want to be a legend like (Frank) Lampard, (Didier) Drogba and try to be my best.

“My target is to score goals and try to win the game. I try to do my best and today I did well.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/27/epl-hazard-speaks-real-madrid-move-2-1-win-watford/

The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested three suspects over alleged murder of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in Akwanga Local Government Area of the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, ASP Samaila Usman, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lafia.
The corps member, Samuel Makene, was allegedly murdered at the residence of Emmanuel Ombugadu, governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a political gathering.
According to him, the police have arrested three suspects from Angwan Baba Arago of Akwanga Local Government Area for the murder of Samuel Makene.
“The suspects were already apprehended and transferred to the police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation,” the police spokesperson said.

He added that the suspects would be charged to court for prosecution as soon as investigation was concluded.

The PPRO assured families of the deceased that the police would ensure that the suspects and other criminals in the state were made to face the law.

The deceased, who was murdered on Dec. 20, was buried on December 23.


http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/26/three-suspects-arrested-murder-corps-member-nasarawa/

- Reports claim a Mourinho loyalist called pushed for the sacking of the Portuguese
- The 55-year-old was relieved of his duties following the Red Devils' loss to Liverpool
- United legend ole Gunnar Solksjaer was named caretaker manager less than 24 hours

Barely seven days after Jose Mourinho was axed, more detail about the circumstances around his departure have been revealed.

The Portuguese gaffer was sensationally sacked two days after Red Devils were beaten 3-1 by Liverpool at Anfield.

The 55-year-old thought he was arriving at Carrington to discuss January transfer plans with Ed Woodward on Tuesday - but he got the shocking news.

And according to the Sunday Times, a key Manchester United player was the catalyst for his departure.

They described him as a player that was well used by United throughout Mourinho's tenure - but he lost patience after the defeat to Liverpool and phoned Woodward to tell the Portuguese to leave.

The Times also claim some of United’s squad celebrated his departure after the Glazier family took the crucial decision.

Old Trafford legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was appointed as caretaker boss a day after - and led the side to a comprehensive 5-1 victory over Cardiff.

The 1999 Champions League winner with United will only be manager until the end of the season as a new boss will be appointed on a permanent basis next summer.

High flying Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as United's No.1 target following his achievement with the young Spurs side.

Meanwhile, MCEBISCOO.COM had earlier reported that Manchester United hierarchy took just about five minutes after the sack had been announced to dismantle Jose Mourinho's office.

Mourinho left the club 19 points behind league leaders Liverpool having lost his fifth EPL match this current season before being shown the exit.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/26/man-united-player-loyal-mourinho-reportedly-pushed-sack/