₦airaland Forum

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) women in Ekiti State, under the aegis of Forum of PDP Young Women, have told the Senate Minority Leader, Biodun Olujimi to thread with caution in her desperate bid for power, pointing out that competing the leadership of the party in Ekiti State with former Governor Ayodele Fayose was an insult taken too far.

The forum said, “having used the political ladder of Fayose to rise to where she is today, Senator Olujimi should not hinder other upcoming women in politics in Ekiti State from also using the same ladder to rise.”

The forum’s convener, Mrs Funmilayo Ogun, who is a former commissioner for works and transportation, at their forum discussion in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, expressed their displeasure with the actions of Senator Olujimi, which they described as “treacherous and unfortunate.”

“Women are known right from the Bible days as better organizers, promoters of peace and unity, truthful and faithful to a defined course. But the roles being played in our party by the Senator is to say the least, despicable.

“It is even more absurd that she was indirectly regarding herself as the leader of the PDP in the Southwest just because she is the Senate Minority Leader.

“Senator Olujimi championing a PDP supposed stakeholders meeting where character like Tope Aluko and people who left the party to contest the July 14 governorship election under other parties were the main attendees showed that she is more at home with dissident groups in the party, this is unfortunate.

“It is appalling that a woman who is expected to display fairness, integrity and truthfulness at that level in Nigeria politics is rather involved in causing confusion and stepping on toes and biting fingers that fed her.

“We therefore call on all women of good conscience in our party to call Senator Olujimi to order. Enough of her treachery!

“She should rather be concerned with promoting the participation of Ekiti women in politics instead of dissipating energy on rubbing shoulders with someone through whom she attained the political height that she is today.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/ekiti-pdp-women-slam-sen-olujimi-say.html

Senator Godswill Akpabio was in high spirits recently as he enjoyed a dance with some women at a gathering in Akwa Ibom State.

Watch the footage below; https://www.facebook.com/APCNewspaper/videos/715635178819578/

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/apc-senator-akpabio-dancing-with-women.html

With preparations in top gear for the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit, the governors of Ondo, Plateau and Bauchi states have confirmed that they will be at the event, which marks the second-anniversary ceremony of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in Edo State.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State The summit tagged Edo Summit, is themed ‘Edo of Our Dreams: Investing in Our People,’ is the second in the Alaghadaro summit series. This year’s edition will focus on showcasing the government’s strides in healthcare, education and job creation.

A statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, confirmed that Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State; Mr. Simon Lalong of Plateau State and Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar of Bauchi will be at Alaghodaro 2018, holding in Benin City, Edo State.

“As has been the tradition of Alaghodaro series, we are going to host three state governors, who have confirmed attendance. They are Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State; Mr. Simon Lalong of Plateau State and Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar of Bauchi.

We are also expecting a number of business leaders drawn from different segments of the economy.

All these go to show the premium placed on this all-important event.” He added that the focus is on the people, especially how the government is improving livelihoods, enhancing access to affordable primary health care and revamping basic education in the state. Child Rights Law: Edo Govt commends FIDA for input Alaghodaro 2018 features a number of events, which will kick off on Friday, November 9, with the EdoJobs Job Fair/Summit starting from 9am to 12am; Women’s Summit from 11am to 4pm; and a Concert starting from 6pm to 10pm. On Saturday, November 10, there will be the Governor’s Cup Golf Tournament, which holds all day, while on Sunday, November 11, the Interdenominational Thanksgiving holds by 10am and a Luncheon holds by 2pm.

These will climax with the Edo Summit, which holds on Monday, November 12, which starts by 8am.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/alaghodaro-2018-ondo-plateau-bauchi.html

A veteran journalist, Dele Momodu has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as the most visible member of ‘Nigerian mafia’ deciding the fate of who superintends over the affairs of the nation.

Momodu, who is the Publisher of Ovation magazine said Obasanjo singlehandedly picked the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and foisted him on Nigerians after his second tenure.

In his latest edition of his article, Pendulum titled ‘The Battle of the Nigerian Generals,’ Momodu described Obasanjo as the most “visible and voluble member of the Nigerian Mafia”.

The veteran journalists stated that despite losing his third term agenda, Obasanjo’s “power and headship of the Generals’ Mafia remains solid and incontrovertible.”

The article reads partly: “Fellow Nigerians, I once wrote an article about the Nigerian Mafia on this very page. Yes, Nigeria is a Mafia nation and there are a few Mafia families in play. Some are peopled by civilians, whilst some are a group of military men comprising retired soldiers. There is also a mixture of civilians and soldiers like the Kaduna Mafia comprising Northern elites from both the civilian populace and the military. Apart from the Generals’ Mafia which includes General Olusegun Obasanjo, all of these Mafia families usually consist of men of Northern extraction.

“There were only two visible Mafia families in the South, namely the Awolowo and Zikist Mafia. However, the latter’s influence diminished long before the Owelle Of Onitsha, Chief Nnamdi Azikwe, who was the arrowhead, passed away, whilst the former has had its glory days dulled by the fractious disagreements which broke out between the acolytes of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, The Odole of Ife, after he exchanged mortality for immortality. This got exacerbated and became open internecine warfare after the revered sage’s wife, the Yeyeoba of Ile-Ife, Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, who had kept the shop together with adroit wiles and guile, died just over 3 years ago.

“However, the Tinubu Mafia has grown in competition with the Awolowo Mafia in recent times, but even the influence of their effervescent overlord, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Asiwaju of Lagos, may be facing challenges at the moment from rebels within and outside. These coming elections may well be a true test of how efficacious the influence and control of this great and astute politician remains.

“It is interesting that while the influence of the Italian Mafia seems to have waned over the years, that of the Nigerian Mafia, particularly the Generals’ Mafia appears to have skyrocketed in recent years. There are warlords now spread across our country. And the godfathers and their godchildren litter the landscape of Nigeria. Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has remained under the firm grip of the military class, no matter what the civilians may say or think. It is therefore the Generals’ Mafia that remains in the ascendancy for now.

“Former Army General Olusegun Obasanjo, incidentally, the Balogun of Owu – a traditional warrior chief – came back from retirement as a former military Head of State and governed majestically for eight wonderful years. When he left, Umaru, the brother of a former Army General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua replaced him, largely on the basis of his relationship to the deceased brother, who was a firm favourite of General Obasanjo, who singlehandedly handpicked him and foisted him on a pliant nation despite his well-documented health challenges. He died in office and his Vice President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan also head-hunted by Obasanjo, took over to complete their first term.

“Thereafter, Jonathan was endorsed by Obasanjo, leading the Generals’ Mafia for his own first term. Unfortunately, things fell apart, when the falcon no longer hearkened to the falconer, and mere anarchy reigned upon the land. Meanwhile, all this while, Major General Muhammadu Buhari never stopped contesting serially, from 2003 to 2011 by which time he was expected to give up on his dream and ambition. He never did.

“Buhari returned to contest for the Presidency a record fourth time in 2015 and won resoundingly with the support of the almighty Generals’ Mafia. But since then, he has not been able to hold the centre together and he has fallen out of grace, and out of favour from the super Generals. Some may want to argue otherwise but the proof is easy. He could not win on previous occasions until the powers that be joined him.

“Who are these super Generals, the last men standing, you may want to ask? Let me oblige you, even if you know some or, indeed, all of them already. A few of them are quite visible while others are not, either deliberately or otherwise. The Nigerian Mafia in their totality are predominantly under the control of a few Generals who are members of a very select, privileged and exclusive club of high achievers in the Nigerian military and the Nigerian state. Let me start with the first and the reason he is probably the most powerful and influential.

“General Olusegun Obasanjo remains the most visible and voluble member of the Nigerian Mafia. His official date of birth reads May 5, 1937, but many feel he is older, considering the age of some of his friends and schoolmates. He schooled in Nigeria and continued his military education in England and India. Fearless and brutal, he became famous and was idolised for his fairy-tale exploits during the Nigerian civil war. Though different accounts have claimed that his role was exaggerated and overhyped, even his worst critics admit and agree that he is an extremely intelligent and brave soldier with a no-nonsense attitude who seldom takes prisoners.

“He shot into prominence when his boss, General Murtala Muhammed was killed in a military coup in 1976 and as second in command, he was catapulted to the number one position of Head of State against his will. He and his team of the Supreme Military Council performed great feats until they handed over power to a civilian government headed by President Shehu Shagari. The fact that he stuck to his terminal date despite the fact that he had reasons to elongate his tenure endeared him to the international community. He acquired avuncular status on the continent of Africa and was much sought after globally. His detribalised nature also helped to place him on a higher pedestal in Nigeria.

“The man he and Murtala Muhammed sacked from power, General Yakubu Gowon was in exile in England for a long period of time and when he returned his amiable, gentle and religious disposition meant that he was no longer really relevant in the polity and this placed Obasanjo in a prime position to assume the leadership of the Nigerian Generals’ Mafia. Gowon is only sometimes wheeled out when it is time to plead for patience and peace in the land, but the truth is that he is often just left alone to enjoy his retirement!

“Obasanjo’s stock rose even higher, and that is indeed the frightening reality of the stock of this colossal statesman when he returned to power for 8 years in the latest civilian dispensation. His bid to perpetuate himself in power through an abortive third term agenda crashed spectacularly. However his power and headship of the Generals’ Mafia remains solid and incontrovertible.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/dele-momodu-makes-shocking-revelation.html

The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Adams Oshiomhole has replied the Governor of Imo state, Rochas Okorocha over his insistence to field his in-law, Uche Nwosu as the governorship candidate of the APC in Imo state.

Addressing newsmen recently, APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole said the party would not bend its rules for the personal interest of some party members.

Oshiomhole, who spoke on the contentious outcomes of its primaries in Imo, Ogun, Rivers and Zamfara states, said the APC would abide by a Supreme Court judgment on Rivers State.

He added that measures would be put in place for fresh congresses across the state.

The APC National Chairman specifically said Okorocha and Amosun were bent on fielding their choice aspirants at the expense of the party’s constitution.

The duo had recently accused Oshiomhole of being responsible for the crisis in the party.

His words: “On the judgment given by the Supreme Court, as a political party, we respect the judiciary. We also appreciate that democracy is basically about the rule of law and not the rule of might. Based on this fact, which is not a choice, we are obliged to respect the rule of law and at the heart of that is total obedience to the letters and the spirit of judicial findings which are not meant to be convenient. In a democracy, there are orders that need to be obeyed.

Therefore, the judgment of the Supreme Court is very clear that the court has nullified the ward congresses that were done by my predecessor in Rivers State and also nullified the state and local government congresses that were done in the state. What is important is that as things stand, the highest court in the land has pronounced that those congresses did not meet the requirements of the law and are therefore not valid. As a law-abiding party, we accept the decision of the court and we will call a meeting in no distant future of all the stakeholders in Rivers State to put the necessary machinery in place to conduct fresh ward, local government, and state congresses.

“In the APC Constitution, the only body authorised to conduct primaries is the NWC of which I am privileged to be the chairman but there are processes that must be followed before this exercise is made a possibility. Our National Executive Committee NEC met and decided to invoke the relevant parts of our constitution which among other things allow us to conduct either direct or indirect primaries in which every card-carrying member of our party is entitled to vote.

“In the case of Ogun state, Governor Ibikunle Amosun like any other governor convened a meeting of the State Executive Committee SEC as directed by NEC and those meetings were meant to include not just the SEC members but critical stakeholders for the purpose of primaries. There can be no question that anyone who is standing for an election is obviously a stakeholder in the process particularly when the matter on the agenda is how to conduct the primaries. And in order to ensure transparency in the process, the NEC also resolved that when a state opted for any of the options, the state executive is obliged to ensure that majority of the members sign the resolution and not just one or two on behalf of the others.

“Amosun convened a meeting that substantially met the requirements as resolved by the NEC. I talk about substantial compliance because there were people who were supposed to be invited to that meeting but were not invited. These include former senators, former governors or deputy governors. At the meeting, Amosun in his wisdom decided to introduce a third element which did not feature in the resolution of the NEC.

He announced that Ogun State was going to adopt consensus and he proceeded to define what in his view constitutes a consensus. Having defined it to mean the pronouncement of the governor, he went on to announce a consensus candidate, one Akinlade as the next governor.

He proceeded to announce another gentleman as the running mate. He went on to proclaim himself as the next senator and also said the current senator in his own zone, Sen Lanre Tejuosho, would step aside so that he, Amosun, at the end of his tenure would proceed to the Senate.

He announced also that another senator from Ogun State would step aside and another gentleman would come in his place. Not done, Amosun went on to announce a particular gentleman as the next Speaker and another one as Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

Amosun also unilaterally pronounced that of the eight seating House of Representatives members, seven were not going to return. He went on to list the names of the House of Assembly members who would seek re-election and those who would not seek re-election, announcing a total of 40 names. When he was done in a manner that an emperor would do to his subjects in a feudal society, the people of Ogun state at that meeting rejected the imposition.

Amosun did not recognise that democracy is a game of numbers, not a game of power. He went on angrily to announce that if they did not accept the imposition, he was going to do direct primaries which the people agreed.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/apc-has-no-room-for-emperors-oshiomhole.html

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday said it would not extend the deadline for the submission of nomination forms by political parties’ candidates for the governorship and State House of Assembly elections.

The Director of Voter Education and Publicity (VEP), Oluwole-Osaze Uzzi, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said that the submission deadline stipulated remained Friday night.

“The Commission time table for the general elections was issued and nothing has changed. The deadline for submission of forms for governorship and State House of Assembly election remains Nov. 2,” Uzzi said.

NAN correspondent who visited the submission centre at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja, reports that representatives of political parties were seen at different stages of submission of their nominations forms.

The National Chairman of the Advanced Peoples Democratic Alliance (APDA), Malam Shittu Mohammed, commended the process of the submission.

“We just submitted our nomination forms. I want to commend INEC for having this organised arrangement, everything is peaceful and organised,” Mohammed said.

He said that APDA would be fielding candidates for governorship and State House of Assembly elections in 17 states.

An INEC staff who did not want his name mentioned said that about 38 political parties including the major political parties had completed the process of submission of their forms.

The staff said that some of the political parties were still at various stages of submission, while some were about to start.
Among the political parties waiting to submit their norms, he said, were the United Progressives Party (UPP), the Green Party and Accord Party.

The UPP in its letter of address to INEC Chairman and signed by the Chairman of the party, Chief Chekwas Okorie, said it would be fielding governorship candidates in 18 States and 179 candidates for State of House Assembly elections.

The Nigeria Community Movement Party (NCMP) National Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Mohammad, who was also at the submission centre, told NAN that the party would be fielding candidates in 10 states for both elections.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/inec-closes-submission-of-nomination.html

The New Agenda for Positive Change, a civil society organization has taken a swipe at the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for reportedly holding a strategy session with members of his team in Dubai, UAE.

The Dubai meeting had in attendance, Atiku’s running mate, Peter Obi and the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Also in the meeting were ex-Ogun Governor, Gbenga Daniel, ex-aide to former President, Reno Omokri, Bayelsa East Senator, Ben Bruce among others.

Reacting, however, the group said the development was a sad reminder of Atiku’s extravagant lifestyle.

Raymond Clarke Amuna, President of the group, said the development was an indication to his dangerous tendency to hand Nigeria over to foreign interests, with Dubai being his latest preference.

Amuna in the statement challenged the PDP candidate to explain to Nigerians how he intends to run a domestic-oriented economy for the masses with the kind of lavish lifestyle of taking his strategy team with over 400 members to Dubai.

He warned that a vote for Atiku would definitely signal a return to the era where even bottled water is imported into the country and Nigerians will again be conditioned to believe that only things that are foreign are good.

According to him, “Each time Atiku Abubakar considers slinking to Dubai he should be mindful of how the opulence of the desert city warps his sense of proprietary. He has never returned from his Dubai trips lucid enough to accept the reality in Nigeria possibly because his guilty conscience pricks him to know that the PDP could have done better for Nigeria in its 16 years of misrule.

“There are various exotic venues in Nigeria that he could have used and have members of his team spend money to boost the local economy but he decided to expend his N20 million annual income in ferrying Peter Obi, Secondus and other clowns in his circus to Dubai for the strategy session. It is therefore not surprising that his team issued the statement castigating the government for planning to use the proceeds of privatization to fund the national budget.

“The first thing of note is that Atiku Abubakar, a onetime Vice President (1999 to 2007) and by default the Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC) at the time, was the originator of privatization or in layman’s term selling government owned enterprises, businesses and assets. It was under him that the chant of “government has no business in business” or “government is incapable of managing businesses” first gained ground and have remained a part of our collective psyche today.

“This is why even as the nation continues to explore the diversification of its revenue source under President Muhammadu Buhari, people have been conditioned to the point that no one is thinking of creating enterprises that will address unemployment and revenue sources simultaneously.

“Secondly, Atiku Abubakar spoke from experience. He is not sure that the national assets in question would be allocated to him and his cronies as it was done under his watch when he held sway over the privatization of most of the country’s assets.

“He is therefore definitely waiting until such a time when he is certain that he can acquire the same assets for pittance. His media organization ranted on about how the assets to be sold were built by the PDP without being able to list a single one of them, which implies that the PDP candidate is claiming what he did not achieve.”

Just yesterday, President Muhammadu Buhari’s Personal Assistant on Social Media, Lauretta Onochie, rubbished the meeting between the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar and his campaign team in Dubai.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/11/2019-atiku-under-fire-over-extravagant.html

“I want to assure Bayelsa workers that government is in support of your quest for minimum wage. The N30,000 minimum wage will be implemented by the state government," Wellington Obiri, Head of Civil Service, Bayelsa State, said.

The Bayelsa State Government has agreed to the workers' demand for N30,000 as the new minimum wage.

Wellington Obiri, Head of Civil Service, Bayelsa State made the promise when the leaders of the state’s Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) led a peaceful protest to the Government House, Yenagoa, on Tuesday.

Addressing the workers, he said: “I want to assure Bayelsa workers that government is in support of your quest for minimum wage. The N30,000 minimum wage will be implemented by the state government.

“In anticipation of that, Governor Seriake Dickson has directed the Head of Service and the Finance Committee to start working out the modalities for the implementation of whatever decision that is agreed and such a decision will be adhered to by the government.”

In his response to government's promise on payment of the new figure, Comrade John Bipre-Ndiomu, NLC Chairman in the state, said the essence of the protest was to ensure that workers were treated fairly and the N30,000 minimum wage is implemented to the letter.

“We have come to inform our state government that we are also waiting on them and that immediately the Federal Government gives approval, we are assured that the states will follow suit. We will ensure that, that which is due to workers gets to them. We can never be slaves in our own land. We produce the wealth of this country and others share the wealth," he said.

On his part, Tari Daunana, TUC Chairman, called on leaders to manage the country’s resources well in order to add value to Nigerian workers.

He said: “We want to call on our privileged leaders that are managing our resources to to add value to Nigerians and the society. Leadership is about the legacy you leave for the unborn generations. It will speak for you whether good or bad."

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/bayelsa-government-agrees-to-pay-n30000.html

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it will soon conduct the first series of the West African Senior School certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates.

This was made known in a press statement made available to PREMIUM TIMES by the spokesperson of the council, Demianus Ojijeogu, Sunday morning.

The statement also said the examination will be conducted between January and February, 2019.

According to the statement, registration started October 8 and will end December 28, 2018.

The statement said the registration procedure has been designed to accommodate biometric features that will be used for validation at the examination centre.

“After obtaining the registration pin, candidates should log on to www.waeconline.org,” it said.

The council also said there is provision for “walk–in” candidates and candidates with special needs.

“Walk –in candidates, who wish to write the examination after the close of entries may be accommodated provided they register less than 24 hours to the scheduled time of the paper they intend to write,” the statement said.

The walk-in candidates’ fee is N25, 000.

The statement said the special needs’ candidates will also register online but “they must state clearly their disabilities: blind, low vision, spastic, speech etc.

“Candidates must conclude registration within two weeks of first access to the website during registration period,” the statement said.

The council said candidates are expected to pay a registration fee of N13, 950 and a commission of N500 to banks and accredited agents.

The council had earlier announced that it will begin to conduct two series of the WASSCE for private candidates from 2018.

The council conducted the first series for private candidates in January 2018 while the second series was held in August /September 2018.

The West African Examinations Council is an examination board that conducts the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, for University and Jamb entry examination in West African countries.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/waec-introduces-walk-in-candidates.html

Onyedika Agbedo and Agatha Emeadi
Former minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has warned Nigerians against voting for candidates of either the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 presidential election.
Ezekwesili, who disclosed this at a World Press Conference in Lagos, yesterday, maintained that there is no difference between the APC and PDP. She added that re-electing APC’s President Muhammadu Buhari, for another term, or the presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, is akin to leaving the country in the hands of the same people who wrecked it.

Ezekwesili, who is running for president on the platform of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), said the cycle of leadership failure in the country is unsustainable and has to end in 2019.
“In 2015, the mantra was anyone but Jonathan. Now, what we are hearing is anyone but Buhari and the PDP nominated Atiku because they think he is the only one that can defeat Buhari. So, in 2023 when Atiku and the PDP inevitably fail, again, because a bad tree cannot bear good fruit, then what?
“We will start hearing a new chant anyone but Atiku. That is how we get looped into a cycle of insanity, repeating the same thing and expecting a different result. That cycle of failure is unsustainable and it has to end now.
“The 2019 election will not be anyone but Buhari. Our country is not a recycling plant for uninspiring old men with old ideas. We deserve better than their aggressive mediocrity. And, that is why I am running for president; to lead a people’s movement that will permanently end bad leadership, retire incompetence and fight for every Nigerian.
“For those of you considering PDP as an alternative, I really want to ask you; what is the thing that you see about them that is any different from the APC? Really, these people are the same. They are the siamese twins of failure.”
Ezekwesili, who spoke extempore for about two hours added: “Fellow Nigerians, here is the truth of the matter.
“The APC and PDP are not two parties. APC, PDP is a single party fielding one single candidate and that candidate’s name is BUHTIKU. Buhari and Atiku are cojoined from head to toe as BUHTIKU.
“There is no lesser evil in BUHTIKU. They are members of the same party. Attempting to choose between these two is like asking one to choose between death and gunshot.


“We cannot reject one oppressor and handover to another oppressor. We do not love bondage in this country; we do not enjoy suffering in this country. God and Heaven forbid.”
Ezekwesili insisted she is seriously in the presidential race and stressed that electing her as president will end the cycle of failed leadership in the country.
“Nigerians deserve a president that they know would do what she says she would do. Do we not think we deserve a president that will not negotiate her integrity?
“Do you not think we deserve a president who will not give you stories or have any hidden agenda, but just a president who will be working everyday for you and your children.
“Are we not tired of managing poverty, death and destruction? The world is watching to see what kind of country we will choose to become now that the kind of candidate, with wide-ranging national and international experience that we have been asking for has finally joined the race.
How sad it will be if we choose to re-elect incompetence, stagnation and mediocrity? How equally sad it will be if we choose to elect an individual who jumps from one party to another every election season and has corruption file in the United States Department of State.
“I am running to lead and serve Nigerians. I am running to disrupt the old order of politics in this country. I will run and win this election with Nigerians. We are in this race because now is the time ,” the former Steel minister affirmed.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-why-nigerians-should-reject-buhari.html

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, on Tuesday met with six state governors over the minimum wage demanded by the organised labour in the country.

The meeting held behind closed-doors on Monday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

One of the governors, speaking with Channels after the meeting, said it ended inconclusively.

He said the governors were willing to pay the N30,000 new minimum wage demanded by workers but that they lacked the capacity to do so.

The governor disclosed that an emergency meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum would be convened on Tuesday.

According to him, the meeting on Tuesday will focus on finalising agreements on an exact minimum wage the states are willing to pay their workers.

The meeting which ended in deadlock was also attended by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, and the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed.

State governors present at the meeting were Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari; Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu; Osun State Governor, Rauf Aragbesola; and Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/new-minimum-wage-outcome-of-osinbajo.html

The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on both the Federal and the Kaduna State governments to rise up to the challenge of checkmating killings in the state with a view to bringing masterminds to book.

Pastor Adebayo Oladeji, media aide to CAN President, Rev Dr Samson Ayokunle, in a statement on Sunday, expresssed shock, disappointment and sadness at recent killings in Kaduna and the killing of a paramount ruler, the Agom Adara, Dr. Maiwada Raphael Galadima.

CAN commiserated with the government and the people and prayed God to comfort all the bereaved and heal those who are recuperating in hospitals and homes.

The body however condemned similar killings going on in Adamawa, Benue and Plateau states.

“This is a sad commentary on the part of the government. Has Nigeria become a lawless state? Are those hoodlums better equipped and more organised by our security agencies? Are the security opetatives compromised? This is reprehensible.

“We ask the political class to stop politicising the orgy of killings and for both state and Federal Governments to stop rationalising the mass killings of innocent Nigerians and sanction those responsible for this horrifying bloodshed.

“While commending the state government for reviewing the curfew Sunday afternoon for people to access food and other items, we once again reiterate our calling for the following:

A total overhauling of our security agencies with a view to replacing all the security chiefs;

Implementation of all the White papers on ethno-religious uprisings in the recent past;

Immediate trials of those apprehended for the killings in Southern Kaduna two years ago;

Prosecution of those responsible for the unending killings in the Northcentral zone;

Governments should stop handling the killers in our midst with kids gloves;

Payment of adequate compensations to all the bereaved and victims of the ethno-religious conflicts in the last five years;

“Government should recover all the lands and villages illegally occupied by the hoodlums and criminals in the North Central

“As we approach another general election, all hands must be on deck to restore peace and sanity to all the trouble spots in the country. Enough is enough!”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/kaduna-crisis-can-reacts-to-fresh.html

The 3rd Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba Barracks, Jos, has disclosed that it had uncovered a shallow grave where the corpse of the missing Army officer, Major General Idris Alkali (rtd), was initially buried.

The General Officer Commanding 3 Armoured Division, Maj. Gen. Benson Akinroluyo, made this disclosure yesterday during a press conference held at the 3 Division Conference Room at the Rukuba Barracks, near Jos, the Plateau State capital.

According to him, the shallow grave where the late general was buried was a ‘no man’s land’ identified by four different suspects at different times of arrest.

According to Akinroluyo, the suspects took troops on the search and rescue operation to the spot where the alleged corpse of the missing officer was exhumed before it was reburied in a yet-to-be-identified place.

He said, “On 29 September, 2018, when the general’s black Toyota Corolla car was recovered from the abandoned mining pit, those involved and those not involved in the killing of the senior officer held a meeting to relocate his corpse away from the community. This is because of the inherent danger it would attract to the community.

“Consequently, a 10-man team was constituted to relocate his corpse earlier buried in a shallow grave within the community to elsewhere.

“A specialist in preservation of corpse was contracted. The specialist assisted in exhuming his corpse from the shallow grave to elsewhere. Only few trusted members of the community knew where his corpse was relocated to. The specialist is currently in our custody. “

The GOC pointed out this was an attempt to cover up the heinous crime committed by the community.

“There exist other evidence and indicators that pointed to the fact that those who were involved in the killing of the senior officer are being supported and backed by community leaders within the Dura-Du District,” the GOC said.

General Akinroluyo added: “Please note that four different sources not known to each other at various times took us to the opened shallow grave where the senior officer was earlier buried, but subsequently removed.

“Furthermore, sniffer dogs that have been cultured with the personal effects of the senior officer led us to the same opened shallow grave. That was the only grave we were led to by different people and sniffer dogs. We did not go to any other grave as the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence.”

The general affirmed that the cordon and search operation was intelligence-driven and conducted in line with international best practices and respect for human rights, which explains why the troops did not clamp down on the entire community but targeted only the suspects.

He further revealed that the perpetrators of the act shared the belongings of the missing officer after he was whisked away.

“The senior officer was assaulted and killed, thereafter, his belongings such as clothing, cash, phones and laptop were shared by those who killed him. His body was dragged before being moved to somewhere else and his car was driven and pushed into the abandoned mining pit filled with water. The irate youths who followed his car to the abandoned mining pit filled with water on many tricycles popularly known as “Keke NAPEP” jubilated for reasons best known to them or for mission accomplished,” he stated.

The Garrison Commander, who doubles as the commander of the Search and Rescue Operation for the missing senior army officer, Brig. Gen Umar Muhammed, took journalists to the place where the body of the missing officer was earlier buried.

According to him, “the sniffer dogs were trained with the personal wears of the missing officer, and when we reached this area called ‘No Man’s Land’, they only hovered on this spot. The specialist in our custody said he helped in packaging the body here and handed it over to the community which alone knows who they entrusted with to go and rebury the it.

“Leaders of this community called for a meeting and during the meeting, it was agreed that since the vehicle had been discovered, the body should not be discovered. So in the meeting it was agreed that the body should be exhumed and buried elsewhere.

“There was a 10-man committee set up and the committee contracted the specialist in our custody. The specialist told us everything and he is in our custody,” Brig. Gen Muhammed stated.

Meanwhile, one of the eight persons declared wanted in the case of the missing general, Da Yakubu Rap, a district head, yesterday reported to the Plateau State Police Command headquarters, Jos, where he is undergoing interrogation.

According to a statement by the command’s spokesman, Mathias Tena, the decision to declare some people wanted in respect to the case of the mysterious disappearance of Major General Alkali (rtd) has started yielding results.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/army-discovers-grave-of-missing-general.html

Following the trending Wizkid’s song video ‘Fever’ which featured his ‘Big sis’ Tiwa Savage, as video vixen, a Nigerian lady has revealed her bizarre intentions for the singer.

The young lady who seem not to care about the backlash that will follow, took to her Twitter page to declare that she just wants to “f*ck” the singer after several dreams of them having s*x.

She wrote:

‘I sha want to f*ck Wizkid, I’ve had several dreams about it . It was a madness’

The Fever Video in itself has been trailed by a lot of controversies, especially in the wake of the dating rumours between Wizkid and Tiwa Savage and most of their fans wondered if they could pull such romantic stunts if nothing is going on between them.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/i-want-to-fk-wizkid-ive-had-dreams.html

It was wild jubilation and fanfare as students of the University of Benin ,Uniben trooped out in their numbers to welcome the lawmaker representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the National Assembly ,Hon Omosede Igbinedion in a recent visit by the lawmaker .

The visibly elated students who were so happy to see Omosede visit their Hostel were in awe at having such a good representative in their midst.

The students in their multitude climbed roof tops and took every available space just to catch a glimpse of Barrister Omosede Igbinedion .

Addressing the mammoth crowd of students and some staff of the University the special guest advised the students to take their studies seriously and shun social vices such as cultism and gangster-ism and be role models in the society.

While commending the federal lawmaker for her quality representation the students who described Omosede as the most student friendly legislator in Nigeria said they have benefited from her positive representation through her massive empowerment programmes and projects across Ovia constituency and also she stands out as a role model to the Nigeria students.

While speaking in an interview to reporters the Lawmaker expressed her joy for the warm reception she received and pledge her loyalty to the students and the people of Ovia Federal Constituency .

The students expressly pledge their support for Hon Omosede in her reelection pursuit as a federal lawmaker.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/assurance2019-mammoth-crowd-as-uniben.html

For posting the nude pictures of his ex-lover, Arare Monica, on the social media, one Ayan Olubunmi has been sentenced to a two year imprisonment by the Federal High Court sitting in Adi Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

The convict was also slammed with a fine of N500, 000 by the court.

Ayan, was who is married with children, was said to have took the illegal action after her victim, a single lady could not meet his demand of N200,000 as inducement for him not to post her picture on Facebook.

The suit numbered FHC/AD/17c/2017 which was between Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Ayan Olubunmi was presided over by Justice Taiwo Taiwo.

Counsel to the AGF, Mrs Oyewole, had told the court that Ayan had threatened to post nude pictures of his ex- girlfriend, Monica, on the social media sometimes in 2017, when she opted out of the amorous relationship between them.

Delivering his judgement, on Wednesday, Justice Taiwo held that Ayan , who is in his forties was found guilty of committing the crime after several evidences were made available to the Court proved that he wilfully and maliciously committed the crime.

Describing the crime as very disgraceful, despicable and barbaric, Justice Taiwo said Ayan is guilty of violating Section 24 (1) of the Cyber Crime Act, 2015 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

The judge therefore sentenced the culprit to two years imprisonment, and a fine of N500,000 to be paid into the coffers of the Federal Government .

The jail term according to Justice Taiwi takes immediate effect, adding that he had been lenient in sentencing the culprit as the punishment for his crime attracted a fine of N7 million and three year jail term according to the Cyber Crime Act.

He said the Court tempered Justice with mercy because of the pleas of culprit’s counsel that he has a family and he is a first offender.

The judge lamented that those who made the law issuing a punishment of N7 million and three year jail term to the persons guilty of such crimes did not make provisions for compensation for the victim.

He therefore advised that such provision should be made by law makers in a future exercise in amending the laws.

Speaking further on the nature of the crime committed by Ayan, Justice Taiwo said: “I find the act of the convict highly disgraceful, very despicable and barbaric to say the least, he has behaved true to the saying that hell knows no fury than a lover’s scorn. I must say that the defendant who has a wife and children at home could find it easy to demean and embarrass a woman who was having an amorous affair with him.

“It is an act of meanness to attempt to, if he has not already tarnished the image and reputation of Asare Monica. The act of the convict is very strange in our society not to talk of in Ayesegba Ekiti and Ekiti State in general where there are very proud and educated men and women and the society is so closely linked together and everyone knows one another. The world has become a global village with the emergence of the social media. Who knows who would have seen the nude pictures?

“Justice in this case demands that people like the convict should be taught a lesson that would serve as deterrent to others who may like to behave in such manner.

“Under no circumstance must Asare Monica or any of her families and relatives should be harassed by anyone. I therefore charge the police to arrest anyone is found to harass Monica or any of her relatives or families and friends,” he said.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/man-gets-2-year-imprisonment-n500000.html

The lawmaker representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Hon Omosede Igbinedion has empowered hundreds of women farmers from Ovia North East Local Government Area.

The empowerment scheme took place at Ekaladeran primary school Okada which witnessed the PDP lawmaker distributing various items ranging from cash grants to farming tools and others.
Also hundreds of youths were presented with motor cycles.
Hon Omosede Igbinedion who made the presentation said it was in fulfilment of her electioneering campaigns and it cuts across party lines saying her vote was an endorsement from the people of Ovia who bestowed trust on her and believed she is capable of quality representation in the federal legislative house.
She further said it was an ongoing initiative that would go round all the constituents and called for patience for those that are yet to benefit.

Responding the beneficiaries who spoke to reporters showed their joy and prayed for Omosede Igbinedion ,they spoke of her quality representation so far while expressing the belief that she would live above board in effective representation and be fair to all.

Omosede Igbinedion also recently donated relief materials to flood victims from the over flow of the Ovia River .

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/assurance2019hon-omosede-igbinedion.html

A Special Assistant to Governor Godwin Obaseki in Ohordua, Esan South East local government, Mr. Imhandegbelo Louis, has resigned his appointment and defected to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Louis said he left the ruling APC because of highhandedness of the party leader in the locality.

He joined the PDP at a rally held at Ohordua village.

Louis said he has engaged in several humanitarian services to empower the people ahead of next year’s general elections.

The former Obaseki aide said he would mobilize his supporters for the PDP.

Receiving the APC defectors, leader of the PDP in the locality, Mr. Lawrence Odiase, said they would accord them all rights and privileges of former members of the party.

Odiase stated that members of the ruling party are joining the PDP in droves despite the party being in opposition.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/obasekis-aide-defect-to-pdp.html

The Lagos State House of Assembly has denied rumour making the rounds that it was planning to impeach the governor of the state, Akinwunmi Ambode over trumped up charges.

Speaking at the beginning of plenary on Monday, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa said there was no truth in the rumour that it has immediate plans to impeach the governor.

According to him “I received telephone calls and enquiries from prominent members of the public over the alleged impeachment moves against Governor Akinwunmi Ambode”.

He stated categorically that the Solidarity Group of Nigeria and a faction of the APC in Lagos State, led by Mr. Fuad Oki had been insinuating that the lawmakers in the state threatened Governor Ambode to open the state treasury for them, and that they threatened to impeach him if he failed to do so.

“We are not embarking on any impeachment process against the Governor now. If there would be an impeachment, it would be from the governor and if there would not be any need for impeachment, it would be from him based on his actions,” he declared.

He stated further that impeachment is constitutional, noting that,’’ So many speakers, senate presidents, presidents and others have been impeached all over the world. So, nobody can threaten us if it happens because we are representatives of the people.

The Speaker added that if there was going to be an impeachment, it would be done in the open, saying there was nothing like that for now.

He pointed out that the Assembly was working with the Governor to ensure peace and development in the state.

This was corroborated by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, who stated that the constitutional procedure for impeachment does not harbour secrecy, adding that members of the public would know if such would happen.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/we-have-no-plans-to-impeach-ambode-now.html

Without doubt, the argument by some political leaders of the PDP Southeast zone that the party’s presidential flag bearer, Atiku Abubakar could not have picked a running mate from amongst them without their knowledge especially when he had bargained with them for the slot, is understandable and should be appreciated as adding to strengthen our democratic experiment especially in this era of “me too.” This is more so when the zone has its own calculations on how to take a shot at the presidency when the position rotates back to the South.

Those who know would agree that if Peter Obi’s kinsmen (some of their political leaders) did not kick in their usual characteristic manner, Obi’s credentials and suitability for the office would have become outrightly suspect. I speak as nwa-afor Igbo!

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council aptly captured the picture when the group in its statement in Abakaliki stated that the insinuation that the Southeast is divided on Obi’s choice as Atiku’s running mate is untrue and a deliberate mischief by enemies of the zone to create rancour where there is none.

Despite the feigned furore which was at best an understandable political gimmick, Atiku deserves praise for making this tough choice among contending sectional interests. Those who know would agree that this was a deft move to address to some extent, issues of equity and fairness.

Like him or hate him, Peter Obi is an enigma. Apart from the way he managed Anambra State economically for eight years; Obi has frugality, global world view, and vast experience in economic management, acceptability across board and limited political baggage. Above all, he is still a young man relatively speaking.

No doubt, Atiku and Obi will make a great team that will be able to steer our nation back on the path of progress, economic prosperity and unity. They are both successful business men, they both understand the benefits of industrialization and most importantly, they are both employers of labour. What more can Nigerians ask for if not employment? Obi and Atiku joint ticket will be a veritable asset in our quest to get Nigeria working again.

As explained by Atiku himself, Peter Obi’s choice as a running mate “was largely influenced by his youthfulness, vast knowledge of global and local economics as well as being a financial expert, all experience which Nigeria is in great need of at this point in time.”

Like Atiku, Obi is a successful businessman and wealth creator. His wealth of experience in the financial sector, governance and human capital development would be of immense benefit to the government. Also, Obi’s rich experience in the private and public sectors will help him manage the nation’s economy as the Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC).

The banking sector, which is the mainstay of the nation’s economy, will have a new lease of life with Obi in charge of NEC.

As said by Atiku, “In every other sector, such as education, health, security and infrastructure, Obi as governor left tangible and verifiable worthy legacies in Anambra state. Development partners such as the World Bank, the European Union, the United Nations Development Programme and UNICEF, adjudged the state as one of the best in development partnership and commitment to reforms for good governance under him.”

It is on record that at a time many other governors were leaving huge debts, Obi left the equivalent of US $500 million in investment as well as local and foreign currency, including $156 million in dollar-denominated bonds. So he understands the dynamics of the economy. He has an impressive track record of tangible achievements both in governance and in his private sector life.

Few Nigerians can dispute the fact that Obi has proven himself to be a man of vision, mission, focus, compassion, piety and integrity, attributes needed to turn around the pathetic state of the nation’s economy.

Does anybody dispute that Peter Obi has a reputation for frugality and good economic management, as shown in his deployment of the scarce resources of Anambra State during his eight years as governor to achieve milestones that were acknowledged even by international development agencies? His track record shows that he is a thinker who can deploy ideas to change the value frame of his people so they can achieve longer sustainable values.

As a businessman who has nurtured business from a small level, and ran government as it should be run by putting the necessary structures in place, and entrenching decency and transparency in governance, Obi no doubt will be an added advantage to our government. What else are we looking for as good qualities for someone that is to head the National Economic Council?

This ticket will be able to steer our nation back on the path of progress, economic prosperity and unity. Peter Obi is a great choice. He brings his business intelligence into governance. He is not corrupt and as a governor, he was not wasteful.

Southeast region had long deserved a better and higher role in the administration of this country. Obi himself has proven to be competent judging from his performance as governor.

His choice as running mate normally would be the right thing to do. There could not have been a fairer running mate than Obi, from the Southeast.

–Izeze writes from Port Harcourt

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/peter-obi-as-motivational-metaphor.html

Air Peace has signed a multi-year aircraft spare parts deal with planemaker, Embraer. The deal, the airline confirmed in a statement, would cover more than 250 components for the six Embraer 145 jets it recently added to its fast-growing fleet in line with its drive to connect unserved and underserved domestic and regional routes under its subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper. The deal was unveiled at the ongoing MRO Europe 2018 summit in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Air Peace currently has the biggest fleet of Embraer 145 jets on the West Coast of Africa. Air Peace Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide described the deal as a guarantee of “efficiency and competitive results”.

She said: “The Pool and EPEP+ Programs are natural fit and the best options as they offer sensible, cost effective and practical parts solution to our business, guaranteeing efficiency and competitive results. We recognise very good performance of Embraer’s services and support.” The deal, she said, would make spares readily available for the airline’s maintenance needs, heavily cut down the time spent on maintenance and increase the number of serviceable aircraft available to operate the airline’s flight schedules. For his part, Embraer Vice President, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Commercial Aviation, Mr. John Linn said: “We are humbled to have Air Peace as our customer in Africa, further reinforcing Embraer’s commitment to customers in the region with TechCare portfolio of solutions. Embraer’s Pool Program leverages increased competitiveness providing repairable solutions through reduced lead times and costs.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/air-peace-seals-aircraft-spares-deal.html

Chief Willy Ezugwu is the Convener of Save Enugu Group (SEG) and National Coordinator of the South East Revival Group (SERG). He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Secretary General of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP). He spoke with PAUL UWADIMA on the administration of governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and some national issues.

What is your assessment of your state governor, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, in terms of delivering dividends of democracy?
I can tell you as a civil society activist that the governor is doing his best at the moment because if you consider where we are coming from and where we are in terms of development in Enugu State, the governor has done excellently well. Remember that Governor Ugwuanyi came into office at a time Nigeria slid into recession, with dwindling federal allocation, while Enugu State as a civil servant state had low internally generated revenue.
However, in the last three and a half years, in the face of the nation’s economic challenges, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has outperformed his predecessors who served for eight years in infrastructural development. He is opening up rural communities and wiping the tears of years of neglect by constructing roads and putting in place necessary amenities in rural areas.

Still many opposition candidates have been indicating their readiness to take over the state in 2019 saying the governor has not performed to their satisfaction. What is your take on this?
The Enugu State governor does not believe in going to media houses to advertise what he is doing in the state. You can see some governors engaging in media hype in desperate move to sell themselves, even when they know that what they are publicising are not on ground. One of the very key achievements of the Governor Ugwuanyi government is prompt payment of salaries and pensions. While some governors owe over 20 months’ salaries and civil servants are committing suicide in their states because they don’t have money to meet their basic responsibilities, Enugu State is paying 13th month salary to civil servants. I can tell you that because of the priority and compassion he has for the workers, the governor will pay any amount agreed by the workers and the federal government as minimum wage.
And, one other thing working for Governor Ugwuanyi is the level of peace and security the people enjoy in the state. He has succeeded in carrying everyone along in the state. That is his selling point.
Now, go and ask the people of Amurri in Nkanu local government area, a village neglected for almost hundred years by successive administrations in the state, how they feel about the administration of Governor Ugwuanyi. The community is one of the numerous rural areas without access roads in the state until the current administration took over.

It will surprise you that the local government has produced two governors of the state, yet Amurri community had no road. In his second year in office, the first Executive Governor of Kaduna State and the founding National Chairman of the Conference of Nigeria Parties (CNPP), Alhaji Balarabe Musa visited the state and was astonished at the level of development.
There is the Milikin Hill Road abandoned since after the war, which has been fixed by Ugwuanyi government. Other remarkable places he has touched positively are Ikem Road where he also built a bridge, and the Akpugo Road in Nkanu West has been fixed too. We have the 9th Mile Corner-Benue State border road, the Opi-Nsukka roads, Opi-Obollor road, Egede Junction road in Udi local government, the old 9th Mile to Awka Road, up to the boundary and many others. As he is building solid-state roads, he is also undertaking the rehabilitation of federal roads in the state.
It is important to note that Governor Ugwuanyi is building roads simultaneously in all the neglected communities across the three senatorial districts of Enugu State and the quality of roads are of international standard. The way he is working on roads is the same way he is working on other sectors, including health and education.
So, it is obvious that some aspirants, who are banking on federal might to win election in the state as they have even been boasting, will make all kinds of noise. It is normal with failed politicians.
But like I said recently during an interview with another medium, there are states you cannot rig election with federal might and Enugu State happens to be one of them. We cannot allow election rigging in Enugu State in 2019. Let election riggers be warned.

Recently, the federal government allegedly withheld the Benue State’s Paris Club refund, what do you make of this?
Ordinarily, I would have advised the Benue State government to go to court but the unfortunate thing is that the current federal government does not obey court orders. However, it will be ideal to proceed to court; at least, to put it on record even if the federal government won’t obey. For me, it is quite unfortunate and unthinkable that because you have political differences with a state governor you now withheld funds due to the state. You are not concerned about the plight of the ordinary citizens who are suffering?
It is shameful and wicked to go to that length. What offence did the ordinary people of Benue commit that you will choose to punish them because you disagreed with their governor? See what the herdsmen have done there and you deny them funds to rebuild the devastated state.

What is your reaction to the emergence of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as the PDP presidential candidate?
That is a good omen for Nigeria and I think the PDP seems to have gotten it right by its choice of presidential candidate, by offering Nigerian voters a man who believes in restructuring.
And like the South East Revival Group said in our press release recently, the candidate of the PDP should bring to the table of South East stakeholders his comprehensive plan for the development of the region. Atiku is a man who will treat all parts of the country equally and fairly. I know him very well because I have been following his comments on issues for a long time. He is not a man who will treat some parts of the country unfairly because they did not vote for him.
He is mature, articulate, decisive and has an independent mind. He has relationships across the country through marriage and business. He is married to two women from the south and two women from the north. You can see that he loves the north and south equally.
Since his emergence, I have followed comments on social media, newspapers, television, the radio, and in market places. People’s reactions have shown that over 90 per cent of Nigerians want Atiku Abubakar as President in 2019.
The Nigerian elite have seen the trend of opinions and do not want to be left out, hence the meeting with former President Obasanjo. You saw the who-is-who at the meeting; it was more or less a unity meeting of leaders of all the leading institutions, including the religious institutions. You saw the Muslims and Christians come together in unity behind Atiku. He is a uniting bridge, a pillar of hope for a united Nigeria and gives me hope that truly Nigeria can work again.
So, an Atiku presidency will unite Nigeria and birth a new country where peace and security reigns.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-we-cant-allow-election-rigging-in.html

The Kaduna State Peace Commission, has called on the residents of Kasuwan Magani to remain calm following the violent skirmishes in the area by the hoodlums.

In a statement issued by Barr. Priscilla Ankut, Chief Executive Officer of the commission, while sympathising with the victims urged the public to work with the Government and the security agencies, and to promptly report any suspicious actions that will threaten peace and security.

The statement reads: “Around 5.30pm on Thursday 18th October 2018, the Peace and Security of Kasuwan Magani town in Kajuru Local Government of Kaduna State was disturbed by the activities of some hoodlums who caused pandemonium in the market area. The action of the hoodlums triggered fear and anxiety that further led to threat to peace involving looting of properties and attempts to transform the skirmishes into ethno-religious disturbances.

“The Kaduna State Peace Commission conveys its deepest sympathy to all those that were affected in one way or the other by the violence. The Commission is appealing to all the people of the area to remain calm, respect law and order and refrain from all actions that will lead to violence and insecurity.”

The statement added: “Already, the Kaduna State Government and the Security Agencies have taken appropriate measures to prevent further breakdown of law and order, and to protect lives and property.”

Recall that, the Kaduna state government imposed 24-hour curfew on Kasuwan Magani community to avert crisis.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/kaduna-peace-commission-calls-on.html

The Kano State ‎Government has approved compulsory drug test for political appointees, civil servants and students seeking admission into the State’s tertiary institutions.

The Commissioner for Information, Malam Muhammad Garba, disclosed this while addressing newsmen on the outcome of the weekly State Executive Council meeting in Kano on Thursday.‎

‎He said that the policy was adopted during the state executive council meeting to fight drug abuse in the state.‎
‎

“All political appointees, civil servants particularly the ones that are due for promotion and students seeking admission will henceforth undergo compulsory drug test in the state,” he said.

Garba said the council had also approved N332 million for the treatment of malnourished children for the period of six months in 2018.‎

According to him, the council also approved N67.3 million for the construction of drainages in Warkai village in Warawa Local Government Area in order to avert flooding.‎

‎“The council also approved over N240 million for the maintenance, renovation and procurement of diesel for traffic lights and street lights for the months of April, October and June.

‎“The council approved N70 million for electrification works at Kofar-Mata, Sanka and Yakasai quarters in Kano metropolis,” he said.‎

He added that the council approved the release of N16 million for state contingents to participate in the 2018 Agric show in Kano, Nasarawa state.

“Similarly, the council also approved N16 million for equipping and furnishing of Hotoron-Arewa health centre in Nasarawa Local Government Area.

The commissioner reiterated the state government’s determination to develop infrastructure in the state.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/ganduje-govt-orders-drug-test-for.html

Democratic Republic of Congo has summoned the Angolan ambassador over the expulsion of thousands of Congolese migrants from Angola during a crackdown on artisanal diamond mining this month, Congo’s foreign minister said on Wednesday.

“Angola [should] conduct a comprehensive investigation to establish who is responsible for these wrongful acts,” Foreign Minister Leonard She Okitundu said in a statement.

Congolese fleeing Angola, estimated to be 28,000 by the DR Congo government, said they had been forced to leave by Angola.

Some of them accused the Angolan police of carrying out human rights abuses.

In a speech on Tuesday to parliament, Angola’s President, Joao Lourenco, said illegal immigration linked to illicit diamond mining had reached alarming levels.

In order to be less reliant on oil the mining sector is to be reformed and President Lourenco said the days when anyone could join in the hunt for diamonds were now over.

Angolan Police Commissioner Antonio Bernardo denied the accusations of violence on Wednesday, and said that the border agreement between the two countries only allowed for visits up to 48 hours, news agency Reuters reports.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/dr-congo-summons-angola-ambassador-over.html

A notorious cultist and ex-convict, Ibrahim Oriyomi Balogun (AKA Small Jpron), whom the police have accused of carrying out multiple murders around Somolu and Bariga areas of Lagos, has been killed.

Jpron, the leader of Eiye cult group, was reportedly killed, yesterday, in retaliation of the killing of one Solomon, said to the a member of Aiye cult. Jpron allegedly supervised the killing of Solo in Shomolu.

Yesuru, a third person involved in the violence, is reportedly battling for his life due to wounds sustained during the clash.

Before his death, Jpron had been arrested at least four times in the past – in November 2012, August 2016, March 2017 – on allegations of murder and cult-related activities. .

He was arraigned in 2016 for murder, possession of firearms and for belonging to a cult. Shortly after his arrest in 2016, he surfaced in public again and the police said he escaped custody. .

When he was earlier paraded before journalists in 2016, he confessed to being involved in the killing of three persons. He had said, “I am an Eiye cult leader. I joined the cult in 2009. .

The reason for my joining was to avenge the death of a close friend, Sunday Folorunsho, aka Small Biscuit. It was the Aiye cult members who killed him. So, the Eiye faction approached me and said I should join them.

They said they would help me to fish out the people who killed my friend. I have killed three persons, among are Femi Wiper and Lekan Akon.” .

When he was paraded before journalists in March 2017, the Commissioner of Police at the time, Fatai Owoseni, said Balogun escaped through the connivance of two police operatives, who were being investigated. Again, he found his way out.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/after-4-past-arrests-notorious-bariga.html

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has scored his administration high in the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage, saying more than 300, 000 Deltans have enrolled for the health programme.

Speaking at the presentation of the budgetary proposal for the 2019 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly in Asaba on Wednesday, Governor Okowa observed that Delta State recorded a great feat as the first state in the federation to launch the Universal Health Coverage.

“As at September 30, 2018, the total number of enrolees stood at 316,301; the Scheme has been nationally acclaimed as it received awards for the Outstanding State Government Healthcare Programme of the Year 2017; and the State with the most people covered under its State Social Health Insurance Scheme with a focus on the Poor and Vulnerable population in Nigeria 2018,” the governor disclosed.

He continued, “to ensure quality and efficient service delivery under the scheme, the State Executive Council recently approved the renovation of 107 primary health centres across the State.”

“We have taken delivery of the Doctors and Nurses Quarters at the Government Hospital, Ofagbe while medical equipment for the Dialysis Centre at the Central Hospital, Warri has been procured; we have also undertaken the renovation and rehabilitation of the General Hospital, Bomadi and rehabilitation of facilities at the Cottage Hospital, Ogriagbene also in Bomadi, among others,” he stated.

The Governor who commended Deltans for their cooperation which has made it possible for his administration to record successes in the delivery of democratic dividends, emphasized, “the health sector will continue to receive priority attention in the 2019 fiscal year; the State ambulance scheme is being reactivated; when operational, it would cover Asaba, Warri, Eku, Abraka, Ughelli and Agbor, among others.”

“The ambulance scheme is designed to ensure immediate response to convey accident victims to the nearest health facility; boat ambulances would be used to cover the riverine communities while we also intend to revive the use of mobile doctors to deliver healthcare to the people,” he said, disclosing, “the sum of N8.6 billion is proposed for the health sector in the 2019 fiscal year.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/okowa-scores-administration-high-on.html

The National Assembly is regarded as the symbol of Nigeria’s democracy just like parliaments anywhere in the world. Of the three organs of the government, the place of primacy belongs to the Legislature. The functions of government begin with law making and are followed by law-enforcement and adjudication functions. As such, the legislature is the first organ of the government.
The legislature is the organ that legislates and passes the laws of government. It is the agency, which has the responsibility to formulate the will of the state and vest it with legal authority and force. In simple words, the legislature is that organ of the government that formulates laws. The Legislature enjoys a very special and important place in every democratic state. It is the assembly of the elected representatives of the people and represents national public opinion and power of the people. Since the return of democracy in 1999, the legislature has played a major role in stabilising Nigeria’s democracy. Recall that in 2010, the National Assembly saved the nation from the precipice when it empowered Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to serve as acting president in order to resolve the constitutional breach by ailing President Musa Yar’Adua when he failed to transit a letter to the National Assembly and hand over to his deputy in line with Section 145 of the Constitution since November 23 2009. With that singular move, Nigeria was saved from constitutional crisis.

However, with the influx of former governors to the National Assembly, especially the Senate, the nation’s democracy is being threatened. After the conclusion of party primaries last week about 25 former governors had purchased forms and have been cleared to contest senatorial elections in 2019. It is becoming a norm for second term governors to retire to the Senate. The Red Chamber is gradually turning to a retirement home for former governors and if this trend is not checked, in the next 8 to 12 years only former governors will be members of the Senate. This oddity is not healthy for our democracy as most of the governors come to the National Assembly with executive mentality and hardly ever contribute to debates or anything worthy of note during plenary and at the committee level.
To check this ugly trend, we call for the legislation and enforcement of a new law barring former governors from being voted to the National Assembly. With this, our democracy will grow and strengthen.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/the-verdict-implication-of-influx-of.html

Drake and Rihanna’s relationship came to an end in 2016.

However, Drake has admitted to having thought he would one day have the ‘perfect’ family with ex-girlfriend Rihanna.

The rapper, who has shared an on-again-off-again relationship with the Bajan beauty since 2005, made the revelation on Lebron James’ HBO show titled The Shop.

During the interview, Drake didn’t hesitate to mention that he certainly saw himself settling down with the Kiss It Better songstress at one point in his life.

As life takes shape and teaches you your own lessons, I end up in this situation where I don’t have the fairy tale, like, ‘Oh, Drake started a family with Rihanna and this is like so perfect,’ Drake explained.

He revealed no matter how hard they tried,it just didn’t work. It looks so good on paper. By the way, I wanted that too at one time,’ the Hotline Bling rapper continued.

After an off and on relationship, the two split in 2016.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/drake-says-he-wanted-perfect-family.html

One of the wives of the Alaafin of Oyo,Olori Memunat Omowumi Adeyemi has showered praises on the king who turned a year older yesterday.

Oba Lamide Adeyemi III turned 81 today October,15th,2018.

In a series of posts, the Olori showered praises on him.,calling him her ancestor.She also shared before and after photos of him.
Alaafin of Oyo

She wrote

And After 48years on throne… History was made…� @alaafin_oyo

You’ve been working so hard to achieve your dreams. I am so proud of you and so lucky to call you my husband. Happy birthday, my love. Still your day sugar ���

You are truly amazing. You are my everything.few hours to your birthday � My A N C E S T O R @alaafin_oyo

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/alaafin-of-oyos-wife-shares-his.html

The Presidency on Sunday night cleared the air on the travel ban slammed on about 50 high-profile Nigerians suspected to have been directly involved in corrupt practices.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, had disclosed that no fewer than 50 persons have been placed on a travel ban by the administration.

Shehu also disclosed that those on the watch list were not allowed to sell their assets worth 50 million.

But on Sunday night, Shehu issued another statement where he explained that the Executive Order 6 was inherited from the past administration.

He explained that the EO6 came into force for speedy trial of graft cases.

The statement read, ”In the history of independent Nigeria, this is the first time any government is taking such a key decision to fight corruption. EO 6 is not only revolutionary to the efforts to rid Nigeria of corruption but a manifestation of systemic changes that are required to to make necessary adjustments as we carry on with the war against corruption.

“The very essence of the order is to make for speedy trials and conclusion of graft cases. The order is not Politici and there is political gain behind its activation

“These high profile cases we are talking about have been ongoing for between seven to 10 years with no end in sight. These case were mostly originated by administrations other than this one.

“What is clear is that the access to these resources by the suspects has enabled them to be in a composition to sometime compromise investigation, prosecution and trial.

“In most of the cases, the courts are held in a helpless position by legal acrobatics paid for from corrupt enrichment by the suspects.”

Shehu stated that the new measures put in place should compel everyone involved to make for a speedy conclusion of all graft cases.

“If it is your money, you have it back. If it belongs to the public, it goes back to the treasury. The question of the constitutionality of the restriction order is answered by the fact that a court of the land has given government a clean chit.

“The Executive Order is legal and constitutional and therefore implementable. One of the cardinal objectives of the government under our constitution is to fight corruption.

“Fighting corruption is a responsibility and obligation upon the government.

“These case that are well known and to to say this or that name is on it will open the door to further accusations, including trial by media.

“The Immìgration Service and other security agencies have the mandate of the President to carry out enforcement and they will do so giving due respects to individual rights, in line with the the constitution,” the statement added.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/presidency-clarifies-travel-ban-on-50.html