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Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu is the Chairman of the Anambra state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He spoke to newsmen recentlyin Awka, the state capital, on a number of party and national issues. OBETA OKECHUKWU was there

Can you say the just concluded primaries of your party in the state, was free, fair and transparent?

W

e all know very well that one of the bane of political parties in this democratic dispensation is lack of internal democracy. What I mean by lack of internal democracy is that political parties have not allowed their candidates to emerge through democratic process within the ambit of the constitution of their constitution.

From the onset, when we started preparations for our party primaries, we set out to ensure that internal democracy is brought to bear in all our party activities. We made it clear to all our aspirants that their chances of becoming a candidate would depend on the delegates within their respective constituencies. and, the party followership within the constituencies. And we started to demonstrate this resolve by ensuring that the election of the three-man adhoc delegates was done in a manner that was satisfactory to every member of the party.

And when we set out to conduct the primaries, we made sure that we informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which is the body that is constitutionally empowered to supervise the conduct of the primaries. We informed the INEC about the time and venue of the primaries, the Returning Officers, and, all the Committees that came from the national headquarters of our party to conduct the primaries. And we made sure that there were INEC officials in all the venues of our primaries to monitor the exercise. And, I can attest to the fact that for the first time, there was no parallel PDP primaries in Anambra state during the exercise. All the primaries for each of the constituencies, either the state House of Assembly, House of Representatives or the Senate were held in one designated venue in each constituency.

And the outcome of all the primaries have been adjudged as very transparent even by the aspirants.

Those who lost in the primaries have even pledged to support those who won. This has given a great deal of hope to the teeming members and supporters of our party, the PDP in Anambra state. And it is a pointer to the public that we are eager to do what is right to get our democracy work perfectly once again.

What is your take on the just concluded presidential primary held in Port Harcourt?

Interestingly, this level of transparency was also replicated at our party’s national convention in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. All the delegates were already known. The statutory and the elected delegates, they were all known ahead of time. And all the aspirants who vied for the presidential ticket of our party were availed the list of the delegates ahead of time. In fact, one must commend the host governor, Chief Nyesom Nwike; the chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee, the governor Delta state, Chief Ifeanyi Okowa and his Co- chairman, the governor of Ebonyi state, Chief Dave Umahi. They showed clearly the ability to build confidence on the minds of the aspirants in the manner they ensure transparency in all the activities concerning the convention.

More importantly the voting arrangement at the convention was made in such a way that nobody could detect which of the aspirants a delegate voted for. And the entire exercise was beamed live by on the television for the whole world to see what happened. And at the end of the convention, all the aspirants were satisfied with the outcome.

So, PDP has shown a great deal of ability to showcase internal democracy. And that is why the outcome of that presidential primary has been accepted by all the aspirants and the have all pledged to work in synergy with the our presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, to ensure victory for the party during the general elections.

Shortly before the primaries, some members protested against your designation as chairman of ‘state Caretaker Committee’, How are you handling that, so that you don’t go into the general elections a divided house in the state?

You know, in any political party there are always many tendencies. And each tendency will want its own view or wish to prevail. But at the end of the day, when they see that the leadership has a very honest mindset, you find out that everybody will coalesce. But there is always the initial efforts by each of the tendencies to try to sway the leadership and the followership to its own side. But when they see that the leadership is firm, transparent and means well, you discover that the leadership will eventually build confidence that will force every tendency to queue behind it and participate in the process. This was exactly what we were able to achieve in the circumstance. And that was why you that there was no parallel primary of the party in Anambra state unlike what used to be. And for the first time in Anambra state you did not hear that a PDP faction is holding their primary at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, and that another is holding its own at St. Mary’s Field, and yet another one is holding its own at St. Patrick’s field.

This time, there was only one primary of the PDP, Anambra state chapter because as a state leadership of the party, we were able to build confidence of the teeming members of PDP in the state.

What is your rating of PDP’s chances in Anambra State?

Anambrarians and Nigerians at large have come to appreciate the PDP this time around. What happened during the APGA and APC primaries in Anambra state was a sham, it was a charade! It was a day-light robbery where people came to the centres where the party primaries were supposed to take place and those who emerged as delegates were jettisoned for some other names. And at the end of the day, even where an election was said to have been conducted, the outcome would be unmotivated both the delegates and other party members. And you can find out from the INEC if any of her officials monitored the primaries of any of those political parties in Anambra state. Even the security agencies will certainly confirm to you that the primaries of both the APGA and APC in Anambra state were a sham, that there was no internal democracy in what transpired in those two political parties during their primaries.

And I’m sure that both the INEC and the security agencies in the state will testify to the fact that transparency and that internal democracy prevailed during the primaries of the PDP in Anambra state, that PDP got it right.

But come 2019, the APC should be ready to ensure that the elections are free, fair and transparent. Anything short of this will meet resistance from Nigerians.

Let’s get your reaction to the choice of the former governor f your state, Mr. Peter Obi, as the running mate of your party’s presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar?

In fact, that action is the most reasonable decision by our party’s presidential candidate, His Excellency, former Vice-president Atiku Abubakar and the PDP national hierarchy. The South East has been very supportive of the PDP family. You reward people for their efforts, you don’t reward them for their inability to do what is right. So, the choice of Mr. Peter Obi by our party’s presidential candidate, HIs Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as his running mate for 2019 general elections is a reward to the people of Anambra state and, indeed, the entire South East for their support to the PDP. We all know that the arrow head of the PDP formation was the late former Vice president, Dr. Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme. And he hailed from Anambra state. So, by this gesture of the PDP presidential candidate in picking someone from Anambra state as its presidential running mate, the PDP has deemed it fit to say ‘Thank you, Dr. Alex Ekwueme’. It Shows that PDP has really realized the major role he played in its formation’ and, that his contributions helped in making it the largest political party in Africa.

Besides, Mr. Peter Obi has an excellent antecedent. He is very focused, and a great manager of wealth. We all saw what he did when he was governor of Anambra state for eight years. Also, former Vice-president Atiku Abubakar is someone who is greatly endowed with what it takes to give good governance to Nigeria, so as to bring the country out of the current socio- economic and political quagmire the APC government has thrown it into, given the experiences he had gained when he was vice-president of this country. Again, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is great wealth creator. And Mr. Peter Obi has a deep insight into the economy of this country. So, I view Atiku/Obi presidency as the best thing that can happen to the people of this country at time it is in a mess.

What will give PDP an edge over other political parties in the state during the general elections?

We allowed internal democracy to prevail during our primaries. Other political parties, especially the APGA and APC did the opposite. They allowed godfathers to hijack their primaries, and, imposed candidates on their parties. Again, the PDP had been in the affairs of this country until the APC took over after the 2015 General elections. And our people have now tasted the two parties, and, they have seen the difference. They have seen that APC is a party that promises, but, denies its promises . But PDP keeps its promises; that the PDP was able to keep this country together; showed that leadership in this country can be done in a detribalized manner. PDP had shown that no matter whose ox is gored – whether a person is in your party or not , if he or she goes against the laws of this country he or she will be brought to face the law. PDP had shown that the economy of this country is sustainable. And all these have been lost since the APC took over the running of affairs of this country in 2015. And we have been telling Anambrarians in particular and Nigerians in general to give PDP a chance once more.

, and, you will find that all the current hydra- headed problems facing the country in all spheres of life will become a thing of the past.

The APGA recorded overwhelming victory during the last gubernatorial election in the state. What gives you the hope that PDP will change the situation in the coming elections?

The outcome of the last gubernatorial election in the state is not a good indices for predicting the possible outcome of the coming general election in the state. Politics is local . What made APGA and its candidate, the incumbent governor, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano achieve that 21-over 21 victory in that governorship election have come and gone. I can bet you that the same thing will not apply in the forthcoming general elections. I can assure you that Anambrarians are going to look at the various candidates who are contesting elections for the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and the Senate and vote for the candidates and the party that can attract democracy dividends to them. And they know it that anybody who gets to the National Assembly after the coming general elections under the banner of the APC his or her voice will be lost. And when you are unable to speak, how can you be able to bring democracy dividend to your people. And Anambrarians appreciate the fact that where they have a better opportunity now is in PDP. So, the are going to cast their votes for only the PDP candidates for state Assembly, House of Representatives and the Senate.

Again, let me remind you that one of the major factors that influenced the that governorship election was the quest by the people of Anambra south senatorial zone to produce the governor of the state as soon as possible. And because they had this fear that since our party candidate, Mr. Oseloka Obaze might want to go for a second term since he will be serving his term if voted for and that he may want to go for a second term after completing first term, they decided to support the APGA candidate, Governor Obiano because they knew that he canals I for another tenure. So, the people of South senatorial zone saw supporting the APGA candidate as the fastest way for them to produce governor based on rotational considerations.

What considerations do you think shaped the minds of of the PDP delegates to choose former Vice- president Atiku Abubakar as the Presidential candidate of your party?

As a former Vice- president, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is highly experienced in the art of the politic the country and the governance. I think, he should know this country in- and- out more than any of the other aspirants. Aga, a he is a very detribalized Nigerian. He is not a religious bigot, he professes his faith, and, doesn’t believe that others should not profess their. Atiku Abubakar is a grassroots politician, a great mobiliser. He is also a great wealth creator and employer of Labour. He has a deep and vast knowledge of the economy of this country. And look at how he made the choice of his running mate, by picking former governor of this state, His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi to be his running mate. Anyone who knows the antecedents of Mr. Peter Obi will certainly tell you that Atiku made the best choice. And that shows you that he is determined to lift this country out from its present socio- economic and political quagmire the current APC administration headed by President Muhammadu Buhari has dragged it into.

How many states in the North do you think PDP can win in the coming general election?

In my estimation, I see PDP winning Sokoto,Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, Taraba, Adamawa, Gombe,Kwara, Benue, Kogi , Nasarawa, Plateau, and Kogi states. In fact, I see PDP winning not less than 12 out of the 19 states in the North. And I say this because of the PDP gladiators we have in the Northern part of the country. In Sokoto, for instance, we have the incumbent governor, His Excellency, Alh. Aminu Tambuwal who is going for a second term. We have Alhaji Kwankwaso in Kano, Alh. Sule Lamido in Jigawa. APC has already shot itself on the leg in Zamfara where the INEC has declared that the party could not conduct primaries to select candidates. And PDP has a sitting governor in Gombe. Meanwhile, the whole Middle-Belt has suffered terribly under the APC-led federal government due to the killings in the zone and it had remained unabated. And I am sure that nobody will prefer a government that will not watch his back, but, a government that will put in place a proper security to guide him or his people. And the APC government of President Buhari has not been able to do this for them. So, I expect that all the states in Middle-Belt will not vote for APC.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/atiku-did-not-err-in-choosing-obi-as.html

It was jubilation galore for residents of Ovia Federal constituency as Barrister Omosede Igbinedion the member representing the constituency in the Federal house of representatives commisioned projects in Okada East ward.

Omosede was warmly received by her constituents amidst joy ,jubilation and fanfare.

The lawmaker inspected the construction of a 2km farm road initiated by her foundation to enable farmers easily access their farmlands in the agrarian community,This farm road is one of her numerous projects initiated and completed all around Ovia federal constituency.

Not done Hon Omosede Igbinedion visited schools where she gave out books,footwear and other academic materials,advising the kids to shun cultism and other social vices.

Hon Omosede Igbinedion also commissioned a solar panel water project in the community ,

She proceeded to Ovia south west were she installed Solar streets lights under her rural electrification project.

At Igoubazuwa Omosede commissioned a solar water system and over head tanks in the community

She also empowered women and widows from the community.

From the looks and smiles on the faces of the constituents it was evident that Omosede has touched the lives of the people .

Responding the constitutes where happy and said they would ensure they return this laudable initiave by voting her to represent them again .

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/assurance2019wild-jubilation-as-omosede.html

The Nigeria Army on Wednesday presented 13 suspects arrested in connection with missing Maj.-Gen. Idris Alkali (retd) to newsmen in Jos.

Brig.-Gen. Umar Muhammed, Garrison Commander, 3 Division, Nigeria Army, Rukuba, near Jos, told newsmen that the suspects would be handed over to the police for full investigation.

Muhammed said that the people were arrested in the area where the general’s missing car was found.

Alkali, the immediate past Chief of Administration, Army Headquarters, Abuja, was declared missing on Sept. 3.

He was said to have gone missing on his way to Bauchi, where he left Abuja to in the morning of that day.

Consequently, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, set up a search operation for the missing general.

The army authorities said that after a thorough investigation, they narrowed the search to a mining pond in Dura-Du in Jos South Local Government of Plateau.

After two weeks of draining water from pond, Alkali’s car and two others were recovered from the pond.

Muhammed stated that a “cordon and search’’ operation was conducted in the community and some people were apprehended.

He said “They were moved to the barracks where they were screened, profiled and interrogated.

“These suspects will be handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and prosecution.

“The persons to be handed over to police include those who were in possession of fire arms without license.

“Those who heard and saw the criminals that stopped the retired senior officer and those that pushed his vehicle into the pond but failed to report these criminal acts to the security agencies will also be handed over.”

Muhammed added that the troops conducting the search exhibited high level professionalism and best practices according to the rules of engagement in arresting suspects.

He also stated that the actors involved in the criminal act and were still at large were known to the army.

According to him, efforts are being intensified to arrest them as their photographs and personal details are with relevant security agencies.

He urged members of the community who had deserted the area and had nothing to do with the disappearance of the general to return to their homes.

Muhammed assured that no harm would come to them, but vowed that those who had anything to do with the incident would be brought to book. (NAN)

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/army-hands-13-suspects-to-police-over.html

The managing director and chief executive officer Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) and a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant in Gombe state Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna has said Buhari’s second term in office will consolidate on the fight against the Boko Haram, other security challenges and the infrastructural development across the country.

LEADERSHIP recalls that Dr Jamilu Gwamna recent ditched the PDP to run for the gubernatorial position on the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

In a statement to LEADERSHIP, signed by Ibrahim Sani, it stated that Dr Gwamna had given the assurance while speaking during the APC stakeholders meeting in Gombe recently.

Gwamna said “the 2019 general elections in the country will for the second time mark the beginning of new things to come in Nigerian politics and the life of the common man”

He called on the people of Gombe State to come out enmasse and vote the APC gubernatorial candidate in the state Alh. Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya and President Muhammad Buhari respectively.

He urged the gubernatorial aspirant Alhaji Yahaya to be more aggressive and carry his campaign to all nook and crannies of the state exploring all the available means to do that. He urged him to make the use of both conventional and social media to ensure vigorous campaigns

“With the little political knowledge and the teeming followers around us we are going to work tirelessly and vigorously to ensure president Muhammad Buhari and APC’s victory in the northeast and Nigeria at large in shaa Allah,” he said.

Dr. Jamil who spoke during the meeting which held at the APC square in Gombe pledged his commitment and loyalty to the APC which he described as his original home and final destination politically.

He said” All hands must be on deck to ensure that APC wins in Gombe and the country at large. He said Buhari has done so much to the people of the northeast and it is a payback time for the good people of the region. It is our turn now to payback Mr. President for the good he has done for us in his first term in office and I am pretty sure that more good things will come if we give Mr. President the second chance”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/buharis-second-term-will-ensure-maximum.html

The Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi has revealed why he frowned at the process leading to the choice of Peter Obi as the running mate to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Umahi explained that he was dissatisfied with the process that led to Obi’s selection.

Addressing reporters in Abujain Abakaliki, the state capital, Umahi said he was only against the process and not the competence of the former Anambra State Governor.

According to Umahi, “How can people from other regions will meet and take decisions that concern the South-east without the input of a single person from the region.

“We have never said that we are against Peter Obi; but what we have said is that, if six people can come together from five other regions and look at recommendations for the South-east and no South-east person is there, that is not good for us.

“We have never said that Obi is not good for us, we have nothing against Obi. But we want when decisions that concern us are being taken, we want to be part of that decision.”

Umahi also faulted what he termed the ‘imbalance’ in the initial five-member shortlist of persons considered for the Vice President slot which he said “had no person from Imo and Ebonyi States on it.”

He said, “Number two, the five names submitted, of course, no governors in South-east wants to be vice president; everybody wants to finish his tenure. The five names for VP should have been five names from the five South-east states; but there was no name from Ebonyi and Imo states.

“I am a fighter of marginalisation of Ebonyi people. If we are going to vote, we must be treated with equity. These are the issues; two names came from Anambra, one from Enugu and two from Abia. So, what is wrong in having someone from Ebonyi and then one from Imo?”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/atiku-obi-ticket-umahi-laments.html

This lovely photo of Tennis legend, Serena Williams and a fan has gone viral thanks to the fan’s flawless dark skin .

Black is sure beautiful!

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/viral-photo-of-serena-williams-and-fan.html

Former Kaduna state governor, Ahmed Makarfi has denied vying for 2019 ticket to the Senate.

Makarfi was one of the presidential aspirants at the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, held in Rivers state.

The erstwhile PDP national caretaker committee chairman, in a statement on Sunday by his media aide, Mukhtar Sirajo, stated that he never participated in Senatorial primary election.

Sirajo said: “The attention of Senator Ahmed Makarfi has been drawn to rumours going round to the effect that he is planning to contest for a senatorial seat in the 2019 elections. Nothing can be further from the truth.

“Senator Makarfi wishes to make it clear that he has no such plan as he did not participate in primaries for any senatorial ticket.

“His position is that, in accordance with democratic norms, all winners should, as of right be allowed to fly the party flags for the respective primaries they won.

“He believes that other people should be encouraged and given the chance to also contribute to the political process. This way, we will continue to widen the democratic space as well as deepen the process”.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/makarfi-speaks-on-senatorial-ambition.html

The federal government has expressed concern over the continued closure of shops owned by Nigerians in Ghana, two weeks after President Koffi Nana-Akudo gave an order that they be reopened.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa said this in Abuja, when she played host to the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) led by its President, Ken Ukuoha.

Ukuoha led the Nigerian and Ghanaian Chapters of the Union to present a petition over the continuous closure of their shops to President Mohammadu Buhari through the Anime’s Office.

Recall that Nigerian traders in Ghana have been shutout of their business premises in pursuance of the eviction order issued to them and dated 27th July 2018.

The Ghanaian authority, said to be was demanding that traders must have one million dollars as minimum foreign investment capital to do business in Ghana as stipulated by its Ministry of Trade and Industry(GIPC) Act, 2013.

The Senior Special Assistant to Mr. President expressed worry that in spite of the promise by the Ghanian president to Buhari, those shopshave remained unopened, after the September 27 dateline .

She said, “ I am just going to start by appealing to you, I know it is painful , frustrating and emotional. In fact, it is deep but I just urged you all to remain calm.”

She said, `I am surprised that after the announcement of President of Ghana on the reopening of the locked shops, they still remained under lock up till now.

“The president of Ghana paid a courtesy call on our president during the UN General Assembly in New York and he assured him that Nigerian traders were not being targeted”

According to her, “When they said foreigners, he assured that Nigerians were not the target; sadly, the September 27, dateline has elapsed I am very surprised that as at today over 400 shops are still under lock in Ghana.”

Dabiri-Erewa expressed dismay that Ghanaian president yet to honour his promise to reopen the closed shops 13 days after.

The presidential aide promised to convey the union’s message to the president who he said was the Chairman of the ECOWAS about what their petition.

She said that President Buhari as the ECOWAS chairman would ensure that the matter is resolved once and for all

She urged the traders not to take laws into their hands no matter how provocative the situation may but to remain calm

“I am sure that the matter will be resolved between the two presidents and will be treated as ECOWAS matter.

“I know it is not only Nigerians that are affected but other ECOWAS nationals as well but I know that Nigerians are the largest.

“On behalf of the government I advised and urge to remain calm because this is an ECOWAS matter and we cannot be doing this to ourselves,” she said.

While noting that millions of Ghanaian traders in Nigeria were treated as brothers she appealed to the union not to even think about retaliation but rather be calm and obey their laws.

“It is only a matter of time when this would resolved, it is a matter of days these long faces would soon smile because President Buhari would surely intervene,” she assured them.

Ukuoha said that in 2018, the Ministry of Trade and Industry(GIPC) and Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) in a joint operation established a taskforce with specific mandate to clamp down on Nigerian traders.

He said that this had eventually resulted in the ongoing closure of over 400 Nigerian Traders’ shops in Kumasi and the Ashanti region of Ghana.

“We are deeply worried with the high level of government complicity and state sponsored incitement and xenophobic attacks on Nigerians on the street of Ghana.

“We can provide evidence based on information in video clips and recorded attacks leaving countless Nigerian traders at various hospitals.

He noted with concern that Ghanaian security continually expressed helplessness by turning their eyes the other way, when Ghanaian hired thugs and criminals unleash mayhem on Nigerians, molesting and looting their goods and properties.

He said among NANTs demand, is the immediate reopening of the over 400 Nigerian owned locked shops in Ghana, as well as the immediate return of all seized goods.

He said the government should undertake to protect and provide security for all Nigerian traders and families and be held accountable for any ill treatment on Nigerian traders, or Nigerian citizens residing in Ghana.

Nigerians should not be subject to arbitrary and punitive taxation. GIPC Act should not be applied on Nigerian traders as we are not foreigners in Ghana but bonafide community citizens under ECOWAS Law, he stated.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/ghanas-closure-of-over-400-nigerian.html

The spokesman for the Coalition for Nigeria Movement, CNM, Akin Osuntokun, has said that God brought the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, to rescue Nigeria from President Muhammadu Buhari’s “dark and dangerous” route.

Osuntokun, the CNM’s Director of Strategic Communications, said this in statement he made available to reporters on Friday.

According to him, former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s decision to endorse Atiku for President was a move to save the country.

He said, “To put it mildly, these are desperate times in Nigeria and desperate problems readily provoke desperate measures.

“Confronted with the present danger and calamity that the presidency of Buhari poses to Nigeria, the choice and course of action open to any responsible Nigerian statesman is clear – and that is the subordination of all personal differences to the task of rescuing Nigeria from the fast pace of downward spiral towards the political abyss.

“And God, in his inimitable ways, has seen fit to choose Atiku Abubakar as the instrument of rescuing Nigeria from the dark and dangerous turn that the incumbent driver has taken the country.

“It is perhaps for the task of the unprecedented challenge of this moment that God has been preparing Atiku – who like all mortals, is not without his share of human imperfections. To err is human; to forgive, divine.”

“The political differences between Afenifere and Obasanjo are an open secret but in deference to the same logic, it has not been difficult for the two parties to subsume their differences, close ranks and find equal purpose in halting and reversing the Buhari trend that endangers all,” he said.

He said the choice between Buhari and Atiku was an easy one for Nigerians to make, adding that the two was like “comparing sleep to death or lifelessness – apologies to Donald Trump.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-presidency-osuntokun-reveals-who.html

National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus has revealed why the former President Olusegun Obasanjo endorsed Atiku Abubakar despite their differences.

Obasanjo had during a meeting with Atiku endorsed Atiku’s presidential ambition, declaring that he will defeat the incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019.

According to him, he believes that Atiku has ‘re-discovered and re-positioned himself’ and is now good enough to enjoy his support in the next election.

Secondus, who was present at the meeting with Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence, asked Nigerians to reject Buhari in 2019.

Speaking after the meeting, he stated that Obasanjo accepted Atiku owing to the limited ability of President Buhari and the APC administration.

He said, “There’s no better person that can score President Buhari than (former) President Obasanjo.

“Then, there is also no better person that can compare Atiku and Buhari than Obasanjo. Obasanjo was Buhari’s boss.

“The former President was also the boss of Atiku. He asked Nigerians to vote Buhari in 2015. Now he has seen the limited ability of the President and he’s now asking Nigerians to follow Atiku Abubakar in 2019.

“This is because he has sat down, analysed them and has seen that Atiku and his party are better by far than the Buhari Presidency and his party. With this, a blind man need not be told that it is raining. The facts and reality are everywhere.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/why-obasanjo-made-u-turn-forgave-atiku.html

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, have kicked against the imposition of an unpopular candidate in the Lagos Central Senatorial District.

Adesunbo Onitiri, Kolawole Vaughan and two others are the aspirants jostling for the ticket.

In a letter by the PDP Lagos Central, they said Onitiri’s name was forwarded as the consensus candidate for the seat.

But a protest statement was issued by Dr Amos Fawole, Alhaji Alfa Adeoye, Chairman Surulere LGA, Engineer Kehinde Fasasi, Chairman Eti-osa LGA, Mr. Rotimi Kujore, Chairman Lagos Island LGA Mr. Malomo State Exco, Mr. Mike Kolawole Vice Chairman Apapa LGA, Ajisefini Fatai Acting Chairman Apapa LGA, (Lagos Central Leaders) – Senator Kofo Bucknor Akerele, BOT member Lagos, and the State Youth leader, Mr. Adeniyi Adams.

It reads: “We, the undersigned leaders in Lagos Central senatorial district, wish to inform you that we have unanimously selected Chief Onitiri as the consensus candidate for the Lagos Central Senatorial.

“After proper review of the shoddy election process which was poorly organised and failed two attempts at the primaries, the leaders in the Lagos Central took this decision in view of our readiness to present our candidate for the general election in 2019.

“We have reviewed the credentials of the four aspirants as regards their integrity. We have come to the conclusion that Chief Onitiri is the most qualified, most credible and most competent.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/lagos-2019-pdp-members-kick-against.html

The Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon Kola Oluwawole and his Deputy, Mr Sina Animaun have been impeached.

The impeachment was carried out this afternoon by 14 members of the House.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Stephen Gbadamosi, those who carried out the ‘illegality’ were provided police cover and they prevented other members and even staff of the House from having access to the complex, adding that some members were also suspended.

The ex-Speaker, however, described his sudden impeachment as the lowest level of lawlessness and illegality.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/breaking-ekiti-speaker-deputy-impeached.html

The Senate yesterday approved the sum of N189,207,544,893 as budgetary allocation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the conduct of the 2019 general election.

The chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Danjuma Goje, announced this yesterday during a meeting on the submission of harmonised report of INEC 2019 general election supplementary budget estimates.

The Senate committee will lay the harmonised INEC budget report at plenary today (Thursday).

Goje explained that INEC was allocated the sum of N143,512,529,455 as recommended by President Muhammadu Buhari for the 2019 general election expenditure as amount needed for 2018, while the balance of N45,695,015,438 was requested for appropriation under 2019 budget.

LEADERSHIP recalls that President Muhammadu Buhari had on 11th July, 2018, requested from the Senate an approval of the total sum of N242,445,322,600.00 to fund the 2019 general election.

Buhari’s request was contained in a letter addressed to the National Assembly which was read by the president of the Senate, Bukola Saraki.

Buhari had explained that out of a total of N242,445,322,600.00 requested to fund the 2019 general election, the sum of N164,104,792,065.00 was to be sourced through virement in the 2018 budget, while the remaining balance of N78,340,530,535.00 was to be provided for in the 2019 budget.

Specifically, Buhari stated that INEC would be allocated N189,207,544,893.00; Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), N4,281,500,000.00; Department of State Services (DSS); N12,213,282,455.00; Civil Defence, N3,573,534,500.00; Nigeria Police Force, N30,541,317,432.00, and Nigeria Immigration Service, N2,628,143,320.00.

However, the federal lawmakers had proceeded on annual recess from July and was unable to consider and approve the supplementary budget.

Yesterday, a new letter by Buhari to the Senate seeking approval for funding of the 2019 elections with the sum of N242,445,322,600 was read by Senate President Bukola Saraki in plenary.

The President, in the letter dated September 19, 2018, said: “You may recall that in my letter dated 11th July, 20189 I requested for the kind consideration of the National Assembly for a virement under the 2018 appropriation Act.

Part of this request was for the funding of the requests made by INEC and security agencies for the 2019 general elections.

“When the minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, appeared before the joint committee of the NASS set up to consider my request, he was informed that the NASS would be writing to consider accommodating the total amount required for funding of the 2019 elections as part of the virements of the 2018 Appropriation Act, provided there was a specific request made by me.

“In the light of the current realities, and in order to ensure that the 2019 general elections are not affected by any delays in the passage into law of the 2019 Budget, I accept this kind suggest. I therefore wish to formally request that total amount of N242,445,322,600.00 requested by INEC and the security agencies be considered for inclusion in my virement request under the 2018 Appropriation Act.”

Meanwhile, the Senate committee on appropriation yesterday invited the inspector-general of police, the national security adviser (NSA), the DG of DSS, comptroller-general of Nigeria Immigration Service, and the commandant-general of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps to appear before it today.

While making the announcement, Senator Goje said the agencies were invited to come and defend their various budgetary allocations.

There are strong indications that some lawmakers may work against the ratification of INEC budget when it would finally be presented in plenary today by the appropriation committee.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/at-last-senate-approves-n189bn-budget.html

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has set up a special team to grill the outgoing Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose.

The Governor will lose his immunity in a matter of few days.

This will give the EFCC the constitutional right to arrest, detain and prosecute him.

Fayose had already been invited by the anti-graft agency and is expected to report at the head office in Abuja to meet with the commission’s Director of Operations, Umar Mohammed, after which he will be grilled by a team of operatives.

Fayose, who is the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Governors’ Forum, is under investigation for allegedly receiving over N1.2bn from a former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), through a former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

He allegedly got the money during the build-up to the 2014 governorship election in Ekiti State.

His aides, Abiodun Agbele, and others who are excluded from the immunity had been arraigned by the EFCC.

Punch reports that Fayose is expected to show up at the EFCC office next week, adding that the Governor has nowhere to run to since he is under security watch and cannot leave the country through any land border, seaport or airport.

A top officer at EFCC told the newspaper, “We have also set up a special team of investigators that will interrogate him immediately after the expiration of his tenure.”

Fayose’s spokesman, Idowu Adelusi, told the newspaper that his principal was ready for the EFCC.

Adelusi noted that the governor had written a letter to the EFCC indicating his readiness to appear before the commission next week.

He said, “Governor Fayose is an honourable man. He will not run away. He has already stated that he will make himself available next Monday once his tenure expires.

“He made this clear in a letter recently. Even when he was not under immunity, the governor honoured the EFCC invitations.

“The EFCC is not a court of law and cannot declare a person guilty. The governor will be available next week, no doubt.”

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/efcc-sets-up-special-team-to.html

A retired Nigerian Army Major General, Geoffrey Ejiga, has lost a whopping over N180 million to a fraud syndicate.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday (October 8, 2018) arraigned Mohammed Sanni Zubair, the alleged leader of the syndicate, before Justice Ijeoma L. Ojukwu of the Federal High Court, sitting in Maitama, Abuja, on a four-count charge of fraud.

The long arm of the law caught Zubair, who is described as a serial fraudster, when the children of Major General Geoffrey Ejiga (retd.) petitioned EFCC, alleging that a syndicate of fraudsters took advantage of their father’s old age to defraud him of over N180 million.

A check on Zubair’s profile showed that he had previously been arrested by the operatives of the EFCC sometime in 2016 for a fraud-related offence, which he confessed to, saying he acted under the instruction of one Johnson Abiodun, whose real name was Nuhu Kasim.

In the course of investigation, Kasim was arrested in Kano, and it was discovered that the information given by the defendant against him, was completely false. Hence, this charge.

One of the counts reads: “That you, Mohammed Sanni Zubair on or about October 2016, in Abuja, within the Abuja Judicial Division of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, did make a statement to Naziru Aminu Shehu, an officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, in the course of the exercise of the duties of his office, contained in your written statement dated 28th October, 2016, which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 39 (2) (a) and (b) of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004.”

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the counts preferred against him.

In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Fatsuma Mohammed, prayed the court for a trial date to enable the prosecution to prove its case.

But, counsel to the defendant, Joe Agi, SAN, informed the court of the defendant's application for bail, which he said was filed and served on the prosecution shortly before the court started sitting.

Justice Ojukwu, thereafter, adjourned to October 26, 30 and 31 for hearing on motion for bail and trial. The court also ordered that the defendant should continue with the administrative bail earlier granted him by the Commission.

https://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/army-general-loses-n180-million-to.html

The Federal High Court, Abuja has dismissed the suit filed by the Benue State government, challenging the power of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate accounts of the state.

Delivering judgment on the suit, yesterday, Justice Nnamdi Dimgba held that the suit was lacking in merit. The judge also held that the case was built on a misconception that the EFCC lacked statutory powers to investigate the financial activities of a state government.

“I must make clear from the very beginning that it appears to me that this suit rests on a very serious factual fallacy and misconception. “It appears to be resting on the supposition that the EFCC is investigating Benue government with a view to establishing if the government has committed any of the economic and financial crimes or other offences which EFCC is empowered to investigate and enforce.

“This misconception partly arises from the collapse of Sections 6 and 7 and 38 of the EFCC Act by the plaintiff, and on that basis submitting that a state government does not fall within the definition of any of the subjects that can be open to the investigative measures under Sections 7 and 38 of the Act.

“This is because a state government can never be a “person, authority, corporation or company” as provided for in the Act. “As stated, it seems issues are being mixed up here and court must be careful not to allow itself to be pulled into this deep gully of misconception,” the judge said. Dimgba further held that the powers to fight corruption given to the EFCC under Sections 6, 7 and 38 of its Act were broad and not limited to any geographical location. ” Indeed, the definition of economic and financial crimes under Section 46 of the EFCC Act is so broad that it arises even in the context of the management of the financial resources of a state.

“I am, therefore, in total disagreement with the proposition that the EFCC is foreclosed from investigating an allegation of corruption when it has to do with the finances of a state government.” He, however, cautioned the commission to carry out its statutory functions in such a way that it would‎ earn public confidence and must be impartial and neutral.

The Benue State government dragged the EFCC to court over what it referred to as the frenzied investigation activities into its financial administration.

The attorney general of the state, Mr Michael Gusa, who filed on behalf of the government contended that the EFCC was not empowered by law to inquire into or investigate the financial affairs of Benue State. He contended further that if the EFCC wished to investigate it, it must first be empowered by a resolution of the Benue State House of Assembly. He also argued that the several and regular invitation of the officials of the Benue government by the EFCC to its head office in Abuja, constituted a clog to the administration of the state.

The EFCC, however, maintained that its actions were based on intelligence reports and petitions by individuals and corporate persons on alleged misappropriation of funds belonging to the Benue State government.Counsel to the Benue State government, Mr Emeka Etiaba, who was accompanied by the state’s attorney general confirmed that the state would challenge the judgement at the Court of Appeal.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/court-affirms-efccs-power-to.html

Nollywood actress Moyo Lawal is out here showing off.

The curvy actress took to her IF made to show off her butt and flawless skin in series of photos.

More below:

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/jawdropping-actress-moyo-lawal-flaunts.html

There was funfair in Omu- Aran local government area of Kwara state when the new Olomu of Omu- Aran was coronated.

OLADIPO MAGAJI reports. The ancient town of Omu- Aran in Ifelodun local government area of Kwara state was thrown into a frenzy when the new monarch of the town, Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti was coronated.

The new Olomu of Omu-Aran, Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti was until his appointment Executive Director, Kwara State Town and Development Authority.

The colorful coronation of the new Olomu of Omu-Aran was held on Saturday, September 22, 2018. Oladele becomes the 27th traditional ruler to occupy the exotic traditional stool of the Olomu of Omu-Aran. Adeoti who hails from Olaelu/ Ijoko ruling house in the community was the Kingmakers nominee forwarded to the Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Area for onward transmission to the State government for approval to occupy the vacant throne.

The Kingmakers nomination followed the conclusion of succession processes embarked upon after the demise of the last occupant of the seat, Oba Charles Oladele Ibitoye who had joined his ancestors on Nov. 30, 2017 after a brief illness at the age of 64. Adeoti’s nomination was subsequently approved by the State Governor, Alh Abdulfatah Ahmed through a letter signed by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Saidu Abeeb who later presented the new Olomu with a letter of appointment in his office, thus setting the stage for his coronation.

Prior to this approval there was the urgent need for the community to quickly fill some important vacant traditional titles and positions which according to customary demand are expected to play crucial roles toward the coronation of the new Olomu.

Some of the traditional titles which were filled prior to Olomu coronation included, the position of Asanlu-Aran of Omu-Aran, occupied by Chief Kola Fabiyi, the Olukose of Omu-Aran, occupied by Chief Ganiyu Olabola, the Oluju of Omu-Aran, occupied by Chief moh. Jamiu Abdulsalam and most of important of all, the Eesa of Omu-Aran, occupied by a former Executive Director, Marketing, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Chief Jide Olaniyi Adebayo.

Having done all the traditional and customary necessities including securing the approval of the authority, the kingmakers and the Olomu-In-Council in collaboration with members of Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA) met and fixed Saturday September 22, 2018 as the coronation day for the new monarch.

There and then a one-time Military Administrator of Bauchi and Osun States, Col. Theophilus Bamigboye was named as the Chairman of a 30-Man Coronation Committee. While the committee had swung into action to put up a coronation ceremony befitting of a first class status of Oba Adeoti it was also a mandatory custom and tradition in the community for a new Olomu to enter into a seven days seclusion in the house of high Chief Eesa who after the expiration of the period would then present the Olomu-elect to the community and for the coronation proper to be performed at the palace of Olomu.

This was why Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti had on Saturday September 15, with his entourage of family members, friends and associates stormed Omu-Aran from Ilorin to commence the said seven days seclusion process. Adeoti was received with pomp and pageantry by the people of the community, both old and young at the Omu-Aran Motor Park, an entrance to the town and was ushered into the hands of the members of the Olomu-In-Council whom with the Olomu-elect drove round the community before ending the procession at the Ijoko family quarters of the new monarch.

The Olomu-elect was on the same day led to the house of Chief Jide Olaniyi Adebayo who is the new Eesa by members of the council known as the Ologuns where several traditional rites as demanded by the throne were duly performed. The Olomu-elect was accompanied from the house of Eesa on the early morning of the eight day of the seclusion to the palace of Eesa located at Afin quarters in preparation for the coronation proper at the Olomu’s Palace Ajewo.

Having completed some necessary customary rites, the Olomu’s procession with the Olomu-In-Council, amidst drumming, singing moved from Eesa’s palace through the town to the palace of the Olomu where large number of visitors including traditional rulers, government functionaries, religious leaders, politicians, friends and associates of the new Olomu are already seated for the programme to commence. Prayers from both Islamic and Christian clerics were offered for a peaceful and successful reign for the new Olomu, the community, the state and the country at large.

A traditional installation and coronation rites was performed by Chief Abdulazeez Adeniyi, the Chief Oluponna of Omu-Aran after which people from different compounds across the town were recognised and came out in their numbers to show their appreciation toward the coronation. Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo, the chairman of Irepodun LGA had in a welcome address praised the kingmakers, the Olomu-In-Council and members of the ODA for their wisdom and foresight toward a transparent and rancour free succession and coronation of the new Olomu.

He expressed the community’s appreciation to the state government for giving the approval for Adeoti to emerge as the new Olomu of Omu-Aran. Oladipo urged the people of the community including the indigenes and non-indegenes to imbibe tolerance and peaceful co-existence in order to move the community forward. Chief Bisi Adeyemi, ODA President on his part called for stakeholders support for the new monarch to assist perform creditably well in his traditional assignment.

He pledged the association’s support to the monarch and the entire Olomu-In-Council in ensuring the growth, progress and development of the community. Chief Adebayo, the Eesa of Omu-Aran while officially presenting the new Olomu to the community, called for the support of the people for more developments and Landmark achievements to flourish within the community doing his reign.

He described the coronation of the new Olomu as an historical and unprecedented traditional legacy that would be remember ed for a very long time. Oba Adeoti, in his own address thanked the Kingmakers and other stakeholders for considering him worthy of such elevation.

The monarch while expressing his appreciation to the state government also called for more government establishment to boost trade, commercial and business activities within the community.

He said the demand for more developmental projects was informed by the high level of expansion and infrastructural development going in the community. According to him, presently, the growth pattern is beyond what can be termed as just urban centre. “It would not be an exaggeration to say that Omu – Aran’s physical expansion is already engulfing its immediate adjoining settlements and turning it to what can be termed as Urban Conurbation. “Omu-Aran as an emerging Urban Centre has an approximate population of about 150,000 people and unarguably the third largest settlement in Kwara State.

“Expectedly, therefore, High Order Services ought to be available for the population living in and around Omu-Aran. “Given its population and its potentials for growth Omu -Aran has a threshold population that can support the provision of specialized services like University, Specialist Hospital, Ultra – modern market and Fire services station among others,” he said.

The Olomu-elect, Oba Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti, who hails from Olomu-Efon ruling house, was born on Sept. 22 1956 into the family of Malam and Mrs Yusuf Amuda Adeoti Awoyinka of Ijoko compound, Omu-Aran. He attended Saint Paul’s Anglican School Omu-Aran and Government Secondary School, Ilorin for his primary and secondary education respectively. Adeoti proceeded to the famous Kaduna Polytechnic, where he obtained his O.N.D., H.N.D. and P.G.D. in Urban and Regional Planning. He also obtained M.Sc. in Environmental Management. His work experience commenced with the Kwara State Housing Corporation.

He also worked with Kwara State Ministry of Works, Lands and Survey, the Ministry of Lands and Housing, and the Kwara State Town Planning and Development Authority. He served and rose through the ranks to become the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive of the Town Planning and Development Authority for two terms before he voluntarily withdrew his service in May 2018.


http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/excitement-at-installation-of-new-olomu.html

The Police Headquarters in Abuja has invited Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Ben Bruce to report at the Force Headquarters on Monday to answer to questions bothering on disturbance of public peace with their protest on Friday.

The Police headquarters alleged that the Senators who were captured on camera, were involved in the disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety.

The Force headquarters said the Senators are also being invited for “violent attack on Policemen posted to ensure security of the Force Headquarters, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties.

A statement signed by Force PRO, Acting DCP Jimoh Moshood said they are “hereby invited to report themselves to the IGP Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters on Monday, 8th October, 2018 for investigation”.

The statement reads, “Today at about 1.30pm, unruly and violent protesters who are members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in their hundreds with thugs and miscreants inside several trucks and vehicles blocked the Shehu Shagari way in front of the Nigeria Police Force, Headquarters creating a gridlock of traffic on the highway and preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on Shehu Shagari way thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety.

“Suddenly the unruly/violent protesters surge and rushed violently on the Policemen posted to ensure safety of the Force Headquarters premises, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties.

“The Police team, headed by a very Senior Police Officer despite the provocation, after issuing words of proclamation, warning these unruly PDP protesters who were chanting war songs of ”we no go gree o, we no go gree, we no go gree”, charged the Police personnel who used minimum force and dispersed them.

“Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce and others yet to be identified were recorded on camera pushing Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to damage and destroy Police equipment and Government properties, while Senator Bukola Saraki was at the scene of the attack in his car also captured on camera along with hundreds of miscreants and thugs in the acts of disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety.

“The Inspector General of Police has directed immediate investigation into this unprovoked and unwarranted attack on the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Force Headquarters premises which is against the law and condemnable.

“The Force will do everything within the law to bring all perpetrators of this crime to justice, no matter how highly placed.

“Consequently, Senator Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Ben Bruce who were captured on camera to have been involved in the disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety and violent attack on Policemen posted to ensure security of the Force Headquarters, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties are hereby invited to report themselves to the IGP Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters on Monday, 8th October, 2018 for investigation.

” Members of the public in the FCT are implored to remain calm as the situation is under control. Further development will be communicated to the public soon.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/osun-election-protest-police-invite.html

The Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has set up a vote protection unit, ahead of the rescheduled All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries in the state today.

The Governor announced this while addressing thousands of his supporters at the Government House, Owerri on Friday.

Okorocha yesterday led 9 governors of the APC in a meeting with the National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole, to discuss the crises over primaries in some states, including Imo.

The governor also met President Muhamadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa.

According to him, the move to set the vote protection unit was, “to ensure that every vote counts during the election and that the sanctity of the ballot box was maintained.”

Okorocha said that the unit will be coordinated by the former deputy chief of staff operations, Kingsley Uju.

He told the teeming youth to get involved in the process because it’s their future he is trying to protect.

Tension had gripped the state after the botched election, which was twice postponed following the claims by both factions of the party – the coalition and the Dan Nwafor led state executive that their candidates had won the election.

The controversy was generated by the chairman of the electoral panel, Ahmed Gulak, who disappeared midway into the process and announced Hope Uzodinma as winner of the election.

But other members of the committee led by the Secretary, Henry Igbahadon, later announced Uche Nwosu as the winner.

However, the NWC of the party wielded the big stick and cancelled the two results, declaring them as fake.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/imo-apc-primary-okorocha-takes-fresh.html

The captain armband will be handed to winger Ahmed Musa instead of Ogenyi Onazi when Nigeria take on Libya in back to back AFCON 2019 qualifiers tie next week, according to Own Goal.

Onazi took over Musa as first vice captain to Mikel Obi.

Captain Mikel will not be available for the game against Libya due to fitness issues as first reported by this portal but just like it was against Seychelles, Musa will still continue in his role as captain ahead of Onazi.

”Musa only took a break from his role as captain when he had family issues that made him divorce his wife. Since then he has reclaim his role, while Onazi is the third vice captain. Remember we have five captains according to coach Gernot Rohr “, a backroom staff of the team told the newspaper.

“Onazi didn’t lose his armband due to any rift with Mikel. Hierarchy was used in determining the vice captain and Musa is ahead of him. If Onazi is on the pitch and Musa is not then he will captain. Simple as that”, he concluded.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/libya-vs-nigeria-why-ahmed-musa-will.html

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to dismiss two judges after being found guilty of corruption allegations brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The affected judges are Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court and James Agbadu-Fishim of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

Agbadu-Fishim has been accused of receiving bribe from Paul Usoro, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ofili-Ajunogobia was accused of receiving gratification in the sum of N5million From Godwin Obla, another (SAN).

Ofili-Ajumogobia faced 27 counts of unlawful enrichment, taking property by a public officer, corruption, forgery and giving false information to an official of the EFCC.

This was disclosed in a petition signed by NJC Director of Information, Soji Oye, Esq.

The petition reads: “The National Judicial Council under the Chairmanship of the Honourable Mr. Justice Walter Samuel Nkanu Onnoghen, GCON, at its 87th Meeting which was held on 3rd October 2018, recommended the removal by dismissal from office, of Hon. Mr. Justice R. N. Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court and Hon. Mr. Justice James T. Agbadu-Fishim of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

“Hon. Mr. Justice R. N. Ofili-Ajumogobia was recommended to President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for removal by dismissal from office pursuant to the findings by the Council on the allegations of misconduct contained in a petition to the Council by the Acting Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Ibrahim Magu, alleging that:

“Hon. Mr. Justice R. N. Ofil-Ajumogobia is a Director/Chief Executive Officer and sole signatory to Nigel and Colive Company contrary to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;

“Several personalities, individuals, government officials and business partners lodged funds into various accounts belonging to the Hon. Judge; and There was an ex-parte communication between the Hon. Judge and Mr. Godwin Oblah, SAN, during the pendency of his matter before the His Lordship.

“The Council, however, could not consider other allegations in the petition because they are already before a court where the judge is standing trial. Council left those matters for the trial to take its legal course.

“Hon. Mr. Justice James T. Agbadu-Fishim of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria was also recommended for removal by dismissal from office sequel to the findings of the Council on the allegations contained in another petition by the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleging that the Hon. Judge received various sums of money from litigants and lawyers that had cases before him, and some influential Nigerians, under the false pretence that he was bereaved or that there was delay in the payment of his salary. This is contrary to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In the interim, the Council, in exercise of its disciplinary powers under paragraph 21 (d) of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, has suspended Hon. Mr. Justices R. N. Ofili-Ajumogobia and James T. Agbadu-Fishim with immediate effect pending their removal from office by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Council rejected the letter of voluntary retirement, purported to be with effect from the 1st of October 2018, submitted to it by Hon. Mr. Justice Joshua E. Ikede of the Delta State High Court. This followed the findings on an allegation of falsification of age contained in a petition written by Zik Gbemre, National Co-ordinator of Niger Delta Peace Coalition. Council found that the Hon. Judge ought to have retired since 1st October 2016.

“Consequently, it backdated his retirement to 2016 and recommended to the Government of Delta State to deduct from the retirement benefits of the judge, all salaries received by him from October, 2016 till date and remit it to NJC which pays salaries of all Judicial Officers in the Federation.

“Council also decided to issue a Letter of Advice to Hon. Mr. Justice K. C. Nwakpa of High Court of Abia State to guard against unwarranted utterances in matters before him. This was as a result of a complaint to the Council by one Princewill Ukegbu.

“Council considered the reports of various Investigation Committees and dismissed the petitions written against Hon. Mr. Justice Yusuf Halilu of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Osinuga of the High Court of Ogun State, and Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Ononeze-Madu of the High Court of Imo State.

“The petition by Wema Bank against Hon. Mr. JusticeYusuf Halilu of the FCT High Court was dismissed because the allegation of misconduct was not established. The judge’s handling of the related matter did not amount to the alleged misconduct.

“The petition on allegation of inducement, bias and alteration of Ruling written by David Olawepo Efunwape, Esq. against Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Osinuga of High Court, Ogun State was found to be false.

“Council, therefore, decided to report David Olawepo Efunwape, Esq., to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for appropriate sanctions for making false allegations against a judge.The petition written by Hon. Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu against Hon. Mr. Justice E. O. Ononeze Madu was dismissed by the Council for lack of merit. Council also decided to warn the Petitioner and asked him to apologise to the Hon. Judge for the false allegation of inducement.

“New petitions written against twenty-six (26) Judicial Officers from the Federal and State High Courts were considered by Council, after which it resolved to empanel four (4) Committees to investigate.

14. The remaining petitions were summarily dismissed for obvious and manifest lack of merit, being subjudice, concerning administrative matters, or that such petitions were matters for appeal. The dismissed petitions were against Hon. Mr. Justice J. O. Bada, Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal, Benin Division, Hon. Mr. Justice Abdul-Kafarati, Chief Judge, Federal High Court and Hon. Mr. Justices I. N. Buba, H. R. Shagari, R. M. Aikawa, O. E. Abang all of the Federal High Court; Hon. Mr. Justice Marshal Umukoro, Chief Judge, Delta State and Hon. Mr. Justice E. G. Timi also of the Delta State High Court, Hon. Mr. Justice S. U. Dikko, Chief Judge,Nasarawa State, Hon. Mr. Justice P. N. C. Umeadi, Chief Judge, Anambra State, Hon. Mr. Justices A. O. Opesanwo, A. J. Coker both of Lagos State High Court, Hon. Mr. Justice C. I. Gabriel Nwankwo, President, Customary Court of Appeal, River State, Hon. Mr. Justices C. A. Okirie and G. O. Omeji both of River State High Court, Hon. Mr. Justice Iniabasi Udobong of High Court, Akwa-Ibom State, Hon. Mr. Justice S. O. Falola of High Court, Osun State, Hon. Grand Kadi, Sokoto State, Hon. Mr. Justice I. B. Ahmed of Katsina State High Court and Hon. Mr. Justice Patricia Mahmoud formerly of the Kano State High Court before her elevation to the Court of Appeal.“

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/njc-writes-buhari-calls-for-sack-of-two.html

The Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Onofiok Luke was on Wednesday declared winner of Etinan Federal Constituency’s primary election under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

According to the state PDP chairman, Paul Ekpo, Luke polled 323 votes to defeat the incumbent, Mr Sam Ikon, who had 31 votes.

Another incumbent, Mr Mike Enyong, member representing Uyo federal constituency, won his party’s ticket with a total of 383 votes against his closest contender, Mr Godwin Harrison with 83 votes.

A contrasting situation, however, played out in Itu and Ibiono Ibom federal constituency as the incumbent, Mr Henry Archibong won the nomination with 162 votes against his closest rival and member representing Ibiono Ibom State constituency, Mr Ime Okon with a total no of 83 votes.

From Abak Federal Constituency, the immediate past commissioner for Information, Mr Aniekan Umanah won the party’s ticket with 251 votes against the member representing Abak state constituency, Mr Friday Iwok who polled 58 votes.

Two businessmen, Mr Unyime Idem and Emmanuel Ukpongudo, got tickets for Ukanafun and Ikono federal constituencies respectively.

The result as announced showed that Idem polled 160 votes and Ukpongudo polled 130 votes, defeating serving legislators to emerge winners with 160 and 130 votes respectively,

From Ikot Ekpene federal constituency, a former Akwa Ibom House of Assembly member, Mr Nsikak Ekong won the Ikot Ekpene federal Constituency with 375 votes.

Reacting to his victory, the Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Onofiok Luke dedicated his victory to the people of the federal constituency and pledged to work with his fellow contenders to better the lot of the people.

He advised members of the PDP to close ranks and work for the success of the party during the forthcoming 2019 general elections.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/pdp-primaries-aibom-speaker-defeats.html

The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has assured party members that its National Convention to elect the party’s presidential candidate for the 2019 election will be transparent and successful.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, gave the assurance while addressing newsmen on the party’s preparation for the convention scheduled for Saturday in Port Harcourt.

Kola said that the party had put in place strategies to carry all the aspirants along in the processes of the convention.

“We are going to hold a successful convention.

“Arrangements have been made in such that each presidential aspirant will nominate two people to be members of the accreditation Committee for we are very concerned about the process of the convention.

“Also, each of the aspirants will nominate two people to be part of the electoral committee.

“The essence of these is to showcase the transparency and the openness of the process. As a party we are very concerned about the process of the national convention primary.

“We are doing everything possible to carry everybody along. Unlike where the presidential aspirants only nominate agents, they will be part of the process to nominate members of the accreditation and electoral committee.”

He added that PDP would also publish names of all the delegates and make same available to all Presidential aspirants before the convention.

Ologbondiyan said that the openness of the process was also to show that the party leadership had no interest on any of the aspirants but to allow the people to elect a winning candidate.

“We believe that all our aspirants are eminently qualified and whoever emerges from the process that will be put forward on Saturday will be such a candidate that understands the nuances of Nigeria and pains of Nigerians,” he said.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/2019-pdp-speaks-ahead-of-presidential.html

Dr. Mahmood Halilu Ahmed, brother to President Muhammadu Buhari’s wife, Aisha, has written a petition to the national chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole demanding reconstitution of Adamawa Gubernatorial Election Committee.

Ahmed is contesting for governorship ticket against Governor Jibrilla Bindow.

Ahmed said if his observations were not addressed, he might not participate in the primary scheduled for Tuesday.

The petition read in part: “Whilst we confirm that all necessary avenues and options were considered in the meeting held in respect of the state gubernatorial primary election, to enable the conduct of free , fair and acceptable outcomes, we hereby wish to notify your office of the following violations against the internal democratic process of our party-the APC

“The delegate tags were printed by the state government. The delegate list has not been made available for our scrutiny and confirmation. The venue of the primary elections is not well-secured and illuminated.

“Contrary to the directive of the National Working Committee of the party, which suspended the State Executive Committee for six months, it is to our greatest dismay that some of the suspended State Executive Committee members are parading themselves in acting capacity; and were constituted by the state government as the Local Organizing Committee, in which the interest of other candidates were not considered as directed by NWC.

“Finally, it is worthy of note that all the above issues were presented to the Primary Election Committee but are not taken into consideration as they were blatantly ignored.

“It is therefore our candid observation that this election cannot be conducted properly; neither will this exercise be free, fair and credible.

“We therefore call on the good office of NWC to immediately reconstitute the Adamawa State Gubernatorial Primary Election Committee.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/apc-aisha-buharis-brother-writes.html

Human Rights and Crime Monitoring Watch has released its reports on the activities of the Nigerian Army in the just-concluded Operation Python Dance exercise in South-Eeast part of the country.

Recall that the Nigerian Army first launched Operation Python Dance in September of 2016 on the heels of the kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, human trafficking and other crimes in the south-east of Nigeria – Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states and by extension Rivers, Cross River.

The Army followed up with Operation Python Dance 2 in the same period of 2017.

Operation Python Dance 3 by the 82 Division Nigerian Army held August/September 2019 making it the third time that the confidence and capacity building exercise held in the states of the South-East.

The Human Rights and Crime Monitoring Watch said it monitored the exercise from the start to finish.

Werigbelegha Zinake, Executive Director of the human rights group said it was observed that the training exercise was successfully concluded without any major unanticipated incident.

Presenting the report on Monday, Zinake said the duration of the exercise saw the entire south-east witnessing fewer crimes, while the south-east based separatists were unable to prevent people from going about their legitimate businesses.

He said, “There were attempts by separatist elements, , mostly of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPoB, and its affiliates to sabotage the exercise using propaganda intended to incite the populace against the Nigerian Army.

“This, however, failed to yield any meaningful impact unlike during Python Dance 2 and shows that the Nigerian Army has largely improved on its operation coordination and civil-military relations within the period.

“The propaganda deployed by IPoB, including claims that troops were extorting motorists, failed to dent the integrity of Army personnel who had earlier been charged to adhere to the highest level of professionalism and the observance of the rules of engagement. This was further proven by our researchers who went out with security cameras to take photographs of the Nigerian Army personnel at the various locations whilst cartoon out their duties.

“The preponderance of reactions in the zone is for the Army to not only sustain the exercise on an annual basis but to explore the possibility of increasing its frequency because of the latent threat posed by separatists and other criminal elements due to the economic viability of the region.”

The group declared that the Operation Python Dance 3 was a remarkable success as it has proven that the Nigerian Army, in spite of the false impression created by separatist elements, continues to enjoy increasing good relations with the communities in the South-East.

It called on the Nigerian Army to explore the potential of holding the exercise twice annually given the tendency for criminal elements to explore the intervening months between the operations to regroup and torment the people before its next edition.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/operation-python-dance-3-human-rights.html

Veteran Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson featured in a skit in collaboration with “The Beat Scientist”, Paulcleverlee which made sounds on social media on wednessday, September 26,2018

Many of her fans kept talking about how THICK the actress appeared however, a close look at her photos on Instagram yesterday depicts that she has shed the weight!

Check out photos of the mother of three looking delectably slim in the photos;

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/mercy-johnson-loses-weight-looks.html

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday morning declared Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress, APC, winner of the Osun State governorship election.

The State Returning Officer of the contest, Prof. Joseph Adeola Afuwape, made the declaration after reeling out scores of all the 48 candidates that participated in the election one after the other.

He said, “Oyetola, having satisfied the provision of law, by polling the highest votes in the contest is now declared winner of the gubernatorial election held on September 22, 27 in Osun State.

DAILY POST earlier reported that the APC had won the supplementary election held on Thursday in six polling units out of the seven units in which election was conducted across four local governments of Orolu, Ife South, Ife North, and Osogbo.

1. IFE NORTH OYERE.
APC126
PDP 002

2. IFE SOUTH
OLODE
APC 283
PDP 015

ALUTI ERIN
APC 172
PDP 021

3.IFON OROLU

KAJOLA.
APC 111
PDP 003

GBOGBO.
APC 041
PDP 064

IDIYA
APC. 128
PDP 055

4.OSOGBO
APC. 299
PDP. 165

RE-RUN TOTAL
APC. 1,160
PDP. 325

FINAL RESULT
APC. 255,505
PDP. 255,023

In a swift reaction, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, described the supplementary election as a broad day robbery and the most brazen assault on democracy in the history of the state.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Chairman of the party, Hon. Soji Adagunodo, the copy which was made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

Adagunodo accused the ruling APC of conniving with security personnel to manipulate the electoral process, vowed to resist it in due course.

He explained that thousands of eligible voters were chased away from their homes in Orolu, Ife North and Ife South Local Governments in the early hours of Thursday .

“Scores of our supporters in those local governments were shot and matchetted on their way to polling centres and in the full glare of security men. Hundreds of people holding PVCs from other polling units were accredited and allowed to vote in Osogbo and Ife South Local Governments.

” PDP agent in Olode was axed and abducted at about 7am today. Media men and election observers were denied access in several polling units. By the time access was granted to journalists at about 11am, ballot boxes had been stuffed by APC agents acting in connivance with INEC officials.

“It is regrettable that election in 7 polling units could not be freely and fairly concluded by the Independent National Electoral commission.

“We reject any returns of results from this sham and call on the INEC authorities in Abuja to direct that the so called supplementary election result collation be put on hold now.

“We equally invite leaders of thought in Nigeria and the International community to rise up now to rescue Nigeria’s democracy from being ruined.

“We also call on all members and supporters of our party to resist any attempt to foist a concocted election results on the people of Osun using all legal means at their disposal”.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/breaking-osun-rerun-inec-declares-apc.html

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has won the supplementary election held on Thursday in six polling units out of the seven units in which election was conducted across four local governments of Orolu, Ife South, Ife North, and Osogbo.

Below is the details of the results as being released from the Local governments.

1. IFE NORTH OYERE.
APC126
PDP 002

2. IFE SOUTH
OLODE
APC 283
PDP 015

ALUTI ERIN
APC 172
PDP 021

3.IFON OROLU

KAJOLA.
APC 111
PDP 003

GBOGBO.
APC 041
PDP 064

IDIYA
APC. 128
PDP 055

4.OSOGBO
APC. 299
PDP. 165

RE-RUN TOTAL
APC. 1,160
PDP. 325

FINAL RESULT
APC. 255,505
PDP. 255,023

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic party, PDP, has described the supplementary election as a broad day robbery, and the most brazen assault on democracy in the history of the state.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Chairman of the party, Hon. Soji Adagunodo, the copy which was made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

Adagunodo accused the ruling APC of conniving with security personnel to manipulate the electoral process, vowed to resist it in due course.

He explained that thousands of eligible voters were chased away from their homes in Orolu, Ife North and Ife South Local Governments in the early hours of Thursday .

“Scores of our supporters in those local governments were shot and matchetted on their way to polling centres and in the full glare of security men. Hundreds of people holding PVCs from other polling units were accredited and allowed to vote in Osogbo and Ife South Local Governments.

“PDP agent in Olode was axed and abducted at about 7am today. Media men and election observers were denied access in several polling units. By the time access was granted to journalists at about 11am, ballot boxes had been stuffed by APC agents acting in connivance with INEC officials.

“It is regrettable that election in 7 polling units could not be freely and fairly concluded by the Independent National Electoral commission.

“We reject any returns of results from this sham and call on the INEC authorities in Abuja to direct that the so called supplementary election result collation be put on hold now.

“We equally invite leaders of thought in Nigeria and the International community to rise up now to rescue Nigeria’s democracy from being ruined.

“We also call on all members and supporters of our party to resist any attempt to foist a concocted election results on the people of Osun using all legal means at their disposal”.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/osun-rerun-election-apc-wins-in-6-units.html

Akinwale Omololu Laosun has been declared as the gubernatorial candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Oyo state, preparatory to next year’s general elections.

Laosun emerged unopposed during the party’s gubernatorial primary, which was held in Ibadan, the state capital.

State chairman of the party, Ogunlana Rotimi, said Laosun had complied with the extant electoral laws in ensuring his emergence as the party’s standard-bearer.

Rotimi said the party, a brainchild of political activist and online media publisher, Omoyele Sowore, was a metamorphosis of the ‘Take Back Nigeria Movement.’

He said the ‘Take it back’ slogan of the party stands for redemption of all commonwealth and values plundered by the criminal political leaders, explaining that if the party’s standard-bearer is elected into power in 2019, the AAC government would bring back smiles to the faces of people in the state.

Laosun, while reacting, said education would be the major focus of the AAC government, assuring that youth empowerment would also be given adequate attention if he is elected into power.

He also promised to focus on small businesses, and making the state the food basket of Nigeria, while tackling the challenges of non-payment of workers’ salaries.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/oyo-2019-omololu-laosun-emerges-sowores.html

The Head of Imo/Abia Operations Office, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr Evans Ugoh, has confirmed that a pastor and his wife died in Monday’s massive flood in Oguta community in Imo State.

Ugoh confirmed the incident on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Owerri.

NAN reports that the flood swept away some homes and farmlands in Oguta, the headquarters of Oguta Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.

The NEMA official who did not disclose the identities of the deceased couple blamed the incident on the alleged neglect of the agency’s earlier warning.

He said that the agency gave evacuation notice early enough but regretted that it was ignored by the community.

Ugoh said that he led a team of NEMA officials to Oguta and Ohaji/Egbema LGAs to monitor the sea level in the wake of increasing cases of flood in the area.

“When we discovered that there was an unusual rise in the sea level, we immediately issued evacuation notice to seven communities in the area,” he said.

He said that the agency also advised the communities likely to be affected to monitor the sea regularly and report to the agency for prompt action.

The head of operations regretted that the couple died barely one week after the evacuation notice was issued.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/pastor-wife-die-in-imo-flood.html

Second Republic lawmaker and northern elder statesman, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, has reacted to the Saturday’s Osun State election, which was declared inconclusive by independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Juniad in a terse statement said the Osun election showed that the APC-led government was no longer popular among Nigerians “because of the insecurity and economic hardship in the country.”

The former lawmaker said the Osun election was a reminiscent of what might obtain in the 2019 general elections.

The statement reads: “My belief is that the APC has become too arrogant and too reliant on corruption rather than performance to win an election.

“There is a trend emerging in the South-West and that is going to manifest in other parts of the country – from the South to the Middle Belt and to the North – the APC is no longer the predominant party of this country.

“The ridiculous government policies and other misgivings have not given the ruling party any edge in the states. Therefore, 2019 is very open.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/osun-decides-junaid-mohammed-reacts-to.html