The Edo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been described as a party of "one-day, one-fib"; and the Edo people asked to ignore the latest lie from that stable, Igbere TV reports.
According to the Chairman, Edo State APC Media Campaign Council, Mr. John Mayaki, “the PDP's latest lie was the allegation that the APC planned to "write results", and smuggle in those results according to a so-called "Hope Uzodimma template".
"First of all, it would be interesting to know what PDP means by 'Hope Uzodimma template'," Mayaki said in his reaction. "But you can see how that party dissipates its energy on laughable lies, when it should focus on telling Edo people what it would do differently, from its present four years of near-absolute waste."
Mayaki said in a statement forwarded to Igbere TV that the cocktail of lies was hardly surprising, for the one who lacks solid facts to build his case, would resort to lies to deceive.
The APC campaign spokesperson, however, held that the Edo people were free to contrast the APC campaign of issues, from its SIMPLE Agenda, to PDP's daily dose of what he called "one-day, one-fib."
"In a way, you've got to pity these guys," he said. "If you're around for four years, and you have little to point to, why would you not be dreaming 'rigging', to create an excuse, and harvest pity, for sure thumping defeat to come?"
Mayaki said APC will win and win big on September 19, and everything, from its very successful campaigns, is pointing to that.
"Take it from me: we're winning on September 19 and we're winning big. We'll win by the sheer winnability of our ideas and the voter acceptance of our life-changing programmes. For those, the Edo people will reward us handsomely with their votes."
Mayaki however volunteered that PDP's resort to lies and wild rumours is a spiritual punishment for wasting the time of the Edo people for four years; and for not adding value to Edo lives.
He stressed that the PDP cocktail of lies has helped the POI campaign to further focus on its own campaign of facts, figures and sound programmes, borne out of the SIMPLE yet far-reaching agenda.
"We encourage the PDP to continue misleading and misguiding itself with wild rumours. We know the voters are not deceived. So, we will continue on our own approach, which has proved a hit with our people, everywhere campaign. On September 19," he continued, "our solid programmes will reap votes, while the PDP lies will harvest tears."
He thanked Edo voters for their warm and enthusistic reception so far, and urged them to keep up the faith, and get the PVC ready vote out Governor Obaseki, with a vengeance on September 19.
Popular online medium Igbere TV, has congratulated the member representing Bende North state constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwu Chijioke, on his birthday.
In a congratulatory message signed by Emeh James Anyalekwa, executive director of Igbere TV, he eulogized Chijioke as a respectable politician with uncommon traits.
He further congratulated the lawmaker, who doubles as deputy minority leader of the Abia Assembly, for devoting his life to service to people of his constituency.
Anyalekwa said, “I felicitate with Hon. Chukwu Chijioke, the deputy minority leader of the Abia State House of Assembly and member representing Bende North state constituency, on the occasion of his birthday.
“On behalf of my family and management team of Igbere TV, I wish him(Chijioke) more productive years in his altruistic service to humanity and pray that the Lord’s blessings and grace abide with him and his family.”
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has been accused of attempting to steal credit for the construction of the ‘privately-owned’ modular refinery in Ologbo, Edo State "because his administration lacks any achievement to show for its four-year term."
The APC made this accusation in a press conference monitored by Igbere TV on Sunday where Mr. John Mayaki, the Chairman of the Edo APC Media Campaign Council, condemned the Governor’s ‘irresponsible and mischievous’ latching on to the project "to enjoy undeserved plaudits" and challenged him to publicize the contribution of his government to the success of the project.
Explaining that the modular refinery is an FG-backed privately-funded project undertaken by the AIPCC Energy Limited in a joint venture between AFCOM and Peiyang Chemical Equipment Company of China, Mayaki said the Edo Governor, contrary to his media posture, frustrated the development of the project "with his disastrous economic policies and disregard for the rule of law which have driven investors away from the State."
He also challenged the Governor to name at least five projects that have emanated from the MOUs "he nomadically signed in four years", stating that "a Governor that failed to fulfill his own promises to build an industrial park and GeleGele seaport should not be laying claims to a private initiative to deflect blame and criticism arising from his failure."
The statement read, “As we draw nearer to September 19, the day Edo people will head to the polls to determine the leadership of the state for another four years, it has become glaring to Mr. Godwin Obaseki and his party of tax-collectors that their reign of falsehood, terror, and lackluster leadership will be brought to an end, and a new era of responsible and competent leadership under an APC government led by Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu will be ushered in.
“This realization, and the consequence it holds for this group of corrupt and irresponsible persons, has seen them scurrying around for survival, making truth, common sense, and decency easy casualties in their vile campaign of deceit and falsehood.
“As it stands now, no one can debate the fact that Mr. Godwin Obaseki is falsehood personified, a wrapped bag of lies that continues to give. From falsified and inconsistent academic records and credentials, the baloney has come to the point of broad daylight robbery of projects and initiatives. Today, the lie is with the Edo Modular refinery at Ologbo, a project that having been funded by both foreign businesses and the federal government, has neared completion and commissioning.
“And then, suddenly, Obaseki the MoU and sleeping governor emerges from his slumber, scheming to mount tape and ribbon at the site and take glory for a project he knew and contributed little to. To be clear, and for the records, it is important to state here that the Edo Refinery and Petrochemical Company is owned by AIPCC Energy Limited, a joint venture between AFCOM and Peiyang Chemical Equipment Company of China and was built at the cost of 10.2million dollars. The refinery will be producing diesel, Naptha, and Fuel oil (LPFO).
“The Federal Government supported the project by granting duty waivers on refinery equipment and components. The PCC, equally, is a partner to the EPC. If the Federal Government that offered tangible support which if factored in cost would amount to millions of dollars not claiming credit for the project, why is the Obaseki-administration parading the premises of the refinery, claiming to have achieved a landmark project?
“The answer is clear: the Edo State Government of Godwin Obaseki has achieved nothing for the past four years they have been at the helm. Now, then, that it has come to a period where it is important to showcase its job portfolio, the administration is fumbling and biting dust, looking for whom to deceive and mislead.
“While Obaseki is desperate trying to be at the front, center, and back of a private project that his administration in fact frustrated with his disastrous economic policies and pulverizing of the strong economic structures in place before his tragic emergence, the sites of his promised Industrial Park and GeleGele Seaport remain desolate, standing as a symbolic portrayal of his entire four-year reign: empty, dull, and without any life.”
Igbere TV captures the moments showing the arrival of former National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole at a rally of the Party for the Sept. 19 Edo Governorship election.
The Oredo APC local government campaign rally held yesterday (Saturday, August 16) at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) Ekehuan campus football pitch, in Benin City.
The rally was the last stop of the Party's statewide campaign rally which lasted six days and held in all of the 18 local government areas of the state beginning with Igueben in Edo Central.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a former Secretary to the State Government and erstwhile Chief of Staff to the Edo state government is the APC gubernatorial candidate in the governorship election.
Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress' in Edo State, pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has bagged a chieftaincy title in Auchi land.
Igbere TV gathered that Ize-Iyamu was on Wednesday unveiled as the 'Itsemakhona' of Auchi land by the First Class traditional ruler, Otaru of Auchi.
Itsemakhona is translated to mean "this is our own..." in the English language.
The APC and Ize-Iyamu had taken their campaigns to Edo North where Auchi is grouped under. Auchi is under Etsako West local government.
The Edo state Governorship election holds September 19, 2020. While Ize-Iyamu is the APC candidate, Governor Godwin Obaseki is the Peoples Democratic Party' candidate.
Both the APC and PDP are the two major political parties in the election with Ize-Iyamu and Obaseki as major candidates in the poll.
The ‘sacked’ Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, says he remains helmsman of the Institution, CAMPUS GIST reports.
Prof. Ogundipe was reportedly removed as VC of the Institution at a meeting of the Governing Council chaired by the pro-chancellor, Wale Babalakin, SAN.
He was said to have been sacked over corruption allegations by 7 members of Council. While 4 voted against, 1 asked the VC be suspended.
But in a statement forwarded to CAMPUS GIST personally signed by him, the embattled vice chancellor said the report of his sack is untrue.
Prof. Ogundipe, therefore, urged stakeholders of the University and members of the public to disregard the report, insisting he still remains the VC.
The statement reads, “The attention of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management has been drawn to the ‘Notice to the General Public on the Removal of the Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos’; dated August 12, 2020 and signed by Oladejo Azeez, Esq, Registrar and Secretary to Council, stating that the current Vice Chancellor, Professor Oluwatoyin T. Ogundipe, FAS has been removed from office with immediate effect.
“This is untrue and a figment of his imagination. Therefore, stakeholders of Unilag and the general public are advised to disregard this mischievous disinformation about the sitting Vice Chancellor of Unilag, contained in that notice. Professor Ogundipe still remains Unilag’s Vice Chancellor.”
Meanwhile, two Senate representatives in the UNILAG Governing Council have criticised the pro-chancellor, Babalakin over his alleged role in the embattled VC’s travails.
Professors Olukemi Odukoya and Bola Oboh, in different statements, pointed fingers at Babalakin adding that Ogundipe was not given an opportunity to defend himself against accusations of corruption.
International Youth Day: Ize-Iyamu celebrates Edo youths, calls for engagement, support
The candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the Edo Governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, says the country must harness the energy, talent, and innovation of her youths to chart a path out of the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and lay the groundwork for a prosperous and stable future.
He said this in a statement released to celebrate the International Youth Day, a United Nations-designated day for youths across the globe to discuss socio-economic issues affecting them. This year’s edition is themed ‘Youth Engagement for Global Action’
In the statement, Ize-Iyamu said the youths are capable of big changes and transformation if provided the required support, and he challenged policymakers in the country to intensify engagement efforts with the youths to design policies centred on their true concerns.
He also called for participation and involvement from more youths, while assuring the youths of Edo State of his plans to create opportunities through the provision of working infrastructure and an enabling environment if elected as the Governor of the State on the 19th of September.
The statement read: “Today, the international youth day, I celebrate the resilience and brilliance of the youths of Edo State, and indeed the whole country, who against impossible odds contribute to the progress and development of the state and country.”
“With an economy brought to its knees by a raging pandemic and necessary restrictions imposed to curb its spread, now more than ever, we are reliant on the energy, talent, and innovation of our youths to build a path out of the downturn and lay the groundworks for a prosperous and stable future.”
“We must provide necessary support and most importantly, engage and listen to the youths. The theme for this year’s International Youth Day has been aptly tagged ‘Youth Engagement for Global Action’. It is a call for participation and involvement on the part of the youths, but also a challenge to policymakers to reach out and design policies centered on the true concerns of those who represent the country’s most populous age-group and our hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.”
“I have seen, first hand, the ability of our youths to make big change and transformations happen if provided with required support and empowerment through the numerous schemes and programs I have sponsored via the POI Mentoring Forum, which helps young persons to develop strong leadership, political and business skills.”
“Our youths need greater opportunities, working infrastructure, and a secure environment to pursue their dreams, and get deserved recognition and reward at home and globally. If elected as Governor of Edo State, I have outlined plans on how to do this in the #POISIMPLEAGENDA. I will listen and I will act.”
The APC State Media Campaign Council for the Edo Governorship election has accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of personally leading thugs to vandalize the complex of the Edo House of Assembly as part of his bid to enforce the continuation of what it described as an "illegal formation of a partial Assembly."
Reacting to the blockade of the Edo Assembly on Thursday by security officials, Mr. John Mayaki, the Chairman of the State Media Campaign Council, in a statement forwarded to Igbere TV, claimed that the Governor besieged the complex out of fear that his illegal house of just 5 members will be overturned and replaced with a more representative Assembly.
He said: "The outgoing Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has placed the independence of the legislative arm and the democracy of Edo State on trial."
"He has ordered the vandalism ruin and destruction of the Assembly complex under the pretense of a renovation exercise out of fear that his illegally-formed Assembly of just four members will be overturned and replaced with a more representative one."
"It should be recalled that National Assembly ruled that the Assembly formed by Mr. Godwin Obaseki last year after abducting some members-elect dead in the night was illegally done and, therefore, is unknown to law. Regardless of this, and loud outcry from the people of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki persisted in the illegality and denied representation to 14 members."
"Since then, five more members, led by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Yekini Idiaye, have since renounced the illegal gathering of Mr. Godwin Obaseki and maintained their support for the All Progressives Congress."
"Out of an Assembly of 24 members, 19 members have backed out of Obaseki's illegality and declared their support for the APC. Is it not against common logic and all principles of democracy for the Governor to claim to have an Assembly of just 5 members out of the elected 24?"
"The Governor has created needless panic and fear in the state once again because he is afraid that the 19 members, who represent an overwhelming majority, will set aside his illegality. He has invaded the Assembly complex, and the adjoining Ring Road, with thugs and all manner of people to block the Assembly complex, while also commissioning its destruction, including roof removal to prevent any sitting."
"It amounts to Executive recklessness, disregard for the principle of separation of powers, and complete irresponsibility for Mr. Godwin Obaseki to insist he must dictate to the House of Assembly on who it must elect as Speaker, more so with just the support of 5 members out of elected 24."
PDP Kicks
Meanwhile, the PDP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, charged the Inspector General of Police, Adamu Mohammed to immediately stop the invasion and attempt to forceful takeover the Edo state House of Assembly by security operatives.
The party argued that the invasion and occupation of the state legislature by security agents allegedly deployed by sacked national chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, is a direct coup against the democratic order of Edo state and a recipe for anarchy, chaos and bloodletting.
“We urge the Inspector General to act with dispatch to curb this nefarious situation, which has heightened tension in the state, and if not halted, may results in a bloody clash as the citizens are already charged to defend their symbol of democracy from a forceful takeover.
“The Police hierarchy is urged to note that this provocative and lawless act by the APC is part of its plans to overheat the polity and create a security situation with the view to unleash violence on the people, derail the democratic order in the state and blame it on security agencies.
“We condemn this notorious resort to self help by the APC and their agents to forcefully takeover power in Edo state through the back door.
“Our party has been informed that the plot is to use the illegal security operation to seize the processes of the House of Assembly and illegally inaugurate certain individuals whose seats have been lawfully declared vacant with plans to use them to pull down democratic structure in the state.
“The PDP has also been made aware of grand plots by Oshiomhole, working in alliance with the impeached Deputy Speaker of the Edo state House of Assembly, to import a fake mace, cause anarchy and then push for the imposition of a state of emergency in the state, seeing that they cannot win the forthcoming governorship election.
“Our party therefore charges the IG to wade in and immediately withdraw the illegally deployed security officers and protect democracy and peace in Edo state.
“Our nation cannot afford to have a breakdown of law and order in Edo state at this critical time as such is capable of having a spiral effect on other states in the Niger Delta region, which will further result in dire consequences to our nation.
“We therefore restate our call to President Muhammadu Buhari to rein in Adams Oshiomhole before he triggers a serious crisis in this country,” the statement forwarded to Igbere TV, Thursday, read.
Unending drama is currently unfolding in Benin City with the pronouncement of Hon. Victor Edoror as new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly by 17 lawmakers.
Igbere TV reports that the announcement came Thursday afternoon following the invasion of the Edo Assembly by security agencies drafted from Abuja.
The security agencies, it was learnt, were drafted to provide cover for the planned inauguration of the 14 lawmakers who were not inaugurated June last year. 3 pro-Obaseki lawmakers had earlier joined them making it 17.
Although reports has it that the move was foiled when the Governor and his deputy, Philip Shaibu stormed the Assembly, one of the lawmakers however claimed that the swearing in had already taken place before arrival of the Governor.
The lawmaker, who pleaded anonymity due to sensitivity of the matter, said the Oath of Office was administered on them by Deputy Clerk of the Assembly. He claimed the processes took place within the premises.
“I can confirm to you that Tiger (Edoror) has been elected speaker”, he said, declining further comment. Hon. Victor Edoror, alias Tiger, is lawmaker representing Esan Central in the Edo Assembly.
He has held the position of speaker in previous assemblies of the Edo parliament but was impeached at a time. It was not clear if the controversial speaker, Frank Okiye, was impeached in the process.
Okiye and six other pro-Obaseki lawmakers has been sitting inside the Edo State Government House for over a month, claiming the Assembly Complex at Ring Road was being fumigated over COVID-19 scare.
The relocation to the Edo Government House, Igbere TV learnt, was to monitor the pro-Obaseki lawmakers and ensure they remain true to the Governor’s causes until the September 19 Governorship election.
Following the invasion of the Assembly on Thursday, Governor Obaseki reportedly ordered that the roofs of the House be removed, while both the entrance and exit gates were blocked with heaps of sand.
Reacting to the development, a top government official said the election of Edoror as speaker will not hold water. The official claimed that Okiye had already declared the lawmakers seats vacant, and that the case was in court.
“Those that their seats has been declared vacant by the speaker are no longer members of the House, we only have 10 legitimate members now, pending when election will be conducted for the vacant seats”, he said.
“Don't forget that the PDP members are in court., their prayers is for the court to swear them in as second runner up. This case is a novel(new) case and the court may grant the prayers of PDP,” the government official added.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State will officially flag off its campaign for the September 19 Edo Governorship election Saturday, August 8, Igbere TV reports.
Igbere TV gathered on Wednesday that the flag off ceremony will take place at the Main Bowl of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) Sports Complex, Ugbowo campus, in Benin City.
Already, a presidential order or directive, Igbere TV learnt, had been issued to management of the University of Benin led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lilian Salami, to allow the event take place.
An official of the University and a top member of the APC National Campaign Council, who craved anonymity, confirmed the development to Igbere TV separately, on Wednesday night.
On the choice of venue, our source said the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led Edo state government had denied the APC access to the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium and a school field in the state.
“Obaseki denied us access to the Ogbe Stadium, even though we wrote earlier. We also learnt there are plans to disrupt and cause mayhem at the other optional venue, Garrick College, like they did before”, he alleged.
Efforts to reach the Governor’s Spokesman, Pastor Crusoe Osagie, to confirm or deny the allegation, were not successful. His known phone line was switched off as at press time.
It was gathered that the Governor had concluded plans to revoke the Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) of the School, should management allow their field to be used for political rally.
Garrick Memorial College is a privately-owned school by a chieftain of the APC. It was the venue the Party candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu was billed to received during his official decamping some time this year, but was disrupted by hoodlums.
Ize-Iyamu was later officially received into the APC by Party leaders at his private residence at Ugbor, GRA, where he decamped with his hundreds of followers and supporters.
For the Saturday flag off, Igbere TV gathered that the Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, is leading the Presidential Delegation, on behalf of the President, Muhammadu Buhari.
A presidential source who spoke in confidence, told Igbere TV Wednesday night that President Muhammadu Buhari won't be attending the flag off due to the COVID-19 pandemic protocol.
“President Muhammadu Buhari will not be at the rally. You know he has drastically reduced his public functions in the past few months because of the COVID-19 pandemic”, he said. Buhari's last visit to Benin City was in 2016 when Oshiomhole was governor.
Those expected at the flag off event include, National Leader of APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President of the Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan; and Deputy President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.
Others are All APC governors, All former National Chairmen of APC - Chief Bisi Akande, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.
Members of the National Assembly, Members of the APC National Campaign Council led by Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, and Ministers are also expected.
Meanwhile, Igbere TV reliably gathered that President Buhari is meeting the party’s candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu in a few hours, at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
Ize-Iyamu, who is already in Abuja for the meeting with the president, met with members of the National Campaign Council for the Edo State governorship election on Monday night.
Those who attended the meeting included former Senate President, Dr. Ken Nnamani; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State; Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, among others.
Staff of the College of Education, Ekiadolor, in Edo State, have blocked the main entrance gate to the Edo Government House a.k.a Osadebe Avenue, in Benin City.
Igbere TV reports that the College of Education staff, in their numbers, are protesting over unpaid salaries by the State government, for the past twelve months.
Today's protest makes it about three times the College staff, under the aegis of Coalition of Unions in College of Education, will be storming the Edo Government House in the last 30-days.
Efforts to obtain comment from spokesman to the Governor, Mr. Crusoe Osagie were not successful. He had, however, dismissed previous protests as “political.”
The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Edo State, has accused the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki of adopting President Donald Trump’s campaign mantra.
Igbere TV recalls that Obaseki had last week Saturday, declared he would Make Edo State Great Again(if elected for a second term), ‘after Trump’s Make America Great Again slogan.’
Following the development, the APC, in a statement forwarded to Igbere TV Tuesday, described Governor Obaseki’s action as “the most brazen daylight plagiarism.”
Prince John Mayaki, Chairman, Edo State APC Media Campaign Council, in the statement, said, “Devoid of thought, originality, and foresight, Obaseki’s campaign mantra hit the stands and screens, blaring itself in poorly colored letters: ‘Make Edo Great Again.’
“As it appeared and formed in the eyes and minds of the readers and viewers, only one thing came to mind: Donald Trump’s Make America Great Again. But in Obaseki’s copying of this idea, we find a man who is ignorant and dumb to the bones and marrows.
“For Donald Trump, the antecedents and preceding narratives warrants and justifies such mantra. For Obaseki, it doesn’t.
“Donald Trump was a conservative republican coming against a liberal democratic who, in Trump’s view, was complicit in the failure, incompetence, inefficiency, and corruption that afflicts America at the time of the campaign. Trump intended to come and change the existing norm and order, to drain the swamp.
“But here is Obaseki, the incumbent governor seeking to make Edo State, a constituency under his care and leadership for four years, great again.
“Two implications follow: first, it is a clear concession of failure, an admittance that his first term was nothing but an abominable misadventure; secondly, the adoption reveals the depth of Obaseki’s ignorance, dullness, and intellectual blindness. How, exactly, can a man make such a mistake? What swamp is he going to drain—the pool of his own mess?
“The fact remains that the PDP, right from their shameful acceptance and automatic adoption of Obaseki and his band of failures as gubernatorial candidates, went into the campaign without strategy and initiative.
“The latest plagiarist mantra was produced in a hurry and under the influence of mounting pressures coming from the popular criticisms that while Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is leading an issue-based campaign with the SIMPLE AGENDA, Obaseki goes about seeking whom to devour with childish propagandas characterized by glaring falsehood.
“Perhaps it becomes imperative at this juncture, to ask an already biting and relevant question: If Obaseki is just setting to make Edo great, what has he been doing in the past four years?
“Sleeping and dozing through governance while supervising a looting spree? Enabling violence and honoring thuggery?
“Closing down tertiary institutions and diverting state funds to his private company, AfrInvest? Going on an all-out war of opposition and dissenters?—which is the true legacy of Obaseki’s tenure.
“Obaseki, judging from the ongoings, is simply a rudderless child on a declining slope. Every attempt he makes reveals just what he wishes to conceal: that he is not deserving to lead, that he is thoughtless, and that he is insufficient.
“Admittedly, Obaseki has tried a lot, testing deep waters and making effort to clothe his weaknesses; but it remains one thing to try, which is the only true remedy to his plight: to give up politics and leadership. It doesn’t suit him.”
FG Launches Amended Broadcasting Code, Says Hate Speech Fine Now N5m
The Federal Government has launched the reviewed sixth Broadcasting Code of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, who unveiled the document on Tuesday at an event in Lagos revealed that the government has raised the fine for hate speech from N500,000 to N5 million.
He explained that the code was reviewed in line with the directive of the President for an inquiry into the regulatory role of the NBC in the wake of the 2019 general elections.
Mohammed noted that President Buhari had also ordered the probe of the conduct of the various broadcast stations before, during and after the polls.
He stated that following the inquiry, the President approved many recommendations aimed at repositioning the NBC to better perform its regulatory role.
The minister highlighted that notable among the recommendations was the need to amend the provisions in the Broadcasting Code and Act.
He, however, decried that reactions to the last amendment were concerns who thought their business interest was superior to that of the nation.
Mohammed also raised concerns that such persons have resorted to blackmail and using what he called hack writers.
He stated that the government’s intention was the good of the country and stressed the need to catalyse the growth of the local industry and create jobs for creative Nigerian youths.
According to the minister, opportunities must be created with a belief that effective regulatory interventions are guaranteed ways of attaining such.
He said the government would not waver and asked those who still have misgivings about the amendment to the 6th Edition of the Code to meet with the regulator and present their views.
Read the full speech of the minister below:
REMARKS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND CULTURE, ALHAJI LAI MOHAMMED, AT THE UNVEILING OF THE REVIEWED BROADCASTING CODE IN LAGOS ON TUESDAY AUG. 4TH 2020
PROTOCOL
Let me formally welcome all of us to this unveiling of the new amendment to the 6th Edition of the Broadcasting Code.
This event couldn’t have come at a more expedient time after the various stakeholders in the industry have ventilated their views on this all-important document.
This is an amendment to an existing 6th edition of the Code, which was launched in Kano in July 2019.
Before the launch of the Code in Kano, there were wide stakeholder meetings and discussions on virtually all the provisions of the 5th edition, which was now reviewed as the 6th edition.
The amendments were necessitated by a Presidential directive, in the wake of the 2019 general elections, for an inquiry into the regulatory role of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) as well as the conduct of the various broadcast stations before, during and after the elections.
Following the inquiry, Mr President approved many recommendations that will reposition the NBC to perform its regulatory role better. Key among the recommendations is the need to amend the provisions in the Code and Act.
The amendments are mostly in the areas of political broadcasting, local content, coverage of emergencies, advertising, and anti-competitive behaviour.
Ladies and gentlemen, there are many desirable provisions in the new Broadcasting Code:
– The provisions on Exclusivity and Monopoly: This Antitrust provision will boost local content and local industry due to laws prohibiting exclusive use of rights by broadcasters who intend to create monopolies and hold the entire market to themselves.
It will encourage Open Access to premium content. I must explain that this provision is not new to Nigeria Broadcasting. Exclusivity was disallowed at a certain time in the history of our broadcasting.
I recall Multichoice sub-licensing EPL matches to other local operators in Nigeria. I recall HITV engaging several local operators on sub-licensing the EPL when they got the rights.
– Sub-licensing and Rights sharing creates opportunities for local operators to also gain traction and raise revenue for their services.
– The law prohibiting backlog of advertising debts will definitely promote sustainability for the station owners and producers of content.
– The law on registration of Web Broadcasting grants the country the opportunity to regulate negative foreign broadcasts that can harm us as a nation. Such harms could be in the area of security, protection for minors, protection of human dignity, economic fraud, privacy etc.
– The provisions on responsibility of broadcast stations to devote airtime to national emergencies: This provision obviously mandates terrestrial and Pay TV channels to make their services available to Nigerians at times of national emergencies – like the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic – for their education and enlightenment.
– The provision raising the fine for hate speech from 500,000 Naira to 5 million Naira.
Permit me to say that section 2h of the NBC Act specifically empowers the Commission to establish and disseminate a National Broadcasting Code and set standards with regard to the content and quality of materials for broadcast.
From the above, it is clear that it is a regulatory function to establish the Code. It is democratic when the regulator engages stakeholders to get their views.
This could be done in several ways, including questionnaires, conferences, face-to-face discussions, and focused group discussions.
Once the regulator has factored all the views, he takes a decision to codify provisions that best address the needs of the country. This is what NBC has done in this case.
What I have observed in the reactions to the last amendment are interests who believe that their singular business interest is superior to the national interest. Therefore, they have resorted to all kinds of blackmail, using hack writers.
Ladies and gentlemen, we remain unperturbed, because we are acting in the national interest. The Broadcasting Code is not a static document. As we often say, broadcasting is dynamic. Therefore, even the 6th Edition of the Code shall be reviewed at the appropriate time.
But, as it currently stands, the 6th edition and the amendments, which we are unveiling today, remain the regulations for broadcasting in Nigeria.
Our intention remains the good of the country. We need to catalyse the growth of the local industry. We need to create jobs for our teeming creative youths.
The opportunities must be created and we believe that effective regulatory interventions are a sure way of attaining this. That’s why we will not waver.
For those who still have misgivings about the amendment to the 6th Edition of the Code, we expect you to meet with the regulator and present your views.
As I said, there are opportunities for constant review of the Code, but please note that this latest amendment is signed, sealed and delivered, and we are committed to making it work for the good of the country.
The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has relieved the Commissioner of Transport, Barr. Ekele Nwaohammuo of his appointment as Commissioner.
This was disclosed in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Sunday, in Umuahia, issued by Dr. A.C.B. Agbazuere, Chief of Staff to the Governor.
The General Manager of Traffic and Indiscipline Management Agency of Abia State (TIMAAS), has also been sacked with immediate effect.
“TIMASS taskforce is also to be setup to further check these excesses”, a statement forwarded to Igbere TV via mail, by the state government, reveals.
Transition Committee Chairmen of three local government councils in the State were also sacked on Sunday.
Those affected are, the Transition Committee Chairmen of Aba South, Aba North and Umuneochi Local Government Councils.
“The Deputy Chairmen of the affected Local Government Areas are to take over and together with their Heads of Service immediately set up a taskforce to check environmental indiscipline and other vices”, the statement added.
Meanwhile, Governor Ikpeazu has approved the appointment of Tony Nwanmuo and Godswill Nwonoruo as Commissioner nominees.
The Governor also approved the appointment of Barr. Ezechikamnayo as Transition Committee Chairman nominee for Umuneochi Local Government Council.
The Edo State Government has condemned the attack on its guests, notably governors and other Very Important Persons (VIPs), on Saturday, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, prequel to the flag-off of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s campaign for re-election, Igbere TV reports.
In a statement made available to Igbere TV, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said “the thugs were sponsored by the All Progressives Congress (APC), its candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu and the sacked National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole”, who he said had in the past few days engaged thugs to cause mayhem in the state.
According to him, “We are appalled by the deployment of thugs to the sacred grounds of the Oba Palace by the APC, Ize-Iyamu and Oshiomhole with the sponsorship of a Benin billionaire to harass guests who are in the state for the flag-off of Governor Obaseki’s campaign and had visited the palace to pay obeisance to His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin.
“While we respect the boundaries of politics as it relates to the Palace, it is reprehensible that the APC, its candidate and their enablers would sponsor thugs to desecrate the palace, which is a clear case of desperation to score cheap points.
“This conduct is not a trait of Edo people and is condemned in the strongest possible terms, as we are courteous and welcoming to guests. It is obvious that these persons were mobilised for this task by those who have no regard for the palace nor want the progress and development of the state.”
The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has condemned the alleged conspiracy by APC national leader Bola Tinubu, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe that led to the incarceration of a former governor of Abia, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
This was contained in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Wednesday, in Abuja, issued by Hon. Goodluck Egwu Ibem and Comr. Kanice Igwe, President-General and Secretary-General of the COSEYL respectively.
The statement reads, “It has come to the knowledge of Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the news making the rounds within the media spaces, of the politically motivated machinations that culminated in the unlawful incarceration, for six months, of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia state and a serving senator representing Abia North senatorial zone.
“The Coalition is aware of the latest release by the office assistant to Ibrahim Magu, former acting chairman of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Mohammed Lawal, asserting that indeed the recent travails of Senator Kalu had a political leaning, 2023 ambition among other issues given. Mr. Mohammed Lawal was bold to tell the world that Vice President Osinbajo and Tinubu - both who had been the mainstay of Magu who couldn't scale the legislative screenng hurdle - have a hand in the whole plot.
“Afraid of Kalu's towering influence within the South-East leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Emeka Ofor, Senator Ken Nnamani had aligned with Tinubu-Osibanjo axis to outdo, outflank and outmaneuver their own brother, Kalu. While Ofor and Nnamani had in mind to mar and ground Kalu regionally, another twist to it, this time from within Kalu's home state of Abia was equally exposed. Former deputy governor who served with Kalu and now a serving senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe was said to have merged with these anti-Kalu politicians simply for his gubernatorial ambition and again, to carry out his personal vendetta against Kalu.
“While Ofor and Nnamani work allegedly towards countering Orji from dominating party structure within the region, Abaribe worked, as Mohammed Lawal apprises us, to foil Orji within the state - Abia.
“The Coalition frowns at this and wonders much why a son of the South-East should, at any rate, aval himself to such political enterprise. More worrisome to the Coalition is the silence of Osinbajo and Tinubu ever since Lawal's startling revelation came to light. For the record, Lawal related how his boss, Magu, the beleaguered and former anti-corruption Czar was dancing to the Tinubu-Osinbajo tune in seeing to it that Kalu goes down. Lawal revealed that from 2.1 billion naira, Kalu's purported loot was jerked up to over 7 billion naira. Here, Lawal tells us that his boss, Magu, met with Osinbajo and Tinubu with Kalu's file whereupon the figure was more than doubled!
“The Coalition wishes to remind men like Emeka Ofor and Ken Nnamani that it is aware of this revelation and is watching. The Coalition is for peace within South-East and will use its good offices and all means within the law to ensure same. The Coalition calls on Abaribe, Ofor and Nnamani to think twice if at all their hands are in this ugly affair. As an umbrella body of all youth organizations in the region, we shall be ready to do all to stop this politics of "dog eat dog" playing out in the region now. The named actors owe the Coalition a refute to this allegation by Lawal if they have no skeleton in their cupboard.
“Politics is a game of numbers, of popularity also. It is behoveful that those who fear Kalu's meteoric rise should face him at the pools if and when he contests for any national or state position than use the EFCC or the court to an unlawful end, otherwise how can one explain away the fact that Justice Mohammed Idris does not enjoy nor has he any legality whatsoever in trying and hearing Kalu's case at the appellate court?
“Now that the real conspirators of Senator Kalu's unlawful incarceration have been revealed, we demand thorough investigation and prosecution of all those involved and any one found culpable should face the music.”
The South East Youth Leaders Coalition, however, called for caution on the part of all interests, adding that “politics is not about rancour nor is it a do or die affair.”
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki on Wednesday said he was innocent of all the accusations leveled against him by Dr. Hosa Wells Okunbo, Edo born billionaire oil magnate and business tycoon.
Igbere TV recalls that Okunbo, fondly called Capt. Hosa by associates, had accused Governor Obaseki of serially attacking him through orchestrated campaign of calumny to damage his reputation and business interests.
He said those attacks were engineered by the Edo state government under the watch of Obaseki over his (Okunbo’s) alleged support for APC/Ize-Iyamu in the Edo 2020 Governorship election.
In a personally signed statement made available to Igbere TV on Monday, in Abuja, Okunbo called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the people of Edo state to prevail on Obaseki to “leave him alone.”
He also accused Governor Obaseki of planning to revoke Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) of his houses and burn his farms, saying the governor once prevented Buhari from inaugurating one of his farms.
Okunbo said Obaseki, as Chairman of the National Executive Council Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft Prevention and Control, masterminded a damaging report against his company, the Secure Anchorage Area Ltd. (SAA).
But reacting in a personally signed statement made available to Igbere TV on Wednesday, in Benin City, Governor Obaseki said he was innocent of all the allegations made against him by the Edo born billionaire.
The statement reads, “My attention has just been drawn to a three-page advertorial sponsored and signed by you, in some Nigerian newspapers of Monday July 20, 2020, entitled: “An Open Letter to President Muhammadu Buhari and The Good People of Edo State: Please Urge Governor Obaseki to Leave me Alone.”
“In your lengthy and convoluted missive, you accused me of being the mastermind of all your recent misfortunes, which range from the sublime to the ridiculous. I sincerely empathise with you over these unfortunate and negative incidents but hereby state without equivocation, that I am innocent of all you have accused me of.
“Those who have worked with me can attest to the fact that I do not have the propensity to inflict evil or pains, especially of the scale you alleged, on any man or woman. I couldn’t have been shopping for businesses abroad while at the same time destroying the ones owned by Edo sons and daughters like you. My background and record bear witness to the fact that all my working career have been devoted to creating, supporting and sustaining businesses and investments.
“Even beyond my personal policies, I am under oath as Governor to guarantee the security and safety of persons and property and ensuring the greatest level of happiness to the greatest number of Edo citizens.
“In specific response to some of the allegations made in your publication, I wish to offer the following corrections:
“i. As Chairman of the National Executive Council Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft Prevention and Control, the records would indicate that the eventual report actually favoured you and your company, despite the strong complaints from the competition and some clients about the astronomical cost of the services offered by your company.
“ii. As pertains to the Secure Anchorage Area Ltd (SAA) operations, your accusation against me in this regard is blatantly false and without foundation. The Honourable Minister of Transport, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi is alive today to bear witness to the extensive effort I made on your behalf to resolve your problems with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
“iii. On the complaints regarding the non-commissioning of your farm project by Mr. President, it would appear that you are not aware that the President had a mere five-hour visit to Edo State and his itinerary was entirely put together by the Presidential Protocol Team and further vetted by the Department of State Services (DSS). They came to the conclusion that the commissioning of your farm project could not be included on the President’s visit. Neither I nor the Edo State Government had anything to do with that decision.
“As your brother, I have been struggling to situate the probable source of your outlandish claims and wrong assessment of my character. Without a doubt, I am convinced that you must have been talking and consulting with the wrong people in your search for an honest assessment of my personality.
“It is disappointing that despite our close family relationship, you could allow yourself to be convinced that I would do anything to hurt you or your business interests.
“You will recall that over a year ago in my house (at the early stages when the intrigues of the godfather began to manifest), I had advised you to steer clear of the battle which was going to be an epic one to get rid of the choking influence of the godfather from our political life. I knew at that time that the godfather was desperately shopping for allies of Edo South extraction to assist him in his obsessive quest to continue his choking and unproductive dominance in the affairs of our state.
“It is unfortunate that you fell prey to the recruitment drive of the godfather and you have now found yourself in the position where you are actively working against the interest of your own people.
“As you are aware, I have had my fair share of attacks for undertaking to serve my people and help develop my state. I have been humiliated, undermined and my age-old business and family name ridiculed by the godfather and his agents, simply because I refused to do his bidding, and deprive millions of Edo people the good life that they rightfully deserve. This is what comes with the terrain when any person involves himself in politics and the consequences that follow.
“In all of these I have no regrets whatsoever. I am certainly not paranoid about anybody. I remain committed and focused because the wellbeing and gratitude of the people, on whose side I have chosen to fight, namely; civil servants, pensioners, traders, the youths, farmers, drivers and the millions of other professionals and non-professionals in our state, are sufficient rewards.
“I am saddened that you have made yourself the face of the forces that seek the continuous dominance of the godfather in Edo politics and have thereby exposed yourself to charlatans and opportunists who are now preying on your inner fears and insecurities to distort the real issues on ground.
“I respect your right to make your political choices and to support any political interests you consider appropriate. I also acknowledge your freedom to freely associate with any political tendencies that you find acceptable. But you must recognise that the world of politics is not a tea party and the choices that we make in life always come at a cost and we should all have the courage to bear and accept the consequences associated with those choices we have freely made.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has named Major General Cecil Esekaigbe, a retired officer of the Nigerian Army, as Director-General (DG) of its Campaign Council for the Sept. 19 Governorship election.
The party, in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Wednesday, in Benin City, also named a former Edo deputy governor Chief Lucky Imasuen, as deputy DG, and former lawmaker Pally Iriase as secretary.
Former Rep member Samson Osagie was named Edo South Coordinator with Dr. Christopher Adesotu as deputy; Patrick Ikhariale as Edo Central coordinator with Larry Aghedo as deputy; and Hon. Stanley Okpo Odidi as Edo North coordinator with Hon. Anselm Agbabi as deputy.
A statement sent to Igbere TV via mail issued by Mr. John Mayaki, Communications Director of the Campaign Council, said the committee would be inaugurated today at the Campaign Office of the party's candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, at noon.
Igbere TV reports that the Edo State Governorship election holds September 19 with the APC candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu and incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as leading candidates.
Other campaign directorates of the Edo APC and its members include;
Administration and ICT
Mr. Tom Eshemogie Hon. Ken Ihienseken Ukato Thomas Jemitola Aanena John Okojie Kabiru Idris Erhauyi Alred Iyekekpolo Wahab Aliagbor Mathew Imelo Benjamin Emmanuel Sylvester Edokpolor Promise Muoneke Rhodwel Ikekwame
Election Strategy, Research and Planning
Gideon Obhakhan Hon. Paul Ohonbamu Hon. Ugbo Desmond Hon. Abdul Oroh High Chief Abu Oloye Prof. Oba Kashetu Ilavbare Chief Richard Lamai Hon. Joseph Ugheoke Hon. Osaro Obazee Prof. Marcel Okhakhu Hon. Tony Osazuwa Pauline Itepu Ekpenisi Omorotionmwan Hon. Bright Osayande Hon. Ogbejielie Fidelis Hon. Ihensekhen Ken Dr Bright Ederibhalo Dr. Arc Augustin Ileme Emuan Isesele Edeghonghon Andrew Adams John Osakue Isere Felix Pius Alile Agho Martins Shaibu Elama Robert Okoineme Peter Oba { Spetcogee} Blessing Agbomere Chief Naboya To Go Lagos Chief Martins Momoh MM Henry Idahagbon Rt. Hon Aisoweren Mr. Ikhinwin Sunny Hon. Victor Ekhator Hon. Sunny Idahagbon Prince Akeem Zibiri Sam Oboh Vitalis Eshokhena Prince Daniel Obade Rt. Hon. David Iyoha Stephen Alao Prof. Momoh Bernard Aghama Orobor Henry Owen Amadin Owas Amayo Imariabe Christopher Hon. Boroni Omijie Henry Omoruyi Osayande Nosa Influence Osagie Eboigbe Monday Onoquekhian Actor Omorodion Solomon Otikila Johnson Ausheyi Sanni Mr. Oshokha Ethuakhor
Contact and Mobilisation
Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh Barr. Henry Idahagbon Garrick Osemwingie Alh. Casius Ibrahim Hon. Rasak Bello Osagie Victor Madujimu Hon. Saidu Oshiomhole Hon. Patrick Aguinede Alh. Abubakar Akohia Chief Lucky James Macdonald Obasuke Hon. Sam Oboh Peter Omorodion Hon. Rowland Alari Nosa Ekunwe Hon. Festus Ebea Augustine Evbakhavbokun Chief Mathew Ehigie Mr. Etin-Osa Igiebor Dr. Rowland Aigbogun Hon. Henry Igbinidun Chief Wilson Ogieva Chief Wisdom Ogbewe Isah Omozuapo Emmanuel Iyase Hon. Osarobo Idehen Hon. Bright Omoiyekemwen Benjamin Salami Evang. Rosemary Elawure Philip Edo-Omo Emmanuel Ogbomo Rasaki Rotimi Osaretin Bello Mr. JT Olawole Hon. Folly Akerejola Hon. Chris Ebare Hon. Anslem Adima Prince Odi Okojie Prof. Moses Momoh Eugina Abdulah Barr Augustine Atakpu Alh. Tanko Ileogben Alh. Kasimu Ozeto Alh. Abdulganiyu Lawani Hon. Ambrose Imoode Sir. Raphael Aruna Hon. Folly Ogenedegbe Hon. Ogbejiele Fidelis Engr. Ayemere Obehi Hon. Sunny Ogbewe Mrs. Ameh Ogbemudia U. Hon. Mrs Itohan Ogbeide Hon. Clifford Inegbedion Hon. Bright Omokhodion Barr. Emmanuel Omokhimoh Hon. Patrick Osayimwen Madam Mabel Adams Chief Kenneth Oteghekpen Hon. Mrs Omorede Osifo Marshal Hon. Chris Okaeben Hon. Osaretin Edosomwan Hon. Samson Esemuede Hon. Sweet Aghogho Raphael Tenebe Hayat Asunogie Suleiman Yamah Ricky Aburime Barr. Chief Ikilo Agheyere Osayamen Alh. Yusuf Bako Hon. Godwin Eshieshi Efe Anthony Isah Muhammad Bello Mr. Nosa Igbinedion Mr Kolade Ikheafa Mr. Ebenezer Oladele Mr. Nosa Eghareva Mr. Gregory Akpasubi Mr. Edokpolor Idahosa Mr. Kelvin Orhue Mr. Mr Stephen Omoregbe Mr. John Oamen Mr. Efosa Isibor Chief Emma Iyase Galatian Igbinidion Prince Abubakar Oare Mrs. Agartha Ifeloa Ehimegbe Farouk Esene Wilfred lsaiah Okungbowa Francis Ubene Chief Bar Ikhilo A O Ikponmwonsa I.K Ebomoyi Chief Francis Obomonyi George Idehen Ken Okosun Solomon Ayedo Hon. Becky Sule
Communication and Publicity
Rt. Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon John Mayaki Chris Azebamwan
Finance
Sen. Francis Alimikhena Charity Amayaenvbo Hon. Larry Aghedo Taju Omoruyi Frank Okoyo Hon. Bright Omokhodion Dr Mary Idele Alile Barr Bisi Idaomi Hon. Chris Ebare Mrs Rosemary Osunbor Ayo Iriaye Golder Osikhena Anamero Dekeri (Danco) Omo Odihiri Abu Momodu Victor Eboigbe Larry Aghedo Emmanuel Usoh Deacon Patrick Idiake Monday Okpebholo Hajia Mariam Abubakar Alh. Saliu Ahmed Osigbeme Omoche Esohe Adams Donald Osa Edokpolo Tony Uwaifo Chief Richard Lamai
Women Mobilisation
Mrs. Betty Okoebor Mrs. Mariam Jubril Mrs. Inumidun Ereku Dr. Mrs Tawa Idubor Mrs. Dora Okogie Mrs. Agbarah Tina O. Halimary Alpoh Lady Patience Osawaru Mrs Maureen Ekhoragbon Mrs Zuliat Bello Osagie Pst. Jossy Ehis Hajia Zaliha Yusuf Queen Imasogie Hajia Charity Musa Gladys Daniels Ichibor Margaret Mrs Emike Obazee Hajia Zainab Meg Ebohon Mrs Ruth Diaga
Diaspora Affairs
Frank Okoyo Udomo Izobe Sunday Ekpetika Crosby Eribo Hon. Mike Ohio-Ezomon Adetutu Owolabi Chief Felix Omorodion Dr. Abu Zekeri Dr. Charles Omorodion Chief Billy Osawaru Frank Guobadia
Transport and Logistics
Chief Frank Erewele Chris Dirisu George Idehen Otinomo Blessing Dirisu Shaka Momodu Larry Imoukhede Barr. Ahmed Waziri Ikeke Yanki Suleiman Bagudu Shaibu Momodu Osahon Edigin Frank Omo Arewa Bawa Busari Alh. A.K Saidu Mall. Ukashat Sulaiman Barr. Mike Afealeokhai Abdulrasheed Usman Iyobosa Irughe Osarodion Ibizugbe Peter Ogun Adia Jude Joe Aisedion Baron Mike Ahmed Musa Friday Osaigbovo Benjamin Erhahon
Physically Challenged
Ovenseri Iduoze Mrs. Osamede Aghedo Paul Balogun Henry Ebose
Special Duties
Chief Francis Inegbeneki Hon. Yakubu .O. Musa Emperor Jareth Tenebe Chief Osakpawan Eriyo Nomoless Comrade Adun Tony Kabaka Abu Agbor Hon. Victor Edoror Hon. Osaro Idehen Otutu Osayende Samik Akor Hon. Osarobo Idehen Comrade Osarobo Idahosa Victor Ekhator S. Dada Ogie Hon. Dumez Ugiagbe Hon. Isimeme Iriogbe Hon. Reginald Okun Galant Godfrey Ogbomo Anslem Agbabi Sam Oboh Isimeme Iriogbe Omoike Romeo Edward Imanobe Hon. Robert Okubor Shaba Ehis Adams Hon. Dumez Ugiagbe Jerry Egbon Hon. Okpafi Mohammed Hon. Dan Asekhamen Dr. Mayor Onyebueke Athanasius Ugbome Mr. MacDonald Obasuke Pascal Ogie Frank Izuage Calistus Ojiko Chris Igechi Ikegune Emmanuel Ikpella Nicholas Sedi Tony Otsu Martins Okhai Hon Ken Oseghale Andrew Igiri Osayi Ekundaye Uche Chukwuka Austine Iribhogbe Hon. Barr. Henry Itseuwa Owen Obaseki Friday Amasigho
Medical and Welfare
Prof. David Osifo Dr. Festus Efe Momoh Musa Dr. Tom Imafidon Princess Bidy Omolime Tomsek Asekhauno Dr. Philip Ugbodaga Suleiman Mustapha Enakhe Ms Hope Iyare Agie Joseph Osa Philip A Osakwe Hon Dauda Abu Dr. Owen Omoregbe Dr. Mrs. Tawa Idubor Mrs. Ife Bello Osagie Pharm. Osas Asemota
CSOs and NGOs
Prof. Julius Ihonvhere Mike Igaga Taiwo Akerele Kola Edokpayi Shaka Momodu Marcel Imoisili Hon. Vincent Uwadae Inegbenebo Bello Aigbogun Sunny Esq. Hon. Elizabeth Ativie Comrade Gideon Akpata Osasu Osenbor Solomon Okoduwa Wilson Ogbachi
Youths and Students mobilisation
Hon Dennis Idahosa Emmanuel Asuen Engr. Gabriel Iduseri Hon. Uyi Ekhosuehi Yakubu Emmanuel Stanley Ayetan Victoria Okhai Uwadia Daniel Henshaw Oligbi Ahmed Johnson Philip Idowu Jigba Benjamin Suleiman Johnson Iyamu Abdulrauf Abubakar Ojo John Osayomore Amahdin Amos Cole Western Iyamu Abu Lamidi Faustine Ovienrioba Blessing O. Dirisu Iredia Agbonaye Martins Agomini Evans Agboneye Aledeh Houdu Emmanuel Aliu Dr. Felix Obaitan Tinyan Otuomagie
Security
Gen. Alfred Ilogho CP Nosa Ojo Rtd. Col. Tony Igbanor CP Augustine Evbakhavbokun Capt. Isaac Osagie Rtd Capt. Mike OKhomina Rtd Major Osawonyi Ekunwe Capt. Itsede Philip Austine Asenoguan SP Rtd Frank Ogundeze
Protocol and Venue
Omorede Marshal Osifo Efosa Iyamu Eduwa Paul Daniel Eronmonsele Pikolo Kingsley Ugabi Michael Okojie Mr. Mechi Momodu Oakumhe Saliu Jimoh Edebiri Osamede Jabiru Momodu Giwa Aroyame Vincent Imonike Aigbona Faith Iribhogie Shaibu Momodu Thaddeus Isikuenede Thomas Henry Ifidon Itakpu Prince Dauda Jerry Ikuoria Roland Igbadumhe James Osheku Mr. Idowu Maleke Prince Anakhu Dauda Steve Adepoju Adesuwa Arigbe
Legal Team
Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa Hon. Washington Osifo Hon. Eric Okaka Rt Hon. Thomas Okosun Prof. Edoba Omoregie Barr Louis Ojomon Barr Ofen-Imu Richard Barr Nosa Osemwenkhae Barr I. G. Edewi Barr. Mamoud Afegbua Barr. Donald Boi Osikhena Barr. Emmanuel Dada Ajegba Barr. Paul Omoike Barr. Hope Iyare Barr. Jonathan Iyobhebhe Okoror Stephen Esq. Godson Hayioye Hon. Barrister Henry Itseuwa Prof. O.G. Izevbuwa Barr. Kamarudeen Bello Barr. Patrick Biose Barr. Shola Iyogun
Muslim Support Group
Mallam Suleman Momoh HRH Alhaji Bako Ebiredelu Dogwo JP Abdulsallam Muhammad Inusa Adepoju Ahmed Ilias Anidu Abdulwahab Abdul Geniyu Momodu Abdul Lateef Momodu Shakiru Ajose Ahmad Shobowale Osas Aliyu Umweni Isah Mohammed Bello Sule Dauda Abdulazeez Aruna Oseni Eronmosele Muhammed Otokiti Shehu Seriki Sarahaisu Usman Abdulfatai Jayode Aishat Sani Mariam Idris Alhasan Abdulaziz Abubakar Isah Ustaz Surajudeen Muhammad Alh. Hakeem Aliu
Monitoring and Evaluation
Mika Amanokha Abu Meepata Ukanah Ojo Paul Alaba Lawani Dr. Obasogie Friday Prince Ehioze Erediauwa Okomayin Ojo Steve Ihensieken Ighodaro Emmanuel Usoh Obende Kenneth Barr. Patrick Biose Patrick Idiake Mahmud Ahmed Bar Monday Eboigbe Idris Kabiru Barr. Shola Iyogun Odigie Uwadia
Elders council
H.E Dr Pius Odubu Engr. Chris Ogienwonyi Gen. Charles Airhiavbere H.E Chief Lucky Imasuen Gen. Cecil Esekaigbe Prince Clem Agba Sen. Francis Alimikhena Rev. Peter Obadan Rt. Hon. Peter Akpatason Prof Julius Athekame Mr. Tony Uwaifo Rt. Hon. Johnny Oghuma Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa Hon. Patrick Aisowieren Col David Imuse Hon Lawrence Okah Mrs Betty Okoebor Benson Hon Benson Edosonwan Prince Malik Afegbua Rt. Hon. E.J. Agbonayiman Chief Solomon Edebiri Chief Francis Inegbeneki Barr Henry Idahagbon Rt. Hon Abubakar Momoh Rt. Hon. Pally Iriase Prince Tony Omoaghe Prof Ebegue Amadasun Victor Eboigbe Hon. Abbas Braimah Hon. Osaro Obazee Samson Esemuede Gen. Shuaibu Garba Gen. Abu Amodu
Christian Support Group
Bishop Iyobosa O.C Atoe Rev. Dr. Peter Obadan Rev. Collins Okonofua Rev. Sylvester Osagie Micheal Akpata (KSM) Rev. Samuel K. Ajayi Pastor Emmanuel Idung Deacon Richard Aburime Rev. Dr. Francis Okhale Bishop Godwin Iyebhobun Bishop James Onebamoi Pastor Joshua Airenukho Rev. Emmanuel Ogbomwan Rev. Sylvester Atsegor Rev. Efosa Awenaghawon Pastor Moses Iyobhebhe Maxwell Aigbe Pastor Mike Erhunmwunse
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Zakawanu Garuba.
In a statement made available to Igbere TV on Saturday, in Benin City, the governor said the former Speaker’s passing is “a deep personal loss to him.”
According to him, “I received the news of the passing of Rt. Hon. Zakawanu Garuba with a heavy heart. He was an outstanding Nigerian and a good man. He worked for the good of the people and contributed his quota to the development of his immediate community and the state.
“As Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services & Supervising Executive Commissioner, Operations at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, late Garuba performed brilliantly, distinguishing himself as a true Edo son with his commitment to duty, innovativeness and sheer dexterity.
“As a politician and Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, he performed his tasks diligently, served the people meritoriously and provided sterling leadership to the legislative arm of government.
“He excelled in his private practice as a constitutional lawyer, bringing panache to the noble profession.”
“The former speaker was indeed an astute politician and his wise counsel will be greatly missed. We pray that God grants his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he added.
On his part, candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the September 19 Edo Governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, in a statement sent to Igbere TV, expressed shock and grief over the demise of the ex-speaker.
In a personal condolence message released by Mr. John Mayaki, the Chairman of the State Media Campaign Council of the APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu mourned Zakawanu’s death as a “personal loss” which left him in shock and sober mien.
He said: “The death of Zakawanu Garuba, a former Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, has left me in shock and a deep sober mien.”
“Zakawanu Garuba was a great friend and dependable ally of many years. I am intimately and especially sad at his demise because we have lost a great asset. All of us, across ideologies and parties, as Edo people, has had an illustrious torch of brilliance and uprightness snuffed out by the cozy wind of death.”
“The sad news is made more tragic for me given the fact that I have looked forward, upon our victorious emergence at the polls, to seek the experienced hands of Zakawanu Garuba in the progressive mission of moving Edo State forward.”
“I have lost a friend; Edo State has lost an achieving son. We all should be sad but remain encouraged to, like Zakawanu Garuba, stand up for the ideals of truth, development, and democratic leadership, living our best lives in accordance with the principles we believe in while we still have life in us. This way, we will be remembered by our great works like we today remember my friend and our leader, Zakawanu Garuba.”
“My prayer is that Allah grants him Jannah, and his family, the fortitude to bear this heart-wrenching loss”.
Igbere TV reports that Hon. Zakawan Garuba was elected into the Edo State House of Assembly in 2003, on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
While in the House, he served as chairman of the House committee on judiciary, human rights, and legal matters. He became Speaker in 2007 before his impeachment in 2010. Garuba reportedly died of Coronavirus complications on Saturday morning.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of candidates for the 2020 Governorship Election in Edo State, Igbere TV reports.
This was contained in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Saturday by Festus Okoye Esq., INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee.
He said the publication was in compliance with INEC’s Timetable and Schedule of Activities and in accordance with Section 34 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).
Okoye added that the list of candidates is on display at the Commission’s offices in the Benin City, the Edo state capital and the 18 Local Government Areas of the State.
“The list has also been uploaded on the Commission’s website,” the Electoral body disclosed in the statement made available to Igbere TV.
By Section 35 of the Electoral Act and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities of the Commission, the withdrawal and substitution of candidates for the Edo Governorship election ended on 13th July 2020.
With the publication of the Final List of candidates, no Political Party can withdraw or substitute any of the nominated candidates or tamper with the List and particulars of the candidates in a manner inconsistent with the intendment of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
INEC urged Political Parties to “pay close attention to the timelines stipulated in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities of the Commission as well as the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.”
The Edo state 2020 Governorship election holds September 19 with Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress and incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party as top contenders
Wife of Rt. Hon. Zakawanu Garuba, late former speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen, Igbere TV can authoritatively report.
Mrs Garuba was reportedly abducted on Saturday between Kogi state and Okpella in Edo state on her way from Abuja, where her husband died of coronavirus complications earlier in the day.
Igbere TV gathered that the late ex-speaker's wife was on her way to Auchi in Edo state, hometown of Garuba, where he was expected to be laid to rest in line with Islamic rites.
The driver of Garuba’s widowed wife and two of her personal aides, who were together with her in the private car they drove from Abuja, were also kidnapped alongside the widow.
A family friend of the Garubas, who craved anonymity, confirmed to Igbere TV that “Mrs Garuba has been kidnapped.” The source added that the corpse of the late ex-speaker had gone ahead of the kidnapped victims.
Hon. Zakawanu Garuba, a former lawmaker, who holds the traditional titles of Oshiote of Auchi Kingdom and Okumagbe of Uzaire - both in Edo state - would have turned 55 on August 23.
Igbere TV observed that the Edo political community has since been thrown into mourning following the double tragedy - the death of former speaker and abduction of his wife.
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