₦airaland Forum

Abia state born philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer( CEO) STERCOLL GROUP has been Conferred with a Chieftancy Title by His Royal Majesty Dr. Eze Ugonwanne M.C Ngene (JP) Ezeike IV Nibo.

The occasion was graced by prominent Nigerians from all works of life.

Amongst the prominent Nigerians was the governor of Anambra state , Dr Charles Soludo who was ably represented.

Ezeike IV Nibo while conferring the Chieftancy Title of Kalu described him as a man of many sides who have traveled far and near and has bring development to his people.

His Majesty took out time to describe the examplary roles of Dr Kalu and urged others to emulate him.

Other Nigerians and family members of Dr Kalu also praised him for his act of philanthropy that has continued to elevate life's of the common man.

A group under the umbrella of George Uboh Whistle-blowers Network has in a protest ongoing in the NNPC Towers Abuja, demanded the NNPCL to disclose the whereabout of 48million barrels of Crude oil stolen and sold in China under the watch of Mele Kyari.

Dr George Ubah while addressing the press said the protesters are poor Nigerians and will not back down until Mele Kyari Obey the court order and publish in the public interest the whereabouts of the proceeds of the sale of the Bonny light crude oil stolen and stored in china under his watch.

Parts of the statement reads: " the court has ordered Mele Kyari to disclose and publish in the public interest the whereabouts of the proceeds of the sale of 48m barrels of Bonny light crude oil stolen in Nigeria and stored in china under the watch of Mele Kyari's watch".

Kyari's flagrant disregard for and playing dear eye to the court order compelling him to act smacks of "aristocratic arrogance". The disease all kleptocracts suffer globally, to the detriment of the suffering masses".

We will not leave here until Mele Kyari discloses and publishes in the Public interest the whereabouts of the proceeds which at $100 per barrels translates to $4.8b. we shall leave the criminal angle to the law enforcement agencies, given the fact the the court used the term ' stolen '.

Mele Kyari must shown us where he kept the $4.8b which belongs to all Nigerians on the homeland and in the diaspora

https://www.signalng.com/group-demands-for-the-whereabout-of-stolen-crude-oil-worth-4-8b-naira-under-kyari/

Youths in northern Nigeria are demanding for answers over the circumstances that led to the gruesome murder of numerous civilians in Tudun Biri Village, Kaduna State last Sunday by military air attacks.

The youths while mourning the dead calls for speedy investigation into the disaster demanding that every life lost must be paid for through compensation while those who are lucky to have survived with injuries must also be compensated.

This was contained in a press release made available to news men by the National Publicity Secretary, Northern Youth Assembly (Majalisar Matasan Arewa), Comrade Adikwu Omale Joshua.

He said, "Northern Youths, under the auspices of 'Northern Youth Assembly (Majalisar Matasan Arews), on behalf of its Board, National leadership and 19 Northern states chapters and FCT, condemns the recent killings of innocent people in Kaduna by the Nigerian Army".

"While we commiserate with bereaved families, it is our opinion that this development was unfortunate, and should not be described as a mistake" as asserted by the military, as such incidents had occurred again and again at different occasions and locations".

"It is our candid position that, it is unbecoming for such action to be described as a 'mistake' considering how the action was coming from a professional body like the Nigerian army, as such the ugly development was really unforgivable, and we therefore call for a speedy probe into the matter and appropriate sanctions be carried out against those behind the erroneous attacks on the innocent civilian community".

"This mistake as they called it is unfortunate and unpardonable, as we are aware that professional institutions like the army wouldn't carry out attacks without any credible intelligence, due diligence, surveillance and rules of engagement, as well as proper coordination".

"This kind of horrible mistake is gradually becoming common practice amongst our military, a development that is not only unfortunate but also unbecoming of our military. While we unequivocally condemn these killings at Tudun Birni village in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State, but also in a strong terms call for the immediate payment of full compensation, and the compensation must be in accordance with the teachings of Islam, as the victims were muslims".

"We wish to call on the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja not to renege on his promise to conduct a full scale investigation into the matter with a view to unravel the circumstances that led to the bombings, and ensure that, those responsible of this grievous error are subjected to face the wrath of the law".

"We commend the Vice President of Nigeria Kashim Shettima, His Highness, the 14th Emir of Kano, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi, II, the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El - Rufa'i and the Nigerian senate, for their condolence visit to the affected village and their kind gestures to the affected families".


https://www.signalng.com/tudun-biri-killings-every-life-lost-must-be-paid-for-arewa-youths-demand/

4th Dec. 2023

His Excellency,
Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
The President,
Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Presidential Villa,
Abuja,

AN OPEN LETTER BY NORTHERN YOUTH ASSEMBLY (MAJALISAR MATASAN AREWA)

Sir,

PREVAIL ON YOUR PARTY NATIONAL LEADERSHIP OVER A CONSPICOUS FIXATION TO SNATCH KANO, ZAMFARA AND PLATEAU STATES GOVERNORSHIP SEATS THROUGH RECKLESS MANIPULATION, AN ACTION CAPABLE OF SCUTTLING THE NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM AND MAY DEGENERATE INTO POLITICAL CRISIS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

The Northern Youth Assembly (NYA), a Northern Nigerian Youth platform with branches operating in the Nineteen Northern States and FCT, deemed it necessary to send this letter to you, after keenly observed the unfolding political wrangling in Kano, Zamfara and Plateau States elections petition cases, which if not tackled with care and spirit of fairness, could degenerate into jeopardizing the peace and the stability in Northern Nigerian Region

The plot to remove the current governors of those three states is allegedly orchestrated by your party's national chairman and his cronies, without minding the consequences that would befall the concerned states, economically, politically and security wise.

Your Excellency, this ugly development is strongly alleged to be a strategic plan in your favor geared towards 2027 election, considering the cumulative votes from those three states that belong to opposition parties

Mr. President sir, Nigeria is already boiling following the sudden removal of fuel subsidy, a unilateral decision you took, and subsequently resulted into unprecedented economic hardship to Nigerians, with more than 80% of the citizens, who could not afford three square meals a day.

Sir, the Nigeria military and other security agencies are already overwhelmed with ever growing security challenges in the six geo political zones of the country. Therefore, creating another politically motivated conflict is not only dangerous to the continuous survival of the Nigerian democracy, but also suicidal to the success of your administration.

Therefore, you should not allow the few politically desperate, greedy, evilly minded and myopic to destroy your integrity and personality in Northern Nigeria, the country and amongst international community, especially as someone who has always paraded himself as a true democrat.

Your Excellency, let us also remind you that, before you came into power, there were already 130 million Nigerians living in a multi dimensional poverty, this terrifying revelation should be seen and considered as a national emergency, considering the enormous dangers the development entails, which is practically a national security risk. Therefore, igniting any potentially driven political conflict in any part of the country especially in the North, is an open invitation to kill the Nigerian democracy, as well as an African democracy.

Your Excellency, out of the total votes cast, in the 2023 Presidential elections, with a little over 23 millions, you only got 8 million out of it, which means over 13 million votes were cast in favor of other presidential candidates. What this means is, those 13 million Nigerian voters that cast their votes, were not in agreement with your political campaign manifesto or that of your party, but have all silently let go of their ambition to establish a government of their dream, and their silence does not signify an allegiance with your party, political ideology, or the style of the APC administration in Nigeria, having ruled for 8 consecutive years

Your Excellency, some practical and proven statistics has revealed that, since your assumption into office nothing has practically worked towards alleviating the sufferings of the Nigerian citizens, but rather an increase in difficulty, which could be justified by the growing rate of inflation of all essential commodities and services in Nigeria, and an average civil servant can not buy a bag of rice with all his salary.

Your Excellency, another additional 20 million Nigerians have so far gotten into the trap of a multi dimensional poverty, since your assumption into office, and our expectations suggest that, your attention and concentration should rather be on these kind of challenges, rather than using the instrument of Federal Government to suppress and kill the aspirations of the Nigerian citizens, and deny them the right to choose their leaders, as democratically and constitutionally guaranteed

Sir, let us remind you that, more ungoverned spaces are increasing day by day in some parts of the country, and imposition of levy by bandits against the Nigerian citizens is on the rise as well, and there is no much hope for Nigerians on the specific time, the security and development challenges would be contained.

Therefore, the energy of the APC as a party, and as a Government should be invested to tackle such the overwhelming development deficit, rather than conspiracy to snatch the mandate of the citizens, which practically would prove very dangerous to our democracy and co - existence, as one united people

Today, many young Nigerians have become so prone to the influence of bandits and insurgents as potential recruits into the criminal camps of the these notorious and ungodly people. Consequently the dream of the APC as a party to transform this country into a one party system, is a day, as APC Government has not done anything tangible to convince Nigerians, and to deserve this kind of honour

The evil conspiracy to snatch the mandate of the Nigerian citizens in the opposition states in Northern Nigeria, is not a worthy venture, considering the volume of the burden of leadership on your shoulders towards Nigerians, and it is our belief that, you would certainly like your name to be written in gold, not with a black pen, and be recorded in the Nigerian book of black history

Therefore, as a seasoned politician and a leader, your focus should be to convince your political opponents of your ability to serve the country well, that might likely and gradually turn them into your political friends, but not through coercion or use of undue power and influence. To achieve this type of task as a president, you need more friends than enemies, you need more understanding than condemnation and criticism. You should be loved by your country men and women, rather than being hated because of your action or inaction, as well as action of your allies.

Your Excellency, the recent attacks against the Nigerian judiciary, though as one of the most supposedly respected institution in the country, and increasing condemnation against the institution from all corners of the country, damaging the integrity of the judiciary and the Judges, is enough to prove the level of the boiling anger of the Nigerian citizens, against the Judiciary as well as the entire democratic system.

We beseech you to call the attention of your party members now, to let those opposition states be, the number of protests we have been witnessing in many parts of the country, is an indication of bad signals of a looming danger should your party members continue insisting on snatching the mandate of the Nigerian citizens. Kano, Zamfara and Plateau States must not be an APC states before you win your next election.

Your victory in 2027 elections depend on what you offer to Nigerians, but not forceful manipulation of the Nigerian citizens rights. We therefore implore you to rise up to this occasion to put an end to these uprisings which we believe, have been caused by the desperate action of your party members, and you should not let them invite more hatred against your person and your Government.

We are worried and afraid that, these situations could degenerate into crisis in the North going back history lane, and every patriotic Nigerian will agree with us that this is not what we need at the moment, and not even ever.

We finally urge you to ensure that justice prevails and that any attempt to further manipulate the judicial system for political gains is thoroughly investigated, frowned at and dealt with, to prove your democratic integrity

Your excellency, your unalloyed love for Northern people should be the watch word and sacrosanct, as it elucidates your promise to uphold the virtue and dignity of one Nigeria project. Upholding the principles of democracy is crucial for the stability, and continuity of democratic governance not only in Nigeria, but in Africa as a whole.

We trust that you will consider this matter with utmost urgency and seriousness, and take appropriate steps to safeguard the democratic values that our nation holds very dear.

Long live Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live our president
Long live Northern Nigeria
Long live Northern youth Assembly (Majalisar Matasan Arewa)
NYA

Yours sincerely,

Dr. Ali Idris
President,

Dr. Garba Abdulhafiz Secretary General

Comrade Adikwu Omale Joshua
National Publicity Secretary

Yangtu: Gov. Kefas Flays Attacks, Swiftly Dispatches Deputy, Security Heads To Scene

Governor Agbu Kefas has received with utmost shock the horrific attacks on Yangtu by suspected gun men that reportedly claimed many lives. It is the latest in the dastardly acts of worrisome banditry in the area.

In a press statement signed by Emmanuel Bello , Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications the Governor extends his heartfelt condolences to the people of Yangtu, called on security agents to double their efforts in ridding the troubled area of all forms of terror.

"He has promptly directed the Deputy Governor and top security heads to visit the troubled area with a bid of seeking lasting solutions. He said he would not tolerate the threats to lives to continue under his watch".

"Consequently, Kefas noted that he was doing everything humanly possible to bring an end to such carnage in the state as he parley local heads and stakeholders on the menace".

"He added that his recent visits to all security heads at Defence Headquarters in Abuja was primarily geared towards attracting Federal Government support in the fight against banditry in the state. He stressed that security challenges are not restricted to the state as the entire country is reeling from the scourge".

"The governor said, among other things, the newly elected local government chairmen would be adequately empowered to safe guard lives and properties in their domain".

"He said aggressive measures are currently being undertaken by security agents to put an end to the sad occurrences using modern technologies in the field".

Speaking further on the effort of government, Dr Kefas said he is working in tandem with the Security Council of the state to ensure protection of citizens by closely working with traditional leaders and youth organizations.

According to him, security matters featured prominently in the just concluded North East regional Governors Forum for a holistic approach to the issue.

He reiterated his commitment to devote more intelligence gathering and funding to the sector to sustain efforts of all security outfits in the state.

Taraba state governor, Dr Agbu Kefas has decried the lack of a master plan for the state capital and the state generally. He said the lack of a master plan has made proper planning and projections difficult. He lamented that many things in the state are not right, adding that he inherited lots of challenges when he took over.

He said Wednesday when the Obadiah Ando led Committee on the streamlining of ministries, departments and government agencies submitted its report at Government House.

Earlier in his remarks, Ando, a former federal minister and Secretary to the Taraba State Government, said the task they undertook was a daunting one. He highlighted some of the challenges encountered during the course of their work.

Ando said the reports contained details of how the MDAs should be streamlined to avoid overlapping and expensive repetitions of duties. He commended members of the committee that included seasoned state and federal civil servants.

Ando noted that some of the ministries need to be unbundled to reduce their work loads. He said the office of the Head of Service should not be responsible for paying salaries. He stressed that salary payments should be the job of the Accountant General office.

Ando stressed the need for more refresher courses for top level staff.

Speaking on the assignment, Dr Kefas said he would implement the findings of the committee to the letter. He stressed that the sterling team that did the job can be trusted to deliver.

On the need for committees and trainings, he said those criticising his effort at retreats and setting up committees are bereft of how administration works. He said training, workshops and seminars are very pivotal to an enlightened work force.

He enjoined his team to work assiduously as a unit to actualize his dreams for the state. He promised to promptly set up a White Paper committee to come up with a summary of the reports.

The committee comprised of former Head of Service of the Federation, Danladi Kifasi, Chief of Staff to Taraba Governor, Dr Jeji Williams, former Taraba state Head of Service, Augustine Banzing among others.

Emmanuel Bello

Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications


https://www.arewareportersng.com/gov-kefas-taraba-has-no-master-plan/

Governor Agbu Kefas is clearly on the threshold of history in local governments administration. With some of the most trusted hands in local politics voted in last Saturday as chairmen, Dr Kefas is now focused on literally rolling in the tanks on the grassroots. "My dream is to give the people what they want not just what we want", he said.

During the new chairmen swearing in Monday, Gov Kefas did not leave anyone in doubts on this new direction at the local levels. He told his audience that local government administration is the fulcrum of development. He repeated the oft repeated axiom that all politics is local. He rightly noted that if developments does not sink to the wards and the units levels, governance have failed. Kefas also said a successful local government regime will translate into over all development of the state. "I believe that the nation is where it is today because local government administration has failed. We need to inject life and energy back to the government closest to the people", he said.

Invariably, that's the new kind of local government Dr Kefas is envisioning for Taraba state. One that is alive and responsive to the yearnings of the local populace. Not the comatose entities the local councils have now become with chairmen treated as common appointed aides. Kefas said, "I want my chairmen to be like semi governors in their own local governments, taking full charge. I don't subscribe to a weakened system that has turned chairmen into chair boys."

Consequently, the governor's plan is to make the LGAs viable, effective and very modern. To do this effectively, Gov Kefas plans to deploy not just the resources needed but the right technologies. He urged the newly sworn chairmen to leverage on technology in monitoring IGR and other growth indices.

With greater funding comes greater responsibilities. Kefas believes that a well equipped chairmen body will have no excuse but to deliver. Meanwhile, the governor, from today, will unleash a training program on the chairmen to start them off on the path of the reorientatation they all require. Old mindset and a tendency to be slothful would be dealth with at the retreat. Indeed, the local governments are set to jerk back to life.

Bello is the Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas

https://www.signalng.com/kefas-and-his-chairmen-the-new-direction-by-emmanuel-bello/

By Yakubu Baba Salisu

Nigerians are witnessing unprecedented trampling and bastardizing of our tender democracy recently with lots of dramas particularly in the courts.

A new phase of desperation and recklesness of the ruling class was ushered in towards the 2023 general election with the ineptitude of these politicians reaching it's zenith recently.

The popular saying "Judiciary is the last hope of the common man" is now a laughing stock amongst the oppressed in this country considering what is happening at the moment.

These desperate politicians have succeeded in weakening Democratic Institutions in the country; fostering lawlessness and wild-spread corruption in the land thereby, creating danger to the smooth sail of our democracy.

The ongoing Kano governatorial tussle and in some other states is a clear indication of this desperation by those who are hell bent to wrestle power with impunity; to further confirm this, recall the recent election in Kogi State where some INEC Staff doing the bidding of some politicians were caught with pre-filed election results in favor of a particular party even before the election started.

The present administration must be admonished not to allow greed drives it towards using state institutions in crippling the same democracy that brought it to power.

The case in Kano has drawn lots of attention nationally and even beyond the shores of the country with the judiciary caught in-between and must come clean to save its face to regain it's dignity.

The inconsistencies recorded in the ongoing case in Kano is an indication of selfish interest to the detriment of the people.

Dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you must not allow this bomb to go off, the people of Kano must not be punished for the sake of some few; Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must not be used as the scapegoat.

Our security heads must advise against this shameful scheme to confiscate the mandate of the people; capable of exacerbating the fragile security situation in the country.

https://www.arewareportersng.com/alas-weakening-our-democratic-institutions-a-deadly-bomb-we-must-defuse/

By Emmanuel Bello

The freshly concluded local council polls in Taraba state where the PDP cleared all the Local Government Areas, did more than just reveal the dominance of the party, it also painted, in bright colours, the political acumen of Governor Agbu Kefas. And coming on the heels of his feat at the Bayelsa state election, Kefas is fast emerging as a powerhouse of great note and clearing doubts both at the national, state and local levels.

But then even his own emergence as a governor of Taraba state came with it all the drama and turbulence of the political life. It was a starting point, an incubator that has seen him winning many more political battles.

For those who thought the reticent soldier turn politician will not make deft political decisions, the local governments polls has made them rethink their assumptions. They are now seeing him for what he truly is: a master chess player; a power broker and a shrewd deal maker.

Governor Kefas is clearly bringing to bear on democracy all he learnt in the trenches of war and military institutions. Those who have underestimated him have since reviewed their stance. They have also taken note of his sagacity, swiftness, and toughness. A power architect, everyone is enthralled as Kefas continue to silently design and build his structure. Those who harbour fears that established politicians will outwit the young man have since changed their position! Governor Kefas is his own man who is not afraid to take the hard decision at the drop the hat.

And in the just finished election, all the fears that the ever aggressive opposition may pull a fast one on the simple man, dissipated in an instant. The PDP not only dominated, the exercise itself was peaceful with virtually everyone accepting the outcomes. The governor have always believed that a vibrant chairmanship structure at the local level is the best way to go in developing the state. He does not believe in the imposition of care takers: an easy route many have taken in the past. He said elected council officials will best translate his Moving Forward agenda. Clearly, the best days of the local governments are here.

Bello is the Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas

https://www.signalng.com/with-council-polls-wins-gov-kefas-consolidates-power-by-emmanuel-bello/

The foremost organisation of, and for persons with disabilities in Nigeria, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has appointed Mrs. Florence Austin as the Interim Head of the organisation pending the appointment of a substantive head of the organization. The appointment of Mrs. Austin follows the appointment of the Founding Executive Director of CCD, Mr. David Anyaele as the Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Persons with Disabilities.


In a press statement issued at the end of the Board of Trustees meeting, CCD Board stated that they received with excitement the news of the appointment of Mr. David O. Anyaele, the Founding Executive Director of the organization as the Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Persons with Disabilities.

“The Board appreciates the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex C. Otti OFR for finding our Founding Executive Director credible to serve in his government as his Special Assistant on Persons with Disabilities which is a testament and recognition of the work CCD has done in promoting the rights, inclusion, and participation of citizens with disabilities in democratic governance”.

“Recognising that this is a critical moment and an unusual conjunction in our history as an organisation, in which transition is taking place within short notice; considering that the appointment took the organisation by surprise, and the transition process that might take some time to conclude;”

The CCD Board calls for the cooperation and understanding of its Partners and stakeholders, while requesting their Partners to kindly note that the Founding Executive Director will always be there to provide support where necessary even as they go through the transition process.

“The Board of Trustees assures our Partners that the Board of Trustees is always hands-on in all decision-making processes regarding our projects”. The Founding Executive Director of CCD will be going for a leave of absence pending the completion of his assignment with the Abia State Government.



https://kwararafareporters.com/ccd-appoints-mrs-florence-austin-as-the-interim-head/

We read with disbelief a piece which recently appeared in some sections of the media. Entitled "Has Taraba missed it again?", it was a vicious and ferocious take down of the performing administration of Dr Agbu Kefas in Taraba state. It wasn't signed but it said it is the views of a mysterious and amorphous "Tarabans in Diaspora".

This is laughable because this writer also knows many people who live abroad and look back home to see what's happening. That view doesn't represent anyone I know of. In their very candid opinion, Taraba now has a governor who understands what the jobs requires. He has the character and composure too for a leader.

But back to the piece. The long write up could be summed up in one sentence: "the jaundiced submission of biased opponents". The attempt at critical analysis was dwarfed by the emotional outburst and unsubstantiated claims. When, for instance, the writer queried Governor Kefas trips to embassies based in Abuja, I instinctively knew this was penned in bad faith. People who live abroad should commend a governor who understands the global dimension to local development initiatives.

But let's try and go over some of the salient points raised:

APPOINTMENTS

The writers accused the governor of being slow to appoint Special Advisers and Board Members. They also queried his choice of young people as commissioners. It is comical to say this because the governor is getting serious commendations for injecting young people into government. He's getting praise for not allowing young people wait endlessly to become "leaders of tomorrow". I don't know of anyone against this move apart from the ghostly writer of the misleading piece. Kefas cabinet is a reflection of what is happening globally thesedays: the take over by the generation mostly affected by governance (youths). It's not just youths, women too have been given an opportunity and platform in a manner never done before in Taraba state. He should get props for these and not knocks.

Above all, taking his time to pick the best shouldn't be criticized. What if he rushes the exercise and ends up having the wrong team? They would still blame him for rushing the process. Caution and careful selection should be seen as a good thing.

FREE EDUCATION

The petitioners are wondering how Governor Agbu Kefas would fund the free education policy of the MovingForward agenda. They said in an era when school fees are being increased, Kefas is slashing fees. First and foremost, Kefas has been receiving glowing reviews all over the world for his passion for free education. Parents and students alike are grateful for the reduction in fees especially with tye current hardship. In any case, Kefas also recognizes the challenges this gigantic project would be confronting. He is not living in denials. He tells everyone that it won't be easy but still doable. Right now, his energies are geared towards dealing with those hiccups in a policy that is loved by all. He has met with virtually all the stakeholders in the education sector so this wasn't jumped on anyone. As for funding, the governor believes that his efforts to tap into the solid mineral sectors and other revenue generating sectors will help fund the policy. He believes that international partners will also support the worthwhile move. He believes that it is better to start something than forever wait to the right time.

MEETING EMBASSIES

The accusations that Governor Kefas goes to embassies alot is, to me, the most pernicious take down of the piece. Let me hurriedly say these efforts are not social visits. Each one of those visits are anchored on particular needs of the state. The governor normally takes the relevant ministries along to interface with global leaders on the need for funding and other institutional supports. Some of the Foriegn partners are already in Taraba state doing some good works in the areas of construction, health, education, agriculture, others. Many have also pledged their supports. It is all for Taraba state. The meetings afford the partners to see upclose the seriousness and commitment of Governor Kefas. As we speak, many of those countries have signed up and are very willing to assist Taraba state in various areas. These include clear cut financial supports, capacity building, employment and growth generally.

WASTEFULNESS.

You probably can't find a more shrewd manager of resources than Governor Kefas. His character as a person has cut off most of the rasmatazz and ostentatiousness of power. He eschews show offs and unnecessary luxury. He hasn't changed abit from the lifestyle he was used to as a private citizen: modest, reticent and prudent. His aides are often times taken aback with his simplicity. Compare this with others who have invested in buying private jets and choppers, some not even in use today. Besides, none of the trips done with private jets or any other means of transportation are done for personal reasons. It's all for the good of our dear state. Actions should be measured by their motives.


NOT STAYING IN JALINGO.

Again, the governor does not travel to see family and friends on those trips. He's not on a jamboree. The state and the citizenry are the direct beneficiaries of all the trips. What is more, these are tough times and both the Federal and State governments have to constantly work together. Governor Kefas, who enjoys the confidence of the top hierarchy of his party and the Presidency, often gets called for functions. Meanwhile, with the right team in place, Governor Agbu Kefas, knows the state is in safe hands when he is out of town. This is like accusing a bread winner of not being a home stayer. What shall anyone gain by having a Chief Executive who does not go out to do the needful- activities geared towards enriching the state? Of what use is just hanging in the state when collaborations, synergy and other forms of interface with institutions will benefit us more? Moreover, modern technology has made it easy for Chief Executives to work from various places. Files can be treated from a distance. Meetings can be arranged. Directives can be given. Monitoring too is made easy by the touch of a button. It is almost anachronistic to stay in one place all the time.

ENDLESS RETREATS.

The retreats are not endless. There have been only two outside the state so far. No knowledge is wasted and seeking new lights is not wrong. The retreat held in Abuja, for example, for the newly sworn in team at the Nigerian Army Resource Center, is still being talked about. It was as historic as it was exceptional. Apart from capacity building, these trainings assist in placing the state in a position to attract funding. It emphasizes the seriousness and focus Kefas places on expertise and efficiency. No commissioner, for instance, can now say they haven't received the necessary tools for performance.


MANAGERIAL SKILLS

How anyone can accuse Governor Agbu Kefas of not possessing the managerial skills to run the state beats my imagination. For the avoidance of doubt, Kefas comes to this job with over two decades of managing men and materials in even the theater of conflicts. A man who has headed federal government outfits such as NIMASA can not be said to be a learner in administrative matters. At the state level, he has been Chairman of the party before successfully running for office himself. His trainings in the Army and the Intelligence Corp he belongs to were all preparatory grounds for leadership.

In conclusion

Governor Agbu Kefas is just in his fifth month as the helmsman. Those familiar with the history of his emergence and the dramas of the transition that produced him, will appreciate better the steps he has so far taken to stabilize a very agitated state. They will appreciate further his efforts at restoring faith in governance by practically starting from scratch. He is re-molding a new Taraba state build on partnership, synergy, data and modern technology. Some of this would take time for maturation and some of the benefits will become manifest with time. But what many have since agreed on is his sincerity of purpose, his focus and his boundless energies as he pursues the Moving Forward agenda.

Emmanuel Bello

Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas

[b]4.8Billion Dollars Accruing Thereto, And The Dance Of Macabre.

On the 19th of October, 2023 under the aegis of The National Coalition Of Civil Society Organizations Against Inept Leadership, we brought to the nation and the world through a World Press Conference the fact that 48 million barrels of Bonny Light Crude Oil valued at 4.8 Billion Dollars was stolen and sold under the watch of Mele Kyari as the Group General Manager Crude Oil Marketing Division of the NNPC now NNPCL.

The content of the Press Conference was liberally used by the online media, whereas no thanks to the self-censorship of the terrestrial media a little segment of the main stream media gave attention to the humongous details outlined by the Whistleblower Dr George Uboh and the Team of Patriots committed to ensuring that Nigeria works for the good of all.

Interestingly rather than respond to the issues of the Press Conference addressed by the Team of Patriots, and take steps to return the 4.8 Billion Dollars accruing to the nation from the stolen 48 million barrels of Bonny Light Crude Oil stored in China, Alhaji Mele Kyari the Group CEO of NNPCL procured a select team of Civil Society operators who through a Falsehood ladened Press Conference sort to divert public opinion and attention from the grave issues of economic sabotage, oil theft, unconscionable thieving of our collective patrimony and depletion of the resources that should accrue to the nation.

In the text of the Press Statement released by the Pro Larceny ditto the Pro Mele Kyari agitators they alleged that a certain Billionaire Whistleblower was blackmailing the NNPCL Group CEO Mele Kyari, that through a Serving Senator the matter had been settled (you wonder what matter was settled) and that the Whistleblower was out to blackmail the NNPCL to stop the ongoing repair work at the Port Harcourt Refinery. Do you not wonder how a call to return 4.8 Billion Dollars that should accrue to the nation, give life to our economy, and make life better for the masses of our people, translates to a spurious call to stop the Turnaround Maintenance of our Refineries?

We are interested in putting the records straight, and without an ounce of equivocation, we are calling on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to call the Group CEO of NNPCL to order, and compel him and the NNPCL to return forthwith the 4.8 billion dollars accruing to the nation through the sale by him and his proxies of the Stolen 48 million barrels of Bonny Light Crude Oil stored in China amongst other s. Recall that a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana once alleged that 50 million barrels of Nigeria's Crude Oil was sold in Pennsylvania USA, whereas in Nigeria where the alleged Crude Oil emanated from there was no record of such, whatsoever.

In the present instance we have a valid Court Order compelling Mele Kyari in his personal capacity to disclose and publish in the Public Interest the proceeds of the Sale of the 48 million barrels of Bonny Light Crude Oil stolen in Nigeria and stored in China.

We ask the Group CEO of NNPCL Alhaji Mele Kyari to within 7 working days release the name and details of the Serving Senator who is allegedly in the middle of the so-called blackmail of the Group CEO of NNPCL, and how that relates to Dr George Uboh a credible Whistleblower who has saved the nation the loss of several billions of Naira and Dollars through the years of his commitment to the fight against corruption.

Upon the expiration of the 7 days notice we shall be compelled to proceed to Court to pursue a libel proceeding against those who seek to malign the just and the patriotic. We shall also engage with the ever boisterous civil society to protest the thieving of our collective patrimony by those entrusted with the management of the NNPC.

In the coming days we shall stop at nothing in ensuring that the monies that accrue to Nigeria wherever so hidden by the enemies of Nigeria are traced, we shall inform Nigerians about this through Press Conferences, Press Statements and other Media Interventions, and we shall take every Legal steps conceivable, including but not limited to litigation and protests to ensure that no one profiteers unlawfully from our commonwealth.

We are resolutely committed to helping and supporting the recalibration of the nation's economy by Government, and we believe that in concert with the relevant agencies of Government dedicated to the Recovery of Funds that accrue to our nation we can help to free up over 300 billion US Dollars in various hideouts across the world. This is our promise and commitment, therefore let no Mele Kyari, Godwin Emefiele and Co. seek to clothe Patriots committed to a new era of responsible and responsive management of our collective wealth in bad robes because it won't stick.

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr.
Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT.

James Ezema
Deputy Publicity Secretary
Conference of Nigerian Political Parties CNPP.


https://www.signalng.com/mele-kyari-the-stolen-48million-barrels-of-bonny-light-crude-4-8billion-dollars-accruing-thereto-and-the-dance-of-macabre/

In an unprecedented move by any one in his position, Gov. Agbu Kefas has actually visited all the military service chiefs in Abuja. At the heart of these trips is just one mission: the need for better security in Taraba state. In all the trips, the governor makes a point of carrying everyone along. He does not walk alone: National Assembly members, state Assembly members, his commissioners, elders, women and youths of the state all go with him.

According to him, the job of safeguarding Taraba state goes beyond the political. He said he must carry all stakeholders along so they would appreciate the level of the problem and the work that will go into it. He stressed that the challenge required the support of all. He rejected the old notion that governance is only for the governor. The bipartisan approach, he stressed, is anchored on the need to manage all diversities and work as a team.

Starting off with the Army Chief, it was a homecoming of sorts for the retired Lieutenant Colonel who made a historic mark in the Intelligence Corp of the military. The visit was memorable as major military top brass welcomed one of their own to the Army Headquarters. Their friend and brother, who had crossed to the "other side", haven't forgotten them. They assured him of their support and expressly encouraged him to represent them well. Dr Kefas, on the other hand was very grateful for the kind reception. He told them he won't forget his roots and that he would be a great ambassador. It was heartwarming to note that many of the officers present were coursemates to the governor.

After the Army, the governor moved to the Navy. Taraba state is actually named after a river and it has the longest stretch of the River Benue. Invariably, this visit was pivotal. The Kashimbilla Dam is located in the southern parts of Taraba state. River Ibi is one of the largest body of waters in the North East. The Navy therefore has an important role to play in the scheme of things as far as the over all security of the state was concerned.

The final visit was to the Airforce Headquarters. Again, as with the Navy, Taraba state is largely a mountainous state with many large forest reserves. The role of aerial surveillance and air related defence can not be over emphasized. This is where the Airforce comes in.

These visits have proven one thing: Governor Kefas is deeply concerned about security. He is committed to taking his number one duty very seriously. He is hopeful and desirous that Taraba state shall be rid of all criminal activities, banditry and crisis caused by outside interferences and age long lopholes. No one is left in doubt of his capacity and commitment to these ideals.


Bello is the Special Adviser Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas.

Kano Governor Flags-Off Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship with Over One Thousand Beneficiaries

..... Emirs, Stakeholders Laud NNPP Administration as the 1st Batch of Beneficiaries Depart Kano Friday


In fullfilment of campaign promises, Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has flagged-off resumption of foreign scholarship programme with one thousand and one(1,001) beneficiaries who will study masters degrees in various universities around the world.

The first batch of the beneficiaries numbering 150 out of the 1001 will depart Nigeria to various countries on Friday, 20th October, 2023.

The beneficiaries are first class degree holders indigenes and residents who are awarded the free and all expense covered scholarship for postgraduate studies in India and other countries.

Presenting the scholarship to the students in colourful ceremony that was held at the Open Theatre, Government House, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf said the project was an offshoot of the similar scheme initiated by Senator Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso's administration (2011-2015) and in line with his government's higher education blueprint that places high premium on human capital development.

The Governor said apart from the foreign scholarship scheme, Kano State government is committed to improving state owned tertiary institutions through provision of increase funding and infrastructure development for effective learning, teaching and research.

He implored the beneficiaries of the Scholarship to make the best use of the golden opportunity to excel in their fields of studies by remaining committed, focus,respect of the laws of the land and respect for norms, values and cultures of their host communities.

Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf applauded Senator Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso for his foresight of coming up with the sheme that produced distinguished scholars in various human endeavours who are positively contributing towards the development of Kano, Nigeria and other international communities.

Former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso congratulated the beneficiaries for the opportunity to further their education abroad and thanked Kano State Government for doing what it takes for the exercise to become a reality and tasked them to emulate their predecessors by facing their engagements squarely and finished with flying colours.

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero who spoke on behalf of Kano emirs, expressed delight with the development saying it was an opportunity for the lucky one to implore their talents, acquire knowledge and become respected personalities in future.

Signed
Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa
Chief Press Secretary to Kano State Governor

Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) in conjunction with Allied civil society organizations under the aegis of coalition of national civil society organizations against inept leaders has called on NNPCL GCEO Mele Kyari to Obey Court order and publicly disclose the whereabouts of proceed of stolen 48 million barrels of Nigeria's Bonny light crude stolen and stored in china since 2015.


Professor Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr (Convener, Countryfirst movement) Comrade James Ezema (Deputy National Publicity secretary CNPP), and Alhaji Ali Abacha (National secretary, coalition of Nigeria civil society organization) while addressing journalist in a world press conference in Abuja said the NNPC/NNPCL has been at the center of the illegal sale of 48 million barrels of Nigeria’s Bonny Light Crude in China since 2015 valued at 4.8 billion dollars at $100/barrel as leaked by a whistle-blower.


Nwaokobia said beyond preventing lawmakers from carrying out their constitutional oversight functions of probing oil theft cases, using the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, the NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr Mele Kolo Kyari has also refused to obey the order of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to disclose and publish, in the interest of the public, the whereabouts of the proceeds of the sale of the 48 million Barrels of Bonny light Crude Oil Stolen from Nigeria and stored in china under his watch.

According to the Coalition a federal high court Judge, Justice F.A. Aliyu, made an order on July 12, 2023 and Since the order was made, till date, Engr Kyari has carried on as though the court did not exist, let alone issuing an ordered.

In view of the refusal of the Mele Kolo Kyari-led management of the NNPCL to obey the order of the Court and obvious efforts to frustrate every process that could lead to unraveling the mystery behind the illegal sale of the 48 million barrels of Nigeria’s Bonny Light Crude in China in 2015, valued at $4.8billion dollars as leaked by whistle-blowers, the group demanded for the immediate suspension of the NNPCL’s GCEO to pave way for unhindered investigation into the matter.

The group also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a matter of urgent national importance, to suspend Mele Kyari and carry out full forensic audit of the old NNPC and the new NNPCL under his watch.


Recall that in February 2023, a Ad hoc Committee openly accused then the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, as well as the INTERPOL, of interference in the committee’s investigation regarding the Exposure.

The Chairman, House Ad hoc Committee on Oil Theft, Mark Gbillah had said, “There is a group called Advocacy for Good Governance and Free Nigeria. That is the so-called Civil Society Organisation that wrote to the Attorney General claiming there was this international gang of blackmailers trying to blackmail senior officials of the government.

A Non-Governmental Organization named the Hand of Favor Global Care & Support Foundation, an organization dedicated to rendering support to the less privileged had embarked on an outreach to celebrate children’s day at Gidan Bege Orphanage Home in Makurdi, the Benue state capital.


The event which held on the 27th of may 2023 was designed to encourage Children to grow to become better citizens worthy of emulation.


Addressing the students the group said children are the country's future leaders, as they will grow to become doctors, nurses, lawyers, engineers, teachers, pilots, architect, etc.


The group further opined that "Hands of Favor Global Care and Support Foundation believes that once you celebrate a child, you are also uplifting and ushering them into a better version of themselves by teaching them, love, value and self-worth. A child that experiences so much love is a child that is confident".



They further said "One of the aim for the foundation is to build up self-esteem of children and young adults, and
some of the ways to do that is by encouraging, celebrating, and sharing everlasting memories
with them".


The team from the foundation's office had an amazing time playing several games and bonding with the children after which a class of exceptional young lads from the orphanage were selected for educational Scholarship which brings to 15 the number of children presently on yearly educational scholarship been sponsored by the foundation.

The recent palliatives that the Federal Government offered, according to Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, are the outcome of “limited thinking,” he claimed, emphasizing that they are only a band-aid.

Obi stated this in an interview with The Morning Show on Arise TV on Monday.

“If you look at what this country has done since its founding, you could see announcements with constrained thinking,” Obi added. this again yields a meager result.

When asked if he would be willing to work with the current government, he said, “We are at the point where we are challenging the process and that has to come to a logical end before any other thing. Even being in the opposition is part of building the government.”

Obi also reiterated that fuel subsidy is an organised crime. “My approach would be to remove the corruption and criminal side of it.”

On the volatility of the naira, Obi advised, “What you should have done is devalue the currency while trying to manage the supply by making sure you deal with issues that control the exchange rate. Which is the reserve. And what controls your reserve is your export. Especially, oil and other minerals. Encourage (export of) those things and then deal with issues of foreign exchange while trying to manage what you have.”

https://www.signalng.com/palliatives-outcome-of-awkward-thinking-peter-obi/

Where are the heroes? Who were they? When did we grow heroes? How did we grow them? At what point in our historicity did we grow men and women who were ready to give their all for the good of all? Did we ever have such men and women in the saddle? Were those we call our 'heroes past' not all pretenders to the pristine values of leadership? Were they true Patriots? Were they Selfless? Were they Statesmen? Were they Pan-Nigerian? Were they Pan-Africans? Were they superior to the nuances of Creed and Clan? What were their heroics?

After 63 years of independence, bigotry, ethnic jingoism, and religious chauvinism defines the entire fabric of our political life.

After 63 years, thieves, looters, forgers, certificate cheats and men of questionable credentials decide what happens in Nigeria.

After 63 years, Drug Lords and their apparatchiks hold court in the Courtyard of power. They mortally deride our collective values and continue like it does not matter.

After 63 years, the National Assembly that should make Laws for the Order and Good Governance of the nation abdicates the reason for which it was created by Law, opting gleefully to be the Rubber-stamp of the Executive.

After 63 years, the Judiciary that should be the last hope of the common man has become a citadel of dashed hopes and bungled promises. We are faced with the cliche GO TO COURT, because the new praxis is 'Judgement over Justice', 'Judges for Hire' and 'Judgement for the Highest Bidder'. Sad!

After 63 years, lies and falsehood has been elevated as core trust of State Policy.

After 63 years, perfidy and mendacity, banal propaganda, clannishness, and ethnic jingoism have become the directive principles of State Policy, as 'my turn' 'our turn' and 'my tribe' defines who gets what, how and when?

After 63 years, rather than improve on our electoral process we chose a backward flung, the last election dwarfs every known electoral malfeasance in our Country's history. It beatifies the 2007 electoral larceny which Morris Iwu superintended. And the descent to the abyss continues.

After 63 years quacks remain in power to the utter dismay of a highly progressive world inspired by technology and urbanization. To the utter dismay of her Youths. To the utter chagrin of her Diaspora population. To the utter dismay of Generation Next. And to the utter chagrin of global students of leadership.

How can a nation so blessed by the Almighty be this poor? How can a nation that is blessed with amazing resources and riches ineffable be this dysfunctional? How can a nation be so disorganized that it imports what it has in quantum? How can a nation with monstrous arable land be hungry? How can we have so much mineral resources with nothing to show for it?

How can a nation with amazing human resources, with the best minds in several fields be failing on all fields? How come our economy is in tatters? How is our debt profile spiraling upward without a solution? How come Naira is on a massive free-fall? How come things are falling apart almost irredeemably?

How come we import finished petroleum products 63 years after our independence and almost 70 years after Oil was discovered in Nigeria? How come we do not have 24 hours of electricity supply? How come our educational system is topsy-turvy? How come our healthcare delivery is at best comatose? How come corruption is King and larceny Chief? How come nothing works? How come Nigeria is a lame giant bloodied by failed leadership?

The answer is simple Compatriots, we have quacks in power. And all pretenders to leadership MUST be shown the exit door. We must push for and push through a Massive Masses Oriented Revolution that must rupture the rule of quacks and quackery. We must rise up to birth and berth a nation where leadership is responsible and responsive to the people.

And we must challenge ourselves for the soul and the heart of our nation, we must say to the rampaging buccaneers that have ravaged our nation for 63 years IT IS TIME UP.

Countrymen and Women, the time to take back Nigeria is now, and we must get to work now. We must organize rather than agonize. We must unite against our fault lines, and tell all bigots and religious chichidodos that we belong to the Human Tribe, and that we are committed to berthing a Nigeria that works for all.

Until we set out to make October 1, 2024 better than October 1, 2023 I am sincerely unable to say Happy Independence Day. Until we banish the era of quacks as leaders in this Country I'm unable to indulge in the hypocrisy of saying Happy Independence Day, because I know that Nigerians are not Happy. And until we leave our comfort places to the STREETS our True Independence may yet be distant.

So long My COUNTRY-PEOPLE.

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr.
Convener Countryfirst Movement.
Initiator M.A.D IN AFRICA Leadership Series.

BY NORTHERN YOUTH ASSEMBLY (MAJALISAR MATASAN AREWA)

Sir,

DO NOT SUCCUM TO THE ANTICS OF SOME ALLEGED ELEMENTS IN YOUR GOVERNMENT TO CREATE POLITICAL CRISIS IN KANO STATE AS SUCH ACTION IS CAPABLE OF CREATING HATRED AGAINST YOUR NEW GOVERNMENT AND SHALL ERODE THE REMAINING CONFIDENCE OF THE CITIZENS IN THE NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM

Let us for the record as we deemed it appropriate, to introduce our organization to you, as this is the first time we are writing to you since your assumption of office as the elected president, Federal Republic of Nigeria. Northern Youth Assembly (Majalisar Matasan Arewa), is a youth focused organization, established in 2010, and subsequently incorporated with CAC. The organization has a functional leadership, at both national and States leadership structures in each of the Nineteen Northern States and Abuja.

Your Excellency, we have painstakingly resolved to communicate to you through this medium, to avoid unnecessary protocol and administrative bureaucracy, considering the gravity of the situation, as well the urgency to draw your attention on the matter, before it goes out of hand.

As you are fully aware, Kano is officially the most populous State in the country, with an estimate figure of over 20 million, a population size equivalent to more than 5 states if added together in the country. Kano State, is also the heartbeat of the North, which many citizens of other states largely depend upon, for the viability of their economy, and steady earnings for livelihood. Kano State, has for some years been stable politically since 2019 due to huge sacrifices many individuals and organizations had paid, such as Kano Peace Committee (KPC), the Nigeria Police under the able leadership of CP Mohammed Wakil, who summoned all the courage to contain the evilly institutionalized political thuggery, until when the inconclusive saga descended on Kano, through the hand work of some politicians, who did not mean well for the State. Your Excellency, many lives could have been lost in 2019, but to God be the glory the situation was marginally controlled.

The 2023 general elections, equally went through peacefully, courtesy of the joint efforts of the security agencies, Kano Peace Committee (KPC), as well as the cooperation of the Kano State Government. Kano State has been able to escape many of the evil plans purportedly designed to drag the State into chaos and disharmony. We are all aware of the pluralistic nature of the State, with diversities in tribe, region, religion, culture and social background.

Sir, the fragility of the democratic system especially in Africa occasioned by obvious social, legal and institutional injustice, have cumulatively exposed why the system is steadily losing the confidence of the citizens, and this is apparently witnessed through the broad day electoral injustice, such as: forceful snatching of the peoples mandate, through manipulation of either electoral process or judiciary, an evil act masterminded by some desperate and evilly minded politicians, who do not care about the future of the country, except for their political interest, even though at the detriment of the teeming number of electorates. It is our humble opinion that, if the Nigerian democratic system should continue to operate on the basis of electoral injustice, undermining the best practices of the democratic governance, in fairness to all parties, the repercussion would surely be a devastating one.

Your Excellency, we are law abiding citizens and we believe in the rule of law, however, justice shall not only be done, but must apparently be seen to be done. The judiciary as an independent arm of Government, is expected to be the only last resort for a common man, however, where the citizens have begun to doubt the neutrality of the judiciary in the dispensation of justice system, then the country is certainly heading towards doom.

We have received with dismay, information which alleged the involvement of some elements in your Government, to have interfered and manipulated the Kano State Governorship Elections Tribunal judgment, an information which if it turned out to be true, could certainly be described as unfortunate, unprecedented, condemnable and uncalled for. Kano State, as temperamental as it is, such desperate actions could trigger political crisis in the State, and could possibly lead to anarchy

Kano is considered as the commercial nerve center not only for the North, but to the entire sub Saharan African countries, who have one relationship or the other with Kano State. Kano State could be described as a role model, and as the most politically strategic territory with vast knowledge and political civilization. In view of this, Kano is fragile and when broken into pieces, the national security would surely be threatened.

Sir, let us draw you to the memory lane, starting from 1999 to 2007, when you served as the Executive Governor of Lagos State, under AD. Your party was entirely different from the party at the centre, and despite some misunderstandings, His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo led Federal Government did not make any attempt to snatch the mandate which the good people of Lagos State gave you, to manage the affairs of the State, from 1999 to 2007. Therefore allowing, some alleged members of your Government, to mastermind the conspiracy of snatching the mandate of the Kano people, is as good as inviting hatred against your own personality, doubting your commitment to upholding democratic principles, institutionalizing electoral injustice, dashing the hope of the Nigerian electorates to lose complete confidence in the system, and subscribing to the school of thought which emphasizes on the unsuitability of the democratic system for African countries. In addition, is this electoral injustuice is allowed to strive, it would further reaffirm the failure of your Government to uphold the rule of law, and treat all citizens equally and fairly regardless of ethnicity, region, religion, party affiliation and others, and the perceived situation wouldn't only amount to creating unrest, but would surely be a set back on the Nigerian democratisation and Africa as a whole.

The perceived conspiracy by some alleged elements in the Government, deploying Government machineries and influence, to destroy Kano State, the consequences would not end and stop in Kano, as the repercussions would certainly create a multiplier negative effects on other states of the federation. Therefore using politics to ignite crisis in Kano, through Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, would surely metamorphose into creating crisis which would be difficult to control, based on the brewing tensions, resulting from the Kano State Governorship Elections Tribunal Judgment. Therefore, there is no better time for you to act, than now to save the situation, by prevailing on your party members who have been alleged to be involved in this political recklessness, as the risk is not worth trying.

Signed:

Dr. Ali Idris
Acting President

Comrade Adikwu Omale Joshua National Publicity Secretary,

Working with politicians, I know how they view the media: it is a cat and mouse relationship. Journalists believe politicians are hiding something and politicians thinks the media is after them. They worry that the media is out for a spoiler with half truths or out right fake news. Former US President Donald Trump has helped in no small measures to discredit the purity of the Fourth Estate of the Real. He's the leader of the anti news coalition world wide.

A little bit of him is in many politicians and people in governance generally. There is mutual distrust. Governor Agbu Kefas however differs so strongly from that view. He tells me that he believes the media is the mirror of any government. He agrees that the media can only assist in entrenching democracy. He decries any witch hunt of a media personality. Above all, he said the welfare of media practitioners must be taken seriously.

In a recent parley with news men in Jalingo, he announced his media policy: the media would be his eyes and ears in the public domain. He would be relying on them to fact check on his claims and assess his progress so far. He would be counting on their professional skills to be fair and balanced.

It is in the spirt of this that the governor is constantly now meeting with the media for self evaluation, fact checking and balancingof views. The latest edition of the media meet was very historic. The governor was in his tell it as it is mode as usual. It was a time for straight talk on both sides. And it was very fruitful.

Emmanuel Bello is Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas

The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been accused of a grand plot to destabilise the country through protests.

The Civil Society Situation Room on Good Governance in Nigeria (CSSR-GGN) in collaboration with other civil society groups raised the alarm at a press conference on Sunday.

In a statement co-signed by Dr. Thomas Terna Uzah, Executive Director/ National Convener, the CSOs alleged that the NLC is being sponsored by the opposition to cause chaos.

The group further claimed that the labour body has already been mobilised with $5 million to carry out its agenda.

"It is shocking that despite these glaring realities and the dangers of reinstating subsidies, which will collapse the economy and create intractable distortions, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is leading and coordinating other groups to sabotage the federal government.

*It is of note that NLC’s insistence on the strike is despite the federal government’s engagement with its leadership to explore options for addressing its demands. This raised our suspicion that the union may not be upfront with Nigerians as to the true intent of its industrial action.

"Ominously, it is now being mentioned that the NLC leadership has received $5 million from a certain opposition leader for mobilizing the strike, organizing protests, and throwing the country into crisis. The aim is for NLC to paint the Asiwaju government black and cause a destabilization plot that will bring the government down.

"Since we do not want to be caught unawares, we want to tell the NLC in clear terms that we dare them to go on an indefinite strike, and the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room will take all legitimate measures to protect Nigerians from the hardship they want to put the country through. We are acquiring more specific details about the NLC’s dealing with the opposition, and sadly, with some foreign interests. We will provide these details to Nigerians when the need arises."

The CSOs, therefore, urged "all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the youth, not to allow themselves to be used as cannon fodder for achieving some people’s narrow objective. "

It added: "We appeal to the Federal Government to look beyond the NLC and increase its palliative measures for Nigerians. We make this plea as we commend the federal government for the palliatives it has provided so far. "

https://www.signalng.com/opposition-have-paid-nlc-leadership-5m-to-destabilize-nigeria-group/

Hand of favour global care and support foundation, a Non- governmental organization reached out to expectant mothers in Family Support program clinic Benue state with free packs of delivery kits as support.

The group led by Mr Paramha Benson the project coordinator and other professionals across different fields of medical practice was a huge success with a promise of more to come.


Expectant mothers were taught on how to prepare to welcome their bundle of joy and complication readiness.

The purported report making the round from some so called "Concerned Members" announcing the removal of Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya has been disowned by The Board of Trustees (BOT), Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF).

In a press statement signed by Alh. Hamisu Isa Sharifai Secretary Board of Trustees, Kano Civil Society Forum,For: Board of Trustees said the attention of the forum has been drawn to a press release reportedly issued by some three individuals who call themselves “Concerned Members” of the KCSF.

He said the BOT wishes to inform all members of the Forum and the general public that in the KCSF Constitution there is no such recognized body as ‘Concerned Members’ that can exercise the powers of the Congress (which consists of over one hundred organizations) or the BOT.

Part of the statement reads;

"On the issue of the on-coming Excos election, as you all know the BOT set up a committee 3 weeks ago on arrangements for the elections, which will take place shortly. This is in accordance with the timetable for the reinvigoration of Kano Civil Society Forum that the Congress adopted. The timetable has included a revalidation of membership exercise which has just been concluded."

"Under the circumstances the BOT directs that the management team of the KCSF under the leadership of Ibrahim Waiya, should continue to do so, and the constituted Electoral Committee should go on with the arrangements for the elections."

"We call on all members who are truly concerned with the progress of the Forum to stand together as a united body, so that the elections can hold in strict compliance with the KCSF Constitution. Let us all remain resolute in pursuing the ideals of justice, good democratic practice and societal progress that brought us together".

The Kogi State Wide Consultation of Team Muri/Sam turned to a carnival in Ibaji Local Government Area on the 31st of August 2023 as mammoth crowd trooped out to welcome the Governorship Candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the forthcoming November 11 Kogi State Gubernatorial election, Hon. Murtala Yakub Ajaka MURI.

Hon. Isaiah Davis (ID) Ijele Director New Media Muri/Sam Campaign Council in a press statement said Hon. Ajaka who first met traditional rulers in the LGA to seek for royal blessings was overwhelmed by the monstrous show of love by the people.

While unveiling his developmental plans for the area, Muri lamented the Infrastructural decay and high rate of poverty ravaging the LGA as a result of the leadership deficit in the State.

He described Ibaji Local Government as one of the most blessed with natural resources. This he premised on the availability of fertile farm land, rivers, crude oil deposit and energetic men and women, capable of turning the misfortune of the area to fortune given the enabling environment to thrive and deploy the wealth of the LGA for great good.

The SDP candidate promised that when elected as Governor, he will empower thirty thousand (30,000) women with five hundred thousand (N500,000) each as part of his plans to reawaken economic activities in Kogi State.

He also vowed to construct the road linking Ibaji-to-Idah in order to ease transportation for enhanced agricultural and economic activities in the area.

He noted that the good people of Ibaji will not be left out since his commitment is to build a Kogi State that works for all. Alhaji Murtala Ajaka MURI pointed out that the 13% derivation for oil producing States from the Federal monthly allocation shall be judiciously deployed into making the LGA and indeed Kogi State a pride of all.

Speaking at the grand event in Ibaji, the Chairman of the MURI/SAM Campaign Council, Col. S. Babanawa (Rtd) thanked the people for their warm reception and assured them of A BREATH OF FRESH AIR under Murtala's tenure.

The DG of the Campaign Council, Hon Sheikh Ibrahim assured the people that when Muri is voted into power, his administration shall ensure that Ibaji gets access to affordable healthcare services, standard schools and proper rural electrification.

The Campaign Youth Leader, Hon. Ahmedi Attah while expressing his optimism that the party is coasting to victory spoke to the people about the need to keep their PVCs safe. He also enjoined them to Vote massively for the SDP in the forthcoming November 11, 2023 Kogi State Governorship election, and to protect their votes from electoral scavengers, who are bent on plunging the State into another 8years of Yahaya Bello’s treacherous third term agenda.

Some of the residents who granted interviews described Hon. Murtala Ajaka MURI as the Angel that God has sent to lead them to the promised land after years of hardship in the hands of the present Administration. Some could not hold their tears because according to them, it is a rare privilege to visualise the light at the end of the tunnel.

They promised to deliver 90% votes for Alh Murtala Yakub Ajaka MURI and prayed for God's protection on him.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/09/kogi-2023-ibaji-ll-bounce-back-to-life-ajaka-muri/

As schools reopen, Taraba state Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has reassured heads of tertiary institutions in the state that funding will not be a headache anymore. Seeking their cooperation, he reiterated his commitment to devote a large sum of funds from the loans in the education sector. He announced that outstanding salaries of the tertiary institutions shall be given due attention. He immediately approved payments outstanding salaries of the state university. He revealed that the loans will be directly tied to the projects for transparency and accountability.

Kefas said these in an expanded meeting with heads of the tertiary institutions Monday in Jalingo. In attendance are the Vice Chancellor of the Taraba State University, Rector of the College of Education, Zing, College of Agriculture, College of Nursing and Midwifery and College of Health and Technology, Takum. Also present was the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education.

The governor assured the school heads that he would be regularly available to attend to their needs. He promised that the meeting with school heads shall be on a sustained basis.

He noted further that education is at the base of all the development he plans for the state. According to him, youth restiveness and inner city crimes can be tied to the rot in the education sector.

Speaking on the huge budget needed to revamp education, the governor said his administration is thinking outside the box to raise more funds. He said the government is targeting agriculture and solid minerals as a way of increasing the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to augment Federal Government funds.

Kefas said the meeting has become critical as schools are about to reopen. He stressed that he needs the tertiary heads supports and buy in to make the free education policy feasible.

On energy crisis in schools he said solar energy and other sources of power would be explored to meet that need.

In their comments, the heads of schools promised to cooperate with the governor in his resolve to provide affordable education.

Emmanuel Bello

Special Adviser

Media and Digital Communications.

The Campaign Train of Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka fondly called MURI by Nigerians home and abroad, has in one week transversed strategic locations in Kogi and across the nation engaging Kogi Stakeholders and telling the people about his 7 Point Agenda and his vision for the Confluence State.

In a press statement by Hon. Isaiah Davis (ID) Ijele, the DG New Media Muri/Sam Campaign Council said the monstrous turn out of supporters at the parley Muri had in Lagos with Kogi Stakeholders last weekend was electrifying and deafening, indeed the fear of Muri's strides and commitment to winning the forthcoming Kogi State gubernatorial election is the beginning of wisdom. Clearly one candidate stands taller than the others in the race for the LUGARD HOUSE, Lokoja, and the candidate is Muri.

"It was amazing energy in Lagos on Saturday the 19th of August, 2023, and even greater fervency and electricity on Sunday the 20th of August, 2023 when Muri met with the Kogi State Community and Stakeholders in Gwagwalada, FCT Abuja. To Muritala Ajaka every Kogite counts, and that commitment has grown his campaign beyond the reach of his rivals."

"This raging Tsunami in Kogi Politics on Wednesday 23rd of August 2023 took the Muri Magic to Kabba Town, it was a marvelous spectacle, the sea of heads and the great outpouring of love and support left everyone in awe of the Man of the moment. Muri is manifestly loved by all because he belongs to all."

"The Ijumu People could not wait for their turn in the visitation schedule of the Muri/Sam Campaign Council, they insisted that the consultation team must not pass without a visit to the ancient town. As typical with Muri who insists that his leadership will not only be service driven but people driven, he obliged the request of the Ijumu people, and what was meant to be a meeting with Stakeholders and Youth leaders became a carnival of sorts. It was indeed a purveyor of the faith that the people have in Muri, and a pointer to the hope that his candidacy encapsulates."

"Muri is home in Kogi East, Muri is home in Kogi West and Muri is home in Kogi Central. Muri is home to Christians, Muslims and to people of other religions. Muri believes in a united and harmonious Kogi, and Muri has consistently pledged to build a peaceful, proseprous and united Kogi, to Muri the permissible minimum is a Greater and a better Kogi. And this passion of his paves the pathway to the Kogi of our collective dreams."

"As Team Muri/Sam continues to engage with Kogites at home and abroad, the promise of a Greater and a Better Kogi State remains unshakable."

So, someone asked if I can write an article for publication on General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma. I smiled and answered “Okay. Let me see what I can do.” I truly had no inkling as to what to do. Aside from what is available in the public domain, I do not possess an additional ounce of knowledge of the General. The truth is, I have never even seen the General in person. Of course, I had written “When is TY Wrong'' and, perhaps, it was mistaken for an “insider” perspective. It was nothing close to it. If I have written or said anything about the revered patriarch, I did so from the viewpoint of an admirer and nothing more. Later that day, however, I discussed the issue with a friend who said I should write the article. “What am I going to write about?” I asked bemused. “Just find something and write” answered my friend. I felt challenged but did not take the discussion seriously. Somehow, however, my mind started brooding on all that I have read and heard about the General, and was looking for a perspective to put ink to paper.

Usually, the image the name, General TY, conjures up in one’s mind is that of a dreaded, non-nonsense soldier man. But when you dwell a bit on the man, the image would morph to that of a wealthy, hardcore, powerful elder statesman who stares at people forever without saying a word. Dwell a bit longer and the image would morph yet again. I brooded a little more and ....“Eureka!” I almost shouted, when it felt like I had gotten a clue. I did a little research and felt intuitively correct.

An unhurried look into the General’s public life, removing all traces and forms of prejudice, you’d see that his contributions are tailored towards achieving the three key dimensions of Human Development Index (HDI), namely; a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable and having a decent living. My mind settled on this, I suppose, because I have, lately, pre-occupied my mind studying Human Development Index (HDI).

The Human Development Index (HDI) was established to emphasise that people and their capabilities, and not economic growth alone, should be the ultimate criteria for assessing the development of a country. Evaluating a country’s potential for individual human development provides a supplementary metric for evaluating the country’s level of development besides considering standard economic growth statistics, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The 2022 Human Development Report showed that Nigeria ranked 163 out of 193 countries.

To contribute, therefore, in either building infrastructure or funding programmes aimed, directly or indirectly, at achieving any of the key dimensions of HDI mentioned above, is to contribute to the development and betterment of lives of individuals in one’s country. This, exactly, is what General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma truly embodies. I shall briefly mention each of the aforementioned and juxtapose them with the General’s contributions in those key areas.

A Long and Healthy Life
The measure of a long and healthy life is assessed by life expectancy at birth.
General TY’s contributions in providing access to quality healthcare delivery is wide-ranging and extensive and with special interest in healthy life at birth. He demonstrated this in building the Rufkatu Danjuma Maternity Hospital in his country home, Takum. The maternity hospital, which immortalises his mother, was built primarily to provide enhanced service delivery of maternal and perinatal healthcare. Aside from the primary priority of addressing maternal and child mortality and morbidity, the Rufkatu Maternity is thought to have created an estimated 100 direct jobs. Even before the construction of the maternity hospital, the General contributed immensely in providing access to quality healthcare through the TY Danjuma Foundation.

The Foundation, through its “Healthy Mother, Healthy Child” programme, has supported the implementation of evidence-based, innovative, high-quality, and sustainable interventions that aimed at ensuring that every mother can experience a healthy pregnancy and childbirth; and every child can thrive to realise their full potential. Other areas of interest for the TY Foundation are Neglected Tropical Diseases - where the foundation aims to reduce morbidity, disability and mortality - and preventable blindness - aimed to reduce the burden of preventable blindness. This is done under the “Vision for a Brighter Future” programme.

Being Knowledgeable
The education dimension is measured by the mean of years of schooling for adults aged 25 years and more and expected years of schooling for children of school-entering age.

There is no gainsaying that TY simply loves education. It is, unarguably, his biggest forte. His contributions to the educational sector are immense and ubiquitous. A cursory look at the educational programmes undertaken by the TY Foundation, one will see the deliberate and strategic approach taken to achieve this key index. The General, through the TY Foundation, and having studied the Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS) which revealed gaps in teachers' knowledge of basic language and Mathematics, started the “Upgrading Teacher’s Quality” programme. The programme is aimed at reducing the number of teachers without the requisite skills and knowledge of basic content to deliver quality learning in public schools in target states, increase access to instructional materials for teaching, and improve the pedagogical skills of teachers to better transmit knowledge to pupils and students.

The General’s aim is that, a good learning environment, availability of instructional materials, and learning aids must all be weaved with skilled and dedicated teachers to improve learning outcomes, especially in public schools.

I was told that the minimum educational qualification for his family members, nuclear and extended, is a Master's Degree. And the study is usually in a foreign country! To extend this generous handshake beyond family, the General established the TY MBA scholarship programme. The Scholarship provides financial support to post-graduate African students who have been accepted onto MBA programmes at the top 10 leading business schools in the world. Top 10 as ranked by the Financial Times.

TY’s track record in supporting educational growth through building infrastructure and monetary gifts across the country is unmatched by any Nigerian, dead or alive. His foot sprints are in almost every notable institution of higher learning; from Kano to Kaduna to Oyo to Benue to Taraba State et cetera et cetera. He was instrumental in establishing the Walter Miller University in Dikko, Niger State and work is ongoing at the site of the proposed T. Y. Danjuma University, Takum. It was rather unfortunate that when he asked the management of Taraba State University “what they wanted?” They told him “Sports Pavilion.” A university that has courses that are yet to get accreditation? Shame! He gave them money to build a Sports Pavilion.

Having a Decent Living
The standard of living dimension is measured by gross national income per capita. Per capita income is a metric used to determine the amount of money earned per individual in a nation or geographical area. To have a Human Development Index (HDI) of a nation, its economic growth should be persistent. Economic growth is broadly defined as the rise in the production capacity of an economy in the form of various goods and services called GDP, which results in further development of the current economy giving the opportunity or capability of producing additional value in future. Higher-income of individual citizens because of a better economy will lead to a better standard of living and to receive better healthcare services for improved quality of life.

It is a known fact that General TY Danjuma is one of the major employers of labour in Nigeria. He has created opportunities for individuals to be productive, to earn and improve their standard of living. Beginning with the Nigerian American Line (NAL), a shipping line he founded in 1979, the General has gone on to establish himself as one of the most successful businessmen in Nigeria. In 1984, he established COMET, a shipping agency, primarily to act as an agent for NAL. COMET grew and became one of the largest independent and experienced agents in Nigeria. Other companies established by the general include amongst others South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO), and LBS drills.

These companies have over the years become major employers of labour and source of income for many Nigerians. NAL-COMET, for instance, with branches at Port-Harcourt, Warri and Calabar Seaports, has about 250 employees as of 2009. Other companies and business outfits have a handful of employees. Getting employment is a vital aspect of life. A person needs to work to earn an income that would be used to provide basic human needs (food, cloth, residence, and health) - to have a shot at a decent living. I cannot, for the life in me, begin to imagine the number of people who have themselves become employers of labour through the benevolence of General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma.

General TY’s contributions in bettering people’s lives have not, as I see it, received the right publicity. Like, who among his contemporaries, especially in the military, left as much footprints on the sands of time like that of the gentle general? One can only disagree relative to the degree of what TY has done but in all sincerity, the man has paid his dues the best way he can.

Let me, therefore, end this piece with this; “Nigeria has been very kind to me. As a youngman, I rose through the ranks in the military to become Chief of Army staff. I retired and went into business and got lucky. I made a lot of money. I am giving back to the poor of my community, to the poor of my society some of the money I made in business as a show of gratitude to Nigeria and to Almighty God” - Lt. Gen. TY Danjuma (Rtd).

Kundila Epemilo Philip (Sir Othello) writes from Jalingo
sirothello119@gmail.com

Alhaji Muri Ajaka, the Social Decomcratic Party (SDP) candidate in the upcoming November 11 gubernatorial election has been described as the best candidate that can deliver on responsible leadership.

Mr I.D Ijele Director new media
Muri/Sam Campaign Organization in a press statement said Alhaji Muri Ajaka resonates in the Race for the Governor of Kogi State and the remain the only candidate that cuts across the various socio-political strata of the Confluence State.

Part of the statement reads;

"One candidate has transversed the length and breadth of the State like a Trojan Horse promising to fix the problems that trouble one of the most strategic States in Nigeria. And that candidate is Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka fondly and affectionately called MURI by Nigerians home and abroad."

"Muri is not the traditional politician that places personal gain above the well-being of the people. Muri believes that a true leader must be committed to delivering the promises of democracy. Muri has consistently maintained that his vision in politics and one for which he seeks the high office of Governor is to create a subnational State that thrives on equality, equity and sustainable development for the benefit of all regardless of their geo-demography."

"Muri's mission is to build a leadership that is focused on attitudinal/behavioural reorientation where the citizens of the State direct, dictate and motivate far-reaching governmental policies and programs. Muri believes that a true leader leads from behind. And Muri is committed to being the Servant Leader that Kogi State badly needs."

"Having thrown his hat in the ring as the race for Governor of Kogi State hots up, the Governorship candidate of Social Democratic Party SDP, this great Son of Kogi and an achiever of no mean degree comes to the fray as the most prepared and the most committed to turning Kogi State around, little wonder Governor Yahaya Bello and his candidate Ododo are scared stiff."

"Muri has a Manifesto that speaks profoundly about the challenges that confront Kogi and profers a 7 Point Agenda as a solution. His 7 Point Agenda addresses amongst other things, Security, Economy, Education, Health, Agriculture, Infrastructure, and Tourism."

"Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka MURI is a goal-getter with deep passion for Youth inclusiveness in governance, and he believes that if a society must move forward the place of women in leadership must be assured and protected. Do you yet wonder why the camapign train of Muri/Sam Campaign Organization is the most formidable in the race for the LUGARD HOUSE, Lokoja?"

"Do you yet wonder why everyday Kogi State Stakeholders across the world are reaching out to Kogites to support Muri for Governor? Do you yet wonder why the APC, the PDP and the LP in Kogi State are scared of the deafening profile of Muri? Indeed with Muri in the saddle as the next Governor of Kogi State, a Greater Kogi State is achievable."

The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the forthcoming Kogi State Gubernatorial election has said that his vision is to build a Kogi State that works for the good of all.

Speaking during his consultation with Kogi Stakeholders in Lokoja, Barrister Okeme Adejoh maintained that a New Kogi State is not only possible but unalterable.

The 40 years old enterprising Lawyer and Businessman who epitomizes the resilience and doggedness of the Nigerian Youth believes that given the opportunity to govern Kogi State, he will banish the leadership deficit that has left the confluence State of Kogi in doldrum.

He offers a 9 Point Agenda that speaks to the fundamental issues that bother the people and the State. He promises to address Security and Peaceful Coexistence. To ensure the prompt payment of Salaries, Pensions and Gratuities. To improve on Healthcare Delivery, and Educational Development.

He is also commited to Agricultural Revolution, Industrialization and Investment, in Infrastructural Development, in Youth, Women and Sports Development, and in Local Government Autonomy.

The Okeme Adejoh Campaign Organization, the Take Back Kogi Movement, and the Obidient Movement along with the many Support Groups that believe that a New Kogi State is Possible are massively reaching out to the People of Kogi State across the 3 Senatorial zones with the message of hope, and the reassurance that from the LUGARD HOUSE in Lokoja will come the fulfillment of the dreams of Kogites under the watch of Barrister Okeme Adejoh.

The Labour Party Governorship Candidate is an avid Obidient that prides in the 6Cs that underscores the leadership minimums the Obidient Movement craves. He has the CHARACTER, COMPETENCY, CAPACITY, CREDIBILITY, COMPASSION, and he is COMMITTED to birthing and berthing a new era of responsible and responsive leadership in Kogi State.

"This is indeed the Dawn of a New Day, a New Era, a New Epoch and a New Deal for our people, we shall serve our people with all our heart, we shall make the Confluence State Great again, we shall restore the confidence of our people in our shared values and build a Kogi State that works for all...." are some of the great and reassuring words of Barrister Okeme Adejoh. These words would perhaps define the entire moral fabrics of Kogi Politics, and set a proactive and progressive agenda for all those seeking the high of Governor of Kogi State, and any other State in Nigeria for that matter.

The Kogi Redemption Vision captured in the 9 Point Agenda of Barrister Okeme Adejoh and his Deputy Hon. Hamza Muhammed is the thematic script that seeks to reposition Kogi State for greatness, and such is the irreducible minimum of the Kogi dream that the Labour Party Governorship Candidate encapsulates.

To the good people of Kogi State, a New Dawn beckons. To Kogites cometh the moment, cometh the Man. And the man committed to building a Kogi State that works for all is Barrister Okeme Adejoh.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/08/a-new-kogi-that-works-for-all-possible-under-my-watch-adejoh/

Uproar against the sidelining of minority tribes in Benue continue to gather momentum as the governor Rev. Father Hycienth Alia mobilise Party Faithful to pay a courtesy visit to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

The Courtsey visit only had party members from Benue south senatorial district, perceived to be loyal to the governor.

Secretary to the government of the Federation while receiving the delegation thank the people and hinted on the need to foster unity amongst all in benue.

Akume hinted he had no hand and knowledge in the nomination of the ministerial nominee.

In a statement released by concern APC stakeholders from Zone C signed by Comrade Ada Ochogwu.

The group condemn the visit , describing the governor as being insensitive and promoting division among benue people.


The Group further reminded the governor that the public display of disregard to the true elders from zone C proved that he is intolerant of criticism.

The group said the governors visit should have included true elders from the senatorial district and not limiting those on his entourage on the Courtsey visit to the SGF to those who are only loyal to him


The Group also said the governor has been the one allegedly behind the one sided government appointments going on currently in the state.


The group calls for the recall of the ministerial nominee stressing that his choice is not the choice of the people.


Recall that the president recently submitted the name of Professor Joseph Utsev as ministerial nominee from benue and has since be screened by the 10th senate awaiting confirmation.


His nomination was greeted with protest from the Idoma's and other minority tribes insisting on the appointment to go to other tribe in the state , especially with all government positions already dominated by the TIVs in the state.