₦airaland Forum

The re-election bids of President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State received a major boost on Wednesday with their respective endorsement by traditional rulers in the state.

President Muhammadu Buhari was in Ebonyi State on Wednesday in continuation of his campaign tour of the 36 states of the federation and it was pomp and splendour at the Abakaliki Township Stadium venue of the rally as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state and the supporters of the President trooped out to receive him. But, before Buhari proceeded to the stadium, he paid a courtesy call on Governor Dave Umahi at the Exco chambers of government house Abakaliki, to inform him of his campaign visit to the state.

On hand to welcome the President were all the 140 traditional rulers in the state, led by their chairman, Eze Charles Mkpuma and major stakeholders in the state. A major highlight of the reception was the endorsement of the President Buhari and Governor Umahi for the forthcoming presidential and governorship elections by the monarchs.



Mkpuma, who disclosed that their endorsement of Buhari for a second term was borne out of the robust relationship he has with the Umahi, commended Buhari’s determination to tackle the security situation in the country and fight against corruption. According to him, Buhari deserves their votes irrespective of party differences.

His words: “We appreciate your dogged determination to maintain utmost security of the country, especially your effort in eliminating Boko Haram and fight against corruption, which has brought respect and integrity to the country in the comity of nations. We believe that your robust relationship with our son the governor and your love for him and the state will surely earn you and only you, votes in Ebonyi State irrespective of party differences.”

The monarch further stated the traditional rulers are happy with the leadership of Governor Umahi, who has virtually touched every facet of life in the state. “We, the traditional rulers, like other residents of the state have been rejuvenated and revived by the governor,” he said. He told the President that Umahi deserves a second term for the sake of equity as the two former governors before him from other zones also had two terms each. “Since the inception of the present democratic dispensation, Ebonyi State has operated rotation of the governorship position among the three senatorial zones. Thus the north had eight years with the same man, central had two terms with same man and south is entitled to eight years with the same man. “It is right and proper that tradition should continue.

This is why we have endorsed incumbent Governor David Umahi, whose performance has been historic and superlative as the sole candidate for the 2019 gubernatorial election in Ebonyi State. We are happy with the governor. He has touched every facet of human and infrastructural development of the state,” Mpkuma said. The monarchs later presented 1,000 tubers of yam and 1,000 bags of rice for Buhari’s breakfast and lunch respectively.

Responding, the President Buhari expressed satisfaction that the impact of federal government projects are being felt in Ebonyi State and commended the governor for his feat infrastructural development in the state. He assured that monies spent on the completion of the federal projects will be refunded after the review committee would have audited the projects.

Buhari revealed that Umahi told him during their short drive to the government house that he had not received up to 40 per cent of the funds spent on federal projects in the state, but assured him the monies would be refunded once the audit committee headed by the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, concludes its work. He also told the traditional rulers that his administration’s plan to invest in agriculture was deliberate. He recalled that agriculture was the mainstay of the nation’s economy in the First Republic because land was abundant and grazing routes developed, but noted that “subsequently, we got drunk with oil money and abandoned what kept us intact.

But, we are going back to that.” Buhari commended Umahi’s administration generosity in sending Ebonyi rice to Abuja, which members of his extended family have been beneficiaries of. He assured the monarchs that the South-East will benefit from the Second Niger Bridge, when completed as it will facilitate movement of goods and services.

Umahi, in his remarks, said that irrespective of some perceptions, the South -East has benefited from Federal Government projects. He particularly noted that the Federal Government’s agricultural programme has benefited the state immensely and has led to the rice revolution in Ebonyi.

Umahi also used the opportunity to thank the President for approving the commencement of Ebonyi salt production. Umahi’s endorsement by the traditional rulers came after former Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, assuerd him that his re-election is guaranteed.

Anyim, who spoke during a PDP rally in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of the state, said: “I want to say that when you go to other places, they will receive you with a rally, but when you come to your home, Ivo they will only celebrate you. I want to say and say it very clearly that the event of today is not necessarily preparatory to 2019 because for us, your 2019 is guaranteed. Anyim added: “You Excellency, you know how we do it. When we lead, others follow. So, we want to assure you today that for 2019, Ivo will lead and we are sure others will follow. So, for us, that is really not an issue. Today, we are pleased to have you at home to celebrate you, to celebrate your achievements and celebrate your government. Your becoming governor of Ebonyi State is remarkable in many areas.

The most important is that you are the first governor Ebonyi State to come from Afikpo zone. “So, certainly you are our own and I want to say that I have always said that the people who governed before you, they governed for eight years. Ebonyi North governed for eight years, Ebonyi central eight years, Ebonyi south where you come from will govern for eight years. We have something to show for your four years and because we have something to show for your four years, we can proudly say that your next four years is a matter of life.” Also, a former governor of the state and senator representing Ebonyi North in the National Assembly, Dr. Sam Egwu, All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the last party primaries, Senator Emmanuel Agboti; former Minister of State for Power and Steel, Chief Goddy Ogbaga and other notable personalities in the state have endorsed the governor.

Umahi had on January 17, flagged off his re-election campaign with the launching of N1.4 billion projects across the 140 autonomous communities of the state. Speaking during the flag-off in Ikwo, he said: “I didn’t come for campaigns; I came to share more democracy of dividends. The only campaign I am doing is projects.” Inaugurating the N1.4 billion community development projects for the 140 communities, the governor aid each community will get N10 million to carry out a project of its choice.

He also said the money for the community projects has already been set aside, adding that leaders of all the 140 communities have submitted projects their communities would like to execute. Umahi noted that he will continue to develop the state, even as he called on the people to continue to support his administration.


“We are beginning N10 million projects in each of the 140 communities. The money is already available; we believe in action not in promises that would not be fulfilled. We said every community should give us project of their choice and they have done that. So, we will need to flag it off,” he said. Chairmen of town unions from the local government areas were present to receive the cheques from the governor. In their separate speeches, the Director- General of Umahi Campaign Organisation, Chief Fidelis Nwankwo; the state Chairman of PDP, Barr. Onyekachi Nwebonyi and the PDP National Vice-Chairman (South-East), Chief Austin Umahi, urged the people to re-elect the governor and other PDP candidates as reward for good work is more work.

PHOTOS: Osinbajo at Ore Ondo for Next Level Engagement

Nice one!

The Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue has sued Conoil Producing Limited for alleged tax evasion before the state high court in Akure, the state’s capital.

The state, in the suit marked Ak/16/2019, alleged that Conoil evaded taxes and rates which included land use charge, business premises, environmental fees and others.

In the court papers made available to our correspondent by the counsel for the state, Mr Adebayo Ogunsuyi, the state claimed that the oil firm was indebted to it to the tune of millions of naira in unremitted taxes and rates.

The state claimed that since it began doing business in Ondo State Conoil had never remitted any tax to the state.

According to the petition, the representatives of government, on several occasions, had met with officials of the company on how to settle the alleged unremitted tax but the latter did not respond.

The petition read, “The respondent has failed, refused and neglected to pay the outstanding tax liabilities despite the assurances made with the petitioner to make the money available.

“The respondent, from the record, has not been paying taxes levies or rate to the Ondo State Government since it commences business in Ondo State.”

The state’s counsel, Ogunsuyi, said, “The Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue has exchanged many correspondences, including demand notices, and had met with Conoil on the tax liabilities but the company did not pay till date. This is why the suit was filed in the court.”

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday boasted that he was not corrupt because in all the positions he has held in the country, he has never been convicted for corruption.

This is as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has accused the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential candidate of working seriously for the interest of the western world. Buhari, Sultan, Ajimobi extol UI’s achievements at 70 President Buhari made the boast while addressing members of his ruling APC, as well as his supporters at the Presidential campaign rally in Abakaliki township stadium, Ebonyi State.

Recall that Buhari was former Head of State in 1983-85, Governor of the Northeastern State 1975–1976, and chairman Petroleum Trust Fund between 1994-95. According to him, “I can assure you that I, as the President today have never been in a position of abusing trust. As a governor of the whole six north eastern states, as minister of petroleum for over three years and as a former head of state.

I was arrested, detained, investigated but they never found anything against me.“ The President thanked Ebonyi people for turning out in large numbers for the rally, saying that they demonstrated that they cannot be bought. He urged them to hold him by his words. Buhari recalled that when he came for campaign in 2015, he promised three things, first, to tackle the security situation in the country, stressing that at a time 17 local governments in the north east were under the control of Boko Haram.

He enthused that as at today, there was no local government under the control of the terrorists. He said, “The important thing is that, please try and hold us by our promise. When we came here the last time, we told you there are three fundamental things the country is facing. “First, we have to secure the country because part of the country is under threat in the north east, at least 17 local governments were in the hands of Boko Haram. Secondly, the economy.

The able bodied unemployed persons in Nigeria are too many. Thirdly, to fight corruption.” The President congratulated the military and other law enforcement agencies, noting that today none of the local government in the north east was under the control of Boko Haram.


He said, “They have resulted in indoctrinating young men and abducting young girls below the ages of 15, wrap them with explosives and send them to soft targets- churches, mosques, market places and motor parks. Even that is becoming rear now.”

Buhari also said that with favourable weather, Nigeria has achieved food security and no longer imports rice, adding that the money saved from importations was being used for infrastructural development. He added that the monies were now being channeled to building of roads, rails among other infrastructural development. He said, “We thank God that Nigeria prayed very hard and the three previous rainy season were good. The government realized it and asked the Central Bank and the Ministry of Agriculture to give soft loans and make fertilizer available to farmers at half the price it used to be.

“And every able bodied persons who does not feel too big to earn a living went back to the farm and nobody regretted it. “We have now virtually achieved food security, we no longer import rice as we used to and the money we have saved are for infrastructure. We are doing the roads, the rails and we are doing the new standard gauge and we are improving power.”

“The last thing is about fighting corruption and bribery. Fighting corruption is a very difficult process but we are doing our best by trying to reorganize the Nigerian police or and the judiciary itself. “Because, we appointed people that went into public office without their own houses, without even maybe good cars but within three years they build houses in Abuja, open accounts in Europe or America and we cannot touch them. “But when we discover what they have we take them to court and when we take them to court we hope they will be prosecuted and then we will punish them.

“I can assure you that I, as the President today has never been in a position of abusing trust. As a governor of the whole six north eastern states, as minister of petroleum for over three years and as a former head of state. “I was arrested, detained, investigated but they never found anything against me. So I went through all the rigmarole that is against our development as a nation. God has given us people, he has given us resources. President Buhari solicited the votes of the Ebonyi people to enable him continue with the work his administration has started.

He said, “What this administration is doing and what it will continue to do, if you vote me back is to make sure we realize the potential of our people and the resources God has given us to make life better for this country, for our future generations.” Also speaking, National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who received 25 leaders from other parties, who have resolved to work for the APC, accused the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar of working for foreign interest.

He argued that the letters by the former Vice President to United Kingdom (UK), Unites States (US) and European Union (EU), were appealing to western sentiments angling to take over Nigeria’s economy. He said, “The right to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty is not negotiable.” Oshiomhole maintained that Atiku deferring to western interest will only injure Nigeria economy and pauperised the people, calling on the voters never to vote for Atiku.

He described the forth coming elections as a class war between the elites and the poor, just as he insisted that Buhari’s policies including TraderMoni were pro-poor despite the complains of the likes of former president, Olusegun Obasanjo. Don’t allow PDP sabotage democracy, Presidency warns Oshiomhole said no external force can impose leaders on Nigeria.

The Ebonyi APC party boss said, the civil servants in the state have been short changed by the PDP administration and that the governor paid only what he felt like paying at the end of every month. He alleged that Umahi met 5,200 workforce when he resumed in 2015, which has been depleted to 3,200 in 2019 with the governor not employing anyone to replace the dead and the retired.

He also alleged that the governor has refused to appoint permanent secretaries who are supposed to be accounting officers or ministries. He requested the president to order the audit of the state so as exposed alleged corruption in the management of the state resources by Umahi. He assured the president that APC has grown in Ebonyi exponentially to be able to deliver at least 25 percent to ensure Buhari’s victory in the presidential election.

The Ebonyi State APC governorship candidate Senator Sonni Ogbuoji, assured that Ebonyi will deliver a total vote for APC. He said, “We are resolved to lead the state to prosperity and advancement. It has been in the wrong hands since 2015 “Our state has dined with maladministration since 2015?and will die except we rescue it now.”

Rally: Tight security in Ebonyi as APC awaits Buhari’s arrival

Abakaliki-There is tight security in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, as the people of the state, especially the members of the All Progressive Congress, APC, await the arrival of President Muhammadu Buhari and his campaign train. Buhari ‘We are capable of hosting Buhari rally’ Security agencies were, in the early hours of Wednesday, deployed to different parts of the state, especially adjourning streets around Ebonyi State government House, Abakaliki. Following the development, the movement of vehicles in and around the State had been restricted until the President concludes his assignments in the state. The venue of the rally, Pa Ngele Oruta, is gradually getting filled up with APC supporters as the State government had deployed enough security personnel to ensure a hitch-free exercise. The president is expected to have an audience with Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, state executive council members, APC stakeholders among others. …details later

The chairman, Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, ODIEC, Prof Yomi Dinakin, said the commission would soon conduct elections into Local Government Chairmanship and Councillorship positions in the 18 councils.



He disclosed this while speaking with journalists shortly after defending the commission’s budget for 2019 before the House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

According to him, budgetary provision has been made for the conduct of the council polls



The Chairman said he would soon call a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the modality for the conduct of the local government election this year as soon as possible.

Prof Dinakin had last year November announced the indefinite postponement of the chairmanship/councillorship polls earlier fixed for December 1, 2018.

He cited failure of the INEC in the state to provide the commission with the updated version of the voters’ register as main reason for the postponement.

He emphasised that INEC refused to provide updated version of the voters’ register despite continued requests for it by ODIEC, saying that the commission could not go on with the election with incomplete voters’ register released by INEC earlier last year.

He assured that the election would be held very soon at a date to be announced by the commission.

“If you would recall I told Ondo State people last year that our major problem was with respect to voters’ register. Last year, we were working to conduct the election but when it became obvious that in terms of time frame certain supporting information and things were not forthcoming, that was why we had to postpone the election”, the chairman stressed.

The ODIEC boss disclosed that the commission would redesign its time-table and proceed to conduct the election as soon as possible this year.

The long over due Ondo-Ore road will be dualised if President Muhammadu Buhari is voted into office as the president for second term.

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo made the promise when he paid a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo yesterday

Osinbajo also promised to ensure the upgrading of Adeyemi College of Education to a Federal University of Education.

Osinbajo who stated that the administration investing massively in infrastructure, revealed that the present administration has spent N2.7 trillion on infrastructure since assumption of office, saying it is the highest in the history of the country.

According to him, the Lagos – Ibadan Railway line project embarked upon by Buhari-led administration would be commissioned in a few days time.

He explained that grand corruption perpetrated by the past administration was a major hindrance to the development of the nation.

“They claimed to have spent Nigeria’s resources on infrastructural development, yet there was decay of infrastructure in almost every part of the country.

“President Buhari was able to bring succour to the citizenry by rebuilding the nation through infrastructure and was committed to fighting corruption to save Nigeria’s economy from total collapse”, he said.

Osinbajo reminded the people that only an honest and selfless leader like Muhammadu Buhari can be trusted with the country’s common wealth and bring about the needed development.

Osinbajo enjoined Nigerians to re-elect President Muhammadu Buhari in order for him to take the nation to the next level of economic rejuvenation.

He urged the people Ondo to vote massively for the truthfulness of President Muhammadu Buhari and candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the forthcoming 2019 general elections to achieve the dream of saving the nation from total collapse.

Earlier, Osemawe of Ondo kingdom, Oba Victor Kiladejo appreciated the Vice President for giving the Yoruba people a true representation and assured him of the prayers and support of the people of Ondo kingdom.

He described Prof Osinbajo as good ambassador of the entire Yoruba race, saying Nigerians are proud of him.

Osemawe commended the Federal Government’s anti-corruption crusade which has sanitized the nation as well as its efforts at ensuring that the country witnessed massive infrastructural development especially in the area of railway and road construction.

The Monarch also made case for the upgrading of the Adeyemi College of Education to Federal University of Education and the dualisation of the Ore-Ondo-Akure expressway.

According to Osemawe, if the road is dualised, would expose the kingdom to investors.http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ondo-Ore-road-to-be-dualised-%E2%80%93-Osinbajo

Ajayi canvasses votes for Alasoadura re-election

Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Agboola Ajayi on Tuesday attended the official flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ondo Central Senatorial Candidate, Chief Tayo Alasoadura at Akure Town Hall in Akure, the State Capital.

Ajayi charged party members to begin door to door campaign for the re-election of Alasoadura, President Muhammadu Buhari and other candidates of the party.

He noted that among those contesting the seat, Alasoadura remains the most credible, who, according to him, will use his re-election to attract more developmental projects to the central senatorial district.

The Deputy Governor lashed out at the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) central senatorial Candidate, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, who he said left behind liabilities rather than legacies.

Ajayi said the Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, who is also committed to Alasoadura, had been clearing the mess left behind by Mimiko.

He said “When we came on board, we met seven months unpaid salaries but I am happy to tell you that we have cleared six months.

“Despite the puacity of fund, we have not relent in our efforts in transforming the state. Work is currently ongoing at Oba Osupa road, Gaga, SIB-Alagbaka, Ijoka to Idanre roads among others.

“Not only in Akure that is the Governor is working. Work is also ongoing in Owo, Ikare, Ese-Odo, Idanre, Ore and other councils”.

Idi-Ogba community gets N10m for housing




Determined to showcase the Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led administration’s passion for socio-economic and infrastructural development of the people at the grassroots, the Ondo State Community and Social Development Agency (ODCSDA), has presented a cheque of 10 million naira to Alubarika Group, Idi-Ogba community to build housing units.

A community leader, Chief Olubukola Ebietomiye said the housing units project was the first of its kind in the history of Idi-Ogba, in Ilaje Local Government area of the state.

He said, “On behalf of the community, I want to appreciate the courage of the state government through the agency for bringing projects to the grassroots. The community is grateful to the government and the World Bank for the gesture”.

According to him, “The community is built on love, progress and unity which have transformed to the current peace and mutual coexistence in th area.

“The development of our town has been solely on communal efforts of our people, the foundation of which our fathers laid years back. We were told that Idi-Ogba people came from Ile-Ife in Osun state to settle here.

“We have two seasons every year; the rainy and dry seasons. During this period, the dry season we can walk on land and vice verse. Our major occupation is fishing which we trade to train our children in school because we believe so much in good and quality education.

“Idi-Ogba is the first community in Ilaje to enjoy western education with the only Community Primary School built in 1921 by the community and before its establishment, there was standard education for our fathers. We are all christians, so our communal spirit is strong that we fight the same course”.

Ebietomiye however called on government to consider the community more in its developmental projects, saying the housing units project powered by the World Bank through the state government is a welcome development that will improve the status of the town.

“The project when completed will accommodate the widows and aged in the community. It’s new in Ilaje area and we are ready to take the opportunity with all seriousness”.

Earlier in his address, ODCSDA Operations Manager, Mr. Olumide Igbaroola explained that the group is part of the Gender and Vulnerable Group Support Investment (GVGSI) programme of the agency, targeted at the vulnerables in the society.

“GVGSI is a set of vulnerable people who have common interest and who are willing to work together to access common social and natural resource infrastructure services”.

He reaffirmed that the projects are community self driven through direct labour, adding that the government is committed to empowerment of citizens.

Igbaroola said successful completion of the housing units project would go a long way in improving the lives of people in the area especially the widows, aged and less privileged urging them to be united to achieve success.

“Development and engagement of aged people will definitely improve their status and the social as well as economic growth of Idi-Ogba. I want you all to show commitment and determination to make the project a success”, he urged.

Onnoghen was Atiku, PDP’s last hope of rigging Election Results, APC alleges

ABUJA: The ruling All Progressives Congress APC said the Peoples Democratic Party PDP and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has continued to whine over the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria CJN, Walter Onnoghen because the opposition party had planned to use the top jurist to get back to power at all costs.

Lanre Issa Onilu National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu in a statement on Monday recalled how in recent weeks Nigerians have been inundated with reports regarding “self-confessed discrepancies in the asset declaration made by erstwhile Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen”.

According to the APC, “the strident opposition to Justice Onnoghen’s suspension coming from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by its presidential candidate, Alh. Atiku Abubakar again points to their penchant for anything corrupt and criminal”.

Why the PDP and Atiku are worried “We have read the PDP and Atiku’s responses to the President’s action with shock albeit with a feeling of vindication.

Their responses portray the Nigeria they wish for. “A Nigeria where the rich and powerful are above the law; a Nigeria riddled with corruption and disregard for set down rules and laws as enshrined in the constitution; a Nigeria where institutions of government are manipulated and exploited for the benefit of a few privileged. Onnoghen’s suspension: 70 CSOs urge NASS to overrule Buhari “For one, the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike’s hold on Justice Onnoghen and a few others in the Judiciary is well-known.

This was their trump card to hijack power post-election. It is clear that Justice Onnoghen’s suspension has devastated the PDP as their plans to get back to power through the “cash and carry” justice system they put in place during their unfortunate 16 years reign is in serious jeopardy. “In citing the election tribunals as reason for Justice Onnoghen’s suspension, has Atiku given himself away on his now busted plot to use the tribunals to steal the people’s mandate in the presidential election he knows he will lose? “Nigerians have seen beyond the PDP and Atiku’s charade and reject their dream and inordinate personal ambition in totality. Nigerians have seen the handwriting on the wall and we are poised to defeat the PDP and Atiku in the coming elections under a free, fair, and credible electoral process. “It is completely untenable to insinuate any attempt on the part of our government to rig elections.

Our party contested elections in 2015 as an opposition party and we trounced the PDP while operating strictly by the electoral rules.

It is even needless for us at this period as the ruling party with unprecedented achievements in less than four years to rig or influence the elections. We are very confident of victory and are desirous of a peaceful and credible elections more than any political party. “Nigerians have shown without doubt throughout this campaign period that never will machinations of the political dark forces be enthroned in this country again. We fought for change, our country is changing and we remain committed to the process.

“The PDP and Atiku have asked the international community to intervene in Justice Onnoghen’s suspension. Is the international community not supportive of the fight against corruption? “Against the backdrop of statements by some foreign concerns over Justice Onnoghen’s suspension vis-a-vis forthcoming general elections, we strongly advise that they are abreast with our laws and procedures. A situation where these foreign concerns come across as meddling or being misled or influenced by bogus partisan narratives is unfortunate and unacceptable.

Onnoghen: FG says PDP crying more than the bereaved “Our firm commitment to ridding the country of corruption and ensuring credible electioneering processes remains resolute”, APC stated. The ruling party also berated Justice Onnoghen for attempting to cling on to power at all costs, describing his action as an assault in the same constitution which he swore to uphold. “We must ask ourselves these questions, why was Justice Onnoghen suspended? What are the charges against him? It is on the basis of this, we had expected the PDP, Atiku and their agents to assess the President’s action.

“Justice Onnoghen was accused of non declaration of assets — a requirement by law for every public officer. While under investigations, other transactions have been traced to Justice Onnoghen’s personal accounts, all undeclared as required by law. Justice Onnoghen has personally admitted to this in writing claiming that he made a “mistake” and “forgot” to declare his assets. “In the spirit of good conscience, integrity, character and general conduct expected of occupants of public office, we are of the strong position that Justice Onnoghen should have resigned immediately to face his trial after his confession and spare the Judiciary further disrepute.

Justice Onnoghen did not. This in itself smells mischief. “Justice Onnoghen fought to keep himself as CJN by all means possible, thereby fighting the same constitution that he swore to protect. “It is important to remind the PDP and Atiku that Justice Onnoghen is not entitled to special treatment. Such entitlement being canvassed by the PDP and Atiku is alien to our laws and not in tandem with our cardinal objective of fighting against corruption and indeed our overall Change Agenda”, APC added.

Voter's education powered by FOWOSO. Ifedore FOWOSOsites in action. Ifedore, NEXT LEVEL!

"Expect more Infrastructure development in our schools" -Akeredolu

The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Saturday said the ongoing renovations and construction of over 400 new schools in the state is just a tip of an iceberg.

He said more schools in the state would soon witness such capital projects to bridge the infrastructure gap that had been making learning not conducive in our various schools.

Akeredolu disclosed this at the Centenary Celebration of the Ondo Boys' High School, Ondo West Local government area of the state.

The Governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Agboola Alfred Ajayi, reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to the infrastructure development of schools in the state.

He expressed delight on the level of work done on the ongoing road network project in the school that was approved by the state government, adding that his government would continue to support other stakeholders in their efforts to contribute towards the school development.

While noting that the school had produced many accomplished individuals in various fields of human endeavour, Akeredolu, called on the old students association not to relent in their efforts but continue to complemenr the efforts of government so that the school would attain desired height.

The governor also promised to ensure that modern computers and other necessary facilities are provided to boost ICT studies in schools.

Appreciating the organizers of the event, the governor called on other old students associations to emulate the good gesture by giving back to the schools that made them.

Also speaking at the event, an old student and donor of a ten million naira worth science laboratory for the school, Dr. Olu Akinkugbe stressed the important of collaboration of well meaning individuals to school development.

He attributed his success in life to the virtues instilled in him in his days in the school.

TradersAssure Buhari of 10 Million Votes

Nigerian Traders, under the auspices of Nigerian Traders For PMB, has vowed to mobilize over 10 million votes for President Muhammadu Buhari in the forthcoming presidential election in appreciation for his achievement so far.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Prince Paul Ikonne, the Group said: “by standing by his words at all times as we find it difficult to comprehend the position of the former president concerning the wellbeing of Nigerians.”

The group sad further that “Having told Nigerians consistently how well he knows Atiku and why Nigerians should not trust Atiku, why this dance in the market place? We, therefore, urge former President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo to please speak so that we can listen.”

The group asked its members to mobilise their households, neighbours, and friends to support and vote for President Muhammadu Buhari in the forthcoming presidential elections in order to exceed the 10 million vote target.

Best governor we ever had. God bless Aketi and his team

Challenges Before New IGP

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari last week appointed Mr. Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, a former Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) as the nation’s new Acting Inspector General Police (IGP). His appointment has come at a period when the nation is almost overrun by criminals and the police appear helpless.

ADAMU took over the baton of authority from the former IG, Ibrahim Idris, who bowed out of the service having clocked 60 years.

ADAMU has no doubt settled down for business. This he demonstrated following his directives decentralizing operations of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

THIS has made commissioners of police in the 36 states and the FCT assume full command and control of SARS in their respective commands.

THE police boss also announced the disbandment of the Special Investigation Panel (SIP) and Special Tactical Squad (STS) and other quasi-investigation and operation units of the force.

WE commend the IGP for decentralizing operations of SARS. We observe before now that there has been multiplication of duties in the force. For example, as the Force headquarters had SARS so also was the state having its own and thereby making their operations unwieldy and thereby bringing unwarranted clashes within the force

IT also breeds indiscipline. There were many situations whereby a junior officer refused to obey the command of his senior all because he is responsible to a boss based in Abuja. These directives would definitely instill discipline within the force.

ADAMU’s appointment has ultimately brought him to the limelight. Reason being the fact that the general elections are knocking at the door and police will have to play crucial roles for the success of the exercise.

THEREFORE, expectations are very high among Nigerians as Adamu took over the Police Force. We therefore enjoin him to take all necessary steps to ensure that the police do not compromise .

WE plead with Mr. Adamu to hit the ground running especially as the elections are few weeks away. This he can do if he quickly assembles intelligent officers that will work with him and focus on successful conduct of the elections starting next month, February.

THIS election will be a litmus test of his capabilities to prove that he is equal to the task. He must not fail in proving to Nigerians that he is not just able, but capable of making a difference from what he inherited. He needs to work in accordance with best global policing practices because that is what Nigerians would be looking out for.

AN average Nigerian perception about the Nigeria Police is an organization that bedeviled with corruption. This assertion is not untrue. From illegal check point to illegal arrest of innocent members of the public and extortion among others are nothing but the imprint of the force.

WE therefore advise he should check the notorious extortion of motorists by policemen.

THAT bail is free is just on paper. But, is it possible to bail any suspect at a police station without paying through one’s nose?

WE also want to see the abolition of frequent illegal arrests of innocent members of the public by police.

IT is quite unfortunate that police which used to be a noble job years back is now being looked with contempt.

WE expect the new IGP to clinically embark on an in-house cleaning with the view to redeeming the battered image of the police and thereby sanitise the Force, get rid of bad eggs, especially the corrupt officers, those politically exposed and decentralise the Force to ensure adequate security across the country.

He should also strengthen the investigative department of the Force to ensure that innocent Nigerians are not made to suffer or punished unjustifiably. We wish he discourages accidental discharge which has sent innocent people to the graves and ensure that officers that are posted out are well trained and matured enough to handle weapon.

THE new IGP must be transparent and mature in handling issues, ensure neutrality and unbiased relationship with political parties, tighten up security across the country and assist the military in intelligence gathering, nip insurgency and stamp it out completely in the country.

HE must also ensure that the ‘Bail is Free’ policy is respected and obeyed under his watch because this is another area where innocent Nigerians are being raped by the police.

Adamu has promised to act according to police professional ethics and we are watching. The Hope wishes him a successful stay in office.

LG chairman tasks supervisors on grassroots devt



Members of the newly inaugurated local government interim committee in Ese-Odo have been advised by the council chairman, Mr Ojo Omolewa to be focused and committed to grassroots development so as to justify the confidence reposed in them.



Mr Ojo gave the advice while inaugurating the newly appointed supervisors at the Igbekebo civic center during the week.

The council boss said their appointment will aid the council to hit the ground running so as to bring dividends of democracy and by extension good governance to the door steps of everyone irrespective of their political, religious and social beliefs.

While speaking on behalf of the committee members, Zachariah Bowel promised that the interim committee would do everything possible to ensure the success of the All Progressives Congressi Party (APC) in the forthcoming elections at all levels

Zachariah expressed optimism that the constitution of the committee would further strengthen the present administration’s capacity to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots.

Members of the interim committee inaugurated were Abisoye Mumboh – Apoi 1 , Ogundowo Sunday -Apoi 2,Olowolayemo Ebi- Apoi 3,Badejo Idowu- Apoi 4,Olowoniyi Albert -Apoi 5, Taribo Iganboh -Arogbo 1,Udoboh Ofoyeju -Arogbo 2,Zachariah Bowie – Arogbo 3,Jidiyegha Amos -Ukparama 1, Blessing Goh -Ukparama 2.
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ese-Odo-LG-chairman-tasks-supervisors-on-grassroots-development

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has lauded Ondo State pilgrims who participated in the last pilgrimage exercise to Isreal for not absconding and representing the state well.

Speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at the chapel of grace government house in Akure, Governor Akeredolu noted that going to Isreal means a lot to Christians to enable them take spiritual stocks in other to appreciate what Christianity is all about.


The governor who noted that the state is known for its integrity in the scheme of things decried the manner at which many participants see pilgrimage as an opportunity to abscond with a vow to ensure such act is resisted completely in the state.

n his exhortation, chairman of the State Christian welfare board, the very reverend Raphael Agboola emphasized the need for people to show appreciation to God stressing that it comes with compensation.

Highpoint of the service was the presentation of certificate to the Jerusalem pilgrims by the governor and intercessory prayers.

NATA meets for Progress and vows to fully support Jibayo Adeyeye for MHR

The entire members of the National Automobile Technicians Association, (NATA) Ondo West and East Local government is holding a meeting for the progress of the association and general development in Ondo kingdom at Oba Adesanoye Civic centre in Ondo city.

His Excellency, Governor of Ondo state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN arrived at the event with other distinguished ladies and gentlemen and honourable members of the House of Assembly:
Hon. Adewale Adelakun, Ondo West Member House of Assembly, Constituency 1
Hon. Olamide Oladiji (Landmark), Ondo East Member House of Assembly
Hon. Jibayo Adeyeye
Sen. Tayo Alasoadura

Also present at the event is the State President of the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA). The State Chairman, Mr Babatunde expressed his support for Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye for Member, House of Reps.

During the event, over 5000 NATA members declares support for Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye MHR Ondo/Ondo east.

Addressing the NATA members at the event, the Governor stressed that Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye deserves to be voted for and urged all members to keep supporting him.

Great. This would help curb misappropriation of funds

The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, the Ondo state capital on Wednesday dismissed the Appeal filed by elected 18 Local Government Chairmen in Ondo State.

The appeal was heard by a three-man panel of Justices of the Appeal Court, Akure, including Justices M. A Danjuma, R M. Abdullahi and P. A. Mahmoud as members.

Justice Danjuma in his lead judgment upheld the part of the preliminary objection to the jurisdiction of Court of Appeal filed by Charles Titiloye who is the counsel appearing for the 6th to 8th Respondents which are the Attorney General of Ondo State and Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, (ODIEC).

Titiloye had argued that the former local Government chairmen and councillors lacked the locus standi to appear at the Court of Appeal on the issue of counsel representation before the trial Court in respect of another political party-the Peoples Redemption Party(PRP) which is different from the party that sponsored the appellants for the local government election.

The dissolved PDP local government council chiefs had appeal the dissolution of local Govt council by Ondo state High Court as interested party on the ground that the counsel who filed the action on behalf of PRP at the lower Court did not receive the blessings of the PRP at the national level.

It would be recalled that the Ondo State High Court, sitting in Akure dissolved the 18 Local Government Council of Ondo State in 2017 based on a suit filed by PRP that the party was unlawfully excluded from participating in the local government election in the State.

The Court of appeal held that parts of the grounds contained in the Notice of Appeal of the dissolved local government boss was incompetent and struck them out along with issues formulated by the lead appellants Counsel, Chief Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN)relating to counsel representation for PRP.

It ruled that the election that brought the PDP local Government bosses and councillors into office was an act of illegality and no enforceable right can be based on the said election.

According to the court, the election was conducted in flagrant disregard of the Federal High Court orders that PRP was a registered political party entitled to nominate candidates for the said election.

The Appeal Court further pointed out that the case before the lower Court was a pre- election matter and the amendment of reliefs granted by the trial Court to include consequential reliefs which allowed it to dissolve the local government Council and invalidate the election conducted in contravention of orders of Court and pending case in Court was in order and valid.

It rejected the contention of Adedipe that the trial Court lacked jurisdiction to have entertained the case in view of the fact that it is not an election petition tribunal recognised by the constitution.

In resolving the issue in favour of Respondent’s Counsel, Titiloye, the Court noted that the cause of action in the case involved sponsorship and nomination of candidates for election, saying it is, therefore, a pre- election matter within the jurisdiction of Ondo state High Court and not election petition tribunal.

It had earlier ruled on the preliminary objections filed by Femi Emodamori, counsel to one of PRP candidate on failure of the appellants to attach lawyers seal to the appellant’s notice of appeal and filing of the notice of appeal before the High Court instead of the Court of appeal.

The court, therefore, dismissed both objections as lacking in merit.

It also dismissed similar objections filed by Sola Oke challenging on behalf of the appellants the respondents brief filed by Titiloye.

The Appeal Court resolved all issues in favour of the respondents and dismissed the appeal filed by the former PDP local council chairmen and their councillors thereby affirming the 2017 decision of the Ondo State High Court, Akure dissolving the 18 Local Government Councils in the state.

NIGERIA Governors Forum (NGF) Chairman and Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari said yesterday in Abuja that the 36 state governors, including those from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), are working for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election.

The governor, who spoke at the formal public unveiling of the Forward with Buhari Grassroots Mobilisers in Abuja, said the governors were the ones funding the movement and would have been present, but for official state functions, which they are attending.

However, a senior member of the movement stated that two unnamed PDP governors have made financial contributions to the group, which is expected to embark on mass mobilisation of Nigerians for the President’s second term bid.

The Zamfara State governor claimed his colleagues took the decision to support the President’s re-election bid based on his record performance in the last three and half years.

He said: “Mr. President, you have done something that is unexpected, when 27 out of 36 governors could not pay salary, you had to bail out the states or else some of us will have relocated back to Abuja.

“If he can do this irrespective of party, it is time to pay back. Those that stay with Buhari, even his opponents, know his zero-tolerance to corruption.

“It is about three weeks to the election. We need to work harder; we should go back home and gear up to return Mr. President Muhammadu Buhari for a second time.

“You know why governors are backing Buhari? I knew what happened in the past administration and now. The president has given us infrastructure. It has been right to ride behind him. We will do all to support this group.”

APC Deputy National Chairman (North) Senator Lawal Shuaibu said the Forward with Buhari Movement was the brain child of the NGF.

Shuaibu, who is the group’s National Coordinator, said: “It is unique that the sponsors of the campaign group, who no doubt consider themselves among the most critical stakeholders in this important history-making project of returning President Buhari and you to continue in office in 2019 are members of the Nigeria Governors Forum!

“Your excellency will be surprised that I did not say Progressives Governors Forum. Yes, it is not a mistake; The Nigeria Governors Forum, led by Zamfara State Governor AbdulAzeez Yari Abubakar.

“What makes the governors among the most critical stakeholders in this project is that even Mr. President, in constituting his campaign council, appointed them as his state coordinators! No doubt, nobody can coordinate the states more than the governors as they are key to any election in any presidential system of democracy like our own.

“The group named itself ‘Forward With Buhari’ as its mandate is to move with the APC presidential candidate to the Next Level. The main mandate of the group in this campaign your exellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, is to create visibility of the campaign on a sustained momentum as well as create awareness and endear the Brand of Buhari/Osinbajo in the hearts of Nigerian voters.


“They do this through their grass-root mobilisers, who are sponsored to engage people at polling unit levels, by consistently reminding the common man of the laudable achievements of the Buhari administration in the nation’s various sectors that positively touched on the life of not only every ordinary citizen of this country, but we can say every Nigerian.

“These young people have been equipped with a catalogue of most laudable projects initiated by Buhari administration as well as those he completed as a result of the inability of the previous government to do so, largely because the money to complete such important projects was visibly misappropriated.

“Our young people are also adequately informed on the level of progress made in addressing the challenges posed by insecurity all over the country; a situation inherited by President Buhari.

“They are equally fully aware of the change they have experienced in the effort to reduce poverty at the grassroots level, through the various social intervention programmes of the Buhari administration.

“Let me inform you that this group has in its fold, mobilisers, canvassers, sensitisers, social media campaigners, door-to-door voter education experts and many others and are quite ready to commence their activities through the print and electronic media as well as the various social media platforms in a rather unique way.

“The group is also expected to sustain a strategic momentum of campaign, especially whenever Mr. President and yourself visit any state to conduct your campaign rallies and depart. They are expected thereafter to occupy the entire space until the last day of campaign in line with the guidelines released by INEC. For your information sir, the APC youth leaders in every state, at all levels down to the polling units are going to be engaged in this project for coordination at their respective levels.”

SUPPORTERS of President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo have launched a final push in the Southwest beginning from Friday in their ongoing grassroots campaign to consolidate the duo’s ‘grip’ on the zone in the February 16 presidential election.

Under the latest strategy, pro-Buhari organisations are to be consolidated under the Presidential Support Committee (PSC), as the Presidency has appointed Senator Robert Ajayi Boroffice as the main coordinator with a mandate to harness legitimate resources in the remaining four weeks before the poll to further brighten the chances of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and his deputy.

The decision was reportedly reached at a crucial meeting held in Abuja by the leadership of the PSC after appraising activities of the various campaign groups, with the stakeholders agreeing to raise the bar ahead of the elections.

Former Akwa Ibom State Governor and serving senator Godswill Akpabio is the national chairman of the PSC. The national coordinator (South) is Senator Babalola Akin Odunsi.

Their first assignment is the inauguration of the executives of the Southwest zone as well as the coordinators for Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo on Friday at the Premier Hotel Ibadan, Oyo State, with Governor Abiola Ajimobi as host.

In a bid to further fortify the team, APC candidates for National Assembly and governorship standard-bearers in Oyo, Ogun and Lagos states, as well as other influential faithful from the Southwest form the nucleus of the final phase of the campaign. They are to collaborate with other supporters and loyalists of Buhari and Osinbajo to seriously engage in a blitz of campaign strategies that include door-to-door campaign, one-on-one discussion and group discussions.

According to the deputy national chairman (South), Odunsi, the Presidency appointed Senator Boroffice to oversee and coordinate the activities of the Buhari support groups and organisations in the Southwest for actualisation of the 4+4 Agenda of President Buhari to consolidate the gains of the APC-led federal administration since May 29, 2015.

Confirming the new development, PSC zonal secretary, Dele Olanubi, who is an engineer, also explained that major stakeholders such as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Matters Honourable Gideon Sammani and other presidential aides serving in advisory committee to the PSC would be part of the inauguration.

Olanubi added that the PSC was mandated to coordinate the activities of support groups to guarantee a resounding victory for Buhari and Osinbajo at the poll, urging “Nigerian not to allow those who only think and plan in Dubai and want to sell NNPC to their foreign friends to take Nigeria back to the Egypt”.

Boroffice has promised to use his experience as a legislator and grassroots’ politician to mobilise maximum votes in the history of Southwest for Buhari. Others have assured of working assiduously to galvanise the critical mass in the Southwest for the APC ticket.

PSC Publicity Secretary in the Southw1est, Honourable Doyin Johnson, (coordinator of Asiwaju Frontlines), affirmed that Buhari had “further convinced Nigerians that he is an upright man known to be a truthful, visionary and courageous leader.”

He said the main opposition PDP presidential candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar had no business being in the race.

He added that “Nigerians have since become wiser”, even as he advised the youth to use their voting strength to vote massively for Buhari and other APC candidates because of the party’s visible landmark achievements.”

Let nobody deceive you, Aisha Buhari tells party faithful

The wife of the President, Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, has urged women and youth in the country to vote for continuity in this year’s general election so they could continue to enjoy the peace and prosperity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.

“Don’t allow anybody to deceive you,” she said at a rally this weekend in Ibadan. “Vote for Buhari, vote for continuity so that all of us can benefit immensely from this government.”

Represented by the wife of the Vice President, Dolapo Osinbajo, at the rally organised by the Women and Youth Presidential Campaign Team in the South-West, the First Lady said the APC government should be allowed to continue the good work it has been doing for four more years.

Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife Florence (she serves as the coordinator of the Women and Youth Presidential Campaign, South-West) hosted the event held at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan.

Among other dignitaries present at the stadium, which was filled to capacity, were Ekiti State Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State, Minister of Information and Culture Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Health Prof. Isaac Adewole, Dayo Adelabu, and Taslim Folarin.

The wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Mrs. Bisi Fayemi, who is the South-West Zonal Chairperson of the Media Committee of the APC Women and Youth Presidential Campaign, as well as Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa, National Women Leader of the party, also spoke on the occasion, advising women and youth to vote for APC to have a better Nigeria.

I hope they put the interest of Nigerians at heart during their discussiont

BREAKING: National Council Of State Approves N27,000 As New Minimum Wage

The council approved the amount at its meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

Following the Council’s approval, a minimum wage bill is expected to be sent to the National Assembly on Wednesday.

According to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, the Federal Government is topping the approved amount by N3,000 to 30,000 for its workers.

He said the states are at liberty to augment the new agreement as they see fit.

The amount approved by the Council of State is N3,000 short of the N30,000 that the Tripartite Committee on Review of National Minimum Wage recommended.

The committee, chaired by a former Head of Service of the Federation, Ms Ama Pepple, had submitted the report, which contained the recommended figure, to President Muhammadu Buhari on November 6, 2018, after many months of deliberations.

Prior to the committee’s recommendation, in October, state governors had offered to pay N22,500 as minimum wage.

Nine days after the committee recommended N30,000, on November 15, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum insisted that the states cannot pay the amount, leading to criticism by organised Labour which insisted on N30,000.

On January 8, 2019, the Nigeria Labour Congress held a nationwide protest over what it said was the delay by the Federal Government to transmit a new minimum wage bill to the National Assembly.

More to follow…

A national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, on Sunday asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo to stop interfering in the affairs of the ruling party.

He spoke in Abuja at the venue of the national convention of the party.

Mr Tinubu, who described Mr Obasanjo’s interference as “busy body”, argued that the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari in three years could not be compared to those of the administrations of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which ruled the country for unbroken 16 years.

Mr Obasanjo was president between 1999 and 2007 on the platform of the PDP.
https://citadelng.com/mind-your-business-tinubu-tells-obasanjo/

The former president had earlier in the year written an open letter to Mr Buhari asking him not to run for a second term because he had performed poorly.

However, the president ignored the advice as he announced at the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja that he would seek reelection next year.

Mr Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, said Mr Obasanjo did not have the right to tell the president not to run again.

“Thank God he (Obasanjo) is not a part of our party; this busy body. Unfortunately he has torn the card of his previous party so he has no home,” he said.

He thanked Mr Buhari for his decision to run again, saying “run, contest, you must.”

He also appreciated Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for being “a great fountain of knowledge” and for not undermining his (vice president) leaders.

On the convention, Mr Tinubu expressed joy that it was successfully conducted, stating “today through convention we have changed the leadership of our party, not at gun point.”

Congratulating the newly elected national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, the former governor said his (Oshiomhole) emergence was a true reflection of the saying that “no matter how short a man is you will see the sky.”

He admonished the new NWC members to work hard for the party because its members had put their trust in them and would not afford to fail.

He said, “In trust we put you; that trust you cannot abuse. We will be with you, support you and the day we need to fight you, we will fight.”

Mr Tinubu said despite predictions that the APC would implode during the convention, it remained intact.

“The ‘pigs’ and their fortune tellers predicted the party will fall apart but I thank the (national convention) committee for making the convention a success,” he said.

Ondo State: The next industrial hub of Nigeria

Vice President , Professor Yemi Osinbajo has described pioneer chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande as a straight forward leader who has continued to live a modest and frugal life.



The Vice President stated this at the 80th birthday ceremony in honour of the former Osun state Governor held at the Emeritus Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi Multipurpose Hall, Ibadan.

Osinbajo said Nigeria undoubtedly needed stronger states with more powers, more rights and more responsibilities to help reshape the destinies of their people.

He advocated fiscal federalism that will enable states look inward rather than rely on what comes from the federation account.

“A classical example of a successful fiscal federalism in the history of Nigeria was the six year reign of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was the Premier of the Old Western Nigerian.



“Lagos State under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was an example of an administration which looked inward for the development of the state by exploring constitutional provisions through the court which granted the state what was due to it from the Federal Government”, he said.

Earlier, the Keynote Speaker who is the Governor of Kaduna State and Chairman of APC Restructuring Committee, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, dismissed as unfounded, insinuations that the Northern Nigeria was unanimous against restructuring.

He said restructuring has become the way out of the current challenges facing the country through devolution of powers by way of creating state police and revolutionising the judiciary in favour of the states rather than concentrating absolute powers in the hands of National Judicial Council, NJC.

While stating that true federalism entails that the Local Government structure would exist at the mercy of States, Governor El- Rufai categorically said that there could only be a two-tier of government in a federation.

In his good will message tilted “Celebrating An Avatar @ 80, Ondo State Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) described the celebrant as an exceptional old man who deserved to be celebrated having rendered altruistic service to his fatherland.



Arakunrin Akeredolu said the experience Chief Akande had garnered in public service, spanning several decades, have remained exemplary to the people in the Southwest Nigeria and the country at large.

Put the people at the center of your actions, Akeredolu charges newly inaugurated council chairmen

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Friday, December 14, 2018 inaugurated the newly appointed Interim Caretaker Committee Chairmen of Local Government Councils in the state.

The eighteen Chairmen from the eighteen local government Councils in the state state were inaugurated by the Governor at the Governor's office, Alagbaka, Akure.

Governor Akeredolu charged the Council Chairmen to always put the people at the center of their actions and activities.

He said their development agenda must align with the aspiration of the people and that of the party so as to elicit the people’s co-operation and partnership.

According to the Governor, Rural Development and Community Extension Services is a core plank of the initiatives of his administration.

He disclosed that his administration had in recent times undertaken the grading of twenty-five kilometers rural roads in the 18 local governments and clearing of road verges

Akeredolu said "We are currently flagging off the asphalt overlay of one kilometer road in all the Local Governments

" These initiatives are in addition to the rural roads which we are going to rehabilitate under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP)

" We have also undertaken the rehabilitation of some Federal roads in the State, all in a bid to give succour to our people and other road users

"We have made great strides this year in the areas of job creation, school feeding, waste disposal and rehabilitation of decaying public buildings, especially public primary schools

"In the coming months we intend to notch up in these activities and impact the lives of our people in a greater way."

Governor Akeredolu while congratulating the new Chairmen, said they have been appointed to oversee the council for the next six months.

He said his administration will conduct the council election after the expiration of the six months period.

"Today marks another high-water mark in Local Government Administration in Ondo State with the inauguration of newly appointed Interim Caretaker Committee Chairmen to oversee the Councils for the next six months

"It would be recalled that we were set to organise an election at the Local Government level this year but in view of the fact that INEC was unable to provide the updated version of the voters register despite the continued requests for it by the State election body, the exercise had to be put on hold. "

The inauguration was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ogundeji Iroju, Chairman of the APC in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, members of the State Executive Council and Traditional rulers.

� Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

VP Debate: Why We Cannot Remove Subsidy – Osinbajo
Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has given reason the All Progressives Congress, APC, adminstration cannot remove petroleum subsidy.
Osinbajo speaking at Vice Presidential Debate organised by the Broadcast Organisation of Nigeria and the Nigeria Elections Debate Group on Friday, said removal of subsidy will of the have massive effect on Nigerians.
He added that petrol price could go as high as N220 if it is removed.
According to him, “The NNPC is the sole importer of petroleum. So, it is from the balance sheet of the NNPC that the subsidy is being taken.
“Now, let me say that if today, you are to remove subsidy, petrol price could go as high as N220 per litre or higher. There is no country in the world, not even the wealthiest ones that don’t run some type of subsidy or the other.”