Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has directed the National Broadcasting Commission to immediately implement measures aimed at re-positioning the broadcast industry.

Mohammed in a statement on Thursday by his media aide, Segun Adeyemi, said the directives became necessary following the submission of the report of the committee set up to work out the modalities for implementing the recommendations approved by the President, President Muhammadu Buhari.

Mohammed said the directive covers provision for the regulation of hate speech, among others.

“Following my satisfaction with the report which was very professional and detailed, I wish to direct the Commission to take the necessary measures to effect the implementation of the various provisions therein.

“This directive covers the provision for the regulation of the web and online TV/radio; regulation of international broadcasters beaming signals into Nigeria; hate speech; human resource and staff welfare; funding for the reforms implementation; monitoring; Independence of the Regulator and ease of issuing Licenses as well as competition and monopoly issues.

“This regulation prevents the misuse of monopoly or market power or anti-competitive and unfair practices by a foreign or local broadcaster to suppress other local broadcaster in the television and radio markets, having removed exclusivity from all content in Nigeria and mandated the sharing of all content upon the payment of commercially viable fees.”
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Buhari, Tinubu in closed-door meeting

Mohammed added that the new regulations will compel broadcasters to utilize the content and services of Nigerian independent producers, in fulfillment of the regulatory requirements for 70 percent local content.

He explained that this will empower local producers with proper funding and investment, enhance foreign collaborations, develop the local industry, raise the standard of local productions and ultimately lead to job creation.

According to him, the new regulations will also ensure that producers of content are paid promptly for adverts and sponsored content placed on all TV, radio and broadcast platforms.

Furthermore, Mohammed added that the implementation of the directive will ensure that the production of adverts are localized to create and promote local production.

He said that for musical content, the new regulation will ensure that broadcasters earn the right royalty to their works.


Source: [url]https://newsacross.com/buhari-issues-new-directive-to-nbc-on-hate-speech-others/
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The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun will on Friday swear in the 19 commissioners recently screened and approved by the state Assembly.

The confirmed 19 commissioner-nominees would also be given their portfolios at the event slated to hold at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto Abeokuta at 11am prompt.

These commissioner-nominees include Mr Afolabi Afuape, a former Commissioner for Sports in the state and another former commissioner for Environment, Mr Tunji Akinosi.

The others include the pioneer vice chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Prif. Sidi Osho and a former Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Dr Adeola Odedina.

The rest are: Dr Tomi Coker, Mrs Kikelomo Longe, Mr Dapo Ogunbadejo, Oludotun Taiwo, Mr Ganiyu Hamzat, Mr Funmi Efuape, Mr Kehinde Oluwadare, Mr Jamiu Omoniyi, Mr Toyin Taiwo and Mr Ade Adesanya.


Source: https://newsacross.com/breaking-dapo-abiodun-swear-in-commissioners-on-friday/

<strong>The Ogun State House of Assembly has screened and confirmed the 19 nominees as Chairmen of Caretaker Committees of the State Local Government Areas.</strong>


The Assembly's approval was consequent upon the presentation of the report of the Committee on Selection by the Majority Leader, Yusuf Sheriff, who also moved the motion for its adoption, seconded by Hon. Akeem Balogun and supported by the Whole House through a voice vote at a plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon Olakunle Oluomo.

Following the adoption of the report, Yusuf thereafter moved the for the confirmation of the 19 nominees, seconded by Hon. Balogun and unanimously supported by all the lawmakers through a voice vote.

The report partly reads, "Members examined their curriculum vitae, credentials and interviewed them. They were all found to be eligible and suitable to assume the exalted office of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary and member of Local Government Transition Committee in their various Local Government Areas of Ogun State.

The screening of the nominee of the Governor for Chairman and members of Ipokia Local Governmnet Transition Committees was suspended till further notice in honour of the late Chairman nominee, Late Mr Shuaib Adeosun.

The Committee therefore recommend the screened nominees for confirmation as Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary and members of Transition Committees in 19 Local Government Councils having found them eligible and suitable in consonance with provision of Section 40(1) of the Local Government Law of Ogun State, 2000".


One of the newly confirmed chairmen, Mr Bola Lawal, pledged to tackle Poverty at the grassroots.

He said he would carry everybody along by empowering the people.

On his part, Mr Bola Lawal, from Odeda Local Government pledged to curb insecurity in his area, and promised to carry everybody along in a bid to make them feel the impact of his administration.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/breaking-ogun-assembly-confirms-nominees-for-lg-caretaker-commiittees/

Three times governorship candidate in Ogun State, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, has said he would not contest against the current governor of Ogun state, Prince Dapo Abiodun in 2023.

Speaking through his Spokesperson, Bolaji Adeniji, on an Abeokuta radio station, Isiaka said he believed in Gov Abiodun’s vision for the state; saying that prompted their defection.

It reported that Isiaka and his followers defected to the Dapo Abiodun faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) recently, then the Governor promising them an all-inclusive government.

But, Isiaka, this morning, said they joined the incumbent governor so as to be able to contribute to the development of the state, having lost the March 9 governorship election in Ogun.

Isiaka was reacting to insinuations that he and his followers were ‘deceived’ by Abiodun; as nobody from their camp made the recently released Commissioners list.

Adeniji, however, said members of the Believe Movement could be appointed into Abiodun’s government as Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Chairmen of boards and others; adding that this would accord them the opportunity to play vital roles in developing Ogun State.


“We didn’t sign an MoU with Gov Abiodun. There was no negotiation. It’s just a mutual understanding based on alignment of values. We didn’t sit to share commissionership or political positions. We didn’t have any official agreement or MoU. What we had was mutual respect and opportunity for us to contribute to developmental conversation at the state level and at the local government level.”

Source: https://newsacross.com/i-will-not-contest-against-abiodun-in-2023-gboyega-isiaka/

Source: https://newsacross.com/baywood-foundation-hosts-youth-empowerment-conferenceseeks-partnership-with-au/


In line with the visionary mandate of youth empowerment and the political relevance of youths in governance, Baywood Foundation, a non governmental organisation set to host an internship programme for youths across the continent to enable them gain experience in governance and political leadership, themed BACK TO THE FUTURE- YOUNG PEOPLE REIMAGINING TODAY’S POLITICS.

The conference and event is aimed at resuscitating the capacity and ability of youths in politics and governance, there by stimulate effective discourse to drive a sustainable action agenda on this issue.

Its founder, Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, stated this when he addressed reporters at Regent Hotel, Ikeja, the Lagos State capital.


He said the programme, which is expected to kick off in Nigeria will features speakers and presentations from key stakeholders from all over Africa. Countries represented include Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mali, Botswana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Africa, Tunisia, Kenya and Tanzania.

Ibe said: “A major outcome of this Conference would be a pathway to the actualization of a pioneering Baywood Foundation initiative in collaboration with the African Union which not only creates inclusive opportunities for youth but also develops their intrinsic capabilities for future leadership roles. Baywood Foundation is proposing this initiative which offers leadership development and a path to greater involvement in political governance for youths throughout Africa.



“The focused objective is to position the candidate within an environment which provides opportunities to establish networks, upgrade knowledge levels and chart a career path in Government.”

With young people making up over 65 per cent of the population in Africa, Ibe said the system must provide an enabling environment and affirmative action for them to participate in leadership. To this end, he said road blocks in their paths should be removed.



Though he commends President Muhammadu Buhari who signed the ‘Not Too Young To Run’ Bill to law in 2018 to reduce the age limits across political offices, This is a step in the right direction but is however not enough because it does not address the systemic constraints to youth participation in governance.”



He said: “Part of the challenges, as identified by Baywood Foundation, include neglect/abandonment of youths, lack of engagement and lack of collaboration with youths.

“All these have culminated in the lack of opportunities for youths to actively participate in governance. These problems are lamentable, anti-democratic, including the exclusionist disposition of African leaders who capitalise on ethnic, religious as well as socio-economic divisions in their countries to perpetuate themselves in office.

“The African continent is riddled with Presidents who have spent over 35 years in office and are aiming for 40 years or more. The statistics in this regard make for very sober reflection indeed; hence, the clarion call for affirmative action. “

“The consequences of this characteristic of African leaders have led to the gross socio-economic under-development of the continent, corruption, genocides and the exclusion of many generations of youths from governance.


Source : https://newsacross.com/baywood-foundation-hosts-youth-empowerment-conferenceseeks-partnership-with-au/

https://newsacross.com/exclusive-how-ex-gov-amosun-failed-to-secure-juicy-senate-finance-committee-appointment/

Lawan rejects $1m cash gift...

The former governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun who has just been announced as the Senate chairman on capital market is not totally happy with his appointment.

This was revealed by a close associate of the Senate President names withheld, who confided in our source on how Amosun ran from pillar to post to secure either the finance or appropriation committee chairman.

The source further revealed that Amosun used his closeness to the President to mount pressure on the Senate President to assign any of the two juicy committees to him. The Senate President made it clear that the appropriation committee is going to the North West while the Finance is going to the South West.

With a hint that the Senate President is likely considering Senator Olamilekan Adeola YAYI representing Lagos west due to his vast experience and proven antecedents in the accounting field, Amosun made a move by giving the Senate President a cash gift of $1m as a congratulatory token for his emergence as the Senate President of Nigeria.

At the meeting, the source revealed that the Senate President was blunt but polite. The Senate President thanked Amosun for his generosity but quickly added that such a huge amount of money isn't needed for him to make fair decisions. He added that if Senator Amosun was there to discuss the finance committee, he told him politely that it is Senator Adeola YAYI's to lose.

At this point, Senator Ibikunle Amosun gently stretched his hand to pick the bag containing the cash gift. The Senate President assured the former governor that he will be given a committee that will make him proud as a ranking senator. This didn't go down well with Amosun who left dejected and angry.


Source : https://newsacross.com/exclusive-how-ex-gov-amosun-failed-to-secure-juicy-senate-finance-committee-appointment/

The desperation and abuse of power of the outgoing Ogun state governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun to install a successor at all cost has hit a brick wall as appeal court president disband the members of Ogun State tribunal which has been confirmed to be working in Amosun’s interest having received a ‘gift’ of N1.5bn from the governor.

AmosunIn the case of Ogun state, Gov. Amosun was said to have given this N1.5bn ‘gift’ in two tranches to get the favour of tribunal members to have his preferred candidate, Hon. Adekunle Akinlade declared winner of the March 9 gubernatorial election in the state which Prince Dapo Abiodun of the All Progreesives Congress (APC) was declared winner.

A source who has been sidelined of many largesse after the APM lost at the poll bitterly divulge the information and said a particular A09 hilux was used to convey the money. The source also said a first bank AGRALE was also used to convey the second tranche of the cash which some of it included foreign currencies.

Having learnt of this shady deals, the appeal court president, Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa disbanded the tribunal members headed by Justice Chinwe Onyeabo with two other members, Justice D. A. Onyigbenu and Justice (Khadi) M.L. Omar. By then, the president ordered the members to leave Ogun state for another judicial assignment.

Information gathered by our source revealed that the sanitizing of the judicial system has taken a new shape after the immediate past CJN, Justice Walter Onnoghen has been convicted of corrupt practices. A close source revealed that judges are now careful in their dealings and taking steps to disband any tribunal committee whom politicians are romancing for soft landing.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/reshuffling-of-ogun-tribunal-members-amosuns-n1-5bn-gift-goes-down-the-drain/

The planned disbursement of TRADER MONI for Lafenwa Market in Abeokuta, Ogun State has been distrupted by suspected thugs loyal to Governor Ibikunle Amosun, Allied People Movement suppotets and agents of the State Government.

Officials compiling the names of prospective beneficiaries at the stall of the Iyaloja, Alhaja Ramotalai Olatunji were forcibly dispersed and harassed by both government agents and supporters of Allied people Movement APM

Source: https://newsacross.com/breaking-gov-amosun-supporters-disrupt-trader-moni-disbursement/

The Allied People’s Movement, APM presidential candidate, Yusuf Dantalle has boasted of his chances to win the presidential election and how he will defeat the APC candidate, President Muhammadu Buhari.


Dantalle made this known while answering questions from some journalists who questioned the reason why his name still appears on the presidential candidate lists which was published by INEC today.

He said Ogun state is his stronghold which is the state that has a strong political structures for the APM.

“Ogun state APM has candidates for all elective positions with political bigwigs who have a strong support base in their various areas, they are poised to support our party and they are ready to ensure victory for our party at the poll.”

“Let me tell you, some people think this contest is only between Buhari and Atiku, it is far beyond them because we are not joking because our party has what it takes to win this race. Forget what some people are saying, the people will decide and it will be a win win for our party.” He said

https://newsacross.com/i-have-what-it-takes-to-defeat-buhari-apc-in-ogun-apm-presidential-candidate/

Omofemiwa Ibrahim, mother of billionaire businessman, Jimoh Ibrahim, has died in a fire accident at her Victoria Garden City (VGC) residence in the early hours of Saturday.

Neighbours confided in newsmen that the septuagenarian was pronounced dead at the scene after fire fighters arrived the scene.

Her corpse has been deposited at the morgue.

Madam Ibrahim moved to VGC to be close to her billionaire son after she was released by kidnappers in 2011.

She was kidnapped in Igbotako, Ondo State and released in Sapele, Delta State after her family paid millions of naira as ransom.

Ibrahim now lives in Dubai who owns the Energy Group, Nicon Insurance as well as the defunct Nation Mirror, Newswatch and Air Nigeria currently resides in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Source: https://newsacross.com/breaking-jimoh-ibrahims-mother-dies-in-fire-incident/

The Significance of President Buhari’s Endorsement of Prince Dapo Abiodun

Olamide Lawal

The political atmosphere in Ogun State is experiencing a buzz in the build-up to the 2019 general election. The ruling All Progressives Congress has been at the major attraction and the most interesting in the eyes of observers. This is a natural consequence of the internal wrangling, horse trading, and belligerency that led to and greeted the emergence of its gubernatorial candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun.


That the emergence of Abiodun did not go down well with the state governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun is no more news. In fact, it appears like a reoccurring decimal in the polity of Ogun state that an outgoing governor will always be at loggerheads with the gubernatorial candidate of his party. This is mostly a fallout of the failure of the outgoing governors to secure their parties’ gubernatorial tickets for their preferred candidates. The current rift between the governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and his party’s candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun reminds students of contemporary history of the failed attempt by former Governor Gbenga Daniel to foist his preferred successor on the people of the state against the wishes of his political party and the good people of the state. Interestingly, Ibikunle Amosun turned out to be the major beneficiary of the political conundrum which characterised the 2011 general elections in Ogun state.


To some, the blatant refusal of Amosun to throw his weight behind the gubernatorial ambition of Dapo Abiodun may be a huge disadvantage for the aspirations of Dapo Abiodun, however, it is important to note that the key players in the APC on whom Amosun had place his hopes to install a stooge as his successor have moved en-masse to Dapo Abiodun's camp to ensure his emergence. While some of them have followed the governor’s directives to move to a new political party, they have only done so in order to take their share of the loot and booties from the state treasury.


In Nigerian democracy, endorsement of a gubernatorial candidate by a sitting president has, most time, served as a morale boaster for party members and their resolve to work for the party's victory always go along this line. This is what President Muhammadu Buhari did by endorsing the Dapo Abiodun, the Ogun APC gubernatorial candidate after he had done it in many South West states.


May 13, 2018 was a reassuring day for the people of Ekiti state. This was the day President Muhammadu Buhari hosted and anointed his erstwhile Minister of solid minerals, Dr Kayode Fayemi who resigned his ministerial appointment to contest as the governor of Ekiti state. The aftermath of this endorsement was the emergence of Dr Kayode Fayemi as the governor of the state. People of Ekiti have trust for Mr President and they believe, Dr Fayemi, having worked with the president in his administration must have earned the trust and conviction of President Muhammadu Buhari before such endorsement could have been made public.


Similarly, the people in the state of Osun experienced the Buhari endorsement on August 30, 2018 when Mr President raised the hand of Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as his preferred candidate in the Osun gubernatorial elections. This was done in the presence of the outgoing governor, Rauf Aregbesola and the pictures were made public. Today, Mr President's preferred candidate is the governor in the state of the living spring.
President Muhammadu Buhari has been known for his integrity and honesty which he has been in public attention since his days as a junior military officer. Consequently, whoever he endorses for public office always gets wide acceptance.


On the 28th day of December, 2018 President Muhammadu Buhari assured the electorates in Ogun state of his unwavering support for improved governance, party supremacy and individual integrity through his open endorsement of Prince Dapo Abiodun for the gubernatorial seat of Ogun state. This was done in the presence of the second civilian governor of the state, Chief Olusegun Osoba.


Buhari’s endorsement of Prince Dapo Abiodun is a major newsbreak because of the litany of lies and heavy mudslinging sponsored by the enemies of Ogun state against the gubernatorial aspiration of the Iperu-Remo prince in the polity. The endorsement thus nullifies the falsehood that the president was in support of the anti-party activities of Governor Ibikunle Amosun.


It is on record that Ibikunle Amosun has made 30 failed visits to Aso Rock within the last five weeks in his feeble bid to secure “Mr Integrity’s” endorsement of his preferred candidate, Hon. Akinlade. Due to the perceived love that exists between the President Buhari and Governor Amosun, the support of Mr President had been a major agenda in public discourse among residents of the state especially as the governor's preferred candidate is vying on the platform of a different party from the president's APC.


Expectedly, the most popular and widely accepted candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun got the endorsement of the president. This has not only generated widespread increased love for Mr President, it has also gone a long way in projecting his image as Mr Integrity. Undoubtedly, Prince Dapo Abiodun is the choice of the people in the Gateway state but the governor has continued to lavish the state’s funds on his new bride, the APM, instead of using the funds for the development of the state.


If this adoption and open endorsement of Prince Dapo Abiodun by PMB is not enough to get the governor back on track and re-embrace his age-long friend for the betterment of the state.

It is certain that Prince Abiodun, having served as the chairman, Corporate Affairs Commission has impressed President Buhari with his running of the affairs of the Commission to warrant his endorsement for a higher office. This gives credence to the maxim that “the reward for hard work is more work”.


It is good to emphasize that no serving governor in the history of Ogun state has been as greedy as the incumbent. He desires to single handily pick candidates for every elective office accruable to Ogun state. Having been rejected by the party members in his immoral quest, he has moved his stooges to a new political party while retaining the senatorial ticket of the APC for himself.
His well-wishers hope he gets it right now and retrace his steps before it becomes too late for him.

Business mogul and Ogun APC Gubernatorial Candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun has once again reiterated his commitment to run an all inclusive government that will carry all tribes, ethnics and political structure along in policy formulation and strategic implementation through equitable – leadership if elected Governor of Ogun State.

The Iperu-Remo born politician reaffirmed this when he received members of Arewa Community that visited his Iperu country home on Friday to show their solidarity support for Prince Dapo Abiodun and President Muhammadu Buhari election coming Feb.16 and March 2.

The group Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Usman, from Abeokuta South Local government, expressed his gratitude for the attention and recognition given to the arewa community by Prince Dapo Abiodun since the primary election, he however, promised massive support of members of his community across the 20 Local govt of Ogun state.

In his words, he said, our members are not just supporting by mobilizing, we are supporting and voting with our PVCs. As we speak, we have over 40000 of our members with PVC queuing behind APC, Dapo Abiodun in Ogun and President Buhari in Abuja. We have further appealled to all angry members that felt neglected by the current administration to shelve their grievances. It was in this state that Gov Amosun promised us state recognition of appointment and rehalbilitation of our community roads but he dissapointed and neglected us. We have enough reason to diss APC but for our loyalty to Dapo Abiodun who we have been enjoying his support since he ran for senate, we will not be abandoning our Party. Also in his request, he urged the candidate and the Campaign team to always carry them along and help in whatever support, citing transportation issue as major barrier hindering there effort.



Reacting, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his wife, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun assures the group of total support. She further stressed the importance of balance leadership in the agenda of his Husband, saying we are seeking for votes with the intention of solving all solvable problems and no groups or ethnic community will be left out. We are going to run an all inclusive administration that will promote equality and orderlineness, be assured Dapo Abiodun will not fail you.

While assuring of prompt engement and assurance that their Bus will be fixed, she charged them not to relent in their collective effort at ensuring victory for all APC Candidate from Presidency to state Assembly in Ogun State.

https://newsacross.com/i-will-not-fail-you-dapo-abiodun-assures-arewa-group/
Source:

Senator Dino Melaye’ temporary relocation to the Department of State Security (DSS) on Friday was part of preliminary arrangements for his coming trial in Lokoja, Kogi state, the Nigeria Police Force has explained.


Dino Melaye
Speaking exclusively with The Nation, police spokesman, Moshood Jimoh, an acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, stated that Melaye was taken by policemen to the medical facilities of the DSS and not their cell or detention facilities.

He said despite claims by the embattled Senator, the police medical team has been unable to find anything to confirm he has any infirmity that could delay his trial in Lokoja.

“On the 9th of January, 2019 we got a High Court Remand Warrant to keep him in police custody for fourteen days.

“The police medical team at our facility examined him and concluded that he was okay to stand trial but he is insisting that he is not okay; that is why we are taking him to another government hospital.

“He has been taken to the DSS hospital and he will be returned to us after their medical examination because he does not have any case with SSS.

“He only a case with the police and we are going to take him to court within the period covered by the Remand Warrant.

“He will be taken to court within the period because the Remand Warrant is from an FCT High court, which gives us the permission to keep him in police custody for 14 days.

Why we took Melaye to DSS, by Police https://newsacross.com/why-we-took-melaye-to-dss-by-police/ via @newsacrosscom



“He was only taken to their (SSS) hospital; he is not in their custody.

“Our people have examined him and we want another government hospital to also examine him and give a medical opinion.”

While promising to issue an official statement later on Friday night, the police spokesman also dismissed claims Melaye was taken away from police medical facilities by masked men.

Why we took Melaye to DSS, by Police https://newsacross.com/why-we-took-melaye-to-dss-by-police/ via @newsacrosscom

Source: https://newsacross.com/my-deputy-will-oversee-the-work-ministry-dapo-abiodun/
The frontline APC governorship candidate in Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has promised the people of the state that he will not make his deputy redundant or a ‘spear tyre’ as people do insinuate.

He said the works ministry will be assigned under her care as a civil engineer. He made this comment while addressing his teeming supporters in Ado town of Ado Odo Ota local government axis during his ward to ward campaign to local government areas.

“I have gone round the major towns in your local government from Agbara to Lusada to Igbesa down to Ado here and I have seen the deplorable conditions of your roads. I can feel the agony of the residents of these areas and I want to assure you that we will address this condition immediately we are sworn in by the special grace of God.”

“Let me also state categorically that my deputy who is a qualified civil engineer and daughter of this local government will oversee the ministry of works to ensure that all these deplorable roads are prioritized in our administration.” He said

Earlier, the Chief Imam of Ado Kingdom, Alhaji Soliu Abanigbe while praying for the success of Prince Dapo Abiodun at the poll, urges him not to be deceitful in his campaign promises.

However, thousands of ADP and PDP members were received into the APC fold and welcome into the party by the APC candidate and party leaders.

The ADP was led by the Ajiroba of Ado Kingdom, High Chief Rahmon Ogunola while the PDP members were led by the Akogun Ado kingdom, High Chief Michael Adekunle respectively.

Source: https://newsacross.com/my-deputy-will-oversee-the-work-ministry-dapo-abiodun/

The immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, Chief Tolu Odebiyi, has revealed how he turned down the instruction of the Governor to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, for Allied Peoples Movement.

The former Chief of Staff made the revelation when he spoke with newsmen at his country home of Ibooro, in Yewa North Local Government of the state.

He said that he ignored the governor’s directive because of his believe in party supremacy and his political pedigree.

Odebiyi, who is the Ogun West senatorial candidate of APC, said he is not a ‘political prostitute’ that changes political platform for whatsoever reasons.

He was of the conviction that his party would defeat the APM being floated by Amosun at the polls in 2019.

https://newsacross.com/ogun-2019-why-i-ignored-amosuns-instruction-to-dump-apc-for-apm-ex-chief-of-staff-odebiyi/

He said, “The same reason, the loyalty that he (Amosun) feels for President Buhari, the commitment that he feels for him to remain steadfast within the party is the same loyalty and commitment that I feel towards the APC.

“It’s a party that I feel that I have a stake in and to go with him because of the wrangling that was going on is tantamount to me severing my relationship with these people (supporters). And that, to me, was a tough price for me.

“As I said, he himself was not leaving the party. He himself maintains his loyalty and friendship with President Buhari. He himself wants to ensure he succeeds, the same way I want to ensure the party succeeds.

“I felt a sense of responsibility and obligation to my followers who have supported me since 2014; they sacrificed their time, money and everything to support me.

“I had to step down; governorship again, they did the same thing though disappointed, they were steadfast in their support.

“Finally, we got the Senate ticket and now I’m being asked to drop the Senate ticket and go to another party while my leader is not going with me. To me, I don’t get it.

“I felt what kind of leader would I be for my followers if I’m now given another ticket in an unknown party and I’m expecting them to follow me.

“I mean, it would seem as if one is indecisive. And what is the assurance that when you get to APM, you’ll not move to another?

“I felt it was fraught with risks. Our people may be confused. I felt that it poses a great danger for us in Yewa in the sense that if we all put our eggs in one basket and we all lose out; having lost governorship, now we are going to take a risk with our Senate.

“I just felt why not hold on to this one that we have, let’s fight on this one, at least let’s secure this one and all the others would come.

“I believe that didn’t sink well with him (Amosun); he didn’t like that position that I put forward. He thought I was being disloyal. And to me, loyalty has its limits.

“When your own pride is now on the line, you have to take a stand for something. And I had to stick with what I believed in and I felt I cannot be part of something that I do not believe in. To me, it’s just being straightforward honest.”

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the last governorship election in Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, had an embarrassing outing on Wednesday at the sitting the of tribunal hearing the petition they filed against the election.


ADEMOLA Nurudeen Adeleke
Most of the nine witnesses they called could not communicate effectively in the English language, could not read the statements they claimed to have authored in English and could not answer questions logically.

Some of the witnesses also claimed to have multiple signatures, samples of which the tribunal later admitted in evidence.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice Ibrahim Sirajo, had to intervene intermittently, to explain questions to the witnesses in pidgin English before they could respond.

The witnesses, who claimed to have acted as PDP agents during the election, were led in evidence by petitioners’ lawyer, Nathaniel Oke (SAN).

They were cross-examined by respondents lawyers, including Lasco Pwahomdi (for the Independent National Electoral Commission – INEC), Abiodun Owonikoko, SAN, (for Adegboyega Oyetola) and Lasun Sanusi, SAN, (for the All Progressive Congress – APC).

Ariyo Oladiti, who testified as the petitioners’ 4th witness (the first on Wednesday) before the Osun State governorship election tribunal, said he served as PDP’s agent in Polling Unit 10, Ward 7, Atakunmosa West Local Government.

When asked, under cross-examination by Pwahomdi, to explain irregularities in his signatures in his written deposition and the result sheet, Oladiti said he has multiple signatures.

He agreed that the signatures in both documents were not similar. The witness was later asked to sign a specimen of his different signatures in plane sheets, which the tribunal admitted in evidence.

Source: https://newsacross.com/osun-election-tribunal-adeleke-pdps-witness-cant-read-own-statement/

The Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Olumide Ayeni, has described allegation against Ogun state governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), for 2019 general elections, Prince Dapo Abiodun , as “baseless, unfounded and figment of imagination of peddlers.”

The statement explained that the clarifications became necessary following allegations that Prince Dapo evaded national service after graduating from the university in the 1980s, and claimed in his nomination form that he does not have a university degree in order to deceive his party and the Independent National Electoral Commission, according to court filings.



The statement read in part:
”I was lead counsel to Prince Dapo Abiodun in his 2015 senate election petition against Senator Buruji Kashamu of the PDP. We won at the Tribunal but were reversed at the Court of Appeal at Ibadan. The issue of qualifications of Prince Dapo Abiodun never arose”

It is not difficult to see the tit-for-tat kind of dirty politics at play and I submit that mudslinging of this kind of “adiye da mi ni oogun nu, ma fo ni eyin” ought to stop in the wider interest of our people. In my own case, my conscience and professional decency will preclude me from standing by why we banter untruths in the name of dirty politics as this is not what democracy is all about. Politics and service should be hinged on honour, sacrifice and truthfulness if we must have a good society”.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/allegation-against-apc-guber-candidate-dapo-abiodun-is-baseless-ogun-attorney-general/

After many failed attempts, including approaching Federal High Court, Abeokuta and Federal Court Abujs to stop the candidacy of Ogun State APC governorship candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun to contest in 2019 election.

The loyalists of Governor Ibikunle Amosun led by the former transition chairman of Ijebu Ode Local government and Jimi Lawal coordinator Barrister AbdulRafiu Baruwa have again dragged Dapo Abiodun to court.

Baruwa and his colleagues who were transition Chairmen met with Governor Amosun in Abeokuta a week back and Jimi Lawal Coordinators in Local Government in Ogun

Baruwa asked the court to disqualify Dapo Abiodun because of the School certificates he used.

It was confirmed that Dapo Abiodun attended University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University ) to study Engineering but he did not finish in the school before he travelled abroad for his career.

It was also gathered that Dapo Abiodun obtained BBA certificate in U.S which was not included in NYSC scheme for the voluntary service.

Adesina Baruwa, who filed the suit against Mr Abiodun at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, to pave way for his Principal Jimi Lawal.

Lawal, who is currently a Special Adviser to Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State,

source: https://newsacross.com/amosun-el-rufais-men-in-court-again-to-stop-dapo-abioduns-candidacy-as-ogun-apc-guber-candidate/

Years ago, it became public knowledge that Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun’s claim that he bagged a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in International Finance from the University of Westminster, United Kingdom and his actual date of birth were questionable.

Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun’s claimed in his nomination form that he does not have a Higher National Diploma and Master Degree in order to deceive his party and the Independent National Electoral Commission, according to the documents submitted seen by NEWSACROSS.COM



Documents seen by NEWSACROSS.COM also showed that Governor Amosun made conflicting academic claims in his INEC filings when he ran for Governor in 2011 and as a Senatorial candidate this year.

Sources have revealed that the allegations of forgery and perjury against the governor will soon be raised again by APC members in Ogun State.

“New petitions are going to be raised on the alleged forgery and perjury,” a source said. One of the sources said; “this time around, we will pursue the issue to a logical conclusion.”

Prior to the 2011 governorship election,several petitioners from Ogun State had questioned various claims made by the governor in his profile filed with the Independent National Electoral Commis sion (INEC), and called for a full investigation and possible criminal prosecution.

Amosun had claimed in his election documents presented to INEC the possession of a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in International Finance from the University of Westminster, United Kingdom in 2011.

However, investigations at the university shown that the institution offers only a Master of Science (MSC) International Finance, not an M.A.

Other claims questioned in Amosun’s avalanche of claims include:
· Earlier study by the Governor.
· His date of birth, of which there seem to be two, and
· His National Youth Service Corps participation.



In his Certificate of Registration of Birth number 242484 issued by the Western State of Nigeria, issued on November 18, 1976, Governor Amosun’s date of birth was entered as January 25, 1958.

Also, in the profile he submitted to INEC, Amosun maintained that he was born on January 25, 1958.

However, in his Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta Student Registration/ Personal Data File completed in his own handwriting, Governor Amosun claimed that he was born on January 25, 1960. On his technical study claim, Amosun claimed to be at the Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta between 1979 and 1983 for both the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) is being questioned.

Those who raised posers on the governor’s claim said; “This claim appears false in that between OND and HND there was a year mandatory internship students must observe. Could it then be that he did not serve the mandatory one year? Because if he did, his year of graduation should be 1984 not 1983.

“In his CV, he claimed to have done his internship at Ogun/ Osun River Basin Authority in 1982 (6 months) and at Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in 1981 (6 months).

“From this claim, what Amosun is saying was that he was in school simultaneously while doing his internship?”

“In a few days time, we will begin to ask questions as to the actual date of birth of the governor, the veracity of his claim on his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in International Finance from the University of Westminster, United Kingdom and the actual period that he attended Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta (now Monshood Abiola Polytechnic).

“Definitely, we are going to fight him ditty and we won’t retreat until we get to the bottom of the matter, ” one of APC members said.

SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/exclusive-ogun-governor-amosun-in-certificates-forgery-age-falsification-risks-jail-term/

VP PROF. OSINBAJO FLOORS PDP CANDIDATE IN VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

NIGERIANS ON SOCIAL MEDIA MOCK OBI’S FALSE NARRATIVESatiku and Obi

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has shown a gulf of class between him and other Vice Presidential candidates when he blew his compatriots away with his insight on constitutional, economic, security and social development issues.

Osinbajo who is seeking reelection in office alongside incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari, riveted his class as the best Vice President in Nigeria’s history.

Osinbajo a proficient orator and inarguably Nigeria’s favourite Vice President proved that he was no fluke as he displayed his dexterity, aura and finesse at the Vice Presidential debate which held at the Transcorp Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The debate organized by the Nigeria Elections Debate Group (NEDG) and Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) had four other Vice Presidential candidates in attendance, Peter Obi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ganiyu Galadima of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN); Khadija Abdullahi-Iya of Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN) and Umma Getso of Young Progressive Party (YPP).

Stating categorically how the ruling government will take Nigerians to the next level when re-elected, Osinbajo noted that the government will continue to build on infrastructure and human capital development.

“What we intend to do is to build on what we are doing and that is why we are talking of the Next Level. We have moved 24 places up on the Ease of Doing Business,” the Vice President said at the debate.

“We need to improve power transmission, we need to improve our rail and road infrastructure to boost our economy, the Vice President explained.

He also stated that, “foreign Investment will come when we create an environment for local industries. We are also looking at the taxation regime and will continue to ensure that small and medium businesses continue to thrive.”

He however drew the biggest cheer of the debate when he replied Peter Obi, the Vice Presidential candidate of the PDP insinuated that the ruling All Progressives Congress had left its shop and was chasing thieves.

In response, Prof Osinbajo said, “If you allow criminals to steal all the inventories in the shop, there will be no shop. That’s the problem and the World Bank said that corruption is the major impediment to Nigeria’s development.

Speaking on power, Osinbajo said, “I think the common denominator between the two countries you mentioned is the strong infrastructure,” the VP said referring to the mention of China and South Africa, adding that,

While under President Buhari, power generation capacity has climbed up to a high of 7,000 MW, the Vice President pointed out that “Our nation in the past 16 years has suffered a major infrastructure deficit. So, we don’t have rails, roads. When we came into power in 2015, power was 4,000MW in 16 years,”

“So, you need strong infrastructure. No one can argue about it. The second thing is you cannot have a strong economy if you allow the type of grand corruption that has taken place in Nigeria in the last 16 years.”

The Vice Presidential Candidate of the PDP was observed by many, especially on social media, to have been economical with some of the data he churned out. He had claimed that Nigeria had over 2 million cars, however checks from data released by the National Bureau of Statistics show that in the third quarter of 2017 alone, there were over 11.5 Million cars in the country.

Social media users took on this issue and have made posts calling out the Vice Presidential Candidate.

After the two hour, 30 minutes debate, the Vice Presidential candidates were awarded certificates of participation after which they took a group photograph

Source : https://newsacross.com/nigerians-on-social-media-mock-obis-false-narratives/

The Kashim Shettima-led All Progressives Congress’ National Peace and Reconciliation Committee for the South West on Thursday ended its meetings with a closed-door meeting with the Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun.Amosun Ibikunle

The meeting was held in the governor’s private residence in Ikeja, Lagos.

The meeting with Amosun, which was earlier scheduled for Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, was the committee’s last activity in the South-West, according to a press statement.

Gusau said discussions at the meeting focused on how to resolve the crisis in Ogun State chapter of the party.

He recalled that members of the committee had on Wednesday held closed-door meetings with the party’s state chairman and the Speaker of the state House of Assembly.

According to him, major stakeholders of the party in Lagos State including the state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode; the party’s governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; state chairman and members of the Governors’ Advisory Council attended the meeting.

Sources
https://newsacross.com/at-lastamosun-meets-apc-reconciliation-committee/

Details of President Muhammadu Buhari’s meeting with Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State on Monday emerged on Wednesday as sources said the president gave the embattled governor a stern warning to desist from anti-party activity in the state.

It was gathered that the president, who frowned at the governor’s statement that while he will support him for the presidential election, he will not support the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Dapo Abiodun, also warned the governor that they cannot afford to lose Ogun State because it is the home state of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

Without mincing words, he told the governor that he expected total loyalty from him to the APC, adding that he should learn to sacrifice his personal desires in the interest of the party.

Amosun’s preferred candidate for governor in the state’s governorship primaries, Adekunle Akinlade, has since left the APC, having defected to the Allied People’s Movement (APM), a move Governor Amosun endorsed.

Aside Akinlade, other loyalists to the governor also dumped the APC.

According to our source, “From the feelers we got, the president did not mince words in telling Governor Amosun that as the national leader of the party, he will not support any form of anti-party activities. He told the governor that he cannot put one leg in APC by saying he will support him, while putting another leg in APM declaring support for another governorship candidate.

“The president told him he cannot claim to be working for the APC while all his foot soldiers have left for the APM and the governor also gave them maximum support.

“From what we are getting, this is the president’s final warning to Governor Amosun as the party’s campaign will kick off soon. Don’t also forget that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) has since penciled down the governor for punishment after rebuffing the reconciliation meeting set up to reconcile aggrieved members”.

Since the governor returned to Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the euphoria trailing the movement to APM has died down. The leadership of the APM has also postponed its campaign flag off which was scheduled to hold today.

A message sighted by our correspondent from the party leadership to party members reads, “The official flag off of our great party would not hold tomorrow (today) as earlier promised due to some contingencies as work is ongoing in the secretariat. Please bear with us and update others”.

Another source said the governor who is a close ally of President Buhari is now in a dilemma as to whether to remain in APC or join his loyalists in the APM while jettisoning his senatorial ambition.

“I believe the governor is in a dilemma now and we expect him to make a very important decision in the coming days”, he said.

It was gathered that the governor’s associates who are the major backers of the APM may have decided to postpone the meeting so as to deliberate on the next move following the governor’s meeting with the president.

While the governor’s next move is unknown, Dapo Abiodun, the APC governorship candidate, has expressed confidence that Amosun will support his candidacy at the start of the party’s campaign.

“Of course, the governor of Ogun State is the leader of the party. And when I am flagging off my campaign, it is the incumbent governor that would help me flag it off.

“I don’t have any doubt in my mind that the issues of misunderstanding would be resolved soon.

“I am sure the governor of Ogun State will help me in flagging off my campaign. And I am sure he will raise my hands up as the governorship standard bearer of the party in the state.”


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/buhari-warns-amosun-over-anti-party-activities/

Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun and his loyalists were reportedly absent at the reconciliation meeting in Lagos to pacify aggrieved members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in order to pave way for the party’s victory in next year’s general elections.

It would be recalled that Amosun has been aggrieved that his preferred candidate, Abdulkabir Akinlade was dropped by the APC in favour of Prince Dapo Abiodun. This development led to Amosun’s supporters defecting to the Allied People’s Movement (APM), where Akinlade is now the governorship candidate.

Amosun had made it clear that he would work against Dapo Abiodun and the APC in the governorship election, but that he would work for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election.

However, at the meeting held at the State House, Marina, on Wednesday, APC members in Lagos, Ogun and some other states were present.

At the meeting, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and his Borno State counterpart, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, called on aspirants from Lagos and Ogun States to unite and work for the party’s victory at all levels during the 2019 elections.

Ambode and Shettima, who had earlier met with aggrieved aspirants in Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Oyo States, said it was important for members of the party in the Southwest to accept the outcome of the primaries and the party’s supremacy in order to approach the general elections with a united front.

The two Governors, who are both members of the National Peace and Reconciliation Committee set up by the APC to pacify aggrieved party members in the Southwest, said those aggrieved should consider making the necessary sacrifice no matter how difficult it is, in the overall interest of the party.

Speaking at the meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, Ambode said while it was gratifying that there was no issue in Lagos largely due to the personal sacrifice made, the same could not be said of Ogun, and thereby urged concerned party members to do the needful to ensure peace.

“More significantly, we can see from the reflection of those here and I can declare that we do not have any issue in Lagos State and that we are one family. But again that is not to say that there is no platform for reconciliation; we do not know whether there are some aspirants in the crowd who are aggrieved but we can say affirmatively as a party that we are one family in Lagos State.

“This is not, however, to create any prejudice to whatever is happening in Ogun State. Without the setting up of this Committee, it is very clear that things are not the same in Ogun State like we have in Lagos State and we do recognise that. That is why this Committee is more or less anxious to see whatever it is that we can use as ingredients in creating peace in Ogun State.

“Whatever happens in Ogun is a reflection of what is happening in the whole of the Southwest and we are ready to make sure that this our Committee brings everybody back into one family fold. So, we have come with open mind and even when closures have been made, the feelings and input here is what we are taking to Abuja tomorrow and also making sure that NWC (National Working Committee) get a very clear picture of how you feel and ultimately if there is a need to let the highest organ of the party intervene in a way that everything that is happening in Ogun State reflects what is happening in Lagos State, we would be very happy to do it and we are committed to making sure that every representation is taken to party headquarters for redress and whatever it is that can be done,” Ambode said.

While emphasising the need for the party to forge a common ground to prosecute the next year’s elections, Governor Ambode encouraged aggrieved members to embrace genuine reconciliation, saying only such could bring about compensation at the end of the day when the party emerge victorious.

SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/amosun-shuns-apc-reconciliation-meeting/

Minister of state for environment Ibrahim Usman Jibrin has resigned his portfolio after emerging Emir of Nasarawa.

He tendered his resignation on Wednesday at the ongoing Federal Executive Council presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari. A valedictory session was held for him.

At the start of the meeting, Buhari referred to Jibrin as “Your Highness”, causing general laughter in the council chamber.

Jibrin was appointed as the Minister of State for Environment in December 2015 when the council was constituted after a senate screening and confirmation.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/breaking-buhari-minister-jibrin-resigns/

Lagos State governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has cautioned his opponent, Jimi Agbaje, against instigating ethnic tensions in the state ahead of the March 2, 2019 election.

He said, “My initial reaction was to ignore him (Agbaje). In this campaign season,it behoves on anyone seeking to be governor of Lagos to have an elevated mind. As leaders,we should place a high premium on civility and imbibe a high level of decorum in a period like this as example to our followers.

“Our campaign should be about important issues that affect the lives of our people; what we are bringing to the table to make life more meaningful to Lagosians.

“This election will be about who has the best credentials to lead Lagos at this time of our development. It won’t be about who can dish out the most insults or tell the most lies. It will also not be about who can instigate ethnic tensions between the Yorubas and the Igbos.

“The election will be about who has the best plan to continue with the progressive and developmental agenda of Lagos that started since 1999.

Lagos is a work in progress. In my published interviews in major newspapers this past Sunday. I was clear when I said Mr. Agbaje is my egbon (elder brother). He is older than me . There is a level of decency that is expected of an elder.”

Source: https://newsacross.com/sanwo-olu-warns-agbaje-to-not-create-tensions-between-yorubas-igbos-in-lagos/

Mr Abiodun stated this while addressing a press conference at his Iperu-Remo home, where he presented his running mate, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and his manifesto for the 2019 election.

He expressed optimism that as soon as he kickstarts his campaign, the governor would be engaged in it.

Mr Amosun has been at loggerheads with the APC leadership over the rejection of his preferred candidate, Adekunle Akinlade, who has since defected to the All Progressives Movement (APM) and secured the governorship ticket of the party.

The governor, who disclosed that he visited the party leadership 28 times to lobby for the APC ticket for Mr Akinlade but to no avail, has since declared that he would support Mr Akinlade during the election.

The governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday, said Governor Ibikunle Amosun will be part of his campaign team, in spite of Mr Amosun’s grouses against the party.

However, Mr Abiodun at the press conference maintained that Mr Amosun remains a member of the APC and a leader who is well respected and also believes in the party.

He said the outgoing governor would be glad that his party, the APC, wins the elections across the state.

Mr Amosun is himself running for the Senate on the ticket of the APC, although most of his loyalists have moved over to the APM.

Speaking on the crisis in the APC, Mr Abiodun said it was not unusual for such to happen but expressed optimism that it would soon fade away, as the party has already put a mechanism in place to resolve all differences.

‘’It is not unusual to have internal wrangling. The mechanism has been put in place by the party to resolve all outstanding issues. I am confident that all issues will be resolved. It is just a matter of time as the election draws nearer,” the ruling party’s candidate said.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/amosun-will-soon-join-my-campaign-team-dapo-abiodun/

The Nigerian Elections Debate Group (NEDG) and the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) have released the names of five political parties expected to participate in the vice-presidential and presidential debates in the lead-up to the 2019 general election.

A statement by Eddi Emesiri, NEDG Executive Secretary, revealed the participating political parties as Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Young Progressives Party (YPP).

In the order listed above, the five presidential candidates are Oby Ezekwesili, Fela Durotoye, Muhammdu Buhari, Atiku Abubakar and Kingsley Moghalu.

The vice-presidential debate will hold from 7pm at the congress hall of the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja on Friday, December 14, 2018, while the presidential debate is scheduled to hold on Saturday, January 19, 2019.

In 2015, Buhari failed to attend the NEDG debate (pictured), even though then incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan participated.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/just-in-nedg-bon-pick-only-five-political-parties-for-presidential-debate/

There was a rowdy session at the senate on Tuesday, making the upper legislative chamber to postpone the confirmation of some nominees of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

SenateChukwuka Utazi, chairman of the senate committee on anti-corruption, had presented a report on the screening of the nominees by his committee..

The committee had recommended that the senate confirm Ndasule Moses, Lawan Mamman, Galadanci Najib and Adeleke Rafiu as members of the EFCC.

But senators from the southern part of the country protested.

Speaking after the anti-corruption chairman presented his report, Victor Umeh, senator representing Anambra central, said the nominees should not be confirmed because the south-east and south-south were excluded.

“The south-south and south-east are not accommodated in the commission. On the issue of the fight against corruption – it involves all parts of Nigeria,” Umeh said.

“If you look at the composition, Mr President some people will think that the fight against corruption is instituted against them. There is need to take people from other geo-political zones.”

He noted that Ibrahim Magu, acting chairman of the commission; and Olanipkekun Olukoyede, secretary of the commission, are from the north-east and south-west respectively.

The senator said the four nominees to be confirmed are neither from the south-south or south-east.

Responding, Utazi said a committee set up to look at the president’s alleged lopsided appointments had “gone underground and refused to present a report”.

Also, Enyinnaya Abaribe, senator representing Abia south, said the consideration of the nominees should be stepped down until it is amended.

Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno south, said Utazi should have drawn the attention of the senate leadership to the matter instead of bringing a report urging them to confirm the nominees.

At this point, both Utazi and Isah Misau, senator representing Bauchi central, interrupted Ndume.

“We must not divide Nigeria,” Misau said. While Utazi was heard saying: “I have the floor, go and sit down.”

“You have a rowdy floor,” another senator said.

The disorderliness went on for about 10 minutes before and this prompted the lawmakers to go into a closed-door session abruptly.

When they emerged from the closed-door session, Senate President Bukola Saraki announced that it had been agreed that the confirmation of the EFCC and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) nominees should be suspended for further legislative input.




SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/rowdy-session-as-senate-suspends-confirmation-of-efcc-nominees/

Senator Solomon Adeola (APC,Lagos West) and chairman Senate Committee on Local Content, has said Lagosians are free citizens and not in bondage in what seemed to be an overt response to the campaign theme of the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Mr. Jimi Agbaje, who said Lagosians were in bondage.


Senator yayi

Reacting to the news of Mr. Agbaje’s position that he is set to free Lagos from bondage and ‘godfatherism’, Senator Adeola said that Agbaje’s PDP for the 16 years of their rule in Nigeria did everything to undermine the interest of Lagos State and all Lagosians in its futile bid to capture Lagos State from progressive minded politicians stressing that any Lagosian voting for PDP in 2019 want to reverse the progressive hand of the clock that has been the lot of the state since 1999 and working for interests inimical to the interestof Lagos State.

“The records are there that over the years of our nascent democracy since 1999, the PDP led administrations of Agbaje has done everything to undermine Lagos State. We had the debilitating and illegal withholding of Local Government allocations for several months, the deliberate and wicked abandonment of Federal Government critical infrastructures located in Lagos State causing untold hardship for Lagosians and the blocking of any kind of assistance to Lagos state in view of its status as a former Federal Capital Territory and economic nerve centre of the nation” he stated.

Senator Adeola stated that the freedom in Lagos State under successive progressive administrations has ensured that Lagos State is second to no other state in Nigeria in terms of addressing developmental challenges of a mega city adding that no PDP state in Nigeria can rival Lagos State in terms of positive and impactful human and infrastructural development in the last 20 years.

“The master plan put in place under the Asiwaju Bola Tinubu administration has been faithfully implemented by the successive Fashola and Ambode administrations with no comparable rival so far in all the PDP governed state. The quantum leap of the IGR of Lagos State from about N14 billion in 1999 to over N34 billion per annum as of today has no equal in the loot prone PDP states over the same period and neither is there any developments in those states comparable to what the Lagos Government has done to addressdevelopmental challenges of a mega city” Adeola stated.

The senator stated that Lagos State will continue in its forward ever movement in the path of progress as a model for other states to copy in Nigeria stressing that it is for other states to join the progressive Lagos State to move to the next level and not regress into the failed system of PDP that has been tried elsewhere and at the federal level for 16 year.

“Instead of claims of bondage and godfatherism, I think that Asiwaju Tinubu that is the butt of attacks should be commended for progressive development in Lagos State that is spreading to some other states and finally berthed at the Federal level. Patriotic Lagosians and Nigerians should say NO to some elements desirous of Nigeria going back to ‘Egypt’ after exiting and progressing towards the promise land” he stated



SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/2019-lagos-is-not-in-bondage-sen-adeola-yayi-replies-agbaje/ via @newsacrosscom

Following the presentation of party flag to Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu as the governorship flagbearer of the party in Ogun state, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele has presented the Party flags to the 3 Senatorial Candidates, 9 Federal House of Representatives Candidates and the 26 Ogun State House of Assembly Candidates across the state.
Ladi Adebutu

Addressing the supporters, Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele thanked the National Chairman Uche Secondus and the entire National Working Committee for solidly staying behind the authentic party in Ogun state.

Hon. Ogundele further lauded the loyalty of the Local Government Chairmen, who according to him has stood solidly with the party through the trying periods. He urged the Party LG Chairmen to allay fears from the mind of the teeming members and supporters of PDP, citing Ondo and Edo as a similar case.

“We have had similar cases in Ondo and Edo, and we believe precedence will surely take place. I want to use this opportunity to allay fears of our members. We are in this, and we are heading for victory come 2019.” Sikirulai said.

He urged the party members to ensure they unite the derailing party members back to the party, but warned them against those believed to have been diabolically committed to the Buruji Kashamu group.

The Peoples Democratic Party Ogun Governorship Candidate, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu appealed to the party members not to engage in violence, embrace themselves and bring forth a united front to win the forthcoming election.

“We are the landlord, and as far as it is convenient for us, they’ll continue to be our tenants. If it pleases God, Buruji Kashamu and his family must work and vote for PDP. We have labored well and shall not leave the party for some dissidents to benefit. Some people regarded us as little, forgetting little David killed Goliath. This is not our fight, but God’s fight.

“Buruji Kashamu and his family are working for APC. Buruji is intentionally distracting us to ensure there is no opposition to the incumbent government.” Adebutu revealed.

Adebutu vowed not to be distracted by Buruji’s antics, regarding it as a sheer waste of time. He enjoined the party members not to leave the party, but stay and be steadfast in campaigns towards ensuring PDP attains victory in 2019.

He warned the party members from further giving credence to Buruji Kashamu, and joining him in issues. However, he charged the party members to rededicate themselves to victory of the party, and not be a promoter of violence.


SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/ladi-adebutu-charges-supporters-against-violence-as-ogun-pdp-presents-party-flags-to-candidates/

Two lovers who practically couldn’t find a room to enjoy themselves sexually were caught pants down having sex inside a car in a residential area.

According to reports, some of the residents noticed the unusual movement of the car that was parked in an isolated area along the street and decided to check out what was happening.

They were surprised to see the lovers having sex inside the car in broad daylight. The said lady is rumoured to be engaged and was seen in the act with her alleged lover. (This however is unconfirmed, but what stops a couple from going home to enjoy sex? Or maybe it was the heat at the moment.)



According to a Facebook user John who didn’t give the exact location of the incident, said both of them were embarrassed before they were chased away from the area.

While the internet is reacting to this photos, there are two different factions, Some are saying they have done nothing wrong to be shamed, others are saying it’s a shameful act.

SOURCE: https://newsacross.com/lady-caught-pants-down-cheating-inside-a-car-with-lover-18-photo/


More Pictures are available on the source

That appears to be what he was telling his kinsmen of Owu ancestry, on Saturday in Iwo, Osun State when he urged Nigerians to vote for credible candidates who will drive growth and development.

He did not mention Atiku Abubakar as his favourite candidate as he did on October 11, when he said he had forgiven his former deputy and now whitewashed him as the successor to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Obasanjo spoke at the 27th annual Owu National Convention held in Iwo, Osun.

He said credible leadership would promote good governance.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo may have shifted his political gear to neutral, from outright partisanship and endorsement of the opposition candidate, Atiku Abubakar.


The former president, who said he would not campaign for any particular candidate, urged Nigerians to vote wisely.

The Chairman of the Supreme Council of Owu Obas, Oba Hammed Oyelude, said Owu being the largest Yoruba speaking ethnic group in the South West Zone had been contributing to policy development in the country.

Oyelude, who is the Olowu of Owu Kuta, said the Royal Union of Owu People had been contributing to policy development in the country.

He called on Owu people to participate in politics in order to contribute to national development.

Source: https://newsacross.com/2019-obasanjo-shifts-political-gear-to-neutral/

Oyelude also called on indigenes of Owu to support and vote for any indigene contesting for any political office.


Source: https://newsacross.com/2019-obasanjo-shifts-political-gear-to-neutral/