₦airaland Forum

A group, Elite Nigeria, has advocated for the emergence of Hon. Abbas Tajudeen as the next speaker of the Federal House of Representatives.

The group made this known on Monday in a press statement jointly signed by its coordinator, Adeleke Funsho and its secretary, Emeka Chigozie.

Hon. Tajuddeen of the All Progressives Congress represents Zaria Federal Constituency and is the House Committee Chairman,Land Transport.

The group while commending the emergence of the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the president elect also encouraged Tinubu to support the Hon. Tajudeen as the next leader of the green chamber.

The group stated that given the vast wealth experience of Hon. Tajudeen, he is the most worthy and suitable candidate who should be made the next speaker of the green chamber.

According to the group, Hon. Tajudeen enjoys a solid grassroots support which lays testament to his popularity among his people.

They stated that the strong outing of the Lawmaker in the just concluded general elections is one which further lays credence to the large support which he enjoys from his people.

"His educational qualifications is one which speaks realiability and competence, and we are rest assured that given his wealth of exposure, his emergence in the green chamber will go a long way to compliment the administration of the Tinubu led presidency upon inauguration.

"Hon. Tajudeen is a dependable ally who can be always trusted to give Asiwaju the much needed legislative backing which in the long run will be of great benefits to Nigerians across the 36 states of the federation and this is why we are pushing for his emergence", the group stated.

The Coalition for Transparency in Nigeria (CTN) has knocked the People Advocacy for Transparency and Accountability (PATAI) and Al-Mushaid Initiative for Transparency and Accountability (AITA) for raising false alarm on corrupt practices within the leadership of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

Recall that PATAI and AITA last week accused the leadership of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) of mismanaging N146.19 billion, and threatened to report the commission to the anti-graft agency if it did not respond to the allegations by Wednesday, March 15, 2023.

But the Coalition for Transparency in Nigeria (CTN) at a press conference held in Abuja on Sunday, March 12, 2023, dismissed the allegations of the CSOs as "false and baseless".

CTN Executive Director, Dr. Cecilia Ikechukwu who addressed the news conference said the anti-corruption coalition decided on conducting routine due diligence before commending the two organizations for uncovering the allegations.

She explained that the things that the coalition found out about "the entire matter" are, however, "saddening."

The Executive Director lamented that it was now clear that "hustlers are hijacking the noble resolve of citizens to hold the government accountable."

The coalition said, "The first absurdity we noticed is that the two groups gave the NEDC leadership until March 15, 2023 to answer to their funny posers failing which they will report to the EFCC. The anti-graft agencies and other law enforcement agencies conduct media scanning and the press briefing held by PATAI and AITA was already enough ground for the EFCC to step in. The fact that it has not stepped in meant that these two so-called “transparency NGOs” are merely engaged in the use of fictitious petitions, campaigns of calumny, and blackmail to intimidate the leadership of NEDC.

"A second absurdity is that the groups accused the NEDC leadership of mismanaging the sum of N146.19 billion being budgetary provisions made for it. It is absurd that they are not able to articulately pin down the amount within the context of budgetary and implementation processes. Was the amount a fraction of a larger budget? What is the timespan the money was meant to cover, one year, two years, or three years? Is the N146.19 billion budget for an entire year? How did the NEDC meet its overhead, recurrent, and personnel costs if the entire N146.19 billion was misappropriated as being claimed?

"Thirdly, it is odd that in spite of all the facts they claimed to possess, both groups opted for media mudslinging and name-calling when they could have simply tendered their petition to the EFCC. Or the Independent Corrupt Practices or Related Offences Commission (ICPC). They can only resort to this route because their allegations of corruption in the agency are non-existing, they are phantom lies in the imagination of these questionable elements."

The coalition said the fact of the matter was that "in August 2020, the Senate Committee on Special Duties after a three-day oversight function to appraise the performance of the NEDC commended the Commission for its “outstanding performance” in the area of humanitarian intervention. The Chairman of Senate Committee on Special Duties, Senator Yusuf Yusuf, who led the delegation on the oversight visit gave the commendation. Please, note that the Senate has a Committee on Public Accounts, which would have flagged if anything was amiss in the finances of NEDC.

"In June 2022, a Coalition of Gombe Youths and Elders Progressive Forum (CGYEPF) commended NEDC for its laudable intervention initiatives in the North-East sub-region. This Coalition praised the Commission for its various projects in the region. They made their position known in a statement entitled “Gombe Elders and Youths are Happy with NEDC successes in the region,” signed by the coalition’s National Chairman, Alhaji Salihu Magaji. These are citizens that benefitted from the projects it implemented so we wonder where PATAI and AITA are sourcing their own facts from.

"Another fact ignored by the activists-for-hire is that there is a Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), which must vet the award of contracts of all Federal Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). To the extent that our emergency “transparency NGOs” could not fault the NEDC leadership for bypassing the contract processes, they ought to have approached institutions that understand the processes to educate them.

"Furthermore, the Is shy four years old. The implication of this is that there is no project or contract awarded that is more than four years old. We are also aware that because of the paucity of funds, government projects are implemented in phases spanning upward of three years with budgetary provisions made for such projects in installments. Sometimes there are years when there would be no budgetary provisions for an ongoing project which would then be temporarily suspended and then resumed in subsequent years when funds are provided. The list of so-called “abandoned projects of NEDC” drawn up by PATAI and AITA, therefore, reeks of ignorance and is totally laughable," it added.

CTN maintained that "NEDC stands out as one of the most transparent agencies in the country and we are tempted to rate it as the most transparent in the country until such a time that someone can bring up empirical evidence to prove that another agency has surpassed that record."

While condemning the coordinators of the two organizations for being "insensitive to the dangers of plying their blackmail in a Commission that is strategic to long-term peace in the terrorism-impacted North-East geo-political zone", the coalition called on the intelligence community and law enforcement agencies to grill the "operators of PATAI and AITA to prove that they are not on errands for Boko Haram/ISWAP."

This, it said was necessary to ensure that things do not fester badly before destructive platforms like the duo are called to order.

The coalition urged the leadership of NEDC to "disregard the criminal ultimatum handed in by PATAI and AITA to focus on their mandate of returning the northeast to the commercial powerhouse it was before terrorism disrupted lives there."

The anti-corruption group further urged the NEDC leadership to report the two organizations to law enforcement agencies to "investigate their possible link to terrorism because we fear that it is a matter of time before they begin to physically NEDC projects."

While advising the public to disregard the two organizations, the coalition called on PATAI and AITA to retrace their steps and stop their resort to blackmail.

10th NASS: Give us Betara as Speaker, Tinubu Support Groups beg APC

The Network of Tinubu Support Groups in Nigeria has urged the All Progressives Congress to back the member representing Biu/Bayo/Shani Federal Constituency, Hon Muktar Aliyu Betara, for the position of Speaker in the 10th National Assembly.

The group, which made this known at a press conference in Abuja, said Betara is the most competent returning lawmaker with an unblemished track record of excellence, integrity, and diligence.

In his address, Dr. Moses
Ikani, the group's president described the renowned accountant as a resourceful parliamentarian who is familiar with the challenges inherent in the leadership of the legislature.

Ikani noted that Betara has excelled in all tasks in the National Assembly since 2007 unrivaled in experience, capacity, and performance - with a well-crafted agenda to address the plethora of challenges restraining the House of Representatives.

"Gentlemen, as things stand now, Nigeria needs a crop of new leaders, especially at the legislative arm of government which section 80-84 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 vest the power and control of public funds as representatives of the people," Ikani said.

"The legislature is a key democratic institution for political representation. So, to fix Nigeria, we will have to tweak some of its working parts by separating the gold diggers and power thirsty from those who truly want to serve at this level of leadership, and to accomplish this is to do away with mediocrity and clannish interest.
"Every true Nation must have a sense of purpose that subsumes all sub-national interest. We are yet to identify or define what our national raison deter is. Until it is more beneficial to be Nigeria than to be Ibo, Hausa, Efik, Yoruba, etc we will continue to suffer nepotism and misallocation of national resources.

"However, amid this seeming hopelessness in our polity, we found a highly resourceful parliamentarian in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly who is familiar with the challenges inherent in leadership at the Nigerian legislative arm of government. He is Rt. Hon Muktar Aliyu Betara, member representing Biu/Bayo/Shwa and Kwaya Kusar Federal constituency in Borno State.

"By our assessment, he did quite well, extremely well, taking into account the challenges-- the enormity of challenges faced by the 9th National Assembly shortly after the inauguration in 2019 when he was unanimously elected as Chairman, of the House standing committee on appropriation.

"RT. Hon Muktar Batera is one individual whose capacity to complement the actions and policies of the executive as speaker of the House of Representatives would expeditiously guarantee the much-needed turnaround of Nigeria. A detribalised and cosmopolitan persona, Rt Hon Muktar Batera is experienced as a team player whose contribution to nation-building has been applauded within and outside this country.

"Batera is a performer with well-crafted agenda to address the plethora of challenges restraining the House of Representatives from performing optimally as a major institution of Democratic governance. He has been rated as one of the most successful members of the 9th Assembly in terms of parliamentary activities, and this success story resonated with his immediate federal constituency where his effective representation at the Green Chamber of the National Assembly is felt directly. He has proven that his foray into politics is solely service to humanity hence his towering popularity amongst members of the National Assembly.

"Batera is indeed a servant leader in every ramification. To this end, Gentlemen of the press, we present a true and dependable Nigerian in the person of Rt Hon Muktar Aliyu Batera to you as the most astute and capable parliamentarian in the 10th National Assembly (green Chamber) to assume the position of Speaker for the House and all Nigerians."

Winner of the February 25, 2023 House of Representatives election in Ekiti North Federal Constituency (II), Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole, has refuted the rumors that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He stated this while reacting to the publication by some online Newspapers, that he was picked by the operatives of the anti-graft agency shortly after being presented with his certificate of return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement issued by him on Friday, Hon. Kolawole stated that he was never arrested and that members of the public should disregard the rumors as they have no iota of truth.

"I am startled that some mischievous elements would go as far as peddling rumors about me, I was never arrested by any one or any agency.

"If I was arrested, I won't be here making these statements. These are handiwork of political jobbers who seek nothing but confusion and personality destruction.

"I urge our people to disregard these news as they are nothing but mere propaganda which will not succeed".

End.

Thank you.

Femi Adeniyi writes from Ikeja

An independent survey conducted among Lagos residents, on their likely choice in the forthcoming Governorship election in the State, have shown, that majority of Lagosians, are determined to set aside sentiments about ethnicity and other political biases, to reelect Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for a second term in Office, based on.what they described , as his proven ability and experience in handling governance in Lagos State.

Majority of the respondents, are of the opinion, that the two other major candidates for the position, from the opposition political parties, appear to be running purely on rhetorics rather than capacity or proven ability. A Respondent, in Lagos Island area, said though She is not a member of the All Progressives Congress APC, and neither a fan of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but she will not throw out the baby with the birth water.

Another respondent, a trader in the Ladipo market on the Mainland said he cannot toy with his investments in Lagos, by sacrificing experience for tribal sentiment. He claimed He voted for the Labour Party Presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi in the last election because he is his kinsman, and that for the Governorship election, he will be voting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu since Mr Peter Obi is not on the ballot on Saturday March 11.

Most of the respondents admitted that Governor Sanwo-Olu has done very well as governor of Lagos, perhaps surpassing all his predecessor. A large majority of the respondents expressed great fears about the danger inherent in election of inexperienced politicians to run the affairs of a Mega city with a huge and delicate economy like Lagos.

The decision of the Sanwo-Olu administration, to sustain the culture of Infrastructural revolution in the State, is also referenced by respondents as one, which makes him preferred to the other candidates. Mentions were made of the recently completed Lekki Deep Sea port, Imota Rice mill, being the largest of such in sub-saharan Africa. The completion of nearly all uncompleted projects of the previous administration, among many other landmark achievements. The commitment of the administration to ensuring that Lagos remains secured, especially with the improved funding of the security institutions in the State, also earn Mr Sanwo-Olu, some ratings above his opponents in the coming election.

Senate Presidency: Why Sen Barau Jibrin is the best man for the job- Policy Advocacy Group


With the conclusion of the Presidential and National Assembly elections and the declaration of winners, a Civil Society Organisation, Policy Advocacy and Integrity Network Nigeria has thrown its weight behind the candidacy of Senator Barau Jibrin, the Senator representing Kano North Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations.
A statement signed by the Executive Director of the organisation, Engr Joe Folu Mesele described Sen Jibrin as the best man for the job.
"In the search for the President of the Senate, certain qualities are prerequisites for consideration;
Antecedence, legislative experience, private sector background and public service history.
This is the reason the Policy Advocacy and Integrity Network Nigeria is keenly interested in who occupies the exalted seat".
"Of all the Senators from the Northern and Southern Geopolitical zones eligible for consideration, one Distinguished Senator stands out which makes him the most ideal for the plum seat. That person is Senator Jibrin Barau; who represents Kano-North Senatorial District at the National Assembly".
"As an organisation, we have studied the political terrain and came to the conclusion that the leadership of the 10th Senate must be someone whose main qualification is experience of the workings of the National Assembly. And a careful scrutiny of all the aspirants for the position reveals that Senator Jibrin is poles ahead of others in terms of capacity and experience".
" Now if we look at the zoning principle of the All Progressives Congress(APC), we'll find out that the North East, the North Central, the South East have had a taste of the Senate Presidency, leaving the North West and the South South as the zones yet to occupy the seat. And of all the candidates from the two zones, none could match the legislative experience and capacity of Senator Jibrin".

Aged 63 years,
Jibrin holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Masters Certificate in Financial Management and Pricing, Masters Certificate in Management and Masters of Business Administration (MBA). He also holds a Certificate in Financial Management for Business Decisions from the prestigious Cornell University, United State of America.
After his initial higher studies, Senator Jibrin worked briefly in the Accounting Department of the Kano State Foundation, before he resigned in 1992 to begin his private flourishing business with vast interests in manufacturing, insurance and the construction sectors of the Nigerian economy. His success in the private sector prepared him adequately to begin a process of championing the cause of his people through the instrumentality of politics.

Barau contested in the elections of 1999 for the House of Representatives to represent Tarauni Federal Constituency of Kano State which he won.
After he completed his term at the House of Representatives, Barau returned back to private practice.
On his return to electoral contest in 2015, Senator Barau contested and won election to the Senate of Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Kano North Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
At the Senate, Barau was appointed the Vice - Chairman Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and subsequently became the Chairman of the same Committee.

He was re-assigned to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETfund as the Chairman in 2016.
Barau is member of the Committee on Niger Delta, Industries, Land Transportation and Appropriations.
He is also the Secretary of Northern Senators Forum.
Senator Jibrin Barau is a ranking Senator after being an Ex-Reps and has been in the Senate since 2015. His re-election in the just concluded Election makes him a third-term Senator.
The 10th National Assembly needs an experienced and knowledgeable President of Senate with the clout and reach across the country and political divides for optimal performance.
"Senator Jibrin Barau is all the qualities stated above personified. "He is a loyal party man whose education, legislative experience, competence, capacity, corporate and public service records are unmatched by his peers.
"For the 10th National Assembly especially as regards the President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau is most definitely the best man for the position.
"As a group determined to ensure good governance in Nigeria, we hereby unequivocally enjoin all the stakeholders to support and adopt Sen Barau Jibrin as the next President of the Senate", the group declared.

The Governorship Aspirant of the Labour Party (LP) in Bayelsa State, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, has called on party members to sustain the "Obedient" movement in the forthcoming state's House of Assembly elections.

Eradiri urged them to vote for all the LP legislative candidates to prepare the ground for the November 2023 governorship election in the state.

While congratulating the Obedient movement for their exploits in the just concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections, Eradiri advised LP members not to allow the systemic disappoinment dampen their zeal for a better country.

He said to pave the way for Peter Obi's emergence as President, LP governorship and legislative candidates must win in their various states on Saturday.

He said the case of Bayelsa was significant following an urgent need to uproot all vestiges of the old order, which had kept the oil-rich state in comatose.

Eradiri said: "All of us in the Obedient Movement fought a good fight. We had huge exploits but the electoral system disappointed us. All hope is not lost.

"We need to keep calm, maintain the peace and allow the LP at the national level handle all issues emanating from the presidential election.

"But the job is not done yet. I am calling on all the Obedient to come out en masse in Bayelsa State and vote for LP House of Assembly candidates on Saturday to prepare the ground for the November governorship election in the state.

"Bayelsa is one state that requires the Obedient movement. We need work hard to uproot the corrupt old order and install an accountable and transparent youth-oriented and development-driven government that we change the face of Bayelsa forever".

NYCN SUE FOR PEACE AND CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT BOLA AHMED TINUBU

The Leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria has congratulated the good people of Nigeria for the successful conclusion of the 2023 presidential election. In a Statement issued by the Vice President North Central of the Apex Youth Body, Amb. Akoshile Mukhtar; the organization stated that as for us, the youth of Nigeria, it was a peaceful exercise in line with our months of campaigns and engagements calling for the youths not to be allowed to be used for violence as they deserves some accolades.
It must be pointed out that there is no election without winners and losers and some misgivings will always be generated from winning and losing. We however call on all and sundry, especially the political actors to refrain from making inflammatory statements to further heat up the polity and disrupt the peace we enjoy as a people, but rather follow the legally provided processes for seeking redress where their grievances are genuine and backed with evidence.
We Congratulate the president-elect Senator Bola Tinubu on his emergence and urge him to reach out and heal all wounds like the father he has always been. We call on all Nigerians and lovers of Nigeria to gear up for the task ahead, of building a new Nigeria as no individual or group can claim monopoly of having the capacity to develop Nigeria. This is a task for all.
We urge INEC to take genuine criticism on board to improve future elections, while congratulating them on the improvements seen in this election cycle. No doubt the people of Nigeria have spoken and the youth align with their stance in the interest of the continued corporate existence of Nigeria. We shall resist any person or group of persons who avail themselves for enemies of the state to push their agenda.
Amb Akoshile Mukhtar recalled that the NYCN in collaboration with the Abuja Residents Youth Association recently presented a peace declaration letter to the FCTA at a Peace walk promising that the Youths will not allow themselves to be used as electorate violence and still stand to defend that all the time.

NPF, OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES COMMENDED FOR COMMITMENT TO MORE SECURED ELECTORAL PROCESS IN NIGERIA

As Uhuru Kenyatta, Ernest Koroma, Members of AUC Observer Mission visits IGP

The Nigeria Police Force has been commended, alongside other security agencies deployed for election security management in the 2023 General Elections, for its commitment to ensuring that the electioneering process in the country is more secured. This commendation is coming on the heels of the African Union Commission (AUC) Election Observer Mission and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission visit to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc(+), NPM, NEAPS, fdc, CFR, at the Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja on Tuesday 28th February 2023.

The AUC Election Observer Mission (EOM) and the ECOWAS Commission led by His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya, and the former President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Ernest Bai Koroma, comprised Omar Alieu Touray, President of the Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS Commission; Ambassador Baba Kamara, Deputy Head of the EOM; Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, Vice President ECOWAS Commission; Dr. Abdel-Fatau Musah, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, ECOWAS Commission

The Mission noted that despite pockets of incidences recorded at some of the locations for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections, the election security management emplaced by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies deployed effectively ensured a de-escalation of the immediate security challenges.

The Inspector-General of Police appreciated the Mission for its visit and commendation assuring that the NPF will always put its best foot forward to ensure that more effort is deployed for better and standardized election security management. He also urged stakeholders to follow through with the process even as they comply with the provisions of extant laws in all conduct during and after the 2023 general elections.

By: Dumebi Kachikwu

My Dear Nigerians,

When I embarked on this journey a year ago, I started with what I called My Opening Argument and promised to end my campaign with My Closing Argument. I believed then that my final argument would be a pitch on why you should vote for me but alas as we prepare to vote in the next 48hrs, I am forced to accept the sad reality that there is no pathway towards victory for Ahmed and I.

I will therefore make a different argument today and it is the case for a Nigeria that works for everyone. Before I do this, I would like to thank Ahmed for not only agreeing to run with me but for his dedication and total loyalty. I went looking for a VP and found a brother. I want to thank our wives, Ikeme and Maryam, who have been tolerant, supportive and patient.

They endured a lot of sleepless nights hearing us strategize on how to stop Ralph Nwosu and his gang from selling us out. Ahmed and I would like to thank our mummy, Senator Mrs. Patricia Akwashiki, the State Chairmen of our party, candidates and party members who stood by the constitution of our party and refused to sell out. Doing the right thing is never easy. They all did what was right even in the face of being expelled from the party or losing their tickets.

There are those who sold out and it speaks to their character. Whenever you see any candidate running on the platform of one party and promoting the candidate of another party, then you know someone who lacks character. They seek shortcuts. They want to get into office at any and all costs, but they have failed the first test of leadership, which is loyalty. We must never support or vote such candidates into office. Don’t let them deceive you. If they can betray their parties, they will betray the public trust.

I want to especially thank our team led by my Chief of Staff, Amina, for all their hard work and dedication. A special shout out to our supporters all over the country and across the world. Thank you for all your love and support through this turbulent journey. Last but never the least, we say thank you to our mothers. There is nothing like a mother’s love and prayers. Their prayers brought us this far.

Outside of the Nigerian Civil War, the last eight years under the APC Government has been the toughest period ever for Nigerians since Independence. As President Buhari prepares to handover, he is unleashing more pain and misery on Nigerians with the misguided recolouring of the Naira.

He and his advisers believe that this would limit the undue advantage that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has with a huge war chest to buy over voters. What they have inadvertently done is make it easier for the APC candidate as millions of voters will be unable to exercise their democratic franchise because of cash constraints. Most of those affected by this will be the Labour Party supporters.

The odds therefore favour the APC Government to continue in power. How you might ask? It is very simple. The APC structure that brought in Buhari eight years ago still brought him back four years ago even though most Nigerians were united in saying he wouldn’t come back.

Today the PDP, which is the main opposition party has been successfully divided into three; PDP, Labour Party and G5. APC supporters across the country remain intact and are fully committed to ensuring their candidate wins the Presidential elections.

The candidates of the two leading parties followed by the Labour Party candidate all have one thing in common and that is their previous stints in public service. The APC and PDP candidates have been accused of using that opportunity to create access, opportunities and wealth for family, friends and supporters while the Labour candidate is said to have only catered to his family.
This sad reality has therefore reduced their campaigns to my thief is better than your thief or which thief is a lesser thief. The three candidates deliberately avoided debates and instead promoted emotive issues on the campaign trail while taking advantage of poor Nigerians by paying them to attend their rallies.

Nigerians are therefore short-changed in not hearing any real arguments or proposals on how we can finally create a nation of committed component parts all subscribing to a new charter, vision and constitution. We had no critical conversation on how to create millions of new jobs, secure our nation, balance our budget and tackle the twin menace of recession and inflation wrecking our economy.
They failed to provide specifics on how to create world class infrastructure, urbanise our cities, stem the rural-urban migration and reverse the brain drain occasioned by the loss of our middle class who are leaving our country in their thousands.

They were silent on all critical issues and instead pandered to ethnic and religious sentiments. The Labour Candidate took campaigns to a new low with his church visitations. Have you ever imagined what would happen to our country if Atiku Abubakar and Bola Tinubu made similar visitations to mosques.

Our country is fragile, and we must never allow religion play a role in politics. We can’t complain about President Buhari and seek to continue on the path of religion and ethnicity with the ‘it is my turn campaigns’.

Whereas I subscribe to the argument that the Ibos have not had a fair shake in the Nigerian nation, most of the blame for this must go to our leaders who mostly subscribe to self and family as against building their states or region. They failed to capitalise on the entrepreneurial spirit of the Ibo man to create an industrial powerhouse in the South East that would provide millions of jobs and shared prosperity for our people.

Today the economy of the Southeast is in ruins, our people live in fear and our leaders have relocated to Abuja and Lagos.

When leaders are afraid to defy evil what do we expect to happen to our communities? We all saw what happened in Northeast Nigeria because their leaders failed to stand up to Boko Haram and we now see the same thing in Southeastern Nigeria.

This attitude of it is their problem has almost destroyed us. We all have to come together to save Nigeria. Nigerians can’t continue to look for a mythic hero or saviour when they are unprepared for individual change.

Today our youths are poor, angry, bitter, frustrated and therefore subject to all forms of manipulation and abuse by desperate politicians. We can’t continue to do this to our people. We fail to plan for them but plan to use them.
We threaten their future with inexplicable debts. We polarise and divide them with tongue, tribe and religion.

I commend Peter Obi, the Labour Candidate for embracing the youths. This relationship should go beyond the elections into real mentoring for millions of our youths who have lost their way. They mustn’t be discarded when elections are won and lost. They must also not be used as a mob to terrorise opponents.

My dear Nigerians, I sympathise with you and feel your pain. Words can’t express my hurt at what your life has become in the last few weeks. Most of you are confused as some leaders say you must endure this suffering because it helps their chances.

It is a tragedy, but we must not give up hope. Even though we are faced with more of the same as our realistic options at this point, we must hold them accountable. We must subscribe to higher ideals. We must learn patriotism and love of nation.

We must never again allow proponents of tribe and religion sway us or polarise us. We must reject their wars and embrace peace.

As we now consider the three flawed candidates before us, we must also remember that we are also flawed. We must look beyond their flaws to their capabilities. We must consider their relationships and associations. We must look at those they are likely to work with and those with them now.

Beyond this we must accept the reality that except Northern Nigeria miraculously comes together in the next 24hrs to throw their support for the PDP candidate, the race looks likely to favour the APC candidate.

Except the PDP and Labour can reach an agreement in the next 24hrs on how to collaborate to win the elections, any vote for Peter Obi is a vote for Bola Tinubu. PDP and Labour need each other. It is that simple. As true democrats, the leadership of both PDP and Labour must find a way to work with the other smaller parties towards building a formidable coalition that ensures the contest is even.

Any attempt to go this alone guarantees another four years for the APC. I commend and congratulate my friends and fellow Presidential Candidates, Prince Adewole of the SDP, Sowore of the AAC and Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim of the YPP for their spirited efforts in ensuring Nigerians are liberated.

My Dear Nigerians, as you vote, please vote Nigeria before religion and tribe. Vote Nigeria above pecuniary gain. Vote Nigeria above all other considerations because Nigeria remains the only nation we have.

Whichever way the pendulum swings, I assure Nigerians that Ahmed and I remain committed to nation building. We will devote our time and resources towards deepening our democratic culture and practices. Our voices will not relent nor weaken in speaking and advocating for the Nigerian masses. We love you all.

Till we meet again, I wish you all well. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. God bless you all.

Dumebi Kachikwu
African Democratic Congress Presidential Candidate
February 23, 2023

By: Prince Christoper Omoaghe


“I am calling on all Nigerian youth especially those in my home state, Edo to vote for Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT) for President come Saturday, February 25, 2023.”


Our great nation needs a leader like Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man of wisdom who brings with him the energy and passion, to light the spark of progress, He is the torchbearer of change and hope, leading Nigeria to a brighter future.
Tinubu is like a strong lighthouse in a stormy sea, leading us away from the treacherous waters to safety.



He is the bridge between the future and the past, opening up the path for the Nigerian youth to last.


Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the key to unlocking the potential of our nation, bringing forth a new dawn of transformation owing to his very distinct / unprecedented quality as a “team Player”,with an overwhelming passion for top notch talents.

He was the governor of Lagos state for 8 years and has since then been a key influencer in Nigeria's politics. He is seen as a unifying force and a strong advocate for the advancement of democracy and good governance.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a strong proponent of economic reforms and has proposed a number of economic policies that would help to spur economic development and create jobs. His proposed policies could help to reduce the high levels of unemployment and poverty in Nigeria.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu has a vision for a better Nigeria and has the experience and knowledge to bring about real change in the country. He has a proven track record of delivering positive results and has a strong network of supporters and allies both in Nigeria and abroad.

Bola Tinubu is a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has been a key player in the party's success since its formation in 2013. He has been a vocal advocate for the APC's policies and has helped to build the party's support base.

Bola Tinubu is seen as an honest and trustworthy politician who is committed to his principles and values. He is a man of integrity and has a reputation for being an effective and strong leader.

Prince Christoper Omoaghe is a member of the Creative Arts Directorate of the All Progressive Congress Presidential Campaign Council (APCPCC) and Special Adviser to the Minister of State for Labor & Employment.

Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been projected to win the coming Presidential election in Nigeria. This is according to the report of a four weeks opinion poll, conducted by a group of DATA Analysts and Public Relations experts, coordinated by, FREDDAN Continental. has made the result of an opinion poll it conducted on the 2023 Presidential Election public.

The poll which lasted four (4) weeks from January 7 to February 11 2023, pointed to the candidate of the APC , Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, as a potential winner. Tinubu , according to the poll, rated higher than other candidates from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples' Party (NNPP),

The group, in conducting the poll, deployed a group of seasoned Data Anaylsts, who utilized online and phone surveys to collect data about voters preferences. The Online survey was conducted via a secure web platform that prevented multiple voting while phone survey was conducted by trained staff who are proficient in the three major Nigerian languages - Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa - and could therefore engage fully with respondents in their preferred languages.

The FREDDAN Election Net Favourability administered over 370,000 Questionnaires over the four (4) weeks duration and received a total of 287,033 responses across the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT.

A National summary of the poll showed that the Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is favourite to win the 2023 Presidential election, having been preferred by 106,764 respondents to the opinion poll, representing 37.2% of total population of respondents. The Regional voting preference survey also showed that the candidate of the APC enjoys majority support in 19 States out of 36.

The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, came second in the poll with 92,127 respondents preferring him over the other candidates. This forms 32.1% of the total responses received. The regional voting preference showed that he enjoys majority support in 8 out of 36 States of the Federation.

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, came a surprising third as just 88,109 respondents preferred him, forming 30.7% of total respondents. The regional voting preference showed that he enjoys majority support in 10 of the 36 States of the Federation.

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) came a distant fourth, polling 693, translating to just 0.23% of total respondents.

According to the outcome of the poll, Tinubu of the APC is expected to win majority votes in the North-West, North-Central and South-West regions. The Candidate of the PDP, Abubakar, is expected to win majority votes in the FCT and the South-South region. Obi of the Labour Party is expected to win majority votes in the South-East region, while the North-East region is expected to be divided between the candidates of the APC and the PDP.

This poll predicts victory for the candidate of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the February 25 Presidential election and the Regional voting preference suggests that a clear winner may emerge on the first ballot as against some other predictions that there may be a rerun.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday, dissociated itself from the purported endorsement of other political parties and their candidates for 2023 by a faction of the party.

The ADC in a statement in Abuja, described the alleged endorsements as fraudulent, void and of no effect, since they were being carried by a faction of the party not known to law for pecuniary gains.

It blamed a faction of the Party, led by its immediate past National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu for the anti-party activity.

According to the party, Nwosu’s faction has allegedly divided itself into three groups which are now illegally engaged in endorsing parties like the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) for 2023 general elections all in a bid to make quick money.

The party warned those involved in the act to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

It insisted that its Presidential Candidate for 2023, Dumebi Kachikwu, had “long warned about criminals in ADC who sell the party to the bigger parties.

“They have divided themselves into three groups and collected money from APC, PDP and Labour. One party, three endorsements within the space of four days. Shameful.”

The party under the interim leadership of Senator Patricia Akwashiki, said that those who did the endorsements were “impostors”and “impersonators” who were no longer members of the party and therefore has nothing to do with the authentic ADC recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The ADC added: “We are appalled that renegades who are no longer known to the ADC can constitute themselves into a criminal gang to perpetuate illegalities all in the name of making quick money.

“This condemnable action will not stop our party or its presidential candidate from running the race to the very end.

“We are determined to ensure that the bright chances of all ADC candidates in the forthcoming general elections are not sold or
mortgaged as was the practice in the past.

“The arm of the law will soon catch up with all those responsible for these criminal and shameful activities.”

Signed
Senator Mrs. Patricia Akwashiki
Board of Trustees Chairman

The attention of the National Assembly management,has been drawn to an unverified video trending on social media tweeted from the twitter handle account of one @Chukwuebuka, alleging the siege of the National Assembly complex by officer's of the Department of State Security (DSS).

2. The reposted unverified video clips was a reported incident that took place in 2018 at the main entrance gate leading into the National Assembly complex, which is presently under reconstruction near it's completion for Commissioning.

3. It is therefore intriguing to understand what motive this mischief marker set out to achieve with the repost, gauging the political mood of the country and the fourth coming general elections.

4. Accordingly, the members of the National Assembly, Staff and the general public are to discoutenance the said unverified malicious, mischievous and misleading reposted video as fake news in it's entirety. as the National Assembly members currently on recess and staff are not under any siege by the DSS.

5. The new Clerk of the National Assembly, Alh. Sani magaji Tambuwal and his Management team are fully incharge, focused and determined to achieve their set goals inline with their core mandates to motivate the workforce to provide the expected support services to the National Assembly leadership/ members, federal Government and the general public.

6. The management equally wish to extend it's exteemed appreciation's and gratitudes to the National Assembly leadership /Members, Top Government officials, Security Agencies and the general public, who through phone calls shown concerns and solidarity. It is expected that, the relevant security agencies should further Investigate the user of twitter handle account to forstall future abuse and spreading of misinformation into the media space capable of creating panic, mischief and anxiety leading to break down of law and order as this repost, may have be intended.

7. Above press release, is to clear the doubt,s, concerns and anxiety in the public domain that, "National Assembly, the symbol of our hard earned Democracy, is not under siege by the DSS or any security Agencies of Government".


SIGNED.

*Agada Rawlings Emmanuel.
Director, Information
National Assembly.
15.02.23

NG-CARES, a World Bank-assisted poverty alleviation program, led by Professor Okunmadewa, paid a courtesy call to the honorable minister of the state budget and national planning, prince Clem Ikanade Agba on Friday



The team came to appreciate the minister for his support as Chairman of the NG-CARES National  Steering Committee, and that of the Ministry and to also brief him on the submission of the Report from the Independent Verification Agents (IVAs).


The report which will enable the 36 States and FCT Governments to get refunds of their expenditures on the poor and vulnerable and in stimulating the economy due to the COVID-19 impact, put about ₦79 billion in the first tranche of such payments and refunds from the $750 million support from the World Bank based on Performance for Result (PforR).

New Naira: Obey Supreme Court injunction or risk going to jail - Group warns Emefiele

...lauds 3 Nothern Govs for instituting suit



The National Democratic Front, NDF, has expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s interim injunction restraining the Federal Government from suspending the acceptance of the old Naira notes on Friday, February 10, 2023 deadline as earlier announced by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.

A seven-man panel of the apex court led by Justice John Okoro, in a unanimous ruling on Wenesday, granted an interim injunction restraining the FG, CBN, commercial banks etc from implementing the February 10, deadline for the old 200, 500 and 1000 Naira notes to stop being a legal tender.

The ruling followed a motion ex-parte filed on February 3rd, by three northern states — Kaduna, Kogi, and Zamfara — through their counsel, AbdulHakeem Mustapha (SAN), praying the Supreme Court to halt the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) naira redesign policy.

Reacting in a statement by its President, Dr. Abdulkadir Suleiman in Abuja on Wednesday, National Democratic Front commended the Supreme Court for the ruling and hailed Governors Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), and Bello Matawalle (Zamfara) for instituting the suit.

"NDF commends the governors of Kaduna, Kogi, and Zamfara states who approached to the Supreme Court for its intervention without which Nigerians would have been punished for being alive. We align with their assertion that the implementation of the redesigned currency notes is negatively affecting the populace.

"We further commend the Supreme Court for saving the nation from the impending calamity that would have ruined the country had the court not granted this last-minute reprieve. Prior to the granting of the injunction many Nigerians have been sent back to the Stone Age as people were forced into engaging in trade by barter with all its uncertainties and inconveniences in addition to people being forced to trek long distances owing to the impractical options that the shabbily introduced new naira notes left them with," the statement read.

The group warned the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, and "his lackeys" in the commercial banks not to contemplate exploiting technicalities to sidestep or disobey the order of the Supreme Court or risk being jailed for six months.

It urges Emefiele to note that "the paymasters that are pushing him to destroy the country with his half-baked and poorly thought-out policies are not higher than the apex court of the land and he will only end badly if he chooses to obey his handlers instead of the Supreme Court."

NDF maintained that Emefiele owes Nigerians explanations as to how his fanatical implementation of the shambolic currency swap is not a deliberate action to punish the citizens over his rejected bid at running for the presidency of the country.

"Emefiele’s aspiration to become president without first resigning his position is for which he should be properly investigated and punished if found culpable of abuse of office, which makes it bizarre that he is now punishing citizens for his misadventure.

"We are also concerned that the CBN Governor has largely failed to address the assertion that the Chief Executive Officers of the commercial banks were willfully sabotaging the distribution of the new notes, an assertion made by no less a person than President Muhammadu Buhari. It is shocking that there have been no consequences in the aftermath of that discovery while citizens continue to take the punishment for Emefiele’s lapses. While it is well known that the CBN Governor has outsourced his statutory responsibilities to his friends in the commercial bank under the guise of the Bankers Committee, the reasonable thing to do at this point is for Emefiele to salvage what he can of the situation and his battered image," it added.

The group tasked Emefiele to personally conduct online research and see the timeframe that responsible countries adopt for changing their currencies.

NDF noted that the only nations that have swapped currencies at the speed the CBN governor is attempting are nations that were tittering on the verge of actual collapse and Nigeria does not meet that designation.

It urged Emefiele to use use the Supreme Court injunction as a face-saving opportunity and adopt a more realistic transition to the new notes.

The Coalition for Change and Integrity (CCI) has called for the arrest and imprisonment of Abdulrasheed Bawa, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for disobeying court orders.

The group said the EFCC boss trampled on the rights of citizens and disrespected the courts that made orders to correct the injurious behaviour of the anti-graft agency.

Recall that the Kogi State High Court presided by Justice R.O Ayoola had directed the Inspector-General of Police to effect Bawa’s arrest and remand him in Kuje prison for the next 14 days until he purges himself of the contempt.

The EFCC chairman disobeyed a court ruling delivered on November 30, 2022, wherein Bawa was directed to produce the applicant in the case, Ali Bello.

Ali Bello had dragged Bawa to court for arresting and detaining him illegally, following an application by his counsel, S. A. Abass.

"In these instances, Bawa trampled on the rights of citizens and disrespected the courts that made orders to correct the injurious behaviour of the anti-graft agency," the Coalition said.

"There are so many other instances of contempt of court against Mr. Bawa, some of which the judges ignored on account of the notoriety that he has built for himself as someone who cannot be bothered to respect the Nigerian judiciary.

"It is therefore an established pattern for Mr. Bawa to flout court orders, which can only come from a mindset of having concluded that there would be no consequences for flouting the orders of the courts. This has manifested in the EFCC, under Bawa, arrogating to itself the powers of the executive, legislature, and judiciary, which is a danger to our democracy.

"We noted that in November 2022, the Inspector General of Police delayed carrying out the sentence of the court to allow room for it to be overturned. Our guess is that the IG did this in the notion of ‘esprit de corps’ in which he accorded Mr. Bawa a comradeship that he does not deserve. Treating Mr. Bawa’s behaviour as something that should be swept under the carpet on account of the brotherhood of law enforcement agencies would only damage the reputation that the IGP has been rebuilding for the Nigeria Police Force.

"Another chance has been presented to IGP Usman Alkali Baba to prove that he is a thoroughbred officer of the law, one that does not have the tradition of disobeying court orders. Failure to carry out the order of the court to arrest and take Mr. Bawa to Kuje custodial centre will in itself amount to contempt of court, which would haunt IGP Baba in his career and after he exits service.

"We expect that the IGP will in the coming hours fully carry out the court order so that Mr. Bawa will serve his 14 days sentence in Kuje as ordered. We call on the Inspector General of Police to immediately take the EFCC Chairman to prison as no lawful order of court should be disobeyed by constituted authority like the Police.

"This has become necessary in the face of consistent disobedience to court orders by the current EFCC chairman with the latest being this recent case where the court in Kogi state has ordered that he should be put in prison.

"It is our firm belief that the Nigeria we want will not be achieved through a violent revolution but by people like the IGP doing what the law prescribes for the benefit of society. Mr. Bawa should not be treated as being too highly placed to serve the sentence that has been imposed on him by a competent court of law. The people he successfully prosecutes served the sentences the courts handed to them so Mr. Bawa must stop placing himself above the law.

"Our expectation is that things would not come to a point where the courts would commit the IGP himself to prison for not carrying out lawful orders that he is being paid with taxpayers’ money to perform. If things ever come to the point where Mr. Baba is held in contempt for not arresting the EFCC chairman, he can rest assured that we shall mobilize to occupy the Police Force Headquarters from where citizens shall escort him to prison. He should act now."

The Coalition, therefore, urged President Buhari to prevail on Mr. Bawa, as his appointee, to turn himself over to the police so that he can be properly taken to Kuje custodial centre.

"When Mr. President does this he would have left behind a legacy that will ensure that Nigerians are fairly treated irrespective of their station in life," the statement added.

"Our final charge is to the EFCC chairman, he must hand himself over to the judiciary before things get to the point where the courts will recuse themselves from any case involving the EFCC, which will effectively sound the death knell for that agency since an inability to prosecute suspect would amount to a natural end to EFCC’s existence. We also do not want to be pushed to the point where citizens’ action is convened to protect the courts from the impunity that Mr. Bawa has come to represent."

By: Kayode Ajulo

Those that can’t distinguish Dame Gun from Pump Action are those rushing to analyze the substantiality and destructiveness of the American M16 to that of its Russian counterpart AK-47 when fired at short range into clay blocks, despite the fact that the AK-47 is of larger calibre and fires a much heavier bullet with kinetic energy (muzzle) 25% greater when compared to the M-16.

Let’s be real and reason like lawyers, most of these comments targeted against the Supreme Court’s decision under reference are misconceived, particularly from the perspective of the law.

The Supreme Court only delivered judgement based on the case presented before them. And it is a sound judgement.

The concept of justice is not about a crying baby who runs to his sweet mother. Unlike the empathetic mother, the Supreme Court has the obligation to decide any matter based on its peculiarities.

To say in public, like some have been doing, that the judgement is ridiculous is contemptuous. A better appreciation of our justice system will reveal that what the Court considers is cold facts and not emotions.

If anyone should be blamed for the controversy this decision has generated, it is the political party, APC.

The whole world is aware that Ahmed Lawan participated in the APC presidential primaries. And pursuant to section 115(d) of the Electoral Act, a candidate cannot be nominated in two elections. So, it was the party that decided to forward Ahmed Lawan's name to INEC, that ironically Ahmed Lawan as the Senate president and other law makers created.

Bashir Machina, feeling cheated, was within his right to recover his mandate. However, the facts of the case remains that the grouse of Bashir Machina deals with fraud and should have been instituted by way of Writ of Summons and not Originating Summons like Bashir Machina did.

Although the Federal High Court practice direction says that Pre-election matters be instituted by way of Originating Summons, the Supreme Court has held in a plethora of authorities that the Rules of Court supersedes a practice direction. And by the rules of Court, an allegation of fraud should be brought by way of Writ of Summons.

This has been the consistent holding of the supreme Court in a plethora of matters and it won't stop now.
-*Kayode Ajulo*

A leading investment and portfolio management company, Gogetit Investment Ltd has organised a one-day sensitization program on the adoption of the e-Naira in Abuja

The firm, which is keen on helping Entrepreneurs grow as well as providing access to Markets for entrepreneurs in Nigeria carried out the program in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA).

The convener of the program and managing director of Gogetit Investments Limited Orkuma Hembe, while speaking at the event welcomed participants and stakeholders for coming out in their numbers to attend the event. 

He said the introduction of the eNaira reduces access and contact with paper money and is of great advantage to people, especially those in remote areas of the country who are unbanked, where they will have an opportunity to carry out transactions without necessarily having a bank account. The managing director  of Gogetit Investments Limited, Orkuma Hembe  encouraged all Nigerians to take advantage of the eNaira as means of payment in substitute to the scarce physical naira, especially in this period of a Cashless economy.

Also speaking, the National President of the Agricultural Produce Sellers Association of Nigeria (APSAN), Aloys Akortsaha said its organization will partner with the Gogetit in driving the adoption of the naira and promise to take back the message of the entire adoption to its members at the grassroots level across the country. 

Some of the participants who also spoke at the end of the sensitization program expressed satisfaction with the program and applauded the organizers, asking that the exercise be sustained so that all Nigerians will be aware of the benefits of the naira.

The decision of the All Progressives Congress(APC) to hold Adhoc delegates Congress on February 7, 2023 has thrown the party into disarray.
The National Secretariat of the APC had Friday, February 3, 2023 announced the composition of the Electoral Panel headed by one Lawan Samaila Abdullahi to conduct the Primaries to pick adhoc delegates that will vote to elect a Gubernatorial candidate for the Party during the April 8 Governorship Primaries.
But the decision has not gone down well with some members of the party who wondered why the party would pick this time when campaigns for the various offices are in top gear for such an exercise.
A chieftain of the party from Okene, Alhaji Ahmed Oiza who fumed at the decision told journalists in Lokoja that those behind the decision do not mean well for the party.
" Why the haste to elect Adhoc Delegates? We still have until late March to do the Congress so why must be we be distracted from the campaigns going on at the moment. Even our Party’s constitution is very clear on the time frame within which to conduct Adhoc delegates Congresses. Let me ask a pertinent question, gentlemen of the Press. Why are Imo and Bayelsa States not also holding their Congresses on the same February 7? Why Kogi? Why distract us?", he declared.
Already, Media reports indicate that different groups in the party are already warming up for protests to the National Headquarters of the party in Abuja beginning from Monday, February 6, 2023 on the need to move the Congress till March so as to allow members concentrate especially on the Presidential Campaign going on across the country.
Alhaji Oiza summed up the situation this way:
"This is simply a political ambush aimed at favouring a particular candidate and must be resisted by all concerned ".

National Hardship: Concerned Citizens To Launch Mass Protests Against Emefiele, Atiku


Some Nigerians have announced that they will hold a three-day nationwide protest against Godwin Emefiele, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar.

The mass action will be led by a coalition of civil society groups, Economic Freedom Fighters in Africa (EFFA) to "demand an end to economic terrorism".

According to the organisers, the protest is scheduled for Monday, February 6th to Wednesday 8th across the major cities in the country and is spearheaded by a notable activist, Charles Mbani in Abuja.

The coalition said Emefiele and his cohorts, one of whom it said is the People's Democratic Party's presidential candidate are on a mission to destroy the nation.

The EFFA said the naira redesign is just one of the numerous demonic economic policies that have been perfected to inflict further hardship and suffering on Nigerians before the end of this administration.

Describing Emefiele as a monumental failure and a mole planted by the opposition, the freedom fighters noted that his penchant for pessimistic and anti-masses policies have reached its peak.

The group said Emefiele must be stopped now else Nigeria may cease to exist on May 29.

The organisers, therefore, called on Nigerians to "join this movement against a tyrant at the CBN who has auctioned this nation to Atiku and his friends".

The coalition, however, vowed to remain on the streets for days, weeks, and months until its demands are met.

By: Jacob Ogunseye



Since all have been said about the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one would have concluded that the next assignment awaiting Nigerians on the 25th of February is to approach their polling booth, do the needful by voting for the candidate of their choice, but before they go into the exercise that centered on the determination of the leadership of the country for the next four years, it is imperative to for me to quickly tell them that special thing that had not been said about Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As the campaign began last year, attempts were made by major candidates to sell themselves to the voters on why they should be considered for the top job, these candidates traverse the north and south of the country, at a time, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu decided to visit the United Kingdom. On his visit mission were arrays of activities lined up among which is the Chatham House appearance where he spoke on several issues most especially on his plans to ensure that Nigeria is fully recovered and become stronger among the comity of nations. As a supporter and one of the party loyalists in the United Kingdom, I seized the opportunity to ensure I had contact with the leader.


On this day, Asiwaju has just finished the main Chatham House presentation, meanwhile, he has also been scheduled to meet with the leadership of the party in the UK, and of course, as an executive member of the party in the country, my presence is inevitable, the hall is just across the road, the hall though little but it was fit for the purpose, after all, the gathering is for the leadership of the party. Asiwaju had come to the hall alongside his entourage. Some dignitaries on the visit include the former Governor of Ekiti State, Gov. Kayode Fayemi, his Edo State counterpart, Com. Adams Oshiomole, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the governors of Ebonyi and Cross Rivers state, Engr. David Umahi and Prof Ben Ayade respectively and host others.


The event which was facilitated by the party’s Directorate of the Diaspora under the leadership of ever-ready combatant, a Tinubu apostle and die-hard supporter, Prince Ade Omole presented itself an opportunity for us to interact with the candidate of our great party. The event started with a welcoming speech from the Interim Chairman of the Party in the UK who also doubled as the chairman of the party’s campaign committee in the country, Barr. J K Adebola. He reeled out a glowing speech where he reminded his listeners of the party’s efforts in the UK to reach at least 20 million Nigerians with short messages service to remind them of the need to vote for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. At this time, the hall has been electrified, it is the turn of the Jargaban, and truly, I heard what you have not been told.


It is better to hear it than to be told, of course, there was no microphone as there was no need for one due to the size of the hall. The prime mover and the leading light started his speech, I am not sure if you have been told about Asiwaju’s brilliance, his methodical approach to dissection of topical issues will blow anyone away, I am also not sure if you have been told about the in-depth understanding of Nigeria’s challenges by this powerful figure. When he delves into the issue of international relations and diplomacy, he blows his adversaries away. His powerful analysis of Nigeria's economic situation and its untangle factors made many who had come based on negative views bow. His understanding of our security issues is unparallel.


Later on, I sat down, and told myself, ‘there are a lot of things that many are not aware of about this political enigma. In the coming weeks, I will take time to unbundle some of the things you did not know about this man. Meanwhile, as of today, as Nigerians, we have options, other political parties have presented us with their candidates, I am convinced more than ever that the Presidency of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will usher in the best for Nigeria, unfortunately, he can’t get himself to the steering, he needs you and me. From my side, I am resolute, it yours that worries me. Give it a goal, and Tinubu will not let you down. Make it a day to read more from me next week.


Jacob Ogunseye lives in London, United Kingdom

AJULO CHARGES COLLEAGUES ON ATTRIBUTES FOR SUCCESSFUL CAREER, LAWYERS TO STUDY AFE BABALOLA, GANI FAWEHINMI, WOLE OLANIPEKUN , OTHERS.

An Abuja based lawyer and rights activist, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, has charged legal practitioners, especially young lawyers by enumerating procedures required to be successful in their career.

He said lawyers who desire success must develop exceptional qualities and show dedication to work.

Ajulo, was the speaker at the monthly capacity building lecture of Akure Chapter of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, where he spoke on the topic "7 Habits of a Successful Lawyer", on Thursday, in Akure.

He said it is more appropriate for a lawyer to strive to be effective in his career, rephrased the topic to "7 Habits of an Effective Lawyer, saying successful, in its true definition, is relative but strongly noted that an effective lawyer will, in due course, be a successful one.

"The skills a lawyer needs for an ideal career are something he must be deliberate to work on and diligently develop over time. Practice makes perfect, and dedication makes dreams come true".

"Legal profession is the most prestigious professions in the world. In the strict sense of the word, practicing Law encapsulates more than just litigation, as it expands to cover various areas of human endeavour such as Corporate & Commercial, Oil & Gas, Investment & Finance, Real Estates and the likes. Therefore, is it not for the lazy ones.". He said.

Ajulo itemised Good Communication, Diligence and Perseverance, Analytical Reasoning, Clear Sense of Judgement, Research, Pro-People Mentality and Creativity as seven vital attributes a lawyer must possess to be effective to record desired success. He said "the Nigeria Bar Association has been blessed with eminent legal personalities who possess the above listed attributes in great measures for lawyers to study and read for success."

"Reading volume of books on the abovementioned habits is really not needed. The lifestyles and work ethics of the following personality should be studied by any lawyer who wants to be successful.

"Legends like FRA Williams, SAN, Richard Akinjide, SAN, G.O.K Ajayi, SAN, Ibrahim Abdulahi, SAN, Philip Umeadi, SAN, Okeaya-Inneh, SAN, Ajibola Ige, SAN, Bankole Aluko, SAN, Chike Chigbue, SAN, Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, Miskom Pueppet and others.

"Living heroes like Folake Sholanke, SAN, Afe Babalola, SAN, Ebun Sofunde, SAN, Gboyega Awomolo, Wole Olanipekun, SAN, J. B. Daudu, SAN, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Kanu Agabi, SAN, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, J. K. Gadzama, SAN, E. C. Ukala, SAN, Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN, Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN, Adeniyi Akintola, SAN, D. D. Dodo, SAN, and Wale Babalakin, SAN.

He further mentioned, Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, Emeka Ngige, SAN, K. T. Turaki, SAN, Chris Uche, SAN, Ajibola Aribisala, SAN, P. N. Ikwueto, SAN, Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, Mike Ozekhome,, Dele Adesina, SAN, S T Hon, SAN, Sam Ologunorisa, SAN, J. S. Okutepa, SAN, Prof Akinseye-George, SAN, Mahmud Magaji, Dayo Akinlaja, SAN, Ahmed Raji, SAN, Femi Falana, SAN, Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, Adekola Mustapha, SAN, Dame Priscilla Kuye, and Dr. Olatunji Abayomi.

Ajulo, who said his deliberate establishment of relationship with many legal giants has helped shaped his lucrative career, equally advised colleagues that developing healthy relationship with the above named men of the silk with a view to learning from them will earn any lawyer an effective career to be successful anywhere in the world.

He enjoined lawyers to acknowledge the intervention of God in their career, saying there are masters of the 7 attributes who cannot be called successful. He also confirmed that there is a G-Factor he has observed working for every effective lawyer he knows.

"Irrespective of your religion or belief, there should be an acknowledgement of a supreme being that has your back because there are many who have mastered the above stated habits as part of their daily living for decades but still struggle to call themselves successful". Ajulo said.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/01/ajulo-charges-colleagues-on-attributes-for-successful-career/

The National Democratic Platform (NDP) has hailed Alhaji Yahaya Bello for his remarkable achievements in seven years as Kogi State Governor.

In a statement signed by its President, Adeyemi Adewolo, the group said Governor Bello has redefined governance with his purposeful leadership.

Adewolo said Alhaji Bello has transformed the Confluence State from a laughing stock to a center of attraction.

From security, education, quality healthcare, youth development, and many others, the group said the governor's footprints have been felt in almost all the communities in the state.

Highlighting some of the myriads of projects and achievements under the New Direction Blueprint, Adewolo named the brand new Confluence University of Science and Technology, CUSTECH, at Osara, the Confluence Rice Mills at Ejiba, the various township roads networks at Idah, Okene, and Kabba and intra-state roads in the three senatorial zones, massive erosion works at Ankpa, Ogugu, and other places, as well as other roads, hospitals, schools, and sundry vital infrastructure.

He noted that the establishment of the world-class Reference Hospital in Okene with the capacity to handle
complicated medical and surgical cases is an evidence of the governor's foresight to promote medical tourism in the state.

He added that Kogi has now become an investment hub and the country's next economic capital.

"We remember 2015, at that time when the country was being plagued by insecurity. Bello stepped to calm the tension. He halted security breaches and inter-tribal squabbles. Today, Kogi is relatively peaceful as residents go about their businesses without hindrances

"Kogi state at that time was notorious as the den of crimes and criminalities. Due to the state’s strategic location, armed robbers and kidnappers attacked travellers frequently. However, on coming to office, he declared a full-blown war on armed robbers, criminals, and kidnappers operating in the state.

"We are also aware the governor has given opportunities to women and youths to harness their contributions in governance at all levels.

"No surprise the United Nations commended the governor for building an inclusive and gender-sensitive local governance system through the appointment of women as vice chairpersons in all the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.

"The World Bank Transparency award also shows that the governor is not a local champion. The administration took deliberate steps to beef up the revenue profile of the state which culminated in the remarkable increase of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N350 million monthly to N1.3 billion naira.

"When it comes to fighting for and defending the corporate and strategic interest of his state, no governor in Nigeria comes near Governor Bello. And when it comes to stopping powerful forces from trampling upon the rights of Kogites, Governor Bello gives it his all and does not get intimidated by the status or profile of any individual or organization."

The group, therefore, concluded that the governor has surpassed expectations by all indices.

While calling on other governors to follow Bello's lead, however, GYB did not relent until the final second of his administration.

_...charges new helmsman to hit the ground running_

The Citizens Centre for Youth Development (CCYD) has welcomed the appointment of Brigadier-General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed as the new Director-General (DG) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

In a statement signed by its Executive Director,
Vincent O. Unazi, the Centre praised President Muhammadu Buhari for the choice of Ahmed as well thought.

Unazi said Ahmed is perfect to sanitize the Scheme which has become a laughing stock, riddled by corruption, nepotism, and bias.

Describing the Army Brigadier General as competent, transparent, and focused, Unazi said he is tailor-made for the job.

He added that Ahmed is well-armed with both the requisite academic and military experience and exposure to restore the Scheme to its glory days.

According to Unazi, the new NYSC boss is very much aware of the lofty expectations of Nigerians and won't let them down.

As an insider who once served as a military assistant to one of the greatest reformers of the NYSC in the past, the Centre said Ahmed is no stranger to the Scheme.

It, therefore, called on all patriots, stakeholders, and NYSC staff to support Ahmed in his quest to revive the Scheme.

Unazi said the Brigadier General, though calm, principled and modest, is an embodiment of ideas who goes the extra mile to implement his virtues.

While applauding the Federal Government for its timely intervention to save the scheme from further ridicule, the Centre charged it to back Ahmed for the future.

The Centre, however, tasked the new NYSC DG to hit the ground running immediately as he has done in previous assignments.

Gov Yahaya Bello denies withdrawing support for Tinubu, says he remains committed to APC campaign


Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has debunked allegations that he has withdrawn his support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Sunday Tribune had reported that Governor Bello who is the National Youth Coordinator of the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council withdrew his support for Tinubu over fears that the former Lagos state governor may back his rival, James Faleke in the December Kogi State governorship election.

However, Governor Bello described the publication as "unfortunate" and "fake news". He spoke on Channels TV programme, Sunday Politics.

He urged law enforcement agencies, media regulatory bodies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to probe and persecute the perpetrators of the fake news.

"Myself, I woke up to see that particular fake news in the air today. And according to your introduction, there is no smoke without fire, in this particular instance, I'm sure the desire is to prepare the fire in the air. And you know surely it can not be sustained.

"So, there is definitely no fire not to talk of smoke in relating to the fake news they peddled.

"It is much unfortunate. And I'm urging all the law enforcement agencies and all regulatory bodies regarding journalism and media practitioners practicing in Nigeria to please live up to their responsibilities.

"The current electoral law empowers even INEC to investigate things like this and persecute the liars; those who perpetrate fake news as far as this election is concerned," he said.

Governor Bello reiterated his unwavering support for Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign.

"Let me further reassure millions of Nigerian youths and Nigerians, and our followers and supporters within the country and across the world, that, I remained very supportive, ardent supporter, mobilizer, campaigner, and driver of votes for our leader and the president-in-waiting, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the flag bearer of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, and my own brother, His Excellency, Sen. Kashim Shettima. These are the president and vice president in the waiting.

"And of course, every Nigerian knows that I'm a big factor as far as this election is concerned. Because of the demography I represent in this country and even across the globe. So, of course, they can come up with fake news, but it is incumbent on all law enforcement agencies to quickly take action against these people."

He gave a 24-hour ultimatum to Tribune to retract the publication.

"I'm expecting that the management and that media house, Tribune that you know was so respected. I personally respect Tribune very well and I don't know why they allowed themselves to be dragged into this kind of messy situation.

"I expect them to retract that particular publication. And tender a public apology and give it a lot of publication within 24 hours. Else, I think my lawyers are capable of doing the needful," Governor Bello added.

A coalition of 21 civil society groups in Nigeria, the Public Accounting Watch (PAW), has praised the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for executing numerous strategic projects across the sub-region.

The group led by Dr. Okey Azikiwe said it undertook a one-week independent tour of projects executed by the interventionist agency and discovered how much it has done in the last few years without media hype.

The group which toured the northeast between January 9th and 17th concluded that the Mohammed G. Alkali-led agency has fulfilled its mandate to coordinate “the resettlement, rehabilitation, integration and reconstruction of infrastructure for victims of terrorism as well as tackle the menace of poverty, illiteracy, ecological challenges in the North-Eastern states and other related matter”.

Azikiwe said the NEDC has ushered a new era of peace, progress, and prosperity by seemingly providing support and succor to the people.

According to him, the North East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan (NESDMP) is already yielding dividends, reviving economic activities in the zone.

He revealed that numerous projects, programs, and schemes to promote and facilitate the physical and socio-economic development of the sub-region are being implemented on the ground as seen during their inspection tour.

Azikiwe noted that the NEDC has touched on numerous aspects including education, health, housing, and water supply among other infrastructure developments.

With the North East Education Endowment Fund, he said over 20,000 natives have benefited annually from the agency's drive to resuscitate the region’s “devastated education sector” and rebuild the human capital.

He further revealed that the 18 mega schools across member states are well on track with 16 classrooms, six laboratories, and 480-capacity hostels in every location.

He added that the commission instituted an Education Endowment Fund for building human capital in the region through scholarships, short-term capacity building, improvement of basic education, etc.

The group said it sighted the multi-million edifice constructed at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) that would be used as the Centre for the Study of Violent and Extremism (CSVE).

Azikiwe said that the agency has gone a step further to train and empower young people on ICT, power, digital vehicular inspection as well as vocational skills.

He said that the NEDC has completed thousands of housing projects across the states, including 1,000 units for Internally Displaced Persons in the Ngowom community, Borno State.

In its bid to improve mobility, connect other communities, enhance livelihood and improve security and agricultural productivity, Azikiwe added that the NEDC is constructing countless roads, including the 32km Garkida-Dabna project in Adamawa.

He added that the NEDC has shown its commitment to healthcare with numerous interventions.

“The Borno State specialist hospital, the federal neuropsychiatric hospital, the 7 division military hospital Maimalari Cantonment and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH ), and others are addressing the challenges in the health sector,” he said.

"The agency recently took over from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) the responsibilities of routine food distribution to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) living in designated camps, host and liberated communities in Borno and Adamawa States."

According to Azikiwe, this has decoupled the resources deployed by NEMA giving impetus to further deliver relief support to persons in need in the event of sudden onset disasters nationwide including in the North East region.

He said its research showed that nearly 25,000 households of IDPs in Borno alone currently benefit from routine food rations by NEDC.

In terms of water supply, Azikiwe said the NEDC has rehabilitated and upgraded supply in towns affected by insurgency in collaboration with the World Bank-funded Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP).

The coalition, therefore, passed a vote of confidence on the Alkali-led agency, adding that it has effectively tackled the menace of poverty, illiteracy, and ecological challenges in the North-Eastern states.

Azikiwe said even more impressive is the fact that the NEDC has gone about its job with transparency, accountability, and diligence.

He, however, urged other agencies to follow the NEDC example if the nation is to attain the level Nigerians desire.

The Coalition of Concerned Citizens for Change and Transformation in collaboration with the Citizen Centre for Youth Development have announced a one-day discourse on the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The event scheduled for Tuesday is tagged: "Appraising The Nysc's Journey So Far, The National Youth Service Corps Trust Fund And The National Question Of Youth Empowerment And Skill Acquisition".

According to the organisers, the roundtable will discuss the journey of the NYSC since its inception, the imperative of sustaining the scheme through the institution of a trust fund, the impact on national development and integration as well as the role of the NYSC in the 2023 general elections.

President of the CSOs, Dr. Uju Nwachukwu also hinted that it will be a top-class event to dissect a sector that has played a very critical role across every sector of the nation's life.

She added that the NYSC during the period of COVID-19 has proven that its a special emergency vehicle that can respond to our needs and deliver beyond its mandate.

The statement also says the NYSC since the inception of our democracy in 1999 has played a major role in the conduct of credible elections hereby sustaining the nation's democracy without interruptions.

In terms of leadership, the organisers added that over the years, the NYSC has set a standard for others to follow in terms of accountability and transparency, due process, and all ramifications.

The event which will be held at the International Conference Centre Abuja will be chaired by Prof Ahmed Shuaibu Dan Fulani with Prof Okpeh Okpeh as guest speaker.

A Coalition of Civil Societies Organizations in Nigeria, have concluded plans to honor the Inspector General of Police, Mr Alkali Baba Usman, for his role, in "redefining Leadership in the Nigeria Police Force".


The group, which is an umbrella body of civil society groups, said the honor on IGP Alkali, is in recognition of the culture of, transparency, accountability and good leadership , which has become the Hallmark of his leadership of the Force under his leadership.

According to the Secretary of the coalition, Princess Abiodun Balogun, in a statement issued in Lagos, the group said "After a critical and painstaking efforts, premised on the unprecedented improvement in the compliance to human rights obligations, Discipline, Welfare and Infrastructural Transformation, that have been witnessed, since the assumption of Office of IGP Alkali Baba Usman, we have resolved to honor him, with the award of the Grand Defender of Democracy and People's Rights."
"This Honor is also an appreciation of his avowed commitment and determination in tackling all forms of criminalities, and the high morale within the rank and file of the Police, due to the prudent use of the the enormous support given to the force, by President Muhammadu Buhari.

"It was under his watch that the Nigeria Police have witnessed a tremendous increase and improvement in the purchase of armaments and accoutrements for Policemen including the rebranding of the Nigeria Police to meet with global best standards and citizens’ satisfaction based on his leadership style and direction of the police."

The group emphasised that the honor is the beginning of a greater effort to give a pat on the back of those who on a daily basis, put their life at risk for the greater good of the country, saying: “They deserve our commendation and support."

Buying into the consumerism of technology revolution in this new age, the Okene reference hospital, built by the governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has left every mouth agape at its world-class edifice and structure, and its major transition in the Health care sector, making it the First Africa’s International clinic, and placing it as the world's second hospital to perform technological driven scanning.

Acknowledging that this wonder came from a Northern state that was once regarded as a “Poor State with no infrastructure”, it’s worthy of note that the administration that executed such feat in less than 8years is deserving of great accolades. This is a state that was once eroded with insecurity, mass unemployment rate, and poor education before the emergence of Alhaji Yahaya Bello as the governor of kogi State who eventually built it from its shambles, and transforming it into a monument. It is no longer a news that the continent of Africa may no longer need to seek certain medical attention from overseas anymore as the persistent determination of a Nigerian governor had put an end to those certain trips.

KOGI state has helped changed Nigeria’s health story, as many will now have access to excellent medical facilities and services. Stating with facts, the clinic is a first class Medical Institution that have started re-writing the story of medical practice and access to medical facilities in Nigeria. Its magnificence had made it one of a kind in Nigeria. Not only does the state now boast of a reference hospital, the Reference Hospital has state of art facilities including the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, an Oxygen plant and a CTScan Machine.

The Signa prime MRI scanner is the latest innovation from General Electric, a well-known American company known for manufacturing world-class healthcare equipment and other machines. The SIGNA Prime is a whole-body magnetic resonance scanner with high resolution, a high signal-to-noise ratio, and quick scan times. This type of scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.

According to the manufacturer, MRI employs a reconstruction algorithm to convert raw image data into an image. The new intuitive user experience makes the signa prime MRI scanner user-friendly and efficient for daily operations for the first time. In addition, the newly built state of the art Reference Hospital, has a fully installed and functioning Medical Oxygen Production Plant.

The hyperbaric oxygen chamber is debuting for the first time in Africa. Hyperbaric therapy is capable of dispensing 100% oxygen that would help save patients from life-threatening medical conditions, such as carbon monoxide poisoning, and decompression sickness which includes sudden idiopathic hearing loss, avascular bone necrosis, air and gas embolism, cyanide poisoning, acute smoke, and retinal artery occlusion.

One of the major concerns of many kogites has been how the common man will be able to afford such first class medical services put up by the governor. But Kogi under GYB already had a counter-plan for such concerns before execution of the project. The State Government has launched a Health Insurance Scheme, known as BelloCare. Under the present administration, a Bill to establish a Health Insurance Agency was initiated, and today, that Bill has not only been signed into Law, the Governor has ensured a fully functional Health Insurance Agency is fully in operation under the leadership of an Executive Director. At the moment, thousands of Kogites and residents have been on board the Health Insurance Scheme.

Nigerians and many political leaders all around Africa are already learning a lot from the Kogi example and already in the plan to raise the bar in healthcare delivery in Africa. If Kogi with her meagre resources could fund this laudable project, why not other more buoyant states? Except they have chapters missen in their books, which is obviously calling for needed scrutiny by the necessary agencies and commissions.

Governor Yahaya Bello has excelled in numerous aspects since taking over the helms of affair the governor of Kogi state. His administration highlighted a tremendous turnaround in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and youth empowerment, all these attracting widespread commendation, and this trending development has further boosted and elevated him above all current African leaders in terms of medical infrastructure development.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit also revealed the management model and importance of the Reference Hospital. Mr President was astonished at the Inspiration behind the conception of such befitting, gigantic and well-equipped medical facility that has nudge a relief in the expenses Nigerians make on seeking medical attention outside the shores of Nigeria as a result of various medical conditions.

With the knowledge that the state is central to the nation’s peace and development, Kogi is seemingly unaffected by the rising spate of crimes across the country, making Bello surpassing his predecessors in achievements. The great blueprint of his, and the craftsmanship that exudes competency and professionalism is worthy of emulation by every governor that wishes to create a great legacy. He has done, and Is yet doing great things in Kogi. He has further proven it to all and sundry that with commitment, Nigerians have no business spending our resources on treatment abroad anymore. We can bring the world to Nigeria and also collaborate with the best brains around the world.

All these development by Governor Bello is enough concrete evidence that has therefore consistently debunk the perfidy and the chicanery of political jobbers and their pay masters. Kogi excellence will consistently remain a question mark difficult to be unraveled by every opposition.
Now pinned on the world map, Kogi state, Okene, there lies the Africa’s First International Clinic.

By Gondo L. Gondo

Napoleon Bonaparte, a former French military commander and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution, once said, "Read over and over again the campaigns of Alexander, Hannibal, Caesar, Gustavus, Turenne, Eugene, and Fredrick.This is the only way to become a great general and master the secrets of the art of war."
General Leo Irabor, like the great men mentioned above, is a true war commander and defender. He has been a guiding light in the darkness that has since enveloped the Nigerian space when insecurity reigned supreme. By his commitment to ending the ravaging scourge of Boko Haram and other security threats, General Leo Irabor has demonstrated to this generation that there can be a positive metamorphosis from gloomy days to glorious days. He has proven that the President Buhari-led administration made the right decision in bringing him on board by being at the helm of affairs as the Chief of Defense Staff up to this point. Have you seen, in this generation, a man who is so principled? Have you seen in this country a man who can take the bull by the horns to emancipate the people from the clutches of apprehension and insurgency?

General Irabor is that man for the job. This is one man who has distinguished himself by believing that change does not arrive on the wheels of inevitability but rather through constant struggle. Even the blind can see that he has rid the military of all the bag eggs that have aided and abated insecurity while also restoring officer and staff discipline through synergy and promotion of inter-agency cooperation amongst the armed forces and the Nigeria Police force. Indeed, he deserves a standing ovation. A rare gem of this caliber must have a very rich and enviable profile.
The Delta State-born general gained admission into the Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA) in Kaduna as a member of the 34 Regular Course in 1983 and was commissioned a second lieutenant on June 28, 1986, into the Signal Corps of the Nigerian Army. In his quest to grow and explore knowledge like the great philosophers of old, he attended military and civil courses within and outside the country. He attended the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (AFCSC), for his junior staff course in 1995, and the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College, Teshi, Accra, Ghana, for the senior staff course in 2000/2001. In his quest to keep studying and distinguish himself among his equals, he attended the National Defense College in Bangladesh in 2010 and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Executive Education in the USA in 2012 and 2017. General Lucky Irabor earned a bachelor's degree in engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University and two master's degrees from the University of Ghana and Bangladesh University of Professional, Dhaka.
Before the General became the 17th Chief of Defense Staff in Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria, in January 2021, he served as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafia Dole, which later became Operation Hadin Kai. I remember very vividly that before his assumption of office as CDS, the country was wallowing in insecurity of great dimensions. People, especially in the North East, lost their source of livelihood; mayhem was being unleashed by the deadly religious sect, Boko Haram, and the citizens were dismayed and lost touch with peace. It was a horrifying tale. In the south-east, IPOB’s separatist movement affected lives and property negatively. But the General Irabor-led administration as the Chief of Defense Staff brought solutions to all these puzzles that beclouded the nation, which for me can’t be forgotten, even in the next generation.
President Buhari, who in his wisdom appointed him as the CDS, knew that General Irabor had all the leadership capacity and acumen to flourish in the new assignment; he knew that rot needed to be eschewed and discipline brought to the fore. This was a front-burner issue at that time. Apparently, he made no mistake handing over the mantle of leadership to him. He was aware that he was a no-nonsense man who would not take "no" for an answer. It happened exactly as the president predicted.
General Irabor, after taking the appointment, knew it was going to be a big task to crack down on the security crises that were perpetuated by Boko Haram, the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), kidnappers, and other kinds of threats to the collective peace of the Nigerian people. He knew he had to show those who were throwing tantrums and doubting Thomas that he was up to the task at hand. So he rolled up his sleeves, engaged in critical thinking, and began to dish out his jobs in collaboration with other security chiefs and relevant stakeholders. In a matter of weeks after his appointment as the Chief of Defense Staff, he revealed his command philosophy, christened PEARL. PEARL means a Nigerian military who is Professional, Effective, Agile, Result-oriented, and Loyal to constituted authority. Obviously, this philosophy spurred the military to stand firm in the defense of the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. For me, I think "PEARL" has to be written on a marble so that the generation yet to be born who are going to be soldiers in the future will always have recourse to it.
General Irabor, a spirited officer who was so optimistic and resolute about the victory of the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force over insecurity in the country visited various war zones and commands to cheer up the troops and our police. This alone was a source of motivation for the gallant peace-makers. I remember that, when one Nigeriqn soldier was interviewed, he said, "At the sight of General Lucky Irabor, our boss, there is this fire of motivation in me right now to push hard and crackdown on these elements of conflict in our nation. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we will overcome by the grace of God."
Is the above assertion by a soldier not enough to prove that the general is the man of the people? I leave the answer to the discerning public.
Under the leadership of General Irabor, many security and intelligence services were organized. He authored gender policy for the Armed Forces and built a very healthy relationship between the Nigerian Army and other countries' armed forces. This is spectacular. Some of those countries are the Niger Republic, Chad, etc. Through his intervention, so many abducted citizens have gained freedom from the hands of their captors. This is a significant feat, no doubt.
General Irabor has spread his tentacles of decisive leadership to the oil-producing areas. His resolve to bring sanity to the Nigerian space has drastically reduced oil theft. Oil production is undoubtedly the mainstay of the Nigerian economy. What becomes of the nation’s economy if oil theft is on the increase? This is one aspect in which he has succeeded.
Last year, The Image Merchants Promotion (IMPR), Limited, publishers of PRNigeria in collaboration with The Media Today (TMT), unveiled a book, authored by Mahmud Abdulsalam, in honor of the Chief of Defense Staff, titled "General LEO Irabor: The Pearl of Defense." The 119-page book, whose blurb was written by Senator Kashin Shetimma, a former governor of Borno State, contains 33 articles under six (6) chapters, namely, operations, stakeholders, infrastructure, synergy, human capital, and communication. The author brilliantly chronicled the capacity, achievements, and leadership qualities of this great compatriot, General Leo Irabor. It is indeed an intricate honeycomb that expounds the personality of the general. For all those who want to know more about him or learn about his stellar leadership qualities, read the book. It was awesome for me to journey through the book.
Some weeks ago, the Chief of Defense Staff bagged an award of excellence as Man of the Year. It was conferred on him by the media platform, News Headquarter Publisher Services. The award was in recognition of his selfless service, professionalism, and undiluted transparency injected into the system, which has made the country safer. The records are there. The award will be bestowed on the gallant Chief of Defense Staff on January 12, 2023. It takes a man of greatness to be recognized at this magnitude.
Finally, General LEO Irabor is a man who has remained steadfast in the performance of his duties and deserves to be recognized. Do you know what it means to fight tough against saboteurs, mindless killers and dark agents ? It takes an upright man to do this. General Irabor is a man who has shone a light in the military, regardless of whose ox is gored. I am pretty sure that there are many people out there who appreciate and love him as much as I do. Great people make an impact. He has performed exploits and left a mark that will not be erased until the end of time.

Gondo wrote this article from the United Kingdom.

By Williams Ochonu

Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights legend who led the movement to end segregation and counter prejudice in the United States of America through a peaceful protest, once said, and I quote, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of convenience and comfort, but where he stands at the times of challenge and controversy." Alhaji Mhammed Goni Alkali is one of the few Nigerian leaders whose lifestyle, beliefs, vision, and tenacity match the above quote.
Since 2009, a radical religious sect known as Boko Haram has unleashed one of the country's worst mayhems in the country's north-east.The region consists of Bornu, Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe, and Bauchi states. These states became a bloodbath and a theater of war, attracting the attention of the entire world. This carnage was indeed a treat for the people of the North East, Nigeria, and humanity at large. The death toll was on an incessant increase; millions of citizens were internally displaced; and wanton destruction of property worth billions of naira in a short time was on the rise. It was one story of woe after another on a daily basis. Farmers lost their livelihood; education became a complete nightmare; hearts beat in palpable fear of death. It was a very challenging moment for the people of that region. The government in charge at the time tried its best to restore normalcy to the region, but it appeared that efforts were futile.
Bringing tranquility and normalcy to the region was one of President Buhari’s priorities during his administration. This was indeed a rescue mission. In his wisdom and unflinching quest to restore hope and sanity to that region, he signed into law an act establishing the North East Development Commission. It was a visible feat that will live on in the minds of the people of the Northeast and the entire country. It was a move that presented light at the end of the tunnel.
The cardinal vision and mission of NEDC are crystal clear: to pilot the affairs of the reconstruction and development of the North East, which had over the years become a nightmare characterized by destruction in all facets of human existence and modernization. Furthermore, the NEDC is to receive and manage funds from the Federal Account and international donors for the reconstruction of roads, houses, and businesses, as well as to address illiteracy, environmental degradation, poverty, and a slew of other issues that plague the region.
Having such a body already established, it needed a man of integrity and foresight—a man furnished with great and exceptional ideas about human emancipation—to man it. The president desired the restoration of sanity in the region, similar to the relief provided by torrential rains following a season of scorching hot harmattan winds and bush fires.The president scouted for that man who would paddle the canoe and navigate through the murky waters without capsizing and becoming dinner for the sharks. The searchlight eventually beamed on the man of capacity, Mohammed Goni Alkali, who has the trenchant zeal of a crusader to succeed no matter the situation.
Mohammed Goni Alkali was appointed as the MD/CEO of the North East Development Commission in January 2019. Many people looked over his resume to see if he was the right man for the job. His credentials spoke volumes, and all those who raised eyebrows became silent as there was no stain on his personality. To set the record straight, Mohammed Goni Alkali had an unmatched track record in public service. It was audible to the deaf and visible to the blind. Mohammed Goni Alkali is a first-class degree holder in accounting from the very prestigious Bayero University, Kano. Additionally, he holds a Master of Science degree in accounting and finance from the London School of Economics at the University of London, United Kingdom.
He is an alumnus of the mighty Harvard Business School, Harvard University; Columbia Business School, Columbia University; and the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago. Before his appointment as the Managing Director, Mohammed Goni Alkali was the Executive Director, Operations, of the Bank of Industry (BoI).
Mohammed Goni Alkali received his appointment with open arms. He, being at the helm of affairs, brought an incredible and unmatched concept to the leadership architecture of the North East Development Commission. His vision was so clear, and his determination to succeed in the commission was seen by all. The managing director rolled up his sleeves and faced the tasks and daunting challenges that were piling up on his desk without fear, just as the eagle does when it looks at the cloudless sun. He is a great achiever and a complete patriot who is so sensitive to the plight of the people of the North East. Overtime, in public functions, he reiterated that he would work so hard to ameliorate the suffering of the people that had become prevalent in that region and to erase the memory of the excruciating era perpetuated by the Boko Haram insurgency. Apparently, he has since matched word with action in the execution of his functions. He is a man who has respect for constituted authority and would do everything within his jurisdiction to ameliorate poverty through his carefully planned program and activities for the wellbeing of the people of the North East.
Through numerous intervention programs in the NEDC, the Managing Director has significantly reduced the destructive tendencies that have plagued the region in the past. Because of Mohammed Goni Alkali's true and unbiased leadership style, the NEDC has been able to deliver on the mandate given to it by the President Buhari Administration.
For instance, a six-billion-naira Education Endowment Fund was initiated by NEDC to revive the educational sector and revive human capital in the region. Over 20,000 beneficiaries were recorded. The NEDC also implemented over 1,310 response projects in all 112 local governments in the North East. The interventionist agency launched an agricultural program that provided agricultural machinery and equipment, fertilizers, and a variety of other items to help farmers in that region get back to work. Without mincing words, we can say that the leadership of the Managing Director has worked in harmony with other relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to deliver on the constitutional duties he swore an oath to.
There is a saying that "he who comes into equity must come with clean hands." Mohammed Alkali’s dealings as the managing director have been done with clean hands. We have previously heard of a wanton and unbridled wave of corruption cases spanning ministries, departments, and agencies, siphoning funds in astronomical proportions. They tend to dread when anti-graft agencies come for them or when oversight functions are to be performed. This is not the story of the man at the helm of affairs at the North East Development Commission. He has been transparent in the discharge of his duties and channeled relevant funds to the appropriate quarters. He believes that on the last day, everyone will give an account of his or her activities in the land of the living.

Sometime ago, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties led a delegation on a three-day oversight function to evaluate the commission’s performance so far in Maiduguri. He reiterated that there had been a significant achievement in the one year of its operation. He said, "The NEDC is a baby of the federal government; it is just one year old, but it has performed tremendously well in the past year, especially in the area of humanitarian intervention."
The commission has received more prestigious local and international honors. These recognitions wouldn’t have come if someone like Mohammed Alkali hadn’t managed the commission. On the overview, the Managing Director was born a leader, and the world has seen those qualities exhibited. Many young people aspiring to leadership positions have a lot to learn from this icon. He is one of the few people who will be remembered forever. Chinua Achebe once said, "One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised." Mohammed Alkali stands firm on the pedestal of true leadership and hasn’t compromised. The whole world has seen it.

Ochonu is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.