₦airaland Forum

Drama As Gov. Okorocha Says He Has SACKED Oshiomhole For Anti-party Activities

The Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has criticised the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole, for his suspension from the party over alleged anti-party activities.

The National Working Committee of the APC, on Friday, had also suspended Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State; the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Uguru; and the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Osita Okechukwu.



But Okorocha, during an interview on Sunday Politics, a programme of Channels Television, said Oshiomhole did not have the power to remove a party member, describing the suspension as a joke.

The governor also accused the APC chairman of engaging in anti-party activities by “destroying” the party.

He said, “I just heard media reports that I’ve been suspended from the party. I think Adams is seeking relevance and looking for attention. He doesn’t have such powers to remove somebody without following the due process. If he is joking, which I think he is, I also have decided to sack him myself.

“So, I have sacked him from the party. If he thinks he can just stand up and say he has suspended me from the party I founded, without following the due process, in the same manner, I have sacked him from the party.

“I learnt that the reasons he adduced for my being suspended from the party is for anti-party reasons. I think Adams is the biggest player of anti-party activities in the APC. The man has simply destroyed the party to a great extent.”

According to Okorocha, the APC had a “serious setback” in the just concluded presidential election, offset only by the personality of President Muhammadu Buhari and the love of Nigerians for him.

Punch Newspaper

I will fastrack Ondo Ethanol Project – Adelegbe

The House of Representatives member-elect for Owo/Ose Federal constituency, Otunba Timehin Adelegbe has said he would speed up the process of establishing the ethanol factory project in Ose local government area of Ondo state.

Adelegbe stated this in an interview with The Hope in a reaction to his victory at the just concluded National Assembly poll.

According to him, his emergence as a member of the green chamber will enable him to complement the effort of governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on the ethanol project by calling the attention of the House to it.

He noted that Owo/Ose federal constituency lags behind in terms of availabilty of federal facilities, and assured of his readiness to bring federal government’s presence to the area.

His words: ” There is no special federal government presence in my constituency. I will try my best to ensure we have it.

” For example, Ose/Owo does not has a federal institution, it is the right time we raise it up in the national assembly”.

Adelegbe however noted that, he would not discriminate against any community in terms of developmental project, regardless of political party affiliation.

Reacting to the average performance of the All Progressive Congress party in the state during the last poll, Adelegbe assured that they are fully ready to clear the 26 House of Assembly seats in the State.

Assembly poll: APC, PDP, ADC begin campaign

Few days to the Ondo State House of Assembly election, political parties have intensified their campaigns for their candidates across the state.

The campaigns which started immediately after the results of presidential and National Assembly elections were announced last week cut across all the 18 local governments in the state through door-to-door and house to house campaigns.

In the coming election, 325 candidates were fielded by 32 political parties to contest for 26 House of Assembly seats out of 73 existing parties in the state.

It would be recalled that the governorship election in the state will not hold until next year.

Speaking with The Hope, the State Chairman of the APC, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, said the party has embarked on door to door and house to house campaign as directed by the state governor that all the party’s leaders should return to their units to canvass for the votes of electorate and reconcile dispute led to failure of APC to win the presidential and some National Assembly seats that in the state.

The directive, he affirmed is yielding positive outcome as leaders in the party have successfully settled disputes at their various units.

“With the positive results, APC will triumph in the election,” he said

Adetimehin noted that APC in the state has realised what transpired during the presidential and National Assembly elections and it has warned its members not to allow such in the coming Saturday’s election.

Also, the State Administrative Secretary, Atiku Presidential Campaign Organisation under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Olumide Ogunkua disclosed that the party has embarked on road show, door to door and outskirt campaigns to further spread and campaign for all the candidates of the party in all 26 constituencies ahead of the poll.

He expressed optimism that the party will repeat the landslide victory it recorded in the last elections in the coming State House of Assembly poll.

He reiterated commitments of the people in the state to give their votes to PDP as a party to serve them better.

‘The expected victory will further consolidate victory the party recorded in the last polls.” he boasted

On his part, Mr. Bisi Ogungbemi the State Chairman of African Democratic Congress, ADC, pointed out that the party will coast home to victory due to the door to door and house to house campaigns it has engaged in before and after Saturday February 23 ,2019 general elections.

He said the mode of campaign of the party centred on the need for people to vote for all the party’s candidates and refrain from vote buying.

“Our party ADC has been campaigning against vote buying or selling their conscience during election to money bag politicians,” said.

I’LL RUN AN INCLUSIVE GOVT, BUHARI PLEDGES
President Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday that election is neither war nor a do-or-die affair and promised to run an inclusive government in his second term which begins on May 29 this year.

resident Muhammadu Buhari and wife Aisha (left) with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and wife Dolapo, shortly after receiving Certificates of Return from the INEC Chairman in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida. The President, who stated this shortly after receiving his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Abuja, spoke against the backdrop of rejection of results of the presidential election by the presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who also vowed to go to court to challenge the results. “Election is not war, and should never be seen as a do-or-die affair. I pray that we all accept this democratic approach to elections, however contentious,” he said. The President said now that the elections were over, and a winner had emerged, the victory is that of Nigeria. He said: “That was why I encouraged my teeming supporters, in a speech I read earlier today, not to gloat. Our God-given victory is enough cause for joy, without deriding those who were in the opposition. All Nigerians, going forward, must stand in brotherhood, for a bright and fulfilling future. “I, therefore, want to assure that we will continue to engage all parties that have the best interest of Nigerians at heart.” President Buhari said his government would remain inclusive and that all doors will remain open, adding that it “is the way to build the country of our dream; safe, secure, prosperous, and free of impunity and primitive accumulation by those entrusted with public offices.” Congratulating all the presidential candidates and their teams on a hard-fought campaign, he said: “We may have had different views during the campaign, but the one thing most of us have in common is love of our country and our desire to improve conditions for Nigerians. “From the comments of several observers, both local and foreign, it is obvious that the elections were both free and fair.”

The President said he would continue to build on the foundations of peace, rule of law and opportunities for all in efforts to deliver a better Nigeria. “We will roll up our sleeves afresh, and give it our all. We have no other motive than to serve Nigeria with our hearts and might, and build a nation which we and generations to come can be proud of,” he said. President Buhari thanked the over 15 million citizens who voted for him as well as those who contributed to the running of his successful campaign. “I can assure that you will see a country moving to the Next Level, as we consolidate on our fundamental areas of securing the country, reviving the economy, and fighting corruption. “Many other focal areas, as stated in our campaign manual, will be added, to the good things we plan for our country,” he said. The President also paid tribute to those who lost their lives either through accidents or mindless violence during the course of the elections. “My heart and thoughts are with the families of the victims. May God comfort and give them the fortitude to bear the loss,” he said. Earlier in his acceptance speech, President Buhari said security agencies in the country will bring to justice those who allegedly perpetuated violence during the Presidential and National Assembly elections. President Buhari advised his party members not to taunt the opposition parties in their celebration, saying that victory was enough reward.

He promised to consolidate on the foundation his administration has laid in the past four years and restructure the nation’s economy. While thanking God for the victory and his party, he expressed sadness over the loss of lives during the elections. He said: “I thank the millions of Nigerians who voted to re-elect me as your president for the next four years. I am deeply humbled and profoundly grateful to you for judging me worthy of continuing to serve you and for your peaceful conduct. “In particular, I would like to thank Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for his masterful leadership as Co-chair of the Campaign Council. I would like to also thank the party chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, the Director General of the Campaign Council, Rotimi Amaechi, all members of the Presidential Campaign Council and other various Support Groups. “My grateful thanks to all those who contributed to the logistical expenses of the campaign in such a vast country like Nigeria. “I also thank the millions of volunteers, self-appointed overseers, canvassers, agents, escorts and sentries who sacrificed so much of their time and resources to ensure the success of these elections. I do not have the words adequate to thank them. Security to prosecute electoral offenders “Although Saturday’s elections were relatively peaceful, troublemakers in a handful of states attempted to disrupt an otherwise orderly process. security agencies will bring to justice all those arrested in the process. “I am very sad at the grievous loss of lives during these elections. Security agencies will step up their efforts to protect voters in the forthcoming state elections. “I would like to commend our security agencies, as severely overstretched as they are, for handling the difficult task of securing the country during the election period. Appeal to supporters “I will like to make a special appeal to my supporters not to gloat or humiliate the opposition. Victory is enough reward for your efforts.” President Buhari commended domestic and international observers for contributing to the success of the elections and for their interest in the country and developing democracy.

On expectations in the next four years, he said: “The new administration will intensify its efforts in security, restructuring the economy and fighting corruption. “We have laid down the foundation and we are committed to seeing matters to the end. We will strive to strengthen our unity and inclusiveness so that no section or group will feel left behind or left out.”

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/02/ill-run-an-inclusive-govt-buhari-pledges/

Buhari’s victory signifies acceptability of his leadership — Akeredolu


Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State on Wednesday said President Muhammadu Buhari’s victory in the 2019 presidential election signified the acceptability of his leadership by a majority of Nigerian citizens.

Buhari won the 2019 Presidential election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) with 15,191,847 votes to beat Abubakar Atiku of the People’s Democratic Party (Party) with 11, 262, 978.

The remarks were made in a statement in Akure on Wednesday, by Segun Ajiboye, Chief Press Secretary to the Ondo State Governor.

According to the statement, Akeredolu joins millions of Nigerians to congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari on his re-election as president-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for a second four-year tenure.

“The governor says the victory belongs to all Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic and religious beliefs.

“He is optimistic that the next level promised Nigerian citizens by President Buhari will indeed take the country to unprecedented heights.

“Gov. Akeredolu hails all stakeholders, including local and international observers, security agencies, social commentators and members of the media, who in one way or the other played a role in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the election.

“He particularly commends the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for conducting a free, fair and credible presidential election accepted by observers and the international community,” the statement said.

Source:https://citadelng.com/buharis-victory-signifies-acceptability-of-his-leadership-akeredolu/

INEC Presents Certificate Of Return To Buhari, Osinbajo:


The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday presented the Certificate of Return to the president-elect and winner of the just concluded presidential election, President Muhammadu Buhari.

The INEC Chairman, Professor Yakubu Mahmood, presented the Certificate to President Buhari and the vice-president-elect, Yemi Osinbajo, at the International Conference Center in Abuja.


Concise News reports that the INEC chairman said that the President and his vice will receive their certificate of return after declaring the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as President-elect, following final collation of results in the early hours of Wednesday.

Yakubu said: “Ladies and gentlemen, in fulfillment of the electoral act which says that a certificate of return shall be issued not less than seven days to the declaration of the winner, I hereby announce that the certificate of return will be issued to the President-elect and Vice President-elect at 2pm today in this very hall.”

Buhari, who is the incumbent President, defeated the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to emerge winner in the keenly contested poll.

Announcing the final results of the election on Wednesday, Professor Mahmood said President Buhari polled a total of 15,191,847 to defeat his closest rival and the PDP candidate, Atiku, who polled 11,262,978.

From start, Buhari proved to be the man to beat, leading all other candidates and ending with a wide margin of almost four million votes ahead of Atiku, and drawing his largest block of votes from the core Northern states.

Supporters say Buhari re-election right step to dev’t

Minna – Supporters of President Muhammadu Buhari in Niger have described his victory at the polls as a right step towards the continued development of the country.

An All Progressives Congress Party (APC) supporter waves a party flag while celebrating initial results released by the Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kano, on February 25, 2019, two days after general elections. – Nigeria’s main opposition on February 25 accused the ruling party of trying to rig presidential elections, as the incumbent made early gains but monitors voiced concern about polling day problems, including dozens of deaths.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of President Muhammadu Buhari of colluding with the electoral commission in an attempt to “manipulate the results”. (Photo AFP) The supporters made their submission in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Wednesday after the declaration of Buhari as the winner of the Presidential election held on Saturday.

Buhari won with 15,191,847 votes in 19 states, to defeat other 72 candidates including Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who scored 11,255,978 votes in 17 states and the FCT.

Buhari also captured all the 25 local government areas in Niger with 612,371 votes while Atiku scored 218,052 votes. Hon. Umar Bago (APC Niger) described Buhari’s re-election as a continuity of more people-oriented projects that would enhance the well-being of Nigerians. Bago, representing Chanchaga federal constituency, added that it would also provide massive infrastructure for uplifting the living standards of Nigerians.

“We expect more dams to be constructed to support all-year farming system for massive food production. “Mr President had kept his promises to Nigerians in the areas of security, fighting corruption and rebuilding the economy,” he said.

Source:https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/02/supporters-say-buhari-re-election-right-step-to-devt/

Buhari’s reaction after INEC declared him re-elected:


President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday was declared winner of the 2019 Presidential election by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The Returning Officer for the 2019 presidential elections, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the declaration at exadtly 4:37am.

He polled 15,191,847 votes to defeat his closest rival, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the presidential poll conducted on February 23 who had 11,262,978 votes.

Buhari in a video posted by Bashir Ahmad, his personal assistant on new media, the president was seen seating calmly while the INEC chairman announced him the winner.

Source:
http://thenationonlineng.net/video-buharis-reaction-to-being-declared-winner-by-inec/

Court dismisses certificate suit against Buhari

A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has struck out the case seeking to disqualify President Muhammadu Buhari from the 2019 elections over circumstances surrounding his school certificate.

BUHARI A lawyer, Lezina Amegua, had prayed the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to disqualify the President, but the trial judge, Justice Ishaq Sani, struck out the case for lack of merit. Also joined as respondents in the suit
were All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Amegua had sought an order of the court for the President to produce his original school certificate or its equivalent and master sheet of the said results before the court and for INEC to also tender receipt of its record of same documents or its equivalent submitted to it by the President. Justice Sani, in his ruling, said the plaintiff from the facts deposed to in his affidavit in support, did not show how production of the first defendant’s original school certificate or its equivalent affects his interest as an individual.

The court further held that the plaintiff did not contest any electoral position in 2015, neither was he a presidential candidate nor a political party to protest the participation and qualification of the President in 2015 and the 2019 general election.

According to Justice Sani, “the concept of locus standi focuses not on the merit of the case, but of the person seeking to approach the court. “The essence is to protect the court from being used as playground by professional litigants, busy bodies, meddlesome interlopers and cranks that have no real stake or interest in the subject matter of the litigation they seek to pursue.

“I agree with learned counsel for the fourth defendant that the plaintiff has no relationship with the reliefs in this suit and to grant same as rightly submitted would amount to opening the floodgates for the institution of actions, whether or not it affects the right of the plaintiff.

“There must be a dispute between a person who makes a claim and the one against whom the claim is made and the action must be justiciable.

“Plaintiff must show that the act complained of affects rights and obliga-tions peculiar or personal thereto. He must also show that his private rights have been infringed upon or there is a threat of such infringement or injury.”

Source:https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/02/court-dismisses-certificate-suit-against-buhari/

Less Than One Year Of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN As Ondo State Governor- Achievements Are Numerous

1- Construction of Iwalewa Road, Akure.

2- Construction of Sabomi Road, Ese Odo.

3- Construction of Abusoro, Ijoka Road, Akure.

4- Construction of Opasorun road, Bajare/Okemayo

5- Construction of St. Joseph Road in Idanre.

6- Construction of 3 box culverts at Oyinmomo Ishakunmi and Merida Rental Road , Ikare.

7- Construction of Jubilee - Ugbe Road, Ikare.

8- Construction of Oke Alafia Road, Supare.

9- Construction of Ogbomo Ifedara, Ajegunle Streets and Howlet Road, Ifon.

10- Construction of Ilara Mokin /Ikota, otherwise known as Gulf C road, Ilara.

11- Construction of Police Road, Ore.

12- Construction of Virgin road network within GRA to Prison, Owo.

13- Construction of internal and access roads within the Ondo State University of Science and Technology (OSUSTECH) Okitipupa.

14- Ongoing work at the notorious Oke Alabujoto in Ikare Akoko.

15- Rehabilitation of the deadly Iwaro Oka hill.

16- Rehabilitation of Sabo Road, Akure.

17- Rehabilitation of access roads within the state specialist hospital, Akure.

Work is also ongoing on the construction of 50km road linking Araromi seaside, Ondo state to Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State.

On health, the Akeredolu led administration has signed into law, a contributory health insurance scheme which afford all classes of people in the state access to affordable health care services.

Apart from this, the Akeredolu led administration in partnership with the world Bank is facilitating $500,000 to enhance primary health care across Ondo state.

Governor Akeredolu also facilitated the presentation of 40 imaging medical items to the state medical village by the People's Republic Of China.

On Agriculture, the government reactivated the afforestation projects in Ondo state. 10,000 Hectares of the state afforestation projects sited at Omotoso in Okitipupa local government. The projects is worth N20billion and it's employing over 1,000 youths of Ondo state. It's a Public Private Partnership with Weewood, a Chinese company.

Under Akeredolu, Over N210, 000, 000 have been disbursed to farmers co-operative societies in the state, under the FADAMA Scheme. Also, 1,000 metrics ton of fertilizers have been distributed to farmers in Ondo state for enhanced farming. The Akeredolu's administration has also mobilized 35,000 farmers for the Anchor Borrowers Scheme.

In one year, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi has done these and even more.

[11:20 AM, 2/26/2019] Dammyz: The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on Monday said that last Saturday date, February 23, will be declared as Kwara Liberation Day immediately the new government comes to power in the state.

Mohammed disclosed this in Ilorin on Monday while addressing a press conference with stakeholders of the party in the state.



The minister who said that the Presidential and National Assembly election was a clean sweep for the APC in the state said, “As you must be aware by now, the official results of last Saturday’s elections in Kwara have been announced.

“It is a clean sweep for our party, the All Progressives Congress. All three seats in the Senate and all six in the House of Representatives were won by our party.

“The match between our party and the PDP ended 10-0 (1 President, 3-0 Senatorial, 6-0 House of Reps). With the outcome of last Saturday’s elections, I can now conveniently say that Kwara is free; free from a choking and pauperising political hegemony of a self-imposed dynasty. Never again will Kwarans be treated like slaves in their own land. Enough is enough. O To Ge!” he emphasised.

The minister said, “I want to ask the incoming governor of our state to, immediately he is sworn in on 29 May 2019, to declare February 23 of every year as the Day of Liberation for Kwara State.”

Alhaji Mohammed noted that the victory of the APC in the election should go to the people of the state who resoundingly said no to the PDP last Saturday.

He recalled that the freedom of the state started on November 17, 2018 when the APC won the by-election for the Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero federal constituency, adding, “it was the beginning of the crumbling of the Berlin Wall of Kwara politics.”

“Today, the Berlin Wall of Kwara politics has fallen. The chain has been broken. The good people of Kwara have ensured that,” he said.

The minister noted that “the victory in Kwara was achieved in the sweetest way. The election was conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security. Not a single shot was fired throughout Kwara. No one snatched ballot box. It was an atmosphere of conviviality. It was a sharp departure from what used to be in the state. It confirms what we have been saying, that when there is adequate security, there will be a level playing ground for all the parties, and for all Kwarans.”

He commended the security agencies for their hard work, dedication to duty and professionalism.

source : https://punchng.com/feb-23-will-be-declared-kwara-liberation-day-lai-mohammed-2/#

An election observer group, the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, has described the Presidential and National Assembly elections held across the country on Saturday as generally peaceful.

The group made the observation in its second interim report on the election signed by its acting Executive Director, Monday Osasah, and made available to journalists on Monday.



The report read, “The exercise was generally very peaceful and the turnout was commendable.

“Logistics however should be improved upon in future elections.

“Voter and civic education should be sustained and intensified to constantly remind the electorate of their civic responsibilities.

“Election stakeholders should continue to cooperate with INEC to enable improvement in the process, procedure and the activities of the commission.”

The group urged INEC to improve on its logistics and ensure personnel and materials arrive early in the March 9 governorship and state houses of assembly elections.

It said the electoral body should also give attention to physically challenged persons nationwide by ensuring that facilities to aid their participation in the election were provided.

The group also called on INEC to work closely with security agencies and increase the number of security personnel at the polling environment in the March 9 elections.

The report added, “INEC should collaborate more with the National Orientation Agency and ensure a sustained civic and voter education across the country to sustain and up the level of turnout in the March 9 elections.



“The slow performance of the card reader should be addressed to gain time in future elections.

“Channel of communication between INEC and ad hoc staff must be improved for the next phase of the elections.”

source; https://punchng.com/observer-group-says-presidential-election-peaceful-turnout-commendab

The Federal Government has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of planning to truncate the electoral process and push the country to constitutional crisis.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in a statement yesterday, said PDP was usurping the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through the announcement of election results, which he said, is a violation of the Electoral Act.

”By announcing the result and saying they have won the February 23rd election, the PDP is deliberately seeking to confuse the polity and lay the foundation for rejecting the outcome if, when INEC eventually announces the result, the party does not win.


”This confirms what we said in a series of preelection press conferences, that the PDP – realizing it cannot win a free and fair election – will do everything possible to scuttle the polls, failing which it will proceed to the next stage, which is to discredit the entire electoral process, including the result, with the ultimate aim of precipitating a constitutional crisis and pushing for an interim government,” the minister said.

The statement further recalled that the Federal Government earlier kicked against the decision by the PDP to set up a Parallel Voting Tabulation (PVT) System.


”We said, then, that while it is standard practice for political parties to have their own monitoring systems during elections, what is not standard is to set up a pseudo electoral commission and imbue it with the power to collate and announce results – as the PDP is now doing under the guise of PVT. Unfortunately, our warning has proven to be prescient,” he said.

He called on the security agencies to nip in the bud the constitutional crisis that the PDP was allegedly working for by immediately arresting and prosecuting anyone who announces the result of last Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections.

source:
https://www.newtelegraphng.com/2019/02/fg-accuses-pdp-of-plots-to-truncate-electoral-process/

The Presidential Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed concerns at the rejection of the results of the 2019 presidential election by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing the move as illogical. National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, had rejected the results as being announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the ruling party of conniving with the electoral umpire to manipulate the polls and disenfranchise PDP members in several parts of the country.

But the Director, Strategic Communications, APC Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Festus Keyamo, said it was curious that the PDP was rejecting the results even when the final collations were yet to be concluded. Keyamo raised a number of posers on the development and accused the opposition party of trying to stir up a crisis.


“What kind of logic is that? What kind of confusion is now reigning in the minds of the top hierarchy of the PDP that they can spew such illogicality? “Is the PDP rejecting the totality of the results nationwide?

If yes, does it mean they also reject the results that would be announced later by INEC, which may indicate that they have won in certain areas? Are they also rejecting the results already announced that indicate they won in some areas? For instance, are they rejecting the results of the FCT already announced in which they won?

“It is now obvious that the top hierarchy of the PDP is hysterical and nervous. We urge them to calm down. Obviously, this is the first time they are sensing a massive loss of an election as opposition party. It is a new experience for them. “They are confused and disoriented.

For many years, they were used to manipulating the instruments of State to just write results and announce themselves as winners. As such, they have a sense of entitlement to these instruments of State that they could not fully manipulate this time, because President Muhammadu Buhari insisted on a level plain field for all.

“We advise the PDP that as opposition party for many years, we have been down this road before. This is not the time to sacrifice the country for personal ambition. If they feel they have lost (as their statement clearly indicates), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar must pick up his phone to make that famous call to President Buhari.

The world is watching him and so are Nigerians,” he said. Keyamo urged INEC, Nigerians and the international community not to be swayed by what he described as the “infantile antics” of the opposition party as the process of collation and announcement of election results must be carried to its logical conclusion, after which anyone who is aggrieved could take full advantage of the provisions of the law.

He said that going by the reports received in the Situ ation Room of the Election Planning and Monitoring Directorate of the APC, it was safe to conclude that INEC had done a good job despite the challenges and the delays experienced in some cases. Keyamo noted that it was unconstitutional and premature for the PDP and its sympathizers to seek a premature declaration of its candidate as winner of the election when the results were still being collated..
“This is an assault on our democracy; it is an affront to millions of Nigerians who trooped out to exercise their civic duty by voting in the elections.

The PDP is, in essence and most unfortunately, saying that if they don’t win fairly, then they are willing to tear down the walls to get their way by hook or by crook. “In spite of this unjustifiable and provocative stance, we are confident that the results by INEC are free and fair.
Our elections have progressed over the years and we ask that the PDP do not derail us to the dark past with its childish antics,” Keyamo said.

Computerised Vehincle Inspection Center takes off in Ondo

As part of the efforts of his administration to priotize the lives and properties of the people of Ondo state, the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Tuesday inspected the new computerised Vehincle Inspection Center in Akure, the state capital.

The new facility which is located within the premises of the Vehincle Inspection Office, Akure would inspect one hundred and twenty Vehincles in a day and provide jobs for thirty - six engineers.

Speaking during the governor's visit to the facility, the Managing Director of the company, Segun Obayendo said the facility will be commissioned very soon after the remaining necessary equipment are ready.

He explained that the center is also located at Owo and Ondo, adding that other ones will also be sited in Ikare and Ore thereafter.

The Computerised Vehincle Inspection Center which is already in operation in twelves States across the country is meant to ensure that only vehincles that are road worthy are put on the roads so as to reduce the number of avoidable accidents on the roads.

Govenor Akeredolu said the government is determined to rid the roads in the state of vehicle that are not road worthy. He added that the center is important to car owners to enable them diagonise their vehincles even before taking them to the mechanic workshop.

The Governor said the center will bring confidence back on the roads as only Vehincles with road worthiness certificate will ply roads in the state.

He, however, stressed that the center is not in any way a mechanic workshop but will help create more jobs for the mechanics as more vehincles will visit their workshops.

Ondo APC group dismisses anti-party allegations against Akeredolu

A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State , Progressives Youth Movement (PYM) has condemned in totality , the accusation of anti-party activities leveled against the Governor of the state , Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu , SAN, by some acclaimed leaders of the party in Akoko North West local Government.

The group also explained that the spokesperson for the group, one Mr. Thalis Apalowo showed the flaws embedded in the accusation and exposed the intentions of the unseen hands behind the ruse called press conference.

It noted that Apalowo lacks every qualification to speak for elders of the party in Akoko North west.

The state coordinator of the group, Comrade Joshua Akinmoyo in a press statement described Apalowo’s accusation as laughable, baseless and unfounded. The group maintained that the Governor has vigorously campaigned for President Muhammadu Buhari and other APC candidates in the state.

PYM said Governor Akeredolu was the first governor in the whole of the South West to have a center for the Buhari / Osinbajo re-election. The group also maintained that the Governor has donated over 30 vehicles for the Buhari’s re-election campaign .

According to the group, it is laughable for anyone in the state to claim to love or be more dedicated to the Buahri’s re-election in Ondo state than Governor Akeredolu.

He said the likes of Apalowo cut short any future hope on the not too young to run movement.

The group accused Apalowo of venting anger on the Governor after he lost the house of assembly ticket to another aspirant from his constituency. It wondered why Apalowo could be so desperate to making spurious allegation against a governor because he lost the assembly ticket.

‘We are disappointed by the latest outburst of Mr. Apalowo. We condemn in strong terms and in totality the accusations leveled against the governor. We like to make it clear that Apalowo is merely venting anger because he felt the governor didn’t favor him during his recent struggle to clinch the House of Assembly ticket in his constituency

‘Apalowo had wanted the governor to pronounce him as an anointed candidate so that he could clinch the APC house of assembly ticket in his constituency with ease. The young man who is also a member of this group, had started firing different verbal missiles at the governor since he lost the ticket

‘We are disappointed at Apalowo for allowing himself to be used by some unscrupulous elements who are determined to undermine the right of the people .We are shocked that Apalowo could allow himself to be used as an attack dog over a pot of porridge

‘Why we are not surprised is because we know Apalowo to belong to the “Lets share it” class of politics. He’s a political mercenary that needs not to be taken serious. Apalowo is a hustler who cares only about his purse and bread and butter.’

"Elections will be peaceful in Ondo" -Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu

Ahead of Saturday’s general elections, the Ondo State government has pledged its cooperation with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure peaceful conduct across the state.

The state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) made the promise while receiving in his office a delegation of the Nigerian Police led by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of Training and Development, Yakubu Jubril, who was in the state on a mission to supervise the conduct of the general elections in the Southwest zone of the country.

The governor who was represented by his deputy, Agboola Ajayi expressed optimism that the scheduled elections would be smooth in the state, owing to the record of the state as the most peaceful in the Niger Delta region.

Akeredolu maintained that his government is committed to ensuring conducive environment for peaceful conduct of his people that will engender free, fair and credible polls.

“It is not just important but compulsory that all of us must maintain peace during and after the election. That is our message”, he stated.

The governor however urged the Police to carry out their assignment without bias and caution politicians who are desperate to have their desires achieved at all cost to desist.

Earlier, the team leader, DIG Yakubu Jubril had informed that his mission is to supervise the forthcoming general elections in the Southwest Zone 11, comprising Ondo, Oyo and Osun, to ensure law, order and peace before during and after the polls.

Having served at various levels in different towns in Ondo state in the past including his youth service, the supervising DIG said he is familiar with the people, terrain and topography of the state, noting that residents are peace loving and law abiding.

He stated that he had earlier met with the security chiefs and men at the command as well as various stakeholders including leaders of political parties on the need to embrace peace and ensure free and fair elections.

He assured the government and the electorate therefore that his team will do all within its powers to give them a desired security and enjoy needed support and cooperation to exercise their civic right in casting their votes without fear of intimidation, molestation or harassment from anybody.

Meanwhile, the new Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Undie Adie while speaking with journalists after the courtesy call, charge politicians and their supporters to play the game by its rules.

“We are security officers, we are law officers and we cannot do anything less than the law. Game of politics has rules and they are to adhere to it strictly, once this is done, we are sure to have peaceful environment, free, fair and credible elections’, he said.

Akeredolu Declares Total Support For The Reelection Bids Of Buhari, Alasoadura, Others

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN has denied ever supporting any other candidate in Ondo Central Senatorial District rather than the incumbent, Senator Tayo Alasoadura.

The Governor said it was enough if a man has been Commissioner, Secretary to the State Government, Minister and most importantly governor for eight years.

"They have moved from People's Democratic Party to Labour Party. From Labour Party to Zenith Labour Party and they're moving to "Extinct Labour Party ", he said.

The Governor said Senator Tayo Alasoadura has been a steadfast and staunch supporter of his administration in the State, hence it's time to reward his steadfastness.

The governor had earlier held a rally in his home town, Owo for the Northern Senatorial district where he urged the massive crowd to vote for President Muhammadu Buhari and other candidates.

At the Central Senatorial district mega rally which was held at Akure City Town Hall, Akeredolu urged the people of Akure South, Akure North, Idanre, Ifedore, Ondo East and Ondo West to vote for President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

The governor also enjoined the people of the senatorial district to cast their votes for Senator Tayo Alasoadura and Afe Olowokere for the Akure South/North Federal constituency.

One after the other, the candidates took turn to address the people.

The Chairman of the party in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin said the party has only spent two years in office but with massive developmental strides across the state.

He said :" We have only spent two years in Office, we have constructed more roads than the previous government who spent eight years. We have delivered on our electoral promises. We inherited seven months salary arrears, we have offset six. Akeredolu has employed doctors and nurses . We are putting smiles on the faces of our people

"These are part of the reasons you must go out on Saturday and vote for President Muhammadu Buhari. We must continue to enjoy the goddies in the state."

Buhari: I will recover $16b Obasanjo government power cash :

What happened to power sector cash, by ex-president

The President vowed yesterday to recover the $16 billion power funds that went down the drain during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

“Where is the power? Where is the money?” the President queried at the Oxbow Lake Pavilion, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, during the presidential campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He said his administration will go after all those involved in the power deals to recover the money and continue with the ongoing development of critical infrastructure for the common good.

Obasanjo was president on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 1999 to 2007. His successor the late President Shehu Musa Yar’Adua launched a probe into the power projects. Many of the equipment got stuck at the ports while the probe lasted.

A mammoth crowd of party faithful thronged the rally for Buhari’s re-election and the election of APC candidates in the state.

Men, women and youths wearing vests and fez caps branded in APC colours were in a carnival mood, singing, drumming and shouting Sai Baba .

President Buhari, who is seeking another term on the APC’s ticket, at the Government House heliport in Yenagoa, was received by Governor Seriake Dickson, his deputy, Rear Admiral John Jonah,
Information & Orientation Commissioner Daniel Iworiso-Markson, and other exco members.

Buhari was also welcomed by APC leader and former Governor Timipre Sylva; Minister of State for Agriculture Heineken Lokpobiri and APC state chairman Jothan Amos, among others.

The President and his team, including APC Presidential Campaign Council Director-General and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and some members of the National Working Committee (NWC), proceeded to the secretariat of the State Traditional Rulers’ Council, where the APC candidate held talks with royal fathers, led by Twon Brass monarch Alfred Diette Spiff.

The President was given an Ijaw name, Ebiwari
(Good House) by Amos, who referred to him as “a symbol of truth” – to the admiration of the crowd.
President Buhari insisted that those who squandered the power funds would not go scot free.

He said: “You know we are building roads; the railway was virtually killed; we are rebuilding it and there was no power; we are bringing power back. The previous government mentioned on their own that they spent $16 billion for power

President Buhari participates at the signing of 2nd National Peace Accord in Abuja on 13th Feb 2019

BUHARI MEETS ATIKU TO SIGN SECOND PEACE ACCORD
Nigeria’s president Muhammadu Buhari, presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress and the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, have arrived at the International Conference Center in Abuja for the second signing of the National Peace Accord.
Also in attendance is the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland; former head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd); Bishop Mathew Kukah, as well as other members of the National Peace Committee (NPC).

The peace accord is to commit political parties to peaceful elections and a non-violent transfer of power in the country.

General Abubakar, who is also the Chairman of the NPC, appealed to them to adopt a code of conduct that would promote a peaceful process devoid of rigging.

Abubakar told the candidates to use the remaining days left to speak directly to voters and supporters, pleading with them to avoid violence.

Nigeria, a nation with 84,004,084 registered voters, heads to poll on Saturday to elect it’s president and federal lawmakers.

Abubakar explained that he was stressing this so that the nation would have no need to invite foreign observers in the future, as it is done in some countries.

President Buhari, Atiku, and other presidential candidates had earlier signed the first part of the peace accord in December last year.
source:
Oyin's [2:57 PM]
President Buhari participates at the signing of 2nd National Peace Accord in Abuja on 13th Feb 2019
source:
https://citadelng.com/president-buhari-participates-at-the-signing-of-2nd-national-peace-accord-in-abuja-on-13th-feb-2019/

We’ll arrest policemen attached to VIPs during elections, says acting IG

The acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu, has said no police officer is allowed to accompany any politician during the forthcoming elections.

Adamu, who spoke at the public presentation of a partnership between some stakeholders in the elections, noted that ensuring security during the conduct of the polls was the duty of every participant.

The partnership, headed by the Transition Monitoring Group and the Human and Environmental Development Agenda, included the Police Service Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, among others.

Adamu said, “Everyone has a civic responsibility in ensuring peaceful and credible elections. Election materials must be secured. Electoral officials, domestic and foreign observers must be protected.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission has rolled out the ways stakeholders should conduct themselves. On our part, we assure the nation that all electoral materials will be secured and the electorate will be allowed to cast their votes without monetisation.

“No police officer is allowed to move around with any VIP on election day. Anyone, who does so in uniform or mufti will be arrested.”

The acting IG added that all security agents would wear tags to ensure there are no fake officers “because we have heard that a lot of fake uniforms are being brought into the country.”

He also noted that security agents would monitor ad hoc staff that could easily be manipulated, “especially National Youth Service Corps members.”

Adamu added that observers were allowed to take pictures but that they could not take pictures of people while voting “such that you know what party they are voting for.”

Source:
https://punchng.com/breaking-well-arrest-policemen-attached-to-vips-during-elections-says-acting

Buhari only seems hard, he’s loving, compassionate —Aisha

Wife of President Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha, on Tuesday in Abuja, said that though her husband maybe seen as a hard man, he is compassionate and very loving.

Aisha who heads the All Progressives Congress Women and Youth Presidential Campaign Team stated this at the National Union of Road Transport Workers National Headquarters in Abuja.

She led some members of the team to the union headquarters to inform its leadership what the Buhari-led administration was doing to impact on the lives of the people.



Aisha was represented by Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, Chairman, Central Working Committee of the APC, Women and Youth Presidential Campaign Team at the event.



She stressed that the meeting was to discuss governance with the union’s leadership and steps being taken by the Buhari-led administration to address the plight of the common man.

Aisha said Buhari in the last three and half years had led the country by example and had proved to be an incorruptible leader.

This, she added, was the secret of his success in governance.

She noted that with regards to security, motor parks in the country had become secured compared to the past when bombs blasts were daily occurrences.

“The President is up and doing and he had been able to curtail the Boko Haram menace. He has worked, and he is working very hard.

“By the time his mandate is renewed by Nigerians in the coming election, it will be better for us all,” she said.

Alhaji Najeem Yasin, National President NURTW while appreciating the team for the visit, acknowledged that Buhari had done well for the country in terms of delivering democracy dividends.

“On behalf of members of the NURTW, we commend Buhari for the good work he is doing, especially with regards to road construction across the country,” he said.

He assured that members of the union would on Saturday, exercise their franchise by voting for the right candidate.

He added that the union had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Independent National Electoral Commission.

He added that as part of the MoU, members of the union were expected to assist in distributing electoral materials to states ahead of the election.

“It was indicated in the MoU that we should not be partisan,”Yasin said.

Hill Gives way for road construction in Ikare Akoko




The Akoko road is one of the busiest roads in the South west region of the country after the Lagos /Ibadan express way. This is because the highway is the gateway to the Northern region of the country and the Ikare Akoko road which is regarded as the headquarters of Akokoland remained a dreaded spot for motorists especially the sleepy hill of Oke Alabojuto, in the ancient town.

This road which lead to center of the town in Ikare Akoko had claimed so many lives in the past and a week never passed without the spot consuming several lives with immeasurable valuables lost to incessant auto crash on this road which made motorists dread the road and tag it blood sucking arena, attaching some myths around the hilly spots of the town.


No indigene or residents of Ikare Akoko believed that the hilly road surrounded by rocks could be leveled to reduce carnage on this spot which is very close to the central market located at the entrance of the ancient palace of Ikare Akoko.


The Myth

There used to be a myth around Oke-Alabojuto, the hilly portion of Ikare-Akoko township road. No native believed the famished and destructive rocky hill could be leveled. To some residents of the community, the Oke Alabojuto, has been in existence from time memorial with some spiritual attachments.


They were of the belief that certain atonement had been left unperformed because of the introduction of Christianity and Islam. According to one of the residents, Olakanmi Sanusi, who observed that the carnage on the particular spot became incessant in the mid 90s. He said “though I would not know maybe there is a deity being worshipped here before but accidents are not common here , but since everybody in the have embraced the new religions, and people tend to abandon the period sacrifice to the hills and rocks, we have been experiencing accidents and carnage on this particular spots for years.”He however said they have tried to unravel this myth with no one to offer the reasons for many deaths on that particular spot.

But the Olukare of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh, dispelled the insinuation and said there were no facts to establish any myth surrounding the Oke Alabojuto, but explained that the place was named Oke Alabojuto because the first missionary in the town lived on the hills.

Elections: Former US President Clinton cancels trip to Nigeria
He said Archdeacon Lennor, the first missionary from Jamaica stayed there and they called it Oke Alabojuto because he was in charge of schools and churches then; that was around 1935. The level of education then automatically picked up because we have no school before then.


I don’t know if any gods or goddess is being worshipped around the place but when I was growing up, there was nothing like that. The missionary built schools and churches and there was nothing like that. It is possible they have before but when the missionaries came in there was nothing like that.

A nonagenarian, Madam Deborah Olaofe said such myth should not be discarded, saying the modern day religion have relegated such practices to the background but maintained it should not be ruled out. Olaofe however said the present adminstration led by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has shattered the myth by turning the place to “Isale-Alabojuto”
New development

The residents of the community have described the reconstruction of the vital spot of the road which is about 0.5 km as a gateway to development of Ikare Akoko and the entire Akoko land, saying the development would put an end to the age-long nightmare of the people of Ikare and the road users.


Before it was leveled, the hilly road had consumed several lives and destroyed uncountable valuable properties through auto-crashes, making residents to live in fear for decades. The inhabitants of the four local government areas as well as commuters have expressed delight over the feat recorded by the state government in executing the project.

The reconstruction works remains one of the most important infrastructural works being carried out by the Akeredolu government Many had given up on the road because it has inflicted untold hardship on the people of the town, while some suggested the road should be permanently closed to stop the carnage while some argued that it would affect the economy of the hilly town.

The residents of the ancient town who described the road before the construction as death trap, said the reconstruction works will save lives, boost economic activities and smoothing traffic flows.

Speaking to Nigerian Tribune, 72 years old Mr. Pius Olabode, who has been living all his life in Ikare Akoko, said the road will positively affects the economic, political, and social activities of the people of the community it. He noted that the road had sent so many people to their early grave

He noted the number of casualties during any accident along the hill is usually too many because of the market situated at the bottom of the hill.



He said “at a point, we even took steps to appease the gods to put an end to the recurring accidents on the road. We invited religious leaders like Pastors and Imams to help intercede for us.”


He commended the administration of Akeredolu for taking the giant step to execute the construction of the raid which subsequent government failed to give attention.

The septuagenarian however appealed to the government to extend the construction to the adjoining streets on the road , saying their cars had been trapped inside the streets since the construction began awhile there were no indication that the road will be constructed to accommodation the people living within the streets.

Also speaking, Raphael Omoteloye said he had witnessed over 20 accidents on the hilly toad in his lifetime saying more than 200 lives had been lost on the Oke Alabojuto road. He attributed the causes of the accidents on the axis to “break failure which is very rampant among big vehicles, lovelies and trailers”

He however said the topography and the hills upon which the road was constructed made it difficult for subsequent government to initiate the move in reconstructing the road and saluted the courage of Akeredolu’s government in fulfilling his electioneering promises to the people of Ikare and Akoko in general. He said when they mobiles to the site, very few believed the hill could ever be brought down and reduced to ground level to give way to a dual carriage way, the first in Akokoland.

With this Akeredolu has demonstrated to us that he is a listening governor and with the construction of the road, we are safe now in Ikare, no more weeping or gnashing of teeth”

Speaking, on the construction of the Oke Alabojuto road, the state commissioner for Information, Mr. Yemi Olowolabi said the construction of the road and other road across the state is in line with the state governor mantra of Road to Redemption.
The paramount ruler of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh, described the construction as a miracle saying it takes a good government with mission and vision to execute such project.

He said the construction of the Oke Alabojuto has endeared Akeredolu to Ikare people, who he said will forever be grateful to the governor for opening up their town to bigger economic activities.

Oba Akadiri said, “I received the news with joy. Everybody in the town was very happy about it because they knew the project was going to put a stop to the recurring needless accidents on the road.

“The construction of the Oke Alabojuto road is a wonderful thing to happen to the people of Ikare, Akokoland and Nigeria in general, because the road links Ondo State to other parts of the country.

“We do appreciate the governor’s determination to permanently arrest our fears about this road. Our major concern, before the construction of the road by Akeredolu, was how to put a stop to the countless deaths on the road.

“Most vehicles, especially trucks and other big lorries, would lose control and crash while ascending or descending the road due to break failure or other mechanical faults. And these always resorted in loss of lives and properties”

He commended the people for their tolerance and cooperation since the construction work began and urged them to persevere till the end.

Speaking to our correspondent at the site of the construction, type site engineer, Mr Dusgam Jarboa, of the RCF Nig. Ltd. said the double lane road would be delivered to the state government in couple of days.

He said the construction company took time to construct the road because of its peculiarities and assured that it would serve the purpose it was meant to serve, saying with the quality of work done at the site, said when completed, the road can last for more than 50 years.

He said the road revolution taking place across the state was embarked upon “in redeeming the state from the rot that has characterised it for a long time and open up new vistas of opportunities, the Akeredolu-administration is gradually creating platforms for the economic recovery and independence of the Sunshine state.”

Olowolabi commended the people for their love and hospitality and praised them for being accommodating and peaceful for allowing their communities to witness development and said the Akeredolu led administration is bent on providing necessary amenities and infrastructure for the benefit and development of the state and its people.

He said similar projects are ongoing in Owo, Akure, Ore, One’s, Ifedore, Idanre and many others towns and communities.

I WILL NOT RELENT IN MY FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION, SAYS BUHARI


President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday insisted that he would not stop his fight against wiping out corruption from the country.

President Buhari, while speaking at the palace of the Emir of Ilorin during a courtesy visit, said that though he knew that fighting corruption is a difficult task, he would not relent in his effort to wipe it out of the national life of Nigeria.



The President also said his administration had achieved success in food security, fighting of insurgency in the North East and maintaining peace in the country.

He reiterated his commitment to the completion of ongoing projects in Kwara State, citing the successful completion of the Ilorin-Jebba road, irrigation projects among others as testimonies.

He added that he usually visited traditional rulers because of their closeness to the people at the grassroots, stressing that the nation had been able to tackle the prevalence of insecurity in the North eastern part of Nigeria.

He said, “Government has been able to empower the agriculture ministry to provide soft loans and fertilizers to farmers.

“Fighting corruption is the most difficult thing, Your Highness, because we are going after and charging those who have misused the public trust and for those who are guilty,they are sentenced.

“With this, I will not give up and we know that people who believe in us will definitely support and with this, we shall achieve more for the nation.”


At the campaign rally held later at the Metropolitan Square, President Buhari said that the victory of his party in the forthcoming elections was sure and would be transparent.



“The people of North East are testifiers to how we have fulfilled our 2015 promise of restoring peace to the troubled region while all over the country, Nigerians now have enough food to eat.”

He promised to continue consolidating on both fronts as well as sustain the fight against corruption, if re-elected.

He said, “When I came here in 2015, I made a promise on three things; security, the economy and fighting corruption. Today, the people of the North east are our testimony to how far we have done in the area of security. And we have achieved food security; people are now living well. We will not stop the fight against corruption. We will continue to invest the money collected from looters in infrastructural development.”
National Chairman of the party, Comrade Adams Oshiomole, had earlier assured Nigerians that there was no need to worry about the allegations of the Peoples Democratic Party that the APC was planning to rig the elections by changing the leadership of some security agencies.

“This election is going to be about character. Our victory will be transparent. We do not need to steal what belongs to us. We have travelled across the county and everywhere, people are clamouring for Buhari to come back.

“The PDP is making false allegations because this is the first time since 1999 that election will take place and a PDP man will not be in charge. No one will be blackmailed. No one will be harassed with security agents. In Kwara, the PDP held to power for 16 years by rigging but enough is enough.”

Oshiomhole said he was anxiously waiting for the outcome of Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly elections to celebrate the fall of Saraki from the control tower of Kwara politics.

“We will celebrate the end of 16 years of Bukola Saraki’s tenure in Kwara State on February 16.

“When I saw the crowd on the roadside and listened to what they were saying, I concluded that indeed the end has come for him. I cannot wait for Saturday to see Kwara people celebrate their new freedom. It will be a day for Kwara people and young politicians to realise that the evil a political godson has done to a political godfather will be meted out back to him.

“Bukola politics is all about juicy jobs; that was his complaint here in Ilorin the day we showed him the way out of the APC. He said out of 200 jobs, none was given to him and none was given to Dogara. Everything that has a beginning must have an end. The time of the oppressor is over. That is the case of Kwara and the case of Bukola.”

At the event, the National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, explained why APC wanted to oust Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, from the political equation of Kwara State.

According to Tinubu, the opposition to Saraki’s leadership of Kwara politics was not an affront on the political dynasty started by the late Dr. Olusola Saraki, but a need to ‘discipline’ the Senate President whom he alleged had stood against his political godfather. He explained that since another member of the Saraki family, Senator Gbemisola, is in the APC, it would not be right to fight the entire family.

He told the crowd: “It’s been a long time they have been deceiving you. Bukola has been deceiving you. We are not here to fight Baba Saraki’s family because Gbemisola is here and she is his daughter. But today, we have come to discipline Bukola. He is a traitor. He is a slave master. This campaign is therefore the celebration of your freedom; it is the celebration of the falling Berlin Wall which started on November 17, 2018 with the by election in Ekiti/Oke-Ero/Irepodun/Isin.”


The Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, in his address, commended President Buhari for engaging in a peaceful campaign as well as embarking on infrastructural development across the country.

2019 GENERAL ELECTION: IGP ORDERS WATER-TIGHT SECURITY AROUND INEC FACILITIES

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu NPM, mni has ordered a comprehensive water-tight and round-the-clock security for all INEC offices and facilities nationwide.

Consequently, Command Commissioners of Police in the thirty six states of the Federation and FCT have been directed to put in place adequate, functional and purposeful security arrangements aimed at protecting all INEC offices and materials from all forms of crimes and mischief- before, during and after the elections.

Zonal Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) have also been mandated to monitor compliance level of Commands under their jurisdiction with this directive, and ensure that no breach of security of any kind occurs within and around INEC facilities under their watch. The order takes immediate effect.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police assures Nigerians of the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force to deliver on its mandate of providing a safe and enabling environment for the conduct of the general election. He reiterates the commitment of the Force to providing a level playing field for all political actors, while remaining professional and apolitical in the discharge of its responsibilities.

Artistes donate N.5m for Buhari’s re-election:


The Theatre Arts and Motion Picture Producers Association of Nigeria, (TAMPPAN) yesterday donated N500,000 for the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari.

At the event held in Surulere, Lagos, the President of TAMPPAN, Mr Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, lauded the performance of the Buhari administration.

He said the donation is a contribution to the President Buhari’s campaign organisation.

Amusan pledged the association’s commitment to support to President Buhari’s re-election.

The group urged the government to carry along their members at all levels of governance.

Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola received the cheque on behalf of the Buhari’s campaign organisation.

Fashola urged the creative industry to deploy their talents to project positive values of integrity and dignity, which the President Buhari administration represents in the minds of the people.

He said it had become imperative for Nigerians to understand that the cardinal issue of contest in the Saturday and March 2 general elections was that of the change ideology.

He said the Buhari-led administration had continued to pursue this with verifiable indices in the best interest of the larger society rather than a few.

Fashola also reminded them of showbiz stars in the West, like former US President Roland Reagan and former Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, who made mark in political office.

He said: “It is important you continue to help propagate the message of change. And if you look in other jurisdictions, you will see that not only at election times do artistes and thespians play important roles in shaping the minds and the understanding of people.

“They also actually get involved and throw their hearts in the ring to serve and I want to suggest that your case here should not be different.

“So there is room for everybody but we need to get involved. You really need to get involved and there is a lot of work to do. We need every good hand that we can find.

Source
http://thenationonlineng.net/artistes-donate-n-5m-for-buharis-re-election/

Oshiomhole warns APC chairmen, secretaries against complacency:


All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole yesterday warned state chairmen, secretaries and governorship candidates of the party against complacency in the coming elections.

He said the party must win in a free and fair manner.

Oshiomhole spoke at a crucial meeting with state critical stakeholders ahead of the presidential election scheduled for the weekend.

The meeting, which started at about 8.30pm also have in attendance, party’s governorship candidates with the exemption of siting governors who are seeking re-election.

The Nation gathered that the state chairmen, secretaries and governorship candidates were briefed on preparation for the elections and what is expected them.

The chairmen and the candidates reportedly briefed the NWC on their preparation for the election and the challenges.

Senatorial candidates who were supposed to be part of the meeting were later excluded.

A statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu was silent on the details of what they discussed.

Oshiomhole said the meeting became imperative to review and deliberate on the party’s preparation and general issues ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

Isa-Onilu said in the statement: “Oshiomhole stated the party’s national leadership identified the state executives represented at the meeting by their respective chairmen and secretaries as an important grassroots base that will work and ensure the party’s victory in the presidential, governorship, National and State Houses of Assembly elections.

“The National Chairman who hailed the huge turnout of party supporters in the presidential campaign rallies held so far, charged the state executives to work cordially with APC governors and stakeholders in their respective states to ensure the election of all APC candidates.”

Source:
http://thenationonlineng.net/oshiomhole-warns-apc-chairmen-secretaries-against-complacency/

SEVEN HUNDRED YOUTHS, WOMEN TO BENEFIT FROM ONDO STATE SKILL ACQUISITION TODAY:


Seven Hundred Youths and Women from the eighteen local government areas of Ondo state are to commence skills acquisition programme today across the state.

They had earlier attended an orientation program last month for the commencement of the training.

The Special Adviser to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu on Public and Intergovernmental Relations, Mrs Olubunmi Ademosu said beneficiaries in the northern part of the state should report at either of the council secretariats in Ikare Akoko and Owo while those in the south are billed to have their trainings at the council secretariats in Igbokoda and Okitipupa council secretariats

Trainees from the central senatorial district would be trained at the Skill Acqisition Center at Oke Ijebu in Akure and Ondo West council secretariat.

Mrs Ademosu advised that the trainees should register at the centre nearest to them.

Vote me, I won’t change, Buhari tells Nigerians

President Buhari, who stated this at All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential campaign in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, assured that he would not change from what he is. “I assure you, I am not going to change.

I am going to be consistent, I will remain steadfast. Anybody who abuses trust will be exposed and dispossessed,” he said. He said with the crowd at the Aper Aku stadium to identify with his re-election bid, he was convinced that Benue people believed in what his administration was doing to transform Nigeria.

Buhari said the country had made tremendous success in improving the economy as well as tackling the challenge of insecurity in parts of the country and the fight against corruption. He said: “I stand before you to thank you most sincerely for defying the weather and standing for hours to come and see and listen to us. I am very grateful. “I am convinced that you believe in what we are doing and that you stand to support us even further.

When I came to look for your vote in 2015, I promised three fundamental issues based on our party manifesto. Security, economy and fighting corruption. We will do roads, rail ways and provide electricity with monies recovered from looters.” The President also stated that his government would dispose all assets recovered from corrupt Nigerians and plough the proceeds into the economy.

He promised to remain steadfast in his fight against corruption, stressing that his government was winning the war. Buhari also noted that his administration had recorded successes and delivered on most of the promises. “Today, non of our territory is under the control of Boko Haram terrorists.

Although fighting corruption has remained a major challenge to this government, I will not change but remain consistent and steadfast in fighting corruption. “All recovered looted funds will be use to improve infrastructures, build roads, construct rail-lines and improved power.

“We have also been able to rescue all local government areas in the North Eastern states from the hands of Boko Haram. No single Nigerian territory is under the control of the terrorists,” Buhari said. On the coming general elections, the President promised to deploy enough security to ensure that the elections were free, fair and credible.

Addressing the gathering, leader of APC in the state, Senator George Akume, accused the PDP led government in the state of failing to improve the welfare of the people. He commended President Buhari for taking the bold step to rescue Nigeria from the hands of corrupt leaders who he accused of milking the nation’s resources.

Senator Akume maintained that Benue people had no problems with herdsmen, especially during his time as governor of the state. ‘’Therefore, nobody should hide under incompetence, senselessness and under-performance to lament,’’ Akume said. He said that Benue people were prepared for the forthcoming general elections and appealed to President Buhari to deploy more security to the state to conduct the elections.

The National Chairman of the party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, urged the people to elect Emmanuel Jime as governor of the state. Present at the event were the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbe, governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, and other patty chieftains in the state.

Buhari signs competition, consumer protection bill into law


President Muhammadu Buhari has given legal backing to the establishment of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

His National Assembly Liaison Officer, Senator Ita Enang, said on Wednesday the legal backing came with the signing into law of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Bill by the President.



The Act also established the Consumer Protection Tribunal to try offenders or those who would violate its provisions.

By the provisions of the Act, unfair, misleading practices and certain agreements that impede competition are punishable offences.

Enang said, “The law is to promote economic efficiency, maintain competitive market in the Nigerian economy, protect the Nigerian economy, protect the interest and welfare of consumers by providing consumers with a wide variety of quality products at competitive prices as well as prohibiting restrictive or unfair business practices in the Nigerian economy.

“This law repeals the Consumer Protection Council Act and Sections 118 – 128 of the Investment and Securities Act.”

The Director-General, Consumer Protection Council, Mr Babatunde Irukera, said Buhari’s assent to the bill would help promote economic competitiveness in the country.

The CPC boss said the new legislation would deepen the framework for encouraging and supporting small and medium scale businesses.

Irukera said the Federal Government had cemented an efficient and a transparent framework to protect consumers.

He said, “Nigeria has promulgated perhaps the most prolific legislation for promoting consumer’s confidence, choice and fair pricing.



“The law deepens the framework for encouraging and supporting small and medium scale businesses by ensuring a playing field that eliminates entry barriers and operational obstacles which prevent sustainability and profitability.”

He said the CPC would use the provisions in the new law to ensure fair treatment and respect for consumers.

AAUA students represent global mirror

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun says the institution’s students have imbibed global mind and the institutions tradition of excellence.

He described AAUA students as good students whose ways and deeds reflect the University’s culture of excellence and distinctions.

Prof. Ajibefun said, “While some other students, nowadays, are wont to cut corners and settle for the less, our students have the virtues of discipline, excellence and good character. We have very good students who have imbibed the culture of AAUA; students of sound mind, who have continued to make the University proud in the various spheres. Our students are doing good and great in all areas. “

The VC made the comments, penultimate week, while featuring on radio AAUA 90.3 FM

saying, “Ajasin Varsity has a culture of discipline, excellence, and that students who are trained therein are instilled with these traits”.

“AAUA has a culture of discipline, culture of excellence and good character. A student who is trained in our University is expected to reflect these, and this explains why our students are doing very well when we release them to the world. AAUA graduates carry the sheen of the University wherever they go to.

“For instance, the Nigerian Law School has the consistent imprints of AAUA graduates and so it is in other sectors where our students have been enlisted. Lots of our Alumni have distinguished themselves.”

The vc who rated the institutions academic programmes high said the University was not relenting in upping its standards as it continues to review and improve on all areas of academic dealings.

He attributed the successes of the University to the commitment of the stakeholders, saying, “The University has achieved good progress as a result of the commitment of the various stakeholders. Every stakeholder is important, including the students and the staff.

The workers are a very important stakeholder in the University community, the same way the students are equally important. Without the students, there would be no need for staffing, and without staff, there will be no hands to train the students.

“Our members of staff are a great asset that the university has. Both the academic and the non-academic staff are putting in their best to ensure that we produce competitive and comparable students.

The staff have been cooperating with the Management and that is why the University’s academic calendar has been stable.” VC said.

President Buhari restates commitment to develop Nigeria

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday in Lafia, Nasarawa state restated his administration’s commitment to the overall development of Nigeria.

Buhari stated this while addressing the All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters in Nasarawa state in continuation of the party’s presidential campaign rally.

He said that the administration had performed creditably well in its development strides in the last three and a half years.

According to the President, the administration has delivered on its three-pronged campaign promises of fighting corruption, revitalising the economy and tackling insecurity.

He disclosed that the APC-led government had succeeded in terms of security as the Boko Haram insurgents have been degraded and have resorted to attacking soft targets because of pressures from the armed forces.

Buhari noted that Nigerians in the North Eastern part of the country would appreciate the administration’s effort on security more as most of those displaced for so long had returned to their homes.

On agriculture, the president said that Nigerians have witnessed bumper harvest in recent times as a result of government’s attention to the sector through the provision of fertiliser and other farm inputs.

He also maintained that the administration was on course to winning the fight against corruption, adding that all the looted funds would be recovered and used for the development of the country.

He therefore urged the people to vote for him and all APC candidates in order to consolidate on the gains so far recorded.

Gov. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa state lauded Buhari for restoring the hope of the common man through effective governance since assumption of office in 2015.

Al-Makura highlighted the landmark achievements of the President in Nasarawa state ranging from power, roads and other infrastructures.

He assured the President and APC of the total support of the people of Nasarawa state during the forthcoming elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Buhari officially presented the party flag to Alhaji Abdullahi Sule, the APC governorship candidate in the state. (NAN)