₦airaland Forum

ARPON Seeks Presidential Ascent to bill Seeking Exit Police From Contributory Pension Scheme

Association of Retired Police Officer of Nigeria, ARPON, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to sign into law the Bill for an Act To Exit Nigeria Police from the Contributory Pension Scheme

The President of ARPON, Elder Steven Aiyewumi, AIG retd, made the appeal in a statement in Abuja.

Elder Steven Aiyewumi, AIG retd, said the appeal became necessary to enable the Retired Police Officers have the required benefits accrue to them and avoid any case of misappropriation in their retired benefits dues


"We, the members of the Association of Retired Police Officer of Nigeria, ARPON, join our serving counterparts and Police Retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme ,CPS, to express our profound gratitude to the Distinguished and Honorable Members of the 9th National Assembly for listening and harking to the yearning of the force in passing and transmitting to Mr. President for his assent to the Bill For An Act to Exit the Nigeria Police Force From The Contributory Pension Scheme and we consequently lend our voices to that of all well - meaning Nigerians to passionately appeal to Mr. President to speedily give his assent to the Bill" He said

According to him, the desired justice to the force will have been served to Retired Police Officers if the Bill is signed into law

Elder Aiyewumi, AIG retd, also stressed the need for other policies and Programmes that would also improve the welfare of Retired Police Officers in line with the current realities in the country.

While calling for more measures towards combating insecurity in the country, Elder Aiyewumi, AIG, retd, said ARPON would continue to support the Federal Government towards protecting lives and property of Nigerians

END

ByOmokolade Ajayi





Aliko Dangote, the visionary founder and chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, a leading conglomerate in Africa, has lost his long-held title as Africa’s richest man.

Forbes, the prestigious business magazine, recently published an updated list of the world’s wealthiest billionaires, revealing that Dangote’s fortune plummeted by a staggering $3.4 billion in a single day due to the recent devaluation of the Nigerian naira against the U.S. dollar.

This sharp drop has pushed him down from his long-standing spot atop Forbes’ list, making way for South African billionaire Johann Rupert, who now claims the throne with an impressive fortune of $12 billion.

For years, Dangote held the title of Africa’s richest man, a position he has held since 2013.

His financial achievements reached an unprecedented milestone in 2014 when his wealth surpassed the $20 billion mark, marking him as the first African entrepreneur to achieve such a remarkable feat.

In the past decade according to Forbes records, Dangote’s net worth has faced significant setbacks. Starting at $25 billion in 2014, his fortune gradually dwindled to $14.2 billion, largely impacted by the series of currency devaluations that have adversely affected Nigerians’ wealth, income, and purchasing power.

The latest blow to his wealth sees his fortune decline by $3.4 billion, settling at $10.8 billion at the time of this report.

This dramatic plunge is a direct consequence of Nigeria’s currency hitting a record low, with the central bank auctioning dollars at a rate nearly 30 percent weaker than the tightly controlled official market.

The official market trading restrictions were lifted on Wednesday, which caused the naira to reach an all-time low of 750 to the dollar, significantly dropping from the previous day’s rate of 477 naira to the dollar.

This devaluation severely impacted Dangote’s assets, including his substantial 86 percent stake in Dangote Cement, his holdings in Dangote Sugar Refinery, and his private interests in Dangote Industries.

Although Forbes estimates Dangote’s fortune at $10.8 billion due to the recent devaluation, Bloomberg estimates present a slightly different picture.

According to Bloomberg, Dangote’s net worth stands at $16.8 billion, making him the wealthiest individual on the African continent. Meanwhile, Johann Rupert’s net worth remains steady at $13.3 billion.

Dangote is not the only Nigerian billionaire on the Forbes list whose wealth has been significantly impacted by the recent devaluation of the naira. Other notable figures include Abdul Samad Rabiu, a billionaire industrialist, and telecom and oil mogul Mike Adenuga.

Rabiu’s net worth took a $2 billion hit, plummeting from $8.2 billion to $6.2 billion, consequently losing his spot as the fourth-richest person in Africa to Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris, who presently boasts a net worth of $6.9 billion according to Forbes.

We will support success of Government Policies on Affordable Housing in Nigeria....REDAN

...I will Ensure the president Absent to the REDAN Bill.... SGF

By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja

Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria on Thursday re-emphasized their willingness to work with all strata of government to ease life for Nigerian citizens in ensuring the success of its policies on affordable and accessible housing in Nigeria.

The president of REDAN and Chairman of council, Alhaji Aliyu Oroji Wamakko stated this at the opening speech of their annual general meeting with a theme, "Improving Access to Affordable Housing for Wealth Creation and National Development" held at Chida hotel in Abuja.

He said by nature, the Real Estate Sector is labour intensive with benefits in terms of employment and the multiplier effect to many sectors of the economy that can turn the economy around.

According to him, "In doing so, we wish to place on record for all Members to know that REDAN’s leadership has zero-tolerance for shady deals and will continue to work with government on the path of sanity and national development.

Wamakko said REDAN is set to Improving Access to Affordable Housing for Wealth Creation and National Development.

"This AGM is called to give account of the stewardship of the 6th Council to our Members in accordance with the Constitution of the Association. While the AGM proper which comes up in the next session will expatiate on achievements to Congress, this segment of the event is to provide us with the opportunity to inform the government, investors, and the general public of the importance of housing to socio-economic advancement of the nation. It is in this regard that we have chosen the theme for this occasion which is:

The REDAN President also said that they have sustained collaborative relationships with critical housing sector Stakeholders ,and therefore secured financial resources to actualize a flagship National Housing Development Program tagged ‘RURAL-URBAN HOUSING INITIATIVE (RUHI-774)’, which is aimed at developing at least 100 housing units in each of the 774 Local Government Councils of the Federation including the FCT.

"REDAN’s initiative to sanitize Nigeria’s Real Estate Sector, for which we proposed a Bill tagged ‘The Real Estate (Regulations and Development) Bill’ has been approved by both chambers of the 9th National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives).The 9th National Assembly has now passed the Bill for an Act to Establish the Real Estate Regulatory Council of Nigeria (RECON). The Bill when assented to by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall incentivize investment into the sector.

"As a tonic to place Real Estate Development business on the path of global practice, we sustained our relationship with the Regulatory Institutions namely: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML), the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC). These agencies of the Federal Government will give credence and confidence to the International Community about our openness to do business in conformity with international best practices, and abhor sharp practices. We therefore call on our members to carry out their business with utmost diligence and in conformity to extant laws. There is no need for any of our Members to soil their businesses via unwholesome business relationships. I emphasize that Real Estate is our business and we must do all in our powers to protect and align it with best global practices.

"REDAN as a Self-Regulating Organization initiated the Estates and Product Endorsement Schemes to re-enforce and enhance standardization of Members’ products and Estates. This also led us to introduce and launch the ‘REDAN Seals’ as mark of credence.

He further said that the body now have in-house REDAN MAGAZINE and REDAN TELEVISION online to inform the government, MDAs, our Members and general public of developments and trends in the housing and real estate sector.

Wamakko however called on businessmen and women - entrepreneurs - to embrace real estate development as a profitable venture that provides high returns on investment, creates job, provides shelter as well as makes life comfortable for humanity.

He further called on the new government to give priority to housing development in the country by providing the enabling environment and support required for promoting real estate development in Nigeria.


Meanwhile, the president of REDAN Debunks the story of securing N26bn from Shelter Afrique In Some National Dailies.

He therefore urged the association members to disassociate themselves from the rumor.

Declaring the AGM open, the secretary to the government of the Federation, Senator George Akume who was so impressed with the passage of the real Estate Regulation and Development Bill assured of president Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu signing the Bill soon.

Represented by Professor Benard Babatunde said the SGF is interested and confidence that REDAN working close with government will provide affordable housing to Nigerians.

"Barely two weeks in office, the president has proven to deliver on his electoral promises. And in real Estate sectors, the is also ready to collaborate in providing affordable housing to Nigerians.

"Am particularly glad that REDAN Bill has been passed by the two Chambers, I will personally look for it, pass it to the SGF in ensuring the president Assent to

*BREAKING NEWS: CBN Governor Emefiele Suspended over $1 Billion Transaction Linked to Aliko Dangote!*

In a shocking development, the Nigerian Federal Government has suspended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele. Sources reveal that Emefiele was arrested in Lagos by the Department of State Services (DSS) on June 10 and flown to Abuja for questioning which the DSS has now confirmed. The suspension is allegedly directly tied to a staggering $1 billion scandal that unfolded just before the inauguration.

Startling revelations expose Emefiele's borrowing of $1 billion from Afrexim Bank on April 24, 2023 after the elections, during preparations for the May 29 inauguration. Shockingly, within a mere two days of receiving the money, $750 million was swiftly transferred to Aliko Dangote's Dubai accounts using a Form A. These explosive findings have rocked the nation, raising concerns of integrity, collusion, and abuse of power. It is alleged that the President-Elect was kept in the dark about this transaction.

The magnitude and method of the transaction are mind-boggling. Sources within the CBN claim that Emefiele sold the dollars to Dangote at an unbelievably low rate of 445 Naira to the dollar. 1billion dollars was received from Afrexim Bank into the CBN JP Morgan account on April 24, 2023, out of which 750million dollars was immediately transferred to Dangote's Bluestar Dubai account within two days using the "Form A" transaction method, bypassing the requirement of a Letter of Credit. Bluestar has had ties to Dangote since 2007.

While some CBN officials raised concerns about these transactions, the revelation highlights the potential for money laundering and illicit activities within Nigeria's financial system, tarnishing the CBN's integrity under Emefiele's leadership. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the President took decisive action by suspending Emefiele and ordering a thorough investigation

Piramen Ventures Limited and Emotan Global Venture Limited have accused the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) of illegally demolition of it warehouse at Zauda, Abuja.

The General Manager of Piramen Ventures Limited, Haruna Musa, told journalists, yesterday in Abuja that the land was duly purchased with authentic papers.

Musa explained that about six months ago, the FCDA had demolished the fence and security post of the warehouse, an act that prompted the owner to seek legal redress.

He wondered why the FCT authorities did not wait for the outcome of the court before going ahead with the demolition.

He lamented that goods worth billions of naira were destroyed.

"About six months ago, the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) came and demolished the fence, five offices and security post of our warehouse.

"This happened after our boss was in the United Kingdom. Yesterday, the FCDA came again and demolished the main warehouse where we store our materials without notice.

Expensive materials were inside when they carried out the demolition. They came with about 16 Hilux van filled with security personnel.

"They sent away our security men and demolished everything. We have two mining companies producing and storing our materials inside.

Our managing director went to the FCDA and they verified and confirmed the authenticity of the land before it was purchased.

We wrote a letter to FCDA for the authentication of the land we bought, which ordinarily was supposed to take one month for their reply but they did not oblige neither did they they serve us with any notice until yesterday afternoon."

Consequently, Musa demanded full compensation and public apology from the FCDA for the embarrassment that the demolition has cost the company.

In the build up to the Kogi Gubernatorial election, a Labour Party chieftain, Hon Nelson Ogohi said that the party governorship candidate, Barr. Okeme Adejoh, is the man that will transform the Confluence State to a desired destination of all businesses.

Briefing journalists in Abuja, Nelson Ogohi described Adejoh as a home-bred politician whose governorship ambition is championed by the Obidients and the youths movements based on his track record.

He said that Adejoh remains one man that has become increasingly popular on the lips of political pundits, lobbyists and electorates.

Adejoh, a who hails from Egume, in Dekina Local Government Council, remains the best man for the job following his emergence as the Labour Party governorship candidate in the just concluded primaries in the state.

Okeme Adejoh foundly called the “Black Diamond” by his peers, due to his complexion, tenacity, resourcefulness, influence and understanding of the methods and purpose of adding value to people around him, began his educational life at the L.G.E.A Primary School, Lokogoma, Lokoja, Kogi State, where he obtained his First school Leaving Certificate in 1995. Between 1995 to 1998, he attended the famous Government Science Secondary School, Lokoja, where he sat for his Junior School Certificate Examinations, after which he proceeded to Ochaja Boys Secondary School, Ochaja for Senior Secondary Education.

Driven by his Taurus horoscope personality and a passion to impact the society positively, Okeme gained admission to study Law at the Kogi State University, Ayingba, where he graduated with good grades in 2006. Having completed his Nigeria Law School education, at the Lagos Campus, he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2008. Between 2008 to 2009, he served as Lecturer II, Department of Legal Studies, Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna during his one year National Youth Service. Okeme is widely travelled and has enjoyed a blissful carrier as Lawyer and Solicitor of the Supreme Court, with interests in Corporate Mediation and Negotiations, Criminal and Civil litigation, Debt Recovery, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Property Consultancy, Legal Advisory services, amongst others.

The proverbial goldfish they say; has no hiding place. Despite his self effacing and unassuming style, Okeme has held sway as a political underdog, having worked for and supported candidates who have aspired for leadership positions at different levels, within and outside Kogi State. Okeme is happily married with kids and serves as the Principal Partner, at A. A Okeme & Associates, Abuja, as well as the Managing Director, BoldTouch Homes Limited, Abuja. In the Nigerian Industrial Mining and Properties Industry, Okeme has carved a niche for himself as a successful business man and employer of labour, having established and sustained business contacts and ventures across Canada, China and the United Kingdom and have provided employment opportunities for over 300 Nigerian youths, most of whom are indigent Kogi sons and daughters.

He noted that in a nation where good governance and deliverability of the dividends of democracy to the masses, by many political leaders have become elusive, the onus lies on the Kogi State electorate, to take the destiny of their natural resources rich state in their hands and change the narrative come November 2023, by electing people with the prerequisite administrative acumen, histories of creativity, competency and unblemished credentials just like Adejoh.

Meanwhile, many political pundits have commended the Labour Party and its delegates for electing Adejoh as her flagbearer.

Feelers from the masses indicates that Adejoh is the best bet for the Labour party to clinch governorship position in the state.

The Real Estate Developers Association Of Nigeria (REDAN) has expressed zero tolerance for land grabbers, urging residents of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja to be wary of the activities of the group.

Noting that people are being evicted from their homes and forced to give up their lands due to activities of land grabbers, the Association noted that there were reoccurring incidents in FCT.

Addressing newsmen in Abuja yesterday, the president, REDAN, Dr. Aliyu Oroji Wamakko the land grabbers daily encroach on lands that do not belong to them with impunity by carrying out construction activities.

He also urged its members to comply with other Extant Laws on money laundering and counter-terrorism by reporting transactions as stated by the special control unit on money laundering and Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit.

He said, "A recent case was the ugly incidence where seven suspects were arrested within Guzape II over land racketeering, who are bent on grabbing lands that do not belong to them. There are other pockets of cases where land
grabbing cases occur.

"It will interest our audience to know that majority of the land grabbers are not Members of REDAN. This is because they do not want to be subjected to the Code of Membership of REDAN," he said.

"As a self-regulatory organisation for Real Estate and organised real estate firms in the business of housing and estate development nationwide, we hereby state emphatically and categorically too that we detest such anomalies."

Wamakko advised that anyone who is interested in getting land should procure it genuinely by approaching the government or the owners and not encroach on land which is not legally acquired.

He said REDAN has often asserted that they have zero tolerance for any member/s who is involved in any form of unethical dealings in the business of housing development.

"We use this medium to call on our Members in particular to abide by any guidelines as stipulated by any of the land and housing-related departments of the FCTA.

"Also, compliance with extant laws is advised for all Members. This is in tandem with the REDAN Membership Code of Conduct and Performance Commitment Form signed while registering as member of the Association," he said.

He noted that accredited members found to be involved in any messy transaction will be brought to book, as we shall not harbor or condone any
land grabber or racketeers.

"Paramount amongst our concern in the FCT is adherence to maintaining the Abuja Master Plan as designed and reviewed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

"Members should note that any established deviant behavior shall be met with stiff sanction which may involve removal from the Registry of REDAN and blacklisting, and such report escalated to Government Agencies for information, record, and further action," he said.

MEET THE NEXT GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE - His Excellency, Chief Ikechukwu Joseph Ukaegbu (Ikenga).

His Excellency, Chief Ikenga is slowly but surely cruising to victory into Imo Douglas House with God's approval and with the overwhelming support of majority of Labour Party members, and of course, the vast majority of Imo indigenes, home and abroad.

Imo Labour Party delegates know the truth. If Chief Ikenga could work tenaciously for over 14yrs building Labour Party when the party was not reckoned amongst the parties to beat, think of what he will do when given the governorship ticket now the party is unarguably the leading political party in Nigeria.

Today, the 11th day of April 2023, Chief Ikenga was successfully screened and certified worthy to contest for Imo Labour Party governorship primaries slated to hold on the 15th day of April, and subsequently lead the party into victory when elected to become the party's governorship candidate for the upcoming November election in the state.

Chief Ikenga is the candidate to beat. Imo people know he is the man who can wrest the reins of power from the present clueless APC administration and win convincingly. Even the political elites are afraid of this man who exudes so much goodwill and capacity.

Chief Ikenga will unarguably protect Labour Party votes with his wide-reaching local and international security contacts. Chief Ikenga's formidable political structure is 100 times ahead of the opposition in grassroot political sagacity and technical know-how.

No man can curse whom the Lord has blessed. Labour Party is heading the right direction conferring their mark of approval on a man God has already approved to lead Ndi Imo out from the current administrative quagmire we have been plagued with for several years now.

A vote for Chief Ikenga is a vote for Imo's freedom. A vote for Chief Ikenga is a breathe of fresh air for all Imo sons and daughters, home and abroad. We implore all honourable delegates of Labour Party to queue behind this simple man with unusual wisdom and leadership prowess on the day of primary election. Do this for Ndi Imo and our future generations.

Imo will be better with Chief Ikenga!

Chief Ikenga is 100% Obidient.

He is one of us!

Signed, Comrade Uche Ezeh
CONCERNED IMO LABOUR PARTY YOUTHS (Home and abroad).

DENY IKENGA GUBER TICKET AND FAIL THE GUBER ELECTION, Obedient Youth Tell IMO LP.


Worried over the alarming number of aspirants for the forthcoming gubernatorial election under Labour party, Concerned Imo Labour Party Youths the Obedient ( Home and Abroad) have called on the party not to give the party ticket to any other aspirant rather than Chief Joseph Iksechukwu Ukaegbu( IKENGA), the party if the party must win the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

The Imo Labour Party Concerned Youths made the resolution, stating, that, they have vowed to give their unflinching support to IKENGA in appreciation of his selfless service and labour in the party.
They stated that Chief IKENGA is the only Labour Party gubernatorial aspirant of the party who has been with the party from the scrash.

According to their spokesman Comrade Uche Ezeh , all other aspirants who did not care about the Labour Party joined now because of the wave of the Obidient Movement, whereas IKENGA has remained in the party , persisted, suffered, and notured it with his personal resources until it becomes a very beautiful bride.

He said that in 2019, the Labour Party poinneer member was the the candidate of the Labour Party who gave other candidates from the known political parties a very good challenge and refused every other offer by other parties to woo him out of Labour Party.
"In the days Labour Party was an orphan, politicians who know Chief Ikenga's capacity couldn't stop asking him what he saw in Labour Party that made him remain there for many years.

As a man who saw tomorrow, Chief Ikenga remained in Labour Party patiently waiting for her glory days which have now come through the emergence of Mr. Peter Obi as the Labour Party Presidential candidate.

Today, Chief Ikenga is standing on the stage side-by-side with fellow great sons of Imo who are equally in the race for Imo governorship ticket. One of them must bear the flag for Labour Party in the forthcoming Imo governorship election in November. During the primaries, party delegates must make sure they don't hand over Labour Party structure in Imo state to APC.

The rate of infiltration into Labour Party is expected, but we don't expect Labour Party delegates to be deceived into electing APC surrogates to hold the Labour Party ticket for Sen. Hope Uzodinma. This is a very sincere counsel to our dear delegates.

It is better we elect the only original Labour Party member among the aspirants than make the mistake to sell Imo Labour Party to APC.

According to him,If Chief Ikenga remained in Labour Party for the past 14yrs and ran for governorship election in 2019 under Labour Party, we can trust him again in 2023. Apart from being the only original Labour Party member among all the aspirants, Chief Ikenga has distinguished himself as a silent labourer who has an unusual passion for establishing young men from zero to hero. We're not asking that the ticket be given him as a reward for his perseverance in Labour Party. Rather, we have seen his capacity. He has everything Imo needs in a governor at a time like this.

There are plethora of young men who can't stop testifying of how this great Imo son picked them from the scratch and established them. Chief Ikenga's greatest passion is to help the poor and he has been silently doing this without any form of showmanship and media hype. This is exactly the kind of man Imo state needs as a governor.

Chief Ikenga has the required wisdom and intellectual sagacity to turn the fortunes of Imo state around. With his global network and experience, Chief Ikenga will drive capital investments into every sector of Imo economy. He is an investor per excellence who knows exactly how to unlock the prosperity of Imo state. You need to hear his novel plans on how to transform Imo state. Indeed, Chief Ikenga has the solution for Imo state. His political structure - IMO SOLUTION is not just a name, but the real definition of who Chief Ikenga is and what he stands for. Chief Ikenga is the only aspirant who has the nerves to face and douse any pressure from the opposition parties in Imo state.

Ikenga is fearless and has the security connection to protect Labour Party votes.

We therefore urge Imo Labour Party delegates not to go for old names and faces in Imo politics. We need a true servant-leader like David, who was in the bush with his father's flock, doing great exploits behind the scenes. He killed lions and deers in the hidden corners of the bush, away from public eyes. Even Jesse his father didn't consider him when Prophet Samuel came to his house to anoint a king.

It took God who sees in secret to stop the prophet from anointing Eliab who represented the popular faces and old names many see as ideal leaders. God sent for David.

They all stood until David arrived and was anointed king. This pretty much looks like the story of Chief Ikenga who has been working faithfully and doggedly behind the scenes," the concern Labour party youths home and abroad expressed.

Forbes has released its list of world's billionaires for 2023. The list, which came out Tuesday has a couple of surprises. This is more so since the last year has been full of falling stocks, wounded unicorns and rising interest rates which translated into a down year for many of the world's richest people.

One of the surprises however is the rise of BUA Group chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu. From 7.6Billion Dollars a few months ago, the Billionaire businessman and philanthropist's rating in Forbes billionaires list has again shot up towering many to become the 249th richest person in the world and closing in on overtaking the third richest man in Africa, Nicky Oppenheimer who stands at 8.4billion Dollars. Rabiu's latest worth is put at 8.2billion dollars.

From 1.6billion Dollars in 2019, Forbes recorded that by 2022 his net worth was 6.9billion dollars and from there has jumped to 8.2billion Dollars in April 2023.
62-year old Abdul Samad Rabiu is essentially into cement and sugar as well as real estate.

Meanwhile Aliko Dangote has retained his position as the wealthiest African. After climbing to 14billion Dollars in 2022, his wealth is estimated to be around 14.2billion Dollars according to the reports released on Tuesday April 4, 2023.
He is presently the 125th richest man in the world and he is easily the largest cement producer in Africa. He also has his hands in other businesses including pastries, sugar and other areas of manufacturing.

For Mike Adenuga, the third Nigerian on the African billionaire's list, business has not been rosy. He dropped from 7.3billion Dollars in 2022 to 6.1billion dollars. The last couple of years have seen him move up and down the richest's scale. He's now the 418th richest in the world at 58.
These are the only three Nigerians that made the list.

One other surprise name on the list however is 90-yr old Nathan Kirsh from tiny African Country of Swaziland. He is said to worth 6.5billion dollars, thus becoming the 6th ranked African billionaire, now above Mike Adenuga. He is believed to be into real estate, retail and fashion.
It was the first time he would be featured as an African billionaire.

Methodology: According to Forbes, their 'World’s Billionaires list is a snapshot of wealth using stock prices and exchange rates from March 10, 2023. Some people become richer or poorer within days of publication. We list individuals rather than multigenerational families who share fortunes, though we include wealth belonging to a billionaire’s spouse and children if that person is the founder of the fortune'.
'For non-founders, we previously listed couples and family members together in certain cases; this year, we separated these shared fortunes into individual list members, marked “split family fortune.” For Russian billionaires, fortunes were calculated using ownership structures from February 2022, prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and before many made transfers of assets to managers, friends and others in an effort to protect their holdings from sanctions'.
'We value a variety of assets, including private companies, real estate, art and more. We don’t pretend to know each billionaire’s private balance sheet (though some provide it). When documentation isn’t supplied or available, we discount fortunes'.

Dr. Anthony Ezekwugo Congratulates Kingibe, calls for Cooperation from supporters.


The FCT Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressive a Grand Alliance (APGA) in the just concluded 2023 general elections, Dr. Anthony Chike Ezekwugo has congratulated Mrs. Ireti Kingibe, the Labour Party candidate, who emerged the winner of the election on her victory at the polls.


Ezekwugo called on residents to rally around the senator-elect for the rapid development of the territory stressing that the task ahead requires the cooperation and collaboration of every resident of the territory for successful completion.


In a goodwill message dispatched to Kingibe, Dr. Ezekwugo said the people have spoken by choosing the person who will rectify the development deficiencies in the territory to ensure that every part of Abuja feels the impact of governance.

The APGA flag-bearer, who fought gallantly at the polls but lost to Kingibe, said the choice of the people invariably represents the voice of God, almighty even as he called on the senator-elect to be magnanimous in victory by carrying everyone along since no individual can claim perfection and possession of the knowledge of solutions to every problem.


Dr. Ezekwugo used the opportunity to thank the teeming supporters of APGA and the Labour Party who voted for him and appealed to them to eschew bitterness and join hands with the winner of the election to move the territory forward in industrial growth and social development.


He advised the supporters to shun every form of blame game, name calling, demonstrations and bitterness in the interest of peace in the territory.


Dr. Ezekwugo promised to support and cooperate with Mrs. Kingibe whenever necessary to improve the welfare social wellbeing of the people of the territory.

MOCODE Tackles APC Over Irresponsible Attack On SGF Boss Mustapha


A civil society organization under the aegis of the Movement For The Consolidation of Democracy (MOCODE) has reacted to the purported suspension of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha at the ward level by the Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) Gwadabawa ward in Adamawa State.

At a press conference in Abuja, the Global Chairman of the group, Dr Charles Edet, MOCODE frowned at the seeming penchant for unwarranted attacks on the party in Adamawa by the APC Chairman in Gwadabawa ward of the State.

Describing the action as irresponsible, MOCODE wondered how the loss of a polling unit in an election could amount to an anti-party activity on the part of the SGF.

He said “I find the statement extremely irresponsible and myopic. While the loss of a polling unit to the opposition in any election is not something to be celebrated, the point must also be made that the SGF in his position cannot be accused of disloyalty because of such a loss by a numerative margin in his polling unit in the just concluded presidential and governorship elections.

"We are all witnesses to the fact that several political leaders, past and present, had at one point or the other lost in their polling units in very crucial elections but still went ahead to win the overall elections with their parties.

"We are not aware that such visible political personalities were accused by anyone at any point in time of party disloyalty. In any case, it is well known that in polling units with political heavyweights, there is always the tendency to gang up against them, even by their own party members, out of envy, in order to pull them down to ridicule them before their constituents and in the eyes of the general public", the group said.

Accusing the Gwadabawa ward chairman of witch-hunting and acting out the script of the opposition against the person and office of the SGF, MOCODE, however, assured him and his 'co-travellers’ that their "their plot is dead on arrival.”

“We in MOCODE align ourselves with the State Working Committee (SWC) of the APC in Adamawa State and call for heavy sanctions on those uninformed party members and their masterminds for dragging the name of the SGF and Adamawa APC in the mud," Dr. Edet stated.

He added that such sanctions would serve as a deterrent to others who might also wake up from the wrong sides of their beds and begin to make unguarded statements about Boss Mustapha, or for that matter, any other elder of the party in the State.

"It is unfortunate that a prophet is not recognized in his home town," Dr, Edet stressed.

"We believe that if there is any person who has kept the APC intact, united and progressive, either at the ward, state or national level, it is Boss Mustapha who, as the SGF and a man of integrity, has helped to give the ruling party and government a high level of credibility.

"We are therefore using this opportunity to call on the SGF not to be distracted by the rantings of these disgruntled politicians and opponents hiding under rather insignificant electoral results to cause disharmony in the Adamawa State chapter of the ruling party.

"As global democracy watchers, we are inclined to commend the SWC of APC in Adamawa State, in particular the State party Secretary, Dr. Raymond Chidama for expeditiously rallying to the defense of the SGF Boss Mustapha, by declaring the actions of those who purportedly suspended him from the APC null and void.

"The SGF is, instead, to be commended for his abiding faith in the people's choice by not interfering in the political process which had the tendency to snowball into a political logjam that could engulf the state thereby adversely affecting the overall performance of the party in the elections in Adamawa State.

"More importantly, it should be noted that Boss Mustapha is a bureaucrat, ably representing not only Adamawa State but all Nigerians, as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF)", MOCODE observed.

BROADOAKS BRITISH SCHOOL TO HAVE HER OPEN DAY ON 20TH MARCH PROMISES FREE SCHOLARSHIP.


By Nsikak Ekpenyong

Broadoaks British school, Abuja, will be offering scholarships to selected students for intake by September 2023.

Head of School, Franklin Adjetey, at a media briefing on Thursday said requirements of these scholarships depend on the scores in their admission tests.

"We also offer Music and Sport scholarships available for those students who can showcase their exemplary skills in these areas.

"These scholarships enable the Nigerian child to access a world class education whilst supporting those families who need it the most.

"To receive a taste of what our secondary school has to offer, we invite you to our Open evenings on Monday March 20th, Wednesday April 19th and Wednesday May 10th," Come along to our site in Maitama, Abuja, 5pm on any of the open evenings.

We kindly ask that you Register to attend one of the open evenings. Please register here:

www.broadoaksbritishschool.com

Danielle Babatunde, KeyStage 3 Coordinator, said: "Currently in Nigeria there are 20 million children out of school. This is millions of potential doctors, lawyers, accountants, business gurus, technology experts and so much more that have their potential that is untapped. We believe that every child needs a safe and secure environment where they can access high quality education.

"We are pleased that in Broadoaks British school we have teachers that are internationally trained from all over the world to teach our students."

Group expresses dissatisfaction and displeasure over INEC Conduct of Presidential Election.

Members of the Northern-Central youth Organization of Green Assembly that constitute the entire north Central
of Nigeria in a statement signed by the Zoner Coordinator Mrs E. O. Orukpe , sincerely expresses our dissatisfaction and displeasure on the Unfair
2023 Presidential and National Assemblies Elections Outcome.

According to her the outcome of the 2023 Presidential Elections that were adjudged
to Be Unfair, not credible as well as not reflecting on the popular wish of the people.

We the Youth of North Central saddened that the people"s mandate that elected PDP Presidential Candidate Alh. Atiku
Abubakar has been robbed thereby reflecting oppression, intimidation and undermining the will of the majority of Nigerians and the Nigerian Youth at large.

She is stated that standing as a national patriot to express my deep concern on unfortunate events that
happened on the 25 February which was not a true reflection of the popular WILL of the people.

As you are all aware, these elections were adjudged to be filled with many irregularities, unfair,
not credible by various local and international independent election monitoring bodies and
observers.

We condemn the intimidation, harassment and that was associated with the election. This act is
unacceptable and goes against the very principles of democracy.

We call upon the president, INEC Chair and the Commission executives with all leaders, both political
and non-political actors, Civil Societies organizations to put aside their personal interests and work
together to find a solution to this problem.

We however call for calm, we are calling on the citizens to go about their law abiding role
but urge the court to leave UpTo it's responsibility of being the hope of the common man.

She further advice let us not allow ourselves to be divided by the outcome of an election, but rather let us come together as
one people to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Yoruba Council sue for calm, unity in Lagos


OHANAEZE Ndigbo and the Yoruba Council Worldwide, YCW, have called for peace and unity among the Yoruba and Igbo ethnic groups in Lagos, ahead of the gubernatorial election, slated to hold March 11.

The group, on Wednesday, advised both ethnic groups to neglect certain individuals trying to heat up the state with sensitive and unguarded statements.

The call was made by the President, Yoruba Council Worldwide, Aare Oba Oladotun Hassan, during a press briefing, in Lagos.

He said: "Considering the information flying around in some electronic media outlets, it is imperative for joint leadership of the Lagos State Leaders of Thoughts led by Yoruba Council Worldwide and Ohaneze Ndigbo in Lagos State to immediately and swiftly swing into affirmative action by calling for calm and understanding with the Non-indigenous citizens, especially Igbo extraction and supporters to supports and re-elect Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu For Second Term.

"Based on his landmark achievements and sustainability of peace, unity and development of Lagos State and Yoruba Land."

He added that certain information that have been making the rounds in Lagos state by one, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, is allegedly targetted at reducing Sanwolu's chances of emerging winner in the forthcoming guber election.

According to him, hence, his ridiculous approach and the attendant indictment of the state Governor, his jaundiced conspiracy theory, his spurious and unfounded allegation could be clearly viewed from the prism of a premeditated attempt to incite public tension, emotions and sympathy of the electorates in voting against our dear party APC candidates in the forthcoming gubernatorial and assembly elections in Lagos State.

"Isiguzoro affirmed in his seditious that Indigbo as the socio- political organisation, Ohaneze Ndígbo has vowed to hold the Governor, Oba Akinolu of Lagos and Mr. Musiliu Ayinde (MC Oluomo), responsible for the attacks on Igbo in the state, especially following the victory of the Labour Party, LP presidential candidate in Lagos State as alleged by him, while he was even calling for self defence in any of such subsequent attacks, while emphasising that self- defence is a universal law, the attempt that equal to a subtly beating of the drum of war where there is no war and by building a mountain in a mole hill in futility.

"Sequence to that intemperate outburst and incendiary statements, he had conspicuously established his nefarious mindset at fanning the ember of ethnic tension, violence, disharmony and anger among the peace loving and good people of Lagos, irrespective of their ethnic nationalities and diverse political affiliations and persuasions" he said.

Others speakers at the briefing include High Chief Mike Kelechi, President, Ohahaze Ndigbo chair of chair and High Chief Sunday Osai, Ohahaze Ndigbo Lagos Chapter, both call for calm and unity among the ethnic groups in Lagos, and equally appeal to Ndigbos in Lagos to come out on march 11th Governorship Election to vote for Governor Sanwo- Olu because of the cordial relationship and unity we have enjoyed together.

AS the February 25 Presidential and National Assembly elections get underway, Civil Societies in Nigeria, on Tuesday, cautioned the All Progressives Congress, APC, to stop its verbal attacks on clergymen and other top politicians crusading for electoral transparency and integrity.

Journalists reports that the reaction is coming after APC Presidential Campaign Council had, led by PCC Special Adviser on Media and Strategic Communications, Dele Alake, on Monday, called on the Department of State Services to arrest the General Overseer of Dunamis Church, Paul Enenche, over his ‘inciting sermon’ on the pulpit.

Speaking during a press conference, in Abuja, the National Coordinator, Global Network for Sustainable Development, Amb Phil Roberts, he re-emphasising the need for free, fair and credible election in a democracy, stating that any negation from it would render the electoral process an exercise in futility.

Robert said: "Those condemning the widespread irregularities associated with this election should never be crucified. The truth remains that it is only in justice, equity and fairness that peace can prevail in society because people are naturally bound to agitate once their rights are subverted.

"It is not those speaking out against electoral malpractices that are inciting people to violence, but those who are perpetrating the malpractices.

"As civil society organizations, We monitored the elections and from what we saw it is obvious that those inciting people to violence are those who hired armed thugs to intimidate and harass citizens, thereby making it difficult, if not impossible for them to freely exercise their franchise.

"Those inciting people to violence are those shameless, greedy and desperate political charlatans who want electoral victory at all cost, even at the expense of people's blood. Those inciting people to violence are those unscrupulous officials who have agreed to exchange people's mandate with filthy lucre.

"Why is APC attacking those calling for electoral probity and sanity? Is APC coming out clear to tell Nigerians and the whole world that it is behind the electoral misfortune of Nigerians, and the shameless beneficiary of it?

"We advise the APC to join well meaning Nigerians and the international community in the condemnation of electoral malpractices, and stop acting as a culpable party in this grand plot to subvert the will of the people.

"APC, lacks any locus standi to call for the arrest of anyone speaking out against electoral malpractices as they can't be a judge in their own case. The APC's statement is, therefore, fundamentally flawed, technically incongruous, and morally dubious, and should be totally disregarded.

"We expect the state to treat those speaking out against irregularities as partners in progress for helping in building a sound, sane and vibrant democratic society that is intolerant of all forms of electoral criminality."

On his part, President, Global Center for Leadership and Good Governance, Ogedengbe Ayodele Monday, while suing for national peace and progress, advised Nigerians to neglect words from the APC.

"Nigerians should not dance to the drumming of what the APC is trying to establish in this country because it is going to take us to a place that we didn't expect to be. We can not have a government who will make a rule and will end up abusing it. You can not set a standard that you can not accomplish.

"So, today other people are now crying out that justice must prevail if you set the rules, follow the rules. You are the one that promulgated the law of BVAs in Nigeria and encouraged electronic voting Nigeria, you are now coming against the same law. You did not follow due process on how you have laid down your laws and you're expecting that you can beat down a child and expect the child not to cry", he said.

Speaking also, the National Vice-president, Christian Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, CPFN, and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, youths, Pastor Love Sheyin, said: "Stop intimidating the clerics, especially the Christian clerics. Nobody is allowed to insult our fathers of faith. I repeat, nobody is allowed to insult our fathers of faith. We cannot accept it rigging, we voted and we knew who we voted for.

"We have evidence of rigged elections, wounded Corpers and INEC ad hoc staff. We have evidence of the rigging going on and we have evidence for the reason why INEC refused to open their portal for the whole world to see the agenda. We are calling on all good Nigerians, those in power and stakeholders, to please speak out the truth."

Also, Director of Publicity, Arewa Youths for Peace and Security, Salihu Dantata, therefore, called for calm across Nigeria, urging INEC to listen to Nigerians and correct their wrongs.

[quote author=Faber post=121218705]What's going on in Enugu, no INEC officials and electoral materials at Idaw River Primary School...
There are over 600 people here, no INEC officials

PLEASE SEND VISUALS

Why Nigerians should Vote for Peter Obi, Says Dr Anthony Ezekwugo.

Nigeria has strayed so much from a state of sustainability by the current ruling class inadvertently or deliberately. The promises of basic facilities, development and prosperity have retrogressed way below naught. The hopes of the masses has remained unachieved, worsening and continuously so. Nigerians are despondent and helpless. All institutions and families are so badly touched. We are all in a quagmire screaming for deliverance.

The career politicians in the guise of leaders have perfected the act of dealing with the people to such an extent that there is continuance of their strong hold on power.

Mr Competence and APGA Senatorial Candidate FCT stated that tension between the desires of the masses and the grabs of these leaders have always swung in favour of those few in power leading to perpetration of the status quo. It is a game that the political class has perfected well. The Nigerian variant at the presidential elections is a model of special complex imputations.

At the centre of this is high level deceits fuelled by widened corruption and ruthless interests. The rest of us Nigerians are both the tools and victims in this treacherous game of inescapable attack. The resultant suffering is of such proportion and without any relief in sight that we all resign to our fate as ordained by our creator.


The moment Mr Peter Obi extricated himself and declared to aspire to the highest political position independent of these power brokers, the masses saw a viable alternative in the making. Some were of the opinion that those ruling class will not allow him to emerge. Some insisted that it is impossible for him to be a force. Some swore it is not yet time for people like him. These so called leaders wrote him off as a paper weight and concluded that his candidacy is dead on arrival. The momentum of the Obi movement that followed came as a shock to them.
But they did not really know Mr Obi.

Those who know him well urged him on, praying he steps into the ring but he was cautious, consulting and calculating. They know how very good he is. They know he has done it before in many positions of authority including the eight years he was governor of Anambra state.

He knows those high level career politicians and their styles. He knows their games. He is aware of the forces in play and the various ways to put out anyone considered a threat to them. It was imperative he doesn’t fall an easy prey. Eventually he pitched.

From the moment the decision was made and he picked the Presidential ticket under Labour Party last year, it automatically became a journey of no return. Those who know his strength of character, his resilience in the face of challenges, his courage and determination in any pursuit were sure that the ‘die was cast’.

Obi will go all out, the Presidency a shot within reach. It would not be an ordinary task.

It is not for the faint hearted. He knew what it will take and he has it.

He had nothing incriminating in his closet. There was no easy way to nail him out. He is open, prudent, capable and successful. He is not the ideal candidate that both the electorates and the power brokers are used to.

He was coming with a different narrative. One that resonates well with the masses and addresses the problems in the country.
Obi went the entire length and breadth of the country preaching his message of a New Nigeria.

He wanted a real change in the status quo. He spoke about the criminalities going on in government and how to tackle them.

He begged for forgiveness and tolerance on all front and prayed for dialogue and engagement. He set out how to secure the country and improve the economy.

He told us how he will make Nigeria great again so that we will be proud of our country once more.

He demonstrated to us how to deal with the many monsters that are holding us back from development. He gave us hope and reminded us to hold him accountable at every stage. He was eager to visit and speak to anyone that cares to listen to him.

With a few days to the presidential polls, it has become obvious that Mr Peter Obi of Labour Party, the underdog in this election, is at the lead in the race to Aso rock.

The stone that was once rejected has become the chosen one. Coincidentally he is popularly called “OKWUTE”, meaning the corner stone.

I have closely followed the campaign of the three leading parties.

I have been to all the 36 states of the federation and the Federal capital territory in the last five months.

I met and spoke to ordinary Nigeria in all the geopolitical zones.

I saw and felt the hardship and problems. I learnt a lot about the diversity of the country, the endowments and beauty of Nigeria. 1 saw the strength of unity in our divergences.

I interacted with the multitudes of our people who are tired and many hopeless. The change they were promised few years ago drove them to more poverty.

They yearn for Mr Peter Obi and his Labour Party for deliverance.

I urge every one of us to make out time on Saturday morning 25th Feb 2023, go to our various polling stations, vote for Peter Obi as President and Mr Competence APGA Senatorial Candidate FCT, safeguard our votes.

Please make every effort to vote. There is so much hardship in the country and it is left for us to decide through our votes who we want to lead us in the coming years.

I do not have to attempt at this stage to convince you who to vote for Obi because I know you will also wish a better Nigeria.

Nothing but the best of the lot, who is Mr Peter OBI of LABOUR PARTY is good enough. Let vote for a better Nigeria for the future of our children.

Obi 'll Secure, Improve Nigeria Economy If Elected, Says Democratic Leadership

A civil society organisation, Democratic Leadership (DL) has said the candidate of the Labour Party (LP) will secure the country and improve the nation's economy if elected during the February 25th Presidential election.

He noted that Peter Obi has disclosed how he will make Nigeria great again.

The convener, Democratic Leadership, Dr Ray Onwuelo, who disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen yesterday in Abuja said the hopes of the masses have remained unachieved, worsening, and continuously so.

Onwuelo lamented that Nigerians are despondent and helpless, adding that all institutions and families are so badly touched.

He stated that Nigeria has strayed so much from a state of sustainability by the current ruling class inadvertently or deliberately, with the promises of basic facilities, development, and prosperity retrogressed way below naught.

"I urge every one of us to make out time on Saturday morning 25th Feb 2023, to go to our various polling stations, vote for a candidate of our choice, and safeguard our votes.

"Please make every effort to vote. There is so much hardship in the country and it is left for us to decide through our votes who we want to lead us in the coming years. I do not have to attempt at this stage to convince you who to vote for because I know you will also wish a better Nigeria," he said.

He alleged that career politicians in the guise of leaders have perfected the art of dealing with the people to such an extent that there is a continuance of their stronghold on power.

He said the tension between the desires of the masses and the grabs of these leaders have always swung in favour of those few in power leading to perpetuation of the status quo, adding that it is a game that the political class has perfected well.

"The Nigerian variant at the presidential elections is a model of special complex imputations. At the centre of this is high-level deceit fuelled by widened corruption and ruthless interests.

"The rest of us Nigerians are both the tools and victims in this treacherous game of inescapable attack.

"The resultant suffering is of such proportion and without any relief in sight that we all resign to our fate as ordained by our creator," he said.

He said the moment Peter Obi extricated himself and declared to aspire to the highest political position independent of these power brokers, the masses saw a viable alternative in the making.

"Some were of the opinion that the ruling class will not allow him to emerge.

"Some insisted that he can't be a force. Some swore it is not yet time for people like him. These so-called leaders wrote him off as a paperweight and concluded that his candidacy is dead on arrival. The momentum of the Obi movement that followed came as a shock to them.

"But they did not really know Mr. Obi. Those who know him well urged him on, praying he steps into the ring but he was cautious, consulting, and calculating. They know how very good he is.

"They know he has done it before in many positions of authority including the eight years he was governor of Anambra State," he added.

LESS than a week to the 2023 presidential election, slated for February 25, the National Women Leader of the Labour Party, LP, Dudu Mamman Manuga, has urged the Nigerian women to vote for the presidential candidate of the party, Peter Obi, and his vice, Ahmed Datti, for massive inclusion of women if he emerges as president.

Manuga made this call at a conference with the Nigerian women, themed: 'Operation Remop the Final Push: Birthing the New Nigeria', on Monday, in Abuja.

Re-emphasising the fact that women in Nigeria have always suffered relegation, she said that the Obi's presidential manifesto lucidly spells out a place for women if he emerges.

According to her, let us understand that women in Nigeria have always been relegated to the background. Women have not been given their space, their space that they need to occupy in different spheres of life.

"In some societies in this country, women are considered second class citizens, who should not even have a voice. When it comes to development issues, women seem to always be at the receiving end of the negativities. So, what is Peter Obi telling us about his manifesto and how does that apply to Nigerian women?

"And, like he always says, there are people that have applied to be the CEOs in Nigeria, and we the people of Nigeria, are the ones to decide whether we accept the application and want to engage them as the CEOs over this country or not one person out of all of them is going to be the CEO.

"I want to tell Nigerian women why Peter should be the CEO and for them to understand that this is a CEO that when he comes in because of his antecedents. We know he's the women's president. We know you will be that president that will support women that will allow them to be who they're supposed to be in Nigeria", she said.

Stressing the need for peace in Nigeria, she explained that insecurity has negatively affected the livelihood of women in the country, assuring that the obi-datti ticket promises peace and progress for them.

"Peter will be and Datti Baba Ahmed like I have said that they will end banditry and unite the country talking about security, talking about peace. When there is peace and security in Nigeria, the women in Nigeria will be able to do what they need to do in their day to day lives.

"We know of a lot of women now especially in the north, Northeast, Northwest, North central Who are now in IDP camps because of insecurity in the land, they have had to live where they are, they have had to go to other new places and live lives way below what they were used to because they're no longer living in houses, a lot of them are now living in tents, or small rooms, in the IDP camps. When there is security in the land, every woman will be in her home, every woman will be able to pursue her day to day activities as she should be doing.

"Whatever you want to do in life, if there is no peace there is no security, Nigerian women need to stand with Peter Obi and Datti Baba Ahmed.

Speaking on Obi's plan to drive policies that would better the dwindling state of Nigeria's economy, she said: "There is a promise to shift Nigeria from consumption to production. This will create jobs for women and their children. A lot of women are into production in the farmland, a lot of women I to production, in small scale industry.

"Now, when there is attention given to production in the land, we know that a lot of women will be able to benefit from this, and their businesses will prosper. Their businesses will blossom. jobs will be created for not just the women but also their children.

"And we know that for us women, one of the things that is uppermost in our minds is always our children. And when there is production in the land, or when jobs are created, we know that our children will get jobs and that will take a lot of tension off our mind and our mind will be at ease knowing that our children are properly engaged."

On corruption, she reiterated Obi's agenda to strictly entrench the rule of law, beat down the cost of governance and create an efficient civil service.

While beaming the spate of rape cases in the country, she assured that the Peter Obi-lead administration would address loopholes in the Violence Against Persons Prohibition, VAPP, Act, and ensure full domestication of the Act across states.

She hinted also that the Obi manifesto would put in place infrastructures to adequately address issues bothering: power, transportation, water resources, primary health care centers, among others.

Ezekwugo calls for calm over planned Abuja Mega Rally.


The senatorial candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), in the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Anthony Ezekwugo has made a passionate appeal to his teeming supporters to remain calm and conduct themselves with a high sense of discipline before, during and after the 2023 general elections.

Dr. Ezekwugo regretted that the planned Abuja mega rally which was scheduled to take place at the Area 10, Old Parade Ground on Saturday was put- off for security reasons following advice from security agencies on the matter.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the APGA senatoràl hopeful advised supporters of the party to intensify grassroots mobilisation efforts and neighbourhood contacts to effectively use the available space alloted for campaigns to garner greater support of FCT voters in his favour.

He advised APGA supporters to refrain from the use of foul language and derogatory words against opponents as doing so would amount to playing dirty politics.

He stated that while efforts are still being made to host the campaign rally before the elections, other viable campaign options will be explored to ensure that APGA emerges victorious in the election in the six area councils.

He also called on the candidates of other political parties to reign-in and properly control their supporters to eschew the use of violence in the coming election in the interest of democracy.

Ezekwugo reminded the candidates of the need to respect the peace accord signed by leaders of the eighteen political parties stressing that it would be better for politicians to play politics in the spirit of good sportsmanship.

By Godfrey AKON

The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises project in Niger Delta, LIFE-ND, says it has a target of empowering 38,250 youth and women in nine states of the region and 900 incubators/ enterprises.

Speaking at a Media Roundtable in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Engr Sanni Abiodun, said the primary target group are unemployed and underemployed youth, aged 18-35 years, as well as women-headed households with children under the age of 15.

Abiodun noted that LIFE-ND was designed by the federal government and funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, with overall goal of realizing a transformed rural economy in the Niger Delta from which the rural population can derive prosperity and equal benefit.

He disclosed that the project which commenced in 2019 is expected to terminate 2025, and is being implemented in 10 local government areas, LGA, per state and 10 communities per LGA, based on poverty level, youth unemployment, community involvement, conflict-free nature, level of agricultural activities and private sector involvement.

On funding of the project, he said IFAD, which is funding six states, provided a credit facility of $60 million, while the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, which is funding three states is has provided $30 million and the beneficiary states and federal government are providing $3.76 million and $4.91 million respectively.

He noted that IFAD is funding 25,500 beneficiaries from Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Ondo while NDDC is funding 12,750 beneficiaries from Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers states.

Abiodun disclosed that the project is in its midterm, adding that as at December 31, 2022, the project had disbursed 53 per cent of the fund, representing $30,944,576 to beneficiaries.

According to him, the project focuses on empowering beneficiaries on seven selected crops namely: cassava, rice, palm oil, fishery, poultry, cocoa and plantain.

Speaking on some of the achievements recorded by the project, he said it provided Feeder Farm Roads and Production and Processing facilities

“On Rural Market Infrastructures, the project promoted the development of environmentally friendly production cluster facilities for the enterprise commodities promoted across the six states as follows:

“Developed (construction/upgrade) over 38 poultry production cluster facilities in six participating states; Developed (construction/upgrade) over 54 fishery production cluster facilities in five participating states.

“Supported a total of 100 Incubatees with over 250 collapsible tarpaulin Ponds in five States; constructed over 3 Oil Palm Processing and 6 Cassava Processing Facilities in the five states; Constructed 7 Blocks of open/closed market store facilities in three States; Constructed 3nos. Cold Room and Ino. Farm House in two States and Constructed 2 landing jetties in one State,” he said.

The project coordinator also said the project is contributing to Nigeria’s strategic objective on food security, household and job creation as it has
“Recorded production output of over 2,176.06 MT of agricultural produce (450 MT for Cassava production; 219.74 MT for Rice seed multiplication: 230 MT of paddy rice production; 21.23 MT for cocoa production: 660 MT Poultry broiler production: 594.63 MT of fish production).

“Injected an approximate gross income value of over N1,877,820,583 into the national economy; reached out to over 6,964 smallholder farmers as at December 2022 ending and hope to attain over 13,000 beneficiaries by 2023 ending with plan addition of over 6000 beneficiaries by year 2023. With this level of outreach, LIFE-ND will significantly be contributing to Nigeria’s strategic objective of food security through its contribution to both the national food security and national economy.

“Promotion of ICT 4 development through the application and deployment of Digital technology to support small-holders farmers. This is inline with the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Policy (NATIP).

“The project development objective is to enhance income, food security and job creation for rural youth and women through agri- enterprise development on a sustainable basis in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria,” he said.

Abujainquirer

2023: AAC Governorship Candidates Vow to work against Sowore.

LESS than 12 days to the 2023 general elections, about five gubernatorial candidates of the African Action Congress, AAC, have disowned the party's presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, alleging that he is undemocratic and inexperienced to lead in the capacity of president of Nigeria.

The gubernatorial candidates were; Iboro Robert Oru, Akwa Ibom; Aliyu Ahmed, Kwara state; Ray Ken, Enugu state; Mojeed Kehinde Okedara, Oyo state; Aliyu Adamu, Gombe state.

Robert who spoke on behalf of the other candidates during a press briefing, Monday, in Abuja, explained that Omoyele had shown himself undemocratic who doubles as the presidential candidate, and the chairman of the party, thereby disallowing opportunities for inclusivity.

He said: "As gubernatorial candidates and committed members of the African Action Congress party, in the past six months, we have come to see and have expressed reservations about the readiness, leadership and attitude of our presidential candidate, Omoleye Sowore, who also doubles as the Chairman of our party.

"As a presidential candidate, against our advice of inclusiveness in party/team building and consolidating statewide structures, it is apparent he is not in the race and now clear his basic political inexperience and counterproductive divide-and-rule leadership style is NOT what Nigeria and Nigerians need at this moment of national healing nor will it lead us and indeed the party towards any socio-political or electoral win.

"We therefore have decided not to back Omoleye Sowore or support his candidacy for president."

While denouncing support for Sowore, Robert, however said that in no time, a new preferred presidential candidate would be announced.

While bemoaning the spate of widespread hardship in the country, Robert tasked President Mohammed Buhari to as a matter of urgency begin addressing some of the anomalies currently being experienced by Nigerians.

"Today, the price of various refined petroleum products of which we export its raw form are selling at 400% of their market value or unavailable. Meanwhile, the naira used for transactions, is now selling at 2, 000 thousand for 10,000, as a result of unavailability.

"This has never happened before in the history of this great nation. We are facing national inflation at over 20% with unemployment and underemployment at above 50% in most states of the Nation. Security is a serious issue especially now we are about to start the elections in a few weeks.

"The Central Bank governor, the Independent National Electoral Commission Chairman, the National Security Council have all issued positive statements and outlooks on the readiness and socio-economic security of our nation especially during these times but Nigerians need physical and empirical guarantees.

"As serious and committed stakeholders in this election, we urge the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to keep to his promise of leaving behind a legacy of free and fair elections. As a government known to have failed on so many of its promises to Nigerians, we hope that President Muhamadu Buhari recognises that this quarter is his last opportunity to redeem himself and his government.

"We are asking that this last lap be put to work, making sure and making available all resources needed to secure Nigerians and the elections; economically, socially, politically and militarily. We encourage all stakeholders in this election, across party lines, to respect the rule of law and commit themselves to free and fair elections."

Same way we have richest Nigerian men we also have wealthy Nigerian women. In the latest Forbes edition of wealthiest Nigerian women, we bring you the top ten. They are of course known names having established themselves in the business circles over time.

NO1 - FOLORUNSHO ALAKIJA (1BILLION DOLLARS)
Folorunsho Alakija is an oil mogul whose wealth is acquired through her company, Famfa Oil. Her wealth has earned her #2 position on Forbes as the richest woman in Africa, and even richer than Tony Elumelu. Aside from owning an oil company, the 69-year-old woman is also into the printing and fashion industry.

NO2- BOLA SHAGAYA (950MILLION DOLLARS)
#2 is Hajia Bola, a former auditor for the Central Bank of Nigeria before she started her own business. Her business focuses on the importation of photographic equipment. It is reported that she introduced the Konica photographic equipment in Nigeria. She also has other businesses like real estate.

NO3 - DAISY DANJUMA (900MILLION DOLLARS)
$3 on the list is Daisy Dajuma, a lawyer and former Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District. She is the wife of former defence minister General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma. In 2019, she was appointed the chairperson of May & Baker Nigeria PLC, a leading Pharmaceutical manufacturing company.

NO4- FIFI EJINDU (850MILLION DOLLARS)
Fifi Ejindu is an architect, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She is one of the leading female architects in the country and the founder of Starcrest Group of Companies. Her company has three divisions: real estate in Nigeria and abroad, building and designing, and investment opportunities. She is also believe to have investments in the oil sector.

NO5- STELLA OKOLI (800MILLION DOLLARS)

Stella Chinyelu Okoli is #5 among the top richest Nigerian women. She is the founder and CEO of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries LTD. Dr Stella started her company as a small pharmacy retail store; today, Emzor has over 50 products.

NO6- BIMBO ALASE (750MILLION DOLLARS)
Bimbo Alase is another wealthy woman in Nigeria. She made much of her wealth through the furniture business she started in Lagos. The company’s name is Leatherworld Furniture, and it has grown to become one of the most luxurious stores in Lagos. While she owns luxury cars, there is no online information about them.

NO7- MO ABUDU (650MILLION DOLLARS)
#7 on the list is the media guru, Mo Abudu. In 2017, she was ranked one of the most powerful women in global television. She owns EbonyLife Television, an entertainment television station where she has created and produced entertaining content. Her film production company is EbonyLife Films.

NO8- STELLA ODUAH (600MILLION DOLLARS)
#8 on the list is Stella Oduah, a politician and Senator representing Anambra North Senatorial District. She was a former Minister of Aviation. As a politician, there have been some controversies tied to her name, like the misappropriation of government funds.

NO9- NGOZI OKONJO IWEALA (550MILLION DOLLARS)
Ngozi Okonjo Iweala is an economist, international development expert, and former Minister of Finance. She has been recognized several times by Forbes as one of the 50 greatest leaders in the world.

Ngozi Okonjo Iweala has occupied several top positions locally and globally as:

Former Minister of Finance in Nigeria
Worked in Tech companies like Twitter
Center of Global Development
African Risk Capacity

NO10 DEZIANI ALLISON MADUEKE(500MILLION DOLLARS)
#10 on the list is Diezani Alison Madueke. She is the first female OPEC president. She has served previously as the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Minister of Transportation, and Minister of Mines and Steel Development.

There has been some controversy surrounding Diezani Alison Madueke while she was in office. Some of the laundered money through her office was used to purchase a yacht, cars, and properties.

For many who bank with Zenith Bank, the events of the last two working days have definitely shown that they are either being taken for granted or the bank needs serious rebooting.

Virtually all the bank's branches in Abuja were shut to customers today over systems crash. According to the bank's officials, they had no network.

A customer who visited the A.Y.A. Asokoro branch of the bank narrated that his experience was not palatable at all and he has vowed to transfer all his money to another and perhaps more serious bank. According to the customer, he got to the bank around 8.45am and all he wanted was to do bank transfer. After queueing up, he was eventually allowed in only for those in charge to say that there was no network. He was initially told he could do Zenith to Zenith transfer which he opted for so that the funds he needed could at least be moved out since he didn't install any of the banking apps and didn't have an ATM card on the account.

Shortly after he submitted the usual form for transfers, he started hearing whispers from other customers, the bank's network had been down since Friday, even the intra bank transfer may not be possible. By the time he made up his mind to leave at 12noon, situation had not changed. He had to leave frustrated and disappointed.

Meanwhile, a crowd had built up in front of the bank with many of the customers who wanted to come in into the bank premises, either to withdraw or undertake any transaction caught up with the no-network web. The gates were locked up for over forty minutes thus he could not leave the banking premises until Policemen came around from Asokoro Police station. Eventually the gate was opened so that those who wanted to leave could exit themselves.

Meanwhile, when we visited the Utako branch of the bank as well as the Aminu KANO branches in Wuse 2 around 3.00pm, there was no sign of business as the customers were turned back from the gate.

The systems failure only help to accentuate the crisis bank customers have had to face in the last few weeks as they also face an unbelievable government policy that made them deposit all their old currencies in banks in exchange for redesigned ones only for them not to be able to collect the new ones from the banks due to its non-availability.

Serious cracks have emerged within the Federal Capital Territory branch of the Labour Party (LP), barely three weeks to the February 25th 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections, over the refusal of a section of party members to support the FCT Senatorial Candidate of the party, Mrs. Ireti Kingibe, the only woman vying for the position in the territory.

A coalition of support groups, made-up mainly of Labour Party members from the Middle Belt, South East, South South and South West geopolitical zones and supporters of other political parties led by Comrade Olisa Uzoewulu [Wulus] had shifted their support from Mrs. Ireti Kingibe, to the All Progressives Grand Alliance [APGA] candidate, Dr. Anthony Chike Ezekwugo, saying that the APGA flagbearer stands a better chance than Kingibe.

The group also accused Ireti Kingibe of planning to decamp to the ruling All Progressives Congress after winning election on the ticket of the Labour Party, having related with the APC Presidential Candidate on an intimate bases in the past.

In a swift reaction however, the FCT Chairman of the Labour Party Comrade Peter Chinedu kicked and dissociated himself from the group and threatened to expel the members including, Elder Olisa Uzoewulu Mgboroguorji [Wulus], who is the Chairman of Peter Obi/Datti Campaign Organisation in the Federal Capital Territory.

Meanwhile, the camp of the LP FCT Senatorial Candidate, Mrs. Ireti Kingibe has been thrown into disarray as fear spread among loyal members that the candidate will likely suffer disqualification like Chief Victor Umeh who was disqualified by a court from contesting the 2023 senatorial election under the banner of the Labour Party for not properly resigning from the All Progressives Congress [APGA] before picking the Labour Party ticket to contest the senatorial election.

It was gathered that the FCT LP candidate, Mrs. Ireti Kingibe also emerged as the senatorial flagbearer of the party under similar circumstances like Chief Victor Umeh and may be disqualified from the election.

Reacting to the feud in the FCT branch of the party in an interview, Elder Olisa Uzoewulu said, “Our position on this matter is very clear. For the national, we would vote for Peter Obi. For the FCT senatorial seat, we would vote for Dr. Anthony. It is not a matter of party any more but we want to vote for individuals who can perform better. We have passed the stage of voting for parties because Nigeria is drifting.

“Parties are like vehicles that drive the candidates. Parties are only nomenclatures. We have a social contract with the candidates we are supporting. We in the FCT have to decide which people we can support to favour and defend our interests.”

Meanwhile, one of the eighteen registered political parties, known as the Action Alliance has adopted the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) flagbearer, Dr. Anthony Chike Ezekwugo as its preferred candidate for the Senatorial election coming up on February 25th 2023.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the Action Alliance group led by Comrade Augustine Onwukpo, said the adoption of Dr. Ezekwugo was based on merit, his past record of achievements as a businessman and competence.

He said that members of the party will line-up behind the candidate due to his ability to move development processes in the Federal Capital Territory and also improve the welfare of residents of the territory.

Onwukpo urged marginalised residents of Abuja to do whatever it takes to change the narrative because the incumbent senator has not done anything useful to uplift the living standards of the people in the territory.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the FCT Labour Party (LP) Presidential Campaign Council, Comrade Uzoewulu (Wulus) who is also the Chairman of the Southern-Middlebelt Concourse applauded the party for supporting the APGA Candidate stressing that even the Labour Party in the FCT has decided to adopt the Senatorial hopeful and vote for APGA while also voting for Peter Obi at the presidential election level.

Responding, the Senatorial Candidate, Dr. Ezekwugo appreciated the Action Alliance members for deciding to adopt and vote for him in the 2023 election.

He promised to deliver all inclusive governance in the FCT and to ensure that every part of the territory feels the impact of the government when he becomes the senator.

Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, CNA, Mr Sani Magaji Tambuwal is causing a huge excitement among the staff members as he has reportedly perfected plans to pay the outstanding N3.7 billion owed by the previous management for staff members’ CON-PECULIAR and outstanding welfare packages/entitlements.

THE CONCLAVE reports that CON-PECULIAR is a special payment package (incentive) for staff of the National Assembly, because of their unique kind of service and is contained in their condition of service document.

THE CONCLAVE learnt that the Acting CNA’s move was hinged on the plan to return to the National Assembly management a princely sum of N7 billion being unspent contingency fund by the management in the 2022 budget.

The management, according to reports, had declared the unspent fund, which was returned to the treasury and receipted at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

But ahead of the return of the fund to NASS management, there are reports doing the rounds the administrative wing of the National Assembly that the outgoing CNA, Architect Amos Ojo, is piling pressure on the acting CNA to divert the money for other selfish purposes.

The good news, according to reports, is that the Acting CNA staved off the pressure and insisted on channeling the money to the payment of the staff members outstanding entitlements.
THE CONCLAVE learnt that during a meeting convened at the instance of the presiding officers of the National Assembly and the out-going CNA, Architect Ojo, all entreaties to cajole the Acting CNA to make the money available failed.

It was also gathered that the Acting CNA argued at the meeting that the N7 billion had been earmarked for payment of the CON-PECULIAR and other outstanding staff members’ entitlements, totaling about N3.7b.

THE CONCLAVE learnt that the presiding officers did not buy into the acting CNA’s proposal, but, according to a source close to the development, he (the acting CNA) insisted on going ahead with his original plan to spend N3.7 billion out of N7 billion to pay up the outstanding workers’ entitlements.

The acting CNA, according to the source, was disposed to other projects and programmes on which the presiding officers and the management may plan or agree to spend the remaining N3.3 billion

Some staff members who spoke with THE CONCLAVE could not hide their excitement about the plan by the Acting CNA to pay staff members outstanding entitlements, which had been at the root of the series of strikes and shut downs embarked upon by Parliamentary Association of Nigeria (PASAN) under the leadership of the outgoing CNA, Architect Ojo, who bows out on February 14.

One of the staff members said: “This is a cheering development to all staff members. We will continue to support and pray for our Acting CNA, Sani Magaji Tambuwal, for God’s perfect wisdom and courage, to reform the system, do the right things and boost the morale of staff members.

“He has started well, shown commitment so far, and desire to meet staff members’ welfare and benefits. May the Almighty God frustrate the plans of the wicked ones over his life. On the Acting CNA, Sani Magaji Tambuwal, we stand. And, now more than ever before, we know who our enemies are.”

ASR AFRICA, BUA FOUNDATION APPROVE N1.5BILLION GRANT FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN IBESE, IGBOBILA, ILARO, OTHERS IN YEWA LAND, OGUN STATE

The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) – the brainchild of Industrialist, philanthropist, and founder of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and the BUA Foundation have awarded development grants worth N1.5 billion to Yewa Land in Ogun State comprising Ilaro, Igbogila, Ibeshe, Egua, and Igonade communities for key community, social, and infrastructural development projects. This was announced at the grant presentation and mutual accountability framework signing ceremonies held today in Ilaro, Ibese, and Igbogila. The grants will be channeled towards interventions in the areas of health, education, or social development initiatives that are identified for implementation.

Presenting the grants award letter to Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland in Ogun State, Ubon Udoh, Managing Director, ASR Africa assured of more partnership with the people of Yewaland and reiterated that the vision of Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder of ASR Africa and Chairman of BUA, is to provide concrete solutions for sustainable development in Nigeria, and Africa. According to Ubon, “What ASR Africa and BUA Foundation are doing here today, is planting a seed of sustainable problem-solving across Africa in line with the vision of Abdul Samad Rabiu, our founder - and Chairman of BUA.

“The first grant of N1 billion goes to all communities in Yewaland for developmental purposes to uplift the quality of life of the Yewa people, while ASR Africa and BUA Foundation are also giving additional specific grants of N250million each to Igbogila and Ibese Communities for already identified infrastructure projects to enhance community development through their traditional institutions. We have done our basic needs assessment in collaboration with the communities on their needs, and we are pleased to say we look forward to the commencement of the identified projects and a more robust partnership with Yewaland, as we have done in other parts of the country.

In his response, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland commended Abdul Samad Rabiu for his philanthropic gestures across the country and noted that indeed he is a true Nigerian. The monarch added that with the grants, Yewaland and Yewa people will witness rapid social and infrastructural development. “We are one of the largest sub-ethnic groups in Yoruba Land and these grants will go a long way in bringing sustainable development in line with the United Nations SDGs, to our people”, he added.

The Paramount Ruler of Ibese community, HRM Oba Rotimi Mulero, The Oboro of Ibese, also thanked the donors for their timely intervention in developing Ibese community. “May the Almighty bless Abdul Samad Rabiu, ASR Africa, and BUA Foundation for partnering with us to fast-track development in our community because we are still largely behind on the development curve. This partnership with ASR Africa and BUA Foundation will go a long way in ensuring even greater development for our people.”

League of professionals, Nothern leaders halt action against CBN Gov, Emefiele

..Says allegations untrue

Nsikak Ekpenyong

League of professionals for good governance and accountability and the Nothern leaders coalition have called off their planned action against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele.

In a world press conference addressed Monday in Abuja by the leagues President, Gbenga Gonzallo and Alhaji Mohammed Yusuf Ibrahim for Nothern leaders coalition, both group called on other anti-CBN groups to join hands in supporting the creative policies of the CBN.

Speaking, Gonzallo regretted that the initial plans by both organisations were premised on reports made available to them on his activities as CBN governor which he said were totally false and untrue of his office and person.

He said: “Having weighed the details of what was made available to us against the the CBN governor, we have come to a realization that we are acting on wrong information and we hereby tender our unreserved apology to the CBN governor for getting involved wrongfully and joining forces to call for his arrest and removal from office. This action we sincerely regret and apologise.”

He went on: “This meeting was called to clear the air on our initial proposed plan to bring to halt activities in CBN headquarters and foreign missions in Nigeria not to grant asylum to Godwin Emefiele, and also to further declare him a persona non grata with hope of issuing a visa ban on him. Another call was for all northern leaders to go against the CBN governor and call for his immediate arrest based on allegations levied against him by the Department of State Service (DSS).

“Our unreserved apology is premised on superior arguments made available to us concerning activities and interventions of the CBN under the leadership of Godwin Emefiele. We by this, officially call off and seize all planned actions against the CBN and urge ither anti-CBN groups to join hands in supporting the creative and dynamic governor of CBN and his good policies. This should also serve as protection for him if the need arises as we discovered the allegations are trumped up charges aimed to sacrifice him for some section of political class. It should be noted that this action is not as a result of wrong information given about us in a press conference hurriedly put together by an unknown group but rather deep conviction of need to retrace our steps based on issues arising on our initial planned aganda.”

The President called on the DSS to allow CBN governor to perform his constitutional duties as well as respect court orders concerning his non arrest or intimidation, maintaining that political class must also allow public officers to work and not be distracted in any form.

“We respectfully urge the DSS to shield sword and work with the CBN governor so as to eradicate illicit financial flows in the country with great efficiency.” He added.

According to Gonzallo: “We need peace in our polity as we approach 2023 general elections. All political class are hereby warned to desist from fake news and blackmail as a way to ensure free, fair and credible elections come 2023. We frown at behavioural tendencies that would destabilise our democracy.”

This is fake. The IBB family has distanced itself from the Twitter account which happens to be a parody account.

https://abujareporters.com.ng/ibb-denies-fake-twitter-account-supporting-obasanjos-endorsement-of-obi/

PrinceOfLagos:
And they keep denying Tinubu from left right center


IBB just endorsed Chief Obasanjo endorsement of Peter Obi for President

Peter Obi is coming and Nigeria will surely be great again Insha Allah

2023: FCT, Middle Belt/Southern Caucus, adopts APGA Senatorial candidate, Dr Anthony as Anointed Candidate.


History was made in Abuja on Monday when residents of the territory from the middle belt and southern parts of the country, unanimously adopted the All Progressive Grand Alliance {APGA} senatorial contestant, Dr. Anthony Chike Ezekwugo as their preferred candidate for the senatorial seat in the Federal Capital Territory.

The adoption surprised many observers who regarded the move as unusual because LP members joined other politicians in the group to effectively sideline the Labour Party senatorial candidate, Mrs. Ireti Kingibe, who has contested the lone Senate seat four times now and placed the contestant in a very difficult position considering the percentage of votes from southern and middle belt residents that may now tilt the balance in favour of APGA.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, where the APGA candidate was presented to the public, the Chairman of the Middle Belt/Southern Concourse, Com. Olisa Uzoewulu [Wulus] stated that the decision to adopt Dr. Anthony as Middle Belt/Southern candidate for the FCT Senatorial election was made in the interest of equity, moral, ethical and social considerations.

“For the critical position of Senator of the FCT, we have declared our unalloyed and total support and adoption of the candidate of APGA, Dr. Anthony Chike Ezekwugo and our God driven preparedness to work, campaign and canvass for him.

“We so present him to the good people of the FCT and our decision which derives essentially from moral, ethical and social considerations are in tandem with our desire to restore the ethical base of FCT politics. In a nutshell, our decision was based on competence, exposure proven track record and the social contract agreement of fair representation predicated on the ideals of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory,” Wulus said.

The chairman, who was flanked by officials of the Concourse, LP and APGA members, stated also that the group has adopted Chinedu Obika for the Abuja North House of Representatives seat and Mrs. Joy Ohiomora as the candidate for the Abuja Southern Federal Constituency seat respectively.

The chairman however called on FCT voters to vote for the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi during the presidential election but to reserve their votes for the adopted candidates for the Senate and House of Representative elections each.

He stated that seating FCT National Assembly members who are also in the race for re-election have not done anything for the territory despite being there for several years and declared that voters should now make the decision to correct the wrong choice of the past years.