The candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the Edo Governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has congratulated the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who, today, Monday, August 3, clocks 57.
In a congratulatory message forwarded to Igbere TV signed by Mr. John Mayaki, the Chairman of the Edo APC Campaign Council, Pastor Ize-Iyamu eulogized Senator Omo-Agege as an impeccably honest and respectable politician who has always upheld the highest ideals, noting that his giant strides in the Senate have helped push the country forward in many respects.
The message read: “I felicitate with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the Obarisi of Urhobo Land and the Deputy President of the Senate, on the occasion of his 57th birthday.”
“Senator Omo-Agege is an illustrious lawyer and impeccably honest and respectable politician who has always upheld the highest ideals.”
“His giant strides in the Senate, and unyielding stand for justice, has pushed our country forward and helped passed important legislation necessary for the protection of rights and advancement in several respects.”
“I wish him more productive years in his altruistic service to humanity and pray that the Lord’s blessings and grace abide with him and his family.”
Barely six weeks to the September 19 Edo Governorship election, the Edo state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has witnessed massive resignation from his camp since he joined the PDP from the APC.
Igbere TV reports that the latest people to join the APC candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu are the Edo State House of Assembly deputy speaker, Rt. Hon. Yekini Ideiye and four others.
The candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the Edo Governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has received royal blessings from his High Royal Highness, Alhaji Aliru Momoh Ikelebe III, the Otaru of Auchi and the Vice-Chairman of the Edo State Council of Traditional Rulers.
Ize-Iyamu was at his Palace on Saturday alongside his running mate, Mallam Gani Audu, and other leaders of the APC to pay the traditional ruler homage as part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and officially deliver copies of his SIMPLE agenda manifesto, Igbere TV reports.
He said as one of the foremost Islamic traditional rulers in the country, the Otaru of Auchi holds an important position in Edo State, hence his visit to felicitate with him during Sallah and formally inform him of his governorship bid.
Ize-Iyamu praised the Otaru as a forward-thinking ruler with great love for his people.
He lamented the state government’s failure to take maximal advantage of the solid minerals deposited in Auchi and rising insecurity that has scared away investments, while assuring the ruler that as Governor, he will tackle the challenge of security and the erosion problems of the Auchi kingdom.
Receiving the candidate and his running mate, the traditional ruler commended him for the documentation of his promises in the SIMPLE agenda manifesto.
He advised him to keep his promises to the people if elected, stating that truth and justice are important values that leaders must display to bring peace and development.
He recounted some of the contributions of Ize-Iyamu’s running mate, Mallam Gani Audu, as Local Council Chairman and offered prayers and blessings for the candidate.
The Otaru was joined by other traditional rulers including HRH Alhaji Ali Suleiman, The Ogeagah of Three Ibies and prominent Islamic leaders such as the Sadiq of Auchi, Alhaji Saliu Ahmed, and Dr. Sani Jimoh, Chairman of the Muslim support group for the APC Campaign.
Our correspondent reports that APC leaders on Ize-Iyamu’s entourage included Engr. Lawrence Okah, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon, Hon. Lucky James, Olusola Oke (SAN), and former trade union leader, Comrade Peter Esele.
Popular cleric, Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, better known as Odumeje ‘The Lion’, founder of Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, has declared that only the Igbos can fix Nigeria’s economy.
Prophet Odumeje made the declaration on Saturday in Abia when he paid a visit to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Senate Chief Whip and former Governor of Abia State, at his Camp Neya residence in Igbere, Igbere TV reports.
Igbere TV reports that the controversial Onitsha-based cleric, arrived Kalu’s hometown at exactly 2pm. He was accompanied, on the visit, by members of his church.
Odumeje, upon sighting Kalu, entertained the senator with his dramatic moves and slangs. He also expressed happiness for gaining access to Kalu after several attempts.
His visit comes days after Kalu made first entrance into the Southeast following his release from Kuje custodial centre. It also comes as several groups and individuals are throwing weight behind Kalu to emerge as Nigeria’s president in the 2023 presidential election.
Speaking on 2023 and the Igbo presidency, during the visit, Prophet Odumeje declared that Orji Kalu is qualified and competent enough to lead Nigeria.
His exact words, “It is our time, it is our time. Kalu, where we are now is competent enough to lead Nigeria ..., to take over the position [of Nigeria’s president] in 2023.
“We have the leaders. Only an Igbo [man] can resuscitate the economy of Nigeria, we are the ones that will handle it. We are the ones that will make the economy of Nigeria to be good, and enjoyable.”
The controversial Onitsha-based cleric also declared that the Igbo presidency in 2023 was a divine mandate and a moving train, adding that, “and nothing can stop it.”
Responding, the visibly elated Senator Orji Kalu thanked Prophet Odumeje for finding time to visit him, with a promise of a return visit to the cleric during his tour to Onitsha in earnest.
Some family members of Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state, has endorsed Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the September 19 Edo Governorship election.
Igbere TV reports that the endorsement took place on Saturday at a meeting of select prominent members of the Obaseki family with the APC candidate, in Benin City.
Even though their family member, the Governor, is seeking re-election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Family said they have chosen to pitch tenth with Ize-Iyamu.
The Obaseki delegation was led by Mr. Osaro and Victor Obaseki on the endorsement visit.
In their words, “Generally, the Obasekis have their own way of doing things.
“The different branches of the Obaseki family, we are supporting our brother, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
“We will do all our campaigns for him fully, without let or hindrance.”
Reacting, the APC candidate said, “Like the Governor’s aides and appointees, members of his family agree that he has failed Edo people and doesn’t deserve re-election.”
“I’m very grateful to them for their courage and selflessness. They have even gone ahead to produce and donate beautiful face caps as a demonstration of their love and support.
“It takes great love for State and the people to make such brave decision to sideline all sentiments and ties and back the better candidate.
“I’m not going to disappoint them and millions of Edo people at home and in the diaspora who, daily, reaffirm their support,” Ize-Iyamu added.
Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has congratulated the new Chairman and Commissioners of the Federal Character Commission on their recent appointment and swearing in by President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a statement made available to Igbere TV by Dr. Iboko Imo Iboko, Special Adviser to the Governor on Strategy and Planning, he urged the Commission to pursue the fulfilment of her mandates with devotion and commitment.
Igbere TV recalls that Dr. Muheeba Farida Dankaka was recently appointed and sworn in as Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, in Abuja.
Governor Ikpeazu said if the Commission’s principles were adhered to in all recruitments by Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government and in the siting of infrastructural facilities and socio-economic amenities in Nigeria, there would be absolute satisfaction in the country and “nobody would care about where the Chief Executive comes from, as long as everything was done equitably.”
He said that equitable distribution of amenities has always been the guiding principles of his administration in Abia State and pledged that the State would continue to cooperate with the Federal Character Commission to ensure that it fulfils her mandate creditably.
He, therefore, charged the new Commissioner representing Abia State in the Commission, Hon. Henry Ogbulogo, to endeavour to protect the interests of Abia State in the Commission at all times.
Dr. Katchi Ononuju, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party and Director General of the Heritage Centre, Abuja, has called on the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi to immediately resign.
Ononuju made the call on Friday when he appeared on a programme monitored by Igbere TV on the African Independent Television (AIT) network, in Abuja.
The call for Amaechi’s resignation comes following the revelation by the House of Representatives that Nigeria risks losing sovereignty to China over a clause in the Agreement of a 2018 Chinese loan taken by the federal government.
The transportation minister had defended the loan, asking the Nigerian parliament to stop the probe into the loans, else, the Chinese government may withdraw the offer.
On AIT, however, Dr. Ononuju accused Amaechi of “perpetrating a fraud” with Chinese loans under the guise of securing funds for Nigeria's railway projects, Igbere TV reports.
He accused Amaechi of entering into agreement with the Chinese government, writing documents in Chinese language and deliberately withholding the information from Nigeria.
“I have it on good authority that the Chinese authority are targeting the NLNG(Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas). That's what they want”, he alleged.
The PDP chieftain insisted “Amaechi wants to sell Nigeria to China. For how much? $400m? The same $400m Buhari got back from the Abacha loot?
“My party, the PDP will never allow this to happen. We did business with the Chinese government and we never wrote an agreement to give away our sovereignty.
“This clause was hidden, there were no prints that were actually written in English. It was when we took the papers to interpret that we now discovered that somewhere, somehow, the government signed off Nigeria to give our sovereignty to China.
“The Chinese government are planning to take over our NLNG, that is what it is. They will not touch our military, or diplomatic assets but the NLNG,” he alleged.
A young man identified simply as Kingsley, was allegedly shot dead by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) from FCT Command, Abuja.
Igbere TV gathered that Kingsley was trying to rescue a male drunk, Tuesday, near a shop opposite the DSS quarters, Sharp Corner, Mararaba.
The incident led to uproar by some residents of the community in Nasarawa State, who expressed dissatisfaction over the killing of the young man.
The deceased was said to have been shot while trying to resuscitate the drunk but was quizzed by the DSS operatives in the process.
Argument was said to have ensued between Kingsley and the DSS operatives. Despite pleading innocent, the operatives refused to let him go.
He was said to have been chased from the spot where the drunk was to Ebenezer Primary School, before he was shot from behind.
An eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the incident to Igbere TV Friday morning. He berated the DSS operatives for killing the young man.
“I and some others who were at a provision shop saw what was happening and quickly explained to the DSS operatives that Kingsley was only trying to help the drunk man,” he said.
Police Officer Cuts Wife's Leg Over Cold Meal In Lagos, Says Nothing Will Happen
A serving police officer with the Lagos state command, Mr. Sunday Gabriel, alias Woko, has allegedly inflicted various degrees of injuries on his wife over a meal at their Lagos residence located at Oseni street, Akera-Delemo, Igbere TV reports.
According to the Women of Inestimable Values Foundation (WIVF), a non-governmental organisation that fights against marital violence, injustice and violence against women and children, the incident happened Wednesday evening.
In a chat with Igbere TV on Thursday, the Foundation, which has since taken up the case, said Mr. Gabriel is going about threatening to ‘deal with his wife’ at will as nothing can be done to him being a police officer.
The WIVF representative said Mrs. Gabriel is afraid to speak up for fear of being punished by her ‘violent husband’. She is also scared that the matter may go unresolved if reported.
Our source said the assault has been going on for a very long time as officer Gabriel is not a first-time abuser and actor in domestic violence.
According to our source, “Yesterday, the wife returned from work where she sells second-hand cloths because the man does not give her money for upkeep. She served her husband dinner and was inside her room when the he called out to her that the food was cold and needed to be reheat.
“She answered and was about going to get the foods from the dinning when the husband pounced on her with a machete and stick, 'next time when I call you, learn to jump up immediately’...”
Exclusive pictures obtained by Igbere TV Thursday afternoon shows that Mrs Gabriel sustained various degrees of injuries during the said attack. She had a deep cut on her limbs.
Officer Gabriel, however, denied attacking his wife when Igbere TV reached out to him to hear his own side of the story. He had insisted on knowing our source which we declined.
Similarly, when contacted by Igbere TV correspondent, the victim Mrs Gabriel neither denied or affirmed the assault on her by her husband. She was with her husband as at the time of call.
Mrs. Gabriel, whose husband mandated to speak to us through his mobile phone, however, promised to get back to our correspondent using her phone when it's convenient.
She was, however, yet to do so as at the time of filing this report. A close source to the family said the woman was scared as the husband has repeatedly warned her from addressing the press.
Mrs Gabriel currently has four children (a boy, and three girls) for her violent policeman-husband.
A graduate of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Mark J. Ngene, has faulted the claims that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State promised scholarship to one Gabriel Nwodo at the 17th Convocation of ESUT in 2016.
In a statement made available to Igbere TV on Monday, in Enugu, Ngene described the report as “misleading and baseless”, saying the “wicked lies and blackmail against the Enugu governor, aimed at achieving a selfish ends must stop.”
“This trumped-up story was first peddled by one Ike Aguata, who alleged that a friend of his Gabriel Nwodo (whom he said scored the highest CGPA of 4.81/50 in the history of ESUT), told him that the Enugu State Governor “announced that the state government will place him on scholarship for his Masters degree in any university of his choice around the world,” he said.
“I wish to state categorically that I was one of the graduands at the said Convocation and there was never a time the Governor made such announcement.
“Because of the gravity of this allegation, which I know was deliberately peddled by Gabriel Nwodo and his traducers to seek cheap attention and mischievously coerce the state government to grant him scholarship without following due process, I had to ask some of my classmates present at the event, and they also said that the governor did not announce award of scholarship to anybody.
“This act of mischief undermines the genuine efforts of Governor Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi’s administration in offering scholarship to indigent students of the state as well as those who have performed excellently in their academic endeavours.
“Consequently, it is on record that the present administration has taken the issue of scholarship awards more serious than the past governments.
“This led to the transformation of the State Scholarship Board headed by Barr. Levi Abonyi”, Mr. Ngene insisted.
He noted that the Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi-led administration had awarded scholarship to the following:
“1. 340 indigent students of Iwollo Polytechnic.
2. 340 indigent students of IMT, Enugu.
3. 300 indigent Enugu indigenes spread across the country who were offered scholarships from 2nd year to final year.
4. 22 indigent Enugu students who were sent to study medical courses in India.
5. 246 Law School Students who were paid 100k bursary allowance.
6. Miss Ali who was awarded scholarship having come first in WAEC exam.
7. Miss Nneoma who was offered scholarship to university level owing to the maltreatment by her guardians.
8. Students of Imilike Girls secondary school who were offered scholarships.”
Ngene, therefore, advised Nwodo to “follow due process and seek scholarship from Enugu State Government”, which he said he believes will be granted him, rather than “embarking on an act of mischief that will not fetch him any good.”
The Benin nation has produced several notable personalities who has brought outstanding fame and recognition to the ancient kingdom.
Without much deliberation and racking of the head, it is lucidly evident that Capt (Dr) Idahosa Wells Okunbo popularly known as Captain Hosa is one of those prominent persons in the present milieu.
Captain Hosa is a detribalised illustrious Benin man whose recognition and acceptance span across the different countries of the globe.
He is a commercial pilot, a selfless philanthropist and a business tycoon whose investments span across the petroleum industry, agriculture, real estate and etcetera.
It is important to note that while managing his personal businesses judiciously, he is also a philanthropist who derives joy and happiness in helping others grow and succeed. He has also been widely recognised both here in Nigeria, and outside the confines of this country.
Just about a year ago, he received the Global Peace Award in Geneva Switzerland, for his commitment to peace and nation building. Also in March 2017, he was named the business man of the year at the Vanguard personality of the year awards. There are too many awards credited to Captain Hosa, the crown of it all, in October 2014, the then Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa gifted him with the traditional beads for being a worthy son of the Benin nation.
Captain Hosa has given total and complete support to successive governments in Edo state, using his influence to bring massive investments to the state and providing economic and commercial solutions to the problems in the state, thereby creating employment opportunities for Edo people.
Captain as an elder-stateman that he is, has continued to maintain a position of neutrality in successive elections while throwing his weight behind the eventual winner in the best interest of the state.
Captain is a man of honour and respect who has shown high regards for traditional institutions, and government as an institution for running the affairs of the state and it's people. He has shown on several occasions, his dedication and commitment to the upliftment of Edo state and the Edo people without sentiment and bias.
Captain Hosa is a worthy Edo son that deserves the utmost respect for his contribution to the Edo nation and therefore every form of attacks on his personality should be condemned. Those who are playing politics for their immediate pecuniary gains should not tarnish the hardly built reputation of a worthy Benin son for the sole purpose of an election that is coming and will soon go.
Senate Chief Whip, Senator (Dr.) Orji Uzor Kalu, MON has made his first entrance to the Southeast two months after his release from prison, Igbere TV reports.
Igbere TV reports that Senator Kalu arrived the domestic wing of the Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri at exactly 1:32pm via a private jet.
The former Abia governor’s last visit to the Southeast was in October 2019. His visit is coming days after the National Assembly went on eight-week recess to resume September 15.
Igbere TV reports that Senator Orji Kalu with retinue of his aides arrived the airport Monday afternoon in company of friends and associates.
The Chief Whip was received by representatives of the Imo State government, Abia state bipartisan party leaders, members of the Abia State House of Assembly, leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youths, leadership of different social cultural groups among others.
Thousands of supporters were seen wearing branded facemasks outside the airport, apparently awaiting to welcome the Abia North Senator home.
Earlier, the Office of the Senate Chief Whip had issued a directive appealing to well wishers and supporters to respect the COVID-19 regulations and avoid gatherings to celebrate his homecoming.
Kalu’s triumphant entry, beginning of journey to reclaim Abia from PDP, says APC
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia has described the triumphant entry of Kalu into Abia, “as beginning of the journey towards reclaiming the state” from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a statement made available to Igbere TV by the publicity secretary, Comrade Benedict Godson, the APC said, “In our part of the world, we so much believe in destiny. It’s so real that when it starts manifesting, we can’t help but say it’s God’s doing.
“It’s written in the sky and it’s obvious in the minds of men that Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu is a man destined to do great things.
“The Bible, our holy book in Numbers 23:8 also made it clear that any man whom God has blessed, no man can curse such a man.
“So today, after the much failed efforts made to curse q man whom God has already blessed, that man is coming in to take his rightful place as our leader.
“He’s the APC leader in the South East of Nigeria, he’s Abia State political leader no matter the party you belong and he’s the man whom everybody give the respect as Abia Original leader.
“Many people not just those in APC have been calling upon him to come and take what rightfully belongs to him and they’ll not be disappointed because he’s coming.
“For us in APC, today is the beginning of us reclaiming a state that we sincerely know we can do better and make better for our people.
“The triumphant entry of Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu today into Abia is a mark of a new beginning because the breeze of change will take over from today in Abia.
“We welcome him and we urge him to take his rightful place as we all will always follow where he leads.”
The Edo State Media Campaign Council of the APC for the governorship election has accused Governor Godwin Obaseki and his party, the PDP, of unleashing violence on the people in Benin City following a confrontation in which the Governor was booed while trying to gain entrance into the palace of the Oba of Benin.
The Chairman of the Media Campaign Council, Mr. John Mayaki, in a statement made available to Igbere TV, said “the Governor instructed his thugs to attack the people as retribution for their public booing of his arrival with various chants labeling him a thief and rejected candidate and for spurning his rally allegedly attended by tax-collectors and mobilized thugs.”
He also accused the Governor and his loyalists of destroying their own billboards at few locations in the State as a gimmick to deflect responsibility and get a reprieve for the alleged organized destruction of APC billboards after the party filed a petition with the Police and other relevant agencies.
He said: “It is sad that Mr. Godwin Obaseki, the outgoing Governor of Edo State, has, today, Saturday, July 25, displayed the same traits of intolerance and penchant for violence that made the people of Edo State unanimously reject him.”
“Booed by the people at the entrance of the Palace of our great Oba for handing the State to the PDP tax collectors who are unconscionably feasting on our collective patrimony, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, as an act of revenge, instructed the thugs and cultists he has spent the past few weeks recruiting in the State and beyond to attack the people with dangerous arms.”
“This criminal and heartless action not only affirms our repeated warnings that Mr. Godwin Obaseki fully intends to prosecute the election with violence and thuggery, but it also shows his lack of empathy, conscience, and respect for the lives and dignity of the people he was elected to serve.”
“His thugs have presently invaded the State Capital, unleashing mayhem to anyone perceived to be critical of the failed Governor or supportive of our party and candidate. After converging at the venue of the Governor's campaign flag-off, they have poured into the streets, vandalizing properties and causing panic. We have heard unconfirmed reports of fatal injuries.”
“Furthermore, as a way to avoid responsibility and expected sanction for the undemocratic and criminal destruction of our billboards, the Governor’s thugs are going around the city, deliberately pulling down their own billboards in an orchestrated gimmick meant to portray the false impression of “violence on both sides” when in truth, the desperate Governor, in cahoots with his PDP godfathers, are the ones threatening the peace of the State.”
“We condemn this action in totality and demand immediate intervention by the Police and other security agencies. Our party, the APC, has built an effective campaign on the strength of our documented manifesto. Tellingly, on the back of four years of no achievement, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has neither a plan nor record of office to show, hence the resort to violence and thuggery.”
“We call on the Inspector General of Police and all well-meaning Nigerians to immediately rein in on Mr. Godwin Obaseki and begin the arrest of his recruited thugs who are committed to causing chaos and violence in a bid to prevent the people, who have already voiced their rejection of Obaseki, from participating in the election freely and without intimidation.”
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, his counterparts in Sokoto and Rivers States, Aminu Tambuwal and Nyesom Wike led other guests on a courtesy visit to the Palace of Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, ahead of the flag-off of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s campaign for re-election in the September 19, 2020 Governorship poll in Edo State.
Igbere TV reports that other governors who were in the state for the flag-off include Duoye Diri, Seyi Makinde and Sen. Bala Muhammed of Bayelsa, Oyo and Bauchi States respectively.
Other guests at the event include Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi; National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus; Chairman of DAAR Communications, Raymond Dokpesi; Chief Tom Ikimi; Sen. Clifford Ordia and Barr. Ken Imasuagbon, among others.
The event is taking place at the Lawn Tennis Court of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, with “strict compliance with coronavirus (COVID-19) directives issued by the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for public gatherings.”
The Chairman of the Edo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Campaign Council and Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has urged Edo people to cast their votes for Governor Godwin Obaseki and equally protect the votes in the Sept. 19 Edo Governorship election.
Igbere TV reports that Governor Wike, who spoke at the flag-off of Governor Obaseki’s campaign for re-election, noted: "The All Progressives Congress (APC), for me, does not have any credible candidate. Also, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, according to the sacked National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, is a thief.”
He thanked Obaseki for his “interest in Edo people” which he said made him “fight godfatherism in the state to a standstill.”
"Don't allow your votes to be rigged as APC believes in rigging. I want to assure you this time that this election will be difficult to rig. South-South is for PDP and Edo belongs to PDP. Edo people should not allow Edo to be rigged. I urge you to defend your votes and ensure Obaseki is returned for a second term to continue his good works in the state,” he added.
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, was “embarrassed” on Saturday at the Oba of Benin Palace after his convoy was partially blocked by angry residents, Igbere TV reports.
Igbere TV reports that the angry residents numbering in hundreds, publicly booed and disparaged the Governor as a thief.
Obaseki was reportedly at the Palace for royal blessings as he flagged off his campaign as candidate of the PDP in the Governorship election.
Upon sighting his convoy, the angry mob of protesters confronted the Governor with chants of “ole (thief)”, demanding that he be denied access to the Palace.
It took the intervention of security agencies - who fired into the air - to keep the situation under control. Some protesters were said to have sustained injury in the process.
Igbere TV however gathered that the governor and few leaders of the PDP including Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State were finally able to access the Palace to see the Oba.
The Abia-born entrepreneur, Miss Prosper Chidinma Erem, who was recently honoured with Leather Works Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprise (MSME) national merit award, has met with Hon. Benjamin Kalu, member representing Bende Federal Constituency of Abia state.
Igbere TV reports that Miss Erem, creative director of Proach Shoes, Aba, was on Thursday at the National Assembly office of Hon. Kalu, who doubles as Reps spokesperson, to present the Federal Government merit award she recently bagged.
Speaking with Igbere TV over the visit, Miss Erem described Hon. Benjamin Kalu as her role model, which she said informed of her decision to present and show the award to the lawmaker.
The federal lawmaker, on his part, promised to become Proach Shoes brand ambassador, pledging to give all the necessary assistance needed for Erem to succeed, and within his reach.
The visibly elated Reps spokesperson could not hold back his excitement as he expressed joy at what the Abia young lady is doing. Proach shoe is domiciled in Aba, Abia State.
Hon. Kalu further pledged to preach and market Proach Shoes to other members of the House of Representatives including the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.
Miss Erem and her team could not hold back their joy as Hon. Kalu displayed humility and willingness to help them grow and achieve more as young entrepreneurs.
“For Proach Shoes, this is just the beginning of good things to come,” the brand’s creative director and awardee, Miss Chidinma Erem told Igbere TV, in Abuja.
Reacting, a Southeastern political observer said, “his(Ben Kalu) kind and comfortable acceptance of lady Erem and her team was top notch and a reminder of 'Nwanne di na mba' mantra.”
Miss Erem is a native of Ohafia in Abia State. She has been to Cairo, Egypt to showcase her brand and leather works in the Intra-Africa Trade fair. The shoemaker girl will be embarking on a 75-day TV reality show christened ‘ThinkNaijaTV’ in August, 2020.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has named Major General Cecil Esekaigbe, a retired officer of the Nigerian Army, as Director-General (DG) of its Campaign Council for the Sept. 19 Governorship election.
The party, in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Wednesday, in Benin City, also named a former Edo deputy governor Chief Lucky Imasuen, as deputy DG, and former lawmaker Pally Iriase as secretary.
Former Rep member Samson Osagie was named Edo South Coordinator with Dr. Christopher Adesotu as deputy; Patrick Ikhariale as Edo Central coordinator with Larry Aghedo as deputy; and Hon. Stanley Okpo Odidi as Edo North coordinator with Hon. Anselm Agbabi as deputy.
A statement sent to Igbere TV via mail issued by Mr. John Mayaki, Communications Director of the Campaign Council, said the committee would be inaugurated today at the Campaign Office of the party's candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, at noon.
Igbere TV reports that the Edo State Governorship election holds September 19 with the APC candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu and incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as leading candidates.
Other campaign directorates of the Edo APC and its members include;
Administration and ICT
Mr. Tom Eshemogie Hon. Ken Ihienseken Ukato Thomas Jemitola Aanena John Okojie Kabiru Idris Erhauyi Alred Iyekekpolo Wahab Aliagbor Mathew Imelo Benjamin Emmanuel Sylvester Edokpolor Promise Muoneke Rhodwel Ikekwame
Election Strategy, Research and Planning
Gideon Obhakhan Hon. Paul Ohonbamu Hon. Ugbo Desmond Hon. Abdul Oroh High Chief Abu Oloye Prof. Oba Kashetu Ilavbare Chief Richard Lamai Hon. Joseph Ugheoke Hon. Osaro Obazee Prof. Marcel Okhakhu Hon. Tony Osazuwa Pauline Itepu Ekpenisi Omorotionmwan Hon. Bright Osayande Hon. Ogbejielie Fidelis Hon. Ihensekhen Ken Dr Bright Ederibhalo Dr. Arc Augustin Ileme Emuan Isesele Edeghonghon Andrew Adams John Osakue Isere Felix Pius Alile Agho Martins Shaibu Elama Robert Okoineme Peter Oba { Spetcogee} Blessing Agbomere Chief Naboya To Go Lagos Chief Martins Momoh MM Henry Idahagbon Rt. Hon Aisoweren Mr. Ikhinwin Sunny Hon. Victor Ekhator Hon. Sunny Idahagbon Prince Akeem Zibiri Sam Oboh Vitalis Eshokhena Prince Daniel Obade Rt. Hon. David Iyoha Stephen Alao Prof. Momoh Bernard Aghama Orobor Henry Owen Amadin Owas Amayo Imariabe Christopher Hon. Boroni Omijie Henry Omoruyi Osayande Nosa Influence Osagie Eboigbe Monday Onoquekhian Actor Omorodion Solomon Otikila Johnson Ausheyi Sanni Mr. Oshokha Ethuakhor
Contact and Mobilisation
Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh Barr. Henry Idahagbon Garrick Osemwingie Alh. Casius Ibrahim Hon. Rasak Bello Osagie Victor Madujimu Hon. Saidu Oshiomhole Hon. Patrick Aguinede Alh. Abubakar Akohia Chief Lucky James Macdonald Obasuke Hon. Sam Oboh Peter Omorodion Hon. Rowland Alari Nosa Ekunwe Hon. Festus Ebea Augustine Evbakhavbokun Chief Mathew Ehigie Mr. Etin-Osa Igiebor Dr. Rowland Aigbogun Hon. Henry Igbinidun Chief Wilson Ogieva Chief Wisdom Ogbewe Isah Omozuapo Emmanuel Iyase Hon. Osarobo Idehen Hon. Bright Omoiyekemwen Benjamin Salami Evang. Rosemary Elawure Philip Edo-Omo Emmanuel Ogbomo Rasaki Rotimi Osaretin Bello Mr. JT Olawole Hon. Folly Akerejola Hon. Chris Ebare Hon. Anslem Adima Prince Odi Okojie Prof. Moses Momoh Eugina Abdulah Barr Augustine Atakpu Alh. Tanko Ileogben Alh. Kasimu Ozeto Alh. Abdulganiyu Lawani Hon. Ambrose Imoode Sir. Raphael Aruna Hon. Folly Ogenedegbe Hon. Ogbejiele Fidelis Engr. Ayemere Obehi Hon. Sunny Ogbewe Mrs. Ameh Ogbemudia U. Hon. Mrs Itohan Ogbeide Hon. Clifford Inegbedion Hon. Bright Omokhodion Barr. Emmanuel Omokhimoh Hon. Patrick Osayimwen Madam Mabel Adams Chief Kenneth Oteghekpen Hon. Mrs Omorede Osifo Marshal Hon. Chris Okaeben Hon. Osaretin Edosomwan Hon. Samson Esemuede Hon. Sweet Aghogho Raphael Tenebe Hayat Asunogie Suleiman Yamah Ricky Aburime Barr. Chief Ikilo Agheyere Osayamen Alh. Yusuf Bako Hon. Godwin Eshieshi Efe Anthony Isah Muhammad Bello Mr. Nosa Igbinedion Mr Kolade Ikheafa Mr. Ebenezer Oladele Mr. Nosa Eghareva Mr. Gregory Akpasubi Mr. Edokpolor Idahosa Mr. Kelvin Orhue Mr. Mr Stephen Omoregbe Mr. John Oamen Mr. Efosa Isibor Chief Emma Iyase Galatian Igbinidion Prince Abubakar Oare Mrs. Agartha Ifeloa Ehimegbe Farouk Esene Wilfred lsaiah Okungbowa Francis Ubene Chief Bar Ikhilo A O Ikponmwonsa I.K Ebomoyi Chief Francis Obomonyi George Idehen Ken Okosun Solomon Ayedo Hon. Becky Sule
Communication and Publicity
Rt. Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon John Mayaki Chris Azebamwan
Finance
Sen. Francis Alimikhena Charity Amayaenvbo Hon. Larry Aghedo Taju Omoruyi Frank Okoyo Hon. Bright Omokhodion Dr Mary Idele Alile Barr Bisi Idaomi Hon. Chris Ebare Mrs Rosemary Osunbor Ayo Iriaye Golder Osikhena Anamero Dekeri (Danco) Omo Odihiri Abu Momodu Victor Eboigbe Larry Aghedo Emmanuel Usoh Deacon Patrick Idiake Monday Okpebholo Hajia Mariam Abubakar Alh. Saliu Ahmed Osigbeme Omoche Esohe Adams Donald Osa Edokpolo Tony Uwaifo Chief Richard Lamai
Women Mobilisation
Mrs. Betty Okoebor Mrs. Mariam Jubril Mrs. Inumidun Ereku Dr. Mrs Tawa Idubor Mrs. Dora Okogie Mrs. Agbarah Tina O. Halimary Alpoh Lady Patience Osawaru Mrs Maureen Ekhoragbon Mrs Zuliat Bello Osagie Pst. Jossy Ehis Hajia Zaliha Yusuf Queen Imasogie Hajia Charity Musa Gladys Daniels Ichibor Margaret Mrs Emike Obazee Hajia Zainab Meg Ebohon Mrs Ruth Diaga
Diaspora Affairs
Frank Okoyo Udomo Izobe Sunday Ekpetika Crosby Eribo Hon. Mike Ohio-Ezomon Adetutu Owolabi Chief Felix Omorodion Dr. Abu Zekeri Dr. Charles Omorodion Chief Billy Osawaru Frank Guobadia
Transport and Logistics
Chief Frank Erewele Chris Dirisu George Idehen Otinomo Blessing Dirisu Shaka Momodu Larry Imoukhede Barr. Ahmed Waziri Ikeke Yanki Suleiman Bagudu Shaibu Momodu Osahon Edigin Frank Omo Arewa Bawa Busari Alh. A.K Saidu Mall. Ukashat Sulaiman Barr. Mike Afealeokhai Abdulrasheed Usman Iyobosa Irughe Osarodion Ibizugbe Peter Ogun Adia Jude Joe Aisedion Baron Mike Ahmed Musa Friday Osaigbovo Benjamin Erhahon
Physically Challenged
Ovenseri Iduoze Mrs. Osamede Aghedo Paul Balogun Henry Ebose
Special Duties
Chief Francis Inegbeneki Hon. Yakubu .O. Musa Emperor Jareth Tenebe Chief Osakpawan Eriyo Nomoless Comrade Adun Tony Kabaka Abu Agbor Hon. Victor Edoror Hon. Osaro Idehen Otutu Osayende Samik Akor Hon. Osarobo Idehen Comrade Osarobo Idahosa Victor Ekhator S. Dada Ogie Hon. Dumez Ugiagbe Hon. Isimeme Iriogbe Hon. Reginald Okun Galant Godfrey Ogbomo Anslem Agbabi Sam Oboh Isimeme Iriogbe Omoike Romeo Edward Imanobe Hon. Robert Okubor Shaba Ehis Adams Hon. Dumez Ugiagbe Jerry Egbon Hon. Okpafi Mohammed Hon. Dan Asekhamen Dr. Mayor Onyebueke Athanasius Ugbome Mr. MacDonald Obasuke Pascal Ogie Frank Izuage Calistus Ojiko Chris Igechi Ikegune Emmanuel Ikpella Nicholas Sedi Tony Otsu Martins Okhai Hon Ken Oseghale Andrew Igiri Osayi Ekundaye Uche Chukwuka Austine Iribhogbe Hon. Barr. Henry Itseuwa Owen Obaseki Friday Amasigho
Medical and Welfare
Prof. David Osifo Dr. Festus Efe Momoh Musa Dr. Tom Imafidon Princess Bidy Omolime Tomsek Asekhauno Dr. Philip Ugbodaga Suleiman Mustapha Enakhe Ms Hope Iyare Agie Joseph Osa Philip A Osakwe Hon Dauda Abu Dr. Owen Omoregbe Dr. Mrs. Tawa Idubor Mrs. Ife Bello Osagie Pharm. Osas Asemota
CSOs and NGOs
Prof. Julius Ihonvhere Mike Igaga Taiwo Akerele Kola Edokpayi Shaka Momodu Marcel Imoisili Hon. Vincent Uwadae Inegbenebo Bello Aigbogun Sunny Esq. Hon. Elizabeth Ativie Comrade Gideon Akpata Osasu Osenbor Solomon Okoduwa Wilson Ogbachi
Youths and Students mobilisation
Hon Dennis Idahosa Emmanuel Asuen Engr. Gabriel Iduseri Hon. Uyi Ekhosuehi Yakubu Emmanuel Stanley Ayetan Victoria Okhai Uwadia Daniel Henshaw Oligbi Ahmed Johnson Philip Idowu Jigba Benjamin Suleiman Johnson Iyamu Abdulrauf Abubakar Ojo John Osayomore Amahdin Amos Cole Western Iyamu Abu Lamidi Faustine Ovienrioba Blessing O. Dirisu Iredia Agbonaye Martins Agomini Evans Agboneye Aledeh Houdu Emmanuel Aliu Dr. Felix Obaitan Tinyan Otuomagie
Security
Gen. Alfred Ilogho CP Nosa Ojo Rtd. Col. Tony Igbanor CP Augustine Evbakhavbokun Capt. Isaac Osagie Rtd Capt. Mike OKhomina Rtd Major Osawonyi Ekunwe Capt. Itsede Philip Austine Asenoguan SP Rtd Frank Ogundeze
Protocol and Venue
Omorede Marshal Osifo Efosa Iyamu Eduwa Paul Daniel Eronmonsele Pikolo Kingsley Ugabi Michael Okojie Mr. Mechi Momodu Oakumhe Saliu Jimoh Edebiri Osamede Jabiru Momodu Giwa Aroyame Vincent Imonike Aigbona Faith Iribhogie Shaibu Momodu Thaddeus Isikuenede Thomas Henry Ifidon Itakpu Prince Dauda Jerry Ikuoria Roland Igbadumhe James Osheku Mr. Idowu Maleke Prince Anakhu Dauda Steve Adepoju Adesuwa Arigbe
Legal Team
Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa Hon. Washington Osifo Hon. Eric Okaka Rt Hon. Thomas Okosun Prof. Edoba Omoregie Barr Louis Ojomon Barr Ofen-Imu Richard Barr Nosa Osemwenkhae Barr I. G. Edewi Barr. Mamoud Afegbua Barr. Donald Boi Osikhena Barr. Emmanuel Dada Ajegba Barr. Paul Omoike Barr. Hope Iyare Barr. Jonathan Iyobhebhe Okoror Stephen Esq. Godson Hayioye Hon. Barrister Henry Itseuwa Prof. O.G. Izevbuwa Barr. Kamarudeen Bello Barr. Patrick Biose Barr. Shola Iyogun
Muslim Support Group
Mallam Suleman Momoh HRH Alhaji Bako Ebiredelu Dogwo JP Abdulsallam Muhammad Inusa Adepoju Ahmed Ilias Anidu Abdulwahab Abdul Geniyu Momodu Abdul Lateef Momodu Shakiru Ajose Ahmad Shobowale Osas Aliyu Umweni Isah Mohammed Bello Sule Dauda Abdulazeez Aruna Oseni Eronmosele Muhammed Otokiti Shehu Seriki Sarahaisu Usman Abdulfatai Jayode Aishat Sani Mariam Idris Alhasan Abdulaziz Abubakar Isah Ustaz Surajudeen Muhammad Alh. Hakeem Aliu
Monitoring and Evaluation
Mika Amanokha Abu Meepata Ukanah Ojo Paul Alaba Lawani Dr. Obasogie Friday Prince Ehioze Erediauwa Okomayin Ojo Steve Ihensieken Ighodaro Emmanuel Usoh Obende Kenneth Barr. Patrick Biose Patrick Idiake Mahmud Ahmed Bar Monday Eboigbe Idris Kabiru Barr. Shola Iyogun Odigie Uwadia
Elders council
H.E Dr Pius Odubu Engr. Chris Ogienwonyi Gen. Charles Airhiavbere H.E Chief Lucky Imasuen Gen. Cecil Esekaigbe Prince Clem Agba Sen. Francis Alimikhena Rev. Peter Obadan Rt. Hon. Peter Akpatason Prof Julius Athekame Mr. Tony Uwaifo Rt. Hon. Johnny Oghuma Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa Hon. Patrick Aisowieren Col David Imuse Hon Lawrence Okah Mrs Betty Okoebor Benson Hon Benson Edosonwan Prince Malik Afegbua Rt. Hon. E.J. Agbonayiman Chief Solomon Edebiri Chief Francis Inegbeneki Barr Henry Idahagbon Rt. Hon Abubakar Momoh Rt. Hon. Pally Iriase Prince Tony Omoaghe Prof Ebegue Amadasun Victor Eboigbe Hon. Abbas Braimah Hon. Osaro Obazee Samson Esemuede Gen. Shuaibu Garba Gen. Abu Amodu
Christian Support Group
Bishop Iyobosa O.C Atoe Rev. Dr. Peter Obadan Rev. Collins Okonofua Rev. Sylvester Osagie Micheal Akpata (KSM) Rev. Samuel K. Ajayi Pastor Emmanuel Idung Deacon Richard Aburime Rev. Dr. Francis Okhale Bishop Godwin Iyebhobun Bishop James Onebamoi Pastor Joshua Airenukho Rev. Emmanuel Ogbomwan Rev. Sylvester Atsegor Rev. Efosa Awenaghawon Pastor Moses Iyobhebhe Maxwell Aigbe Pastor Mike Erhunmwunse
South East members of the National Assembly from the governing party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday evening met at Abuja, Igbere TV reports.
The meeting which was held at the residence of the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu had all the members of the South East APC in the Senate and House of Representatives in attendance.
The members in no order of hierarchy were: Former Governor of Imo state and Senator representing Imo West Senatorial zone, Owelle Rochas Okorocha; Chief Whip of the Senate and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu; Deputy Majority Whip of the House of Representatives and member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon Nkeiruka Onyejiocha; Spokesman of the House of Representatives and member representing Bende Federal Constituency, Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
Others were: Member representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, Comrade Chinedu Ogah; Member representing Okigwe South, Hon.Chike John Okafor; Member representing Ohaji/Egbema,Oguta,Oru West Constituency, Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima; Member representing Ideato North/Ideato South, Hon. Paschal Obi and Member representing Nwangele/Njaba/Nkwere Constituency, Hon.Ozuruigbo Ugonna.
Igbere TV gathered that the meeting was in connection with the concerns of the members on the unity and progress of the party in the South East.
The meeting lasted for two hours and was adjourned to a new date to be communicated later to the concerned caucus members.
The State Media Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress for the Edo Governorship election has mocked Governor Godwin Obaseki as a drowning man following yet another wave of resignations that plagued his government as more aides announce their departure.
On Tuesday, two top aides, Hon. Joe Okonigene and Hon. Aimiolemen Noah Idemudia, also known as Paddy Noah, announced their resignation from the Obaseki-government and led thousands of their followers to the private residence of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Pastor Ize-Iyamu, where they declared their complete loyalty and vowed to deliver his victory at the polls.
Reacting to the development in a statement made available to Igbere TV Tuesday night, the APC accused the Governor of planting a speculative report suggesting that the aides were induced to resign their positions.
In the statement by Chairman of the APC State Media Campaign Council, Mr. John Mayaki, the report was denounced as an attempt by the "drowning governor" to blame others for his woes and a ruse to help him live with his failure until his exit on Election Day.
He said: "Godwin Obaseki is a drowning man who is unwilling to take responsibility for his failure. His aides have since realized that his ship is a drowning one, that he has been rejected by the people, and so they have been abandoning him in drove."
"Obviously, this development puts him to shame. His attempt to block these resignations through brute force and holding them hostage had little or no effect. They stared down his barrel and called his bluff."
"So in a bid to live with the failure until September when his disgrace will be complete and perfected, he directed his Chief Propagandist, Crusoe Osagie, the media aide who has been rendered witless and reduced to a common fake news peddler by the inertia and desperation of the man he serves, to spread the baseless and hare-brained narrative that Captain Hosa and Comrade Oshiomhole are offering his aides money in exchange for their resignation."
"The question to ask Obaseki is: how much was offered to his Chief of Staff, Taiwo Akerele, who resigned as far back as April when Mr. Godwin Obaseki was still living in the fool's paradise that a second-term was his birthright even in the face of monumental failure as a Governor?"
"Upon Taiwo Akerele's resignation, Obaseki tried to scare other aides who had already drafted their resignation letters into submission by invading the young man's residence with his thugs and other armed officers seeking to illegally apprehend and intimidate him. But that fear has worn off, hence the new wave of resignations."
"To attribute this to Captain Hosa Okunbo, who for reasons best known to him Obaseki has declared an enemy despite his many contributions to his administration and the State, and to spin the fallacious report that Oshiomhole has also paid money to anyone are indications that the Governor may be suffering an early trauma from the impending embarrassing defeat in September."
"Failures are never out of excuses. They deal only in blame-game and never take responsibility for anything. It is shameful that while one of his Commissioners remain in jail in France over allegations of money laundering, Obaseki has personally accused the remainder of being low in character and repute such that they will betray their conscience for money."
"It just shows that he has scant regard for those who work with him. And is it a surprise that they are abandoning such a man?"
SERVICE CHIEFS: POSITION OF PRESIDENCY ON RESOLUTION BY THE SENATE
The Senate Tuesday adopted a resolution calling on the Service Chiefs to resign or be sacked due to the multi-pronged security challenges in the country.
The Presidency notes the resolution, and reiterates that appointment or sack of Service Chiefs is a Presidential prerogative, and President Muhammadu Buhari, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, will do what is in the best interest of the country at all times.
Femi Adesina Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity) July 21, 2020
The Presidency on Tuesday said the appointment or sack of service chiefs was strictly a presidential prerogative, Igbere TV reports.
This was in response to a call by the upper legislative chamber to the service chiefs to resign or be sacked owing to security concerns.
The resolution of the Senate followed a motion sponsored by Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno south and chairman of the committee on army.
But in a statement made available to Igbere TV, Femi Adesina, presidential spokesman, said “Buhari, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, will do what is in the best interest of the country at all times.”
Gabriel Olonisakin, chief of defence staff; Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff; Sadique Abubakar, chief of air staff; and Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, chief of naval staff; are all due for retirement.
Despite calls for their sack owing to the growing insecurity in the country, Igbere TV reports that President Muhammadu Buhari has kept them in office.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus in the House of Representatives has said it will commence impeachment proceedings against President Buhari if the “calculated blackmail” against the National Assembly and insecurity in the country is not checked.
The caucus, in a statement issued on Monday by its leader, Kingsley Chinda, gave a four-week ultimatum to the Executive “to provide security to Nigerians and commence proper cleaning of the embarrassing and notorious corruption cases (EFCC and NDDC).”
It said if not, “we shall revert to the relevant sections of the constitution and commence impeachment proceedings in the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.”
To impeach a sitting president will require the assent of two-thirds majority of each House of the National Assembly. Both Houses have 469 combined lawmakers.
But checks by Igbere TV on the National Assembly website shows that the PDP is in the minority in both Houses with 174 lawmakers (House, 134; Senate, 40), while the APC has 274 (House, 210; Senate, 64).
Politics › Ize-Iyamu Congratulates Omo-Agege At 57 by BleedingPen(op): 1:26pm On Aug 03, 2020
