₦airaland Forum

1. Introduction:

Godswill Akpabio, Hon. Minister, Niger Delta Affairs has dominated the news so far in 2020 for all the wrong reasons. The Corona Virus Pandemic is only slightly ahead for obvious reasons.

Why has Akpabio been so controversial? Indeed, the President deserves an international award for his uncommon patience with Akpabio given all the embarrassment caused to his administration.

Of all the Ministers in Buhari’s Cabinet, Akpabio stands out like a sore thumb and is currently tasking the President’s restraint. Why is decorum so difficult for him to maintain? In the recent past, he operated as Lord and Master; oppressing the Akwa Ibom people mercilessly and absolutely without question.

A simple matter of constituting a new Board for the NDDC was made to look impossible to achieve. The President of Nigeria forwarded names to the Senate for approval as required by law. The names were duly approved.

Then Akpabio came up with this whole idea of Interim Management Committee! Why was it considered impossible for the Senate-approved Board to undertake the Forensic Audit? The first IMC prepared grounds for the Forensic Audit. Then the Acting Managing Director, Dr. Joi Nunieh was sacked for reasons now emerging as her refusal to accept juju oath-taking!

The new IMC headed by a Professor and former classmate of the Honourable Minister is in charge now. He also fortified the IMC with the addition of two persons, thus making it appear as though Dr. Nunieh was not the issue but the need to expand and be more representative. How has that helped accountability?

There is the issue of US$200 Million left in the Dollar Account of the NDDC y the Nunieh led IMC. It has been depleted now. Then there is the perennial issue of the Headquarters Building.

Some N16 Billion has further been spent against Government regulations. Again N40 Billion is reported to have been spent on unauthorised disbursements! And then, as if to tender some defence, the new IMC claims to have spent N22 Billion as against the N40 Billion alleged. What a defence?

2. Questions:

The IMC was designed to prepare grounds for Forensic Audit and then quit. Technically speaking, having transmitted the relevant documents to the Auditors, the IMC ought to have been dissolved and a permanent, independent Board sworn in. Some of the questions now begging for answers are:

a) What difference does it make if the NDDC-IMC spent (misappropriated) N22 Billion Naira in 3 months and not N200 Billion? How does that exculpate the IMC from the allegations of irregular selective payments for jobs not cleared by the Forensic Audits?

Is it not shameful that while the Minister goaded the IMC to make selective payments for jobs not cleared by the forensic audit, it failed to meet recurrent obligations to students on NDDC scholarships in foreign institutions?

b) Is it not an affront to the anti-corruption crusade of the Buhari Administration for the IMC to have made selective payments for the NDDC Headquarters building, supply of Lassa Fever kits, etc. when these projects had not passed through the integrity test of the forensic audit?

c) The directive of the Minister that substantial payments be made, including the payment of N22 Billion conceded by the management, for whatever purpose for jobs not cleared for payment by the Forensic Report; does it not compromise the outcome of the Audit and undermine the authority of the President over this Minister?

d) The Audit process, having been sabotaged by the Minister and the IMC and caused embarrassment to the President and the National Assembly, what measure of punishment does the Minister deserve in the circumstance?

e) In the light of the Minister’s implication in some of the contracts, whether it makes sense to insist that he should continue to supervise the project?

f) Concomitantly, whether the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should continue his perceived policy of restraint in the face of this barbaric rape of the NDDC, the only interventionist hope of the Niger Delta Region till, what now amounts to eternity?

3. The Essential Akpabio:

Akpabio is a very ambitious person. He had shown ambition from his days in Secondary School. In the University of Calabar where he read Law, he showed promise as the Speaker of the Students Union Parliament. He leveraged on all these in his Political career. He is also a Schemer of dangerous proportions. He would identify his target and eliminate every obstacle to that achievement. He would use Machiavellian tactics to arrive at his destination. He has always had the ambition to become the President of Nigeria.

Some of his buildings in Uyo, Lagos and Abuja are fashioned to evoke prestige, in his quest to become the President of Nigeria. From those who have worked very closely with him, he is intellectually lazy and acts on impulse. His miscalculations are always disastrous. He has no stamina for long suffering, independent project conception or any long term planning. His quest for gratification and vain-glory is legendary.

How else does anyone rationalise the fact that he is the only Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a Chief of Staff, just like the President? Even the Vice President has no Chief of Staff! Upon the demise of Abba Kyari to the dreaded Corona Virus, Akpabio flew a kite. Dubious publications emerged from all corners of the Social Media suggesting or in some cases nominating Akpabio to succeed the late Chief of Staff to the President. He overrated himself! He does not believe anybody else exists.

He recoiled under the backlash. His Social Media boys changed tactics and abandoned the inglorious campaign. His close associates are steadfast and insist that he will still take a shot at the Presidency but would settle for the Vice Presidency in the hope that an opening by some providence, might open for him to emerge as the President. Surely, he needs money for the endeavour. Who does not know that it costs billions of Naira to get close to the Presidency?

4. Some Insights:

Akpabio’s idol was Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Of course for the wrong reasons! Tinubu is well known to be a builder. He is loved by his people for his peculiar Human Capital Development. Tinubu has produced a few Governors in Lagos and elsewhere. His foundation membership of the APC, long-suffering and influence in the Party is respected. Akpabio is a Gate-Crasher to both the PDP and the APC. He reigned as Emperor of Akwa Ibom and installed Governor Udom in spite of the violence that characterised the 2015 General Elections. He expected Udom to kotow to him in every respect and thereby compromise good governance. Udom disappointed him there and is the source of the unending friction between him and the Akwa Ibom State Governor. Akpabio’s appointment as a Minister was God-sent. His means of vain-glory and ostentatious living was almost extinct.

Akpabio’s penchant for scandalous upward revision of contracts is legendary. He started what is now a monumental waste of Akwa Ibom State resources in the name of The Tropicana Project. The project was originally estimated to cost N33 Billion. As at 2012, He had revised it upwards to a whopping N120 Billion! He knew all along that the project was a white elephant conduit pipe never intended for delivery. He awarded the contract to an entertainment company with no engineering experience.

5. Lamentations of Akwa Ibom People:

It is heart-warming that some Akwa Ibom persons and groups have lent their voices against the embarrassment caused by Akpabio to our dear Akwa Ibom State and the Federal Government. Is he the only Minister?

Akwa Ibom people have been thoroughly humiliated by the financial improprieties discovered under his watch at the NDDC. The impression was already being spread that the scrutiny of the interventionist agency was being masterminded by non Akwa Ibom persons and groups solely to insult the Akwa Ibomites. Nothing could be further from the truth. Some of the sponsored articles by persons and groups affiliated to Akpabio make that suggestion. Some even imagine that Akpabio is the only Minister that can reasonably emanate from Akwa Ibom State. What insult! We have had Ministers from Akwa Ibom in the past and they made us proud. There is nothing sacrosanct about Akpabio and his office. There are fantastic materials from which the President can make his choice of Minister from Akwa Ibom State and they will deliver.

6. Proclivity for Violence:

This subject has become imperative in the Dr Nunieh’s personal safety alarm raised specifically to the Inspector General of Police. She warned that Akpabio should be held responsible in the event of any danger to her person.

This should not be discounted as pedantry. There is a frightening pedigree. What is more, the Reformed Niger Delta Avengers (RNDA) had issued a warning by their publications of the 7th May, 2020 to all those distracting Akpabio from his ministerial role to steer clear or continue at their peril. The threat did not go unnoticed. Akpabio was Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007-2015 (8 years). Under his watch as the Chief Security Officer of the State, it was pure hell. The following scenarios played out:

a) Senator John Udoedehe. He contested the Governorship elections in 2011 under the ACN against Governor Akpabio. He was one of the first victims of Political intolerance. So many of his supporters were hounded down and killed in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene where he had gone for his rallies. He was subsequently arrested in Abuja and arraigned at the FCT High Court on trumped up charges. These facts are in the public domain and available on the internet.

b) Chief Sunny Udom, the Director-General of the APC Governorship aspirant in Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Umana Okon Umana was the target of political assassination in his office. He held a press conference on Thursday the 8th May, 2014 in which he highlighted the fact that one of the assassins lost a finger in the process of indiscriminate gun shots. Some security agencies to which the incident was reported had dismissed the report as mere armed robbery by the local Police. There was no condemnation or any interest by Akpabio the Governor. The APC candidate was then his immediate past Secretary to the State Governor.

c) Engr. Albert Ukpanah, a well-known opponent of Governor Akpabio’s 2015 Senate ambition was strangled to death in his residence in Abak, Akwa Ibom State on the 5th of March, 2014. The Government did not show any interest and the matter went cold.

d) In December, 2013, Hon. Umana Okon Umana himself was the target of hired assassins when he received threats at his Uyo residence. It is instructive that contemporaneous with that threat, His Excellency, the then Governor ordered the withdrawal of his security details. This was widely reported in the press. That matter was promptly reported to the Police in Uyo.

e) Her Excellency, Mrs. Comfort Ewang: wife of a former Military Administrator of Ogun and Rivers States, Group Capt. Sam Ewang, was abducted by kidnappers who reportedly demanded that her husband rescind his decision to contest the 2011 elections. She was released after her abductors had secured a heavy ransom.

f) Madam Philomena Udonwa, a retired civil servant; a grandmother of over 70 years, and mother of a Singapore based Marine Engineer and Governorship aspirant, Iniekong Udonwa, was kidnapped. Her son was shot at, in a failed assassination attempt, but escaped with bullet wounds. Once again, the kidnappers allegedly demanded that Engr. Udonwa rescind his bid to contest the 2011 Elections as a pre-condition for his mother’s release. Madam Udonwa was not lucky after-all. She was abused, murdered, stripped naked, and abandoned on a lonely rural road.

g) Mr Mike Eduok, the brother of the former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Nsikak Eduok, was kidnapped, over his brother’s perceived opposition to Akpabio’s tyrannical governance, pre 2011 elections.

h) Barr Umo Udonwa, slated to take over as the State PDP Chairman, was murdered in shrouded circumstances. He was a close ally of prominent members of the opposition to Akpabio.

i) Elder Paul Inyang, a PDP stalwart also billed for the State PDP Chairmanship, was shot dead in the premises of his church. Inyang was the associate of the opposition duo of ex-Governor Victor Attah and Senator Udoedehe, on account of Akpabio’s high handed administration of the State. It soon became clear that Elder Inyang had shifted his political allegiance after he began to hold meetings with key opposition members. Clearly, Paul Inyang’s murder was not unconnected with his allegiance to the opposition.

j) GENERAL EDET AKPAN: a former NYSC Director and prominent Akwa Ibom son, was kidnapped after a reported disagreement over sale of shares of Universal Energy Resources (Akwa Ibom indigenous oil servicing company) of which he (Akpan) was Chairman. The General was in Church and other innocent worshippers in the church premises were murdered. He was released after a ransom was paid and subsequently relieved of his office.

k) OKUIBOM RJ OBOT: The most senior Ibibio monarch on earth was gruesomely murdered in his palace.

l) THE EKPENYONG BROTHERS. Engr. Emmanuel (aka Submarine) and his brother Matthias (aka Mbota), were murdered in the family quarry site. Knowledgeable sources claim the brothers refused to sell. Fabian (the surviving sibling), was framed for the murder of his brothers by the State Government, after he had identified two of the actual killers. He was detained for several months and later released for lack of evidence.

m) Dr Chris Ekong, an Economist and University teacher and former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, and later Economic Development, was framed for complicity in a kidnap case, detained for over two years but later discharged and acquitted of the charges. He was a subject of relentless persecution.

We have taken pains to demonstrate the infamy that was the lot of the Akpabio Government. It is, in the circumstance, unwise and indeed stupid to ignore any sign of threat to violence as raised by Dr. Nunieh.

CHIEF JACOB ESHIET

Chairman, Akwa Ibom Solidarity Front
267, Oron Road, Uyo

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

The proprietor of popular Abuja school Deo-Gratias International School, Dr George Odabi, is currently enmeshed in a huge debt scandal that has cost him ownership of the Deo-GratiasGroup of Schools.

According to a top source close to the Odabi’s who pleaded anonymity, trouble started for Dr George Odabi when Deo-Gratias International Group of Schools Ltd acting through her directors including Dr George Gerald Odabi sometimes in 2013 approached Eco-bank Nigeria Plc. for a facility, using the three schools in Games Village, FHA Lugbe and Garki among other properties of the company in favor of Eco-bank to secure a facility to enable it liquidate its indebtedness to GTBank and First City Monument, to upgrade some of the school campuses and secure a large expanse of land at Guzape for a new Secondary school campus with boarding facilities.

The Loan:

"The company ran into distress through the extravagant lifestyle of Dr George Odabi and defaulted in repayment of the loan/interest on the due date.

The loan was restructured at their instance from N1,200,000,000,00 to N600, 000,000.00 . Yet, he failed to abide by the loanrepayment schedule and domiciliation of all school fees to a collection account with Eco-bank but rather engaged in diversion of funds coming into the coffers of the School to other banks.”

"After spirited attempts by officials of Eco Bank Plc. to get Dr George Odabi to liquidate its loan fell on deaf ears. The case was taken to Court and by an order of the Federal High Court of 15th June 2016; leave was granted to Eco-bank Plc. to take over the three campuses of Deo-Gratias Schools with the aid of the Nigeria Police and bailiffs of the FHC.”

The source further added that Dr George Odabi through his lawyers contested the said order and finally conceded to enter Terms of Settlement with Eco-bank which was subsequently made the consent judgment of the Court.

"His lawyers contested the order of the Federal High Court because according to them Eco-Bank Plc. did not give their clients enough notice. The Federal High Court refused to set aside its order and this led both parties to enter into a Terms of Settlement which was adopted and made judgment of the Court with the appointment of a receiver/manager to take over the operations of three schools and agreed that N100,000,000.00k will be paid by the group of school each academic year for six years free of interest and yet Dr. George Odabi frustrated the arrangements with his profligacy leading to the takeover and sale of the Garki School to new owners to liquidates part of the outstanding judgment debt owed Eco-Bank Plc.”

Another source who craved anonymity told the reporter that “Out of the three school under receivership, the school at Games village was demolished in 2018 and the campus at F.H.A Lugbe clandestinely sold by one Mr. Osondu Ekekwe in collusion with Kingsley Odabi, Sukki Odabi and Chief Odera Odabi despite the fact that the Receiver/Manager had filed criminal contempt proceedings against them, in fact the situation is grin” the source said.

Another source who works with Eco-Bank Plc. and conversant with the transaction stated that Dr George Odabi was evasive for three years despite all entreaties made by the Bank for him to liquidate his loan.

"The appointment of a receiver/manager by the court was a huge relief for the bank as Dr Odabi was not forthcoming and displayed criminal tendencies by refusing to domicile the school fees account of the schools with the bank."

The Sale:

It was also gathered that the receiver/manager acting on the instructions of Eco Bank Plc. secured a buyer for the Garki campus of School. The deal was concluded with the new buyer accepting the offer made by the Bank for the takeover of the Garki campus of the School.
A top staffer of the School who does not want his name in print stated that under Dr George Odabi the School was confronted with issues such as poor welfare, inadequate and dilapidated school buses, poor service delivery, non-availability of school uniforms upon request and poor and porous security arrangements.”

He further added that workers are still being owed over three month’s salaries and several months on unpaid allowances.
“Workers and teachers have been groining over unpaid salaries, and in instances where salaries are paid, some manage to get as little as 20% of their total salary.
It was such a terrible situation even though the school boasts of over 700 pupils and students from primary to secondary level."

Financial Recklessness:

A top staff of the accounts department who confided in this newspaper, stated that Dr George Odabi is the architect of his misfortune due to his profligate lifestyle.

She said that on numerous occasions, she had advised Dr Odabi on the consequences of his actions with regards to the indiscriminate disbursements of school funds.

“At some point, I was overwhelmed and wondered why on earth, someone would allow such an institution to go bankrupt. The School was doing well in terms of payment of school fees and other charges.

However, Dr George Odabi would always direct for the indiscriminate transfer of funds from the school accounts to his accounts and that of his wives and concubines without recourse to the implications of his actions.”

“At times, he would instruct us to inform parents to make cash payments for school fees instead of bank deposits. This didn't go down well with some parents, while some obliged. When these cash payments are made, Dr Odabi would send his driver to pick up cash from the school premises to God knows where."

Parents Reaction:

A parent, Amina Braimoh, said, the purchase and successful takeover of the School by one of the parents of the School is the best thing to happen.

“Under George Odabi, we suffered incomplete issuance of books and other study materials to pupils even after complete payment. It was a despicable display of criminal intents and motives. There was a backlog of staff salaries and this consequently affected the teaching standard in the School as most of the best hands left in droves."

Another parent, who identified himself as Chinedu had this to say “This is the best news after this coronavirus pandemic! The new owners have a lot do.

The old school had no library; the classrooms and laboratories are ill-equipped. But with the profile of the new owners, our children are in safe hands."

Widespread jubilation amongst staff:

Our reporter gathered that there was widespread jubilation amongst the staff of the School when news filtered in about the takeover by the School by new owners. The staff danced and sang praises to God for the acquisition of the School.

An academic staff who pleaded anonymity stated that the exit of Dr George Odabi would bring back the glory of Deo-Gratis school even though the school might experience name change.

"The School was on the verge of total collapse. Dr Odabi was reckless and not interested in the success of the School. He used funds from the School to fund his extravagant lifestyle.

He didn't bother about the welfare of the staff and students alike as there was a general lack of everything needed in the School. It was indeed a sad episode for Deo-Gratias for some of us that have worked here for a long time.”

The EFCC:

On April 15, 2014 The Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, arraigned George Odabi along with his company, Deo Gratias International School Limited, Abuja before Justice Peter Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja on a 3- count charge bordering on issuance of dud cheque and breach of trust

He was said to have sometime in September, 2013 received a forty million, one hundred thousand naira (N40, 100,000.00) loan from one Mrs. Egbunola Ogungbesan for the renovation of his school but reneged on his promise to pay back.

Conviction in the United States:-

A further probe by this newspaper into the past of Dr Odabi revealed that he was convicted by a Los Angeles County Municipal Court (CA. for a criminal felony in 1994.

A close associate of Dr Odabi, who preferred anonymity, stated that Dr Odabi left the United States of America under questionable circumstances.

"Yes, he was indeed charged to Court in Los Angeles in early 1990,s but I am not sure that was why he left the United States. But I can tell you that since he left, he hasn't been able to return to the United States."

Records obtained from Los Angeles County Municipal Court (CA), shows that George Odabiwas charged for Criminal Felony In 1994 With Case Number S01607801.

In a similar vein, this newspaper gathered from some top associates of Dr George Odabi that his criminal tendencies started way back in 1994 when he was arrested and charged to Court in the United States of America.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello today took the lead of the Infrastructure Committee to visit the Morris and Tunga-Lowcost-Garima township roads that are undergoing construction in Minna.

His Excellency expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and promised to be back after Sallaah with hopes that the roads would be completed by then.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

The Niger state government infrastructure committee led by its Chairman, Ibrahim Balarabe Kagara who is also the Chief of Staff to Governor Abu Sani Bello of Niger State paid an on the spot assessment visits to Minna-Bida and Gogo Mai Lalle roads projects in the state.

The visit to the contractor’s yard and quarry site for the Minna-Bida road project showed the level of preparedness put in place by Dantata and Sowoe.

While noting the temporary measures put in place by the company to ease road users, the committee chairman urged the company to speed up its efforts with emphasis on certain portions of the road which poses difficulties on commuters.

www.nairaland.com/attachments/11551415_whatsappimage20200517at12_33_04pm_jpeg_jpegc3baa0d7f5a9ced58d567ca7c5ce64ac

Engr Ibraheem,the Project Manager assured the committee that the palliative measures will be carried out immediately on the said sections of the road and full construction exercise will commence right after eid-el-fitr. He further informed that the delay was as a result of the lockdown and thanked the government for issuing the company the required number of passes to enable the staff access to work during the lockdown.

On Gogo Mai Lalle Road, the committee equally expressed satisfaction with the level and the quality of work done so far on the Gogo Mai Lalle road.

The Committee chairman assured the residents that despite the delay recorded on the construction so far,the government will ensure expedited completion of the road.

Alh Mohammed Usman Dattijo, former registrer of FUT Minna, a resident of the area expressed gratitude to the Govt, he said the committee’s visit has rekindled their hope.

Members of the Infrastructure committee led by the COS included, commissioners of Finance, Justice, Works and Infrastructure and Budget and Planning, others were, Perm Secs of Ministries of Finance, Works and Infrastructure, Budget and Planning, Procurement, Director of Civil, Ministry of Works, DG SOU, ICT and PE, SPA to COS and Coodinator Legacy Projects.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Before the Chinese authority owned up to the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic in Wuhan, China, the world did not realize that a major health crisis that would quake the entire mankind was in the offing.

The Covid-19, as the World Health Organization (WHO), termed it, rose from a minor outbreak of respiratory cum cough-related disease to a pandemic that is ravaging the world, today.

The world has been literally brought to its knees by this invincible enemy. As at last count, 9th of May, 2020, global confirmed cases stood at 3.9 million, while fatalities were recorded as 276,000.

The world being a global village, covid-19, sooner than later, berthed at the shores of Nigeria on 27th February, 2020.

An Italian citizen who came into the country from Milan, was the carrier. Since then, Coronavirus pandemic has registered its footprint on almost all the states including the FCT, except Kogi and Cross River States, respectively. As at 8th of May, 2020, Nigeria had recorded 3,912 confirmed cases; 679 discharged and, sadly, total of 117 deaths. Of an approximate population of 200 million people, NCDC has been able to test only 25,000 Nigerians.

I have the habit of watching daily media briefing of the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19. I must commend the Task Force and all the medical practitioners on the front line of this war against coronavirus. In one of the Presidential Task Force's updates, Director-General of NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu made a statement that rattled me.

He alluded to the fact that covid-19 would get to every state in Nigeria and urged the state governments to prepare for the eventuality. Initially, the statement came to me as precautionary, but Dr. Ihekweazu's body language as he made the shocking projection, left me in utter bewilderment.

He left the impression of certainty that the virus would reach every nook and cranny of the country. I paused and asked myself: who is NCDC working for? Are they working to curtail the virus or spread it? If indeed they're working to arrest the spread of covid-19 in the country, why was the NCDC DG so sure that it would get to every state? When I saw in the news that NCDC had a disagreement with the Cross River governor on the issue of not submitting enough samples for testing, I did not take it seriously. Then came Kogi State.

From the information out in the public, NCDC is literally mounting pressure on the Kogi State Government to submit samples of suspected coronavirus patients for testing. The big question here is: why is NCDC having a running battle with the only two states that are yet to confirm any case? When juxtaposed with the insensitive statement of NCDC's DG that covid-19 would get to every state of the federation, I can conclude without the error of assumption, that NCDC is in a hurry to register covid-19 cases for Kogi State. Do the agency want to manufacture fictitious cases for Kogi State?

NCDC alleged that they sent their officials to Lokoja to help the state government in verifying suspected cases to be considered for testing. But Kogi State is yet to ask for such assistance. The state government has categorically affirmed that there has not been any case satisfied to be forwarded to NCDC for testing. Why is NCDC crying more than the bereaved? With the suspicious moves of the agency, how are we sure that it will not be biased against the state to record any sample sent to it for testing, as positive?

Why is an agency that is visibly overwhelmed by the samples sent to it for testing, to the extent that some states wait for two to three days before getting feedback on their samples, be so much obsessed with a state like Kogi that is yet to forward sample to them for testing? When NCDC officials arrived Kogi to "assist" the state government, the governor, being suspicious of their activities in the Confluence State, insisted that the officials should be isolated for 14 days to ascertain their status regarding covid-19. The officials of NCDC returned to Abuja with the prejudiced message that Governor Yahaya Bello turned down the help they offered—while there was no need for the so-called help in the first place.

Do you offer to help a state that has not called for it? Has Kogi told NCDC that people are falling dead on the streets of Lokoja as a result of covid-19? Do you commiserate with someone that is not bereaved? It becomes hilarious and ridiculous when the same agency has shown high level of incapacitation and incompetence when it comes to meeting its responsibilities to terrified Nigerians at a time of crisis of this magnitude. NCDC fans itself in self-praise of testing 25,000 Nigerians in the last three months, while its counterpart in South Africa has tested over 100,000 within the same period. It should face its business of scaling up its testing capacity and leave Kogi State alone.

Is it a coincidence that the number of confirmed cases in the country skyrocketed when Nigerians were locked down in their homes. You lockdown Nigerians for more than one month without massive testing? As at 8th of May, 2020, out of over 25,000 tested persons, 3,912 cases were confirmed; 679 discharged and 117 deaths. Is this a result to be proud of, for a big nation like ours? Juxtapose the total number of discharged covid-19 cases with the number of deaths and it is clear that we are not doing well at all, yet NCDC had the luxury to be dancing ‘zanku’ leg work in Kogi State, in search of a non-existent covid-19 case, when lives are being lost at an alarming rate in other parts of Nigeria.

I stand with Governor Yahaya Bello for standing firm in the face of pressure from the agency to record cases for the state, while the state government continue to step up its precautionary measures against this pandemic, our ultimate goal and prayer, is that covid-19 does not get to the state. If it eventually comes, it should be real not fictitious. The mischievous actions of NCDC officials, is what is fueling the falsehood cum conspiracy theory in the minds of some people, that there is no coronavirus in the country. How do you explain to a lay man in the street the rational behind NCDC complain that states like Kogi are not sending in enough samples for testing, when the need has not arisen. NCDC should stop its questionable mission in Kogi.

By Dr. Abubakar Mohammed

https://www.thecable.ng/covid-19-ncdcs-questionable-mission-in-kogi/

Akwa Ibom oil bearing communities tell ExxonMobil to name contributions to fight against COVID-19

Akwa Ibom Core Oil Bearing Community Vanguard has called on ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria operating in Akwa Ibom state to name what it has contributed to the fight against Coronavirus in the state.

The group in a state on Monday in Uyo signed by her President, Iwaad Patrick Abia and Secretary General, Barr Enyinnah Gwunireama, said ExxonMobil has failed to demonstrate good corporate citizenship and love for the people of her core host communities and Akwa Ibom state in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Akwa Ibom state has recorded 16 cases of Coronavirus.

The group said it was disappointed at ExxonMobil's uncared attitude towards core oil bearing communities and Akwa Ibom state government since the novel Coronavirus broke out, noting that smaller oil companies that are facing similar market uncertainties as ExxonMobil was helping to alleviate the hardship the COVID-19 lockdown has forced on households in the state.

"We have seen individuals and organisations donate sacrificially to the state government, communities, households and individuals during this crisis. Notable among the public spirited organisations in the state that have contributed to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic are United Bank for Africa (UBA), Inoyo Toro Foundation, Sterling Oil Group, Moni Pulo, Hensek and others.

"To us, every organisation or individual who has made what would be considered the minutest contribution to the state, communities and individuals, has demonstrated true humanity.

"To our greatest surprise, the state is gradually opening up after five weeks of lockdown. And, ExxonMobil, a leading international oil company operating in Akwa Ibom state which has over the years prided herself as a friendly corporate citizen, has failed to demonstrate true humanity, corporate citizenship and sympathy with her core host communities and Akwa Ibom state during this very trying period."

The group lauded Sterling Oil Group and Moni Pulo for donating sacrificially to Akwa Ibom state towards the fight against Coronavirus despite the global uncertainties facing operators in the petroleum sector, saying that the companies have proven what it is to be a friend.

"We were humbled by the very audacious and heart-warming donations made by marginal oil field operators, who are by far less ExxonMobil’s contemporaries, to the state government towards the fight against COVID-19. We are not oblivious of the challenges key players in the petroleum upstream sector are facing because of the Coronavirus pandemic."

"We are pleased and very grateful to Sterling Oil Group and Moni Pulo, who despite facing the same economic uncertainties every other player in the petroleum upstream sector is facing, still braced up and demonstrated true corporate citizenship and love for humanity in this moment of crisis. Indeed, these two companies have proven that ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed’."

The group noted with regret that though ExxonMobil wishes to be seen as a friendly citizen, it has shied away from addressing issues such as gas flaring, oil spill and relocation of her administrative base to Akwa Ibom state.

"ExxonMobil has treated issues of gas flaring and oil spill in core oil bearing communities as well as relocation of her headquarters to Akwa Ibom state with inane levity. The company has also been found wanting in accurate remittance of taxes due to the Akwa Ibom state government.

"For instance, on February 4, 2020, Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) served a notice of tax default and non-compliance on ExxonMobil. That the company defaults in tax remittance in Akwa Ibom state – a crime the company cannot commit in Houston, Texas – has divested ExxonMobil of the toga of a friendly corporate citizen."

"The Coronavirus outbreak has again exposed the make-believe reputation of ExxonMobil. The wish image which the company earnestly desires is to be seen as an institution that cares; but the company has repeatedly and deliberately shied away from working towards it, when it matters most, like in the case of this Coronavirus crisis."

The group called on Akwa Ibom state government to publish the contribution made by ExxonMobil in the fight against COVID-19 in the state, if any.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

As the nation battles the rampaging fury of Covid -19 pandemic, with the attendant strain the management of the virus has put on the resources of State governments across the nation, Akwa Ibom State our investigations has revealed has yet to receive the financial support from the Federal Government, which reports say, most states have already received.

According to the Chairman of the State’s Covid-19 Management Committee, Dr.Emmanuel Ekuwem, who is also the Secretary to the State Government:-

“we have heard and read published reports that some fiunds have been released to some state governments across the nation to support them in their efforts to stem the spread of the virus. We wish to commend the Federal Government for this laudable initiative. However, Akwa Ibom State has, as of today, not received any support from the Federal Government. We remain optimistic that soon, Akwa Ibom State will get its own share of the palliative.”

The Chairman commended the State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, for the huge resources he has expended so far to ensure that the right amenities, such as the isolation centre with over 13 ventilators at the Ibom Specialist Hospital complete with modern beds, which he acquired , the ICU Centre which is world class, the construction of a 300-bed isolation centre at Methodist Hospital Ituk, Mbang which he inspected yesterday and is expected to be ready soon, the other isolation centre at Ikot Ekpene among other world class amenities.

He also commended the people of Akwa Ibom State for obeying the measures put together by the State Government, especially the lockdown to help reduce the spread of the virus, the palliatives the Governor approved to be distributed throughout the over 300 villages in State.

“This is a deeply compassionate Governor whose vision for food sufficiency and healthcare has borne fruits for the benefit of the people of the State at a time like this. Together, we will defeat this virus and life will soon return to normalcy”

the Chairman has stated.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

A’Ibom covid-19 update: Govt says 5 cases are hale and hearty

Builds additional 300-bed isolation center
Rolls out palliative measures for citizens under lockdown

The Akwa Ibom state government has stated that all five reported positive test cases of COVID-19 in the state are hale and hearty while awaiting the conduct of a reconfirmation test.

This was made known by the Secretary to State Government, SSG, Mr. Emmanuel Ekuwem during the routine covid-19 press briefing held in Government House, Uyo onTuesday, April 07, 2020

According to Ekuwem, the five cases earlier taken into isolation custody have not shown any noticeable symptoms, nevertheless they are under close observation by a team of specialized medical experts.

He said the state Incident Management Committee has continued to intensify efforts at contact tracing following standard medical procedures although so far there is no downstream infections have been recorded.

The SSG further disclosed that Governor Udom Emmanuel is leading from the front in the fight against the pandemic and is building a 300-bed isolation center in addition to two fully equipped isolation centers in the state and providing all necessary essentials in preparation for any exigency.

“Construction work has commenced on a 300 bed Isolation Centre in Ituk Mbang to complement existing Isolation centers in IDH, Ikot Ekpene and Ibom Specialist Hospital, Uyo.

“The state government is working round the clock and deploying every available resource at its disposal to ensure that the situation is under control. We have so far procured and distributed large numbers of personal protective equipment, PPEs and other requisite tools to relevant health care institutions in the state, increased the number of isolation centers and set up a situation room manned by more than 50 medical experts”.

He said.

While frowning at the use fake essential exemption pass by some citizens to beat the lock-down enforcement as well as abuse of these passes by some workers on essential duties, the SSG warned that those found to abuse the exemption passes will be prosecuted.

He however revealed that “plans are underway for provision of relief materials including rice, garri, flour and other essential food items to cushion and ameliorate the effects of the Quarantine and Restriction of Movement Regulations 2020.

“A disbursement committee will very soon announce the disbursement modalities directly to all villages in Akwa Ibom state. This mode of disbursements to village will enable trickle down to give succour to all and sundry”.

He noted that the state-owned rice mill, flour mill and various garri processing factories are meeting the food needs of the state and cushioning inflationary trends as well as lull in domestic economic activities.

Meanwhile, he acknowledged the receipt of donations from several well-meaning corporate bodies and private individuals and called on all corporate organizations located in the state to lend support in cash or kind.

The SSG reminded residents and citizens of the need to remain law abiding and fully observe the lock-down order as contained in the Quarantine and Restriction of Movement Regulations 2020 while observing all personal and respiratory hygiene guidelines earlier issued and adhere to the social distancing prescriptions.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

As coronavirus continue to ravage the world, the Akwa Ibom State government is leaving no stone unturned in tackling the novel virus and other emergency medical cases in the state as governor Udom Emmanuel, in company of medical experts, inspected 13 ventilators at the emergency unit of the Ibom Multi-Specialty hospital.

The governor who was guided round the facility by the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Professor Emmanuel Ekanem, inspected the Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Theatre, ventilators for adults and babies as well as other state of the art equipment recently acquired by the state government.

Speaking with newsmen, Governor Emmanuel said the visit was to ascertain the readiness of the state government to contain any emergency situation of disease outbreak, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are here to make sure what we have put on ground are working well. We wanted the whole 13 ventilators checked to be sure they are working very well, even though we don’t have any incident COVID-19.

“I needed to also ensure that they have expanded the number of beds, that we ordered for extra 20 facilities to accommodate, in case of any emergency and I am happy with what I have seen.

“It is not only Corona virus that we should be concerned about. Malaria kills too. So we are interested in every aspect of illness and to make sure that all our citizens are well taken care of. So we don’t just react. We put things in place to take care of the health of our citizens, because and we and we every single life as important as the life of the Governor”,

the governor stated.

He noted that the state government places premium on the lives of its citizens and will continue to be proactive, rather than reactive in matters healthcare.

The governor commended the state medical team and assured that government will continue to monitor healthcare situation of the state, not just for Corona virus, but to be ahead of any disease outbreak.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

There is a lot going on in the world in recent times that affect our health thus there is a need for a healthy living/life style.

With the recent Pandemics or disease known as Corona Virus there is a need to step up our game regarding our lifestyle

Living a healthy lifestyle in the times of Corona:-

1. Wash hands regularly, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing,

2. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth

3. Make use of Hand sanitizer

4. Thoroughly cook meat and eggs.

5. Maintain social distancing

Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.

6. Practice Good respiratory hygiene and Clean phone always

7. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early

8. Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority

9. Stay informed and self isolate

10. Follow established safety and health procedures, avoid exposing others to health and safety risk and Use a Mask.

Watch Below:-


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4_uPst589c

source: https://nokview./2020/03/20/10-healthy-lifestyle-to-practices-to-prevent-the-spread-corona-virus/

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

* Warns against fake news
* Calls for security of coastal borders against illegal entry

The Akwa Ibom state government has maintained that there is no confirmed case of coronavirus disease, covid-19, in the state.

Government made this known through the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Dominic Ukpong, during a routine update on the global pandemic at Government House Press Center, Uyo, yesterday.

According to him, "let me use this opportunity to state emphatically that, as at today, there is no confirmed case of COVID-19 disease in Akwa Ibom State. If and when there is, it will be announced through official quarters".

The health expert expressed concern that in the last few days, the rumour mill has been awash with unverified reports about the prevalence of COVID 19 in Akwa Ibom state, reassuring citizens of government's determination to continue to put in place measures to safeguard lives and properties of citizens and residents in the state.

He went further to highlight various measures put in place by state government to maintain surveillance, detection and containment of the disease.

"The state government has set up monitoring processes at the various entry points to the state, adding that the Victor Attah International Airport,Uyo currently has the most sophisticated passengers screening facility/process in Nigeria.

"Functional ambulances and rapid response teams are on standby to move suspected or confirmed cases, if any, to the Emergency Operation and Treatment Centre (EOC), in Ikot Ekpene. We have distributed Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to all health facilities to facilitate infection prevention and control.

"Other screening and infection materials have been procured and are being distributed to health facilities and other strategic locations in the State. These include Infra-red thermometers, hand sanitizers etc. We have set up incidents management rooms in the major secondary health care facilities in the state.

Dr. Ukpong also stated that training and intensive enlightenment awareness sessions have been conducted in all nooks and crannies of the state, adding that the Road Transport Workers union are directed to provide hand washing facilities with soap and running water as well as hand sanitizers at the entrance to all parks/garages.

"Commercial vehicle operators are instructed to reduce the number of passengers in their vehicles by half of the standard capacity of the vehicle. Similarly, passengers are advised to wash their hands with soap and running water and sanitize them before and after each trip.

On containment at coastal borders, the health commissioner said "we call on the Nigerian Navy to heighten their patrol of our shorelines ; which are under their jurisdiction, to check the influx of foreigners into the state and reduce the chances of infected persons gaining illegal entry into the state.

"We have directed the chairmen of all Local Government areas to set up emergency response task force to monitor and promptly report suspected cases".

He stated that despite the surveillance, prevention and infection control measures being put in place, government is monitoring the situation with respect to social gatherings and relying more on preventive measures to curtail the onslaught of the virus.

"Consequently, the task force has been mandated to monitor preventive measures put in place for gatherings of more than 10 persons, including churches, marriage/funeral ceremonies, and other celebrations who will be accommodate within the prescribed social distance of not less than 6ft.

He warned that non-compliance will necessitate a immediate shutdown of such facilities by government.

"All schools in the state; both public and private, will close this Friday, March 27, 2020 as earlier announced. While we will provide further update as the need arises we urge mischief makers to desist from peddling unverified news or risk facing the full weight of the law.

"It is important to continue to observe SOCIAL DISTANCING, avoid shaking hand, and embracing, and keep at least six feet distance from anyone who is sneezing or coughing.

"We must also continue to observe stringent Personal and Respiratory Hygiene including regular washing of hands with soap under running water, using hand sanitizers as already advised, coughing/sneezing into a disposable tissue paper or the cuff of the elbow where no tissue is available and proper disposal of the used tissue, wearing a mask if you cannot properly move away from any person with those symptoms and or give the person a mask to wear.

The commissioner urged anyone with symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty in breathing, generally feeling unwell (malaise), common cold (catarrh or runny nose, sneezing, cough) should self-isolate and invite the Emergency Response Team for assessment and follow-up.

"Furthermore, if you notice any person with these symptoms, please report immediately. The numbers to call are: 0818-941-1111, 0904-557-5515, 0703-521-1919. We reassure you that the identity of the caller will be held in confidentiality",

he said.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

It all started like a joke when a neighbouring hotel recently forced their way into Lekki Leisure Beach.

The beach was concessioned by the Lagos State Government to Optima Leisure well-known as Lekki Leisure and is a well run establishment with a good reputation.

Despite all this, Banex Hotel forcefully used armed mobile policemen, thugs and hoodlums to gain entrance into the said property and are trying to establish a presence without any legal right , permit or title on the beachfront land.

In respect to this an injunction with the SUIT NO: LD/9023LMW/2020 against this illegal occupation has been ordered by Justice T. Oyekan Abdulahi of the Lagos State High Court

See Below: (The Court Injunction)

cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun,

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Akwa Ibom State has raised alarm over plans by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Senator Godswill Akpabio and the All Progressives Congress, APC, to rig the rerun elections in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District through the mercenary of DIG Michael Igbizi, armed thugs and fake police.

Speaking to newsmen in Uyo, the PDP National Legal Adviser and Chairman of the PDP election committee for Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem accused Akpabio and the APC of attempting to prove a point where APC is not popular.

“Undeterred by the humiliating defeat handed him by Senator Chris Ekpenyong and his massive rejection by people of his senatorial district, Senator Godswill Akpabio has perfected plans to use foul means to manufacture large votes obviously, just to prove that he is popular in Essien Udim even after he has conceded defeat.

“He is determined to massively rig the elections in aid of his party’s candidates for the House of Representatives and House of Assembly just to deceive the world that APC is popular in his Local Governement Area.

“To achieve this, Senator Akpabio has procured the service of DIG Michael Igbizi (whom they sat besides each other in the same Ibom Air flight yesterday), whose intention is to reenact the roles played by AIG Musa Kimo during the last elections.

“He has also marked some leading members of the PDP for intimidation, assault and arrest, top on the list are Chief M.A Afangideh, Sir Emem Akpabio, Prince Akpabio, Chief E.E.P Umanah, Hon. Nsini Umanah, Hon. Anthony Luke, Hon. Sunyiekekere Inokon, Barr Imowo Okpokpo, Engr Oliver Ebong among others.

“Additionally, the services of armed thugs, referred to by them as walking stick contractors from Port Harcourt and Bayelsa States and some fake soldiers and policemen have been procured and are enroute Essien Udim as we speak.

“ This group will be under the operational command of CSP Idorenyin Akpabio, a nephew of Senator Akpabio, who is currently in charge of Operation Puff Ada in Akwa Ibom State.”

The party leader called on the Inspector General of Police to call to order DIG Mike Igbizi, whom he said is famed for unprofessional and anti-democratic electoral assistance to APC as evident in Kano rerun and the governorship election in Bayelsa State.

“It will be a crying shame for the institutions of government to allow, or aid chief Akpabio in a second opportunity to brutalize the people of Essien Udim and rape democracy.

“We urge our members and the general voting public in Essien Udim to take necessary protective measures to defend their votes and remain alive. They should be conscious that those coming against them do not have duplicate lives, we must defend our people and property, from both internal and external aggression.”

cc: lalasticlala, seun, mynd44

Since the inauguration of Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq as Kwara state Governor, not much positive news have emerged from his side. It is obvious that for the remaining three years, the Governor may not be able to pull such strings like Seyi Makinde of Oyo state.

The reason is not far-fetched. He has began some sort of witch-hunting against his perceived political enemies, particularly, the Saraki dynasty. He is hell bent on a revenge following his loss at the five consecutive times he contested the governorship of the state.

To further his level of witch-hunting, the Kwara state government on Thursday commenced the demolition of the late Olusola Saraki’s accestral political home, Ile Arúgbó, in Ilorin.

To show the level of desperation, security operatives dispersed protesters who kept vigil to prevent the demolition. It was reported that the Government on Wednesday around 2am tried to demolish the structure but it was met with a protest as people around gathered to pursue them away.

Although AbdulRazaq had earlier announced the decision to revoke the late Olusola Saraki’s property owing to alleged illegality in its acquisition, it seemed he has forgotten the living legacies of Olusola Saraki and his family in the state.

He said the land was originally designated for the construction of a secretariat and parking lot of the civil service clinic, but that it was unlawfully allocated to a private firm — Asa Investments Limited — without any record of payment to the state government.

The claim by the present government that the land will be used to serve as the new secretariat is ridiculous because same government claimed to have injected 250million towards the completion of a new secretariat started by the immediate past government of Abdul Fatai Ahmed.

However, all the appeal and warnings by elder statesmen including the former senate president fell on the deaf ears of AbdulRazaq.

Bukola Saraki countered this statement, saying his late father lawfully acquired the land from the state government.

The political intention of AbdulRazaq has made him forget the philanthropic acts of the late peace loving and kind Olusola Saraki. The deceased empowered thousands and gave meaning to the lives of many through different organizations and schemes.

This fierce antagonism shows that the only ambition of AbdulRazaq is to plunge the state into destruction and erode the legacies of her heroes. Kwarans should not support his hidden agenda!

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Detention of Social Media Troll: Group Calls for Caution

A political pressure group in Akwa Ibom state, Akwa Ibom Alliance for Democracy and Good governance, has called for caution against baseless and misleading comments on social media platforms concerning the arrest and detention of an online troll, Michael Itok, by the Department of Security Service, DSS.

The group's Coordinator, Comrade Saviour Udotai, during a briefing in Uyo, today, appealed for calm so that the law may take its course.

According to Udotai "We have read with dismay several atrocious claims by sponsored agents over the detention of a miscreant named Michael Itok by the DSS over defamatory statements he published on facebook against the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.

"As concerned Akwa Ibomites who are desirous of partnering with the state government in the task of building a vibrant economy, we are constrained to state that the time has come for us to depart from acts of blackmail, hate speeches and fabricated lies that are spewed from a selfish point of view to de-market the state for pecuniary gains".

He said that it is common knowledge that the current Akwa Ibom state Government has shown high level of tolerance to criticism and critics even in the face of sponsored malicious attacks and will continue to do so.

On the detention of Michael Itok, he admonished against backward acts of blackmail, adding that those misguiding the public about facts of the case should allow the law take its full course, saying where and when they feel the law has fallen short of their expectations they should seek redress as provided by the extant laws of Nigeria.

Below is full text of the press statement:

AKWA IBOM ALLIANCE FOR DEMOCRACY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

(Motto: Partnership for good governance) No. 114 Nwaniba Road, Uyo

PRESS STATEMENT

RE: DETENTION OF MICHAEL ITOK

Let the law take its course

We have read with dismay several atrocious claims by sponsored agents over the detention of a miscreant named Michael Itok by the DSS over defamatory statements he published on facebook against the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.

As concerned Akwa Ibomites who are desirous of partnering with the state government in the task of building a vibrant economy, we are constrained to state that the time has come for us to depart from acts of blackmail, hate speeches and fabricated lies that are spewed from a selfish point of view to de-market the state for pecuniary gains.

It is common knowledge that the current Akwa Ibom state Government has shown above-board level of tolerance to critics and criticisms even in the face of sponsored malicious attacks and will continue to do so.

On the detention of Michael Itok, we advise his cohorts to rest on their oars and allow the law take its full course. Where and when they feel the law has fallen short of their expectations, we advice they should seek a redress as provided by the extant laws of Nigeria.

Enough of this backward acts of blackmail.

Signed:

Comrade Saviour Udotai Coordinator

Barrister Rosemary-Andy Udi Secretary General

Akparawa Aniekan Usenekong Publicity Secretary

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

GROUP RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED PLOT BY AKPABIO, APC TO SUBSTITUTE CANDIDATE AHEAD OF ESSIEN UDIM RE-RUN

A foremost socio- political group, Akwa Ibom Liberation Movement, AILM, ha raised alarm over a plot by the minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the All Progressives Congress, in Akwa Ibom to substitute his name for another candidate ahead of the re- run election in Essien Udim Local Government Area.

The group made this known during a press briefing on Tuesday 10th December, held at its secretariat in, Uyo.

The group's Secretary General, Solomon Abasiekong Esq said the APC is hurriedly planning to use the court to substitute Senator Akpabio for Obong Luke Ekperikpe Ekpo, a former member of the House of Representatives.

Ekpo represented Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika federal constituency and was an aspirant for the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial ticket on the platform of the APC in 2018.

Abasiekong said:-

"following recent announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, that it will conduct court-ordered re-run elections including the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial district election in Essien Udim on January 25, 2020, the the minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio and chieftains of All Progressives Congress, APC are planning to substitute his name for another ahead of the re- run election in Essien Udim Local Government Area".

"We have been reliably informed that Akpabio and some APC chieftains were at INEC headquarters yesterday, ( Monday, December 9, 2019) where they held closed door meetings with some top officials of the commission to substitute his name with that of Honourable Ekperikpe Ekpo during the re-run election in Essien Udim Local Governent Area."

The group's secretary said there is no known precedence in law to back this uncreative contraption that Akpabio and his cohorts are planning to throw at INEC and the judiciary.

The group says that the minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio is afriad to lose the re-run election in his own local government.
It is common knowledge in Akwa Ibom state that Akpabio has a mortal fearfor free and fair elections.

From available records, he either uses brute force to intimidate electorate and electoral officials to rig for him or bribes his way through.

The results of the last election in the senatorial district clearly shiow that the people are tired of his antics and are ready to resist any attempt to alter the will of the people."

"The obnoxious move by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is the height of impunity, abuse of office and blatant lawlessness for which INEC should distance itself from.

Akpabio was the candidate fielded by the APC and he must stand for the court ordered re- run election. It is illegal to substitute a candidate’s name from an election after such a candidate had stood for an election and was roundly defeated.

The group calls on INEC to resist the antics by the APC.

cc: lalasticlala, seun, mynd44

HAVE YOU SEEN THESE BEACHES IN LAGOS:

https://www.nairaland.com/5297031/top-5-beaches-every-lagosian

The Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Local Media, Akparawa (Prince) Emmanuel Sam, has dedicated his award of excellent service to God and the people of Uyo.

Sam made this known shortly after receiving the award from His Royal Majesty, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, during the coronation of the later at Ibibio Museum Ground, today.

The media executive was awarded for excellent service.

He used the occasion to express his gratitude to Governor Udom Emmanuel for giving him the opportunity to serve and thanked the royal father and entire traditional stool of Uyo for the honour done him, adding that the award is one he will cherish for a life time.

According to him, "I'm so happy and fulfilled today, having been recognized by the custodian of our norms and culture. It's a lifetime honour I will so cherish. I thank His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel, for giving me the opportunity to serve in his administration.

I thank HRM, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, my king and father for finding me fit for an award of excellence. This show of love will remain evergreen in my memory and I promise to work more for the growth of our people".

He furher stated that such a recognition is a spur to work harder on his assignment and support the growth and welfare of his people.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Anti-graft group, Nigerians Against Corruption, NAC, has described the conviction of former governor of Abia state, Orji Kalu, by Justice Muhammed Idris of a Federal High Court in Lagos as a mark that the EFCC boss, Ibrahim Magu, does not only mean business with the President Buhari’s anti-corrution war but has also earned himself a glorious feat unmatched in our chequered history.

Orji Kalu, who is the Senate Chief Whip, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for stealing public funds while in office. Justice Idris further held that Mr Kalu’s company, Slok Nigeria Limited, the third defendant, be wounded up and all assets forfeited to the federal government.

Commenting on the judgment, the group’s National coordinator said with this feat, Mr Ibrahim deserves the support of all well meaning Nigerians while calling on Mr. President to as a matter of exigency renominate him for a fresh 4-year term as the EFCC chairman.

“The conviction of a whole Senate Chief Whip has shown that Mr Ibrahim Magu is serious about eradicating financial corruption in our polity. If a former governor and a member of the President’s party can bag a 12 year jail term, I tell you this man means business”.

“Don’t forget that Orji Kalu holds a chieftaincy title from President Buhari’s hometown of Daura. His various media outfits also gave the president awards yet, Ibrahim Magu has sent him to jailed.

“I seriously call on President Buhari to return Magu as EFCC boss and also empower the agency to do much more. I also want to urge Nigerians to cooperate with this government to get rid of corruption in Nigeria.

The anti-graft crusader also added that Nigerians should expect the conviction of more high profile Nigerians.

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Its Time to do more!

By Edward Onoja

The 2019 Kogi State Gubernatorial Elections have come and gone.We thank the Almighty God and our good people on the reelection of Governor Yahaya Bello for a second term in office, with me as his Deputy.

Throughout the campaigns His Excellency premised his request for a second term on the promise to do more and as his loyal follower I echo that resolve. However, the 2nd term starts after Inauguration on the 27th of January, 2020. Till then, our determination and duty is to serve out this current term as strongly and as successfully as possible.

As at today, neither His Excellency nor myself have any other desire other than completing our existing mandate with excellence and then improving on our performance in the one to come. In fact, the serious business of providing good governance to the people of Kogi State has since commenced.

I do not have anything against destiny but God-given destiny is an honour which no man takes upon himself. In fact, destiny is a ‘shy spirit’ which likes to hide itself. It has a way of meeting a man while he is engaged in his dutiful routine of today while doing everything to evade those who go running around looking for it.

One of my favourite Bible characters, is David. The story of how he became King of Israel when nobody, including his father, gave him a chance is a classic tale of destiny finding and uplifting somebody while totally writing off others.

David was away in the fields doing his normal job of tending sheep when destiny came in the form of Prophet Samuel to anoint a king from among the sons of Jesse, his father. After they did everything to push the prophet to anoint another person, he discovered the family had a last son whom they did not even believe had any glory in his future. Prophet Samuel directed them to fetch David and immediately he arrived the Holy Spirit identified him for the job and the rest is history.

The point I am trying to make here is that I, Edward DAVID son of Onoja, am not in agreement with those who have started ‘seeing a bison’ for 2023 and making provocative permutations for me. 2023 is a river, when we get to it God will show us how to cross it. For now, allow me to settle down and do the current job my boss has assigned to me.
Permit me to ask, can any of us tell what will happen tomorrow? As a Believer, I have learnt never to be ahead of the One who sees the hidden things of the dark and who owns the future. It’s the fastest way to truncating ones destiny.

Henceforth, I will walk out anyone who visits me and so much as mentions plans for a 2023 project that no mortal has control over. ..Not even the next moment can you guarantee!

I pray the souls of those who passed on before, during and after the Elections Rest In Peace. I equally thank God for sparing the life of my wife and many others from the bullets of hired mercenaries.

Let me use this medium to send a reply to those who have started peddling rumours of an imaginary rift between me and my boss. These victims of a febrile imagination are pathetic. If they don't say His Excellency is angry with Edward, they will say Edward has fallen out with H.E, or both. ”Dem swear for some people?”. How do they come up with such barefaced lies?

I consider it the worst form of disrespect and a devious act for me to ever be at loggerheads with my boss. Yes, His Excellency calls me his Siamese Twin brother and yes, he grants me grand and unfettered access to his person and counsel, but till I die, I will NEVER take that for granted and I will consider these as privileges to be nurtured, but NOT rights to be demanded.

For the records, there is only one Governor in the whole of Kogi State and that is none other than His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello.The rest of us in the New Direction Administration are co-labourers he has engaged to join him in this great work. As his helpers, we are expected to work hard and conform to the norms of teamwork.

The laws of the land clearly indicate that in governing the state none of us can ever become the Governor's equal in authority, much less confront him in disagreement. Any unruliness or deviation is to be handled with alacrity, while anyone whose assignment is concluded is let go.

So, let it be clear to those who are carrying rumours of a quarrel between my boss and I , that their devilish desires will perish with themselves. As God Almighty lives, they will never live to see any division between His Excellency and I, as I know my place and I am professionally inclined to observe my bounds per time.

My boss, my Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has my undiluted love and respect forever. As for his own love for me, I have discovered that the more my stewardship increases in faithfulness to him, the more his love for me increases. In that case, the magic formula for me is simple - to increase my loyalty, competence and capacity more and more.

Fortunately, both His Excellency and myself are Godly politicians. After the unprecedented victories we have enjoyed from the Almighty, what do we have to quarrel about? We have broken records. Who else has seen the startling margins we have recorded in Kogi State before?

We started our electoral dominance from the Lokoja/Koto federal constituency by-election in August 2018 in which APC polled 26,860 to the paltry 14,845 votes received by our closest rival, the PDP.

The next test of our acceptance came in the 2019 General Elections and by God's grace, we came forth in flying colours. We effortlessly delivered President Buhari who bested Atiku Abubakar of the PDP with over 80,000 votes in Kogi State alone.

After that we executed a decisive takeover of the national and state legislative apparatus of Kogi State with a historic win. 2 out of 3 Senators, 7 out of 9 House of Representatives members and 25 out of 25 House of Assembly members swelled the ranks of the APC after that elections.

We proceeded to the Elections Tribunal and made a clean sweep of the 3 Senatorial seats in the state as Senator Smart Adeyemi dislodged former Senator Dino Melaye of the PDP who the courts agreed got it initially by foul means.

With this grand chronicle of achievements under the leadership of His Excellency and our head tactician, all we have is gratitude. We have no room, reason or time to quarrel. I am even more loyal and humble in service to my boss now than ever before and my boss has become even more generous and magnanimous to me.

I also hear that some busybodies claim that I am not happy with my promotion to the exalted office of Deputy Governor of Kogi State. In their minds, I would have preferred to remain in my former office as the Chief of Staff to the Governor...please can you breathe the other way? Your ignorance is bleaching my hair!

Let me state without equivocation that, I am ecstatic to be addressed as, His Excellency, Edward David Onoja, the Deputy Governor of Kogi State even when mere mortals thought I was too small for the office! They lobbied my ’Oga’ to bring 'more qualified individuals', but “God pass them”. I am forever grateful to my boss for finding me worthy of elevation to the number 2 position in our state. How can I ever find it in me to nurse anger or resentment against such a destiny helper?

Yes, I diligently did my job and held my head high as Chief of Staff to the Governor. It is always like that when you work with a people developer like Governor Yahaya Bello. With leaders like Governor Yahaya Bello, every position filled is a masterclass in leadership selection but he must first find you worthy and trustworthy.
Another thing is that my position today is the biggest commendation ever for my performance in my former office. If I did poorly, will my boss elevate me? Who promotes somebody who failed them to a higher office?

My relationship with His Excellency dates back to 2003 in the North Central City of Markurdi in Benue State. Neither of us suspected that 16 years later we will be saddled by the Almighty God Himself with the Herculean task of building a United Kogi State characterised by Peace, Progress and Prosperity.

Detractors who are trying to chop down this mighty iroko today by plucking off a few fruits and leaves here and there are wasting their time. Our roots go down to the bedrock of divine favour and human labour. I am amazed myself at the length the Almighty God has gone to preserve us and the assignment He has given us.

My friendly warning to our would-be foes is to repent and desist. Without exception, every single hand which has risen against us on this journey have turned leprous and made the owners outcasts in society. One funny fellow once declared that 'anybody fighting Bello is fighting God'. I believed him and I have been properly guided since then. Sadly, he did not believe himself and after getting himself into too many troubles in his vain attempts to fight us, he was finally and spectacularly disgraced from relevance and reckoning just last weekend.


As for those who have begun to lobby for offices in the coming dispensation, just note that there is nothing wrong with that one but if your strategy is to bad mouth others with fabricated lies and all manner of falsehoods, do yourself a favor and evaluate yourself first. What did you better than others in the last 4 years, including your performance at the polls. Just to avoid heartbreak o.

“The lines are fallen unto us in pleasant places; yea, we have a goodly heritage.” Psalms 16:6.

Finally, let us remember that God has indeed blessed us as a state but it is in our hands to make or mar our destiny.

It’s Time To Do More!

ONOJA EDWARD DAVID (CIK)
Olimene Attah Igala.
Deputy Governor,Kogi State

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

At the State House today President Muhammadu Buhari and Prime Minister of Netherlands Mr. Mark Rutte witnessed the signing of MoU on Dairy Chain Development between Friesland Campina and Niger State Government.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello represented Niger State Government and Mr. Ben Langat, MD, Friesland Campina WAMCO Plc represented his company.

WAMCO has already set up its hydrophonic unit, milk collection and planted over 500 hectares of pasture on its allocated 10,000 hectares plot at Bobi Grazing Reserve.

Further, Niger State Government has since approved 4000 hectares of land each to Chi Limited (makers of Hollandia milk and Chivita), Irish dairy and Neon.

In the same vain, another five Grazing Reserves are in the process of being gazetted.

Niger state will house a total of six million cattle in the entire state. But Bobi is expected to generate a revenue of over N45 billion annually.

Governor Abubakar Bello has made job creation through investment promotion as one of the key objectives of his administration.

The Governor’s dreams are coming to fruition.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

'Burning of PDP woman leader, Salome Abuh was a reprisal attack' - Kogi State police command

The Kogi police command says the burning of Salome Abuh, woman leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Wada Aro, Ochadamu Ward in Ofu local government area of the state, by suspected thugs was a reprisal attack.

A statement by William Aya, its public relations officer, said there was a misunderstanding between one Awolu Zekeri, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and one Gowon Simeon, a member of the PDP, both of Ochadamu ward.

He said angry youths then mobilised themselves to Simeon’s home for a reprisal attack, where Abuh was killed.

“Gowon Simeon stabbed Zekeri with a knife and he died on his way to hospital. As a result, angry youths in the area mobilised to the house of one Simeon Abuh of same address, who is an uncle to the suspect, set it ablaze, (and) thereby burnt one Salome Abuh, aged 60 years,” the statement said.

“Three other houses were equally burnt.

“The corpse has been moved to the University Teaching Hospital Mortuary Anyigba for autopsy.”

He added that security operatives have been deployed in the area to prevent the break down of peace while investigation is ongoing.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

It is no longer news that Prof Charles Dokubo, the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Amnesty has been enmeshed in multiple allegations of misapplied, misappropriated and stashed away billions of naira of public funds.

No month goes by without a major newspaper headline or story on how Prof Dokubo, the Niger Delta Amnesty helmsman alongside his Procurement Director, Mr Musa Odiniya allegedly divert billions of naira meant for peace promotion, ex-agitators’ sustenance and development of the Niger Delta region into private pockets and for self-interest.

As succinctly and aptly captured by the popular adage “every day for the thief, one day for the owner”, the recently released redeployment and fresh posting list of procurement directors and deputy directors in MDAs, a periodic mandatory civil service exercise carried out by the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, has not only brought down these men of purported biblical Goliath status but primarily exposed the underbelly of Prof Charles Dokubo in abetting fraud.

Attached letter dated November 14th, 2019 is a protest letter from Prof. Dokubo, appealing and at the same time, questioning the statutory role of the Director-General of BPP on why the Procurement Director at Niger Delta Amnesty, Musa Odiniya, an alleged accomplice in serial criminal acts and unprofessional financial conducts should be redeployed.

For emphasis, aside from the many public financial accusations on Musa Odiniya, private investigations conducted revealed his tremendous acquisition of assets in a guesstimate of billions of naira and ownership of multiple filling stations from untoward wealth in his two-year tenure at Niger Delta Amnesty.

All these were said to have been conducted by Musa Odiniya with some other officials under purported financial blackmail on asset acquisition with public funds for Prof Dokubo that led to his diminished authority over his subordinates.

For now, the popular opinion is that the allegations on Charles Dokubo and his cohorts are sufficient for a step aside to allow a free proper investigation by all institutions charged with such oversight responsibilities. The people of Niger Delta under Buhari’s focused leadership and promises deserve a better deal!

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

By: Eleazar Dokubo

Nigeria is on a threshold in the war against corruption and of central import to this national crusade is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and whether the person who heads the anti-corruption agency at this critical time should be retained in office or not.

Corruption fight, primed as one of the key manifesto tripods on which the President Muhammadu Buhari administration swept into power in 2015, alongside security and the economy. However, the common belief by most analyst was that the fight against corruption was arguably going to pose the most intriguing challenge of all, given the fact that the country had achieved international notoriety with the unenviable identity as one of the most corrupt nation's in the global corruption ratings. Four years, after that prediction on corruption by opinion leaders is still accurate as the fight against corruption even with President Buhari's unrelenting efforts still has a long way to travel.

Specifically, astonishing narratives of mind-boggling corruption allegations had surfaced at the beginning of the Buhari administration which made previous efforts of the anti-corruption agency look like the work of amatures, despite the very outstanding milestones and strategic achievements recorded by the previous leaderships of the EFCC.
For emphasis, since its creation in 2003 by the President Obasanjo administration, the leadership of the anti corruption agency from Nuhu Ribadu, through Ibrahim Lamorde and Farida Waziri to Ibrahim Magu, has attracted more than its fair share of attention, especially from politicians, who it seemed had always been quite interested in who is at the helm of affairs in the EFCC.

To further make the guess complicated on the leadership of the EFCC, the emergence of President Buhari introduced very complex variables, especially against the backdrop of his solid zero tolerance for corruption personality, as well as his famed integrity and uprightness. However, these traits of Buhari equally imposed on him, the weighty burden of finding the right man to drive the fight against corruption with a commitment and determination that would match his zeal and passion to combat the scourge.

To put the situation of corruption in Nigeria in clear perspective, it is important to note that the global image of Nigeria was so bad that in 2012 for example, Nigeria was estimated to have lost over $400 billion to corruption since independence and in 2018 the country ranked 144th in the 180 countries listed in Transparency International's Corruption Index with Somalia, at 180th, being the most corrupt.

For any forward looking nation, the statistics and rating of Nigeria on corruption should be a major issue of concern. According to the United Nations, "Corruption undermines democratic institutions, slows economic development and contributes to governmental instability. Corruption attacks the foundation of democratic institutions by distorting electoral processes, perverting the rule of law and creating bureaucratic quagmires whose only reason for existing is the soliciting of bribes".

Furthermore, "Economic development is stunted because foreign direct investment is discouraged and small businesses within the country often find it impossible to overcome the "start-up costs" required because of corruption".

Indeed, only few objective analysts would doubt if the above scenario does not appropriately capture the state of the Nigerian nation, which in itself demands that the leadership of the nation's anti corruption agency must be firm, brave and possessing the right amount of enforcement authority in the perception of Nigerian.

It was therefore not a surprise that CP Ibrahim Magu was appointed as the Acting Chairman of the EFCC in November, 2015 given his sterling track record of accomplishments in various positions he had held within the EFCC.

Four years of Magu's appointment, has made his anti corruption tentacles to spread far and wide, capturing some high brow personalities across the various sectors of society and achieving monumental recoveries of stolen funds both at home and abroad. Specifically, the one critical success of the Maiduguri born tough cop era is that the entire perception of corruption and attitude of those who either have been neck deep in its cesspool and were nursing wild ambitions of diving fully into it and enjoying the unlimited proceeds of their nefarious cunnuingness has altered dramatically and without prior warning.

Indeed, there's s no gainsaying the obvious fact that in Magu's tenure as acting EFCC chairman, the mere thought of engaging in corruption has sent cold shivers down the spine of people who hitherto aided, abetted and sustained corruption in every sector and at all levels. From the Judiciary to the civil service, from top elected politicians, political office holders to key players in the corporate, business and oil and gas sector, military, academic intitutions to the murky world of drug dealers and cyber crimes, the Nigerian society has felt and trembled under what has now been referred to as the Magu effect and the mere mention of the EFCC even in minor office altercations, business arguments or suspicious transactions, has generated the kind of impact, which on its own, has done more to check corrupt intentions in the last four years than ever before.

The recognition accorded Magu by the Africa Union ( AU), the umbrella body of all African countries as the Special African Anti-Corruption Crusader award winner from the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council, (AU-ECOSOCC), have been highlighted copiously in numerous write ups and commentaries celebrating the agency.

There's an African proverb that says that if an animal decides to run with deft and swift cunning in order to evade being shot, the hunter will devise extraordinary shooting skills and strategies to gun it down without remorse or finesse, in the bush. This apt analogy succinctly captures the no love lost battle between Magu the hunter and the corrupt persons he has vowed to track down and bring to justice in the war against corruption.

It is against this backdrop that one should appraise and interprete the recent calls from some quarters for Ibrahim Magu to return to his primary calling, the Police and let someone new be appointed to head EFCC, now that his term at the helm of affairs for the mandatory tenure of four years, has been exhausted. These calls, for the avoidance of doubt, can only mean one thing; corruption is fighting back.

Ironically, the logic behind the calls for Magu to return to the police have been couched in some quite attractive arguments, which at face value appears eloquent, but at a deeper level, clearly reveals the desperation and cunning deceitfulness which defines the dubious intent to get Magu out of EFCC. at all cost and by every means necessary.

There's no doubt whatsoever that those asking for the redeployment of Magu are not only this administration's worst enemies but they act out of self greed and ignore the interest of the majority. The resources at the disposal of these folks, especially those outside the shores of the country are enormous, unquantifiable and of course, have been amassed from the proceeds of brazen corruption.

The systems they have infiltrated and corruptly structured to continue to deliver proceeds against the interest of the people and the detriment of the nation, have been breached by the robust, fearless and uncompromising strategies of the Ibrahim Magu led EFCC and lest we forget, the man has actually been operating in an acting capacity in the last four years and the real twist in the matter is that he has outlasted and out lived the Senator Bukola Saraki led Senate, which ensured that he would not and indeed was not be confirmed as substantive head of the anti corruption agency whenever he was forwarded for screening. The present leadership of the Senate this time around, is a completely different kettle of fish altogether.

The trust and confidence Ibrahim Magu has enjoyed from President Buhari in the last four years have manifested in the far reaching measures, strategies and operational latitude that have defined the EFCC as an anti corruption agency with the mettle to take on corruption frontally. The fact that Magu has been acting in these last four years and has achieved the kind of success with the EFCC that has received wide spread commendation from home and abroad, should actually strengthen President Buhari's resolve to submit his name once again for confirmation as the substantive chairman of EFCC.

Every responsible leadership goes to war with its best and long serving Generals and it is a truism, especially in Nigeria, that good Generals never retire. Ibrahim Magu has grown in stature and experience to become an outstanding anti-corruption General and as President Buhari finally settles down in his second term, following the final judgment of the Supreme Court to endorse his presidential mandate, the fact remains that there's still a lot of ground to be covered, a lot of loot to be recovered and indeed a lot of existing and dangerously emerging corruption kingpins and outlets to be uncovered, smoked out and neutralized.

The importance of Ibrahim Magu's fearsome presence and unshakable authority as the leading general in the war against corruption, instead of the suggested redeployment to the police, will not only reassure the international community of Nigeria's seriousness as a trusted partner in response to pressure from the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF), which had hitherto named Nigeria as one of 23 non-cooperative countries in the international community's efforts to fight money laundering, but it will send strong and unambiguous signals to the indigenous corruption community, that there is no more a secure hiding place at home or a safe haven abroad once the EFCC identifies your case.

*Dokubo, is an MSc student at the University of Southeastern Norway

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

Osun Economic Summit: UNICEF lauds Oyetola on pro-people policies, effective fund utilisation


Pledges more support for the state

As the State of Osun Economic and Investment Summit enters the third and last day, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has commended Governor Adegboyega Oyetola for effectively utilising the funds released to the State by the agency.

The agency also congratulated the government over the huge achievements recorded across all sectors of the economy, adding that the government's developmental programmes are not only pro-people but also child-friendly.

UNICEF, which spoke through its Field Officer, Mr. Tushar Rene, during plenary IX and the development partners' roundtable meeting with Mr. Governor on Thursday, pledged the agency's continued support for the State, particularly in the development of education, child and maternal health.

Rene, who described the Summit as both impressive and successful, maintained that the government of Oyetola has, by this Summit, put Osun on the path of greatness as development partners across the globe have been given a good reason to immediately direct resources and necessary attention for rapid soocio-economic development in the state.

"On behalf of UNICEF, I wish to commend this government for effectively utilising funds obtained from this agency.

"This is the first State to approve the social protection policy and law, the 332 primary healthcare centers across the state and so on. We congratulate the governor for the job particularly in education, child and maternal health.

"As we pledge our continued support for the state, we want to urge the government to consolidate on the gains from the various programmes and scale of initiatives.

"I must confess that this Summit is impressive and I have no doubt that it will produce desired results as it looks good enough to immediately draw the world's attention and that of investors and key development partners across the globe," Reme said.

The agency advised the government on the need to put in place the end user monitoring of social sector intervention, use of data for decision making and child-friendly budgeting.

Earlier in his opening remarks at the roundtable meeting, the Governor, State of Osun, Adegboyega Oyetola thanked all the partners for their support, adding that the meeting was arranged with a view to deepening "existing collaboration, forge new alliances and unlock possibilities that will enhance the quality of life of our people and overall development in the State."

While reiterating the commitment of the administration to fully realising its development agenga, Governor Oyetola called for continued support from all key development partners in moving the state to greater heights.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, Seun

More photos:

Despite court injunction, Rivers government evicts retired civil servant from house bought 20-years back

Dr Godwin U MPI, a retired civil servant has narrated how he was forcefully evicted from a building he bought in the year 2000 by some officials of the Rivers state government in company of armed policemen.

According to Godwin who retired from the state civil service in 2015, the said building was allocated as staff quarters to him in 1998.

“Prior to my retirement, while in service, I was allocated a service quarters in the year 1998. While still in the property, half of it was demarcated and fenced off. Eventually it was sold to a serving officer in the Nigerian Navy. The officer of the rank of a commodore , applied and was issued with a certificate of occupancy.

“Following this development, I applied to the Rivers state government to buy the half of the property which I occupy . The Rivers state government through the RIVERS STATE HOUSING AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY offered to sale the property to me. I paid the full purchase price. This was in the year 2000.

“Subsequently, I applied and got a certificate of occupancy from the Rivers state government in the year 2004. Since the year 2005, the Rivers state government has demanded from me the payment of ground rent which I had paid from 2005 till December 2019 this year. So I am not in default.”

“Later this year, the Rivers state government set up a task force to recover Government properties. The task force came and pasted a notice to vacate on my client's property.”

He further said he approached the court to restrain the government and it's agents from forcefully ejecting/evicting him from the property except by due process of law and for the court to determine the ownership of the property.

He continued, “We sued the (1) GOVERNMENT OF RIVERS STATE (2) THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL & COMMISSIONER FOR JUSTICE (3) THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF LANDS & SURVEY (4) THE HEAD OF RIVERS STATE CIVIL SERVICE.

“The suit number is PHC/3764/2019: GODWIN U MPI VS RIVERS STATE GOVERNMENT & 3 OTHERS.

“The court processes that is, the WRIT OF SURMONS (with all the accompanying documents), a motion on notice for interlocutory injunction and motion ex-parte for interim injunction were duly served on all the parties.

“This was on the 5/11/2019. The case was assigned by the chief Judge to Court 20 presided over by Honorable Justice Augusta Chukwu.

“But to our rude shock the government thugs in company with armed policemen came and forcefully evicted my clients from his property . Some of his properties were damaged in the process.

“As a matter of fact, they would not allow me remove fixed items like his sound proof generator, split air-conditioners, ceiling fans extra.”

Lawyer to Mr. Godwin, Barrister David Jaja said his client not being able to immediately get a place to pass the night with his family on the day he was ejected slept under the open heavens.

“I need to point out that my client being a senior citizen is in severe psychological shock .

“That is the executive rascality and impunity that the Rivers state government engaged in . They completely threw to the dustbin the due process and rule of law. We have videos and photos of this surdid event.”

Watch video:

Despite court injunction, Rivers government evicts retired civil servant from house bought 20-years back pic.twitter.com/0VyjLrNAPm

— inoutnaija ❁ #WorldCup #Worldcup2026 (@inoutnaija) November 22, 2019

Despite court injunction, Rivers government evicts retired civil servant from house bought 20-years back

Part 2 pic.twitter.com/yAjc5iZ5rf

— inoutnaija ❁ #WorldCup #Worldcup2026 (@inoutnaija) November 22, 2019

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

The Appeal Court sitting in Sokoto has upheld the judgment of the election petition tribunal affirming the election of Aminu Tambuwal as the validly elected governor of the state.

On October 2, the tribunal in a unanimous judgement, dismissed the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress, APC and its governorship candidate, Ahmed Aliyu, challenging the governor’s victory at the March 9, 2019 poll.

The tribunal led by Justice Bawale Abdullahi held that the petitioners failed to adduce credible evidence to prove their case.

Delivering its judgement on Friday, the chairman of the appeal panel, Justice Hussaini Mukhtar, dismissed all the six grounds of appeal filed by the APC candidate and finally dismissed the case.

The appellate court also dismissed the PDP’s cross-appeal, challenging the qualification of the APC candidate to contest the election.

CC: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun

A Minna High Court on Thursday adjourned to 3rd of December, 2019 for the continuation of hearing in the trial against the former Governor of Niger State Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, his former Chief of Staff, Umar Gado Nasko and the state PDP Chairman Tanko Beji.

Babangida, Nasko and Beji are being prosecuted for alleged embezzlement of N800M Ecological fund, N1B Niger state shares in North-South Power and N937M government money used for campaign.

At the reaumed ruling today, Justice Mikail Abdullahi adjourned to allow the defence counsel to reply to an application filed by the Court for the full trial of proceedings case

The prosecuting counsel has filed an application requesting the court to commence pre-trial proceeding into the matter as they are ready to present some documents and reitresses for the commencement of the pre-trial proceedings.

However, a hot argument challenging the application filed by the prosecuting counsel ensured during today’s proceedings while Justice Mikail directed that the case management to be conducted today to aquaint the Court with the number of witness that the defence council to the first Defender Ayodele Adedeji SAN as well as the number of documents to be produce to ensure speedy trial of the case.

The Judge opined that the relevant documents challenging the application ought to have been file by the defence counsel.

Also Defence Counsel to the second and third defenders had challenged the Jurisdiction of the Court that similar matter against the defenders is ongoing in the Federal High Court in Minna. Noting that is jeopardizing the speedy administration of Justice.

After all submissions by both Counsels Justice Mikail Abdullahi then Adjourned the case to 3rd December, 2019 for the commencement of the pre-trial into the case.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44, seun