God bless Yahaya Bello

The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has concluded plans for capacity training programs for Nigerian women on digital skills in collaboration with a private organization, GetBundi Educational Foundation as part of measures to close the gap on gender exclusives and also hone up the skills of women on contemporary global trends on digital solutions and applications.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by representatives from GetBundi Foundation, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye expressed her delight with the partnership which according to her “ will provide our women and young girls with cutting edge on digital application and other computer-based solutions that will put them at par with their contemporaries in other climes. The global community is moving at a very fast pace and the Ministry thought it ideal to organize training on digital skills for our women to upscale their knowledge on computer application and information communication technology. The interesting aspect of the proposed collaboration is that aside from organizing the program free for the women, it will be followed up by empowering the participants with start-up kits that will not only enhance their capacity of digital solutions but will encourage them to start their own businesses”
“We are very optimistic that this initiative will open up new vistas of opportunities for our women to veer into special areas of human endeavor that will acquaint them with prerequisite knowledge and skills to cope with contemporary global trends in ICT” the Minister added.
Barr Uju also added that the training has been designed to have 300 participants between the ages of 18 and 40 years, drawn from across the six geo-political zones as a pilot project which will be scaled up subsequently to have more participants. This initiative will further boost our drive to close the gap on gender inclusiveness.
Responding, the Executive Secretary of GetBundi Foundation, Dr. Obiamaka Agbakoba  stated that “ the GetBundi is a hybrid digital skills education technology platform designed to deliver high quality, engaging and accessible digital courses to individuals across Africa”
Speaking further, she said “the tech industry is no doubt a male-dominated career across the globe at the moment and Africa is no exception. Research reveals that only 30 percent of African women make up the tech industry, which signifies that women are highly under represented”
She also expressed her concerns that despite the overwhelming percentage of women in the African continent, available data reveals that only very few are in the digital and technological space compared to men, with women in the tech space making up only 22 percent of the industry workforce in Nigeria.
According to her “ We believe that with conducive platforms, Nigerian women can learn and lead commercial innovations but this female digital exclusion, a situation where women are disproportionately left behind in accessing and using digital technologies and services, is a pervasive problem hindering the realization of fully inclusive digital future and we need to bridge this gap” she concluded.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Pursuant to an earlier approval by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for the establishment of  Mobile Courts in all states and the FCT for quick dispensation of matters relating to harmful practices and other social vices against Nigerian women and girls, the Osun State Government has concluded plans to establish Mobile Courts in the state, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

Making this declaration earlier today during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Women Affairs in Abuja, Governor Ademola Adeleke observed that women are pivotal to national growth and requires necessary supports to enable them contribute their quota to the nation’s socio-economic advancement adding that his administration is positively inclined towards promoting the interest of women and youths and will sustain its partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for the realization Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, affirming that "all agreements reached here today will be put to immediate implementation"
 
" I am also directing for immediate implementation of the  resolution of the Nigerian Governor's Forum for the establishment of Mobile Courts dedicated to addressing issues of sexual and gender based violence, child abuse in the form of street begging and expedited trial of women and children held in correctional facilities”.
 
Speaking further, Governor Adeleke added that "The Nigeria Governors Forum recognizes that these issues impact on the well-being of women and children and the forum is committed to supporting the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in proffering lasting solutions to the issues. Osun is enforcing the resolution immediately", he declared.
 
 Rising from the meeting, Governor Adeleke stated that in the spirit of Lent, Easter and Ramadan period, he has directed his Commissioner for Justice to prepare an executive order to free all unjustly incarcerated women in the state.
 
According to the Governor, the Justice Ministry will compile a list of affected women across the state to be granted executive pardon in furtherance of protection of women rights.
 
Responding, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye stated that Osun State has been scheduled among other states that will receive the next batches of industrial machines, modernized farming equipment for Rice, Cassava, Cocoa and Fish farming as part of efforts by the Ministry to boost agri-business and sustainably empower women in Osun State.
 
Similarly, the Minister commended the Governor for endorsing a partnership with the Ministry on training of women on skills acquisition especially in the area of producing local fabrics and solicited for women from Osun State to get integrated into the E-market portal recently launched by the Ministry to provide a one-stop-shop on-line platform for seamless business ventures that will further enhance the socio-economic status of women in the state.
 
While commending the Governor for approving the immediate establishment of Mobile Courts in the state, the Minister added "Your decision is revolutionary. You are indeed a true agent of democracy and development. We are elated that you walked into our Ministry to give us this delightful news that will assist to address gender based violence and other harmful practices against the female gender. Nigerian women are grateful to you for leading the way for a new life for our womenfolk”.
 
"This Ministry will also follow through on our own side of the agreement reached today. We will work on the inclusion of Osun in our empowerment programmes. We will place Osun on priority list as a critical partner led by a Governor who is truly serving the people ", the Minister affirmed.
 
Members of the Osun State Governor’s delegation included the Governor’s wife, Mrs Titi Adeleke; the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Lere Oyewumi, the Commissioner for Federal Affairs, Hon Adenike Adeleke and other top officials.
 
The Minister was also accompanied by some Directors, Aides and other top management team from the Ministry. A joint technical committee was also set up to implement the resolutions made during the meeting.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

In a bold move aimed at addressing the ongoing political turmoil in Kogi State, Chief Richard Asaje, the National Coordinator and Convener of the Like Mind Alliance Pressure Group, has broken his silence to express his concerns regarding the agitation for power shift in the state.

Chief Asaje, revered as an Elder Statesman, has been observing the political landscape unfold since the election of His Excellency, Alhaji Ododo Usman as Governor of Kogi State. However, he has decided to speak out against what he describes as "unholy, unpatriotic, and repulsive" agitation by the Igala nation for power to return to the Eastern senatorial district.

In his statement, Chief Asaje acknowledges the right of each senatorial district to stand by their political representatives or candidates. However, he criticizes the Igala nation for what he perceives as an excessive and selfish pursuit of power, particularly their insistence on power returning to the Eastern senatorial district where it has resided for 19 uninterrupted years.

One of the main reasons prompting Chief Asaje to break his silence is the perceived insult against the people of the Western senatorial district. He condemns the Igala's mocking statement suggesting that since Governor Yahaya Bello did not give the ticket to the Okun Nation from Kogi West, then power should return to the Igala people, implying the disregard of the Western senatorial district.

Chief Asaje expresses his opposition to what he views as an attempt to disrupt the divine zoning system by which Governor Yahaya Bello emerged from the Central senatorial district. He warns against the Igala's pursuit of power through "unholy judicial means," suggesting that electoral frauds associated with certain local governments in Kogi East could be exposed.

Despite his reservations about Governor Ododo's emergence as the APC flag bearer, Chief Asaje asserts that if the Supreme Court upholds Ododo's victory, it would not be the end of the world. He emphasizes that Kogi State is not and will never be an annex of the Igala nation.

Reflecting on past political decisions, Chief Asaje recalls his support for Governor Yahaya Bello in 2015, despite opposition from his own people in the Okun Nation. He asserts that the people of Kogi West and Central senatorial districts will rally behind Ododo's victory at the tribunal and provide unprecedented support to his administration.

Chief Richard Asaje's statement signals a significant voice in the ongoing political discourse in Kogi State, urging for unity and fairness in the political process.

The Kogi Elites Forum(KEF), under the leadership of
Engr. Usman Atabo Musa vehemently condemns the recent statement issued by JS Okutepa SAN regarding the ongoing Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) battles involving the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, and the position of the state government. In a strongly-worded rejoinder, KEF expressed disappointment at Okutepa's attempt to interfere in matters that do not concern him and his misguided attempt to dictate the actions of the state government.

Engr. Atabo, representing the voice of Kogi's Elites, emphasized that it is the sole responsibility of the Kogi State government to defend itself against any perceived intimidation of its leaders and any attempts aimed at tarnishing the image of the state. He stressed that Okutepa, as a senior lawyer, should respect the rule of law and refrain from making inflammatory statements that could further escalate tensions surrounding the EFCC investigation.

The KEF asserted that Okutepa's suggestion that the Commissioner of Information, Kingsley Fanwo, is not in the right position to respond to EFCC is unconstitutional and infringes on the state government's right to defend itself against baseless allegations. They emphasized that it is within Fanwo's mandate to defend the state and its leaders against unwarranted attacks.

Furthermore, the group emphasized that Alhaji Yahaya Bello served Kogi State diligently during his tenure as Governor with massive Infrastructural developments, Security of life and Properties of the people as well and Transformative Governance in his 8years as Governor.

Atabo Stated that Yahaya Bello should not be subjected to baseless accusations or dragged into unnecessary controversies. They refuted Okutepa's insinuation that the state's resources are being misused to defend Bello, stating that Fanwo is simply performing his duties as a government official representing the interests of the state and its citizens.

KEF reiterated that Bello's hands are clean and dismissed any notion that he is evading the EFCC investigation. They pointed out that Bello has been actively participating in events within and outside the state, demonstrating his willingness to cooperate with relevant authorities. Therefore, they urged Okutepa to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims and to focus on legal matters within the confines of the courtroom, rather than attempting to dictate the actions of the EFCC or the state Government.

KEF used the media briefing to thank the Good People of Kogi State for standing behind the former Governor describing the people actions as demonstration of Appreciation for the outstanding performance of Former Governor Bello who won Numerous Awards from reputable organizations Within and outside Nigeria in Areas of Security, Transparency, and Good governance.

Shame on Achuba

The Youth Coalition for Education in Nigeria (YOCEN), a Pan-Africa development-driven initiative, Nigeria chapter, has conferred its certificate of Noble prize for Excellence to Engr. Seyi Adesomi as Vanguard of Societal Transformation in Nigeria. In recognition of his immense contributions towards societal transformation via human capital development, effective services delivery, Youth Empowerment, meritorious service to his profession & a build for better Nigeria.

Speaking at the award ceremony, held at Olam Limited in Kaduna on the 17th January 2024 the head of Mission and Secretary General of YOCEN Hon. Yakubu Nurudeen Yahaya described Engr. Seyi Adesomi as a quintessential icon, a famous advocate of sustainable development goals especially in the area of Youth Engagement/Empowerment and a role model to Nigeria/African students which has endear the body to recognize him as a visionary and leader of repute.

“We found Engr. Seyi Adesomi to be a role model and a mentor whose dedicated services and commitment towards nation building, especially in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals are outstanding and his ingenious strides are indeed admirable, recognized and appreciated by YOCEN-Nigeria”.

“These are few among his strides that warranted this honour on him, for he has proven himself to be a man of charisma who can stick out his neck for the cause he believes in.

“YOCEN-Nigeria and the entirety of African Students/Youth have recognised him as a man of courage who has zero tolerance for ineffectiveness; a seasoned intellectual with passion for continental renaissance, a noble champion who is known for his effective service delivery.”

He said Engr. Adesomi has established an indelible mark in his profession, processing and discharging of his duties and posterity would continue to remember his incredible contributions to humanity and society.

In his response, Engr. Seyi Adesomi thanked the organization for finding him worthy of this prestigious award.

“I am delighted to have been selected today, as one of those who merit the National award. Going by my antecedence it is a well deserved award”.

Engr. Adesomi that he is still striving hard to achieve more and promised to do more in capacity building and societal development.

“I wish YOCEN success in all its activities in Nigeria and other African countries and looking forward for more partnership with YOCEN-Nigeria,” Engr. Seyi Adesomi said.

This is a terrible practice

The only minister that knows what she is doing

That Kogi State Governor is just the best

Bros, those traditional leaders bin dey misbehave! Governor Bello don do well by comot dem. No more fear for our area!

...Advocacy group calls for fair assessment of Minister's actions, denounces ethnic interpretations

The Northern Coalition for Humanitarian Progress (NCHP) has issued a statement urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to consider sacking the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, while asking for an impartial investigation into the suspension of Hajia Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). Contrary to earlier reports, the coalition refrains from exonerating Shehu and expresses belief that the Minister, Dr. Betta Edu, acted with evidence for the betterment of the country.

In a carefully worded communication issued to the media in Abuja on Friday, the coalition led by Alhaji Sanusi Mohammed, called for a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations against Hajia Halima Shehu. The group refrained from commending or exonerating Shehu, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and emphasizing the need for due process.


The coalition stated its belief that Minister Dr. Betta Edu took action based on evidence, asserting that the Minister's decisions were in the best interest of the country. While refraining from direct commendation, the group acknowledged the gravity of the situation and expressed trust in the Minister's commitment to the well-being of the nation.


Addressing emerging ethnic interpretations surrounding the suspension, the coalition strongly condemned any attempts to attribute tribal motives to the Minister's actions. Emphasizing Dr. Betta Edu's non-tribalistic stance, the group urged the public to refrain from injecting ethnic sentiments into the unfolding events, adding that events playing around the office of the suspended Shehu in recent times portend corruption.

The coalition's statement called for transparency and accountability in the investigation process and emphasized the importance of handling the matter without bias. The advocates reiterated their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote fairness, regardless of ethnic or tribal affiliations.


The coalition commended the Ministry's swift and decisive response to the Christmas Eve attacks in Plateau state. Minister Dr. Betta Edu's coordination with the military and the state government in deploying immediate relief materials demonstrated a commitment to providing timely and effective humanitarian aid to affected communities.


The Ministry's recent initiative to create jobs for millions of Nigerians, particularly in regions affected by humanitarian crises, was underscored as a commendable step towards addressing unemployment and enhancing response capabilities. The focus on hiring temporary humanitarian aid workers reflected a proactive approach to addressing critical needs.

Worried by the unwholesome practice of ironing the breast of girls residing at the Kpaduma and Pygba communities of the Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has condemned the harmful practice in strong terms while reiterating her renewed efforts to scale up plans to eradicate this barbaric act with attendant negative effects on the welfare of the girl child.
 
Speaking during an advocacy and sensitization visit to the Garki Chiefdom, Abuja Municipal Council along with some top management staff of the Ministry, the Minister took a swipe at the ancient traditional practice which falls among gender- based violence against the female gender and solicited the partnership of the District Heads and other local authorities towards eradicating the practice which negates the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at improving the welfare of women and the girl child. 
 
In the same vein, the Minister stated that the purpose of her visit was to further sensitize the community on the consequences of breast ironing, which is being practised on some young girls as traditional rites meant to prevent early male attraction to them, "these practises are totally unacceptable and form part of condemnable and harmful practices against the female gender which must be stamped out" she added.
 
Barrister Ohanenye observed that empirical studies have shown that such traditional practices are behind time and that it behoves the Chiefdom, religious leaders as well as the government to ensure that such rites become a thing of the past.
 
Besides, she added, “this age-long tradition could lead to cancer on the affected girls as it is capable of leading to nipple challenges in their future life as well as the production of sour breast milk for their infants which is dangerous to the growth and development of new born babies”
 
She therefore urged the Council to join hands with government by taking the campaign against the practice to the people at the grassroots even as her Ministry works out modalities to integrate the communities into its sustainable empowerment programs that will improve their livelihood which according to her, will take off in the month of January 2024.
 
She also added that intensive enlightenment campaigns and sensitization will be carried out in the affected communities through town criers and other forms of information dissemination because she won't need anyone to give the excuse of "I was not informed" and after that, any parent who is found wanting will have to face the mobile court for appropriate sanctions because “every child is a government’s child”.
 
Responding, the District Head of Garki Chiefdom Council, HRH (Amb) Emmanuel Gade assured that the Council will support the efforts of government towards bringing an end to the tradition and other forms of harmful practices against the female gender.
 
He also appreciated the Minister and promised that the Council will sign a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Women Affairs to further underscore their readiness to stamp out the age-long harmful practice against the girl child.
 
He further pledged the commitment of the Council to the programs and initiatives of the Ministry in line with the policy thrust of the present administration
 
 
High point of the event was the presentation of gifts to the communities by the Minister and conferment of Sarauniyan Mata of Pygba (Queen of Pygba women) Community on the Minister by His Royal Majesty, Chief (Amb) Emmanuel Gade
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

In an unforeseen and thought-provoking occurrence, Dr. Ugbedeojo Nelson Peter, a senior lecturer at Prince Abubakar Audu University in Anyigba (PAAU), Kogi state, has returned the sum of ₦5,850,000 mistakenly deposited into his UBA bank account by an unfamiliar sender, identified as Hassan Abdullahi.

Dr. Ugbedeojo encountered the erroneous transaction in his account on 20th December, 2023.

Navigating through the confusion and a sense of unfamiliarity with the transaction, Mr. Peter swiftly sought counsel from banking professionals online.

He made a post on the social media announcing the situation and seeking solution, “How do I refund the sum of ₦5.850,000 million mistakenly sent to my account by one Hassan Abdullahi?”

This led to a successful refund of the money on 22nd of December, two days later.

Ugbedeojo a Lecturer within the Faculty of Management Sciences. His measured approach to resolving this matter serves as a testament to the values of ethical conduct and responsibility.
Source: https://kogireports.com/unforeseen-windfall-kogi-varsity-lecturer-returns-5-85-million-errorneously-transfrred-to-his-bank-account/

The attention of the Ministry of Women Affairs has been drawn to some False reports and publications showed on “Morning Show” segment of the Arise TV insinuating that the Honorable Minister for Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye advocated for women not to pay tax in Nigeria.
 
Many who read and watched the programme on Arise TV of yesterday would see that it was out of character, from the usual rigor and incisiveness associated with objective journalism, hence the need to clarify the disinformation and allegations against the Honorable Minister has become most pertinent.
 
We wish to state categorically clear that the Minister did not canvass for women not to pay tax because as a law abiding citizen and a major stakeholder in the Nigerian project, she strongly embraces the fact that there is no gender barrier for tax payment which is the civic responsibility of both men and women in the country.
 
To further buttress the misrepresentation of the Minister’s speech at the event, the Arise TV segment did not complement the visuals with a track up of the Minister’s presentation at the program which was organized by the Ministry to address peace and security of women in Nigeria.
 
For avoidance of doubts, the Minster stated that some initiatives including mechanized farming and Tricycle transport schemes called Pink Riders have been introduced to empower women to support their husbands and her exact words were “I am begging the Army, task force in motor park and Police, when my women, my Pink Riders start their Keke across the nation, leave them alone, just secure and protect them for me.
 
Earlier at the strategic session in October to flag off the Pink Riders Transport Scheme, the Minister had also invited the Police, Vigilante and Transport Union representatives to further provide security, seamless operation of the scheme and also made an appeal to the women who operate the Tricycles please take care of their Husbands and children with the Profit.
 

We therefore want to warn ARISE TV to desist from their incessant and malicious reportage and shouldn't make comments that will throw the country into confusion and chaos. We therefore wish to state here for record purposes that these insinuations are totally wrong and misrepresent what the Honorable Minister said at the event.
 
The  Ministry of Women Affairs looks up to the media including the Arise TV as dependable allies and veritable platforms to effectively drive the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President especially in the area of restoring the hopes of Nigerian women and the vulnerable children.
 
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai, KJW 
Special Assistant,Media

...Named Vanguard of Medical Transformation in Nigeria

The Youth Coalition for Education in Nigeria (YOCEN), a pan-Africa development-driven initiative, Nigeria chapter, has conferred its certificate of Noble prize for Excellence to Dr. Samaila Timothy MBBS, FWACS FMCS Consultant Neurosurgeon/ head of Neurosugery, Federal Medical Centre, Abuja as Vanguard of Medical Transformation in Nigeria. In recognition of his immense contributions towards societal transformation via human capital development, effective services delivery, medical advancement, and meritorious service to his profession.

Speaking at the award ceremony, held in Abuja earlier today 4th December. 2023, the head of Mission and Secretary general of YOCEN Hon. Yakubu Nurudeen Yahaya described Dr. Timothy as a quintessential icon, a famous advocate of sustainable development goals especially in the area of medical advancement and a role model to Nigeria/African students which informed the body to recognize him as a visionary and leader of repute.

“We found Dr.Samaila Timothy to be a role model and a mentor whose dedicated services and commitment towards nation building, especially in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Health are outstanding and his ingenious strides are indeed admirable, recognized and appreciated by YOCEN-Nigeria”.

“These are few among his strides that warranted this honour on him, for he has proven himself to be a man of charisma who can stick out his neck for the cause he believes in.

“YOCEN-Nigeria and the entirety of African Students/Youth have recognised him as a man of courage who has zero tolerance for ineffectiveness; a seasoned intellectual with passion for continental renaissance, a noble champion who is known for his effective service delivery.”

He said Dr.Timothy has established an indelible mark in the Health sector and posterity would continue to remember his incredible contributions to humanity and society.

In his response, Dr. Samaila Timothy thanked the organization for finding him worthy of this prestigious award.

“I am delighted to have been selected today, as one of those who merit the national award. Going by my antecedence it is a well deserved award”.
Dr. Timothy noted that he is still striving hard to achieve more, and promised to do more in capacity building and societal development.

“I wish YOCEN success in all its activities in Nigeria and other African countries,” he said.

Kogi poll: Lawyers, activists uncover SDP, Ajaka’s alleged plan to file petition through backdoor, backdate it, as 21 days window closes
. Call on Tribunal to fish out members allegedly contracted to execute plan
. Vow to challenge any move contrary to law with ‘incontrovertible facts’


Lawyers and Activists from Kogi State have raised the alarm over what they described as a clandestine move by the Social Democratic Party and its Governorship candidate to file their petition against the outcome of the November 11 election through the backdoor and backdate same to circumvent the provisions of the Electoral Act.


The lawyers, under the aegis of the United Front for Democracy, raised the alarm following the closure of the window allowed for the filing of electoral petition with all allegations and petition
They spoke at a press conference in Lokoja, on Monday.
Convener, United Front for Democracy, Barr. Yetunde Olubunmi Shaibu, who spoke on behalf of the activists, said they had credible intelligence that the SDP candidate had yet to file his petition against the winner of the election, Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress, 22 days after the declaration of results.
The Activists noted that the 21 days window elapsed at the midnight of December 3, 2023, saying, “Section 134 of the Electoral Act is very clear as to when an electoral petition can be filed with all allegations and evidence relating to the petition front-loaded. By virtue of Section 134 of the Electoral Act, the SDP has failed to file their petition within the period allowed by Law and should therefore be made not to waste the time of the Honourable Panel.”
They, however, alleged that they had been credibly briefed that the SDP and its candidate were still preparing their petition with the intention of filing same within the week and having it backdated so as to make it look like it was filed within the legally stipulated duration.
“This must not be allowed to happen in the spirit of justice, equity and fairness,” the lawyers said.
They, therefore, called on the Election Petition Tribunal for the Kogi State Governorship Poll to “switch on its lights to fish out staff members who have been contracted to mess up with the integrity of our highly respected judiciary. We are watching and the world is watching to ensure the right thing is done.”
Barr. Shaibu stated, “As a Civil Society Organization, the United Front for Democracy is non-partisan. Our commitment is to protect democratic values and ensure that our judiciary is not slaughtered on the slab of political desperation and corruption.
“Our organisation has credible intelligence that the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is yet to file his petition against the winner of the election, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo , 22 days after the declaration of results. The results of the election were declared on Sunday, 12th November, 2023. The 21 days window elapsed at the midnight of December 3, 2023. Section 134 of the Electoral Act is very clear as to when an electoral petition can be filed with all allegations and evidence relating to the petition front-loaded. By virtue of Section 134 of the Electoral Act, the SDP has failed to file their petition within the period allowed by Law and should therefore be made not to waste the time of the Honourable Panel.
“The wisdom of the Electoral Act is that anyone with credible evidence should be able to put such forward within the legally stipulated period. We are however disappointed that the SDP is about to lose the opportunity to test the law with a competent petition. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) opted to avoid the embarrassment of searching in futility for evidence by deciding not to challenge the election at the tribunal.
“Inasmuch as we would want to leave the determination of the validity of a petition filed out of time to the Honourable Panel to determine, we owe the populace a social and legal responsibility to expose a clandestine move by the SDP and its candidate to file their petition through the backdoor and backdate same to circumvent the provisions of the Electoral Act.”
“As a Civil Society Organization, our wish was to see elections challenged, but in a proper way that satisfies the requirements of administrative, judicial and legal procedures. Anything short of that will lead to a dangerous compromise and will be challenged with incontrovertible facts and evidence,” the lawyers/activists noted.
They also condemned the attack on the residence of the Resident Electoral Commissioner in charge of Kogi State, saying, “It is a dangerous trend that must not be allowed to stand. Those who superintend over our elections must be allowed to do their job without harassment or intimidation.
“Democracy must be protected by all as it remains the best form of Government to guarantee freedom and prosperity.”

But in a swift reaction, the Spokesperson of the SDP, Faruk Adejoh, described the civil society as faceless, described the allegations of not filing as not true, lies said the SDP met with the requirements.
The spokesman said it was as a result of the filing that the SDP was granted order to inspect the materials for the election.

Source: https://thenigerianpost.com.ng/kogi-poll-lawyers-activists-uncover-sdp-ajakas-alleged-plan-to-file-petition-through-backdoor-backdate-it-as-21-days-window-closes/

In a remarkable leap towards gender-inclusive economic development, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has embarked on a pioneering program designed to support women cooperatives engaged in profitable and sustainable rice production in collaboration with Green Agriculture West Africa Limited, a subsidiary of China Geo-engineering Corporation (CGC).
 
The program's pilot phase is set to empower 2,000 women from seven states namely Jigawa, Adamawa, Kaduna, Kano, Anambra, Niger and FCT across the Federation through the establishment and facilitation of cooperatives. Notably, these cooperatives will also serve as mentoring platforms for aspiring women rice farmers, with apprentices constituting 50% of the cooperative membership.
 
The program's kickoff was marked by a two-day "Train the Trainers" program, held in collaboration with the CGC Nigeria Limited at the Nigerian Agricultural Demonstration Center in Ushafa, Bwari Area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This training initiative is a crucial component of the broader strategy to equip women with the necessary skills and knowledge to engage in profitable rice production.
 
In a gesture of support, the Managing Director, Mr. Wang Xiemin pledged to donate high-yield rice seedlings to the cooperatives once their lands are prepared, further enhancing the women's capacity to engage in sustainable farming practices. He also indicated that the company will step up the collaboration on more agricultural trainings and other partnerships across various agricultural chains which will extend to peanuts, corn, cassava, vegetables and other agricultural products.
 
During the closing ceremony, The Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barrister Uju Kennedy applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering interest and support for women's economic empowerment. She also expressed her gratitude to CGC for their support and dedication to the cause, emphasizing the pivotal role such collaborations play in advancing women's development.  Barr Uju seized the opportunity to call for increased cooperation and support from both public and private stakeholders to further amplify the impact of the program.
 
A highlight of the closing ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the newly certified trainers, who will play a pivotal role in disseminating knowledge and expertise within their respective cooperatives. This not only acknowledges their commitment but also symbolizes a tangible step towards building a network of skilled and empowered women in the rice production sector.
 
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs is optimistic that this program will contribute to the economic empowerment of women and foster sustainable growth in agribusiness aligning with broader national development goals. As the program progresses, it is expected to serve as a model for future initiatives aimed at empowering women in various sectors of the economy, driving positive change, and fostering inclusivity.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, fcai
Special Assistant, Media

WOMEN AFFAIRS UNVEILS FIRST CHILD PROTECTION RESEARCH CENTRE IN SUB-SAHARA AFRICA

In a bid to boost the Child Protection Rights Act (2003), the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has unveiled the first child protection research and protection centre in collaboration with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) at the Federal Secretariat, Abuja.

Speaking during the unveiling, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye said that the centre is a fulfillment of the Child Protection Information Management System which is a web-based case management tool and database designed to capture, store, process and manage child protection services data in order to facilitate monitoring and evaluation of child protection interventions, and to facilitate effective case management for individual vulnerable children.

She also commended for driving this initiative which according to her will further strengthen the Ministry’s renewed drive towards ensuring speedy trial of sexual and gender based violence cases which got a recent boost through the endorsement of Mobile Courts establishment across the country by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.

Earlier in her remarks, the Country Representative of the UNICEF on Child Protection, Christian Munduate represented by Deputy Country Representative Rownak Khan identified research as a major component for data collection and analysis as it reserves as the bedrock upon which informed decisions are made, policies are shaped and interventions are tailored to address the unique needs of each child.

On the Centre commissioning, she added that it signifies the commitment of the Federal Government in partnership with the UNICEF to harness the power of research, data and information to benefit informed actions as well as safeguard the well-being of Nigerian children “it is through meticulous examination and analysis that we can identify trends, risks, deprivation and opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of the planning and implementation of policies and programs”
The Centre will serve as information hub on all child protection data and information matters across the country which was initiated in October this year by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Women Affairs Commissioners drawn from across the States a through technical validation and endorsement of the case management tools to be used for data collection and analysis meeting in Abuja.

It will also provide real time and reliable data on information bordering on all forms of gender based violence against vulnerable children from all parts of the country.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Further to the government resolve to promote professionalism and standards, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has formally inaugurated a 30-man Governing Board of the Nigerian Council for Social Work as part of measures to set standard for certification and registration of social work practitioners in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said “ In realization of the importance of a legal backing for effective and qualitative practice of social services in Nigeria, the Ministry of Women Affairs led other social work focal Ministries and stakeholders to support a Bill for the establishment of the Nigerian Council for Social Work , in consideration of the importance of a regulatory body that will regulate and license social workers in Nigeria”
“the Nigerian Council for Social Work is targeted at professionals who deliver services to the vulnerable groups, hence the reason why the Ministry is playing the lead role in the constitution of the Council, leading to the setting up of the Council as stipulated in the Nigerian Council for Social Work (Establishment) Act 2022. The Ministry is also the Chair of the National Social Service Workforce Coordination Group with the support of the UNICEF”

Prior to the inauguration, Barr Uju reeled out the Board’s operational functions which includes to promote professional practice and uphold social work ethics and values, determine the standards of knowledge and skills to be attained by persons seeking to become members of the profession of social work, promote research and ensure high standard and quality of training of social workers and to regulate and control the practice of the profession in all ramifications.

Responding on behalf of the Board members, the representative of the Social Welfare Association of Nigeria, Mr. Aliko Hamma Missau thanked the Minister for the confidence reposed in the Board members and stated their commitment to deliver on their mandate of enthroning professionalism and standard in the activities of social workers in Nigeria.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

The Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has reiterated her Ministry’s resolve to showcase Nigeria made fabrics to the global market in fulfillment of pillars 2 and 3 of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu anchored on poverty eradication and job creation.
Making this disclosure during a public presentation of newly acquired industrial, embroidery and cutting machines for the upgraded sewing factory of the Ministry, the Minister stated that “these machines form part of our plans towards sustainable empowerment of women to be self -reliant and contribute their quotas at the family levels and also bolster the nation’s economic growth. For us, when our women are provided with sustained empowerment, the pressure will reduce for our men, the issue of out-of-school children can be addressed because the women will complement their husbands in catering for the home” she said.
According to her, “these industrial machines will form part of our upgrading plans at the Women Development Centre sewing factory in Abuja even as we will extend this arrangement across the geo-political zones to deepen our resolve to empower Nigerian women. We have concluded arrangements with some foreign investors to push our locally made fabrics to the global market to attract more revenue for our women” she concluded.
Also speaking, the House Committee Chairman on Science Research Institutions, Hon. Beni Lar commended the Minister for her resolute and dogged approach towards addressing the plight of women and the vulnerable children in Nigeria. She also commended the Ministry’s initiative to showcase Nigeria made fabrics which underscores the willingness of the present dispensation to change the narrative through gender inclusivity.
In a related development, the Minister also received the first batch of Tricycles under the Pink Riders Transport scheme designed to provide women with branded Tricycles as part of measures to further empower and create jobs for them towards strengthening their capacity to contribute to national growth.
She added that the scheme has been structured through a partnership with a financial institution that will provide three stages of banking services: to provide loans for the women to procure the Tricycles, to pay back the loans without interests and to save money towards procuring their own Tricycles.
All these initiatives form part of the Minister’s projection towards marking 100 days in office.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Pursuant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on national unity, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has described peace as a veritable tool for national growth and development.
Making this declaration during a peace accord meeting with representatives from the warring parties of the Koro, Fulani and Hausa communities from Kagarko Local Government from Kaduna State, the Minister stated that “peace is a non-negotiable ingredient that binds us a nation and catalyst for national growth, so anything that does not promote peace in our society should not be embraced” she said.
According to the Minister, “today’s meeting is a landmark achievement under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as we have brokered peace among the warring communities in Kagarko Local Government in Kaduna South. The crisis has lingered for 20 years and the Ministry has engaged the traditional rulers and youth leaders on the need to pursue peace and this we are going to achieve by introducing them to mechanized communal farming which will re-direct their energy towards peaceful co-existence and not war” she added.
Speaking further, Barr Uju identified poverty as a worrisome factor which has driven Nigerian youths towards negative tendencies and frowned at the way and manner some youths are easily manipulated to take up arms against each other which has left devastating effects on the fabrics of a national growth.
Part of the arrangements towards ensuring lasting peace she continued, includes provision of 100 acres of land for 200 families drawn from the Koro, Fulani and Hausa communities to plant high yield rice with modern machines which will enhance production and Potato farming by 60 additional families drawn from the 3 communities as part of measures to engender peace and encourage the youths to be productive and self- reliant.
“we want to encourage them to embrace peace by farming together as one family and to channel their energies towards positive tendencies instead of war, through this plan, we will achieve food sufficiency which is part of the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President. The Fulani people have also promised not to allow their cattle to enter the farm lands while the other parties have pledged that they will no longer fight with the Fulani people” she said.
Responding, the leader of the Jere community and Yariman Jere, Alhaji Abdulkareem Suleiman expressed his delight that peace has been restored in Kagarko Local Government after 20 years of lingering crisis and thanked the Minister for Women Affairs for her unrelenting efforts towards achieving this goal. In his words “ to be honest we appreciate, we don’t whether it is magic that we find it very difficult for a very long time but to my surprise today, all violence have been removed from our minds” he said. He also prayed God to strengthen the Minister in all our endeavors.
In the same vein, the Arda Fulani, Alhaji Abdullahi Aliyu expressed his gratitude to the Minister for brokering peace among the communities, adding that Nigeria should be one and Christians and Moslems should live together in harmony to build our country.
The Youth Leader of Kagarko Local Government, Mr. Musa Barnabas said “Growing up as a youth, we use to do things together before this crisis started and we are happy that when our youths are engaged in farming activities, they will not be involved in violence. Farming is our culture and we assure the Minister that we will make good use of this opportunity to ensure lasting peace in our communities” he concluded.
The meeting was concluded with the formal endorsement of a pact by the 3 communities to underscore their resolve to put down their arms and pursue peace in Kagarko Local Government of Kaduna State through mechanized communal farming.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Further to renewed efforts towards addressing the issue of sexual and gender-based violence in the country, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has secured the endorsement of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to establish mobile courts for quick dispensation of matters relating to harmful practices and other social vices against Nigerian women and girls in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice.
Conveying the Governors’ Forum approval, the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye expressed her delight over this development which will go a long way to promote her Ministry’s renewed approach towards tackling social vices which affects women and girls in the country.
According to her “ the Governors’ Forum has endorsed the establishment of Mobile Courts dedicated to addressing issues of sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse in the form of street begging, and expedited trial of women and children held in Correctional facilities” she said.
Speaking further, the Minister also indicated that the Governors have pledged to support this initiative in their various states even as she is engaging the Minister of Justice and  Attorney-General of the Federation, Hon. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) on the next line of action.
It will be recalled that the issue of Mobile Courts has been on the front burner as part of initiatives by the Minister of Women Affairs among other arrangements to address the plight of Nigerian women and the girl child.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph Fnipr, fcai
Special Assistant, Media

The Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has advocated for all hands to be on deck towards breaking those barriers that have impeded our quest for socio-economic advancement as a nation, over the years.

The Women Affairs Minister made this appeal during her presentation as a guest speaker at the 2023 annual summit of the Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers Forum in Port Harcourt with the theme “ Breaking the Barriers”, organized to address and raise public consciousness on the need for collective efforts by all Nigerians to work towards removing those social vices, abnormal practices and policies which have negatively affected our collective drive towards nation building.
According to Uju who is also a Lawyer, “I was personally attracted to be at this summit when I noticed that it is been organized by young lawyers. We need the younger generation to change the narratives on the way we run our country. I wish to invite the young lawyers to partner with my Ministry, the Women Affairs” she said.
Speaking further, she said “ we need to break the barrier if we must move forward as a country, there is one thin line of barrier which we need to break and that is the barrier of non-inclusivity of women in politics but how do we include the women in decision making when on 10 percent of women presently own properties in the country, that is to say that only 10 percent of women are eligible to join politics for now” she added.
Barr Uju also said that women are naturally endowed with potentials to serve as key players in nation building but this can only be possible when they are empowered and given the voice as major stakeholders in national development.
On rule of law, the Minister also frowned at the nation’s judicial process which is bereft of proper application of the rule of law “ part of the ways we address the issue of poverty in Nigeria is when the issues of man’s inhumanity to man and selfishness are removed in the scheme of things. The rule of law should apply to everybody without sentiments. During my recent visit to a Correctional Centre, I saw women who were serving jail terms for just N20,000.00 fine and had to pay N395,000.00 for the release of about 35 inmates including men. Just because some people have connection, their crimes are swept under the carpet and that is unfair and injustice. Nigeria will be better is the rule of law is applied accordingly” she also said.
Other keynote speakers and dignitaries at the event were the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, Hon. Justice Mary Odili, Chairman Body of Benchers, Sir Victor Benibor, Chairman Nigerian Bar Association,  Port Harcourt Branch, Dr Nonso Enebeli, Chairman Young Lawyers Forum, Port Harcourt Branch, Hon Justice Okogbule Gbassam, Hon Justice Omonigho Nwibani, Rivers Sector Commander of the FRSC, Corps Commander Christopher Kuje among others.
 
Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Worried by the present socio-economic status of Nigerian women in comparison with their male counterparts , the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Barr Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has reiterated the urgent need for appropriate measures and policies to be put in place to address this in-balance even as Nigeria is ranked 123rd globally based on the 2022 World Gender Gap report.

According to the Minister, “part of the issues that contribute to this gender inequality on economic status of Nigerian women is the present trend where some of the funds from development partners such as World Bank and UNICEF are not properly channeled to change the status of vulnerable women and children” she said.

Speaking to the media on wide range of issues bordering on empowerment on Nigerian women and the girl child, Barr Uju recalled that “some Nigerian women at the rural levels for whom these funds are meant for, still suffer deprivation and those who are into farming are subjected to still use their bare hands when they can be introduced to modernized equipment which will not only enhance their productive capacity but will also their socio-economic wellbeing. We cannot be doing things the old ways and expect better outcomes, our women deserve to use modern equipment in farming if their impact must be felt in growing the nation’s Gross Domestic Product” she added.
She also revealed plans by the Ministry has to acquire modernized rice milling machine that will de-stone, de-chaff, parboil to ensure increase rice production  which will ensure food sufficiency in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policy thrust on Renewed Hope agenda on food security.
Still on the need to justify release of funds from foreign donors, the Women Affairs Minister advocated for proper accountability, transparency and the need for the funds to be accessed by the actual end users at the rural communities as this measure will reduce insecurity, poverty, inflation and other social vices.

On the rate of out-of- school children in Nigeria, Barr Ohanenye compared 2018 report of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)  of 10.5 million and the 2022 figure of 20 million and urged for urgent government action to reverse this trend through empowerment of women with skill acquisition and vocational trainings which will enhance their productive capacity, make them self-reliant and support their husbands to put their children through schools and thus reduce the number of children who are out of school in Nigeria.

Ohaeri Osondu Joseph, Fnipr, Fcai
Special Assistant, Media

Voice4kogi:
This woman is a material.

Action woman

You no know

This one sweet me

The women affairs Minister stated this in a recent interview with Journalists, where she declared that whoever lies on the issue will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted accordingly. The Minister’s words; “Whoever that lies on the Calabar sexual case will be prosecuted and jailed.”

Protests erupted today as citizens took to the streets to demand the sack of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa.

The demonstrations were organized by the Coalition of Anti-Corruption Organizations, which is made up of several civil society groups who are demanding an end to continued homebreaks, court contempts and illegal arrests carried out by the EFCC.

In the videos seen by the media, the protesters could be heard chanting "End Corruption Now" and "Bawa Must Go". The demonstrators also carried placards with inscriptions like "No More Homebreaks", "Stop Illegal Arrests", and "EFCC Must Respect the Rule of Law".

The Coalition of Anti-Corruption Organizations, in a statement released to the press, said that the current leadership of the EFCC has become a source of embarrassment to the country and has done more harm than good in the fight against corruption. The statement read in part: "Under the leadership of Abdulrasheed Bawa, the EFCC has become notorious for breaking into homes without a warrant and arresting people without due process. The EFCC boss has also become notable for disregarding court rulings on several accounts. Recall that the court of law had demanded the EFCC boss's arrest two occasions between 2022 and 2023. "This is unacceptable and goes against the principles of the rule of law", the protesters said.

The protests, which took place in Abuja were peaceful and were monitored by security agents.
The Nigerian government has yet to respond to the demands of the protesters, but the Coalition of Anti-Corruption Organizations has warned that they will escalate their actions if the government does not take swift action to address their grievances.

The EFCC, established in 2003, is a federal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating financial crimes, including money laundering, fraud, and corruption. The commission's current leadership has been widely criticized for its lack of transparency and for violating the rights of citizens.

This latest round of protests is a reflection of growing frustration among Nigerians with the continued corruption and abuse of power within the country's law enforcement agencies. The demonstrators are calling on the government to take immediate action to address these issues and restore the integrity of the EFCC.

Source: https://nigerianstandard.com/disregard-for-rule-of-law-protests-erupt-demanding-sack-of-efcc-boss/

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, has been committed to prison for disobeying court order.

The court also directed the Inspector-General of Police to effect Bawa’s arrest and remand him in Kuje prison for the next 14 days until he purges himself of the contempt.


Recall that an Abuja High Court sitting in Maitama, had on November 8, ordered the arrest and remanding of the EFCC boss at Kuje prison over contempt.

Justice R.O. Ayoola of the Kogi State High Court, in his judgement on Monday, granted the application for committal to prison of the EFCC chairman for disobeying a court ruling delivered on November 30, 2022, wherein the EFCC chairman was directed to produce the applicant in the case, Ali Bello.

Ali Bello had dragged Bawa to court for arresting and detaining him illegally, with the court ruling in his favour, but the EFCC arraigned him for alleged money laundering three days after the ruling.

The EFCC’s applications for setting aside and stay of execution of the ruling were refused for want of merit.

The Court had, in Form 49, Order IX, Rule 13, marked: “HCL/697M/2022” and titled: “Notice to Show Cause Why Order of Committal Should not be Made,” asked the EFCC Chairman to appear before it on January 18, 2022, to explain why he should not be jailed for flouting the order given on December 12, 2022, in a case filed by Ali Bello against EFCC and Bawa, as the 1st and 2nd respondents, respectively.


The court ordered that the EFCC and Bawa be served the motion of notice together with Form 49 by substituted means.

The court had declared the arrest and detention of the applicant in the face of a subsisting Court order made by a Court of competent jurisdiction and without a warrant of arrest “or being informed of the offence for which he was arrested” as unlawful, unconstitutional, and in contravention of the personal liberty and dignity of human person guaranteed under Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).


The court had also ordered the respondents to tender an apology to the applicant in a national newspaper and awarded N10 million compensation for him.

The Form 49, issued on December 15, 2022, and addressed to Bawa read, “Take notice that the Applicant will on the 18th day of January 2023 at the hour of 9 o clock in the forenoon or so soon thereafter, apply to this Court for an order for your committal to prison for having disobeyed the order of this Court made on 12th day of December 2022 that:

“That arrest and detention of the Applicant on the 29th November 2022 by the 1st and 2nd Respondents in the face of a subsisting Court Order made by a Court of competent jurisdiction and without a warrant of arrest or being informed of the offence for which he was arrested is unlawful, unconstitutional and contravenes the Applicant’s right to personal liberty and dignity of human person guaranteed under Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and Articles 5 and 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

“Perpetual injunction restraining the Respondents, their agents, servants, privies, or however called from further arrest, detention, harassment and intimidation of the Applicant.

“An order directing the Respondents to tender an apology to the Applicant in any of the National Daily having nationwide coverage for the illegal detention and harassment of the Applicant.


“An Award of the sum of Ten Million Naira as general damages jointly and severally against the Respondents for the unlawful detention and harassment of the Applicant.”

This followed an application by Counsel to Ali Bello, S. A. Abass.

Source: https://tribuneonlineng.com/again-court-sends-efcc-boss-to-kuje-prison-for-contempt/

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to arrest the People's Democratic Party's candidate for Kogi Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti.

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/01/cupp-petitions-buhari-says-politicians-blackmailing-military-to-unleash-violence/

We have watched with dismay the persistent publications by Dr. Victor Alewo Adoji and his cohorts on the social media, aimed at discrediting Senator Isah Jibrin (Echocho), despite Echocho's overwhelming performance at the Red Chamber ,which is obvious to all, including the deaf, the dumb, and the blind.

Echocho has set a pace in representation at the Red Chamber.
---Echocho has sponsored milestone Bills and Motions, some specific to Kogi East Senatorial District,and others to address some national issues.

---Echocho has established Agro-allied factories (Palm Oil Production Plant, Rice Milling Plant, Cashew Processing Plant, and Cassava Processing Plant), at various Local Government Areas in Kogi East. This is aimed at adding values to some of the agricultural produce, instead of selling them in raw forms, thereby creating employment opportunities for, in particular, our youths and women.

To complement this, Echocho has facilitated distribution of Tractors and various farming equipments to all the nine Local Government Areas in Kogi East.

---Echocho has established Health Centres in some parts of Kogi East. To complement this, he has facilitated supply of drugs and medical equipments to various Health Centres in Kogi East.
---Echocho has facilitated construction of some Feeder Roads to ease transportation of farm produce to the end markets.
--- Echocho has provided electricity Transformers to some needy communities in Kogi East.
---Echocho has facilitated construction of Blocks of Classrooms in some schools in Kogi East.
To complement this,
Echocho has facilitated supply of various educational materials (textbooks, notebooks, etcetera), to various schools in Kogi East.

---Echocho has facilitated provision of Solar Lights to various communities, including some churches and mosques in Kogi East.
---Echocho has facilitated various training programmes, with start-up capitals for the beneficiaries across the nine Local Government Areas in Kogi East. Some of those trained also benefited in kind, in particular, provision of sewing machines, grinding machines, and telephone repair kits.

Echocho's other achievements include facilitation of employment opportunities, and many others too numerous to mention.

UNFORTUNATELY, Victor Adoji and his co-dreamers continue to pretend that they are unaware of the above milestone achievements of a first-timer in the Senate and in about 3½ years.

Instead of Victor to concentrate on his campaign, by informing the electorates about his antecedents in terms of service to Igala/Bassa kingdom (which he cannot point at any), and also inform the electorates on his plans for Kogi East (which he has not been able to articulate ), all he does is to use the social media to attack Senator Isah Jibrin (Echocho), with frivolous and unfounded allegations.

Since this is Victor's strategy, we want to state here emphatically that he has failed woefully, as Echocho's records of achievements, which are still counting are already speaking for him.

We want Victor Alewo Adoji, to come up with answers to the following questions;

1. What was his last position at Zenith Bank Plc, and what led to his early exit from the Bank?
2. What are his antecedents in terms of service to Igala/Bassa kingdom, before venturing into politics?

From available information, Victor is banking on the following factors, which he has told whoever cares to listen, for his electoral "victory".

1. That the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele, will provide him billions of naira to buy votes during the election.
2. That his embattled lady "friend", the immediate past elected National Women Leader of APC, will canvass votes for him from her APC loyalists.

In part two of this series, we will unveil the atrocities committed by Victor Adoji, while in the services of Zenith Bank Plc, including diversion of the bank's funds to his cronies for his personal use.

The part two will also chronicle the anti-party activities of Victor's lady "friend", including her conversations with various individuals and groups in the APC.

PLEASE, STAY TUNED
Written by
CONCERNED APC GROUP, KOGI EAST.