Senator Ali Ndume on Tuesday shunned the election for the Office of Deputy Senate President after his defeat to Senator Ahmed Lawan, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that Ndume representing Borno South, on Tuesday, lost the Senate Presidency race to Lawan with 27 : 79 votes.

Igbere TV reports that Senator Ike Ekweremadu, a former Deputy Senate President of the Peoples Democratic Party and Ovie Omo-Agege of the All Progressives Congress were the two contenders for the Deputy Senate President seat.

Ekweremadu however lost to Omo-Agege bringing his 12-year Deputy Senate President reign to an end.

The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mohammed Sani Omolori, who called each lawmaker out to vote in alphabetical order of the states (A-Z) and constituencies they represent, called Kashim Shettima of Borno-Central to cast his vote.

After Shettima had voted, Ndume’s name was called repeatedly but he refused to come forward to vote.

http://igberetvnews.com/763217/10-facts-you-didnt-know-about-the-new-senate-president-lawan/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

10 Facts You Didn't Know About The New Senate President, Lawan

Compiled by Igbere TV

Senator Ahmed Lawan on Tuesday emerged the President of the Ninth Senate, Igbere TV reports.

He was declared winner after polling 79 votes ahead of Ali Ndume, who polled 27.

Here are ten facts you need to know about him:

1. Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan was born in 1959.

2. He became a senator in 2007.

3. He is a Nigerian senator who represents the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the Yobe North Constituency of Yobe State.

4. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the University of Maiduguri, a Master’s degree in Remote Sensing from Ahmadu Bello University and a Doctorate Degree in Remote Sensing/GIS from Cranfield University, UK.

5. Elected to the House of Representatives for the Northern State of Yobe in 1999 at different times, Lawan chaired the House Committees on Education and Agriculture.

6. In 2008, he was a member of the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Constitution Review.

7. In 2009, as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Lawan initiated and sponsored the Desertification Control Commission Bill.

8. In August 2009, Senator Lawan spoke against the proposed Kafin Zaki Dam. He stated that the Tiga Dam and Challawa Gorge Dam had already reduced water flow drastically, and the Jama’are River was now the main source of water in the Yobe River. He said the dams caused intense poverty, increased desert encroachment, migration and conflicts between arable farmers and herdsmen.

9. Lawan ran for re-election in Yobe North Senatorial District on the ANPP platform in the April 9 2011 elections. He won with 92,799 votes, trailed by Hassan Kafayos Hussaini of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with 76,960 votes.

10. He was elected President of the Ninth Senate on this day, Tuesday, June 11, 2019 with 79 votes ahead of fellow APC senator Ali Ndume, who polled 27.

http://igberetvnews.com/763217/10-facts-you-didnt-know-about-the-new-senate-president-lawan/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan has emerged Senate President of the Ninth National Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

Lawan representing Yobe North, emerged winner at the end of the NASS election held today at the Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Igbere TV reports that Lawan defeated Senator Ali Ndume to clinch on to the Senate plum position.


Details soon..

http://igberetvnews.com/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mohammed Sani-Omolori, has explained the reason why Owelle Rochas Okorocha was denied accreditation at the National Assembly, Abuja.

Igbere TV had reported that Okorocha, immediate past Governor of Imo State, was denied accreditation as Senator-elect at the NASS complex, on Tuesday.

Igbere TV NASS correspondent reports that the controversial Imo politician arrived the three arms zone at about 7:45.am ahead of the today's inauguration and election of principal officers of both legislative chamber.

He was however denied accreditation by National Assembly management led by the Clerk.

Though the reason behind the decision was not made public. Our correspondent, however, learnt it may not be unconnected with the Court cases involving the former governor.

Speaking on the development, the Clerk, Mohammed Sani-Omolori said the management took the decision due to a pending court case as regards the Imo West Senatorial District election.

He reminded Igbere TV that the management had taken a similar decision in a case involving Delta North Senatorial District. Igbere TV recalls that Ned Nwoko was similarly denied accreditation following a court ruling which held that incumbent Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, is the rightful candidate for the election.

“That is the proper thing to do since his case is inchoate”, said Clerk Sani-Omolori.

Igbere TV recalls that Okorocha, who was declared winner of the Imo West Senatorial District, was denied Certificate of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

But a Federal High Court in Abuja last week ordered that Okorocha be given his return certificate.

However, checks by Igbere TV on Tuesday morning showed that INEC is yet to comply with the court ruling.

When contacted, INEC National Commissioner on Information and Voter Education, Festus Okoye told Igbere TV that the commission is awaiting a pending court case before taking a decision.

He reminded Igbere TV that a High Court in Imo had restrained the commission from issuing Okorocha with a Certificate, and adjourned till June 26.

Okoye however added that the Commission will meet today on the matter.

“The Commission has been served with the order of a High Court in Imo State, presided over by Hon. Justice Njemanze, directing the Commission not to issue a Certificate of Return to any of the candidates that contested the Imo West Senatorial District election. The Order from the High Court of Imo State was issued on 23rd May 2019 and the suit has been further adjourned to 26th June 2019”, he said.

Okoye added: “Issuance of Certificate of Return is a statutory function of the INEC. It is only issued to those who do elections and must be done through the free will of a Returning Officer.

“In the case of Imo West Senatorial District, where Okorocha contested, the Otu-Opi Federal Constituency in Benue, Agayi State Constituency and another in Akwa Ibom, what INEC is saying is that you can’t engage in bad electoral behaviour and expect INEC to reward you with a certificate.

“Our certificate is only for those who won freely.”

With the latest development, Okorocha won't be able to attend today's inauguration, nor will he be able to vote for any candidate.

http://igberetvnews.com/760434/breaking-okorocha-denied-accreditation-turned-back-from-nass/

A top contender for the position of Deputy Senate President in the Ninth National Assembly and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has dropped his ambition to support the party’s candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Igbere TV reports.

According to Kalu, his decision followed the official endorsement of Senator Omo-Agege and Hon. Muhammed Wase by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the positions of Deputy Senate President and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, respectively.

Igbere TV reports that Kalu, who had endorsed the duo of Senator Ahmed Lawan and Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila for the positions of Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives respectively, has, consequently, endorsed Senator Omo-Agege for the position of Deputy Senate President.

Throwing his weight behind the party’s candidates across board, Kalu stressed that he will always abide by the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari and the NWC of the APC.

While thanking his associates, followers, well-wishers and colleagues, the former governor called on members of the 9th National Assembly to place the collective interest of Nigerians above selfish ambitions.

In a statement issued by his media office on Monday evening and sent to Igbere TV, the Senator-elect, Abia North Senatorial District, stressed that the decision of the party is supreme and must be respected by loyal party members.

He said, “I decided to throw my hat into the ring to contest for the position of Deputy Senate President after wide consultations with stakeholders especially my political associates, friends and colleagues (returning senators and senators–elect).

“However, I use this medium to announce my withdrawal from the race in the interest of the APC and Nigeria at large.

“I contested and won election as a Senator on the platform of the APC and as such, I cannot go against the decision of my party.

“The party, I am optimistic will consider the South East for other principal positions in the Senate and House of Representatives for the sake of national unity.

“The South East should be ably and well represented at the top hierarchy of the 9th national assembly.

“The 9th national assembly will work harmoniously regardless of party affiliations to ensure that the executive and judiciary arms of government are complemented in a bid to build a prosperous Nigeria”

While pledging his unalloyed and unshakable commitment to the APC, Kalu expressed appreciation to the President for his fatherly role in the affairs of the party.

http://igberetvnews.com/760234/deputy-senate-president-kalu-drops-ambition-backs-omo-agege/

Chairman, Senate Committe on Appropriations, Senator Danjuma Goje, has endorsed the candidacy of Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu for Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that Goje, a top contender for the Senate Presidency, had withdrawn from the race following a meeting he had with President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, Abuja.

The endorsement of Kalu, Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, came at a meeting between the two leaders at the nation’s capital, Abuja.

Also at the meeting was Senator Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi State.

Speaking at the end of the meeting, Goje, former Gombe governor, said there was the need to give all region sense of belonging in the Ninth Assembly.

He argued that his move was in the best interest of the country, while calling on lawmakers-elect to queue behind Kalu and elect him as Deputy Senate President on Tuesday, June 11.

He specifically called on former governors at the Senate not to abandon their colleague, Kalu, whom he described as a go-getter.

Goje said, “For the sake of fairness and equity, the APC NWC must look in the direction of the South East for the position of Deputy Senate President, to correct the imbalance in leadership positions.

“The 9th Senate needs a man who could tame and douse ethnic tensions through his dexterous style of leadership. Dr. Orji Kalu has long proven to be the right man for the seat as a former governor of Abia State whose outstanding achievements in the state and beyond speak volumes till date.

“Above all, he (Kalu) is a man of integrity and a passionate leader whose love for the party (APC) and the development of this country is immeasurable going by his antecedents. He has sacrificed enough for our party and deserves the DSP seat.”

I will Emerge Deputy Senate President, Vows Kalu

In a related development, Dr. Orji Kalu has said he would emerge the Deputy Senate President of the 9th Senate, insisting that he was still very much in the race.

Kalu, who spoke on the backdrop of the purported endorsement of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege by the APC National Working Committe, said he is not moved by the development, adding that it was the handiwork of some selfish elements in the APC who are self-serving and desperate to cause disharmony among party stakeholders.

The former governor who hinted that President Muhammadu Buhari did not endorse any candidate for the Deputy Senate Presidency, however stressed that as a staunch supporter of Buhari and a loyal and committed member of the APC, he (Kalu) would always abide by the decisions of the President and highly respected members of the NWC.

“I hold the President in high esteem as well as the National Chairman of our great party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and other members of the NWC and as such, I will not disobey any formal pronouncement by them.

“However, I am still in the race to become Deputy Senate President because the President and the NWC have not adopted any candidate and as such the contest is open to all members of the party, who have the capability.

“I have the political dexterity, leadership qualities and goodwill to complement the efforts of the Senate President in actualising the objectives of the legislature to support the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari in taking Nigeria to greater heights.

“Leadership positions in the 9th Senate should be given to people who have the will to support the agenda of the APC while not deviating from the ideals of democracy.

“As I continue to mobilise support for the position of Deputy Senate President, I commend the President, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and other stakeholders of the party for their support.

“Come tomorrow by the special grace of God and to the admiration of APC members and Nigerians at large, I will emerge as Deputy Senate President in the 9th National Assembly”, he said.

While appealing to the leadership of the APC to give a level-playing ground for all contenders for the position of Deputy Senate President, who are APC members, Kalu maintained that he is still in the race except otherwise advised by the President or the party’s highest decision-making body.

“Only Lawan and Gbaja Have APC’s Endorsement”, APC Govs Forum Counters Issa-Onilu

Meanwhile, governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have said they only endorsed the candidacy of Senate Leader, Ahmad Lawan, and Leader of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, for the ninth National Assembly leadership, Igbere TV reports.

The governors, under the aegis of Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) made this known to newsmen after its inaugural meeting on Sunday night at the Kebbi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

Chairman of the forum and Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu while countering a statement by Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, APC National Publicity Secretary about alleged adoption of Sen. Omo-Agege by the National Working Committee (NWC) for the position of Deputy Senate President, said: “the governors would work towards ensuring that only the candidates endorsed by the president and our forum, Lawan and Gbajabiamila will succeed”.

Bagudu said the governors are of the firm belief that the leadership of the party took the right decision when they opted to support Lawan and Gbajabiamila for the principal offices.

Bagudu also added that the choice of people for other principal positions would be determined in due course.

On the crisis in the party, he said members made comments, but was silent on the position of the governors.

He said the governors were solidly behind the President as the leader of the party and were prepared to work with him to take the nation to the next level.

Among those present at the meeting were governors of Kebbi, Edo, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kano, Jigawa, Ekiti, Osun, Lagos, Gombe, Niger and the Deputy Governors of Borno and Kaduna States.

However, governors of Katsina, Ogun, Ondo and Yobe states were absent and did not send representatives.

http://igberetvnews.com/759326/breaking-9th-nass-goje-endorses-kalu-for-deputy-senate-president-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

A special mass has been held for the victory of Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu as Deputy Senate President of the soon-to-be inaugurated Ninth National Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that the mass service held today at St. Andrews Catholic Church, Umuoka in Udi, Enugu State.

This is coming ahead of Tuesday, June 11 inauguration of the Ninth Parliament and constitution of NASS leadership.

Speaking at the event, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Dr. Evans Offor said the service was organized for Kalu, a committed Catholic, to intercede for him to triumph in Tuesday’s election at the Red Chambers.

The cleric said that he has watched Kalu over the years and found him to be credible and a detribalized Nigerian with great charisma.

Dr Offor noted that in the past Kalu is known to have brokered peace among some Nigerian leaders who had disagreements.

He pointed out that the contacts of Kalu, both in the political, social and religious circles, have remained unequalled as he is a known bridge builder.

He, therefore, urged the APC “to support this illustrious Igbo son in his ambition and elect him as the DSP,” saying that “the gesture will solidify the acceptance of the party in the Southeast zone.”

http://igberetvnews.com/758197/dep-senate-president-catholic-church-holds-mass-service-for-kalus-victory/

Here's Senate President Bukola Saraki’s speech at today's Valedictory Session, as obtained by Igbere TV.

1. Distinguished colleagues, as we come to the final plenary and the last few days of the eighth Senate, it is a victory in itself that we are seeing the journey to its momentous end. That I am here today, that you are here today, is a victory for democracy. It is a testament to what people can do when they come together for the greater good. This is also one of those occasions when the Supreme Creator reminds us, once again, that power does not reside in any one person.

2. Before I proceed, let us pause to honour the memory of colleagues with whom we started this journey but who sadly are not here with us today. We lost the late Senators Ali Wakili (Bauchi South), Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke (Osun West) and Bukar Mustapha (Katsina North) in the line of duty in this Senate. I ask that we observe a minute’s silence for the continuing repose of their souls [Minute’s Silence]. May the Almighty grant them eternal rest.

3. Distinguished colleagues, let me thank each and every one of you for your contributions towards making this the historic Senate that it is. When I think of the many trials and tribulations we have faced as an institution, and my own personal travails particularly at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, I am humbled, because none of our achievements would have been possible without the support and cooperation of the entire members of this chamber.

4. The invasion of the National Assembly by armed security operatives in August 2018 will live in infamy. This way down the line, however, I realise that the day of that invasion was the saddest — but in many ways it was also a good day for asserting the independence of the legislature and the triumph of democracy. It also turned out to be a showcase of the special relationship between this chamber and the House, as Honourable Members stood in unison with their Senate colleagues in defiance of the invaders. I thank the House of Representatives for the remarkable unity of the two chambers of the 8th National Assembly, for it was only in unity that we could withstand the storm.

5. The pieces of legislation we passed in the crucial areas and arenas affecting the daily lives of citizens — on the economy, in education, security, anti-corruption, health and so on — will remain a benchmark. Working together, we clocked many firsts in the 8th Senate, and we should rightly be proud of these, especially as they are imperishable legacies we are leaving for the people.

6. Our many firsts include the National Assembly Joint Public Hearing on the Budget, which we started with the 2016 Appropriation Bill. The engagement of the private sector and other stakeholders in crafting the economic legislative agenda was a watershed. For the first time, there were meetings and interactions with members of the public which were not previously the norm. One such interaction was the Public Senate, which gave youths the opportunity to spend a day with me as President of the Senate. I have pleasant memories of my reading to an audience of small children inside my office, where — in the true spirit of Children’s Day — the kids themselves were the dignitaries.

7. It was during this Senate that we patented the concept of the Roundtable. This was groundbreaking. We left the centre of power in Abuja to tackle pressing social issues at the very heart of the communities most affected. Notable among these were the Senate Roundtable on the Drug Use Crisis held in Kano in December 2017, and the one on Migration and Human Trafficking held in Benin City in February 2018. At both events, we not only dialogued for solutions with the relevant government agencies, international partners and community leaders — we heard from the victims themselves.

8. In Kano, we heard the harrowing story of Zeinab, a recovering drug addict. In Benin, we listened to the account of a young woman who was rebuilding her life after being trafficked to Russia for the sex trade; and we heard from Victory who had been being sold into slavery in Libya. We let these people know that their voices count. Indeed the voice of every Nigerian counts, and the 8th Senate lent its ear to them. We were alive to our responsibility to those whom we serve, and we engaged with them on their own terms.

9. It should be a matter of pride to all 109 senators and to our offspring that, in this chamber, we put humanity first. I will always be proud of the humaneness of the 8th Senate. Ours has been legislature with a human face, the personal touch, moved by the milk of human kindness. Whenever the situation demanded, we left the imposing edifice of the National Assembly to reach out to the person on the street. We showed that parliament belongs to the people, and that there should be no barrier between lawmakers and those they represent.

10. One of our major acts upon inauguration was the Senate visit in August 2015 to Maiduguri, Borno State — the first ever National Assembly delegation to see first-hand the living conditions of thousands displaced by the insurgency. A senator from the South moved the motion that led us to Maiduguri, one of the many times we showed the world that senators act as Nigerians first, and not as southerners or northerners. The three senators representing Borno State were among the delegation on that memorable visit, as we called on the Shehu of Borno to assure him that rebuilding the North East was high on our agenda. We visited IDP camps, spoke with the people, carried their babies, comforted them, letting them know that their well-being was a priority for the Senate. Today, the North East Development Commission is a reality, and the people are being resettled into their normal lives.

11. Borno was by no means our only spotlight on the conditions of our people in IDP camps. We visited the Kuchingoro IDP Camp in Abuja during the holy month of Ramadan in 2017 and donated essential supplies to the inhabitants, while assuring them of our commitment to getting them back on their feet. A year later, we were at the Abagena IDP Camp in Benue State. Instead of bringing the children to Abuja for Children’s Day, we went to the children in Benue. We gave assurances that we would build on work already done on the ground by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Review of Security Infrastructure to bring an end to killings and restore peace in the state.

12. There was a very moving encounter with Ali Ahmadu, the six-year-old Boko Haram victim from Chibok. Our joy knew no bounds when he returned, walking and smiling, after life-transforming surgery in Dubai. Little Ali from Chibok was one of many individuals whose lives were directly touched by the 8th Senate. We stood with families and communities across this country in times of trouble. I remember the case of Linda Igwetu, the NYSC corps member killed by a SARS operative here in Abuja. On behalf of the Senate, I placed a call to her sister to offer our condolences and to speak to the need for justice in the matter.

13. When Miss Hilda Eva Amadi tragically died at an NYSC Orientation Camp in Ilorin, Kwara State, we as the Senate were there to condole with those grieving her loss. We made donations towards the renovation of facilities at the camp and for topping up the medicine supply, to ensure the health and well-being of corps members there. Every single Nigerian life matters, and we demonstrated that in the symbolism and actuality of our actions at all times.

14. When Nigerians cried out for help, we did not turn deaf ears. Many will remember the case of Miss Monica Osagie who accused her lecturer of demanding sex for marks. As a responsive Senate, we backed up the Sexual Harassment law we had enacted by passing a resolution on the issue, and conducted an investigation into the allegation. Responding to the needs of Nigerians was our calling, and by so doing, I believe we made a real difference in people’s lives.

15. Where there was contention or strife, we were agents of peace and helped find a way forward. Through meetings with the Minister of Health, the Minister of Labour and Employment together with leaders of the Joint Health Sector Unions, we were able to bring an end to the biting six-week long JOHESU strike which had crippled the health sector in the country. We said we would help end the deadlock, and we kept the promise.

16. A Senate resolution was the critical factor in ending the two-year impasse at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso, which had kept the 34,000-strong student body in limbo, due to the closure of the institution. The students were able to resume their education in September 2017. Another promise kept.

17. We promised transparency in the National Assembly Budget and kept our word, subjecting NASS Budget to public scrutiny for the first time since Nigeria’s return to democracy.

18. We engaged with a delegation of nurses and midwives led by my wife in her capacity as a Global Goodwill Ambassador to the International Confederation of Midwives, and listened to their concerns about high infant and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria. We promised to review relevant laws and pass new ones to make for better conditions of service for nurses and midwives, as one way of bringing about an improvement in mortality rates, in particular, and the health sector as a whole. We kept that promise, too, and one notable outcome was the setting aside of one per cent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. This gave a massive boost to health funding in the country, allowing access to basic healthcare for thousands more Nigerians.

19. Just the other week the Minister of Health called the 1% CRF a “game changer”, no doubt because, by our activities in this chamber, we are touching the lives of Nigerians and even those unborn. Speaking of commendations, our interventions on health also won plaudits from international philanthropists Bill Gates and Bono, as well as the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO). Similarly, our amendment of the Universal Basic Education Act, guaranteeing free education for children aged nine to twelve, won praise from education rights activist and Nobel Laureate, Malala Yousafzai.

20. Still on promises kept, we were at the Made In Aba Trade Fair held in Abuja in 2016, and that was to be the springboard for legislation — The Public Procurement Act (Amendment) Bill — in fulfilment of our vow to manufacturers at the fair. We maintained the focus with our Made-In-Nigeria initiative, which saw the Nigerian Army ordering 50,000 pairs of boots from Aba manufacturers that same year.

21. We cracked the code of several Bills that had eluded Senates before us. We broke the decade-old Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) into a quartet of workable bills including the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB), whose passage stands as a major achievement of the 8th Senate. The Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) was the most comprehensive reform law governing Nigeria’s business environment in nearly 30 years. The Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) Bill was one of the major anti-corruption laws we passed; and it saved the country from being expelled from the global body of the Egmont Group. And as recently as May 22, we passed the Nigerian Football Federation Bill which had been caught in the legislative bottleneck for 15 years.

22. In these four years, we were fully engaged on the state of insecurity in the country, and spearheaded many initiatives to bring sustainable peace, and secure and protect the lives and properties of citizens. The 8th Senate organised a National Security Summit which made recommendations for bringing an end to the problems. Moreover, the Senate engaged with security chiefs for proper understanding of the issues; and urged them to make presentations to us on their requirements, so we could facilitate the needed special appropriations.

23. We constantly engaged with the international community on the need for them to not only support the war against insurgency but to also lift the ban on sale of arms to Nigeria. The Senate had to cut short one vacation in order to receive a U.S. Congressional delegation and persuade them on the need to canvass for the lifting of the arms sales ban, for more effective counter-insurgency strategies. We assured them that human rights complaints had been addressed, and that we would ensure that any related issues would be thoroughly probed and appropriate actions taken. The U.S. delegation was able to leave with Senate’s guarantee, and the arms embargo was reversed.

24. At every turn, the Senate utilised every opportunity of courtesy visit, foreign visit, participation at international conferences and meetings to rally world powers behind the fight against Boko Haram and the need to bolster the arms, equipment and training capability of Nigeria’s security forces.

23.The Senate that passed the landmark Not-Too-Young-To-Run law to bring more young Nigerians into the governance framework, was also a great supporter and enabler of youthful aspiration and innovation. We met with members of the Not Too Young To Run Movement and promised to do our bit to help realise their dreams of assuming the mantle as leaders. The resultant law opened the pathways for the inclusion of fresh young faces in the 2019 elections, in a victory for participatory politics and democracy.

24. The 8th Senate has been there for Nigerians of every social class and in every field of endeavour. It gives me a sense of fulfilment to know that we did something worthwhile in this venerated space. My advice to whoever succeeds me is therefore along the same vein: be there for the people. Act in the interest of the average Nigerian, keep the legislature always at the behest of the citizens, let it be a people’s parliament. Whoever succeeds me, that person will still be a product of the 8th Senate. We did it together. Let there be continuity.

25. And as we say all the things we have done, we must also be reflective and candid enough to acknowledge the things we didn’t do. It is my hope that the 9th Senate will improve on our performance and deliver on those areas that we were not quite able to touch.

26. At this juncture, I must express my gratitude to the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu. History will be kind to you and providence will shine upon you. I am sure you never thought you would be Deputy Senate President in an APC majority parliament, but it happened. Nobody made you Deputy President of the Senate, the Almighty willed it.

27. I thank Majority Leader Ahmed Lawan; you have made your mark here and the record reflects it. I also thank former Majority Leader Ali Ndume; you also made your mark. Between the former Majority Leader and the current one, it is clear that one of you will be President of the Senate. Whoever emerges, I wish you the very best of luck. This I know: whatever the capacity, we should always do our best to serve the interest of the people. We should also have it in the back of our minds that power is transient.

27. I must not forget to pay tribute to my predecessor, the Distinguished Senator David Mark, for his quiet dignity and fine example to us all in this chamber. I will be forever grateful for your support and wisdom.

28. I am thankful for the strong and purposeful Senate leadership that has steered us through and guided this chamber for high performance and stability. Many thanks to Majority Leader, Ahmed Lawan; Minority Leader, Biodun Olujimi; Chief Whip, Olusola Adeyeye; Minority Whip, Phillip Aduda; Deputy Majority Leader, Bala Ibn Na’Allah; Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Bwacha; Deputy Chief Whip, Alimikhena Asekhame; and DeputyMinority Whip, Emmanuel Paulker. Indeed, the entire Senate is grateful for your service.

29. There is no way I can end this speech without recalling a certain injunction which goes thus: If we speak the truth, we will die; and if we lie, we will die, so we might as well tell the truth. I am, of course, paraphrasing the inimitable Dino Melaye whose flamboyance, catchy turns of phrase and songs meant that the 8th Senate was never in danger of becoming staid. Dino and Senator Kabir Garba Marafa made sure that there was always just enough colour and exuberance to keep us chuckling now and then. They kept us from taking ourselves too seriously, and that too, had its place.

30. I thank the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mohammed Ataba Sani-Omolori who helmed the parliament’s administration admirably. The Chairman, Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Samuel Anyanwu, did a fine job of reviewing and ensuring due diligence with all the petitions. We cannot thank the Committee enough for the hard work they did, which will be a favourable reflection on the 8th Senate.

31. None of the day to day activities of the Senate would have been possible without the unsung people who ensure that all parts of the great machinery of this institution are kept moving and ticking. The Clerk to the Senate, the ever dependable Nelson Ajewoh, comes up for mention. Commendations too, to the Clerks at Table, the Sergeant at Arms, the Rapporteurs and the Technical Team. The mace bearer carried out his duty with diligence — though I recall that at one point some other persons wanted his job, but sanity prevailed.

32. I thank all staff — the ushers, the Senate Press Corps who ensured that everything we did here was communicated to Nigerians on all platforms. I am grateful to the cameramen who, when I was tired and almost nodding off, were kind enough to focus their lens elsewhere; I encourage them to extend the same service to my successor. Last but not least, my heartfelt thanks to the tenacious and committed Staff of my Office who worked tirelessly to ensure that many of the visions now being celebrated were turned into reality.

33. In closing, distinguished colleagues, let me say that I am quite proud of the fact that there was not a whiff of scandal in this Senate. You carried yourselves with the bearing and sense of probity worthy of the office. You played your part in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. May the work we have done here bear bountiful fruits in the length and breadth of this great country of ours, and may it be so for years to come.

34. And so to the question: how do we define the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria? We can define ourselves by the record number of bills passed, motions cleared, resolutions adopted, petitions treated. We can also define ourselves by the belief that we fought for democracy, held government to account and made personal sacrifices. For some of us, sacrifices are still being made, owing to the fallouts of some of the decisions taken. I have no regrets because, as first among equals, we bear collective responsibility for those decisions. As a leader, however, I take responsibility. The buck stops with me.

35. In doing all that we did in this chamber, we always used to believe that poverty knew no party, religion, tribe or region. We came together in response to the needs of Nigerians as a whole, and we got the job done. It will be said of us that we were truly representative of all our constituents. As we conclude the last plenary and the few more days of the 8th Senate, therefore, we should nurture the relationships we have built.

36. Once again, I thank you all for your support to me in this position. Above all, I thank Nigerians for the great privilege of service as President of the Eighth Senate. It has been my life’s goal to serve Nigeria, and I shall serve her always, in whatever capacity.

http://igberetvnews.com/750701/8th-nass-read-melaye-mark-akpabio-valedictory-speech/

Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has issued a query to His Eminence, Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, over alleged financial misappropriation, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV learnt that the query was issued on Wednesday from the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), on behalf of Ganduje.

This comes less than 72 hours after the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-corruption Commission recommended the suspension of the emir.

Igbere TV had reported that, the commission said during its investigation, it discovered that N3.4 billion was misspent by the emirate under Sanusi.

The amount was said to have been misappropriated between 2014 and 2017.

Emir Sanusi risks suspension as recommended by the commission, if found wanting by Governor Ganduje.

http://igberetvnews.com/751550/breaking-ganduje-queries-emir-sanusi-demand-explanation-in-24hrs/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Governors elected on the platform of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have called for an emergency meeting to endorse candidates for the various leadership positions in the 9th National Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

This comes less than 24 hours after the Senator representing Gombe Central, Danjuma Goje, announced his withdrawal from the Senate Presidency race.

Goje, who is also the Chairman of Senate Committee on Appropriations, is believed to be the preferred candidate of the opposition PDP until today.

This may have informed the decision of the PDP governors to call an emergency meeting to re-strategize and endorse candidates for other elective positions.

“The meeting billed to hold today in Abuja, is expected to be attended by the 16 PDP governors across the country,” a PDP governor in the East told Igbere TV, on Thursday.

Igbere TV gathered that Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa, who doubles as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, will preside over the meeting.

Our source added that the meeting, which is expected to start by 7pm, is likely to be attended by the National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus.

http://igberetvnews.com/751215/9th-nass-pdp-govs-meet-to-endorse-candidates/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

As the 8th National Assembly winds up today, June 6, in preparation for the June 11 inauguration of the 9th Assembly, outgoing Senators and returning Senators are currently giving Valedictory Speech in the special Valedictory Session taking place today at the Assembly complex.

Here is the valedictory speech of APC’s candidate for Senate Presidency in the Ninth Assembly, Ahmed Lawan, as compiled by Igbere TV.

See previous thread of valedictory speeches of other senators at:
https://www.nairaland.com/5229567/8th-nass-read-melaye-mark

“Today is a special day for all of us. 4years of working together and fraternizing. It is important to thank the people who in the first place voted us to be here.

After you, Abubakar Bukola Saraki emerged as Senate President, we consciously decided in national interest,to work together for stability and peace, as we are all like-minded.

During my time as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, I interacted with our Armed Forces. They not only protect our territorial integrity of this land but also our internal security with little resources.

Yesterday, I was 20years in the National Assembly. I believe that we can achieve a Senate we can be proud of when we work with patriotism. There is need to structure our oversight function & report the outcome of our oversight for better performance.

Senator David AB.Mark has shown capacity in leadership and patriotism to ensure National Assembly works for Nigeria. He built confidence in us and gave us a rare opportunity."

http://igberetvnews.com/750701/8th-nass-read-melaye-mark-akpabio-valedictory-speech/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

As the 8th National Assembly winds up today, June 6, in preparation for the June 11 inauguration of the 9th Assembly, outgoing Senators and returning Senators are currently giving valedictory speech at the ongoing Special Valedictory Session taking place at the Assembly complex.

Read some speech as compiled by Igbere TV.

Senator Dino Melaye (PDP, Kogi)

“I thank the Almighty who is the supreme controller of the universe. When canckerworms and caterpillars attacked you, I addressed you as the irremovable Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“To my surprise, many of those who orchestrated your downfall and removal have now called you their mentor, only God give and take power.

“The happiest day in my life was the day Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki emerged as the Senate President.

“The saddest day of my life was when Senator Ovie Omo-Agege led thugs to steal the Senate mace, a symbol of unity.

Senator David Mark (PDP, Benue)

"I spent the last one month going round my Senatorial district appreciating them and thanking God for his faithfulness.

“I have been here for 20yrs and I can say without fear that you, Abubakar Bukola saraki have developed the Senate to an enviable height.

“I look forward to a day in this Country where there will be no election petition to be treated by the Judiciary because everyone will be satisfied with our electoral process.”

Senator Kabir Marafa (APC, Zamfara / expelled)

“I say a very big thank you to the leadership of the 8th Senate. I have learnt a lot and I appreciate your wisdom in resolving key issues and the trust you have in us to discharge our duties.

“To Oshiomhole and the APC, it is not just about how many States or Senators APC has, to me it is about my people. The judiciary has made us proud and the people of Zamfara State are very grateful.

“The court ruling shows there is a limit to impunity. I have no regret in what I did in Zamfara.”

Senator Obinna Ogba (PDP, Ebonyi)

“I will liken Saraki leadership to that of Abacha. He is just like Abacha. I am one of those who believe that many people can say what they like but Sani Abacha is a president that we have never seen. You may like him, you may not like him.

“Abacha is a very good man, no matter what they are saying about him. People who are condemning him today are doing worse things. During Abacha time, we didn’t have security problems like this. The man did and so many good things.

“Wherever the man is, God will continue to bless him. He is the one that gave us Ebonyi state. God will continue to bless him and you too (Saraki).

“In this chamber you find the good, the bad and the ugly but Nigeria is represented here.

“What I noticed in this 8th assembly is that there are people who do not see anything good except in their zones. We are not supposed to belong to any political party, zones or religion here.

“The earlier we changed that attitude, it will be better for this country. Mr President I want to thank the leadership of the senate.”

Senator Godswill Akpabio (APC, Akwa-Ibom)

“I apologize to my colleagues in the PDP for the manner I left. I know they miss me. My stay in the 8th Senate is a mixture of sadness and happiness.”

Read more: http://igberetvnews.com/750701/8th-nass-read-melaye-mark-akpabio-valedictory-speech/

Done

FINESHIRT:


Replied. Please check.

Flying Eagles players have refused to leave their hotel rooms due to unpaid match bonuses, Igbere TV can authoritatively report.

An Airport source told our correspondent on Tuesday that the Flying Eagles have another opportunity to fly out of Poland by 12pm today after missing their 3am flight.

“Players are refusing to head to the airport insisting they must get their money first,” a top official of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), who craved anonymity, told Igbere TV.

“NFF through the General Secretary and the President has appealed to the boys to please return home and be paid their money but they are not ready to do so.”

Igbere TV recalls that the Flying Eagles of Nigeria had crashed out of the 2019 U-20 World Cup, after losing 2-1 to Senegal in the Round of Sixteen.

Amadou Sagna and Ibrahima Niane got the goals for the Junior Teranga Lions, while Success Makanjuola scored for Nigeria.

http://igberetvnews.com/743673/just-in-u-20-world-cup-flying-eagles-refuses-to-fly-home/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Hey, how's is it going? Consider hitting me up, we can take this to Twitter, you could get help in 24 hours or less

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That is the actual situation of things at the moment. My first semester exams will be starting on Thursday being 6/6/2019 and I'm yet to pay for my fees due to financial difficulties. School policy is no school fees, no exams as explained in that link. I'm a 300level of Urban and Regional Planning of the said institution studying very hard to graduate with good grade. I'm ready to furnish you with all school documents regarding my claims before you grant my prayers. Please come to my rescue so I can write my exams and God will richly bless you and replenish your sources. Meanwhile, I'm so sorry for disturbing you guys with my problem. It was never my intention.

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The crisis rocking the Edo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, on Monday, took a dramatic turn following the sudden sack of some political appointees, ahead of the 2020 governorship election.

Although the governor, Godwin Obaseki, has denied the cold war between him and his predecessor, the national chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, findings by Igbere TV however showed a big rift between the duo.

On Thursday, the state government announced the sack of all political appointees in Egor Local Government Council, through the council boss, Mrs Eghe Ogbemudia.

Similarly, the Edo State House of Assembly, today, ratified the removal of Pastor Eleduwa from office, as Orhionmwon Council Vice Chairman.

No reason was given for the action, an impeccable source, however, told Igbere TV that the governor is determined to weed out non-loyalists ahead of the party's primaries.

“Yes, it's true that the governor ordered their sack. I can equally confirm that more will go in the weeks ahead, including Commissioners and Council Chairmen.

“The governor is hell-bent at getting his second term ticket, and he is not leaving any stone unturned in a bid to getting rid of Oshiomhole’s loyalists off his way,” an EXCO of the State APC, who craved anonymity, told Igbere TV.

Igbere TV learnt that Barr. Henry Idahagbon, a former Edo Attorney General and Co-converner of Edo Peoples Movement, the group championship for Obaseki’s removal, is a leader in Egor Local Government Council.

He had accused Governor Obaseki of failing to carry party leaders who made him governor along, among many other accusations.

There are also fears that the state government might sack all appointees perceived to be loyal to former governor Adams Oshiomhole, in the build up to the 2020 guber polls.

See some reactions of the affected appointees as obtained by Igbere TV on social media.

http://igberetvnews.com/742469/edo-2020-obaseki-sacks-lga-appointees-loyal-to-oshiomhole/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, has announced the expulsion of Sen. Lawali Shuaibu, Deputy National Chairman of the party.

Igbere TV reports that Shuaibu is the APC scribe who wrote a letter last week demanding for the removal of the party's National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

Also expelled is the immediate past governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari.

While Yari was expelled for allegedly scuttling the party’s chances in Zamfara State, the Deputy Chairman was expelled for conniving with Yari to sabotage the National Working Committee of the party during the botched primary elections in the state.

The decision to expel the former governor and the Deputy Chairman was taken at the end of an emergency meeting held in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

A statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the party in Zamfara, Alhaji Surajo Garba Mai Katako and the Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Bello Bakyasuwa, said the expulsion was sequel to the electoral misfortune, “Yari and his co-travellers exposed the party to in Zamfara state.”

The statement made available to Igbere TV read:

“After reviewing the outing of our party in the last general election and the outcome of the Supreme Court Judgement, we hereby dismiss the former governor of Zamfara state, Abdulaziz Yari and the Deputy National Chairman Sen Lawali Shuaibu from the APC.

“Following this development, we are urging them to immediately surrender all the belongings of the party in their possession including funds.

“Yari and his boys scuttled the efforts of our national headquarters to conduct primaries on the 3rd and 7th of October 2018. His nefarious activities led to the death of six persons and over 200 others were injured.”

The expulsion of the duo comes barely 24 hours after the party announced the expulsion of three members over alleged anti-party activities.

Igbere TV had reported that the immediate past Deputy Governor of Zamfara State, Ibrahim Wakkala, was on Monday, expelled from the party.

Also expelled is the senator representing Zamfara Central, Kabiru Marafa; and member representing Kauran Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Aminu Jaji.

http://igberetvnews.com/742420/breaking-apc-expels-ex-gov-and-dep-chairman-who-called-for-oshiomholes-sack/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

A group, the National Youth Orientation Association of Nigeria, NYOAN, has backed the candidature of Senator(elect) Dr Orji Kalu representing Abia North Senatorial District, for Deputy Senate President of the Ninth National Assembly.

According to the group in a statement issued to Igbere TV on Monday, Kalu, an achiver and de-tribalised Nigerian, is the right candidate for the position.

It said its decision followed a resolution to elect credible candidates in the 9th Assembly to avoid the charade witnessed in the 8th NASS, saying, “we cannot afford to make the same mistake twice.”

While acknowledging the antecedents of Kalu in the political space, the group urged returning senators and senators-elect to support the former Abia governor, for the sake of building a robust NASS leadership committed to Nigerians.

Full Statement,

“The National Youth Orientation Associations is an umbrella organization of Nigerian youths committed to the orientation of youths in Nigeria and in diaspora to the Nationalist Agenda of President Buhari. It is a body of concerned progressive like-minded Nigerian youths at home and abroad seeking ways to better Nigeria for all Nigerians, young and old.

“Our core values that serve as our driving force are transparency, accountability, integrity, absolute loyalty and commitment to Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Consequently in view of the charade and National embarrassment witnessed in the 8th NASS, the Nigerian youths say nay and never again will we be uninterested in activities of our National Assembly.

“In the 8th NASS we witnessed the height of national embarrassment, from booing the President, padding of budget, delay in budget approval, legislature - executives face off to stealing of Mace.
This is very unfair to the country and we the youths watched helplessly.

“However it spurred us to go to our various constituency to elect credible candidates for the 9th Assembly because we cannot afford to make the same mistake twice.

“The youths needs to be considered in the scheme of things.

“DR ORJI UZOR KALU is the hope of the Nigerian youths. At age of 26, he received the National Merit Award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON) - the youngest person to have received that award in Nigeria.

“And at a youthful age of 39 years he became the Governor of Abia State. Prior to this, at 33 years he was the chairman of First International Bank Limited and all member of the House of Representatives.

“A DETRIBALIZED NIGERIAN, he was also the Board Chairman of Borno State Water Board and Chairman of Cooperative and Commerce Bank all in his early 30s.

“Even at 59 years he's still a youth at heart because he is an ardent lover of football and he's the Pillar of Sports in Africa.

“These are some of the reasons the Nigeria Youth Orientation Associations wish to appeal to our Senators to please do the youths a favour and give Nigeria OUK as DSP.

“Away from ethnic and tribal considerations OUK merits it, he is an achiver per excellence. He has helped youths from across the country through his OUK foundation and through Sports.

“This is a Clarion Call to the Senators please vote OUK for DSP for the sake of the Nigerian youths.”

http://igberetvnews.com/742382/9th-nass-national-youth-body-backs-kalu-for-dep-senate-president/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

President Muhammadu Buhari has denied giving approval for the creation of State and Local Government Police, Igbere TV can report.

Recall that there's been reports on new media that the president gave approval for that purpose, on Monday.

Reacting, however, the president said he was quoted out of context, insisting that no approval was ever issued.

In a statement obtained by Igbere TV on Monday, Buhari said he only requested that the report on SARS reform be studied and a white paper produced within three months.

The statement which described the media reports as “premature” and “pre-emptive”, was signed by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity.

Full Statement,

“President Muhammadu Buhari Monday received a report on the reform of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
 
“The President requested that the report be studied and a white paper produced within three months.
 
“President Buhari’s specific directive is that a three-man panel be set up to produce the white paper.
 
“The report of the white paper committee will form the basis of the decisions of the government on the many recommendations, including the setting up of state and local government police made by the Ojukwu panel.
 
“Until a white paper is produced, it will be premature and pre-emptive to suggest that the recommendations contained in the report have been approved by the President in part or whole.”

http://igberetvnews.com/740470/breaking-buhari-approves-establishment-of-state-lga-police-gives-deadline-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has expressed sadness over the sudden demise of Comrade Francis Johnson, President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN.

Igbere TV had reported that the late Johnson died in the wee hours of today, Friday, May 31.

The deceased, who became President of the union in 2014, was said to have passed on after an ailment.

In a statement sent to Igbere TV by NUPENG on Friday, the association said the demise has inflamed an indelible sore in the minds of Nigerian workers, particularly the Oil and Gas industry.

It condoled with the family of the deceased, while regretting the vacuum created by his passing.

While eulogizing and extolling the leadership qualities of the PENGASSAN boss, NUPENG prayed for the repose of the soul of the late unionist.

The statement entitled, ‘NUPENG bids F.O.J. farewell: condoles PENGASSAN’, was signed by the association's President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, and Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale.
 
Full Statement,

“The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is deeply saddened over the shocking and untimely death of Comrade Olabode Johnson, who until his death was the National President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and Chairman of NUPENGASAN.

“Distressingly, Friday, May 31, 2019 has inflamed an indelible sore in the minds of Nigerian workers particularly the Oil and Gas industry.

“NUPENG this day utterly regrets the huge vacuum created by the passing to eternal rest of this great and quintessential Unionist in the labour movement, NUPENGASSAN which he meritoriously chaired, kept united, strong and virile has painfully lost a rare gem in its folk.

“The world vividly recollects every moment, every struggle he championed and flashbacks of sacrifices made by Comrade Olabode Johnson to keep the trade Union in shape.

“His endearing visions, aimed at holding his members even at the expense of his immediate family can also not be overemphasized.

“His sincere commitments to see his members and staff successful, move above challenges, stay productive and fulfilled in tandem with the Union’s policy thrust are memories that will remain unforgettable.
 
“In retrospect, NUPENG could still reflect on your emergence as the Senior Oil and Gas Workers’ President right from your first term regime in June 2014 and subsequent reelection for a second term of three years during your association’s 5th Triennial Delegates Conference on June 29, 2017 at the NAF Conference Centre and Suites, Kado.

“We love F. O. J but God loves him more!!!!!

“On this note, NUPENG in this grieving moment extends our heartfelt condolences to the wife and children of our dear late leader, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) where the deceased worked, Trade Union Congress, PENGASSAN, members of Staff, business associates, friends and well wishers; may God grant them all fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and may his precious soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
 
“Adieu our dearest and indefatigable Comrade!”

http://igberetvnews.com/729179/breaking-mr-johnson-is-dead-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The only lady among them...

More photos...

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Office, on Thursday arraigned five suspected internet fraudsters at the Federal High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that the suspects were arraigned on five separate charge bordering on obtaining money by fraudulent trick and impersonation, an offence punishable under Section 14(2) of the cybercrimes (prohibition, prevention etc) 2015.

Three of the suspects: Gabriel Akhibge, Isaac Christiana Nkemdirum and Innocent Uyioshoria were arraigned before Justice AA. Demi-Ajayi of the Federal High Court.

They pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against them.

Two other suspects, Osawaru Samson and Onineh Dickson Imaboyor, were arraigned before Justice M G. Umar. While Imaboyor pleaded guilty to the charge, Osawaru pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against him.

In view of the plea of the defendants, the cases were adjourned to June 13, 17, and 24 for review of facts and sentencing.

http://igberetvnews.com/729347/again-efcc-arraigns-4-yahoo-boys-lady-in-edo-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

President Muhammadu Buhari is to spend a total of N1.001 billion on both local and foreign trips this year, Igbere TV can report. Specifically, the president would spend N751.296 million travelling around the world and N250.021 million locally.

Also, the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo will spend N217.060 million on foreign travels and another N83.74 million on local travels.

The Office of the President would spend another N8,580,741 on the purchase of books in 2019, while N26,432,346 has been earmarked for the purchase of newspapers, and N3,511,909 set aside for magazines and periodicals.

These detailed breakdown by Igbere TV, are contained in the N8.9 trillion 2019 budget signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari earlier this week.

Details of the budget also showed that the president is expected to expend N98.3 million for foodstuff, catering materials supplies, even as refreshment and meals would gulp another N25.7 million.

According to the budget, N3.822 billion was earmarked for annual routine maintenance of mechanical/electrical installations in the Villa, while another N576.747 million was set aside for the phased replacement of vehicles, spares and tyres in the presidential CVU, security/police escort and State House operational fleet.

The sum of N395.834 million was earmarked for the construction of the Presidential Wing of the State House Clinic, while N395.834 million would be spent on the construction of office buildings.

The President would also spend N164.176 million on honorarium and sitting allowance, as well as, N25.652 million on meals and refreshments.

The Office of the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the President got the sum of N433.457 million for the purchase of a security and operational vehicles.

The State House Medical Centre was allocated a total of N798.856 million, with drugs and medicals supplies taking N208.350 million and N244.364 million earmarked for the purchase of health and medical equipment.

Conversion/upgrade of Villa Ranch and construction of wildlife conservation capture would take N27.463 million; while rehabilitation of animal enclosure/procurement of Vet Lab equipment was allocated a separate N11.865 million.

Other budgetary allocations for the first citizens include sporting activities N30.2m, purchase of sporting/gaming equipment N38 m, motor vehicle fuel cost N68m, plant/generator fuel cost N45. 7m and cooking gas N18. 6m.

http://igberetvnews.com/729129/revealed-2019-budget-buhari-to-spend-n1bn-on-trips-osinbajo-300m-see-full-breakdown/

The Women Wing of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has rejected the call for the resignation of the party's National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Igbere TV reports.

In a statement made available to Igbere TV on Friday, they called on President Muhammadu Buhari, National Leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other members of the party to disregard the call for resignation of the party's National Chairman.

They accused Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello and former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha of teaming up with the immediate past Governor of Zamfara, Abdulazeez Yari to cause disunity amongst the ranks and file of the APC.

The statement dated Thursday, May 30, was signed by Hajia Zainab Mamud, Chairperson of the APC Women Ambassadors.

She described the plot by the Kogi Governor as wicked and mischievous, pointing out that rather than concerning himself with good governance in his state, he prides in the game of wasting state resources on frivolities which best be described as wishful thinking.

The woman leader asked the President to call the Kogi State Governor to order, pointing out that his efforts at recruiting former governors to cause disaffection amongst party ranks is unacceptable and uncalled for.

She described the leadership of Comrade Oshiomhole as one that has been rewarding in stabilizing the party, culminating into winning the Presidential election.

The woman leader urged the APC Deputy National Chairman not to allow himself to be used by those who do not mean well for the party.

She lamented that the Deputy National Chairman is only acting the scripts of the Kogi Governor, and to further justify the monies he collected, said his role and that of the governor's in the resignation plot is in the public domain.

Igbere TV recalls that the Deputy National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Lawal Shuaibu, had recently, called on the party’s National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole to resign due to alleged incompetence.

The group also accused Governor Yahaya Bello’s Chief of Staff Edward Onoja of misleading the Governorby not allowing him to stay in Lokoja to perform his official duty.

The group stated that one of their members who attended a meeting at Life Camp in Abuja at the instance of Edward Onoja informed them that the Chief of Staff to Bello has vowed that Oshimhole will not be in office before Kogi state APC Governorship Primary.

The Chief of Staff, according to the group, insisted that Kogi State will not spare one Naira in ensuring the removal of Adams Oshiomhole before the August primary in Lokoja, Kogi State.

Hajia Zainab called on the Kogi state governor to channel his energy into appealing to Kogi people for his return ticket, wondered why he puts his non acceptability by the Kogi APC as a product of his failures in providing good governance and not the problem of the National Chairman.

She posited that Governor Bello failed the State through non payment of salaries, non execution of projects coupled with creating insecurity within the State.

http://igberetvnews.com/729095/apc-group-rejects-call-for-oshiomholes-resignation-slams-yahaya-bello-others/

Hon Lawman Duruji on Thursday, resigned his position as Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

This is coming just 48 hours after he assumed his new post as Speaker.

Igbere TV recalls that Duruji emerged Speaker on Tuesday, following the resignation of the former Speaker, Hon Acho Ihim.

Confirming his exit to newsmen in Owerri, Duruji said, “It is true. I have just resigned as the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly.

“I have tendered my resignation letter to the Clerk of the House, Chris Duru.

“I resigned on Thursday.”

When asked what prompted his sudden resignation, he said, “I did that on personal reason. I was not forced. I have my reason and it is personal.”

Igbere TV, however, gathered that Duruji, who has just won re-election for a second term, is seeking to emerge the substantive Speaker of the 9th Assembly. This must have prompted his decision to avoid legal issues.

http://igberetvnews.com/728620/breaking-house-of-assembly-speaker-resigns-48hrs-after-assuming-office/

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Peter Ayodele Fayose has reacted to the emergence of Governor Kayode Fayemi as the new Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).

Fayose in his reaction via his Twitter handle congratulated Fayemi on the new development, adding that it is a well deserved feat for the governor and the people of Ekiti State.

He wrore, “I congratulate Gov Kayode Fayemi on his appointment and elevation as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF). It is well deserved for you and the entire people of Ekiti. Politics will come and go, but Ekiti State will remain eternal.

“Once again, you have my best wishes.”

Igbere TV had earlier reported how Nigeria Governors under the auspices of the Governors Forum gathered on Wednesday to unanimously endorse Fayemi as their new Chairman and Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State as the Vice-chairman for a two-year tenure.

http://igberetvnews.com/709223/just-in-fayose-reacts-to-fayemis-emergence-as-ngf-chairman/

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An Osun State High Court sitting in Ikirun, has issued an order against the police, threatening to commit the Inspector General, Mohammed, to prison.

This is following the arrest and detention of the Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State during the last governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on May 6, 2019.

Igbere TV reports that the
order was issued by Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court, on Wednesday.

Igbere TV recalls that Adeleke had approached the Court seeking for his fundamental rights to personal liberty and right to freedom of movement, and the court presided over by Justice Falola, had ordered the police not to arrest or detain the lawmaker pending the determination of the substantive case filed before it.

Justice Falola had based his own ruling on an earlier court ruling by Justice I. E Ekwor of the Federal High Court, Abuja who had granted Adeleke leave to travel out of Nigeria to the United States of America between May 7, 2019 and June 9, 2019 for medical attention.

Justice Falola noted that the ruling of the Federal High Court has incapacitated the respondents from arresting or detaining the applicant adding that, “A calm sober and judicial wisdom dictates that I allow the Order made by my brother, Ekwor J. of the Federal High Court Abuja in Charge No, FHC/ABJ/CR/156/2018 on Friday 3rd May 2019 to continue to operate.”

But on May 6 when the Osun High Court order was made, Adeleke was arrested, detained and arraigned on issues bordering on his WAEC certificate and Testimonial issued by Muslim Grammar School, Ede.

In a five-count offence, Adeleke was accused of presenting fake documents to contest the 2017 Senatorial election which he won by defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Mudashiru Hussein.

In his ruling on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, Justice Falola issued form 48 against the police, asking them to take notice of consequence of disobedience of court order, warning them that they would be guilty of contempt of court “and will be liable to be committed to prison.”

Meanwhile, in a fresh suit on Wednesday, Adeleke dragged the IGP, the Assistant Inspector of Police (AIG), Zone 11, Simon Lough, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and John Faluyi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and prayed the court to further impress it on the respondents of the order made on the matter.

The applicant lawyer, Barrister Kanmi Ajibola, expressed dissatisfaction over the attitudes of the Nigeria Police, saying despite the fact that the respondents were duly served the court order, they still went ahead to arrest and detain the senator.

In a 31 paragraph affidavit before the State High court, which was sworn to by the Principal of Muslim High School, Ede, Mr. Kalidi Adejare Abass gave a vivid account of the several incidents on the matter, including his arrest and the perpetual physical and psychological torture he was subjected to just to nail Adeleke.

Source: http://igberetvnews.com/707773/breaking-court-threatens-to-send-igp-others-to-prison/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The Federal Government says it is coming up with a policy that would remove the ownership of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders from consumers.

Igbere TV reports that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, made this disclosure on Tuesday.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum on LPG penetration in Abuja, Kachikwu said the policy would require that the ownership of the cylinders rests strictly with the dealers and distributors.

He said this was part of strategy to deepen the penetration of LPG, also known as cooking gas and address issues of safety.

Igbere TV reports that Kachikwu also disclosed that the Federal Government had reached an agreement with two original cylinder manufacturers to deliver 600,000 cylinders to LPG distributors on credit, with a pre-payment period of 18 months.

He said the Federal Government would in the next couple of days commence the clampdown of illegal roadside LPG dealers, while he directed all skid operators of LPG to immediately convert their outlets to micro distribution centres before the enforcement begins.

Source: http://igberetvnews.com/702442/breaking-cooking-gas-consumers-will-no-longer-own-cylinders-fg/

Senate President Bukola Saraki has disowned the management of the National Assembly led by the Clerk, Mohammed Sani Omolori, over the stringent conditions imposed on journalists seeking to cover the activities of the Ninth Assembly, set to be inaugurated in June.

Igbere TV recalls that the National Assembly had on Monday, set a new new rule which stipulates that all intending NASS correspondent must provide “evidence of certificate of incorporation of the media organisation and tax clearance for two years.”

The statement was however met with serious backlash from various media organizations including the Nigeria Guide of Editors (NGE), pledging to resist the move.

On his part, Saraki, in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Tuesday, said he remain committed to the freedom of the press.

The statement was signed by his Special Assistant on New Media, Olu Onemola.

The statement explained that Saraki’s antecedents as the Chairman of the Eight National Assembly showed that he has always believed in the right of journalists to operate unhindered in order to promote transparency.

The Senate President, therefore, vowed to institute and probe into the idea behind the guidelines because neither himself nor the Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, were aware of it.

Full Statement,

“The attention of the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has just been drawn to a story that is circulating on social media about the National Assembly issuing new guidelines to journalists.

“These alleged guidelines have not emanated from either the Senate President or the Speaker and will be promptly investigated.

“The public should note that the Eight National Assembly has been committed to the freedom of the press as exemplified by its work to bring governance closer to the people through live streams and live tweets.

“This is because the leadership of the 8th National Assembly believes strongly in the freedom of the press and in carrying the Nigerian public along.

“Hence, the Senate President and all his colleagues will continue to work to ensure that these freedoms remain unhindered.”

Source: http://igberetvnews.com/702076/breaking-saraki-disown-national-assembly-clerk-management/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday met with a National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Igbere TV learnt that the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, was also in attendance.

According to a statement issued to Igbere TV by Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Media and Publicity, Tinubu “appealed to elderly Nigerians to avoid inflammatory statements, that could undermine peaceful co-existence among the nation’s diverse communities”.

Igbere TV reports that the former Lagos governor spoke after an Iftar dinner with President Buhari, along with the Sultan of Sokoto and Emir of Kazaure, Dr. Najib Hussaini Adamu.

Full Statement,

“With inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari for a second term around the corner, a key ally and National Leader of governing All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Monday in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, appealed to elderly Nigerians to avoid inflammatory statements that could undermine peaceful co-existence among the nation’s diverse communities.

“Speaking after an Iftar dinner meeting with President Buhari, along with Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar and Emir of Kazaure, Dr. Najib Hussaini Adamu, the former Lagos State governor said all citizens should consider the enormity of challenges facing the nation, and support the President.

“He urged Nigerians to rally round President Buhari to solve the problems and stabilize the polity.

“The President worked hard and will continue to do so to ensure peace and stability in the country, which are important for the economy to make progress. These are the key pegs of his agenda. Let us all come together to support him,” he said.

“Asiwaju Tinubu said the Peoples Democratic Party is reputed for “saucy and distractive statements’’, urging Nigerians not to be angry with the opposition party, but assist them to overcome their “colossal defeat” in the February 2019 elections.

“Don’t blame them. They are handicapped by the traumatic feelings of the colossal loss of the election. You should help them to manage the trauma,” he added.

“The APC National Leader commended President Buhari for the recognition of June 12th as the nation’s Democracy Day.

“In his remarks, Sultan Abubakar pledged his support to the success of the President’s administration.

“The Sultan led prayers for President Buhari’s Second Term in office, and for the nation to overcome current challenges.

“Other guests at the Iftar dinner were the Nigerian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Justice Isa Dodo, Malam Mamman Daura, Isma’ila Isa, Mr Wale Tinubu and Mr Hakeem P. Fahm, the Commissioner of Science and Technology, Lagos State.”

Source: http://igberetvnews.com/698919/details-of-buharis-meeting-with-tinubu-sultan-of-sokoto-in-saudi-arabia-emerges/