₦airaland Forum

President Muhammadu Buhari has given Nigerians the assurance that better days are ahead.

The president said this in his Christmas message.

“I am deeply convinced that better days lie ahead for us as a nation as we make progress on all the major fronts where we have set our energies to surmount the challenges,” he said.

He said the government had stepped up efforts to halt the upsurge in illegal trans-border movement.

Buhari said effort is on to “halt this wickedness against the upwardly mobile generation, and have evacuated some of our compatriots stranded abroad”.

“We appeal to them to shun the allure of embarking on such perilous journeys,” he said.

“Lately, we have witnessed an upsurge in the activities of trans-border syndicates who lure our youths to modern slavery through irregular migration.”

He also urged Nigerians to support and pray for soldiers who are engaged in the fight against insurgents and those engaged in bringing peace to the country.

“By the same token, and keeping with the spirit of the season, our gallant troops serving in the frontlines in the fight against insurgency; those wounded, lying in the hospital, as well as civilians who have suffered the brunt of evil and wicked elements these past years, deserve our fervent goodwill and sustained prayers,” he said.

“The personal fortitude of these individuals will continue to inspire us to victory as we turn the tide against the enemy and annihilate those who work against the unity of our nation.

“ As we celebrate this Yuletide season, let us devote some time to pray and appreciate the sacrifices of members of our armed services to keep our nation safe and secure.”

Buhari, who said Christmas is a time for showing love, asked Christians to draw inspiration from teachings of Jesus Christ.

“I felicitate with all Nigerians, particularly our Christian brothers and sisters, on the occasion of this year’s Christmas day celebration.

“The commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ is an important opportunity for us to show love to one another and encourage unity by spending quality time with our friends, families and the less-privileged.

“It is also an occasion to draw inspiration from the exemplary lifestyle and teachings of Jesus Christ, who constantly stood for what is right, true and honest.

“The Holy Book describes Christmas as a festival of peace, joy, healing, hope and fulfilment. It kindles great expectations in the heart, irrespective of the challenges of the moment.

“I wish you all Happy Christmas celebrations.”

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Lai Mohammed, minister of information, says some people who looted the treasury of the country are now presenting themselves as saviours.

He said this in Abuja at the inauguration of the Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), which includes civil society organisations (CSOs), media groups, government agencies and other stakeholders.

Mohammed also said some of the people accusing the current administration of being selective in the war against corruption are apologists for treasury looters.

He said Nigerians must not see the anti-corruption fight as that of President Muhammadu Buhari or the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The minister added that once Nigerians take possession of the anti-corruption war, looters would have nowhere to hide.

“Once Nigerians take possession of the war, there will be no more hiding place for the corrupt,” he said.

“Those accusing the administration of engaging in a selective anti-corruption fight will be exposed for who they are: apologists for treasury looters!’

“Those who turned our treasury to their piggy bank are once again presenting themselves as the saviours of the nation.

“They say the best time for Nigeria was when the proceeds of their corruption subsidised many and gave the illusion of economic boom. They are so emboldened as to say Nigerians are earnestly yearning for them. No contrition.

“No apologies, no shame, just sheer bravado, unbridled arrogance and revisionism. The CSOs, the media and indeed all stakeholders owe it a duty not to allow Nigerians to forget to say ‘Never Again’ to those who view Nigeria as nothing but a cash cow to be milked to death.’’

Mohammed challenged the CSOs to work with the media and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians never forget the damage done to the country by treasury looters.

The minister said the formation of the ACSR could not have come at a better time than when the Buhari administration’s fight against corruption was gaining momentum and the government winning the war.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Olanrewaju Suraju, chairman, Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), said the ACSR was the initiative of his group in partnership with other anti-corruption CSOs.

He said they were also partnering with the labour movement, the law enforcement agencies, the parliament and the judiciary.

Suraju said the ACSR was formed to ensure that Nigerians take ownership of the fight against corruption.

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday said some of the past abuses he saw when he assumed office were unbelievable.

He said Nigeria survived such past abuses only by an act of God.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, the President spoke while receiving his supporters under the aegis of the Governance Support Group at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

“Some of the things I saw here were unbelievable. I still shudder and wonder how a country can survive under such abuses. It is only by an act of God that we survived,” the President told his guests.

He said his administration had ushered in a new era of accountability and responsibility by auditing and correcting the many wrongs of the past that crippled the economy and created an exclusive class.

He promised to consolidate on the reforms he had initiated for change in the country.

Buhari said the long-suffering, commitment and sacrifices of all his supporters over the years would be remembered by posterity.

He urged them to remain steadfast in pursuing the overall good of the nation.

He said he remained “eternally grateful’’ for all the personal and collective sacrifices that culminated in winning the 2015 elections, assuring them that all the efforts would never be forgotten.

“I can never forget your sacrifices and I am grateful for all. You never gave up when things were bleak, and we needed to survive. I can’t express my gratitude enough.

“In spite of the environment you found yourself, you kept believing and pushing. Some of you were really exposed to risks. My consolation is that you voluntarily threw in your lot with me.

“Some of you exposed yourself so much, and I knew it. I urge you to still stick to your principled ways of doing things and our country will be the better for it,”he said.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to find a quick solution to the lingering fuel scarcity now ravaging all parts of the country.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan in Abuja, the leading opposition party reminded the president that as Minister of Petroleum Resources, it is his responsibility to resolve the issue quickly.
He insisted that “it is not enough for the president to sit in his comfort zone and put the blames of the fuel scarcity at the doorsteps of marketers, while Nigerians continue to suffer untold hardship.”
The statement added: “The unbearable fuel situation in the country is completely unacceptable.
“Mr President must become up and doing. He should not allow anybody to push him to claim that the issue of fuel scarcity is not under the purview of the Minister of Petroleum Resources.
“When he took office as President of Nigeria and also as the Minister of Petroleum Resources, he was aware that the buck stops at his table.
“Nigerians must not be made to suffer especially at this time of the year when we have the Yuletide and New Year festivities, which come with a lot of activities.
“This is the same APC government that promised that it will make fuel available and affordable. Today, under their deceitful and corrupt watch, fuel has not only become extremely scarce, the price has also risen from where the PDP left it at N86.50k per litre to as high as N300 per litre and above.
“The effect is that transport fares, running costs, prices of food, medicines and other basic needs have soared beyond the reach of Nigerians, who are now groaning heavily under the hardship of APC misrule.

“But should Nigerians be subjected to this type of anguish and pain after supporting APC to win the election in 2015? Does APC indeed deserve another support in 2019?”

“Whereas we know that the time is already up for the APC, we nevertheless urge Mr President to, within the remaining short time, rise up to his responsibilities as the minister of petroleum or immediately relinquish that position and allow a competent person to run the ministry. Enough is enough.”
The statement urged Nigerians not to despair but rekindle their hope in the future as the PDP “is now repositioned to regain power in 2019 and return the nation to the path of good governance, social stability and economic growth, for which it is generally known.”

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/do-something-about-fuel-scarcity-pdp-challenges-buhari/

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, (AGF) Abubakar Malami on Thursday said that he has not been briefed on why the Chairman of Innocent Motors, Chief Innocent Chukwuma was arrested.

The Economic Financial and Crimes Commission, EFCC, two days ago had arrested Chief Chukwuma and took him to Abuja for allegedly refusing to honour invitation, which the Innoson Motors boss has denied.

Briefing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council, meeting presided by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday, the AGF said that he was yet to be briefed by the agency responsible for the arrest on the reason behind the action.

Asked to explain the circumstances behind the arrest of Chukwuma, he said, “Well in all sincerity I wasn’t privy to facts that led the stated arrest. I have not been formally briefed by the relevant agencies.


“One thing I know about Innoson is the fact that there has been a pending case between him and GTBank which is pending in court and is being prosecuted accordingly. Other than that, I am not privy to the fact and circumstances that led to the alleged arrest Wednesday. So until I am briefed by the relevant agencies, I am not in the clear position to make any disclosures relating to that.”

On the memo from his office to the Council he said, “Two memos were presented Thursday from the Federal Ministry of Justice and the first memo was a memo relating to copy right bill which is intended to be transmitted by the executive to the legislature which passes it into law.

“It is a Bill that relates to creative industry; it is designed to accord protection of creative works against piracy and protection of intellectual property rights.

“The bill was taken and was accordingly approved by the Council; the Attorney General has accordingly been instructed to transmit same to the National Assembly for passage into law and eventual assent if it is eventually passed.

“The second memo that was taken from the Federal Ministry of Justice was a memo relating to suppression of piracy and maritime offences act. The intention was to accord protection to the maritime industry against pirates and indeed, come up with a comprehensive policy provision accommodated into the bill which is intended to ensure that at the end of the day that the spirit of international conventions that have been ratified by Nigeria over time relating to maritime industry are indeed accommodated into the bill with a view to bring it in line with the international best practices and indeed ensure the protection of our maritime boundary.”

The bill approved by the Council will be transmitted to the National Assembly for passage and eventual assent by the President.


Speaking on the persisting fuel scarcity in the country, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed said that all the relevant agencies including the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu were working to ensure the end of the fuel crisis.

Mohammed said, “We just concluded a very marathon Council meeting you take into consideration that it started Wednesday and it just ended this afternoon

“As for the fuel scarcity, I can assure you that both the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Department of Petroleum Resources are working round the clock to ensure that this thing becomes a thing of the past.”

On his part, the Minister of State for Environment, Ibrahim Jibril said his ministry presented two memos to Council and that one of the memos was taken on Wednesday.

He said, “The one taken Thursday is a policy memo aimed at seeking Council’s approval for the revision of the National Biosafety Management Agency.

“The National Bio-Safety Management Agency is an agency under the Ministry of Environment charged with the direct responsibility of monitoring and supervising the use of genetically modified organism in the country.

“Most of the time, people tend to mix this agency with another sister agency in the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, that is National Bio-technology Development Agency.

“While the first one under technology is charged with the responsibility of doing research work and making a breakthrough on many things in the country, the national biosafety under the environment ministry is a regulatory agency with the responsibility of checking the type of fuel that are genetically modified product that could come into the country to ensure that they are safe for consumption either for animals or humans and to ensure also that they do not displace our traditional products that are found locally in the country.

“This policy memo which was approved Thursday, the first one we had was in 2006 and this predate even the establishment of the agency because the agency was established by an act of parliament in the year 2015.

“So the policy has been in place before even the enactment of the law to establish the agency and because it has been around for more than a decade, we felt it is necessary to review it and bring it up to date and face the present reality so that as technology is developing rapidly, the policy framework that should be put in place to regulate and monitor effectively to ensure that our citizens are save is what motivated us to bring this and thank God, the Council has approved the policy memo.

“So we have a new policy and the Attorney General of the Federation will take the necessary steps to bring it into force.

“The first memo which was taken Wednesday was actually about the hydrocarbon remediation project in River State where approval was given for the engagement of the project management consultants as well as monitoring and evaluation to ensure that proper framework is put in place that will assist in supervising and actualising the clean-up and that was also approved yesterday.

On Sulphur in fuel, he said; “You are talking about fuel for vehicles which has Sulphur contents. This is something that cuts across two or three ministries and it has to do with Trade, Investments and Industries. It also has to do with Petroleum Resources through the NNPC because the products are brought in by NNPC and it is something that we started with the West African sub-region and agreed that the sulphur content in our fuel is extremely high and is injurious to human health and environment. Unfortunately, the refineries in this country are not designed to have low sulphur content but we are lucky the new refinery coming up from Dangote in Lagos probably this coming year will have the standard but for us we have agreed that we have to give sometime up to about two years for the refineries in this country to upgrade to the level where they can be able produce fuel with less sulphur content but the work is ongoing, we are working closely with the NNPC for they are the people who are directly responsible.

“We are concerned because we it is part of the pollutant that can pollute the environment and affect human health, that is why we are driving the process to ensure that they comply with regulations and in doing this we are getting support.”

The Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh said: “This afternoon we presented a memo to the Council relating to the Veterinary Council of Nigeria which has been in existence since 1953 and under the provisions of the law setting it up, the Council members meet from time to time to improve regulations on veterinary practice so that people not qualified to practice as Veterinary Doctors do not operate in the country.

“The regulations were made and submitted to Council and Council approved them for Mr. President to endorse so that those regulations can be put in practice with the protection of livestock and the improvement of the breed of livestock in the country.”

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The UN General Assembly on Thursday adopted by a decisive vote of 128 to 9, with 35 abstentions, a motion rejecting the US decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

President Donald Trump had warned ahead of the vote in the 193-nation assembly that “we’re watching” and threatened reprisals against countries that back the measure.

afp

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The caucus of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives has described those behind the formation of a new faction of the party as ‘impostors’.

The caucus in a statement Thursday by the Deputy Minority Leader, Chukwuka Onyema said it will never recognize or interact with the new faction, while calling for the investigation of the activities of those behind it by security agencies.

The statement reads: “This band of impostors – pawns being strung along by devious elements in the ruling party – has the audacity to arrogate the name of our party, the PDP, to its misadventure, using a rented space somewhere in Asokoro, Abuja.


“Feigning complete ignorance that the Wadata Plaza national headquarters of the PDP that is recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission is located at Wuse Zone 5 in Abuja, they pasted two copies of our flag on the wall and went to town like a band of jesters.

“The PDP House caucus hereby declares that the five leprous fingers said to constitute the mischievous adventure do not constitute any faction, splinter group or whatever fanciful description they claim within PDP as they are only serving the errands of the ruling party elements planning to use them for even more mischief early next year.

“The activities of the said men claiming to be starting a fresh PDP deserve urgent investigation and immediate halt by the police and the Department of State Security as we would not want enraged supporters of the PDP to take the laws into their hands in the process of dealing with such miscreants.

“There is need to investigate how far these five leprous fingers are connected to the APC and its past record of widespread deceit and unscrupulous propaganda.

“Our convention has come and gone in the face of a ruling party that seems so petrified at the thought of facing a reawakened PDP, even as it remains unable to hold a national convention like we did”.

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Seun Lalasticlala Mynd44

The Federal Government has declared Monday 25th, Tuesday 26th December 2017 and Monday 1st January 2018 as Public Holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year.

Minister of Interior, Lt. General (Rtd) Abdulralman Dambazau who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, enjoined the Christian faithful and all Nigerians to use the period in praying earnestly for the betterment and development of Nigeria.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Abubakar Magaji, the minister also called upon Nigerians to strengthen their resolve to maintain peace and unity in Nigeria.

Dambazau further urged all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to support the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its determination in improving the quality of life of Nigerians.

He wished Nigerians a Happy Christmas and New Year celebrations.

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John Ameh, Abuja

The House of Representatives said on Wednesday that over $5 billion had been diverted by the Central Bank of Nigeria from the Federation Account.

The House stated that part of the money was kept in “secret accounts” known only to the apex bank.

In a resolution it passed in Abuja, the House set up an ad hoc committee to investigate several cases of non-remittances and under-remittances of revenue to the federation account by the apex bank.

A member of the All Progressives Congress from Osun State, Mrs. Ayo Omidiran, had raised the issue in plenary under matters of urgent national importance and called for urgent investigation.

Omidiran noted that the federation account was jointly owned by the three tiers of government, but managed solely by the CBN.

However, she informed the House that the CBN took advantage of being the custodian of the account to “manipulate the system by opening various accounts not known to the three tiers of government.”

She added, “Funds are remitted, hidden, diverted and spent without authorisation.”

The lawmaker observed that the $5bn would make some remarkable impact if it was used to fund the 2018 budget.

Omidiran cited some instances of the alleged diversion. She said in 2014, the sum of $339million was moved out, while in the following year, it was $446.3m.

She added that in 2015 again, $1.3bn was diverted from the account in connection with Joint Venture operations.

“In March of 2016, $1.6bn was diverted to a secret account.

“There are others,” Omidiran told the House.

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Kaduna State Government, on Wednesday, began screening of 43,806 applicants for 25,000 teaching positions in its primary schools, with M.Sc. degree holders being among the applicants.
The list of applicants pasted on the notice board at Rimi College, Kaduna, one of the examination centres, showed that two applicants held M.Sc. degrees in Biochemistry and Water Resources.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the examination of the applicants was held in 130 centres across the 23 local government areas of the state.
Other centres include Government Secondary School (GSS), Kakuri; GSS, Narayi; and Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Ungwan Mua’zu.

The examination was conducted under tight security, with officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and police personnel stationed at the centres.
A Permanent Member, Kaduna State Basic Education Board, Mary Ambi, said only those who scored the minimum points and possessed the required qualification would be contacted for an oral interview afterwards.

NAN recalls that the state government had in October announced plans to sack 21,780 primary school teachers for allegedly failing a competency test.
The test was conducted by the state government in June.

Meanwhile, the state wing of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has rejected the government decision to sack the teachers.
Consequently, the union has taken the state government to the National Industrial Court, asking the court to determine if government has the mandate to conduct the test.

The NUT had on October 30, filed a motion of “interlocutory injunction”, asking the court to restrain government from dismissing or disengaging any teacher on the basis of the test.

Justice Lawal Mani, in his ruling on December. 14, granted the prayer pending the determination of the substantive suit and adjourned the case until February 6, 2018.
(NAN)

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/nwest/253102-m-sc-degree-holders-apply-primary-school-job-kaduna.html

Ade Adesomoju and Eniola Akinkuotu, Abuja

The Federal Government has accused a former Senate President, David Mark, of illegally acquiring his then official residence as his private property.

In September this year, the government, through the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, which is chaired by Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, gave the former Senate President a 21-day notice to quit the mansion.

The notice to quit, however, asked Mark to “show cause” why the Federal Government should not “enforce the recovery of the property for public good.”

But Mark had quickly filed a suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja to quash all steps taken by the panel to evict him and recover the house from him.

The case has not been heard.

The PUNCH, on Monday, obtained from court sources, copies of documents, including exhibits, filed by the former Senate President in his suit challenging the recovery process.

The Senate President’s official residence is sited on 1.6 hectares of land at 1 Musa Usman Street, (also known as No. 1 Chuba Okadigbo Street), Apo Legislative Quarters, Gudu, Abuja.

According to title documents, the property comprises eight structures, made up of the main house, ADC/chief security detail’s house, guest chalet, security/generator house, boys quarters, security post, driver/servants’ quarters and chapel.

The eight structures are said to be properly spaced and linked with well-paved drive and walkways and further done with lawns.

Mark, the senator, currently representing Benue South in the National Assembly, is accused of illegally acquiring the property with the approval of former President Goodluck Jonathan despite that such property was excluded from the monetisation policy of the Federal Government.

Copies of correspondences and other documents, leading to the purchase and eventual handover of the property to Mark in April, 2011, showed that the serving senator purchased the property at a “reserved price” of N673,200,000.

Meanwhile, in his letter, dated October 28, 2010, seeking the then President Jonathan’s approval for the sale of the property, the then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Bala Mohammed, had indicated that the open market value of the property was N748,000,000.

In addition, the then minister specifically stated that the Federal Executive Council had, in 2004, mandated the Federal Capital Territory Administration to sell all Federal Government’s “non-essential housing units in Abuja under specific rules and guidelines.”

Exempted from this arrangement are the official residences of the Senate President, the Deputy Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Speaker.

He stated that the exemption was “expressly contained in the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Official Gazette No. 82, Vol. 92 of August 15, 2005.”

In justifying the request for the then President’s approval for the sale, the former minister noted that all the houses in Apo Legislative Quarters, with the exception of the official residences of the four principal officers of the National Assembly, had been sold to the legislators occupying them at the time or the general public, under the Federal Government’s monetisation arrangement.

The former minister however stated that sale of other houses in the Apo Legislative Quarters had “altered the general security provision for the area and extension, the security of the leading principal officers of the National Assembly.”

The letter added, “This lapse in the general security provision of the area led the National Assembly to unofficially rent residential accommodation for its leading principal officers in more secure areas within the city.”

It also stated that due to the security concerns, the four houses of the leading principal officers “will no longer have the status of ‘essential properties’,” hence the FCTA “has made provision in the budget to construct residential accommodation for the leading principal officers of the National Assembly where the general security is befitting the status of the officers.”

The then minister had stated that the Senate President’s residence had an open market value of N748,000,000; the Speaker’s N670,000,000; the Deputy Senate President’s N458,000,000; and the Deputy Speaker’s N348,500,000.

What appeared on the then minister’s letter as Jonathan’s hand-written approval of the request dated November 15, 2010, read, “Para 6 and 8 approved. Also see if this could be gazetted.

“N/B: Ensure that the new residences are ready early next year.”

By a letter, with reference number PRES/83/FCTA/18 and dated November 18, 2010, Jonathan conveyed his approval to the then minister’s request for the sale of the Senate President’s official residence.

The letter, addressed to the FCT minister and titled, ‘Re: Sale of Residential Houses Occupied by Leading Principal Officers of the National Assembly’, was signed by the then President’s Senior Special Assistant (Admin), Matt Aikhionbare.

The letter read in part, “I am directed to forward Reference A to you and to convey to you, Mr. President’s approval of paragraphs 6 and 8 and further directive on page 2 in line with the earlier approval of 27/06/2010.”

But by a letter with reference number SPIP/INV/2017/VOL.1/17 and dated September 5, 2017, the Obono-Obla-led Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property insisted that Mark acquired the “national monument” in clear breach of the monetisation policy of the Federal Government.

The letter, signed by Obono-Obla and titled ‘Investigation activities: Notice to recover public property in your care’, and addressed to Mark, stated in part, “The extant Monetisation Policy of the Federal Government, as enunciated and still being implemented, excludes all Principal Officers of the National Assembly and hence places the responsibility on the Federal Government to provide accommodation for them, same which you allegedly illegally appropriated.”

The letter asked Mark “to take steps within the next 21 days to vacate the said property or show cause why the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should not enforce the recovery of the said property for public good.”

It added, “You are further being notified pursuant to the Recovery Property (Special Provisions) Act, 1983, to complete and return within 30 days the attached Form B (Declaration of Assets Form) to the office of the undersigned.”

But Mark, through his lawyer, Ken Ikonne, filed the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1037/2017 before the Federal High Court in Abuja, insisting that he legally acquired the property through a “walk-in bid” at the behest of the FCTA.

He also contended that the recovery process initiated by the Federal Government was unconstitutional.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Obono-Obla are joined as respondents to the suit.

Among his prayers, Mark sought “a declaration that the unilateral declaration by the defendants that the plaintiff’s acquisition” of the property “is illegal and the order compelling the plaintiff to vacate the aforesaid property” without affording him “a hearing,” amounted to a denial of his “fundamental rights to fair hearing and property, and are therefore unconstitutional and void.”

He also sought a declaration that “the service by the defendants on the plaintiff of the Notice to Declare His Assets (Form A) and the Assets Declaration Form B is unconstitutional and thus void.”

He sought “an order quashing” the defendants’ declaration of his acquisition of the aforesaid property as illegal, and another order “quashing the order of the defendants” compelling him to vacate the aforesaid property.”

He also applied for an order of the court “quashing the Notice to Declare Assets Form A and the Assets Declaration Form B” served on him and “a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, jointly and severally” or through any agent “from evicting the plaintiff from the said property, or recovering same from him.”

Mark said he was occupying the said property in 2010 when the FCTA, “citing security concerns”, decided to construct new official residences for the leadership of the National Assembly, including the President of the Senate, in a more secure and conducive environment.”

According to the former Senate President, the FCTA had insisted that the reserve price of N673,200,000.00 reflected the open market value of the property.

He added that the valuers of the FCT that inspected and carried out a valuation of the property had put the “replacement cost” of the property at N492,700,000.

He said he duly accepted the offer on April 21, 2011 and paid the “agreed purchase price to the Ad hoc Committee on Sale of FGN Houses” on April 27, 2011.

He said the house now served as his family home in Abuja.

But he said surprisingly he was on October 9, 2017 served a letter of investigation activities dated September 5, 2017, by the Okono-Obla-led panel.

He stated in his suit that, “the defendants (AGF and Obono-Obla) unilaterally, and without affording me any hearing at all, and without any order of any court, declared my acquisition of the said property illegal, and ordered me to vacate the said property failing which the defendants would enforce the recovery of the property against me.”

EFCC grills Benue senator for seven hours, seizes passport

Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on Monday, interrogated the immediate past Senate President, David Mark, for seven hours, The PUNCH has learnt.

Impeccable sources within the EFCC told one of our correspondents that Mark’s passport was also seized before he was allowed to go on an administrative bail.

The PUNCH learnt that Mark, who served as Senate President from 2007 to 2015, arrived at the Abuja office of the EFCC around 12noon and was released at 7pm.

The source added, “The former Senate President arrived around 12pm and spent seven hours responding to several questions from detectives.

“He was released at 7pm on the condition that he must submit his passport to the commission which he did.

“Senator Mark is expected to return soon to answer more questions”

The former Senate President is expected to account for over N5.4bn slush cash and campaign funds allegedly traced to him.

He was alleged to have received over N500m from the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan during the build-up to the 2015 presidential election.

The money is alleged to have been part of the $2.1bn meant for arms procurement.

The Senator, who has been representing Benue-South Senatorial District since 1999, is also accused of sharing N2.9bn to his colleagues while presiding over the upper legislative chamber.

The former Senate President has, however, denied all the allegations levelled against him.

In a statement on Sunday, Mark said, “To set the records straight, Senator Mark was invited by the EFCC via a letter addressed to the National Assembly to answer questions on the 2015 presidential election campaign funds as it concerned Benue State.

“As a law-abiding citizen, Senator Mark honoured the invitation.

“Curiously, they also alleged that the PDP paid over N2bn into the National Assembly’s account which he, as then President of the Senate, allegedly shared among the 109 senators, including PDP, Action Congress of Nigeria and All Nigerian Peoples Party (members) in 2010.

“Again, to the best of his knowledge, Senator Mark is not aware of such transactions. This simply did not make sense to any right thinking member of society.

“Senator Mark wondered why anybody would think that PDP will pay money into National Assembly account. He, however, clarified all the issues raised before returning home.”

http://punchng.com/david-mark-illegally-acquired-senate-presidents-official-residence-fg/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The federal government has released a state-by-state breakdown of another tranche of Paris Club refund.

The money was released alongside the allocations from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC).

Idris Ahmed, accountant general of the federation, who announced this in a statement, said it was done so that Nigerians could have a better Christmas.

A statement from the ministry of finance said these payments totalled N243, 795,465,195.20.

Paris Club refund is a partial settlement of long-standing claims by state governments relating to over-deductions from their federation account allocation committee (FAAC) allocation for external debt service arising between 1995 and 2002.

Two tranches had been released earlier. Below is exactly how much every state got:

1 ABIA 5,715,765,871.48

2 ADAMAWA 6,114,300,352.68

3 AKWA-IBOM 10,000,000,000.00

4 ANAMBRA 6,121,656,702.34

5 BAUCHI. 6,877,776,561.25

6 BAYELSA 10,000,000,000.00

7 BENUE 6,854,671,749.25

8 BORNO 7,340,934,865.32

9 CROSS RIVER 6,075,343,946.93

10 DELTA 10,000,000,000.00

11 EBONYI 4,508,083,379.98

12 EDO 6,091,126,592.49

13 EKITI 4,772,836,647.08

14 ENUGU 5,361,789,409.66

15 GOMBE 4,472,877,698.19

16 IMO 7,000,805,182.97

17 JIGAWA 7,107,666,706.76

18 KADUNA 7,721,729,227.55

19 KANO 10,000,000,000.00

20 KATSINA 8,202,130,909.85

21 KEBBI 5,977,499,491.45

22 KOGI 6,027,727,595.80

23 KWARA 5,120,644,326.57

24 LAGOS 8,371,938,133.11

25 NASARAWA 4,551,049,171.12

26 NIGER 7,210,793,154.95

27 OGUN 5,739,374,694.46

28 ONDO 7,003,648,314.28

29 OSUN 6,314,106,340.62

30 OYO 7,901,609,864.25

31 PLATEAU 5,644,079,055.41

32 RIVERS 10,000,000,000.00

33 SOKOTO 6,441,128,546.76

34 TARABA 5,612,014,491.52

35 YOBE 5,413,103,116.59

36 ZAMFARA 5,442,385,594.49

37 FCT 684,867,500.04

TOTAL 243,795,465,195,20

https://www.thecable.ng/full-detail-state-got-paris-club-refund/amp?__twitter_impression=true

Three women at once? Wonders shall never end

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday declared the seat for the Kogi East senatorial district vacant.

The judgement was delivered by Justice Abdul Aboki on a pre-election matter instituted before the appellate court.

Two persons, Attai Aidoko and Isaac Alfa, have been in court claiming to be the legal occupants of the seat.
The Independent National Electoral Commission had on July 24, 2016 declared a former Chief of Air Staff and a member of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), retired Air Vice-Marshal Isaac Alfa, as winner of the re-run election held at the senatorial district.
According to INEC, Mr. Alfa scored 57, 575 votes to defeat five other candidates.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) did not participate in the exercise due to an Appeal Court judgment which prohibited it from fielding a candidate.
But even after that election Mr. Aidoko continued a legal battle with Mr. Alfa, claiming to be the authentic candidate of the PDP for that election.

Details later…

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/252802-breaking-appeal-court-declares-kogi-east-senate-seat-vacant.html

That's interesting

Nigeria’s former Senate President, David Mark, on Sunday slammed the anti-graft agency, EFCC, for levelling unfounded and senseless allegations of fraud against him.

The Nation newspaper had reported earlier in the week that the politician was a guest at the anti-graft office and was grilled by detectives.

Mr. Mark confirmed being invited by the EFCC in a statement signed by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, on Sunday.

He said he fielded questions relating to 2015 campaign finance for political activities in his home state of Benue.

But he was particularly baffled about another question that bothered on alleged bribery of all Senate members in 2010.

Mr. Mark was Senate President from 2007 until 2015 when the All Progressives Congress took control of the legislature.

He, however, remained a member of the Senate, having been re-elected by his constituents in Benue South Senatorial District in 2015.

He said they alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) paid over N2 billion into a bank account run by the National Assembly during his days as the president of the Senate.

He said the EFCC further alleged that the money was shared among the 109 Senators (including PDP, ACN, and ANPP) in 2010.

“Again, to the best of his knowledge, Sen. Mark is not aware of such transaction. This simply did not make sense to any right thinking member of the society.

“Sen. Mark wondered why anybody would think that PDP will pay money into National Assembly account. He however clarified all the issues raised before returning home,” Mr. Mumeh said.
The EFCC has refused to speak on the interrogation.
The 2015 campaign finance by the PDP has been a subject of intense interrogation by law enforcement agencies.
About $2.1 billion disguised as national security expenditure was said to have been squandered on electioneering for the fated 2015 re-election bid of Goodluck Jonathan.
The probe, which has seen several former ministers and top administration officials under Mr. Jonathan arrested within the last 30 months, has been deemed by critics as lopsided and an attempt to smother opposition.
This is because law enforcement agencies are believed to have refrained from probing or arresting persons associated with Mr. Buhari or the ruling All Progressives Congress.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/252735-i-questioned-efcc-david-mark.html

By ANDREW ESSIEN, Abuja

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration’s policies has been geared towards restoring her to a deserved standing among the comity of progressive nations.

This was contained in a message signed by the party’s national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun to felicitate with President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 75th birthday.

The statement reads in part: “We attest that under his leadership, the President Muhammadu Buhari administration is building a new Nigeria for our progress, peace, unity and prosperity; restoring our country to its deserved standing among the comity of progressive nations; fighting corruption and repairing our value system; diversifying our economic revenue base, creating jobs and economic opportunities for Nigerians; bringing succour to the insurgency-ravaged North-East; reforming the oil, defence, pensions, and other critical sectors and creating a world-class transport system, among others.

“Our great Party wishes the President many more happy, healthy and rewarding years of service to the nation and Party.”

http://leadership.ng/2017/12/16/pmb-75-building-new-nigeria-apc/

lalasticlala mynd44

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has distributed N609.95 billion from the federation Account to Federal, States and Local Government as revenue generated in November.

This is N77.25 billion more than what they shared in October, Mr. Ahmed Idris, the Accountant-General of the Federation said.

The distribution is also timely as it will enable states and local councils to pay workers ahead of Christmas, in the opinion of the Chairman, Commissioners of Finance Forum, Mr Mahmoud Yunusa.

Idris said that after the cost of collection deductions by FIRS, Customs and DPR, the Federal Government received N248.2 billion, representing 52.68 per cent; the states got N125.9 billion, representing 26.72 per cent and the 774 local councils received N97.06 billion, amounting to 20.60 per cent.

According to Idris, oil producing states got N54.48 billion, which represents the derivation share of 13 per cent.

He said that the country generated N356.07 billion as mineral revenue and N193.46 billion as non-mineral revenue in November, both showing improvements over the earnings in October.

Mineral revenue increased by N38.78 billion, while non-oil mineral revenue also jumped by N68.65 billion.

Idris said that oil revenue continues to be negatively impacted by low production due to poor maintenance, sabotage and the Force Majeure declared at Bonny Terminal.


He said that the balance in the Excess Crude Account (ECA) as at Dec. 15 remained $2.317 billion. He also put the balance in the Excess Petroleum Profit Tax account, at $133 million.

Idris said the Federation Account has received instruction from the National Economic Council that $1billion be removed from ECA to fight Boko Haram.

“The instruction has been given. But there is a process before money is taken out of an account. So unless that withdrawal is made, the balance remains the same.

“On what the money will be used for, the appropriate institution will have to give you that, namely the military, who are the ones that will utilise the money, and they know their needs.

On why the money is being taken from the ECA, Idris said everyone should know that it is a savings account and ordinarily should have been distributed to the three tiers of government.

“So if the same owners decide that part of it should be utilised to secure the country, to secure the system, to make the system work and provide security for life and property, I don’t think it should be an issue.

“If the Governor of Ekiti state has a problem with that, he should have made his position known to his forum, which is the Governor’s Forum.

“His dissension should not come to me on the pages of newspapers. He is entitled to whatever, but it should be directed to the appropriate place,” he said

(NAN)

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/12/faac-fg-states-lgs-share-n609-95bn-november-revenue/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

By Daud Olatunji

Abeokuta – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday bagged the award of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Christian Theology from the Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts of the National Open University of Nigeria(NOUN), Abeokuta Study Centre, Ogun State.

Obasanjo was pronounced worthy and competent for the award after 163 minutes robust defence of his voluminous thesis before a six – man panel.

Obasanjo’s PhD Thesis is titled: “Resolving the Unfinished Agenda in Liberation Theology: Leadership, Poverty and Underdevelopment in North Eastern Nigeria.”

The ex- President whose matriculation number reads NOU 146058901, submitted the thesis to his department as part of the requirements for the award of a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Christian Theology.

Vanguard gathered that,the panelists are Prof. Deji Ayegboyin(Major Supervisor), Dr. Mustapha Raheem Adejoro,( Head of Department, Religious Studies,NOUN), Prof. Nebath Tanglang(School of Postgraduate Studies, NOUN), Dr. Samaila Mande(Dean, Postgraduate School,NOUN), Prof. Godwin Akper (Internal Supervisor and Dean, Faculty of Arts,NOUN) and Prof. Cletus Gotan(External Supervisor).

Asked by Dr. Samaila Mande, who chaired the panel, to justify in a nutshell why he should be awarded a PhD degree of the institution, Obasanjo said he had put in “enough study” and “intellectual rigours” to produce his work based on diligent guide and supervision from his teachers and supervisors.

And speaking on behalf of the Panel at the end of the final defence, Dr. Mande said the Obasanjo has satisfied the requirements and thus qualified for the award of Doctor of Philosophy degree in Christian Theology of NOUN.

Mande said it was a thing joy to him as the ex – President happened to be one of the pioneer students to bag PhD in Christian Theology under his management, expressing the confidence that the feat would be well celebrated during the NOUN convocations.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/12/obasanjo-bags-phd-christian-theology-163-minutes-drill-panelists/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detectives are probing former Senate President David Mark over allegedly billions stolen by him and other leaders of the National Assembly during his tenure.

EFCC sources said Mr. Mark, a former military general was invited yesterday to make statements to the commission on how several billions meant for projects at the national assembly were shared between him and a few others. He was released to go home after the interrogation, expected to return after the holidays.

http://saharareporters.com/2017/12/15/efcc-quiz-former-senate-president-david-mark-over-billions-stolen-national-assembly

Kaduna Division of the The National Industrial Court of Nigeria, on Thursday ordered Kaduna State government to stop the planned sack of 21,780 primary school teachers who failed competency test, pending court injunction.

The teachers had in October dragged the government before the industrial court asking the court to restrain the government from dismissing or disengaging any teacher on the basis of the test conducted in June 2017.

The teachers’ counsel Samuel Atum, had equally filed a motion of “interlocutory injunction”, seeking stay of action pending the outcome of the case.

Meanwhile, Justice Lawal Mani granted the application pending the determination of the substantive suit and adjourned the case to February 6th, 2018.


Speaking with newsmen shortly after the court session, the plaintiff’s counsel lauded the court for graciously granting their prayers.

He said, “I have confidence that the government will comply and obey this order. This is democracy and the premise of democracy is the rule of law, so we expect nothing more than absolute submission by the state government to comply with the order of the court,”.

Lawyers representing the State Attorney General and the State Government, as well as Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, TRCN, declined comments.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Teachers present at the court were seen jubilating and congratulating themselves over the court injunction.

The planned sack of the 21,780 primary school teachers who failed the competency test had generated a lot of heat in the state, even though the state government had earlier vowed that it will not rescind its decision, as it claimed it was taking the best decision in the interest of the future of the primary school pupils.

http://thenationonlineng.net/court-stops-el-rufai-from-sacking-kaduna-teachers/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo says a large portion of recovered loot is used to fund the social investment projects of the current administration.

Speaking at an event to commemorate the World Anti-corruption Day, Osinbajo listed some of such social investment projects to include the homegrown school feeding programme, growth enterprise and empowerment pogramme as well as N-Power – “the largest social investment programmes of any administration”.

He promised that the federal government would ensure adequate use of recovered assets.

Osinbajo, who delivered the keynote address titled, ‘Notable trends in the war against corruption,’ was represented by Waziri Adio, executive secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI),

“A large portion of recovered assets is used to fund the social investment projects of this administration,” he said.

“In 2016, Nigeria joined the open government partnership (OGP) and has thus far made 14 commitments aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of public office and increasing citizen participation in governance.

“Some of such commitments include open contracting (via the ICRC’s PPP contract disclosure portal), technology-based citizens’ feedback, presidential committee on asset recovery, voluntary assets and income declaration scheme, and the special investigation panel on the recovery of public property.

“The 2016, 2017 and proposed 2018 budgets all have a line for the recovery of stolen public funds. Hence, the recovery of funds is a revenue line.

While expressing sadness at the difficulty usually experienced in recovering stolen funds kept abroad, Osinbajo said: “The criminality involved in the initial acceptance of stolen funds by institutions in these countries is oftentimes left unpunished”.

“In order to be successful, the war against corruption requires the constant recruitment of stakeholders and partners, particularly from other arms of government and civil society organisations,” he added.

“I hope the issue of stakeholder recruitment and other pertinent issues will form part of your deliberations at the panel discussions still to come.”

https://www.thecable.ng/osinbajo-recovered-loot/amp?__twitter_impression=true

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has drawn the attention of candidates for the 2018 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to fake past question papers in circulation.

The Board said the fake past questions in circulation in CD are intended to defraud unsuspecting candidates.

The agency’s Head of Information, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, gave the warning in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

The statement reads: “The fake past questions in CD Rom titled: ‘JAMB PRO CBT practice software for UTME’ was purported to have emanated from JAMB in other to give credence to the products market and perpetuate their nefarious activities.


“The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Boards wish to dissociate itself from the production and sale of the fake CD and warned the public to be vigilant and avoid being defrauded.”

Dr. Benjamin said the board had not authorized anybody or group to do so on its behalf.

According to him, preliminary investigation by the Board showed that the past questions in circulation are fake and had no semblance to JAMB question papers both in context, content and forms.

He added: “The Board as a responsible and responsive organization would not be part of any ploy to defraud innocent candidate and has put machinery in motion for any of her outlets and service providers not be used as channel of exploitation or distribution of such fake items.

“Following the unfortunate development, the Board has directed all its CBT centres to be wary of this CD in circulation in other not to be used as a channel to market this product.

“The Board will continue to ensure that candidates applying for its examination are not misled. Some of these questions in the past have led to some brilliant candidates failing the examination because they relied on them. Please be mindful of these cheats with www.jproonline.com as their website.

“Candidates are therefore advised to study for the examination and channel all enquires to any of the Board offices nationwide for any redress, challenges or information.”

http://thenationonlineng.net/jamb-warns-utme-candidates-fake-questions/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji

Barely 48 hours after Buruji Kashamu was suspended for one month by his party, PDP, the Labour Party, LP, said it is ready to accommodate the controversial politician into its fold.

The chairman of the LP, Abdulkareem Abdulsalam, extended the gesture to Mr. Kashamu at a press conference held on Sunday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Mr. Abdulsalam while responding to questions from journalists said the gesture to accommodate Mr. Kashamu, wanted for drug related offences in the US, to Labour Party, was open if he signifies interest.

“Kashamu is free to come and join us. He is a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We shall accommodate him if he is willing to be part of us. Even if NUJ members show interest to join us, we shall accommodate you all,” he declared.

“We have not met with him and we have not discussed anything, if he wants to come to our party as a patriotic Nigerian, a distinguished senator of the federal republic of Nigeria, he’s most welcome,” he said.

‎Speaking further, he said the Labour Party has been rebranded ahead of the 2019 general elections, describing it as a saviour of the masses.

The politician also spoke on his party’s preparation for 2019.

“The leadership of Labour Party in Ogun state is setting the ball rolling for the commencement of congresses in wards, local government areas and state,” Mr. Abdulsalam said.

“We are sure of repeating the glorious feat recorded in Ondo state when Governor Mimiko won governorship election in Ondo for two consecutive terms under the platform of Labour Party against all odds. We therefore strongly believe that Labour party is the party to beat in Ogun State in 2019 general election,” he said.

“Labour Party is just like NLC, we are not discriminating, we are not segregating, we are not sectional; we are open to everyone. If the governor and the deputy want to come from Egba, in Labour party we welcome it.

“Anybody that wish to contest for a post, if he’s acceptable to everyone, wins the primary election. Labour Party has no problem with them. We are not fanatics, we have no anointing candidates,” he said.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-west/252064-come-join-us-labour-party-tells-senator-suspended-pdp.html/amp?__twitter_impression=true

The Force Spokesman, Jimoh Moshood, talks about SARS and the complaints against some of its personnel with ADELANI ADEPEGBA

what is the requirement for enlistment in SARS?

The Special Anti-Robbery Squad is a specialised unit of the Force that deals with armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling, car snatching and the like; any crime involving use of firearms. Like in Numan, Adamawa State where militia are attacking people, the SARS had been deployed along with other units of the Force. To be in SARS, first, you must be a policeman, a general duty officer, and you must have been in the job for not less than five years. You must also have prerequisite experience before you can be posted to the squad. The officer would also undergo operational training as well as training on handling of suspects. We are quite concerned with the complaints against SARS and that is why the Inspector-General of Police has directed its re-organisation. We know that most of the complaints and allegations against SARS are not always true, but the IG has ordered an investigation to ascertain them. He has also directed that human rights desk be set up in all the state commands to handle rights abuse by SARS operatives. So, the people who started the #EndSARS campaign can channel their grievances to the desk officers for investigation. SARS has been in existence for over 40 years and it is essential to the force, so we cannot dismantle it.

Why did it take the police this long to re-organise the squad despite several allegations against the personnel?

I won’t argue that it took some time for the re-organisation. Since the IG assumed office, he has been instituting internal reforms in the operation of the force. He also fashioned out some creed which is like our Bible or Quran guiding our work. This creed has been drummed into the operatives and everywhere he goes, he impresses it on the personnel to respect human rights, shun corruption and indiscipline and to be civil. To say it took us long to re-organise the squad would not be correct because when he assumed office, he directed the training of SARS operatives by some civil organisations and the Red Cross. What we are saying is that, some of the complaints in the social media are genuine, and some happened five, six years ago and some are bringing them up now. We know that any organisation that is subject to public opinion has to grapple with the responsibility of educating the public constantly. We can’t say because there are one or two infractions, we should end SARS because if you end SARS, robbers would take over. We appreciate the patriotism of those demanding an end to SARS, but other groups are equally saying, reform SARS. So if they have any complaint against the unit, let them tell us and it would be addressed.

Since you admitted that some complaints against SARS were genuine, why did you say those behind #EndSARS campaign are armed robbers?

We issued a press release and there was nowhere I mentioned that those calling for end to SARS are armed robbers. I never said that, but people can twist any issue. As a well-bred public relations officer, I would never call anybody armed robber. People should know where the calls are coming from, so anybody that has complaint against SARS should come forward. Like I said, some of them are genuine, but people should follow up on their complaints. We want those behind the campaign against SARS to have a rethink and join us in supporting SARS for the safety of all Nigerians.

What punishment awaits any SARS operative indicted for professional misconduct?

We don’t spare anyone found wanting. If anyone is found wanting, the appropriate measure would be taken. In this regard, if it is the rank and file, such officer would be defaulted, or dismissed from the Force if he was indicted for discreditable conduct. Most of the time, what we witnessed is the complainant pleading on behalf of an indicted officer or not showing up in court to give evidence.

http://punchng.com/if-we-end-sars-robbers-will-take-over-police/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The unity list containing the names of preferred candidates for all the 21 positions available for contest has sparked protests at the convention venue.

One of the chairmanship candidates, Chief Raymond Dokpesi was one of the persons that protested the circulation of the list to the various delegates.

Speaking with journalists while voting was ongoing, Dokpesi said he complained to the chairman of the convention planning committee, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State.

The media mogul said he also complained to the former governor of Benue State, Mr. Gabriel Suswam who was one of the organisers of the convention.

According to him, both Okowa and Suswam admitted having seen the controversial list, but that they could not do anything about it.

Dokpesi vowed to explore available internal conflict resolution avenues to seek redress but he was silent on whether he would challenge the alleged imposition in court.

http://thenationonlineng.net/unity-list-sparks-protests-pdp-convention/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

AHEAD of the 2019 general elections, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief John Nwodo, has advised Igbo electorate to vote for a presidential candidate with Igbo interest, irrespective of party affiliation, saying it will be a prelude for a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction in 2023.
Chief Nwodo who said the Ohanaeze Ndigbo which is the apex body of Igbo socio-cultural association is not partisan but meant to project and promote Igbo values, added that the presidential candidate with Igbo interest would also reach a truce with the Igbo nation that he or she will only serve for one tenure so as to avail the nation the opportunity of producing a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction in 2023.

While responding to questions from newsmen on contemporary developments in the nation’s body polity at a reception organized in his honour by the Enugu State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nwodo who just returned from United States of America [USA] where he had gone to inaugurate the North Carolina chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said the pan-Igbo group would take deep look into manifestos and programmes of candidates in 2019 presidential poll.

Reacting to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s defection from All Progressives Congress (APC) to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Nwodo said that Alhaji Atiku like most other prominent Nigerian politicians is free to join any political party of his choice and decamp whenever he wishes.
The Ohanaeze President General who pleaded to be left alone from discussing politics, however, stressed, “Whoever wants to be president will assure us that he will not stay in office more than one tenure. Igbo will get presidency in 2023. This neglect will be worked out. We will look at who will protect the interest of Ndigbo” Nwodo, however, decried the current neglect of Ndigbo under the current administration, frowning at the poor state of facilities at the Akanu Ibiam Airport Enugu.
“The runway is despicable. The terminal building is abandoned. The other one at the domestic wing has been carried by a hurricane. To disembark from the international wing took us two hours” Nwodo said.

The former Minister for Information also condemned the punishment that Igbo were subjected to at the airport by Immigration and Customs officials who extort money from travellers.
He lamented that the security operatives subject Igbo to inhuman treatment, stressing that people who had personal effects were asked to open their boxes, whereas nobody does such in other international airports in Lagos, Kano, Abuja and Kaduna.

Describing the neglect at the airport as ‘shattering’, Nwodo said it beats his imagination why a government should neglect an entire geo-political zone.

Earlier, the Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, Chief Alex Ogbonna, described Nwodo’s leadership as an unprecedented in the history of Ndigbo, saying for the first time, the President-general of the Igbo union has been promoting handshake, not only across the Niger but South-South, Niger Delta and South-West zones.

On perceived Ndigbo marginalization, Chief Ogbonna, explained that Ndigbo operates a communal system, stating that Ohanaeze intends to leverage on it by promoting “think home” philosophy so that Ndigbo will re-organize themselves and do things for themselves.

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/ohanaeze-ndigbo-moves-for-igbo-presidency-in-2023/?amp_markup=1&__twitter_impression=true

Senator Buriji Kashamu has rejected his suspension for a month by the National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His suspension was announced early Saturday morning by the party ahead of the National Convention of the party.

In reaction to the suspension Kashamu issued the statement below:

” I thank the Almighty Allah who has brought me this far and made me a factor in the national politics of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).


“The news of my purported suspension is coming on the heels of a pending appeal with a motion for injunction that has been properly entered and served on parties. This renders the purported suspension a nullity as it offends the principle of “lis pendens”. Therefore, I reject the purported suspension because it offends all known principles of justice and fair hearing.

“It should be noted however that the mere fact that the Caretaker Committee could resort to this last-minute action in its dying hours and on the day of our national convention shows clearly that the battle that I and other well-meaning leaders, elders and stakeholders have waged against impunity and illegality, and for the enthronement of democracy, due process and the rule of law really got to them.

“Makarfi and his cohorts, especially Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose think that they can intimidate and pocket every voice of dissent within the party. Yet, they are quick to accuse the Federal Government of stifling the opposition when they are the real dictators and tyrants.

“They arrogantly think that they can browbeat everyone into submission and buy over the conscience of our party leaders and delegates in continuation of their desperate bid to hold the party by the jugular in order to serve their selfish and egocentric ends.

“What is the essence of a multiparty politics and democracy if people cannot disagree to agree and ventilate their views? I dare say that any party or organisation that does not brook dissent and plurality of ideas and opinions is on its way to self-destruct and extinction.

“Dear delegates, distinguished party leaders and elders, I urge you to rise up and join in the struggle to rescue our party from the vice grip of these delinquents by electing a new and untainted leadership that will put an end to illegality, impunity, deceit and imposition. Today, let’s elect men and women of conscience who will truly reposition our party, restore democracy and make it the envy of all. Let’s show Nigerians that it is a new dawn and a new order in PDP.


“Finally, notwithstanding this purported suspension, I stand by my convictions in the struggle for the enthronement of genuine democracy, due process and respect for our own constitution. I remain strong and unbowed by their antics. Insha Allah, together, we shall outlive and outshine these agents of darkness.

“I wish all our respectable leaders, elders, contestants and delegates the best of luck.”

http://thenationonlineng.net/pdp-convention-kashamu-rejects-suspension/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

Niyi Odebode, Abuja

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Friday said he did not become rich while he was in the government between 1999 and 2007.

Atiku, who stated this in a letter to a comedian, Francis Agoda, better known as I Go Dye, also said that he assembled the economic team of the Olusegun Obasanjo-led administration.

The ex-Vice-President said that it was not true that he used his position as the vice-president to enrich himself. The former vice-president’s letter was a reply to the one written to him last week by the comedian.

In the letter, Atiku stated, “People say I became rich in government. It’s a lie. I had hundreds of millions of dollars in assets declared in 1999. I was able to personally bankroll the Peoples Democratic Party back then, so surely, I was not poor.”

The former vice-president also criticised the All Progressives Congress, which in 2015 promised to ensure the recovery of the naira.

He said, “I Go Dye, I’m not a messiah. I do not promise Eldorado or $1 = N1, but I always ask that we should look at the economic progress we made under my leadership and what I am doing in private business and judge me by those.” Atiku also stated that he assembled the best economic team ever in Nigeria, adding that the team brought stability to the economy in 1999 after years of military rule.

“As VP, I assembled what is arguably the best economic team ever in Nigeria. It was made up of young, world-class professionals, who came home to work. Some of those professionals are now political leaders, governors and world leaders in their own right,” Abubakar claimed in his letter.

“If you ask what our first task was, coming into government in 1999, it was to bring stability to the economy after decades of military rule.

“For example, between 1999 and 2003, oil prices then were hovering between $16 and $28 yet we managed to pay up salary arrears from decades back, clear up our national debts and build up foreign reserves. Our Gross Domestic Product grew at the fastest rate we’ve seen since the return to democracy.”

Atiku said a vice-president “obviously is not the driver of government.”

According to him, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo cannot be held responsible for the “failure” of the Buhari-led government. He added that “VPs only do what they are allowed to do”.

“Firstly, as VP, I can only be judged on the responsibilities I was given. A VP obviously is not the driver of government. For example, you can’t blame Prof. Osinbajo for all that is going on with the current government. He can only do what he’s allowed to do.”

Atiku alleged that Obasanjo made him inactive in their second term because he opposed the ex-president’s bid to elongate his (the ex-president’) tenure.

He stated, “I regret that I had that disagreement with my boss. Some say I was disloyal, but I looked at the events in Zimbabwe recently, and it gives me confidence that I did the right thing fighting the attempts to elongate the presidential tenure beyond eight years.


“If I did not win that fight, do you think we would be having a discussion on young people getting into leadership today?”

Explaining his achievements in other sectors, Atiku said, “I oversaw the telecoms revolution, which is why young people like you, I Go Dye, now have flourishing careers. Under our tenure, we witnessed a large repatriation of Nigerians back to Nigeria, driven by the hope of the recovering economy.

“It is sad that many of those young people are heading back abroad now — this is to show you that leadership matters.”

He also claimed that he brought a former top officer of the World Bank to join the Obasanjo-led administration.

“I went to the World Bank and met a bright lady, convinced her to come back home, and she became a star in our government. To show you we had effective leadership, the same lady could not replicate her exploits under a different government,” he stated.

He said he created 300,000 jobs directly or indirectly in Adamawa State, adding that he was only second to the state government.

Atiku said, “In my home state of Adamawa, for example, I’ve created over 50,000 direct jobs and 250,000 indirect ones. We are the largest private employers of labour in the state, only second to the state government. It’s not a lot, but it does help reduce unemployment. Who do you think are holding those jobs? Yes, young people.”

On the consolidation in the banking sector, the ex-vice-president stated, “Many big people were putting a lot of political pressure (on us) not to change the status quo, but we knew that if that consolidation was not done, Nigeria could not grow. Because of that banking consolidation, Nigerian banks don’t fail anymore the way they used to.”

Atiku said that he did not interfere with the privatisation process.

“As the then DG (Director-General) of BPE (Bureau of Public Enterprises) testified under oath, I never used my position to interfere with his work.”

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