₦airaland Forum

The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity told journalists in Abuja on Friday that many media organisation are guilty of reporting hate speech as it concerns the report of clashes in Benue State.

“The growing lack of respect for journalism ethics and press laws in the Nigerian media, especially regarding the clashes in Benue State is very unfortunate.

“The frequent expression of hate speech published by newspapers, in news stories and especially in columns is indeed a source of concern to all.

“We want to state emphatically that a segment of the Nigerian media is sinking deeper and deeper into the mesh of hate speech in spite of repeated appeals by recognised and reputable media bodies, the Government and concerned Nigerians.”

The presidential spokesman said also condemned a publication in a national newspaper which said ‘‘President Muhammadu Buhari was the first to endorse the Benue massacre’’ on New Year Day stating that this is inciting members of the public.

Shehu also cited example of a national newspaper with the headlines: ‘Expect More Blood in Benue.’

“Apart from the basic tone of respect expected from an individual who is supposedly intelligent and educated enough to know better since they have been granted space to write in a national newspaper, there is the risk of inciting the public to actions that will have gory consequences for the entire nation for generations to come.

“Those beating the gongs of war and fanning the embers of discord must remember what prevailed in Rwanda before the genocide of the early 90s, during which hundreds of thousands of lives were lost as a result of consistent hate speech spewing from that country’s media,” he said.

He appealed to the media to express criticisms without resorting to name calling.

“We must learn to express our grievances and criticisms without resorting to gutter language or to name calling, and the press has a responsibility to maintain that even if it means calling their columnists to order.

Calling for respect for the position of the President, Shehu said President Buhari according to the constitution has the primary duty of protecting life and property and that is what he has been doing in Benue and across the country.

“Calling him a murderer is not only grossly disrespectful but unfair, especially when the President has written a letter to the Senate detailing his efforts to quell the crisis in Benue State, including dispatching the Minister of Interior and the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of operations for an on the spot assessment of the situation in the aftermath of the unfortunate incident; and receiving a direct briefing from the IG the following day.”

https://www.channelstv.com/2018/02/02/killings-presidency-laments-hate-speech-demands-respect-for-buhari/

Samuel Awoyinfa, Abeokuta

A former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, says his recent open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari was not borne out malice or ‘bad belle’ but out of his deep concern for the situation in the country.

He said this on Thursday at the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oke Ilewo area of Abeokuta, shortly after the Coalition for Nigeria Movement was inaugurated in Ogun State, and he was registered as a member of the movement, after formally filling the registration form.

Obasanjo’s registration came almost 24 hours after the CNM was inaugurated in Abuja.

Obasanjo arrived the venue at exactly 12.44pm in company with former governors of Cross River and Osun States, Donald Duke and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola respectively, among others.

The former president while addressing scores of potential members who had gathered at the venue, said he was surprised that many Nigerians were worried that he had exchange pleasantries with President Buhari at the African Unity summit at Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, few days after he wrote the open letter to him(Buhari).

He noted that he never condemned the Buhari-led administration in totality, as he explained he gave him commendation in areas where it had performed well.

Obasanjo, however, spoke in parable, hinting that big masquerades have taking the centre stage, and the small masquerades must quit the stage.

He said, “Last week, I issued a statement which I did not do lightly or frivolously but out of deep concern for the situation of our country.

“I wonder why some Nigerians were worried why I had to pay respect to the Nigerian President at Addis Ababa. That’s my own upbringing as a well-born and bred Yoruba boy.

“That doesn’t mean that what I have said about the President, which I did not say out of bitterness and hatred. It is evidence that the President has performed, in some areas, good enough.

” In other areas not good and a proper advice which he may take and he may not take.

“I didn’t do that out of malice or out of ‘bad belle’, I did it our of my respect for that office and my interest and I hope in your interest and the interest of Buhari in Nigeria.”

http://punchng.com/my-letter-to-buhari-not-out-of-bad-belle-says-obasanjo/

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, John Oyegun, has said the country is running a “bastardized political structure”.

Oyegun stated this at the public presentation of the report of the APC Committee on True Federalism on Wednesday, at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

According to him, only true federalism, which has been the sole campaign of the party, can correct what he described as a warped political structure.

The APC leader said he believed past conferences were flamboyantly organised and ended in nothing, but ”what APC is bringing on board were true opinions of Nigerians across states.”

“We have held flamboyant conferences on the structures of the constitution of this country but each time it always ended up in nothing. Today, we are moving from set-piece conferences to the beginning of a new Nigeria.

“Today you are going to be partners in the construction of the basic fundamental foundation that will truly wed this county together. There is no question at all that where we were and where we are now is basically a bastardised kind of federal structure, more like a unitary system but what we are going to present to the nation today are the considered views of the critical mass of this institution.

”Those who are strong in expressing their views, those who are not so strong, the women and the youth of this nation participated strongly and intensively in the results that are being presented to you today,” he said.

The chairman of the committee, Mr. El-Rufai, represented by his special adviser on politics, Uba Sani, also speaking at the event said his committee had produced clear recommendations and draft bills that incorporated amendments to strengthen federalism.

“Thus far, we have not heard rebuttals of the recommendations. Rather, there has been a lot of hysteria triggered by seeming disbelief that a party in power at the centre is proposing true federalism. In place of a counter-narrative or alternative position on true federalism, what we hear is that the recommendations are coming too close to the elections. If something is desirable, surely the imminence of elections should not render it unappealing.

“The reality is that restructuring is a nation-building opportunity. There is now no significant constituency against the idea that states should exercise consequential powers, assume more responsibilities and control resources. It is time to make it work, for the benefit of the peoples of this country.

“It is difficult to escape the suspicion that for some people, this is a moment of peril. They appear to fear that the possibility of restructuring being actualised will remove the basis of their political viability. We assure them that they (will) always find new causes, like working with others to implement the recommendations,” he added.

http://dailypost.ng/2018/01/31/nigeria-running-bastardized-political-structure-apc-chairman-oyegun/

Lauretta Onochie, President Muhammadu Buhari’s Special Assistant on Social Media has declared that they are not confused as to who will lead Nigeria come 2019.

Lauretta Onochie on her Twitter handle asked those who are opposed to President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2019 bid to name and promote the alternative option to Buhari saying: ‘We are not confused as to who we want to continue to lead this nation.
‘If you don’t agree with us, no need to curse, abuse and insult.
‘Name and promote your alternative to our option
‘You are within your rights.
‘So are we.’


Onochie in another tweet said: ‘The guilty are afraid and will be hounded till they give up all that they have stolen from Nigerians.

‘Their supporters will swallow shame and disgrace as they sell ethnic and religious bias.

‘Innocent Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion, have nothing to fear.’

The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has claimed that Nigeria would have been a better place if the late former Vice-President Alex Ekwueme, was allowed to play his rightful role in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Tinubu stated this in a tribute to the deceased elder statesman on Monday.

He recalled the role played by Ekwueme in confronting the military regime and how he contributed to the formation of the PDP.

“As vice president, he showed himself to be an invaluable asset in governance of the nation. He was loyal to his boss and most importantly was ever faithful to the nation.

“He was genuinely concerned about bringing about a better Nigeria. His time and energy were geared towards nationalistic issues. He was always at the forefront of efforts to resolve problems. His deep intellectual interventions often helped the country navigate through critical periods and troubled times.

“Those of us who cherish democracy and those of us who celebrate the end of military rule in Nigeria must never forget that it was this soft-spoken man who mobilised the group of 34 eminent Nigerians that would put at risk their very lives and livelihoods to confront the oppressive Abacha dictatorship.

“The G.34 would later form the basis of the Peoples Democratic Party and Dr. Ekwueme was the founding Chairman of that party. I do not intend to delve into partisanship on this occasion but suffice it to say that had Dr. Ekwueme been allowed to play his proper and rightful role in the party he helped create, Nigeria would be a better place,” he said.

http://dailypost.ng/2018/01/29/pdp-prevented-ekwueme-making-nigeria-great-tinubu/

The Federal Government at the weekend opted to take decisive military force to deal with the bandits believed to be behind the killings in parts of the country especially regarding the crisis associated with herdsmen.
The was disclosed on Sunday by a reliable Presidency source.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity said “The role of bandits and suspected mercenaries in what has become known as herdsmen/ farmer clashes and violence may have provoked the need for a fresh approach to dealing with the crisis, informed sources close to the Working Group formed recently by the National Economic Council have hinted.

“The settled view in official circles is that the reported killings and violence recorded are the work of bandits and mercenaries since in many cases the herdsmen are often well-known in the communities where their cattle normally graze.”

According to him, the new position is one of the outcomes of the Working Group formed less than two weeks ago by the National Economic Council with 9 Governors, and chaired by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.


The group was set up in a bid to end the impunity that has marked the activities of the bandits resulting in several deaths and maiming especially in Benue State.
According to the Kano State Governor Dr. Ganguje who read out highlights and decisions of the NEC to reporters (alongside his Ebonyi counterpart ) after the Council meeting that Thursday the Working Group “will work in accordance with the President’s commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators of violence are brought to book.”

The highlights also noted that the Working Group which consists of Governors from Zamfara, Kaduna, Adamawa, Benue, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Ebonyi & Oyo States actually commenced its work with a meeting presided over by the VP right immediately after NEC at the Presidential Villa.

The source disclosed that at the end of the Working Group meeting last week, it was clear a major turning point had been reached in the management of the crisis and sufficient consensus recorded on the need to stop the impunity by engaging the military in a more decisive manner.

Some political analyst had indicated that the crisis also required a political solution considering the religious and ethnic tones that could easily become further exacerbated and possibly worsen the situation if proper and timely care is not taken.
“This is the reason analysts argue, even with some critical opinions on the composition of the Working Group, that the idea of gathering together governors across the country including the states where the crisis have been intense to collaborate actively among themselves and with the FG to address the situation is useful.


“Indeed one of the firm outcomes of the Working Group’s meeting was the expressed readiness of the FG to locate and identify the bandits who perpetrate the killings and the violence, and using all necessary means including military involvement to flush them out of their hideouts in forests across the country as a definite move to secure the life and property of Nigerian citizens.

“The Working Group has also resolved to work with the FG to strengthen law enforcement and all security & intelligence agencies in the country so they can coordinate better in dealing with, checkmating, and preventing the crisis from further escalation.”

On how to permanently address the basis of the herdsmen and farmer clashes, the Working Group sources said that they have taken the view that every State should by a rigorous consultative process with all stakeholders design its own solutions.

“The Federal government will not impose any solution on any State. The Vice President assured all that the Federal government would certainly not imposed its ideas n the States and noted that fears being expressed on cattle colonies are misplaced” he said
He also confirmed that the military are already engaged and would soon begin to implement decisive military steps to tackle the situation.
“Also the Nigerian Police and other security & military agencies have been asked to recruit more rank and file to tighten security in the troubled spots and in the country generally.” he said

http://thenationonlineng.net/benue-taraba-killings-military-action-to-flush-out-killers/

Roads rehabilitation gulps N480m
As Anambra declares work-free day for funeral
Tony Okafor, Awka

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has said President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to giving a former Vice President, late Dr. Alex Ekwueme, a befitting burial.

Ngige spoke on Sunday at Ekwueme’s hometown in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State after inspecting facilities for the burial of the late VP.

He said Buhari had committed about N1bn on Ekwueme from the day the Federal Government took over his medical bills to date.

While saying that road rehabilitation alone in Anambra State and neighbouring communities of Imo and Abia states in preparation for Ekwueme’s burial had gulped about N480m, Ngige said Federal Government was not leaving anything to chances in ensuring that the Ekwueme family enjoys the role their late patriarch played in building a better Nigeria

He said, “You know that I belong to the Ekwueme family; I’m part of that family.

“I’m in various committees and subcommittees for the burial of this great statesman. I can tell you authoritatively that Mr President (Buhari) is committed and passionate in ensuring a befitting burial for Ekwueme.

“If he doesn’t come for the burial himself, I’m sure the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, will be here for the burial as a matter of right.

“So, I’m here to inspect the facilities in preparation for his burial; and I can tell you that I’m satisfied with the progress of work.

“The Federal Government is doing rehabilitation works on Amawbia/Ekwulobia road, up to Uga and Akokwa in Imo State.

“We’re also doing road rehabilitation on Oko/Umunze road up to Ibinta in Abia State.

“I know the cost of all this, not less than N480m.

“The Federal Government is building the mausoleum, which will contain a modern library and other facilities and I also know the cost of that too.


“And remember that the Federal Government took up all the medical bills of flying him abroad and bringing him back to Nigeria from London upon his death.

“The cost of hiring an air ambulance is not a joke. So, Buhari has honoured this Igbo son in all ramifications.

“He has committed not less than a billion naira in this project because he is passionate about it,” Ngige stated.

The Minister added that the Federal Government was considering naming a national monument after Ekwueme to immortalise him.

Similarly, the Anambra State Government has commenced works on internal roads in Oko and environs, preparatory for the burial.

Briefing reporters, a Senior Special Adviser to Governor Willie Obiano on Inter-Party matters, Chief Ben Obi, said a virgin four-kilometre road had been created in the area for easy movement during the funeral.

He said parking bays had been created in about six points, where shuttles would be provided to ferry mourners to the funeral venue, while St Mary’s Catholic Church, Oko, playground would serve as a helipad for the Vice President’s visit.


Meanwhile, the Anambra State Government has declared Thursday this week as a work-free day.

In a public service announcement by the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, all markets and businesses in the state would be closed on that day.

The announcement read in part, “As part of the funeral arrangements for the late Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme (GCON), Anambra State Government hereby announces that … Thursday, February 1st, 2018 is work-free day in Anambra State.

“All markets and businesses will be closed on that day to enable Ndi Anambra, friends, associates and well wishers to pay our last respect to the late Vice President.

“All those attending the commendation ceremony, including various social, cultural, religious, political, professional, educational, market men and women, and all other groups are to be seated by 10am prompt.”

Born October 21,1932, Ekwueme died on Sunday 19th November 2017 at a London hospital

He served as first elected Vice President of Nigeria from 1979 to 1983 under a former President, Shehu Shagari.


http://punchng.com/breaking-buhari-has-spent-n1bn-on-ekwueme-so-far-ngige/

Lauretta Onochie, personal assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on social media, says her principal is the only Nigerian leader not accused of corruption.

In a tweet on Saturday, Onochie said some people may insult her based on the claim, but maintained that it is a “fact” that cannot be disputed.

Onochie shared an image featuring past leaders including Sani Abacha, Olusegun Obasanjo, Abdusalami Abubakar, Goodluck Jonathan and Ibrahim Babangida.

“Name one Nigerian leader not accused of corruption,” the inscription on the image read.

“No one can argue this. Some may insult, abuse, or even clown, but no one can dispute this fact. #PMBRunAgain,” she captioned the tweet.
Onochie’s tweet comes in the wake of the critical letter written by Obasanjo to President Buhari.

Obasanjo had accused the Buhari-led government of nepotism and condoning corrupt practices committed by his allies.

The federal government’s war against corruption has been criticised as being one-sided, particularly by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In December, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar said the APC promised to fight corruption but delivered a war on the opposition.

“Under the APC Nigeria is not working, under the APC our people are not working. Let us consider what the APC has achieved versus what they promised in the last election,” Atiku had said while speaking at the PDP convention.

https://www.thecable.ng/buhari-nigerian-leader-not-accused-corruption/

Ike Ekweremadu, deputy senate president, has advised President Muhammadu Buhari to let go of power if he loses in 2019.

Although Buhari is yet to make an official declaration for the 2019 race, there are signs that he is interested in seeking another term.

The president has been holding meeting with top members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while his 2019 campaign office has been inaugurated in the south-west.

Speaking at the UK parliament, where he delivered a lecture titled ‘African Politics: The Dynamics and Lessons,’ Ekweremadu advised Buhari to take a cue from former President Goodluck Jonathan who lost an election but accepted it in good faith.

The lawmaker asked Buhari to be conscious of the fact that Nigeria is playing pivotal and strategic roles in Africa.

“Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan put Nigeria on the global map as a leading democratic nation when he put in everything to ensure a free and fair election, in which he not only lost the presidential poll as an incumbent, but also willingly conceded defeat,” Uche Anichukwu, spokesman of Ekweremadu, quoted him as saying.

“In fact, he called the incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari, and congratulated him even before the announcement of the final results. In addition, neither former President Jonathan nor the PDP challenged the outcome of the election in court.

“Therefore, to whom much is given, much is also expected. The onus is now on President Buhari to likewise provide a level-playing ground and show uncommon statesmanship if he and his party lose the 2019 presidential election. That way, Africa’s biggest democracy will further entrench the culture of peaceful and smooth transfer of power from a ruling party to the opposition in both Nigeria and Africa.”

Ekweremadu warned Buhari of the consequences of “manipulating” the 2019 election, advising him to spearhead a free and fair election.

He added that African countries should harness technological advantage in the whole electoral process.

“Any attempt to manipulate the 2019 elections to the advantage of self or party will not augur well for peace and democracy not only in Nigeria, but the entire continent,” he said.

“Important too, in the present age of technology, I will like to see the countries of Africa deploying the latest technology in voter registration, vote counting, and announcement of results.

“We must ensure that the process is sufficiently transparent and unarguably so, such that losers will see and be convinced that they lost fairly. That way, election tribunals will be eliminated.”

He also criticised African leaders who choose to hold on to power at the expense of the people

“Many African leaders do not seem to care about the law of diminishing returns, but you can never cheat nature. From Zimbabwe under former Robert Mugabe to Uganda under Yoweri Museveni, Cameroon Paul Biya; Equatorial Guinea under Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo,who has been in power since 1979; Republic of Congo under Denis Sassou Nguesso who ruled from 1979 to 1992 and returned again since 1997; and not also forgetting Togo under late President Gnassingbe Eyadema, who ruled the country for 38 years and now under his son, Faure Gnassingbe, who continued from where his father stopped amidst rising political tension, the story has not been pleasant,” he said.

“Likewise, the sit-tight postures of President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir’s 28 years old regime in Sudan, President Idriss Deby’s 27-year rule in Chad, President Isaias Afwerki’s 24 years old leadership in Eritrea, President Paul Kagame’s 17 years old reign in Rwanda, and President Abdelaziz Bouteflika 18 years in power in Algeria are soul-dampening.

“There are also emerging sit-tight regimes in Mauritania under Mohammed Ould Abdel Aziz, Burundi under Pierre Nkurunziza, etc. President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who succeeded his father, the late Laurent Kabila, in 2001, has refused to step down after the expiration of his mandate. This has triggered political tension and protests in that country. This is disheartening.”

https://www.thecable.ng/ekweremadu-buhari-act-like-jonathan-concede-lose-2019/amp

Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has said that despite the widespread perception that the National Assembly is being over funded, the national parliament is actually grappling with funding constraints in carrying out its statutory functions.

Saraki, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Print Media, Chuks Okocha, stated this when he paid a working visit to the Chairman and members of the National Assembly Service Commission ( NASC ) at their temporary office located in Utako, Abuja on Wednesday.

It said that the Senate President who was responding to the request of the Chairman of the Commission, Mallam Adamu Fika, to have a permanent office of the Commission inside the National Assembly complex, pledged the support of the leadership towards the project.

It said that Saraki noted that adequate funding remained the major challenge of the National Assembly.


Saraki said: “One of the things that I see here today is the issue of budgetary constraints. However, the impression around the country is often that the National Assembly has too much money. But we have seen the challenges of the last few years.

“As we work through the number of bills passed, the public hearings held, and the number of ad-hoc committees that have been established — we know the challenges of not being able to fund some of our activities.

“So far, I am happy to report that despite these constraints, the 8th Senate has been able to surpass all previous Senates in the number of Bills that we have passed in 2-years — despite the funding gaps.

“We know that as we continue over time, people will begin to have more confidence in the National Assembly. However, right now, the challenges that we have are the issue of perception, and the issue of funding. We need to work hard to change this.”

It said that Saraki who is also Chairman of the National Assembly, further noted that it has not been easy for Nigerians to appreciate the various roles of the legislature as an arm of government being the youngest of the three arms of government.

“Therefore, we all have a lot of work in trying to make the people appreciate the role of the legislature in our democracy,” Saraki said. “This has not been easy, this is why I am sure that working with the Commission, we can work towards this together so that we can improve the image of the National Assembly.”


Chairman of the NASC, Dr. Adamu Fika, was quoted to have lamented that the commission still operates from a rented apartment with the attendant cost.

Fika urged the leadership of the National Assembly to come to the aide of NASC by supporting it to build a befitting permanent office within the National Assembly complex.

It said that the NASC boss commended Saraki for being the first President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly to visited the office of the commission.

http://thenationonlineng.net/national-assembly-is-broke-says-saraki/amp/

Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, chief whip of the house of representatives, has berated former President Olusegun Obasanjo over the letter he wrote to President Muhammadu Buhari.

He said the letter is an example of “corruption fighting back” and should be “totally” disregarded by Nigerians.

In the letter in which he advised Buhari against seeking re-election in office, Obasanjo also accused the president of nepotism and condoning corruption.

Addressing house of representatives correspondents on Wednesday, Ado-Doguwa said Obasanjo lacks credibility to speak about Nigeria’s political terrain.

While describing the letter as “unfortunate” he said the former president is “completely wrong in his speculations” and will not succeed in blocking the president’s re-election bid.

“Obasanjo lacks the moral and political credibility to even speak in the way he is doing on the political affairs of the country,” he said.

“The former president, who was used to engaging in very unreasonable political comments should know that he cannot, in any way, be a stumbling block against the popular desire of Nigerians to give President Muhammadu Buhari a second term to rule this great nation, which unfortunately was put to a state of economic and political quagmires by the likes of Obasanjo and his cohorts.

“After all, a man who was involved in all sorts of corruption issues in his administration and indeed his unpopular bid to violate our respected constitution by wanting to make a third term is not in any way a credible voice to count on.

“The former president may have gotten it right in the past; He has an unfortunate antecedent in trying to intervene in the activities of a sitting government. But I assure you he is not going to get it right this time around.

“He is being unpatriotic and mischievous. His case is typical of corruption fighting back. Obasanjo is fighting back because he is corrupt.”

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to disregard the “destructive” comments made by the former president as “baseless.”

“It is also in my candid opinion that all Nigerians are impressed by the good work of President Buhari and therefore yearn that the president should answer this clarion call to accept to run for the second term by 2019.”

https://www.thecable.ng/reps-chief-whip-objs-letter-typical-corruption-fighting-back/

Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State has said insulting leaders on social media will not change how things are in Nigeria.

In a statement on his official Facebook page, the governor advised youth who wish to chase old people from power to join a party and participate in the process.

He said, ”Young people think insulting leaders on social media will change the way things are in Nigeria.

”No one would hand over the mantle of leadership to you simply because you’re young.

”If you want to chase “old people” from positions of power, you must join a party and participate in the process no matter how bad, dirty and dangerous you think it is.”

http://dailypost.ng/2018/01/24/wont-handover-power-young-nigerians-simply-insult-us-el-rufai-2/amp/

Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose says former vice president Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambition for 2019 is legitimate.

He stated that the Peoples Democratic Party’s interest would be placed above individual aspirations in 2019 election, while reiterating that God’s plan is not for him to become vice president but President of Nigeria.


Speaking to newsmen during the former Vice president’s visit to Ekiti, Fayose said “He (Atiku) has not spoken to me privately about it, and maybe he would do that in our private meeting. But his body language obviously shows he has an ambition which is legitimate.

“We will all examine everybody and we will play in a level-playing ground, as he has come, others will still come. On the issue of being Vice President, like I said in the Book of Ezekiel 37: 33, the Bible says ‘God asks that can this bone live, and the Prophet answers and say ‘Thou Knoweth’. All these questions are questions for God and he has answer for them, man has no answer.

“You may wish anything for me, but God’s wish is supreme. I deserve to serve this country as President. I have paid my due. I am not a hidden voice. I have all it takes to lead this country, but whichever way it goes, the interest of our party comes first, it is above our individual aspiration. Whoever the party finally picks as party’s candidate will be supported by others.Responding, the governor, who also described Atiku’s ambition as ‘legitimate and a welcome development, though he was expecting the former vice president to discuss his presidential ambition with him privately as other aspirants would do, he assured that in spite of his aspiration to rule the nation, party’s interest would be placed above individual aspirations.”‎

Responding to the Atiku’s remarks, Governor Fayose said: “I thank God for your life, your resilience and tolerance and patience in your walk through life. It only takes resilience to follow life, most times, you only get bouts instead of encouragement, I welcome you to the state be cause you were quite supportive when I wanted to come at first time, while others were not, you supported us.‎”

http://dailypost.ng/2018/01/24/2019-fayose-speaks-atikus-visit-presidential-ambition/amp/

Eniola Akinkuotu, Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has detained the immediate past Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, for alleged fraud to the tune of N223m, The PUNCH can confirm.

It was learnt that Lawal arrived at the Abuja office of the EFCC around 11am on Wednesday after which he was detained.

When contacted on the telephone, the acting Spokesman for the EFCC, Mr. Samin Amaddin, confirmed Lawal’s arrest to our correspondent.

Details later…


http://punchng.com/breaking-efcc-detains-ex-sgf-babachir-lawal/amp/

Suspected herders Sunday night invaded Lagun, a suburb of Ibadan, and set ablaze 150 acres of palm plantation in a night raid operation. A former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Ayodele Adigun who owns the farm, told newsmen after inspecting the burnt farm yesterday that he experienced the same fate two years ago when his poultry farm valued at N100 million was destroyed and six of the farm attendants maimed. He said about 1,500 palm trees were destroyed with value yet to be ascertained as at yesterday morning when he visited the place with a team of security agents. “We have reported to the police and till now they are yet to make any arrest. I am disturbed. I am concerned because we are talking about diversification of economy but with these hoodlums now, there is a problem as many people would not like to go and farm again.” The Oyo State Police Command yesterday called for peaceful coexistence between the Fulani herders and the farmers. Addressing a security interactive forum, the state Commissioner of Police , Mr. Abiodun Odude, said, “We have to organise this meeting so that we can address some issues affecting farmers and Fulani herdsmen.”

https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/amplite/herders-burnt-150-acres-of-my-palm-plantation-former-ssg.html?

By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA – A civil society group, Concerned Nigerians, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to heed the advice given him by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo to refrain from contesting the 2019 presidential election.

It said the only way President Buhari can display any sort of love and patriotism for Nigeria that is on the verge of anarchy under his misrule is to bow-out of government in 2019.

In a statement signed Tuesday night by its convener, Deji Adeyanju, the group praised Obasanjo for speaking the truth, saying he spoke at no better time than now.


“We have read the statement written by former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, where he gave a withering assessment of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari with more than a sense of palpable relief that there are elders of this country who are willing to speak truth to power.


“In his statement, Chief Obasanjo stated the many obvious failings of the Buhari administration and their negative effects on all aspects of the Nigerian economy. We commend Chief Obasanjo for speaking the truth at a time when the Nigerian people are bearing the negative effects of the Buhari administration.

“We call on President Buhari to heed the advice given by Chief Obasanjo and refrain from contesting the 2019 presidential elections. This is the only way President Buhari can display any sort of love for a country that is creaking under the weight of his misrule.

“Anything short of this will lead to the Nigerian people delivering a withering and embarrassing defeat to the President Buhari next year. A word is enough for the wise,” the statement said.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/01/2019-presidency-concerned-nigerians-tells-buhari-heed-obasanjos-advice/

Olalekan Adetayo, Abuja

Some leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress from the South East on Monday met with President Muhamamdu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The party chiefs were led to the meeting which was held behind closed doors by the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.

Onu later told State House correspondents that the purpose of the meeting was to intimate the President of the decision reached at a meeting of the party chiefs on December 31.

He said, “The APC leadership in the South East met on December 31 last year and endorsed the President for a second term.

“We have come today to reaffirm that and to assure Mr. President that the party is working very hard to win future elections.”

The minister said Buhari was happy especially considering the calibre of members of the delegation.

He added, “He was very happy because you can see the calibre of people in this delegation, a very high-powered delegation.

“We have former leaders of the National Assembly at the highest level, Senate President, Speaker, House of Representatives, former heads of government at the state level, one governor or represented by the deputy governor because the governor is out of the country, all the ministers from the South East, serving members in the National Assembly both in the Senate and House of Representatives, former members of the National Assembly and very important members in the party.

“We have our National Vice Chairman in the South East, members of the National Working Committee and National Executive Committee all present.

“So the President was very happy that such a delegation thought it fit to come and visit him.”

http://punchng.com/apc-south-east-leaders-meet-buhari-endorse-him-for-second-term/amp/#click=https:///sQ0xoSjFBm

Very interesting

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari’s state of health will determine whether or not he runs for next year’s presidential election, the Presidency has affirmed.

It has also poured cold water on the report that Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, had been reappointed as the Director General of the Buhari/Osinbajo Campaign, saying that such appointment cannot be made until the president emerges as his party’s presidential candidate.
Special Adviser to the president on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who made these assertions in an interview, however, said the president is doing well health-wise and has the final say on the issue of re-contesting the position.

Asked what role the president’s health challenges would play in his decision to re-contest the post, the presidential spokesman said: “Yes. Health is wealth. Health is wealth. The president is not a frivolous person. If he thinks that his health cannot carry anything, he will not do it.

“So, of course, his health will matter a lot. It will be very important but we need to give the glory to God for the way he is now.

“Every day you see the president, you see a glow about him, you see a freshness about him. I think he’s even in a better state than when he came in 2015. It’s all to the glory of God.

“So, once he assesses that his health can carry it, there’s nothing wrong if he steps into the fray. But he had the final decision.”

He said the president is however intent on bequeathing to Nigeria a culture of free and fair elections.
Adesina cited the outcomes of some of the elections conducted under the present administration so far, saying that many had been won by parties other than the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC).
According to him, if the APC wanted to apply the federal might to win all the electron, it could have done so.

He said: “About election, the president has always said, he said it publicly before but those of us who are his aides when we talk, we reiterate it that if it is the only thing he does, he wants to give free and fair elections to the country, elections that are acceptable.

“And you would have noticed that since this government came, there have been elections APC didn’t have to win.

“It was not like that in the past when a certain party was in power. They won all the elections that were held in states.

“But you saw Anambra. Just this weekend, you saw a senatorial election there. Some months ago, in November, you saw the governorship election. If APC had wanted to overrun Anambra using federal might, it would do and it would win the election.

“Election had held in Bayelsa under this administration, APC didn’t do it. Ondo, APC won fair and square. Kogi, it won fair and square. Where APC wins, it wins. Where it loses, it loses. That’s the attitude of the president. Your party doesn’t have to win by hook or crook.

“So, he says if it is the last thing he does, he will leave free and fair elections for Nigeria. So, he will bequeath free and fair election to Nigeria and that is happening.

“Then, talking of his own personal ambition or lack of it, we have to wait until he blows the whistle. You can’t start a race until the whistle is blown. So, when he blows the whistle and says ‘yes, this is my ambition,’ then, the race start.

“So, for now, we just say that we keep waiting for him to tell us what direction to go.”
For those who advocate the Mandela Option of one term only for the president, the presidential aide posited that such people are entitled to their own opinion in a democracy just as the president is entitled to run.

“Of course, this is a democracy. People will always have a right to their opinion. You know one thing about democracy is that there is a multiplicity of opinion. So, those who believe in the Mandela option, it is their right. And it is also the right of the president to run or not to run. So, you don’t abridge the right of anybody under a democracy,” he declared.

The Presidency pointed out that Buhari has done enough to earn himself a second tenure to consolidate on what he has achieved.

Adesina stated: “I believe that if the president wants to run, he can run. I will support him. I will always support him any day.

“Then, has he done enough? More than enough. In fact, a second term will give him chance to consolidate on what he has done.

“The things he has done are apparent: security, despite the challenges of the moment, you can’t rule out what he has done in security. Economy: economy went into recession, stayed there just for one year, it has come out and the indices are good.

“Even the World Bank has projected 2.5% growth for Nigeria this year. So, in the economy, the government is doing well. The economy is like a plane with its nose up. As long as you have a plane with its nose up when it’s taking off, it’s good news.

“Anti-corruption, no friend, no foe. That goes on. “So, those three things he appointed for himself, one, to secure the country, two, to fight corruption, three, to revive the economy, they are going well.”
On the reported appointment of Amaechi as DG Buhari/Osinbajo Campaign, he said that such appointment can only happen only if the president decides to join the fray and emerges as the party candidate which he has yet to do.

“Well, me I believe that things like DG will come when you have become a candidate. If the president steps into the fray now, he’s an aspirant just like any other aspirant. Having a DG comes when you become a candidate of the party,” the presidential spokesman said.

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/2019-buharis-health-will-factor-―presidency/

A former President Olusegun Obasanjo, (Dr) has told President Muhammadu Buhari that he must step on toes on friends and well-wishers in order to achieve the desired transformation and change

agenda of his administration.

Obasanjo, said hard choices must be made consciously or unconsciously to get Nigeria out of poverty and starvation.
He spoke on Saturday in Abuja where he was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Christian Theology at the 7th convocation ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
President Buhari, speaking on the occasion ordered that every discrimination against the graduates of NOUN should be stopped, saying the government would continue to accord the graduates of NOUN and those of other Distance Learning institutions in Nigeria due recognition.
He said there shall be no discrimination in terms of employment and opportunity for graduates of Open and Distance Learning programmes to pursue higher degrees either in conventional universities or the ODL setting.
While congratulating Obasanjo and other graduands, Buhari, described Obasanjo as the “Father of Open and Distance Education in Nigeria.”
Obasanjo, in his remarks, said from his field work during the course of his study and research, especially in the North Eastern part of the country, it was evident that leadership was Nigeria’s major problem.
He said: “Poverty is not our lot or a lot of any individual or group in Nigeria.”
“It is a choice made consciously or unconsciously by our leaders.” The beginning of getting Nigeria out of poverty to the wealth creation and employment generation is in the choice of our leaders who understand what development means and what it entails and who are ready to do what is needed to be done and make hard choices that need to be made.
“This includes stepping on toes of friends and well-wishers who would not conform to the transformation or change agenda,” he said.
Obasanjo said he proud and happy to be awarded PhD degree from NOUN, he described as one of the best universities of its kind in Africa.
He noted that at last count he had received about 20 of such honorary degrees from top rate universities from all over the world, noting that the earned doctorate degree conferred on comes with a different sense of fulfilment and accomplishment.
He added that his graduation has confirmed that via an open distance learning platform there is no age limit, no status barrier, no social limit to functional education.
Obasanjo said this has also provided an excellent example of education being from cradle to grave.
He said: “During my student days, at this great University, I requested that I should not be given any special treatment or privileges because I want to go through it as other students.
“I carry my NOUN bag like any other student, took my lectures like any other student, wrote my examinations in my study centre with other students and utilize the learner support services like any other student.”
“The second part of my aim to study at the University is to show to the public and academic community that knowledge or education acquired through open and distance learning is not in any way inferior to knowledge or education acquired from bricks and mortar or walled universities,” he said.
He urged the Federal government to give open and distance learning enough resources since it was obvious that not every Nigeria could have access to walled universities.
“It is worth remarking that I do not need the PhD degree of the University as a meal ticket. I do not intend to apply for a job relating to my area of specialization attaching my brand new certificate.”
“However, I want all to know that I enrolled for the programme and I allowed myself to go through the crucible of training and discipline of research and learning to have the opportunity to become more knowledgeable, productive, and serviceable to humanity and to my God.”
“If at any time my services are required as a result of my specialization,” I will gladly render such services as part of my community and society development effort.
Meanwhile, the Vice-chancellor of the University, Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu, disclosed that a total of 14, 769 students were graduated across all disciplines, saying marks the largest number of students so far graduated in the University.
He said it was remarkable that among the undergraduate graduands were 41 first class holders.
He said the conferment of PhD degree in Christian Theology on the former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday, made him the oldest PhD graduating student in Nigeria.
Adamu said the successful completion of a rigorous course of study and going through the numerous examination process leading to confirmation by the University Senate was a most powerful statement about lifelong education.
He added that Obasanjo’s patience and perseverance in pursuing a doctorate degree programme at his age, station and status in life, is a roadmap to all and clearly communicates that “you are never too old to learn, you are never too powerful to learn and you are never too full of learning.”
A renowned comedian, Chief Chika Okpala, popularly known as Chief Zebrudaya Okorigwe Nwogbo alias 4.30 who is graduating with an MBA in the Faculty of Management Sciences.
Adamu noted that Okpala was one of NOUN Ambassadors who was offered admission by the University, adding that a well-known actor and comedian, he has contributed immensely to the growth of the University through various forms advocacy.

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/obasanjo-to-buhari-you-must-step-on-toes-of-friends-well-wishers-to-achieve-change-agenda/

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made further discoveries during its investigation of the fraud relating to the 2015 Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) presidential campaign funding. The discoveries, which include properties allegedly built with proceeds from looted money, were made by the Gombe zonal office of the commission.

Addressing newsmen yesterday at the commission’s office in Gombe, the head of operations of the zonal office, Mr Johnson Babalola, said in the course of investigations and interrogations, some hotels and filling stations built by some beneficiaries of the loot were discovered.

Though the EFCC zonal head did not give details and locations of the properties since investigation was ongoing, he, however, disclosed that three persons had been arrested and would soon be arraigned in court. Babalola further stated that the zonal office of the commission also recovered some items meant for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) which were allegedly diverted by the secretary of the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr Danlami Arab Rukuje. “Few weeks ago we recovered some materials donated to IDPs by the Presidential Committee on the North East Initiative but were diverted by SEMA officials.

We recovered 1,200 bags of cement out of the 5,000 bags diverted and 500 gallons of Swan paint,” he said. According to him, the key suspects in the case, Danlami Arab Rukuje, Isa Garba and Muazu Suleiman would be charged to court as soon as investigation was concluded. He solicited the support of journalists in reporting facts, adding that regardless of the challenges the commission was facing in investigating political cases, it was making progress. Listing the achievements of the unit, he disclosed that the zonal office recovered over N266 million last year, handled 202 cases, 26 of which were prosecuted and 10 persons convicted.

https://leadership.ng/2018/01/19/efcc-makes-discoveries-pdp-2015-campaign-funding/

The Senate yesterday rejected the interim report of its committee on Petroleum (Downstream) on the lingering fuel scarcity in the country. The panel probed issues relating to illegal operation of new subsidy regime by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Senator expressed reservation on report of the committee chaired by Senator Kabir Marafa (APC,Zamfara).

The committee had recommended that the Federal Government should consider granting a special foreign exchange concession to oil marketers and partially deregulate the petroleum sector to allow oil marketers import fuel and sell at a price different from the NNPC mega stations, as short term measures. As long term measures, the committee recommended the unbundling of the NNPC through the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), upgrade of all existing refineries, dredging of water channels and that the Federal Government should allow for private participation in the development of viable product distribution infrastructures. First to fault the report was Senator Attai Aidoko (PDP, Kogi) who said it did not capture the key mandate of the committee, alleging that it was written and handed over to the committee by the NNPC.

The position was supported by Senator Bayero Nafada (APC, Gombe), who said “It looks like a report that was imported to the Senate not the one by the Senate. The committee should go back and bring its own report not the one that was written for it”. However, Senate Leader Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe) cautioned his colleagues against denigrating the work of the committee and suggested that the report be withdrawn.

Reacting, Marafa told his colleagues that the recommendations of the committee were as canvassed by stakeholders during the investigative hearing. The Senate directed the committee to review the report with a view of finding lasting solutions to the perennial scarcity of fuel. It also mandated the committee to investigate alleged fraud in the volume of fuel imported/ consumed in the country. Senate also directed its committee on Public Accounts chaired by Senator Mathew Urhoghide (PDP, Edo) to investigate the secret operation of subsidy regime by the NNPC.

https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/amplite/senate-rejects-panel-report-on-fuel-scarcity.

… Fayose to settlers: Don’t turn state to war zone

There is tension in Oke Ako and Irele communities in Ikole local government area of Ekiti State following the alleged killing of a Fulani herdsman on Monday.

The herdsman, whose name was given as Babuba Dengi, was killed in a bush between the two communities by settlers suspected to be Benue State indigenes.

‎The incident forced the state Governor, Ayo Fayose, to summon a meeting on Tuesday night at the Government House in Ado Ekiti, where he warned farmers and herdsmen against turning the state to a “war zone.”


The governor has given a marching order to security agencies in the state to fish out the killers of the herdsman and bring them to justice.

Fayose warned that there is no room for the killing of Fulani herdsmen or farmers or anybody in the state, saying “recent steps taken by his administration to prevent violence between farmers and herdsmen do not give anybody license to unlawfully take human’s life.”

The governor spoke during a meeting with Fulani herdsmen under the aegis of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, farmers, local hunters, security agencies and representatives of the Tiv community in the state.

Fayose said: “I can’t accept anybody to be killed. If anybody killed anyone I will make sure you are killed by ensuring justice. I’m sad about the killing in Benue but we don’t want brutality in Ekiti.

“I won’t accept any killing here, the only thing acceptable here is peace. I therefore plead with everybody to cooperate with us.”

“I want peace in my state and everybody living here is from Ekiti whether you are Fulani, Tiv, Yoruba or anybody.


“The cow matter can’t cause problem between us. Oke Ako-Irele issue should not be allowed to fester. Cooperate with us and whoever kills would be fished out.

“When you are entering Ekiti, drop wherever you are coming from at the boundary. You can’t kill Yoruba, Fulani, Igbo or Tiv here.

“From information so far, the deceased died as a result of clash between Fulani herdsmen and some Tiv people, but at that we can’t condone lawlessness. We don’t want that type of Benue issue here.”

A communique read by Fayose at the end of the meeting summoned leaders of the herdsmen, farmers, hunters, council chairmen and traditional rulers from Oke Ako and Irele to an expanded meeting.

The meeting while noting that the problem in Oke Ako was between Tivs and Fulani, resolved that the people must live in peace.

The meeting also ordered security agencies to fish out the killers of the herdsman in the area.

http://thenationonlineng.net/fulani-herdsman-killed-ekiti

PLATEAU State is gripped by the fear of attack by Fulani herdsmen following a threat issued over alleged cattle rustling.

Neigbouring Benue State is reeling from the New Year Day’s attacks in Logo and Guma local government areas in which 73 people died.

President Muhammadu Buhari, after a meeting with Benue State leaders on Monday, ordered security agents to find the killers and punish them

But yesterday, the Fulani in Plateau alleged the killing of their man and the rustling of 350 cows belonging to their people. They warned that “things like these” caused violence in the past.


Governor Simon Lalong was last night locked in a security meeting over the development, it was learnt.

He had also launched a move to recover the missing cows, it was learnt.

A statement by Muhammad Nura Abdullahi, chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Plateau State chapter, yesterday said: “We are sad with the information reaching us from our branches in Bassa and Riyom local government areas that Irigwe youths militia armed with sophisticated weapon had on Monday 15th January 2018 attacked Fulani herdsmen around Gilda Ado village in Ganawuri district of Riyom LGA. The attackers beat a Fulani herder to a point of coma and fled with his cattle numbering 150.

“The report later got to security agencies who gave the cattle rustlers good chase. The security recovered some of the cows dead around Mai Yanga Village.

“On the same Monday night, another armed youths suspected to the Irigwe youths attacked Fulani residents at Dangwal village of Ganawuri and rustled about 200 cows in the attack. Security agencies have confirmed to us that some of the rustled cows had been found.

“These are the kind of situation that leads to major violence in the areas, and this is happening when the area is trying to recover from the recent ugly incidents that led to loss of lives and properties. That last violence was caused by attacking, killing and beheading of a Fulani boy known as Abubakar Wada. The incident happened on the 28th of August 2017.


“We hereby condemn any act of criminality with some highly placed political personalities that are benefiting from this cycle of violence. This situation should be handled with all seriousness and with a professional method to resolve the dastardly act of brutality.

“A very swift action should be taken to stop further occurrences.”

Also yesterday, Irigwe youths reported the killing of one of their youths by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The attack, according to them, took place at Kimakpa, Kwall district of Irigwe chiefdom.

A similar situation led to serious violence in Bassa Local Government between August and October last year leading the death of over 80 people in series of attacks by Fulani herdsmen.

The Plateau State Government also said no fewer than 14,000 people had been killed in Plateau and Benue States in recent times.

Commissioner for Town Planning Festus Ewanter stated this yesterday in Makurdi.

He spoke at the Benue Government House when he led a delegation of about 30 Plateau State Government officials on a condolence visit to Governor Samuel Ortom.

They were there on behalf of Governor Simon Lalong.

He said: ‘We are both food baskets of the nation and we have both lost over 7,000 people each to herdsmen attacks, as what happened in Guma, Logo and other parts of Benue state, Plateau also shared the same in Bassa, Jos North and Jos South which is still happening till date.

“Plateau and Benue are both together, we should set aside all our differences and forge ahead to find a lasting solution to these problems.

“Though, through administrative process, we have been separated but not in any way to divide ourselves, we should not fail as leaders to compromise the future of our generations”.

Governor Ortom thanked Plateau government, saying Plateau, Nasarawa and Benue States are brothers and sisters.

He said the states share similar challenges

He added that anything that affected one state has affected all the states, stressing that the challenges were beyond them.

“We have been brothers and sisters all along and in spite of the separation we all have the same challenges that bind us together, they are; insecurity, poverty and underdevelopment

“So we should see that whatever that affect one of us affected all of us so all these challenges are beyond us”.

Ortom apologized to Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura. He said: “Let me use this platform to apologize to my colleague in Nasarawa state over the statement I made it was due to the situation at hand then, I should not have made the information public rather it should have been a private discussion between us, I will try and see him .” He also accepted Lalong’s apologies for his own remark about Benue state.

http://thenationonlineng.net/tension-fulani-raise-another-alarm-stolen-cows/

The National Bureau of Statistics ( NBS ) says inflation rate, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), has further dropped to 15.37 per cent in December 2017 from 15.90 per cent recorded in November of the same year.

The NBS disclosed this in its CPI report for December 2017 released on Tuesday in Abuja.

The CPI, which measured inflation, ended the 2017 with a rate of 15.37 per cent (year-on-year) in December 2017.

According to the bureau, this is 0.53 per cent points lower than the rate recorded in November.


The report stated that it became 11th consecutive disinflation (slowdown in the inflation rate though still positive) in headline year -on- year inflation since January 2017.

According to the report, increases have been recorded in all the Classification of Individual Consumption by Purpose (COICOP) divisions that yield the Headline Index.

On a month-on-month basis, the bureau stated that the Headline Index increased by 0.59 per cent in December 2017, 0.19 per cent points higher from the rate of 0.78 per cent recorded in November.

It stated that the percentage changed in the average composite CPI for the 12 months period ending in December 2017 over the average of the CPI for the previous 12 months period.

The NBS stated that the percentage of average composite CPI was 16.50 per cent in the month, showing 0.26 per cent points lower from 16.76 per cent recorded in November 2017.

Meanwhile, the report stated that the Urban Inflation Rate rose by 15.78 per cent (year-on-year) in December from 16.27 per cent recorded in November.


It, however, stated that the rural inflation rate also eased by 15.02 per cent in December from 15.59 per cent in November.

On month-on-month basis, the report stated that the urban index rose by 0.66 per cent in December, down by 0.19 from 0.85 per cent recorded in November.

It also stated that the rural index rose by 0.54 per cent in December, down by 0.18 per cent when compared with 0.72 per cent in November.

According to the report, the corresponding 12 months year-on-year average percentage change for the urban index is 16.92 per cent in December.

This, it stated, was less than 17.26 per cent reported in November 2017, while the corresponding rural inflation rate in December is 16.10 per cent compared to 16.29 per cent recorded in November 2017.

http://thenationonlineng.net/nigerias-inflation-drops-15-37-december-2017-nbs/

One week into the new year, Tuesday, January 9, the air in Abuja was dry, dusty, and clammy. The nation’s capital was sluggishly waking into a new rhythm of calm and relative order after the chaos of the Christmas season prompted by a debilitating fuel crisis.

That day, at the headquarters of the National Intelligence Agency [NIA], in the south-east corner of Maitama district of the city, Mohammed Dauda, the then acting director of the agency was getting ready for an official briefing with President Mohammed Buhari. It was his first of such briefing after he was plucked out of the Nigerian embassy in the Republic of Chad October last year, to come serve as acting head of the spy agency tasked with overseeing foreign intelligence and counterintelligence operations.

Last year April, the NIA became the butt of a bumpy controversy on account of a botched undercover operation and a $43million lodgement at an Ikoyi apartment that eventually led to the suspension and subsequent investigation of Mr. Ayodele Oke, a career diplomat and erstwhile director general of the agency.

Dauda the NIA boss in cheery mood

When Mr. Dauda emerged from his meeting, according to Premium Times sources at the Aso Rock Villa, he was in “such an expansive and cheery mood,” and it started looking as if he was now on an assured path to reinforcing his position, and probably earning confirmation as substantive head of the agency.

As ambassador to Chad, a major theatre in the war against the Boko Haram insurgency, and with a pedigree in financial and economic crimes intelligence, two of the major organised crimes posing severe and existential threats to the national image profile, agency insiders say Mr. Dauda, with his added ecumenical, even if under-stated, mien had the requisite qualities for the new office.

He had reasons to be upbeat. Dauda, like many appointees of the Buhari presidency, invariably carried a badge of needless uproar. In his case, the man he will be directly reporting to, the National Security Adviser to the president, Mr. Babagana Munguno, a retired Major General, and a fellow Kanuri, was unaware of and was certainly not consulted on, his appointment. For the two months now that he has served at NIA, Mr. Dauda was forced to walk a delicate balance, trying tirelessly to build trust and confidence internally, and in the immediate outer-rim of the NIA political universe.

Two events, the very next day, will finally change all that for Mr. Dauda.

First, in the early hours of Wednesday, January 10, an operational truck of State Security Services [SSS] agents drove quietly towards the eastern end of the city and pulled up at the gate of Defence House in the Maitama District. They wanted to see the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Abba Kyari, and their mission, they said, was to defend Kyari, a usually taciturn but fiercely loyal acolyte of the president in the event of an attempted arrest.

Administration sources told Premium Times at the weekend that the orders for the SSS deployment came directly from the director general of the agency, Mr. Lawal Daura.

The NNPC TSA controversy

At the beginning of October last year, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, found itself at the centre of a scandal that it was flouting the government's policy on TSA accounts, by failing to remit N50 billion of its income and interests from five banks. The scandal attempted to smear Mr. Kyari, claiming he provided the directive for the NNPC to bypass the TSA account.

The NNPC, through its public communication office, strongly shot back saying, “By virtue of the operations of the NNPC, the Corporation had made series of compelling cases to the Presidency and the Central Bank of Nigeria to allow certain categories of accounts operate outside the TSA, as they contain co-mingled funds governed by detailed agreements with local and international implications. It concluded that to “claim that the Chief of Staff single-handedly approved these exemptions was not only unfair but is a complete misrepresentation of facts to mislead the general public.”

Political and security sources familiar with the matter, in Abuja, said both the NSA’s office and the presidency became sufficiently worried about the story and got the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission [EFCC] to show interest in the matter. The spokesman for the commission, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, suggested he was unaware of this claim but promised to broach it with the upper deck of the organisation and get back. His phone became unreachable through the weekend. The EFCC boss, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, in response to PREMIUM TIMES inquiries later disclaimed that operatives of his agency were on any such assignment.



Interpreting all these manoeuvres from the sidelines, the director general of the SSS, Lawal Daura, reportedly felt a sense of nefarious intent, and in response, rapidly deployed the team of armed operatives to forestall any eventuality. “It was like a preemptory move” a source told PREMIUM TIMES. This will be the second time that Daura would muscularly wade into an interagency storm on perceived grounds of “EFCC’s operational overreach.” About two months ago, on November 21, the SSS triggered an inter-agency war with the EFCC when it frustrated an attempt to arrest the former head of the NIA, Ayo Oke, and former head of the SSS, Ita Ekpeyong, from their homes on Mamman Nasir Street in the Asokoro district of Abuja.

The drama at Defence House

Defence House is one of the presidential guest houses in Abuja, and among its famous occupants, these days has been the president himself who used it as his transition home before his inauguration in 2015. Currently, however, the two most celebrated occupiers of the posh real estate are Mr. Kyari and Mr. Babagana Munguno, whose houses are adjacent to each other.

The Kyari-Munguno relationship is one of the utmost fascinating and defining narratives of the Buhari presidency, one which a presidential aide, in response to questions from PREMIUM TIMES for the reporting of this story, characterized as “a truly enthralling history of animosity.”

Both men, from the same Kanuri stock, entrenched within the topmost rack and influential ladder of the administration, represent, by all indication, the spiky edges of the problematic policy-making space of the Buhari presidency.

With the SSS agents prowling the perimeter of the Kyari household, this Wednesday, all armed to the teeth, Mr. Munguno, according to sources, could not hide his shock when he encountered them as he made ready to head to work. “Who are these men?” he reportedly asked, in anger and distaste. In a short while after, a truck load of soldiers, ordered by Mr. Munguno, had descended on Defence House with a mission to disarm the SSS agents. After some indecent trade in language, reasons prevailed, and both combatants, the soldiers and the SSS operatives, went back to their bases.

The very next day, Thursday, the president met separately with Mr. Monguno and then with Mr. Kyari, according to sources, in the effort to mend the breached relationship of his two principal aides. Later that night, the presidency issued a statement announcing the appointment of Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, a senior special adviser to the president as the substantive head of the NIA. Abubakar, a polyglot who is reputed to “speak and write excellently in French, English, and Arabic” was previously a director at the United Nations Political Office for West Africa in Dakar Senegal where he oversaw the patterns of conflict, peacebuilding, and the democratic transition in the region.

As in the case of Mr. Dauda’s appointment, again, Mr. Munguno, who had been reportedly prepping another candidate for the job, heard of this announcement, which he ought to have had a hand in determining, like every Nigerian through the late new hours. It was a humbling and stinging jolt on the NSA’s profile. This was a particularly neutralizing episode in the thorny relationship of the two presidential aides whose contrastive visions regarding policy directions of the administration had now come full circle. In this particular case, Mr. Dauda, who himself heard of his replacement over the news, turns out as a victim of an enormous power play that acutely expresses the Buhari political cosmos.

The Magu conundrum

No unique issue, however, best describes the divergent vision of the Kyari-Munguno challenge so unambiguously as the question of Mr. Magu’s continued suitability for the office of the anti-corruption czar of the country.

During the long Christmas and New Year holiday, the team of Mr. Kyari; the interior minister, Bello Dambazau; the DG of the SSS, Mr. Daura; and the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Malami convinced the president to remove Magu who they thought had become a major liability to the progress of the administration. The president reportedly advised them to clear with his vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, a law professor who, with Mr. Monguno remain the two prominent life-lines of Magu in the administration.

When Mr. Osinbajo returned from his holiday trip to Dubai, they met with him and tabled the request arguing that Magu had become a burden for the administration, stalling progress on the budget and several other engagements with the National Assembly for which, in their view, the president was suffering costly reputational haemorrhage.

They illustrated their claims with several appointments awaiting confirmation at the Senate. The vice president reportedly told them that the international community as indeed many Nigerians continue to credit the Buhari administration on account of its anti-corruption profile, and that “removing Magu would send a dangerously wrong signal in an election year.”

According to those familiar with the exchange, Mr. Osinbajo suggested that in the event of a Magu transition, a fitting position for him would be an elevation as Special Adviser on anti-corruption in the presidency while a new chair for the EFCC is appointed.

Irreversibly committed to the removal of Mr. Magu, the group is said to be uncomfortable with the arrangement. In the larger narrative of the Kyari-Monguno relationship, presidency sources reason that matters have gotten to a peak where one of them will have to eventually cancel the other for peace to reign.

http://saharareporters.com/2018/01/16/untold-security-intelligence-conundrum-buhari-administration

May query Ortom over alleged arming of militias

Olalekan Adetayo, Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari will, on Monday, meet some leaders from Benue State over the recent killings in the state.

Those expected at the meeting scheduled to hold at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, include political, traditional and opinion leaders from the state.

A top government source told journalists on the condition of anonymity on Sunday that the state governor, Samuel Ortom, is expected to lead the delegation that will include federal and state lawmakers, as well as traditional rulers.

Security chiefs are also expected at the meeting.

The source described the meeting as “one of the ways Buhari is responding to the recent violent attacks on communities in the state by Fulani herdsmen.”

The source said, “The urgent meeting is inevitable because of the frequency and scale of such violence and the reactions that have trailed the incidents.

“The Presidency has been embarrassed by the large-scale loss of lives caused by such repeated violence against innocent people.”

He also gave an indication that Governor Ortom might be asked at the meeting to explain his role in allegedly arming some militias in the state.

http://punchng.com/killings-buhari-meets-benue-leaders-on-monday/

The National body of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria ( MACBAN ) has given conditions that will put a halt to the incessant clashes between its members and farmers across the country.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Sunday, the National Secretary of the association, Baba Usman Ngeljarma said that Federal Government should create Ministry of Livestock Development to attend to the multidimensional needs of the industry.

He explained that they are the most neglected and humiliated community in the country thereby depriving them of so many things, adding that their case is worsened by long years of exclusion. He pointed out that the national gang up against the herdsmen is not only endangering the survival of their people but also justifying action against them no matter how crude and inhuman it is.

He added that the laws are nothing more than a symbol of intolerance and do not in anyway intend to solve the farmers/grazers conflict as livestock breeders interest is neither captured in the law nor in its implementation.

He stated that compensation should be paid to their members who are the victims of all crises to reduce their level of suffering. Also, he called for a "Federal Judicial Commission" of inquiry to investigate and look into all the killings as to unravel the truth and the offenders.

Ngeljarma noted the government should disarm all illegally armed militia across the country in the interest of peace, security and stability. He also called for the arrest and prosecution of those who killed 732 Fulanis in Mambilla and 82 women and children in Numan.

He revealed that the association have lost over 1000 people including children and women with over 2million cattle to gangs.

"The media was awash with the story of Tiv militia gang arrested in Taraba State by the army who confessed that over 1000 of them were recruited and dangerously armed by the Benue State government to kill the Fulani herdsmen "

He condemned those calling on the government to declare and brand herdsmen as terrorists noting that it as a continuation of the hate agenda against its members.

While absolving the members of the association of carrying out the carnage in Benue State, Ngeljarma said that like any other community in the country the association is battling with misguided and criminally motivated elements who indulge in social vices and criminal activities. He maintained that those few miscreants do not represent the mainstream of herdsmen.

The press conference was attended by the National President of the association, Alh. Mohammadu Kiruwa and other national executive members as well as a large number of registered members of the association.


http://saharareporters.com/2018/01/14/farmersherdmen-clash-fulani-cattle-breeders-miyetti-allah-gives-conditions-peace-seeks

President Muhammadu Buhari has provided reasons why Fulani herdsmen and farmers clash continuously in the country.

President Buhari, in an email to Reuters, who sought his reaction to recent clashes in several parts of the country, said Nigeria’s growing population is a major cause of crisis.

There have been several deadly clashes recently between herdsmen of Fulani origin and farmers with the latest leading to the death of 73 people in Benue.

Reuters reports that the Presidency said the limited availability of land prompted both parties to adopt all means to meet their need.

The newspaper quoted the presidency, “President Buhari holds the view, as do many experts, that these conflicts are more often than not, as a result of major demographic changes in Nigeria.

“Nigeria’s population was around 63 million when the West African country gained independence in 1960, compared with a population now ‘estimated at close to 200 million.

“While the land size has not changed and will not change, urban sprawl and development have simply reduced land area both for peasant farming and cattle grazing.”

http://dailypost.ng/2018/01/14/herdsmen-attacks-buhari-gives-reason-killings-crisis/

THE people of the Central Senatorial District of Anambra State went to the poll on Saturday in rerun election to elect replacement for the sacked Senator Uche Ekwunife of the PDP, who was removed by the Appeal Court, one and a half years ago, on the ground that he was not duly nominated by her party PDP.

The late arrival of voting materials was observed across polling stations in Aruma and Unizik junctions both in Awka South Local Government Area.

Despite apathy in the process, many voters were seen in their number already on queue to vote, while few voters had already voted as at 10:25 am when our correspondent visited the two polling unit.

The accreditation and voting exercise for the senatorial rerun election commenced peacefully with a little turn out of electorates.

At Aguluzoigbo, the country home of All Progressive Grand Alliance, candidate, Chief Victor Umeh, there was a peaceful atmosphere as voters trooped out en masse to vote for their son.

However, Umeh the APGA candidate voted at 11:14 am at ward 2, unit 6 Aguluzigbo, Anoacha Council Area and pledged to do the best if voted to the Senate, he then expressed satisfaction.

Also in Ifite a town in Awka South Local Government Area, voting materials and voters arrived a little late while security men were seen at strategic spots along Onitsha-Enugu road.

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/anambra-central-rerun-apga-candidate-umeh-expresses-satisfaction/

Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has said that he is still in the race for the 2019 presidential election despite the Peoples Democratic Party zoning the ticket to the North.

Fayose said he decided to soft-pedal on his campaign because of the July 14, 2018 Ekiti governorship poll.

He a to repeat a resounding victory against Dr. Kayode Fayemi, if he is picked as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress.

On the agitations of some aggrieved PDP aspirants that Fayose should be prevented from interfering with the primary, the governor gave an assurance that the state had no role to play in the primary election, saying it was the prerogative of the Chief Uche Secondus-led National Working Committee.

Some aggrieved PDP aspirants such as a former Minister of Works, Prince Dayo Adeyeye; Senator Biodun Olujimi, Owoseeni Ajayi and Amb Dare Bejide, had at a joint press conference on Monday advised Secondus to stop Fayose from playing any role in the primary.



Speaking during an interactive session with teachers in public primary and secondary schools at the Government House in Ado Ekiti, Fayose said, “I am still in the presidential race. I am only waiting for the time the Ekiti governorship election will hold so I can have the time.

“Though I am making contacts and I am reaching out to the people that matter across the country, I have no role to play, only the NWC will present the delegates’ lists for them to elect the candidate. So, I won’t interfere despite my support for Prof. Kolapo Olusola.

“I have no regret supporting Olusola. If it were those people I had supported, they won’t be abusing me. But they remain our brothers and sisters and we are going to put our house in order at the right time so that we can be on the same page.”

Fayose appealed to the teachers to support Olusola the way they supported him in the June 21, 2014 governorship election, where he defeated Fayemi.

“Don’t vote for those that will come here and sack you. When they sacked your colleagues in Kaduna State, an APC leader in Ekiti said it was a right step in the right direction and I believe such a person is not good for Ekiti teachers,” he said.

http://punchng.com/im-still-in-race-for-presidency-says-fayose/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

Seven governors, including Nasiru el-Rufa’i of Kaduna state, met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, Abuja, on Friday, and emphasised the need for him to re-contest in the 2019 election.

El-Rufa’i, who spoke to state house correspondents after the meeting, said governors want Buhari to continue running the country beyond 2019.

According to him, people are free to continue to speculate about the 2019 elections but he and other governors are interested in continuity and stability of the country.

He said: “We are politicians and those of us you see here want the president to contest the 2019 election, we have no apologies for that.

“We believe in Mr President, we want him to continue running the country in the right direction. People can speculate about 2019, we have no apologies.

“Whether they are right or wrong is beside the point. Everybody is entitled to his or her own opinion but as governors, and most of us here with the exception of Yobe governor, are first-term governors.

“We are interested in continuity and stability and we want the president to continue with that.

“Like our leader, the governor of Kano said, we just happen to be here by coincidence and we went to pray and decided to felicitate with the president and we feel satisfied that anytime we see him, he is getting better and better.’’

Other governors, who met with the president alongside with el-Rufa’i, were Abubakar Bello of Niger, Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe, Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano, Jibrilla Bindo of Adamawa and Simon Lalong of Plateau.

https://www.thecable.ng/seven-governors-say-buhari-must-re-contest-2019/amp?__twitter_impression=true