₦airaland Forum

The Nigeria Customs Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’ has intercepted a bus carrying two big sacks containing military uniforms and boots along the Ijebu-Ode expressway.


The white Hiace bus which belongs to Chimezie Motors Nigeria Limited with registration number JJT 905 XB, was intercepted on Wednesday.

“This is national security. Though they are not much but the damage that will be done will be much, that is why we seized them,” Mohammed Aliyu, the unit boss, told journalists in Lagos Thursday.


Aliyu disclosed that his unit also seized 22 cars, including nine bulletproof cars.

He said the cars worth about N1.2 billion, were intercepted inside a bush in Idiroko axis of Ogun State while others were kept in hidden warehouses in Lagos.

“This is the second time I will be briefing the press since I was here. The first time, I told you how we seized contraband goods worth N1.5 billion within 2 weeks in office.


“Now, we have seized 22 cars which nine are bulletproof worth about N9.27million while other non-bulletproof worth N2.4 million.”

He said his officers intercepted 11,000 bags of 50 kilogrammes rice barely one month after it seized 3,000 bags.

“We seize bags of rice on daily basis. If you wait a bit, you will see my officers bring in seized bags of rice. Most times. They come in convoy and immediately they see our officers, some will escape while others arrested.”

Other seizures made include 25 litres of vegetable oil and 245 parcels of India hemp worth N19 million.

“We don’t have any arrested suspects. They ran away. If you are in the bush, they always come in twos-they and passenger”, he said.

“Immediately you flag them, they will know they are in danger. They will abandon the vehicle and run away. That is why we did not (make) any arrest.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/photos-customs-intercepts-military.html

Heavy crisis at Ekwulobia Township Stadium as APGA delegates vehemently resisted ant attempt to disenfranchise Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.


It is heavy right now.

Gunshots and teargas everywhere. There was also an attempt to disenfranchise the real APGA delegates with fake delegates who were driven to a hotel at Isuofia.

The fake delegates were to be imported into the venue but the resistance by the real APGA delegates has disrupted the event.

It is choas everywhere.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/apga-senatorial-primaries-delegates.html

Text of a speech by Vice President YEMI OSINBAJO at the Independence Day Dinner and Gala night held at the State House in Abuja on Monday

I am extremely pleased to be here to join you all at this special anniversary dinner. I also must thank you all very much for honouring our invitation to be here to celebrate our country, especially on this 58th anniversary of our Independence. I am 61 years old this year, and most of those six decades I have lived here in this country, here in Nigeria. So, I think I can say that I know Nigeria quite well.

A few years ago, a poll reported in The British Independent newspaper declared us the happiest people on earth. The same poll said that we were also amongst the most optimistic people on earth, despite everything that we’ve experienced as a nation. I agree with both assessments, in other words, that we are possibly one of the happiest in the world, but I must also add that we are by far the most humorous people on the face of the earth. Well, if you don’t agree with me, but I can tell you so many reasons why we are the most humorous.

A few months ago, an important Nigerian politician who was on his way to a trial in a court said he was abducted. And after he escaped from his abductors, he remained hiding on a tree for 11 hours. The most interesting part of that story is that many people online in particular, on the Internet, started to tell stories of different birds and how long those birds could remain perched on a tree. All these were the Nigerian contributions to that story.

Yet another very important politician insists, and still insists that the most important attribute for leadership is dancing, and boy could he dance! And for those who think that that is ridiculous at least 200,000 people voted for him in a particular election.


Wherever we are from, from whatever part of this great country that we are from, whether we are from the North, the South-South, the South East, West, wherever, we have the same DNA. We love our country and this may not always be obvious, but you try insulting Nigeria if you are a foreigner and you will see how fierce and angry our reaction can be. A Nigerian can say the same thing, but if you’re a foreigner, don’t try it.

When I served as Adviser to the Attorney General of the Federation between 1987 and 1992, I had a driver who was always broke. But he was always so optimistic. He had 14 children, while I, his boss, had only one child at the time. And I asked him, “Why do you just keep having so many children?” Of course he had more than one wife. He said to me in Yoruba “I don’t know which of them can become President of Nigeria. So, the more I have, the better my chances.” How optimistic can you be? Only a Nigerian can be that optimistic.

Wherever we are from, from whatever part of this great country that we are from, whether we are from the North, the South-South, the South East, West, wherever, we have the same DNA. We love our country and this may not always be obvious, but you try insulting Nigeria if you are a foreigner and you will see how fierce and angry our reaction can be. A Nigerian can say the same thing, but if you’re a foreigner, don’t try it.

We love our food, we love our clothes, we love our merrymaking. We love to be successful and we love success. We are resilient, we are fair minded. Nigerians always fight for the underdog, we believe in justice and the rule of law, even though our system still can do much better. But we are by far one of the smartest and, perhaps, the most talented people on earth. And I don’t say that lightly.


The reason why we are so optimistic is because we know that we are the best, we know we are going to excel, it may seem like it’s taking a while, and there are many problems, but every one of the over 1,000 days that I have been Vice President for, I grow stronger in my complete confidence that we are going to be the envy of the whole world in a few short years

In the US, Nigerians are the most educated ethnic group, not one of the most educated, but the most educated. Sixty per cent of Nigerians in the US, we are told, have college degrees. This is above the American average of 30%. And Nigerians in US are one of the highest income earners in the US, and I choose America as one example. Nigerians earn 25% more than the median US income.

The world’s fastest supercomputer was designed by a world-renowned inventor, Philip Emeagwali, a full-blown Nigerian. This means Nigeria has the patent for the world’s fastest computer. The wealthiest black African, a Nigerian. Isn’t that a good thing? We are also told that the wealthiest black woman in the world is also a Nigerian. Who knows who the next wealthiest African would be here or the next wealthiest African?

A Nigerian family, The Imafidons, who live in the UK, have been officially declared the smartest family in the UK, a family of about six children who have excelled in their academics in incredible ways. The designer of that famous car, Chevrolet Volt, is a guy called Jelani Aliyu, he now works for the Nigerian government; super talented Nigerian from Sokoto State. And for those who think that we are only giants in technology and business, Anthony Joshua is the world’s best heavyweight boxer, for those who watch boxing.

Everybody is dancing to Nigerian music, and our traditional attires, especially our women attires and headgears have conquered Africa. Even our male attire, there’s just something about the Nigerian swag. Whether they like it or not, we Nigerians are just exceptional, we are just different. Anywhere you go, you know a Nigerian, don’t you recognise a Nigerian when you see one? You can just tell. If you see anyone reading a book on How to become self-confident, know that he is not a Nigerian, we are born self-confident.

The reason why we are so optimistic is because we know that we are the best, we know we are going to excel, it may seem like it’s taking a while, and there are many problems, but every one of the over 1,000 days that I have been Vice President for, I grow stronger in my complete confidence that we are going to be the envy of the whole world in a few short years. Well, you might say that that is optimistic, why not, I am a Nigerian.

Happy Independence Day. God bless you all.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/world-will-envy-nigeria-soon-osinbajo.html

Hopes have been reignited that a 40-year treaty signed 17 years ago for a Joint Development Zone (JDZ) between Nigeria, and Sao Tome & Principe, may become economically viable going by the level of renewed efforts by the countries.

Such efforts will lead to further review of the commercial viability of over 500 million barrels of crude oil reserves stranded in the region.Although most of the International Oil Companies (IOCs) that pushed for drilling rights in the region left at some point, are now showing interest in returning to the zone, according to top management staff Joint Development Authority (JDA), who craved anonymity.

The JDZ, an area in the region of the Nigeria – São Tomé and Príncipe boundary, considered to be rich in oil and gas reserves came into force in 2001, with a treaty to make both countries explore the resources in the zone without interfering with the maritime territory of each other. The Nigeria – São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Authority (JDA) is an organisation established by the treaty to regulate activities in the zone.Nigeria had sent a delegation to Sai Tome & Principe earlier in the year, to discuss among other issues, the need to strengthen the relationship.

The source told The Guardian that the level of interest shown by the two countries, which included a visit of the Prime Minister of Sai Tome and Principe to Nigeria recently, were indications of readiness to revive the partnership.Similarly, the source disclosed that the organisation has been restructured with new workforce, and have gathered new data on the viability of the oil deposits in the region.

This discovery, the source noted, could bring back Total, Chevron, Sinopec, Addax, ExxoMobil, who had pulled out of the zone on the claims that it is difficult to drill there, and that the oil has no commercial value after drilling some wells.

“There is a lot of renewed interest by the oil majors in the zone. Some of the data we have now, we do not have it in the past. Also, they now have the equipment they didn’t have in past for deep offshore drilling,” the source said.

Furthermore, difficulties in exploring at the zone was not the only the reason that led to the pull-out of the oil majors, he said, adding that international politics as well as the oil market realities of the time created unfavourable situation for the investors. The source debunked allegations that the organisation was running on a budget of about $12 million despite not being productive for the past 17 years.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/optimism-greets-nigeria-sai-tome.html

In a statement issued by the Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, on the occasion of Nigeria’s National Day on Monday, the government congratulated Nigeria and its people on the nation’s independence anniversary.

Pompeo said: “I would like to convey warm wishes to the government and people of Nigeria on the 58th anniversary of your independence. Nigeria remains a key partner and friend of the United States.


“Through its strengthening democracy, its dynamic economy and the great entrepreneurial spirit of its people, Nigeria is a leader in the region and beyond.

“We count on Nigeria to continue its leadership through free, fair, transparent and peaceful elections in 2019.

“The United States offers our continuous support to Nigeria in its efforts to expand trade and investment, counter-terrorism, ensure regional stability and tackle corruption.

“As you celebrate the anniversary of your independence, please know that the people of the United States celebrate with you.”

Nigeria, a former British colony, gained Independence on Oct. 1, 1960.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/nigeria-is-leader-friend-key-partner-us.html

Kums Shedrach, a 300level student of the University of Jos, has been shot dead by unknown gunmen at the University of Jos Student Village hostel.

Shedrach was killed with many others in a fresh wave of violence that engulfed the state Capital on Sunday afternoon and evening.

Shedrach's killing came a day after a put out a strong status update on Facebook saying anyone still praying for peace in Plateau would be disappointed.In the post, he called for a "balance of terror", even proclaiming: "If I die in the struggle, so be it. Plateau has seen so much of this nonsense!"

Undie Udie, the Plateau State Police commissioner, confirmed the attack, calling for restraint on both sides.

He urged residents of Students Village, Bauchi road, Angwan Rukuba and Rikkos areas to remain indoors while rescue operations continue.

The death toll could not be ascertained as the time of filing this report, as heavy gunshots were still being reported all around the city centre.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/unijos-student-killed-24-hours-after.html

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State will on Tuesday (tomorrow) play host to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who will be visiting Enugu for the 19th edition of the National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Clinic, billed to hold at the Michael Okpara, Square, Enugu.

The National MSME Clinic is a brain-child of the Vice President’s Office in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Commerce, and other federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) responsible for business facilitation. It is aimed at providing solutions to various challenges affecting the growth and development of MSMEs, which account for 99 percent of businesses in the country, in order to accelerate their ease of doing businesses with the Federal Government’s regulatory agencies.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Enugu State Governor on SME and Investment Promotion, Mr. Anayo Agu, the state is ready and anxiously waiting to receive the Vice President for the “all-important event”, which he said was germane to the efforts of the state government in promoting entrepreneurship, self-reliance, human capital empowerment and investment development, among others.


Agu disclosed that the Enugu edition of the programme also “offers Enugu State Government the opportunity to underscore the progress recorded in entrepreneurship and MSME development through the Enugu SME Center; the state’s Ease of Doing Business Council; the state’s Traders Empowerment Programme; state’s partnership programmes with the federal government on social investments.

These programmes, according to him, include, the Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme (GEEP) known as Market Moni, the school feeding programme, N-Power and the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) aimed at lifting targeted families out of extreme poverty.

The Special Adviser disclosed that “Enugu State is one of very few states in Nigeria where residents have equal access to all the state’s MSME programmes including funding, regardless of state of origin, religion, ethnicity or political interests”.

He explained that the state government’s collaboration with the federal government and other stakeholders was borne out of the noble vision to assist them have a better understanding of local business needs as well as appreciate some peculiar challenges facing MSMEs in their respective business ecosystems, stressing that “Gov. Ugwuanyi is committed to the partnership and successful hosting of the event in Enugu”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/ugwuanyi-hosts-osinbajo-on.html

With the recent takeover of Skye Bank Plc by Polaris Bank, following the inability of the owners of the bank to shore up the capital of the distressed bank, shareholders are now at the risk of losing an estimated N10.69 billion, being the value of the shareholders’ fund.

The shareholders, who spoke in an interview with The Guardian, amid lamentations, noted that while retail investors were still grappling with N83 billion loss of investment occasioned by the sale of the three nationalised banks- Keystone Bank Limited; Mainstreet Bank; and Enterprise Bank, they are currently faced with another dilemma arising from the sale of the Skye Bank.

According to them, one of the reasons why retail investors had shown apathy to the Nigerian stock market since the meltdown in 2009, was because of the issue of nationalised banks.

They bemoaned the failure of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to protect the interest of investors, noting that this is a disincentive to market growth.

The shareholders also blamed the former directors of the banks on the current predicaments, insisting that they fail to carry them along even when it became obvious that the bank needed to be recapitalised.

For instance, the Former Secretary General of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Adebayo Adeleke, lamented that since Skye Bank is no more in existence, it means the N10.69 billion shareholders’ fund has also gone.

He pointed out that capital market regulators may find it difficult to attract more investment with the loss of such huge amount of money.

“The regulators have specific responsibilities giving to them by the act that establishes them, CBN protects the interest of the depositors, NDIC insures the securities of the deposit, AMCON is the midwife, to get the get the banking industry out of this toxic asset.

“We have SEC, whose statutory duty is to protect the interest of the investors.


While all these regulators have played their part, you will find out that it is only SEC that did not do anything at all.

“Unfortunately, Skye Bank had its own problem, but the management put in place by CBN in the past two years, with no annual report, no yearly general meeting, should explain at what point they really asked shareholders to recapitalise the bank and the shareholders said no,” he queried.

The President, Proactive Shareholders Association, Taiwo Oderinde, said: “The issue of Skye Bank’s takeover is not acceptable by our group at all.

It is a daylight robbery and a rape on our capital market and investment. The management and Board of Directors have been managing the bank for two years and they cannot come and be talking of takeover of our bank. God willing, we will challenge it in court.”

The Founder of Noble Shareholders Association, Gbadebo Olatokunbo, said: “These are the things that are discouraging local investors.

CBN should hold the directors of the bank responsible and should not allow shareholders to suffer the way they did when the three banks were nationalised.

“It is a big disappointment and I am just going through my holdings to know how much I have there. The directors of the bank must be made to pay for this.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/10/shareholders-may-lose-over-n10-billion.html

A Second Republic House of Representatives member, Senator Roland Owie, has said that President Muhammadu Buhari will surely reap what he is sowing in this country.


Owie, who was a Senator under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and now ADP national leader, also berated the National Assembly for allowing President Buhari to remain in power till now.

The National Leader of the Action Democratic Party, ADP, said that President Buhari has committed a lot of impeachable offences.


Owie made the claim when he entertained questions from journalists on national issues as Nigeria celebrates its 58 years of independence.

He said, “Under normal circumstances, if the National Assembly was ready, by now, Buhari would have been impeached for irresponsibility and disruption of the system.

“He has committed a lot of impeachable offences and that same man will sit down with his own party and think he still wants to govern. The truth is what is not of God cannot succeed.


“Nigeria belongs to God and God will ensure that He cleans the country and those who are resisting, God will take them away.

“The truth is that if what Buhari is sowing is of God, he will reap it; if it is not of God, he will reap it.

” A responsible Nigerian cannot say that he is now higher than the law.

“After that statement, I realised that Buhari was back to 1983 when he was jailing former governors for 300 years and at the same time, he was allowing an Emir to come into the country with bags of millions of dollars; himself and the late Idiagbon decreed that people of certain age should not go for hajj and that same evening, their underage children went to Saudi Arabia.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigeria-at-58-you-will-reap-what-you.html

Put on your dance shoes as Subject recruits Paul Okoye of the Defunct P Square Rudeboy for new song titled ”Energy”.



Click here to download https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/music-subject-energy.html

Adebayo Shittu, Minister of Communication, has said it would be his pleasure to participate in the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC).

The minister, who was recently screened out of participation in the governorship primary of the party, for not participating in the NYSC scheme, had earlier insisted that he didn't need the certificate since he had done "higher service" in the Oyo State House of Assembly.However, on the programme, State Affairs, which was a interview by Edmund Obilo, recorded on Tuesday, Shittu said he would be willing to participate in the scheme.

Asked if he would be ready to participate in the NYSC scheme, he said: "Of course, I would go. It would be a pleasant thing to go. After I'm a governor by the grace of God."

He also said he would be ready to serve wherever he was posted, stating that "I'll serve in any place, if it becomes necessary for me to go."

When asked if he would still participate in the NYSC scheme, even if he doesn't become governor, he said: "If it becomes necessary, I will. Courts would have to decide whether serving in the House of Assembly and being minister is not superior and does not replace service in the NYSC."

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/adebayo-shittu-backtracks-says-itll-be.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has sent his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, following the death of an Air Force pilot, Bello Mohammed Baba-Ari, who was involved in a crash in Abuja on Saturday.

This was contained in a statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

Baba-Ari was the pilot involved in the F-7Ni aircraft crash in Katamkpe Hills, Abuja on Friday.

Although he made it out of the aircraft, he later died from injuries sustained during the crash.

The president also wished the two other officers who sustained injuries in the crash quick recovery.

He extolled the virtues of the dead pilot, saying he laid down his life in the service of his fatherland at a time that patriotic citizens were needed to join hands to move the nation forward.

He stated that, having paid the supreme sacrifice, the nation would not forget him and prayed that God will grant the soul of the departed eternal rest. He also assured family members that the country will not abandon them.

Representatives of the president also visited the two other officers, Squadron Leader Abatuba and Flight Lieutenant Ambi in the hospital, and conveyed the president's good wishes to them.

Buhari wished them quick recovery, assuring them the hearts of Nigerians are with them and are praying for them as they make a quick return to good health.

He assured Nigerians that the country will do whatever it takes to ensure that they are back on their feet in excellent state.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigeria-will-not-forget-late-pilot.html

Anambra and Enugu States have unanimously agreed to sheath the sword and do their boundary demarcation as decided by the two sister States.

A meeting between the two Deputy Governors including Dr. Nkem Okeke and Barrister Cecilia Ezeilo who are the Chairmen of their State Boundary Committee held yesterday.

Boundary Stakeholders in the two States and the federal government, attended the event held at the Enugu State Government House, Enugu.

Deputy Governor Okeke who reiterated that the National Boundary Commission does not establish demarcation to cause enmity among communities, but to foster developments in the individual Communities.

Dr Okeke further stressed the impressiveness of such Boundary meetings as it will lead to peaceful resolutions.

The Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barrister Ezeilo commended the National Boundary Commission, office of the Surveyor General of the Federation and members of the Boundary Committee of both States, for their relentless efforts geared towards definition, determination and demarcation of all interstates boundaries.

Barrister Ezeilo expressed optimism that the meeting will be effective to resolve all boundary disputes affecting Anambra and Enugu States.

The Director General of National Boundary Commission, Dr. Mohammed Ahmed represented by the Director, interstate Boundary, Mr Adamu Adaji said that so much efforts have been made to solve the boundary dispute between the two sister States, adding that demarcation exercise by the commission is to ensure unity between communities and States To Help them determine the limit of each road project they undertake.

Copies d communique was exchanged between the two states deputy governors, while the Traditional Ruler of Ibite-Olo and his local government chairman, the Traditional Ruler of Ifitedunu, among others, witnessed the occasion.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/anambraenugu-meet-over-boundary-dispute.html

Frontline governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Senator Magnus Ngei Abe, has threatened to boycott the primaries of the party scheduled this Saturday if the party fails to adopt direct primaries as earlier advocated by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party.

Abe, issued the threat while speaking at a mega rally organised by the APC in Rivers South-East senatorial district in Wiiyakara community, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The APC governorship hopeful also threatened that he would not accept the result of the primaries if a candidate emerges through indirect process.


Abe, who is the senator representing Rivers South-East district in the National Assembly, urged the party’s national leadership to reverse itself and conduct direct primaries in the state.

He said: “It is bad that we continue to worship individuals when we want change. It is clear that they are doing what they are doing because somebody has been appointed a DG (Director-General).

“If they are doing this to please one person, then the party will not move forward. If the primaries in Rivers is not through direct primaries I will not take part and I will not accept the result.

“If we continue to be a nation where individual are better than our institutions then something is wrong.

“When we were fighting former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Amaechi called me that I should lead the party in the state. I did but when I want to pursue my ambition he turned me down. I am the leader of APC in my senatorial district but I do not have a ward Chairman,” Abe lamented.

Abe told the committee that will organise the party’s primaries to remove his name from the list of aspirants if they are bent on indirect primaries.

“Today, I stand here to assure you that nobody is bigger than all of us. It is the responsibility of the party to bring a better ground for all the aspirants

“I hereby serve them a notice that they should remove my name from the list of the contestants. I will not participate in a process that has already been determined.

“I will not be part of a coronation that the king will not be crowned. They have gone to the national that they will send me home. Every campaign of hate must stop, Rivers must move forward,” Abe stated.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/abe-threatens-to-boycott-apc-primaries.html

The Governor Samuel Ortom-led Benue State Government has dragged Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and two commercial banks before the Federal High Court, Makurdi, the state capital over the recent freezing of its accounts.


The banks are United Bank for Africa, UBA, and Fidelity Bank.

The state government through the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice is demanding that the court declares that the EFCC acted against the law when it directed the banks to freeze its accounts.


The State Government is also praying the court to make a declaration that by freezing the said accounts, EFCC denied the government the right to operate and transact on the affected accounts.

The suit also seeks the verdict of the court to the effect that a state government’s account maintained with any bank or financial institution in Nigeria does not fall within the class of bank accounts liable to be frozen by EFCC.

Another relief sought by the Benue State Government is an order of perpetual injunction restraining the EFCC or its agents from freezing accounts held in UBA and Fidelity Bank or any other bank. The State Government is also demanding N30,000,000,000 from the defendants as damages suffered during the periods the accounts were frozen.


The case comes up on October 8 this year for hearing.

It will be recalled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on the 7th of August, 2018, ordered the freezing of Benue State Government’s accounts in UBA and Fidelity banks; a decision that adversely affected government business for some days.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/benue-government-drags-efcc-uba_71.html

The Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Olusegun Agbaje, has assured the electorate, voting at the state re-run election, of adequate security as voting process commences on Thursday.

Agbaje gave the assurance when he visited the polling unit at Ward 5, Unit 17, on Adewale Street, Alekuwodo Area in Osogbo.

He said INEC and the ad hoc staff were ready to conduct the election and that “the deployment of heavy security is an assurance that nobody or individuals can distrupt the process.

“INEC staff and ad hoc staff are prepared for the election and we have heavy security presence which will gurantee the safety of everyone.

“Anybody coming to snatch ballot boxes is putting his or life in danger.

“Party agents should conduct themselves in an orderly manner, while the electorate should remain peaceful.”

Agbaje equally charged corps members serving at polling units to take their time and make sure they verify voter cards very well before they allow them to vote.

He said “election should close by exactly 2 p.m. because of the limited units and voters”, saying he was optimistic the election would run smoothly.

Mr Emmanuel Attah, the State Cordinator of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Osun, said INEC had assured him of the safety of corps members that would be participating in the re-run election.

Attah said that the NYSC and corps members were apolitical and that they would carry out their task without fear or favour.

“I came to check how my children (corps members) are doing and know if they are properly taken care of.

“I am happy about how the whole election process is going and I wish the parties involved the best of luck.

“NYSC is apolitical and the corps members serving as INEC ad hoc staff are doing their duties without favour to any party.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/osun-re-run-ballot-box-snatching.html

Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba yesterday alleged a major breach and threat to his private security after two persons were arrested in connection with a drone deployed discreetly to monitor activities in his Abeokuta residence in Ogun State.

Osoba, Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) Constitution Drafting Committee, equally demanded thorough investigation into the deployment of the drone after the suspects were handed over to an arm of government agencies for investigation.
This was contained in a statement Osoba’s long-time political associate and a lawmaker in the seventh House of Representatives, Hon. Adekunle Adeyemi issued yesterday on his behalf.


In the one-page statement, Osoba lamented that the political climate of Ogun State had taken a dangerous dimension, which according to him, had triggered a major beach and threat to his personal security.

The statement, which the former governor personally sent to THISDAY, chronicled series of breach and threat to his private security, including an incident that occured yesterday and called on the security agencies to unravel the motive of those behind the plot.
Specifically, on Tuesday (yesterday) afternoon, the statement explained that two persons – a lady and a young man – were caught using drone to monitor activities in Osoba’s expansive compound in Abeokuta.

The statement added that the security staff of Osoba were able “to bring down the drone and got operators of the drone arrested. Neither of the arrested youngsters were able to give coherent explanation to Osoba’s security staff.
“Osoba arrived at Abeokuta from the United Kingdom early in the morning on Tuesday to prepare for a private meeting where the peaceful conduct of the presidential party primary scheduled to hold on Friday will be discussed.”

The statement added that the incident was another in series of breach of Osoba’s private security, a situation it described as disturbing and worrisome citing the recurrence of security breach of and threat to his private security. Few years ago, according to the statement, unknown people invaded part of the compound and buried armoured cable in a most professional manner.

The statement noted that two bungalows within the premises “were vandalised by unknown hoodlums. Another breach was when insultive and abusive graffiti were written around the fence of Chief Osoba’s house, not too long ago.”
With these series of security breach and threat, Osoba said those behind the latest action had been handed over to an arm of government agencies for investigation.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/osoba-alleges-threat-to-his-security.html

A motorcyclist and his passenger were on Monday crushed to death in an accident involving a truck and a motorcycle on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

My Babatunde Akinbiyi, the Public Relations Officer of Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), who confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abeokuta, said the incident happened close to a Connoil filling station on the highway.

Akinbiyi said that the accident, which occurred at about 6:20 p.m., was as a result of excessive speed and loss of control on the part of the driver of the truck with registration number JJJ 472 XP.

“The truck had hit the motorcycle with no registration number from the back, killing the motorcyclist and his passenger on the spot,” he said.

Akinbiyi added that the truck driver survived the accident while the corpses of the deceased were deposited at the morgue of Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.

“TRACE is using this opportunity again to admonish drivers, particularly drivers of articulated vehicles, to avoid excessive speed and give consideration to other road users for the safety of all,” he said.

More photos at https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/truck-crushes-motorcyclist-passenger-on.html

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the inconclusive governorship election in Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has thanked electorate in the state for their kind support in Saturday’s governorship poll.

Adeleke led the race with 254,698 votes, 353 votes more than that of Gboyega Oyetola of the APC.

The margin was, however, less than the 3,498 votes in the polling units where voting were cancelled.


Consequently, the Returning Officer for the election, Professor Joseph Afuape, declared the poll inconclusive.
But, Adeleke in a statement he personally signed on Sunday; said he was honoured to have won considerable votes across all local governments of the state despite the “blackmail” during electioneering campaign.
He, however, appealed to the people to rededicate themselves to the ‘struggle, adding that ‘the tyrants can be forced to submit to the will of the people.

The statement reads, “I sent my appreciation through this medium to Osun voters who find me worthy of their votes. Your votes humbled me and further strengthen my resolve to truly serve our people.
“Despite all the blackmails and persecution, you stand by me, you voted for me and you defended your votes. You adopted me as the rallying point of the redemption movement. Words cannot express the depth of my appreciation.
“We will get to the promised land. It started well and it will end in praise to our dear God. Let us rededicate ourselves to the struggle. You have proved that with determination, the most powerful tyrant can be forced to submit to the will of the people. I appreciate you all.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/osun-decides-adeleke-finally-breaks.html

The Search and Rescue Team of the Nigeria Army has vowed to find the body of missing Major-General Muhammad Idris Alkali, who was declared missing on September 3, 2018.

This was revealed after Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Major General Augustine Agundu, visited the pond where the general’s body and car may have been dumped.

Spokesman of the Special Task Force (STF), Major Adam Umar, told The Guardian that the team had started draining the water where his body might have been dumped.


“On Sunday, September 2, 2018 youth in the area protested the killing of their kinsmen and possibly the missing general could have been among the victims and we suspect that his body could be in the water.

“Although we are not sure where his body could have been dumped, we strongly suspect that he could be one of those thrown inside the pond. But as I speak, the draining of the water is still ongoing,” he said.

But a source said at the weekend that Alkali may have been killed together with the 11 people who were murdered on September 2, 2018 by unknown gunmen after which the youths protested and barricaded the road at Lopandet Dwei Community in Du District of Jos South Local Council of Plateau State.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/rescue-team-vows-to-find-body-of.html

Gov. Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa has pledged to pay the new minimum wage that is agreed upon by the tripartite committee constituted by the Federal Government

The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Jigawa chapter, Malam Usman Ya’u made the disclosure in Dutse on Sunday.

Ya’u said that in spite of the impasse in the committee’s meeting that led to the national leadership of the NLC giving a 14-day ultimatum which started on Sept. 12, to the tripartite committee to finish its assignment and announce a new minimum wage.

“I am, however, glad to assure the workers in Jigawa that the state government, led by Gov. Muhammadu Badaru, has expressed readiness to pay whatever is agreed upon by the committee,’’ he said.

The chairman said that labour was not happy with the delay on the issue of new minimum wage, particularly since the tripartite committee was set up in 2017 and held the public hearings in the six geo-political zones.
Ya’u said that in view of the ultimatum by labour to government, Jigawa Council of NLC will on Sept. 24 hold its executive council meeting to deliberate on the directives from the National Secretariat and other issues affecting workers.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/new-minimum-wage-jigawa-government.html

non-governmental organisation, ‘I Am Change’ Humanitarian Organisation, has trained about 64 youths on vocational skills and information and communication technology in Sokoto State.

The youths, aged between 18 and 25 years old, were selected from the Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic, Sokoto state and trained on computer skills and solar power installations during the programme.


At the training programme, the Executive Director of the organisation, Hajia Hafsat Umaru Shinkafi, said the training was in partnership with Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

She said the programme was in fulfillment of the organisation’s core objectives to provide policy support, advocacy and develop programs in support of youths and vulnerable citizens of the country.

Hafsat described the vocational skills being imparted on the youths as the most sought after job skills which are needed in any community, calling on the youths to utilise the skills acquired in order to improve their lives.

The executive director said the training programme “is an opportunity for you to be self-reliant and also become useful members of the society.”

In his remarks, Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, who was represented by the Head of Service, Dr. Bello Kware commended the organisation for ts efforts in training youths in the state to be
self-reliant.

“This is a laudable initiative because there is no lasting gift to give a youth other than that of education. This administration had embarked on youth development programmes within the last three years especially in the education sector and training of civil servants through computer skills,” Kware explained.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/ngo-ahmadu-bello-foundation-train-64.html

Except for its indefinite suspension last Wednesday, the national carrier, Nigeria Air, was to cost Nigeria at least N180b yearly for the next 10 years, operators have said.

Local airlines operators, who are privy to the actual business design, as well as, the cost implications said the financial commitment, weaved into the five per cent equity, was mandatory to keep the airline up and running.Even though the Minister of State for Aviation Hadi Sirika did not give reasons for the suspension of the airline, which he earlier said would takeoff on December 24, 2018, The Guardian’s investigation showed that the development was not unconnected with investors’ apathy, ownership structure and funding issues.

It was further learnt that the huge financial request forced the last Federal Executive Council (FEC) to drop Nigeria Air off the priority list, since it was not budgeted for anywhere.While the operators described the indefinite suspension of the launch as a step in the right direction, sources hinted that over a billion naira had been sunk into the business case design, work by the transaction advisory team in the last two years, and unveiling of the logo in London recently.

According to the Chairman of the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON), Capt. Nogie Meggison, setting up an airline requires huge capital investment and that explains why national carriers are no long fashionable around the world. Meggison said it was in this light that AON continued to call for a rethink, especially given the tough economic situation in the country and the fact that “it is a moribund idea”

Meggison said: “Setting up of National Carrier will cost Nigeria at least N1.08t ($3b). A single Boeing 777 as of today costs about N115.2b ($320m).“Is it wise and should it be our priority as a nation to take $3b from our coffers today and put into a venture that will for sure go down the drain within a maximum of five years it will take to establish a national carrier?

Also, bear in mind that the national carrier will need an additional cash injection of N180bn ($500m) subsidy per year on average for the next 10 years to keep the airline afloat, while about 97 per cent of the 200 million Nigerian masses today are grappling for the basic necessities of life; food, shelter, electricity, water, education and good roads,” he said.

Sharing AON’s view that owning a national airline because of national pride is out of vogue because it is capital intensive is Chief Executive Officer of Topbrass Aviation Services, Capt. Roland Iyayi. Iyayi said: “Just recently, the South African government had to inject $2m into the South African Airways, but how many times will a government be bailing out a national airline? There was a time Alitalia was bailed out by the Italian government, and when it found out that it was no longer tenable, it turned to privatisation.

“I am a businessman. If I have already lost $5m and I see that my continued exposure to the same enterprise would amount to $100m loss, I would choose, which of the two options is cheaper for me. And that will be $5. Meaning that no matter how much the government has expended now, it will be pittance to what it will lose in the long term. For me, I would stop now instead of doing something that is not sustainable.”

The Federal Government in July unveiled the name and logo of the proposed national carrier, Nigeria Air, at the Farnborough International Public Airshow in London. As contained in the Outline Business Case (OBC) approved by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and disclosed to the public, the airline is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project, with 95 per cent share pushed to investors while the government will own the rest.To get the new national carrier start off, the government will be injecting N3.168b ($8.8m) as the startup capital. It was learnt that the N3.2b is part-payment for the government’s five per cent equity in the investment, whose takeoff fund in the next three years of operation has been put at N108b ($300m).

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigeria-air-to-cost-nation-n180b-yearly.html

Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice-President and presidential aspirant seeking to contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), says only “immoral leaders” would prioritise politics over the country’s fiscal future.

He stated this in response to a post on Nigeria's 2017 earnings from oil, to which he highlighted ways he intends to develop the economy if elected President.

Atiku, who once served as Vice-President of Nigeria for eight years, went ahead to allude to the “failure” of the economic policies of the present administration.

A tweet via his handle read: “What is obvious is that Nigeria is in a dire fiscal condition, but the FG is quiet about it, because to admit this would be to also admit their economic policies have failed.
“Only immoral leaders would put politics ahead of Nigeria’s fiscal future. One of my first tasks as president would be to reintroduce transparency into the management of our nation’s economy.
“Having set the standard for focal transparency as VP and head of economic council, I know this is critical for turning our economic fortunes.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/only-immoral-leaders-would-put-politics.html

A former Minister of Aviation and senator representing Anambra North in the National Assembly, has left the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) just three months after joining the party.
_
However, she has announced a return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a party she left in June, saying she was wrong to think APGA had ideological leanings to Igboland.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/breaking-i-thought-they-had-ideology.html

Alcohol is responsible for the death of around 3 million people per year, according to a new report by the World Health Organization.

The UN health agency’s latest report on alcohol and health pointed out that alcohol causes more than one in 20 deaths globally each year, including drink driving, alcohol-induced violence and abuse and a multitude of diseases and disorders.

The report, which comes out every four years, shows that about 2.3 million of those deaths in 2016 were among men, and that almost 29% of all alcohol-caused deaths were down to injuries – including traffic accidents and suicide.

The report reveals the continued impact of alcohol on public health around the world, and highlights that the young bear the brunt: 13.5% of deaths among people in their 20s are linked to booze, with alcohol responsible for 7.2% of premature deaths overall.

It also indicates that harms from drinking are greater among among poorer consumers than wealthier ones.
The agency alcohol control expert Dr Vladimir Poznyak, who was involved in the report, said the health burden of alcohol is “unacceptably large”.
Though 95% of countries impose taxes on alcohol, the World Health Organization expects more actions to be undertaken by countries, adding that fewer than half of them use other price strategies such as banning below-cost selling or volume discounts.
“Governments need to do more to meet the global targets and to reduce the burden of alcohol on societies; this is clear, and this action is either absent or not sufficient in most of the countries of the world,” said Poznyak.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/alcohol-kills-over-3-million-people.html

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant and Governor of Sokoto State, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, has assured Nigerians that he will back the much sought after restructuring by a segment of Nigerians if elected the president of the country in 2019.

Tambuwal said that the presidency remains the symbol of the country, adding that he won’t fan the ember of ethnicity or exhibit those tendencies that would make Nigerians perceive him as a sectional leader, as being allegedly experienced under President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

Tambuwal, who spoke in Ado Ekiti on Friday while meeting with PDP delegates in advancement of his aspiration, said he decided to contest the 2019 presidency having realised the lopsidedness in President Buhari’s government in terms of poor performance and failure of governance.

He said he had ruminated on the cost of being a president of a complex nation like Nigeria and was determined to offer dynamic leadership that would unify Nigeria and make it a potent force that would be recognised globally.

The Sokoto State Governor urged the PDP members not to waver in spite of alleged oppression and humiliation being meted to some of their leaders by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government.

The PDP presidential aspirant said: “The focus of every Nigerian in 2019 is to vote for a president that is pan-Nigerian. A man who is not an ethnic jingoist or religious bigot.

“We are all aware that the present government is desperate to perpetuate itself in power. They are ready to do those things outside the laws of the land to remain in power. That was why they have been harassing leaders like Governor Ayodele Fayose.

“You must try and give the PDP flag to someone who believes in the unification of this country, Someone who has traversed the length and breadth of this nation. Someone who has moved from Maiduguri to Lagos, from Port Harcourt to Sokoto and from the East to the extreme North as a private person.

“As the former Deputy Minority Whip, Minority Leader and Speaker in the House of Representatives, I have an idea about the geographical configuration of this nation, so I am in good position to respect individual rights.

“I will not be that president that will shut the doors against restructuring, I will even facilitate debate that will quickly enhance true and proper fiscal federalism. As a leader, it is not good for you to impose your will on the people, you must allow diverse opinions based on our religious and ethnic diversity.


“As a president, I will respect the rule of law. I won’t be a president that would say national security is higher than the rights of individuals. I will ensure we have peace across the nation through enhanced technology to build security architecture that will protect Nigerians.”

He urged the members of the party to be resolute in spite of the alleged intimidation of members using the state apparatuses, saying: “We need a courageous PDP to take over power in 2019.

“I thank Governor Fayose for his resilience and leadership because if not for people like him, the PDP would not have been where it is today. Governor Fayose has fought hard to reposition the party in Ekiti and at the national level.”

Also speaking at the event, Ekiti State Governor Fayose described the APC-led federal government as a ‘monster’ that was only allegedly interested in oppressing people with power, rather than transforming their lives.

The governor lambasted the federal government for allegedly excluding Ekiti from benefiting from the N2.5 million budget support and N11 billion Paris Club refunds released to some states recently, alluding to such as anti-democratic and against the principles of federation.

He urged the Sokoto State governor and presidential aspirant to campaign for the PDP the way he did in 2015 for President Buhari.

ayose said: “You (Tambuwal) were one of those who repackaged President Buhari in 2015 and ensured he won the presidential election. You must make sure you do same in the 2019 election.

“Everyone knows that we need a youthful president with energy. Someone who can see Nigeria as one indivisible entity, not a tribalist and religious bigot. The treasure of any man is his vitality, which would make him work harder to deliver his people from poverty.

“Look at what they did now, they excluded Ekiti from N11.6 billion Paris Club and N2.5 billion budget support fund I would have used to pay the backlog of salaries.

“I want to appeal to all workers to ensure that the money is not diverted. They should ensure that it was used to pay their salaries the way I would have loved to do.

“So, in selecting the presidential candidate for our party, Ekiti delegates will vote wisely. We will vote for a president we can trust and the one that will see all Nigerians as one,” he said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/aminu-tambuwal-i-will-back.html

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State governorship aspirant, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday confirmed that he has the support of the 57 local government chairmen.

He, however, refuted speculations that they were doing so for monetary gains.

The former commissioner is being backed by the Mandate Movement, a group loyal to APC national leader, Bola Tinubu, who had allegedly endorsed Babajide Sanwo-Olu to succeed Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.


A statement by the Media Director of Babajide Sanwo-Olu Campaign Organisation (BOSCO), Olusesan Daini, said it welcomed various endorsements and support with excitement.

The statement said: “We are reading all sorts of lies, distortions of facts and some falsehood posts on social media aimed at disparaging our movement and our leader.

“But we have decided not to respond to them because most of the posts are without authors. Rather than dissipate energy on all that, we have concentrated work on mobilising our base and preparing everyone for the election.


“Some party leaders who have openly identified with Mr. Sanwo-Olu include former minister and notable politicians, Mr. Ademola Seriki, Senator Gbenga Ashafa (Lagos East Senatorial District), former House of Representatives member Monsuru Owolabi (Bertola) and several current House of Representatives members; a one-time Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, frontline politician Mr. Shakirudeen Sola Giwa, Cardinal Omolaja Odumbaku (Baba Eto) among others.

“We expressed joy and excitement at the outpouring of love from Lagosians, particularly the torrent of endorsements from various political and socio-economic groups across the state and several Lagosians living in the Diaspora. It is a confirmation that the people of Lagos are fully in support of my aspiration to administer the state as governor.”

“Apart from Conference 57, which listed the sterling qualities of the aspirant and stood behind him from the beginning, many other political associations and groups have come out to declare their support for him ahead of the party primary elections.

“We have received calls from hundreds of notable politicians from across Lagos State, declaring their love for the choice of Sanwo-Olu. Some have actually written us letters to pledge their support and to endorse our man. Just yesterday (Wednesday), the Private Sector Participants (PSP) operators in Lagos issued a statement to applaud the choice of Sanwo-Olu, whom many have described as a great administrator, a listening leader and a man of character.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/why-57-lg-chairmen-in-lagos-are-behind.html

Again, the bears regained dominance at the end of transactions yesterday on the equity sector of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), following price losses incurred by most blue chip companies, forcing the All-share index to drop marginally by 0.02 per cent.

Yesterday, the ASI shed 5.88 absolute points or 0.02 per cent to close at 32,375.12 points. Also, the market capitalisation declined by N3 billion to close at N11.819 trillion.Analysts had predicted negative outlook for the market owing to the absence of a near term positive catalyst even as foreign investors’ response to political risk lingers.

Analysts at Afrinvest Limited, said: “We continue to observe improving sentiment in the market, which we opine results from investors positioning in fundamentally sound stocks.


“Despite the negative performance yesterday, we expect the performance of the market to be uplifted by close of the week on bargain hunting activities.” Also, APT Securities and Funds Limited, said: “The market shuffles in between sell-offs and mild bargain hunting as outlook remains negative in the near term. We therefore maintain cautious stand point as foreign investors’ response to political risk lingers.”
The downturn was impacted by losses recorded in medium and large capitalised stocks, amongst which are; International Breweries, PZ Cussons Nigeria, FBN Holdings, AXA Mansard and United Bank for Africa (UBA).However, market breadth closed positive, with 24 gainers versus 13 losers. Forte Oil recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent to close at N22, while Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN), followed with a gain of 9.73 per cent to close at N24.80, per share.
Regency Alliance Insurance and Sovereign Trust Insurance gained 9.09 per cent to close at 24 kobo each, while Prestige Assurance appreciated by 8.77 per cent to close at 62 kobo per share.On the other hand, AXA Mansard led the losers’ chart by 9.65 per cent to close at N2.06, while Capital Oil trailed at a loss of eight per cent to close at 23 kobo per share.
PZ Cussons Nigeria depreciated 7.41 per cent to close at N12.50, while Consolidated Hallmark Insurance, and International Breweries shed 6.25 per cent each to close at 30 kobo and N30 per share, respectively.
The total volume traded depreciated by 29.45 per cent to 190.35 million shares worth N1.77 billion, and traded in 2,780 deals. Transactions in the shares of Red Star Express topped the activity chart with 60.33 million shares valued at N298.31 million. Zenith Bank followed with 24.17 million shares worth N500.25 million, while Oando traded 22.11 million shares valued at N112.61 million.Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp) traded 9.89 million shares valued at N12.22 million, while Fidelity Bank transacted 6.28 million shares worth N10.41 million.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/bears-regain-dominance-as-nse-index.html

An octogenarian herbalist, Hussaini Musa, was, yesterday, paraded by the Katsina State Police Command in connection with the beheading of a Police officer attached to 56 PMF, Special Duty, Operation Safe Haven, Jos, Plateau State.

The Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Wakili, while addressing newsmen shortly before parading the suspect at the police headquarters yesterday, said the herbalist was arrested with two others for beheading Sergeant Unana Ishaya. Wakili stated that the suspects plucked out the sergeant’s eyes after beheading him, as part of requirements given to them by the herbalist, Hussaini Musa, for a charm jacket which will enable them to carry out robbery and afterwards escape arrest by disappearing. One of the suspects, Abubakar Sani, told Vanguard that they wanted to use the charmed jacket to rob the EFCC office in Jos, where they suspected there was huge amount of money, without having to breaking in. According to the Police boss, “so they surprised the officer, who was on a special duty at a joint, though not in uniform, and beheaded him. According to them, the policeman was drunk, though an investigation is in progress to ascertain what happened. “Part of the requirements is to dry the eyes. So they were arrested while drying the eyes in their apartment.” The commissioner said operatives attached to the state police command’s intelligence bureau bust the cultists’ activities based on a tip-off. He identified the suspects as one Abubakar Sani, alias Abu Kwaya, 35; Abubakar Sani, alias Abu Dan Bauchi, 28, and the herbalist, Hussaini Musa, 80. Wakili said the command recovered the two human eyeballs in a plastic container, the axe used in beheading the Police sergeant, the dagger used in plucking the eyes of the deceased and some clothes. He added that the suspects have confessed to the crime, with each stating the role they played in committing the offence, noting that “they will be arraigned in court immediately the investigation is completed.”

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/80-yr-old-herbalist-2-others-behead.html

The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has since started sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for its members seeking to contest various offices in the 2019 general elections, thus increasing the pace of political activities at the Wadata Plaza, the National headquarters of the PDP in Abuja as political office seekers come in on daily basis to purchase forms.

The opposition party pegged the expression of interest forms for presidential aspirants‎ at N2 million, while nomination form is pegged at N10 million. Also, expression of interest form for the Governorship election is pegged at N1 million, while nomination‎ form is N5 million. Similarly, expression of interest from for the Senate is pegged at N500, 000, while nomination form is pegged at N3 million‎. Expression of interest form for the House of Representatives is pegged at N500,000, while nomination form is N1.5 million. The party’s nomination forms for national delegates is pegged at N20,000, while that of three ad-hoc ‎delegates is pegged at N5,000.


The party has directed all aspirants for Presidential, Governorship, Senate, and House of Representatives to purchase their forms at the national headquarters of the party in Abuja, while all aspirants for State House of Assembly elections are to purchase their forms at the national or state party secretariats. The party however exempted all female aspirants from payment for purchase of nomination forms for all offices except national ad-hoc delegate categories.

When compared with 2015 general elections, the main opposition party revised downward its fees. In 2015, the then ruling party pegged its presidential nomination and expression of interest form at N22 million in 2015, while that of governorship was N11 million . I
n 2015, the Senate was N4.5 million, while House of Representatives was pegged at N2.5 million. The House of Assembly was pegged at N1.2 million.
Political heavyweight jostle for PDP ticket

Despite the party selling forms for various political positions, the presidential ticket has attracted so many political heavyweight within the party. As at last count, the opposition party already has 13 aspirants jostling for its presidential ticket.

Those in the race for the presidential ticket of the PDP are: former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwabo; President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki; former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido; former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed Makarfi; and former Minister Special Duties Duties and Inter-governmental Affaires, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki.
Others are: former President of the Senate, David Mark; former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; a former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa; a former Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang; Mr. Stanley Osifo and a former Senator, Dr. Baba Datti Ahmed.

Presidential aspirants disagree on consensus candidate

However presidential aspirants on the platform of PDP seem not to agree on a consensus candidate. While some think it is the best if an agreement could be reached, others think it will be undemocratic.

A former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Governor of Sokoto state, Aminu Tambuwal said that having a consensus candidate in the 2019 general elections was part of democratic process.

Tambuwal, said, “I can’t say there is no need for consensus; it is part of democratic process. If there is a possibility of it, why not? If it is not possible, then, we all go for the primaries. But I believe that PDP of today is capable of organising free, fair, credible and transparent primaries.”

Also, Presidential hopeful and former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki said that no agreement has been reached about presenting consensus candidate.

He said; “the position of the party is that the party is not forcing the aspirants to a consensus, the party just wants the aspirants to discuss among themselves. I cannot tell you on good authority now the position, because each aspirant has been coming here to pick the form. So that presupposes for now that there is no discussion amongst them for a consensus, otherwise only one person would have probably picked the form at this stage.”

On his part, the former governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, vehemently opposed presenting consensus candidate, saying it is undemocratic.
He noted; “I think you people are not interested in democracy. If we are talking of consensus at least we are players. I expected you to be a good watchers of the playing ground so that you can see how the game is going to play. If we say that we are going for consensus, what are we going to do with it? We agree we are all brothers. We see it as a game.

“Therefore, if anybody is interested in withdrawing himself from the race, it’s a welcome idea. But talking of consensus you are going to fall like APC where we are going to have a one-man show.

“We don’t want to go for one-man show. We want to practise democracy so that people will choose their own better candidate. For example, if APC is playing democracy, they will allow an least three to four aspirants to aspire for the position. But because the party is a limited liability company while PDP is a public limited company, it is welcome by everybody,” he noted.

Meanwhile, former governor of Kano state, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso said presenting a consensus candidate is the best. “if the window exist, which I know it does, presenting a consensus candidate is the best,” he sake.


The opposition party appears to have learnt some lessons having been out of power for more than three and half years. It has insisted that it won’t force a consensus candidate on the aspirants.
The party has also assured that the process of picking a candidate for the party in the forthcoming election will be free, fair, credible and transparent.

PDP BoT moves to forestall post primary crisis

In a move to avoid post primary crisis that may lead to party implosion, the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) last week met and barred its members from campaigning for any presidential aspirants on the platform of the party.
The BoT Chairman, Senator Jibril Walid revealed that the board was working to ensure that it reduces the increasing number of presidential aspirants but noted that it would not force any aspirant from stepping down.

He stated: “If you are a member of BoT, you remain as a member of BoT and conscience of the party. They should not move about with any aspirant. If we are really conscience of the party, we should not move about with aspirants. That was what happened during the last national convention when we elected the National Chairman. Some of us went and pitched camp with aspirants, taking them all over the place.

“This time, we will not allow that to happen. Anyone of us who moves about with any aspirant should resign from the BoT. We are the one that will settle the complain. But if we are involved, it will not be fair. So we have told the members not to campaign with the aspirants; we are also the delegates.,” the BoT chairman said.

Walid also revealed that the BoT also deliberated on the current situation in the party as regards the increasing number of aspirants, while recommending that the situation should be well managed in order to avoid crisis.

He said; “The presidential aspirants are 13, we are trying our best to ensure that the number is reduced. But we are not forcing anybody. More consultation going among the elders. We are going to bring out a committee that will be best for Nigerians. We are forming a committee to meet with the aspirants. After that we will decide on what to do. We have decided to form a special committee to advice the NWC.”
The BoT insisted that there should be free and fair elections during the forthcoming primary and there should be no impunity, and no godfatherism.

Sets up Committee to choose consensus candidacy

The BoT earlier in the week revealed that it has set up a 12-member committee to discuss with the party’s 13 presidential aspirants, with the view to picking one of them as consensus candidate.

Though the BoT refused to reveal the identities of the member of the committee.
The Chairman of the BoT confirmed in a text message that the committee would impress it on the aspirants the dangers inherent in having such a large number of them in the race.
Jibrin who admitted that the present number of aspirants was complex, saying that there were fears that there could be disagreement among the contestants that could lead to major divisions after the primaries.

He stated: “A committee has been set up to discuss with all the aspirants to come up with one of them as a consensus candidate. We have 13 of them in the race. We have also advised the leadership of the party to regulate the processes and draw a code of conduct to guide the conduct and behaviour of the aspirants and officials to be engaged in the selection process.”

“Consequently, the BoT has forwarded its full recommendations to the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP for consideration,” Jibril stated.

PDP Governors kick against consensus candidacy
The PDP Governors’ Forum after meeting with the party’s presidential aspirants said that they would prefer a healthy primary contest to the attempt of the party leadership to produce a consensus presidential candidate.

Though the governors said they would have preferred a consensus candidacy but said that they would not impressed it on the aspirants.
The governors als agreed that the party’s national convention, where the presidential candidate would emerge, should be held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

Analysts views

Political analysts believe that while all the aspirants for the ticket of the party have something to offer, it would be better to put forward a candidate who is facing corruption cases hanging on their necks.
Another school of thought posits that a strong message would have been sent in favour of loyalty, if the PDP presidential candidate is one of those who kept his allegiance to the party when others abandoned it. For now, the candidate that will win the October 6 primary is anyone’s guess.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/2019-who-wins-pdp-presidential-ticket.html