₦airaland Forum

Breaks academics reward jinx Says, modern facilities help her learning One of the grave factors militating against development of education in the land is the refusal of many Nigerian billionaires and corporate organisations to reward excellence in the academia. Instead, they take delight in rewarding talents in beauty pageants, Big Brother Nigeria and Gulder Ultimate Search to mention a few.

However, that jinx was broken recently, when a medical student at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, ABUAD, Miss Esther Adaobi Azom was rewarded with a N5.7million brand new car and over a million naira cash for her academic performance. The youngster, whose life epitomized success became the cynosure of all eyes when it was disclosed during the induction of 34 medical doctors of ABUAD that she maintained distinctions throughout her stay in the university. Azom, 24 who was admitted to read medicine in 2011/2012 academic session maintained distinctions in all her courses from 100 Level to 500 Level. She also set an academic standard that would be difficult for incoming medical students to match as, she obtained distinctions in Surgery, Medicine and Community Medicine in the final MBBS examinations. With this academics feat, Esther unarguably became the best graduating medical student of the institution. Having monitored her academics performance from year one, the Founder and Chancellor of ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola bestowed the N500,000 Founder’s Annual Scholarship Award on her. This she received from her 100 Level to 500 Level. What it portends is that, Azom was already a millionaire before she graduated as a medical doctor. During her induction which took place last week Thursday at the Alfa Belgore Hall, ABUAD, Ado-Ekiti, everyone present wanted to contribute and identify with her success. Owner of Coscharis Motors, Mr Cosmas Maduka opened the floor with the presentation of N5.7 million car to her. He told the institution that the gesture was his little way of encouraging hard work and excellence among students. Again, Are Afe Babalola, at the ceremony announced a reward of N500,000 cash for Azom, reiterating that she had distinctions in all the three MBBS courses. On his part, the Oni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Eniitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II who stormed the ceremony with his chiefs and some other first class Obas in Yoruba land, gave her N250,000 and another N1,000,000 to establish ABUAD Medical Doctors Alumni club as a medium to assist the institution and give back to the society. Besides, Oba Dr. Kiladejo, Jilo III, the Osemawe and Paramount ruler of Ondo Kingdom, who is also a medical doctor, gave Esther an undisclosed amount. Just as the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejuyigbe Aladesanmi III, in the same vein gave Esther an undisclosed amount too. Apparently, when Esther set out to read medicine at ABUAD six years ago, little did she know that her hardwork would be handsomely rewarded this way. This gesture from ABUAD and other donors have demonstrated to Nigerians that handsome rewards are not meant only for beauty pageants, Big Brother Nigeria winners, Gulder Ultimate Search winners. It has changed the narrative and indicates that academic success should be handsomely rewarded to encourage hard work and healthy competition among the youth. This exceptional youngster who hails from Anambra State was born to a family of four and her siblings are very brilliant, according to her parents. Esther, while speaking with some journalists said: “My experience as a medical student at ABUAD has been great. “It’s been challenging being a medical student, however, above all, you cannot overlook the part God played in all these activities. “I thank God that in the end it has been wonderful. Now I can only look back and smile.” According to her, hard work and consistency contributed to her academic feat, adding, “In medical school, consistency is key.” Her words: “ABUAD is great, my university is the best. The school impacted my life to make me know that hard work is the key to success. I specially thank ABUAD for all these. “I always felt I would be the best because I worked towards it. I want to advise students that hard work pays, keep reading, keep doing what you can, go to a good school and you will never regret it. “At ABUAD, some modern facilities available in the Teaching Hospital that helped our learning include the diagnostic centre which isequipped with CT SCAN, MRI, X-RAY, Ultrasound 2D, 3D, 4D, Modern Laboratory equipment (supplied and managed by the world-renowned Abbott Laboratory), Five Modular theatres, Pneumatic Tubes connecting 37 Floors, Medical Gas & Oxygen (supplied and managed by Protech Gas) for use of the Hospital and for sale to other hospitals in the country and beyond. “Medical services available include Accident and Emergency, Surgery, Pharmacy, Paediatrics, Obstretrics and Gynaecology, Community Medicine, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Fluoroscopy, Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, Gastroscopy, Brochoscopy, Arthroscopy, Bone Densitometer, Pet-Scan, Nuclear Medicine, Echodardiagraphy, ECGand Threadmill Test as well as Function Test (PFT) among several others.” Asked about her plans, Esther said housemanship is the next thing on her mind. Her mother, Blessing Azom said: “Esther Azom is an exceptional girl. She has been like that since primary school.” According to her, While in primary school, she traveled to South Africa to represent Nigeria in jet competition. She added: “While she was a little girl, I saw her potential and did my best because I am a teacher too. I did my best to encourage her and ensured that what I saw in her did not die. “From all that I know, ABUAD is a special school in terms of academics and environment. She is my second born, the first is in the U.K. doing his PhD. My plans for her is to do her housemanship, youth service and travel abroad. ABUAD is a good school, but at the same time not a cheap school. I would not start to calculate what we spent here because it’s worth it at the end of the day.” On his part, Esther’s father, Emmanuel Azom who is a businessman said he was humbled by what he saw at the induction ceremony. He said: “Sincerely, I didn’t think it could be of this magnitude. Anyway, I saw this coming especially with Esther because she has been bright right from primary school. “Once you mention Baptist High School, she is a special person there. In her WASSCE, she had 6As.” Asked the role he played as a father to Esther’s success, he said his role is like the typical Nigerian man in the running up and down to get the funds for her education. “If there is any human efforts to the academic success of Esther, I would ascribe it to my wife who is a teacher.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/abuad-best-med-doctor-esther-azom-gets.html

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has said it generated N3.5 trillion for Federal Government between the months of January and September 2018.The Executive Chairman, FIRS, Tunde Fowler, who disclosed this in Lagos, during a stakeholders meeting, said the amount generated was N1trillion higher than the revenue it recorded in the corresponding period of 2017.

While reeling out the statistics that showed how the agency has fared since 2016, Fowler stated that FIRS had a bank turnover of more than N5 billion from those who have not paid taxes.He said the 23 banks the agency has so far analysed, there were about “31,395 records, out of which, effectively, minus duplications, we have 18,602” that attracted attention.

“We broke these into three categories- those that have Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN); those that have no TIN and of course, no TIN, no payment; and those that have TINs and are not even paying anything.”According to him, the total number of “TINs and no pay,” and “no TIN and no pay” is 6,772, which would soon have their accounts frozen or put under substitution, pending when they come forward.

“First of all, they refused to come forward in 2016; they also refused to come forward under the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) and now, we are putting them on notice that it is their civic responsibility to pay taxes and to file all audit accounts.”He said that government would sell properties built and developed in corporate names across the country on which taxes were not being paid. He however, admitted that some have paid when contacted, but warned that FIRS “will go to court to get approval or court order to sell those properties”, whose owners are irresponsive. We are not only doing that in Abuja, but also in Lagos. We are currently going to Osun, Oyo, Kaduna and eventually, we will cover the whole federation.”

While calling on banks to support the service, the FIRS chief announced that the service has come up with a consolidated data base for all tax payers in Nigeria, which he said would be ready before the end of the month of September.

Meanwhile, Fowler stated that the service would commence audit of taxpayers across the country, to ensure increased tax revenue collection, improved service delivery to tax payers and enhanced voluntary compliance.Some of the stakeholders, who commended the service for the efforts made to deepen tax administration in the country, urged that taxes collected by relevant government agencies be appropriately remitted, while the issue of multiple taxation across tiers of government be adequately addressed.

The Head of Tax at KPMG, Wole Abayomi, explained the need for tax reforms and bemoaned the 10-year period it took after the previous tax reforms was done, saying it should now be a yearly affair.He also expressed worry that three months after VAIDS’ deadline, no action has been taken by government, “so that those paying their tax accurately would not feel shortchanged.”

A representative of Andersen Tax, Chinedu Ezomike, canvassed guidelines on how small businesses in the informal sector can be helped to pay taxes without affecting their operations negatively.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/firs-freezes-6772-accounts-generates.html

The Lagos State Government has delighted retirees from the state’s public service with the release of N720.445 million into the Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) of 190 Contributory Pension Scheme retirees in the month of August 2018.

Addressing the retirees at the 54th Retirement Benefit Bond Certificate Presentation at Ikeja, Lagos, the Commissioner for Establishment, Training and Pensions, Dr. Akintola Benson Oke, said that 9,591 retirees have had accrued rights of N39.45 billion paid into their Retirement Savings Accounts in the last 36 months- August 2015 – August 2018.

Akintola said that pensioners have remained on the payroll priority of the state government monthly and that the state is happy that it had cleared the backlog, which was on ground at the beginning of the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC), Mrs. Folasade Onanuga, expressed gratitude to the retirees for their contributions in the development of the state, assuring them of the governor’s commitment to their welfare. She advised the retirees to spend wisely in retirement, saying: “Any project you know you cannot finish, don’t put your money into it.”The retirees in their responses thanked the LASPEC for operational effectiveness and efficiency in the past years and implored the workers to keep up the good work.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/lagos-settles-n720m-accrued-pension.html

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Sunday asked government agencies to closely monitor the operations of MTN Nigeria, in the light of the Thabo Mbeki report on illicit financial flow.

NLC President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba said in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja that the Labour body has been vindicated by recent report by the Central Bank of Nigeria on the alleged illicit activities of the company and the tax invasion report of the office of the Attorney General of the Federation against the company.

Wabba said the congress had earlier highlighted labour laws, local content law and security breaches by MTN which led to fatalities of our security personnel in the North East conflict area.

He said “We at the Nigeria Labour Congress hereby urge MTN Nigeria to comply without further delay with the directive of the Federal Government to it to pay $2 billion in tax arrears as well as the $8.13 billion it was said to have illegally repatriated to South Africa over which four indigenous banks have been fined.

“We similarly urge the Federal Government to spare no effort in recovering this money as anything to the contrary will send wrong signals to other corporate organisations it had punished for lesser tax infractions.

“The need to enforce this order is all the more compelling when it is realised that workers pay taxes they can ill-afford, but religiously pay all the same. It is also worth noting that government’s tax reforms have been skewed in favour of corporate organisations, there is no reason for a default. After all, every taxable person is expected to pay their tax as when due.

“If companies default, with what is government expected to run the country or conduct its business? In our view, this incident does not just directly testy to the Thabo Mbeki Report on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa, it is a major crime against the government and people of Nigeria.

“On our part, we are not surprised by the unethical conduct of MTN. They are not only engaged in the exploitation of Nigerian workers and turning them into slaves, but have extended their frontiers to unwholesome economic exploitation and sabotage.

“The questions on every ones lips are: How many times has MTN done this? How many other companies are doing this? In our Tax Justice Campaign, we relentlessly and assiduously drew the attention of government and the entire citizenry to this humongous crime against the vulnerable people of Africa, especially Nigeria, over 70 million of whom are said to be the poorest in the world.

“In our candid view, government should use this opportunity to send an appropriate message to everyone especially corporate organisations who often pay taxes in the breach. Coupled with this, government’s tax reforms will only make meaning if they are judiciously and judicially executed.

“Finally, we feel vindicated by the latest discovery. While offering an explanation for picketing MTN offices across the country in July this year, we highlighted labour laws, local content law and security breaches by MTN which led to fatalities of our security personnel in the North Easy conflict area.
“We exposed other acts of impunity by MTN in spite of the fact that 60 % of its global income comes from Nigeria.
“Coupled with demanding MTN obey our national laws by allowing unionisation, we urged critical government agencies such as NCC, EFCC, DSS, Immigration and Central Bank to closely look into the operations of the company, especially in light of the Thabo Mbeki Report. We are vindicated.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/probe-mtns-operations-in-nigeria-nlc.html

The equity market witnessed the seventh consecutive trading sessions amid continuous sell off yesterday, resulting to a further decline in the All-share index by 0.84 per cent.



Yesterday, the All Share Index (ASI) was down by 270.56 absolute points, representing a decrease of 0.84 per cent, to close at 32,022.23 points. Similarly, the market capitalisation dipped N98 billion, to close at N11.691 trillion.



The downturn was impacted by losses recorded in medium and large capitalised stocks, amongst which are; Nestle Nigeria, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN), Conoil, Lafarge Africa, and Forte Oil.


Analysts at Cordros Capital, said: “our outlook for equities in the near-to-medium term is negative; and we guide investors to trade cautiously amidst absence of a near term positive catalyst and political jitters ahead of the upcoming 2019 elections.

However, macro-economic fundamentals remain stable and supportive of recovery in the long term.”Market breadth closed negative, with nine gainers versus 26 losers. Skye Bank recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent to close at 67 kobo, while Unity Bank followed with a gain of 8.97 per cent to close at 85 kobo, per share.

Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp) appreciated by 4.63 per cent to close at N1.13, while Wema Bank, and Lasaco Assurance rose by 3.33 per cent each to close at 62 kobo and 31 kobo per share, respectively.

On the other hand, Lafarge Africa led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent to close at N20.70 per share. Conoil followed with a loss of 9.88 per cent to close at N21.90 per share.

CCNN depreciated by 9.87 per cent to close at N25.10 per share. NPF Microfinance Bank fell 9.70 per cent to close at N1.49, while First Aluminium shed 9.09 per cent to close at 30 kobo per share.

The total volume traded depreciated by 29.71 per cent to 173.55 million shares, worth N3.71 billion, and traded in 3,082 deals. Transactions in the shares of Guaranty Trust Bank topped the activity chart with 28.19 million shares valued at N929.76 million.

Zenith Bank followed with 25.86 million shares worth N514.61 million, while Skye Bank traded 18.87 million shares valued at N11.18 million.United Bank for Africa (UBA) traded 16.31 million shares valued at N116.16 million, while FBN Holdings transacted 7.36 million shares worth N58.9 million.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/sell-off-persists-all-share-index.html

The Naira on Thursday appreciated further against the dollar at the investors’ window, exchanging at N362.78, stronger than N363.10 posted on Wednesday.

It exchanged at N306.25 to the dollar at the official Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) window.

The Nigerian currency was sold at N359 to the dollar at the parallel market, maintaining same rate for three consecutive days.

The Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N480 and N413, respectively.

Trading at the Bureau De Change (BDC) segment saw the naira close at N360 to the dollar, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N480 and N413, respectively.

Meanwhile, some analysts believe that the naira will remain stable in the weeks ahead.

For instance, Prof. Sheriffdeen Tella, a Senior Economist at Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun, said many politicians who had stockpiled dollars would convert them to naira to fund their campaigns, hence the market would be awash with liquidity.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/naira-strengthens-further-against.html

EA Sports have announced the list of the top 10 best players in FIFA 19 with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, the best rated players in the game. The gaming company has been releasing its list of the top 100 players to feature in FIFA 19 in a countdown to the top 10.


Ronaldo has an overall rating of 94 with his shooting rated 93, while Messi is also rated 94 with his most outstanding ability, dribbling rated 96. The top ten also features PSG’s Neymar and UEFA best player Luka Modric in third and fourth place with 92 and 91 overall ratings respectively. Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos is the only defender in the top ten while Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea emerged as the only goalkeeper that makes the list. Real Madrid are the most represented team on the list with three players while the Premier League had three representatives.

No player from World Champions France makes the list with Ngolo Kante and Antoinne Griezmann in the top 20.

Gamers itching to play the game will have to wait till 28 September when the game is scheduled for release.

Top ten in full

Cristiano Ronaldo -94

Lionel Messi – 94

Neymar – 92

Luka Modric – 91

Kevin De Bruyne – 91

Eden Hazard – 91

Sergio Ramos – 91

Luis Suarez – 91

David De Gea – 91

Toni Kroos – 90

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/de-gea-hazard-modric-rated-top-10.html

Governor of Imo state Rochas Okorocha has terminated the appointments of 13 serving members of his cabinet for allegedly seeking elective positions in next year’s elections.

Although, the offices of their preferred interests were not specified in the termination of appointment letter signed by his chief press secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo.

Top on the list is his chief of staff, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu who he endorsed to succeed him in office and Secretary to the Government of Imo state, George Eche.

Names of other affected appointees are principal secretary to the Governor, Paschal Chigozie Obi, deputy chief of staff (Operations) Kingsley Uju, commissioner for trade and investment/commerce, Emma Ojinero, and commissioner for information. Nnamdi Obiareri.


Others are Commissioner for gender/social development, Ngozi Njoku, commissioner for market development, Lady Joy Mbawuike, commissioner for finance, Dan Nworie, commissioner for tertiary education, Obinna Mbata, special adviser on urban renewal, Simeon Iwunze, special assistant general duties, Obinna Amagwula and special assistant finance, Betty Uzoma.
Okorocha wished the departed members of the government well in their future endeavours.
Prior to their dismissal, it was speculated that the governor had lost the backing of some members of the state executive council.
Their alleged loss of confidence in the governor came after he endorsed his son-in-law, Uche Nwosu, to succeed him as governor.

Complete report at http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/breaking-okorocha-sacks-13-aides.html

Former Vice-President Abubakar Atiku has described President Muhammadu Buhari as the most incompetent leader in the history of Nigeria.

Atiku, through his campaign organisation, said his attempt to come to power “is to clean the mess that Buhari would leave which has resulted in job loss, poor economy and ranking of the country as one of the poorest.”

The spokesperson for the Atiku Campaign Organisation, Segun Sowunmi, in a reaction to Buhari’s comment while receiving the All Progressive Congress nomination forms, said, “Never in the history of Nigeria has a more incompetent person served in the chambers of the exalted office of the President. No President of Nigeria, politics apart, will speak in such manner. The fact is that freedom of association is guaranteed by all the United Nations’ conventions and the constitution of our country.
“That Buhari has not been able to provide leadership and keep high-network individuals in the APC is to his own weakness and a question of his lack of capacity to keep Nigerians together. We are in the campaign and we are on the ballot. Atiku is attempting to become the President to clean the mess that Buhari caused in our country.
“Buhari has made many Nigerians lose their jobs and our country has become one of the poorest countries in the world. He has divided the country and people cannot move freely. He has made a mess of the economy.
“Therefore, we take his comment as not possibly referring to us. He should speak to issues, development, job creation, restructuring and so on. Obviously, these things he cannot do,” Sowunmi said in a statement.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/you-are-most-incompetent-leader-in.html

The Bank of Industry (BoI), and the Export-Import Bank of China (CEXIM), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to provide a credit line of up to $500 million towards the establishment of modular refineries, and Flare Gas Recovery Programmes in the country.Speaking at the signing ceremony in Beijing, the Managing Director/Chief Exevcutive, BoI, Olukayode Pitan, emphasized the job creation potential of this partnership.

“I am delighted to begin the next chapter of a long-term trading relationship with China through CEXIM. This agreement is set to create over 100,000 jobs in Nigeria’s Oil & Gas sector – a decisive move that will advance the Federal Government’s Modular Refineries and Flare Gas Recovery Programme,” he added.

As part of the MoU between BOI and CEXIM, the facility will be utilised to finance the purchase of equipment and machinery from China by investors and project owners of modular refineries in Nigeria.

The aim is to ensure availability of refined petroleum products within the country, monesze gas flare, reduce cost of products in the mid-term, and provide employment for Nigerians.

The establishment of modular refineries is part of the government’s plan to end importation of petroleum products, and discourage illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region.
To date, a total of 38 operating licences have already been granted by the Federal Government to establish modular refineries in the Niger Delta, while 10 are already at advanced stages of development. This facility will therefore ensure that more modular refineries are constructed, and can be accessed via letters of credit issued for the delivery of specified modular refineries and gas processing equipment to qualified Nigerian companies establishing petrochemical plants under the Modular Refineries and Gas Flare Recovery Programme.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/boi-cexim-seal-500m-pact-for-refineries.html

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Monday made a public declaration for re-election in 2019 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ambode spoke at the open ground in Alausa, while addressing party faithful who thronged the place, telling them there was more to be done and he was not tired.

Ambode had earlier picked his nomination form for a second term at the APC Headquarters in Abuja.

“In these three and a half years as your governor, I have seen visible proof that we can achieve unbelievable things when we all come together with no more than our belief in our dreams.

“We achieved because you believed. But there is still a lot more to be done. But I am not daunted. I am not tired and I am sure you feel the same way because we all envision a better Lagos, a Lagos of our dreams,” he said.

The governor said he had collected his nomination form earlier in the day, and asked for support as he sought to continue with the mandate to steer the affairs of the state.
“I ask you to believe again, and together, let’s achieve more.
“Exactly four years ago, I called on you to join me in a journey of selfless service to build a secure and prosperous Lagos State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice.
“You believed in me and gave me your support,” Ambode said.
He thanked Lagosians for believing in him and his government as well as their support so far throughout this administration.
“I thank all members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress; our political leaders, most especially our National Leader, Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for giving me the platform to contribute to the further growth and development of our state.
Speaking on Ambode’s second term bid, Sen. Gbenga Ashafa representing Lagos East Senatorial District, said he was happy with Ambode’s declaration and was in support of his move.

Read full report at http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/second-term-bid-more-to-be-done-im-not.html

Ojukaye’s Court Victory Has Ended Wike/Abe's Conspiracy against Rivers People - Eze

Describes the adoption of the Indirect Primaries by the Rivers APC as a masterstroke and the death knell to this devious plot

The recent perpetual injunction granted by an Abuja High Court, affirming the Ojukaye Flag-Amachree as the undisputed chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers state has been described as the end of the conspiracy to stall the party's progress.

A chieftain of the APC in the state, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, who noted this in a statement he signed and circulated in Port Harcourt on Monday, also thanked God for putting the enemies of the party and those of the leader of the party in the South-South, Rt. Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, to shame in Rivers state.

According to the party chieftain, plans were afoot by the State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, and Senator Magnus Abe to create crisis for the APC in the state so that it would be difficult for the party to put itself together, put up a strong candidate, through whom the party can dislodge Wike from the Brick House next year.

"Governor Nyesom Wike knowing that his time as Governor of Rivers State is up collaborated with some elements within Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress to plot for the decimation and dismantling of APC so that he has an essay sail back to the Brick House come 2019", he said.

"This plot that resulted to the formation or rather setting up of an illegal chapter of APC in Rivers State addressed as Magnus Abe chapter knowing very well that APC has a chapter well constituted after duly constituted Congress that brought up the authentic State Chapter with Ojukaye Amachree as State Chairman.

"The plot which will cause Governor Wike to be elected unopposed by 2019 while paving way for Senator Magnus Abe to take over the reins of governance of Rivers State come 2023.

"With an Abuja High Court 14 presided over by His Lordship, Hon. Justice A. O. Musa ruling on Tuesday granted an Order of Perpetual Injunction restraining the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Chairman, His Excellency (Comrade) Adams Oshiomhole (1st and 2nd Defendants) from ‘tampering with the mandates of the elected Officials/Delegates elected at the 1st Defendant’s Ward, Local Government and State Congresses in Rivers State on May 19, 20 and 21, 2018 respectively, either by nullifying, removing or in any way refusing to give effect to the outcome of the said congresses or by purporting to conduct another congress in respect of Rivers State.” have rendered Wike and Abe's plot useless and worthless.

"With this affirmation by a competent court of jurisdiction it becomes imperative to formally declare the Abe's chapter of APC in Rivers State not only as illegal but assemblage of law breakers that must be dismantled as a matter of urgency before they hatch another devious plot to make Rivers State a laughing stock", the statement said.

Eze commended and congratulated Ojukaye Amachree and his Team for not only reviving the true spirit of APC but positioning it as the party to beat come 2019. For a very long time in the politics of Rivers State, Wike for the first time is at his wit end and confused on how to handle the twist that Ojukaye have brought to bear in the politics of Rivers State.

Eze congratulated the leadership of the Rivers State APC for adopting the indirect primaries in electing its candidates for the 2019 general elections. “Apart from saving cost, this strategy will save the party from the devious plot by Wike and Abe to flood the State with PDP elements from Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa States to vote in Abe and his cohorts during the primaries to the detriment of the genuine party members”. The adoption of the indirect primaries is truly a masterstroke and death knell to this devious and wicked plot to deny the Rivers State chapter of APC credible representation during the 2019 general elections, he said.

Eze counsels his good friend, Prince Peter Odike who is being used as a scapegoat to act as an illegal Chairman of a none existing political structure which may lead him to have problems with the security agencies.

Eze finally reiterated that, "With three Senators in our kitty and with an international and well respected figure like Pastor Tonye Cole coming in to rescue Rivers State from the shackles of backwardness, the days of Wike as Governor of Rivers state are truly numbered. To the people of Rivers State, we need to celebrate and thank God for saving the State from the devious plot that would have caused the State more years of backwardness", he said

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/ojukayes-court-victory-has-ended.html

The National Union of Nigerian Students, (NUNS), yesterday, said the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is extorting ordinary Nigerians to impress President Muhammadu Buhari.

The union kicked against exorbitant charges levied on admission seekers into higher institutions, saying the regulatory body is derailing the change mantra of the president, part of which includes making education affordable to the citizens.


At a press conference organised by NUNS in Kaduna, its President, Ambassador Salahudeen Adeyemi Lukman bemoaned exorbitant charges on admission seekers, threatening that the union shall commence action against JAMB over what he described as “extortion of common man” by the regulatory body.

He said: “JAMB cannot be holding the government and entire Nigerian students to ransom, this is basically fraud.

JAMB is never an IGR-based government agency. It is a regulatory body. Why would it suddenly turn into an IGR agency just to impress someone who never sent them?

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nuns-jamb-extorting-nigerians-to.html

Senate president and presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Bukola Saraki has said the leaders Nigeria needs cannot be mediocre, as they must have the energy and vision to entrench justice and egalitarianism for all citizens, irrespective of ethnicity and religion.

He said this in Umuahia, Abia State capital, yesterday, while addressing PDP leaders and stakeholders to canvass their support in his bid to fly the party’s presidential flag in 2019.

He said he was seeking to become president in order to redress the glaring injustice in the country, which he said, is most pronounced now than ever.


Accompanied by three Abia State Senators, Theodore Orji; Mao Ohuabunwa; and Enyi Abaribe, as well as Senator Dino Melaye of Kogi State, Saraki urged Nigerians to vote out the APC and President Muhammadu Buhari and replace them with himself and the PDP.
According to him, his long political career spanning over a decade has adequately equipped him with the necessary experience and exposure to hold the exalted office of the President.
Meanwhile, The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Campaign Organisation (ABSCO) has appointed Mr. Ilemona Onoja, as its spokesperson.

https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigeria-urgently-needs-competent.html

Kebbi chapter of Nigerian Fruit Sellers Association, says its members have lost N25 million worth of fruits due to recurring flood at its main market in Birnin Kebbi.

The association’s Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Abubakar, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Birnin Kebbi on Saturday that the absence of proper drainage had led to recurring flooding of the market annually.

‘‘We have no where else to go, it’s the only market we have, we just watch in agony as flood destroy our fruits and the loss has reached as much as N25 million.


‘‘You can see water all over the market yourself as if human beings are not living in the market,’’ he said.
Abubakar appealed to the state government to re-build the market to make it safer and conducive for business, and earn more in revenue generation.
The chairman also urged the state government to provide support to members of the association to cushion their losses.
‘‘We are appealing to the government to support us with soft loan to boost our business.
‘‘Farmers, traders, and different types of business associations have been getting support from the state government, but we were never considered to benefit from such support,’’ he stressed.
According to Abubakar, the association has over 20,000 members in all the 21 Local Government Areas in the state.
‘‘We also employ over 3,000 unemployed youths who are helping to transport our goods and sell in major towns across the state.
‘‘Imagine the burden of the numbers of unemployed youths we can help government to reduce, if we have support and empowerment,’’ he said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/flood-washes-away-n25m-fruits-in-kebbi.html

The Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu is conspicuously absent at an ongoing meeting between Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo state and some gubernatorial aspirants under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state ahead of the 2019 elections, DAILY POST reports.

Ajimobi, our correspondent reliably gathered, will at the meeting on Saturday formally announce the four aspirants he intends to endorse for the gubernatorial ticket of the party.

The four aspirants, Akelicious learnt, will then face members of the party at the primary election later this month.

The Governor also invited aspirants for the senatorial and House of Representatives seats across the state on the platform of the party.
The meeting of the governor with the gubernatorial aspirants was scheduled to take place today (Saturday) at the government house, while the one with the senatorial and House of Representatives aspirants was scheduled to hold in the same venue on Sunday.

Among the gubernatorial aspirants jostling to succeed Ajimobi expected at today’s meeting included: the Minister of Communications, Shittu, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN); Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe; former Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Olalekan Alli; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Azeez Adeduntan; and former Head of Service, Mr. Soji Eniade.
Others are: Commissioner for Land, Housing and Survey, Mr. Isaac Omodewu; a former governor of the state, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala; Chairman Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Crime, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari and Dr. Olusola Ayandele; a former Chief Press Secretary to Late Governor Lam Adeshina, Kehinde Olaosebikan and Professor Soji Adejumo.
But our correspondent observed at the venue of the meeting that the Minister, Adebayo Shittu was at press time absent at the meeting of the governor and the gubernatorial aspirants. The meeting started around 2.00 p.m.
Among the aspirants who have however, arrived the governor’s lodge, venue of the meeting as at 4.15 p.m include former governor, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Azeez Adeduntan and Mr. Joseph Tegbe.
Others are: former Head of Service, Mr. Soji Eniade; Secretary to the state government, Mr. Olalekan Alli and Mr. Isacc Omodewu.
A close aide to the Minister, who spoke with Akelicious in confidence, said he was not sure if the Minister, Adebayo Shittu was invited, noting that this may be responsible for his absence at the meeting.
He said, “Let me tell you the truth, I was told that the governor has called a meeting and he has reduced the aspirants to four. He has called some of them, he held a meeting with them and he told them that they should step down for the four.
“I can tell you, I will tell you their names, they are Tegbe, Soji Eniade, Bimbo Adekambi and Isaac Omodewu. He said he will pick from the four. Why should he do that, all of them are aspirants. Let them go to the field. Barrister Shittu has purchased the form and Akala has also bought the form.”
The aide maintained that Shittu’s absence may be as a result of the fact that he was not invited to the meeting.
He added, “I don’t think he was invited, he was not invited. If he was invited, he would have come. Though, he is not around now. He is not in the country.”

Full report at https://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/2019buharis-minister-adebayo-shittu.html

The Nigerian Prisons Service (NP has been declared winner of the 2018 United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Confucius Award for Literacy and Skills Development.

Making the presentation at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the Director General of UNESCO, Ms Audrey Azoulay noted with satisfaction the uniqueness in enhancing the capacity of prisoners to access knowledge and skills for self development.

In a statement by the NPS spokesman, Francis Enobore, the UNESCO boss emphasized that occupation specific and literacy skills will continue to play vital roles particularly in addressing ex-convicts acceptance back into the society.

He said while receiving the award, the Controller General of Prisons, Ja’afaru Ahmed thanked the organizers for the recognition and promised to extend the opportunity to reach more prisoners across the country.

The NPS boss however, appealed to well meaning Nigerians and corporate bodies to assist ex-offenders who might not have completed their free studies before discharge and would be required to pay for continuation once out of the prison.

“He noted that most indigent prisoners may be lost in the process and may return to crime,
” Enobore quoted the CG as saying.

The Nigerian Prisons Service presently has about 465 undergraduate inmates, 23 master degree students and 2 studying for their PhD programmes in 10 special study centres across the country.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigerian-prisons-service-wins-unesco.html

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Friday said the alleged deduction of N1.886 billion fine from Stanbic IBTC Bank’s account was in the national interest.

An official of CBN, who pleaded anonymity while confirming this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, said he could not immediately give details, but the apex bank would issue a statement on the matter later.

The management of Stanbic IBTC Bank, had on Friday, alleged that the apex bank unilaterally deducted N1.886 billion from its account as a fine imposed on the bank.

Mr Chidi Okezie and Mrs Bridget Oyefeso-Odusami, Secretary and Ag. Head, Marketing and Communications of Stanbic IBTC Bank, made the allegation in a statement.

NAN reports that the bankers’ bank, had on Aug. 28, ordered MTN and four banks, including Stanbic IBTC Bank to refund 8.1 billion dollars illegal capital repatriation from their Nigerian operations to offshore investors.

This allegation was swiftly denied by Stanbic IBTC with claims that it did not violate any regulation on money remittances.

The bank, however, assured stakeholders that the situation would not affect their transactions with the bank.

The affected banks, Citibank, Diamond Bank, Stanbic IBTC and Standard Chartered Bank, were to repay the sum of N5.87 billion for allegedly issuing irregular Certificates of Capital Importation (CCIs) on behalf of some MTN offshore investors.

Standard Chartered Bank was fined N2.4 billion, Stanbic IBTC N1.8 billion, Citibank Nigeria N1.2 billion and Diamond Bank N250 million.

MTN was also directed by the apex bank to refund 8.134 billion dollars to its coffers.

In a letter, dated Sept. 6, 2018 to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Stanbic IBTC Bank, whose parent company, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, is a quoted company, informed stakeholders that the CBN had debited N1.886 billion, the full amount of the stated fine from its account with the apex bank.


“Following our earlier announcement to NSE on Aug. 30, 2018 in respect of the penalty of N1.886 billion imposed by the CBN on our banking subsidiary – Stanbic IBTC Bank, in relation to the remittance of foreign exchange on the basis of certain capital importation certificates issued to MTN, we write to update the NSE that the CBN has debited the account of our banking subsidiary with the CBN for the full amount of the above stated fine.

“But Stanbic IBTC has not breached any extant laws relating to CCI executed on behalf of MTN.

“Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC as well as our banking subsidiary maintain our position on this matter which is the fact that the Bank has done nothing illegal.

“And accordingly, the Bank will continue to provide CBN with documents and details in support of our contention that our actions in relation to these transactions were not illegal,’’ the statement said.

Going by point-to-point rebuttal, the letter from the bank examined different allegations contained in the CBN’s letter.

“Regarding the claim that the shareholders of MTN Nigeria invested the sum of $402,590,261.03 in the company from 2001 to 2006, the bank states as follows:

“The twenty CCIs transferred to our bank by Standard Chartered Bank and which in the above quoted sum were re-issued from existing CCIs that had been issued by Standard Chartered Bank to the original investors in MTN.

“These CCIs were transferred to our Bank to facilitate the repatriation of the proceeds of MTN’s Private Placement which took place in February 2008,’’ the statement said.

The Stanbic IBTC Bank reiterated its preparedness to engage with the CBN in order to resolve the matter.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/cbn-n18-billion-fine-imposed-on-stanbic.html

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the reason President Muhammadu Buhari refused to sign the amendments to the Electoral Act is to frustrate the National Assembly’s efforts to check the rigging strategies of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

It said President Buhari’s bid to use his veto against the amendments showed that he and the APC were clutching on straws ahead of the 2019 elections.

A statement on Thursday by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan said: “all social, economic and political indicators show that the game is up for President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2019 general election, in spite of the many anti-democratic machinations of the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

The party said “President Buhari’s desperate bid to use his veto to frustrate the amendment to the Electoral Act passed by the National Assembly, which practically checks all APC’s rigging strategies for the election, shows that the president and his derelict party are now clutching on straws.
“Since Nigerians rejected his veto and approved that the National Assembly should override him, the rigging plans perfected by the Buhari Presidency and the APC have been dismantled.
“The Buhari Presidency and the APC in their plans failed to note that Nigerians are already aware that President Buhari is mortally afraid of the amendments because it effectively checks the use of underage and alien voters, vote-buying, alteration of results and manipulation of voter register; the very basis for which APC and Buhari Presidency have been boasting of winning the 2019 elections.

“Nigerians are aware that President Buhari does not want the amendment because it provides for instant transmission of results from the polling to collation center, thus eliminating interferences and planned alteration of results by the APC.
“President Buhari is not happy because the amendment makes it mandatory for INEC to publish voter register online, thus terminating APC’s plot to doctor voter register to suit their rigging script.
“Nigerians are full of commendation for members of the National Assembly, who, in spite of executive intimidation and President Buhari’s determination to set aside the amended electoral law, have maintained their patriotic stand in the overall quest by our citizens for a free, fair and credible 2019 general election.
“The APC should know that Nigerians have since seen through their lies and machination, including the exposed plot to use security agencies to intimidate oppositions. The citizens are, now more than ever before, ready to resist all anti-democratic machinations in the 2019 general elections.
“What is left for the Buhari Presidency is for it to end its scheming, tender a direct apology for its abysmal performance and get prepared to accept defeat and leave the stage for a more innovative and people-oriented President, to be elected by Nigerians on the platform of the repositioned PDP, come 2019.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/real-reason-buhari-refused-to-sign.html

Despite the challenges bedevilling Nigeria’s automotive sector, some assemblers have expressed interest to invest in the production of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.Experience has shown that Nigeria usually turned out to be a dumping ground for a variety of banned products. Given its preference for used vehicles over brand new ones due to very poor purchasing power of the masses, it stands at a higher risk of dumping when other countries eventually phased out the use of conventional fuel cars.

Electric vehicles are a novel and eco-friendly technology designed to reduce man’s dependence on fossil fuel, and potentially a threat to the conventional fuel car market.Top auto assemblers like Volvo, a Swedish vehicle manufacturer, has committed to fitting every car it produced by 2019 with electric or hybrid engines, just as Germany’s BMW plans to mass-produce EVs by 2020, offering 12 models by 2025.

A recent report published by the World Economic Forum, entitled “Electric vehicles for smarter cities: The future of energy and mobility,” also indicated that French multinational automaker, Renault, plans to produce 20 electrified models by 2022, while Germany-based, Volkswagen, will invest up to $84 billion in battery and EV technology to electrify all 300 of its models by 2030.


These transitional commitments to electric vehicles by manufacturers are not sufficient threats to the fossil fuel market, but a very imminent one to Nigeria, which relies heavily on foreign exchange earnings from oil.


Global strategies
Another report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), revealed that the sale of electric cars may rise by 24 per cent yearly till 2030. The Agency estimated that based on existing policies; there would be 125 million electric vehicles on the road, which could further rise to 220 million if strategies became more ambitious to meet global climate goals and other sustainability targets.

Of the one billion cars in the world, only two million are electric. But that will soon change, as costs diminish, and governments encourage the adoption of EVs to cut carbon emissions and fight urban pollution.Sequel to this, some cities across the world have set target year to ban the use of fossil fuel cars to mitigate the effect of gaseous emissions from them.

The cities include; Oslo the Norwegian capital, Madrid, Spain; Chengdu, China; Hamburg and Berlin, Germany; Copenhagen, Denmark; Paris, France; Brussels, Belgium; Bogotá, Colombia; London, England; Mexico; and New York City, San Francisco in the United States of America.

Progress in Nigeria
To catch up the evolution train, Nigus Enfinity, an indigenous automaker, plans to introduce electric vehicles into the Nigerian automobile market this year, while its local assembly plant for EVs will be ready by 2020.The company Chairman, Malik Ado-Ibrahim, noted that many countries across the world have already set targets for the ban of fossil-fuelled vehicles with India targeting 2030, and the United Kingdom, 2040.He said Nigeria and Africa need to look inward to be at the fore of the automotive revolution, or risk becoming a dumping ground for banned vehicles from other countries.

In preparation for this, Ado-Ibrahim said his firm is already building a 100-megawatt (mw) solar power plant in Katsina, and Adamawa states.Ahead of the debut for its brand of EVs, he said Nigus Enfinity is partnering with a Chinese firm, Build Your Dreams, to import electric vehicles at affordable costs.“We are also working with BYD to get a local brand, and start an electric vehicle assembly plant for Nigeria from 2020. Gradually, we will move to an EV with an African DNA, starting in Nigeria,” he explained.

Although still not so popular, the Marketing Manager, Kia Motors Nigeria, Olawale Jimoh, revealed that Nigeria had already launched the use of EVs since 2015, as the automaker was the first to bring in such vehicles into the country.Accordingly, Jimoh said a number of people especially some government officials are currently driving electric vehicles.


“Senator Ben Murray Bruce is currently using a Kia electric vehicle, and some other people are using that electric vehicle as we speak right now. So we have brought the electric vehicle since 2015, and it is something that if the government is willing to partner with us on, then certainly we can bring it in large quantities,” he explained.He noted that developed countries which manufacture eco-friendly vehicles, which might be hybrid or electric vehicles are quite expensive than that of combustive engine.



“What governments do across board, particularly in developed countries, is to create some kind of subsidy to intensify interest in those eco-friendly cars by granting subsidies, and working closely with the manufacturers or distributors of these vehicles in such a way that the initial cost of purchase won’t be a burden for buyers.”

The Managing Director, Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria (PAN), Ibrahim Boyi, said: “We are taking some pragmatic steps, we are having a team working on the electric vehicles, and they are reaching out to other key stakeholders at the national level; and we are also reaching out to global partners to ensure we are able to develop a Nigerian electric car.”“We see the development as one of the disruption of the industry, and we are positioning ourselves properly to maintain leadership in that respect, Boyi said.


To increase interest and usage of EVs, Deputy Managing Director, Kewalram Chanrai Group, Victor Eburajolo, argued that government needs to take a decision, give assemblers time to comply, and fall in line. Eburajolo noted that the initiative is supposed to be led by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), which should give assemblers a period to adjust. “They must give us time and say from this time to this, these are the vehicles you are encouraged to assemble, and then Nigerians would get used to it.”

However, the NADDC is at the margin of developing a national policy on electronic vehicles.”The Director-General, NADDC, Jelani Aliyu, admitted that Nigeria would need to look at how to introduce and support the electric car technology in terms of its scalability.“A number of the companies that are interested in Nigeria either already have electric vehicle programmes in place, or are looking at going into it. We will have to work closely with them to provide these vehicles in Nigeria,” he said.

Nigeria has put in place an auto policy, although widely criticised, which is meant to reduce the importation of used vehicles. However, the success and sustainability of such a policy in the face of hyper-inflation and poor purchasing power remain to be seen.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nigerian-automakers-struggle-with.html

Meet The 12 PDP Presidential Aspirants, All From The North.



Who Do You Think Can Defeat BUHARI Among Them ?


[b]Source: [url]http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/meet-12-pdp-presidential-aspirants-all.html

The Buhari Youth Organisation (BYO), Lagos State chapter, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to review the nomination and expression of interest fees for aspirants contesting the 2019 general elections.

The group made the appeal in a statement jointly issued by Mr Abdulwaheed Odunuga and Mr Adekunle Aderibigbe, the State Coordinator and General Secretary of the group respectively.

According to the group, the fees being demanded by the ruling party from aspirants is a “disenfranchisement weapon” for genuine aspirants, especially youths.

“Our youths deserve a platform to showcase their leadership prowess.

“We are calling for a prompt review of the high cost for nomination and expression of interest forms in other not to slam the doors at competent candidates who would not be able to afford the fees.

“This cost will subject such candidates to the mercy of looters or corrupt persons who will make them stooges while dictating the affairs for such candidates, ’’ the group said.

According to the group, the reputation built by President Muhammadu Buhari has drawn the attention of various world leaders to the country.

It said many supporters of the president were willing to donate to ensure he was returned as the president till 2023.


The group, however, said it would be difficult to replicate the gesture for other candidates who may not be able to raise such funds by crowdfunding within the limited time.

“We are advocates of good governance and a government that belongs to everybody and nobody.

“We also believe APC is a listening progressive party that wants every Nigerian to have equal access and rights to opportunities.

“The prompt review for fair fees will enable active participation of more members in the party’s success in the 2019 general elections,’’ the group said.

The APC’s National Working Committee had proposed N55 million as the cost of the nomination and expression of interest forms for the office of President, according to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN.

This is higher than the N12 million being charged by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

For the Senate, APC aspirants will pay N 8.5 million as against the N3.5 million of that of the PDP for the same seat.

While for the House of Representatives, APC demands N3.8 million from its aspirants, PDP is charging N1.5 million.

APC governorship aspirants would cough out N22.5 million as against the N6 million charged by the PDP.

Aspirants for the state Houses of Assembly elections in APC would pay N 1.1million as against PDP’s N600, 000.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/byo-group-seeks-review-of-apc.html

Nasarawa State Government has donated a 2,000 capacity boarding secondary school in Lafia, the state capital, to the Nigeria Police Force.

Gov. Umaru Al-Makura disclosed this on Monday in Lafia at the occasion of the formal presentation of the 2,140 secondary school teachers employed by the state government.

He said that the donation of the school was in line with the state government’s support and collaboration with the Police.

“We have built a full-fledged 2,000-capacity boarding secondary school behind the Emir’s palace in Lafia and donated to the Police.

“It has dormitories, classrooms, offices and all the paraphernalia of a modern secondary school.

“I am in touch with the Police and hopefully, the school will become operational this school season and our children in Nasarawa State would start benefitting from admission,” Al-Makura said.

The governor congratulated the newly employed teachers and said that their engagement was a demonstration of his administration’s commitment toward promoting the standard of education in the state.

According him, the employed teachers are core professionals with Bachelors degree in Education and National Certificate in Education (NCE) holders qualified to teach in senior and junior secondary schools respectively.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/nasarawa-govt-donates-boarding-school.html

Oil marketers in Nigeria are still reluctant to resume the importation of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), after abandoning the venture for over two years on the grounds of unprofitability.

The marketers complained that access to foreign exchange (forex) for the importation of DPK is marred by irregularities.

Two years after the Federal Government removed subsidy on the product, marketers discontinued their participation in the product’s importation amid prevailing demand from households, and largely the aviation sector.

Kerosene is being imported and sourced from local refineries by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) solely, and sold to marketers at a deregulated ex-depot price of about N190 per litre. But the supply of the product has continued to be epileptic, and characterised by price differentials.

Given the rising demand for the product as aviation fuel, some households that depend on the product, pay as high as N350 per litre to get it for domestic use.
Responding to queries from The Guardian on the position of marketers, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), disclosed that marketers are facing challenges in the importation other petroleum products, and not just DPK.
MOMAN said: “In the current environment, marketers are facing challenges with respect to importation of all products whether deregulated or not, because of challenges in accessing foreign exchange at competitive rates.
“NNPC sells Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) to marketers at an ex-depot price of N190 per litre. If marketers were to import the product using their (marketers) importation template, the landing cost would be N225 per litre due to the rate at which we access foreign exchange.
“The full benefits of competitive importation and full price deregulation can only be felt in an environment where all importers have equal access to foreign exchange at the same competitive rates.”
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association (DAPMAN), and other marketers, said they stayed away from kerosene importation because of outstanding subsidy arrears being owed by the Government.
According to the World Bank, over 51 per cent of Nigerians reside in the rural area, and depend on kerosene to cook or light their homes or opt for firewood due to the high cost of the product. While the figure of people cooking with firewood or charcoal rises, the World Health Organisation (WHO), reported that over 470,000 Nigerians have died in the past five years from firewood induced sicknesses.
A report published by a Non-Governmental Organisation, Power for All, noted that over 66 per cent of households in Nigeria use kerosene for lighting and cooking, while the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), put the proportional use of kerosene by Nigerian households at 22.8 per cent for cooking, and 57.8 per cent for lighting, mostly by the rural and peri-urban poor.
Taofeek Lawal, the spokesperson for Nipco Plc, the marketing and distribution joint venture company of IPMAN, in a telephone interview, said although the DPK market is perceived to be deregulated, but realities have shown that it is partially deregulated.
Citing the Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) market, which is fully deregulated, he noted if the DPK market was equally deregulated fully, the behaviour of both markets would be similar.
On account of deregulation, the DPK market had seen some level of volatility in price and supply templates at the retail end.
Some marketers that still receive kerosene stock from NNPC, say compared to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and AGO, turnover for DPK had remained the worst, while margins on the product has been discouraging.
One marketer that spoke in confidence, said: “After AGO was deregulated, no marketer waits for NNPC for supply despite the fact that NNPC also imports AGO. Marketers go on to import and sell at prices they deem fit. But for DPK, marketers still wait for NNPC’s stock after years of perceived deregulation. That means something is actually wrong with DPK deregulation in Nigeria.”
The National Operations Controller, IPMAN, Mr. Mike Osatuyi, said currently, members of the Association are not importing DPK, but insisted that the DPK market was fully deregulated.
According to him, any IPMAN member can bring in DPK after getting the necessary approvals from the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), and the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).
Osatuyi said, “We will start importing DPK when the coast is clear. By this, I mean when we are through with our internal reorganisation. But I must say the demand for the product is dropping, as people are switching over to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
“Because we believe the market is fully deregulated, I don’t think we will have any issue with foreign exchange when it is time to import.”
When contacted, the Executive Secretary, DAPPMA, Mr. Femi Adewole, declined to comment. But The Guardian gathered from a member of the Association that forex constraint is a major constraint to kerosene importation.
The source said members who currently deal on the product, concentrate on the supplying to the aviation sector, adding that the margin from selling the product to households is not attractive, and as such not leveraged by marketers.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/forex-irregularities-scare-marketers.html

An intimidating resume, a litany of national and international recognition, a creative oeuvre bursting at the seams and, when you throw in a humble disposition in spite of age and achievements into the mix, what you get is Tunde Kelani, or TK, a cinematographer whose work has become a benchmark for filmmakers in Nigeria.

The 70-year-old who was recently awarded the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) held on the 1st of September 2018 at Eko Hotels and Suites told the Guardian Life that his journey in the creative industry was ignited by his early contact with Yoruba culture, which in itself began when he was uprooted from his cosmopolitan environment in Lagos to a mere rustic surrounding in Abeokuta.“Growing up, I witnessed a lot, read a lot, heard a lot. So I had a lot of stories to tell,” he says. “I needed a medium to share my cultural experience and I settled for films as a medium of expression.”

But filmmaking was not TK’s first love. He had picked up photography during his last year in primary school in Abeokuta, where he was staying with his grandparents in a large communal compound. By the time he was in secondary school, he had invested a lot in cameras, including a Halina 35x, a single lens reflex camera. The trajectory into filmmaking started when he trained as a cameraman with the Western Nigerian Television (WNTV), the first Nigerian TV station, in 1970 in Ibadan.

Sans the two years he spent at the London Film School, where he got a diploma in the art and technique of filmmaking, TK has not taken his eyes off filmmaking. That single-mindedness is reflected in more than a dozen seminal films he has produced, most of which are steeped in Yoruba culture.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/2018amvca-merit-awardee-tunde-kelani.html

Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has tasked the new Acting Chief Judge, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Bello, to recruit judicial officers as the government has already granted approval to hire 40 magistrates.

In a statement issued by el-Rufai’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, said the governor stated this during the swearing in ceremony of as Acting Chief Judge at the weekend.

The statement explained that, the recruitment of the judicial officers should follow due process, adding that they will reduce the work-load of judges in the state.

According to statement, government has so far “recruited 70 new lawyers into the Ministry of Justice. The government has granted approval to hire 40 new magistrates. We urge the acting Chief Judge to expedite this recruitment, in compliance with due process and in concert with the Judicial Service Commission.”

The governor further said that his administration has: “received recognition for timely resolution of commercial disputes and enforcement of contracts in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business ranking. ”


El-Rufai however pointed out that Kaduna state will benefit “if we can also fast track the conclusion of criminal cases.”

“the administration is aware that there are no enough judges in the judiciary and this results in the ones we have being over worked. ”

He promised to work with the judiciary towards remedying the situation.

El-Rufai revealed that his government has proposed a legislation to expand the jurisdiction of magistrates to determine matters involving monetary claims of up to N5 million, adding that “our magistrates are currently restricted to cases not above N500,000.”

He argued that the “expanded remit of the magistrates should eventually reduce the high number of cases that begin at the high court. The Landlord and Tenant Law has also vested in magistrates, matters which were previously handled by rent tribunals.”

The governor also stated that Kaduna State House of Assembly has enacted a legislation for a new Penal Code and to domesticate the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

See full list at http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/kaduna-new-chief-judge-to-hire-40.html

An NGO, Advocacy for Better Welfare of Nigeria Police, on Sunday canvassed a minimum wage of at least N100, 000 for the least officer in the Nigeria Police to ensure quality service delivery.

Mr Solomon Bankole, the President of the group, who made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, said that it had become imperative to sanitise and rebrand Nigeria Police through improved welfare.

According to him, the time has come to improve the condition of service of police officers to get the best out of them.


“It has become imperative to update and upwardly review the monthly salary of all officers, rank and file with a minimum of N100,000 for the least officer.
“We must advocate for improved policies and continuous review of such policies to hold the police accountable for better services and respect for human rights,” Bankole said.
The president, who called for proper discipline for all officers to serve with integrity, urged the Federal Government to prioritise regular provision of kits and motivations for the police.
He said the annual budgetary allocation expected to take care of the welfare of officers and rank and file of the Nigeria Police should be disbursed for its purposes as expected.
“For Nigerians to have a better society, there is a need for better police. Policing is a special duty and that is the reason for our campaign for better welfare package for police officers.
“There won’t be a change in the image of Nigeria Police and public perception with poor remuneration, lack of kits and other equipment designed to make the work efficient.
“With good pay, necessary kits and other equipment and motivation, most of the police misconducts and abuses will be reduced,” Bankole said.
According to him, the group will not relent on its calls for strict discipline, adherence to rule of law, human rights protection and quest for international best practices in policing.
He urged the government to be committed to removing hatred, disrepute, public hostility and loss of confidence in the police through improved welfare package.
“We are advocating for respect of rule of law and human rights of all Nigerians and foreign nationals in Nigeria.
“We are also advocating for improved policies and continuous review of such policies to hold the police accountable for better services and respect for human rights.
“Our group have strong belief in the sacrificial journey to sanitise and rebrand the image of Nigeria Police,” the president said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/ngo-advocates-n100-000-minimum-wage-for.html

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised President Muhammadu Buhari’s statement to German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, that Nigerians caught up in their attempt to illegally enter the Europe are on their own.

The party said Buhari’s comments further exposed him as an insensitive leader, who doesn’t care about the plight of his compatriots.The PDP, in a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said while it does not, in any way, support illegal migrations, it does not warrant incendiary statement against citizens by no less a person than the President, who should be seeking ways to solve the problem.

The party noted that such statements by the President fuel violent attacks and inhuman treatment being meted out to Nigerians abroad, including those with legitimate documents and who engage in lawful activities.
The party said President Buhari has shown he is not bothered that no fewer than 10,000 Nigerians died in the deserts between January and May 2017 alone, while trying to escape the economic hardship and escalated insecurity occasioned by his misrule.“Is it not disturbing to Mr. President that reports by Nigerian Immigration Services showed that more Nigerians have been trapped in detention and slave camps in various parts of the world?
“Is it not also an act of gross leadership failure that, in his outburst against Nigerians, President Buhari admitted that they left in search of “greener pastures”, yet he could not articulate any solution to mitigate the suffering his administration has unleashed on our nation in the last three years,” the party queried
The PDP said it is the President’s duty, as elected leader of government, to pursue the fundamental human rights of his citizens, as well as find solution to the problems pushing Nigerians to adopt illegal migration, irrespective of the huge risks, as option for survival.
The party lamented that in another exhibition of incompetence; President Buhari could not articulate a strong response to the economic proposals brought by the German leader, thereby squandering the nation’s opportunity to benefit from her visit.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/pdp-berates-buhari-over-comments-on.html

The Chief Executive Officer of Sahara Group has stepped down from the management of the indigenous oil firm, planning to contest the Rivers State governorship election in 2019.

Cole’s resignation was announced by the board and management of the oil firm in a statement Akelicious obtained last night.


In a two-page statement, the company restated its apolitical stand, stressing that in line with the group’s corporate governance policy, it neither “sponsors nor backs any political party or actor in all of the markets it operates including Nigeria.

The statement came on the heels of media reports that Cole had already been endorsed as the preferred candidate of the ruling All Progressives Party, (APC) in Rivers State in the 2019 governorship election.

The statement said: “The Sahara Group wishes to state for the record that as a non-political and non-partisan group, it is not affiliated to any political party in any country we operate in and does not engage in Nigerian politics. Cole’s decision to participate in active politics is his individual preference and choice to which he is entitled.

“In accordance to Sahara Group’s Corporate Governance Charter and International best practice which prohibits any of our key Management or Board members from partaking in active politics, promoting or supporting any particular political organization or ideology, Cole has resigned all his board appointments and day to day responsibilities for the Sahara Group companies and its affiliates with immediate effect.

“We take the opportunity to further re-iterate that the Sahara Group of Companies is a non-political organization and has never had any political ties or affiliations to any political party, group or personalities whatsoever in Nigeria or in any of the jurisdictions in which we have business activities.

“We are a business focused on delivering value and quality services to our customers, stakeholders and the economy through innovation, efficiency and global best practices,” the statement said.

The Sahara Group of companies also involved in initiatives, alliances and activities aimed at strengthening its corporate governance and compliance systems.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/09/tonye-cole-resigns-from-sahara-group.html

The Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on Nigerians particularly the Muslims to cast their votes for a credible personality with good integrity in the quest to deliver the nation from the bondage of corruption, insecurity and economic woes.

The director of MURIC, Ishaq Akintola, in a statement made available to The Guardian said the year 2019 which is for the general elections would prove to be another opportunity for Nigerians to change the country for better.

“We remind Nigerians that the Muslim Rights Concern is concerned because we have seen acute poverty, widespread illiteracy and disease among Nigerian Muslims in particular and the Nigerian people in general.

We call on the citizens to make 2019 the date of freedom.
We appeal to civil society and the press to double their efforts in creating awareness for voters in this regard,” he said.
Akintola said: “The jackals are gathering. Political demagogues are using rhetoric to deceive Nigerians.
Most of the messages being passed across suffer from poverty of ideals and desertification of principles.
Apart from anti-corruption, all other messages lack ideological identity. Nigerians are being hoodwinked.
“In like manner, we charge Nigerians to reject politicians who propose stomach infrastructure. They are political parasites bent on defrauding the hoi polloi.
Avoid stinkingly rich politicians whose source of wealth cannot be ascertained. Ritual killing is in their character and they will not hesitate to sell Nigeria to their herbalists and marabouts.

Beware of legislators who are in the habit of delaying the budget, demanding bribe before confirming appointees and retarding Nigeria’s progress generally.
Their eyes are on super-jumbo salaries from 2019-2023 and the resultant impoverisation of the proletariat for another four years.”
He continued: “To be or not to be, that is the question: or whether we will summon the courage to declare a general caveat emptor against corrupt politicians to permanently pitch our camp with integrity, anti-corruption and the rebuilding of Nigeria’s infrastructure.
It is all about whether Nigeria should remain corrupt or not.
It is about whether leaders should have integrity or not. It is about whether or not the poor masses should remain slaves permanently,”
Meanwhile, MURIC enjoined the Lagos office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to call its officials to order and ensure that Muslim women are not further discriminated in the process of registering for the elections.
Akintola said, “There has been telephone communication between INEC officials and MURIC leadership since our last statement and we had the impression that INEC understood our fears.

We even sent out a message on social media appealing to Muslims that INEC was taking corrective measures.
We had rested the case but today’s statement has become necessary in order to redeem our image since INEC came out to deny that some Muslim women were victimized.
Nothing was said about whether or not our complaint was investigated.
“The least we expect the electoral body to do is to tell Nigerians that it will investigate the report.
We also expect INEC to issue a warning to its adhoc staff. Grandstanding cannot help in this case.
Neither should INEC engage whistle-blowers and complainants in a media war.
This will arouse negative sentiment. We simply reported cases of denial of Allah-given fundamental human right to register for the election.
Corrective measures should have been taken instead of engaging us in media tete-a-tete.

There are records of such positive interventions which have benefited all stakeholders.
“MURIC’s complaints are always based on credible information from Muslims out there in the field.
Apart from social media platforms operated by our state branches, MURIC headquarters alone has 16 different whatshap groups, facebook and other social media platforms where members file in their reports.
These reports are collated and screened by the various administrators in charge and forwarded to MURIC’s directorate for action. Our claims are easily verifiable.
“MURIC as a critical stakeholder will not attack INEC.
We are aware that the electoral body parades a lot of credible and well-trained professionals and seasoned administrators and we respect these noble people.

But that does not mean there are no black sheep in the system. There is a Judas in every twelve.
He however, assured INEC that their mission is to contribute positively to its success.
“We are aware of some of the challenges facing the electoral body.
Our efforts at bringing certain inadequacies to the attention of INEC officials should not be misconstrued as exposing the parastatal’s weaknesses.
Such complaints should be taken in good faith, investigated and necessary action taken if found to be credible.
INEC is doing its best as far as we know but overzealous staffers need to be cautioned.
Public confidence in INEC may be grossly eroded if the electoral body refuses to warn its bad eggs” he said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/08/nigerians-should-make-2019-date-of.html

The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has embarked on the construction of the $120 million Bonny-Bono road.

The road which will connect Bonny to Port Harcourt is slated for completion within 40 months.

The company also plan to embark on $6 billion capacity development project for the Train 7, which had potential of creating 12,000 new jobs in the Niger Delta region.

Mr Tony Attah, Managing Director of NLNG, unveiled the company’s project at the investigative hearing into the company’s activities held by the House of Representatives Committee on Gas Resources, in Abuja.

“The big deal for us in Nigeria LNG is growing capacity. Currently we have six Trains with 22 million tonnes per annum capacity which is 7 per cent of global market share of LNG.

“We want to grow back to the 10 per cent which was what it was before. So we want to grow by about 35 per cent capacity before Australia.

“We want to grow by about 355 capacity, that will come via Train 7 project for which we have commenced the engineering design and we are looking forward to take a final investment decision not too long.’’

He also said NLNG had remitted more than 100 billion US dollars’ as revenue to the coffers of Federal Government and other equity holders in the company.

According to Attah, Federal Government through Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) which owned 49 per cent equity got more than $15 billion dividends.

The company has remitted more than $6.5 billion in taxes to Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) since 2009.

According to him, since the N LNG became a tax-paying company its contributions are helping to build a better Nigeria even though it does more than financial contribution.

“As a result of Nigeria LNG being in existence, we have helped to reduce gas flaring by more than 65 per cent and will continue to work with our upstream suppliers to mop-up more.

“This is because we produce the opportunity as the biggest gas sink for whatever gas is provided in the country. We have the capacity to receive that gas but I think by far the biggest opportunity is in Nigeria’s brand and reputation.

“Before NLNG, Nigeria was actually No. 2 on the undesired league of gas flaring nations in the world.

“But today, we are No. 7 ahead of other countries such as United States, I mean, United States is flaring more than Nigeria,” Attah said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/08/nlng-embarks-on-120m-road-project.html

The Policemen at the Onipanu Station of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested one Felix Irobuta Idehen, 54, for allegedly defiling 11 years old girl (names withheld) from 2016 to August 24 in Shomolu area of the state.

Idehen, who resides at 8, Imagbon street Fadeyi, has been arrested by policemen of Onipanu division for defiling the primary school pupil. He was a transporter known as ‘Alaye.’


According to Child Protection Network (CPN) Coordinator of Shomolu, Toyin Okanlawon, the survivor told us that the suspect forcefully removed her under wears then had carnal knowledge of her, adding: “Human Development Initiative (HDI) at Iwaya, Yaba informed me of the case.”

Okanlawon told Akelicious that the defilement started two years ago. “The suspect has been serially having sex with the minor. He even turned her to a intimacy gadget. When we asked the little girl, she said the last time Idehen had sex with her was on August 19 and 23 multiple times,” he further said.

The CPN coordinator stated that the survivor told the rescuer that the serial rapist told her not to inform her mother about what they always did. “The minor claimed that the suspect always handle her breasts and abused her when no one was around,” he added.

The rescuer continued: “The survivor was given a medical paper for further investigation at Mirabel Centre at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

“Initially, upon interrogated, the suspect denied the allegations upon his arrest on August 24. But the IPO in charge of the case told us that the suspect has confessed to committing the evil act.”

Anambra Senator Sponsors 50 Anambra Youths to China for Skills Acquisition
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

50 youths from Anambra State will leave Nigeria for China to learn various skills that will aid their craft, and turn them to professionals, Chairman and CEO of Capital Oil and Gas, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah, has announced.

Ubah made the announcement when he appeared as a guest and mentor at a mentorship programme for youths of the state in Awka yesterday.
The programme, code named Digiprenuer, was organised by the Senior Special Assistant to the state governor on Youth Empowerment and Digital Entrepreneurship, Chief Ifeanyi Aniagoh for the mentorship of young people.

Aniagoh said the programme was meant to awaken the minds of Nigerian youths and help them aspire greatness in today’s digitalised world.

Ubah, who commended 10 of the youths who emerged winners for the first batch of the empowerment programme in China, said he was at the event to teach young people how to catch fish, rather than following politicians for fish. He said the youths would go in batches of 10 until completed.

He advised against negative use of the social media and waste of precious time that could be used for meaningful ventures.

Ubah noted that Nigeria was losing so much from a situation where large number of youths spent most of the productive part of the day on the social media either discussing people or spreading falsehood.

The business mogul said there were a lot of ways to make money online, and charged youths to explore them by making the best use of opportunity provided by the ‘Digiprenueur’ empowerment scheme.

He said today’s youths pursue formal education for the fun of it, leaving the entrepreneurship component of their training lacking, hence their inability to be innovative.

“Education is necessary but not sufficient to be successful, unfortunately most people go to school these days for the fun of it, just to express themselves, but the application component is lacking.

“In China there are programmes that make youths to be compulsorily productive, but here, phone is causing problem for our youths;they spend their time chatting away because that is what the society permits now.

“I think the narrative should change, the orientation of time management should change, there should be time for eating, time to work, time to rest and time to play with your phones,” he said.

The organiser of the programme,

Aniagoh, said for the youths to rule the political space in Nigeria, they have to be rooted in the business sector, agriculture sectors, information sector among others, and that the programme was meant to empower them to rule in the political sector.

CUPPs’ Candidate ‘II Defeat Buhari , Boasts PPN ChieftainVictor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

The National Chairman of the Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN), Hon. Rasaq Eyiwuawi, has promised that the Coalition for United Political Parties(CUPPs) will present a presidential candidate with unblemished
records that will defeat President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 general elections.

The PPN leader said Nigerians were witnessing their worst of experiences in terms of high level of poverty under Buhari, saying the coalition, comprising 46 political parties will give Nigerians a presidential candidate that can pass integrity test in the election

Eyiwuawi urged Nigerians to resist the cankerworm of vote-buying that just crept into the country’s electoral system, saying the scenarios that played out in Ekiti, Ondo , Anambra and Edo States had ridiculed the country’s elections.

The PPN leader spoke in Ado Ekiti yesterday after inaugurating the 30-man State Executive Council of the party that was elected to take charge of the party in the State.

In the election, Mr. Dare Adekolu polled a total of 99 votes to emerge the state chairman of the party among other officials elected by delegates.

He said the party decided to join the coalition having become disenchanted with the lack-lustre performance under the Buhari-led regime.

“We will be happy if President Buhari is presented by APC as presidential candidate, because he will be easy to defeat.

“The candidate that will be presented by CUPPs will be someone with unblemished records. In fact, Nigerians will be surprised by the time the candidate will emerge.

“He will be a man that will be difficult to fault. A person that will make it an easy ride for us if President Buhari is presented, that is our focus and that we shall realise”, he said.

Eyiwuawi described the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti State as a sham, saying they only bought the victory with alleged intention to impose unpopular candidate on the people .
“They decided to bring vote-buying into our electoral process owing to high poverty and with intention to perpetually enslave our people.

“But in 2019, we are going to sensitise the people on the need to collect their ill-gotten wealth and still go ahead to elect the right candidate, because it was the money they stole from our treasury. The CUPPs is determined to move round the country and talk to the
electorate .

“How can one sell his future for mere N4,000 or N5,000? The road from Abuja to Ekiti should be between four and five hours, but today it will take like eight hours owing to bad governance. So, we are going to work against vote- buying in 2019 and it is a task we must achieve”,
he stated.

See Photos at http://www.akelicious.net/2018/08/lagos-police-arrest-54-years-old-for.html