₦airaland Forum

but how do u expect an aspiring governor tell convey his message to the people?

do u have another different means?

Bad roads are bad for business. An inefficient, pot-hole ridden, dodgy-toll-road-laden, shoddily repaired, over-priced and just downright shambolic road network is not good for profits for existing businesses, never mind the over-taxation that's currently the bane of every businessman and woman in Lagos state, and is a total repellent for new investment. But that's what we have in Lagos right now, regardless of the propaganda of the current administration, along with its smoke and mirrors system of government.



I intend to repair the entire existing road and drain network with dispatch, using only contractors that will work at night, to minimize disruption to road users. We will also open up new roads, for example, the much-vaunted Lekki Coastal Road, exploiting our strong links with the Federal Government.



We will take the strain off the roads by improving any existing rail system, and constructing a state-wide rail network that will ease the movement of goods and people across metropolitan Lagos and into the suburbs.



Research has shown that a large portion of the the gridlock is caused by driver action, with the most guilty group being commercial vehicle operators. We will introduce a compulsory bi-annual Driving competence test for ALL commercial Vehicle operators. Driver education will be key here, with testing and certification programs for Basic Literacy and Numeracy, as well as comprehensive medical tests and random drug and alcohol testing.



We will exploit our links with Federal Agencies to ensure that the waterways are maximised, in terms of their potential as a means of mass transportation, with greater emphasis on volume operators than hitherto.



We will light up the streets to improve security and safety at night for vehicular and pedestrian road users.



The future is upon us already, and we must seize the moment, in order to face that future without fear and apprehension. Indeed, the agenda is to decide that future, and I ask you to join with me in doing that.


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Paul 'tete' Kehinde Tuama : And what are you going to do differently? Tell me your history, areas where you have been of help even in your neighborhood. Your face doesnt speak to my soul. Come up with a movement or a forum and share your ideas with the public. Its easy to convince people when you are sure they will buy into your already tested and trusted visions.
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Lastborn Hamza: Sorry who r u, u wanna contest for governorship or what?
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Aitanun Ewohdare Nelson: GBADAMOSI ALL THE VOTE IN ME IS YOU ONLY

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Gbadamosi for Governor 2011 @ Paul 'tete': You crack me up, "you face doesn't speak to my soul", ! What RFLMAO, Really deep, I'm not really interested in speaking to anyone's soul, just Lagosians who have had to endure the last 12 years of empty sloganeering in the face of plenty (N18 billion per month IGR). As regards your soul, just give your life to Christ, my brother.


Florence Eserifa : We need a CHANGE in Nigeria. We need good government in Nigeria.

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Olarewaju Ademola Thomas
well i think this is a good basis for better transportation in Lagos and a good manifesto for as many as have called for it. The point about driver indiscipline is apt and should be worked on.
@Hamza, Mr. Babatunde Olawale Gbadamosi is a gu, bernatorial aspirant in Lagos and above, you have his view/ manifesto as per transportation in Lagos.See More

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Paul 'tete' Kehinde Tuama
‎@Gbadamosi for Governor 2011: Its obvious you dont know what you are in for. You cant even convince me with simple salient points and you want to convince the intellectually resuscitated Lagosians to vote you as their governor.
Well bo ti , wole oti soro,

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Ejike Ogbuezi Paul ‎@Gbadamosi,we need good roads to enable our buisness flourish here in lagos because transport has alot to contribute in the area of buisness,movement of goods from one point to the other without potholes and ditches would be a good idea.My support is solidly behind you!

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Desire Deyemi: oga i pray God help u seriously u can intesify your campaign

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Destiny Stone
My amiable incoming Gov.Of lagos state.Hon.Gbadamosi i think there are some empty brain individuals dat are opportune to be added on ur friends list. i'll advice u dnt respnd to there baseless nd empty comments nd questns sum1 like 'paul t, ete'.Though i agree dat as an aspirant u have to tolerate bt i find some people as irrelevant as a determinant to who rule over 18million lagosians.I lives in a part of lagos dat actually determines who wins(.A.L.G) i promise dat after if u emerge after d P.D.P primaries i 'll single handedly print 1000 copies of ur posters and mobilise d concern youth of my community 4 u.Dis a promise because there is need 4 change in lagos state.And 'YES U CAN' eko oni baje ju bayi lo.Forward ever backward never.




Gbadamosi for Governor 2011
Destiny: Thanks for your encouragement. Your area is really important to me. My first child attended that popular school on Ejigbo Road, you know the one, until just 2 years ago when he transferred to a school closer to home for health re, asons. I also briefly partnered with that low cost estate near the tipper garage on the collapsed road, so I know your area VERY well. I have been there several times recently, and I have to credit you guys for bearing the suffering so well for so long. With God on our side, we will surely carry the day and bring the suffering to an end!See More

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Destiny Stone Yes i agree with u sir.The youth around alimosho local government are really getting ready 4 the forthcoming electns.We need a change and we are ready to work twards dat with our one man one vote,platform,we till also go 4rm doors to doors to relate d importants of the registratn to people.Sir i promise u its nt going to be a business as usual in alimosho area especially in constituency01.We are ready to choose our leader.We are tired of imposition.Eko oni baje ju bawi lo.

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Destiny Stone
‎@Bashir i dnt tink u have to go dis lenght to discourage sum1 dats willing to bring change to d life of d masses.Ur truth is mst needd in ur own personal life as i cn easily dictect dat u av a low IQ havent judge a candidate with is party, As much i dnt think hon.Gbadamosi blocked u perhaps sumtin went wrng.So pls change ur way of reasoning d best is yet to happen in lagos state.We need sum1 dat 'll reflect d hard earn taxes on d masses.We 're tired of Godfatherism.Why is ur so call Brf begging his Godfather to re impose him, ? Time 'll tell.Hon.Gbadamosi please go on soun we the concern youth of Alimosho 'll always b with u as lng as nthing will chng frm ur proposed manifesto, Eko o ni baje ju bayi lo.See More
October 26 at 11:38am via Facebook Mobile · LikeUnlike ·
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Gbadamosi for Governor 2011 Destiny: It would interest you to know that "Eko o ni baje , ju bayi lo" actually originated from Alimosho!

Destiny Stone Am glad to hear dis sir.In Alimosho we are bent on full participatn in d nxt election unlike d usual ways of dancing to d impositns of d likes of hon. Joke orelope{com. 4 human affairs } and d father that has been in control of d L.G politic for yrs, Its nt going to b a biz as usual.W want to decide nw and mke d right choice base on merit.Eko oni


Am glad to hear dis sir.In Alimosho we are bent on full participatn in d nxt election unlike d usual ways of dancing to d impositns of d likes of hon. Joke orelope{com. 4 human affairs } and d father that has been in control of d L.G politic for yrs, Its nt going to b a biz as usual.W want to decide nw and mke d right choice base on merit.Eko oni baje ju bayi lo,

The Alpha Beach flooding could have been avoided completely, had the government of the day not banned sand-dredging outright, without consultation. The result of that ban has been an upsurge in the activities of illegal sand miners along the entire Lekki Peninsula Atlantic coastline, which is rendering the coastal comm, unities vulnerable to flooding by the ocean. LASEMA, LASEPA, WAKE UP! Eko o ni baje, ju bayi lo!

some threads had been created to talkabout this guy Gbadamosi Babatunde, an aspirant of The people's Democratic party.

We all dislike PDP and i never wanted d guys too,but i have to be sincere with you guys,Gbadamosi has plans for lagos.

I took my time to watch is style and i tell u, u need to know him.

this man release a plan at atimeand he allow people to engage in arguement with him, and at the end they agree or disagree.

from what i have gathered is below


According to him

We must do everything we can to retain as much of our intellectual capital as we can, as our loss will be another's gain. If we want world class health care, we must pay those delivering it world-class wages. The time has come to take our rightful place on the world stage. We won't get there on slave wages though. N20 , billion per month revenue makes "world class" affordable in Lagos State.
Eko o ni baje, ju bayi lo!

response from d people.

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Odejimi Hakeem Lanre : HUMAN RESOURCES SHOULD BE VALUES MORE LIKE EVERY OTHER FACTORS OF PRODUCTIONS.

Abiodun Olusesan Ogundele: its simply case of misplaced priority and mismanagement of tax payers money, even the state higher institutions are on strike, Lagos shd be a pace setter.

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Adesola Itiolu:yes now you are talking.keep it up.If a government fails in health and education,then its already total failure

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Debo Alder
Dear Mr Gbadamsi,

I have consistently monitored your series of posts on this page and I can only pity Nigerians more. What I have been able to deduce from your torrents of posts are your supposed facts and findings on the other side of gover, nance of the incumbent in Lagos state which is typical of any person aspiring a post like the governor of a mega city like Lagos; though I’m not completely averse to your personal ambition, albeit, your intention to make Lagos a better state. Nevertheless, the political chauvinism of Nigerian state in general especially at the twilight of 21st century has left more to be wondered about when the revealing escapades of your political class are put in perspectives - The Halliburton scandal is now adjudged to be far worse than the highly rated Watergate scandal of 1970 which led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon of United State of America. I wonder less if you are bothered about this as a Nigerian this time around minding the fact that the dramatis personae of Halliburton scandal and so many other economic and political plagues that have bewildered ordinary Nigerians are those that will eventually append their signatures to your candidacy.

The entire political class has failed Nigerians! The elites are worst!

While wishing you well in your ambition, I wish Nigerians a revolution of perpetual good governance and accountability. Thought it seems bleak to happen in our generation but it will surely happen and the coming generation will benefit and remember the progressives.

Accept my warm regardsSee More

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Kofo Bams: Bros Debo, you talk finish ni oooo. and i respect your intelligence. May God help us all.

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Odejimi Hakeem Lanre ‎@ Debo I strongly agree with you.

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Ajayi Ayobamidele: Please tell us your plan or how you intend to turn around Lagos state health system with 20 billion when you get there. You are almost turning yourself to a mobile newspaper or radio station carrying bad/evil news. You will be a better columnist doing critical analysis of on the situation in Lagos

SOME people said if gbadamosi is smart,he wouldnt be contesting at this time, but u re wrong.

this is the best time for any serious and reasonable candidate to show face. challenges the current administration and i bet u, fashola is nothing but media propaganda.

with a clear idea on how to solve the lagos problems,ppl will support him or her,



Lagosian are wise,smart and focus
we can not be blinded by political propaganda provided we see a clear vision and a way forward for d state.

My fellow brothers and systers in Islam, Assalamualaikum Waramatullahi wabarakattu,

It is my pleasure to raise this topic as it affect the life of many muslims.

many people had come to the conclusion that as far as Nigeria is concern with the current situation, there is no way one can completely leave his life according to the teaching of islam.

So lets share idea on this issue and see the possibilities. can 1 leave and be okay according to the teaching of the Holy Qur'an in Nigeria?

lets discus this issue may be we can proffer a way forward for our fellow muslim brothers and sister and if possible publish a book on this topic.

Massalam.

Christians are allowed to share their idea in this topic provided they did not turn it into a place of religious argument or add any sentiment.

hey guys,

what do u think abt this promo track of isolate titled party avenue?

anyone got d lyrics?

this is a good initiative, i wonder why no one is commenting on it.

but they will all rush to support any bad idea.

jjjjj

[list]
[li][/li]
[li][/li]
[/list]

wow,

this is a welcome development, am in support of this,


Lets wait till d date and see who ur candidates would be

wow,

this is a welcome development, am in support of this,

ha ha ha,\

i laugh 4 ekiti language., he he he,

i wonder wat u think on ur head.

i hv known abt dis 4 over 13 years, but when i saw it on d news, i think saheed decided to broke his silence,

dt is d truth, most of u guys started supportn pasuma recently, i hv known him personally since 1995 and i love him. i have never seen saheed face to face but i have always loved him since his first release in 1993.

d truth is bitter anyway.

The duo of Saheed Osupa and Pasuma Wonder are two close friends with talents in Fuji music. They both have become an enigma in the scene of Fuji music with a lot of creativities and originalities of their individual acts. Saheed Osupa and Pasuma are currently the face of Fuji music because of their exploit in the music by promoting the Fuji music to the highest level that has earned them various individual awards. Saheed Osupa is currently the best Fuji musician of the 2009, while Pasuma still remain an undisputed Champion in Fuji music for his dominary spirit over Fuji music.

These dudes gained various fans through their albums and live shows which have sprung up heavy rivalry that exist among the two musical friends. The similarities between Pasuma/Saheed Osupa are their ability to make use of street slang to compose lyrics and fit in complementary beats to the delight of their fans.

Although they both differ in style of music. Pasuma lay much emphasis on pure slang’s and electrifying beats which attracts energetic dancing steps. Also there is an element infusion of hip hop in Pasuma’s Fuji which is largely accepted by his teaming fans as an extension of Fuji music. On the other hand, Osupa, is deeply rooted in cultural/tradition Fuji acts, he has being able to diverse his lyrics and rhythms on idioms and proverbs as a typical indigenous musician. His beliefs in tradition and cultural values, has made him to be more conservative in his lyrics composition which has earned him numerous fans across the Federation. His ability to sing Fuji music according to how it was found has given him a lot of musical titles as a mark of achievements and has distinguished him from other leading Fuji acts. Both Pasuma and Saheed Osupa were intimate friends before they both went separate ways as a result of allegations coming from Osupa over Pasuma for stealing his intellectual properties without acknowledgement which is better composed by Pasuma.

After several efforts from Saheed Osupa to stop Pasuma from such unprofessional attitude proved abortive, this made Saheed Osupa to embark on abusive lyrics to tarnish and dethrone Pasuma as a self acclaim wave making Fuji star. The dispute continued with a lot of controversies trailing their individual career as the fans are injecting more infernos to the issues.


In an instance, Osupa’s fans hailed the constructive gesture of their artist for his steadyfast in acquiring series of housing properties in Lagos and Ibadan which makes him more superior to Pasuma. In fact some of his fans have challenged the inability of Pasuma to release 4 in 1 Cds which Osupa has done with pleasure. However, Pasuma’s fans also made it known that Pasuma Wonder is the most entertained Fuji act that has taken the Fuji music to the highest level. He has being able to infuse hip-hop to the Fuji music which has made the music to be more acceptable by the social elites. It was once rumoured that Pasuma sets for a house warming ceremony, the rumour was debunked as a result of no structure and reality on the ground. One of Pasuma’s fans argued that the house was built but it belongs to Pasuma’s mother.

Another enmity that arose among Pasuma/Saheed Osupa was the sudden Installation of Saheed Osupa as the King of music, which is the highest title in Fuji music. This controversial installation created a lot of foes between Pasuma, Saheed Osupa and other Fuji musicians to engage in verbal war that split the Fuji house into factions. Some factions claimed that Osupa did not deserve the Installation while other agitated that the Installation came as a result of his hard-work and his ability to promote Fuji music to the cultural value.

However, this battle of self-supremacy has hindered the chance of new Fuji artist to emerge. Both Pasuma and Osupa came into prominence in the early 90’s, since their inception into the Fuji music, it has been one controversy or the other. They battle for album titles, lyrics and the richest. It is only time that will tell their re-union as many fans awaits their friendship again.

The duo of Saheed Osupa and Pasuma Wonder are two close friends with talents in Fuji music. They both have become an enigma in the scene of Fuji music with a lot of creativities and originalities of their individual acts. Saheed Osupa and Pasuma are currently the face of Fuji music because of their exploit in the music by promoting the Fuji music to the highest level that has earned them various individual awards. Saheed Osupa is currently the best Fuji musician of the 2009, while Pasuma still remain an undisputed Champion in Fuji music for his dominary spirit over Fuji music.

These dudes gained various fans through their albums and live shows which have sprung up heavy rivalry that exist among the two musical friends. The similarities between Pasuma/Saheed Osupa are their ability to make use of street slang to compose lyrics and fit in complementary beats to the delight of their fans.

Although they both differ in style of music. Pasuma lay much emphasis on pure slang’s and electrifying beats which attracts energetic dancing steps. Also there is an element infusion of hip hop in Pasuma’s Fuji which is largely accepted by his teaming fans as an extension of Fuji music. On the other hand, Osupa, is deeply rooted in cultural/tradition Fuji acts, he has being able to diverse his lyrics and rhythms on idioms and proverbs as a typical indigenous musician. His beliefs in tradition and cultural values, has made him to be more conservative in his lyrics composition which has earned him numerous fans across the Federation. His ability to sing Fuji music according to how it was found has given him a lot of musical titles as a mark of achievements and has distinguished him from other leading Fuji acts. Both Pasuma and Saheed Osupa were intimate friends before they both went separate ways as a result of allegations coming from Osupa over Pasuma for stealing his intellectual properties without acknowledgement which is better composed by Pasuma.

After several efforts from Saheed Osupa to stop Pasuma from such unprofessional attitude proved abortive, this made Saheed Osupa to embark on abusive lyrics to tarnish and dethrone Pasuma as a self acclaim wave making Fuji star. The dispute continued with a lot of controversies trailing their individual career as the fans are injecting more infernos to the issues.


In an instance, Osupa’s fans hailed the constructive gesture of their artist for his steadyfast in acquiring series of housing properties in Lagos and Ibadan which makes him more superior to Pasuma. In fact some of his fans have challenged the inability of Pasuma to release 4 in 1 Cds which Osupa has done with pleasure. However, Pasuma’s fans also made it known that Pasuma Wonder is the most entertained Fuji act that has taken the Fuji music to the highest level. He has being able to infuse hip-hop to the Fuji music which has made the music to be more acceptable by the social elites. It was once rumoured that Pasuma sets for a house warming ceremony, the rumour was debunked as a result of no structure and reality on the ground. One of Pasuma’s fans argued that the house was built but it belongs to Pasuma’s mother.

Another enmity that arose among Pasuma/Saheed Osupa was the sudden Installation of Saheed Osupa as the King of music, which is the highest title in Fuji music. This controversial installation created a lot of foes between Pasuma, Saheed Osupa and other Fuji musicians to engage in verbal war that split the Fuji house into factions. Some factions claimed that Osupa did not deserve the Installation while other agitated that the Installation came as a result of his hard-work and his ability to promote Fuji music to the cultural value.

However, this battle of self-supremacy has hindered the chance of new Fuji artist to emerge. Both Pasuma and Osupa came into prominence in the early 90’s, since their inception into the Fuji music, it has been one controversy or the other. They battle for album titles, lyrics and the richest. It is only time that will tell their re-union as many fans awaits their friendship again.

16 questions Prophet Muhammad answered
By Abdulfatah Oladeinde
Friday, October 08, 2010

Anas Ibn Malik reports that a Bedouin came to the Messenger of Allah, Prophet Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and greeted him in the mosque.

The Messenger of Allah asked him where he came from. The Bedouin said:” I came from far seeking answers to some questions”. Our master told him to ask his questions”:
1 I wish to be an intelligent man, what should I do?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Fear Allah”.

2 I wish to be a loyal servant to Allah and do what He wants me to do?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Read the Qur’an.”
3 I wish to be enlightened and have peace of heart?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Remember Death”.
4 I wish to be protected against enemies?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Trust in Allah”.

5 I wish to follow the Straight Path?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Do good to others for Allah’s sake.”
6 What should I do so that Allah does not abase me?
Holy Prophet Replied, “ Do not respond to the desires of your flesh.”
7 I wish to have a long life?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Praise and thank Allah.”
8 I wish for prosperity?

Holy Prophet Replied, “Be in a state of ablution at all times.”
9 How can I save myself from the hellfire?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Protect your eyes and your tongue and your hands and what is below your waistline against evil.”
10 How can I cleanse myself from my sins?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Shed tears for what you have done and repent by undoing what you have done wrong.”

11 I wish to be a respectable person?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Then, don’t ask for anything from anybody.”
12 I wish to be honourable?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Then don’t divulge the wrong doings of anybody.”
13 What should I do to protect myself from the tortures of the grave?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Recite the Surah Mulk.”
14 What should one do to be rich?

Holy Prophet Replied, “Read the Surah Muzammil.”
15 How should I calm my fear of the day of last judgment?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Remember Allah before you eat anything and before you sleep.”
16 What should I do to feel the presence of Allah when I make my prayers?
Holy Prophet Replied, “Give the utmost care in taking your ablutions and in being clean and pure.

The change is someone who has the required qualities to change a situation in a place at a given time. Having the qualities is not enough to bring about the change but the willingness to change. After analysing the situation in kwara state and how Mr gbenga olawepo strugled to free kwaran's from the doninance of the godfather during the last election,finally,all his efort was crowned when CNN announce Mr Gbenga whom i call the change the winner of the 2007 election.

But the corrupt Nigerian system was at work again when the Nigerian television authority did not announce The Change (Mr. Gbenga) as the Governor of kwara, instead, they announced Dr.bukola Saraki.

after much effort at the tribunal, the case was dismissed. what a Nigerian.

But the change (Mr. Gbenga) did not relent on his quest to free and save kwara state.

He his ready once again to give it all with the support of everyone of you.


The messier will arrive in ilorin the kwara state capital on tuesday, 12 october 2010.

Kwara must be free

Indeed tuface is incredible, dis guy is jst too good,checkout it dis lyrics


I see It Coming 2face ft Wyre.verse 2 by Tubaba "Open up d border i want2 go kenya without a visa i wanna go c my Wyre make we feel Hyre boys & girls come out 2play as East meet West we want invest in africa peace & living in top in heavenly peace whr luv & unity is spreadin like disease everybody just turn around smile & say cheese dats d picture of d future dats d way wanna to live here dats d way we wanna all join

Tuface: I Won’t Abandon My 5 Kids




Multiple award-winning musician, Innocent ‘Tuface’ Idibia, has said despite undue criticisms from some quarters, he will not abandon his five kids and their moms.

2face Idiaba.

The African Queen crooner currently has five kids from three ladies but he said even though he is not yet married to any of the ladies, he will not shy away from his responsibilities as a father to the kids and their mothers.

In an interview with P.M.NEWS, Tuface said: “I have five kids from three lovely ladies. Abi na women I go call them? I try as much as possible to see them because I have little or no time.”

On the reasons why he decided to be a polygamist, he said: “I did not plan to have kids from different women but at a point in my life, it happened and I said I will not run away from it. I will stand and face the responsibility.”

The Benue State-born singer has refused to comment on whether he will settle down with one of the ladies that bore him kids or not.

“I never know oh! It might be one of them and it may not be,” he said.

—Ayodele Lawal & Bayo Adetu

watsup n ow o4ka?

y dont put ur fee?

true talk

http://www.elombah.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3906%3Abukola-sarakis-kleptocracy-how-he-mismanaged-kwaras-billions-why-he-doesnt-want-goodluck&catid=36%3Aomoba&Itemid=83

who told u say she no wear pant?

abi u don forget dat basket mouth joke?

way him say, b4 na pant dey cover yansh, but now yansh dey cover yansh,



if u approach such lady to tell her to cover up,u will end up getting insult mostly,so jst enjoy d film,

some girls even do it intentionally, i over heard some ladies saying it once, so if u approach a lady dat intentionally do dat,u no what it means, u can only go scot free if she is not aware

Youths are set to take over, I’m the man – Ribadu
Politics Sep 18, 2010
Between the young and old generation

•We should do away with corrupt past leaders
•I have not spoken with OBJ for two years

By Chioma Gabriel, Deputy Editor
Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, former Chairman of Economic and financial Crimes Commission, EFCC is one of those being expected to contest the 2011 presidential election.

Although he has not formally declared and is being expected to declare on September 30, Nuhu Ribadu would fly the presidential flag of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and already, young people from different parts of the country are known to be campaigning in advance.The youths who are currently meeting at Abuja would round up tomorrow and their commitment is to brainstorm on how to sell the personality of the former anti corruption czar and ensure that come 2011, Nuhu Ribadu becomes Nigeria’s president.

In this interview with Saturday Vanguard, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu shares his political aspirations, his plans and the difference he will make in the polity.

Nuhu Ribadu: The young people should have a chance

The former EFCC boss believes in the dream of a new Nigeria where there will be no more corruption, assassinations,kidnappings, unemployment, power outage, insecurity, religious bigotry, ethnic jingoism but a brand new country and he believes in the new generation coming together to ensure that those who destroyed Nigeria in the past should not have the opportunity to return to power.

And does he believe he is the right man for the job? Nuhu Ribadu says he has all it takes. He has no fears and is not worried about anything and anybody; challenging those who have allegations against him to come out so he would expose them and their place in history.

He blames the current situation in the country on bad leadership, saying that if leadership is good, follower ship will be good as it is leadership that determines the level of follower ship. Reminded that past leaders have made similar promises and failed, Ribadu said he has never made any promise and failed and that Nigeria should try him and see the difference.

Excerpts.
There are speculations that you are going to contest 2011 presidential elections. How true is this speculation?

So far, I have not made any public declaration to run for any elective office. Like you said, there are speculations and for now, I have not made any declaration.

But people have been campaigning, promising that you are being wooed to contest.
I think that is the word. Being wooed to contest and that is where we are for now. The future will tell.

Some people are expecting that when you returned from exile, you would work hand-in-hand with Jonathan who also wants to contest.

Well, I don’t understand what you mean. President Jonathan and I are friends. Our relationship is cordial. I have not declared my presidential aspirations and he has not declared his. But I am a public servant and I am still committed to serving God and the people. Only God knows what tomorrow will be.

In the event of you declaring to run for presidency, what would you do differently for Nigeria . What have past leaders not done that you are promising Nigerians?

I believe in the dream of a new Nigeria. I believe in re-making Nigeria and bringing it to the level where the future will be bright. I see Nigeria of greater tomorrow. I see peace and justice.

I see harmony. I see togetherness. I believe in the need for change and I want to be part of that change. Everywhere you look, people are clamouring for change because the present situation in the country is very undesirable. There is still massive corruption, people are still killing people, people are still kidnapping people. There is need to stop all that.

There is still power outage; unemployment. Graduates are everywhere and there are no jobs. A lot of young people are frustrated, disenchanted and they roam the streets hopeless and helpless. I want to turn things around for good. I want to bring a change.

I want to remake Nigeria and give hope to the new generation. Many have tried and failed and I am committed to making a difference. I have done it in the past and I will do it again.

I am committed to service; service to the country, service to the ordinary people, the common people and above all, service to God. I want to work with all Nigerians to bring this dream of a new Nigeria to becoming a reality. It is happening everywhere all over the world; in the United States, in Russia, in France.

The new generation are taking over and are bringing about positive change. We cannot leave this country in the hands of those who ruined it. We have to remake Nigeria and that is what I am clamouring for. It is not something I will do alone. It is what all Nigerians who desire change for the better should come together and work for.

Come October 1, Nigeria will be 50. How would you assess 50 years of our nationhood?

Nigeria is developing. There is no doubt about that. But a lot of work still needs to be done. And this is the moment for us to open a new chapter. Those who led us in the past have done their own and this is our time. We should move ahead. We still need to do much more than what has been done already.

It is to the glory of God that we have remained together. We are grateful to God for that but we should fast-forward from where we are to greatness. Nigerians should be able to feel safe anywhere.

An Igbo man should feel safe in Sokoto and an Hausa man should feel safe in Ogun State and vice-versa. We should do away with ethnicism, religious bias. Every part of Nigeria should be home for every Nigerian. We should not feel unsafe when we are in any part of Nigeria. We should be Nigerians everywhere we are and that is why I said that change is imminent.

What would you say is the problem with Nigeria?

The problem with Nigeria is bad leadership. It is the form of leadership we have at a time that determines follower ship but over the years, bad leadership has held Nigeria to ransom. Nigerians should say no to bad leadership.

Now, when you said the problem of Nigeria is bad leadership, that means the past leaders were not good enough. Now, some of these leaders we had in the past are trying to stage a come-back in 2011. What is your opinion of that?

Well, as it is, you cannot stop them from contesting the elections. But it is up to Nigerians to decide if these people should come back, and that can only be achieved through the votes of Nigerians. It is their constitutional right to aspire but Nigerians should decide who they want to rule them using the past records of these people.

Nigeria is for everybody. It is not for one. It is up to the people to decide if they want one person to dominate the polity at all times.

We should make sure that our votes count and the only way to get rid of the people we don’t want is through our votes. It is up to Nigerians to decide whether they want to vote for those who ruined the country or not.

For sometime, the argument on zoning of the presidency has dominated the polity.

It’s been the North vs the South. Where do you stand on this?

The zoning argument is something that does not really concern me. It’s an internal party affair. It is a PDP affair and I am not in PDP. I belong to Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and we don’t have such an issue in our party. Political parties make decisions that favour them and the zoning debate is not an ACN affair.

But the debate has gone beyond being a PDP affair to being a national affair. The Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, which I’m sure you belong to even came out with a communique that urged all the parties to adopt Northern presidential candidates.

No matter what was said by ACF, it is still the priority of political parties to decide who flies their presidential flag because ACF is not the deciding factor. It is the political parties and in some parties, there is no zoning arrangement. They let the best emerge.

So, you don’t believe in zoning?

It is not part of our party arrangement.

Now, in anticipation of your deciding to run, who is your God father?

God the Father is my Godfather.

Many will think you need the anointing former President Obasanjo.

God the Father is my God father. Obasanjo is not my god father. I have not spoken with Obasanjo for over two years. I don’t understand this thing about Obasanjo. I was a public servant and served Nigeria to the best of my ability.

I did not serve Obasanjo, I served Nigeria and Nigerians but I have regard and respect for Obasanjo as an elder statesman and as President whom I served under.

Why are people talking about Obasanjo whenever I am mentioned? Why do people think there is something between Obasanjo and I. I wasn’t the only person amongst the lot who served under the regime of Obasanjo.

IBB served under him. He was a member of the Supreme Military Council under the military regime of Obasanjo. Buhari also worked under Obasanjo. He was a Minister and governor under his military regime.

I was the EFCC boss under the civilian regime of OBJ. Why is my own different.? Why am I being singled out? I wasn’t the only one. Even Atiku Abubakar was his Vice.

Why are people not talking about these others working under Obasanjo. Why are they talking about me? Most of these people also served under him.

Many people think EFCC was a weapon the former President used against his political enemies and with you at the helm of that organisation, many see you as a tool he used.

Nobody used me against anybody. I joined the Police Force to serve Nigeria and Nigerians and I did so to the best of my ability. I was not an agent of destruction. I was a public servant who served his fatherland and I did it very well.

And many think you were used and later dumped.

I was not used. I was not dumped either. I did not join the Police to serve a particular individual. I worked for Nigeria. My allegiance was for Nigeria and the common people.

I am still committed to serving Nigeria and the ordinary people: the masses, the low people, the wretched people who are under the bondage of bad leadership. I pledged to be different and I will be different and I have been different.

Those who led us in the past spoke the same way and still failed Nigerians. The suffering of the people did not cease despite their promises .

I will deliver what I promised. I did in the past. I promised to deliver and I did. I don’t make promises that I cannot keep. My past record speaks volumes. I will deliver.

I have delivered in the past. People should judge all those who have come out to make promises; people should be judged on the basis of who they are and what they were.

We should have our dreams for Nigeria. We should have Nigeria of our dreams, visualise what we want Nigeria to be in future, the Nigeria we want to see in years to come and work towards that.

So, looking back at the conception of EFCC, won’t you say it was a weapon used by the past administration to witch-hunt political enemies?

It was not. It is not. I rendered service to Nigerians to the best of my ability. I achieved results and I am glad with the results I achieved.

Was justice not selective in those days as some people were alleging?

I did not kill or harm anybody physically. We operated under the rule of law of this country. We did a great job. There are people who have killed people and they are still out asking to be voted for.

I have no worries. I am satisfied with my performance. So many Nigerians are proud of my output. I have nothing to worry about should I decide to contest. If those who have killed in the past can come out to face Nigerians and ask them to vote for them, then, they are the ones to worry, not me who did my job judiciously as a police man and never harmed or killed anybody.

In other words, those that accused EFCC of selective justice then were making mere allegations?

Let them come out and speak about selective justice. Who are these people any way? If they think their records are correct and they want to talk about justice, we will tell the world what they have done. I have nothing to worry about.

What do you think about Jonathan contesting presidential elections despite the PDP zoning arrangement?

I think he is qualified to contest. He is a Nigerian and under our constitution, he is qualified to contest. He should contest.

It’s only some months to the elections and things are gradually taking shape but Nigerians are still haunted by the past conduct of elections. What would you tell Nigerians?

We should all wake up to rebuild Nigeria which everybody should be proud of. A new Nigeria is possible and achievable. We can do that.

In the past 50 years, it’s been all promises and no action, all motion and no action so to say.

When the shoe doesn’t fit, you change the shoe and not the leg that wears the shoe. We should give chance to others and see if there will be a difference. I think the time has come for others to be given chance to lead the country. Nigerians should not give up.

God is just and we should believe that He will give us what is good for us. We should not give up because of past disappointments. Some of the people aspiring for presidency have been tested and they disappointed. I have not been tested on any elective office or given a chance to lead Nigeria in the highest echelon.

The time has come for people of our generation to take a plunge and liberate Nigeria from the woods. Those who ruled us in the past and disappointed us should not be given a chance to come back because they had their chance and failed. Our generation should be given the chance to lead Nigeria and this is the change that we desire and we believe we can. Together we can.

Now, a group of young people have decided to work with you. How did you come about them?

These are the people who want change. They are part of the dream of a new Nigeria which all should be proud of. These are the engine room of change. These young people are tired of the problem of the past, they are tired of a divided Nigeria.

They want a Nigeria that will give them jobs, education, light, security and sense of belonging. They want a Nigeria where everything is working and they believe that a new young person will make a better leader. They have confidence that I will do the job and do it well.

They are saying no to being used by corrupt politicians as thugs. They want to remake Nigeria and they believe based on my past record that I can do it. They have seen changes everywhere around the world.

They have seen changes in the United States, France, Russia and they have seen that the leaders of those countries are young people. They are young presidents and they want something similar, something youthful and all these young people are working for themselves.

They are not ‘rent a crowd group’. Nobody pays them for rendering their support. They are no more available for corrupt politicians to buy and misuse. They are now the ones looking for leadership, not leadership looking for them. They are saying yes, we can and I am promising them that collectively, we can .

The election time-table is already out and many have doubts about having a credible election on the basis of the time-table.

I believe we can have a credible election if the people are honest even with the time-table as it is. What matters is the will of the umpire, that is INEC to conduct a credible election in 2011.

If there is will, if there is commitment, I believe that within the period we have at hand, we can have a credible election where the votes of the people will count and no amount of manipulation can change things. It is in our hands. It is in the hands of the organisers. It is possible. Yes, we can do it.

BUKOLA SARAKI’S “KLEPTOCRACY”: How He Mismanaged Kwara’s Billions, Why He Doesn’t Want Goodluck.
Thursday, 02 September 2010 11:29
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Street Journal has reliably gathered that the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Abubakar Bukola Saraki is one of those secretly working against the emergence of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as Nigeria’s President in 2011.

Street Journal’s investigations revealed that though the Kwara State Governor openly professes his unalloyed support for President Jonathan’s candidacy, his actual loyalty to the President is divided. With his dirty past and uncertain future, the only way Saraki can save his neck is to ensure that Dr. Goodluck Jonathan does not continue in office in 2011.

The high handedness of the Saraki family ran the Societe Generale Bank bankrupt years ago and till date, they are yet to answer the charges against them. Even when charges of corruption were brought against Bukola Saraki, his sister, Gbemisola and others in 1990, their father allegedly used his clout to shield them from the law.

While the others appeared in court, none of the Sarakis ever did. Street Journal also gathered that the high-handedness that led to the failure of Societe Generale Bank was brought into governance in Kwara State where Governor Bukola Saraki’s father is the sole political kingmaker. Investigations also showed that in Kwara State and even beyond, members of the Saraki family are seen as being above the law.

Street Journal gathered that just about 10 months after Bukola Saraki was elected Governor of Kwara State, the House of Representatives summoned then Central Bank Governor Joseph Sanusi to explain how Societe Generale Bank overdrew its capital base by N 11 billion. The then Central Bank of Nigeria Governor was issued an order on 3 March 2004 which gave him only seven days to give a satisfactory explanation regarding the bank's activities. Strangely, no director of the bank was summoned by the House of Representatives.

Among other things, the Governor was alleged to have mismanaged about N65 billion which accrued to the state from the federation account between April 2003 and June 2008. A petition written to the EFCC by the Kwara State chapter of the Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) in 2008 reads in part “the total money from Federation Account meant for the 16 Kwara local governments between April 2003 to June 2005 is about N65 billion.

While Baruten, Ilorin West, Offa and Oyun were supposed to be given (out of it) a sum of not less than N5 billion, N5.7 billion, N3.4 billion and N3.1 billion respectfully. But after our own survey by teams of expert builders, economists, engineers and others, that covered the entire 16 local government council areas, it was been discovered that in each of these local governments, no serious project worth an amount of N1.5 billion took place between this period.

This shows that about N40 billion meant for local governments is elsewhere and for the four local governments mentioned above, there are no traces of development that could match up to the colossal amount of the local government revenue," The YCE also alleged that the while serving as a Director in Societe Generale, the Governor’s father, Chief Olusola Saraki influenced the granting of unsecured loans to the tune of N 250 million to the PDP. The YCE further stated that "Dr. Olusola Saraki, the father of the Kwara State governor, and other directors of the crippled bank had been investigated and were due to be arraigned on a 30-count charge before high powered politics swept away former EFCC chairman, Nuhu Ribadu and his team."

Street Journal has also found out that between the years 1999-2003 which happened to be the most critical period in the life of the SGBN, Bukola Saraki acquired 15 luxurious cars, which included a Ferrari. He and his wife, Toyin, also purchased houses in London worth 10 million pounds On 29 November 2001, Bukola Saraki bought a mansion in London for four million, two hundred and fifty thousand pounds (£4,250,000.00). The house with title number, NGL805616, is located on 70 Bourne Street, London SW1W 8JW. The lease hold on the property was registered on 9 January 2002 with the land registry, Harrow Office.

It was reportedly bought with a loan from Fortis Bank, SA-NV. The house now has a free hold. The three story structure is nothing short of a palatial mansion befitting only a king. The house is not far from Buckingham Palace road. The interior of the house speaks volumes about Governor Saraki’s high taste and love for good things; almost everything in the house, including door knobs, are gold plated. Toyin Saraki had previously bought number 69 Bourne Street in 2000 for two million pounds. In 2002, the governor also bought Number 53 Ashley Gardens for 4 million pounds; he used a front company known as "53 Ashley Gardens Limited."

Apart from his U.K properties, Bukola Saraki owns several properties in Nigeria worth several millions of naira including a N700 million house in Victoria Island said to be fetching him N96 million rent annually. Friends and associates of the Governor have posited that he was in the private sector when he bought his London property. He was the Vice Chairman of Societe General Bank at that time. Those who believe that while the bank was experiencing financial problems, he, as an executive of the bank was acquiring a multi-million pound home may therefore not be wrong.

The question that however arises is: What did Dr. Bukola Saraki use as collateral for the four million, two hundred and fifty thousand pound (£4,250,000.00) loan? How much was Bukola Saraki paid as the Vice Chairman of a bank that was having financial problems at the time he worked there? In 2003, the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were drafted to investigate some allegations of fraud at the SGBN perpetrated by the Saraki family.

Dr. Olusola Saraki, his wife, Florence, son, Bukola, and 9 other shareholders were dragged to the NDLEA after being accused of using depositors' funds to buy shares at the Societe Generale Bank of Nigeria, contrary to the Banking and Other Financial Institutions Act. Street Journal’s investigation revealed that the presidency intervened and the case never saw the light of the day. The money, which amounted to billions of naira, was allegedly moved from several bank branches in bullion vans. There are no records of these transactions.

The bank’s financial dealings were so bad that it was sent out of the clearinghouse by June 2003, a month after Bukola Saraki made frantic efforts to transfer Kwara State accounts to the bank to save it from total collapse. In a curious move, the Federal Government had also granted the SGBN a N13 billion lifeline to enable it to pay off some of its high profile debts, including monies owed to Nigeria’s former international soccer star, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha. By early 2004, the bank and its top management were accused of involvement in a N 37 billion naira fraud. Surprisingly, the bank was said to be unable to account for N 17 billion alleged to have been overdrawn from its accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Till date, people still wonder why nobody from the Saraki family has been brought to book on account of their conduct at the Societe Generale Bank. The activities of the Transition Implementation Committee (TIC), the body that managed the local government areas in Kwara State for a while also says a lot about Governor Saraki’s leadership style. Street Journal found out that in May 2003, when the Saraki led government came into office, Governor Bukola Saraki appointed transition committees to run the affairs of the 16 local councils. In the first six months, the most senior civil servants in the councils called Director of Personnel Management (DPM) ran the councils.

They were allegedly given a little part of council allocation to cover salaries. In the second six months, caretaker committees were appointed by the state government. They too had no access to council allocation. They were given enough to cover salaries and emoluments and N200, 000 per month for running expenses. The total accrual to all the local governments for the 12 months came to N7.9 billion (7 billion, 843 million and 364,000 naira).

That simply implies that the TIC hardly exhausted a quarter of their accrual. But till today, the balance has not been accounted for. In most of the petitions submitted to the EFCC by the local government chairmen that took over from the Transition Implementation Committee, a company, OlaKleen was mentioned. This company, said to be owned by the governor’s younger brother, Olaolu Saraki, is the consultant to a state project named “Operation Keep Kwara Clean”. Although Olakleen is only working in the state capital, Ilorin, the 16 local councils are made to pay for the service, coughing out about N14 million every month. When asked then, one of the Chairmen said “in my local government, I employed my own cleaners whom I pay N5, 000 in salary on a monthly basis. I had 30 cleaners, yet I was still compelled to pay N960, 000 a month to Olakleen when they were neither working for me nor operating in my local government.”

One other thing that set the Governor against the council bosses was issue of 4 per cent deduction from each local council for the salaries of traditional rulers. In another petition from the former chairmen, it was stated that a 2001 law stipulated 2.5 per cent of council allocation to the traditional councils; the current government raised it to 4 percent. Pointing out what he called arm-twisting, a former Chairman of Edu Local Government said “my local government has three traditional rulers: Emir of Lafiagi, Emir of Saragi and Emir of Shonga. Lafiagi’s salary is N80, 000, the other two N50, 000 each, making it a total of N180, 000.

So if I have N70 million allocations, 4 percent of it, about N3 million is taken from me to pay a salary of N180, 000. In addition, the monthly miscellaneous expenses of these traditional rulers are the burden of the local government. If they are sick or traveling or having ceremonies, we pick the bills.” For years now, the state government has not accounted for the proceeds of this deduction from the joint account domiciled at Intercontinental Bank along Wahab Folawiyo Road, Ilorin. The account number of this joint project is 0029253979001.

All the sixteen local government were forced to pay certain amount of the net allocation accruing to them, with the understanding that the state will also pay a certain percentage of its allocation. Street Journal gathered that while the local governments have been loyal to the agreement the state government is yet to fulfill its own side of the bargain. Apart from the gross deduction the 16 local governments have lost about N5b to this arm twisting in the name of joint capital project. The signatories to the account are the state accountant general and the Deputy Director of Treasury, none of the local government chairmen is a signatory. It was also gathered that Chief Olusola Saraki’s close affinity with former President Obasanjo coupled with the influence wielded by Governor Saraki in the Yar’Adua days made it impossible for the EFCC to bring either of them to book. Investigations carried out by Street Journal revealed that the Kwara State Governor was largely instrumental to the appointment of Mrs. Farida Waziri as the EFCC Chairman.

Sources in the EFCC revealed that after her retirement in 1999, Mrs. Waziri was one of those who lobbied the EFCC hierarchy to stop the investigation of the Saraki dynasty. EFCC investigators were at the time digging into how the Sarakis looted the Societe Generale Bank of Nigeria. Mrs. Waziri, who was close to several EFCC officials, used her leverage to stop further investigations and the planned prosecution of the Saraki family, including the governor whose questionable wealth in Nigeria and the United Kingdom grew bigger just as the fortunes of the family bank, in which he was executive director, deteriorated. And in what has been described as a bid to continue their invincibility, the Saraki family has decided to tighten their grip on the politics of their home state. Gbemisola, the senator daughter of Dr. Olusola Saraki and sister to the Governor is planning to succeed her brother as Governor.

Though Bukola is said to oppose her sister’s governorship ambition, it is believed in some quarters that she enjoys the support of their father, who is the main kingmaker in Kwara State. The whole state is presently divided over the issue as Islamic clerics have declared that it is wrong for a woman to rule a state like Kwara. . Senator Saraki’s governorship ambition has sparked off a cold war between her and the Governor. It is also being speculated that the Senator’s ambition has caused a disagreement between the Governor and his father.

The Governor’s camp is of the opinion that a neutral candidate who is qualified should be sought to lead the state in 2011. Opinions are currently divided on whether Gbemisola Saraki’s ambition might bring about an end to the Saraki’s political dominance in Kwara State. And once that happens, they will be made to face the full weight of the law, hence the Governor’s fears. Another school of thought has however described Gbemi’s ambition as a project within a project.

It Those harbouring this belief opined that Chief Olusola Saraki is gradually transferring his role as godfather to his son. The idea is that Gbemi would insist on contesting and since the majority in Kwara would not want a female Governor, Chief Olusola Saraki would throw his weight behind his daughter’s ambition.

Street Journal gathered that sentiments would even be whipped up that Bukola doesn’t want to support his sister because they were born by different mothers, though the Governor was taken care of as a kid by Gbemi’s mother. The plot is that would openly oppose his father, showing that he wants to accede to the wishes of the people; he will eventually support another candidate who will emerge as Governor. That will both place him as the new political godfather and an authority whom the people would look up to. Street Journal also gathered that the grouse Dr. Bukola Saraki has against the President is that the latter refused to pick him as Vice President.

Inside sources revealed that during the days of absence of the late President Yar’Adua, Saraki had gone to Jonathan, who was then the Acting President to lobby for the Vice President’s position. He was said to have promised that he would use his clout and contacts in the national assembly to ensure that Yar’Adua would be declared incapacitated and unfit to rule.

The Acting President’s refusal allegedly caused a strain in the relationship though both of them moved on as if all was well. Street Journal gathered that some elements loyal to the Kwara State Governor are of the opinion that if not for good luck and opportunity, somebody like Goodluck Jonathan would not be leading Nigeria as President.

The factors listed include the fact that he has no record on which to lean in his desire to become president in 2011. His entire public service record reveals an incurable mediocrity: a nondescript deputy director at NDDC; a cowardly deputy governor in Bayelsa; a governor whose wife ended up stealing millions of dollars (according to Nuhu Ribadu’s EFCC); a scheming vice president and now a divisive and below-average president!

ha ha,

bad girl

It is possible,


Former EFCC Boss Mallam Nuhu Ribadu host young Nigerians from all 36 states of the federation including the Fct at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja in a three days Camp named the TEAM RIBADU CAMP from 17th to 20th of september 2010.

The hall was agog with excitement. Chants of "It is Possible" filled the air like the raucous din of a victorious army. Yes, it was indeed a victorious army; an army of change agents, motivated by the desire to see a New Nigeria marked by the values of vision, integrity and competence. The venue was the Reizz Continental Hotel, Abuja. The event was the grand finale of Camp Ribadu, the 2-day intensive boot-camp for Ribadu volunteer coordinators from 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT; a heart-to-heart session with non other than Mallam Nuhu Ribadu himself.

Passion, strength, energy and possibilities filled the air as Nuhu charged the volunteers about the necessity and the possibility of building a New Nigeria. A nation where poverty is history, where electricity supply is no mystery; where security is a guarantee; and education is free. He told the crowd of his vision of a leadership that has the fear of God; that will do what is fair and right by the people regardless of the political cost. He promised a clean, open, honest, god-fearing and transparent leadership.

“A leader ought to be the reflection of his own people”, he said. It was impossible not to feel the thirst for change as he spoke.
The phrase “it is possible” reverberated within and outside the walls of the conference room. Above that however, the belief that a new Nigeria is attainable and achievable seemed emblazoned on the hearts of all those present as he spoke. His countenance beamed with enthusiasm, sincerity and force as he uttered the words: “Welcome to Nigeria…. Welcome to possibilities”.

With our nation’s fiftieth anniversary only a few days away, he said, this is the golden moment in our history; we will start writing our own story. The time has come for us Nigerians to put our feet down and get involved. The Nigeria we dream of is here. A country that can give justice, a country the young ones are ready to die for, a country to be proud of. That country he said “is happening today”.
Just like, Mahatma Ghandi became the symbol of non-violent civil disobedience against imperialism; Martin Luther King, the symbol of the civil rights movement; Nelson Mandela the symbol of the anti-apartheid movement; and Barack Obama the symbol of racial/ inter-faith unity and reconciliation; for those in that room, it was not hard to sense history in the making.

The aura of the atmosphere went far beyond the ordinariness of any political gathering; rather in this place, one could feel the birth of a new Nigerian identity. The words “the change will start when we start believing in ourselves” in his lips was certainly not the usual political clichés we have become tired of. It was a declaration of the inevitable change that has begun in Nigeria. For good or for ill, a fire was ignited in that hall; a fire that will rage into a blazing inferno of change and progress for the nation we love, Nigeria.

Nuhu Ribadu represents the symbol of that inferno of change that we need. The choice we have is to either help fan the flame, or be consumed by it. By recruiting one or many volunteers to team Ribadu or donating to the cause, we help fan the flame. The time is short. Let’s fan the flames!


Thank you very much, guys, for your intrest in this great vision.
As you may have heard or read, the State Coordintors of Team Ribadu Volunteer Group were inugurated in Abuja over the weekend. Please, names and contact addresses of State Cordinators would be sent to you in very soon.
Thank you and keep the fire of revolution burning in your hearts!

please join the team

PDP
PEOPLE DECEIVING PEOPLE

PDP

PARTY DEVELOPING POVERTY

PDP
PARTY DESTROYING PROGRESS

PDP
PROGRESS DESTROYING PEOPLE

PDP
PARTY DECEIVING PEOPLE

PDP
PEOPLE DISTRUSTED PARTY

PDP
PARTY DESTROYING PEOPLE

PDP
PARTY DEGRADING PEOPLE

PDP
PEOPLE'S DEVILISH PARTY

PDP
PATRIOTIC DEVILISH PEOPLE



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After so many controversies attached with The King of Music, saheed Osupa akorede A.k.A Saridom P, he has decided to explain to the public.

HE goes by the name, Saheed Akorede, but his stage name is Saheed Osupa, by which he's known and appreciated by his teeming fans, home and abroad.
Today, in many down-town drinking joints and music outlets, it is common to find him a subject of discussion on many lips. While most of them give him thumbs-up for his uncommon philosophical lyrics, he gets hard knocks from the feeble-minded for what they are quick to term his unfashionable 'dress sense.' Yet, not a few agree that his rising fame, lately, is powered by his singing prowess and strengthened by his uncommon repertoire of traditional Yoruba proverbs and idioms.
The Ibadan, Oyo State-born cerebral composer went down memory lane in a chat with this reporter on how his career took off about 27 years ago. Said he: “I started way back in 1983 at Ajegunle, a Lagos community. Then, we started with a kind of competition. There was a man (now of blessed memory) who used to organise a competition for upcoming Fuji artistes and the rule of the contest was that contestants must sing songs that no one had sung before. And there was always a trophy for the winner. That was how I started. Then, I later waxed an album entitled Fadisco. The title was coined from Faaji and Disco. That was when I was known as Saheed Osupa Omonla.”
The artiste who literally got his break via Master Blaster and blew out of obscurity on the scene in the masterpiece, London Delight, however, attributed the intense rivalry among Fuji musicians to the bandwagon syndrome in the genre of music, which he said could only be put on check through creativity by practitioners. “Well, in a situation whereby there are too many people, definitely there will be difficulty. However, to stand out in the crowd, you have to be unique and creative; but sadly, many of the upcoming artistes today are not creative.”
Not a few music buffs stunned by his Yoruba lyrics would wish to fire a poser on how he came about his grip on proverb-laced compositions if by stroke of fate their paths cross. His answer to this came handy during the 45-minute chat: “It is natural. But then, I inherited the rich Yoruba idioms from my late grandmother who influenced me greatly as a child. I always sat beside her when she was alive because I loved listening to her all the time. I usually asked her questions concerning knotty proverbs and idioms and I received favourable responses from her. She was such a wonderful woman. At times, if I wanted to make her talk, I would annoy her and she would scold me with her usual Yoruba proverbs. I've always been using proverbs and idioms though it wasn't as deep as it is now; but I guess it has to do with my age. Then I was younger, but now I'm mature and so, my lyrics should also be very mature. As for my unique composition, it comes naturally. At times, I record them on my phone to get the real tone because I may lose the tone, if not stored. Apart from using my phone, I also write them on paper. Most times, I like to be left alone whenever I want to compose new songs and the inspiration will come. As I'm talking to you now, it may come. It could be through our discussions or my personal observations. But the inspiration that is constant to me is always spontaneous. It comes in my day-to-day interactions with my immediate environment.”
The recent face-off with some of his contemporaries over the use of King of Music title bestowed on him by Fuji music legend, Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, which put him in an eye of the storm and the interesting way he weathered it is no longer news. Although, the crisis gave him a controversial image in town, Jacky as he's also called by fans and admirers, detests it: “I'm not a controversial artiste. I think it is very unfair to say that Saheed Osupa is controversial. Some people are just being jealous of my success and this is why my detractors brand me as being controversial. I don't like praising myself, I'm a gentle guy. I don't like cheating people and I don't like to be cheated. If you cheat me I'll fight you. I grew up in Ajegunle with the likes of Daddy Showkey, Daddy Fresh and Baba Fryo. Guys from Ajegunle are known to be rough and tough because we didn't find it easy while growing up. You would fend for yourself. It's even pretty difficult for parents to feed, let alone feed children. Though it was relatively easy for my family, I just had to join my friends in the streets as a mark of solidarity. I left home at the age of 12 to join my friends. My mum looked for me everywhere till she found me at Tolu in Ajegunle and brought me back home; but I would run away and on and on till I discovered my talent.''
At that juncture, the reporter fired another poser about how he once allegedly beat up his music godson, Muri Thunder, during a row with arch rival, Alabi Pasuma and others. He said: “No. I didn't. What a lie! It was all part of the propaganda of my adversaries to discredit me. They are fond of framing all kinds of stories against me because they really don't have a tangible evidence to fight me. They are only being envious of my success because they haven't got my kind of style, finesse, composition, delivery, talent and above all other things, my ruggedness. I don't drink or smoke. I only chew gum on stage which I use to ward off distractions. As people have seen now, no amount of such propaganda can stand my unique gift which has made me the toast of lovers of good Fuji music. There was a time they even said I did not go to a tertiary institution. Well, this is another opportunity to take you journalists on an odyssey of academic background. I attended St. Mary Children School, Abokuru, Ajegunle and Amuwo-Odofin High School. Later, I studied Business Studies at The Polytechnic, Ibadan where I bagged a National Diploma in 1992. In 2001, I studied Computer Networking and Programming at American International University while in the United States. But the basic thing is to be able to read and write well. Thank God, I can read and write and I speak English language fluently. At least you can see that for yourself.”
He spoke about his role model: “My role model in life is Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister because of his maturity and evergreen composition in his heydays despite hordes of propaganda hurled at his personality by his adversaries.''
While he did not deny hitting a goldmine with his previous three-in-one work, Endorsement, reputed to be the best-selling Fuji music album ever, he revealed his earnings and what he did with it this way: “It fetched me millions of naira and it is one of the highest I've earned as royalty on an album as an artiste. I used the money to build the house I commissioned in Ibadan. I bought the uncompleted building for N12million and I carried out extensive renovation just to make it alluring. I spent about N50million on the building project. I bought some security doors at N800, 000 unit price and I purchased about 23 of such. So, you can see that it is not a small house. Though I won't leave Surulere where I reside, I just want to use the house to make some noise in town and tell my fans that their love for me and my band is not wasted. I have choice properties in many other places. I've just completed one in Ajao Estate. It cost me N50 million. Apart from other houses that I built in various parts of Lagos, efforts are in top gear concerning my 52-building estate project somewhere near Ikorodu. But I must confess that my fans have been wonderful. Even the Chrysler car I bought, I don't usually ride in it. You'll often see me in the Lexus SUV. And because of what the Holy Quran teaches me, I don't boast about what God has given me. I've not cruised in my Hummer SUV for more than three times; it is parked in one of my houses. I bought the car for N8.5million when a friend insisted that I must ride in some of the best cars in the world because of his love for me.”
Apart from being a musician, Osupa has had a fairly impressive outing in the movie scene with blockbusters like Agbere Oju and Eni Eleni among many others. His romance with the theatre according to him preceded music career “I actually started with acting way back in 1981. My contemporaries include popular actor Sikiru Adeshina aka Arakangudu and one Awo-Aiye. I have also worked with Black Wahab aka Emulewu.
There is no gainsaying the fact that any genuine Fuji music fan will, today, have his latest four-album effort, Mr. Music, in his shelf. The philosophical albums with edifying lyrics, which were released on the stable of Lati Alagbada Records in October last year, have reportedly sold millions of copies. Perhaps this accounts for his ever-rising popularity among lovers of the genre. Hence, he has continued to take his “musical crusades” to every nook and cranny of the country.
It was a huge success story when he stormed Campos area of Lagos in November last year. The crowd was simply unprecedented as people gathered to listen to “good music.”
For four consecutive times in a month, late last year, he was the main man in Mushin, a Lagos community that used to be the exclusive stronghold of Pasuma. The shows included Mushin Day, and the marriage ceremony of the Olu of Mushin, Oba Fatai Aileru, was the last. His performance, till today, has left no one in doubt about his towering influence in the genre. And it underpins the fact that Fuji music lovers now go for the sensible among songs.
Just in November last year, he was the sole choice of members of the Music Advertisement Association of Nigeria (MAAN) when they stepped out in colour to celebrate their anniversary at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
But how does he rehearse with his band men? Hear Sunday Oluperi, his gifted lead drummer who recently bagged the Drummer of the Year 2009 from the Yoruba Music and Films Association (YOMAFA): “My oga is a genius. Most songs come to him on stage with ease.”
Perhaps the fact that Osupa won the Best Fuji Musician of the Year award from the same body affirms it that he is really on top of the game, and incontrovertibly, that he has raised the bar in the genre.