Lalasticlala


Seun

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has reacted to the judgment of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal on the Feb. 23 presidential election, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that the Tribunal, Wednesday, upheld Buhari’s re-election, striking out all petitions brought against him by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Reacting in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Wednesday, the CUPP said it received with shock, the final verdict of the Tribunal which sat in Abuja.

Spokesman for the CUPP, Mr Imo Ugochinyere, said the coalition rejected the verdict since the “CUPP viewed it as law turned upside down and an insult and a provocation to Nigerians.”

Full Statement,

“From the totality of the judgment, the Court of Appeal PEPT panel has lost the rare opportunity presented to it by the petition of the consensus opposition candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to put an end to electoral fraud, leadership incompetence and the imposition of an unfit leader on the people.

“By their judgment today, majority of Nigerians who had believed, though erroneously, that the judiciary was indeed independent have been brazenly awakened to the fact and correct belief that the Presidency had successfully hijacked the judiciary and Nigerians can only expect judgments and not justice.

“All credible observer groups both local and international were unanimous in their verdict that the election was below the standard of the 2015 and was massively rigged in favour of the President, the Court of Appeal wasted the opportunity and have by so doing endorsed the insecurity in the land, mismanagement of national resources, electoral fraud, forgery of documents and certificates submitted to INEC and indeed threatened the very foundations of our democracy.

“Could the Court as it had done in times past not this time also considered the state of the nation, mood of Nigerians, national security issues and taken a decision boldly, impartially and firmly in the interest of Nigerians and Nigeria? Today’s judgment is a manipulation of the law and the brazen use of technicality to stamp injustice, Rob the people of justice and deny the nation the chance to have a leader that they truly elected in the Person of Atiku Abubakar.

“The nation weeps today, West Africa is crying and the International community is in shock. Our brothers who are being held hostages by poverty, bandits, killed daily etc are now in coma as the Appeal Court have used today’s judgment to deny them a saviour and foisted on them a leader who was not eligible for presidential office, a leader who does not have the capacity to govern, a leader who rode on the blood of our people to power using security agencies, a leader who employs divisive weapon and ethnicity in governance and a leader who claims to be fighting corruption but dinning and sleeping with men known to be corrupt. The nation is the loser today, not Atiku Abubakar or the opposition.”

https://punchng.com/cupp-rejects-tribunal-verdict/

Lalasticlala

Seun

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has mocked Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over their ‘poor outing’ at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that the Tribunal, Wednesday, upheld Buhari’s re-election, striking out all petitions brought against him by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

In a statement obtained by Igbere TV on Wednesday, the APC lauded the Tribunal’s verdict, while commending the judges for not falling for what it described as the opposition PDP threats.

The statement signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the legal affirmation of President Buhari’s election was a victory for rule of law and decency.

He described the petition of the PDP and Atiku as ‘a complete waste of time’, stating that ‘in their puerile efforts, they insisted on taking the country on a circus and wild goose chase.’

Issa-Onilu, who congratulated Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, all party members and ‘well-meaning’ Nigerians on what he called ‘landmark judgement’, also hailed the judiciary for refusing to succumb to the opposition party’s ‘subterfuge’.

He said the APC was not perturbed over the PDP and Atiku’s petition which he said would ‘go down in Nigeria’s history as the most frivolous’ in the history of Election Petition.

Full Statement,

“We note the painstaking efforts and thoroughness of the Justices of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal in arriving at their decision. The judgement, no doubt, would go down in the annals of our nation as the longest and detailed, spanning almost 10 hours.

“The judgement by the five-member validates the decision of most Nigerians to do away with the past as expressed in their overwhelming votes in the 2019 elections.

“The PDP and Atiku’s petition was largely hinged on the educational qualification of President Muhammadu Buhari and tales of an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) server and allegations of electronic transmission of election results. This was rightly dismissed by the tribunal for lacking in merit….

“Going forward, APC’s victory at the presidential polls and the election tribunal represents our collective desire as a people to remain focus on the progressive growth and development of our country’s economy, fight against corruption, and providing security.

“Consequently, we have taken a bold step by rescuing our nation from the satanic era of PDP, when our collective interests were being corruptly traded among a few pillagers.”

http://igberetvnews.com/980219/tribunal-apc-chides-atiku-pdp-hails-buhari-judges/

Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Lalasticlala

Seun

Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT), Igbere TV reports.

But the governor, unlike his counterparts, conspicuously failed to congratulate his benefactor and National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, who he has been at loggerheads with.

Igbere TV had reported that the Tribunal, Wednesday, upheld Buhari’s re-election, striking out all petitions brought against him by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

In a statement made available to Igbere TV by Obaseki’s Media Adviser, Mr Crusoe Osagie, the governor described the verdict of the Tribunal as well-deserved victory.

The statement reads, “I heartily congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari on his well-deserved victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on September 11, 2019, which is a resounding affirmation of the choice of Nigerians on February 23, for a second term for the President.

“The tribunal confirms our stance that President Buhari remains the preferred leader at this time, to reset our country on the path of greatness.”

Obaseki saluted the courage of the tribunal in upholding the mandate given by millions of Nigerians, noting, “It is refreshing that we have reached this threshold and I am confident that this outcome would enhance this administration’s resolve in championing the next level agenda of the President.”

“On behalf of the government and people of Edo State, I once again, congratulate the president and our great party the All Progressives Congress (APC), on this landmark victory. Congratulations, our dear President,” Obaseki added.

http://igberetvnews.com/980219/tribunal-obaseki-congratulates-buhari-skips-oshiomhole/

Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Aonkuuse:
Oga that girl above is indirectly asking you out.

Lol. Sharp girl

helinues:
More like a doom message from top latest bloggers in town

You mean Senator turned blogger?

Ya wicked

Lalasticlala

Seun

What do you think?

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has reacted to the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT), Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that the tribunal, Wednesday, upheld Buhari’s re-election, striking out all petitions brought against him by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Reacting to the development in a tweet sighted by Igbere TV, Sani wrote;

“All yea who climbeth the mount Sinai today, hoping to see the Sun riseth from the West can now descend and head to Damascus, and taketh along with thee a stock of olive and pots of water from the Euphrates. The journey ahead is of the Lord.”

https://twitter.com/ShehuSani/status/1171864692333121536?s=19

What do you think of his tweet? Sounds more like a riddle, yeah? Explain it!

http://igberetvnews.com/980219/tribunal-see-sanis-tweet-as-atiku-pdp-loses-at-tribunal-pixs/

Seun

lalasticlala

Keya, Keya!

Lalasticlala

Seun

Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that the Tribunal, Wednesday, upheld Buhari’s re-election, striking out all petitions brought against him by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

In a statement obtained by Igbere TV which he personally signed, Senator Omo-Agege said the Tribunal’s verdict was a victory for democracy

Full Statement,

“I join the millions of Nigerians in congratulating you on your overwhelming electoral victory won on the basis of a populist mandate as well as today’s judicial victory won on the strength of our constitution, at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal today.

“Your victory and that of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) at the February 23 Presidential election was not only visible to the blind but audible to the deaf as our progressive ideals resonate profoundly with the genuine hopes and aspirations of our people.

“Today’s judgement only affirmed the conviction of many who have consistently maintained that with the over three million votes margin between you and your closest challenger, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it was glaring that they were merely embarking on an academic exercise at the tribunal.

“It was no surprise, therefore, that the petition of Atiku and the PDP was torn to shreds and dismissed unanimously by the five-man panel. Like we were taught in law, you cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand.

“As you continue to strive towards making our dear nation the envy of other nations through your Next Level Agenda, remain assured that the 9th Senate will provide the enabling environment for the actualization of our progressive objectives.

“My family, constituents and other well-meaning Nigerians felicitate with you on this landmark victory which has taken an avoidable distraction out of the way, even as we look forward to renewed collective vigour – under your principled leadership – against inherited developmental challenges.”

http://igberetvnews.com/980219/tribunal-buharis-victory-good-for-democracy-says-omo-agege/

The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has again, vowed not to step down for any candidate in his quest to be the Senate President of the incoming Ninth National Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

He said he was going to contest on the Floor of the Senate on June 11, despite the endorsement of Senator Ahmed Lawan by his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.

He was reacting to the the withdrawal of Senator Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe) from the Senate Presidency race.

Igbere TV had reported that, Goje, Chairman of Senate Committee on Appropriations, on Thursday said he was stepping down to support Senate Leader Ahmad Lawan for the position.

Goje’s decision to step down came after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, Abuja.

Speaking with journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Ndume said he had no reason to visit President Buhari at the villa in order to step down for Senator Ahmad Lawan, who is the candidate of the APC for the position.

The former Senate leader also dismissed a social media report that he was invited to the Villa by Buhari who directed him to stop his aspiration to contest for the Senate President position.

He said, “Nobody has invited me to the Villa. There won’t be cause for it. My quest to contest the Senate President election Insha Allah on Tuesday next week stands.”

The election of the Ninth Assembly leadership is expected to take place at the first session of the House on Tuesday, June 11, reports Igbere TV.

http://igberetvnews.com/752788/breaking-ndume-speaks-on-withdrawing-from-senate-presidency-race-for-lawan/

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has explained the reason behind its actions against Daar Communications PLC, operator of AIT and Ray Power FM.

Igbere TV had reported that the NBC, on Thursday suspended the operating license of the broadcast station.

In a statement issued to Igbere TV on Thursday, the Director General of the NBC, Dr. Modibbo Kawu said the decision was based on the violation of the broadcasting code by the stations which is backed by provisions of Section 10 of the Third Schedule of the NBC Act Cap N11 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

He said apart from violating the broadcasting code, the decision was also taken for the failure of the station to pay their license fees as when due, “even persistent warning to the company to toe the line of caution.”

The NBC boss noted that in one of their meetings with the management of DAAR Communications held on 2nd June, 2017, the commission expressed its disappointment with the way and manner hate speech, divisive and inciting comments are applied in discussion of national issues in breach of the provisions of the NBC Act and Broadcast Code, saying that the suspension stands till further notice.

Igbere TV recalls that Chairman and Founder of DAAR Communications, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi had earlier in the day embarked on a protest against what he called ‘undue intimidation and interference’ of the NBC DG, Dr. Modibbo Kawu.

According to him, in their relationship with the NBC, Daar Communications carried on, as if it is beyond the regulatory direction of the commission, even when they didn’t pay their licence fees as and when due.

But Kawu insisted that the revocation of the AIT license was principally linked to the issues regarding the operations of AIT/Raypower, particularly, Political Platform and Kakaaki aired on AIT.

Full Statement,

“Following monitoring reports and complaints from concerned Nigerians about the broadcast contents of Daar Communications Plc’s AIT/Raypower broadcast stations, the NBC have over the last 2 years summoned on several occasions management of the company to address issues regarding the operations of AIT/Raypower with the company, particularly, Political Platform and Kakaaki aired on AIT. ‘‘In one of our meetings, held on 2nd June, 2017, the Commission expressed its disappointment with the way and manner Hate Speech, divisive and inciting comments are applied in discussion of national issues in breach of the provisions of the NBC Act and Broadcast Code.

‘‘Again, on 15th August, 2017, it became imperative to invite the company for yet another meeting on almost same issues. Furthermore, while addressing another meeting on 7th February, 2018 we highlighted issues of concern to the Commission which indicated that the company had been breaching the provisions of Sections 3.1.2 and 3.1.3 of the broadcast Code. The company’s delegates in their response promised to abate the breaches and comply with the law.

‘‘However, on October 18, 2018, the Commission was disturbed with the manner in which social media issues became part of the mainstream media unedited on AIT/Raypower, and was constrained to issue a generic letter to all broadcast stations on the need to exercise caution in the use of user-generated content from the social media knowing how volatile and misleading the social media has become. The management of Daar Communication Plc thereafter took to the social media to display our official correspondences.

‘‘Recently, the Commission’s monitoring reports on AIT/Raypower indicate the use of divisive comments accredited to the segment of “Kakaaki”, tagged, “Kakaaki Social”, where inciting comments like, “Nigeria is cursed, we declare independent state of Niger Delta”, “Nigeria irritates me”, “this country is gradually Islamizing” and other similar slogans are used without editorial control in breach of the broadcast Code. We were therefore constrained to issue Daar Communication letters of warning dated May 27th, 2019.

‘‘We also observed from monitoring reports that a documentary on the Presidential Election Tribunal, a pending election petition matter aired on AIT on Wednesday and Thursday, 22nd and 23rd May, 2019 without regard to the provisions of the Broadcast Code. The Commission, in line with its regulatory powers again cautioned AIT in another letter also dated 27th May, 2019.

‘‘However, instead of making amends, the management of Daar Communications Plc resorted to the use of media propaganda against the regulator. Even the letters from the NBC were posted on social media platforms. Needless to state that Daar Communications have over the years turned themselves into a bad example of how a professional broadcast outfit should not be run.

‘‘In their relationship with the NBC, Daar Communications carry on, as if it is beyond the regulatory direction of the Commission. They don’t pay their licence fees as and when due. Its broadcast is patently partisan and one sided and deliberately inciting and heating the polity. The management of the Company has created the habit of using the channel to fight its personal battles contrary to the statutory requirements of the law.’’

‘‘Today the 6th of June, 2019, AIT/Rapower embarked on use of inflammatory, divisive, inciting broadcasts, and media propaganda against the government and, the NBC for performing its statutory functions of regulating the broadcast industry in Nigeria.

‘‘Consequently, after several meetings with management of Daar Communications Plc and many letters of warning. The NBC, today 6th June, 2019 took a decision to suspend the licence of Daar Communications Plc for failure to abide by the Commission’s directives, the provisions of the NBC Act Cap N11 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria and the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

‘‘This decision is based on the provisions of Section 10 of the Third Schedule of the NBC Act Cap N11 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, which states as follows: where in the opinion of the Commission the station has been used in a manner detrimental to national interest; where there is wilful or repeated failure to operate substantially as set forth in the licence; where there is wilful or repeated violation or wilful or repeated failure to observe any provision of this Act or any rule or regulation of the Commission authorised by this Act or by a treaty ratified by the Federal Republic of Nigeria; where there is violation of or failure to observe any cease and desist order issued by the Commission; where a provision of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code has been seriously breached; and the SHUT DOWN order is until further notice.”

http://igberetvnews.com/752440/why-we-suspended-ait-ray-power-fm-nbc/

.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, on Thursday declared that the 8th National Assembly holds the record as the most persecuted and harassed Parliament in Nigeria’s history, Igbere TV reports.

This is just as he expressed concern over the future of Nigeria because of the alarming rate of insecurity across the country.

He also declared that with 382 bills passed by the outgoing Assembly, the 8th House had surpassed records of all previous Assemblies.

Igbere TV reports that Dogara, while speaking at the Valedictory Session of the 8th House of Representatives at the Assembly Complex, said the 8th Assembly has been a huge success with unprecedented records set in legislative business.

While expressing appreciation to all the leaders and members of the House for the confidence reposed in him by electing him Speaker of the outgoing Assembly, he also thanked them for the cooperation the leadership enjoyed throughout the four years he was in charge.

On the state of insecurity in the country, he stressed that it is only when a leadership throws out politics and partisanship out of the window and reins in all best human and material resources to confront these menacing challenges and unites to confront this very danger that the needed progress will be seen.

“It appears we are losing the fight against violence and as if that is not bad enough, the situation is so dire that known statesmen are becoming petrified and speaking up in ways that may further rend our national fault lines. It is like we refused to hear the whispers and now the screams are threatening our ear drums.

“This is a national problem that we can only solve if we pull ourselves together and not apart; regardless of political persuasions or creed. The challenge is to get the leadership that throws out politics and partisanship out of the window. Leadership that reins in all our best human and material resources to confront these menacing challenges. Yet, instead of uniting to confront this very danger, all one hears are sermons of divisiveness and permutations for 2023 elections. I wonder daily if this is not how the bottom looks like,” he stated.

Speaking on the achievements recorded by the 8th House, the speaker said, “This wonderful cooperation, no doubt, enabled us to have a very stable and peaceful 8th House of Representatives and to set records that have no parallels in our history of law making as a nation.

“Honourable Colleagues, on your behalf, I make bold to say that the 8th House of Representatives, and the National Assembly as an institution, has been a huge success. This is without apology to whoever may hold a contrary opinion. The stubborn facts are out there for every commentator to see. We took off amidst head winds and turbulence but on stabilising, we have witnessed book throwers and table climbers transform into solid leaders. We have seen mace grabbers wrestled until they surrendered to the dictates of the Rule of Law, true friendship and brotherhood. We have witnessed the transformation of those who struggled to move mere motions to eloquent debaters and to crown it all, those who, at inception did not understand themselves, working together, in spite of whatever differences, for the national good. This is the spirit that defines us as legislators, the institution of the legislature; and I am happy we embraced it fully.”

He added, “The 8th House holds the record as the most persecuted and harassed Parliament, ever in Nigeria’s history. Some of our members bear the scars of reckless deployment of Institutional prerogatives. We witnessed sieges and invasion by State operatives. Some members suffered witch-hunts, house arrests and false accusations. We are also witnesses to barrage of uncharitable criticisms and assessments bandied on daily basis in the media by hired mercenaries who masquerade as analysts. Most of these analysts are ignorant of the fact that the parliament was not designed to be an alter of praise for the Executive but a co-equal branch to serve as a check on Executive power.”

Dogara said he feels fulfilled as a leader because of the fact that, bolstered by the spirit of patriotism and nationalism, the 8th Assembly of the House of Representatives was able to sustain the legacies of previous parliaments by ensuring that the House was not compromised or exploited.

He stated, “The job of parliaments all over the world is to escalate constructive conflict. It is our job to search for the truth and without the clash and compromise of ideas, the truth can never be found. Everything loses its meaning in the absence of the truth. Anyone who sees disagreement or conflict as inherently bad has no business leading a democracy because we are not likely to ever see any healthy democracy that is not productively noisy.

“This House and indeed the legislature, must always engage in debates about both pleasant and unpleasant issues, if it must continue to do the work of democracy.

“Progress ceases the very day we cease to disagree. Every invention, every innovation has always come from someone who disagreed with the status quo. That is why the Athenian law maker, Solon, undoubtedly one of those who cradled Democracy, once decreed it a crime for citizens to shrink from controversy. No Parliament anywhere can win a popularity contest and Parliaments are not meant to receive praise. Any Parliament that receives praises, especially from the Executive, must be an assemblage of enablers who have abandoned fidelity to their oath of office.

“To the chagrin of some, I am happy that this Assembly, just like others before it, did not allow partisanship to erode our system of checks and balances.”

He said posterity and history will acknowledge that in the 8th House of Representatives, the members did their best, given the circumstances and the very toxic environment under which they operated under, “though the Legislative Agenda was not implemented a hundred percent.”

He charged all re-elected lawmakers and appointees to positions of authority to soberly reflect on the deteriorating welfare of hapless citizens and live up to the biddings of their offices and the Oaths they took so that Nigerians can yet hope again and begin to rebuild their lives.

“In spite of all my worries about the project Nigeria, my optimism about our future remains, undiminished. I said before and I now repeat that, I hold no fears for the future because we are limited only by leadership and our vision, not by our resources. We shall overcome! No matter how long the night may last, the day will break. I have no doubt that our salvation will break out as sudden as the dawn appears. The scriptures say, “weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning”. Let us all unite in working to hasten this glorious morning.”

Remembering all members who couldn’t complete their tenures due to death, he stated that he will continue to cherish their glowing memories and wished those who lost elections the best in their future endeavours.

The Speaker charged members-elect of the 9th National Assembly to be determined to raise the bar of the records of the 8th National Assembly, especially on the issue of flawed elections.

“We must ensure the conclusion of the ongoing legislative processes on Electoral Reforms in a way that will make electoral fraud near-impossible, if we are to enjoy true democracy,” Dogara added.

http://igberetvnews.com/752325/8th-nass-most-persecuted-and-harassed-in-nigerias-history-dogara/

Special Presidential Investigative Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP) on Thursday, said corruption cases involving eight senators had been transferred to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) for investigation, Igbere TV reports.

Besides, the SPIP alleged that the accused persons suppressed facts concerning these properties in their assets declaration forms submitted to the CCB.

Igbere TV reports that Chairman of the SPIP, Mr Okoi Obono-Obla said during investigation, the panel discovered that the senators acquired properties beyond their legitimate earnings.

Obono-Obla identified those involved to include former Senate President David Mark; Senator Stella Oduah; Senator Hope Uzodinma; Senator Peter Nwaoboshi; Senator Albert Bassey and a Director in the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Ibrahim Musa Tumsah.

Igbere TV recalls that the SPIP had before now, filed charges before the Federal High Court, Abuja against most of those named in the cases transferred to the CCB on the same issue of non-assets declaration.

Igbere TV learnt that David Mark has a suit pending before the Federal High Court, Abuja in which he is challenging the activities of the panel, particularly the SPIP’s claim that he unlawfully acquired his property in Abuja.

The charge the panel filed against Senator Oduah was assigned to Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu, but no further steps have been taken by the panel since it filed the charge last year.

The charge against Uzodimna is before Justice Okon Abang. But the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) recently took over the prosecution of the case from the SPIP.

The SPIP boss said the charge against Sen. Bassey is before Justice John Tsoho.

Many of those named in the cases have argued that the SPIP lacks the powers to initiate charges against them, citing the judgment of the Court of Appeal in the Tumsah case.

http://igberetvnews.com/751960/presidential-panel-recommends-probe-of-david-mark-stella-oduah-others/

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Thursday said it has suspended the operating license of Daar Communications PLC, operator of AIT and Ray Power FM, Igbere TV reports.

The Director General of the NBC, Dr. Modibbo Kawu, made this known while addressing newsmen at a press conference in Abuja.

He said the decision was taken for the persistent violation of 2004 broadcasting Code, following persistent warning to the company to tow the line of caution.

Kawu said the suspension stands till further notice, noting that the decision was not taken on partisan consideration.

Igbere TV recalls that Founder and Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, Raymond Dokpesi, had alleged plans by the Federal Government to shut down his stations tonight.

Dokpesi said this while presenting a protest letter to the American High Commission a few minutes ago in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

He accused the NBC of acting on Buhari’s orders.

http://igberetvnews.com/751922/breaking-nbc-shut-down-ait-ray-power-fm/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Stephen Igwilo, a fresh graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri is dead.

He drowned on Saturday morning in a hotel swimming pool near the school, Igbere TV learnt.

Records obtained by Igbere TV on Sunday showed that the late Igwilo graduated from Microbiology in 2018.

He was among those who had their convocation ceremony two months ago.

He was said to have drowned when he went out with some of his friends to swim.

Mrs Uche Nwaelue, FUTO’s Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident when contacted by Igbere TV.

“The incident happened on a weekend. So, the management of the School is yet to take any action.

“The victim was among the graduates who had their convocation a few months ago in our School. It is, indeed, a sad development,” she said.

http://igberetvnews.com/738644/oh-no-fresh-graduate-drowns-in-swimming-pool-photo/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Despite making a big history in heavyweight on Saturday, Andy Ruiz got only €5m as pay compared to Anthony Joshua’s €25, reports says.

Igbere TV had reported that Ruiz took home AJ’s three belts, after defeating the heavyweight star at the New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden.

He beat AJ with just five weeks’ notice after Joshua's original opponent Jarrell Miller failed three drugs tests in the build-up.

Though, the €5m is Ruiz’s biggest pay in his career, he is expected to earn more in any rematch later this year.

His previous biggest pay for his defeat by New Zealand’s Joseph Parker in 2017, was £770,000, Igbere TV reports.

http://igberetvnews.com/738302/shocker-see-how-much-antony-joshua-got-despite-losing-match/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Tech giant, Google is apparently having some issues.

Services including Gmail, YouTube and other Apps are currently down, checks by Igbere TV has revealed.

Some parts of Nigeria have been affected.

A check by Igbere TV on social media equally showed some users in Asia, Eurpoe complaining over their inability to access some of these platforms.

Report says the US is affected the most.

More to come...

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun says he has forgiven his predecessor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun and all those who tried to sabotage his victory at the last governorship election.

Igbere TV reports that Gov. Abiodun spoke at a thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Egba Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta.

He said, “I don’t hold malice against anyone. Anyone who thinks I do should know now that I don’t hold any form of malice against them. I have forgiven such people. I am not out to hunt anyone. Anyone who did hurt me in the past only did that to allow the will of God to come to pass. I am using this medium to let them know that I have forgiven them,” he said.

On the welfare of workers, the governor said he would in the next few days announce the date salaries would be paid every month, whether allocation comes from the Federal Allocation Account Committee (FAAC) account or not.

“In the next two days, I will tell you when you will get your salaries every month and it won’t fail irrespective of if allocation comes or not.

“All salaries would be paid as at when due. Gratuities will be paid those that are being owed. Why will anyone go to work and not earn a salary? Our government will not owe salaries, all salaries being owed, we will start paying until we offset them all. Our pensioners too will get their gratuity. All deductions being deducted from workers salaries will be remitted as at when due,” he added.

http://igberetvnews.com/737926/new-governor-speaks-on-his-relationship-with-predecessor/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Ahead of June 8 inauguration of the Ninth National Assembly, the candidacies of Senator Ahmed Lawan representing Yobe North Senatorial District and Senator-elect, Dr. Orji-Uzor Kalu representing Abia North Senatorial District for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President have received a major boost following the adoption of the candidates by a group under the auspices of Progressive Youths (PY).

According to the Leader of the group, Comrade Eke James, the duo of Lawan and Kalu, have the capacity to steer the affairs of the red chamber.

While acknowledging the antecedents of Lawan and Kalu in the political space, the group urged returning senators and senators-elect to support the duo of Lawan and Kalu for the sake of building a robust leadership in the national assembly.

Addressing a cross-section of journalists in Abuja on Sunday, James commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on their preferred candidates for principal positions in the national assembly.

His words: “As we await the inauguration of the 9th national assembly, we must mobilise support for people who have the capacity to lead the affairs of the red chamber.

“The duo of Lawan and Kalu will do a good job as Senate President and Deputy Senate President respectively.

“The national assembly must work harmoniously with other arms of government in building a prosperous Nigeria.

“The preferred candidates have the political dexterity and leadership acumen to steer the affairs of the national assembly.

“Let us bury political affiliation for the sake of national progress.

“With Lawan and Kalu, there will be a healthy relationship between the national assembly and other stakeholders.

“We must place the collective interest of Nigerians above selfish ambitions.

“Nigeria will witness monumental strides under the leadership of the 9th national assembly".”

The group, while applauding the duo of Lawan and Kalu for their patriotism, selflessness and inclusiveness, urged Nigerians to be steadfast and law-abiding, noting that the country will overcome its challenges in no distant time.

Igbere TV recalls that Kalu, had last week, endorsed the candidature of Ahmed Lawan.

The Forbes-rated billionaire, while maintaining his position on the DSP post, said he was the 56th senator to endorse Lawan for the Senate Presidency.

He expressed optimism that the executive and the 9th National Assembly would work harmoniously unlike what obtained in the outgoing 8th Assembly.

http://igberetvnews.com/737594/9th-nass-leadership-group-canvasses-support-for-lawan-kalu/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has zoned the Deputy Senate Presidency of the Ninth National Assembly to the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones, findings by Igbere TV has revealed.

Though the ruling party is yet to make its decision public, however, an impeccable source in the APC National Working Committee (NWC), told Igbere TV that the leadership of the party will meet after the Presidential Inauguration to take a final stand on other elective positions.

According to the source, President Muhammadu Buhari at a recent meeting with some party stakeholders at the presidential villa, insisted that he only endorsed Senator Ahmed Lawan for the Senate Presidency.

“The president said he only endorsed Senator Ahmed Lawan as Senate President, he was even mute on Femi Gbajabiamila becoming Reps Speaker.”

When confronted with media reports that the president had backed the South-South zone to produce the next Deputy Senate President, the source said, “Who told you?, those are mere speculations. The president did not endorse the South-South zone for the DSP. In fact, during the last meeting, he said he would prefer the South-East to have the position of Deputy Senate President. But as we speak, he is yet to endorse a particular candidate from the zone.”

He said that President Buhari gave a fresh order to the APC National Working Committee to ensure that all other positions were equitably distributed amongst other geo-political zones.

Similarly, a reliable source in the presidency, on Wednesday confirmed that Buhari did not endorse the South-South for the post of the Deputy Senate Presidency of the incoming Ninth Assembly.

The source who pleaded anonymity because he is not permitted to speak on the issue, revealed that the president still holds strong opinion that the Deputy Senate President should come from the South-East, saying, “he is now open with his stance towards the position to favour the South-East region.”

He also dispelled the impression that the president hates the Igbo nation.

Division in NWC, as Oshiomhole makes last minute effort to favour his zone

Meanwhile, Igbere TV has learnt that at a meeting of the APC National Working Committee, which was summoned yesterday at the party's secretariat, the cacaus had resolved that the Deputy Senate President position will be between the South-East and South-South zones.

Our correspondent reports that a source, who also attended the meeting, disclosed that members of the NWC did not agree on which particular zone — between the South-East and South-South — should produce the next Deputy Senate President.

According to him, at the NEC meeting which was held yesterday, majority of the members favoured a particular zone, while others were undecided.

He said the National Chairman of the party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole is opposed to the position going to the South-East.

Oshiomhole, according to the source, insisted on having the position zoned to the South-South, particularly his home state, Edo.

“What happened is that the national chairman is opposed to the position going to the South-East. He had already penned down Senator Francis Alimekhena (Edo North) for the position before the president objected to it and insisted on the South-East zone having the post.”

He said the president was infuriated by the false reports being peddled by some ministers in the news that he (Buhari) had endorsed the South-South to produce the Deputy Senate President.

“The president questioned if there was any issue in the Deputy Senate Presidency being zoned to the South-East,” he added.

According to him, the president, from all indication, believes that it is only fair to give the South-East the position of Deputy Senate President since the National Chairman of the party comes from the South-South and he also has just re-appointed the Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, also from the South-South.

He, however, added that a meeting of the NWC will hold immediately after the Presidential Inauguration to finalize proper.

When contacted by Igbere TV, Simeon Ebegbulem, Chief Press Secretary to Adams Oshiomhole, declined comment on the issue.

But the APC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, confirmed the report, adding that “the party will make its final decision known at the appropriate time.”

I'll contest Deputy Senate Presidency, insists Kalu

All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator-elect, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu has said he would contest the Deputy Senate President position in the Ninth National Assembly.

Kalu, a former governor of Abia, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja, while speaking with State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Reaffirming his earlier position on the DSP post at the presidential villa, the Forbes-rated billionaire said he was the 56th senator to endorse Ahmed Lawan for the Senate Presidency.

“Well, I am going to contest on the floor of the Senate. I am waiting for the party to zone (the offices) and if the party continues to hold it, and don’t zone it, I will contest on the floor of the House.

“I have already endorsed Ahmed Lawan as the Senate President. That is sacrosanct in my mind and I am appealing to the other parties, let us have only one candidate in the Senate instead of going to drag for it. So, we are on course.

“Yesterday (Sunday), when I returned from Venezuela, Ahmed Lawan was with me in the house and I became the 56th APC senator to endorse him. As I am talking to you now, we are having two more people who are in Mecca, one senator from Katsina and the other from Lagos. Fifty-eight senators are going to sign in and we have the majority to make him Senate President.”

He expressed optimism that the executive and the 9th National Assembly would work harmoniously unlike what obtained in the outgoing 8th Assembly.

http://igberetvnews.com/722487/breaking-ninth-nass-apc-zones-dep-senate-president-to-se-ss/


Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Former Governor of Abia and Senator (elect), Dr Orji Uzor Kalu on Monday said he would contest the Deputy Senate President position in the Ninth National Assembly.

Igbere TV reports that, Kalu, who defeated incumbent Mao Ohuabunwa of the opposition PDP to clinch on to the Abia North Senatorial seat, disclosed this while speaking with State House correspondents in Abuja.

Igbere TV had reported that the Forbes-rated billionaire was in the Presidential Villa to deliver a letter from President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking on Monday in Abuja, the former governor said he was the 56th senator to endorse Ahmed Lawan for the Senate Presidency.

“Well, I am going to contest on the floor of the Senate. I am waiting for the party to zone (the offices) and if the party continues to hold it, and don’t zone it, I will contest on the floor of the House.

“I have already endorsed Ahmed Lawan as the Senate President. That is sacrosanct in my mind and I am appealing to the other parties, let us have only one candidate in the Senate instead of going to drag for it. So, we are on course.

“Yesterday (Sunday), when I returned from Venezuela, Ahmed Lawan was with me in the house and I became the 56th APC senator to endorse him. As I am talking to you now, we are having two more people who are in Mecca, one senator from Katsina and the other from Lagos. Fifty-eight senators are going to sign in and we have the majority to make him Senate President.”

He expressed optimism that the executive and the 9th National Assembly would work harmoniously unlike what obtained in the outgoing 8th Assembly.

“Well, we are going to expect a lot of cooperation between the legislature and the executive and I am sure as most of you know very well, we are going to do bi-partisan support – not a blind support in any way to the executive, but we are going to have a very good working relationship; we will follow the rules of the House and the rules of the executive,” he said.

Asked if he would be advising President Buhari on how to select his ministers from the South-East, Kalu said: “The President has been a president before – as a military man and now a civilian president. He is very experienced to choose his ministers and I am not going to be working with them unless there is any individual Mr. President wants me to advise on. If there is none, the president is very capable – with the help of our party – of knowing who to appoint as his minister. I am very confident he will choose capable people. My interest is to rebuild the economy because the economy is part of the reasons why we are having security challenges. So, I will focus on things that will put stimulus to the economy. We want to see the economy buoyant and people would see that the expansion of the economy is important to our society.”

On why he was in the Presidential Villa, the APC chieftain said: “I have come to see Mr. President; I acted like a special envoy. I delivered a letter from President Maduro of Venezuela to President Buhari. It was a very short one. I am sure since he became president, I have never been to his office; this is the first time; I have always seen him in private as a private citizen.”

http://igberetvnews.com/719944/revealed-what-orji-kalu-said-after-meeting-with-buhari-in-state-house/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Former Governor of Abia and Senator-elect, Abia North Senatorial District, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu on Monday decried the rising spate of child trafficking, child abuse and other vices across the country.

He expressed worry that many innocent children have been abused emotionally and physically.

In a statement sent to Igbere TV to commemorate the 2019 Children's Day, Kalu called for stringent punishment for perpetrators of these evil acts.

He admonished government at all levels to enact child friendly laws that would guarantee the rights of children.

Noting that family is the smallest unit of the society, the former governor stressed on the need for families to uphold good ethical behavior for the sake of building a decent society.

Kalu, who admonished the younger generation to demonstrate good moral in their pursuits, urged policy makers to formulate policies that would mitigate social vices among youths.

He acknowledged the role of parents in the lives of children, stressing that the older generation must build and sustain worthy legacies for the younger generation to emulate and uphold.

While wishing Nigerians a hitch-free Children’s Day celebration, the Senator-elect urged the younger generation to live a decent life, stressing that as leaders of tomorrow, the future was bright for them if only they behaved in a credible manner.

“I join parents, children and other stakeholders in celebrating the 2019 Children’s Day.

“It is a day set aside to acknowledge, appreciate and celebrate children.

“Government must initiate and execute policies and programmes that will help to identify and develop the full potential of children.

“Children of today are the leaders of tomorrow and as such we must bring them up properly with the right skills, attitude and mindset to prepare them for future challenges.

“The rights of a child must be respected and duly protected.

“Children deserve quality life anchored on sound education, proper mentorship and counselling, quality healthcare, freedom of movement, freedom of discrimination,among others.

“If we don’t instill good moral conduct in our children and wards, we cannot build a good society.

“Nigerians must appreciate children and support them in their pursuits for us to build a prosperous nation,” the statement read.

http://igberetvnews.com/715389/childrens-day-kalu-wants-stringent-punishment-for-perpetrators-of-child-abuse-other-vices/

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently meeting behind closed doors with former governor of Abia, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, Igbere TV can authoritatively report.

Igbere TV learnt that the meeting is holding in the president’s office at the State House presidential villa, Abuja.

An impeccable source told Igbere TV that the Abia North Senator-elect arrived the villa at exactly 3:25pm and proceeded immediately to the meeting venue.

This comes less than 24 hours after the Forbes-rated billionaire endorsed the candidature of the Senate Leader, Senator Ahmed Lawan, for the position of the Senate President of the Ninth National Assembly.

Our correspondent learnt that even though, the agenda of the meeting was not made public, however, it may not be unconnected with the Ninth Assembly leadership and Venezuela crisis.

Igbere TV recalls that Kalu, who visited embattled President Nicolàs Maduro last week, had promised to brief President Buhari on the outcome of the meeting.

The former governor, while disclosing that his visit to the South American country was a peace initiative of the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, said he would convey a note from Maduro to Buhari upon his return to Nigeria.

Details shortly...

http://igberetvnews.com/716501/breaking-president-buhari-in-closed-door-meeting-with-kalu-happening-now/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

More photos...

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday signed the 2019 Appropriate bill of N8.92 trillion into law, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that the president had submitted the 2019 budget of N8.83trillion to the Senate but was increased by about N10billion by the legislators, bringing the amount to N8.92trillion.

Dignitaries who witnessed the signing of the budget, which took place at the mini-conference hall of the president, included the Senate President Bukola Saraki and the Speaker of the House of Representatives,Yakubu Dogara.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and the Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari also witnessed the signing of the budget.

Others at the event were the Ministers of Finance (Zainab Ahmed), Budget and National Planning (Sen. Udoma Udu Udoma), Information and Culture (Lai Mohammed) and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Sen. Danjuma Goje,

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Sen. Ita Enang and his counterpart for the House of Representatives, Umar El-Yakub were also at the event.

The president said he only signed the bill because he didn’t want to further slow down the pace of recovery of Nigeria’s economy, and further disclosed that he will send “a supplementary and/or amendment budget” to the national assembly to rectify the critical issues he raised.

http://igberetvnews.com/715860/breaking-buhari-signs-2019-budget-into-law/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J