₦airaland Forum

..Says He is our General of Democracy

The Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has eulogised former Nigerian Head of State, His Excellency, General Abdusalami Abubakar, as a General of Democracy on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

Senator Dickson noted that, after serving Nigeria at the pinnacle of his profession in the military, and his display of unparalleled commitment to democratic governance, General Abubakar has continued to be a beacon of hope and mentor to younger generation of leaders including himself.

Senator Dickson described General Abubakar as one who, over the years has become one of the most visible and enduring pillars of peace in Nigeria.

On behalf of his family, Dickson joined General Abubakar's countless admirers, all lovers of democracy and people of good conscience to celebrate the Democracy General at 80.

General Abdusalami Abubakar executed the transition of Nigeria's Forth Republic in 1999 after several years of military incursion into Nigeria's democratic rule.

“My family and I felicitate with a dear father, leader and former Head of State, Gen Abdusalami Abubakar, GCFR , Nigeria’s Democracy General on this special occasion of your 80th birthday.

“It is heartwarming to note that the Almighty God has kept our leader in a super state of health to continue your invaluable contributions to our dear country and humanity.

“After serving our fatherland at the pinnacle of your profession in the military, and your display of unparalleled commitment to democratic governance, you have continued to be a beacon of hope and mentor to younger generation of leaders including me in this country.

“Over the years you have become one of the most visible and enduring pillars of peace in our country.

“My family and I join your countless admirers, all lovers of democracy and people of good conscience to celebrate you at 80.

“l pray to God to continue to keep you in good perfect health.”

https://leaders.ng/2022/06/14/senator-dickson-felicitates-with-former-head-of-state-abdusalami/

The Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has condemned in strong terms the massacre of harmless worshippers at Owo, Ondo State.

The former Bayelsa Governor described the act as animalistic, barbaric, reprehensible, extremely callous and unthinkable.

Senator Dickson said that the barbaric act perpetrated by savage criminals was one unimaginable evil targeted at the core of values of humanity.

He called on the Federal Government to ensure that all measures are put in place to track down those responsible for the unacceptable, abominable act.

The Senator said that it is only when when the cruel criminals with no value for human life are dealt with and justice seen to have been done according to the law that Nigerians will have a likeness of reassurance.

He also call for support for the security agents who are toiling day and night to restore order in troubled areas not to relent in their patriotic sacrifices of the peace of the nation.

The Senator urged Nigerians irrespective of religion, region and ethnicity to unite against those perpetrating acts capable of being misinterpreted with dire consequences.

He said that what happened was a mind boggling crime perpetrated by sick minds adding that Nigerians should be united and put up a concerted action against them.

He condoled with the families of victims, the Catholic Church, ondo State Government, the Olowo of Owo and prayed God to give the family the fortitude to bear this loss.
https://ourdailywire.com/dickson-condemns-massacre-of-innocent-worshippers-at-owo/

, says “the journey to a better Nigeria has begun.”

An aspirant in the recently concluded Peoples Democratic Party’s House of Assembly primaries for Ughellli North II, Delta State, Mr Oke Umurhohwo, has congratulated ,His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for emerging victorious in the just concluded PDP presidential primaries.

Mr Umurhohwo in a congratulatory message signed on Thursday, described the emergence of the newly elected flag bearer ,former Vice President Alhaji Atiku, as the beginning of a journey to a better Nigeria.

He praised the leadership and Presidential aspirants for the serenity that prevailed throughout the exercise, pointing to the success of the primaries as an indicator to all that PDP will make Nigeria work again.

"One of the clearest indications that PDP is capable of rescuing Nigeria from the present hopelessness inspired by the APC misgovernance, is the outcome of the presidential primaries held on Saturday. I heartily congratulate His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for getting the nomination of the PDP," Mr Umurhohwo stated in his message.

"With Alhaji Atiku's experience and capacity, the PDP has answered Nigerian’s need for a leader capable of restoring the country on the path of unity and progress. It is no gainsaying that the emergence of Alhaji Atiku marks the start of the journey to a better Nigeria," the Ughelli-born brand manager noted.

Mr Umurhohwo lauded aspirants for sustaining the single goal of fixing Nigeria, noting that their conduct before, during and after the primary is proof of their patriotism to the country and their love for their people.

"Looking at the brotherliness and sense of unity that prevailed all through the exercise, Nigerians can see that PDP aspirants were not just about themselves. That makes everyone a winner. I join all Nigerians to congratulate them and recognize their sacrifices in the interest of all," he added.

https://leaders.ng/2022/06/02/2023-oke-umurhohwo-congratulates-atiku-says-the-journey-to-a-better-nigeria-has-begun/

Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan , GCFR is among many dignitaries billed to grace the presentation of “Political Party Governance,” a book authored by former Minister of State for Power, Dr. Mohammed Wakil (OON). The event will hold at NAF Conference Centre, Kado, Abuja on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 10 am.


While Jonathan is the Special Guest of Honour, Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, PhD, CON is the Chairman of the Occasion. Also expected at the book presentation are Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, MNI, FNSE as the Guest of Honour; former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Salisu Alfa Belgore (GCON) as the Father of the Day, and the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Democratic And Legislative Studies, (NILDS) Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman as the Chief Host.

Former Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Nuhu Yaqub OFR is the Book Reviewer and the Chief launcher/Presenter is Chief Diana Chen, Group Chairman of CIG Motors Company Ltd, Lagos while former Borno State Governor, Senator Kashim Shettima is the Guest Speaker.

Wakil, a lawyer, chartered administrator and corporate governance practitioner, has extensive experience at all levels in the field of politics, having attained the position of National Vice Chairman (North-East) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

He was in 1999 elected to the House of Representatives, representing Damboa, Gwoza and Chibok Federal Constituency. While at the Green Chamber, “The Leader,” as his colleagues fondly called him, was at the enviable age of 34 years elected as House Majority Leader between 1999 and 2003.

A Fellow of many institutes and international bodies, Wakil has also participated in various election monitoring missions both locally and internationally. He is a member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Union (CPU) and is a Lecturer on Political Party Governance at the Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies, Abuja (an affiliate of University of Benin). He has published several articles on Corporate Governance, Political Party Governance and Investment Law.

Wakil was bestowed with the distinguished national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by Nigeria’s President among other awards and recognitions.

Political pressure group, Plateau Low land Mandate Group ( PLLMG ) has drummed support for the Senatorial bid of Air Vice Marshal Napoleon Bali (retd) .



Our correspondent reports that AVM Bali, retired from the Nigerian Air Force recently as Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) HQ NAF after an illustrious 35 years’ service and is currently an aspirant for the Plateau South Senatorial seat under the People's Democratic Party PDP .

Speaking with newsmen in Jos ,the Chairman of the group ,Hon Nankur Ndam in a statement made available to newsmen said AVM Bali is a politician with unbridled loyalty, grassroots appeal and soundtrack records .

“The decision to endorse Napoleon Bali was taken after expanded consultations with the leadership in the six local governments in Plateau South Senatorial District,”



The group also promised to support AVM Bali to win the election saying he has all it takes to contest and win the election based on his track records .


," We decided to queue behind Bali because of his stance on issues concerning the country.



“AVM Bali is a friend of the masses irrespective of tribe, religion or political affiliation. He loves everybody ".


The group stated that AVM Bali has won several awards while in service and is favoured by history to have a successful run at the Senate in 2023 if elected .

" If elected Napoleon Bali would play very active roles in the development of Plateau South Senatorial district ."

Bali is a household name in Plateau South senatorial district with a strong grassroots appeal that can help the party the PDP

The statement further reads in parts " Bali has impacted a lot in his immediate Constituency through various developmental initiatives "

"If elected Napoleon Bali would leverage his goodwill and wide contacts to promote the socio-economic development of his people."

AVM Bali who is worried about the security situation of the state, and particularly of his senatorial zone where constant conflict between herdsmen and farmers has led to grave insecurity and would work with the executive to tackle insecurity ,he added .

Our correspondent reports that AVM Bali gained admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1983 as a member of 33 Regular Course.





He was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in 1986.





AVM Bali underwent his Basic Flying Course in 303 Flying Training School (FTS), Kano from 1990 to 1992 and was thereafter trained as an Instructor Pilot (IP) on jet aircraft between 1998 and 1999 in the same Institution.





On completion of his IP Course in 1999, Napoleon attended Joint Air Course (JAWC) in Hyderabad, India where he graduated with an ‘Excellent Grade’.





The Air Officer attended his Senior Staff Course at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) from 2001 to 2002 and graduated with C+ grade. He was a participant of Course 19 at the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja from 2010 to 2011 where he also graduated with the prestigious C+ grade. He has a master’s degree (MSc) in Security and Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan in 2013.


AVM Bali is an Instructor Pilot on the L39ZA aircraft and holds ratings on the Bulldog, Alpha Jet, Falcon 900, Gulfstream GV and G550 as well as the Falcon 7X aircraft which he Captained.

The Air Officer has flown over 3,000 hours inclusive of instructional hours amongst several awards and appointments. Prior to his appointment as a board member of Asseco Nigeria, the senior officer served as the Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) until his retirement from the NAF in November 2019 after 33 years of meritorious service to the Country.

AVM Bali's honours and decorations include FSS, MSS, DSS, psc (GAFCSC), fdc (NDC) and MONUC (UN). He also won the Best-AII-Round awards during his Ab-initio and Basic Flying Training at 301 and 303 FTS respectively. During his career, the Air Vice Marshal contributed immensely in the management of flight Operations and attainment of NAF's objectives that yielded positive results.

https://leaders.ng/2022/05/15/plateau-south-senatorial-race-group-drums-support-for-napoleon-bali/

Ose Anenih, son of former chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih, has received the endorsement of party delegates from his local government ahead of the House of Representatives primaries.

The Aspirant, who is contesting to represent Esan North-East and Esan South-East Federal Constituency in Edo State, was adopted as the sole aspirant by 52 out of the 55 delegates in the 11 wards of Esan North-East LGA.

The motion for the adoption of Ose Anenih was moved by the Ward four Chairman, Mr Michael Eromosele and seconded by Ward 10 Youth Leader, Simon Odiata.

It was jubilation galore by party faithful and kinsmen who had gathered in the Anenih’s country -home in Uromi to witness the endorsement of his son.

The legacy of the former Edo strongman resonated among his people, as those in attendance praised his contributions to the PDP and the country.

The delegates said they decided to openly endorse the son for the Reps ticket as payback to a man who did a lot for them but never imposed any of his children in elective or appointive positions.

Before moving the motion for adoption, Eromosele told fellow delegates and the Ose Anenih Campaign Council that “ we have come to openly endorse Ose in honour of Chief Tony Anenih of blessed memory and for what he did for Uromi, Edo state and our country.

“It is also a plus for us that his son, Ose Anenih, has distinguished himself as a wise and competent young man in how he has handled his campaign, and we cannot but admire his courage.

“We will encourage delegates from the other local government in Esan South-East to also remember what Chief Anenih did for our constituency and how he empowered many leaders.

“This is the time to demonstrate our love and let Nigerians know that we truly value our father and leader, Chief Tony Anenih and that his legacy lives on in his children”, the chairman noted.

Several other delegates who spoke at the gathering said they would ensure the victory of Ose Anenih on May 12.

Responding, the aspirant said that he has the backing and support of his family and community to aspire while declaring that he was ready to serve the constituency.

“Today is a good day, and I want to assure you that I will not let you down; I will serve you, and I will listen to you because your endorsement means a lot to my family and me.

“I want to assure you that we are ready for the primaries, the election and the call of duty, and we trust in God and your support to sail through,” Ose said.

... Allegedly moves to bribe Delegate Election C'ttee

The People Democratic Party (PDP) Adhoc Election in Akwa Ibom State has been highjacked by Governor Udom Emmanuel and who has allegedly splashed a whopping N100 million on the visiting PDP Ward Adhoc Delegate Election Congress Committee few hours to commencement the Congress.

An alarm raised by an impeccable source within the State Working Committee, reveals that the PDP Ward Adhoc Delegate Election Congress Committee has been compromised since they arrived Uyo last night.

He disclosed that they were whisked away right from the airport by government house security team to the Governor's Lodge to await the governor's return to the State and no state party officer was allowed to see them.

The Committee includes, Dr. Ibrahim Umar as Chairman, Hon. Alfred Bello as Secretary, Chief Paul Mumeh, Mr. Noble Akenge and Hon. Rose Asibi Matthew as members.

"We the State Working Committee of the party were not allowed to see them since their arrival yesterday. This morning, at about 10:20am, the governor flew into the state and is currently meeting them behind closed doors in the Governor's Office. We've however been hinted from within the governor's office that they've have been compromised with the sum of N100 million 'to do a good job'." Our source disclosed.

The source further revealed that the governor is aware of how unpopular his aspirant is as such he is not leaving any stone unturned in his desperation to impose Umo Eno on the party, adding that Gov. Udom has gone to the length of forging an adhoc delegate list which he is allegedly bargaining with the committee to adopt it as the congress result.

"He (the governor) knows that his aspirant has less than 35% of the statutory delegates so he intends to use the adhoc delegates to make up for the shortfall. The party is at the risk of losing its chances at the general election if the governor is allowed to field an unpopular candidate.

"Umo Eno does not stand a chance in the primary that is why he (the governor) is highjacking the entire process.

Reacting to the development, a member of Forum of PDP founding members, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Obong Barrister Andem Andy, who coordinates Uyo Senatorial District, has called on the national chairman of the party, Senator Iyorcha Ayo, and national working committee of the party, to immediately suspend the adhoc delegate congress in Akwa Ibom state and reject its result, allowing only statutory delegates to partake in the governorship primary.

"I call on the national chairman and indeed the national working committee to, as a matter of urgency, wade in and arrest the situation. We can use to statutory delegates alone for the governorship primary. This calls for a similar solution as was the case of Ekiti State primary last year, when Gov. Udom Emmanuel rejected the result of the adhoc delegate Congress and conducted the primary with only the statutory delegates.

"If the national overlooks these genuine grievances, I tell you, more than 60% of party members will remain in the party but work against its success at the governorship election in 2023". He warned.


https://ourdailywire.com/pdp-ward-adhoc-congress-udom-accused-of-hijacking-delegate-lists/

The Administrator, National Judicial Institute (NJI), Hon. Justice Salisu Garba has received a team of the management of Total Security Insurance Brokers Limited.

The team, who paid him a curtsy visit in Abuja, said the visit is part of it's corporate social responsibility to the institute.

The Insurance brokerage firm presented to the institute an F-500 encapsulator which is a latest firefighting equipment with state of the art technology.

Also, during the visit which saw Alh Ibrahim Gambo,the Director Finance, having a chat with the team from Total Security Insurance Brokers, the insurance brokerage firm explained that the firefighting equipment is for fighting category A fires.

Category A fires involves combustible fires from plastic materials, clothing, wood, paper and rubber.

Sitted is the Institute Secretary Alh Maidama,Francis Shokoya E.D Operations, Hon Justice Garba (Administrator) and Edirin Oghenejode E.D Corporate Services.

According to the team, the equipment is an American solution which is certified by the Chief fire officers of the United States of America and his Nigerian Counterpart.

Meanwhile, receiving the team, the Administrator expressed gratitude on behalf of the management and staff of the institute and promised to put to good use the F-500 encapsulator.

https://leaders.ng/nji-administrator-justice-garba-receives-total-security-insurance-brokers-ltd-mgt/

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Nomination and Expression of Interest forms.

The forms were picked at the APC’s National Secretariat in Abuja by a member of the House of Representatives, representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. James Faleke.

Faleke, who also picked presidential Expression of Interest and Nominations forms for APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was accompanied by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Babachir Lawal and hundreds of members of the Tinubu Support Groups (TSG) to the party’s secretariat.

The governorship Expression of Interest and Nominations forms were presented to Governor Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Tayo Ayinde.

It would be recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu was unanimously endorsed a few days ago for a second term shot by the Lagos APC apex leadership body, Governance Advisory Council (GAC).

The Governor has also received endorsement from prominent individuals and groups in the last few weeks, demanding that he should throw his hat into the ring for a second term based on his remarkable performance during his first term in office.

https://leaders.ng/greaterlagos-sanwo-olu-picks-apc-governorship-form-to-run-for-re-election/

Thursday 28th April, 2022


His Excellency,

Mr. Udom Emmanuel,

Governor of Akwa Ibom State.



Our dear Governor,

WE ARE SHOCKED BY YOUR DOUBLE STANDARD; DID YOUR SOOTHSAYERS SAY YOU WILL BE PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA?


The recent purchase of the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for presidency on the platform our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for you by the popular Brekete Family Radio/TV show is heart warming and inspiring. However, much as we appreciate calls by a group of Nigerian media practioners on your Excellency to contest for the office of president of Nigeria, we owe our compatriots the responsibility to expose your double standard on choosing who to serve in public office.


Recall Sir that you raised a concern over qualification and experience of our would-be president while accepting the N40million worth presidential nomination forms in Uyo last Thursday, when you reportedly 'frowned at a situation where high level qualification and experience were set as requirements to engage someone to manage organisations, but only a Secondary School Certificate is required constitutionally, to manage a country with over 200million people'. You further said that "...it is unfortunate that if we are looking for a Managing Director of a particular company, the CV we seek, spans 3-4 pages, but when we are looking for a President of the country, based on the constitution, all we need is WAEC, no experience."


It is absurd how easily you could demand for a highly qualified and experienced manager to serve as president of Nigeria when you have shown Akwa Ibom people, by your proposal of a relatively less qualified and inexperienced man as successor, that qualification and experience does not matter in choosing a governor as long as it was "divinely" revealed. Nigerians ought to beware that you have abandoned reason, thrown caution to the wind and succumbed to all manner of prophesies from your retinue of 'prophets' both international and local. Yet, you expect Nigerians to logically search for the best qualified technocrat to preside over the country.


If, by your recent submission, you value qualification and experience that much in governance, what qualification and experience does Umo Eno, your proposed successor have? Does family ties and clannishness equate qualification and experience? Of course, you should know that there was a governor (Obong Victor Attah) in our history, who similarly attempted to impose his relative on us and failed superlatively. You are on that same path, making exactly the same mistake, our dear governor. Retrace your steps now before it is too late. If by chance you succeed as president, do you intend to lead Nigeria by listening to soothsayers?


If you can recall Sir, when our former leader and governor, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio was shopping for who to succeed him, he selflessly resisted the temptation to accept Mr. Michael Sebastine (his in-law) as successor in order to bring you to serve our people. We believe he was impressed by your 3-4 page curriculum vitae. He then moved heaven and earth to have you become governor for the simple reason that Akwa Ibom State needs a world class financial guru to survive debilitating effects of national recession and still achieve growth. Alas, in your time, rather than sustain such selfless precedence, you are pursuing your family agenda, claiming to be 'divinely guided'!


Your Excellency, we insist that your choice of Umo Eno is self-serving, unacceptable and against the overwhelming interest of Akwa Ibom State PDP and against the will of well meaning Akwa Ibom people. You smuggled Umo Eno - a man notorious for high-handedness and maltreatment of his hotel staff - into the State Executive Council to achieve your immediate personal gain, knowingly mortgaging the welfare of our State. If you conduct an independent survey across the State, you will find that Akwa Ibom people have already rejected your choice of Umo Eno. So, with due respect Sir, we the founding members of the party will not allow you truncate the chances of our party winning the 2023 governorship election. We have invested our time, energy and resources for many years to build this party to its enviable height therefore we will not allow people who joined by default destroy it. We call on the national working committee, the presidential primary screening committee and national delegates to take our observations to heart.



While there is still an opportunity for redressal, we urge you to revert. There are several well qualified technocrats and experienced public officers, within our party, who have served both the State and nation meritoriously. If you retrace your steps from soothsayers toward reason, we can work together to choose our next governor as is the norm. Just as Akwa Ibom people accepted your candidacy in 2014 on the strength of your much touted qualification and experience, we will likewise accept only a suitably qualified and experienced candidate in 2022. We will not settle for less.


We wish you success in your presidential ambition.



Signed:

High Chief Samuel Ukpabio
Eket Senatorial District


Barr. Andem Andy
Uyo Senatorial District

Atuekong Uyoata Udofa
Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District

For and on behalf of FORUM OF PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, PDP FOUNDING MEMBERS AKWA IBOM STATE

https://ourdailywire.com/open-letter-to-the-governor-of-akwa-ibom-state/

... AS MASSIVE CROWD DEFIES HEAVY RAINFALL TO RECEIVE FORMER GOV


A Massive crowd on Wednesday defied heavy rainfall to receive the Senator representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, as he arrived the Bayelsa Airport built under his administration on his way to the People’s Democratic Party Senatorial screening.

The Senator who spoke to journalists at the Airport said that he would work for the success of all candidates selected through the process by the Governor, Senator Douye Diri, who is the leader of the party and the critical stakeholders.

He thanked the large number of party supporters for their continued support for the Governor and the PDP administration in the state.

“I want to thank you all and I urge you to continue to support our party and our government." he said.

“ I believe that I will join the Governor, who is the leader of our party, to campaign for all the candidates that the he and stakeholders will select in accordance with the constitution and guidelines of our party.”

The former Governor said that he was visiting the state to present himself for the screening of his political party in accordance with stipulations of the law and the party’s guidelines, with the commencement of the political process.

He thanked the huge crowd for coming out in the heavy rain to show sustenance of their solidarity and support and prayers.

“As you know today, I am in the state for a purpose. The political process has started. I am here to submit myself in accordance with the constitution and guidelines of our Party, the PDP.

“We thank God, our state is peaceful. I want to thank all our people; men, boys, chiefs, elders, women, people of all descriptions, of all ages who found time, even in spite of the weather that is not so clement, to be here, to wait here to receive me in this heartwarming manner.

“I lack the words to appreciate our people for their abiding solidarity and support, as well as their prayers. This is recurring and I think it is indeed humbling.

“I am also grateful to several others who are not able to come due to one reason or the other and those who on their own came here to see me, I think it is very heart warming.” he added.

Dickson who has spent a year and five months in the Red Chambers is re-presenting himself to the party in pursuit of his bid to return to the National Assembly.

A group of top politicians from Ekeremor and Sagbama Local Government Areas, making up the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, had bought the expression of interest and nomination for the Senator and presented it to him in Abuja on March 30.

The Senatorial District’s political leaders had urged him to return to the Senate having handled in a most convincing manner, issues involving the interest of the district, the Ijaw Nation and the Niger Delta, in so short a time.

https://leaders.ng/2023-i-will-back-candidates-selected-by-diri-stakeholders-dickson/

The Bayelsa West Youth Congress has said that a group of politicians and their cronies are deliberately twisting history to confuse and create needless tension among the good people of the Senatorial District on a purported zoning arrangement in the area.

The National Coordinator of the Group, Comrade Ebide Brown said in a statement on Tuesday that what had happened over the years is a healthy contest of political parties pairing up candidates with the potential to win elections in the two local government councils making up the district.

He lamented that the whole noise about zoning is a mischievous attempt by a group of politicians to make a sacrilegious attempt to disenfranchise Senator Henry Seriake Dickson from participating in the next election.

Ebide Brown who traced the history of Electoral contest in the Senatorial district from 1999 said that there has been zoning of the positions in the district.

He recalled that in the contest for the first elections in District in 1999, Senator Emmanuel Diffa and AVM Larry Koinyan all came all from Sagbama while the Candidate for the House of Representatives candidate, Chief Clement Andie, from Sagbama win the election.

He recalled that in 2003 Chief JK Brambaifa, (PDP) Sen. Emmanuel Difa- SALGA (PDP), all from Sagbama, Chief (Barr) Ebikake Abeke- EKELGA ( PDP)contested the Senatorial election which was eventually won by Senator Brambaifa while Chief Enai who was PDP flag bearer to the House of Reps won dressing that there was zoning.

He stated further that Senator Heineken Lokpobiri from Ekeremor wouldn’t have contested for the third term against Foster Ogola from Sagbama in 2015 in violation of the terms of the purported agreement.

He recalled further that even in 2019,
Captain Karimo contested against Foster Ogola. Both men are from
Sagbama. He stressed that under a respected government the APC wouldn’t have fielded a candidate against a Sagbama Senatorial candidate since Hon Fred Agbedi, an Ekeremor man was already in the House of Rep

He argued further that Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo (Sagbama) contested against Captain Karimo of the APC, another Sagbama politician under the platform of the APC.

Ebide Brown noted that if there were a serious zoning political arrangement, the APC whose members and a handful of PDP saboteurs who are insisting on zoning wouldn’t have sponsored Hon Peremobowei Ebebi against Senator Dickson in 2020.

Ebebi wondered what would have happened to the purported zoning arrangement if Ebebi had defeated Senator Dickson in the heavily contested election where Ebebi polled over 20000 votes!

He urged Bayelsans and well-meaning Nigerians to ignore the mischief designed to hand over the Senatorial District to the APC.

He said that serious minded politicians with the right credentials go for campaign and not blackmail.

Ebide recalled that Ekeremor political leaders agreed unanimously to contribute the money for the expression of interest and nomination forms for Senator Dickson because of his record of perform, the merit of his brand of representation and proven love for the people over the years.

https://thenetwork.ng/bayelsa-west-purported-zoning-arrangement-has-never-been-respected-group/

PRESS STATEMENT

The Sokoto State Government has paid the sum of N2.8bn as April, 2022 salary and pension to all State Government Workers and Pensioners numbering over 40,000 which include Public/Civil Servants, Political Office Holders, Elected Officials and Pensioners.

The payment was on instruction of the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, CFR (Mutawallen Sokoto) to Ministry of Finance despite the fact that the Federation Account and Allocation Committee (FAAC) for the month of March is yet to be convened to allocate and disburse funds for the various tiers of Government.

2. The gesture is aimed at ensuring all workers in the State and their families celebrate the forthcoming Eid-El-Fitr with ease and to cushion the hard economic reality confronting the people of the State and Nation at large. The Governor wishes all workers, their families and people of the State an accepted Ramadan and Happy Eid-El-Fitr celebrations.

(SIGNED)
ABUBAKAR MUHAMMAD mni
Head of Civil Service

https://leaders.ng/sallah-sokoto-state-govt-pays-april-2022-salaries-and-pensions/

As the race towards the 2023 General Elections continues to gather momentum, posters of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan have flooded the streets of major Cities in Northern Nigeria, generating excitement about the possibility of his re-election in 2023.



Our correspondent in Gombe reports that the posters which bore the inscription "Mai Naisara" (The Luckiest One) were spotted around Rainbow Roundabout and the Federal College of Education (Technical) roundabout.

The posters were also seen around Gombe Central Roundabout.

From Kano, it has been reported that most major streets in the Sabon-Gari area including Abaraba Street, Onitsha Street and Burma Road are adorned with posters of the former President with the inscription "Mai Naisara" (The Luckiest One) and "Goodluck, Our Choice"

From the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja , our correspondent reports that major streets in Maitama, Asokoro, and Garki have been flooded with his posters.

The posters of former President Goodluck Jonathan have also been seen around the Wuse II area especially around the Blantyre Street area where the National Secretariat of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is located.

Posters with the inscription "Goodluck Jonathan You Must Run”, are occupying a conspicuous position on the wall of the party secretariat and the walls and fences of some uncompleted buildings around the secretariat.

It will also be recalled that last week, hundreds of youths stormed President Jonathan's Maitama office calling on him to declare his intention to run for President. In his response, the former President told the youths to participate more actively in politics and always look out for leaders that will carry the youths along.

Our Nasarawa State correspondent also reports that the posters have been seen in Lafia, Keffi, Akwanga and other major towns across the state.

From Minna the Niger State Capital, our reporter disclosed that women and youth groups staged a peaceful march from Mobil Roundabout to the city gate with posters and banners calling on the former President to run for the Presidency in 2023.

…Says No Going Back On 2023 First Quarter Deadline
…LASG’ll Acquire Additional Two Sets Of Four Train Coaches In September

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday reassured residents that the State Government was on track in its efforts to complete works on both the Blue and Red Lines rail projects, which are intra-city, to strengthen the intermodal transportation system.

He said work on the Blue Line rail project was at 90 percent completion, as contractors were working seven days a week so that Lagosians would ride a train on the rail by the first quarter of 2023.

The Governor gave the reassurance on Sunday while speaking to journalists at the Marina Train Station after about three hours of inspection of ongoing works on the Blue Line rail project and stations at the National Theatre Iganmu, Orile, Suru Alaba, Mile 2 and Marina axis of the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who inspected the Blue line rail project alongside some of his cabinet members, top officials of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and contractors handling the project, moved from the National Arts Theatre rail station on a construction track to Orile Iganmu, Alaba and Mile 2 stations, to inspect the four train stations on the Blue Line rail.

He said the Blue Line rail would be running on electric tracks with Electric Motor Vehicle (EMV) and therefore warned citizens to keep off the train lines and ensure they don’t walk on it.

The Governor, after riding back to the National Arts Theatre Station on a construction track, also inspected a new four-coach train, which according to him, is a typical train that will be used on the Blue Line.

He also disclosed the Lagos State Government’s plan to bring additional two sets of four-train coaches from China between September and October, adding that adequate security would be put in place at every train station and platform with the use of CCTV.

“This is the first time I am taking you on the blue line to see where we are. The first phase of the Blue line rail project starts from Mile 2 and terminates at Marina. Marina Station is an elevated station and it stretches out to outer Marina and terminates where the Governor’s residence is. At the end of the station, you could see that the track is broken into two bridges. The backtrack is for parking.

“We are happy that the contractors are working seven days a week. The major aspect apart from the Marina Station is a sea crossing from Eko Bridge to join the outer Marina. They would finish it in about three months. And by the time we will be coming back in July, the concrete construction should have been completed.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu while condemning the level of vandalism along the rail corridors warned perpetrators to desist from such evil acts. He said the government would go after companies that purchased vandalised rail tracks infrastructure, adding that culprits will be traced and made to face the wrath of the law.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sunday issued a three days ultimatum to traders under the Apogbon Bridge in Lagos Island to vacate or risk demolition of the space by Wednesday this week.

He gave the warning while driving on the bridge during his inspection of the blue line rail project and saw that traders were back under the bridge with their goods displayed after they were driven away in the aftermath of the fire outbreak under the Apongbon bridge about six weeks ago.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who frowned at the unlawful return of the traders under Apongbon bridge said the enforcement team would be deployed to the bridge after the three days ultimatum issued.
https://swiftreporters.com/lagos-blue-line-rail-project-at-90-completion-sanwo-olu/

Oloye Akin Alabi the owner of Lekki United had always dreamed of owning a football club in Nigeria. The lifelong Shooting Stars of Ibadan (3SC) and Manchester United fan has always been open and forthcoming about his life’s dream to own a Nigeria football team. For him, it was a way of fulfilling his passion and also giving back to an industry that has a transformational power for young people.

In 2019, Mr Alabi made a tweet about his decision to give up bid to acquire 3SC, his boyhood club. He had challenges understanding the governance structure going forward and also his place in the deal. More than anything, he needed a Club he could build, inspire and grow without interference.

“After discussing with my investors, I stepped away from the decision of the choice of location. The investors decided on Lekki, Lagos. And the club will be called, LEKKI UNITED!” he said on Twitter.

And so, Lekki united was born and is currently engaging in a passionate campaign for promotion to the Division 2 of Nigeria football; Nigeria National League (NNL). Lekki United represents Lagos’ sprawling commercial hub of Lekki, which is also home to Mr Alabi and thousands of other businesses and families. The Club plays in the 1st Division of the Nationwide League One (NLO), which is also the third division of the Nigerian league. The club has high hopes of playing in the Division two the next year and Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), the year after. With strategic appointments like Mr Biola Kazeem, a veteran sports administrator and football enthusiast as Sporting Director and Mr Ayo Filani as Head Coach, the club continues to learn and grow.

The club is made up of players mostly spanning age groups 16 to 25 and coming from all parts of the country. The 22-man squad registered for the NLO 2021/2022 campaign is often rotated on matchday but there have been some frequent appearances too.

Lekki United’s Tayese has manned the goalpost for majority of the past 6 matches while being protected by Khalid Lawal from the right wing, Bello Kareem from the left wing, Adejuwon Natic and Akinsola Taofiq from the centre back positions. While Mr Filani prefers to rotate his midfield for most of the last 6 matches so far, Bala Ibrahim, Chima Ebube and Ogabi Adewale have mostly featured in the starting lineup as midfielders. Attacking strength comes from the very explosive Sheriff Sholola, Akinleminu Lucky and Fowoshade Aliamin. The team switches between the gaffer’s favourite 433 and 442 formations, depending on the tempo and needs of the game.

Lekki United has continued their bid for a day in the Division 2 of Nigeria football, with a recent dominating performance and subsequent win against Emmydinho FC at the Legacy pitch Surulere in the 6th game of the NLO. Sheriff Sholola who is currently the Team’s highest goal scorer, had slotted in an 85 minute win after successive attacks by Filani’s boys. Lekki United’s victory against Emmydinho FC cements their 2:0 victory over Magate in a previous match where Sheriff Sholola and Chima Oluebube were both on the score sheet. The result keeps them within reach of promotion, after a rocky start to the season.


Every matchday with Lekki United on the pitch, comes with its excitement. From the entrance to the stands, you could see happy and expectant fans donning jersey numbers of their favourite players. The chants across the stadium as Lucky took one over an Emmydinho FC defender and the thunderous uproar after Sheriff completed what started off as a beautiful sequence of attack, gives the impression that Nigerians are ready to give the NLO, NNL and NPFL a chance.

The continued demand for more merchandise from fans show that grassroot football in Nigeria is becoming increasingly commercially viable. What is next? Improved league administration? More commercial and private interest in club ownership? More governmental support in building infrastructure like stadiums? This is left to be seen.

Football remains a popular staple in Nigeria’s pop culture, moreso grassroot football. The NLO touts itself as the world’s biggest grassroot league with 153 teams, 100s of football spectacles to behold and thousands of young people to engage. With private individuals owning a chunk of the clubs, Lagos state remains the state with highest participation in the league, with 38 clubs. This shows that for grassroot football to continue to grow in Nigeria, there has to be a synergy between governments, businesses and private individuals.

Of Course, this also highlights the place of the fans in supporting these teams and their rising stars. Will you be seeing Lekki United play FC Buruj at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium Surulere?

Today, it is just Lekki United, a little-known club in one of Lagos’ commercial hubs. Tomorrow, it could be the club of reference for an inspirational grass-to-grace story after winning silverwares and helping many Sheriffs and Chimas reach their footballing dreams. Before then, the fans can always support the next games and the one after.

https://leaders.ng/lekki-uniteds-story-and-ambitious-push-for-nigerias-division-2-football/

**

Nigeria’s football leagues continue to evolve, quietly improving itself and attracting private interests and investments. The Nigerian club football system is made up of the Nigeria Premier League—the most prestigious of the four-league system, the Nigeria National League and the Nigeria Nationwide League (NLO) (Division 1 and Two).

The NLO has seen an uptick in private interest with Oloye Akin Alabi, a popular football fan, Entrepreneur, and Politician, owning one of the rising clubs; Lekki United. As the Club continues its very first season at the NLO in pursuit of a day in the sun of Nigeria’s Division 2 games, there have been clear signs of progress for the now revamped team.

The long term expectation from the owner, Oloye Akin Alabi has remained a spirited bid for the Nigeria Premier League, NPFL. For now, he hopes his team continues to win the matches right in front of them. This in part has informed his appointment of Mr Biola Kazeem, a veteran sports administrator and enthusiast, as Sporting Director.

In an April 20 2022 NLO home game against Emmydinho, another NLO side, Lekki United, representing Lagos’ arguably most buoyant commercial hub, took the visiting team to the cleaners with Sheriff Sholola slotting in a home-run in the 85th minute. The team represents Lekki, a commercial hub in Lagos, which is also home to Mr Akin, thousands of individuals, families and businesses living and thriving. Mr Ayo Filani, Head Coach continues to lead the team from the dugouts for every matchday since their first game in the NLO.

As enthusiasm continues to grow for Nigeria football, the home-grown players also stand to gain a lot with an increased chance of early talent discoveries. N’golo Kante started from France’s 3rd Division and is now a world Champion and a world Club champion, who says Sheriff can’t?
Beyond Oloye Akin Alabi’s massive investment and interest in Nigeria’s football league, we continue to see other interests with entrepreneurs like Shola Akinlade, CEO of one of Nigeria’s biggest payment platform, Paystack and Kunle Soname a seasoned football administrator, throwing their hats in the ring.
Shola had earlier in 2021 announced his ownership of Sporting Lagos, a Second Division Nigeria League Club and also invited participation from other Nigerians in a widely publicised stock purchase hosted on Paystack.

He has since received massive cheers following the move and in various interviews, highlighted the need to make Sporting Lagos a lasting institution that would champion community building and employment creation through sports. Other private backers of Nigerian club football share in Shola’s optimism and faith.
In a recent interview with the CEO of Remo Stars, Kunle Soname, he mentioned that Nigeria needs to enable sustained success for its club football system. The experienced football administrator mentioned the expectations for his team; Remo Stars, stating that if they ended up in 15th place, he would be excited. Remo Stars had not played the NPFL back-to-back since their first top-flight experience in 2016. Even at that, Remo Stars is considered one of the best run clubs in the NPFL, following its very efficient methods and nascent history.
Lekki United, Owned by Oloye Akin Alabi, Sporting Lagos, owned by Shola Akinlade and Remo Stars owned by Kunle Soname all signify a quiet resurgence in the Nigerian footballing system. For a sport which is almost a cultural item in the menu of Nigeria’s entertainment and pop culture, one would think that the Nigerian system would at least be at par with the South African Football League System.

The Nigerian football league has the power to empower young passionate footballers seeking to ply their trade in European Stadiums, just like the Brazilian league does. The league has the power to empower communities and families, attract investment and foreign exchange to the economy and restore the pride in a sport the country loves so dearly. Are these recent interests and investments the first of many or do Nigerians remain pessimistic?
While the journey ahead is well cut out for the stakeholders, the recent private interest is arguably a sign of growing trust in the operations of the league system. What would be next? A big money sponsorship of the league system down to Division 4? A thriving teenage league system? An efficient talent scouting system feeding the Nigerian National Team with endless Okochas, Yekinis and Nwankwos? A big money player transfer to an EPL, LaLiga, Bundesliga etc side? Or even a future where Lekki United climbs the Sporting ladder and wins the NPFL?

These remain to be seen. However, as the surging private interest has got the proverbial ball rolling, it is now clear as day that everything is possible in the Nigerian football league system. As good as it may look now, it is still day one in Nigerian football.

https://ourdailywire.com/lekki-united-and-other-nigeria-club-football-teams-draw-private-interest/

EUROPEAN VESSEL OWNERS PLEAD FOR RELEASE OF IMPOUNDED VESSEL THREE MONTHS AFTER DEPOSIT OF $2 MILLION BOND

European owners of vessel are pleading with the Federal Government and the relevant security agencies to release a vessel arrested for drug related issue, MV Karteria

The vessel owners called on the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, the Navy and the Office of the Attorney General to give the deserved attention to the issue of the detained vessel.

A Source said that the vessel owners have fulfilled all the requirements for its release and are calling on the Honourable Attorney General, the Chief of Naval Staff and the Chairman of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency to use their good offices to release the vessel.

It was gathered that three months after a Federal High Court, Lagos, ordered the Federal Government to release a ship, MV Karteria, on a $2 million bond, the Federal Government has yet to release it due to obvious issues of inter Agency communication.

The ship and its 20-crew members were detained by the Nigerian Navy for allegedly dealing in cocaine, pending investigation or criminal prosecution by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

But following an agreement by all the parties and a letter of undertaking from an insurance firm, Standard Club, Ireland, dated January 12, 2022, Justice C. Aneke on January 14 delivered a consent judgment directing the navy to release the vessel.

The crew members were also granted bail sequel to an undertaking by the international insurance firm to pay the FG $800,000 including interest and cost, if they failed to show up for trial.

The judge said his order was sequel to the notice of agreement to release MV Karteria on a bond dated January 13, 2022, but filed on January 14 in suit number: FHC/L/CS/1661/2021.

The court said, “That pursuant to the court order of November 18, 2021, directing the National Drug Enforcement Agency to furnish this honourable court with the progress of investigation regarding the above vessel, the court is hereby notified of the agreement by parties for the release of the vessel, MV Karteria on a mutually agreed bond of $2mn only to be secured by a letter of undertaking from an internationally recognised institution of repute.

“That the letter of undertaking from Standard Club Ireland DAC dated January 12, 2022, acceptable to the applicant is hereby attached as exhibit NDLEA.

“Upon reading through the said application and after hearing F. Dinneys Esq., counsel for the applicant moved in terms and O. Atoyebi, SAN, with D. Aina Esq for the vessel not objecting to the application, it is hereby ordered as follows: That the plaintiff application dated January 13, 2022, and filed on January 14, 2022, for the release of the vessel MV Karteria, which was attached on the orders of Honourable A. L. Allagoa, on November 18, 2021, upon the consent of the parties, is hereby granted as prayed.”

However, findings revealed that the vessel was still being held by the naval authorities despite a letter from the NDLEA stating that a directive had been issued to the Navy to release the ship.

The NDLEA Assistant Director of Prosecution, Theresa Asuquo, had in a letter dated January 31 addressed to Atoyebi, said a letter had been sent to the Navy and a directive issued to the commander of the agency’s special area command in Apapa Port to liaise with the Nigerian Navy to release the vessel.

But the NN spokesman, Commodore Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, said the matter was being handled by the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.

He said, “The Navy legal department said the case has been transferred to the office of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation; he is handling the matter.

“The Navy has no hand in the matter. A meeting was called by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation and attended by NDLEA and the justice ministry. We are waiting to be informed about the decision reached the meeting.” A senior ministry official confirmed that the vessel has not been released.

Investigation revealed that the Navy decided to halt the process of the release of the vessel because it thought the $2 million bond for the vessel was deposited in a European bank.

However, findings at the Ministry of Justice revealed that Navy acted in the interest of the country by insisting that the bond money be kept in a bank within the country.

The source said that the Navy in its assessment of the situation mistook the,!Standard Club, Ireland, the insurance firm for a bank.

The source noted that once the NDLEA writes to clear the atmosphere of doubt about the bond deposit, Nigeria will release the vessel in accordance with standard procedure.

“We plead with the government of Nigeria to release the ship. What they have done by seizing the ship is in order but since we have agreed to indemnify the FG for the ship and the crew, this agreement should be honoured as directed by the court.” he pleaded.

https://leaders.ng/european-vessel-owners-plead-for-release-of-impounded-vessel-three-months-after-deposit-of-2-million-bond/

Babajide Sanwo-Olu has gotten the approval of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) on Monday to contest their second term in office.

The GAC, the apex body within the state ruling political class of All Progressives Congress (APC) approved the second term for Sanwo-Olu at its meeting this afternoon at State House, Marina.

With the APC governorship election primaries slated for May 27, the speculation on whether Sanwo-Olu will get a second term has become rife among the business and political elites in the state, especially members of the APC.

Governor Sanwo-Olu has not picked his nomination forms for the election waiting for the official endorsement of the party chieftains.

It would be recalled that his predecessor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode failed to secure a second term in office because he fell out of favour with the party structure and GAC members despite the popular sentiments that he performed very well enough in office to deserve a second term.


https://swiftreporters.com/lagos-gac-gives-sanwo-olu-approval-to-run-for-second-term/

A political group, Youths for Greater Nigeria (YGN) has called on Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele to publicly declare for President

The group, at their Press Conference held in Abuja, said that the CBN governor is the only person that can unite Nigeria at this time, considering the situation of the country.

Speaking at the event attended by over 10,000 young Nigerians across the 36 states and FCT, the group leader said that “the wait is now long and they will only give the CBN governor little time to publicly declare else, they will purchase Presidential form in any of the popular political parties and make sure he becomes the next Nigerian President.


By:
#BRTL
#ArewaAlliance
#EmefieleFrontierMovement
https://leaders.ng/2023-youth-group-ask-emefiele-to-declare-for-president/

Many Nigerians including my humble self are sold on the idea that the Presidency of Nigeria be zoned to the south east in 2023.
For the political leadership in Eastern Nigeria, the fact that there are two major political parties in Nigeria must pose a problem for the leadership. Making it ratger difficult to come out and prevail on the Presidential aspirants of Igbo extraction,in both parties to step down for the best and most nationally accepted amongst them.

Yet without this singular action and step the Igbo Presidency will remain a political mirage and a pipe dream, God forbids.

Fellow Nigerians who stand on fairness, equity and justice in the rotation of leadership in Nigeria will take the South East serious ONLY if it can achieve this feat, of presenting a single concensus candidate from the array of qualified and eminent aspirants currently on the field in both parties, within the shortest possible time, possibly before the end of April, since the Presidential primaries come up from the end of May 2022.

At the risk of being accused of bias , I dare say that the southeast leaders must choose an aspirant from the pdp. This is the only politically fertile ground where the igbos have sown seeds of political support for more than 20years. If the Igbos try to cast their net in the ocean of APC, it will be an attempt to reap where they have not sown and the chances of achieving an electoral victory at the primaries will be very remote.

Knowing how difficult it is for politicians to submit to reason in attempts to achieve concensus and taking into consideration the universally acknowledged republican and independent nature of an average igbo man, ohaneze and the igbo leadership should not be too optimistic on the possibility of achieving full concensus.
Under that situation, the leadership must confidently announce their decision publicly and be seen to stand by it. With this 80 to 85% of southeast voters will follow the leadership.
After achieving this, then the leadership of the southeast, political, traditional, religious, business, intelligentsia and other well recognized institutions in the South East must move around the country swiftly and canvas, negotiate, allay fears of people in various nationalities, and make pledges and promises that will make it easy to rally national support for the chosen candidate.

For the avoidance of doubt, I am not qualified to teach the igbo nation what to do, but as a principal stakeholder in the Nigerian project, who has worked closely with Nigerian leaders and institutionalized national stakeholders to install three past Presidents, and also as one who is sympathetic and committed to Igbo Presidency in 2023, I feel compelled to express these opinions publicly not just for the attention of the leaders of the south east but also to assist to bring to bear on the good conscience of other nationalities and men and women of good will in the country, that Nigeria must prepare for an IGBO PRESIDENT in 2023. This is to foster true unity and peaceful coexistence and accomplish equity and justice in our polity.

LONG LIVE THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.

Dr Doyin Okupe.

By Adewole Kehinde
I recently watched and listened to Femi Falana calling out the most performing Governor in Nigeria, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on the educational development of Lagos State.
Even though I have seen many Human Rights activists giving scholarships to students across Nigeria, I have not seen or read anyway that Femi Falana gave scholarships to any student in Nigeria or outside the country.
To enlighten the ignorance of the Human Rights activist, I will give an analysis of the giant Education Development of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu below;
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who became the state governor on May 29, 2019, had his job cut out for him. Fittingly, he was aware of and committed to the challenging task of restoring public schools long before he assumed the position and was intentional about it. Education underpins the ability to fulfill the economic ambitions of Lagos, as not only the powerhouse of Nigeria but of West Africa.
In light of wider development ambitions, he included education as a crucial pillar of his development plan for the megacity under the acronym THEMES. Education and technology are the third pillars of this development plan. The others are Traffic Management & Transportation; Health & Environment; Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy; Entertainment & Tourism and Security & Governance.
On the campaign trail, Sanwo-Olu solemnly promised: “We will invest in the education of our children and young adults. By increasing the budgetary allocation to education, this Government will empower teachers in every local government and strengthen their capacity to deliver quality education to our children.
Recognizing that education improvement is a marathon, not a sprint, the Governor began his remediation efforts by tackling the infrastructure problem; hoping to deal with the overcrowded classrooms across the city. When his Government marked its second-anniversary last year, it had completed more than 1,097 school projects, upgraded and rehabilitated 322 dilapidated public schools, and furnished primary schools with 87,000 dual composite units of chairs and desks. These were some of the issues parents had complained about in the above-mentioned paper. To the Government’s credit, infrastructure upgrade is ongoing.
To tackle the quality of instruction and learning, key shortcoming parents gave for choosing private primary schools instead of the public system; the Governor launched the innovative and transformational EKOEXCEL (Excellence in Child Education and Learning) program. It was launched in 2019 to provide quality education to both the rich and the poor in the public system and upskill teachers by leveraging technology. It is managed by the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). Since its formal take-off in January 2020, it has achieved remarkable results, including accelerating pupils’ learning, better classroom culture, and more robust lesson management. Parents are slowly returning to the public system
Like many education systems, the outbreak of Covid-19 impacted education in Lagos. However, the EKOEXCEL program and the Governor’s vision enabled children to continue learning unlike many of their peers across Nigeria. In response to the school closures across the state, EKOEXCEL launched blended learning with the adaptation of the EKOEXCEL@home initiative to ensure learning continued even in the hardest to remote and most poorly connected communities. The @home program consisted of self-study activity packets, learning guides, interactive audio sessions, virtual classroom experiences, and WhatsApp quizzes. The State government continued to be innovative and during the pandemic distributed 450,000 mp3s with pre-recorded lessons; by far the largest technology rollout in the continent for remote learning.
At the heart of the Governor’s EKOEXCEL program are teachers and the need and desire to strengthen the capacity of the workforce. The THEMES pillars have seen huge investment in teaching; strengthening the classroom and school management; embedding technology and using data to underpin decision making and training.
At the graduation of the EKOEXCEL Pre-service Professional Development and Technology Training Programme that trained over ten thousand government teachers that preceded the commencement, Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s plan to transform the education sector, and increase the Government’s investment and adopt a novel approach when his term began.
“We resolved to solve these problems through combining innovative technology, scientifically-based pedagogical approaches, effective training, support, and closing the learning gap such that all school-age children in Lagos State build a better and brighter future for themselves, their families, and the teeming people of Lagos State. We resolved that this Government will empower teachers in every local government and strengthen their capacity to deliver quality education to our children.
Commendably, the recently released EKOEXCEL 2020-2021 Endline Fluency and Numeracy Evaluation has further justified the investment and affirmed the strategic intervention’s impacts. The evaluation showed that EKOEXCEL pupils are making substantial progress in oral reading fluency and foundational numeracy compared to their performance before the initiative’s commencement.
It further showed that an average Primary 3 EKOEXCEL pupil is now reading at nearly the same fluency level as an average Primary 5 pupil from before the launch of the EKOEXCEL program. The evaluation also affirmed that EKOEXCEL is significantly improving learning over what existed before.
The assessment found that pupils have made outstanding progress across all grade levels since a baseline oral reading fluency evaluation in Lagos State public schools in 2019 (before the launch of EKOEXCEL). 2021 pupils are reading an average of 311% more correct words per minute than their 2019 pre-EKOEXCEL counterparts, with the most significant gains among Primary 1 pupils.
The study also found that “EKOEXCEL Primary 2 pupils are significantly outperforming their pre-EKOEXCEL counterparts on simple addition, simple subtraction, and addition/subtraction with borrowing. It also showed that pupils who consistently receive the ‘full’ EKOEXCEL program perform far better than pupils in the general sample.
Despite the impressive outcomes, the study holds that there is room for improvement compared with international fluency norms and also on some foundational numeracy outcomes. Pupils are still behind international fluency benchmarks while pupils struggled with some foundational numeracy skills compared with 13 other countries (specifically more complex skills like multiplication and division). Expecting children to compete at an international level is a mark of the successful transformation taking place across the State.
Impressively, the EKOEXCEL intervention has also recorded successes in reducing the number of over two million out-of-school children in the State. Supporting the State’s Project Zero, the program is placing children in classrooms; helping them to fulfill their potential, and protecting them from daily violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and exclusion they face.
Fittingly, these achievements have not gone unnoticed, with global and national bodies and individuals acknowledging the impressive strides. EKOEXCEL shone brightly at the 2021 mEducation Alliance Symposium organized by The Mobiles for Education (mEducation) Alliance, a global not-for-profit focused on using sustainable technology to enhance quality education. Its achievements were lauded at the meeting themed ‘EdTech for Accelerating Foundational Literacy and Numeracy in Low-Resource Contexts’ and held from September 27 to 30.
Also reviewing EKOEXCEL’s impacts, the Paul and Jean Hanna Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution of Stanford University, Professor Eric A. Hanushek, awarded the 2021 Yidan Prize for Education Research, lauded its impact on Lagos’ economic transformation.
The recent Ekiti Investment Summit saw Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighting the program’s success to other political leaders across the country; advocating the use of his ‘ homegrown’ solution in other states.
The eminent scholar whose work helped shape the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (ensure inclusive and equitable quality education) by reframing targets for learning outcomes has shown that it’s how much students learn—and not how many years they spend in school —that boosts economies praised it fulsomely.
The EKOEXCEL early results point to the kinds of transformational educational experiences that can dramatically change the future economic outcomes for Lagos State. In educational interventions, it is seldom the case that positive results are apparent so early in the program. We now have strong research from around the world that shows that economic growth is directly related to the population’s skills. If the EKOEXCEL improvements are sustained across all of the primary schools in Lagos, the future labour force of the State will be significantly enhanced, leading to a new economic era.
Underpinning the Government program is the use of data. The continent is often held up as not knowing and being unable to measure learning and improvement in education. The World Bank is often talking about the data back hole; without measurement, there can be no analysis and no improvement. Lagos is at the front of the technology revolution using technology to drive the changes that other Nigerian states are seeking to emulate.
EKOEXCEL schools are monitored in real-time by a digital and data-driven electronic dashboard that displays the data of all 1009 primary schools under the program, 13,673 teachers, 10,085 classrooms, and the almost half a million pupils across all the local government areas in Lagos State. This dashboard is accessible on the go to all the relevant primary education stakeholders across Lagos State. Data is underpinning decision making.

Adewole Kehinde is a Public Affairs Analyst and can be reached via 08166240846, E-mail: kennyadewole@gmail.com

https://swiftreporters.com/falana-goofed-on-sanwo-olus-educational-development-of-lagos-state/

FIRST SPORTS UNIVERSITY: FULFILLMENT OF MY DESIRE FOR NIGERIA, AFRICA'S SPORTS TRAILBLAZING ACHIEVEMENTS - NWOKO
Internationally recognized business mogul and philanthropist, Prince Ned Nwoko, has said the creation of the first Sports University in West Africa, All-Stars Sports University, Idumeje, Delta State, is a fulfillment of the desire to see Nigeria, and by extension, Africa, trailblazing world sporting achievement.
Reacting to the development, Prince Nwoko said: "The project has not only been in the pipeline since 2017 but has been a burning desire and one of the bills I proposed while in the House of Representatives, which has finally seen the light of the day."
However, there is a misconception that sports hamper a child’s dedication to academics. While other higher institutions do sports as a leisure activity, the All-Stars Sports University will take sports in the academic world as a lifestyle to build careers that will enable individuals to make their mark and edge their exploits into the accounts of history.
"The university is modeled to pursue the advancement of learning in specialized areas of sports development, including management, as well as to conduct specialized professional coaching courses, and research to advance various breakthroughs in sports."
Nwoko decried unfounded tales to discredit the good work of some online media suggesting that the university is an Islamic center in disguise.
He noted, "Due to its geographical location and cultural reservations, coupled with the malicious propaganda of the erroneous and misleading tale, tension was generated and the attention of different investigative entities and panels of inquiry at various levels, including the Nigeria Police Force, was attracted.
The various reports and inquiries after the investigation had one basic fact in common; that the university was constructed for the purpose it was labeled, a sports university and nothing more.
"I, therefore, call on all and sundry to eschew peddling malicious tales and support my vision of rewriting the sporting narrative of our country."
The business mogul disclosed that "the university is taking off with a secondary school section to scout athletic talents from infancy to proactively improve the number of athletes who finish their education with credentials/training for both sports and non-sports careers to nurture growth and transition.
Above all, the university will be a source of employment for thousands of residents of the host community and beyond.
https://blazonnewsng.com/2022/04/14/first-sports-university-fulfilment-of-my-desire-for-nigeria-africas-sports-trailblazing-achievements-nwoko/

2023: FORMER CHIEF OF STAFF, EPHRAIM INYANG, FINGERED IN EVIL PLOT TO SMEAR UDOM EMMANUEL

A well-oiled and funded campaign of calumny and character assassination aimed at the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, driven primarily by his unveiling of Pastor Umo Eno, his immediate past Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources as his preferred Successor, has been activated.

The evil plot was to troll and look for any document or material which in their estimation could be used to peel off the sheen and shine, or the nationally and internationally recognised bonafides of the Governor as an apostle of transparency and integrity.

Readers and discerning minds and indeed the public got the details and, were informed of the vendetta- driven mission and then, asked to rightfully dismiss the one sided reports their agents may have pushed out, or intend to publish.

However, in spite of the fact that their evil plot has so far been laughed at, or has not gained any traction, these same people have refused to see the wisdom in the futility of their exercise.

Yesterday, Sunday, April, 10th, between the hours of 10: 55 PM, to 2: 15 AM at the Ewet Housing Guest House of the former Chief of Staff, Ephraim Inyang, another meeting was held. At the meeting, it was agreed that some of their media hirelings should begin an extensive investigations on all the sectors of governance, and instead of reporting the successes recorded by the Udom Emmanuel- led administration, they should rather look for any blind spot and amplify those areas, in furtherance of their laughable narrative of abandoned project.

Another motivation is to show or try to establish an imaginary malfeasance or projects not done to conclusion, even if such projects are on-going.

At the meeting which was chaired by Ephraim Inyang and attended by among others: Ekemini, Ifiok Imefon of Akwa Ibom Media Network, Tijah Bolton Akpan of Policy Alert, a top member of the NUJ. Akwa Ibom State Council, Imo Udoima, Ibanga Isine, who had called in, while the meeting was in progress among others, attendees were asked to drop their telephones in a basket and Ephraim Inyang was said to have charged them to go on a hunting- mission against the Governor.

The Policy Alert team were told that they had secured an international media watchdog to support them in their nefarious activities.


“It is the height of journalistic malfeasance for writers who should ordinarily use their platforms to advance the cause of development of the State, celebrate where achievements have been recorded and proffer solutions in areas that require improvements but rather choose to use such, to witch-hunt a successful Governor based on personal vendetta” a source whom the organizers had thought was with them, but had simply played along had stated.

https://leaders.ng/2023-former-chief-of-staff-ephraim-inyang-fingered-in-evil-plot-to-smear-udom-emmanuel/

The immediate past Governor of Bayelsa State, and Senator Representing Bayelsa West, Chief Henry Seriake Dickson has warned mischief makers against instigating needless division in the Bayelsa PDP.

He warned politicians who are out to cause disaffection among the leadership of the Party over issues clearly not unconnected with the 2023 general elections to desist forthwith.

He enjoined them to remember the mercy and grace of God which blessed the party’s joint effort to retrieve its stolen mandate, in an effort led by him to midwife the advent of the current administration.

Senator Dickson spoke in a statement by his Media Advisor, Mr. Fidelis Soriwei, in Abuja on Monday.

He said, “My attention has been drawn by my media aides to a scurrilous , anonymous article making the around whose objective is clearly aimed at sowing a seed of discord in Bayelsa PDP

“I know that in a Politicking period as this, a lot of grievances and disappointments will find expression, faceless articles or statements which if not carefully managed can create crisis and a negative atmosphere.

The former Governor said that he had always made it known to political aspirants and indeed the PDP family that he doesn’t have any preferred candidate outside of those to be endorsed and supported by the Governor and the stakeholders.

“As I have always maintained, in a political period all ambitions are legitimate. People should pray, consult and work hard.

“In my current position, I do not have any special candidate for the forthcoming election. As a father to all, in the PDP, candidates I will support are the candidates endorsed by the Governor and the stakeholders across the state, I know that a number of people may feel disappointed that I am not endorsing or pushing for them.

I believe the Governor, as the leader of the Party, leading the consultations with stakeholders and leaders, managing the aspirations of members
will look into all emergent issues and resolve them accordingly in the interest of the Party.

I have decided to limit my role to the provision of necessary advise and guidance to the Governor and stakeholders whenever that is required and no amount of blackmail will change that.

The Governor and I are in regular consultations on important issues.

He congratulated Governor Diri for the Commissioning of the New Yenagoa City Bridge completed by his administration and the road which was also initiated by the Restorative Government but completed by the Diri Administration in the spirit of continuity.

By this Development, the New Yenagoa City project, another big dream of the my Government has come alive and all allottees can now plan to make their input to the building of a truly befitting modern State capital of our dream.

Already, the Prosperity Administration has led the way by citing the Commissioners Quarters in the new city.

He said that these are the big issues of interest and concern to me, not the pettiness, divisiveness or mischief being peddled.

He also commended the Governor of Sokoto State Aminu Tambuwal, who he described as his friend and brother for finding the time to visit Bayelsa to Commission these important projects.

He said that his major concern is to rally behind the Governor and the stakeholders to sustain the PDP dominance of political power in Bayelsa.

“I am looking forward to joining the Governor and the stakeholders to campaign for the victory of our candidates in the next election".



https://leaders.ng/senator-dickson-warns-mischief-makers-against-instigating-division-in-bayelsa-pdp/

ACCIDENT: SENATOR DICKSON, SECONDUS CONDOLE WITH JONATHAN OVER DEATH OF TWO SECURITY DETAILS

Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus on Saturday visited former President Goodluck Jonathan to condole with him on the death of two of his security aides in a recent accident involving his convoy.

Senator Dickson told journalists that the duo visited the former President to condole with him and also prayed for the eternal repose of souls of the security details who died in the unfortunate accident.

The Senator also wished those injured in the accident a speedy recovery.

The Senator and the PDP Chairman also commiserated with Inspector General of Police, the Nigerian Nigerian Police Force for the great sacrifices that come with their critical services to the nation.

He said, “The l immediate past Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, and I paid a condolence visit to former President Goodluck Jonathan, our elder brother and leader, on the unfortunate vehicle accident that claimed the lives of two of his security details and injured some others.

“We spent some quality time with him and we prayed that the Lord should grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and grant the injured speedy recovery.

“We also commiserate with the Inspector General of Police, the Nigerian Police Force and all its officers and men for the sacrifices that come along with their services to the nation.”
https://thenetwork.ng/accident-senator-dickson-secondus-condole-with-jonathan-over-death-of-two-security-details/

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Akwa Ibom State Council, says Pastor Umo Eno is not fit to be Governor because he is part of the problem of workers in the state.

In a statement signed by Comrade I. Paul Ibara, the NLC State Vice Chairperson and Acting Secretary, the Union said there was need to stop the planned consultation to the Administrative Council (SAC) of the NLC by Pst Eno to the Labour Union to save the image of the Union.

Part of the anger of the Union against Umo Eno is that as the immediate past Commissioner in charge of Lands under whose watch the land earlier donated to the Labour movement by the Government of Chief Godswll Akpabio was grabbed and auctioned to private businessmen from Lagos, it was an insult to the sensibilities of workers that the same person who could not respond to their protestations over the land grab would so easily cajole us to appear for “consultation” at a flick of the fingers.

"My concern, Sir, is whether the leadership of the NLC should subject the movement to the grave danger of political exposure which accompanies such “consultation” especially as the visitor, at least in the instances we have witnessed so far, would “land” with some amount of money as part of the consultation. Won’t it amount to a ridiculous tokenization of our struggles if we were to be found to have received such a Greek gift? Would such donation be a “thank you for a job well done” for our not demanding an account of stewardship from the former Honourable Commissioner or not asking for our seized land?", Ibara wrote in a memo to the NLC Chairman.

He said the Administration which Umo Eno was a member has not kept the minutest of faith with the workers of Akwa Ibom State.

"Government, from the standpoint of the bureaucracy includes all actors and agents who take part in the day to day running of the affairs of the State. This means that no person that has served in the capacity of a Commissioner can exculpate his or herself from the war of attrition which has been waged on the workers of Akwa Ibom State by the Udom Emmanuel Administration".

"We have witnessed in the about 7years of this Administration the worst incident of erosion of personal incomes in our society. In 2020 and 2021, the State imposed and collected more taxes from our citizens than was the case in the pre-COVID-19 years. The increase in the State’s IGR during this period reflects the fact that workers, rather than receiving much needed financial stimulus from Government were indeed tasked to cough out more taxes".

"These voluptuous tax revenues could however not be applied to any social welfare expenditure. Not even the disconsolate arrears of retired primary school pensions, gratuities and dead benefits. I would not need to remind you that more than a year after the signing of agreement on the 13-point demand by the NLC, less than N1billion has so far been committed to defray the State’s indebtedness to these categories of retirees which liability stood at about N28billion as at December 2020. Meanwhile, the accumulated liabilities of new retirees between that time and now are in excess of N1billion. Has progress been made?, he wrote.

The Union said at the end of the verification exercise to ascertain the actual number of retired primary teachers, almost 5,000 names on the retired teachers’ payroll could not be put on real faces.

"Wouldn’t it have been a measure of goodwill for the Government (since it could not find the courage to prosecute the syndicate) to have dedicated the savings made from weeding out the “ghosts” to the payment of the “living dead”. Yes, those feeble geriatrics who protested last week are qualified to be so called!"

Another grouse of the NLC is that the Unions 13-point demand of 2020 was the last attempt by the Labour movement to re-direct the fantasies of the present Government away from the soulless capitalist pursuits of a minority class towards issues of general welfare, most of which were actually contractual debts owed to public service workers.

"The owed pensions, gratuities, promotion arrears, unpaid Minimum Wage arrears, unpaid salaries to Akwa Ibom State University Staff, health workers etc were issues that affected the class of citizens who buy from Akpan Andem Market not those who shop from Walmart in Dubai. Our Struggle was thus meant to boost the local economy and not the “Lagos economy” as has been the focus of the Government", Ibara wrote.

He said NLC's struggle was a response to the moribund primary healthcare facilities in the State which have remained comatose while billions of Naira get boxed up in imported containers with obsolete medical equipment as it was a protest over the plight of the pupils of Government Primary School, Aka Offot, Obio Imo Street, a public school within the State’s capital where children sit on the floor under broken down roofs to learn.

" It was a protest over the scandalously high rate of unemployment in the State as evidenced by our dwindling check-off dues. I can recall your unending lamentation of the poor status of our check off dues in comparison with the situation in other States of the country."

The NLC said they were asked to send a nominee for the State’s Fiscal Responsibility Council, as provided for by the Fiscal Responsibility Law but the Council was never inaugurated, instead, they witnessed the Government purporting to operate its budget based on a Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) which was never signed off by the said Council because such Council does not exist and asked if the Council was in existence it is likely that the Labour representative therein would have made a case for the inclusion of social welfare payments as part of the expenditure outlined in the N45billion supplemental budget which was recently passed by the State’s Legislature, or in the contentious N150billion loan instrument about to be procured by the Government.

Ibara said he was frontloading the memo with a litany of these grotesque deviations from the social contract by Government to give validity to the assertion that the Government has not kept faith with the workers, nay, masses of Akwa Ibom State as it is against the background of the fact that this Government, in the preceding six fiscal years has accumulated and spent more money than its predecessor within the same period!

"We would therefore portray ourselves as great saboteurs of the collective interests of workers if after we refused to join the protest by retired teachers last week, we would be found in a nocturnal political jamboree with agents of the same Government in the name of “consultation. The least we can do Sir, is to invite all the workers so that the visiting former Commissioner may give them a report of stewardship for himself and for the Government", he wrote.
https://ourdailywire.com/2023-pst-umo-eno-unfit-for-gov-nlc/

Senator Dickson Sponsors Motion Seeking Retention of ‘HAROLD DAPPA Biriye ’ in the NDDC Permanent Headquarters


The Senator representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, on Wednesday sponsored a motion seeking to retain the name of foremost Niger Delta activist and leader, Harold Dappa Briye, in the New Permanent Head Office of the Niger Delta Development Commission.

While presenting the motion on the floor of the Senate, Senator Dickson noted that Dappa Briye has nothing to his name apart from the NDDC headquarters unlike his contemporaries who fought alongside him for Nigeria’s independence and whose names and faces are on national currencies and strategic assets.

Senator Dickson, a one-time Secretary to the quintessential Niger Delta Leader and National Legal Adviser to the Ijaw National Congress told the Senate that while the NDDC has commissioned and moved its personnel and operations to the permanent headquarters, “it has refused, neglected, or failed to transfer the name Harold Dappa Briye House to it.”

The Senate which agreed with the rich submission of Senator Dickson resolved to urge President Muhammadu Buhari to name the new National Headquarters of the NDDC after the late Harold Dappa Briye.

The Senator recalled that Dappa Briye among others was the founding Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ijaw National Congress with Pa Edwin Clark as his deputy.

The Senator stressed that the late Dappa Briye offered crucial advise to the President Obasanjo Administration on the need to restore peace in the Niger Delta and was one of the leaders who played frontline roles in the establishment of the NDDC.

Dickson recalled further that “following the establishment of the NDDC, the Federal Government and the management of NDDC with the support of the Rivers State Government led by Sir Peter Odilli, who himself was one of the several protégés of Harold Dappa Briye decided to name the NDDC temporary headquarters, donated by the Rivers State Government after him, as a mark of recognition for his services to the Niger Delta people and Nigeria at large.”

According to him, all through his adult life, Dappa Briye, fought for the Niger Delta people and all Nigerians and was a quintessential Nigerian who lived a good life promoting national unity, understanding and cohesion.

Senator Dickson said in his presentation that the late Dappa Briye collaborated with other leaders of Nigeria and former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon in managing the issues and agitations that culminated in the creation of Rivers State.

Dappa Briye, he said, also negotiated the release and pardon of Ijaw Icon, Jasper Isaac Adaka Boro, who joined the Nigerian Army and died fighting for Nigeria.

The Senator said that the late leader taught the Niger Delta people how to work for a united, just and egalitarian Nigeria, a Nigeria that works for everyone.

“He taught us how to serve Nigeria, work for the good of all in a multi ethnic, multi cultural society, not to stop raising the issues that must be raised,”

He recalled when he became Governor, he built an international conference centre and named it after him to immortalize him.

https://ourdailywire.com/senator-dickson-sponsors-motion-seeking-retention-of-harold-dappa-briye-in-the-nddc-permanent-headquarters/

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday launched the new MDXi Data Centre in Lagos.

According to Gov. Sanwo-Olu, he said “I launched the new MDXi Data Centre today. MDXi is an offshoot of one of the most successful companies out of Nigeria, MainOne.

This launch has again put Lagos on a global market map. Our state has become the leading destination for technology companies on the African continent.

In addition to being the largest sub-national economy in Africa, we are home to Paystack, Flutterwave, Interswitch, and many other globally recognized Start-ups. We are also a leading global city in e-commerce and retail technology according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index.

Lagos is the commercial nerve centre of the country and we will continue to create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.

We are ensuring that our policies are designed to support investment and create unending opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.

AGAINST GOVERNOR UDOM EMMANUEL


By Prince Akpan Mfreke Edem

Three weeks ago, the social media was awash with the report alerting the world that a PDP gubernatorial aspirant, who had lost out in the endorsement game by Governor Udom Emmanuel, working hand-in gloves with his sponsors, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Emem Akpabio and the former Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ephraim Inyang-eyen, had contacted a senior journalist of Akwa Ibom extraction and financially mobilized him to go on a hunting mission and troll for anything, just any document that would have the smell or scintilla of controversy and then maliciously link the name Governor Udom Emmanuel to such a document.
The report had also stated emphatically, having had a source who was at the meeting held at the aspirant’s Shelter Afrique Estate home that the senior journalist had, in the discharge of his evil mandate, conscripted another Akwa Ibom State, Lagos- based journalist to be the face of the campaign.

Today, it can now be revealed that the arrow- head of this evil and vendetta- driven campaign of calumny, and barefaced blackmail is headed by Ibanga Isine, a rambunctious, garrulous, and entitlement -seeking journalist who is the Managing Editor of the online publication the Next Edition News. On Monday, Ibanga Isine rolled out the first of his evil assignment with a laughable and factually vacuous, hogwash entitled “Robbing Peter to pay Paul: How Governor Emmanuel Pays Personal Loan with State Funds.”
To any discerning reader of that piece, the judgement is clear and decisive: it was a one-sided sponsored article meant to drag the sterling image of the Governor as an apostle of transparency and integrity into the mud.

Ibanga Isine tried so desperately to link the governor into a transaction that was in every ethical, moral standpoint, legally and legitimately duly executed. In an attempt to be clever by half, he forgot to tell the world that the Prime Hatchery project was conceived by his paymaster, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Perhaps it is pertinent to ask this question. Why is Ibanga Isine so passionate in his ill-conceived attempts to prove manufactured and contrived malfeasance in the government of Governor Udom Emmanuel, but kept a blind sight on the rot his paymaster, Godswill Akpabio, had left in the State, the financial mess he left behind, the many uncompleted projects most of which were paid in full, which the incumbent Government has been completing.

Has Ibanga Isine ever beamed his investigative searchlight on the billions spent on the Tropicana Project, which until Governor Udom Emmanuel turned the place into an international shopping complex today, the Market Square, was a den of snakes and other reptiles?

Has Ibanga Isine ever asked his co-conspirators at the Policy Alert what happened to the billions meant to have been spent for the payment of compensations to property owners on the Uyo-Ikot Ekpene Road, which ended in the pockets of individuals and stalled the project until the present government of Udom Emmanuel, settled the compensation issues a second time, and got the world class road constructed and commissioned last year?

Why has Ibanga Isine assembled certain journalists namely Ekemin Simon and others aided and abetted by a wanna-be transparency watchdog, whose only dog barks against Governor Udom Emmanuel, but remains sheepishly lame and tame with those who sponsored them, Policy Alert, to troll and scout for documents and issues they are not professionally equipped to analyse and logically and dispassionately report?

We can authoritatively report here that the reason and the motivation of Ibanga Isine in carrying out this evil plot is purely personal vendetta he has about the government and certain individuals in government. I will come to that shortly.

In July 2015, Ibanga Isine met a highly placed government official in Shelter Afrique Estate and over some drinks, pleaded with the individual that he would love to be absorbed as a Media Aide to the Governor. He proceeded by sending past newspaper links he said he had written in support of the governor. The government official was elated and promised to put in some good word on his behalf which he dutifully did.

Plans were afoot for Ibanga Isine to be made a Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, and this was duly communicated to him, and he expressed deep gratitude. However, the appointment did not materialize immediately, and Ibanga was told to exercise patience.
Later that year, 2018, his good friend and enabler, Senator Godswill Akpabio defected to the APC, and Ibanga Isine began to sponsor journalists to attack Governor Emmanuel in what was decidedly a proxy media war. The individuals he contacted collaborated his devious plans and he was confronted with the details, which he denied.
In 2019, having established a good relationship with the then Commissioner of Works, Ephraim Inyang- eyen and promising to be loyal, he was recommended yet again for appointment as a Special Assistant to the Governor on National Media.

However, as his appointment letter was being processed, Ibanga Isine was said to have complained to a top politician from Eket Senatorial District that the position he was given was “to low” for the journalistic standards he has attained. This act was said to have offended some people, who felt he should have accepted the appointment first and make his marks, then be rewarded with higher responsibilities if he merited it. His inclusion in the team was seen as capable of causing unnecessary rift, and the appointment was withdrawn.
Ever since that appointment was withdrawn, Ibanga Isine has gone on a campaign of calumny and hatred. He has encouraged certain journalists in the state namely Ekemini Simon through a group called Policy Alert, whose main preoccupation appears to be consigned or limited to looking for anything to demonize the Governor and his administration, while ignoring clear cases of malfeasance elsewhere in the nation.

In January 2022, when Governor Emmanuel unveiled Pastor Umo Eno as the preferred Successor, and Ephraim Inyang—eyen, his new friend was sacked as the Chief of Staff to the Governor; Ibanga Isine was contacted by a top Akwa Ibom State journalist in Lagos, to write unfounded and spurious articles against the governor. This, he agreed to do gladly leading to the first of the falsehood he published two days ago in his online publication.

That, in the main, is Ibanga Isine, an otherwise brilliant journalist, whose undoing seems to be his belief that he, alone is the best thing to have ever happened to journalism and that he deserves to be bestowed with the top media job in the State.
It was the same level of hate and anger he brought against another son of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Akpandem James when he was appointed the Director of Media at the Constituent Assembly and reports say Ibanga Isine had led a rebellion against the fine and celebrated journalist, who as at that time, had just finished his assignment as the Managing Director, having earlier served as the Editor of Daily Independent newspaper.
Ibanga was said to have demonized Mr. James, maintaining that he was better than him, and should have been the one to occupy the position. It is imperative for the public to know the real Ibanga Isine and his vendetta-driven campaign against the Government of Akwa Ibom State under the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Prince Akpan Mfreke Edem is an Uyo based Public Affairs commentator

https://ourdailywire.com/unmasking-ibanga-isine-the-journalist-hired-to-write-falsehood-against-governor-udom-emmanuel/