₦airaland Forum

I'm still in charge, my purported suspension is illegal - Ogun PDP boss Dayo

The Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo has described his purported suspension by the former secretary of the party, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo and other political jobbers as a huge joke.


In a statement issued on Friday, Dayo said the purported suspension was laughable, illegal and evil.

The statement said: “I read with suppressed disgust the news of my purported sack as the Chairman of PDP in Ogun State by the former state secretary of our party, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo and his co-travellers

"I find the purported suspension not only laughable but evil, insidiously cunning; artfully deceptive and to say the obvious, illegal.

"How can a suspended member of our party and others who are no longer members of PDP sit in a beer parlour and suspend me from PDP? Semiu was suspended weeks back for anti-party activities.

"The PDP constitution clearly stipulates the procedure for suspending members from the party. It is only the National Executive Committee of our party that can suspend me if found guilty of any offence. The Ogun State PDP under my leadership remains indestructible. Our tenure is guaranteed by the Constitution of our party and several pronouncements of the Supreme Court, the Court of the Appeal and the Federal High Court. Those that gathered at the beer parlour to pronounce my alleged suspension are not PDP members.

"Their latest action clearly represents a new level of illegality and political brigandage by the anti-democratic National Chairman of our party, Prince Uche Secondus. He is the brain behind the crisis rocking the Ogun State PDP.

"Secondus and his cohorts have forgotten that the Engr. Adebayo Dayo-led Exco is a product of the rule of law. My purported suspension is laughable and can't stand. I am still in charge and will continue to be in charge untill I handover to a new State executive."

OGUN PDP to Secondus: We'll go ahead with congresses
-Party Chairman Dayo declares

...Lanre-Balogun replaces ex-party secretary

The Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo has said the party congresses scheduled for next month will go ahead as planned.

Addressing reporters at the party secretariat in Abeokuta on Thursday, Dayo said preparations are in top gear for the congresses.

"We are going ahead with the congresses. The position of our party constitution as regards the conduct of the congresses is clear. The State Chairman shall be the Chairman of the electoral college that will conduct the congresses. The National body of our party is not in a position to conduct congresses for us in Ogun State because it has taken a position to always act in deviance of valid and subsisting court judgments.

Dayo said it was instructive to note that Secondus was quoted as saying it was the responsibility of the national leadership of the party to organise congresses in collaboration with the state leadership of the party.

"Yet, he has refused to recognise the only lawful and validly recognised state leadership of the party in Ogun even when the same national leadership of the party acknowledged in the published schedule of congresses that there were court judgments in respect of the Ogun State PDP Exco.

"As the judgment creditors, we are in the best position to inform Secondus the contents and import of the judgments," Dayo said

On the meeting held on Wednesday in Abuja, the Party Chairman said Secondus is the one playing "bread and butter politics", adding, "we are the only recognised Party Exco in Ogun State. We are the one recognised by the law and the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

"Uche Secondus is feeding fat from the Ogun PDP crisis. I can't believe he could be celeberating the visit of our former secretary, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo whom he refused to recognise all the while. By the way, Sodipo was suspended by the leadership of the party in Ogun State for anti-party activities.

"Ogun PDP is not in crisis. Sodipo has been adequately replaced by Barrister (Mrs) Bimbo Lanre-Balogun who is now the acting Ogun PDP Secretary," Dayo said.

Also speaking, Mrs Lanre-Balogun, who took over the position of secretary, said the decision to proceed with congresses was in accordance with Section 25 (3) of the party's constitution.

"This is also pursuant to the judgment of the Federal High Court in FHC/L/CS/636/2016 on the 24th of June, 2016; the decisions of the Court of Appeal in CA/L/864/2016 on the 4th of May, 2017 and 11th July, 2018 as well as the judgment of the Supreme Court in SC. 968/2018 on the 11th of February, 2019, which are still subsisting, binding and unappeallable owing to the effluxion of time," she added.

Why I am interested in sanitizing lottery industry in Nigeria – Kashamu

Senator Buruji Kashamu represented Ogun East Senatorial District in the 8th Senate. He is an entrepreneur with interests in real estate, hospitality and entertainment sectors of the economy, among others. In this interview with reporters over the weekend, he speaks on why he is supporting the call for transparency in the gaming industry in Nigeria. Excerpts:

What is your interest in the gaming industry in Nigeria?

My interest in the gaming industry stems from the opportunity it gives for wealth generation, redistribution and empowerment of the masses. I have heard some of the operators and sympathisers describing me and Western Lotto as whistle-blowers for the Federal Government. Yes, we are whistle-blowers. But the fact is: Premier Lotto's Adebutus and Bet9ja's Ayo Ojuroye and others were the first whistle-blowers who falsely alleged that I and Western Lotto wanted to deprive the Federal Government of revenue accruing from lottery and that we wanted to take over the role of the regulator. Their whistle-blowing led to the purported ban of foreign lottery games in Nigeria, a decision which has been reversed after the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) found out that it was misled. Now, the Commission has officially permitted Western Lotto to sell and promote the Ghana Games in Nigeria in a letter dated 30th January, 2020. Conversely, our own whistle-blowing led the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to looking into their books and accounts from where they verified our assertions that many of the operators have been defrauding and short-changing the Federal Government for many years, thereby shutting them up.
Over the years, they had blackmailed many start-ups in the lottery business and this led to their premature death. But, in this case, it boomeranged. Our own incontrovertible evidence drowned their unsubstantiated claims against me and Western Lotto. Upon seeing the light and the truth of the matter, the Federal Government decided to follow the light and uphold the truth. My interest and support for a transparent reign in the lottery business in Nigeria is further accentuated by my known support for the anti-corruption drive of President Muhammadu Buhari's administration and avowed commitment to fighting injustice wherever it raises its ugly head. The truth is: most of the lottery and sports betting operators have been defrauding and practically exploiting the federal and state governments by short-changing them for over 20 years.

What is your assessment of the gaming industry?

Experts have said the gaming industry in Nigeria is worth $70 billion. That is over N25 trillion. Unfortunately, how much of that do we see? What is the impact on our people and economy? It has been a case of the more you look, the less you see. If things were done rightly, all the lottery operators ought to have paid N600 billion to the Federal Government and its agencies but they have only paid N9 billion in the last 14 years. It is common knowledge that leading lottery and sports-betting companies are generating more than N1.5billion daily and N45billion monthly. Some of them have over 400 active accounts in various banks in Nigeria that they use to perpetrate their fraud and illegality of short-changing the government. The EFCC is well aware of all their antics and it is still investigating them. I wish to urge the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Special Duties to support the EFCC to bring the fraudulent operators to book and recover the almost N1 trillion in their kitty. After all the pay out, an average of N400 million still goes into their accounts daily. They share almost N10 billion every month. It is this money that they divert to various accounts and share to their children, directors, promoters and family members. They also use the proceeds to acquire properties all over the place and outside Nigeria.

For example, Premier Lotto generates N45 billion monthly and N500 billion yearly as profit. After deducting the cost of operations, the winnings and other expenses, Premier Lotto should be paying about N20 billion yearly to the Lottery Trust Fund and the Federal Government as tax. In 12 years, Premier Lotto should have paid nothing less than N240 billion in remittances and taxes to the Federal Government. But sadly, facts have shown that only about N6 billion has been remitted in 12 years. That is an average of N500 million yearly. The question is: Where is the remaining money? This needs to be thoroughly investigated. I have seen a schedule of the amount paid by Premier Lotto and other top lottery companies to the National Lottery Trust Fund. It is nothing to write home about.

It is on record that Premier Lotto only jerked up its remittances to N750 million in 2018 after the House of Representatives queried why it has consistently paid N500 million over the years, wondering if the company made the same sales in those years.

As if all these were not already too much, a major operator singlehandedly sponsored the 2017 amendment to the enabling Act that set up the NLRC, with the singular aim of whittling down the government and NLRC’s powers and having exclusive rights over fixed odds in Nigeria. Some 500,000 dollars exchanged hands over the amendment. The process of the amendment was wrongly compromised and its contents obnoxious to the growth and development of the sector. It will be in the interest of Justice for the Federal Government to revisit the issue of the amendment of the Act and return it to what it used to be. Even if there is a need for an amendment, it should not be in the mould of the heavily compromised version.

Golden Chance Lotto remits about N7.5 million per month to the Commission and the Trust Fund respectively as its statutory obligation whereas it generates about N30 billion per month.

Very credible information which can be verified independently has it that Bet9ja makes over N1 billion daily. If it were to pay the statutory one (1) and two (2) percent that should go to the Commission and National Lottery Trust Fund, Bet9ja’s remittance to the Commission and Trust Fund should have been close to N2 billion per month.

All the lottery and sports-betting companies have over 60,000 outlets/agents spread all over the country. Instead of them to allow the industry to flourish like it is in Ghana, South Africa, United States and the United Kingdom, where the funds are used to support the government and promote good causes, they short-changed the Federal Government while feathering their own nest. Can you imagine one lottery operator saying he wanted to fix the National Stadium in Lagos when he has government's money in his hands? What kind of corporate social responsibility or philanthropy is that?

Another operator known as BetKing began operations in October 2017 whereas it was officially licensed in 2018. This means it had illegally begun operations before it was officially permitted to do so. Since 2017, it has not remitted or submitted any financials to the Commission and the National Lottery Trust Fund. Yet, it rakes in billions and takes same back to South Africa. As at May, 2019, the company was making N10 billion monthly. Now, it is generating between N12 billion and N18 billion monthly without making any report or remittance to the Commission and the Trust Fund. On the average, the amount that the lottery and bet companies are supposed to be paying to the NLRC and FIRS should not be less than N20billion per month. If they cannot recover the money that the operators have diverted in the past, the relevant authorities and agencies should take steps to recover all the assets and properties that they acquired through the proceeds of crime and criminality, and return them to the Federal Government.

In recent times, a lot of issues have been brewing in the gaming industry in Nigeria following the acquisition of exclusive rights to sell and promote the Ghana Games in Nigeria by Western Lotto Nigeria Limited. What is your take on this?

The Ghana Games is responsible for about 70 percent of the revenue from the lottery business. But it is being done in an illegal way. This aids the manipulation of the system and under-declaration of what they ought to be paying the government. They divert the funds into property acquisition and other businesses.

In a bid to correct the ugly trend and sanitise the system, Western Lotto obtained the franchise of the Ghana Games in Nigeria. And if due process is followed by the lottery operators in Nigeria with respect to this matter, the government will have so much to cater to the needs of the people and fix infrastructure, including the National Stadium. It should be noted that it is not only in the area of statutory remittances that they have been short-changing the government. How can a father and three of his biological children be members of a 14-man board of the National Lottery Trust Fund if it is not to circumvent the system? Yet one of them, who is a politician, granted interview to PM News and other news media on the 17th of March, 2018, where he had the temerity to ask President Buhari to resign over alleged non-performance. I urge the government to rise up and correct these anomalies.

A lot of the atrocities have been discovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The EFCC is investigating the allegations against the lottery and sports-betting operators in both Lagos and Abuja. After weeks of investigation, it was reported that some of the operators were invited and questioned at the Ikoyi office of the EFCC two weeks ago. They were later released on administrative bail. Sources say preliminary investigation has shown that they have short-changed the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and the Federal Government to the tune of over 100 billion naira; and more revelations are coming. Earlier, a lawyer and an accountant of the leading sports betting company, who were arrested by the EFCC in Abuja, lied that they have "an understanding" with the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) not to pay remittances to the government on the retail arm of their business which is worth over N35 billion monthly. It is only on the online transactions that they make remittances. Can you imagine how much the Federal Government would have been deprived of?

Going by the level of atrocities that the lottery and sports-betting companies have perpetrated, they may have cumulatively short-changed the Federal Government to the tune of N600 billion. This is the money that they have been using to buy foreign football clubs, luxury cars and choice properties both locally and internationally.

May I at this juncture commend the universally-acclaimed Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Mallam Ibrahim Magu, for the good and thorough job that he and his team have done so far. They should keep up the good work and recover all the illicit funds in the hands of these criminals. The EFCC should also not forget the criminal aspect of their offences against the state.

I am aware that what Western Lotto and its promoters are doing is in line with the whistle-blowing policy of the Federal Government and anti-corruption drive of President Muhammadu Buhari's Administration. I do know that the management of Western Lotto and other witnesses are ready to testify against the mafia in court. Although some of members of the mafia in lottery industry have threatened to kill me and those exposing them, I am not bothered since this is a cause of justice and truth. And the Almighty Allah will never allow anyone fighting a just cause to be unjustly treated!

For many years, Bet9ja has pegged its monthly remittances to the Commission and the Lottery Trust Fund at between N3 million and N6million.

Take for instance; on Friday, 10th January, 2020, Bet9ja wrote to the Commission to remit its monthly dues for December, 2019.

The letter reads, “Our monthly remittances for the period under review are as follows: National Lottery Regulatory Commission - the sum of N3,170,045.83 (Three Million, One Hundred and Seventy Thousand, Forty-Five Naira, Eighty-Three Kobo) representing one percent of our online revenue and National Lottery Trust Fund - the sum of N6,340,091.66 (Six Million, Three Hundred and Forty Thousand, Ninety-One Naira, Sixty-Six Kobo) representing two percent of our online revenue. Evidence of the aforesaid remittances are annexed to the report herein attached.

“While thanking you for all your cooperation and supports in the past years, we look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship with the Commission in the year 2020.

“On behalf of our Board of Directors and Management Team, please accept the assurances of our highest consideration.”

I also have seen two letters dated 7th of November, 2019 and 10th of December, 2019 wherein KC Gaming Networks Limited, the operators of Bet9ja, reported to the Commission that it realised N329,011,000 and N315,488,583 for the months of October and November, 2019, and consequently remitted N9,870,330 and N9,463,456 to the Commission for the months of October and November, 2019 respectively. Yet, it is common knowledge that N45 billion is being raked in every month.

In a nutshell, the acquisition of the rights of the Ghana Games will bring about transparency in the gaming industry and boost the revenue of the Federal Government. So, why would anyone resist it?

Some members of the mafia in the lottery business are the ones resisting. They say how can Western Lotto seek to change the corrupt system that they have institutionalized and been feeding fat on over the years. So, they decided to become whistle-blowers against Western Lotto. In their desperate bid to maintain the status quo, they ganged up and lied to the Federal Government that Western Lotto was out to deny the government of the revenue accruing from the Ghana Games and that Western Lotto wants to take over the job of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC). They went further to get the Commission to issue a statement that it had banned foreign lottery games in Nigeria. So, in setting the records straight, Western Lotto had to show that all the allegations against it were the handiwork of the mafia in the gaming industry in Nigeria who want to continue to defraud the Federal Government whereas its initiative is meant to sanitise the industry and bring a quantum leap to the revenue accruable to the Government from the gaming industry. I don't know why they will want to continue in illegalities, oppose an initiative that will sanitise the industry and be disobeying the orders of court. So far, there are two orders dated 16th December, 2019 and 21st January, 2020, restraining Premier Lotto and other operators from selling the Ghana Games or using its drawn numbers without recourse to Western Lotto. But, they have continued to flagrantly disobey these orders. May be they do not know that Western Lotto can go back to the court to recover all the proceeds they realised from the Ghana Games since the orders were made.

It is worthy to note that at a stakeholders' meeting called in Abuja two weeks ago, the DG of NRLC confirmed Western Lotto's position that the operators have not been paying what is due to the Federal Government. The Honourable Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, His Excellency, Senator George Akume, also confirmed same and further said the government has evidence to that effect. He advised the operators to remit what is due to the government to it without further delay. Otherwise, the relevant agencies of government will go after them and recover the monies. I give it to them and the universally-acclaimed Ibrahim Magu, for standing on the side of the truth. That is why I am joining the management of Western Lotto and the National Union of Lottery Agents and Employees (NULAE) in appealing to the EFCC to act swiftly on this issue and dismantle the whole mafia in the gaming industry. I want to also urge the Federal Government to continue to support the EFCC to unearth and recover all the government's monies that they have used illegally to acquire properties for themselves and their families.

What are your views on the ban of foreign lottery games by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission?

As a public institution, the interest of the majority of the people, not a few, should be the major consideration of the Commission. I am strongly persuaded that the decision by the Commission was ill-informed as a result of the lies and wrong information it was fed with by the mafia in the lottery business. Thankfully, like I said earlier, that decision has been reversed and Western Lotto has been given the go-ahead to sell and promote the Ghana Games in Nigeria. At the stakeholders’ meeting, the Honourable Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs categorically told the operators to obey the Rule of Law on the issue of the Ghana Games and allow the company that has acquired the rights of the Ghana Games to be, just as he impressed on them the need to remit what is due to the Federal Government. Otherwise, the relevant agencies of the government will be asked to go after them.

Some people say the major issue the NLRC has against Western Lotto is the fact that it took the Commission to court over the Ghana Games. How would you react to this?

The court case is not against the Commission per se, it is a nominal party. It was joined in the suit merely as the regulator with the powers to call the operators to order, especially when the Commission and the Trust Fund have also been complaining about non-remittances and under-declaration of what is due to them and the Federal Government. So, the Commission was only joined as the regulator with the mandate to bring sanity into the system and increase the revenue that is accruable to the Federal Government. To put it simply, we are partners-in-progress.

What is the way forward?

The only way for the government to generate huge revenue from the gaming industry is for the operators to promote their indoor games and those who have the franchise of foreign games like the Ghana Games should be allowed to promote same.
Anyone who is interested in the Ghana Games will go to Western Lotto to obtain the necessary conditions; one of which is to key their platforms into the NLRC and Western Lotto's platforms to be able to monitor what is generated every day for transparency. That way, there will be harmony, transparency and growth in the industry, and Nigeria will be the better for it. I congratulate the Honourable Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, the Director-General of National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and management staff, as well as the Board and Management of the National Lottery Trust Fund, and particularly rejoice with the Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Fund, because their clamour for transparency and more funds for the government to fix infrastructure, health and education is about seeing the light of the day.

FUTAB 83 set holds maiden Reunion, AGM




The 1983 set of the Federal University of Technology, Abeokuta (FUTA), Ogun State, now Federal University of Agriculture (FUNAAB) held their maiden Annual Reunion/AGM in Abeokuta on Saturday.


The alumni were the first set of students to be admitted into the school in 1983 when the school was established.

The association at the event, elected their executive members to pilot the affairs of the association.

Mr. Olaniyi Okedairo was unanimously elected as the new President of the association.

Speaking on behalf of the association, Okedairo stressed the need for government to partner with alumni associations for the overall development of schools.

Okedairo insisted that the government must recognise the important role alumni associations play in the development of the education sector in the country.

The new President who noted that many schools would have stop existing if not for the complementary efforts of alumni associations, added that schools must work together with alumni associations to bring stability to schools.

His words, "The government have paid lip service to the provision of qualitative and quantitative education to the people. The standard has fallen, and it looks as if it is only private schools that are performing well."

"We all know that the government has been doing very little to assist schools. It is the alumni bodies that muster whatever resources they have with their connection, to see which area they can help schools."

"The government is not really doing anything, to say that they are not doing enough is an understatement."

Okedairo pledged the association's unflinching support to the development of FUNAAB saying "We are going to help in the development of the school in various areas, such as building projects, helping indigent students, award of scholarships to students among others."

"Our plan for the school is to first assess what is on ground, we are going to have a relationship with the school. By the grace of God we have so many people in different areas in this country and they are willing to help raise the standard of the school.

"Before we go into any project, we will assess it to see what benefits it brings to the students and even to the association", Okedairo said.

Sometime ago, I began to reflect on the nature of the judicial process, what determines how a judge comes to a decision when faced with issues that have far-reaching implications. As I bestirred my soul, I came across the work of BENJAMIN N. CARDOZO, LL.D. 1870-1938 - Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.

I noticed that from time immemorial, the issue of what informed judgement had occupied the minds of noble persons. I found that we had got to a critical point in our development as a nation and we must take great care to pull ourselves back from the potential consequence of a complete loss of faith in the system, especially the Supreme Court.

Right now, I find myself pondering on what we must do to redirect things. Elections and election-related issues must not rob us of our country and its harmony. We just cannot place our fingers on how we got to this all-time-low in terms of confidence in the integrity of our judges.

I must say that the more I thought, the more I found myself wondering how we got an electoral system that is so unpredictable, corrupt and disorganised; the foundation of all the pressure we pile on our courts. Shall we not now look at how best to give ourselves a fit-for-purpose election process that can make life easier for us all?

Until we pour over the recent Imo State judgement, we can logically say that the explanation for a scenario where the most creative of us finds it hard to justify how suddenly the 4th is now the 1st underneath a mathematical substitution arrangement is hard to swallow. I do not know how to console Ndi Imo right now, as we cannot be entirely sure if their wishes have been respected or they have been saddled with an illegitimate governor by the Supreme Court of our beloved Nigeria.

No one is the winner in any process that leaves doubts in the minds of the people. Was the case well prosecuted by Ihedioha’s lawyers, or like it is with the nature of the judicial process, do judges have ways of seeing and hearing only what they wish to hear? Whatever be the legal reason, the law was created for the society and not the other way round. And we must, as a matter of urgency, fix our Electoral Act, lest we destroy the Judiciary and our country.

The thinking on the way and manner judicial decisions are taken can better be grouped under four headings:
1.The Method of Philosophy
2.The Methods of History, Tradition and Sociology
3.The Method of Sociology and the Judge as a Legislator
4.Adherence to Precedent, the Subconscious Element in the Judicial Process.

Great legal minds pay great obeisance to the soundness of the reasoning of Judges no matter who wins or who loses. At the level of any Supreme Court, you would expect that as a court of policy, Their Lordships ought to weigh the far-reaching implications of what they pronounce. But alas, slowly but surely, we can see in Nigeria that under the present dispensation, noble words and logical reasoning leave the soul heavy as to what has become of the chamber of justice.

If we go to history, tradition and sociology, as things stand now, it seems that toddlers are currently in high places without a bother as to what type of society the highest court in the land is breeding. If the vast majority believe that something irrational and difficult to accept in sound reasoning is emanating from the final court in the land, do we all not see that we need to look no further for evidence that the society has failed? Can we not see that with the situation in our polity and with our courts right now, there is only a thin line between peace and unrest?

I doubt if the purpose of the law is to make the society less harmonious with the actions and pronouncements of its custodians. If we look at the judge as a legislator, especially the Supreme Court, one is bound to ask: are the full implications of what is currently happening in the highest court of the land clear to the judges of our Supreme Court? Would we now become people who cannot deepen our jurisprudence, especially on election-related matters? Can we not realistically expect that our Supreme Court will return us to our glory days where sound judgements emanated from the forebears of this great land of ours?

Perhaps in the subconscious element, one may have to ask: what inspires judges of the Supreme Court in this era? By what higher ideals do these servants of the state allow their souls to be lifted to do justice to all in good conscience?

These matters trouble my spirit. I hold that it is the duty of leaders to reflect on the bigger issues to save Nigeria. We sincerely must work together without sentiments to berth the Nigeria of our dreams.

WESTERN LOTTO TACKLES COMMISSION OVER THE BAN OF FOREIGN LOTTERY GAMES
…Describes action as “null and void”

A frontline gaming company, Western Lotto Nigeria Limited, has reacted to the news of the purported prohibition of foreign lottery games in Nigeria by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), describing it as “ill-advised, counter-productive and null and void.

The company said the lottery commission cannot by a mere pronouncement confer on itself the powers that the enabling Act or the National Assembly did not confer on it; more so when the matter is before the court.

Western Lotto, which recently became the sole rights owners of the Ghana Games in Nigeria, said the action of the Lanre Gbajabiamila-led Commission was “unreasonable and myopic as it was taken not in the interest of the public but that of a tiny clique and mafia in the lottery business in Nigeria who have always manipulated the Commission to do its bidding and continue short-changing the Federal Government of trillions of naira whereas only about N9 billion has been paid as taxes and remittances in twelve years.”

In a statement signed by its General Manager, Mr. Tajudeen Usman, Western Lotto said the Commission does not have the powers to stop stakers and private businesses from patronising foreign lottery games, just as it does not have the powers to stop stakers from betting on the outcomes of foreign leagues.

The statement reads in part, “We strongly believe that the unilateral decision of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) without recourse to the enabling Act and due consultations with stakeholders cannot stand in the face of the law. It is even more so that the Commission took this step after we have joined issues in court over the Ghana Games and other matters related to it.

“The unwholesome decision to stop the sales or promotion of foreign games gives the Commission and its leadership away as supporting the mafia in the gaming industry in order to continue to short-change the Federal Government. It is too obvious and not good for their reputation. They should be an advocates who will join hands with Western Lotto in the campaign to sanitise the gaming industry, recover all the trillions that the Federal Government has been deprived of and return same to the coffers of the Government. But, unfortunately, the reverse is the case. How can the DG be in support of this?

“We recall that when the present Director-General of the Commission held sway at the Lagos State Lottery Board, he issued the state's licence and vigorously defended it for operators to use it to operate in Lagos State against the national licence. That allowed and still allows operators to play Ghana Games and indoor games with the state's licence. Other states also took a cue from Lagos State and did the same thing - they issued their own licences. Most lottery operators have licences from the states where they operate without recourse to the national licence.

“You cannot stop other states or stop any operator from using the state licences to sell foreign lotteries, including Ghana games. We had hoped that the Commission will support Western Lotto to bring sanity and proper coordination into the industry by keying into its platform as the sole representatives of the Ghana Games in Nigeria. This will allow you to be able to see and transparently control the sales and help the Federal Government to realise huge revenue as the mafia will not be able to manipulate the system again."

The company said no law could stop a private company from entering into a contract with another private foreign company in the course of doing its legitimate business.

“We wonder if the enabling Act that the NLRC is relying on to carry out the Machiavellian action prohibits Western Lotto from entering an agreement with LMC VAS Ghana Ltd? No express provision in the Act prohibit a private business from contracting with private foreign business with regards to lawful activities. The provision of the Act permitting Mr. President to enter into agreement other states is discretionary and does not limit the contractual power of a private business from entering into a contract regarding lottery.

"As far as Western Lotto is concerned, these are now Nigerian-based games by reason of the valid acquisition of the intellectual property by a Nigerian licensed entity."

The firm described as "very suspicious" the time and manner the decision was taken.

"Why was the decision not taken before Western Lotto got the exclusive franchise of the Ghana games? Every industry player knows that the Ghana Games are the most credible. They are the most widely played games in Nigeria for over 20 years and generate between 60 to 70 per cent of the total sales of lottery operators. This action will drastically affect the Federal Government’s revenue while enriching the mafia even more.

“It is true that the Commission has the powers to regulate the industry but can it stop the stakers from playing foreign games, such as Euro Millions, Powerball and the like? Can it also stop the sports betting companies from using the outcome of foreign matches and leagues? If it cannot, how then would it attempt to stop the playing of foreign lotteries in Nigeria, including the Ghana Games?” it asked.

The company also said the issue of credibility of the foreign lottery which was raised by the Commission holds no water, saying that a random sampling of stakers will show that they have more confidence in the results of the foreign lotteries than the indoor games of the respective lottery operators.

“If we may ask: where are the complaints of non-payment of winnings in foreign lotteries in Nigeria? Who are those making the complaints? We wish to invite the EFCC and other relevant agencies of the Federal Government to investigate Commission’s claims on the non-payment of winnings on foreign games. Assuming without conceding that there are complaints, is outright banning of foreign games the solution? Does the Commission not have internal mechanisms for resolving such issues as it did when Bet9ja had issues with the payment of winnings during the 2018 FIFA World Cup?”
Western Lotto said since Nigeria is a Federation where each state has its own lottery board, the NLRC cannot stop operators from selling the lotteries that they have been given licences to sell in the states.

The company wondered why the Commission did not act with the same speed it did in banning the sale and promotion of foreign lotteries when it raised issues of the sharp practices and short-changing of the Federal Government by lottery and sports betting operators.

“It beggars belief why the Commission would want to stifle or kill one operator for the others in a free market economy even when grave allegations of sharp practices with proofs have been supplied against the same operators."

Western Lotto said it will be in the interest of the Commission, the gaming industry and the general public to reverse the alleged ban on foreign lottery games - in line with the economic and anti-corruption drive of the present administration.

Western Lotto Nigeria Ltd yesterday said it is seeking to employ 20,000 youths as Point of Sales Officers in 18 states across the country.

The company said in a statement that this was part of its initiative to boost job creation, empowerment and productive engagement of young people.

Applicants are expected to have a minimum qualification of Senior School Certificate (SSCE) and a maximum of Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in any discipline.

The statement said: “Successful applicants shall be entitled to monthly salary of N30,000 - in line with the minimum wage approved by Labour and the Federal and state governments.

“They will also be entitled to a commission of 7.5 per cent of their monthly sales which could take their monthly pay to N60,000.

“This employment is guaranteed for an initial period of two years.”

Applications deadline is on or before January 31 and the relevant states are: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Rivers, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Nasarawa State/FCT, Kwara, Kano, Kogi, Niger, Enugu, Imo and Akwa Ibom.

The company encouraged applicants to apply to apply online on its website or submit their applications and reference forms by hand at Western Lotto Headquarters and Area/Regional offices.

Western Lotto Nigeria Ltd is the sole rights owners of the Ghana Games in Nigeria; a sister company of Western Bet and Lotto9ja (an online instant games platform) under the BWC Group, Lagos, with interests in real estate and hospitality.

Western Lotto Nigeria Ltd yesterday said it is seeking to employ 20,000 youths as Point of Sales Officers in 18 states across the country.

The company said in a statement that this was part of its initiative to boost job creation, empowerment and productive engagement of young people.

Applicants are expected to have a minimum qualification of Senior School Certificate (SSCE) and a maximum of Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in any discipline.

The statement said: “Successful applicants shall be entitled to monthly salary of N30,000 - in line with the minimum wage approved by Labour and the Federal and state governments.

“They will also be entitled to a commission of 7.5 per cent of their monthly sales which could take their monthly pay to N60,000.

“This employment is guaranteed for an initial period of two years.”

Applications deadline is on or before January 31 and the relevant states are: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Rivers, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Nasarawa State/FCT, Kwara, Kano, Kogi, Niger, Enugu, Imo and Akwa Ibom.

The company encouraged applicants to apply to apply online on its website or submit their applications and reference forms by hand at Western Lotto Headquarters and Area/Regional offices.

Western Lotto Nigeria Ltd is the sole rights owners of the Ghana Games in Nigeria; a sister company of Western Bet and Lotto9ja (an online instant games platform) under the BWC Group, Lagos, with interests in real estate and hospitality.

The governorship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State during the 2019 general election, Senator Buruji Kashamu has dissociated himself from the defection activities of a former associate known as Otunba Kola Akinyemi (a.k.a Tonight).

Senator Kashamu urged Akinyemi for the umpteenth time to desist from using his name to deceive people in his "rudderless voyage of bread and butter politics".

In a statement issued on Saturday by Senator Kashamu's Media Adviser, Austin Oniyokor, he quoted the former lawmaker as saying that, “I do not have any problem with any one or a group of people exercising their right to freedom of association but such must be done responsibly and not through blackmail and outright lies.

“Kola Akinyemi should desist from dropping my name in his rudderless voyage of bread and butter politics. For the umpteenth time, I wish to emphatically dissociate myself his defection activities. His purported defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State and whatever he claims to be doing for it have never had and will never have my blessings.

"I have never had any conversation or dealings with Akinyemi since the March, 2019 general election. If he says he has defected to the APC in Ogun State, he should remain where he is and stop using my name to hoodwink people or score cheap political points. I have always been a leader of the PDP in Ogun State and the South West, and that position was reinforced by my being the governorship candidate of the PDP in the last election. So, no one should use my name or structure to deceive people into joining the APC in Ogun State."

Senator Kashamu said while it is true that a government has emerged from the last election and all genuine stakeholders are expected to support it to succeed such should not be misconstrued to mean an approval or support of defection.

He said, "Now is the time for governance and the delivery of the dividends of democracy. By 2023, the current players would have had their four years and it will be another time to go back to the electorate to give account of their stewardship. And it is those who have served well or shown that they have the interest of the people at heart that will carry the day."

Kashamu, who represented Ogun East Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly, urged all PDP members to keep faith with the party and continue to work for its interest and growth even as it prepared for its soon-to-come congresses.

Ghana Games violation: Court permits Western Lotto to search 23 firms


A Federal High Court in Lagos has granted Western Lotto Ltd an Anton Piller order authorising it to search 23 firms for evidence of violation of its Ghana Games patents infringement.

The Ghana Games are responsible for about 60/70 percent of the revenue generated from lottery games in Nigeria.

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke made the order on December 16 pursuant to Western Lotto's "exclusive rights to use the trade names and trademarks associated with the Ghana games lotto products."

The Ghana National Lottery Authority (NLA) granted Western Lotto Nigeria Limited the "exclusive rights" in an agreement recently executed by both parties.

The Ghana products include Monday Special Lotto, Lucky Tuesday Lotto, Midweek Lotto, Fortune Lotto, Friday Bonanza Lotto, Saturday National Lotto, VAG Lotto and super six Lotto) both in store and in all promotional activity.

Western Lotto's right also include "the exclusive right to use the draw numbers of the Ghana National Lottery Authority (NLA) to sell and distribute lotto products and games to customers located in the Federal Republic of Nigeria".

The first and second defendants in the suit, mark d FHC/L/CS/2321/19, are the National Lottery Regulatory Commission and Registrar of Trademarks.

The 23 others are: Premier Lotto Ltd,
Secure Electronic Technology Ltd, Richwell Plaza Ltd, Peoles, Empowerment Lottery Ltd, Gab Lotto Ltd, Payday Lotteries Ltd, R & S Lotto Ltd,
Capstar Entertainment International Ltd,
Winners Golden Chance Lotto, EG&H Integrated Concepts Ltd, Global Lottery Ltd, Fortune Games Ltd EMI Systems Ltd, Mobile Lottery Nigeria Ltd and Wesco Pools and Lotteries Ltd.

The rest are: Give and Take Lottery Ltd,
Brentwood Multiservices Global Ltd
International Lottery and Gaming Ltd, Winlot Global Resources Ltd, Lottomania Nigeria Ltd, Derby Lotto Ltd, K.C Lottery Company Ltd and K.C Gaming Networks Ltd.

The order also affects "each and every Point of Sale Station and agency operated by them offering lottery products."

Justice Aneke also appointed the third to 25th defendants to represent "the class of persons passing off their lotto products by using trade names and trade marks that are associated with the 'Ghana Games'...and or who illegally sell 'Ghana Games' lotto products in Nigeria by using the draw of the numbers of the Ghana NLA to sell and distribute lotto games to customers in Nigeria."

Responding to the judgment yesterday, Western Lotto's General Manager, Mr Tajudeen Usman said the company's exclusive right to the Ghana Games patent was authorised by the Ghanaian Government through the Ghanaian Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Usman said Western was the only firm in Nigeria so licensed by the Ghanaian authority.

He noted that for about 20 years many Nigerian companies had been illegally using the Ghana Games trademark.

"But we believe in doing the right thing. So we went to Ghana and obtained a 10-year contract to which gave us the exclusive right to use the Ghana Games patent and trademark...

"Western Lotto has exclusive rights to sell Ghana Games in Nigeria. Draw Numbers cannot be used in Nigeria without Western Lotto's consent," Usman said.

He warned other lotto firms that are still using the Ghana Games trademark, that they were violating the law and Western Lotto's trademark.

Usman invited Lotto firms that wish to continuing using the Ghana Games trademark or numbers, to obtain the permission of Western Lotto, as stated in the international agreement and court order.

Ogun IPAC gets new executive


Asiwaju Abdul-Lateef Adedamola, the Ogun State Chairman of the Mega Party of Nigeria (MPN), has emerged the state Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) for 2019/2020.


Asiwaju Adedamola defeated Mr. Abayomi Sanyaolu, the Ogun State Chairman of the Democratic Alternative (DA) by 46 to 35 votes.

The election was held at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Magbon, Abeokuta on Wednesday.

The Chairman of IPAC Election Committee, Comrade Tanko Abdulahi, who announced the results, said delegates from 81 registered parties participated in the election.

Tanko, who is National Chairman of National Concience Party (NCP), had during the acreditation urged delegates to be united and give room for a free and fair election, saying their political parties might differ, but their aim in IPAC was one.

He urged them to use the platform to deepen the country’s democracy.

Other elected members of the IPAC state executive were State Secretary, Comrade Ayodele Esa of the Advanced Nigeria Democratic Party (ANDP); Treasurer, Hassan Olalekan of the New Progressive Movement (NPM); and Publicity Secretary, Mr. Oyejide Sunkanmi of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

Also elected were Youth Adviser, Comrade Amoo Olalekan of the United Patriots (UP); Organising secretary, Dr. Bolaji John Olowo of the Alternative Party of Nigeria (APN) and Financial Secretary, Prince Adeyemi Ali of the Rebuild Nigeria Party (RBNP), and Deputy chairman 2. Comrade Patrick Eromobor of the Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA).

Speaking to newsmen after taking the oath of office, the newly elected chairman, Asiwaju Adedamola thanked the delegates that elected him and promised to carry everyone along all in the day-to-day running of the council.

The IPAC is an umbrella body of registered Political Parties in Nigeria.

IJEBU CENTRAL FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY RERUN: SHOTE APPRECIATES ALL

...Seeks Support for PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Ijebu Central Federal Constituency rerun election, Barrister Taiwo Kabir Shote has expressed gratitude to God and the good people of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency for all their support thus far.

He appealed to the electorate in the affected areas to come out en masse to cast their votes for the PDP in the rerun, saying with their continued support he was confident of emerging victorious at the rerun.

Shote made this known on Saturday through a release from his media office.

The statement reads, "I want to use this medium to thank the Almighty God for His guidance, benevolence, mercy and love. My appreciation also goes to my leaders, party members, my supporters and the people of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency for their support over the months. Without them, we would not be where we are today.

"The victory of evil over good is temporary. That is what the judgments of the tribunal and the Court of Appeal have shown. The rerun is another opportunity to finally restore the mandate that you freely gave to me on the 23rd of February, 2019.

"I appreciate the massive support that you have given to me and our great party, the PDP since the beginning of this journey of taking Ijebuland to greater heights.

" I am irrevocably committed to the development of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency and would do everything legitimate to improve the lots of our people. I want to remind my brothers and sisters that have volunteered to be campaigning for me, to be law-abiding. I need them to be peaceful before, during and after the rerun. The race is not to the swift or the strongest but it is the Almighty Allah that gives power to whomsoever He wants.

"The choice of representation resides with the people and ultimately ALLAH
Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.

"By the grace of God, we shall triumph at the rerun. I will defend the interest of our people at all times.Let's walk and work together."

Recall that the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal had on 9th of September, 2019, declared that the All Progressives Congress Candidate (APC) Hon. Kolapo Osunsanya was not duly elected and nullified the Certificate of Return issued to him by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The tribunal also ordered that a rerun should be conducted within 90 days in Ward 5, Unit 5 in Ijebu Ode Local Government Area; Ward 10, Unit 3 in Odogbolu Local Government Area and the entire Ward 8 in Ijebu North East Local Government Area.

The final court in the National Assembly election matters, the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan last Wednesday upheld the decision of the lower tribunal.

With the appeal court judgment, Osunsanya ceases to be a member of the House of Representatives untill the partial rerun is held and a valid winner is returned.

Shote and Osunsanya had contested the 23rd February, 2019 National Assembly election for Ijebu Central Federal Constituency which comprises of Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu and Ijebu North local government areas.

PRESS STATEMENTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
7th November 2019

OLAPOSI OGINNI : BEING PUBLICLY CAUGHT UP BY HIS POLITICAL CURFEW.

Ordinarily one would have ignored the imbecilic rantings from Olaposi Oginni a political leper. But with reluctance, one however has a need to react for the benefit of the Public, especially the part that are gullible. The noise Oginni made in the media is mentally barren , rude and uncultured. For those who are in the know , Oginni is only the paw of the notorious political interests who had laboured without success for a long period to high - jack Ogun State Chapter of IPAC . Hear Oginni "...... I fought a battle at the Tribunal and Appeal Court " , that is , he fought a battle agains a party he was claiming to be its State Secretary and also against the Gubernatorial candidate of the party he illegally claims he belongs Need one say more ?.

Olaposi Oginni isn't a member of any political party today, how can he claim to convene a body of political parties ? , he is a mere instrument in the hands of some political interests aiming to high - jack like they attempted to do in other parties

. The accretion of betrayal upon betrayal has its poisonous quality and as inevitable , his political curfew is catching up with him. Olaposi Oginni is a wasted political disaster who failed to know that even political wild - eyed defiance has its limitations and it's unintended consequences . Oginni likes to think that he is uncompromisingly lethal forgetting that this also has its unintended consequences. He has to his to his name , a long list of deliberate and cold - blooded acts of treachery which led to his suspension from the Labour Party and removed as the State Secretary. In this his uncalculated heroics which many see as insanity , his bitter words indicated his weak position in the role he plays in a political plot that is above his capacity and intelligence.

Oginni is scarred in so many ways and from so many fronts and has now lost control of his rage from his smouldering anger and desire to lash - out even if stupidly. He has now publicly depicted his unintelligent , unimaginative and insignificant person. He said he is not a part of the IPAC' s monumental meeting with the Executive Governor of Ogun State , how could he , some who has been suspended by his party for numerous anti - party activities which makes him a roving and floating politician ?.

Olaposi Oginni in his brand of political activism is questioned by the fact that his goal and desire are always and consistently dubious , opportunistic and geared to political exploitation and profiteering . His political ways and means are pillared on opportunism and greed. Of course , his cumulative frustration , despair and lost hopes shall straighten him out. His kind of political horse - trading and complete closure of eyes to principles will forever make him a political outcast.

Meanwhile , we in IPAC Ogun State Chapter salute the Executive Governor of Ogun State , His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun for his foresight , principled politics and celebrate his capacity and his capability in steering the ship of Ogun State to great successes , his many strides in government has today has powerful positive rippling effects , making the desired positive and important difference in the State.

There is no doubt and gainsaying that in deducing that as from here on , This unreliable , uncouth Olaposi Oginni has finally embarked on a journey of no return into the abyss of political dungeon. From here on , Olaposi Oginni has acquired the garment of the worst of the morally dead and ethically dead politician who degenerated into a compromised and despicable political instrument . He is now history in the politics of Ogun State .


E signed

Comrade Gentleman
ARABAMBI ABAYOMI

Chairman
OGUN IPAC Council

…CUSTOMERS TO GET BUSES, MOTORCYCLES, GENERATORS, OTHERS

As part of its efforts to give back to the society, Nigeria’s leading lottery brand, Western Lotto, is set to reward its customers with a lot exciting gift items, such as Suzuki mini bus, motorcycles, generators and phones.

Other items to be won by customers in Indoor Games Promo are standing fans, fridges, caps and Plasma Television sets.

They also include mobile phones, umbrellas, T-shirts and face caps.

Speaking about the promo, the General Manager of Western Lotto, Mr. Tajudeen Usman, said, “In the Western Lotto Indoor Games Promo, everyone is a winner. With as low as N50, stakers stand the chance of winning any of the exciting prizes on offer in addition to their normal cash winnings.

“For a N5 ‘2 Sure Ticket’, a customer gets N1, 500 worth of virtual money to play more games and increase his chances of winning.

“That is not all. Even if you do not win any of the gifts, the sum of N4 million has been set aside to reward loyal customers who will be picked through a weekly raffle draw. It is a win-win situation for all.”

The promo, which will run from 14th October to 12th December, 2019, is approved by the appropriate regulatory bodies.

The items have been procured and distributed to Western Lotto offices across the 23 states of the federation that it has presence.

"What this means is that winners can claim their gifts from the agents nearest to them, anytime, anyday," Usman said.

Governors castrated local govts, says Kashamu

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State in the last general election, Senator Buruji Kashamu, has said he was delighted at the Buhari administration’s efforts to bring succour to ordinary Nigerians by freeing local governments from governors who castrated them.
Kashamu, who spoke in an interview, said President Muhammadu Buhari means well for the country.
He said: “It is an open secret in Nigeria that governors had castrated the local governments by depriving them access to their statutory funds. This has turned into a serious economic strangulation at the grassroots which prompted me into making the declaration during my electioneering that I will never touch local government funds if elected as governor. I salute President Buhari for having the rare political courage and patriotism to save the Nigerian masses through the NFIU monitoring of local government funds.  I strongly believe that sooner than later the people will feel the impact of this initiative.
Kashamu called on all Nigerians to support Buhari to make a success of his effort to correct the infrastructure deficit in the country.
“The President must be supported by all Nigerians for his giant strides in the area of correcting the infrastructure deficit. If you consider what he is doing at the airports together with the road construction in different parts of the country, it becomes obvious that he means well for the nation,” he said.
Kashamu said he had not abandoned the PDP but noted that there must be an end to campaign for governance to thrive.
“After an election, any genuine political gladiator must partner with the government for the development of the society and the advancement of its people. That is why I am in politics. It is about my people’s welfare and certainly not out of want of what to do,” Kashamu said.
On what he does now, he said: “A lot has been happening. As you are aware, I am an entrepreneur and an employer of labour. I have been in business for decades before I ventured into active politics about a decade ago. So, after my stint at the Senate, I simply returned to my businesses of cotton ginnery, hospitality, real estate and entertainment.”
Kashamu said he went into the election expecting victory, adding that “Nobody will reasonably commit so much into a cause like I did with the intention of losing. My participation in the election was more of a struggle against impunity, injustice and the overbearing attitude of some of our political actors. I hate injustice with a passion. I can give anything to fight injustice. We put in our best. But, the protracted court case had adverse effect on our supporters and mobilisation efforts. We thank God that the Rule of Law prevailed and we were on the ballot against the expectations of the lawbreakers.”
Kashamu said the fight against corruption deserved the support of all if Nigeria must survive, adding that it must not be politicised or trivialised.
“But, it cannot be overstated that corruption knows no tribe, religion or race; it is also not limited to any political party. We are all culpable. We appoint our relatives and favour people who are ready to grovel at our feet. We do not reward merit. Everywhere you turn, mediocrity is the order of the day. “The only way to fight corruption is to take personal responsibility, live and lead by example, and I think this President is excellently doing so. More importantly, I think this present administration has made us to realize the need to do away with the extravagance of the past. Now, we must work and live within our means. Let’s not just preach, let’s practice what we preach. We can earn a decent living by identifying and taking on opportunities around us. Before now, many Nigerians see political office as an opportunity to become billionaires.
“Others simply become billionaires overnight by working with government. Some politicians spend their time cutting deals and sponsoring people to look for government tenders. All of these must stop if we are desirous of a new and prosperous Nigeria. And this cannot be done by the government alone. We, as citizens and stakeholders, must gird our loins and lend our full support to the fight against corruption. Another way to fight corruption is to end impunity. When we talk about corruption, the tendency is for us to think only in terms of financial corruption. But, when political leaders go against the laws of the land as if no one can hold them accountable, it is corruption. It is happening in my party, the PDP, with respect to the party structure in Ogun State. We have to be able to end impunity and say it does not matter who you are, where you are from and who is your godfather.”
 

https://tribuneonlineng.com/governors-castrated-local-govt-%E2%80%95-kashamu/amp/

RE: ICPC RECOVERS 3 AMBULANCES AND 500KVA TRANSFORMER FROM SENATOR BURUJI KASHAMU


The attention of the media office of Senator Buruji Kashamu has been drawn to a mischievous statement credited to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that it has recovered three ambulances and 500KVA Transformer, which are Constituency Project items, from Senator Buruji Kashamu’s office in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

To be sure, we wish to state that no items were recovered from Senator Kashamu's constituency office in Ijebu-Ode. Rather, the items that were handed over to ICPC officials were delivered at the constituency office in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State. The items were delivered to the Constituency office in Ijebu-Igbo by the contractors late in 2017.

However, as the distribution of the items and execution of the various projects were ongoing, Senator Kashamu discovered that his former Senior Legislative Aide (SLA), Onadeko Onamusi, abused his position and influenced the award of 18 out of the 21 constituency projects to two of his (the SLA’s) companies - Stanton Nigeria Limited and Haines & Baines Nigeria Limited.

Alarmed at the discovery, Senator Kashamu issued a query to Onamusi and terminated his appointment. Thereafter, the matter was reported to the ICPC.

The ICPC investigated the matter, arrested and charged Onamusi to court.

In fact, on the 28th of November, 2018, the ICPC through its spokesperson, Mrs Rasheedat Okoduwa, issued a statement wherein it announced that it had charged Onamusi to court over N68.7million contract scam.

In the statement, the ICPC said Onamusi was arraigned before Justice C. N. Oji of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Apo, Abuja, on 18 counts.

Onamusi was accused of using his companies to execute several contracts for the National Assembly.

According to The Punch newspaper of 29th November, 2018, “The anti-graft agency listed the contracts to include ambulance procurement, supply of hospital equipment and drugs for primary health centres and construction of classrooms for some selected schools in six communities of the Ogun East Senatorial District.

“The statement said the contracts were awarded to Haines and Baines, when the lawmaker was employed as a Senior Legislative Aide in the National Assembly and at the same time acting as the Managing Director of the company.

“The ICPC said Onamusi’s actions violated sections 12 and 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

“After the former lawmaker pleaded not guilty to the charges, his lawyer, Wahab Olatoye, pleaded with the court to grant him bail to enable him to attend to his health, having just returned from England where he had gone to seek medical attention.

“But the prosecuting counsel for the ICPC, Ephraim Otti, opposed the bail application, saying that it took the commission more than a year to track the ex-lawmaker, after he allegedly jumped an administrative bail granted him.

“The judge, while adjourning until December 10, 2018 for ruling on Onamusi’s bail application, ordered that the ex-lawmaker should be returned to the custody of the ICPC.”

So, for any objective mind, it should not be difficult to understand that there was no way the distribution of the items could have continued since they had become a subject of litigation and could be used as evidence. It is even more so when part of the senator's complaint was that the contractor supplied Volvo hearse instead of supplying ambulances.

This was the situation until Senator Kashamu served out his term of office in June, 2019. It is instructive that the items were not diverted or taken anywhere for the personal use of the senator or any of his associates.

So, if the matter the ICPC took to court had been determined one or the other, what it should have done was for the items to be delivered to the beneficiaries and not this unnecessary melodrama by the commission.

The three Volvo hearse and transformer were not hidden. They have always been in the open within the expansive compound of Senator Kashamu’s Constituency office in Ijebu-Igbo. So, there could not have been any recovery.

It is shameful that the same agency that got Onamusi arrested, investigated and charged to court over the same items could turn round to claim recovery of the items that had been reported to it on the basis of some unfounded “intelligence”.

If anything, Senator Kashamu should be commended for his rare patriotic step of reporting his aide to the ICPC for allegedly abusing his position as a Senior Legislative Aide.

All of these are in the public domain and can be verified at the ICPC and FCT High Court, Abuja.


Signed
Austin Oniyokor
Media Adviser to Senator Buruji Kashamu
26th September, 2019

Saraki, Abiodun, Daniel, others storm Ijebu-Igbo for Kashamu

Dignitaries such as the immediate past President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun and ex-Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, were among the political leaders that stormed Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State on Saturday for the 40th day funeral ceremony of the late Alhaja Wulemotu Ebunoluwa Kashamu, the mother of Senator Buruji Kashamu.

They also included former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ibrahim Mantu; Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Senator Obinna Ogba, Senator Ben Bruce, Senator Teslim Folarin, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Senator Adegbenga Kaka, Senator Duro Faseyi and Senator Sam Anyanwu.

Others were former Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala and ex-Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, who was represented by the immediate past Secretary to the State Governor, Taiwo Adeoluwa.

The ceremony was kicked off with a prayer session led by Islamic clerics.

This was followed by an exquisite reception where guests were entertained by artistes such as Yinka Ayefele, Kolade Onanuga, Faith Band, Small Doctor and. Zlatan. DJ Humility also spiced up the evening.

Ace comedian Seyi Law was the compere at the event organised by Jennifer Odufuwa and Olufunke Adu of The Bloomevent Company.

Saraki, Abiodun, Daniel, others storm Ijebu-Igbo for Kashamu

Dignitaries, including the immediate past President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun and ex-Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel were among the political leaders that stormed Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State on Saturday for the 40th day funeral ceremony of the late Alhaja Wulemotu Ebunoluwa Kashamu, the mother of Senator Buruji Kashamu.

Others included Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Senator Obinna Ogba, Senator Ben Bruce, Senator Duro Faseyi and Senator Sam Anyanwu.

Ex-Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun was represented by the immediate past Secretary to the State Governor, Taiwo Adeoluwa.

The ceremony was kicked off with a prayer session led by Islamic clerics.

This was followed by an exquisite reception where guests were entertained by artistes such as Yinka Ayefele, Kolade Onanuga, Faith Band, Small Doctor and. Zlatan. DJ Humility also spiced up the evening.

Ace comedian Seyi Law was the compere at the ceremony.

APC Chairmanship Aspirant, Hon Olumide, congratulates Gov Abiodun on his victory at the tribunal



Leading Abeokuta South Local Government Chairmanship Aspirant under the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Oluwadare Okumide a.k.a Dre Pumping has congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on his victory on Saturday at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the state Capital.

In a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the soft spoken politician said the tribunal verdict vindicated thousands of the people of the State who after the election admonished Hon. Abiodun Akinlade of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) not to challenge Abiodun's victory at the poll on the grounds that the Election was clearly won by Abiodun.

"The tribunal judgment did not just confirm the faith and support of thousands who thronged to elect Gov Abiodun as the governor of Ogun State, but a resounding victory for our country’s democracy.

"It is victory for the rule of law, it is victory for the people of Ogun State, it is victory for the APC.

"Now that the tribunal brouhaha is over, I am appealing to the people of Ogun State to join hands with Governor Abiodun for a better Ogun State. Our governor has started well, his achievements in 100 days in office is mind blowing," he said

Shote Vs Osunsanya: Tribunal Reserves Judgment

The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Thursday reserved judgment till a date to be communicated to parties in the petition filed by Barrister Taiwo Shote (a.k.a Pepe) against the declaration of Kolapo Korede Osunsanya (a.k.a KKO) as winner of the election in Ijebu Central Federal Constituency of Ogun State.

Shote, who is of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is challenging the declaration of Osunsanya of All Progressives Congress (APC) as winner of the February 23rd, 2019 election.

The three-man panel, which is headed by the Honourable Justice Wakkil Alkali Gana, adjourned till a date to be communicated to parties after the counsel to both parties adopted their final written addresses.

While Mr. John Olusegun Odubela (SAN) of Ricky Tarfa & Co.represented Shote, Kayode Akinsola led the team that defended Osunsanya.

Ijebu Central Federal Constituency is made up of Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu North East and Odogbolu local government areas of Ogun State.

Asiwaju Tinubu, Governor Abiodun, Senator Ekweremadu Condole With Kashamu Over Mother's Death

More dignitaries have continued to commiserate with Senator Buruji Kashamu over the death of his mother, the late Alhaja Wulemotu Ebunoluwa Kashamu.

They include former Lagos State Governor and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun and the immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu.

Asiwaju Tinubu and Senator Ekweremadu encouraged Senator Kashamu and the entire members of the family and prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed nonagenarian.

Governor Abiodun, who again visited Senator Kashamu at his Lagos residence on Sunday, noted that the late Alhaja Kashamu lived a good life and left a worthy legacy as a business woman, community and religious leader.

The late Alhaja Kashamu died on the 7th of August, 2019 at the ripe age of 96, and has been buried according to Islamic rites.

The funeral ceremony is scheduled for the 21st September, 2019, at Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State.

Ogun PDP mourns death of Chief Musibau Odeyemi

Abeokuta – The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has expressed deep shock at the demise of one of its chieftains, Chief Musibau Odeyemi

Engr. Adebayo Dayo, the Chairman of the party in the state, described Chief Odeyemi's death as a huge loss to his family, his party and Egbaland.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Monday, Engr. Dayo said: ”The passing away of High Chief Odeyemi is a huge loss to his family, our party and Egbaland.

"He is one of the founding fathers of PDP in Ogun state. He is a dedicated party man and a community leader who contributed immensely to the electoral success of the party between 2003-2011. We have lost a political juggernaut and a community leader.


"Our deep sympathy and condolences to his family. I hope and pray that God grants his family the strength to carry on and continue with those legacies he lived for."

The late Odeyemi joined his creator on Sunday, 18th August 2019, in Abeokuta. He was 79 year old.

He has since be buried according to Islamic rites.

Amosun commiserates with Kashamu over mother's demise

The immediate past Ogun State Governor and the lawmaker representing Ogun Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has commiserated with Senator Buruji Kashamu over the death of his mother, the late Alhaja Wulemotu Kashamu.

Amosun, in a letter dated 8th August, 2019, and addressed to Kashamu, urged the governorship candidate of the Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 election and his entire family not to mourn but celebrate her
great impact in business, community service and religious activities.

The letter reads, "I write to commiserate with you on the death of your dear mother, Alhaja Wulemotu Kashamu, who died on Wednesday, 7th of August 2019, at a ripe age of 96 years.

"Her transition is certainly a glorious exit. I enjoin you and your entire family not to mourn, but to celebrate her great impact in business, community service and religious activities, as well as the noble accomplishments she recorded in other facets of her life, in the almost one century of her sojourn on earth.

"It is my prayer that the Almighty Allah (SWT) will forgive her sins, grant her Aljanah Firdaus, and grant you and your entire family the strength and fortitude to  bear the pain of her loss.

"Once again, please accept my condolences and the assurances of my highest regards."

The late Alhaja Kashamu died on Wednesday, 7th August, 2019, at the ripe age of 96.

She has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Court Sheriffs raid Bet9ja over “name, seal infringement



Sheriffs of the Federal High Court, Lagos on Thursday raided a Lagos office of online bookmaker Bet9ja and recovered a seal suspected of infringing the copyright of Lotto9ja Ltd owned by rival bookmaker, Western Lotto Nig. Ltd.

The raid followed an Anton Piller injunction granted by Justice Taiwo Taiwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja on August 8, 2019, in favour of Western Lotto.

An Anton Piller order authorizes an applicant to search premises and seize evidence without prior warning.

The sheriffs and Western Lotto officials, protected by policemen, executed the order at a Bet9ja premises at 9, Funsho Williams Avenue, Surulere, Lagos.

Justice Taiwo granted the order in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/925/2019 following an ex parte application by Western Lotto through its counsel, Mr John Baiyeshea SAN for Chief Oluwole Olanipekun SAN.

The first and second applicants in the suit are: Western Lotto Nig. Ltd and Lotto9ja Ltd, while the first to third respondents are: Registrar of Trademarks, K.C. Gaming Networks Ltd (Owners of Bet9ja) and K.C. Lottery Company Ltd.

The applicants informed the judge that Western Lotto launched a new company in July known as “Lotto9ja” after registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the office of Trademark at the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment.

It averred that in the course of preparing for the launch, it discovered that K.C. Gaming Networks Ltd was also planning to use the same name that it registered with the CAC.

It further averred that through its lawyers, it warned K .C. Gaming Networks to desist, but the company allegedly continued to brand its POS terminals, T-shirts and other souvenir with the Lotto9ja trademark.

The applicants sought an Anton Piller order and prayed the court to, among others, restrain the defendants.

Upholding their application, Justice Taiwo held: “An order of Anton Piller Injunction, is hereby made directing the 2nd and 3rd Defendants, to forthwith permit the Sherriff to enter and search the 2nd and 3rd Defendants’ premises located at 9, Funsho Williams Avenue, by Fire Service Station, Ojuelegba Bus Stop, Lagos.

The order also authorized the Sherrif to search “any other premises and sales/storage outlets anywhere in Nigeria belonging to the 2nd and 3rd Defendants or any of their agents operating under the name “Bet9ja” or “Lotto9ja” for the purpose of taking possession of all products, equipment and products branded and/or sold in the name/brand “Lotto9ja” (or its variants “9ja lotto”, lottoniaja”, “naijalott" and removing them therefrom into the custody and possession of this Honourable Court pending the hearing and determination of this action.”

The judge also restrained the Registrar of Trademarks from “accepting, publishing or approving any other application for the registration of the trade/business name “Lotto9ja” or it variants “9ja lotto” “Lottonaija” as trademarks or part of any trademarks, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”
The judge fixed August 22, for hearing of the substantive suit.

Court Sheriffs raid Bet9ja over “name, seal infringement



Sheriffs of the Federal High Court, Lagos on Thursday raided a Lagos office of online bookmaker Bet9ja and recovered a seal suspected of infringing the copyright of Lotto9ja Ltd owned by rival bookmaker, Western Lotto Nig. Ltd.

The raid followed an Anton Piller injunction granted by Justice Taiwo Taiwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja on August 8, 2019, in favour of Western Lotto.

An Anton Piller order authorizes an applicant to search premises and seize evidence without prior warning.

The sheriffs and Western Lotto officials, protected by policemen, executed the order at a Bet9ja premises at 9, Funsho Williams Avenue, Surulere, Lagos.

Justice Taiwo granted the order in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/925/2019 following an ex parte application by Western Lotto through its counsel, Mr John Baiyeshea SAN for Chief Oluwole Olanipekun SAN.

The first and second applicants in the suit are: Western Lotto Nig. Ltd and Lotto9ja Ltd, while the first to third respondents are: Registrar of Trademarks, K.C. Gaming Networks Ltd (Owners of Bet9ja) and K.C. Lottery Company Ltd.

The applicants informed the judge that Western Lotto launched a new company in July known as “Lotto9ja” after registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the office of Trademark at the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment.

It averred that in the course of preparing for the launch, it discovered that K.C. Gaming Networks Ltd was also planning to use the same name that it registered with the CAC.

It further averred that through its lawyers, it warned K .C. Gaming Networks to desist, but the company allegedly continued to brand its POS terminals, T-shirts and other souvenir with the Lotto9ja trademark.

The applicants sought an Anton Piller order and prayed the court to, among others, restrain the defendants.

Upholding their application, Justice Taiwo held: “An order of Anton Piller Injunction, is hereby made directing the 2nd and 3rd Defendants, to forthwith permit the Sherriff to enter and search the 2nd and 3rd Defendants’ premises located at 9, Funsho Williams Avenue, by Fire Service Station, Ojuelegba Bus Stop, Lagos.

The order also authorized the Sherrif to search “any other premises and sales/storage outlets anywhere in Nigeria belonging to the 2nd and 3rd Defendants or any of their agents operating under the name “Bet9ja” or “Lotto9ja” for the purpose of taking possession of all products, equipment and products branded and/or sold in the name/brand “Lotto9ja” (or its variants “9ja lotto”, lottoniaja”, “naijalott" and removing them therefrom into the custody and possession of this Honourable Court pending the hearing and determination of this action.”

The judge also restrained the Registrar of Trademarks from “accepting, publishing or approving any other application for the registration of the trade/business name “Lotto9ja” or it variants “9ja lotto” “Lottonaija” as trademarks or part of any trademarks, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”
The judge fixed August 22, for hearing of the substantive suit.

The Role of Youths in an Emerging Nigeria

By Goodness Esom

Nigeria is a country whose people are tired of the gerontocracy practised for decades by her leaders. Nigerians and elder statesmen clamour for the replacement of our current set of leaders with technocrats and young people who move with the changing times.
When I refer to “youths’’ I mean every person within the age of 18–40 years. The youths that will turn around the socio-economic and political landscape of Nigeria, must at an early stage be conversant with the political system and the economy, in order to prepare themselves to tackle the loopholes in Nigeria.
For the past two decades (after the long period of military rule) since we began democracy, Nigeria has not experienced substantial growth and development compared to nations she gained independence before and within the same time. Some of these countries have overtaken us and a few others are rising fast to lead the way in terms of political, social and economic prosperity.
This is attributable to the series of bad leaders the country has had at different times since independence. The situation is worsened by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration under which, Nigeria witnessed a recession in 2016 becoming the world headquarters for poverty according to a reportpublished by CNN.
There has been a rise in the number of grey-headed politicians occupying various elective and non-elective positions across the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary in Nigeria. Many of these persons were elected or appointed based on tribal, ethnic and religious sentiments despite not having the requisite skills, expertise or know-how to manage portfolios or offices they were appointed to oversee. This issue is clearly manifest in the current regime of President Buhari. In the Executive for instance, we have many ministers and other government appointees occupying positions they have no qualification for. A lot of them, were appointed based on ethno-religious sentiments and thus ended up looting our treasury and embezzling funds allocated for specific projects and tasks.
The Nigerian Senate is a matter for another day. It has become a retirement home for old politicians whose sole objective is to keep amassing wealth and that explains the poor quality of laws being made by them.
It is thus clear that these sets of geronts are not concerned about the growing decadence in Nigeria’s economy and the polity as a whole.
Hence, everyone including some prominent leaders of old is of the opinion that the youths need to be active in politics and vie for elective positions. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo in an interview with AFP on March 29,2019 said that: “The youths will have to snatch power from these ageing politicians.”
The world was surprised by the emergence of President Emmanuel Macron as the youngest President of France. A closer inquiry and research showed that President Emmanuel Macron had equipped himself with so much knowledge, bagging a Masters degree in Public Affaires as well as an undergraduate degree in Philosophy. He served as an investment banker at Rothschild &Cie Bank to learn the art of managing economies and was later appointed minister of finance.
The late President of Yemen, was also a very vibrant youth who at the age of 39 brought unity and conciliation between the warring Houthi movement and the Yemen administration.
Closer home, General Olusegun Obasanjo one of the champions of our modern democracy who served as the Nigerian Head of State at the age of 39, brought a lot of reforms to Nigeria, including repairing Nigeria’s image and relationship with countries home and over seas, co-founding the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC), and Operation Feed the nation (OFN) which alleviated poverty during the hardship.
Even our late founding fathers of democracy; Alvan Ikoku, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Tafawa Balewa, at young ages were walking encyclopaedias of knowledge and having expertise, inspired nationalism by championing the struggle for independence.
It is therefore not out of place to say that some of the reasons the youths have been chosen for the onerous task of rebuilding Nigeria are the skills and intellectual prowess that many have acquired which is evident in the display of very creative minds whenever they are properly engaged.
Youths are also known for their strength. It is this strength and energy that keeps them going amidst pressure, and difficulties. Hence, the youths have the stamina and the strength to withstand pressure, and this will give a lot of hope to the Nigerian people they will be leading. Nigeria doesn’t need leaders that keep on falling ill and travelling overseas every now and then for medical treatment.
This is moreso because the challenges of governing Nigeria in whatever capacity can be very demanding and exhausting. This strength is very important because we have had a record of Presidents falling seriously ill while in power. Clear instances include the Late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua who was transported to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment before he later died in 2010 and the incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari who in 2017 spent more than a quarter of the year receiving medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
In addition, majority of the youths are more exposed to changing technologies and innovations than the ageing bouquet of politicians in Nigeria. As of this late 21st century, we have a lot of young scholars and entrepreneurs undergoing further studies in their respective fields overseas. We have those going for Masters programme, doctoral programme and business courses in the U.S. U.K, Canada. A lot of them are experts in various fields and thus have acquired exposure to science and technology as well as innovation at its peak. This is something that a lot of old politicians were not able to do in their time and are not interested in even now.
Deducible from all these, is that the youths must be politically minded and conscious. In doing this, the minds of the youths must be re-oriented and well informed to foster popular participation.
I hear people say: 'if only we have a better president’. Nigerians implore the youths to vie for federal posts and offices so that the whole country will experience growth and development. They want the youths to contest for the House of Representatives, Senate, Governorship and even Presidency thereby encouraging the wrong notion that the youths cannot help an emerging Nigeria without becoming a federal appointee, a president or a member of the National Assembly.
The work of bringing about a new Nigeria is the duty of all levels of government. What does this tell us? It tells us that there are roles to be played in the federal, state and local government levels and that when we focus on the federal government positions, we are only looking at one out of the three governmental roles youths can serve in.
In my view, even if we have a good president with good initiatives, he will need efficient local and state governments to bring about the overall growth and development needed.
While it may not be a bad idea to aspire for federal elective positions, it is also important to note that there are a lot of renovations and innovations to be done at the state and local levels as well. Thus, instead of remaining silent and hoping, we could start from somewhere to engineer social and economic change. The growth and development we desire can also start from the bottom and gradually get to the top.
I do not rule out completely those looking for federal appointments or to contest for federal offices, but I look at it from the standpoint of the numerous youths who do not have the influence but are looking for a way to participate in turning around the socio-economic situation in the country. Since we know that not everyone can be fortunate to have federal appointments, the youths therefore may need to drive political and economic change from their local governments and constituencies.
In advanced countries like U.S.A and Britain, the municipal governments are the second most powerful governments in their polity. They direct and influence a whole lot of things we admire. In these developed states, the county governments have grown and waxed in eminence that they even have ‘ the county police’ which maintains law and order in the locality and neighbourhood.
For our nation to progress, we need to have accountable and responsive local governments. One would ask me why? This is because the local government is the closest organ of government to the people. They are the grassroot government. The same goes for the state governments.
Once the people can have their basic needs met by the various local and state governments, we can safely say that the nation is doing well as a whole. This is because the measurement of a government’s success is in the standard of living of her citizens and the level of comfort they enjoy.
An advantage which popular participation at local and state level brings is that it helps us train the youths to have the vision, idea and capacity to take on higher offices of wider jurisdiction in the country. A youth having received proper education and who has begun to participate in progressive governance from the local and state government will overtime develop the skills, capacity and all that it takes to manage and direct the lives and properties of people. Thus, the local and state governments will serve as a training ground for the youths making them equipped in all ramifications.
Furthermore, when the youths participate in governance in local and state levels and excel, they give the polity a lot of confidence as the people see what they can do with the little area of authority given to them. We will be sure that our youths are able to engineer social and economic change when they perform optimally at local and state governments.
Let’s not forget that playing these highlighted governmental roles clears a pathway for the upcoming generation, as it helps them understand that we are pursuing an innovation which is worth it. They therefore know that we are not contesting for offices and positions which are already corrupted and sold out. Hence, they are positioned to adopt a new political culture, which has been tried and tested, and which can stand the test of time.
Therefore, the youths that will transform Nigeria can begin active participation and competition for local government offices such as local government councillors, chairman as well as seats in the state houses of assemblies, members of state executive council and others and over time the federation can have the desired overall growth and development. When the youths do this, they can take their place as the leaders of today, not tomorrow.

Goodness Esom lives in Lagos

SENATOR BURUJI KASHAMU APPRECIATES ALL

On behalf of the entire Kashamu Family, I wish to express my deep and sincere gratitude to all those who called, sent messages, supported and visited us following the passage into glory of our mother, my beloved mother, the late Alhaja Wulemotu Kashamu on Wednesday, 7th August, 2019, at the ripe of 96.

I thank the Almighty Allah for making the funeral ceremony to be such a solemn and peaceful event, and for granting journey mercies to all those who came for the interment on Thursday, 8th August, 2019.

I want to specially thank all my colleagues in the 8th Senate, beginning with the immediate past President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON).

My special appreciation also goes to the immediate past Governor of Imo State and now lawmaker representing Imo West Senatorial District, Senator (Owelle) Rochas Okorocha, for coming all the way to honour us with his presence even at a very short notice!

I wish to also thank the Governor of my home state of Ogun, H.E. Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his words of encouragement and support.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank my brothers - Senators Adegbenga Sefiu Kaka and Lekan Rahman Mustapha - for standing by me all through. May the Almighty Allah honour you.

My appreciation also goes to the Deputy Minority Whip, House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulmajid Segun Adekoya (a.k.a Attacker).

To Chief Laide Fowosere, thanks so much for always being there for me.

How can I express the full measure of my appreciation to the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2019 election, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI); my deputy, Dr. Reuben Abati; my DG, Dr. Remilekun Bakare; Prince Segun Seriki; Ogun State PDP Chairman, Engr. Adebayo Dayo; PDP Senatorial Candidate for Ogun East, Engr. Adeola Sosanwo; Chief Pegba Otemolu, Alhaji Agboola Alausa, Chief Kola Sorinola, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo, Barrister (Mrs) Bimbo Lanre-Balogun, Alhaji Sokas Kassim, Chief R.A Adenaike (Baba Oloolu), Engr. Oluyemi, Otunba Kunle Bolujoko, Chief Adewale Okusajo, Asiwaju Dele Odulaja and Chief (Mrs) Remi Odubote and others too numerous to mention. You are all greatly and specially appreciated.

To all those that space and time would not allow me to mention, be rest assured that your presence, prayers and support meant and still means so much to me and the entire family. We can never say enough "thank you". May the Almighty Allah raise dependable men and women who will stand by you anyway, anytime and in critical moments of your lives. I thank you most sincerely. May God bless and be with you all (Amen).

A dupe. Daalu. Nagode.

Signed
Senator Buruji Kashamu
For: The Kashamu Family
11th August, 2019.

Ogun PDP commiserates with Senator Kashamu over mother’s death

The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condoled with the immediate past lawmaker representing Ogun East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Buruji Kashamu over the death of his mother, Alhaja Wulemotu Kashamu.

The Chairman of the party in the state, Engr. Adebayo Dayo, in a statement released on Thursday, said the deceased lived a fulfilled life and had the best of care even in her old age.

“As we mourn the passage of our mother, we also have cause to be grateful to Allah for living an examplary life. Alhaja Kashamu was a devoted Muslim who lived a life worthy of emulation.

"We commiserate with our leader, Senator Buruji Kashamu, his siblings and other family members on the demise of Alhaja Kashamu. We extend our deepest sympathies and pray that the Almighty Allah grants her Al-jannah Fidau," he said.

Alhaja Kashamu died on Wednesday, 7th August 2019, at a highbrow Hospital on Victoria Island, Lagos, after a brief illness. She was 96 years old.

Ogun PDP mourns ex-Ogun Deputy Governor


ABEOKUTA- The Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday expressed deep sadness over the death of the former Deputy Governor of Ogun State and its former governorship aspirant, Alhaji Rafiu Ogunleye.

The Ogun State PDP Chairman, Engr. Adebayo Dayo described Ogunleye's death as a huge loss to his family, the political class, Ogun State and indeed, Nigeria.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Dayo described the Itele-born politician as a frontline figure in the annals of Ogun State, adding that the deceased led a life of service.

"Alhaji led a life of service. He was a former Deputy Governor of Ogun State under Chief Segun Osoba administration. He was a former governorship aspirant of our party (PDP). He was a consummate statesman who played several defining roles in the political history of Ogun State.

”We pray that God will comfort his family and associates and give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss," he said.

Ogunleye died in the early hours of Monday, 29th July, 2019, at the age of 79.

WESTERN LOTTO DIVERSIFIES…BIRTHS LOTTO9JA

· WARNS AGAINST PASSING OFF ITS BRAND ESSENCE

BEING TEXT OF A PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY THE GENERAL MANAGER, WESTERN LOTTO/LOTTO9JA, MR. TAJUDEEN USMAN ON FRIDAY, 26TH OF JULY, 2019.

In 2017, Western Lotto Nigeria Limited was launched to revolutionize the gaming industry in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The mission was to change the gaming landscape in Nigeria through dedicated and proprietary technology. The platform rapidly became a phenomenon that inspired the establishment of several other competitive brands.


Caught up in the same surge of excitement, Western Lotto expanded to create Western Bet, a sister company, with who she evolved into what is now known as Western Lotto and Bet, a formidable house of two extraordinary brands that have defied their start-up status to effectively compete with others that have been in the market for decades before they were established.


Both brands are high-end technology driven platforms with regional offices across Nigeria, with aspirations to expand to the West Coast of Africa and also:

*Provide undiluted entertainment through Lotteries and Sports Betting

*Operate the largest Lottery and Sports Bet Network in the country

*Embark on Good Causes as a responsible corporate citizen

*Maintain fair and transparent business transactions

*Build trust by delivering on our Brands’ promises and reward to winners

*Provide others sources of income for the Entrepreneurs, middle and low income Masses.

After a 2-year bullish run along the mandatory brand growth curve, full of challenges, learnings and acquired assets, we are once again proud to announce that one more star has been added to our crown; www.lotto9ja.com.ng – the spirit of 9ja!


Lotto9ja Ltd, RC 1601242, owned by Western Lotto and Bet, is the future of online gaming in Nigeria. www.lotto9ja.com.ng is created and positioned to offer premium gaming services to Nigeria’s growing online gaming population.



Lotto9ja will leverage on lessons learnt and consolidate on gains made. We now know that online gamers are loyal to the spirit of 9ja; they want rapid exciting games that deliver instant results and many winners. They want games they can call their own and bond with as their own.



Today, we are glad to announce that Lotto9ja has taken the best the world has to offer, infused them with all that is positive and great about 9ja. Lotto9ja offers games that are proudly Nigerian in their appeal. So, every Nigerian, across cultures and demographics is factored in the new lotto9ja.



There is something for those who want rapid gratification. There is something for those who want instant gratification. And there is also something for the big-time VIPs who play big ball! Whatever, the inclination, Lotto9ja caters for it. Above all, the prize is guaranteed; Winnings will be the hallmark of experiences at www.lotto9ja.com.ng .

While we worked assiduously on our games, we noticed that as usual, our secret dream was already being cloned by unscrupulous elements. While we worked, we determined not to be distracted by such and remained focused on the finish line.



Now that we are finally gathered here today with the ribbon around our bosom as a token of our victory, we demand that our rights and sovereignty as a brand must be respected across board. It is our expectation that the clones will vanish because the real deal is now available.



We have every proprietary rights to Lotto9ja. As stated earlier, our sister company, Lotto9ja Limited is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and we have the Trade Mark to the name, design and logo as approved by the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment.



So, we are at a loss as to why anyone would want to muzzle us and deprive us of the fruit of our labour and sweat, just because they have the wherewithal.



We believe that Nigeria is a society that is governed by law and all responsible citizens and corporate organizations are expected to corporately governed. We rest on this as we work to provide an unparalleled gaming experience for our highly esteemed patrons.

If there is one thing the Western Lotto and Bet family is known for, it is our resilience and doggedness in the pursuit of set goals and objectives. We will not relent until our mission is accomplished. We will not relent in making our patrons and trade partners millionaires. To whom much is given, much more is expected and we are conscious engaged in the process of not only providing gainful entertainment but also doing all it takes to deliver on our obligations.



www.lotto9ja.com.ng is live and in business.



Thank you

Dayo calls for unity in Ogun State PDP


The Chairman of the Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo has urged party leaders to unite and work for the success of the party ahead of the 2023 elections.

Dayo gave the advice while addressing party members during the party's stakeholders meeting in Abeokuta on Thursday

Dayo said the goal of defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the future elections could not be realized in a divided house.

He enjoined party leaders and members to put whatever grievances they had behind them and sacrifice their personal ambitions and interests to ensure PDP’s victory in the coming Local Government election and beyond.


“We must unite and work as a team if we want to make appreciable impact in the coming Local Government Election. The fact that the Local Government election is no longer to be conducted by the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) is a welcome development. With Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in charge of council election one should expect a proper election and not "selection" like we have had in the past. This is an opportunity for us to tell the people of Ogun State that PDP is still alive.

"We are looking at how we can resolve the crisis in the party so we can make appreciable impact in future elections. Division is not good for the party. We are working on how to bring everybody together under one umbrella.

“We must put old things behind us and sacrifice our personal ambitions and interests, not only for the victory of the party, but for the progress of Ogun State," he said.

The duo of Otunba Robert Adenaike and and Chief Kola Sorinola, who are elders of the party, respectively urged the party to avoid the pitfalls of the past ahead of the party congresses in 2020.

Also speaking, the State Secretary of the party, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo urged party members to be more dedicated to the party
and see themselves as stakeholders in the party, adding that it is the only way the party can regain its popularity in the grassroots and return to winning ways.

Dayo also received chieftains of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) from Yewa North Local Government into the party.

He assured them of a level-playing field in the party.

The defectors were led by Dr. Samuel Olorunsola.

*Olakunrin’s Murder:* *Hon. Adekoya Calls for Police Investigation and Arrest of Killers*

The Deputy Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, *Honourable Adekoya Adesegun Abdel-Majid* has called on the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to move urgently towards apprehending the killers of Funke Olakunrin, the daughter of the Leader of Afenifere, Pa Fasoranti so as to de-escalate ethnic tension which is currently brewing.

According to *Honourable Adekoya,* “the police and other security agencies in Nigeria have a great and urgent task towards preserving the corporate existence of the country by apprehending perpetrators of violence, murder and kidnapping for ransom which is already taking on ethnic dimensions and sowing the seed of discord among the various ethnic groups in the country.

“To preserve the country as one, security agencies need to move as quickly as possible to unravel the mysteries behind this murder and arrest perpetrators so as to reduce the tension which is brewing along ethnic cleavages.”