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BREAKING: Port Harcourt Refinery Begins Operation, NNPCL GCEO To Oversee First PMS Dispatch OIL & GAS. The Port Harcourt Refinery has finally commenced operations after undergoing renovation and modernisation that began in 2021 after the Federal Government secured a $1.5bn contract to rehabilitate the facility. The first trucks of petroleum products will be lifted from the facility on Tuesday under the supervision of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, who toured the facility on Monday night. Located at Alesa Eleme in Port Harcourt, the refinery complex comprises two operational units established in 1965 and 1989 and with a combined installed capacity of 210,000 barrels per day. The older plant has a capacity of 60,000 barrels per stream day, while the newer plant has 150,000 barrels per capacity. The refinery’s resumption is expected to further reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products and reduce foreign exchange pressures associated with fuel importation. The PHRC is also expected to produce premium motor spirit, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas, among others.
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Nigeria: Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar consider political merger. Together again? Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi contested the Nigerian elections on a joint ticket in 2019, when they lost to Muhammadu Buhari. After their political parties suffered a string of defeats to President Bola Tinubu’s APC in four consecutive governorship elections in a year, Nigeria’s main opposition figures – Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi – are discussing adopting a new political party. Sources tell The Africa Report that Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s ex-presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and Peter Obi, leader of the Labour Party, met recently where they discussed sensitive plans to adopt a new political party. Insiders say this is in preparation for the 2027 presidential election, as the crises in their respective political parties show no signs of abating. While Obi and his team did not respond to inquiries, a spokesperson for Atiku tells The Africa Report that the option of a merger remains on the table but did not provide specific details. Show of political camaraderie Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, has been invited by the former vice president to be the keynote speaker at an event to commemorate Atiku’s 78th birthday. Known as Founder’s Day, the event will take place at the Atiku-owned Abubakar University (AAU) in Yola, northeast Nigeria on 30 November. The programme is organised to show the camaraderie between the men and send a message to the Tinubu administration that their bond remains strong. Since their loss to President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election, Atiku and Obi have been comparing notes on the way forward and a possible merger. However, the consolidation of the PDP and the Labour Party may be unfeasible due to the prolonged crises, which their supporters accuse Tinubu of sponsoring. PDP is led by Umar Damagum, a loyalist of Nyesom Wike, who currently serves in Tinubu’s cabinet. The Labour Party national chairman is Julius Abure, who is at loggerheads with Obi. With election season expected to commence in just 13 months, discussions between Obi and Atiku are said to have entered an advanced stage and include other politicians dissatisfied with Tinubu’s style of governance. Former governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, who was unceremoniously dropped from Tinubu’s cabinet picks due to a security report is said to be part of the discussions. Former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who accused Tinubu of trying to colonise northern Nigeria, has been carried along in the discussions but has made no commitments so far, says a PDP spokesperson who wished to remain anonymous. United, the opposition would be stronger Obi and Atiku contested on a joint presidential ticket in 2019 on the PDP platform but lost to former president Muhammadu Buhari of the APC. Ahead of the 2023 election, Obi defected to the Labour Party and contested for the presidency, garnering 6.1 million votes with minimal resources and no help from the political establishment. Atiku bagged 6.8 million votes, while Kwankwaso got just over a million. Tinubu, who was the eventual winner, polled 8.4 million votes. Public affairs commentators and even Tinubu’s campaign agreed that had the opposition been united against the APC, Tinubu would not have won the 2023 election, especially because of the mismanagement of the economy by the Buhari administration. This has given the opposition the impetus to seek a merger in the next election. Atiku and Obi began mending fences after the election and discussed strategy while challenging Tinubu’s victory in court last year. Having lost the legal battle, they strengthened ties and have remained in touch. Hurdles ahead for a new party The strategy of adopting an existing political party as a special-purpose vehicle is not new. Obi and Kwankwaso adopted the Labour Party and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), respectively, just months before the previous elections. Ahead of the local council election in Rivers State in October, Governor Sim Fubara was boxed into a corner after his party, the PDP, and the main opposition APC became willing tools in the hands of his estranged godfather, former governor Wike. Fubara subsequently adopted the Action People’s Party (APP) – an obscure party – and sponsored candidates. The APP won all 23 council seats in that election. Similarly, in Abia State, Governor Alex Otti, who is enmeshed in a feud with the Labour Party, refused to support them. Instead, he supported the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) which went on to win 15 of the 17 council seats in the November election. With the PDP and the Labour Party entangled in a prolonged legal battle, which is unlikely to be resolved before election season, adopting a new party for a fresh start seems a viable option for Atiku and Obi who have become outsiders in their respective parties. However, the challenge will also be how to bring on board the 12 PDP governors, some of whom are nursing presidential ambitions or are loyal to Wike. “Can Atiku bring in governors and lawmakers into this planned new political party? You cannot win without having such lieutenants,” says Jide Ojo, a political scientist in Nigeria. Merging support from North to South Atiku is one of the few northerners with a realistic pathway to the presidency. Even so, he does not have a strong following in the region like Buhari had, meaning that Tinubu could get a sizeable number of votes up north. It will depend on the key actors and their willingness to put collective interest over their individual ambitions The former vice president will thus need a strong southern running mate who can procure large numbers of votes for him in the southeast and the Niger Delta, and this is where Obi comes in handy. Obi has an army of supporters known as ‘Obidients’ who have loyalty only to him. This could prove significant if he becomes Atiku’s running mate. Analysts are divided over the possibility of Obi getting the same number of votes he got back in 2023 if he is a running mate. His millions of followers see him as presidential material and are unlikely to accept the vice presidency. “The Southeast wants to produce the president and not the vice president. From what I see, they will not come out in their numbers to vote for Obi as VP,” Ojo says. An associate of Atiku told The Africa Report earlier in the year that the former vice president would be willing to serve one term as president and then hand over to Obi as his successor. “The success or otherwise of any proposed merger will depend on the key actors and their willingness to put collective interest over their individual ambitions,” says Tomide Akinribido, a former lawmaker.
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Nigeria's Governors are struggling to envision and implement effective strategies for boosting revenue and development in their respective states. Challenges Facing Revenue Development: Over-reliance on federal allocations: Many states rely heavily on statutory allocations, which can limit their financial autonomy and incentive to develop internal revenue sources. Low Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): Some states in Nigeria generate barely one-eighth of their revenue from internal sources, with IGR accounting for only 7.9% of budgeted receipts. Limited economic diversification: The lack of diversification in state economies makes them vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market. Solutions for Growth: 1) Invest massively in Agriculture like Livestock and cash crops farming. 2) Invest in the production of agricultural by-products. 3) Exploring alternative revenue streams, such as taxation, can help states reduce dependence on federal allocations. 4) Enhancing tax administration and collection efficiency can significantly increase IGR. Promoting economic diversification: Encouraging entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment in various sectors can stimulate economic growth and revenue development. By addressing these challenges and leveraging growth opportunities, Nigeria's governors can develop a clearer vision for revenue development and increase, ultimately driving progress and prosperity in their states. |
Nigeria Receives 148 Nigerians, Including Infants Repatriated From Niger Republichttps://saharareporters.com/2024/11/14/nigeria-receives-148-nigerians-including-infants-repatriated-niger-republic Just Imagine Niger Republic deporting Nigerians, no country respects us anymore.
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Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has unveiled plans to break away from the national grid. The company disclosed that it is entering into a partnership to build a 100MW safe grid to protect its customers. The Safe Grid will be enabled by embedded electricity generation in its network to ensure security within the network. Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has finalised plans for a partnership with an initial $100 million investment to develop a 100MW Safe Grid for Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states, offering 24-hour electricity to customers. The grid will serve industries, commercial centres, and critical government infrastructure and eliminate the need to rely on the national grid. The company disclosed that the move is due to the lingering challenges the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) faces in supplying power to its franchise. It says it is getting less than half of its allocation from the grid, disrupting its customers, institutions, and businesses and challenging its financial performance. DisCo disclosed that it collects between N9 billion and N12 billion monthly from consumers, but the grid collapses have affected its revenue, and it now fears losing some key customers. According to the firm, embedded electricity generation in its network will enable the Safe Grid to ensure security and eliminate risks attached to absolute dependence on the national grid. Kano DisCo collects about N9bn and N12bn monthly from consumers, but the grid collapse has affected its revenues. It fears some key customers will soon abandon the grid unless something is done. KEDCO says the project will build the first 20MW power plant with Utilita under an emergency project costing $20 million and become operational at the end of this year, beginning supply for the safe grid. It said the units are already available, and the project development is ramping up ahead of installation and commissioning. KEDCO begins negotiation for 10MW wind farm. “Buyers wanted:” NDIC sets date to begin sale of Heritage Bank assets, lists those eligible to buy According to BusinessDay, the electricity firm would also purchase power for the safe grid from the 10MW Haske Solar Power Plant and the 16MW capacities of the Tiga and Challawa Hydroelectric power projects, bringing the initial supply in the safe grid to 46MW. Additionally, the electricity company said it is negotiating with the Ministry of Power to take over and complete the 10MW Katsina Wind Farm project and supply it to the safe grid/ National grid collapse 11 times in 2024 KEDCO said a further 54MW will be supplied via additional gas and solar power plant projects. Experts say the move by the electricity company company is commendable following the frequent collapse of the national grid. In 2024, the national grid suffered 11 collapses, causing widespread disruptions to businesses and households. Ikeja Electric slashes electricity tariff for Band A customers. previously reported that Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IE) announced a significant reduction in electricity tariffs for Band A customers. More fuel for Nigeria as FG is set to increase crude oil production by 30% by year end In a circular signed by the company's management on Monday, May 6, 2024, customers under Band A will now pay N206.80/kWh rather than the stipulated N225/kWh ordered by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). Ikeja Electric promised to provide users with 20 to 24 hours of electricity under this Band, adding to the tariff.
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Perpetual Ukadike Makes History at Miss International: First Nigerian in Top 20 & First African to Win Missosology Choice Award Perpetual Ukadike, Nigeria’s star at the just-concluded 62nd Miss International pageant, has made history in a big way. She became the first Nigerian to make it to the Top 20 and the first African to win the prestigious Missosology Choice Award. On winning the Missosology Choice Award, Perpetual shared an emotional post on Instagram, expressing her gratitude: “I’m so grateful, I’m so happy. I am going to cherish this with my heart. Thank you, Missosology, for finding me worthy of this award. Thank you so much, I’m not taking this for granted. I love you.” This year’s Miss International crown went to Huynh Thi Thanh Thuy, Vietnam’s representative. From the moment Perpetual arrived in Japan, she’s been turning heads with her bold, colourful outfits and her undeniable presence.
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President Bola Tinubu, on Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, called for an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza. Tinubu warned that “empty condemnations” are not enough to end the conflict in Palestine, which, he said, “has persisted for far too long.” The Nigerian leader made this argument at the extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit, convened to address the current situation in the Middle East. President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The one-day summit was a follow-up to the Riyadh summit of 2023 and was attended by Heads of State and Government from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, revealed Tinubu’s statement in a release signed on Monday, titled ‘At Saudi Summit, President Tinubu demands an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, calls for realisation of the two-state solution’. The ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza began in October 2023 after Hamas’ attack, which left scores of Israelis dead. Since the escalation began, over 43,000 Palestinians have been killed, with approximately 70 per cent of the casualties being women and children, according to the United Nations Human Rights Office. The conflict has resulted in widespread destruction of infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, exacerbating the dire living conditions for Gaza’s residents. International organisations have repeatedly called for immediate ceasefires and increased humanitarian aid to address the escalating crisis. In response to the prolonged conflict, there has been a renewed international push for a two-state solution as a pathway to lasting peace. European, Arab and Muslim nations have launched initiatives to garner support for Palestinian statehood, aiming to build institutions and promote the two-state framework. Reiterating Nigeria’s call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, President Tinubu affirmed the country’s support for a two-state solution, where both Israelis and Palestinians can co-exist in security and dignity. He noted that this solution remained a viable part of lasting peace in the region. “The conflict in Palestine has persisted for far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering on countless lives. “As representatives of nations that value justice, dignity, and the sanctity of human life, we have a moral obligation to collectively bring about an immediate end to this conflict. “It is not enough to issue empty condemnations. The world must work towards an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, which has persisted for far too long. “No political aim, no military strategy, and no security concern should come at the expense of so many innocent lives,” Tinubu stated. The President called on parties in the Middle East conflict to respect the principles of proportionality and the basic rights of civilians, consistent with global legal and diplomatic frameworks. He argued, “In a rules-based international order, states have the right of self-defence. “But self-defence must take proportionality into account, in line with global legal, diplomatic, and moral frameworks. Tinubu, NSA attend Arab-Islamic summit in S’Arabia “An entire civilian population, their dreams and futures, cannot be dismissed as collateral.” Explaining Nigeria’s principled and consistent stance on the two-state solution, President Tinubu noted that it stands as a beacon of hope, representing the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians to self-determination and peace. “It is not just a diplomatic article of faith; it is a vision grounded in the principles of equality and mutual recognition. “Achieving this vision requires a commitment to dialogue and respect for history. We all know this conflict did not begin on 7th October 2023. “It can only be resolved through principled compromise, based on appreciation of the proper context,” he affirmed. Tinubu described the conflict’s impact on history as “so visceral that the ripples of division spread far and quickly.” “The corrosive impact of the images of endless violence, repeated on a billion smartphones around the world, is huge. We need to find new pathways to peace, without delay,” he continued. The Nigerian leader commended King Salman of Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for convening the summit, describing it as a vital opportunity to renew diplomatic efforts and work toward sustainable peace. He assured the OIC that Nigeria, given its own experiences, would continue to support international efforts that advance peace and stability in the Middle East. “Our own experiences, domestically and regionally, have taught us that identity politics are no substitute for respecting the nuances of diversity,” he said. According to President Tinubu, “The path to reconciliation may be fraught with challenges, but it is through honest conversation that we can foster understanding. “The international community has the opportunity to bring to bear new thinking on this most relentless challenge. “It is our duty to engage in this dialogue with sincerity and resolve, recognising the complexities that each side faces.” Tinubu also called for the establishment of a secretariat to implement the resolutions of the summit. He urged the leaders to mandate select Heads of Government to canvass support globally and oversee the implementation of the summit resolutions, providing regular reports to a joint OIC and Arab League leadership until permanent peace is achieved in the Middle East. In his opening remarks, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon, including the targeting of civilians and the continued violation of the Al-Aqsa mosque. He also condemned the Israeli ban on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees from delivering relief aid to Palestinians and the displacement of Lebanese people. He emphasised the importance of preserving Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Crown Prince highlighted Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting Palestinian statehood based on the 1967 borders, mentioning international recognition and the establishment of a Global Coalition with the European Union and Norway.
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A 14-year-old boy, Malik Kareem, was allegedly murdered by three of his colleagues for ritual purposes in Ibadan. According to reports, Malik was killed and beheaded by his friends in the Olorisaoko community, located in the Akinyele Local Government Area, on Saturday. An anonymous source revealed that Malik and his three friends had approached a cleric, who is now on the run, seeking wealth through ritualistic means. However, unknown to Malik, his friends had conspired with the cleric to sacrifice him instead. The source recounted, “When they arrived at the cleric’s place, Malik was strangled, beheaded, and his body was subsequently cremated. We rushed to the scene upon hearing the news, but by the time we arrived, the cleric had already fled. We found Malik’s lifeless body, decapitated and lying in a pool of blood.” In the aftermath of the horrifying discovery, some unidentified youths in the community reportedly set the cleric’s house on fire. According to the Oyo Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, the police are fully aware of the incident and have already begun an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible. He assured the public that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
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My idol has taken about 73 to 76 women for over 7 years, and They're always gotten from the club–Suspect. A man known as ‘Mistina Orobo’ has made alarming allegations regarding ritual killings in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. According to PUNCH, during a recent interview on Fresh FM’s program “Opeyemi,” hosted by Yinka Ayefele, he disclosed that he has killed over 70 women as part of his ritualistic practices. His identity remains undisclosed, but his claims have sent shockwaves throughout the community. Originating from the Foko area of Ibadan, Mistina Orobo stated that these heinous acts took place over several years. He revealed that the reported number of victims does not include additional individuals he was hired to kill or those whose flesh he consumed during his previous rituals. Now identifying as a pastor, he spoke candidly about his past during the radio broadcast. He explained that the blood of these women was crucial for renewing the mystical powers he claimed to possess. Mistina described how victims were often abducted from nightlife spots and popular gathering places throughout the city. His ritual practices involved extracting blood and consuming the bodies, a chilling revelation that underscored the brutality of his actions. He detailed that he sacrificed between 73 and 76 women over more than seven years, heightening the gravity of his confessions. The broadcast, which aired on Saturday, captured significant public attention, with many listeners expressing disbelief and concern over his admissions. Mistina hinted at a broader network, suggesting that similar rituals may still be occurring in certain circles. The detailed account has left residents of Ibadan and neighbouring areas deeply unsettled. Public reactions have sparked discussions about potential links between these ritual killings and other unsolved disappearances in the region. As of now, authorities have not publicly commented or initiated any investigations regarding these serious allegations, raising urgent questions about community safety and the enforcement of laws against ritualistic crimes.
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Nigeria awarded a 3-0 victory after boycotting their AFCON qualifier Libya due to squad being left stranded at the airport for more than 16 HOURS with 'no food and drink. Nigeria have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Libya, and three vital points, from their scheduled Africa Cup of Nations qualifier earlier this month which they refused to play after being stuck in a remote Libyan airport for half a day before the match. The disciplinary committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Saturday awarded the match to Nigeria 3-0, putting them on the brink of qualifying for next year’s finals as they sit top of Group D. The three points took Nigeria to 10 with two matches left to play, four ahead of second-placed Benin and five ahead of Rwanda. Libya have a single point from four games and are in last place. The top two teams in the group qualify for the 2025 finals in Morocco. Nigeria had refused to play the match in Benghazi on Oct. 15, citing mistreatment on arrival in the country some 48 hours before the scheduled kick-off. Nigerian players and officials were kept in a locked airport for more than 16 hours, almost 250km away from their intended destination, after their charter flight was redirected while on approach to Benghazi and instead landed in Bayda. Nigeria's clash with Libya was called off after their squad were left stranded in an airport. Nigeria's clash with Libya was called off after their squad were left stranded in an airport Nigeria's flight was said to be diverted from the city of Benghazi to Al-Abraq Airport by the Libyan government, with their squad subsequently prevented from leaving. Nigeria's flight was said to be diverted from the city of Benghazi to Al-Abraq Airport by the Libyan government, with their squad subsequently prevented from leaving The players were left with no food or drink for hours and made several claims of mistreatment. The players were left with no food or drink for hours and made several claims of mistreatment The victory puts Nigerian on the verge of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The victory puts Nigerian on the verge of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco They said they had no access to food or water and no contact from Libyan officials during the episode, and they decided to fly back to Nigeria rather than fulfil the fixture. The Libya Football Federation said the incident was not deliberate, adding that their players had also faced travel difficulties when they played in Nigeria four days earlier. Nigeria BOYCOTT game against Libya after squad is left stranded at airport with 'no food and drink' article image But CAF found Libya in breach of competition rules that stipulate visiting teams must be properly received by the host association, who must see them through entry formalities and put a bus at their disposal. CAF said Nigeria were awarded the match with a 3-0 scoreline and that Libya had been fined $50,000. Libya had earlier complained about the treatment of their players and officials on arrival in Nigeria for their qualifier in Uyo on Oct. 11, when their flight landed hours away from the match venue and the players endured long travel delays. Nigeria won that match 1-0. Their treatment ahead of the scheduled return game four days later was seen as a tit-for-tat measure and widely condemned across the continent as Libya taking gamesmanship a step too far. It also highlighted the consistently poor treatment meted out to visiting sides when playing around Africa -- in both national team and club competitions. Nigeria's squad claimed they were trapped in the airport with no food, drink or phone signal. The staggering claims raise serious questions about the organisation of AFCON qualifiers CAF president Patrice Motsepe said earlier this week his organisation was looking at tightening up rules and regulations to deter bad treatment of visiting teams. African football is notorious for poor treatment of visiting teams, with common tricks being delays going through immigration on arrival, circuitous and lengthy bus trips and the allocation of poor training facilities.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, into custody following a midnight sting operation in Lokoja. Contrary to earlier reports suggesting that Bello voluntarily surrendered, reliable sources from the EFCC confirmed his arrest. The case is ongoing as the EFCC continues its investigation. Immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja. According to sources from the EFCC, the arrest took place during a midnight operation in Lokoja, despite earlier claims from Bello’s camp that he voluntarily honored the EFCC’s invitation. The EFCC source stated, “Bello was tracked and arrested at midnight. He is now in custody at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja.” Meanwhile, a statement from Ohiare Michael, Director of Yahaya Bello’s Media Office, maintained that the former governor had willingly appeared before the EFCC after consulting with his legal team and family. Michael also asserted that Bello, who has consistently advocated for transparency during his tenure, was committed to clearing his name in the ongoing investigation. The specifics of the allegations have not been disclosed, but the EFCC is expected to release more details in the coming days. With the former governor’s legal team involved and new developments emerging, how will this high-profile case unfold as more details come to light?
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Breaking: Atiku In Alliance Talks With Obi, Kwankwaso For 2027 Presidential Bid. Indications have emerged that Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is actively pursuing an alliance with Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The collaboration aims to create a formidable opposition coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 Presidential election. The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Atiku, Paul Ibe, confirmed in a discussion with Daily Post that discussions for an alliance are indeed in progress. This strategic move by Atiku is seen as an effort to consolidate the opposition’s strength by uniting significant contenders from the previous election cycle under a single banner. Stressing that the opposition leaders are in talks, Ibe said, “When you are going to birth an alliance like this, it won’t be on the pages of newspapers, it will be away from the media glare. “I can assure you that the process is ongoing, all of the stakeholders and various leaders have recognized the imperative of that alliance to forge a united front to recover Nigeria from these people just toiling with the lives and destiny of Nigerians. They are committed to that and the process is ongoing.” When quizzed on Atiku, Kwankwaso, and Obi’s involvement in the alliance, he said, “The opposition leaders are talking, they have begun the process. The opposition leaders have commenced the process that would birth the alliance.”
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nothingspoil70:
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Thiefobi1:
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US court acquits Air Peace boss, slams Mayfield $4000 fine. The District Court in Atlanta, Georgia has exonerated Allen Onyema, the Chief Executive of Air Peace, of any business fraud. This is after three years of investigation involving about five agencies of the American government and the subsequent legal fireworks. The court, which discovered that there was no loss against any bank in the indictment suit filed by the Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, however, ordered a probation and $4000 fine against a former staff of Springfield Aviation Company Inc., Ebony Mayfield last Friday. A statement by the law firm of Augustine Alegeh & Co., counsel to the Airline, explained that Mayfield was an administrative staff of Springfield with limited knowledge in Letter of Credit Transactions, who pleaded guilty to one count in the indictment, presumably as she realised the futility of attempting to explain several Letters of Credit utilised for purchase of aircraft for Air Peace Limited in a jury trial. Probation, the firm explained, is the lowest possible sentence available under American Federal Law. The firm noted that there have been false and unsubstantiated stories in Nigeria, about the indictment. “Our clients never took loans or credit from any American Bank and Mayfield was never paid the sum of $20,000 at any time to commit any fraud, as it is being peddled in some quarters. “There was no loss of money or any damage whatsoever to any third party. The American government admitted in Court that no bank suffered any financial loss in the matter. “Mayfield, like other Springfield Aviation Company Inc. staff, was only paid her bi-weekly salary and/or allowances,” it clarified. According to the firm, the decision confirmed the position of its clients that there was no fraudulent intent in all the Letters of Credit, because there was no victim in any way, manner or form. All the funds involved, it explained, were legitimate funds belonging to its clients “Our clients maintain their innocence in the matter and state that all steps taken in respect of the Letters of Credit were taken in good faith and with legitimate funds. “All the aircraft involved were brought into Nigeria and utilised in the operations of Air Peace Limited. There was no victim. There was no loss of funds to any person and there was no criminal intent whatsoever. “Our client’s position has been reviewed by various Law Enforcement Agencies in Nigeria and no evidence of criminality has been established against them. Our Clients remain resolute in the assertion of their innocence,” the firm declared.
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The British government has deported 44 Nigerians and Ghanaians to their home countries in a single flight, The Guardian reported. According to the report, the Nigerian and Ghanaian citizens were flown to their countries on Friday, 18 October. Deportation flights to Nigeria and Ghana are relatively rare, the report said. Citing data obtained under the freedom of information rules, the newspaper reported that there have been only four such deportation flights since 2020. Each of such flights involved six, seven, 16 and 21 deportees respectively, until Friday’s flight, which had more than double the highest that had been removed on a single flight. The Home Office confirmed that there is a “major surge” in immigration enforcement and returns activities. “We have already begun delivering a major surge in immigration enforcement and returns activity to remove people with no right to be in the UK and ensure the rules are respected and enforced, with over 3,600 returned in the first two months of the new government,” The Guardian quoted a spokesperson for the Home Office as saying. The deportation came at a time when the UK immigration policy on asylum seekers is witnessing drastic changes. After five decades of tussle, the British government recently struck a deal to eventually hand over the Chagos Islands, an archipelago that sits in the Indian Ocean, to the southeast African island country of Mauritius. The agreement is still pending the finalisation of a treaty, but both parties have committed to completing it as swiftly as possible. The deal saw the two governments jointly declaring the full sovereignty of the Chagos, a remote group of more than 60 islands, adding it would belong to Mauritius in exchange for guarantees that a United States military base could continue operating there for the many years to come. A critical part of this historic agreement is that any asylum seekers who arrive in Diego Garcia before a treaty between the UK and Mauritius to hand back the Chagos Islands is finalised will be sent to Saint Helena, a British territory in the Atlantic Ocean said to be one of the most remote places on Earth. The Chagos Islands deal is expected to be signed next year. This explains the latest round of deportation of Nigerians and Ghanaian citizens. Since 2021, the amount of asylum seekers arriving in Diego Garcia, a British territory in the Indian Ocean, are in the hundreds, which is minimally comparable to the tens of thousands crossing the Channel in small boats from northern France to the UK in recent years. ‘We are shocked’ The Guardian spoke with four affected Nigerians while they were held at Brook House immigration removal centre near Gatwick before their deportation. The deportees included one who told the newspaper of how he became traumatised after seeing a cellmate try to kill himself. One expressed frustrations about the Home Office refusing his asylum claims after 15 years of residing in the UK without a criminal record. Another spoke of how his claim was denied despite being a victim of trafficking and showing the Home Office officials his childhood torture scars. Another man also recounted his futile efforts to get a solicitor to challenge his removal directions. The Guardian quoted Fizza Qureshi, the chief executive of Migrants’ Rights Network, expressing shock at the news of the deportation of the Nigerians and Ghanians, saying that the asylum seekers have not committed any crime to warrant such a treatment. Mr Qureshi, who was in contact with some of the people on the Nigeria/Ghana deportation flight before they left the country, said, “We are extremely shocked at the cruelty of these deportations, especially with the speed, secrecy and the lack of access to legal support. “In the words of one detainee we spoke to before he was put on the flight: ‘The Home Office is playing politics with people’s lives. We have not done anything wrong other than cry for help’.
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Is Our best President Jonathan no longer a clueless person again? Was it not the same North that called him a clueless Man before. Abeg make una pack well 🙏🙏 |
They should forget about Dr Jonathan, he didn't forget anything in Aso Rock. He was glad to leave the office unlike the rest . |
Northern Governor, Retired General Lead Moves To Draft Goodluck Jonathan Into 2027 Presidential Race Powerful political figures from northern Nigeria have begun efforts to draft former President Goodluck Jonathan into the 2027 presidential race. Their calculations hinge on the fact that Jonathan, having served as president from 2011 to 2015, is eligible for only one more four-year term. This campaign is reportedly spearheaded by a governor from the North East and a retired general from the North West. According to sources, the northern power brokers considered their options and concluded that Jonathan’s potential candidacy aligns with their collective interests. They are basing their strategy on the 1999 Constitution, which allows a maximum of two terms for any individual holding the office of president. The group’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to derail President Bola Tinubu’s plans for re-election. However, a rival group comprising other northern politicians and influential figures is pushing for a different southern candidate, as both factions oppose Tinubu’s continued leadership. The promoters of the Jonathan-for-2027 campaign have reportedly started engaging with key stakeholders, aiming to build support for the former Bayelsa governor, who has recently focused on international diplomacy and promoting democratic norms. A source within the group revealed to Saturday Tribune that northern leaders backing Jonathan come from across the political spectrum and are united in their determination to counter what they perceive as Tinubu’s mismanagement of the country. Additionally, the group is reaching out to like-minded individuals and organizations across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, including civil society and pro-democracy groups, in a bid to rally broader support. Jonathan is seen as a strong candidate because of his prior experience as vice president (2007-2010) and president, following the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua. Northern leaders believe he could gain widespread backing from southern states while also enjoying significant goodwill in the northern part of the country, even nine years after his presidency. The push for Jonathan’s return gained momentum in August 2023 when reports emerged that key political figures were considering persuading him to run for the 2027 race. This aligns with the stance of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, a former minister in Jonathan’s administration, who has publicly stated his willingness to step aside if Jonathan decides to run. Mohammed, speaking at an event organized by the Save Africa Initiative, expressed his belief that Jonathan’s experience would make him an ideal candidate. “About your call for me to present myself, I am still contemplating my chances as the leader of the opposition… I have always said that as long as Jonathan is around, I will not present myself for the leadership of this country unless he decides not to run… He will do a better job because he has the experience,” Mohammed said. The push for Jonathan’s candidacy isn’t new. Before the 2023 presidential election, rumours circulated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was considering fielding him as its candidate, backed by several northern governors. However, both the APC and Jonathan distanced themselves from these claims, with Jonathan’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Eze, clarifying that the former president had no interest in running at the time: “We wish to categorically state that Dr. Jonathan was not aware of this bid and did not authorize it,” Eze said in a statement. APC officials, including then-national committee chairman Mai Mala Buni, dismissed the speculations, with Buni emphasizing that their interactions with Jonathan were simply out of respect for his status as a former president. Buni added: “Our visit to Jonathan was pronounced because of his status as a former president… That could be why some may think there was something beneath it.” Despite these earlier denials, the 2027 initiative suggests that political interest in Jonathan’s potential return to the presidency remains strong among northern power players.
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Plan By Iran's Hezbollah To Assassinate Me And My Wife Is Grave Mistake – Israeli PM Netanyahu Netanyahu, in a post on his X account on Saturday evening, said that Hezbollah’s attempt to kill him and his wife in a drone attack targeted at his residence on Saturday was a mistake, stressing that anyone who tried to harm Israel’s citizens would pay a heavy price. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reacted to an assassination attempt on him and his family by the Lebanon-based militant group, Hezbollah. Netanyahu, in a post on his X account on Saturday evening, said that Hezbollah’s attempt to kill him and his wife in a drone attack targeted at his residence on Saturday was a mistake, stressing that anyone who tried to harm Israel’s citizens would pay a heavy price. SaharaReporters earlier reported that Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the drone struck near his home in Caesarea, a coastal town along the Mediterranean, but neither Netanyahu nor his wife were present during the incident, and no casualties were reported. In retaliation, Israel carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut, particularly targeting the densely populated Dahiyeh district. The Prime Minister in the X post said, “The attempt by Iran’s proxy Hezbollah to assassinate me and my wife today was a grave mistake. “This will not deter me or the State of Israel from continuing our just war against our enemies to secure our future. “I say to Iran and its proxies in its axis of evil: Anyone who tries to harm Israel’s citizens will pay a heavy price. “We will continue to eliminate the terrorists and those who dispatch them. We will bring our hostages home from Gaza. “And we will return our citizens who live on our Northern border safely to their homes. “Israel is determined to achieve all our war objectives and change the security reality in our region for generations to come. “Together, we will fight, and with God's help – together, we will win.”
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The National Mosque, Abuja, has appointed Prof. Ilyas Usman as Imam.https://dailytrust.com/national-mosque-abuja-appoints-first-igbo-imam/
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BREAKING: CAF announces postponement of Libya vs Nigeria AFCON 2025 qualifier. The highly anticipated TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Qualifier between Libya and Nigeria, scheduled to take place tonight, has been officially postponed. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced that the fixture will no longer proceed as planned and will be referred to the relevant CAF bodies for further resolution. This decision comes amid growing concerns following Nigeria’s withdrawal, citing safety issues after a prolonged delay at Al Abaq Airport. CAF had earlier announced that it had been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it had been informed that the Super Eagles and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at the airport.
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Not all Fulanis are involved in harmful crime. Many are actually peaceful and contribute positively to their host communities, as seen in Ugbogiobo Village, Ovie North East of Edo State. However, the Fulanis committing crimes in Nigeria are largely the Bororo Fulani invaders from neighbouring countries (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, Chad, and Sudan). Their actions have brought chaos, exacerbated by former President Buhari and El Rufai's policies that brought them to Nigeria during the 2015 election. The Northern cabals are aware of this issue but remain silent. Other countries, like the Central African Republic, have successfully resisted these external forces. It's essential to distinguish between peaceful Fulanis and these external invaders to address the root causes of violence and promote constructive dialogue. But for now all fulanis kidnappers and killers should face jungle justice |
The 5 Deep Seaports Project in the South-South/East region is under construction and rehabilitation. 1. Bakassi Deep Seaport in Cross River State valued at $3.5bn. (Approved: Project under construction) 2. The Ibom Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom is valued at $4.6bn. (Approved: Project under construction) 3. The Escravos Deep Seaport Industrial Complex Project in Warri, Delta State, valued at $27.29bn. (Approved: Project under construction) 4. The Bonny seaport, the Port Harcourt, River State, with a value of about $ 3.2 billion. (Approved: Project under construction) 5. Onne Seaport Complex is the fastest growing port in Nigeria, located in River State. (Approved: Project under rehabilitation) |
Investigation Into Bribery Allegations Involving Bobrisky Set For Release Next Week. Nigeria’s Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has announced that the investigation report concerning allegations of bribery and misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), involving popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, will be ready next week. Tunji-Ojo announced the official launch of a report addressing the situation of children and young adults deprived of liberty in Nigeria. The probe was initiated following a viral video shared by activist VeryDarkMan, in which Bobrisky claimed to have bribed officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with N15 million to have money laundering charges dropped against her. Bobrisky was released from prison on August 5 after serving a six-month sentence for abusing the naira. In the controversial footage, she alleged that her “godfather” and Haliru Nababa, the Controller General of the NCoS, facilitated her serving the sentence in a private apartment rather than a traditional prison. Although she denied the bribery claims, the federal government suspended several NCoS officials linked to the matter. Tunji-Ojo acknowledged the dedication of many officers within the system but emphasized that the actions of a few would not compromise the integrity of the institution. “I don’t care about Bobrisky; it is about the system. There must be penalties for actions,” he stated, asserting that correctional centres should not be a source of disgrace for the Nigerian government. He confirmed the suspension of an officer implicated in the scandal, who has since been replaced. The minister reiterated the need for accountability and reform within Nigeria’s correctional facilities, expressing his commitment to transforming the system. “This responsibility will be a springboard for a better tomorrow,” he declared, adding, “If I tell you that I am comfortable with what is happening at the correctional centres, I will be the greatest liar.” In a recent SWOT analysis, Tunji-Ojo revealed that out of approximately 84,000 inmates in Nigeria, around 10 per cent were imprisoned for failing to pay fines as low as N10,000. He questioned the necessity of having 256 correctional centres, advocating for creative solutions and collaboration with the Ministry of Justice to explore non-custodial options for about 70 per cent of inmates who are awaiting trial.
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BREAKING: Reverse Petrol Price Hike Immediately – TUC Tells FG, NNPC. The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has called for a reduction in petrol prices, urging the government to lower them below the levels seen in June 2023. Naija News reports that TUC President Festus Osifo made the call during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday. He said: “We demand that the price be brought down, not just to what it was before, but even lower.” Osifo called for government intervention in the sector by providing foreign exchange to the Dangote Refinery at a rate of $1 to ₦1,000 instead of the current rate of over ₦1,600 to help reduce petrol costs. “The solution we are proposing, if implemented, will return prices to what they were in June last year,” Osifo stated, emphasizing that “no government in the world leaves its critical sectors to market forces” and that the Nigerian government should not allow the oil sector to be influenced solely by the fluctuations of the naira. Osifo stressed the importance of making petrol affordable, available, and accessible for all Nigerians, noting that the commodity is vital for households across the country, regardless of whether they own vehicles. He urged the Federal Government to grant all marketers licenses to lift petrol from the Dangote Refinery through the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Osifo also suggested that the NNPCL should import refined petrol from other sources if the Dangote Refinery cannot meet Nigeria’s daily consumption needs. “If the product is not available, it’s a problem. For example, if Dangote Refinery produces less than 15 million litres per day, it won’t be enough,” Osifo explained. He added that while efforts are being made to increase production at the Dangote Refinery, the NNPCL should look for alternative sources to meet demand until the refinery can fully satisfy the country’s needs. On Wednesday, Nigerians were hit with another price hike when NNPCL retail outlets in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, raised petrol prices again. In Lagos, NNPCL stations increased the price to ₦998 per litre, about ₦150 more than the previous price of ₦855. The sudden increase triggered panic-buying, leading to long queues at filling stations. Non-NNPCL filling stations quickly followed suit, with some raising prices to as high as ₦1,050 per litre in parts of Lagos. In Abuja, NNPCL outlets hiked prices from ₦897 to ₦1,030 per litre. This latest increase comes after a similar price hike by NNPCL on September 2, 2024, when prices were raised from ₦568 to ₦855, sparking public outrage.
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The Arab World consists of 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa: Algeria, Bahrain, The Comoros Islands, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, The United Arab Emirates, Yemen. The area of Arab states(Gulf Cooperation Council countries) combined is around 26,70,000 sq km, whereas the land area of Israel is estimated to be approximately 20,700 sq km only. As from the area figures it is known that Israel is 130 times smaller than the area of the GCC countries. The countries in GCC are: Bahrain Qatar Kuwait Oman Saudi Arabia. United Arab Emirates and other Arab League countries like Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan, and Turkey. The combined population of these countries is 56,000,000, whereas Israel is only 8,120,000. Now, comparing the economic aspects, the GDP of GCC countries combined is 3.65 trillion dollars, where it's only 331 million dollars. The military expenditure of GCC countries is 183 million dollars, and in Israel, it's only 17.2 million dollars. Apart from these, the Gulf countries have geographic advantages with connectivity from all sides. Major trade corridors pass through the region, whereas Israel is surrounded by enemy countries from all sides. Even though having such advantages, one might wonder why the Arabs would be scared of Israel. The significant reason behind this is the technological advancement of Israel over the Gulf states. Due to this, the Israel armed forces are much more advanced than the Arabs. The nuclear warheads are a major advantage for Israel, which has a count of 200. In the case of GCC, it possesses a single-digit number of nuclear warheads total combined. In the case of Israel, it develops its weapons for defence and research, but the weapons and other military equipment of Arab countries are usually purchased from other countries. Due to this, even though the Arab states spend huge amounts on defence, they are backwards compared to Israel. Israel is well known for its grade missiles and tanks, which can outnumber a larger force. It is a major exporter of arms and defence equipment in the other hand. Countries like India, Vietnam, Philippines are major buyers of it. This contributes to Israel's economy. Israel is A Small Nation But Mighty In Warfare, Striking Fear in its Enemies. It is evident from history that the Arab -Israel conflict of 1969 that how this small nation not only defended its territory but also managed to capture a large portion of Arab territory. This was later resolved through peace treaties where the annexed land was freed on conditions. Thus, from this, the dispute continues till now within the region. In which Israel managed to shift the geopolitical power in the region. Thus the past incidents and the recent figures show the superiority of Israel over Arab states and point out why Arabs should be scared of Israel |
FiftyFifty:Lie lie lie. Israel is a small country in size but mighty in warfare. No Arab nation can defeat them. Just in 10 days all Hezbollah commandos and leaders has been eliminated. 60% of Hezbollah weapons has been destroyed, that is a great achievement for Netanyahu |
Softmirror:Read or watch the 6 days war between Israel and Arab countries |
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has praised the UK Visa Application Centre in Enugu for its efficient and courteous service. During a visit to the centre, Mbah encouraged residents of the South East and South-South regions to utilise this convenient resource. A statement by Mbah’s media office on Thursday said that he also invited other foreign missions to establish similar centres in Enugu, citing the region’s large population and entrepreneurial spirit. He noted that the people of the South East are frequent business travellers who would greatly benefit from easily accessible visa services. The UK Visa Application Centre in Enugu eliminates the need for residents to travel to Lagos or Abuja for visa submissions. According to the statement, the governor spoke during a visit to the UK Visa Application Centre, Enugu, on Wednesday. “Frankly, the consular services here are fully functional. As you can see, the service to me was quite prompt. I have also been informed that this is the same prompt delivery to all applicants, who sought their services here. “So, I use this opportunity not only to invite those who are within the South East and South South states to come here for their visa applications, but also call on other foreign missions like the United States, the Chinese Government, and others to equally set up their consular services here,” he urged. On the viability of such centres, he added, “Do not forget that Enugu is a very important state in the entire south. So, if you looked at the population of Enugu State alone, you might miss the business and the opportunities that lay here. Do not forget that Enugu, at one point, was the regional capital of what today is known as South East and South South, and we continue to be relevant in the provision of various services. “Again, the South East is one region that is densely populated. We are talking about an area of less than 30,000 square kilometres with over 27 million people. “So, this is an opportunity to call on other foreign missions to come and site and provide their consular services in Enugu.” In September 2023, the British High Commission in Nigeria announced a new centre for UK visa applications in Enugu.
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Mrdellychy:Search Naija News Naija News PoliticsEdo Guber: Aisha Yesufu List Obaseki’s Sins, Ask Him To Stop ComplainingPublished on 23 September 2024 at 10:04 AMBy Enioluwa Adeniyi Kindly share this story: Aisha Yesufu Reacts As Tribunal Sacks Kogi Senator Caught Kneeling Before Gov. Bello Socio-political activist, Aisha Yesuf has harshly criticized Governor Godwin Obaseki for expressing dissatisfaction with the results of the Edo State governorship election, in which Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on Sunday that Okpebholo won the election held on September 21, 2024, securing victory in 11 local government areas. PlayUnmute Fullscreen In contrast, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won 7 local government areas, while Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) failed to win any. According to INEC’s Returning Officer, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, Okpebholo received a total of 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes, and Akpata, who managed only 18,737 votes. In a dramatic turn of events early Sunday morning, Governor Obaseki entered INEC’s collation center around 2 am, claiming his visit was to gather firsthand information about the results. However, he was escorted out of the premises by a combined team of policemen led by Deputy Inspector General Frank Mbah, around 4:10 am. Yesuf, in her reaction, pointedly questioned Obaseki’s grievances regarding the election outcome, urging him to accept the democratic process. She wrote on X, “I am looking for a video where Obaseki was speaking about the principles of democracy. Please share if you have it. “Obaseki that refused for 4 years to swear in 14 Edo House of Assembly members. “Obaseki that refused to swear in judges. He swore in 5 out of 8. “Obaseki that got his deputy Governor impeached. He is talking about democracy under attack.” |