₦airaland Forum

The clamour for the elevation of Mrs. Amina Yakowa, widow of the later governor of Kaduna State, Sir Patrick Yakowa, gained ground yesterday with northern traditional rulers and elders making strategic moves to bring this to fruition.

LEADERSHIP reliably gathered that very influential emirs and traditional title holders have resolved to unanimously back Yakowa’s widow for the position of deputy governor.

A delegation of monarchs and elders has already been drafted to meet with Vice President Namadi Sambo in the coming days to further drum support for the former first lady of Kaduna State.

The meeting with the VP, according to our source, is borne out of the fact that Sambo is the most senior political office holder from Kaduna State and northern Nigeria in general, and that he will play a vital role in the drive to enthrone Mrs. Yakowa.

LEADERSHIP also gathered that southern Kaduna elders unanimously support the appointment of Mrs. Yakowa to the number two position, which became vacant on Sunday soon after the then deputy governor took the oath of office to occupy the number one seat following the Governor Yakowa’s sudden death in a helicopter crash on Saturday

LEADERSHIP had reported yesterday that there were strong indications that Yakowa’s wife could be given the slot as a form of compensation. Southern Kaduna elders, under the auspices of Southern Kaduna Elders Consultative Forum, led by the former military governor of Rivers State, Major General Zamani Lekwot (rtd), had earlier held a closed-door meeting with the new governor and agreed that the vacant office be given to Mrs. Yakowa as a mark of honour to the man who did much for the state.

LEADERSHIP exclusively gathered that the elders’ forum, led by Zamani Lekwot and wife of the former late deputy governor of the state, Mrs. Charity Shekari, had early met with the Vice President Sambo to sell the idea to him.

Gen. Lekwot, it was gathered, told the governor that Mrs. Yakowa was Southern Kaduna’s choice for the vacant office and no one else.

The elders met with the governor at a private residence in Kaduna.

A member of the Kaduna State Assembly, Hon. Esther Abba, who spoke to our correspondent on phone, applauded the decision of the elders, saying “Yakowa has done so much that we cannot afford to allow his legacy to go unnoticed.”

According to Esther, who represents Zango Kataf, “the choice of Mrs. Yakowa is okay by me and I believe everybody in Southern Kaduna would like it. We support her appointment as a way of saying ‘thank you’ to His Excellency (Yakowa) for making us feel proud. In fact, we do not even need to think twice about it.”

Speaking on the matter, the state commissioner of women affairs, Maria Dogo also pledged her full support to the move.

She said, “Why not, there is nothing wrong with that, she deserves it.”

Also speaking to LEADERSHIP, the secretary-general, Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Adamu Mashal, said there was nothing wrong with the move.

According to him, “The loss of Yakowa was of monumental pain to all of us the Southern people, so nothing should be too big for his honour.  We are ready to give her maximum cooperation if she eventually emerges the deputy governor of the state. I totally support the idea.”

He added that Yakowa did a lot to balance the contending interests in the state more than any other leader before him.

LEADERSHIP checks, however, revealed that the chances of Mrs. Yakowa accepting the appointment is very slim, considering her humble disposition.

Other people who spoke to LEADERSHIP on the matter wished that Mrs. Yakowa be given any ministerial appointment instead of dragging her into the hard politics of the state.

For Hon. Victor Bobai, the idea was a welcome development, “but I would have loved it if she is considered for any ministerial slot. This will keep her away from Kaduna politics.”

 

Governors to monitor crash probe

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) yesterday resolved to recruit a consultant to participate in the presidential investigation into the immediate and remote causes into the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of late Kaduna State Governor Patrick Yakowa and former National Security Adviser (NSA) Andrew Azazi.

The governors, who held a four-hour over the tragic incident, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to ensure that the investigation is open and transparent. Most of the governors at the meeting wore grim faces.

The governor’s also commiserated with the late governor’s family and the entire state.

Reading their communiqué after the meeting, chairman of the forum and Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Amaechi said that governor supported the president’s directive for a thorough investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the helicopter.

Governors that attended to meeting include Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Alhaji Ibrahim Dangwambo (Gombe), Idris Wada (Kogi), David Jang (Plateau), Peter Obi (Anambra), Theodore Orji (Abia), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Kashim Shettima (Borno), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun).

The acting governor of Taraba State and some deputy governors described the loss of Yakowa and others as tragic and painful.

In their condolence statement to the new governor of Kaduna State Governor Murktar Ramalan Yero, the NGF chairman Amaechi said, “It is with pain that we are here to condole with you, not because we don’t share in your pain but because it is traditional to visit the owner of the corpse. We felt it because that your former boss was our colleague until two days ago. In the tragic manner in which he died, we have resolved to do two things; firstly is to support the President in his call for investigation and to come here to pay our condolences to you who is the chief mourner and the people of Kaduna State and the immediate family of Yakowa.”

He prayed God to give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable, just as he advised Governor Yero  continue with his predecessor’s programmes towards impacting the lives of Kaduna people.

He prayed that God will give the new governor the strength to lead the state.

Responding, Governor Muktar Ramalan Yero commended the show of love and concern exhibited by the Nigerian Governors forum, saying the death of his former boss was a sad one that was not envisaged by any one, adding that only God knows why the sad incident occurred.

He reiterated his commitment to consolidate and improve on the good works started by late Yakowa for which he was a part, and to also ensure full implementation of the 2013 budget presented to the State House of Assembly for consideration before his death, when approved.

Defence ministry’ll publicise cause of crash

In a related development, the minister of state for defence, Erelu Olusola Obada yesterday vowed to unearth the cause of the crash of the ill-fated Navy helicopter that claimed the lives of former Governor Yakowa, former NSA, General Azazi and four others.

Obada, who made this pledge in a condolence message to all Nigerians, gave assurance of the continued commitment the ministry in service of the nation.

A statement signed on her behalf by the ministry’s director of Press and Public Relations, Shehu Maikai reads in part: On behalf of the military and civilian staff of the ministry wishes to express her deep sympathy and regret over the unfortunate air crash involving the Nigerian Navy helicopter on Saturday. The ministry of defence will leave no stone unturned to ascertain the cause of the unfortunate incident.”. http://247nigerianewsupdate.com/kaduna-deputy-governor-emirs-elders-make-case-for-yakowas-wife/

"May he reap what he sow".

The Augusta 109 Naval Helicopter, which crashed in Bayelsa State on Saturday, was on its 15th trip for the day when the accident occurred, a senior naval officer told The PUNCH on Monday.

Kaduna State Governor Patrick Yakowa, ex-National Security Adviser, Gen. Andrew Azazi (retd.); and four others died in the crash.

The aircraft had been shuttling between Okoroba and Port Harcourt, carrying guests to and fro the venue of the burial of the father of President Goodluck Jonathan’s aide, Oronto Douglas, in Okoroba.

“The helicopter was made available for the use of guests at the funeral. One thing I can say is that it was going on its 15th trip when it crashed. I cannot say whether this could affect the performance of the helicopter,” the naval source said.

The source, who asked not to be named because he was not authorised to speak on the incident, also confided in one of our correspondents that investigators would also look into the possibility that the aircraft had been “overstretched” for the day.

But, the Nigerian Navy, at a press conference on Monday, said that the helicopter was air- worthy.

Spokesman for the Navy at the press conference, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogbor, said the crashed helicopter had more than 80 flight hours before its next scheduled routine maintenance.

According to Ogbor, who is the Nigerian Navy Chief of Training and Operations, the aircraft just had its last scheduled routine maintenance on November 19, 2012 and was cleared for operations on November 20, 2012 by technical support engineers.

“When the aircraft crashed, it was having more than 80 flight hours before the next scheduled routine maintenance,” he stressed, and that the captain in command had flown more than 800 hours, while the co-pilots had flown over 300 hours.

Ogbor added, “The Nigerian Navy will not want to pre-empt the findings of the investigations. All our pilots are trained in the best aviation institutions all over the world.

“An accident investigating team has been set up to probe the immediate and remote cause of the crash. Members of the team include aircraft investigation specialists, Augusta Westland (the manufacturers of the aircraft) and other aviation regulatory agencies as provided for by extant regulations.”

The Nigerian Navy has also defended the use of the helicopter during the funeral of Pa Douglas, saying the naval helicopters were employed in “multi-role military operations.”

These roles, it said, included surveillance, logistic support at sea, search and rescue and medical evacuation.

It added that apart from these roles, the helicopters were deployed in aid of civil authority in peace time.

“These include VIP movement and humanitarian/disaster relief operations,” Ogbor stated, adding that the Navy deployed three of its helicopters to Central and Eastern Naval Commands in support of its Niger Delta operations.

Meanwhile, wife of the President, Patience Jonathan, on Monday wept profusely for five minutes at the Kaduna Government House, official residence of Yakowa.

Patience was in Kaduna to commiserate with the family of the late governor when she broke down in tears.

The president’s wife, who arrived the residence at 1:30pm, was ushered into the home of the Yakowas by Vice-President Namadi Sambo and the Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, and she burst into tears as soon as she sighted the widow of the late governor, Amina.

When she finally calmed down about five minutes later, she said, “I am sorry that I am crying. I cry because I am a woman. I know what she’s passing through. We came here to console her and the good people of Kaduna State.

“Governor Yakowa was a peaceful man, a man who was everything; a strong and hard-working man. My sister, we sit in sorrow. I want you to know that you are the mother and father of your children now. We would continue remembering you in our prayers.”

The President’s wife later wrote in the condolence register, “Our dearly beloved Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, we received with rude shock news of your sudden and painful departure.

“We, however, give God praise that you lived a worthy life full of honour and integrity.

“We are also gladdened that you were a true patriot who was devoted to the welfare of your people without respect for the divides and differences. Our prayers are that God, almighty will receive you into His peace and grant you sweet repose.”

Also at the Yakowas’ residence, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, said that the country had lost a noble gentleman and a seasoned administrator. He described the late governor as a peace promoter who was committed to the development of the state and the nation.

National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, said the late governor and the ex-NSA died at a time the nation needed their services most.

Tukur told Yakowa’s widow, Amina, that he knew the husband 25 years ago and that he fondly called him my “son.”

“I fondly call your husband my son. I know him over 25 years. He was the Commissioner of Industry when I was the Minister of Industry. He is never tired of asking of me or seeing me throughout the time I was in office as Minister,” he said.

http://247nigerianewsupdate.com/helicopter-crashed-on-15th-trip-of-the-day-source/

Strong indications emerged yesterday suggesting that the wife of the late governor of Kaduna State, Mrs Amina Elizabeth Yakowa, could emerge the deputy governor of the state following the death of her husband in a helicopter crash on Saturday.

The plan to tap Amina as the deputy to the newly sworn-in governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, is being championed by northern governors across party divide, top northern politicians and governors from other regions of the country with the aim of sustaining Yekowa’s legacies.

The promoters of the move to install Yakowa’s wife could meet with Vice President Namadi Sambo in about a week’s time.

Members of the group, who refused to be named, told LEADERSHIP last night that they were convinced that Mrs Yakowa was the best candidate   for the position.

She was a former deputy director at the Ministry of Defence and only retired after her husband became governor.

The promoters said they were also inspired by the example of the wife of the former Senate President, Mrs Margery Okadigbo, who emerged to take over her husband, Chuba’s slot in the Senate. They also alluded to the recent example of a former Senator from Plateau State, Sen. Gyang Dantong, who was similarly succeeded by his wife, after he was killed by gunmen at a funeral in the state.

Mrs Yakowa was born on May 20, 1953 in Kwoi, Jaba Local Government of Kaduna State.

An educationist, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. She taught in many schools in Kaduna State before transferring her service to the Ministry of Defence, Abuja. According to the Kaduna State website, she is now on leave of absence.

A humane, humble and motherly person, Mrs Yakowa is known to be very compassionate, warm and accommodating. She is a patron to many associations, and sits on the board of many non-governmental organisations.

Within the short period of assumption of office as wife of the governor, Mrs Yakowa, in collaboration with the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) conditional cash transfer project, was able to assist poor families to improve their economic status through presentation of cash to start small businesses. She has also been actively involved in the state immunisation programme as well as the fight against malaria.

Only recently, Mrs Yakowa successfully hosted the First Lady, Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, to launch the Kaduna State chapter of Women for Change Initiative (W4CI), making the state the third to launch the programme.

‘We were planning our 34th marriage anniversary” Amidst tears, shock and sorrow, the 59-year-old widow of the late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Dame Amina, recollected the last encounter she had with her beloved husband before his untimely death in a helicopter crash, saying they were looking forward to the celebration of their 34th year of marriage.

She told LEADERSHIP exclusively how her late husband held her hand that Saturday morning, bid her farewell and said “until we meet in Abuja.”

Blessed with four children, Mama, as she is fondly called, said the death of her husband came as an unforgettable shock.

She said, “We normally wake up every 5am for a morning Mass and prayer. Sometimes, he asks me to pray for him.  And it so happened that Saturday morning, I could not wake up on time because I had a very serious cough.

“My husband woke up before me and prepared to leave for Abuja, and when he finished his preparation, he touch me and I turned and saw him standing beside me, wearing a white dress.”

“He said to me: ‘I know your cough has subsided because of what (drugs) you took yesterday (Friday), but don’t do anything to stress yourself.’

“He said all of us have to be in Abuja on Sunday for the thanksgiving church service organised by the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. He tapped me again and said farewell until we meet again in Abuja.

“He was my pillar; he was everything I have ever had. He was a symbol of unity. I am consoled by the fact that he left a good legacy for us. I thank God for the number of years we lived together. He left when we were all looking forward to celebrate our 34 years of marriage.  We will miss his kind gestures, humility and simplicity,” she sobbed.

Govs holds emergency meeting today Perturbed by the spate of air mishaps involving their counterparts in recent times, the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) will today hold an emergency meeting to deliberate on the matter.

The meeting is scheduled to hold by 11am at the residence of the chairman of the forum, Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi.

The governors, in a condolence message to with the families of Governor Patrick Yakowa, General Andrew Azazi and  their aides, also called on the aviation authorities and security agencies to work hard to ensure aviation safety, just as they called for a regular overhaul and maintenance of law enforcement facilities and equipment.

Deaths, huge national loss – IBB Former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, has described the deaths of Governor Patrick Yakowa, former National Security Adviser (NSA), General Owoye Azazi and four others in a helicopter crash, Saturday, as a huge national loss that “has left our hearts bleeding.”

In press statement personally signed by Gen. Babangida and obtained by LEADERSHIP yesterday, he stated that both late Yakowa and Azazi were “were distinguished in their different undertakings and helped to consolidate the gains of democracy.”

The statement described late Governor Yakowa as “a complete gentleman who was not only down to earth, but also preached good neighbourliness as one of the fundamental principles of uniting a pluralist country like ours.”

Deaths of Yakowa, Azazi, others devastating – Mark Senate President David Mark has described the deaths Governor Yakowa and General Azazi in the ill- fated Navy chopper in Bayelsa State on Saturday as devastating.

Senator Mark said the crash, which also claimed their aides, Dauda Tsoho and Warrant Officer Mohammed Kamal as well as the pilots, Commander Muritala Mohammed Daba and Lt. Adeyemi Sowole, was a national tragedy.

In an emotion-laden voice, Mark noted that the frequency of air mishaps in recent times has   renewed calls for caution and a return to the basics.

“My heart goes to the nation, especially the families and friends of the victims. It is another sad moment for the nation. It is a huge burden,” he said.

He called on aviation professionals and the appropriate authorities to rise up to the challenge to ensure that such air disasters are averted in the future.

Tambuwal Mourns Yakowa, Azazi Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described as tragic and sorrowful the helicopter crash which claimed the lives of Mr. Yakowa, Gen. Azazi and four others.

In a statement issued by his special adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam, Tambuwal said he was heartbroken by the news of the sad incident.

According to him, “It is quite unfortunate and disheartening that Nigerians are waking up to the reality of another air disaster which has claimed lives in the country yet again. I mourn the loss of the fine gentlemen aboard the Navy helicopter and pray to God to give our nation the fortitude to bear the loss.”

Tambuwal lamented that, in Yakowa, the country has lost one of its best technocrats and administrators.

Yakowa, Azazi’s deaths shocking – ACF The northern socio-cultural organisation, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), yesterday described the death of the late Kaduna State governor Patrick Yakowa as shocking.

ACF, in a statement signed by it spokesman, Anthony Sani, said it received “with severe shock and heavy heart” the news about the sudden deaths of the  late governor and that former NSA, General Azazi, and four others.

“The losses are not only to their families and associates but also to their states and the nation, precisely because they have gone at the time their services are needed the most. Our hearts are all broken by the deaths.

“But we must take solace in the fact that death is a necessary end and would come when it would come. May their souls rest in perfect peace as we accept to live with what cannot be changed,” the statement read.

JNI Mourns Yakowa, Calls For restraint The Jama’atu Nasir Islam (JNI) yesterday said it received with shock the sudden death of the Kaduna State governor, Sir Patrick Yakowa in a helicopter crash.

A statement signed by the JNI’s secretary-general, Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, commiserated with his immediate family, friends, relatives and the good people of Kaduna State, who it urged to be to be law abiding “and do all activities with restraint and caution”.

“Consequently, we call on the new governor to govern with the fear of Allah, equity, just and fairness as he discharges his mantle of leadership, while praying that Allah’s guidance will be with him as he pilots the affairs of the state. We call on all and sundry to give him the desired support,” the statement read.

Yakowa, a distinguished administrator, patriot, says Emir of Zazzau The Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris, yesterday described late Governor Yakowa as a distinguished administrator and patriot who served humanity well.

The Emir, who is the chairman of the State Council of Chiefs, said Yakowa had shaped the lives of many in the state positively.

“No doubt late Governor Yakowa’s death has robbed Kaduna State and the nation of the services of a great patriot and public figure,’’ he stated in a condolence letter made available to newsmen in Kaduna.

According to him, the governor had contributed immensely to the development of the nation, through diligence, hard work and honesty.

He commiserated with the people of the state, urging them to pray for the soul of the deceased.

Etsu Nupe mourns Yakowa, Azazi‘s deaths The Etsu Nupe and chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has described the death of former Governor Yakowa, Gen Azazi and four others in the ill-fated helicopter crash as a monumental loss, not only to their families and their states, but to the entire country.

The royal father said in a condolence message yesterday that Yakowa and former NSA were committed public officer, patriotic leaders and detribalised Nigerians.

“The two leaders showed love to their people and indeed Nigerians and were committed to the unity of the country,” he said.

“Though God has his reason for taking them at this time when we are in our trying moment, I commiserate with President Goodluck Jonathan, and indeed Nigerians over their death”.

He said the families of deceased and  Nigerians should be consoled by the fact  that late Yakowa and Azazi have left a legacy which would continue to be remembered by posterity and generations yet unborn.

The Etsu Nupe therefore prayed God to give the families the fortitude to bear the loss.

I’ll build on Yakowa’s foundations – Governor Yero Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, who was sworn in at 1:06pm yesterday at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House as the substantive governor of Kaduna State has assured the people of the state that he will build on the foundations set up by his predecessor, late Governor Yakowa.

Governor Yaro was sworn in by the state chief judge, Justice Rahila Cudjo, in a sombre ceremony attended by personalities, well-wishers and mourners at Government House.

In his acceptance speech after taking the oath of office, Governor Yaro said he was grief-stricken by over the death of his boss, who he described as a good man who served the state diligently and with total commitment.

“His humility, dedication to duty, fairness to all and a high sense of humour endeared him to many near and far, irrespective of religious, tribal or sectional inclinations; no wonder he was given a pseudo name, ‘Nakowa’ (loved by all),” he stated.

The new governor pledged to build on the achievements of the late governor, just as he   solicited prayers from the people of Kaduna State for divine help in piloting the affairs of the state.

“The vision of Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Nakowa was to secure, unite and develop Kaduna State. He invested so much on this and we started reaping the fruits of his labour. He wished to consolidate and advance on the achievements so far made and hence tagged Kaduna State’s 2013 budget which he presented to the State House of Assembly on Thursday, December 13, 2012, the ‘Budget of Consolidation and Achievement’.

“I sincerely desire to build on the good foundation that my boss has laid. I therefore covet your prayers for God’s wisdom, guidance and direction,” he said

Yaro had his primary school education at the L. E. A. Primary School, Kaura, Zaria City, Kaduna State (1974-1980) from where he proceeded to Government Secondary School, Ikara, Kaduna State (1980-1985) where he obtained West African School Certificate at Government Day Secondary School, Zaria, Kaduna State (1985-1986).

Between 1986-1988 / 1988-1991 he proceeded to the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and obtained Diploma in Banking in 2003, BSc Accounting, MBA/College of Accounting, Jos, Plateau State (2003-2004), and Certified National Accountant (CNA).

He started his working career as Assistant Accountant (NYSC), Ogun State Bulk Purchasing Corporation, Ibara, Abeokuta (1991-1992).

He started his political career when he was appointed Commissioner of Finance in Kaduna State from 2007-2010 and later the deputy governor in 2010.
http://247nigerianewsupdate.com/late-governor-yakowas-wife-may-emerge-deputy-governor/

We should fall back to Agriculture and Tourism too. We can build Nigeria and Make it a Holiday destination. Yes we can.

This joint is so on point. #Dbanj Rocks.

A - Allison Maduekwe
B - Boko-Haram
C - Corruption
D - Deregulation
E - Embezzlement
F - Flood / Fraud
G - God fatherism
H - Hired Killer
I - Insecurity / Injustice
J - Jungle Justice
K - kidnappers / killings
L - Lawlessness
M - Misappropriation
N - Nepotism
O - Oil theft & Bunkering
P - Poverty
Q - Quackery
R - Ridicule Governance
S - Sanusi Lamido
T - Treacherous / Thuggery
U - Unemployment
V - Vacant government
W - Wicked Leadership
X - Xero human tolerance
Y - Youth Negletion
Z - Zealotry

Please what is the way forward?

D President is proud of his wife and he does not care what anyone thinks of her. I wonder if some of us demonstrate this Kinda love for their wives. We should appreciate what we got so I don't see any reason why some people will still criticize the President for this kind gesture on his wife.

Abuja -President Goodluck Jonathan has described his wife Patience as the brightest star in his life and his jewel of inestimable value.

Jonathan was speaking at a ceremony to mark the 55th birthday anniversary of the First Lady at the State House, Abuja on Thursday.

Jonathan, after presenting a gift to Patience said: ”I thank God for her life and that she is not celebrating the day on a sick bed.

”She is the brightest star in my life, she is my jewel of inestimable value and I thank God for granting her good health.”

The First Lady praised God for keeping her alive to mark her birthday.

She said that whatever might have happened to her was God’s design for her life.

”I thank God for the gift of life and I want to deeply appreciate and thank my beloved husband for his love and support.

”I also thank my family, staff and Nigerians for praying for me.”

The event was marked with prayers and presentation of gifts by family, well wishers and friends, including the Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his wife, Olukemi, ministers of women affairs, finance, aviation, labour, foreign affairs, among others. (NAN)

http://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/10/president-says-dame-jonathan-a-bright-star/

..

A United States of America-based Nigerian lecturer, Prof. Ilesanmi Adesida, has become the first black man to be appointed the Provost/Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, United States of America.

Born in 1949 at Ifon, a town in Ondo State, Adesida, a professor of Electronic Engineering with outstanding works in nanotechnology, was appointed by the search committee of the institution on May 31, this year.

His appointment, according to a statement placed on the website of the institution, took effect from August 15 this year.

Before his appointment, Adesida was the Dean, College of Engineering of the institution.

According to the university's Vice-President and Chancellor, Dr. Phyllis Wise, Adesida succeeds Linda P.B. Katehi-Tseregounis, who last served the role on a permanent basis.

Senior campus administrators who served in the position on an interim basis after Dr. Katehi-Tseregounis' departure were Robert Easter and Richard Wheeler.

Adesida, a former Head of Department, Electrical Engineering, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Bauchi State, will oversee the institution's academic programmes, policies and priorities, which have been designed to ensure the quality of the educational experience for students and to sustain an environment that encourages and supports academic excellence. He was at ABTU between 1985 and 1987.

But now as the chief academic officer of UI, Adesida will work closely with the Chancellor, other vice-chancellors, the deans of academic colleges and other units, academic staff, the Faculty Senate, and various committees in setting overall academic priorities for the university.

The university has a budget of $1.5b with more than $400m in research expenditures. There are 42,000 students and 3,000 faculty members. The university is renowned for its interdisciplinary collaborations, advances in human understanding, community outreach, global partnerships, and life-changing scientific developments.

By his appointment, Adesida, who graduated with a Bachelors of Science, Master's and PhD in electrical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley in 1974, 1975 and 1979 respectively, will become one of the highest paid academics in the US.

According to UI's Vice-President and the Chancellor, Dr. Phyllis Wise, the cerebral don will earn $430,000 per annum, about N67.51m. With this amount, Adesida's annual salary is $30,000 higher than President Barrack Obama, who earns $400,000 per year.

Commenting on his appointment, Adesida, who is now a naturalised American, was quoted by a news agency as expressing happiness at the university's gesture.

Adesida said, "I'm honoured and humbled to be selected as vice-chancellor/provost of this great campus (university). This is something I take very seriously. I know how to work very hard and I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and get the job done."

According to the website of the university, Adesida is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Vacuum Society, and the Optical Society of America. He is also the past-president of IEEE Electron Devices Society.

His outstanding work in the field of Nanotechnology has received much acclaim in the scientific community. He has developed a body of work in the processing of semiconductors and other materials at the nanometer-scale level.

After his studies, he worked in various capacities at what is now known as the Cornell Nanofabrication Facility and the School of Electrical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.

In June 2005, Adesida became the 13th dean since the inception of the College of Engineering in 1870.

He joined UI as a faculty member in 1988 and he is currently the Donald Biggar Willett Professor of Engineering, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and Director of the Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology.

Adesida has previously served as the Director of the Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory and the Associate Director for education of the NSF Engineering Research Centre for Compound Semiconductor Microelectronics.

According to the university's website, Adesida's research interests include nanofabrication processes and ultra-high-speed optoelectronics.

He also has extensive experience in development of novel processes for wide band gap materials such as silicon carbide and gallium nitride. He has also worked on ultra-high-speed photo detectors and photo receivers in various materials systems.

Adesida has chaired many international conferences, including serving as the Programme and General Chair of the Electronic Materials Conference, 2000-2003. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Vacuum Society and Optical Society of America. He is past-president of IEEE Electron Devices Society, and a member of the National Academy of Engineering.

According to an appointment notice on the institution's website, Adesida will also continue as Donald Biggar Willett Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, non-tenured, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, with an increment of $5,000, effective August 16, 2012, for a total annual salary of $430,000.

"In addition, Adesida will continue to hold the following appointments on terms which were effective August 16, 2011: Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, on indefinite tenure, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, non-salaried; Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, non-tenured, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, non-salaried; Professor, Coordinated Science Laboratory, College of Engineering, non-tenured, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, non-salaried; Research Professor, Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, College of Engineering, non-tenured, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, non-salaried; Institute Affiliate, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, office of the VC for Research, non-tenured, on an academic year service basis, on zero per cent time, non-salaried; and Institute Affiliate, Institute of Genomic Biology."

Culled from The Sun News

A final year student is in need of help towards the actualization of this project topic "IMPACT OF VIBRATION ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF AN ELECTRIC GENERATOR". Pls house, Ineed you to help me with useful Info.Thanks in advance.

Fast-rising singer, David Adeleke, aka Davido, is set to reward his loyal fans and music lovers in general, as a new interactive SMS game called the Davido Trivia Service will soon be launched on the MTN platform. As part of the game, Subscribers are tasked with answering five simple questions about the music star.

Lucky winners who answer each of the questions correctly will win Samsung Galaxy pocket phones and other prizes.

Chidi Okeke, the CEO of Mcomm, a music distribution service provider and the company driving the service, says, "The Davido Trivia Service is open to all Nigerians and it affords music fans the opportunity to connect with one of Nigeria's favourite new stars, Davido.http://www.ipaidabribenaija.com/latest-news/read.php?id=9286

Pls I just copied this story from somewhere. Am male and I only brought dis here to share with U guys.

People should not judge me but help me understand what I’ve gotten myself into and how to come out of these complications. Pls I can’t disclose my name for obvious reasons.

Let me just go straight to the point. I’m a good wife to my husband and he loves me too. We are both sex freaks, sometimes we even make love in the kitchen while am cooking since we live alone. That’s how sweet our marriage was. But not any more.

Over four years into our union no “evidence” and pressures from my family and his were getting unbearable so I took to a colleague’s advice. I started dating a young guy but this guy always insist on using condom on me, claiming he can only have direct sex with a woman that is ready to get pregnant for him.

I told him I was ready and we started doing skin-to-skin for about three (3) months before my husband finally called me one weekend. Meanwhile, I didn’t know my colleague has told this my boyfriend some things about my personal life, especially my husband’s “inability” to impregnate me.

Back to my husband: he called me and said he was ready for us to go see a doctor so we could know what is wrong as I had earlier suggested. I was happy because it would help us get medical help if something was actually wrong with either of us.

But I got much more than I bargained for when the doctor came back with the results of the tests that were carried out on us. He said my husband and I are perfectly ok and even congratulated my husband. Congratulation for what? I asked the doctor.

He said my husband has done it, I was already six weeks pregnant! I was filled with joy and my husband too. We celebrated the good news with several rounds of passionate sex when we got home that day. I’m now five months heavy.

I’ve stopped seeing my boyfriend and also resigned from work. Somehow my colleague told this guy I was pregnant and he came looking for me in our house. He said I ran away with his pregnancy, bla bla bla, saying I should do the honourable thing and give him his baby after the baby is delivered. Since that day, I’ve not been myself.

He now calls me almost every afternoon to ask how my baby is doing and other rubbish. My husband is beginning to suspect that something is bothering me but I’ve been taking care of his side. However, my BIG problem is this guy. I don’t think he’s the owner of my pregnancy.

After all, the doctor said nothing is wrong with my husband and I believe my husband actually got me pregnant but I can’t tell him about this guy, it will destroy our marriage.

I need people’s advise on how to handle this guy once and for all. Please help me!!!!

Ileke-IdI:
What do you think?

https://naijalife.freehostia.com/mag/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/funke-akindele-iroko-tv2.jpeg

I think she wore too much makeup.

The topic says "A childhood photo of May D". Yet some people opened it and started complaining, But who forced u to open the thread in d first place. #Just thinking loud#

Cristiano Ronaldo is sad. That’s exactly how the player himself described his current state of mind after Sunday night’s 3-0 win over Granada, in which he scored twice, but refused to celebrate. His post-match quotes set the alarm bells ringing at Real Madrid, already aware of Cristiano’s unhappiness following a meeting the previous day with president Florentino Perez and sporting director Jose Angel Sanchez. But while the club were aware of the issue, they had not imagined it would cause such a furore the following day.

Ronaldo’s reasons remain unclear, with Florentino, coach Jose Mourinho and even agent Jorge Mendes said to be in the dark regarding the player’s problems with the club and his decision to air his grievances to the press on Sunday.

According to some of Spain’s most prestigious press, it seems to be a combination of factors which have contributed to Cristiano’s current melancholy. They all agree on one thing, however: at the root of the problem lie the negotiations for a new contract which are yet to bear fruit.

Ronaldo’s agents have been in discussion with Madrid for some time over a deal to renew the Portuguese’s contract. Cristiano has a deal until 2015 and receives around €10 million each year before tax. Performances on the pitch have been outstanding and, as the club had agreed in principle to extend his deal, the signature seemed a forgone conclusion.

Over the last three years, players such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Samuel Eto’o have earned more money than Ronaldo, despite performing at a lower level than the 27-year-old. And it is believed Cristiano was keen on upping his salary to become the world’s highest-earning footballer this summer. Madrid, meanwhile, are aware of his worth – both on and off the pitch.

The problem, however, lies in the abolition of the so-called ‘Beckham Law’, which allowed foreigners who had lived in Spain for less than 10 years and who earned above €120,000 per annum to pay a lower tax rate of around 23 per cent and not the usual 45%. David Beckham was one of the first to take advantage of the law after his move in 2003.

Having arrived when the law was still in force, players like Cristiano and Kaka still benefit from those advantages, too, but will cease to do so as soon as they sign new contracts. That means Madrid are currently paying around €15.5m per year in wages to allow Ronaldo to take home €10m after tax. But if the reported raise to €15m becomes a reality with a renewal, the club will be forced to fork out a massive €31m, losing over half of that total to the taxman every year.

It is conceivable, then, that Madrid are currently unwilling to renew Ronaldo’s deal on those terms, given that they can keep Cristiano until 2015 and save around €45m in taxes by letting him see out his present contract, albeit with the considerable risk of losing their star player for free at the end of his deal.http:///6qm4LaQN

Malawian: He is igbo born, mafriend!, Yoruba born nigerians are who he is battling in england for the queen. Get you facts right.

Nigerians are talking and a fool from Malawi is not supposed to be taken serious. Back to topic, Cograts Victor,Nigerian born FIRST BLACK London Met police chief.

Fans who trooped en masse to watch Africa's Afrobeats icon D'Banj were certainly not disappointed as his concert was excitedly hailed by a mammoth crowd at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre on Monday August 27 2012.

Thrilling the audience with a rich repertoire of songs spanning his over seven year career, D'Banj, along with his dexterous dancers, and a full live band, issued hit after massive hit on stage and took the audience musically through huge repertoire, including 'Mr Endowed', 'Scapegoat', 'Why Me' and many more songs.

He ended the night with his international award winning hit 'Oliver Twist'. With enviable ease, D'Banj once again wooed his eager audience, showing why, in such a short time, he has become one of Africa's greatest music ambassadors.

D'banj was supported by his friends from G.O.O.D Music, as well as Naeto C, May7ven and others.

When he spoke after the concert, D'Banj expressed gratitude to all his fans who had enthusiastically welcomed the star just before his epic performance. "It's been an awesome week here in London. My fans are simply amazing! As always, it has been a great opportunity to once again connect with my fans, one that I will always cherish."

D'Banj will also be supporting 21 year old British singer song writer, Rita Ora, on her UK tour beginning on August 30th, 2012. http://www.ipaidabribenaija.com/latest-news/read.php?id=8581

kuramo: Here is the link .

http://www.abns.org/images/misc/schedule_exams.jpg

The American Board of Neurological Surgery consists of 14 Directors selected from practicing neurosurgeons throughout North America. Directors are elected after nominations are received from the following societies: American Association of Neurological Surgeons (4), Society of Neurological Surgeons (4), Congress of Neurological Surgeons (4), American Academy of Neurological Surgery (1), Neurosurgical Society of America (1). Each director serves for a single six-year term. Appointments are staggered, and 2-3 new directors come on the Board each year.

Officers.

Nelson M. Oyesiku, MD
Atlanta, Georgia
Chairman

Mitchel S. Berger, MD
Salt Lake City, Utah
Vice-Chairman

Craig A. Van Der Veer, MD
Charlotte, North Carolina
Vice-Chairman

Fredric B. Meyer, MD
Rochester, Minnesota
Secretary

Matthew A. Howard, III, MD
Iowa City, Iowa
Treasurer

Directors

Anthony L. Asher, MD
Charlotte, North Carolina

Jeffrey N. Bruce MD
New York, New York

Alan R. Cohen, MD
Cleveland, Ohio

Mark N. Hadley, MD
Birmingham, Alabama

Robert E. Harbaugh, MD
Hershey, Pennsylvania

Karin Muraszko, MD
Ann Arbor, Michigan

David W. Roberts, MD
Lebanon, New Hampshire

Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD
Charlottesville, Virginia

B. Gregory Thompson, MD
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Vincent C. Traynelis, MD
Chicago, Illinois

The offices of the American Board of Neurological Surgery are located in Houston Texas, and full-time administrative staff are available during regular business hours to answer any questions regarding the organization.

Executive Director
Mary Louise Spencer
Woodbridge CT

Thanks for adding up the link bro. I was about to do that when I saw ur post.

History has been made in the United States of America as a Nigerian, Prof. Nelson Mobolanle Oyesiku, is now the chair of American Board of Neurological Surgery.

The primary function of the Board is to conduct examinations for neurosurgeons and then certify those who meet the requirement, while its broad aim is to encourage the study, improve the practice, elevate the standards, and advance the science of neurological surgery.

Oyesiku, who hails from Abeokuta, Ogun State, had his primary education at Corona School before proceeding to St Gregory's College for his Secondary education. He bagged his medical degree from the University of Ibadan School of Medicine and did his internship at the General hospital, Lagos.

He obtained his Masters degree from University of London, United Kingdom and completed his PhD in neuroscience at Emory University, Atlanta, US.

Oyesiku, whose areas of clinical research include brain tumors, carpal tunnel syndrome, endoscopy, hydrocephalus, pituitary tumors, stereotactic surgery, and trigeminal neuralgia, had stellar academic record both in Nigeria and overseas.

A report on the website of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons noted that he had been "selected by his peers as one of the best doctors in America and was selected by the Consumer Research Council of America as one of America's top surgeons."

Oyesiku told Newsmen that there was no question about the fact that his educational background in Nigeria helped his success in life.

"I am extremely proud of the education I received in Nigeria. It was the top notch and quality education that allowed me to stand toe to toe with my colleagues," he said.

Admitting that he was not an expert on the 'Nigerian situation', Oyesiku however said from what he heard, that quality had dropped substantially.

Oyesiku, who emigrated to the US about three decades ago, still visits Nigeria regularly and was there in February, and may likely pay another visit before the year runs out.

"Right now, I do not have any solid plan of returning home but I will give that a thought and spend more time at home than the two weeks I spend," he told Newsmen in response to a question on whether he plans to return to Nigeria.

He however subscribed to the view that Nigerian professionals in the diaspora should consider returning home to contribute their quota, adding that "brain drain is a net loss" because its takes time to train professionals.

On what level Nigeria could be placed in the area of neurological surgery, he said in comparison to US, "Nigeria is a long way off", but quickly added that it would be an unfair comparison because US is even a long way ahead of countries in the developed world.

He however added that the private sector had a lot to do in revamping the nation's health sector, citing the improvement in the telecoms, oil and gas, and the finacial sectors that were once dominated by government.

President of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Dr. Michael Etomi, said Oyesiku's appointment underscored the fact that Nigeria had many physicians and other professionals who had excelled and continued to excel, not only in the US, but also in other countries.

Etomi said this also underscored the need for the Nigerian government to harness its vast human resources in the Diaspora for the benefit of the nation.

Medical Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories at the Presbyterian Cardiovascular Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina, Dr. Yele Aluko, who was a year ahead of Oyesiku at University of Ibadan, described him as a brilliant student who had consistently blazed the trail of medical endeavours in general and neuro surgery in particular.

The American Board of Neurological Surgery, established in 1940, is made up of 14 directors, who are selected from practicing neurosurgeons throughout North America.

These directors are elected after nominations are received from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Society of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, American Academy of Neurological Surgery, and Neurosurgical Society of America.

Nigerian Now Chairs American Board Of Neurological-Surgeons

History has been made in the United States of America as a Nigerian, Prof. Nelson Mobolanle Oyesiku, is now the chair of American Board of Neurological Surgery.

The primary function of the Board is to conduct examinations for neurosurgeons and then certify those who meet the requirement, while its broad aim is to encourage the study, improve the practice, elevate the standards, and advance the science of neurological surgery.

Oyesiku, who hails from Abeokuta, Ogun State, had his primary education at Corona School before proceeding to St Gregory's College for his Secondary education. He bagged his medical degree from the University of Ibadan School of Medicine and did his internship at the General hospital, Lagos.

He obtained his Masters degree from University of London, United Kingdom and completed his PhD in neuroscience at Emory University, Atlanta, US.

Oyesiku, whose areas of clinical research include brain tumors, carpal tunnel syndrome, endoscopy, hydrocephalus, pituitary tumors, stereotactic surgery, and trigeminal neuralgia, had stellar academic record both in Nigeria and overseas.

A report on the website of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons noted that he had been "selected by his peers as one of the best doctors in America and was selected by the Consumer Research Council of America as one of America's top surgeons."

Oyesiku told Newsmen that there was no question about the fact that his educational background in Nigeria helped his success in life.

"I am extremely proud of the education I received in Nigeria. It was the top notch and quality education that allowed me to stand toe to toe with my colleagues," he said.

Admitting that he was not an expert on the 'Nigerian situation', Oyesiku however said from what he heard, that quality had dropped substantially.

Oyesiku, who emigrated to the US about three decades ago, still visits Nigeria regularly and was there in February, and may likely pay another visit before the year runs out.

"Right now, I do not have any solid plan of returning home but I will give that a thought and spend more time at home than the two weeks I spend," he told Newsmen in response to a question on whether he plans to return to Nigeria.

He however subscribed to the view that Nigerian professionals in the diaspora should consider returning home to contribute their quota, adding that "brain drain is a net loss" because its takes time to train professionals.

On what level Nigeria could be placed in the area of neurological surgery, he said in comparison to US, "Nigeria is a long way off", but quickly added that it would be an unfair comparison because US is even a long way ahead of countries in the developed world.

He however added that the private sector had a lot to do in revamping the nation's health sector, citing the improvement in the telecoms, oil and gas, and the finacial sectors that were once dominated by government.

President of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Dr. Michael Etomi, said Oyesiku's appointment underscored the fact that Nigeria had many physicians and other professionals who had excelled and continued to excel, not only in the US, but also in other countries.

Etomi said this also underscored the need for the Nigerian government to harness its vast human resources in the Diaspora for the benefit of the nation.

Medical Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories at the Presbyterian Cardiovascular Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina, Dr. Yele Aluko, who was a year ahead of Oyesiku at University of Ibadan, described him as a brilliant student who had consistently blazed the trail of medical endeavours in general and neuro surgery in particular.

The American Board of Neurological Surgery, established in 1940, is made up of 14 directors, who are selected from practicing neurosurgeons throughout North America.

These directors are elected after nominations are received from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Society of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, American Academy of Neurological Surgery, and Neurosurgical Society of America.

http://www.thisdaylive.com/articles/nigerian-now-chairs-american-board-of-neurological-surgery/123419/

wandeay: who cares

I do. And some other people here do too.

@Op, You're one of those allowing all those small African countries to belittle us. Imagine a Ghanian see what u just wrote about your own country.. Pls let's mind what we type here. Am seeing this from abroad and am sure so many other peeps from diff. Locations gets to read stuffs on here.

Sweetnecta: she won't. and when oyedepo realizes this sister is in paradise and he as a wealthy pastor is not, then he will know who has really been poor and wretched all along.

And Where do u think u're going??..Heaven??. Am not in support of Oyedepo but I feel its also wrong to Judge him. Let God decide for himself and If u wanna help the Woman urself, Pls Do.Thanks and God bless.

Same Bad news we hear everyday..Hoping things will change for better sometime soon.

House Speaker Aminu Tambuwal has rejected a plea by security agents to help retrieve the $620,000 cash businessman Femi Otedola gave a lawmaker, Farouk Lawan.

The police have asked Lawan, chairman of the ad hoc committee which probed the multi-billion naira fuel subsidy scandal, to surrender the cash, which he admitted collecting. But the lawmaker says he will not give up the evidence that Otedola bribed him against his wish.

Besides, he has not shown up at the police Special Task Force (STF) probing the matter to say all he knows about the bribe.

Tambuwal is said to have rejected the request because, according to sources, "he does not want to be roped in".

The Speaker was said to have been suspicious of why security agencies were mounting pressure on him to get the cash from Lawan.

A legislative aide said: "The Speaker turned down the request because security agencies might come up with a theory that Lawan kept the bribe with Tambuwal.

"Although the security agencies were not happy with the Speaker's attitude, the man said as a lawyer he has enough experience to know what could happen when you are turning in evidence.

"He has fears that with a little shred of evidence, he might be roped in."

The police yesterday reached out to principal officers of the House and influential members of the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) to prevail on Lawan to appear before it today or face the consequences.

The House and the Police were involved in a hide and seek game yesterday.

The House said it on June 6 struck an unwritten agreement with the police hierarchy that Lawan could only be available in two weeks after it might have concluded its internal investigation into the matter.

A source said in the presence of the principal officers of the House, the police hierarchy communicated the agreement to the investigating desk.

Ahead of the police final decision on Lawan today, there were indications that five to 10 more lawmakers might be invited by the police based on audio tape of the conversation between Otedola and Lawan.

The Nation learnt that the police may crack down on Lawan today, if he refuses to honour police invitation.

A source said: "We have sent emissaries to Lawan; they are talking to him to honour police invitation. We are hopeful that this persuasion will work.

"Let us see how it will go, but I think by the end of Thursday, Farouk must have chatted with the Police. We are just trying to be civil."

But a member of the House said: "When some of our principal officers met with the police team on June 6, they asked the hierarchy to give them two weeks to investigate the allegation before asking Lawan to report for interrogation by the STF.

"The principal officers were obliged the two-week request. That is why Lawan has not appeared before the STF. We are only honouring our own part of the unwritten agreement."

The source went on: "That claim by some lawmakers appears strange because Lawan is in the country for his recess. We are not aware of any agreement. With the international dimension the matter has taken, does he need two weeks to report to the police to make a statement?

"We have reached out to the House leadership through eminent Nigerians to allow Farouk to come to the police. That is the latest on this matter; let Farouk Lawan honour the police."

It was learnt that the House leadership was battling last night to find a solution to the issue between it and the police.

A member of the House from the Northeast said: "For hours, Farouk Lawan met with Tambuwal and principal officers at the Speaker's residence on Wednesday on how to handle police invitation.

"A solution is being found in such a manner that it will not affect our relationship with the police. Let them be patient."

It was also learnt that five to 10 members of the House might also be invited by the police based on the audio and video tapes which were being shown some key House members yesterday.

The police source added: "Yes, we may invite more lawmakers, but we want to hear from Lawan first; that is the logical order. Let everybody talk to him to report by Thursday or else it may be a different story."

The ongoing investigation has, however, created panic among House members following the rush to watch the video tape of the Otedola-Lawan game and listening to the audio tape by lawmakers

A source said: "From the tape, the negotiation was higher Otedola did not start video-taping, until when the rate was reduced to $5million. Later Otedola reduced it to $3million.

"There was another interesting aspect where Otedola told Lawan that the balance of the $3million was ready and the oil baron was asked to fly in the balance.

"Otedola said as soon as he got to Abuja, he would call Lawan but the lawmaker could be heard loudly saying: 'It is possible we might be in the chamber but I will give you the number of a trusted hand... (A member of the House).


"The said member, who was a union activist before his election, was said to have come from a Yoruba speaking area in the North-Central zone of the country."

-Culled from the Nation

⁠June 14, 2012  |   ⁠Filed under: 247 Business & Economy  |   ⁠Posted by: admin

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It was also learnt that Gombe Governor, and former Accountant General,  Ibrahim Dankwabo, and Petroleum minister, Deziani Madueke were cleared by the committee under controversial circumstances. At that hearing where the report was considered, Honorable Robinson Uwak was over ruled by Deputy speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, presiding,  when he (Uwak), expressed shock at the exclusion of Madueke from the list.

Pointblanknews.com sources hinted that the Justice ministry was not excited about those indicted by Lawan’s report because the rumor was already rife in high places that some marketers were wrongfully indicted while some guilty ones have varnished.

Attorney General, Bello Adoke who described the report as ‘fact finding’, our source said, may have been vindicated by the accusations and counter accusations. Adoke had insisted   the report was not cut and dry. He had said “Nevertheless, when the report and accompanying resolutions are received, the relevant law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies will commence the tedious process of sieving through the report, with a view to assembling all the essential ingredients required to sustain criminal charges that may be filed as a result of such investigations”

Sources also hinted that Lawan and Emenalo did not actually keep the leadership of the House, some chairman and key members in the dark as rogue marketers paid up. Financial crime chairman, Jagaba who Lawan said received a letter from him on April 24 at 347 am, same day he said Otedola gave him the $600,000, and Ihedioha  were alleged to be in the know.

Pointblanknews.com sources hinted that agents of Madueke, and Dankwanbo paid huge cash for their clearance. On Dankwabo,  Lawan simply explained to the House that the Central Bank of Nigeria told him that it was the PPPRA which paid the N999 Million 28 times in twenty four hours, and not Dankwabo.

Pointblanknews.com learnt that some of the companies paid up because the amounts demanded by Lawan were chick feed compared to the hundreds of millions of dollars they were expected to refund.

Last week, Femi Otedola alleged that Lawan confirmed to him that several other companies were paying up. Irrespective of the clarification made at the hearing, Otedola said Lawan still approached him a few days before the report was to be tabled on April 18, 2012 before the House of Representatives, demanding money so that Zenon’s name will be kept out of the report.

Otedola said “When this happened, I was very angry and reminded him that Zenon has never participated in the subsidy scheme and that it would be criminal to rope in the company for something it did not do. But Lawan responded, stating that several other marketers were playing ball and had offered the members of the committee large sums of money to ensure that their companies’ names were not published in the report,”

The House committee indicted 18 companies that did not appear before it and asked them to refund a whooping N41 Billion. They are Mobil Oil Nigeria allotted the highest share of N15 billion. Somerset is being asked to refund N3.1 billion; while AS Nigeria Limited is being asked to refund.1.5 billion.

Others include Techno Oil (N1.1 billion); Oil Bath (N1.1 billion); Muthaff (N1.2 billion); Stonebridge (N1.8 billion); Petrotrade (N1.5 billion); Lucky Energy (N1.7billion); Rocky Energy (N1.7billion); Lotto Oil (N1.5 billion) and Prudent Energy (N1.4 billion).

Pointblanknews.com learnt that the committee tried to blackmail the above listed companies unless they paid up. It is instructive to note that two days before the alleged $600,000 exchanged hands between Otedola and Lawan, the 14 marketers whose names were on the committee’s list threatened to seek redress in court. Mike Ozekhome who represents two of the firms said his clients would seek punitive damage.

Some of the big ones are Femi Otedola’s Zenon Oil, N233 Billion; Oando owned by Wale Tinubu, N228 Billion; Mike Adenuga’s Conoil, N37 Billion; MRS, N225 Billion; and Folawiyo Oil, N113 Billion.

Pointblanknews.com also gathered that just as Lawan allegedly told Otedola, the plot was to remove names as payments were made. Said our source “The report was dead on arrival. The plot was to ask for a fraction of how much you stole, you pay up and all will be well”