₦airaland Forum

...Accuse Chief Judge Of Breach Of Code Of Conduct, Large Scale Corruption


Aggrieved members of staff of Osun state judiciary have accused the chief Judge of the state, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, of unchecked breach of the code of conduct for public officers.

The workers explained why they have refused to call off the industrial action it's members have embarked upon.

According to them, the Chief Judge allegedly engaged in misappropriation of public funds, illegal virement, disobedience of court order, diversion of funds and general abuse of office.

According to them, following the receipt of numerous petitions and complaint of the judiciary staff workers union against Justice Adepele Ojo, from civil societies organization including the Osun State Chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), the Osun State House of Assembly investigated the complaints and petitions by setting up a committee which proceeded to invite several persons and called for documents after which a finding was made showing that the allegations have some semblance of truth in them.

The workers said the Committee presented its report to the house after which same was deliberated on by the House and a recommendation was made to Governor Ademola. Adeleke for action.

Theybsaid the Osun State Chapter of JUSUN have been constantly agitating for the welfare of its staff for the release of the entitlement of the staff on one hand and the reinstatement of some of the staff who have been on suspension for more than 54 months despite the fact that the allegation pursuant to which they were suspended had been determined by the court and have been found not culpable, on the other hand.

The workers chronicled the acitivites to include"

"Engagement of Consultant without due process and Requisite Approval
In gross violation of the General Code of Conduct for Public Officers and the Code of Conduct for Procurement, Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, the Chief Judge of the Osun State Judiciary, unilaterally and without following due process awarded the contract for the collection of fees for e-filing of affidavit to a Consultant without any written or signed contract or memorandum of understanding approved by the requisite state revenue bodies including the State Board of Internal Revenue and the Auditor General of Osun State. In fact, it was discovered that the said Consultant who was unilaterally engaged was authorised by Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, the Chief Judge of the Osun State High Court of Justice, to collect fees pursuant to a consultancy arrangement between the Chief Judge and the Consultant only to merely remit a token to the account of the states without any audit whatsoever.


"Collection of Robe Allowance of a Brother Judge
Between the year 2014 and 2015, Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo was applied for robe allowance of eleven (11) judges of the Osun State High Court of Justice and when the moneys were approved and paid into the account of the Judiciary.

"The sum of NGN5,000,000.00 which was the robe allowance of a brother judge, Hon. Justice Oloyede, was not paid to him. Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo was alleged to have, in flagrant abuse of due process and the known norms, converted the said sum to personal use by leveraging on his authority as the Chief Judge to unlawfully instructed the pay-mistress, Toyin Akinbola, to pay the said sum into his personal account. it was further alleged that when this was discovered and Honourable Justice Oloyede approached the Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo about the issue, rather than refund the money which was alleged to have been illegally and unlawfully received into his personal account, Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo simply applied for another robe allowance in the name of Honourable Justice Oloyede in the sum of NGN5,000,000.00 which was paid to the latter in 2022. The sum of NGN5,000,000.00 which was paid to Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo was never refunded by him up till date.

"Application of the running cost of the judiciary
The sum of NGN1,000,000.00 per month had been allocated and budgeted as part of the Running Costs of the Osun State Judiciary for Books which includes law report and other materials for legal research. Reports however shows that since 2015 during the ongoing tenure of Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo as the Chief Judge of Osun State High Court of Justice, no single law report has been bought but the NGN1,000,000.00 is being spent every month without any evidence that books were bought up till the present day. The accumulated budget for books, magazines and other periodicals since 2015 is approximately 96 million naira. Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo as the Chief Judge of the Osun State High Court of Justice has not been able to tender any explanation in relation to this and these monies remain completely unaccounted for.

"Usurpation of the Powers of the Osun State Judicial Service Commission
In complete usurpation of the powers of the judicial service commission which is the body responsible for the investigation, discipline and recommendation of appropriate sanction for Judiciary Staff workers from level 7 and above, Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo was alleged to unilaterally and without recourse to the Judicial Service Commission suspend five (5) judiciary staff workers the least of ranked of whom was on level 8 while some of them were even level 10. It is instructive to note that up till now, the Judicial Service Commission is not aware that any of the officers were ever investigated or suspended. The Government of Osun State is also not aware up to date that any of the staff is under suspension or any form of punishment as the government continues to pay their salaries.

"Unlawful collection of rent allowance
Every judge is entitled to certain percentage of his salary as rent payable by the state government for judges who are not resident in government provided judicial officers’ quarters. All other judges except the Chief Judge stay in their respective private residence. Only the Chief Judge lives in premises provided by the government. It was however alleged that while staying in government provided residence, Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo as the Chief Judge of the Osun State High Court of Justice, still collects rent allowance like other judges who lives in their respective private residence despite residing in government provided official residence in flagrant breach of the Code of Conduct.

"Unlawful and Illegal Variation of the Order of a Brother Judge by administrative instruction
Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo was alleged to have varied the judicial Order in a suit which was tried by brother judge through administrative directions to the Registrar of the Court by instructing the said Registrar to pay money which was ordered by a brother judge in Charge No. HIK/8C/16 to be paid into the account of the state government as revenue into the account of the state judiciary for personal disbursement. Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo as the Chief Judge of the Osun State Judiciary illegally and unlawfully reviewed and varied the Order of a brother judge in Charge No. HIK/8C/16 when he, in extra judicial manner, allegedly instructed that sum of NGN7,400,000.00 which were proceeds of arm robbery ordered to be paid into the account of the State Government be paid into the account of the judiciary and disbursed the money as part of the budget of the judiciary.

Oil theft: Saboteurs, perpetrators out to smear image of Naval Chief with falsehood, CSO warns


The Centre for African Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights (CALSER) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by some disgruntled elements to blackmail the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.


Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Abuja, convener,  Professor Thomas Uzah said oil thieves are on the prowl, seeking the head of the Naval Chief for thwarting their illicit business. 


Uzah said the allegations against Ogalla and a respected institution like the Nigerian Navy remain a figment of the imagination of the promoters.


While applauding the Navy's drive to protect national assets on our waterways, he warned that further slander campaign against the Chief of Naval Staff would lead to a nationwide protest.  


"Also worthy of mention is that the efforts of the Nigerian Navy have further led to the delisting of Nigeria from the International Maritime Bureau piracy list," the statement said.


"These are indeed tangibles that the Nigerian Navy has recorded in recent times under the watch of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. 


"We wish to use this medium to call on the Department of State Services to the diatribe capable of undermining the tangible gains recorded by the Nigerian Navy in addressing crude oil theft in the country. 


"The promoters of this campaign of calumny must be identified and brought to book if we are desirous of making progress as a country, given that the major source of revenue is crude oil.


"There is no doubt that those behind crude oil theft have resources at their disposal to undermine the efforts of the Nigerian Navy. As such, they must be identified and brought to book. 


"We also wish to inform members of the general public to be circumspect about news stories about the Nigerian Navy. These are the handiwork of enemies of the country who have been diverting the commonwealth of the people. 


"The efforts of the Nigerian Navy in recent times is such that has contributed immensely to socioeconomic growth and development. As such, it behoves well-meaning Nigerians to support the Nigerian Navy at this critical point of our existence. "

2024 Budget: Group Dismisses Claims Of Concentration Of Projects In South


...lauds NASS leadership for patriotism 


The Governance Accountability and Advocacy Centre (GAAC) has rubbished insinuations that the 2024 budget was skewed in favour of the southern part of the country. 


The group said there is no iota of truth in the allegations of lopsided allocations by the Northern Senators Forum, adding that such fallacious claims are intended to cause disaffection among Nigeria’s federating entities.


The GAAC which made this known at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja said the budget was passed after careful consideration and debate by the National Assembly. 


Okwa Dan, the convener, therefore, reaffirmed that the budget is designed to benefit all Nigerians, not just a particular region or group. 


While urging the Senators to interact as colleagues to ensure that the budget is implemented in a way that benefits the nation, Dan said they were elected to work for the good of all Nigerians. 

 

He, however, passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the National Assembly, describing them as patriotic, committed, and focused on the Nigerian cause. 


"We would like to remind the Northern Senators Forum to come forward with a message that clears the air and reasserts that Nigeria is a diverse country with many different ethnic groups and religions. We must work together to build a united and prosperous nation. We must not allow ourselves to be divided along geo-political lines,"  Dan said. 


"We understand that the Northern Senators Forum may have concerns about the allocation and distribution of resources in the 2024 budget. But these are concerns that can be addressed through dialogue and collaboration. 


"We urge the Northern Senators Forum to engage in constructive dialogue with their colleagues in the Senate to address any concerns they may have so that some characters will not impersonate them to exploit such. There are provisions for amending the budget, which can be explored to address any identified concerns.


"We believe that the 2024 budget was passed after careful consideration and debate by the National Assembly. It is a people’s budget that is designed to benefit all Nigerians, not just a particular region or group. We urge the Senators to interact as colleagues to ensure that the budget is implemented in a way that benefits all Nigerians.


"It is of note that the Leadership of both houses of the National Assembly are evenly distributed across North and South. Membership of the two chambers is also distributed across the country, with the North having more seats than the South. 


"The Chairmen of Appropriation Committees for both Chambers of the Parliament come from the North and the South, which shows balance. The budget was not passed by lawmakers from the South but by the plenaries of both houses, which had northern lawmakers actively contributing to debates and voting to pass the budget.


"The reservations that some people are now expressing could have been expressed at the stages when the budget was being considered. This would have ensured that amends were made if there was truly a need for it. But to now begin to castigate a budget they were part of approving smacks of mischief that would not bode well for anyone.


*On the executive side, the Minister of Budget and Planning is from the North. He prepared the budget document for the country and could not have allowed the projected spending to be skewed against the North. 


"As a competent public office holder, he must have put in his best to deliver a budget that addresses the developmental needs of the country. Even if the other stakeholders in the budgeting process colluded to skew the budget against the North, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a true nationalist would not have allowed anything that would undermine the North. 


"We would like to remind Nigerians that Senators Forum were elected to represent the people of Nigeria. They must consequently work for the good of all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnicity or religion. Their utterances as leaders must therefore be well-guided at this point, particularly bearing in mind the peculiar challenges that the country is having to deal with."

CSO Writes Tinubu Over Alleged Mismanagement In Population Commission


...calls for suspension, probe of leadership over transfers to private accounts.


President Bola Tinubu has been urged to sack and prosecute the Chairman of the National Population Commission, Nasir Isa Kwarra, over allegations of abuse of office, financial impropriety, and gross misconduct among many others. 


The African Leadership Strategy and Transparency Development Initiative (ALSTDI) made the call in a petition to the President signed by Kings Abel Adams and dated January 8th, 2024. 


The group questioned whether Kwarra received approval to transact official business with 17 private bank accounts of certain individuals listed below:


"Akindulureni Zainab Ohunene - N4,200,000.00 payment for intercensal population activities and development of small area level database on 09/02/2021


Abalogu Mondale Williams - N3,800,000.00 payment for intercensal population activities and development of small area level database on 09/02/2021


Fagbemi Akinola Benjamin - N4,500,000.00 payment for VRD expansion of registration centers on 09/02/2021


Maduabuchi Ogonnaya Derek - N4,000,000.00 payment for IRO expansion of registration centers of birth and death on 09/02/2021


Adio Kamaldeen Arikewuyo - N4,500,000.00 payment for IRO expansion of registration centers of birth and death on 09/02/21


Abdulrahman Azeez - N3,130,000.00 payment for IRO expansion of registration centers of birth and death on 09/02/2021


Fagbemi Akinola Benjamin - N300,000.00 payment for IRO expansion of registration centers of birth and death on 09/02/2021


Adio Kamaldeen Arikewuyo - N4,149,000.00 payment for project drivers allowance for February 2021 on 15/02/2021


Maduabuchi Ogonnaya Derek - N3,450,000.00 payment for 10 HFCS monitoring of vital registration advocacy for 1 month on 18/02/2021


Mohammed Abdulrahim - N4,893,000.00 payment for training of ICT staff on UI/UX design on 03/03/2021


Momoh Mustapha Asuku - N3,595,585.38 payment for the conduct of intercensal activities by the Census Department on 03/03/2021. The same individual received N4,550,000.00 on the same day for the same purpose.


Adeniyi Busayo Comfort - N4,350,983.37 payment for conduct of intercensal activities by Planning & Research on 03/03/2021


Ogohi Abu - N3,980,000.00 payment for public enlightenment activities for the Public Affairs Department on 03/03/2021. The same individual received payments of N3,000,000.00 and N3,020,000.00 for the same purpose on 04/03/2021.


Mohammed Abdulrahim - N4,893,000.00 and N4,279,000.00 payments for training of ICT staff on UI/UX design on 04/03/2021


Momoh Mustapha Asuku - N3,950,000.00 and N3,400,000.00 payments for conduct of intercensal activities by the Census Department on 04/03/2021


Adeniyi Busayo Comfort - N3,400,000.00 and N3,000,000.00 payments for the conduct of intercensal activities by Planning & Research on 04/03/2021


Maduabuchi Ogonnaya Derek - N4,841,200.00 payment for census pretest zonal training and fieldwork for 13 additional officers on 08/06/2021".


Among other requests, the group also asked for: "information on the total budget for each of the years 2021, as well as the specific budgeted sums for payment for intercensal population activities and development of small area level database; 


"Details regarding the venues of these activities, the cost implications, and a list of individuals to whom these monies were paid; 


"Clarification on any approvals from the Ministry of the Interior or any other delegated office for conducting official business through private bank accounts; 


"Information regarding the payment for conduct of intercensal activities by the Census Department and the Planning and Research Department. We seek details on approvals and individuals involved."


The CSO, therefore, advised Kwarra to step aside to prevent further abuse of public office while a comprehensive and independent investigation into the allegations is carried out.

...appreciate Gov for sportsmanship and maturity


President Bola Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara have been commended for putting aside party differences to seal a peace deal for the progress of Rivers State.


The Coalition of Minority and Indigenous Ethnic Groups in Africa gave the commendation at a press conference on Thursday.


Applauding President Tinubu and Fubara for displaying sportsmanship, convener Yakubu Dauda also hailed the governor for implementing the agreement for the return of peace in the state.


The governor, by his action, Dauda said has shown tremendous respect to President Tinubu by ensuring that all the warring factions in the state shield their swords in the interest of the generality of Rivers people. 


"The Coalition of Minority Ethnic and Indigenous groups in Africa is using this medium to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his laudable initiative that has brought peace to Rivers State," the statement added. 


"The action of the President indeed indicates that he is the President for all Nigerians and not a select few. This is commendable and necessary for leadership in a country as complex as Nigeria. 


"From all indications, the governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, has also displayed a gentlemanly mien throughout the political conflict in the state. He has proven that he is a man of peace, and his actions and inaction are in the interest of the people of Rivers State. 


"Also, the fact that the governor of Rivers State agreed on the terms of the peace accord indicates that his intentions are not for personal or selfish reasons, as a section of the media has reported. In our opinion, it is for peace to reign in Rivers State, given the history of ethnic restiveness in the state. 


"The Coalition of Minority Ethnic and Indigenous Groups in Africa salutes the courage of the governor of Rivers State and extends its appreciation to other political actors in the state; they elected to drop their differences in the interest of peace. 


The group, however, urged the immediate past governor, Nyesom Wike, to give peace a chance in Rivers State by abiding by the interventions made by President Tinubu.

Centre Alleges Fraud At NPA, Threatens Legal Action




The Save Humanity Advocacy Centre, SHAC  has raised alarm over alleged monumental fraud at the Rivers Port of the Nigerian Port Authority, NPA. 


The centre threatened legal action should the  port manager, Mr Adams Michael fail to furnish it with information regarding the activities of the organisation. 


According to the Director in charge of Research and Evaluation of the Centre, Comrade Adebayo Olakunle Olumide, in a letter dated December 14, 2023, the federal government is losing revenue due to corruption at the port. 


He said in the letter, "Our office has recently been inundated with petitions from concerned citizens that the Rivers Port under your leadership is now a conduit pipe for high level corruption, financial malfeasance, illegal concessioning, improper billing of vessels and depletion of revenues that would have accrued to the Federal Government of Nigeria. 


"At a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR is striving assiduously to reposition Nigeria on the path of greatness through his Renewed Hope Agenda, we are pained that the Rivers Port which should ordinarily generate huge funds for the government is currently performing very poorly due to maladministration". 


He said preliminary investigation at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) revealed that the about eight companies/organizations own ships, vessels and boats which come to Rivers Port to load and discharge are owned by close associates and family friends. 


The organisation include: TEMILE NIGERIA LIMITED  with RC no. 718136, PEEJAY RESOURCES LIMITED  with RC no. 419763,

THERESA DIANA CHARITY FOUNDATION with RC no. 38908, CRESTED EAGLE LOGISTICS LTD with RC no. 939271 and BLUE STAR SHIPPING LINES LTD with RC no 299093.


Others are JFDOR INTERNATIONAL LIMITED with RC no 857988, PEAK SHIPPING AGENCY LIMITED with RC no 685339 and KACH MARITIME SERVICES LIMITED with RC no. 1137242.


He said, "This accounts for why their ships, vessels and boats are either undeclared, under billed or in most cases exempted from paying the statutory fees accruable to the Federal Government of Nigeria. It is on record that ships come to Rivers Port and go unreported without billing whatsoever. We received also reports that your staff connived with ship owners to under report their cargoes and full dues are not taken. 


"In another development, there is high level scam under the service boats regime. We fear that if all these allegations are true then the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will be doomed should you continue to hold the sensitive position of Rivers Port Manager. It is against this backdrop that we hereby request that you furnish us with certain information and documents under your custody pursuant to Section 1 (1) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. 


"This is to enable us assess your level of accountability and transparency at the Rivers Port with a view to adequately responding to the concerns raised by some Nigerians who feel that you have become a misfit for the exalted position of Rivers Port Manager and ought to be urgently removed."


He listed the requested information and documents to include: Total revenue generated from billing of ships, vessels and boats from January, 2023 till date. 


Copies of bank statements showing the exact amount remitted by the Rivers Ports to Treasury Single Account (TSA) of the Federal Government from January, 2023 till date. 


 List of all the companies with which the Rivers Port executed Boat Service Contracts from January, 2023 till date. 


 Copies of Concession Agreements entered between the Rivers Port and companies from January, 2023 till date. 


Details of Foreign accounts (if any) maintained by Rivers Port for purpose of receiving payment of boat service operations from January, 2023 till date. 


Copy of the most recent Assets Declaration Form for Public Officers (FORM CCB 1) which you submitted at the Code of Conduct Bureau in accordance with paragraph 11 of Part 1 of the 5™ Schedule to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).


"We expect to be in receipt of the above information and documents from your office within 7 (Seven) days from the date hereof pursuant to Section 4 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.


"In the event that you fail to heed our request as contained herein, we shall not hesitate to brief the media on the effort made so far to ensure that we stamp out the perceived monumental corruption that is ongoing at Rivers Port under your watch and how you have frustrated us. 


"Thereafter, we shall institute civil proceedings under Section 1 (3) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 for purpose of seeking, amongst other ancillary reliefs, an Order of Mandamus compelling you to perform your duties under the extant laws", he said

Renewed Hope: CSOs, FBOs Laud Minister Keyamo For Reforming Aviation Sector In Line With Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda



The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has been applauded for his laudable reforms in the aviation sector in line with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.


The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Monitoring and Evaluation of the Renewed Hope Agenda gave the commendation in collaboration with the Coalition of Middle Belt Groups and Faith-Based Organizations. 


The groups said significant progress has been made in infrastructure development, safety and security, reforms, policy formulation as well as institutional Strengthening.


In a detailed report signed and made public by the convener, Tobias Ogbe, the group noted that the industry under Keyamo is experiencing an evolution thanks to President Tinubu's resolve to prioritise the development and modernisation of the aviation sector.


"One of the key areas of focus has been the upgrade and expansion of airport infrastructure across the country. Several airports have undergone extensive renovations, leading to improved facilities, enhanced capacity, and increased operational efficiency. These infrastructure developments have not only boosted economic activities but have also positioned Nigeria as a regional aviation hub, attracting more airlines and promoting tourism," Ogbe said. 


"We are happy with the way President Tinubu’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing safety and security measures in the aviation sector, and the Minister made sure to speak this development into reality through his actions. Stringent regulations, improved training programs, and the implementation of advanced technology have so far contributed to a significant reduction in accidents and incidents. It is also worthy of note to state that the establishment of effective security protocols has also played a crucial role in safeguarding passengers, crew, and airport facilities.


"The aviation sector reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda have been instrumental in reshaping the industry and promoting sustainable growth. Key reforms have been implemented in various areas, including regulatory frameworks, policy formulation, and institutional strengthening. Several reformations have implemented to further solidify this agenda. 


"President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized the review and update of existing aviation regulations to align with international standards and best practices. This has created a more conducive environment for both domestic and foreign investors, fostering healthy competition and encouraging innovation in the sector.


"The Renewed Hope Agenda has also focused on formulating policies that promote the growth and development of the aviation industry. Streamlined processes, simplified procedures, and the removal of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles have made it easier for stakeholders to operate efficiently. These policies have also encouraged the emergence of new airlines, improved connectivity, and increased accessibility for remote areas.


"Owing to the need to ensure effective implementation of reforms, the Tinubu administration has worked towards strengthening the institutions responsible for overseeing the aviation sector. Training and capacity-building programs have been introduced to enhance the skills and knowledge of industry professionals. Collaboration with international aviation bodies has further facilitated knowledge transfer and exchange of best practices."


The group, however, admitted there is still a lot of work to be done. Ogbe harped on: "Continued investment in airport infrastructure to support the growing demand for air travel and ensure passenger comfort.


"Strengthening of safety and security measures through regular audits, training, and adoption of advanced technologies. Enhancement of regulatory frameworks to promote healthy competition, protect consumer rights, and attract more foreign investment."

2027: Groups caution El-Rufai on plots to destabilise Tinubu's government


...accuses former Governor of using son to control CBN budget


The Middle-Belt Patriotic Congress (MBPC) has alerted Nigerians to an alleged plot by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to manipulate the Central Bank of Nigeria into funding his presidential ambition. 


The group, which made this known at a press conference on Sunday in Abuja, said El-Rufai is already buying northern leaders in his destabilization agenda against President Bola Tinubu's government.


In his address, the convener of the group, Garuba Jacob, said that Bello Mohammed El-Rufai who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Banking Regulations is part of the grand scheme to finance his father’s ambition by manipulating the CBN. 


The statement said: "We have noted that el-Rufai, being who he is, has perfected the funding plan for his questionable enterprise, which he is hiding under his venture capital/private equity firm, Afri-Venture Capital Company Limited, will begin operations in 2024, with $100 million, that is more than N100 billion that he is deploying for inducing the youth, mostly Muslim youths as part of a plot for further disenfranchise the Christian population. We understand that the youths are being mobilized under the guise of grooming them for enterprise, but they will be later corralled into being willing tools for protests that will ground the country at el-Rufai’s behest.


"Gentlemen of the press, it is at this point that Nigerians should ask how the venture capital firm is getting its $100 million funds. The answer is right before our eyes. His son, Hon. Bello Mohammed El-Rufai is the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Banking Regulations. The position places him in a vantage position to manipulate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) funds to finance his father’s ambition. It also gives him the leverage to coerce financial institutions to put money in the venture capital firm not minding the glaring conflict of interests.


"In this aspect, we blame the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Right Honorable Tajudeen Abbas for assigning such a powerful and strategic Committee to a member whose family has a long tradition of genocidal anti-Christian and anti-non-Fulani utterances and actions. The Middle Belt Patriotic Congress [MBPC] hereby calls on the Speaker to undo the damage that el-Rufai’s leadership of the House Committee on Banking Regulations is causing the country. It is wrong to put the nation’s well-being in the hands of a family that has shown they hate others in the country.


"The younger el-Rufai’s occupation of that office is nothing but his father having a continuous hold on Nigeria’s commonwealth through a strangling control of the CBN. This control of the CBN is already hurting the economy, which leaves us in fear of what will happen when he unleashes his agenda to forcefully become the president in the 2027 Presidential Election."


The group, therefore, urged northern elders, including former President Muhammadu Buhari and General Ibrahim Babangida o be wary of further granting el-Rufai audience in the interest of Nigeria’s stability. 


The statement added: "They must carefully weigh the implications of enabling a man who had openly endorsed Fulani reprisals for perceived wrongs done to his ethnic stock and has also vowed Islamic domination of Nigeria because we know that his fanatical views do not reflect the values held by esteemed leaders in the north.


"MBPC advises President Tinubu to take the necessary precautions to ward off el-Rufai’s plot to destabilize his government and the threats constituted to Nigeria by his estranged associate. The President must particularly watch out for contrived security and economic crises, being strategies that el-Rufai had in the past devised to undermine the government at the center whenever he is at loggerheads with the nation’s number one citizen.


"Additionally, we urge our law enforcement agencies, the ones with the jurisdiction, to urgently investigate and review el-Rufai’s activities while he was abroad, particularly as they relate to the networks he maintained while outside the shores of this country and financial transactions around his person, family, and associates since a lot learned about his destabilization plot by following the money."

Rivers: Centre Uncovers Plot By Dismissed Lawmakers To Use Court To Halt Conduct Of By-elections


* indicts Justice Okorowo



The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights (CALSER) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by some members of the Rivers State Assembly to thwart the conduct of by-elections in the state. 



The Centre, which made this known at a press conference, said the lawmakers plan to approach the courts to challenge the legality of the letter sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct by-elections to fill the vacuum created as a result of their defection to another political party. 



The Executive Director of the Centre, Princess Ajibola, also alleged that the 27 lawmakers have induced Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court Abuja to rule in their favour.



Ajibola, however, called on the lower courts not to allow itself to be used to undermine the stability of the country by rejecting the overtures from the 27 defected lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly. 



She added: "The position of the Supreme Court is clear about defection from one political party to another. Section 109. (1) (g) of the Nigeria constitution clearly states that 'A member of a House of Assembly shall vacate his seat in the House if being a person whose election to the House of Assembly was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected.'



"We must recall that in 2022, a Federal High Court in Abuja sacked 16 Ebonyi House of Assembly members for defection. The court held that the movement breached Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, providing that defector legislators are not allowed to retain their legislative seats.



"The same provisions were also applied in Cross River state, including the Federal House of Representatives. Suppose this is the position of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended in Section 109(1)(g). In that case, the lower courts do not have the jurisdiction to entertain any matter of defection from one political party to another. 



"The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights wishes to remind the lower courts that any attempt to entertain the planned suit by the 27 defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly would amount to turning the law on its head. 



"Therefore, we are firmly convinced that the 27 defected lawmakers do not have any locus standi to approach the courts to challenge the legality of the letter sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct by-elections to fill the vacant seats. 



"If the lower courts entertain such a matter, it would amount to judicial rascality and with its attendant implications for the growth and development of democracy in Nigeria. 



"Nigerians must resist the planned judicial rascality in Rivers State. The plan by the 27 defected lawmakers must be resisted by all and sundry. The lower courts must prove to Nigerians that the judiciary is the dispenser of Justice, protector of the rights of the people, and guardian protector of the Constitution of the State. "

The Coalition of Unemployed Youths in Nigeria (CUYN) has hailed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, for her persistent demand for skill acquisition and entrepreneural drive among Nigerian youths.


They also hailed her  tireless commitment to nation-building and efforts to actualise  President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.


The Coalition said the Minister has demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to alleviating the plight of the unemployed youth in the country.


Speaking at a press conference on Friday in Abuja, the convener Comrade Adamu Adamu said Edu has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and creating opportunities for them to thrive.


Adam noted Edu has displayed exceptional leadership skills built around integrity, accountability, and inclusivity. 


"We, the millions-strong Coalition of Unemployed Youths in Nigeria, have tasted the bitter tang of unfulfilled dreams, the gnawing frustration of untapped potential. But like a diamond hidden in the rough, hope lay dormant, waiting for the right hand to polish it, to reveal its brilliance, and that hand, belongs to Dr. Betta Edu," he said. 


"A woman whose heart beats in rhythm with the aspirations of the disenfranchised, whose mind teems with solutions for the marginalized, and whose spirit burns with unwavering faith in the power of the human spirit.


"The new wave of Renewed Hope Agenda, spearheaded by Dr Betta Edu has taken us by surprise. This particular wave of Renewed Hope Agenda has provided a glimmer of hope for the unemployed youth in Nigeria. It has been duly observed by us that, Under her leadership, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and creating opportunities for them to thrive. 


"From skills acquisition programs to entrepreneurship support, these initiatives have played a vital role in equipping us with the necessary tools to secure a better future. This Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a policy document; it is a symphony of opportunity, composed with the ink of empathy and conducted by the maestro of action. Each initiative, each program, is a carefully crafted note, weaving together a melody of empowerment, a harmony of self-reliance.


"Look around you, See the N-Power program blossoming, its tendrils reaching out to embrace thousands of our youth, equipping them with the skills and resources to become architects of their destinies. Witness the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), a financial lifeline extended to countless micro-entrepreneurs, igniting the spark of self-sufficiency in their hearts. 


"Feel the ground tremble beneath the collective steps of our young farmers, empowered by the Agricultural Revolution to till the land and reap the fruits of their labor. One key aspect of the Renewed Hope Agenda that we must reveal to Nigerians today, is its focus on inclusivity. Dr Betta Edu has ensured that no one is left behind, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic background. 


"Through targeted interventions in rural areas, she has bridged the gap between urban and rural youth, providing equal opportunities for all. This inclusivity has ignited a sense of unity and national cohesion amongst the youth, fostering harmony and progress in our great nation. We are perplexed by this development and mode of operation, and we can only conclude that this is a well-executed agenda.


"Furthermore, the Honourable Minister has displayed exceptional leadership skills in her role. She has been instrumental in forging partnerships with both local and international organizations, such as the World Bank and the International Labour Organization". 


The Coalition, therefore, charged Edu to continue on this path until the majority of the nation's young population becomes actively engaged.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has given the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) a 14 days ultimatum to conduct bye-elections to replace the 27 vacant constituencies in the Rivers State House of Assembly. 


This followed the defection of 27 lawmakers from the People's Democracy Party to the All Progressives Congress. 


Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Daniel Okwa, the group's convener said the recent happenings in Rivers portends multiple levels of evil for democracy in the country. 


Okwa said according to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the 27 members have forfeited their seats at the state assembly hence the need for a fresh election. 


Quoting from the Constitution, Okwa stated: " A member of a House of Assembly shall vacate his seat in the House if - being a person whose election to the House of Assembly was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected".


He added: "The 27 controversial lawmakers must simply comply with the position of the law by vacating the Rivers State House of Assembly having breached Section 109 (g) of the Constitution that brought them into office. Under the law, these lawmakers cease to be elected representatives of the people and their offices must be declared vacant. 


"We find it most unfortunate that the 27 former Rivers State House of Assembly members were misinformed and misled into defecting from the PDP to the APC without realizing that their action effectively means they have vacated their seats as elected lawmakers. It is an action that they have themselves to blame for.


"Had they properly consulted instead of taking orders from someone who has secured himself a long-term political meal ticket, they would not be in the current sorry pass where they will now have to take part in bye-elections, assuming they can clinch tickets in their new political party.


"It is on this note that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) notes with concern that what is playing out in Rivers State portends multiple levels of evil for democracy in Nigeria.


"On one front, if the criminality playing out at the Rivers State House of Assembly is allowed to stand it will signal a dangerous phase in the descent into the one-party state that the NDC and other vigilant groups and individuals have been warning about. Had we been more strident and resolute in demanding that the right thing is done, perhaps we would not be in this dangerous situation.


"It is a matter of time before lawmakers in other states are induced, coerced, blackmailed, or railroaded into dumping the party on whose platform they were elected for the APC. When that begins to happen it would be too late to make any demands of those who will engage in such nefarious acts if we do not at this time correct those that have stood our democracy on its head.


"At a time when we now fear for our judiciary, this slap on the face of the law further undermines the judiciary if what the Supreme Court has been definite about in the past is again resurfaced. The Supreme Court had sacked lawmakers who became members of political parties that did not sponsor them into parliament even when their initial political parties were in crisis.


"To now repeat the same political brigandage and expect the Supreme Court to budge is insanity because the only other explanation would be that a plot has been perfected to undermine the judiciary in this matter, which is an even bigger threat to democracy.


"Our Congress is not unaware of the political connections at play here. It is common knowledge that the immediate past governor of Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike is at loggerheads with the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara.


"We have no qualms with Wike decamping from the PDP to APC – he currently holds no elected position, so the vacation of office does not apply to him. But since the 27 lawmakers, in their recognition of Wike as their godfather, decide to cross into the APC ahead of him, they are welcome to do so but that is to the extent that they comply with the law by vacating their position. The dangerous drama they are staging by breaching the Constitution is not acceptable."


The group, however, warned that failure on the part of INEC to comply with the law will result in citizens’ actions against the electoral body.


"We urge President Bola Tinubu to come out in clear terms and condemn the criminality being attempted in the name of the political party he leads, the APC.


"The President should tell Wike and the former lawmakers in clear terms that he cannot be associated or seen to be encouraging this shenanigans."

....Explains decision not to challenge outcome of poll at tribunal

The Action Alliance has distanced itself from a suit filed at the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition challenging the outcome of the November 11th poll.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Abuja, its national chairman, Hon (Dr) Adekunle Rufai Omoaje said the party is not interested in pursuing a case against Governor-elect, Alhaji Usman Ododo.

Omoaje said after emerging as the candidate, Olayinka Ibrahimoh operated without carrying the party along and his decision to head to the judiciary is not supported by the Action Alliance.

He said as far they are concerned there's no petition at the Tribunal.

The party said it will sanction anyone that goes into any illegal arrangements with some persons in the tribunal to plant any petition as the time permitted for such has also elapsed.

He said: "From the moment INEC published the final list of candidates for the Kogi gubernatorial election, Olayinka Ibrahimoh, our adopted candidate for that election deliberately built an edge around himself against the party, making it difficult to relate with him.

"Every overture to him from the party's leadership to discuss his plans for the election was rebuffed with bold-faced arrogance. The Deputy National Chairman of our great party, in person of Alhaji Ibrahim Isa who led the national team to Kogi State to monitor the election, was left an orphan in Lokoja throughout his team's stay in the state. Not even a single call was made to him all through.

"A few days ago, we heard that the party in Kogi State had approached the Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal with a petition on behalf of the party without the national leadership knowing it at all. We have come a long way in political engagements to understand the dangers involved in such isolated arrangements. We will not allow our party to be rubbished again as we witnessed in the recent past with such arrangements that isolated the national office in similar processes.

"Consequent upon the aforementioned, we are stating clearly here that our party; the Action Alliance has no hand in the matter before the Kogi State governorship election tribunal and we say unequivocally that we are not interested in the matter at all. "

Benue group cautions against campaign of calumny against SGF, Akume 


The Benue Develoment Forum BDF has cautioned against continous campaign of calumny against the Secretary to the Government of the Federation,  Senator George Akume. 


The BDF President,  Terrence Kuanum in a statement said the group is worried over sponsored media attacks which seems to be targeted at the person of the Secretary to the  Government of the Federation.


He said the group  feels that the sponsor(s) of those outings which has take off on a faulty note,attacking the person of the SGF and calling him names without provocation is a harbinger of more things in our dear state 


"The Forum observes that it is unfortunate and uncharitable for anybody to be militant and combative to someone who has dedicated his public service career in playing a fatherly role to all Benue indigenes anytime he has the opportunity.

The Forum is concerned that resorting to character assassination ,axe grinding,hasty generalizations,outright falsehood and defamation against his person at the time the State has been recognized at the national level is what an act to be condemned by all.


"The Forum wonders the mission of one Solomon Semaka and his co-travelers who despite  not being members of the All progressive Congress should involve themselves in the internal issues of the party in a manner that case aspersions on the personality of a respected party leader like the SGF.


"It is therefore imperative for the BDF to raise its voice against the continuous operations of such characters within the system.


"The Forum is not in any way discouraging people from expressing their fundamental human rights but should be guided by decent conversations and opinions that are constructive to help our leaders.But it would not encourage the campaign of calumny and blackmail.


"The political atmosphere in the state is not really calm as the sitting Governor and his party are at loggerhead over sensitive objectives of the party and adding such unsavory comments has further degenerated the situation.That is not the situation we desire in our state at the movement" he said


The  group further urged  Governor Hyceinth  Alia and his supporters to embrace peace and shun acts capable of eliciting counter reactions and engendering the peace in the State.


The BDF urged ecurity agencies and other relevant stakeholders should rise to the challenge of ensuring that the deliberate move by some individuals and groups to create unnecessary acrimony in the state are checked before the situation degenerates into a monster that shall be difficult to tame.


"The BDF equally cautions youths in the state to be wary of those who will wish to offer them outrightly shun gratifications that could push them into causing chaos in the Benue.


"As a non-partisan group,the Benue Development Forum shall continue to caution against developments that are inimical to peace and tranquility in the state at all times.Benue is ours to collectively build and preserve for future generations" he said

KOGI: Middle Belt Group, APM Guber Candidate Validate Ododo's Victory


_...say APM didn't file petition at the tribunal_

 

The Coalition of Middle Belt Groups says the position of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and other political parties have validated the victory of the All Progressives Congress candidate Alhaji Usman Ododo. 


The group said the decision of the APM not to go to court to debate the election result shows that Ododo was the overwhelming choice of the masses. 


Dr Omale Ben Amedu, the convener of the group who was also the Deputy Governorship candidate of the APM during the election rubbished reports trying to discredit the exercise saying  the result was an expression of the people's wishes.


He said: "The gubernatorial elections in Kogi state came with its challenges. However, this does not lend credence to the insinuations that it was not free, fair, and credible. This position canvassed by some interested parties is not a reflection of reality, and we wish to state in unequivocal terms that the election was indeed free, fair, and credible. 


"This is because there is nowhere in the world where an election can be rated 100%. Advanced democracies in the world still experience glitches during elections, so long the ratio of the glitch is negligible, as, in the case of the gubernatorial election in Kogi state, it can be regarded, as free, fair, and credible. 


"Those on the ground during the elections would admit that the process remains one of the best in recent times, but for a few issues that the Independent National Electoral Commission needs to address in future elections. 


"The outcome of the elections in Kogi state is an expression of the people's wishes. Though many may disagree, it is normal, but people should learn to be magnanimous in victory and defeat. 


"It is also instructive to state that all the major parties that participated in the elections decided not to go to court as a result of the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission before, during, and after the elections. This is a result of the efforts to ensure that the elections went smoothly, contrary to what is peddled in the public space. 


"We elected not to go to court because there is nothing to debate. The elections were held in all parts of the state. There were no cases of harassment or intimidation. The security agencies were present and ensured the smooth conduct of the elections, which resulted in a winner that the Independent National Electoral Commission announced. 


"The recent utterances by the supposed secretary of the elections petitions tribunal in Lokoja that she was attacked and petitions submitted have been stolen is false and remains a figment of her imagination. 


"The Coalition of Middle Belt Groups condemns this position for lacking in merit. The tribunal secretary is either playing to the gallery or acting as a paid script written by those bent on rubbishing the outcome of the gubernatorial elections in the state. "


The Coalition, therefore,  charged the Independent National Electoral Commission to continue to improve its facilities to accommodate the dynamics inherent in conducting elections and managing the outcomes. 


He added: "The case of Kogi state remains commendable. Despite the issues, the Independent National Electoral Commission officials were up and doing. They ensured the process was free, fair, and credible. We believe the Independent National Electoral Commission will improve its operations using the Kogi state elections as an example. 


"The Coalition of Middle-belt groups is using this medium to call on all relevant stakeholders in Kogi state to rally support with the winner of the gubernatorial election towards achieving sustainable growth and development. "

No fewer than 500 private legal practitioners have volunteered to defend the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Kano State, Nasir Gawuna, at the Supreme Court.

The lawyers, under the aegis of the Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, said the move is to save Nigeria’s democracy from vote riggers and serial election fraudsters.

Having secured victories at the governorship election petition tribunal and Appeal Court, the legal practitioners expressed confidence that Gawuna will again emerge at the Supreme Court.

They made this known at a press conference on Tuesday through their spokesman, Barr. Joseph E. Onwudiwe.

"Nigerians have observed keenly the situation unfolding in Kano state regarding the March 18 Governorship election. As a group saddled with the onerous responsibility of safeguarding our democratic ethos and values, we are no longer comfortable with the unwarranted attacks on the judiciary and moves to blackmail the Court into giving backing to wanton electoral malfeasance and vote heist," the statement said.

"We will no longer fold our arms as lawyers and watch the judiciary be continuously harangued, and the temple of Justice desecrated by a group of people who failed to perfect an electoral heist and inflate their votes by over 165,000 in a desperate bid to win the March 18 2023 Kano state governorship election at all cost.

"It is on the above premise that we wish to salute the courage and sound reasoning that resonated in the judgements of the tribunal and the Court of Appeal which dispensed justice by allowing the overwhelming yearnings and aspirations of the majority of Kano citizens, as expressed in the valid number of votes cast in the March 18 Kano Governorship election, to stand against the selfish interest of a few who planned to subvert the democratic exercise through electoral fraud and vote manufacturing.

"We are not surprised that the sacked governor of Kano state and his hired agents have become insistent in selling propaganda in the name of a contradiction in the CTC of the Appeal Court Judgement. Nigerians will have nothing but pity for a party in a suit who finds no premise upon which to launch a successful appeal against a judgement backed by law and fact.

"May we repeat here that the judgement of the Court of Appeal on this case was a very straightforward one which rightly dismissed the appeal of Abba K. Yusuf and upheld his sack by the tribunal? The courts envisaged clerical errors in judgement and therefore embedded in their handbook and rules, enactments that empower the Court to vary its judgement to reflect its original intentions.

"Like the Order 23 Rule 4 of the Court of Appeal handbook which empowered them to recall the CTC of their judgments and correct clerical errors like that of the Kano guber judgement. This has also been judicially noticed and treated in a plethora of cases such as Ajibola vs state and Okibe vs Kekere.

"May we also use this opportunity to urge Nigerians to not cave into the misleading narrative being pushed by the agents of the Kano Governor who are grasping at the clerical error on page 67 of the CTC of the Court of Appeal judgement to bring the honourable justices who delivered the sound judgment to public disrepute?

"The importance of the judiciary in keeping our democracy alive and thriving can never be overemphasized, it is on this background that we implore the Supreme Court to dispense justice in this appeal before it without taking into consideration, the distractions and attempts at blackmail. We are with the Judiciary and we assure them of our unflinching support as they move to save Nigeria’s democracy from vote riggers and election fraudsters. We must sanitize our electoral system now and build a strong democratic wall against vote inflation and other electoral malfeasance. "

The lawyers, therefore, called on "peace-loving Nigerians to arise in defense of our cherished democracy from this desperate politician who is using every illegal means to blackmail our judiciary into giving authenticity to electoral fraud by allowing a man who manufactured over 165,000 to seize power at the expense of the overwhelming yearnings and aspirations of the majority of Kano citizens, as clearly expressed in the valid votes cast at the March 18 Kano governorship election. "

Some legal practitioners, under the auspices of Judiciary Watchdogs, have called on the Nigerian Judicial Commission (NJC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the conflicting Appeal Court ruling on the Kano State governorship election.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, the spokesperson of the group, Barr. Emmanuel Agada said the judiciary has become an object of ridicule and tool in the hands of politicians.


Recall that the court had sacked Governor Abba Yusuf and declared the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s Nasiru Gawuna as the winner of the March poll.


But a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment emerged on Wednesday, affirming Yusuf’s victory in the exercise.


Barrister Agada lamented that some persons are desperate to remove Governor Abba Yusuf at all costs, even at the expense of the will and aspiration of an overwhelming majority of Kano citizens.


He, however, urged the Appellate Court to come to the rescue of the legal profession in Nigeria by thoroughly dealing with all the appeals arising from the 2023 electoral contest, particularly that of Kano and Plateau States.


The statement reads: "The recent judgment of the Court of Appeal that purported to sack the elected governor of Kano state, H.E Abba K. Yusuf, has become unimaginably scandalous, having come at the behest of many incurable inconsistencies that some persons may arguably pin to a pre-determined end, - to remove the Governor at every cost, even at the expense of the will and aspiration of an overwhelming majority of Kano citizens. Who voted for him in 2019 and again in 2023?


"It is shocking that despite the recent judgment of the Supreme Court, when the membership of the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, in the Labour Party was called into question, the membership of a party was an internal affair of the party, the Court of Appeal will on Friday, predicate its sack of the Governor of Kano state, H.E Abba K Yusuf, on his not being validated nominated by his party, the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP).




"Noting that he was not a member of the party. When has our hallowed temple of justice started reprobating and approbating? This question begs for an answer in the lips of every Nigerian regarding the political development in Kano state.




"The greatest of all the scandals that trailed the ruling in the Kano State Guber appeal, was the conflicting conclusions that were contained in the 72-page judgment of the Court of Appeal panel that sat over the case. While we have already written a letter to the Nigerian Judicial Commission (NJC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the conflicting conclusions, we wish to also use this platform to express our displeasure as lawyers on the new low such actions have dragged the bench.




"As young lawyers, we look to the future, our struggle is for the older folks to bequeath to us, a legal profession that still commands the respect and reverence of the world. A judiciary that dispenses justice without fear nor favour. It is on the above basis that we have risen to raise this alarm that if the profession continues on this path, it will soon lose its essence. The future will be bleak and the world might soon pick stones against all of us.


"It is our hope and prayers that the Apex Court comes to the rescue of the legal profession in Nigeria by thoroughly dealing with all the appeals arising from the 2023 electoral contest, particularly that of Kano and Plateau states so that justice will not only be seen to have been done but manifestly done."

Zamfara Banditry: Governor Dauda Lawal's Commissioner, Abdulmalik Gajam: Throwing Stones at Glass House

By Ahmed Musa.

Let me go down historic memory lane of how Banditry activites began in the north-west bandits ridden Nigerian state of Zamafara .

A popular Hausa Proverb once said, "MAI DOKAR KWANA BAYA ANGAJE" literally meaning, He who says Others should not sleep, Should not be found dozing.

In fact, my heart bleeds when I heard Abdulmalik Gajam, one of Governor Dauda Lawal's cabinet members that decides the fate of innocent, vulnerable and good people of Zamfara State, alleging that the immediate past Governor of Zamfara state, Hon (Dr) Bello Muhammad, Matawllen Maradun, MFR, has once purchased and distributed Hilux cars to Bandits. He went on to say that the former Governor also gave asylum to bandits.

My heart bleeds, particularly, when it goes down memory lane of the genesis of the mayhem and the sorrow that banditry has brought to innocent lives across north western Nigeria.

People may not have forgotten in a hurry, the case of the first person that was arrested when banditry started in 2011/2012 in Zamfara State, when His Excellency, Ambassador Gajam was the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
Commissioner Abdulmalik Gajam was a young boy then, so he might not have been in the picture of this story, otherwise he would have regretted raising the issue of the fight against banditry in Zamfara State.

I, therefore, simply want the Hon Commissioner for budget and planning, Abdulmalik Gajam, to find out who that person that was first arrested with AK 47 rifles was.

Again, I would like to ask Hon Abdulmalik Gajam, the assumed Governor Dauda Lawal's administration spokesperson to tell the world who Buharin Daji is to the Gajam's family?

If I may help out, Buharin Daji and Ambassador Gajam, who is a father to Hon Abdulmalik Gajam are of the same parents.

If not for the Buharin Daji, who is a biological uncle to Dauda Lawal's spokesperson, (Hon Gajam) the people of Zamfara in particular, and Northern Nigeria in general, would not have known what banditry and bandits are.

The sadness and sorrow, the pains and agony that bandits have brought upon millions of people across north western Nigeria emanated from the Gajam family.

Not until recently, when former Gov Matawalle took the bold actions resulting from his wisdom to strategically planned, prepared and executed far reaching decisions to tackle insecurity in the state, which His Excellency, Gov Dauda Lawal is now copying without wisdom, culminating into huge failure of his government to fight the escalating security challenges in the state, bandits would have
completely taken over the whole of Northern Nigerian.

Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina and Kebbi States would never forget so soon, the atrocities committed by Buharin Daji, whose name spreads like wildfire, especially, for killing, kidnapping, raping, cattle rustling and collection of ransom from innocent villagers, initiated, organized and executed by Hon. Gajam's uncle before he was killed on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, by one of his former boys, Dogo Gide and his decomposed body brought to Gusau, the state capital on March 9.

Abdulmalik Gajam's uncle promised to commit the most deadliest horror to the entire north western Nigeria before he was gunned down by one of his rival bandits Dogo Gide, following disagreement on sharing rustled cows.

Gajam, being a young man without prerequisite knowledge and experience in governance, just like his Principal, should desist from fighting former Gov Bello Matawalle, abandoning the basic responsibility of government which has caused further damage to the lives and property of innocent people across villages and towns in Zamfara State.

I, therefore, urge Gov Dauda Lawal to focus on the fight against banditry in Zamfara State rather than concentrating on a battle he cannot win.

Ahmed Musa is a Public Affairs Commentator and writes from Zamafara.

NANS Joint Campus Council (JCC) Suspends NANS President, Comrade Usman Barambu Pending Investigation

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council has after extensive deliberations about petitions received from concerned Nigerian Students taken decisive action to suspend the NANS President due to allegations of serial abuse of office, gross misconduct, corrupt aggrandizement, interference with the convention planning committee and lack of accountability.

Following numerous weighty allegations brought forward by concerned Nigerian students, the Joint Campus Council has constituted a high powered committee to thoroughly investigate these claims.

In a view to ensure a fair, transparent process and unhindered investigation, the NANS President, Usman Barambu has been suspended pending the conclusion and presentation of the investigative committee report, which would give room for an unimpeded probe into NANS finances and properties.

The allegations under review include the misappropriation of N50,000,000 (Fifty Million Naira only) donated by His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State, during the NANS Pre-Convention/Senate meeting in Owerri, Imo state. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the unaccounted Coaster Bus worth 120,000,000 (One Hundred and Twenty Million Naira) donated to NANS Secretariat by Tertiary Education Trust Funds (TETFUND).

The Joint Campus Council emphasizes that the integrity of the investigation remains paramount and that due process will be followed to the later in order to ascertain the true situation of things. The NANS President would remain suspended until the investigative committee submits its report and findings to the Joint Campus Council, which will subsequently determine the appropriate course of action.

Further updates on this matter will be communicated in due course.

*Comrade John Emperor*
Chairman, Joint Campus Council (JCC)

*Comrade Yusuf Mohammed*
Secretary, Joint Campus Council (JCC)

NANS  cautions outgoing President from interfering in November 24th to 26th  scheduled convention 


The Convention Planning Committee, CPC of the National Association of Nigerian Students,  NANS has urged the outgoing executives led by  Umar Barambu to desist from interfering in the November  24th to 26th scheduled convention of the body.


The CPC Chairman, Adamu Kabir Matazu who addressed a press conference in Abuja said the past few weeks have been unfortunately that of unnecessary distractions, orchestrated by the outgolng President.


Matazu said  while the CPC  recognizes his exalted position as the President of NANS, good conscience and the eternal verdict of history wit! not allow us to condone his willful assault on the Constitution of NANS and the sensibilities of Nigerian Students. 


"We therefore wish to send a straight, categorical and unequivocal message to the President of NANS, to desist from his antics and shenanigans which have no basis in the Constitution of NANS, and distracting the smocth transition programme piloted by the Convention Planning Committee under my leadership, heavily assisted by the Zonal Coordinators and other members of the CPC. The NANS President stands the risk of impeachment if he continues in this merchandize of mischief and mendacity, as students are very unhappy with his nefarious activities. To put the records straight, there is nowhere in the Constitution of NANS that grants power to the President to sack the leadership of the Convention Planning Committee as he comically claim to have done. He does not have even a sembiance of such powers.


" The sections quoted by the President In the vexatious Social Media Statement where he claimed to have removed the CPC Chairman has absolutely no relationship with the Convention Planning Committee. It is ridiculous and smack of ignorance for the President of NANS to refer to, and treat the CPC as a Standing Committee of NANS. All the Standing Committees of NANS are listed in Article 11, Sub-section 1 (i),and there ts no mention of the CPC there. The Constitution of NANS treats the CPC as a distinct Independent committee because of its role in election management, and so that it can operate outside the whims and caprices of the President. It Is clear that the Constitution of NANS envisaged a situation where a President may have a partisan Interest and want to use a puppet CPC to achieve It. And that Is why It removed the power of control of the CPC from the President, by making i the only committee in NANS with the ratification of the Senate.


As we have noted sadly, the history and trajectory of these shenanigans. It started by the setting up of booby traps and landmines in the CPC by the constituting sub-committees of the CPC. Thereafter, the Senate President, (working in alignment with the President) planned a most unconstitutional Virtual Emergency Senate Meeting which was roundly defeated for having no bearing with the Constitution of NANS. It then followed another utter display of unfathomable desperation, as three (3) out of n nety-seven (97) members of CPC masquerading under the unconstitutional appellation of "Principal (*ficers” daimed that they have passed a vote of no confidence on the CPC Chairman and appointed one of the conspirators as the Acting Chairman. Finally as expected, the outgoing NANS President who has all along been beh nd these charades had to show his face fully by Issuing a statement through the Socal Media which he claimed that he has removed the CPC Chairman and appointed one impostor as Acting Chairman. All the sections he quoted from the constitution only show his poor knowledge of the NANS Constitution as they do not relate to the subject he wished to deal with. Let us just affirm and reassure Nigerian Students that we are not distracted by all the actions of the outgoing President. We have indeed continued to perform our duties to ensure that we deliver a credible NANS Convention. As we speak, the verification of claims of aspirants was concluded just yesterday, in line with the timetable of the CPC. The reports of Screening and Verification Sub-committee is hereby expected to reach the Chairman of CPC before the end of today, Friday, November 27, 2023. Thereafter, it will be published for public consumption. It is Important to note that there is a little adjustment in date of the Convention in order to forestall a Constitutional crisis, because any date in December could create a situation where the Constitutional tenure of the Present Exco may elapse while Convention fs still ongoing. For the avoidance of doubt, Article 15, Sub-section 1(i), (ii) (iil) states that the tenure of NANS Exco Is fifteen(15) months, after which no officer can remain in office. This Exco was elected on September 3, 2022 and ts expected to vacate office on December 3, 2023. As for the issue of venue, It is true that the Pre-Convention Senate meeting approved Gombe State for the Convention. But from the floor of the Senate, there were protests, These protests have continued due to the security concerns and the experience of NANS in the 2016 NANS Convention in Gombe where students were attacked, beaten and the Convention was hijacked with the help of local authorities. The horrible memory of that 2016 Gombe Convention remains a torture to most participants. Even as we speak, there are series of records of students who fell Into captivity in recent times in parts of the North. Moving thousands of students through the Northeast Is not yet advisable. Wisdom dictates that the Convention should hold in a venue with maximum security and mutual accessibility. The security of students and comrades are of paramount interest and above every other pecuniary Interests and considerations. Drawing therefore from the powers of the CPC under Artie 15, Sub-section 4, Paragraphili (f) which states that the “Convention Planning Committee shail take any other step necessary for the smooth conduct of the convention,” it is incumbent on us to make these adjustments to ensure a hitch-free Convention. 


To this end, we are happy to announce a review of the Convention Timetable as follows: DATE 


Thursday, November 23, 2023 — Arrival 


Friday, November 24, 2023 —Registration. 


Saturday, November 25, 2023 — Accreditation and Voting. 


Sunday, November 26, 2023 - Departure. 


VENUE 


Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja. 


Consequentiy, all Sub-committees are hereby directed to submit their comprehensive budgets within 48 hours to the CPC Secretariat for immediate consideration and mobilization of funds to enable them start the execution of their programmes. 


We have also noted with utter dismay, the shameful activities of Dafoum Nankin and Clifford Akwaowo, Secretary of CPC. They have invested so much energy and resources towards destabilizing the CPC and truncating the Convention, for reasons only known to them. Consequently, the CPC hereby suspends them from their positions as Deputy Chairman and Secretary respectively of the CPC, having lent themselves to the ignoble job of Fifth Columnists and agents of destabilization. Therefore, Comrades Dominic Ogbu Eveh and Usman Ayuba are hereby appointed as Deputy Chairman and Secretary of CPC respectively. 


Furthermore, a Local Organizing Committee is hereby established to assist the CPC in the focal organization of the Convention. The Advisory Council of the LOC is headed by Comrade Mukhtar Akosh, while Comrade Atabor Solomon Anebe heads the LOC. Other members of the LOC will be published immediately. 


This CPC wishes to assure all aspirants of a level playing field, transparency and faimess in all issues concerning their aspirations in this Convention. 


We wish to also assure the Nigerian Students of our total commitment to a colourful and peaceful Convention. We thank you for your patience, understanding and support. Together, we shall move NANS forward and defend the truest spirit of the struggie. Thank you. Aluta Continua! Victoria acertal

l

The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been accused of a grand plot to destabilise the country through protests.

The Civil Society Situation Room on Good Governance in Nigeria (CSSR-GGN) in collaboration with other civil society groups raised the alarm at a press conference on Sunday.

In a statement co-signed by Dr. Thomas Terna Uzah, Executive Director/ National Convener, the CSOs alleged that the NLC is being sponsored by the opposition to cause chaos.

The group further claimed that the labour body has already been mobilised with $5 million to carry out its agenda.

"It is shocking that despite these glaring realities and the dangers of reinstating subsidies, which will collapse the economy and create intractable distortions, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is leading and coordinating other groups to sabotage the federal government.

*It is of note that NLC’s insistence on the strike is despite the federal government’s engagement with its leadership to explore options for addressing its demands. This raised our suspicion that the union may not be upfront with Nigerians as to the true intent of its industrial action.

"Ominously, it is now being mentioned that the NLC leadership has received $5 million from a certain opposition leader for mobilizing the strike, organizing protests, and throwing the country into crisis. The aim is for NLC to paint the Asiwaju government black and cause a destabilization plot that will bring the government down.

"Since we do not want to be caught unawares, we want to tell the NLC in clear terms that we dare them to go on an indefinite strike, and the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room will take all legitimate measures to protect Nigerians from the hardship they want to put the country through. We are acquiring more specific details about the NLC’s dealing with the opposition, and sadly, with some foreign interests. We will provide these details to Nigerians when the need arises."

The CSOs, therefore, urged "all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the youth, not to allow themselves to be used as cannon fodder for achieving some people’s narrow objective. "

It added: "We appeal to the Federal Government to look beyond the NLC and increase its palliative measures for Nigerians. We make this plea as we commend the federal government for the palliatives it has provided so far. "

Hon Adekunle Rufai Omoaje and Suleiman AbdulRasheed, the factional chairman and secretary of the Action Alliance (AA), have been given a seven-day ultimatum to resign from the party over alleged impersonation and forgery. 

Some party leaders, under the aegis of the Concerned Stakeholders of the Action Alliance, also threatened to expel Omoaje and AbdulRasheed should they fail to quit honourably.

The group, among many other things, accused their embattled factional leaders of impersonating the party's House of Representatives candidate for Bende Constituency at the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Abia State.

In a statement signed by its president and secretary Dr. Lukman Mohammed and Alhaji Bako Jibrin, the party leaders said the pair are a disgrace to the Action Alliance and everything it represents. 

Even when Ifeanyi Igbokwe announced that he would not be challenging the outcome of the election, the statement said Omoaje and AbdulRasheed filed a petition in his name. 

The group, therefore, described the factional leaders as rascals who are out to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of the Action Alliance. 

It also said that while a formal criminal complaint will soon be made to security agencies, Omoaje, and his cohorts must quit the party and end their dirty deals forthwith. 

"We have received reports of two rascals impersonating our leaders and tarnishing the name of our great party. We don't recognise them as our members. 

"These two have brought shame and disrepute to the Action Alliance with their criminal activities ranging from impersonation, forgery, and bribery. 

"The latest involved Mr Ifeanyi Chukwuka Igbokwe, a candidate for Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State. It is on record that he withdrew interest when he found out that a faction of the party conducted the primary election.

"While he has made his position clear over time, Adekunle Rufai Omoaje and Suleiman AbdulRasheed forged documents to challenge the outcome of the election on his behalf.

"We have endured these two for a long time and calls from different quarters have been ignored. We are by this press statement giving them seven days to resign their membership of the party.

"This is not like other calls. We will also file a criminal complaint to security agencies to arrest and prosecute these two. Alongside other stakeholders, we will also consider expelling them from the AA. Our party is not a hub for criminals".

NASS Polls: Group holds protest, alerts CJN, NJC over plot to compromise Appeal Court

The South-East Pro-Democracy Advocacy Group (SPAG), Wednesday, held a rally at the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria over an alleged plot to compromise the Appeal Court.


The group said some powerful and desperate individuals from the Southeast are on a a vicious mission to truncate the will of the people in Imo and Abia States respectively.

In a statement co-signed by Comrade Emeka James Okosisi and Mazi Jideoffor Agwurumbaike, President and Secretary respectively, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Minister of State Labour Nkiruka Onyejocha were fingered at the center of this plot.

According to the protesters, Uzodinma and Onyejocha are already interfering in the activities of the Election Petition Tribunal in the states.

"We are gathered here today to bring to the notice of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, President, Court of Appeal, and members of the National Judicial Council that democracy is under threat in Imo and Abia state, where Governor Hope Uzodinma and Hon Nkiruka Onyejocha have vowed to truncate the will of the people through unnecessary interference in the activities of the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in the states," the statement said.

"They have vowed to influence the outcome of the Elections Petition Tribunal using all means necessary, including compromising the well-respected Justices of the Court of Appeal and members of the National Judicial Council.

"This is indeed a worrisome trend that has the potential to bring the judiciary to disrepute and which does not augur well for our nascent democracy. We have gathered from reliable sources that Governor Hope Uzodinma has made overtures to the respected members of the Tribunals, which resulted in judgment for his preferred candidates in the state.

"The same is applicable in Abia state where Hon Nkiruka Onyejocha, by the position she occupies as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She has boasted to all that matters that she is connected at the federal level and would use the instrument of her office and connection in Abuja to influence the outcome at the Appeal Court.

"As stakeholders in the Nigerian project, our faith in the judiciary remains unflinching; hence, this protest rally to call on the relevant authorities to act in good faith to save democracy in Imo and Abia state.
When judges and court officials are compromised, it results in the abuse of power, and the delivery of justice is compromised. "

The group, therefore, appealed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria and other honorable members of the National Judicial Council to act in the interest of Nigerians by investigating the outcome of the Election Petition Tribunal in Imo and Abia States.

Check the real story. Later

By
EMEKA JEROME

All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near –Sun Tzu

In the words of the revered war strategist Sun Tzu, deception is a critical component of war execution. Echoing Sun Tzu’s teachings, the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has refined the craft of deception, using a tapestry of falsehoods to advance and achieve their objectives. This treatise will highlight how the group has continually employed deception as a weapon of war to deceive gullible members, keep the public attracted to them and deepen its presence in the south east. No doubt, IPOB’s ascent to prominence was founded upon a bedrock of deception right from its inception. Spearheaded by Nnamdi Kanu, the emergence of IPOB was an outgrowth of the supposedly reformed Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), a pro-secessionist group that had already seen its power wane and was known for its cunning activities and propensity for violence. Although IPOB came into being in 2012, Kanu had already garnered a significant following due to his inflammatory broadcasts on Radio Biafra, a responsibility he had taken on as a member of MASSOB. Recognising that the decline of MASSOB could spell the end of his influence, Kanu, aiming to secure both relevance and financial gain, intensified his facade of advocating for Biafra’s freedom. He accomplished this by spreading propaganda against the Nigerian Government and fostering optimism among the susceptible members of the public. By rebranding and emerging as a new entity, IPOB projected an image of a fresh movement seeking self-determination while carefully avoiding associations with MASSOB’s past activities. His strategy worked because in no time, Kanu assumed command over the sphere of IPOB’s operations, rapidly ascending to its helm.

When IPOB started its brand of agitation, it was cheered on. Nnamdi Kanu became an overnight messiah. The poor vulnerable uneducated market apprentices became his ardent followers. He exploited them. Kanu adequately deployed his expertise of Radio Biafra to deceive. By broadcasting incendiary messages and misinformation, he manipulated emotions and perceptions of the public to IPOB’s advantage. The false narratives he propagated about the Nigerian Government’s actions and intentions fuelled anger and frustration among his followers. The use of hate speech and derogatory language against Government, portraying them as oppressors and enemies of the people painted a one-sided narrative of victimhood which generated sympathy for their cause, making it difficult for their followers to critically assess the situation. By leveraging international media attention, IPOB amplified their narrative on a global scale. Sensationalized headlines and stories about their activities played into their strategy, allowing them to maintain the façade of a legitimate movement fighting for self-determination while downplaying or omitting their more radical actions. The group while orchestrating actions that provoked responses from the Nigerian Government, created martyrs and gained international sympathy. Most of their tactics aimed to paint IPOB as a peaceful movement unjustly oppressed by a hostile government, thus diverting attention from their own aggressive activities. Ironical!

Unsurprisingly, Igbo diaspora across Europe and America began to join IPOB. Politicians back home were consulting its leader, Kanu. His house became a Mecca of sorts. Kanu got emboldened and then, combative. He became proud and dictatorial. His words were feared. He aspired by every means to be like Ojukwu, famed for his lionic roars. Kanu had disciples. Within this newfound position, Kanu artfully manipulated the collective sentiment, leveraging deception to foment hostility towards the government under the guise of championing the elusive cause of Biafran freedom. His financial resources began to significantly swell in different hard currencies. He skillfully garnered financial support from both the rich and the poor under the ploy of rallying donations to fuel the secessionist agenda. Simultaneously, as his personal coffers grew richer, he persistently peddled false hope to his followers, deceitfully and heartlessly portraying himself as their champion in the struggle. Kanu became bolder and went ahead to establish a military Wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Operating ostensibly to counter Fulani herdsmen in the South East or so we were told, the ESN initiated a series of assaults designed to stoke the flames of ethnic conflict and destabilise the nation. Paradoxically, the reported activities of Fulani herdsmen have notably diminished, however IPOB’s actions in the region has remained persistent.

In what initially appeared to be a child’s play in the beginning, soon transformed the South East into a breeding ground for violence, marked by a surge in assassinations, bloodshed, intimidation and various forms of mayhem. Security agencies sent to the zone to restore order became targets for annihilation. The group’s orchestrations have, indeed, in the spirit of Sun Tzu’s teachings, harnessed deception’s formidable power to its advantage. Recognising that Kanu, a Nigerian based in London and his group held the potential to plunge the country into anarchy if left unchecked, the Nigerian government took proactive steps. It proscribed the group and went a step further by extraditing Kanu back to Nigeria. This was to ensure he faced charges for the chaos and destabilization he allegedly caused in the Southeastern region. In response, the group members protested and began issuing out senseless sit-at-home orders every Monday. Doom awaited whoever dared to come out on days meant for the so called sit-at home. Even school children were not spared. The young and old met same fate. For each day sit at home order was enforced, millions of naira was lost. Trading, economic, educational activities were halted. The sick does not dare to go to the hospital. Regardless of the protests voiced by the local inhabitants, IPOB ruthlessly dealt with anyone who dared to defy their directives, ironically targeting the very individuals they professed to champion and liberate. Deception at the highest core! For the people, the snake they nurtured in their bosom has now turned around to bite them.

With Kanu now in custody and facing legal proceedings, his disciple Simon Ekpa, in faraway Finland, capitalized on his mentor’s influence to achieve his own rise to prominence. Recognising the opportune moment for him to also cash out, Ekpa launched a deadlier faction called the Autopilot and afterwards the Biafra Government in Exile. He continues to give false sense of hope to liberate Biafrans while using them to swim in millions. Same as his mentor, it has now become unmistakably clear that IPOB’s motivations are primarily driven by financial gain. Under the pretext of calling for the release of Kanu, he dishes out orders to for sit-at-home, organises fundraising frequently with the false and deceptive narrative of using the money to fund ESN. How laughable. Ekpa became more vicious. The South East is currently in a mess. Sit-at-home orders stretches for weeks with zero considerations of how it negatively affects the poor residents. Meanwhile the person issuing out the directive is doing so from the comfort of his home abroad.

IPOB’s skillful use of deception as a strategic weapon of war becomes even more apparent when considering recent developments. They are now attempting to distance themselves from the autopilot faction of IPOB led by Simon Ekpa. IPOB is doing double speak. At one instance, it wants to distance itself from Sit-at home. At the other, it states that though it started it, Simon Ekpa is not implementing it its own way. But at least, it was Kanu and IPOB that started it. They are in agreement. While they vehemently deny that the Eastern Security Network (ESN) engages in combative and violent activities, this assertion contradicts the evidence provided by the numerous arrests made and the ongoing campaigns carried out by the military and other security agencies. As the number of arrests increases, IPOB intensifies its efforts to disassociate itself from these individuals, seemingly attempting to detach their image from these actions. Yet, in ironic twist, they continue to advocate for the release of these very individuals they claim not to be affiliated with. The contradictory stance of denying membership while concurrently issuing press releases about the detention of their members raises questions about the veracity of their claims. It is as if they are performing a delicate balancing act, trying to maintain an image of innocence while supporting those apprehended.

Furthermore, Simon Ekpa’s frequent calls for a sit-at-home protest have created a conundrum for the group. In light of the public’s skepticism and widespread condemnation, they appear to be shifting blame onto Ekpa’s faction, using this as an opportunity to once again deceive the public into believing that they are the virtuous side. But it is evident as daylight that in a larger context, IPOB’s insistence on non-violence stands in stark contrast to past actions. During the EndSARS protests, Nnamdi Kanu’s directive to his followers to burn down Lagos demonstrated their potential for incitement. The ensuing chaos and destruction following this directive were widely observed. Their claims of nonviolence also clash with their association with the Ambazonian secessionist group in Cameroon, an entity known for its aggressive tactics. The inconsistency is further highlighted by their clashes with the Army and Police in the South East. These confrontations raise questions about their true intentions and undermine their assertions of nonviolence. In the face of these complex and often contradictory actions, IPOB’s manipulation of information and narratives emerges as a deliberate and sophisticated strategy to shape public perception, rally support and maintain a facade of innocence even as evidence points to a different reality.

Another strategy being deployed by IPOB is the sustained misleading narrative that all rival factions other than its own are sponsored by the Federal Government or its agencies. This claim is distorted and contradicts the evident struggle for supremacy between Kanu and Ekpa. It is important to note that Kanu broke away from MASSOB. Ekpa is only traversing a similar path. Why then is Kanu angry and propagating falsehood for the purpose of deception? At the moment, the times are not good for the IPOB. It is in dire straits and fight of its life. It is in a big struggle as its days are numbered. Sooner than later, like its predecessor Biafra-Republic-agitation-associations, will become extinct and go into oblivion. This is not a false prophesy. It is a matter of time. Again, like the South East elite and governments, IPOB has got a wild cat for a pet and it turned to feed on it. All is not well with Kanu and IPOB. They have both crumbled and crawling. There is fire on the mountain and IPOB is in disarray. It is struggling. Kanu is in detention. His IPOB is in shatters. Disorganised. Only vultures have surrounded him. Everything is wrong. There is leadership tussle. IPOB has broken into factions. There is Simon Ekpa autopilot. There is Chika Edozien Directorate of State (DOS). IPOB is in a big fight over its finances. Kanu’ s younger brothers want to control it. In Germany, Italy, London, France among others IPOB huge funds is at the heart of a fight. Some accounts have been blocked. Others are objects of litigation. Kanu is worried. He is losing control. There is a bigger fight among Kanu’s legal team. No cohesion. Some feel entitled. There’s contest over who is the lead counsel. Some lawyers who never had addresses or any profitable ventures have found rest in IPOB. Some who couldn’t have won the simplest civil cases in a customary court are cashing out on IPOB and fleecing Kanu. Poor him.

While IPOB burns, Southeast also burns. Eastern Security Network, unknown gunmen, kidnappers, hostage takers, warlords, combatants, killers, marauders, blood suckers, violent vigilantes have taken over the region. Only a reign of terror is visible. IPOB is helpless. Simon Ekpa, from far away Finland is fueling the crisis. Violently forced sit-at-home order is enforced by those IPOB struggles to deny are not its members. In the absence of Kanu, Ekpa has tried to mimic him in voice, attitude and carriage. The kill-them-order, has accentuated. Ekpa tries to outdo Kanu. Ironically, Kanu is in denial. He and IPOB are desperately denying that Ekpa isn’t their member or working for them.

A time was when Kanu publicly called for attacks on Nigerian Soldiers and other law enforcement agents including the police. Kanu called for violent attack of fulani herdsmen. He called many Igbo politicians names. He called them Efulefu. What has Ekpa done differently? IPOB is just intelligent by half. Now, the organisation and Kanu want Monday sit-at-home cancelled but used for Economic Empowerment Day (EED) and call/march for his unconditional release. Any difference? Whether as sit-at-home or EED or call for Kanu’s release, is it not the same? Double speak! The new plan is even more dangerous. It will bring Kanu’s faction of IPOB into confrontation with Ekpa’s. Then blood will flow. A bird that leaves the ground and perches on the anthill is still on the ground. This is an Igbo adage. Kanu claims IPOB is not responsible for the dastardly acts in the South East. But he has not denied tasking ESN to be bloody. Even now, he tries to deploy the ESN for certain accomplishments. Initially, we were told ESN was fighting Fulani herdsmen. But is that still true? We were told it was about Buhari. Is he still there?

There is another angle we are ignoring. Kanu has never denied not to have committed most of the things he is accused of. His very dull infantile defence is that he did that in the UK, a jurisdiction not covered by Nigeria. Fact is that Kanu and his cohorts have injured the South East, Ndigbo and humanity. History will not judge him right. He may pontificate and grandstand. He may look for scapegoats and point accusing fingers to “innocent” persons and places. He has destroyed his homeland. He has destroyed Igbo culture, value and ethical discipline. Igboland is in ruins, the type never suffered during the civil war. While IPOB thinks or believes that its tactics are superb and impregnable, they are rather self-destructive. The tactics have not only impeded peace in the South East but inhibited the resolution of the crisis and perhaps, encouraged the continued incarceration of Kanu.

At the end, Ndigbo will understand the essence of the current agitation. They will understand that it is a complete ruse. It is a manipulative deception; a heist organised by some negatively ambitious young men who, in their desire to be rich, started a variant of 419/Yahoo Yahoo. It worked for them. They got the money and attention of the vulnerable. They used intimidation, harassment and fear mongering to actualise their aim. The bone of contention among IPOB leaders is about how to keep and share the booty. The one behind the bars wants to maintain a control from detention. The money is so huge to be left in the hands of others. Kanu is voracious for money. IPOB is rich and the funds cannot just be left like that. The agitation is no longer about Biafra or Ndigbo. It is about Money, Women and Power. It is an ego fight among select narcissists. The IPOB leaders do not want the Igbo followers to know this. It will not be good for their narrative and end goal. It will deflate the deceptive tactics. Keeping the propaganda and fake news alive is the best they can do. The deceptions work, at least, for now. But the lies will definitely die someday. There is a short span of life for lies and deceit. Sooner than later, light and knowledge will come upon Ndigbo. May that day come. And quickly too.

Emeka Jerome, writes in from Umuahia, Abia State.

BREAKING: GROUP SET TO PROTEST OVER COMPLICITY OF BELLO KOKO IN CORRUPTION, FINANCIAL FRAUD AND ABUSE OF OFFICE


A group under the aegis of the Coalition of Civil Society for Transparency in Public Offices (CCSTPO) is set to organize a massive protest at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja over allegations of corruption and financial fraud hanging on the neck of the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello Koko.


The protest which is slated for Tuesday, 22nd August, 2023 will be used to draw the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and anti-corruption agencies to the rot going on in NPA under the leadership of Bello Koko.


In a statement signed by the Chief Convener of the group, Engr. Yusuf Adekunle and made available to journalists in Abuja on Friday, it was revealed that Bello Koko had earlier been dragged to the Federal High Court Kaduna vide Suit No. FHC/KD/CS/78/2023 concerning the same issues.


Bello Koko is also accused of gross abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, and money laundering while serving as Executive Director, Finance and Administration as well as MD/CEO of the NPA between January 2015 till date.


In the said suit filed by Comrade Isah Buta, the National Coordinator of Arewa Progressives Forum (APF), through his lawyers, Messrs LAWRENCE IJIMDIYA & ASSOCIATES, the Chairmen of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Code of Conduct Bureau, as well as the Attorney-General of the Federation/ Minister of Justice and CG, Nigeria Immigration Service were named as Defendants.

By

Peter N. Afunanya Ph.D, fsi
Public Relations Officer
Department of State Services (DSS)
National Headquarters
Abuja.

Recently, the media is awash with various commentaries about DSS disobedience to Court Orders. These accusations, as wrong as they are, have peaked in the Emefiele saga. It may interest the public and indeed the avowed critics of the Service to note the following incidents and timelines to show that it has religiously obeyed Court orders in respect of the case and even others.

In 2022, the Service commenced the investigation of Mr Godwin Emefiele on suspicion of Terrorism Financing, Money Laundering among others and subsequently applied to the Federal High Court, Abuja for his arrest and detention. But the Chief Judge objected to the order and clearly stated that the Service did not need an order to investigate or arrest him. Emefiele was to later obtain a restraining order issued by Justice MA Hassan of the FCT High Court against the Service. Instructively, the DSS obeyed this Order and did not arrest or detain Emefiele.

However, on 9th June, 2023, Emefiele was suspended as CBN Governor by the President. Based on new information and suspected criminal infractions, the Service, as expected by law, arrested and detained him using a Magisterial Order. On 10th July, 2023, Justice Hamza Mu’azu of the FCT High Court, while recognising that the DSS had every legal right to arrest, detain and investigate Emefiele, ordered for his release or prosecution within seven days. The Service expeditiously and expressly complied with the order and charged him for illegal possession of firearms and ammunitions being one of the criminal suspicions. The Muazu Order had, by implication, extended Emefiele’s detention by seven days with effect from 10th July, 2023 when the initial detention order had expired.

Within the same period, Justice Bello Kawu of the same FCT High Court, while dismissing reliefs sought by Peter Abang, Counsel to Emefiele on 14th July, 2023 ordered for the release or prosecution of Emefiele within 48 hours. However, the Service had complied with the seven days ultimatum issued by Justice Muazu. In obedience to rule of law, Emefiele was arraigned before Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on 25th July, 2023 for illegal possession of arms and ammunition. The Service had long issued a press statement over the incident that happened at the Court between its staff and those of Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and pledged to investigate it. Though the investigation is ongoing, the preliminary findings are quite shocking considering the ignoble roles played by some public officials.

As normal with criminal investigations, security agencies re-arrest suspects when there is adequate suspicion of commission of a crime or as may be revealed by an ongoing investigation. Emefiele was re-arrested on the basis of this. Even though the re-arrest was tainted by the overzealousness of personnel of the Service and NCoS, it was nonetheless legally procedural.
Later, the Service applied for an Exparte Order at the FCT High Court presided by Justice Edward Okpe (and not Justice Mu’azu as erroneously and massively reported in the media) to detain Emefiele for 14 days. Against the established rules regarding exparte applications, a lawyer suddenly appeared in the Court for Emefiele. While the Judge did not outrightly reject the DSS request, he struck out the motion upon its withdrawal by the Service counsel. But this is not without his guidance. Earlier, the Judge had drawn the attention of the Counsels to Section 293 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) which also recognises the Magistrate Court as a competent Court that can first be approached for an order for custody of a suspect under investigation. In other words, the Service, having taken the hint of the Court, took the right steps. What transpired at the Court was, thereafter, variously misrepresented by some mischief makers. Part of the disinformation is to the effect that the Court “struck out the application and stated that it was an abuse of judicial process”. That was not what the Court said. What Justice Okpe said was “the Applicant having withdrawn the application, same is hereby struck out”. That was all. The Court records are there. But purveyors of fake news distorted the message to suit their intent; just to make the Service look bad – a sort of giving the dog a bad name in order to hang it.

Many had gone to town with stories of DSS fragrant disobedience to Court Orders especially in view of the last episodes at the High Courts in Lagos and Abuja. With what played out at the Court on 27th July 2023 under Justice Okpe, the Service immediately applied and obtained a detention Order from a Magistrate Court. So, Emefiele is legally detained. For reasons that the Emefiele case is subjudice, the Service will restrain from making further comments on the subject matter.

For either lack of knowledge or deliberate act to ignore the truth, there has been sustained bashing of the Service and its leadership in the media and public spaces. It is ironical that the same people who condemn media trial are daily taking the Service through the same. The actual points are however, not lost on the Service. It is aware of the depth of the orchestrations and even deeper plot to incite the judiciary against it.

Targeting DSS DG, YM Bichi, for insidious media attacks is needless. Any DGSS, even if brought from heaven among the angels, will discharge the DSS mandate. There isn’t a time in our national sojourn for greatness that key organs of government will cease to exist or not needed. The DSS, like the CIA, FBI among others, is a major and positive instrument of State administration and management. It is essential for statecraft, governance, stability and public order. Scraping it as being canvassed by the uninformed is unreasonable. It is indeed obvious the DSS is misunderstood. It is obvious there is a mob action against the Service. Allow the DSS be. Allow Bichi, a fine gentleman officer, be. Support DSS. Support Nigeria. As in the national anthem, Arise, O Compatriots.

Some critics have made varied insinuations including abusing the Service, its leadership and completely distorting the significant historical role of the Service in nation building. Others have said it is wobbling and of no relevance. Laughable. The DSS is not tottering. It is standing and firmly too. Even the worst of its critics knows that the Service has played (and still plays) stabilising roles for the nation. Its loyalty and patriotism are incomparable. The Service is a stabilising force for the country’s democracy. Same for the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria’s sovereignty. Only a collaborative support from stakeholders will strengthen this. The Service does not claim to know it all; a reason it allows for constructive criticism and makes out time to explain itself in line with transparency and democratic accountability.

Whether on Emefiele, Bawa or Kanu, the Service has obeyed judicial orders and handled the cases procedurally and in accordance with the rule of law. Critics are encouraged to be a bit more discerning and up their research capabilities. Doing so will reveal that the Service obeys orders. The Court of Appeal judgement on Kanu is recommended for detailed study. Maybe, we can decipher the difference between Discharged and Acquitted and what the use of either or both mean in the final order of a Judge. The DSS is an ardent respecter of the law. Anyone may argue this but it is true. It is in this regard that it has applied for either a stay or notice of appeal on some of the matters. One who does not obey the laws will not resort to legal procedures like the DSS has done.

Let those seeking justice not intimidate the Judges or derail law enforcement efforts. Judges deliver justice without fear or favour and should be allowed to discharge their duties honourably. For the umpteenth time, the Service reiterates its unequivocal stance on rule of law and respect for the judiciary. This position remains unchanging despite the futile attempts to paint it otherwise.

For a medium which hurts, destroys people and elicits growling messages, phone calls and libel suits, has little chance of survival. Ethically, objectivity, fairness, sticking to the facts, weighing facts against truths and demanding the other side are hallmarks of good reportage. But when misinformation, propaganda, and lies are shared as core truth, then a research is needed to find a path to viable answers that will establish facts that aligns with figures.

So much attention has been drawn to a malicious report of “146 billion naira fraud, abandoned projects by Nigeria’s North East Commission” published by a known notorious propagandists in-house media known as Sahara reporter.

Reading through the reports, I cannot but show my disgust at the unsubstantiated, fake, and mischievous article that has been pushed to the public space. It is unfortunate that such widely followed news media platform will engage in such smear campaign.

Before I critically analyze Sahara reporters' unprofessionalism, It is imperative to note that The North East Development Commission (NEDC) is the coordinating body for government, organisations, international and civic leaders, to rebuild the North-Eastern states in Nigeria into a safe, economically vibrant, ICT driven 21st Century region.

In the opening body of the article, the statement “The Leadership of NEDC may soon be investigated by EFCC and ICPC” shows how long they’ve been hunting the reputable NEDC for a great fall.

They further wrote that the commission has refused to respond to the earlier petition some people sent. NEDC is a focused body with lots of mandates to be executed, they are not a commission with an ample time for inappropriate chitchats, or shenanigans from anyone or some people. Therefore, it should be noted that if the leadership of NEDC didn’t reply to earlier petitions, it’s because the petitions were not sent through the proper channels. The Leadership of NEDC are highly committed to transparency in every area of their operations.

According to Sahara reporters, NEDC was been petitioned by two transparency groups, PATAI and AITA, who have based their clowning core allegations on corruption, financial misappropriation and abuse of office, led by one Mr Bassey. He claimed that the N146.19 billion was the budgetary allocation to the commission, and also said the money was paid in full for uncompleted or abandoned projects.

They stated with temerity that, “The abandoned projects include the construction of a central workshop in Maiduguri, the construction of Birma Primary School at Kashimbila in Taraba, and the Madagali and Pinlla primary school projects in Adamawa. Others are the equipment supply at the Eye Clinic Centre in Azare, the construction of the ICT training centre, College of Legal and Islamic Studies, Misau, all in Bauchi state.”

From the malicious narrative above, they failed to tell everyone the specified budgetary allocations for all these listed projects, if it’s 50b, 12b, or what? This truly shows they lack the technical know-how of the modus Operandi of projects execution. Since they claimed to know the full allocated fund, their allegations would have been of a good substance if they were able to provide comprehensive breakdown on the amount they believed would have been appropriate for the execution of the projects they were smart to point out, but they blindly went all in for a pull-down syndrome.

Sahara Reporters article rode on a the false narration of 146.19 billion fraud provided to them by the hungry NGO’s without substantiating the amount of budgetary for different listed projects that are needed to be executed, also not giving specificity to the time frame needed for execution, thereby revealing their level of absurdity in the face of professional journalism.
All these, Just to smear the leadership of NEDC, and I asked “For what reason, and to what extent?”

However, it is expected that the media do thorough Investigation bearing in mind the corporate social responsibility of the press to report only accurate and factual News. The press is expected to observe high social standard and responsibilities in performing their professional functions, but Sahara Reporters failed woefully in this quest.

Sahara reporters ought to have known better that the leadership of a sensitive commission like NEDC, that’s fully under the watch of anti-graft agencies and other law enforcement agencies, won’t be that stupid to dive into the ruffles of corruption and mismanagement. But it’s very unfortunate that Sahara reporter has to peddle the paid news for better considerations of upcoming paychecks from their political godfathers that are just after their selfish gains from the ruins of good governance.


Should we say that sahara reporters and these two transparency NGO’s had no clue of the many fully executed projects that could easily be googled by a 7-year old? Projects t like;

The construction of 1,000 housing units as that was part of the Federal Government’s resettlement efforts for millions of inhabitants displaced by the 13-year insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East.

The Education Endowment Fund with a seed capital of N6bn.

Three bridges had been constructed in Kudzum, and Wuro-Ngayandi areas of Adamawa State.

Execution of 647 projects ranging from agriculture, health, education, energy/power across 112 local government areas in the North-East. With each LGA gulping at least N50m, the total costs accrues to N5.6bn. etc

These are just to mention a few of the many achievements by NEDC, “Please, Go and Check”.

Alkali, the MD of NEDC once said, “the commission required at least N31.05tn to execute its mandate according to the North-East Stabilization and development masterplan in the next 30 years.” From this statement, we can easily conclude that a good breakdown shows that the leadership of NEDC has been running a wisdom and requisite compassion to the proper management of available funds.


Further in the article, there were claims that other abandoned projects, included the mass housing project in Dadin Kowa, Gombe, 200 mass housing units in Nguru and a 300 mass housing project in Damaturu, both in Yobe.

For simplicity sake, If they were claims of abandonment and incomplete task, shouldn’t it be a question of asking why, and knowing the factors for suspending for a while? But Sahara in their derogatory personality went on with a falsified conclusive narrative of a Fraud report, when it is a fact that projects are usually implemented over a period of time on account of funds being released over several budget cycles such that projects are implemented in phases.

Unfortunately, this narratives has been further accentuated by the virulent utterances and statements by some rat-house media houses that had relied on their mother-decks like Sahara reporters. It’s so debasing to think that in spite of all the facts they claimed to possess, both groups opted for media show-bashing and name-smearing when they could have simply tendered their grievances and petitions to the EFCC for proper indulgence.

As Abba Musa has rightly said, this regime is well known for transparency and accountability, and it is not possible for anyone to mismanage over N146 billion, and nothing will happen. The process to perpetuate such financial robbery and vandalism in a commission like NEDC is suicidal and never possible.

According to the response given by the NEDC official in Sahara Reporters article, it is obvious that there was no denial of acknowledging the groups grievances. They were also given the relevance they sought for by promising to grace their official invitation.

Unlike a renowned restaurateur with wide ranging traditional clientele who are pernickety, the likes of Sahara Reporters are piffling, pigheaded and higgledy-piggledy. The dysfunctional aspect of their reportage is fast becoming a phenomenon contrived mainly to destroy, damage reputation and integrity built over the years all in a bid to get rich quick Extortionately.

The nontradable products of the medium are fertile grounds for a classical Study of an abuse of the new media and its irresistibility by gullible few who are rather quick in swallowing their false churn-outs hook, line and sinker and disregarding rebuttal or apologies by such errant media.

Owning to these fact that Sahara reporter publication, and the actions of PATAI and AITA has a large political and personal undertone against the leadership of NEDC, Iaw enforcement agencies need to grill the operators and their leadership in a bid to prove their innocence against the disruption of the now existing form of peace in the many Northeastern regions.

However, I believe that we should be consequently alarmed at any spurious allegations without recourse to implicating NEDC, which by all intent we know that the purposes are of poor taste and lacking any form of credibility as there are no such infractions in the operations of the NEDC.

As a matter of fact, the operational manual of the NEDC is such that is tailored to ensure accountability at all times and as such we should wonder how such infractions would have been effected with the multiple layers of checks and balances put in place.

Therefore, the leadership of NEDC is further urged to focus more on its mandate of returning the northeast to the commercial powerhouse it was before terrorism ravaged the community, and disrupted lives there. The leadership of NEDC must not let the strong focus on their mandate be shaken by any media propagandist that only cause mayhem for massive gains.

Charles is a forensic analyst writing from University of Nigeria Nsukka.

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