₦airaland Forum

REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE NIGERIAN SUPREME COUNCIL FOR ISLAMIC AFFAIRS ON THE 29TH OF NOVEMBER, 2019

PROTOCOLS

It is a great honour to be here at this opening ceremony of the General Assembly of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. This Council is of particular importance to us as a nation because it not only promotes solidarity among Nigeria’s Muslims, but also serves as an important intermediary between government and the Muslim community and between Muslims and persons of other faiths.

As the highest decision-making body of the Council, I offer to you this morning, both a commendation and a challenge.

First, the commendation to you for the great leadership you have shown in galvanizing the Muslim community in Nigeria despite denominational differences. But also, for making the Council available for the promotion of interfaith peace, and religious tolerance in Nigeria.

The challenge stems from the theme of this meeting which is “Islam and National Development.” Permit me to put the topic in context so that we do not miss the essence of the topic. So, I recast the theme to read as follows quote, “The Role of Islam in the Development of a Multi-religious and Multi-ethnic Nation.” This is the gravamen of the matter and I believe my brother, Isa Pantami (Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy who delivered the keynote address) did an excellent job.

Decades ago in this same country, it would not have been a major topic. Leaders in the first republic did not consider religious intolerance as a major national issue, they were more concerned about the issues that touched everyone regardless of religion or ethnicity; they were concerned about providing food, shelter, education and decent livelihoods. But today, no true leader can ignore the threat that religious bigotry and intolerance poses for the development of our nation. That is just the way it is.

But it is my respectful view that the burden of ensuring that faith promotes national development as opposed to impeding it is on leaders. This is the challenge I pose to you today.

A few months ago, at an interfaith gathering, I told the story of an occurrence on the 20th of June 2018. Christians in their village Nshar Yelwa, Plateau State were attacked by a horde of persons who were said to be Muslims, who had attacked other villages and had killed several Berom farmers who were mainly Christians. As Imam Abdullahi was finishing mid-day prayers, he and his congregation heard gunshots and went outside to see members of the village’s Christian community running helter-skelter. Instinctively, the Imam ushered 262 Christians into the mosque and some into his home next to the mosque. The Imam then went outside to confront the gunmen. He refused to allow them to enter, pleading with them to spare the Christians inside the mosque and his home. When the assailants were adamant, he told them that they would have to kill him first if they were going to kill the Christians, he had given refuge. They eventually left without killing any of the Christians in the mosque or in his home. Imam Abdullahi’s selflessness and sacrifice saved the lives of hundreds of people of a faith different from his own.

Imam Abdullahi not only refused to give up the Christians he had given refuge; he even offered his life in exchange for theirs. His moral courage is rooted in a profound recognition of our common humanity. His compassion, empathy and selflessness are an example to us as people of faith.

Jesus Christ told a story somewhat similar to this. Someone had asked Him the question, “how could he attain eternal life?” And Jesus replied by asking him what the law said on the matter. The man responded that the law says “Love God with all your heart and mind and love your neighbour as yourself.” Jesus then said, “Good, you go and obey that law and you will live.” However, the man asked him, “But who is my neighbour?” Jesus then told him a parable which later came to be known as the story of the Good Samaritan.

It is the story of a man who was traveling between Jerusalem and Jericho, and was attacked by thieves. His property was stolen and he was beaten almost to death. As he lay on the road, a certain priest came by, saw him and walked by on the other side of the road. So also, a Levite, came by and walked by on the other side of the road. Then a Samaritan came by, (Samaritans were regarded as unbelievers by the Jews) stopped and took care of the injured man, putting him on his horse and then took him to an Inn, leaving the Inn-keeper money to take care of him until he returned. Jesus then asked the man, “of the three men who saw the injured man who was his neighbour?” The man answered that it was the Samaritan who had compassion on Him. Jesus then said to him go and do likewise.

Jesus said go and behave with love and compassion in the way that the Samaritan did. All leaders, and this is my challenge to you today, need to learn from the simple, but deeply profound actions of the Good Samaritan and Chief Imam Abubakar. Both of them showed great love and compassion. They were not concerned about the race or religion of those whose lives they saved or whose properties were destroyed. All that mattered was that they were flesh and blood like themselves. They were simply ready to make any sacrifice for another human being.

We are at a historic juncture in the existence of our nation. Here and there are religious and tribal tensions. Many are beating the drums of ethnic and religious superiority. Some even seek to divide the nation into ethnic zones. Yet our constitution speaks in the clearest and highest terms of our national commitment to the equality of all Nigerians regardless of ethnicity, religion or status. It speaks of the imperative of all individuals and governments to respect the rights and dignity of every Nigerian. Our constitution speaks of freedom of worship, the liberty to belong to a faith of one’s choice and even change that faith without consequence. But constitutional declarations mean nothing unless there are men and women ready to make the personal sacrifices to bridge the gap between rhetoric and constitutional ideals. Such men and women are not usually very many. But they do not have to be many to make a difference.

Let me add one more story, a few months ago, a leader of a large Christian congregation in a Northern State sought audience with me. I asked him why, he said he wanted to speak to me about the Governor of his State. I assumed it was going to be a complaint because the governor of the State is a Muslim and I thought it might perhaps, be some conflict between Christians and Muslims in the community.

But it wasn’t. He said,” Your Excellency, I think the government should give national honors to those who promote the unity of the country.” He then told me how the Governor of his State had rebuilt several churches that were damaged by religious extremists who described themselves as Muslims. I was shocked first, by the fact that here was the leader of a church, asking that the Government should honour the Governor of his State for doing something that is unprecedented.

Yet there are States where Governors refuse to grant certificates of occupancy for the building of churches or places of religious gathering in outright violation of the constitution they swore to uphold.

Every Sunday, my family and over 100 Christians attend service in the Chapel at the Villa. The Chapel is located in the premises of the President and his family. It is located a few seconds away from the First Lady’s kitchen. Sometimes when I see the President on a Sunday morning, he asks me whether the service is over already or I am escaping from the service! That is the sort of tolerance that we need in a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society and it is the duty of leaders to show that sort of example.

It is the courage of leaders to live up to the ideals of their faith and their sworn commitments that invariably build nations. Leaders must live up to the commitments to which they swear, especially political leaders.

Nations are built by the sacrifices, the hardwork of leaders who do not care even if they are condemned by persons of their own religion or ethnicity, so long as they are confident that they act in obedience to the oaths they swore and to the Almighty God. Such men and women are few, but the profundity of their actions invariably transform communities and nations as they bend the arc of history in the direction of unity, peace and progress.

I have observed for many years the words and actions of his Royal Highness, the Sultan of Sokoto, how he has sought to build bridges with other faiths, locally and internationally, this is as it should be. The challenge of nation building is not the noise of the religious bigots and nihilists, it is the silence and inaction of leaders of different faiths who know better, those who say and do nothing, and to whom we appeal today. Your words and actions may make the difference between peace and tragedy.

The Quran proclaims, “Human beings, we created you all from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may know one another.” (Surah 49:13).

These words are important because they point us in the direction of our diversity, but that diversity is a source of strength, knowledge and unity and our nation at this point, requires men and women who look at our faith, Muslims and Christians who see first brothers and sisters, who see first human beings before we see faith.

It is now my very special pleasure and privilege to declare open this conference.

Thank you very much.

https://www.yemiosinbajo.ng/vps-remarks-at-the-general-assembly-of-the-nigerian-supreme-council-for-islamic-affairs/

Photos: President Buhari presides over Federal Executive Council Meeting.

OSINBAJO ADVOCATES INCREASED STATE GOVTS’ ENGAGEMENT TO END GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

In order to deepen advocacy against gender-based violence and strengthen official efforts to prevent it, there is a need to intensify the engagements of State governments across the country.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated this today while receiving Mrs. Leymah Gbowee, the Liberian activist who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for non-violent struggle, safety and women's rights.

According to him, “driving prosecution for sex offenders is best done at the state level, particularly strengthening the States to do so at the National Economic Council.”

The Vice President emphasized the need for States to exercise political will in order to get the desired results, as well as provide the necessary funding to implement, working together with the private sector.

With respect to the Sex Offenders Register, Prof Osinbajo said “it was something that needed a lot of attention, changing the orientation of men in particular, to understand it’s a campaign that must be championed by men”

Speaking earlier during the visit, Mrs. Gbowee noted the prevalence of rape in and out of conflict zones with impunity across Africa, stating that the successful launch of the sex offenders register in Nigeria is a huge milestone and Nigeria has set the precedence for other African countries to follow.

Mrs. Gbowee who is visiting Nigeria, gave the keynote address at the launch of the sex offenders register organized by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), yesterday.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
26th November 2019

Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC) says the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) was very thorough and professional under the leadership of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
The Professor of Law noted that the SIP should not have been removed from the Office of the Vice President. He added the decision might slow the progress of the programmes.
Reacting to a question that the role of the Vice President seems to have been whittled, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said, “The main responsibility that was taken away from the Vice President is the Social Investment Programme which has been taken to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs”.

He added that, “I was given the impression that some people working on the SIP have been moved to that ministry. I think we should wait and see. My approach to things as shown in my support for Magu is that when things are going well, I don’t like disturbing them.

“The Vice President’s office handled the SIP in an impeccable and successful manner. So, I think removing it from his supervision is a risk because it may slow down things.

“Mrs. Mariam Uwais who was the adviser, did a magnificent job. They were thorough, professional and curbed corruption.
“The school feeding programme and other aspects of the programme went well. Those involved in corruption were brought to book and monies were recovered.

“I personally would have wanted things to continue as it was. But those who have the powers have decided that they want to transfer it to a new ministry. I just hope this new ministry does not fall below the stand,” he said.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/11/sip-was-thorough-professional-under-osinbajo-prof-sagay/

Smalldick123:
Dont quote me again cos am just returning from ban. If i loose my anger now i will go back to ban

Apart from bad grammar, you can say nothing

Smalldick123:
All na for audio. Las las he will go and collect 10strokes of cane from cabals

las las we go pray for you for church today. Your case don dey critical.

More pix

NIGERIA NOW NEEDS THE RIGOUR & DISCIPLINE TO IMPLEMENT, SAYS OSINBAJO AT NIPSS GRADUATION
*Policy not the issue but implementation, VP submits

“One thing that we must bear in mind, which is my challenge to NIPSS; the problem of Nigeria has never been a shortage of ideas, there is no policy that has never been thought of, but the problem has always been implementation.

“In my respectful view, NIPSS must graduate from a “think-tank” to “do-tank”, and this is the case. We are at a point in our country where policy is not the issue, but the rigour and discipline that is required to implement is what is needed.

“I want to urge NIPSS, that our subsequent studies must be based on the need to attain some level of understanding of how to implement and get things done. Once we are able to do that, we are on our way.”

Read more
https://www.yemiosinbajo.ng/vp-osinbajo-attends-the-graduation-ceremony-of-senior-executive-course-41-nipss-in-kuru-on-23-11-2019/

...By Eniola Opeyemi in response to Femi Fani-Kayode's "Today Is Osinbajo's Turn To Be Rubbished, Dumped By The Cabal, It's Tinubu's Turn Tomorrow"

FFK political lineage tracks to people like Bode George and Good luck Jonathan... "Ajègbodò tó n wá eni kúnra" (The guilty one is always looking for an accomplice).

As a youth from Southwest Nigeria, I grew up learning the ethics and values of the land from elders of reputable character who have good intentions for the society. Through this, our societal values have gotten the best recommendations and our tribe is widely acknowledged, arguably, the finest. But FFK has refused to accept proper “home training”.

From the best pedigree, Professor Yemi Osinbajo SAN, has been well groomed and today, he is one of the finest experts known in his field, both in the classroom and the court room. Osinbajo is so grounded in his field that he is an institution all by himself such that groups and individuals eulogize him even before he came on board as the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Then how can you rubbish an established personality who wasn’t known through politics? Besides, he has always exhibited a distinct, flawless and unquestionable character which has stood the test of time over the years?

Reading through Femi Fani Kayode's article, one cannot but come to conclusion that not all ADULT are intelligent.

Egbon is so inconsistent that after he feigned Opposition during Jonathan’s regime, he later took a U-turn and accepted a position under the same government he once ridiculed with gaiety: Need we look further? Perhaps Egbon is idle and expecting the Buhari govt to extend a hand to him? Perhaps in the next generation.

Fani-Kayode, who was the Director of Publicity for ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential campaign organization during the 2015 election, has a N4.9billion fraud case still hanging on his neck.

Bros FFK, one can no longer walk both sides of the street at the same time. In case you have not noticed, the politics of principle has, since 2015, defeated the politics of posturing. If you have any sense of propriety, the least you can do is to retract the Corrupt piece and apologize for this latest bunkum.

Osinbajo has said on countless occasions that there is no rift between himself and the President, but in egbon's figment of EVIL imaginations, he has concocted falsehoods because that is where he benefits.

The Vice-president however knew the enemies and detractors are at work, always seeking to dwarf his statue (like the faceless Cabals) in order to delude the public that they are taller than he is. They seek to divert the gullible from his NOBLE and constructive courses into the barren land of petty and strife and fruitless CONTROVERSY. Yeah, quite a few, like FFK, is taller in height than him, but clueless unlike him.

Femi-Fani Kayode is simply a fascist coward; he cannot ever match the feat of the Ikenne born Senior Advocate of Nigeria. The vice-president has the right character to maintain cordial relationships in government unlike egbon's known Rascal attitude that often tends towards bringing down all relationships.

If Fani-Kayode is right in his disposition, he should show us the evidence. But he has none in existence. He has cooked up stories to get his cock and bull shit-bills paid, perhaps by PDP clueless OPPOSITIONS.

For the umpteenth time, FFK should stop playing the Pig whose favorite activity is dragging others in the mud. For now, he should hold his PEACE until he gets a clean bill from the EFCC.

meccuno:
Useless man.

stay away from drugs

*VP adds: the costs are too huge

*Ending open defecation in 2025 realisable

*States urged to adopt common sense policy measures

The loss of lives and billions of naira to preventable water and sanitation related diseases as a result of inadequate basic water supply and sanitation services is huge and should be brought to an end by an active collaboration between States and the Federal Government, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this in Abuja on Tuesday at the official roll out of the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet’ Campaign under the National programme to End Open Defecation in Nigeria.

At the event attended by several governors and their representatives, ministers and market women, amongst others, the Vice President said, “…we all must redouble our efforts and work together in order to meet the nation’s Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene needs.”
“As a Nation we simply cannot afford the huge costs including fatalities caused by preventable water and sanitation related diseases as a result of inadequate WASH services. In contributing to the government’s efforts, citizens must take action to avoid open defecation.

“There is no need to debate the point that sanitation is a major public health issue and that poor sanitation adversely impacts us all. The World Bank report on the economic impact of poor sanitation due to use of unsanitary or shared toilets and open defecation, estimates that Nigeria loses N455 billion annually, with open defecation accounting for a third of this amount. These costs include health care, loss of productivity, premature deaths, poor educational outcomes, among others.

“But perhaps some of the more dire costs of open defecation are those that cannot be quantified in monetary terms, the social costs, loss of dignity, lack of privacy and increased vulnerability to physical attacks and violence especially for women and girls,” the Vice President added.

Speaking further about the commitment of the Federal Government in addressing the menace the Vice President said the goal of putting an end to open defecation in Nigeria is a shared responsibility.

According to him, “Although we all know that the primary responsibility for provision of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Services lie with the States and Local Government Areas, the Federal Government remains committed to supporting the States initiatives aimed at improving access to these services for the populace.

“To this end, States and the Federal Capital Territory should consider common sense policy measures such as ensuring that construction sites are equipped with toilet facilities.

“Property development control regulators can also make it mandatory for buildings to include external toilet facilities for staff such as security guards. These and other such measures will reduce the incidence of public defecation.

“As the President said during the launch of the National Action Plan last year, Federal Government’s support to States will be based on their commitment to implement the National WASH Action Plan in their respective states and to end open defecation by 2025. It is our expectation that this national launch will trigger State and LGA level launches leading to mass mobilization of all Nigerians.”

Speaking further, the Vice President said the Federal Government’s support to States will however be dependent on the efforts and shown by States in implementing their action plans for the WASH sector.

On the measures initiated to by the Federal Government to boost Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) across the country, the Vice President said, “this administration has consistently affirmed its commitment to the development of the WASH sector in Nigeria.”

According to him, “the launch of the National Action Plan for the revitalization of the WASH sector and the declaration of a State of Emergency by the President last year was among the many initiatives of Government in addressing the challenges confronting the sector.

“The National Action Plan is phased into Emergency, Recovery and Revitalization stages”.

The first and current phase, he said, “is the emergency phase of the Action Plan. In the emergency stage, it is our desire to aggressively mobilize the entire country towards ending the practice of open defecation”.

Earlier in his remark, the Minister of Water Resources, Alhaji Suleiman Adamu commended the collaboration with State governors and development partners in Nigeria’s quest to end open defecation by 2025.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to actualize the target of ending open defecation across the country by 2025.


Laolu Akande

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President

19th November, 2019

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Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo SAN launches & flags off the Use The Toilet Campaign, a campaign to stop open defecation in Nigeria.

More pix

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo receives in audience Silas Adekunle a Nigerian Inventor technology entrepreneur known for creating the world’s first intelligent gaming robot and his team at The Statehouse Presidential Villa today.

What a sad day for some chest beaters.

Nigerians on social media have called out journalist and columnist, Mr. Festus Adedayo for making a mockery of himself by allegedly peddling outright lies and falsehood.

Most of them who aired their opinion via Twitter described Mr. Adedayo’s act as shameful and disgraceful, particularly because he has not been able to answer questions posed to him.

Mr. Adedayo had in an article titled, ‘The Trials of Brother Osinbajo’, claimed that the Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo had prayed that his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari died during his sick leave in the UK.

Reacting to the article, Mr Nsikan Nkordeh wrote on Twitter, “Dr. Festus Adedayo is a disgrace. Why fabricating lies to put a wedge between Osibanjo and the tyrant. Really shameful.”

Another Twitter user, Tunde believes that Mr Adedayo has been compromised. “Mr Akande know for free that dubious characters like Festus Adedayo will not answer your questions; not because he won’t see it but because he is someone who wants to fan the fire just to gain cheap popularity, and I bet he’s a man who has sold his soul for money.”

Kemisola Adekunle demanded that Mr Adedayo upholds the ethics of journalism and answer the questions he was asked. “Festus Adedayo, be sensible enough to answer Laolu’s questions and stop beating about the bush to further accentuate your drowned dignity/integrity.”

Prince Nuhu Momoh was of the opinion that Mr Adedayo might not be feeling well. He tweeted this, “You can be taking it as a joke, but please go and check yourself because that is how it will start, taking someone’s matter to heart can cause blood pressure.

Tise Somide had more harsh words for Mr Adedayo. “Festus Adedayo is a crook and no one clearly believes his lies about the VP. This consistent fake news against the VP shows he’s a great man indeed. Despite efforts to bring him down, he will forever be at the top.”

As at the time of filing this report, Mr Adedayo was yet to respond to the questions raised by Mr Laolu Akande, the spokesperson to the Vice President.

Mr Akande has asked Mr Adedayo some pertinent questions. “He claimed that the Vice President, together with some Redeemed Church ‘accomplices’, gathered to pray at some place unstated in his home State of Ogun, at a date that was not indicated, for the purpose of interceding for the VP to become President, and by extension, hoping for, or seeking the death of the President.

“So where exactly in Ogun State did this prayer session took place, and when? Was it in a church, in which case there would likely be an audio recording? Who are the prominent pastors or other persons involved that can testify to what transpired – what are their names? Who is the “strong Buhari ally” who made a surprise appearance at the gathering and brought the story back to Mr. President? If, as Adedayo claims, the VP has been hounding and haranguing this Buhari ally since then, why is it so difficult for him to cry out and publicize his strange discovery? those were the questions posed to Mr Adedayo.

No weapon fashioned against the Vice President shall prosper.

More photos

More

Earlier today, the former SA to Goodluck Jonathan in his usual way lied that VP Yemi Osinbajo was avoiding eye contact with Goodluck Jonathan. He accompanied his story with a photo of the VP looking elsewhere (acknowledging greeting elsewhere).

This drew the attention of many Twitter user who busted his lies by saying Goodluck Jonathan was only admiring Prof Osinbajo.

A twitter user also posted another photo from the even showing both of them having eye contacts.

This tweet of Reno Omokri who is known for identity theft is one of the many lies he is known for.
Images after the cut

FFK is high on cheap drugs

Letter to the Editor:

RE: THE TRIALS OF BROTHER OSINBAJO

Mr. Festus Adedayo’s article above is a sad descent into the gutter by this gentleman. When a professional columnist of Adedayo’s age and experience puts his reputation behind outright fiction and absolute mischief, usually it is a sign that the poor fellow is compromised. This is the sad reality we face today and it is truly troubling.

But let us give Mr. Adedayo the benefit of the doubt. Let us assume that he has some facts to support the reckless insinuations and innuendoes in his article.


He should then be able to answer the following questions.

He claimed that the Vice President, together with some Redeemed Church ‘accomplices’, gathered to pray at some place unstated in his home State of Ogun, at a date that was not indicated, for the purpose of interceding for the VP to become President, and by extension, hoping for, or seeking the death of the President.

So where exactly in Ogun State did this prayer session take place, and when? Was it in a church, in which case there would likely be an audio recording? Who are the prominent pastors or other persons involved that can testify to what transpired – what are their names? Who is the “strong Buhari ally” who made a surprise appearance at the gathering and brought the story back to Mr. President? If, as Adedayo claims, the VP has been hounding and haranguing this Buhari ally since then, why is it so difficult for him to cry out and publicize his strange discovery?
Festus Adedayo: A columnist gone rogue

November 13, 2019
President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo during the launch of #NextLevel
President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo

Letter to the Editor:

RE: THE TRIALS OF BROTHER OSINBAJO

Mr. Festus Adedayo’s article above is a sad descent into the gutter by this gentleman. When a professional columnist of Adedayo’s age and experience puts his reputation behind outright fiction and absolute mischief, usually it is a sign that the poor fellow is compromised. This is the sad reality we face today and it is truly troubling.

But let us give Mr. Adedayo the benefit of the doubt. Let us assume that he has some facts to support the reckless insinuations and innuendoes in his article.


He should then be able to answer the following questions.

He claimed that the Vice President, together with some Redeemed Church ‘accomplices’, gathered to pray at some place unstated in his home State of Ogun, at a date that was not indicated, for the purpose of interceding for the VP to become President, and by extension, hoping for, or seeking the death of the President.

So where exactly in Ogun State did this prayer session take place, and when? Was it in a church, in which case there would likely be an audio recording? Who are the prominent pastors or other persons involved that can testify to what transpired – what are their names? Who is the “strong Buhari ally” who made a surprise appearance at the gathering and brought the story back to Mr. President? If, as Adedayo claims, the VP has been hounding and haranguing this Buhari ally since then, why is it so difficult for him to cry out and publicize his strange discovery?

No robbery attempt at CBN in Benin – Police
Who primed Onnoghen to “package Buhari inside a judicial casket” during the 2019 elections? And to whose benefit? If, for any reason, the Buhari election was nullified by the judiciary, how would that benefit his running mate, since they contested on the same ticket?

These asinine stories put together by Mr. Adedayo betray a more evil motive. The Vice President’s commitment to the service of the Nigerian people under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is unrelenting. But there is a desperation in some quarters to create a division between the President and the Vice President. It appears that they need some well known press names who are prepared to write anything. But for what reward? One wonders. They clearly found one here, as the writer’s jaundiced article bumbled from the realm of baseless claims to outright fiction.

We do not expect an apology from Mr. Adedayo to the Vice President. This is the style of these professionals gone rogue. They are prepared to smear others and stick to their vile stories. Their conscience seems unperturbed by their reckleness. But, again, we give him the benefit of the doubt, let him answer the questions we have asked.

Laolu Akande

https://www.chronicle.ng/2019/11/festus-adedayo-a-columnist-gone-rogue/

Osinbajo is fine and there is no rift between him and the president.
No Vice President has performed better than him in Nigeria's history.

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
PRESS RELEASE

RAILWAY HOLDS MASTER KEY TO TRANSFORMING NIGERIA'S ECONOMY - OSINBAJO

*Adds: Its modernization by Buhari Administration will provide linkages, job creation, & more

*After riding the Lagos-Ibadan train from Iju to Kajola, VP performs ground-breaking of wagon assembly plant in Kajola, Ogun State

"This ceremony is not just another event, it is a historic turning point, for us, the railway is not just an alternative and comfortable mode of travel, it holds the master key to transforming commerce in Nigeria and across the continent.

"...the citing of the plant here in Nigeria and the commitment to hiring Nigerians and Nigerian businesses affirms the Presidents directives in Executive Order 5 on prioritizing Nigerians and Nigerian businesses in the innovation, production and procurement of engineering projects and services.

"The plant would offer an important platform for engineers, technicians, artisans and other professionals to gain the specialized skills required for the production and maintenance of rolling stock. This will invariably conduce to spin-off businesses in the region of operation in particular and across the country wherever rail networks are in existence. The plant is expected to generate about five thousand (5,000) direct and indirect jobs."

Below is the full text of the Vice President's speech.

ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, AT THE OFFICIAL GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY OF THE RAIL WAGON ASSEMBLY PLANT AT KAJOLA, OGUN STATE ON SATURDAY, 9TH OF NOVEMBER, 2019

It is my special pleasure this afternoon to perform the official ground-breaking ceremony of the Wagon Assembly Plant here in Kajola. The plant which is a private investment undertaken by Messrs CCECC. It is an important project for so many reasons. It is central in the production of rolling stock spare parts and maintenance equipment needed for the railway modernization programme being implemented by the administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

This ceremony is not just another event, it is a historic turning point, for us, the railway is not just an alternative and comfortable mode of travel, it holds the master key to transforming commerce in Nigeria and across the continent.

By linking our ports to rail lines and now, building the rolling stock locally, import and export business within and out of Africa’s largest market will be completely transformed. When completed, it is expected that the plant would produce some parts of the wagons for the Lagos – Ibadan and Abuja – Kaduna rail lines, but also for the central rail lines and to satisfy the needs of other rail operators within the West-African sub-region.

Secondly the citing of the plant here in Nigeria and the commitment to hiring Nigerians and Nigerian businesses affirms the Presidents directives in Executive Order 5 on prioritizing Nigerians and Nigerian businesses in the innovation, production and procurement of engineering projects and services.

The plant would offer an important platform for engineers, technicians, artisans and other professionals to gain the specialized skills required for the production and maintenance of rolling stock. This will invariably conduce to spin-off businesses in the region of operation in particular and across the country wherever rail networks are in existence. The plant is expected to generate about five thousand (5,000) direct and indirect jobs.

I have a message also for you from the President and this is to CCECC which is that we expect that you move on very quickly to the next phase of this project which is the assembly and construction of coaches and locomotives.

This for us will be a significant breakthrough and we look forward to hearing from you as quickly as possible when this will come into operation.

After completing the Abuja – Kaduna Railway project in July 2016, this administration commenced construction works on the Lagos – Ibadan Railway modernization project in March 2017, following which we initiated the rehabilitation and completion of the abandoned Itakpe – Ajaokuta – Warri rail line which was started over three decades ago.

Furthermore, last month, we signed an agreement with Messrs China Railway Construction Company International to construct the Itakpe – Ajaokuta rail line which will be extended from Itakpe to Abuja through Baro Inland Water Port in Niger State with a branch line to Lokoja in Kogi State. This rail line will link into the new Warri sea port being constructed under the agreement.

Also, we are optimizing the Lagos-Ibadan rail modernization project by extending it to the Apapa Port, the nation’s busiest port for the efficient movement of cargo from the port to various destinations. This will expedite import/export flows, decongest the ports, and depressurize our roads in the process.

Also, we are putting all mechanisms in place to achieve the swift completion of the Ibadan Inland Dry port which will off-take containers and cargoes from Apapa port through the Lagos – Ibadan rail line.

Let me take this opportunity to appreciate the support shown by the leadership of the host communities here in Kajola and around this environment, for this project and other relevant Federal and State government projects. The implementation of these projects is important. It is imperative that our host communities continue to support government’s efforts by effectively cooperating with the contractors in safeguarding and protecting these lasting investments so that we can ensure that all intended objectives and mutual benefits are attained.

Let me also commend the Federal Ministry of Transportation led by the very able and dynamic Hon. Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi or Chibuike Amaechi, (today he is Rotimi since we are in the South West) for the very hard work and commitment he has demonstrated from the inception of our rail modernization project. And also, to the Chinese government, particularly the investor, CCECC Nigeria Limited for this significant and strategic investment.

The vision you have shown and the initiative you have taken in the larger development journey of this great country will reap unparalleled rewards for you and great opportunity for our people.

In a few minutes, I will have the special privilege of performing the official ground-breaking ceremony for the establishment of this Wagon Assembly Plant here in Kajola Ogun State, and I hope that this will be only be the beginning of the development of the railway infrastructure, not only here in Ogun State, but across the country.

Thank you all and God bless.

Released by:
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
9th November 2019

Have they ever supported his candidacy?
What amazes me is Yinka Ifunmakin parading himself as Afenifere.
Osinbajo is not in need of their help, They are bunch of hypocrites

Twice, did God say that in King David he had found ‘a man after my own heart’ (1 Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22). David was one of God’s favourite. Just like it was in the old days, so it is now; Professor Yemi Osinbajo is God’s own.
The rise and rise of Professor Yemi Osinbajo, no doubt reflects God’s blessings, the result of hard work and loyalty, giving hope not only to the academia but also to professionalism in the nation. Nigeria’s political terrain has harbored the best script writers, actors and actresses whose precedents have almost put the nation on the path of political upheaval making us one of the most tensed up country across the world, owing to the sectionalism, nepotism all of which show that we are divided across various beliefs.
Osinbajo has since put the economy and the unity of the nation back on the right track especially with his supervision of the NSIP’s and the development of the MSMEClinics. He held fort when the President was ill and was found to be a faithful and loyal deputy. Yemi Osinbajo, has been quietly effective in addressing some of the crises affecting the country. Among other things, the VP met with stakeholders in the volatile yet oil-rich Niger Delta and addressed protesters demanding economic reform and an end to government corruption and this has led to the sustained peace being enjoyed in the region ever since.
The vice-president has never shied away from difficult topics. Visiting the Niger Delta Osinbajo said that young men in the region must be “properly engaged” to stop them falling into militant groups or participating in illegal refining of crude oil. Osinbajo also confronted rare public demonstrations in Lagos and in the capital, Abuja earlier in February, where hundreds of protesters decried the state of the country, and oppression by federal and military might.
Nigeria’s economy is striving to become less dependent on oil—which currently makes up more than 65 percent of our GDP and already some of the impact that the seeds sown by the VP are gaining ground. According to CNN last week, “Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, improved its ranking on the latest World Bank ease of doing business index.
The country now ranks 131 on the 2020 index, released last week. The Nation moved up 15 places from its 2019 spot and has been tagged as one of the most improved economies in the world for running a business. If we are to go by the records, the vice President deserves our gratitude and not humiliation.
Nonetheless, the cabals influence in Nigeria’s politics can’t be underrated as they perform more functions behind the scenes than most elected and appointed officials, some of these cabals surrounding the President have chosen to constantly undermine the Vice President. Rarely though would you see Osinbajo comment on this. Always showing maturity, professionalism and the humble figure he presents at home and in the church. The vice president has continually paid loyalty to his boss something which has paid off as his popularity keeps waxing stronger in the minds of the citizens.
Just recently, the powers around the President are out to prove that they have an axe to grind with the Vice President, always trying to undercut him at every political and nonpolitical setting. It has been said that Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to the President decides all that happens in the presidency, including the exclusion of the First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, from getting closer to her husband and access to her residential wing of the villa.
Over the weekend in Kastina, the Chief of staff was cautioned and reprimanded severely by the Emir of Daura for breaking protocol and occupying the seats reserved for the Senate President and the Vice President with his own entourage.
The latest of all is the purported sacking of the the Vice President’s aides. An online newspaper, Daily Nigerian, had earlier reported that 35 aides were sacked. Funny that these same persons were those whose appointments and transfers to various ministries were confirmed by the President just before he went on his trip.
While clarifications are needed as to the relationship between the Chief of Staffs and the various allegations, it will be good all truce prevails in the best interest of the country, seeing that now, there are already confrontations, stand offs and shouting battles between himself and the Secretary General of the Federation.
There really is no need to be scared of a professor, he is only interested in making Nigeria great again and he’s shown evidence that he knows his onions so lets all shield our swords, 2023 is still 4 years away.
Eniola Opeyemi wrote from Lagos State
[img][/img]

A photo journalists was beaten in the present of other photo journalists and none of them snap it, or video the beaten

Haba?

It's obvious you guys are being used to frustrate Osinbajo, but tell your pay master this one no enter!

We await the next fake news as usual!

When animals start behaving like journalist. Was he the only one in the hall?

There has been commotion at the seat of power, Aso Rock Villa over the sudden plan to disengage some of the presidential aides formerly in the Vice President’s office, outside the directive of President Mohammadu Buhari, who is currently out of the country

It was learnt that the current move being masterminded by the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, is a knee-jerk reaction to weekend’s perceived vote of confidence passed on the embattled VP, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo by the Emir of Daura,  Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar

Informed sources hinted that while the President had already personally approved the appointment of all the 35 aides reportedly disengaged, he had also instructed their deployment to other ministries as part of a reorganization of the presidency proposed to him by the same Kyari, who is seen to be engaging the VP in a power tussle.

While the Emir of Daura, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar had spoken so highly of the VP at the installation ceremony of the President’s cousin, Musa Haro as the new Dan-Madamin of Daura last Saturday, the Chief of Staff was present and was reportedly pissed.

The Emir’s effusive praise of the VP, at the event on his loyalty to the president and commitment to project Nigeria was seen as a deliberate attempt by the Emir to smite the so-called Aso Villa cabal and rubbish all they have been doing to curtail and humiliate the VP in an attempt to orchestrate a tussle between the President and the VP.

The sources said the President had already approved all the aides of the VP and stipulated those to be in the villa, and those to be in the ministries.

But by Monday, two days after the Emir of Daura praised the VP’s loyalty and service, the Chief of Staff mounted pressure on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Alhaji Boss Mustapha, that all the aides deployed to the ministries should be disengaged.

He however exempted those sent to the new ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management & Social Development.

Top government sources added that the SGF was told it was the President who made the decision, causing confusion and raising doubts about such a claim, since it was same President that approved all the presidential aides in the office of the VP.

 The official correspondence between the President’s office and the office of the SGF specifies that President Buhari approved all he deployments only few weeks ago

But the SGF was prevailed upon,  after a shouting march between him and the Chief of Staff on claims that it was what the President wanted, even as there was no proof to such a claim.

An informed source last night said “it was the public admonition by the Emir that infuriated the cabal.

The buzz within government circle now is how an aide could possibly pervert a presidential decision that is written in black and white

Sources close to the President express concern that today’s development with the news of the alleged sacking of some of the VP’S aides might worry the President who had warned that some of the recent changes that affected the VP’S role are not misunderstood or used to embarrass him, ( the President), in the perception of the Nigerian public.

http://nigeriancurrent.com/2019/11/07/kyari-sgf-in-shouting-march-as-osinbajo-turns-down-sack-of-aides/

Never in Nigeria's history did we have an active VP like Osinbajo.
Whether they like it or not, stars don't struggle to shine.
There is no Buhari without an Osinbajo.

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