Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, was on Friday, formally presented with the letter of notification from the Board of Editors of Vanguard Media Limited, in respect of his nomination as Vanguard Governor of the Year 2018 for his “sterling contributions to the upliftment of the good people of Enugu State”.
Presenting the letter at the EXCO Chambers of the Government House, Enugu, the Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, Mr. Eze Anaba, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that the decision was made “after six weeks of painstaking debate by the Board of Editors”, adding that “we agreed that your achievements so far have surpassed what some of your past colleagues have done since 1999 in Enugu State”.
Mr. Anaba, who was accompanied by the Editor, Sunday Vanguard, Mr. Jide Ajani, stated that the governor through far reaching reforms and prudent management of resources has made Enugu one of the emerging viable states of Nigeria in terms of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.
“Following reforms you introduced, Enugu State’s IGR rose to N22 billion in 2017, the highest in a single year since 1999 and thereby making Enugu one of the 12 states in Nigeria that can survive without federal allocation”, he said.
Describing Ugwuanyi as the “infrastructure governor”, the Vanguard Editor pointed out that they were impressed with infrastructural interventions of the present administration in Enugu State, disclosing that it “has spent over N45 billion on construction and rehabilitation of more than 300 kilometers of roads across the state”.
He noted that the governor’s achievements also cut across education, peace and security, investment drive, empowerment, housing development and healthcare delivery, which he said, has “received a boost with the construction of district hospitals and training of 400 volunteer workers for health intervention programmes in the rural communities”.
“It is for these, and more, that we confer on you this well-deserved award” which holds on Friday, January 18 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, to recognize and celebrate excellence, national pride and service to humanity”, Mr. Anaba stated.
Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who appreciated the media outfit for finding him worthy of the award, dedicated it to God and the good people of Enugu State “who have shown me so much love and support”.
Truly, Enugu State in the hands of God!#amokelouis
A cross section of residents of Enugu metropolis has commended Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for boosting water supply in their areas, stressing that they were satisfied with his administration’s efforts in addressing the essential needs of the people of the state.
The jubilant residents, who commended the governor, were those residing in Onu-Asata (Ogui Nike), Uwani, New Haven, Abakpa Nike, GRA, Thinkers Corner, and Iva Valley, among other satellite areas where the Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Charles Egumgbe, accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Water Resources, Mrs. Ikpeama Chibogu and the Managing Director of the state’s Water Corporation, Engr. Chidozie Eze and his team, visited yesterday to inspect the level of water supply.
The residents expressed joy that they have been enjoying adequate water supply since the inception of the present administration in the state, unlike in the past when they experience a dearth of water in their areas.
Recall that the state government through a status report by the Managing Director of the water corporation, Engr. Eze, disclosed that it now transmits 25,000m3 of water daily to Enugu metropolis consequent upon its recent rehabilitation of facilities at Ajalli and Oji River Water Treatment Schemes.
The Managing Director explained that “Ajalli and Oji water schemes presently produce 10,000m3 and 15,000m3 respectively daily”, revealing that “prior to the assumption of office by the present administration, the water supply situations in Enugu metropolis and Nsukka urban were comatose with Oji and Ajalli water schemes almost at the verge of collapse”.
He pointed out that the high elevated areas of Enugu such as Nkpokiti, Rangers Camp, Independence Avenue, Ezillo Street, Federal Government College, Iyienu Street, Rangers Avenue, House of Assembly and parts of Nza Street that have not been supplied water for a long time now, prior to the inception of Ugwuany’s administration, had water within last month and counting, at least once in a week.
Reacting on the development, a resident of Onu-Asata, Ogui Nike, Enugu, Mr. Fidelis Ugwueze, who noted he has lived in the area for over 30 years, stated that it was in “January this year that water supply started functioning well”.
His words: “We are enjoying it (water). We are enjoying the pump. From January, the pump is functioning well and it is in this regime. The governor is doing well. He is doing quite well. So we have never seen anyone like him. If I am given the opportunity, I will vote for him because he is doing the normal thing”.
A resident of Ugbohe in Abakpa Nike, Callistus Ezebuike said: “Today, we thank God for the government of Enugu State that we can see pump (water supply) in December period. We only see it in March and April but this time, we thank God that pump can be flowing in our place.
“It flows from morning till evening, the next day from morning till evening. The pump is flowing constantly, everyday, everyday! My prayer is that by the grace of God our governor is coming back. He is a man of the people and the people will vote for him”.
In his expression, Mr. Omega Chime, from Onu-Asata, added that “during this Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s regime, we have benefited water, so we are enjoying the water in our street.
“We appreciate the governor. I want the governor to continue the second term. We are supporting the governor in this our zone. We support him to go for a second term”.
In his remark, the water resources commissioner, Dr. Egumgbe, who confirmed the status report recently presented by the state’s water corporation, maintained that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has remained committed to the provision of “this kind of amenity to sustain lives and improve the healthcare status of the people”. #amokelouis
The All Progressive Congress (APC), Lagos State chapter Governorship Candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has indicted that he would be participating in a community football tournament, Mock Nations Cup, that would be hosted in Ajegunle axis of the state, the decision of which came after it was renamed Babajide Sanwo-Olu Mock Nations Cup, solely for the particular edition.
While the date of the tournament, expected to hold in Ajegunle area of Apapa Local government, is yet to be announced, it was gathered that the declared participation of Sanwo-Olu in the community football competition was to signify his interest on sports and that of his plan to promote the industry.
Through a statement issued on Thursday by Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Independent Group (BOSICG) Directorate of Sport Director, Toyin Bolowotan, the governorship candidate disclosed that he had thrown support behind the competition, an annual Football tournament in the community, and that he would be spreading his interest across various fields of sports
He said that the the grassroots sports orientation would enjoy full sponsorship from him and that the annual tournament would continue to receive expected support from his person.
The statement hinted that asides enjoying the fun that comes with the football action, fans would also get an opportunity to relate with the representatives of Sanwo-Olu campaign team and get to know more about his programs for Lagosians when he’s elected as governor in 2019.
It would be recalled that Sanwo-Olu set up a particular directorate for sports under his Independent Campaign Group, with aim to drive initiatives for the campaign in the sports sector and also create an avenue to show the relevance of sports in his plans for a Greater Lagos.
He implored Lagosians to be rest assured of enormous sports activities lined up, urging sports lovers to ensure they were participate in electioneering campaign for Sanwo-Olu as the next governor of Lagos state.
The President of the Nigerian Senate and D.G of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council Dr. Bukola Saraki, will be attending the launch of the United States of America President, Donald J. Trump’s, Strategy for Africa which will be unveiled to the public today. This was made known in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Dr Saraki, Yusuph Olaniyonu, who disclosed that the new United States strategy argues for more effective utilisation of existing U.S. resources on the continent.
With the important role the strategy will play in increasing Foreign Direct Investment and access to new markets especially for the Nigeria economies, it is quite surprising that the incumbent President of Nigeria was not invited to this meeting. This might not be unconnected to the reports that US president Donald Trump reportedly told his aides he never wanted to meet someone as "lifeless" as President Muhammadu Buhari again earlier this year and the fact that global support for the Buhari presidency has continued to wane given the bad economic policies of his administration as well as reports of human rights abuse.
The Trump plan, according to U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of African Affairs, Tibor P. Nagy, Jr, will focus on bringing more foreign direct investment into Africa and is in line with the Legislative Agenda of the 8th National Assembly which is aimed at reforming the Nigerian economy through strategic legislation that will help promote increased participation of private sector actors. Tibor also pointed out that with a renewed focus by the United States on Africa, African countries will benefit from increased investment by U.S. companies and projects that will create jobs and bring higher environmental and business standards.
RIGGING: INEC TO ALLOW REFUGEES IN NIGER AND CHAD VOTE IN 2019 ELECTIONS
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it will give Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in neighbouring countries Niger and Chad the opportunity to vote in the 2019 elections. This coming on the heels of the UNHCR report that 68% of Nigerian IDPs are children, raises concerns that this decision by the country’s electoral umpire will open the way for massive underage voting and allow foreigners to vote in the upcoming elections. Presently there is no Nigerian law that gives foreigners or even Nigerians in diaspora the right to vote and despite calls by sections of the diaspora for this to be introduced, INEC has refused to allow this. It is thus puzzling how this recent development to allow refugees in other countries to vote is expected to be received.
Recall that in July, a forum made up of the pan-Yoruba group Afenifere, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Pan-Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) and the Middle Belt Forum had raised the alarm that INEC had registered underaged voters during its last continious voter registartion exercise. According to the forum “The current voters registration exercise has been compromised and marred by irregularities by the registration of under-aged and foreigners being recorded in some parts of the north.” This was done to draw attention to the risk posed by underage voting during the 2019 elections as was alleged to have been the case during the local government elections in Kano earlier in the year.
With President Muhammadu Buhari’s refusal to sign the amended Electoral Act as was presented by the National Assembly to ensure the compulsory use of card readers during the 2019 elections, there is growing fear that the elections will not be conducted in a free, fair and credible manner. If the opportunity for IDPs in neighboring countries to vote is added to this, it is safe to say that every opportunity that exists for the incumbent government to retain power will be explored. Nigerians are watching and hope that INEC and the Presidency will allow the will of the people prevail.
An exclusive and influential social organization in the South East geo-political zone, Enugu Sports Club has endorsed the re-election bid of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State in 2019.
The club gave the endorsement when members of its executive committee paid a solidarity visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, on Wednesday.
Presenting their stance, the Chairman of the club, Chief Ben Etiaba told Gov. Ugwuanyi that they were “solidly behind you” and “very proud” of him for entrenching peace and good governance, disclosing that “the peace you have enthroned has trickled down to everywhere in the state, including in the club”.
Chief Eitaba said that Gov. Ugwuanyi has not only entrenched peace in the state but has also enhanced security, adding that the governor has equally utilized the lean resources of the state to provide critical infrastructure and pay workers’ salaries regularly, even when most states could not pay.
“Your Excellency, you have done a lot in infrastructural development in the state. For instance, the signature project at Milliken Hill will remain indelible not just to Ndi Enugu, but those of us who ply the road to our villages in Anambra State and beyond”, the chairman said.
He also commended the governor for his bi-partisan approach to governance as well as his contributions to the progress of the club as its president, and promised to join hands to campaign for him to ensure his landslide victory at the polls.
In response, Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that he was deeply humbled and grateful for the endorsement, especially “coming from such a highly respected and discerning institution”.
The governor noted that such endorsement “certainly carries a lot of weight and therefore, cannot be taken for granted”.
He equally appreciated the quality of leadership of the club as well as the support, solidarity and partnership it has continued to accord his administration since inception, saying that “this has greatly assisted us in our efforts to attain the new frontiers of development that is observable in the state today”.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
Fellow Lagosians, my opponent, Mr. Jimi Agbaje had a tweet storm yesterday night where he attempted, though in a very poor manner, to join issues with me on my appearance on TVC yesterday morning.
My initial reaction was to ignore him. In this campaign season,it behoves on anyone seeking to be governor of Lagos to have an elevated mind. As leaders,we should place a high premium on civility and imbibe a high level of decorum in a period like this as example to our followers
Our campaign should be about important issues that affect the lives of our people; what we are bringing to the table to make life more meaningful to Lagosians.
This election will be about who has the best credentials to lead Lagos at this time of our development. It won't be about who can dish out the most insults or tell the most lies. It will also not be about who can instigate ethnic tensions between the Yorubas and the Igbos.
The election will be about who has the best plan to continue with the progressive and developmental agenda of Lagos that started since 1999.
Lagos is a work in progress. In my published interviews in major newspapers this past Sunday. I was clear when I said Mr. Agbaje is my egbon. He is older than me . There is a level of decency that is expected of an elder.
I still expect my opponent to hold on to those higher values we should see of elders as we progress in this campaign.
Again, let us take the campaign away from the gutters.Let's make it about issues that will make life more abundant for Lagosians.
I am in this race #ForAGreaterLagos
Lagosians, do remember that I'd be on @channelstv this morning by 8am. It'd be a pleasure if you could join in.
Another accolade for Gov. Ugwuanyi as Independent Newspapers name him Grassroots Development Governor of the Year 2018
The Management and Board of Editors of Independent Newspapers Limited, publishers of Daily Independent, Saturday Independent and Sunday Independent have nominated Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State as Governor of the Year 2018 for Grassroots Development.
It would be recalled that the Sun and Vanguard Newspapers have also recently named Gov. Ugwuanyi as the “2018 Sun Governor of the Year” and “Vanguard Governor of the Year 2018”, respectively, for entrenching peace and good governance in Enugu State.
Presenting the letter of nomination to Gov. Ugwuanyi on Tuesday, at the Government House, Enugu, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of Independent Newspapers Limited, Mr. Ade Ogidan, stated that the selection committee took the decision based on “the pragmatism, commitment and courage” the governor has exhibited since he assumed office in transforming “the state to the cynosure of all eyes as regards infrastructural and grassroots development.”
Mr. Ogidan added that the governor has through his purposeful and responsive leadership “positively improved the socio-economic condition of the people in the state, despite the dwindling resources at the disposal of the state government”.
The managing director said that they were impressed “that peace and security in the state have continued to thrive, with Enugu listed as the state with the least criminal cases compared with other states of the federation”, disclosing that “the attention of the nation has been shifted to the historical state”.
He pointed out that the media outfit was also delighted at “the steadfastness and multi-dimensional approach of your administration in addressing issues that affect the people of the state”, especially those in the rural areas.
Mr. Ogidan also highlighted the governor’s achievements in creating jobs for the teeming unemployed youths and other empowerment programmes, qualitative and affordable healthcare delivery at the grassroots, and sports, among others.
His words: “Worthy of note is your administration’s efforts in getting the youths engaged through job creation. Only recently, 750 youths were trained for 12 months on various skills by the Enugu State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) office.
“Within the same period, the office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Affairs trained and retrained thousands of youths in various skills/trade in agriculture, soap making, cosmetology and digital technology.
“The health sector of the state has come alive with the construction of district hospitals and training of 400 volunteer workers for health intervention programmes in rural communities.
“Certainly, Your Excellency’s commitment to empowerment programmes aimed at alleviating the suffering of the people and aiding the youth and women to be self-sufficient have remained one of the focal points of this administration.
“It is for the foregoing reasons that we have bestowed on you the richly deserved award of Independent Newspapers Limited Grassroots Development Governor of the Year 2018”.
The award ceremony, according to the managing director, is scheduled for January 12, 2019, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has announced free transportation for indigenes of the state living in other parts of the country, who intend to return home to celebrate the festive season with their loved ones.
Announcing the welfare package, the Managing Director, Enugu State Transport Company (ENTRACO), Mr. Bob Itanyi, stated that the gesture was “in the spirit of Christmas” and “in keeping with the tradition of this administration to cater for the needs of the people and give them a sense of belonging as the true heroes of democracy”.
Mr. Itanyi added that the decision was also borne out of Gov. Ugwuany’s magnanimity and his passion for the wellbeing of the masses, especially the lowly and less privileged.
The Managing Director explained that the free transportation exercise will commence on December 20, and will be carried out in cities/states of the federation that are far from the state, such as, Abuja, Lagos, Jos, Ibadan, Kaduna, Kano, Minna, Gombe, Ilorin, Sokoto, Jalingo, Bauchi, Nasarawa, Port Harcourt, among others.
He stated that the beneficiaries must be those who are duly registered with the Enugu State Town Union in their respective states of residence, disclosing that the establishment is coordinating the exercise with the leadership of the unions in the affected states, for accountability and effective result.
Mr. Itanyi further disclosed that the returnees on arrival to the state will be formally received by state government delegation at the former main depot of ENTRACO, adjacent to the state headquarters of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Enugu.
He reiterated the resolve of the state government to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability in the exercise, pointing out that it will not be business as usual as “we are going to bring back Enugu State indigenes in body and not ghost indigenes”.
According to him, “nothing will be hidden during the exercise. The leaders of the Enugu State Town Union in the respective states have been mobilized to ensure that our people benefit from this outstanding welfare scheme, which the state government has extended to the people of the state.
“We, therefore, sincerely thank our humble and amiable governor for this gesture, which has once again demonstrated his love, care and passion for the wellbeing of the people of Enugu State”.
Truly, Enugu State is in the hands of God! #amokelouis
Popular American gospel singer, songwriter, pastor and producer of Christian worship music, Mr. Don Moen, yesterday expressed delight at the calm and peaceful atmosphere prevailing in Enugu State.
Moen, who spoke in Enugu during the inspirational and soul-lifting gospel concert organized by House on the Rock ministry, which was graced by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, said it was a nice and wonderful experience for him to visit the state.
The gospel singer while presenting his popular rendition “God is Good”, noted the presence of God in Enugu State, saying: “God is moving in this state, it is showing that this will bring more blessings”.
Also at the event, the General Overseer/Presiding Pastor, Old Path Revival Commission, Pastor Alfred Itiowe, offered special prayers for the re-election of Gov. Ugwuanyi in 2019 as well as God's guidance, protection and more blessings on him and his family.
Pastor Itiowe commended the governor for his uncommon humility, closeness to God and commitment to peace and good governance in Enugu State, stressing that “we want God to position him for a greater second term”.
He equally prayed against any plot aimed at undermining the untiring efforts of the governor to continue to advance peace and good governance in the state, declaring that “Gov. Ugwuanyi is going higher in Jesus Name”.
The climax of the event was the conferment of a "Leadership Excellence Award" on Gov. Ugwuanyi by House on the Rock’s pastor in Enugu, Rev. Edwin Bia Yeibo, and his wife, Sonia, "in recognition of your sterling visionary leadership in creating an enviable legacy of peace and security for Enugu State".
Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who welcomed “all the powerful men of God” to event, including Mr. Moen, thanked the organizers of the concert for the honour to host “an event of this magnitude that is wholly devoted to the praise and worship of the living God”.
“It only goes to strengthen our confidence that Enugu State is truly in the hands of God”, the governor declared, recalling that “a few days ago, we concluded a 7-day prayer and fasting period for peaceful and successful elections in Enugu State come 2019”.
His words: “I urge you to also support this intention with your prayers and indeed all that we are doing to make Enugu State a safer, more peaceful and more prosperous place for all.
“I use this occasion to, once again, thank the Churches and all the religious organizations in Enugu State, for their unceasing support and prayers. For we know that with God on our side, all things will end in praise in Jesus Name. Amen”.
The last may not have been heard over the crisis rocking Zenith Bank Plc following the appointment of Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu as the bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. Fresh information reaching us reveals that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele is currently under pressure from the Presidency to sack the Zenith Bank boss following his (Onyeagwu) relationship with the founder/board chairman of the bank, Mr. Jim Ovia, which is against corporate governance compliance as stipulated in the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks and Discount Houses in Nigeria of May 2014. According to inside sources, the Presidency is said to be embarrassed by the development
THE GENESIS OF THE CRISIS
A civil society group identified as the Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative (TADI), recently sued the CBN governor, Jim Ovia and four others over the appointment of Onyeagwu as the head of the financial institution. In a suit filed on January 14, 2021, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/29/2021 and seen by this newspaper, Abiodun Babalola, the counsel to TADI, claimed that Onyeagwu’s emergency as Zenith Bank MD was an aberration and a violation of the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks and Discount Houses in Nigeria, which kicked towards the appointment of blood relations to the place. The counsel to TADI requested the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja to declare that by the true interpretation of Section 2.3.3 of the Code made by Central Bank of Nigeria in May 2014 pursuant to the powers bestowed on it by the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, 1991 the appointment of Onyeagwu, as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc is in gross contravention of the mentioned Code. Additionally, Babalola sought a declaration ‘that Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu joined as 2nd Defendant in the suit is unqualified based on Section 2.3.3 of the aforesaid Code to be appointed as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc being the 3rd Defendant by virtue of his blood ties and or relationship with Jim James Ovia, that is the 1st Defendant.’ The counsel further urged the ‘honourable Court to make an order directing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) led by Godwin Emefiele to forthwith exercise its powers under the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, 1991 as well as other extant laws by relieving the 2nd Defendant of his appointment as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc on account of his blood ties and or relationship with the 1st Defendant and replacing him with another qualified person.’ Babalola demanded that order of exemplary damages in the sum of N1 billion be made towards the Central Bank of Nigeria and its Governor, ‘sued as the 4th and 5th Defendants respectively, being the apex authorities regulating the financial activities and operations of Banks and other Financial Institutions in the country for approving the appointment of Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the 3rd Defendant on 1st June 2019 even when they were aware that he lacked the qualification to occupy the said position due to his blood ties and or relationship with the 1st Defendant.’ The counsel to TADI stressed that the resolution of its shopper, TADI, to hunt authorized redress “was based mostly on his mandate to work with related stakeholders for functions of preventing corruption in any establishment that holds the public belief, spends public funds or is regulated by authorities companies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
MORE REVELATIONS
Furthermore, the group, TADI, during a protest rally to the Abuja headquarters of the bank recently, described Onyeagwu’s appointment as nothing but the expansion of nepotism and cruel practice of impunity in the corridors of authority in Nigeria. Comrade Taiwo Adeniran, the Assistant Secretary-General, TADI said “The war against nepotism, impunity, bad leadership and corruption should not be a course only within the public institutions but also should be reinforced within the private sector. He said, ”The flagrant disregard for the rule of law and guidelines has been a major plague that has marred our corporate existence as sovereign entity. It is therefore imperative for well-meaning stakeholders and Nigerians to rise-up to the challenge of fighting and stamping out this menace from our society. “The appointment of Ebenezer Onyeagwu is in fact one example of gross disregard for due process and rule of law. His appointment as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc is evidently an example of the deficit in corporate governance compliance as stipulated in the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks and Discount Houses in Nigeria of May 2014 and as such should not be allowed to stand. It should be noted that this deficit or thwarted compliance to these codes were majorly responsible for woes experienced in our banking sector prior to the bank consolidation policy of 2006. “Rules and regulations are guiding principles as enforced by the law, has no exceptions to it compliance. These and more could be said about the potency of this important provision – the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks and Discount Houses in Nigeria – because with sensitive nature of banks and it inherent pivotal and crucial roles in our nation’s economy. Section 2.3.3 of the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks and Discount Houses in Nigeria made by the CBN in May, 2014 is crystal clear on the guidelines for composition of bank’s management. “However, it is quite unfortunate to discover that the Jim Ovia led board of Zenith Bank Plc will appoint his NEPHEW (Mr. Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu) as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank while the Central Bank of Nigeria in-turn tactically endorses this illegality. It is true that a man can falsify everything about himself but one thing that cannot be changed is the lineage blood-tie of relations. THE BLOODLINE (Ovia and Onyeagwu) Speaking further, the group said: “The records have it that, Jim James Ovia and Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu are both from Ika South Local Government Area in Delta State. The indigenes of Ika South Local Government Area are generally called Ndi Agbor, which comprises Ogbemudien, Ogbease, Ihogbe, Obielihe, Ekuku Agbor, Ihaikpen, Ogbeisore and Ogbeisogban. While Jim James Ovia hails from Obielihe, Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu is from Ogbemudien, Agbor Obi also in the same Ika South Local Government Area. “The truth about their genealogy happens when a woman named Oror was married in Ogbemudien Quarters and had two sons namely, Nwatukele and Onyeagwu. The said Onyeagwu alias “Old Soldier” gave birth to Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu. This same woman, who later remarried in Obielihe to Pa Ovia and gave birth to Jim James Ovia. By implication, the father of Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu is an elder brother of Jim James Ovia both of them having come from the same womb. This cumulated as a perfect disguise due to their different surnames to perpetrate this illegality. “Several reports have revealed that, sit-tight syndrome of management and unhealthy influence from personalized interests which plagued the corporate governance of our banking sector contributed in no small measure to the Nigerian banking crisis. The appointment of Mr. Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu is an abuse of financial probity and flouting of the existing code of corporate governance for banks and discount houses in Nigeria which were to establish and strengthen corporate governance practices in our banking sector. “This nepotistic practice is criminal and inimical to the integrity of our financial system and institutions as a nation. Owing to the sensitive and important role of our banking sector to development of our nation and also; any economy that desires to be taken seriously by investors, whether local or foreign should avoid this kind of corporate disaster in the interest of her shareholders. “Therefore, it is our collective duty as Nigerians and stakeholders in the polity of our dear nation to rise up and champion the campaign/fight to flush out agents and elements of retrogression from our systems. This embarrassing cycle of corporate disasters in Nigeria has to STOP and the culprit be duly sanctioned. “Furthermore, as the saying goes in legal parlance, you cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand. The appointment of Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu as Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc is fraudulent and illegal from the beginning and must not be allowed to stand. “Mr. Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu should be relieved of his duties as the MD/CEO of Zenith Bank PLC with immediate effect. “The process of his (Mr. Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu) appointment and ratification by CBN should be investigated and every individual involved in the illegal appointment of Mr. Ebenezer Nduka Onyeagwu should also be exposed and sanctioned. “We hereby call on the all the anti-graft agencies to prosecute all the parties involved in this appointment illegality in accordance to the provisions of the law of the Federal republic of Nigeria. “The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria should ensure that the credibility and integrity of our financial institutions are sabotage by unscrupulous elements that with their selfish interest results in dubious means to have their unholy intentions actualized. “We call on handlers of private institutions especially banks and other financial institutions to embrace the rule of law and regulations by adhering strictly to the guidelines and codes governing their establishment, he said. This report is in series. Stay tuned on the brother’s internal fraud in the bank and the cover-up.
By Maryam Haruna As part of measure to ensure Lagos State continue to evolve in spheres, the Youth Organizing Secretary, the state chapter of All Progressive Congress (APC), Idris Aregebe, has concluded plans to build a youth platform that provides innovative ideas and prompt solutions to any challenges confronting the state.
Aregbe hinted that no fewer than 300 youth influencers, entertainment exponents and young entrepreneurs from each council in the state would be engaged on platform.
Through a statement issued on Friday by his office, the organizing secretary stated that the platform will commence with a two-day roundtable discussion themed ‘Entertainment As Tool For Nation Building,’ at the La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Akodo, Ibeju–Lekki, Lagos. Aregbe, who also doubled as convener of ‘ Our Lagos, Your Lagos initiative,’ stressed that the object of the platform was to build formidable youth platform where ideas and strategies could be adopted in pushing the boundaries of innovation, growth and development of Lagos. “Entertainment has become a viable tool of communication to reach both the young and old, hence it will seem appropriate to explore the vast opportunities of this profession to engage the youths on the importance of nation building.”
According to him, some of Nigeria’s prominent and award-winning entertainers have expressed their committed interest in participating in this historic event.
Aside entertainment, Aregbe disclosed that the platform would further explore benefits of youth participation in politics, saying, the Nigerian youths are yet to look beyond the optics of the present times and heed clarion call of governance as the nation’s beacon of hope.
He emphasized that his office would not desist from exploring avenues to engage and increase youth participation in politics, even as assistance would often be given to youths with laudable initiatives, basically for individual growth and development in Lagos State
Truly, "Udi stands with Gburugburu" (His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi) as his people-oriented administration completes the hitherto abandoned Udi District Hospital in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State. This is in keeping with the administration's vision to continue to offer the people of the state, at all levels, qualitative and affordable healthcare delivery.
Enugu State is indeed in the hands of God! #amokelouis
…As Igbo-Eze North L.G.A monarch, others, hail gov’s development strides
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has mandated contractors handling various government projects in the state to ensure that they continue to deliver quality jobs and adhere to the contract completion period.
Gov. Ugwuanyi, who spoke through his deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, when she paid unscheduled visits to some ongoing projects for inspection, reiterated the state government’s unflinching commitment towards providing quality infrastructure for the people of the state to continue to enjoy more democracy dividends.
The sites inspected include the Ogurute-Mkpamute-Igogoro-Ikpamodo-Okpo-Amaja road and the Ogurute - Umuogbo-Umuopu-Ette road in Igbo-Eze Local Government Area; the Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA) dump site road at Ogui, Enugu North L.G.A.
Others include the Igbo Ano Specialist Hospital; the Agbani District Hospital, Nkanu West L.G.A; Nsukka Magistrate Court building and the erosion control project along Ugwogo Nike –Opi Nsukka road.
Mrs. Ezeilo, who was accompanied to the project sites by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, said that the essence of the inspection was to ensure that the contractors lived up to expectation and “deliver these essential amenities to the benefiting communities on record time”.
While receiving the deputy governor and her entourage at Enugu Ezike in Igbo-Eze North L.G.A, amid excitement from a mammoth crowd, the traditional ruler of Umuoma Okpo autonomous community, HRH Igwe Patrick Okeyi described the on-going infrastructural development in Enugu State under Governor Ugwuanyi as unprecedented.
The royal father, who applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi’s grassroots development initiatives, stated that he has never witnessed such strides being executed in the rural areas to connect adjoining communities, adding that the projects have given the dwellers a sense of belonging.
His words: “Your Excellency, I have to say that since the creation of this state, I have never seen this type of development. This ongoing road project connects seven communities and links us to Kogi State. The communities are agrarian areas and inaccessible road hinders our efforts in producing food and bringing them to the markets. So, we are grateful to you, Your Excellency”.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North L.G.A, Comrade Uwakwe Ezeja extolled the governor’s leadership qualities, stressing that his selfless service has impacted positively on the lives of the people of the area in particular and the state in general.
Represented by his deputy, Hon. Luke Uroko, the council chairman said: “Your Excellency, we are proud of you. You have wiped away our tears. We say thank you and assure you that we shall reciprocate through our massive votes in 2019. #amokelouis
The Director-General of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)’s Presidential campaign Council, Abubakar Bukola Saraki on Wednesday welcomed the presidential candidate of the party Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Peter Obi and other party members to Kwara State for the party’s North Central rally as it prepares for the 2019 general elections. Crowds filled the roads from the Ilorin airport where Atiku and other PDP leaders touched down into the center of town where the rally took place, waving banners and flags with PDP colors.
The predominantly agrarian North Central region is popularly called Nigeria’s food basket, but recent attacks from armed herdsmen has threatened Nigeria’s food security and forced many from their homes and farms. Nigerians who live in the region say they have failed to see the promised security by the incumbent APC government, and have in recent times shown that they would be willing to support another candidate who restore security to their communities. President of Nigeria’s Senate Bukola Saraki speaking at the rally noted that “they (APC) promised that they will address the security of this country, but in the last four years, the security challenge has expanded to the North Central”
Atiku Abubakar is campaigning on a promise to get Nigeria working again and says he will establish “a strong and effective democratic government that secures our people and provides opportunities for them to realize their full potentials, allows greater autonomy for our federating units, and gives each region of the country a sense of belonging” if elected in the 2019 presidential elections. This promise as well as his plan has earned Atiku and his running mate Peter Obi, a shrewd and business-savvy former Governor of Anambra State in Nigeria’s South East, a lot of goodwill across Nigeria with political analysts predicting a resounding victory for the PDP in the region.
Atiku advised Nigerians to return PDP to power in 2019, reminding them that “the best years of this country was when the PDP was governing our country from 1999-2015” he also noted that “In terms of corruption, Nigeria is worse off today than we were in 2014. In terms of economy, we are the poorest country in the world today. In terms of insecurity, we are most insecure than at any other time in our history” https://mlcsyy7oggbr.i.optimole.com/600/400/auto/https/thepunditng.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG-20181205-WA0039.jpg
In a video first shared by Ibrahim Muhammad Baba Kara on facebook, it shows some PDP Stalwarts making their way though the crowd and supporters greeting them while some shouted "Barawo" witch loosely translated means"thief"
Members of All Progressive Congress (APC), from Alimosho, the west senatorial district of Lagos State, have assured gubernatorial candidate of the party, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, that the axis of the state would deliver him 500, 000 votes during governorship election come 2019.
They said that they would not only deliver the votes but also ensure he wins the election with highest votes, since Alimosho contributes largely and remains result determinant.
Besides, the stakeholders, in their unanimous voice, tabled their demands before the Lagos APC’s governorship candidate which included three commissioner seats, 10 directorship slots among others, just as they urged Sanwo-Olu to also not neglect youth from the axis, and that, providing them job opportunity and empowering their capacity would go a long way.
It is undisputable that one of the greatest achievements of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration in Enugu State that must not be taken for granted is the enduring peace in the Coal City State.
Peace, which is synonymous with Enugu State since the inception of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration is a veritable component that abhors violence and propels rapid development of any society.
It is on record that Enugu State, in the past three and half years, has continued to enjoy peace, which has engendered good governance, unprecedented socio-economic growth and security of lives and property - earning Enugu the enviable status of one of the most peaceful and secure states in the country.
This culture of peace coupled with other sundry remarkable achievements in massive infrastructural development, especially in the rural areas, prompt payment of workers’ salaries and retirees’ pensions, security, qualitative and affordable healthcare delivery, sound education, empowerment, robust investment drive, employment generation and prudent management of scarce resources among others, have earned Gov. Ugwuanyi, the 2018 Sun Governor of the Year, a wide-range of commendations from opinion leaders from all walks of life.
It has also endeared him to the people of the state and beyond resulting in the overwhelming solidarity, support and endorsements for his re-election in 2019.
A few days ago, the Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, during the ministry’s 2018 Harvest and Thanksgiving Mass reiterated their unflinching support and endorsement of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s re-election for a second term in office.
At the thanksgiving Mass, which was celebrated also for Gov. Ugwuanyi and other candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, to herald the commencement of campaigns for the 2019 general election as well as entrust the activities to the hands of God, the outspoken priest stressed that the ministry has "100 per cent support” for the governor.
It would be recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration, in keeping with its tradition of entrusting the affairs of the state to the hands of God, through the state PDP campaign organization recently called on the people to join the party in observing one week of prayers and fasting, from December 1 to 7, “for peaceful, transparent and violence-free elections, which Enugu State is known for” as well as “issue-based, smooth and successful campaigns”.
During the thanksgiving Mass, Fr. Mbaka expressed delight with Gov. Ugwuanyi for entrenching peace and good governance in Enugu State, stressing that his ministry’s support for his re-election "is unquestionable” because “he is a good man; a man of peace; a perfect genius; humble and ever patient".
According to him, "I have never seen this kind of unquestionable, magnetic, pragmatic and dynamic peace in Enugu State before, because of one Gburugburu. Gov. Ugwuanyi has no enemy. He is a governor who has good relationship with the entire Nwodo family, Senator Fidel Okoro, Senator Ken Nnamani, Senator Jim Nwobodo, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani and other leaders. Gburugburu is the ‘Messi’ in the field.
“Anybody who is contesting against him, where does he get his strength? Our support for the governor is indisputable. The Adoration ministry loves him because since the creation of Enugu State, we have not seen this type of peace. Enugu is an epitome of peace and security. So far, so good".
Recently, the chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Alhaji Musiliu Smith, while in Enugu for the commission’s four-day Management Retreat, appraised the peaceful and secure atmosphere of the state, saying that “we are in Enugu largely because Enugu is one of the most peaceful states in the country”.
Smith, a former Inspector-General of Police stressed that Gov. Ugwuanyi deserves credit for running the state in a progressive, people-oriented and security-conscious manner.
In the same vein, the UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Mr. Mohammed Malick Fall, had during a courtesy call on Gov. Ugwuanyi commended him for his peace initiatives and people-oriented approach to governance, which he said have made “Enugu State one of the most peaceful states in the country”.
The new General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Boman Kabuk, while conveying the message of appreciation from the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, equally applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for the existing peace in the state, expressing delight that it has added value to the Division’s security operations in all the states within its command.
It would also be recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi during his first interaction with journalists on assumption of office in 2015, clearly stated that his administration will work hard to ensure and maintain peace as a panacea for progress and rapid development of the state.
The peace-loving governor pledged not to engage in any act that would undermine the relationship between his administration and the past ones vis-à-vis himself and past leaders of the state.
According to him, “the era of new guard fighting the old guards in Enugu State is gone; my administration will not fight old guards to settle old scores. Where there is no peace, the people will not make meaningful progress”.
Disclosing his readiness to run an inclusive government where all former governors and other leaders will be accommodated irrespective of political affiliation, Gov. Ugwuanyi stressed that “everybody is our friend and the era of politics of bitterness is over”.
Three and half years after, it is worthy of note that respected leaders in Enugu State have given eloquent testimonies to the noble vision of the people’s governor to reposition the state on the path of peace and rapid development.
Last year, the former Governor of old Anambra State and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for uniting political leaders in the state irrespective of political divide, describing him as “a leader with conscience and fear of God”.
Sen. Nwobodo, who gave the commendation at his country home in Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area, when he joined other stakeholders and revered traditional rulers in the area to receive Gov. Ugwuanyi at the palace of HRH Igwe Anthony Okorie, during the PDP campaign for the last Local Government elections, stressed that Gov. Ugwuanyi has “done so well in office and united everyone”.
Recently, his wife, Pat, who nicknamed Gov. Ugwuanyi as “Junior Jim”, for exhibiting outstanding leadership qualities similar to that of her husband when he was governor, lauded the governor for entrenching peace and security in the state, saying that “everybody now has rest of mind”.
Mrs. Nwobodo added that she was proud to call Gov. Ugwuanyi “Junior Jim” and speak well about him because he has remembered and accorded past leaders of the state their due respect.
At the state government’s reception for the Nigerian Ambassador to Republic of India with Concurrent Accreditation to Bangladesh and Nepal, Major General Chris Sunday Eze (retd), in respect of his appointment, the former President of the Senate and a chieftain of the APC, Senator Ken Nnamani, also praised Gov. Ugwuanyi for demonstrating political maturity by creating an ambience of peace and tranquility in the state where everybody is accorded his or her due respect irrespective of political leaning.
Senator Nnamani equally commended the governor for providing good governance and quality leadership in the state, adding that the governor has through the reception for Amb. Eze (an APC chieftain) reaffirmed that he is "a governor for everybody".
He called on other states to emulate what is happening in Enugu State, noting that "our National Vice Chairman has alluded to the fact that we are enjoying peace in Enugu State, and we are enjoying somebody who has a large heart, not minding his political affiliation".
Adding his voice, the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Osita Okechukwu appreciated the governor’s bi-partisan disposition to governance, saying that the APC has not and will not take such a rare gesture for granted.
In another incident, the South East National Vice Chairman of the APC, Hon. Emma Eneukwu, duringthe dedication of his son, Chukwubuikem, at Dunamis Int’l Gospel Centre, Enugu, joined the church’s minister, Pastor Timothy Benedict, in commending Gov. Ugwuanyi for his exemplary leadership style, which they said has brought peace and unity among politicians in the state irrespective of their political affiliations. They pointed out that the governor has created an enabling environment for rapid development and for politics to thrive in the state without bitterness.
While the APC Chieftain described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a “true father to all politicians in the state irrespective of their political leanings”, through his inclusive leadership style and bi-partisan approach to governance, Pastor Benedict called on other states in the country to “come and learn the template on how to play politics”.
From the foregoing, it is implicitly established that Enugu State, through the governor’s peace and development initiatives has remained a model for peace and good governance and a rallying point for others to emulate.
Now that the campaigns have begun, there is a burning need for the peace in Enugu State, which is the guiding principle of the state government, to be maintained for the people to freely exercise their franchise and continue to enjoy more democratic dividends as the true heroes of democracy.
Atiku Abubakar, the Presidential candidate of Nigeria’s main opposition People’s Democratic Party on Monday kicked off his campaign in Sokoto State in Nigeria’s Northwest. From the mammoth crowd that came out to welcome Mr Atiku and his PDP campaign team, it is obvious that the support base of incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari is fast dwindling as Nigerians consider other options for leadership of what was once Africa’s largest economy.
Mr Buhari who came into office in 2015 on promises of fighting corruption, putting an end to Boko Haram insurgency in parts of Northern Nigeria and creating jobs and opportunities for Nigerians has become bogged with accusations by Nigerians and members of the opposition that he has failed to deliver on his promises. The Brookings Institute, in a recent report stated that based on its projections, Nigeria had overtaken India as the country with the largest number of extreme poor in early 2018 with about 87 million people in extreme poverty surviving on less than $2 a day.
Apart from this, despite being a former army general, Mr Buhari’s record in the fight against insecurity and insurgency has been less than stellar as the spate of kidnappings, herdsmen-pastoralist conflicts and terrorist attacks have not abated but have taken newer dimensions that are putting the lives of Nigerian citizens and its armed forces at greater risk. In late November, Reuters reported that an attack by Boko Haram Splinter group ISWAP on a military base in Maiduguri had left 100 soldiers dead; another in a series of brazen attacks by insurgents in parts of Nigeria’s North.
Buhari's main opponent in the February 2019 general elections, Atiku Abubakar released his policy document recently to much acclaim and stated that for him, national security is multi-dimensional and has gone beyond armed defence to include protection of democratic and constitutional values like food security, peace, human, political and economic security. His plan includes resolving the unfair access to democratic dividends to reduce internal armed conflicts, insurgencies, crimes and militancy and a plan to diversify Nigeria’s struggling economy, restructuring the polity to bring better governance to Nigerians and create opportunities and wealth.
Many Nigerians especially in Northern Nigeria consider the former Vice-President’s solutions to insecurity, unemployment and poverty practicable and Atiku’s support base in the region which happens to be Buhari’s stronghold has continued to grow. On Monday, thousands lined the streets to welcome Atiku Abubakar to Sokoto State, seat of the Sokoto Caliphate and thronged the venue of his rally which was attended by past and present governors of states in the region. The event also had in attendance Nigeria’s former President Goodluck Jonathan who informed the crowd of supporters that “PDP is the only party that can make sure all of us eat very well, in the morning, in the afternoon, and in the evening”.
Lagos State chapter of All Progressive Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has flagged off campaign as flag bearer of the party running for governorship office in the state.
Besides, Sanwo-Olu assured that fixing of the Lagos-Badargry express way would be one of his priority should he get into office after election in 2019.
The unofficial flag of by the candidate came 24hrs after Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially lifted ban on campaigns for governorship candidates and that of other political offices’ seekers, aside that of presidential, which as removed barely two weeks ago.
Sanwo-Olu, while speaking before a political gathering at Lagos senatorial Badagry division on Sunday, which has Deputy Governor, Idiat Adebule, in attendance, after a visit to various monarchs in the axis, declared that campaign for his governorship move had kicked off on Sunday and that he would hitting ground running.
He said that those saying Lagos state is behind is very wrong as Lagos state is far ahead, and they do not know Lagos state very well. He said it’s a must Lagos – Badagry expressway is fixed, and it becomes a priority for his administration once he is elected. “I and my deputy will transform the two lanes to ten lanes if we are elected in the 2019 elections’.
By Maryam Harun The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has asked residents to jettison the claim that Lagos was in bondage and needs freedom, saying, what the state needs is to strengthen it’s economic development. Sanwo-Olu’s appeal to Lagosians was an apparent reaction to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate, Jimi Agbaje’s claim that the state was enslaved and need to be freed. The APC candidate reacted to the allegations by Agbaje during a courtesy visit to the Palace of Akran of Badagry, De-Ahollu Menu-Toyi on Sunday. He noted that the state had gone beyond issues of slavery, rather, what should be the clamour by all was how can Lagos leverage on its potential to improve it’s economic development. Sanwo-Olu, who also visited monarchs under Badagry division with his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, argued that Badagry, like other party’s of the state has several opportunities, which when elected, intends to explore. He added that Badagry has centers that could help drive the tourism in the state. According to him, the historic heritage would be preserved and the economic independence will be enhanced. Sanwo-Olu further promised, when elected, his administration will push for construction of a seaport within Badagry and completion of the Lagos-Badagry 10-lane road. He assured the monarchs that these projects will be part of his administration infrastructural focal point. The gubernatorial candidate noted that the plan would make the generations yet to come appreciate efforts of those before them.
He asked for support to push Lagos to a greater height.
The gubernatorial aspirant who was in the company of his Obafemi Hamzat and his campaign team were given a massive welcome on their entry into badagry.
The chances of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State winning the forthcoming general election received a boost on Saturday, as all aspirants of the PDP during the National Assembly primaries in the state agreed to work for the party’s landslide victory at the polls.
Addressing newsmen after a reconciliatory meeting with the PDP Reconciliation Committee, led by the former State Chairman of the party, Engr. Vita Abba, the aspirants, who spoke on behalf of others, said the decision was based on the uncommon leadership style of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, which was anchored on peace, reconciliation and good governance.
Speaking, a senatorial aspirant from Enugu West Senatorial District, Chief, Sir O.A.U Onyema, stated that “basically, all rancour within the PDP in Enugu State have been resolved with this reconciliation meeting” and “we have agreed to work together and ensure that the party, being supreme, will deliver all its candidates in tandem with our policy in Enugu State”.
His words: “So, what we are telling all our supporters is to sheath their sword and understand that the people they are following have understood the activities and the olive branch extended to us as piloted by our amiable governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. So, come 2019 election, all our candidates will be delivered from the House of Assembly, the governor, to the senatorial seats.”
Also speaking, Prof. David Ngene, from Enugu East Senatorial Zone said the aspirants were satisfied with the peace moves of the party.
His words: “We are people that contested for Senate and House of Representatives primaries of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party in Enugu State. We felt that there were some grievances but our Governor decided that a reconciliation committee should be set up. From that decision, every issue has been sorted out. We are strongly behind him, not just because of his amiability but his power to bring people together.”
In his speech, Mr. Jude Asogwa from Nsukka Local Government, who contested for Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency primary election of the PDP said “we had a whole lot of issues but the party has called us today for a reconciliation meeting and you can see I am here with my co-contestants – Emeka Asogwa, Hon. Charles Ugwu, Hon. Ezeugwu and then Hon. Mrs. Ezinne and the Hon. Ossy Peters. All the aspirants met and listened to the committee. We have decided to go by the decision of the party. The party is supreme, so we have agreed to work with the party without prejudice.”
Another senatorial aspirant from Oji River in Enugu West, Engr. Uche Emma Onyekwelu, while toeing the same line said “today we have reconciled all differences; we have agreed to work together. So, we are urging our supporters to vote massively in all the elections, the National Assembly, House of Assembly and for our Governor. We have decided that all the rancour associated with the primary are over.”
He added that “no condition was attached to this reconciliation. We accepted to work for the party wholeheartedly without any condition.”
Also prominent at the meeting were Santors Ugwuada Ezirigwe, elder brother to Okey Ugwuada Ezirigwe of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Hon. Dr. Malachy Ugwu of the PDP National Secretariat, Abuja, who had earlier displayed similar spirit of sportsmanship, when he voluntarily stepped down for the candidate of the party for Igbo-Etiti/ Uzo-Uwani federal constituency, and went further to organize a well-attented thank-you session for party delegates and other stakeholders. #amokelouis.
The administration of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State said it has through the recent rehabilitation of facilities at Ajalli and Oji River Water Treatment Schemes registered a remarkable improvement in the daily supply of water to Enugu metropolis and its environs.
A status report by the Managing Director of Enugu State Water Corporation, Engr. Chidozie Eze, stated that “Ajalli and Oji water schemes presently produce 10,000m3 and 15,000m3 respectively daily.”
Engr. Eze revealed that “prior to the assumption of office by the present administration, the water supply situations in Enugu metropolis and Nsukka urban were comatose with Oji and Ajalli water schemes almost at the verge of collapse”.
He added that “Nsukka urban was barely managing with one functional borehole”, disclosing that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration consequently “invested enormous fund in the rehabilitation of Oji Augmentation and Ajalli Water schemes”.
The managing director maintained that contrary to erroneous impression being peddled that there is no water in Enugu, there has been increased water production and distribution to more consumers in Enugu metropolis as “tremendous boost in water supply has been noticed by the residents of Enugu”.
According to him, “the high elevated areas of Enugu that have not been supplied water for a long time now, prior to the inception of Ugwuany’s administration, had water within last month and counting.
“Such areas include but not limited to Nkpokiti, Rangers Camp, Independence Avenue, Ezillo Street, Federal Government College, Iyienu Street, Rangers Avenue, House of Assembly and parts of Nza Street”.
Engr. Eze further disclosed that “significant feat was achieved in getting water to some areas in Abakpa that we were hitherto unable to supply because of low level of water in our reservoirs”.
At the University town of Nsukka, Engr. Eze said that four boreholes are now functional as against two, stressing that it has “greatly improved water supply to areas such as Enugu Road, Onuiyi, Ibagwa Road, Obollo Road, G.R.A, Ogurugu Road, Barrack Junction, Ofulonu Road, Odenigbo, Amukwa, etc”.
The Managing Director further stated that because of persistent problem of power supply from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), the present administration in the state embarked on the construction of a dedicated power line linking Ajalli scheme to Oji Sub-station.
“This project has been completed and energized” and “power supply to this water scheme has consequently and tremendously improved”, the managing director said.
On the leakage at the foot of the Milliken Hill, Ngwo, for over two decades, which reduced the quantity of water that gets to the consumers, he explained that the state government has constructed a pipeline by-passing the reservoir, to ensure adequate supply of water to the people.
Engr. Eze, who pointed out that the last batch of water treatment chemicals supplied in February 2016 have since been exhausted, disclosed that “as soon as this situation was made known to His Excellency, he gave approval for the replenishment of water treatment chemicals in the stores”, saying: “We have already received truck-loads of alum and lime while others are in transit”.
Re-emphasizing the need for the sustenance of the significant improvements in supply of water in Enugu urban and Nsukka, the corporation reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensure adequate water supply to the people of the state in line with its four-point agenda. #amokelouis
Monarchs in Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode’s hometown, Epe, have endorsed All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu ahead 2019 election in the state.
The endorsement of Sanwo-Olu and his running mate, Dr Femi Hamzat as the monarch’s consensus candidate to succeed the incumbent governor in 2019, came barely two months after APC gubernatorial primary in the state.
In their unanimous tone, the traditional rulers indicated that the choice of Sanwo-Olu and his running mate was sign that next administration would also follow the state development master plan and as well carry along Lagosians.
The leader of the division of the traditional rulers, Kamodudeen Animashaun, Oloja of Epe, disclosed that the entire monarchs from Epe reached agreement that they would support Sanwoolu-Olu and his running mate during 2019 governorship election. Speaking during a visitation by Lagos APC’s governorship candidate and his campaign team to the monarch’s palace in Epe on Friday, Animashaun stated giving Sanwoolu-Olu needed support was their collective responsibility that must be met, assuring the Sanwoolu-Olu and his team of Epe vote block during the election.
He advised Sanwoolu-Olu not to neglect Epe indigenes, as well as projects, established by the current administration, that may not witness completion face before he comes into power 2019. According to him, all Epe roads under Maintenance and construction, and other projects which are yet to be compete, must not be abandoned by next administration.
“We are good people and very accusative and once we are been carried along and attended to, we are all in for progressive government.”
Responding, Sanwo-Olu explained that the aim behind the visit was to seek royal blessing before embarking on state-wide campaign for next year’s election.
The APC gubernatorial candidate assured if elected, the administration would not immediately embark on new projects, saying, emphasis would be to complete all ongoing projects across the state.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that he and Hamzat believe rather than embarking on fresh projects, concentration would be to release funds, if necessary, to all ongoing projects to fast track their completion and usage by residents of Lagos.
Investors in the capital market continue to show disinterest in Zenith Bank, as the attempt of the lender’s Group Managing Director, Ebenezer Onyeagwu, and Chairman, Jim Ovia, to save the firm’s falling share fail to convince shareholders.
Year-to-date, Zenith Bank share has lost -8.54% value in the capital market, according to Prime Business analysis, which means an investor who paid N25.15 million to buy 1,000,000 shares of the firm at the start of January at N25.15kobo per share, has lost N2.15 million in investment.
So lack of growth prospects in Zenith Bank is forcing shareholders of the firm to sell off their shares at lower price than they bought it, in a bid to save what’s left of their investment in the bank.
Aside from investors losing part of their investment to the sell off, it has also reduced Zenith Bank’s market valuation to N722.11 billion as at Thursday, against the N789.62 billion held early January – this is a loss of N67.50 billion in six months.
In order to prevent the continuous fall in Zenith Bank share value, the management have been buying large volumes, with Jim Ovia buying 2,000,000 shares between May 9 and May 11, through his investment company, Quantum Zenity Securities & Investment Limited.
The CEO, Onyeagwu, has also been busy in the capital market, purchasing 12.10 million shares last month. Note that the acquisition of shares by top directors at a firm is some management’s way of luring the capital market into buying or demanding for their share.
However, Ovia and Onyeagwu’s acquisition wasn’t convincing enough to investors, considering Zenith Bank share depreciated by -4.16% at the end of May, reflecting heavy investor pessimism, holding believe that the share will still fall.
Ovia, has also been affected by the downward trajectory in Zenith Bank, losing N10.88 billion in the last six months, as his investment in the lender dwindled to N116.42 million, from N127.30 billion.
While Onyeagwu lost N142.10 million during the same period, with his funds in Zenith Bank crashing to N1.52 billion, below the N1.66 billion he held, if all his investment in the last six months in the bank is pegged with current market price of N23.
Politics › Vanguard Governor Of The Year 2018 Award: Ugwuanyi Receives Notification Letter by OEPHIUS(op): 11:28pm On Dec 14, 2018
