Amidst the ongoing economic challenges in Nigeria, more troubles seem to be brewing as Wale Edun, the minister of finance, has relocated the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIP) from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to the Ministry of Finance and Coordinating Economy.

The move by Edun has ignited controversy, especially in light of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's earlier directive to investigate the activities under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, aiming to address the current challenges faced by the nation.

In an interim report seen by TheCable on Saturday, the panel recommended that the programmes should be resumed to alleviate the sufferings of poor and vulnerable Nigerians, but that a new board under the leadership of Edun should oversee the social investment programmes.

“Convene a steering committee/board under the leadership of the Hon. Minister of Finance and coordinating Minister of the economy to oversee the coordination of programmes,” it reads in part.

“Determine the future of the NSIPA by advocating for a proper review and amendment of the NSIPA act.”

Leaders.ng also gathered that Edun is currently withholding funds approved and released by the Federal Government for the 2024 Hajj Commission.

Insiders claim that Edun's actions are driven by an expectation of kickbacks, leaving intending pilgrims to bear the brunt of daily increases in Hajj fares.

Some communities in Delta State have indicated interest to join in a suit seeking the removal of Mr Chiedu Ebie as Chairman of the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Recall that some communities in Bayelsa State had asked a Federal High Court in Abuja, to nullify the appointment of Mr Chiedu Ebie as NDDC boss, on the grounds that he was wrongly appointed by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the plaintiffs, Ebie was not qualified to occupy the seat of Board Chairman haven not come from, "the oil producing area with the highest
quantum of oil production".

The plaintiffs, Chief Goodnews Gereghewei, Chief Eddy Brayei and Mr Jonah Engineyouwei, who sued on behalf of themselves and Bisangbene, Agge and Amatu1 communities in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, had dragged President Tinubu, Senate President, Attorney-General of the Federation, NDDC and Ebie as 1st to 5th respondents respectively to court over the appointment of the NDDC board chairman.

At the last sitting earlier in the month, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed March 12, for hearing, after confirming service of the suit on all respondents.

However, some oil producing communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, have indicated that they will soon commence formal process to be joined as an interested party in the suit.

In a statement over the weekend, the communities said the move is to register their displeasure over the way and manner in which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Mr. Chiedu Ebie as the NDDC Board Chairman.

Mr Jerry Mulade-Aroh, who spoke on behalf of Host Communities after a meeting in Warri, Delta State said, "we were extremely happy to find out that our neighbouring Oil producing communities in Bayelsa State has challenged the faulty process leading to the appointment of Mr. Chiedu Ebie as the Board Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Federal High Court at Abuja.

"Mr. Chiedu Ebie hails from Agbor-Alidinma Community in Ika South Local Government area, Delta State. It is imperative to state that Mr Chiedu, community, has no functional and producing oil wells that qualified him to be appointed as Chairman in line with the NDDC act 2000.

"We from the Delta Oil producing communities are interested parties in this matter, and we are set to file for joinder in that suit. And we shall always organize a protest to that effect in Abuja to draw the attention of Mr President and the general public particularly Niger Delta.

Also speaking, Mr Jolomi Itsekure, who spoke on behalf of Itsekiri Oil and Gas producing communities in the State, described the appointment as an injustice, oppression, and a wrong precedent that should not be allowed to stand.

"Our rights and opportunities can not be used as political compensation. Therefore, we call on Mr. President to withdraw his appointment and follow due process.

"Furthermore, we have qualified persons from the core Oil Producing communities who have the requisite qualification in line with the guidelines set out in the NDDC Act 2000 for such an executive appointment.

Hon Friday Ugedi, a youth leaders from Egbema Kingdom in Warri North LGA, asserted that "This are some of the major reasons and causes of unrest in the region by imposing unqualified persons from non oil and gas producing areas to govern us simply because we don’t have godfathers", he added.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/28/2024, dated and filed January 11, 2024, the plaintiffs are claiming that both President Tinubu and the National Assembly contravened the NDDC Act by screening and appointing Ebie Chiedu as NDDC Board Chairman.

They submitted that although the 5th defendant is from an oil producing State " thus by the provisions of the law he is unqualified for
appointment as the chairman of the 4th defendant's board because his not from the highest oil producing areas.

In the affidavit deposed to in support of the suit, the plaintiffs averred that Ebie's appointment "was done in error and is against the clear provisions of the law.

"That the screening and confirmation of the 5th defendant by the Nigerian Senate was also done in error and was against the clear provisions of the law.

"That as a result of the facts above and in particular the facts in paragraphs 2 - 11, the appointment of the 5th defendant is null, void and of no effect".

The plaintiffs through their lawyer, B. B. Abalaba, are therefore asking the court to determine whether the 5th defendant who is from a community with minimal oil production is qualifed to be the chairman of the 4th defendant (Niger Delta Development
Commission)?

Other issues raised for determination are: Whether the appointment of the 5th defendant by the 1st defendant as the chairman of the 4th defendant is not in contravention of the NDDC Act?

"Whether the appointment of the 5th defendant by the 1st defendant as the chairman of the 4th defendant is not Illegal null and void?

They therefore prayed the court for an order "setting aside the appointment of the 5th defendant as the chairman of the
4th defendant by the 1s defendant.

"An order of injunction restraining the 5th defendant from assuming office or in any way acting as the chairman of the 4th defendant.

"An order of injunction restraining the 4th defendant from recognizing the 5th
defendant as its chairman or allowing him access into its premises for the purpose of beginning or continuing work as its chairman.

"An order of injunction restraining the 5th defendant from holding himself out as the chairman of the 4th defendant".

Residents of Ibeno Local Government Area have called out for help against the destruction of life and property meted on them by the people of Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas under the aegis of Coalition of Coastal Aboriginal Communities of Akwa Ibom.

The call was sequel to the invasion and attack on Ibeno people in the early hour of Tuesday, February 27, 2024, by members of the Coalition.

Verified information has it that before a team of Policemen and other security agencies could intervene and stop an arson attempt on Mobil filling station along QIT Road, Ibeno, own by one Samuel Ekpenyong, the invaders have killed three persons, maimed many others and burnt down over 24 houses including Four Square Church in Iwuachang, a community in Ibeno.

A resident of Iwuoachang, Mr. Ekpo Emmanuel, has alleged that “the invasion and attack is sponsored by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, the Chairmen of Eket and Esit Eket, Mr. Akaninyene Tommey and Engr. Iniobong Robson; the National President of Ekid People Union (EPU), Dr Samuel Udonsak, and the Paramount Ruler of Eket, Chief ECD Abia.”

Mr. Emmanuel also said “I challenged any of the aforementioned to prove me wrong. We have done our investigations and every ground work and we have concrete evidences. We appeal to our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, not to toe the path of his predecessor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, who created the whole problem through his remapping agenda.”

Another resident, Mr. Otukere Okon, in his argument said “the incident was carefully planned for and executed. Why will you, in the name of protest, blocked the only access routes to community, invade and attack the people, claiming that you are protesting the non-implementation of government policies? Wouldn’t the House of Assembly or the Judiciary Headquarters or Government House have been a better ground for protest, if the intention was genuine and sincere?”

“There is more to it and we, the people and residents of Ibeno local government area, are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to come to our aid. It is a planned delineation of the Obolo people from Akwa Ibom State. We know those playing the drum of war. They must be stopped now before it escalates,” he explained.

This was further confirmed by a leaked circular signed by Dr Udonsak on February 26, 2024, “Good Morning All. The destruction of blocks at Esit Urua and the assault on the Transition Chairman of Eket LGA when he went to assess the damage by Ibeno youths as well as other acts of victimization of Ekid people by ungrateful settlers were reported to the Coalition of Coastal Aboriginal LGA Assembly. The Assembly resolved to impose a total blockade of Ibeno and Eastern Obolo settlers at Esit Urua, Edo, Onna, Mkpat Enin and Ikot Abasi to press for our rights. In compliance, the Union effected a total blockade at Edo and Esit Urua by 2.am this morning, towards a 2000-Man indefinite peaceful protest. We have to reiterate that this is a peaceful protest, and nobody should test our resolve to press for our rights. I call on every son and daughter of Ekid to support this exercise in any manner possible.”

Recall that Dr Udonsak, through a kangaroo publication, assured that there will be protest “holding simultaneously at locations of Esit Urua Village in Eket Local Government Area and Edo Group of Villages in Esit Eket Local Government Area. The protest shall continue until all demands of the Aboriginal Communities are met by the Government.

According to that publication, Dr Udonsak cautioned Government against the use of force to disperse the angry protesters insisting that “any attempt at forceful evacuation of the protesters shall yield unpleasant results.”

Investigation has revealed that the agenda of the Coalition, which is made up of Eket, Esit Eket, ONNA, and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas, is with deep political colorations targeted at the Federal Constituency seat in 2027.

Part of the Coalition attempt, which is against the existence of Ibeno as a local government area, is to arm-twist Governor Umo Eno to “implement all Judicial rulings on matters concerning the Stubb creek, implement to the fullest all recommendations of the Akwa Ibom State Elders Council Committee which includes the removal of all illegal structures from the Stubb Creeks, creation of access roads to the Atlantic Ocean for all the five Littoral Local Government Areas amongst others.”

Speaking shortly after a security meeting with state director of the Department of State Service and other sister agencies, the Transition Committee Chairman of Ibeno, Hon. Emma Ibok, confirmed the incident and said he was taking inventory of casualties and the level destruction.

Hon. Ibok said “the invaders have destroyed lots of properties in Ibeno. So many people have been hospitalized and we are yet to confirm the actual number of casualties. I am going from one hospital to the other to ascertain it. I have been told that some people were killed but I am trying to verify it.”

Explaining further, Hon. Ibok said “They have stationed some policemen here but the problem we have as a community is that the moment people excuse themselves at night to rest, the invaders will attack. So, we can tell if they are working with the police or the security of Ibeno people is sabotaged.”

All efforts to speak with Mr. Akanyene Tommey of Eket Local Government Council and his Esit Eket counterpart, Engr. Iniobong Robson proved abortive as they neither took calls nor returned messages.

The State Government’s position on the matter was stated through a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong, was a call for “peace to reign to avoid loss of lives and damage to property.”

The statement maintained that “While Government recognizes that this conflict is rooted in heritage claims which date back to pre-independence times, it is constrained by the subsisting court actions on the same subject matter. It is the position of the State Government that until all these cases are resolved, nothing will be done in support or against the map.”

“In the interim, we urge all the parties to either await the judgement of the court, or explore peaceful means in resolving their issues. It is noteworthy that Government will north surrender her primary duty of protecting lives and property, for any reason. Traditional and political leaders are also admonished to act as enablers of peace and not catalyst of conflict, as history is recording the dramatis personae,” the statement concluded.

News Direct has obtained a leaked memo President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wrote on November 29 2023, directing the Jim Obazee-led committee to conclude their investigation and submit the final report on or before Friday, December 1, 2023.

President Tinubu appointed Obazee as a Special Investigator to probe the activities of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in July 2023.

At the time, Tinubu said the appointment of Obazee, relying on the fundamental objective outlined in Section 15(5) of the Nigerian constitution, was in furtherance of his administration’s anti-corruption fight.

Obazee was also mandated to report directly to the president.

The letter from President Tinubu emphasized the urgency of finalizing the investigation within the given timeframe.


Recall that Daily Nigerian had reported that despite the committee’s disbandment, Obazee has continued its duties in what appears to be an unconstitutional manner, well beyond the specified date for concluding its work.


In the letter titled: ‘Expeditious conclusion of the Special Investigation into the Operations of the Central Bank of Nigeria’, the President stated:’

“Sequel to your appointment in July 2023, as Special Investigator to investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria and Related Entities, I have taken note of your efforts and appreciate your dedication.

“I am confident in the impartiality and thoroughness of your investigation. I thank you for upholding the principles that underpin our nation’s financial system.

“However, there is need to conclude this investigation expeditiously to enable the leadership of the Central Bank carry on its vibrant reforms.

“The findings of this inquiry will not only contribute to the immediate corrective actions needed but will also provide invaluable insights for enhancing the Bank’s operations and corporate governance.

“You are, therefore, required to submit your final report to be on or before Friday, December 1, 2023, for consideration and implementation.

“I trust that the conclusion of this investigation will pave the way for robust and effective Central Bank, aligning with our shared vision for economic stability and growth.”

After DAILY NIGERIAN exclusive report on the alleged intimidation by Jim Obazee, the Special Investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu to probe former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, has reportedly summoned the leader of the president team.

This newspaper had reported how some top officials at the CBN and other commercial banks alleged witch-hunt and undue intimidation by Mr Obazee’s team, even after his mandate had since expired.

Mr Tinubu, in a letter dated July 28, 2023, had named Mr Obazee, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, FRC, as the special investigator for the apex bank.

Mr Obazee and his team had submitted their report to the president, indicting the embattled former CBN governor of misappropriation of fund through contract scam and other frauds.

After submitting the report, Mr Obazee’s presidential mandate expired on Friday, December 1, 2023 through a letter sighted by DAILY NIGERIAN correspondent.

In the letter, dated November 29, 2023, and titled: ‘Expeditious conclusion of the Special Investigation into the Operations of the Central Bank of Nigeria’, the President directed the committee to submit their final report on or before Friday, December 1, 2023.


However, DAILY NIGERIAN gathered that months after the expiration of his presidential mandate, Mr Obazee’s team was allegedly carrying out unauthorized raids.


But sources at the ONSA told our reporter that Mr Obazee was summoned after the report.

According to the source, Mr Obazee was asked to return all government property in possession, halting all operations of the team.

“Jim Obazee and his team were summoned on Friday by Office of the National Security Adviser and was asked return all government property in his possession. This includes the official vehicles given to him to aid his operations, and others.

"He was stripped of all his powers and the presidential mandate as the CBN investigator so to speak,” the source disclosed.

However, the ONSA’s Head of Strategic Communication, Zakari U. Mijinyawa, did not return our reporter’s call at the time of filing this report.

The Call of Duty Mobile Nigeria Challenge will gather mobile gamers across 3 locations- Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja- as they battle against one another in the highly sought-after Call of Duty: Mobile game.

Speaking to the press ahead of the well-anticipated event, the Marketing Manager for itel Nigeria, Oke Umurhohwo says the event will showcase the true gaming power and performance of itel smartphones.

“For those curious about itel’s capabilities in gaming, the Call of Duty Mobile Nigeria Challenge is our answer. Fans will now witness the greatness of playing top mobile games on itel smartphones. With the itel P55 series and future smartphone releases, fans can expect the ultimate mobile gaming experience”. Umurhohwo revealed that this event, in collaboration with Carry1st, will showcase this to the world.

Dominion Ero, Senior Community and Events Manager at Carry1st also shared his thoughts ahead of the anticipated event. He commended the relationship with itel for bringing the Call of Duty Mobile event experience to Nigerian gamers while applauding it as a step in the right direction for both brands.

“At Carry1st, our mission is to scale awesome content across Africa by solving hard problems. After working with Activision to provide servers in Nigeria and launch the sales of Call Of Duty Points on our shop, creating world-class event experiences for the passionate community of gamers is the right step to take. Working with Itel brings in a top-notch smartphone provider to further elevate the experience of attendees at these events.”

The Call of Duty Mobile Nigeria Challenge is set to happen in Port Harcourt, Abuja and Lagos. Port Harcourt will play host to the event on 24th February 2024, while Abuja and Lagos will host the event on the 28th February 2024 and 2nd March 2024 respectively.

The gaming event kicks off as one of the first major Call of Duty: Mobile events in Nigeria and is predicted to pull a lot of attention from Call of Duty Mobile lovers and gaming enthusiasts across the country. Fans are expected to relish this opportunity to showcase their gaming skills and compete with the best in their city to get mouthwatering prizes and connect with the itel and Carry1st brands.

itel continues to prove its mettle as a quality, reliable and affordable smartphone brand with its latest release, the itel P55 series.

In a shocking series of events, the Deputy Governor of Edo State Comrade Philip Shaibu has found himself entwined in a plot to use thugs to disrupt the PDP Primaries slated to take place on Thursday the 22nd of February, 2024 at the Ogbe Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.

Acting on an anonymous tip, a specialized team of armed police officers executed a swift operation at a hotel located in the GRA area of Benin City late Tuesday evening, leading to the apprehension of Mr. Momoh. He was taken into custody on charges related to advanced fee fraud and his alleged involvement in recruiting individuals to cause chaos during the PDP primaries.

Following the arrest, Mr. Momoh was escorted under tight security to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) office situated on Central Road. However, an unexpected twist unfolded when Deputy Governor Shaibu arrived at the police station and demanded the immediate release of Mr. Momoh based on his position as the Deputy Governor.

Despite the Deputy Governor's insistence, the officer in charge at the CID office refused to comply with his request. Citing the seriousness of the alleged crimes committed by Mr. Momoh, the officer stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court on the same day. It would ultimately be up to the presiding judge to determine whether Mr. Momoh should be remanded in custody or granted bail.

An enraged Deputy Governor Shaibu left the police station premises in a visibly agitated state. However, a few hours later, he appeared at the courthouse where Mr. Momoh was formally presented before a judge. During the court proceedings, Mr. Momoh entered his initial pleas, and the judge subsequently ordered his remand in prison until the following week.

Deputy Governor Shaibu departed the courtroom without addressing the press, leaving the public and media outlets eagerly awaiting further updates on this rapidly evolving story.

The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, has won the 2023 Sun Newspaper (Courage in Leadership) Award.

The Sun Newspaper Limited said that the Tantita Chairman won the award because of his effective execution of the oil pipeline contract awarded to his company by the Federal Government and the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited.

The organizers of the 21st edition of the Sun Awards which held at the Eko Hotel, Lagos, on Saturday night said that Tompolo has shown demonstrable commitment in the fight against the theft of the nation’s crude oil resources.

In a short video released at the venue, the company said that since the contract was awarded to Tantita Security Services Limited, the company has put up a sterling performance recording major breakthroughs in the fight against oil theft.

The Sun said that Tantita has not only shown dedication in fighting the "virulent cabal" stealing the nation’s oil resources but has also ensured increased daily crude oil production in the country.

Tompolo was among thirty-four Nigerians who received various awards on the night.

These are Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President, Dangote Group; Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman, Heirs Holdings and Chief Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman, Innoson Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Limited (Man of the Year). Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State are Governors of the Year. Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Prof. Awa Kalu, and Rev. Uma Ukpai received Lifetime Achievement Award). Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife and HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri (Most Impactful Royal Father), Mr. Robert Azibaola, Founder, Zeetin Engineering Limited; Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, CEO, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and Mr. Charles Odii, DG, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) (Public Service Award); and others.

The Tantita Chairman who was represented at the event by his Media Aide, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, thanked the Sun Newspaper for recognizing the sustained efforts of TSSL in protecting the nation’s pipelines and intensifying the fight against the theft of the nation’s crude oil resources.

He said that the award will further encourage him to put more efforts in the ongoing effective collaboration with the Armed Forces and security agencies to protect the nation’s pipelines and prevent its crude oil resources from being stolen by a cabal of unpatriotic Nigerians and their foreign allies.

He said, “Tantita is not the only one involved in the prosecution of the campaign against the mindless theft of the nation’s resources, the firm is carrying out the job in collaboration with the Nigerian military.

“I must say that the Nigerian military is doing its best and there has been effective synergy between the military and Tantita, the civil Defence and other security agencies. This productive synergy would continue in the interest of our country.

“We discovered a lot of points where illegal oil bunkering activities were taking place. We arrested several vessels and in this year alone we have arrested three vessels involved in the criminal theft of the oil resources in this country. I can assure you that High Chief Timpolo will build on this achievements and ensure noticeable improvement in daily oil production for Nigerians and Nigeria,” he said

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the Sun Newspaper Publishing Limited, Mr Onuoha Ukeh, said that the 34 awardees made serious silent contributions to national development in their respective areas in spite of the challenges of the year.

He described the awardees as a people who demonstrated uncommon capacity to confront the odds to succeed in their respective areas.

“We are here to honour 34 great Nigerians whose works and achievements in 2023 stood out. The awardees are a blend of unassuming young Nigerians, some whom may not have been heard of but who are silently making waves in their various endeavours, and also established citizens who have been steadfast, dogged and consistent in their efforts at contributing to national developmen.

“The year 2023, for Nigeria as a nation and Nigerians as a people, was remarkable and challenging. It was a year of politics and elections. It was a year when Nigerians went to the polls to choose their leaders. It was a year when Nigerians tested their God-given ability to decide their fate and fully realised that they have the inherent power to make things happen the way they would want, for the good of the nation and the people.

“It was a year when political power changed hands, from a President, who had completed two terms of eight years in office, to a new president. It was a year when petroleum subsidy was finally removed. It was a year when the exchange rate crossed the threshold of N1, 000 to one dollar. It was a year when the country grappled with insecurity and other sundry challenges. It was indeed a year to remember.

“In the midst of all these, there were Nigerians who withered the storm and stand tall today to be counted. They were resilient, determined, and courageous to confront obstacles and to succeed.

“They used their ingenuity very well and made astonishing successes in their various fields. They are a toast to resourcefulness.

“We are here to celebrate and honour them. We are here to tell a success story, to the effect that with the excellent use of our human and capital resources, something good will come out of Nigeria.”

Polls conducted by activists coordinating the #LiberalizeGunRights campaign have revealed that Nigerians are yearning for the liberalization of gun ownership in Nigeria.

The #LiberalizeGunRights activists believe their seven-question survey has provided helpful insights into the standpoint of Nigerians on self-defence given the spiralling insecurity crisis in the country.

We can confirm that 325 Nigerians responded to the polls on Microsoft Forms and Google Forms during the seven days it lasted. The activists explained that the survey started on Microsoft Forms before being extended to Google Forms to give access to more Nigerians to respond.

The questions asked in the survey were 'Liberalize Gun Rights for Nigerians?'; 'Liberalize Gun Rights for Farmers?'; 'Liberalize Gun Rights in Rural Nigeria?'; 'Liberalize Gun Rights in the Middle Belt?'; 'Liberalize Gun Rights in Southern Nigeria?'; 'Support Permitless Carry for Nigerians?'; and 'Support Permitless Carry for Farmers Only?' Questions one and seven had three options: Yes, No, or Maybe, while questions two, three, four, five, and six had two options: Yes or No.

The responses show that most respondents support the liberalization of gun ownership for all Nigerians, the liberalization of gun ownership for farmers, the liberalization of gun ownership in rural Nigeria, the liberalization of gun ownership in the Middle Belt and the liberalization of gun ownership in Southern Nigeria. However, most respondents did not support permitless carry for all Nigerians, except in the cases of farmers, for which 44% supported permitless carry, 40% rejected it, and 16% answered that they were not sure.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question one, 248 respondents or approximately 77%, answered 'Yes' to the liberalization of gun ownership for all Nigerians. Also, 42 respondents, or approximately 13%, answered 'Maybe' while only 35 respondents or approximately 11%, answered 'No' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question two, 298 respondents or approximately 92%, answered 'Yes' to the liberalization of gun ownership for farmers. However, 27 respondents or approximately 8% answered 'No' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question three, 292 respondents, or approximately 90%, answered 'Yes' to the liberalization of gun ownership in rural Nigeria. However, 33 respondents or approximately 10% answered 'No' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question four, 295 respondents, or approximately 91%, answered 'Yes' to the liberalization of gun ownership in the Middle Belt. However, 30 respondents or approximately 9% answered 'No' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question five, 271 respondents, or approximately 83%, answered 'Yes' to the liberalization of gun ownership in Southern Nigeria. However, 54 respondents, or approximately 17%, answered 'No' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question six, 193 respondents, or approximately 59%, answered 'No' to Permitless Carry for all Nigerians. However, 132 respondents, approximately 41%, answered 'Yes' to the same question.

According to the collated data from the verified responses for question seven, 143 respondents or 44%, answered 'Yes' to Permitless Carry for Farmers Only. Also, 129 respondents, or approximately 40%, answered 'No' while only 53 respondents or approximately 16%, answered 'Maybe' to the same question.

When we asked his opinion on the poll results, a leading activist in the campaign, Raphael Adebayo, said, 'Nigerians have clearly decided to protect themselves from the barbarism of ethnoreligious terrorists and kidnappers.' He further stated that it was time for the 10th National Assembly to give legislative approval to the wishes of Nigerians to defend themselves, their properties and their families. 'It is the only way to reverse the current trend in which the country has become the Federal Republic of Terrorists and Kidnappers,' he added.

"I have been following the attempts by some loyalists of Buhari to romanticise their disastrous tenure in office. I would be remiss in my responsibilities as a historian if I allowed these characters to succeed in misleading the public without exposing their schemes.

Now, before I go further, let me add that this is not an attack on Islam, and I am quite aware that a significant number of Nigerian Muslims know of my love and respect for Islam. I have issues with Buhari and his minions, not with Arewa or the Muslim Ummah.

Since Sheikh Isa Pantami is an Islamic scholar, I will use a word to describe him that he should be familiar with. Pantami is a Munafiq. How can a man who kept quiet when hundreds of terrorists in motorcycles invaded Kuje prisons on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, and freed over 600 of the 900 inmates in that penitentiary open his mouth and say that insecurity is worsening in Abuja and Nigeria?

Did his administration catch any of the over 600 terrorists that were released from Kuje prison? Is that not why Abuja is facing the challenges it now faces? And this Munafiq has the guts to now accuse others? Only in Buhari's most useless of governments would Pantami have graced the cabinet. 


What did Isa Pantami say when, on Saturday, March 26, 2022, tens of terrorists invaded the Kaduna Airport on motorcycles and were openly riding on the runway and shooting on the tarmac?

Or does Pantami think we have forgotten how he went for cover when two days after the invasion of the Kaduna airport, terrorists bombed the Abuja-Kaduna rail on Monday, March 28, 2022, and killed eight Nigerians, including Amin Mahmoud, youth leader of the All Progressives Congress, and Megafu Chinelo, a doctor who tweeted, "I'm in the train, I have been shot. Please pray for me", before taking tens of hostages?


Pantami did not invent the crowdfunding of ransoms then. He only received the brainwave when the Kuje terrorists they failed to apprehend abducted Nabeeha and our beloved sisters.


The fact remains that the insecurity in Abuja and Nigeria is not as bad as it was under Buhari. In the specific case of Abuja, Nigeria is paying the price for the failure of Buhari and his cronies, like Pantami, who refused to rearrest the over 600 terrorists that were jailbroken from Kuje under their watch. 


Nigeria is progressing without Buhari and Pantami. Jailbreaks, airport invasions and train bombings are now a thing of the past. Oil thefts have reduced, and our oil production has increased from what it was under Buhari to about 2 million barrels per day today. And no police stations have been destroyed in the Southeast since Buhari's inept regime thankfully came to an end.


And I, for one, will not stand idly by while Pantami and others, like Nasir El-Rufai, attempt to rewrite history and cast themselves and Buhari as heroes of a tragedy they created. 

A leading Edo State governorship aspirant and member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Barr. Asue Ighodalo has congratulated the National Working Committee (NWC), members of the PDP in Edo State; and 576 recently elected ad hoc delegates for the successful ward congresses conducted by the Party on Sunday. These ad hoc delegates will be responsible for electing the party’s flag bearer ahead of governorship elections in September.


Speaking after his nomination as a delegate at his ward in Ewohimi, Barr. Ighodalo stated that the huge turnout witnessed across the state was evidence that people had not lost hope in the Party.

“I want to thank my party members in my ward for electing me as their delegate; but even beyond this I am truly excited by the news I have been receiving all day of party members coming together in peace and unity to elect their delegates.

Barr. Asue expressed his gratitude to the NWC for providing a level playing field for all aspirants and delegates to pursue their political aspirations. He further stated that he intends to continue speaking to party leaders within and outside the State; and to his fellow aspirants about the need for them to unite and work together to elect a candidate who can go on to win the general elections in September.

At the Edo State PDP Party Secretariat in Benin City, the State Organizing Secretary of the Party Mr. Anthony Anenih Jnr. also issued a statement congratulating the party for successfully conducting her congresses in 192 wards. He however reported that there was an incident in Jattu, the hometown of the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, where eight of the officials heading to Etsako Central Local Government Area for the election were abducted. He called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to order a swift investigation of the incident and promptly ensure the release of the affected officials, whose families are troubled by the fate of their loved ones.

A flurry of last minute petitions by 9 ‘Legacy Coalition’ governorship aspirants has failed to stop the PDP ad hoc delegate congresses currently taking place across the 192 wards in Edo State.

There were fears that Gov, Makinde’s shock resignation as Chairman of the Electoral Committee would derail the congresses late last night; but the National Working Committee (NWC) quickly resolved the issue with the reconstitution of a new electoral committee headed by Gov. Peter Mba of Enugu State.

The National Organizing Secretary of the PDP, Hon. Umar Bature also responded to Gov. Makinde in a curt letter, dismissing Gov. Makinde’s allegations that the congresses were being improperly constituted and reminding Makinde that not only did the Party abide by the letters of the law in organizing the congresses; all aspirants will be provided with the opportunity to appeal the outcome of the process.

In Edo state, PDP members turned out in high numbers to pick their delegates; a consequence of the high interest voters have taken in the high profile Edo Governorship race. Across the wards too, peace was maintained by large contingents of police officers and members of the Edo Security Network who were very conspicuous at the venues.

Congresses have been completed in parts of Edo State including Ikpoba Okha, the local government with the highest number of registered voters in Edo State.

The actions of the Chief Dan Orbih led Legacy Coalition of aspirants - Hon. Ogbeide-Ihama, Chief Anslem Ojezua, the deputy governor Comrade Philip Shaibu, Omosede Igbinedion, Hon. Felix Akhabue and four others - are reminiscent of the actions taken by the same Legacy group in the lead-up to the 2023 general elections where the PDP congresses and primaries in Edo State were contested and litigated up to the Supreme Court, with Gov. Obaseki’s group eventually emerging victorious.

In a bid to ensure accountability, transparency and good governance in the Nigerian state, a coalition of five groups under the Umbrella of The Middle Belt Pan-Nigerian Forum has called for the resignation of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

The coalition, through its spokesperson, Dr. Danladi Ceceko Dangana, believes that the Naval Chief's continued stay in office may impede the investigation into his alleged involvement in crude theft, contract splitting, and other corrupt practices.

The allegations against the Naval Chief were first brought to light by Concerned Nigerians, a coalition of Civil Society Organizations with prominent activists and Lawyers, Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, Comrade Mohammed Suleiman SK, Barrister Aisha Waliki, Esq and Comrade Ogunwoye Samson in a petition to the President through the Ministry of Defense.

The timing of these allegations is concerning, as Nigeria's economy has been facing challenges since the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed power. The coalition, therefore, appeals to the federal government, led by President Tinubu, to take immediate action and ensure a thorough investigation into the alleged activities of the corrupt Naval Chief. They fear that further delay could cause irreparable damage to the country's crude oil resources.

The coalition is particularly alarmed by the Naval Chief's response to the allegations, as he dismissed them as being solely based on an exclusive news report from a media platform.

You would recall that the People's Gazette, an online platform had in a well detailed report revealed his alleged role in facilitating a loosely coordinated bunkering of Nigerian crude, as well as involvement in multibillion-naira contract-splitting fraud and other corrupt activities. Initial investigations conducted by the newspaper estimated that the Naval Chief had accepted bribes totaling over $170 million in the past six months alone.

The coalition questions whether the Naval Chief would deny the petition filed by credible civil society groups under the auspices of Concerned Nigerians who had presented evidence to the president. The groups claim that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, under whose control Naval officers allegedly provided security to criminals, was involved in specific incidents of crude oil theft. One such incident involved the MT PRAISEL vessel, where the Nigerian Navy purportedly allowed it to patrol the Nigerian waterways under their protection. The coalition asserts that they possess evidence, including an authenticated video, showing the Nigerian Navy escorting the MT PRAISEL vessel during the night.

The coalition also references other incidents involving vessels like the MT KALI and MT Tura, where military gunboats, allegedly belonging to the Nigerian Navy, were seen protecting vessels engaged in crude oil theft. Additionally, they mention a recent case involving the MT VANNALARIS vessel, where the Nigerian Navy personnel prevented a private security firm from boarding or inspecting the vessel, despite allegations of illegal crude oil loading off Ondo State.

In light of these serious allegations, the coalition calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act fast against the corrupt and incompetent Naval Chief in order to tame the theft of Nigeria’s crude oil. They emphasize the need for a thorough investigation into these matters to prevent Nigeria from becoming a laughing stock among the international community.

A coalition of concerned Nigerians has submitted a petition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, raising serious allegations of crude oil theft, contract splitting, procurement fraud, and corruption practices against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff.

In a petition signed by notable Human Rights Activists and lawyers in the nation, Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, Comrade Mohammed Suleiman SK, Barrister Aisha Waliki, Esq and Comrade Ogunwoye Samson, the coalition calls for an immediate investigation into the conduct of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, who is accused of engaging in large-scale corrupt practices.

The coalition, which submitted the petition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Office of the Minister of State for Defense, Hon. Bello Matawalle, expressed deep concern over the alarming allegations. “At a time when the country is grappling with significant revenue losses due to crude oil theft, it is distressing to discover that the Chief of Naval Staff, whose primary responsibility is to safeguard Nigeria's waterways against oil theft and other forms of criminality, is allegedly involved in collusion with the perpetrators of these heinous crimes against the Nigerian state”.

The coalition outlined three primary areas forming the basis of their petition against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla: Oil theft collusion, Contract splitting & Procurement fraud, and corrupt practices.

Regarding oil theft collusion, the coalition alleges that Naval officers under the direct control of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla have not only participated in the theft of the nation's crude oil but have also provided security to the criminals. They cite specific incidents involving vessels engaged in crude oil theft, such as the MT PRAISEL vessel, where the Nigerian Navy allegedly allowed it to continue patrolling the Nigerian waterways under the protection of Navy officers headed by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. The coalition claims to possess evidence, including an authenticated video, showing the Nigerian Navy escorting the MT PRAISEL vessel during the night.

The coalition also highlights incidents involving the MT KALI and MT Tura vessels, where military gunboats purportedly belonging to the Nigerian Navy were seen protecting vessels engaged in crude oil theft. Furthermore, they mention the recent case of the MT VANNALARIS vessel allegedly loading crude oil illegally off Ondo State, with Nigerian Navy personnel preventing a private security firm from boarding or inspecting the vessel.

The coalition emphasizes that the Nigerian Navy's involvement in these cases of crude oil theft is consistent and alarming. They assert that the crude oil theft persists because the Navy, led by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, is allegedly in collusion with the criminals, and the corruption can be traced to the upper echelons of the Nigerian Navy. To effectively combat crude oil theft or reduce it to a minimum, the coalition insists that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla must be relieved of his duties.

Regarding the allegation of contract splitting and procurement fraud, the coalition accuses Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla of not only engaging in oil theft but also dipping his fingers into procurement fraud and contract splitting, in violation of Nigeria's procurement laws, particularly the Procurement Act. They provide specific details of 30 contracts awarded by the Nigerian Navy under Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla's command to a single company, with each contract valued at $537,672.45, totaling over 8 billion Naira. Contract splitting, which involves dividing a single contract into smaller pieces to bypass procurement regulations, is expressly forbidden by Section 20(2) of the Procurement Act. The coalition emphasizes that engaging in contract splitting is a criminal offense punishable by a minimum term of five years imprisonment, according to Section 58(1) of the Act.

The coalition calls upon President Tinubu to take decisive action to prevent further economic losses and ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations of corruption by the Chief of Naval Staff.

Additionally, the coalition alleges that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla has failed to reassign personnel within the Nigerian Navy who are engaged in fraudulent activities. They claim that the Chief of Naval Staff benefits directly from these fraudulent practices and that the oil theft, procurement fraud, and other criminal activities are carried out by Navy personnel under the command of a corrupt Chief of Naval Staff who seeks personal gain at the expense of the nation's resources.

In conclusion, the coalition draws attention to the previous investigations and prosecutions of serving and retired military officers for economic crimes against the Nigerian state during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. They highlight the lingering reputational damage suffered by the military as a result. The coalition implores President Tinubu to address the issues raised in their petition urgently, to prevent further irreparable reputational and economic harm to the nation.

The coalition submitted a well-documented petition that included an ample evidence to support their claims. The evidence was carefully compiled and attached as an annex to the petition.

The coalition remains committed to the fight against corruption and the preservation of Nigeria's resources for the benefit of all citizens.

Hensard University is pleased to announce that students can pay their school fees in two installments, providing greater flexibility and convenience. To secure admission into the University, the first payment should not be less than 50 percent of the tuition. The remainder will be paid in one installment at the beginning of the second semester, allowing students, parents and guardians to manage their financial obligations effectively.

While the fees are benchmarked in US Dollars, Hensard University accepts the equivalent amount in Naira. This ensures that students have the option to pay in the local currency, simplifying the payment process.

Admissions are on-going at Hensard University. We have 30 programmes in five faculties, offering students a wide range of choices in which to pursue their academic interests and career aspirations.

Hensard University also recognises that not all students may meet the minimum admission requirements set by the National Universities Commission (NUC). To address this and to improve the quality of prospective students, the Hensard University Foundation School, has pre-degree programmes designed to prepare students for success in their JUPEB, A-levels, O-levels, and JAMB examinations.
Successful completion of the Foundation School provides another pathway for direct admission into the University.

Why Choose Hensard University?
Hensard University offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for students. Our dual certification policy allows students to earn two degrees—one from Hensard University and another from our partner institutions, enhancing their qualifications and expanding their opportunities. Additionally, our international student exchange programmes provide global perspectives and foster cultural understanding. Students also benefit from industry mentorship, practical entrepreneurship training, the availability of startup funds through our Students' Contributory Cooperative Scheme, empowering them to succeed in their chosen careers, and cutting-edge research at our centres of excellence, etc.

To learn more about Hensard University, our programmes, and the admissions process, please visit our official website at https://HensardUniversity.edu.ng. For any inquiries or information, we can be reached through the following channels:

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At Hensard University, we are dedicated to providing a conducive learning environment and empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals.

Signed:

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vc@hensarduniversity.edu.ng
+234 916 998 5152