₦airaland Forum

***urge Tinubu to call him to order


Lawmakers elected into the National Assembly under the umbrella of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), on Thursday, came hard on the Governor of Benue State, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, describing him as “a dictator” who is running the state government like his personal business.

Rising from a one-day retreat organised in National Assembly on Thursday, the Lawmakers, under the aegis of Benue APC National Assembly Caucus, also called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, to quickly prevail on the Governor, before he runs the state aground, saying, Alia’s tendencies could cost the party a defeat in subsequent elections in the state, if he is not quiuckly called to order.

“We the undersigned are members of the National Assembly Caucus elected on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform from Benue State. Having watched with apprehension the absence of democratic leadership in Benue State in the last six (6) months exemplified by the arrogant and egocentric conduct of Governor Hyacinth I Alia, we have decided to draw the attention of Mr President and other leaders of APC in Nigeria to seek their immediate intervention before the fortunes of APC in Benue State are totally destroyed”, the text of press statement after the retreat, reads.

Reading further, Leader of the Caucus and Senator representing Benue North West, Senator Titus Zam, said, the matter had been reported severally to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who has been mediating to see that things were normalised.

“It is necessary to state from the onset that, we have collectively and individually drawn the attention of the leader of the APC in Benue, Sen. Dr. George Akume Secretary to the Government of the Federation who has on several occasions pleaded for patience from us in the anticipation of a possible change of attitude from His Excellency Governor Hyacinth Alia, rather than change for the better.

“Governor Alia has become more emboldened and has continued to treat us and the party in general in the most disgusting, disrespectful and disingenuous manner”, he said.

In retrospect, the APC Lawmakers said, “Fr. Alia only came to reap where he did not sow. In any case, you are well aware of the rejection his candidacy received from older members of the party including litigations in several courts of Law up to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, it took the strident support of Sen. Dr. George Akume to extricate his candidacy from the destructive grip of his co-aspirants and eventual victory at the polls.

“Today, the ungrateful Fr. Alia, who had barely joined APC two months before the Governorship primaries assumes a messianic posture and tend to appropriate the victory of APC in Benue State as a product of his so-called popularity; without regard to the painstaking and systematic efforts of the subsisting formidable political structure which has enthroned all the governors in the State before him.

“The question begging for answers is; why did the self-acclaimed popular priest not contest on the platform of either APGA, PDP or other smaller political parties in Benue State?

“For clarity's sake, let us contextualize some of the dictatorial and egocentric tendencies of Governor Alia and his poor treatment of Benue APC in the last six (6) months of his administration in Benue State.

“The election of the speaker of Benue House of Assembly. The position of the speaker was zoned to the Jembagh bloc of Benue North West Senatorial District, coincidentally the birthplace of the SGF, Sen. Dr. George Akume, whereas APC has 22 members out of a total of 32 members of the Assembly. Governor Alia connived with former Governor Gabriel Suswam of PDP to produce a speaker different from the candidate preferred by APC. In the contest for the position of the Speaker, Governor Alia held midnight meetings at the Residence of Sen. Gabriel Suswam and got Ten (10) PDP members to align with 7 recalcitrant APC members to beat the APC preferred candidate by the margin of 2 votes; thus began his unholy alliance with PDP to undermine and maltreat the legitimate members of APC in Benue State.

“After the Speakership debacle, the party again nominated and made a spread of principal officers of the assembly, comprising; Majority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip. Surprisingly, the speaker joyfully agreed with the opposition party on all nominations from the Peoples Democratic Party as endorsed by the State Chairman of the PDP and Secretary but jettisoned the list submitted by APC and rather accepted the list that was unilaterally submitted by the Governor through his Chief of Staff.

“It was an embarrassing experience for the Party having to face the dejection in the hands of an administration it labored hard to install. However, the party submitted and sustained their faith in the Governor and his government even when they felt aggrieved and resorted to stand by the advice of the leader of the party Sen. Dr. George Akume whose counsel has always been for the party to keep praying for Fr. Alia to succeed.

“in the first meeting of the stakeholders that was held in government house the chairman of the party Comrade Austine Agada publicly went on his knees took all the blames even though there was no blame and apologized to the governor and party members requesting they put behind the State Assembly imbroglio and come together to save the party, in the meeting, the governor praised the leader of the party with promise to always work together so that Benue and the party will enjoy democratic dividends. He also pledged that going forward he was going to involve the party and other critical stakeholders in sensitive decisions particularly in the nomination of commissioners and local government caretaker committees, a promise he unfortunately kept in breach.

“In appointing his commissioners, His Excellency again exercised a sole discretion without recourse to the normal tradition of requesting for nominations from the local governments and disregarded the zoning arrangements and permutations and went ahead to make his independent choices as he deemed soothing, again the party did not oppose him but rather gave him support since it was his own State Executive and Security Council and needed people he could vouch for.

“The nomination of caretaker committees to man the various local governments was when the party received the most humiliation, governor Alia had thrown back to party members during the Stakeholders meeting by demanding an immediate nomination of 3 candidates each for the position of Caretaker Chairman, Deputy and Secretary as well Supervisory Councilors across the twenty three local government demanding for two slots of supervisory councilors from each of the local governments, this was first time a governor will demand such from the caretaker council formation against the usual one slot per local government. The party jubilantly agreed and followed the directive by holding meetings, and painstakingly submitting their various lists with the sigh of relief and sense of belonging.

“But surprisingly, when the nominations were finally announced the party was amazed that ninety percent of the names were outside the nominees that were sent to the governor at his directive. In all these misgivings and disaffection the announcement of the caretaker committee marked the pinnacle of a noticeably bad relationship between governor Alia and APC in Benue State and this has angered a lot of party men and women in the State which can be justified by all standards.

“Disrespect and disregard to members of NASS: Governor Hyacinth Alia since assumption of duty has not held any meeting with NASS members of Benue State who were elected on the same APC platform with him neither does he pick or return their telephone calls not to talk about consulting them on political matters in the State. He has assumed the posture of a conqueror who does not care about the welfare, nor status of National Assembly Members in his leadership of Benue State. In every State of the federation members of NASS are working in synergy with their governors to attract development from the center to their State of origin.

“Governor Alia has no single known developmental blueprint for Benue State. As at the moment, nobody in Benue State is aware of the direction of his administration, what he practices is personal rule and this is replicated by the lopsided appointment he has made in the State so far, with his immediate community of Kunav cornering all the strategic positions in government.

“Implications of his undemocratic rule in Benue State; the grave consequences of Governor Alia personal rule is that, the generality of APC members who are excluded and abandoned are beginning to lose faith in the APC led administration in Benue State. Therefore, care must be taken to safeguard APC from the tyrannical leadership of Governor Alia so as to prepare the party for subsequent electoral victories in the future. Governor Alia's street showmanship of non-existent huge support base is not predicated on a substantive love of a massive street followers, does not translate to the real political support which only leaders can guarantee”.

In addition, the Member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Hon. Philip Agbese accused the Governor of nepotism, saying he appointed over 30 key political officers from his immediate clan in Vandeikya LGA, whereas, the Idoma speaking people from Benue South were grossly shortchanged in the scheme of things.

The Lawmakers, comprising of Senators and House of Representatives Members elected under APC from Benue State, also used the occasion to pledge loyalty to President Tinubu, the National Chairman of APC, Umar Ganduje, Sen. Akume, the State Chairman of APC, Comrade Austine Agada and his state led executive.

By Our Correspondent


The House of Representatives Committee on Hydrological Services has rejected the Nigeria Hydrological Agency's 2024 Budget and called for a re-presentation of same on Monday December 18, 2023 at 10:00am unfailingly.

The Committee chaired by Hon.Pascal Agbodike who gave the ruling at the National Assembly said that the agency failed to abide by the provision of the 2023 Appropriation Act and had exceeded its approval limit in its last budget as regards implementation.

He said that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) had expressly given the apex legislative institution-the National Assembly the powers to critically scrutinize and approve or reject the ministries, departments and agencies annual budgets

The Anambra born lawmaker further stated that the House would not pass into law anything that comes from the executive arm of government as budget.

He said: "Sincerely, I noted the observation raised by members at this budget session.

"I look at it as not a deliberate act but may be a mistake from the staff. I 'll give you Monday morning to re-appear.

"The Committee will give you a list of items requested of you in this budget".

At the budget session, a member of the House Committee Hon.Ahmed Jaha had raised many issues on the line by line items of the budget and stated that there are many unjustified expenditures on the agency's 2023 budget.


The lawmaker had pointed out that the details of the overhead and capital sub-heads in the previous years budget is not very clear adding that there must be justification for payment of contactors while projects are still on-going.

He added that the state of projects being executed by contractors, the date of award of contract and specific amount of money paid to contractor ought to 've been reflected in the previous budget of the agency.

Earlier in his presentation of the 2024 budget estimates before the lawmakers, the Director-General of the agency Engr.Clement Nze told the Committee that a total of N1,266,140,944.00 and N118,410,914.00 was earmarked for the office as capital and recurrent expenditures respectively.

He also said that the agency's approved budget for 2023 was N453,962,977.00 while the same amount of money was released and also utilized 100% by the agency.

He added that the budget is to help the agency in monitoring of floodings as well as whatever happens at the two major rivers in Nigeria Viz: River Niger and Benue and sundry issues.

By Yemi Itodo


Billionaire businessman, Prince Arthur Eze has endorsed the adoption of a non-kinetic approach and other initiatives being implemented towards tackling insecurity in the South East region of the country.

The philanthropist gave his support when he received on a courtesy visit to his House in Abuja, a delegation led by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

The delegation under the auspices of Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) visited the oil mogul to inform him about the initiative and invite him for the official launch of the project, holding in Bende Local Government in Abia State on 29 December.

The PISE-P, a comprehensive five-year peace-building and development initiative designed to address the complex socioeconomic challenges and security issues facing the South East region of Nigeria, was developed in response to the growing impact of agitations, economic decline, and security threat.

The non-kinetic approach is built on eight pillars for sustainable development. They include education, agriculture, commerce and industry, infrastructural development, culture and tourism, sports and entertainment, as well as governance and leadership.

Addressing the delegation, Eze stated that the project is timely, urging all stakeholders to embrace it to find a lasting solution to the problem of insecurity in the Southeast.

He applauded the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu for the laudable initiative, assuring him of his support and presence on the official unveiling.

The businessman commended President Bola Tinubu for all the appointments given to the Igbo, describing him as a good man.

Earlier, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu told Arthur Eze that the project is essentially to the benefit of Ndi Igbo.

He appreciated Eze for his philanthropic gestures.

By Our Correspondent

The Ministry of Works has proposed the sum of N657,228,251,596 billion appropriation bill for the 2024 fiscal year.

This is also as the Minister, Engineer Dave Umahi has urged the lawmakers to get back to the ministry, the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF); Federal School of Surveying, Oyo (FSS); Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN); and Surveyors’ Council of Nigeria (SURCON)

Engr. Umahi, who made the demand while addressing the joint committee on works in Abuja on Monday, explained that Capital Budget Proposal for the Ministry of Works itself will engulf N 566,466,977,361, while it’s parastatals; Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA). N51, 282,456,911; African Regional Institute for Geo-Special Information Science and Technology AFRIGIST (RECTAS) goes for N104,039,920 amounting to N617,853,474,192.

He explained further that the Overhead Budget Proposal for Ministry stands at N668,116,856.00 while its Parastatals: FERMA will require N22,027,209,696. and RECTAS/AFRIGIST has zero proposal amounting to a total sum of N22,695,326,552.

While Personnel Cost Proposal for the Ministry is N12,598,351,319 and it’s parastatals will engulf N4,081,099.

The Minister noted that 693 new projects have been proposed in the 2024 Budget which are critical to improving road network connectivity and thus enhancing traffic circulation on the Federal Road network, which is necessary for boosting socio-economic activities in the country.

According to him, “The primary objective is enabling the Ministry achieve its mandate in providing a quality Federal Road network that serves as an environment to aid socio-economic growth of the country.

“The main challenge to highways development in the country remains inadequate funding. As at date, government is committed to highway contractors to the tune of about N13.835 trillion with a total of about N1,507,873,365,516.02 unpaid certificates for executed works.

“Secondly, the dearth of younger Engineers/Technical Officers in the Ministry as a result of embargo on employment is affecting effective project supervision at the sites. It is expected that more sources of funding of highway projects be explored as well as lifting the embargo on employment of needed Engineers/Technical officers at middle level to enhance supervision of projects.

“Our Ministry has set up six committees to review all debts, approved and unapproved variations on prices of basic rates, and all augmentations that occurred before May 29th 2023 and from May 30th 2023 till date.

According to Umahi, “The provision of an Emergency Fund of about 30% of the Budget Provision will cater for unforeseen emergencies that regularly occur on the road network especially during the rainy seasons;

“An increase of the Ministry’s present budgetary allocation to about N1.5trillion to complete at least 10 selected critical roads and bridges in each of the six geo-political zones of the country;

“Urgent review of all certified debts to contractors and if possible, convert same to Promissory Notes to contractors so that we can get properly focused in using any fund appropriated to us to pursue the Ministry’s set objectives;

“Inflation- Many contractors are presently out of sites because they have exhausted their contract VoPs and needed the projects unit rates to be reviewed. It will be good that all VoPs and augmentations of all the projects are reviewed and those that are owed be converted to Promissory Notes, while unit rates regime will take effect on contractors in line with the current realities of the construction industry.

“More eligible companies should be encouraged to key into the Road Tax Credit Scheme to increase the number of private sector interventions. This means front-loading their tax liabilities to solve our present challenges;

“Raising of Bonds from the Capital Market to finance road development in the country;

“Creation of an enabling environment by fixing the roads so that the deployment of the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) can be effective.

“That appropriations for projects be such that no projects when started should last for more than four years,” he said.

By Yemi Itodo


The House of Representatives is monitoring a trending topic across multiple traditional and online media, concerning the allocation of vehicles to honourable members, and because this issue has understandably generated significant public interest, we believe Nigerians deserve feedback from their elected representatives.

While many versions of this story carry varying exaggerations, we can confirm that the National Assembly bureaucracy is in the phased process of procuring and distributing operational vehicles to honourable members over the coming weeks and months.

This development is in accordance with extant procurement laws and has been the practice in previous assemblies. It is also not peculiar to the Legislature, as unelected government officials in the Executive arm of government from Director level and above, in most cases, have official vehicles attached to their offices.

It is important to make a few clarifications. The vehicles to be allocated to the offices of honourable members are utility operational vehicles tied to their oversight functions in the discharge of their duties in the standing committees. They are not personal vehicles gifted to honourable members.

For the duration of the 10th assembly (2023 - 2027), the vehicles shall remain the property of the National Assembly. At the expiration of the tenure of the 10th Assembly in 2027, should the extant assets deboarding policy of government still be in place, honourable members may have the option of making payment for the outstanding value of the vehicles to government coffers before they can become theirs, otherwise it remains the property of the National Assembly.

The public is invited to note that as part of the 10th Assembly's objective to ensure our integrity and independence, honourable members of the Green Chamber have resolved to maintain a respectable distance from the Executive arm of government, especially in issues relating to logistical aspects of oversight functions, including reaching difficult terrains in the country.

No matter how remote the location is, as long as there are Nigerian citizens living there, they deserve highly mobile representatives who can see first-hand what they are going through, and ensure government interventions, programmes, and policies are carried out effectively. This can only be possible with functional and reliable off-road vehicles.

Also, the House would like to inform the public that we remain committed to reducing the cost of governance in line with present realities. Those willing to research further would find a significant body of work with evidence that the percentage of the component of the Legislature's budget as part of our national budget has been on a downward trend over the past decade, despite inflation and the expanding role and relevance of honourable members in the lives of citizens. It currently stands at 0.5% of the Federal budget.

Accordingly, as all stakeholders continue to advance the conversation about reducing the cost of governance, we encourage looking in the right direction, and not cause disaffection for honourable members who want to discharge their duties effectively and above board, without being susceptible to inducement when the enablement to function is impaired.

The vehicles are work tools, and not status symbols - Honourable Members are diligent and patriotic elected representatives and not entitled. The anticipated allocation of vehicles will contribute to improved representation, constituency outreach and oversight functions.


Akin Rotimi, Jr., MHR
House Spokesman
Chairman House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

A pro democracy and rule of law group, Defenders of Democracy (DoD) has called on Benue State Governor, Rev. Hyacinth Alia, to as a matter of urgency, tender an open apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over what it described as project theft of the Federal Government.

The group, through a press statement signed by the President, Comrade Amos Uchiv Saturday morning, also challenged Governor Alia to address the people on how much he has received as federal allocations and how much the state has generated as internal revenue since the beginning of June, 2023.

Recall that, Governor Alia, through his Commissioner for Cooperatives, Urban and Rural Development, Ms. Joy Luga, on Friday, announced the training for officials of associations and cooperatives in the state, who she said applied for the “Alia Care” Programme.

According to the announcement, the training will hold across the Federal Constituencies of the state.

The group while reacting, accused the Governor of renaming a Federal Government’s Conditional Cash Transfer programme as to mean “Alia Care”, adding that, the move, has made "gullible folks in the rural communities to believe that he is the one arranging to give them money".

The statement reads in part: "While we do not have any problems with the government giving money to the people, we are concerned about the name and origin of the programme. We have it on good authority that “Alia Care” is a forged name for Federal Government’s Conditional Cash Transfer Programme. Alia wants to be the Obama of Benue State. Recall the ‘ObamaCare’ initiative in the United States under President Barrack Obama. The current Benue Governor lacks originality.

"Governor Alia has renamed the initiative as his own so as to deceive the public that he is working. The state government has not added a penny to the funds coming from the federal government. Even at that, he is not ready to give anyone the actual amount meant for the people from the programme. Another condition is that only APC members are to benefit from the paltry amount.

"Already, thugs of the party are the ones given the responsibility to screen the beneficiaries in each of the designated areas.

"The government of Hyacinth Alia is not known for any form of transparency. Everything around it is shrouded in secrecy and no one is allowed to ask questions.

"President Tinubu graciously approved and released N5 billion with other packages for each state as palliatives.

"The money got to Benue State and since then, nothing has been heard of the palliatives. When the pressure from concerned people began to mount on him, Governor Alia hastily arranged for the purchase of a few refurbished buses and took pictures which were posted on social media as palliatives vehicles.

"Since he came to power, Alia has not bothered to disclose how much his government has so far received as allocations from the federation account. No one knows how much the state is generating as internal revenue. He is running Benue State like a church parish".

The group therefore, demanded that Governor Alia immediately address the people of Benue State and explain the source of the funds he is calling “Alia Care”.

"Is the money contained in the supplementary budget that he recently sent to the Benue State House of Assembly? If the answer is no, he should cancel the name “Alia Care” and revert to the original name ‘Conditional Cash Transfer’ of the Federal Government.

"Governor Alia should publicly apologize to President Tinubu for trying to snatch an initiative of the Federal Government to take personal credit and glory.

"Governor Alia should also address the people on his handling of the palliatives sent to the state by the Federal Government. What did he do with the N5 billion? It is our right as a people to know!

"The Governor should similarly address the people on how much he has received as federal allocations and how much the state has generated as internal revenue since the beginning of June, 2023.

"We expect that Governor Alia will do the honourable thing and clear the air on the above issues quickly.

"The people didn’t elect a dictator to rule over them and run the state like a church mission. We are in a democracy and we hold the legitimacy and right to know how our resources are being spent", the statement added.

By Yemi Itodo

The House of Representatives has condoled the government and people of Sokoto state over the demise of Member representing Sabon Birni/Isa Federal Constituency, Alhaji Abdulkadir Jelani Danbuga.

Danbuga's death occurred early hours of Wednesday upon admission at an hospital, after a brief illness.

The House consequently adjourned Wednesday's plenary in his honour.

Leading a high powered delegation on a condolence visit to Sokoto on Thursday, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, said the entire House was shocked and pained over the loss of the Member whom he described as "dedicated and committed Legislator".

The Deputy Speaker said the deceased had a short but memorable stay in the House.

He assured that the House would not abandon his family as everything possible would be done to assist them wherever the need arises.

Kalu used the opportunity to acknowledge the effort of the current administration in the state for executing viable projects within one hundred days in office.

According to him, "executing over one hundred viable projects within one hundred days in office, despite the financial crises inherited, is worthy of commendations".

This, he said, could only be achieved through focused and determined leadership, while urging the government to sustain the tempo for the progress of the state.

Responding, the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir, thanked the delegation for the condolence visit.

Alhaji Gobir described the deceased as a person who has the interest of his people at heart.

The Deputy governor said the late Legislator has lived a life worthy of emulations.

The Deputy Governor appreciated the recognition of the current administration's effort towards providing dividend of democracy as attested by the Deputy Speaker, Kalu.

He pledged that the Governor Ahmed Aliyu administration would never relent in its efforts to moving the state forward.

By Yemi Itodo


Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has hailed China's diplomatic and trade relationships with Nigeria, saying that the cultural exchanges between them have fostered a deep understanding and appreciation of each other's heritage.

He said that the ties between both countries has fast tracked the industrial development of Nigeria with projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna Railway and the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project standing as a testament to the enduring collaboration.

Kalu made the submissions while delivering his goodwill message at the China's 74th National Day celebrations in Abuja on Thursday.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary ( CPS), Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu stated that the Deputy Speaker who further remarked that Chinese products have become a staple in Nigerian households also stressed that Nigeria's agricultural exports to China has continued to grow.

Kalu added that the symbiotic relationship has created jobs, boosted local industries, and increased the welfare of the people, adding that currently, Nigeria is China's second largest trading partner in Africa.

He said: "The decades-long relationship between our two great nations, Nigeria and China has been mutually beneficial, particularly in recent times.

"The rich tapestry of our partnership has woven threads of cooperation in various sectors, from infrastructure development to trade, technology exchange, and cultural engagement. China's significant investments in Nigeria have contributed immensely to the growth and development of our nation, fostering economic prosperity and stability.

"China has been a steadfast partner in Nigeria's infrastructural development,
with projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna Railway and the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project standing as a testament to our enduring collaboration. These initiatives have not only improved connectivity within Nigeria but have also laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth.

"In the realm of commerce, our bilateral trade has flourished, opening up
new opportunities for both nations."

The Deputy Speaker also urged the government of the People's Republic of China to join Nigeria in her efforts to identify and resolve the tendencies that encourage xenophobic attacks at the world stage.

"I look forward to both countries taking increasing steps to engender
people to people diplomacy in order to troubleshoot matters that encourage
xenophobic tendencies".

The chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) for Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi States, Lady Ada Chukwudozie has commended the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo for his visionary leadership, efforts and performance towards repositioning and making Anambra a smart, mega and prosperous State.

The MAN boss spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony of Kojo Motor Auto Assembly and Natural Gas facility in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State on Saturday.

She lauded Prof. Soludo's grand agenda of developing Anambra State and putting her on the global map as one of the most industrialized and technologically advanced State in Nigeria where people will desire to live, do business with ease and prosper.

"Our Governor's vision is clear and well-articulated. He is getting his strategy right as we can all see with what is happening today. All his actions and engagements so far are geared towards making Anambra State an industrial and technology hub with beehive of activities in every sector of our economy which ultimately will boost the GDP of the State. Gov. Soludo is a square peg in a square hole, a man who practices what he preaches. From his clothes, to his shoes, to his cars, our Governor patronizes and promotes indigenous production and local manufacturing which is what 'MAN' represents. Indeed, Ndi Anambra are lucky to have his quality of person as our Governor this time" Lady Chukwudozie said.

She called on all Ndi Anambra to support Governor Soludo, whom she described as a go-getter and an exemplary leader who walk his talk.

Lady Ada Chukwudozie also commended the Chairman of Kojo Motors, Chief Ikenna Oguegbu for the thoughtful decision of bringing his investment home to Anambra State.

She said the investment will create wealth and employment for the state.

She thanked the traditional ruler of Umunya, Igwe Chris Onyekwuluje, his cabinet and the entire community for welcoming and supporting the investment in their community.

By Our Correspondent

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu says he has been vindicated on the validation of his name by the ruling of the National Assembly Elections Petitions Tribunal sitting in Umuahia, the Abia State capital which also upheld his election.

Kalu's remarks is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu on Tuesday in Abuja.

Kalu, upon the receipt of the exciting news in Abuja expressed immense gratitude to the judiciary for recognizing that he followed due process and other extant laws to validate his name.

While also thanking the people of Bende federal constituency on whose mandate he stands, the deputy speaker reiterates that his confidence in the judiciary to do justice to issues at all times was unwavering.

"I have never doubted the ability of the judiciary at any level to do justice to issues. My confidence in them has always been unwavering. It has, once again, vindicated me on this matter and also upheld my mandate as the elected representative of the people, in this case, Bende federal constituency of Abia State. I am grateful", Kalu said.

Recall that the candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25, 2023 national assembly elections, Frank Chinasa had petitioned the tribunal, seeking the nullification of Kalu's election on the account of alleged inconsistency in his name change.

Recall also that shortly after Kalu's first term election in 2019, one Okay Ezeala also approached the court seeking the nullification of the election on the same ground.

But Justice O A. Chijioke of an Umuahia High Court while delivering his judgement on the matter on August 25, 2021 ruled in favour of Kalu and subsequently awarded a cost to the petitioner for wasting the time of the court in a frivolous suit.

Ridiculously, Labour Party's Chinasa also dusted the same matter that had been laid to rest, fronting before the tribunal after this year's general elections.

In a remarkable, unanimous judgment by the three man panel read by the Chairman, Justice Samson Paul Gang on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 in Umuahia, the tribunal dismissed the petition and denied all the prayers of the petitioner for lacking in merit.

The panel held that Kalu's certificates were never forged and that the names in the certificates were all his.

The tribunal also held that Kalu had since harmonized his names through a Deed Pool published in a federal gazette, backed with a newspaper publication of change of name, insisting that the petitioner could not establish any case of certificate forgery against him.

It also confirmed that the harmonization of deputy speaker's name followed the laid down rules.

The tribunal further held that since the election results were never contested, Kalu therefore remains the winner of the National Assembly elections for Bende federal constituency in the House of Representatives.

It will also be recalled that last week, the candidate of the Action Alliance (AA) in the election, Ifeanyi Igbokwe dissociated himself from the suit against Kalu.

Revealing that he had since accepted the outcome of the election, Igbokwe said he never authorized any individual or group of individuals or parties to file any suit on his behalf, insisting that he was impersonated.

The deputy speaker who expressed his happiness over the development from the tribunal also extends his appreciation to his constituents in Bende, others teeming supporters across the country, his legal team and indeed, all those who stood by him throughout the period of this exasperating legal voyage.

He promised not to take the people's mandate and the demands of his current office for granted.

The deputy speaker however calls his political detractors to shun frivolities, accept his rights under the extant laws, embrace the Will of God and the verdict of the tribunal as well as that of Ndi Bende and join him in the tasks of enacting good legislations for the good of the country.

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

It is a feeling of déjà vu, coming rather from a place of fluffy political calculations than a plausible, defensible legal poise with some precision and exactitude. Call it a hogwash or a display of some irascible thoughts, you won't be mistaken. But whichever way, it is intrinsically fueled up by ego. And by every conceivable stance, such sentiments are just some pious claptrap.

Yes, it is a familiar terrain. Everyone knew about the matter when it first came up. That was just after the 2019 general elections. And at the end, it wasn't worth the time, money and energy dissipated in the legal fireworks. Yet, in 2023, the travesties are here again. This time, they took another route, a more dramatic dimension, manifesting through some political lackeys. So vile in hate and aggressions, they decided to dust the well rested issue and subsumed it in a petition brought before the National Assembly Elections Petitions Tribunal sitting in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.

Now, rather than contesting his victory at the polls, they took a dive into infamy, ignominy and ingloriousness where they may eventually earn themselves the sobriquet of middle-some interlopers.

Of course, they know that contesting the election of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu who represents Bende federal constituency of Abia State will be a futile exercise. They know he beat them in the elections fair and square. And so, they chose the unsavory path of challenging the process of his name change, a matter which had long been laid to rest by an Umuahia High Court in 2021.

Incidentally, the candidate of the Action Alliance (AA), Ifeanyi Igbokwe was innocuously drafted into the legal charade but recently, he came to terms with the reality and the truth and swiftly dissociated himself from the matter, saying he was impersonated. Washing off his hand, Igbokwe said he never authorized or filed any suit against Kalu at the tribunal.

For him, the emergence of Kalu as the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives was one development of gaiety for Ndigbo of the south east and so, his election should not in any be challenged whether directly or indirectly by any sane person.

For most if not all the south easterners, Kalu's position as the number 6 citizen in the political hierarchy of Nigeria is exciting and has conspicuously signposted the political renaissance of Ndigbo from oblivion.

Read Igbokwe: "I was at home drinking my tea and watching the news until someone called me to inform me that I had a case in court against the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu. So, I was surprised that people were calling me from my own place and constituency telling me about the court case. I accepted the results from the elections, accepted defeat, an said to God be the glory.

“Now, I am shocked that someone is even representing me. This is my poster and this is my voter’s card, this is my party card so how come somebody is representing me and I didn’t know anything about it?

“Even my lawyer is surprised also. When we heard it, we were like ah! ah! see Rt. Hon Ben that we are all rejoicing for his new position and I am telling people that he is my brother from Bende. So why will I start fighting my own brother?

“We have gone to court, sworn every affidavit and we are writing to DSS and the IG of Police because I want to know the person impersonating me. I want to clear my name first. I want to tell people of Abia state and Bende that I accept defeat and I want to tell Deputy Speaker that I am not fighting him. I don’t know the person impersonating me but I will fish him out and come back to inform you people”.

But while Igbokwe now smiles with his brother, one Frank Chinasa of the Labour Party (LP) who contested the election with Kalu wouldn't budge on the matter. He appears to be the arrow head of the mischievousness. But obviously, his ignorance on the process of matters of name change in Nigeria speaks volumes.

For purposes of recapitulation, the court in 2021 agreed that there is only one and same Benjamin Okezie Kalu. In 2019, when one Okay Ezeala brought the matter to the court, it failed to yield to moral, legal and philosophical reasoning. Instead, a fine was awarded against him for filing a frivolous matter as he could not prove his case at the end of the legal voyage.

On 25th of August 2021, Justice O. A Chijioke of Umuahia High Court read his judgement in favour of Kalu, declaring that the laws with regards to the processes involved in the change of name were fully followed considering the verifiable documentary evidence before him.

He said: "Having held that documents were not certified, they are mere photocopies of public documents which are not admissible in evidence. The end result is that there is no document in support of the case of the claimant. Infact no evidence at all.

"Assuming the documents were certified, the claimant would not have done better. This is because the documents were just dumped in court. The claimant's counsel did not link his argument with any of the document or demonstrate the relevance of the various document. The court is not an investigator who will peruse more than 20 pages of documents and arrange them in the order they should be and draw conclusions. For example, in what page of the document is the elementary six Certificate of the 1st defendant? What page is his NYSC Certificate? Claimant's counsel failed to demonstrate this. Therefore, the claimant has no case. There is no iota of evidence to support the allegation of forgery.

"Counsel for the claimant had submitted that the 1st defendant submitted three Certificates bearing different names from that of the claimant. Assuming that the claimant had presented relevant evidence before the court, the documents presented by the 1st defendant for his change of names have resolved the issue. The st defendant has shown by the documents presented by him that all the Certificates and documents he submitted to INEC relate to him and alone. The claimant did not produce any other person who claims to be the owner of the certificates. It is he who alleges that proves. The claimant therefore failed woefully to prove his case.

"This case is calculated to irritate and distract the 1st defendant. The claimant did not bring this suit for any manifest benefit that will accrue to him. He brought it to seek benefit for the person he said had higher number of votes at the election won by the 1st defendant. It was on that premise that Chima Anyaso who contested the election brought an application to be joined to the suit as a co-defendant and which application was rejected by this court. Chima Anyaso, from the counter-affidavit filed in opposition to his application for joinder, challenged the election of the 1st defendant at the Election Petition Tribunal and Election Petition Appeal Tribunal and lost. It was the senior counsel for the claimant who appeared for the said Chima Aayaso in the application for joinder and when that application failed he became the lead counsel for the claimant. Could it be that we are seeing the hand of Esau and hearing the voice of Jacob in this case? Whatever it is, initiating a suit in the High Court to seek the disqualification of an elected official after he had gone through the rigours of litigation at the relevant Tribunals after his election is an abuse.

"From all I have stated above, I hereby dismiss this suit. Counsel for the 1st defendant asks for N2,000,000.00 costs. Counsel for the 3rd defendant asks for N5O0,000.00 as costs. Counsel for the clamant prays the court to be lenient in awarding costs.

"I award costs assessed at 100,000 against the claimant in favour of the Ist defendant. I also award costs at N50,000 against the claimant in favour of the 3rd defendant."

Now, for those whose ink flows from the point of crass idiocy, inducements and mischief, sarcastically seeking to know what name the deputy speaker bears, here comes the answer: It is Benjamin Okezie Kalu. He has since become the toast of Ndigbo in general.

It is rather unfortunate that it's only in the south eastern region of Ndigbo that some men thought to have courted some integrity at their old age would be recruited to unabashedly promote journalistic mercantilism even when the truth starred them in the face. They ought to know better and write better without traces of innuendos and infantile dispositions that apparently portray them as minions and co-travellers, or even pun in the hands of their paymasters. Obviously, they must have been affronted by Kalu's growing political antecedents.

But then, here comes an information for them. Sooner than later, their evil plots and machinations will hit the rocks as the deputy speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu will smile home to victory, once again, at the tribunal.

Nwabughiogu is the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the deputy speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu

By Our Correspondent

The Nigerian Senate, on Tuesday, acknowledged the laudable achievements of the Executive Director (Business Development) of Nigerian Export and Import Bank (NEXIM), Hon. Stella Okotete, in growing the non oil exports and business fortunes of the Bank.

The commendation came after the Senator representing Delta Central, Senator Ede Dafinone moved a motion at the ongoing ministerial screening exercise, urging his colleagues to allow Ms. Okotete take a bow and leave.

Hon. Okotete, former National Women Leader of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and currently serving as ED Business Development at NEXIM Bank, was President Bola Tinubu's ministerial nominee from Delta State.

Senator Dafinone, while moving the motion, said he had had opportunity of working with Ms. Okotete during his one year stay as Non-Executive Director with NEXIM, adding that the nominee was the engine room of the international reputable bank.

"What the nominee did not mention was that, her position as the Executive Director of Business Development Unit, means she was at the engine room of the bank. The Business Development Unit, is the operational department of the NEXIM Bank. So, she was in charge of the operations of the Bank and in that capacity, she was able to grow the balance sheet of the Bank and she has done exceptionally well.

"I want to add also, that as a young woman, she has also favoured the youth and women in her policies at the bank, aside the policies she had done at home, encouraging young people in various departments and empowerment programs.

"She has also been instrumental in growing non oil exports and as at today, the non oil exports are the key focus of this administration, as we protect the need to grow our economy in the background of dwindling oil reserves and in move globally away from foisting fuel, to a more sustainable forms of energy.

"My Colleagues said she has distinguished herself already, what I need to add is that, I speak for my 2 Colleagues from Delta State who are both fully in support of the nominee, and to ask Distinguished Members, if the nominee from Delta State, could please be recognized for her good work in NEXIM Bank, with the background that, she has served one complete term at NEXIM Bank and that the term has been renewed about a year ago, which shows she has distinguished herself at the Bank. With that Mr. President, I urge that Distinguished Members, do ask the nominee from Delta State to please take a bow", Senator Dafinone told his Colleagues.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the ministerial screening, also attested to the role of Ms. Okotete in women and youth development as the Women Leader of the ruling party, APC.

He said, "honestly, when she mentioned that she was a women leader of the greatest party in Africa, I just remembered that we are all from political parties and in normal circumstances, the party is supreme".

Akpabio also went further to poll the question for the nominee to take a bow and the response was in affirmative with overwhelming and resounding AYES.

Earlier, while giving a short profile of herself, the nominee, who was born in 1984, took the Senate through the journey of her career and achievements recorded, especially in women and youth development, as well as her exploits at the NEXIM Bank.

Her words:

"The immediate past President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammad Buhari, in 2017, found me worthy and appointed me, in line with the Act of Export and Import Bank, sections 11, 8 and 14 , as Executive Director of Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), in charge of Business Development.

"The functions of the ED Business Development of the Bank, which I still hold till date, is to drive the business directorate of the Bank, to create quality risk assets and to also provide funding for exporters in the non-oil sector.

"When we resumed in 2017, we met a balance sheet size of N67bn. We had grown it to N256bn by 2022, when our tenure got renewed. We also met a bank that was already recording loses, year-in, year-out for 3 years. As at 2016, the bank had recorded over N6bn losses. Today, the Nigerian Export and Import Bank is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other global export banks and profitably as one of the leading export credit institutions in Africa.

"I was also the women representative, popularly known as the Women leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Caretaker Committee in 2020.

"As Women Leader of the ruling All Progressive Congress at that time, I was able to bring to bear, quality representation to our women and we established new policy that helped shaped visibility for our women across board.

"One of it is the Progressive Women Academy, which was approved by the Apple Store and Google Store. It is an online academy where women can learn various self skills to make themselves not just visible in the business space but also in politics. I also understood, being a very young politician, that there was need to build bridges across the older women in politics and the younger ones, and I established the Progressive Young Women's Forum, which was also a platform to groom future female Leaders and mentor them.

"I'm proud to say today that I have women who were part of my mentes, serving as Commissioners, elected as House of Assembly Members and also as Councilors and some of them are Special Advisers and Special Assistants currently at various state levels.

"I also created the lobby group of the APC Women and we were able to garvanise stakeholders to accept the responsibility to push for more visibility for our women. Based on that, when we did the review of the APC constitution, we were able to accomodate another seat for a woman in the NWC. Today, that's the only party in Africa that gives 2 seats - Women Leader and Deputy Women Leader seats in the NWC.

"By the grace of God, I was also able to influence such platforms for women across the party structures at the state, local government and senatorial districts".

By Yemi Itodo

Immediate past Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has charged his successor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to brazen up to the task of governance before him and stop the blame game and needless media wars on his person.

Ortom was responding to series of media attacks on his person and his past administration, from the office of Governor Alia and some leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the last being a comment recently credited to Senator Emmanuel Udende (Benue North East).

In a statement released on Tuesday by the Media Aide to the former Governor, Terver Akase, Ortom advised Alia and his team to fulfill the promises made to the people during the campaigns, saying, he had played his own part and had since left the stage.

The statement reads:

"The attention of the immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom has been drawn to a statement credited to the Senator representing Benue North East Senatorial District, Emmanuel Udende who attributed the continued security challenges in the state to the enforcement of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law by the previous administration.

"In the same vein, the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, through his media aide, for the umpteenth time, launched unprovoked attacks on Chief Ortom, describing the former Governor in several deprecatory terms.

"His Excellency Samuel Ortom will not board the train of insults with Governor Alia’s aides or partake in a media war with the present administration.

"We advise the government of the state and the Senator representing Benue North East that they were voted to serve the people. If there is any action the Ortom administration took which they consider not good enough, they now have the mandate of the people to do better. Consistently blaming the former Governor will neither solve the problem nor bring development to the state.

"Chief Ortom played his part as Governor of Benue State and has left the stage. Governor Alia and his team should focus on fulfilling their promises to the people".

By Yemi Itodo

At the weekend, Thousands of worshippers converged on the London Excel Arena, United Kingdom, to attend the Streams of Joy International Church, New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations Conference.

The historic event which was hosted by the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Jerry Eze took place on June 17th and 18th.

Pastor Jerry packed out the Excel Arena with over 70,000 persons in attendance for the two days. Foreign media reports have it that the arena is one of the largest event spaces in the UK with a capacity of 68,750 visitors.

As seen on videos the arena was filled to the brim with worshipers. Pastor Eze has continued to break boundaries with the gospel of Christ, as this event is being regarded as one the largest gathering of people in recent times for the gospel in the UK.

At the prayer conference, numerous testimonies were shared and several gospel artists also led the worship session.

"A woman had testified of being healed of 20-year arthritis, while another who had been in a wheelchair for the past three years testified of being able to walk unaided. Another participant testified of being healed of a 13-year mobility impairment and was seen walking without her crutches. A man testified of a dumb tongue loosened, another testified to being healed of multiple sclerosis, while another woman testified of being healed of 40-years hearing impairment."

NSPPD prayers has continued to grow in popularity and in the number of ardent followers online and offline. Recall that, in July 2022, NSPPD prayers emerged as the number one online prayer platform and number one ‘Daily Most Super Chatted Gospel Channel’ in the world with a record 313,768,909 or 889,627 chats per day, according to data compiled by Playboard.

Reacting to the impact of the UK conference on the church's official Instagram handle, Pastor Eze wrote, " "NSPPD UNITED KINGDOM PRAYER Conference! was nothing but a testament of God's Glory, fire and Power.... "WHAT OUR GOD CANNOT DO DOES NOT EXIST"!

The historic event has been the talk of the town for days, with several participants testifying the goodness of God. Indeed, "What God Cannot Do, Doesn't Exist"!

By Yemi Itodo

A groundswell of testimonies has been recorded at the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration, NSPPD, United Kingdom conference convened by the founder of Streams of Joy International Church, Pastor Jerry Eze.

The two-day conference which was held at the iconic Excel Arena in London, United Kingdom, had over 70, 000 attendees.

Thousands of worshipers both on the ground and online testified of receiving miracles and divine healings as Pastor Eze ministers.

At the event, numerous testimonies were shared including that of a dumb speaking, and people who came with clutches in their hundreds but left the program without it.

There were also testimonies of divine connections, miracle jobs, and marital settlements.

Award-winning Nigerian gospel artiste, Nathaniel Bassey, led the worship session, alongside others.

A popular data compilation website, Playboard.co, reported that Pastor Eze's NSPPD UK conference was the “most super chatted gospel channel” as of Tuesday, June 20, 2023.

According to the data compilation website, Eze’s ministry as of 06/20/2023, had 878,307 views daily and 231,432,855 total views.

A coalition of 593 registered sociocultural and economically inclined northern groups, has expressed satisfaction over the decision of President Bola Tinubu to allow a level playing field at the elections of Presiding Officers of the 10th National Assembly.

The 10th National Assembly shall be inaugurated tomorrow, Tuesday, 13th June, 2023, following the proclamation by President Tinubu.

President of the Senate and the Deputy shall be elected for the 10th Nigerian Senate tomorrow, while Speaker and Deputy shall be elected for the 10th House.

President Tinubu and his ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) had endorsed Senators Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom North West) and Jibrin Barau (Kano North) as President and Deputy President of the 10th Senate, respectively; while Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Kaduna) and Hon. Benjamin Kalu (Abia) were adopted Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 10th House, respectively.

But in a twist of fate, President Tinubu, during a meeting with traditional rulers in State House on Friday, said he was ready to work with whoever emerges from the elections of Presiding Officers in National Assembly tomorrow.

While hailing the President's decision at a press briefing in Abuja to mark the nation's democracy day celebration on Monday, the coalition, under the aegis of Northern Consensus Movement (NCM), said Tinubu's neutrality in the affairs of the 10th National Assembly would further strengthen Nigeria's democracy, adding that, it was the best democracy gift given to mark June 12.

The coalition, however, reminded the President and the APC, of the contribution of the North West region of the country to the victory of the party in the last general elections, saying it would do the party good if someone from the region emerges the Presiding Officer of the Senate.

"For the benefit of the doubt, and in due acknowledgement of the contribution of the APC victory of over 8.5m votes, the entire North got over 5.7m votes, while the Northwest alone provided over 2.7m votes to consolidate the Party’s victory.

"South South scored the fifth highest number of votes after the North west.
We desire to place on record, that the distinguished Senator Abdulazeez Abubakar Yari, who is contesting and a front runner, is eminently qualified to vie for the exalted office of the Senate President, and have contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of the region, in his individual capacity. We also believe that, as a ranking member of the Senate, he has the requisite wealth of experience to bring to bear as part of the sterling qualities that should define the character of the Senate President", says Comrade Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, President of the Coalition.

The Coalition, while throwing its weight behind open contest, also called on well meaning Nigerians to continue resisting any form of imposition of candidates in the future electoral cycles.

"We therefore owe it a sense of duty to demand and insist that, the contenders to the seat of the Senate President must subject themselves to a level playing democratic process of equal opportunities.

"Importantly, the Northern Consensus Movement is calling on all concerned persons to prevail on the Distinguished Senator Abdulazeez Abubakar Yari, to remain steadfast in his quest for the Presidency of the 10th Senate.

"Beyond equally being a ranking Senator, Distinguished Senator Abdulazeez Abubakar Yari, is better and more prepared for the office and stands taller in the race than his contender, coming with a history of democratic experience.

"We call on all genuine democrats from the Northern Zone, including well meaning Nigerians, to aggregate a common ground to dislodge any tendency of imposing any vested interest in the 10th Senate or beyond ", Comrade Aliyu added.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured elected members of the incoming 10th National Assembly that his administration remains firm on the choices of candidates for presiding officers' position made by the leadership of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC).

The President stated this on Wednesday night when he met with Senators-elect and Members-elect of the APC at the Presidential Villa, with APC governors and other leaders of the party in attendance.

Details emerging from the meeting which was scheduled for 7:30pm on Wednesday revealed that Tinubu spoke firmly on the need to work for the victory of the APC's candidates for the 10th National Assembly leadership.

A source privy to the meeting confirmed to this newspaper that "the President appealed/begged them to work for Akpabio, Abbas, Barau and Kalu respectively."

"He said the success of his administration largely depends on whether or not he gets it right with the leadership of the National Assembly.

The President is further quoted as urging them to see reasons with him, saying "the candidates were chosen for the stability of the nation."

Those in attendance among the speakership aspirants were: the outgone chairman of the 9th House Appropriation Committee, Hon Muktar Betara Aliyu from Borno, outgone chairman of Navy Committee, Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi from Plateau, outgone chairperson of the People With Disability Committee, Hon. Miriam, Onuoha from Imo, as well as Chairman Committee on Water Resources, Hon. Sada Soli from Katsina.

"However, the outgone Deputy Speaker, Ahmed Idris Wase from Plateau, and Aminu Sani Jaji from Zamfara were conspicuously absent, despite getting invitation for the meeting," the source said.

Recall that Wase had said during the House valedictory session on Wednesday that he would go ahead to contest for the Speaker's seat because it has been prophesied that he would become Speaker.

Wase stated this after the House Leader, Alhassan Ado Doguwa (APC,Kano) pleaded with other aspirants to stepdown for the All Progressives Congress (APC) concensus candidate, Tajuddeen Abbas.

However, Wase who spoke immediately after Doguwa said, as a democrat who believes in contest, he was determined to continue with the race until the end.

He added that, his contest is in the pursuit of a prophecy by the former governor of old Plateau State, late Solomon Lar who predicted his coming to the House of Representatives and becoming the Deputy Speaker and possibility of his Speakership.

"Of course, I want to appreciate my political leaders, among whom I would say is Solomon Lar, who, when I was contesting in 2007, I went to him and he prophesied the number of times I will come to this Assembly and I will tell this crowd and to the world, that he said, I will come to the Assembly in the number of times and prophesied even the number of leadership that I will attain and the Deputy Speakership and he prophesied next when I return, and I believe I will be Speaker and I believe I, In sha Allah, I will be the Speaker of the Green Chambers," Wase insisted.

From the look of things, there is likelihood that only Wase would go to the floor to contest, while others may step down after the President's appeal.

Benue indigenes have come out openly to condemn the establishment of a security outfit believed to be pro Fulani on Saturday in Benue State by a self confessed Boko Haram Commander, Alhaji Aliyu Teshaku.

The people found it unpalatable, that the State Government could be involved in commissioning such a security outfit, at a time Benue was fighting to resist Fulani occupation and defend their ancestral homes.

The security organisation known as Al-Tershak Global Security Ltd was established by Alhaji Tershaku, who had in the past been arrested over alleged links with Boko Haram.

An online newspaper, National Record reported that the commissioning of the security organisation was performed by the Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode who was represented by his Chief Protocol Officer, Gabriel Igoche.

What was curious during the inauguration of the security outfit and which has sparked concerns among people in the state was the huge number of Fulani personnel with many of them appointed as heads of key units within the organization.

The online newspaper reported, “National Record observed during the inauguration that the membership of the security outfit was dominated by the Fulani based on the names the Director called out and looking at the number of the officers who were physically present.”

This newspaper decided to sample the reactions of residents of Makurdi following the launch of the new security organization. What was more disturbing to those who spoke with us was the fact that the organization is dominated by men of Fulani extraction considering the sour relationship between them and indigenous people of the state in recent years.

Terdue Asongu, a resident of North Bank, Makurdi who was the first to react, described the development as suspicious and cautioned the Benue State Government to retract its steps and stop the Al-Tershak Global Security Ltd from commencing operations. He feared that the presence of men who have questionable backgrounds in the state in charge of security would spell doom for innocent people.

“When I read the news that a security outfit controlled by Fulani men had been approved by the Benue State Government, a cold shiver ran through my spine. Even when Fulanis were not in control of security in the state, our people saw hell. What will happen now that they have formally been asked to take charge of our security?”, Asongu queried.

Another respondent James Gbagir who works at the Tipper Park in Wurukum said “Someone should tell Governor Rev Fr Alia that we will not accept this new security formation. He should not make us regret voting for him. We ignored rumours that Fulani people were sponsoring his election and voted for him. Is he now telling us that we were wrong?”, Gbagir wondered.

A public affairs analyst, elder Peter Shange who has constantly written against attempts by Fulani to occupy Benue lands advised the present government of the state to follow the example of Governor Ortom and come clean on the rumours that it is in cahoots with those who have vowed to displace indigenous people of the state from their ancestral lands and take over.

Shange reminded the Alia government that the state already has a lawfully recognized security outfit known as Community Volunteer Guards who were drawn from each community of the state by the people through traditional rulers. He condemned the launch of an alternative outfit which origin and ownership are suspicious.

“Let me advise Governor Hyacinth Alia to listen to good counsel and resist the pressure from those who might have funded his election, if the story is anything to go by. Allowing Aliyu Tershaku to float a Fulani controlled security organization in the state at this time is as good as sitting on a time bomb. Those guys will wake up one day and ask him (Governor) to vacate the Government House and give them the keys. No one goes to bed with a known enemy”, he stated.

Other respondents who pleaded anonymity alleged that the new government in Benue State has brought Aliyu Tershaku with his security organization to fight their political opponents.

It will be recalled that Tershaku was arrested in 2018 by the Nigerian Army in connection with the killings in Benue State. He had stayed away from the state until last year when he returned and contested for the Makurdi/Guma House of Representatives seat in the 2023 election. Even at that, he was not seen campaigning anywhere until he surfaced at the polling unit on the day of the election. He did not get single vote in the election.

Tershaku, though a Tiv man who went wild and became a Boko Haram kingpin is believed to be a Fulani agent who has been sent on a mission by his sponsors to capture Benue State for them.

His return to the state and endorsement by the Alia administration is surely not going down well with the people of the state.

Top Speakership aspirant for the 10th House of Representatives, Hon. Muktar Betara Aliyu, has congratulated the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, as the new Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Senator George Akume as Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Betara, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, in a congratulatory mesasge he personally signed, described the Speaker as a true democrat whose service to humanity will continue to foster a good working relationship with the executive and the legislature.

He noted that President Tinubu could not have a made a better choice for a Chief of Staff than Gbajabiamila owing to his wealth of legislative experience, administrative acumen and loyalty.

While felicitating with the speaker, he prayed Allah to continue to grant him wisdom and protection to contribute his quota to the development of the country.

"My earnest desire is to work with the Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila to bring about the desired Renewed Hope Nigerians yearn for.

"I am indeed glad that my president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as a true democrat will also work with the legislature to provide dividends of democracy to the populace. For me, the choice of Rt Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila will work in harmony with the legislature and the country at large irrespective of tribe and religion to bring about the dividends of democracy in our country."

Betara also commended the appointment of the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, describing him as a reliable compatriot who will serve his father land in honesty.

Betara also felicitated with the former Deputy Governor of Jigawa state, Ibrahim Hadejia, as the Deputy Chief of Staff.

He prayed Almighty Allah's divine wisdom, protection and good health for him to contribute his quota to national development.

By Francis Ottah- Agbo

At the 60th birthday celebration of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commended the leadership qualities of the Speaker and thanked him for his support over the years.

The President-elect, who had then just won the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket, added that the support given him by Gbajabiamila and his Deputy, Hon Idris Wase, helped him to win the APC presidential ticket.

The relationship between the President-elect and the Speaker goes a long way as the Asiwaju also acknowledged that right from when he was governor of Lagos State, he has been consulting Gbajabiamila on all critical decisions, one of which he said was the payment of WASCE/SSCE fees for Lagosians who were in their final year in secondary schools.

This level of trust and friendship that exists between the two men, coupled with the competence of Gbajabiamila and his over 20 years of legislating for good governance, puts the latter in a good position to serve a central role in the Tinubu administration.

Gbajabiamila is intelligent, smart and connected to the people and institutions of government, and has what it takes to be the Chief of Staff to Tinubu, the sixth Executive President of Nigeria.

First elected to the House of Representatives in 2003 to represent Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, the Speaker, who hit the ground running as a Federal legislator, was able to make an impression on his constituents who kept voting and returning him to the House.

This is because he listens and attends to them in every area of need and has been able to attract projects to the constituency like no other has done.

Not surprisingly, he won election to represent his people for the sixth time in the 10th Assembly and can any time readily repeat the feats that have seen him coming back to the Green Chamber.

But as Tinubu is looking for someone with experience and leadership acumen to give technical support to his administration, attention has shifted to the Speaker to serve as his Chief of Staff because it is given that he has the capacity to coordinate effectively for the President.

With excellent human relations skills, Gbajabiamila has been able to preside over the House effectively, making it to function smoothly without rancour while performing its functions effectively as a legislature.

His ability to reach out to each member in the 360-member strong parliament has confirmed his talent as an efficient manager of human resource, which will be needed to coordinate affairs for the Presidency.

With contacts in all parts of the country and good knowledge of how things work in each arm of government, there is arguably no better person to serve in the capacity of Chief of Staff than Gbajabiamila.

With his background as a lawyer, and experience as a Federal legislator and one who rose through the ranks from being a member to be the minority leader, majority leader and later Speaker, he has seen it all in terms of experience, tact, courage, diplomacy, partnership, patriotism and wisdom.

Before he became Speaker, he had convinced both his colleagues and constituents that he stands for the unity and progress of Nigeria.

Many recall how as a legislator of the progressive hue, he was able to stay true to the cause in entrenching democracy when he fought against the third term agenda of the Olusegun Obasanjo era.

He is sociable, accessible, approachable, and ready to attend to people, and is one of those who gave their all to the APC at a time nobody gave the party a chance to make a headway.

Since Gbajabiamila became Speaker, the quality of bills and motions passed has been enhanced and is tailored towards serving the citizenry.

It was due to his leadership of the House that the Reps intervened and called in the Executive arm of government to rise up to the occasion about the security situation in the country in view of the threats it was posing to citizens.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, the House again, through his leadership, worked out many palliatives, including financial packages that alleviated the suffering of the masses.

The House again waded in strongly when citizens were experiencing hardship due to the redesign of the naira and caused the CBN Governor to appear before it.

The Speaker also intervened in the ASUU strike and it was his intervention that made the lecturers to soft-pedal and return to the classrooms.

He was also in Ghana and South Africa when Nigerians and other foreign nationals were threatened.

With such excellent records, brilliance, proven integrity, reach and commitment to duty, it will be a privilege having such a hard working and committed individual on board.

The next administration requires people with deep experience and vast knowledge of governance to work as the expectations of people of the administration are high. And Gbajabiamila snugly fits that bill.

What is more is the fact that he commands the respect of the legislators as Speaker, has earned the respect of the judiciary as a lawyer of international repute, and has deep understanding of the executive with his interactions with heads of government, ministries and agencies.

With people like Gbajabiamila around the President, the administration's commitment to a smooth take-off would be enhanced and its stability guaranteed.

Hon. Agbo is the Chairman of the Narcotic Drugs Committee and Spokesman of the Minority Caucus of the 9th House of Representatives

Immediate past Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom has reacted to the media report that some detachments of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials may have laid siege on him for arrest.

Some sections of the online media had it Monday morning that officials of the EFCC arrived Makurdi, the Benue State capital Sunday night, allegedly working on the invitation of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, with intention to arrest Ortom.

"The plan is to use EFCC to arrest Governor Ortom as soon as he loses immunity today (29th May, 2023) and take him to Abuja where he will be later transferred to Lagos and tortured severely", the media had revealed.

The report also went further to reveal that, "a team of EFCC officials was covertly deployed from Abuja to Benue State, yesterday, the 28th of May, without the knowledge of the commission's Makurdi office who they feared might leak the plot to Governor Ortom.

"The team was reportedly given the express mandate to invade Ortom’s house and ransack the residence to pick him up".

Reacting to the report, Mr. Terver Akase, Media Aide to Ortom, said there was no cause for worry as his Principal had nothing to hide.

"We read some online reports which stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has deployed a team of its officers to Benue State to arrest and detain the immediate past Governor of the State, Samuel Ortom over unfounded allegations.

"While we doubt the authenticity of the reports, it is pertinent to state categorically that His Excellency Samuel Ortom has nothing to hide and will be available if and whenever the EFCC invites him.

"Governor Ortom has repeatedly said that he ran a transparent administration and is willing to honour the invitation of any anti-corruption agency that wants to get clarifications on operations of his administration", Akase said.

Dr. Samuel Ortom, on Sunday, 28th May, 2023 presented his handover notes to the new Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Allia in Old Banquet Hall, Makurdi, having served as Governor for eight years.

The new Governor is currently being inaugurated at the IBB Square, Makurdi.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Benue State, has concluded plans to commence the persecution of the outgoing Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom by using the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to harass and intimidate the fearless Governor, this newspaper authoritatively gathered.

Reliable sources within the APC fold revealed that the leader of the party in the state, Senator George Akume is on the wheel of plot against Ortom and has vowed to deal ruthlessly with him.

"The plan is to use EFCC to arrest Governor Ortom as soon as he loses immunity today (29th May, 2023) and take him to Abuja where he will be later transferred to Lagos and tortured severely", the source told our Correspondent.

The second part of the plan, according to same source who pleaded anonymity, is "to commence a media trial of Ortom by using columnists and reports to convict him on the pages of newspapers and in the electronic media without any court verdict".

Our Correspondent also confirmed that, a team of EFCC officials was covertly deployed from Abuja to Benue State, yesterday, the 28th of May, without the knowledge of the commission's Makurdi office who they feared might leak the plot to Governor Ortom.

The team was reportedly given the express mandate to invade Ortom’s house and ransack the residence to pick him up.

The source also confirmed that, the EFCC has already framed phony charges that they will level against Governor Ortom if he is arrested. Akume is said to have used several surrogates to write petitions against Ortom to EFCC accusing him of misappropriation of public funds.

The Minister is believed to still be feeling the pain of humiliation that Governor Ortom gave him in 2019 when he lost his Senate bid and has vowed never to forgive the Governor.

Benue State Chairman of APC, Comrade Austin Agada could not be reached as his cell phone rang severally without response.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to Governor Ortom on Media and Publicity, Mr. Terver Akase, told our Correspondent that his Principal would not be afraid of any invitation from the anti graft agency.

Akase said, "If the report is true, then I will say that EFCC does not need to use covert operations to harass Governor Ortom, because the Governor has already said openly that he is ready to honour any invitation from the commission. He has nothing to hide”.

This is not the first time that EFCC is harassing Governor Samuel Ortom. Five years ago, the commission repeatedly probed the Governor and invited his key appointees for interrogation but came out with nothing meaningful or tangible to tell Nigerians.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday attributed the successes recorded by his administration to the harmonious relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, as well as refused to meddle with the affairs of the Legislature and promoted instead, a culture of mutual respect and collaboration between the two arms.

Buhari who disclosed this during the official commissioning of the permanent site of National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), expressed optimism that the magnificent complex has the potential to significantly boost the capacity of the legislature in Nigeria and Africa at large.

He said: "As you are all aware, I have traversed all parts of Nigeria in the last few days commissioning several critical national infrastructures that my administration has completed over the last eight years. Our successes as a government are primarily due to the harmonious relationship between the Executive and the Legislature.

"The legislature is the cornerstone of any democracy and is vital to ensuring that the wishes and aspirations of all Nigerians are considered during the lawmaking process. It also performs critical functions of overseeing the Executive and ensuring that government spending aligns with legislative intent.

"As you are aware, from the moment of my election in 2015 and subsequently, I supported the idea of an independent National Assembly, one that is able to decide its Leadership and develop its agenda in line with the manifesto of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

"I refrained from meddling in the affairs of the legislature and promoted instead a culture of mutual respect and collaboration between the two arms.
The numerous positive outcomes for our country Nigeria underscore the importance of a harmonious Executive-Legislature relationship.

"Working with the National Assembly, we have passed an unprecedented number of Bills into law, provided funding for key infrastructure, implemented several governmental reforms, and addressed some of the long-standing challenges that have hampered economic growth and development.

"Our achievements in reforming the oil and gas sector, strengthening the electoral framework, diversifying our economy, improving transparency and accountability, tackling insecurity and entrenching good governance are easily verifiable. As such, this 9th Assembly will be remembered as one of the most productive in terms of outputs and outcomes. Again, I thank the Leadership of the National Assembly for giving me the support required to deliver on my promises to Nigerians.

"Nigeria is immensely endowed in many ways. However, our single greatest asset is the people of this country. Our teeming youth population provides the labour force, we need to industrialise and develop our economy. This underscores the need for a more sustained investment in human capacity development.

"Accordingly, my administration prioritised social investment programmes and a range of other initiatives to reduce poverty, upgrade the standard of living and improve the economy.

"Human capital is the essential lifeblood of a state and its public institutions, including the legislature. The National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly stand to perform their constitutionally assigned mandate better when provided with all the required resources.

"In 2018, I signed the NILDS Amendment Bill into law, thus expanding the mandate of the Institute to provide capacity not only to legislators but also to other political actors. This edifice would enable the Institute to better meet its expanded functions.

"It is my expectation that NILDS will utilise this site to provide targeted capacity building to legislators, political parties and civil society to enable them better respond to changing circumstances," he noted.

In his remarks, Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan averted that Buhari's administration over the past eight years pursued what has been described as the most ambitious infrastructure programme since independence in 1960.

"We in the Ninth National Assembly have supported the President in ensuring the timely delivery of these critical infrastructures. Notably, in the last three years, the Senate and the House dedicated a substantial part of the national budget towards funding infrastructure development across all six geo-political zones.

"As a result of this collaboration between the legislature and the executive, hundreds of roads, bridges and rail lines across Nigeria have been constructed or rehabilitated. In addition, we have also passed several legislations to provide an overarching framework for sustainable economic growth and development. Significantly also, the investment in infrastructure development extends to all six geo-political zones of the country.

"Indeed, history will remember President Buhari’s tenacity and unwavering commitment to charting a new course for Nigeria."

While acknowledging that the time for the 9th Assembly to wind down draws to a close, Senator Lawan assured that the Assembly will "leave behind an enduring legacy for the succeeding Assemblies.

"I challenge the incoming Leadership and Members of the Tenth National Assembly to carry on with the same vigour and dedication as we did and build on our achievements. I call on the Director-General, Management and staff of the Institute to utilise this edifice to advance democracy in Nigeria and beyond."

On his part, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila urged President Buhari to grant assent to both the Federal Audit Bill and National Assembly Budget and Research Office (NABROl Bill which seeks to enhance the oversight function of Committees as critical legislative priorities as well as improve transparency and accountability in government processes.

While noting that the ability of the legislature to function effectively and hold the executive to account depends on its internal human and financial capacity, lamented that: "Over the years, the relatively weaker institutional capacity of the legislature has hampered its effectiveness both at the national but most notably at the state level."

He however expressed delight that the Institute which is modelled on the Congressional Research Service (CRS) of the United States to fill this gap, has achieved a lot since its establishment.

Also speaking, NILDS Director General, Professor Olanrewaju Sulaiman observed that: "Despite these challenges, the Institute has established itself as Africa’s premier legislative capacity-building institution, as attested by its highly valued services and outputs. In the past decade, NILDS has considerably closed the capacity challenges that have limited the effectiveness of the legislature in Nigeria. Moreover, through its various programmes and interventions, the lawmaking and oversight functions of the legislature have also been significantly strengthened.

"This expansive structure, state-of-the-art equipment, and facilities are game changers for NILDS. It will enable the Institute to undertake its programmes and activities without the constraint of space. Also, the absorptive capacity of the institute will be significantly enhanced.

"In the coming years, we shall continue to lead in capacity-strengthening, teaching and research, providing support services to the legislature and other democratic institutions, generating innovations and promoting democratic ethos."

He also eulogized the roles played by successive leadership of National Assembly, especially, Senator David Mark who laid the foundation for this project, as well as Professor Ladi Hamalai who worked tirelessly towards actualising this permanent site.

By Sampson Ikemitang

On the 24th December, 2019, news hit the airwaves about the appointment of Engr. Magashi Umar Bashir by President Muhammadu Buhari as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC). Indeed, his choice for the job by Mr. President has without doubt elicited cheers and accolades from across ethno-religious divides.

This is based on the juxtaposition that he has extensive experience in public service, having worked in government for several years.

In fact, many have since described the appointment as well-deserved given the appointee’s pedigree in water resources engineering. Interestingly, this viewpoint has been accentuated by his intellectual prowess, nimbleness and sagacity exhibited at different fora –locally and internationally on water resources related discourse.

The admirers are therefore, optimistic that Engr. Magashi will certainly bring his decades-long expertise in water resources development and management to bear, with a view to attaining accelerated national development for the country.

As a highlight, some of the roles which Engr. Magashi is expected to undertake at the Water Resources Commission include: Definition of standards for operation, execution and performance; Regulation of water resources development as well as its planning and management in line with international best practise, amongst others. A feat he has achieved and even surpassed the expectations of many.

To profile his background, Magashi Umar Bashir was born on February 14, 1963 in Gwale, Kano State. He attended Gwale Primary School between 1970 -1977 where he obtained First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC). He proceeded to the Federal Government College, Odogbolu, Ogun State between 1977-1982 and got the West African Examination Certificate (WAEC). In 1982-1984, he enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences, Kano for IJMB. Subsequently, he gained admission into the Technical University Kosice, Slovak Republic (former Czechoslovakia), graduating with bachelor’s & masters degree in Exploration Geology in 1992. Thereafter, he served the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with Sylvens Quarries Nigeria Ltd (a blasting company) in Ondo State, South West Nigeria in 1993.

He started his civil service career with the Kano State Ministry of Water Resources as a Geologist 1, on grade level 09 in 1994 and earned promotions to the rank of Principal Geologist, grade level 12 by 1999. He later moved into the Federal Civil Service in the year 2000 as a Principal Hydrogeologist on grade level 12 with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and rose to the position of a Director in 2016.

While in service, Engr. Magashi had distinguished himself and displayed some measures of dexterity in the discharge of his duties, as he served the nation in different capacities.

For instance, in 1997, he piloted the geophysical surveys for the drilling of Hand pump boreholes in the then guinea worm infested areas of Kano State. In 2005, he conducted geophysical survey for the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in different military formations.

Also, he had conducted several other privately drilled boreholes such as the Mamba point Hotel Borehole which is known for its uniqueness ever since it was constructed. Again, in that same year in Niger State, he conducted geophysical surveys for the drilling of motorised boreholes for the purpose of supplying the town and its adjoining villages, including the compilation of the whole report on the project.

In the same vein, in 2006 -2009, he worked as a counterpart staff on the European Union/World Bank Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Reform Programme (WSSSRP). A Programme which was co-funded by the Nigerian Government, UNICEF and European Union was aimed at reforming the water sector in Nigeria. This was in effort to achieve effective implementation of the Integrated Water Resources Management in Nigeria.

In achieving its complete mapping, two pilot River Basins (RBDAs) Hadejia-Jama and Cross River Basins were singled out as case study. This was realised seamlessly with the active participation of Engr. Magashi.

It is instructive to note that the veteran water resources engineer has an insatiable appetite for knowledge. That explains why he has not spared any opportunity to learn something new even with his tight schedule. All this is in a bid to deliver quality service to the people whenever the need for him to serve comes knocking. In this connection, Engr. Magashi has several published and unpublished works to his credit.

Prominent among them are: Delta Sediments of the KL’COV Layers in the South Eastern Slovakian Depression and their Oil Prospectiveness –A Dissertation submitted to his alma mater which after defence was graded as EXCELLENT in 1992; Flooding, Causes and Effects published in the NIHSA HYDROVIEWS –A Scientific Bulletin Vol.2 No.1 2013; Water Management for Cropland, Livestock, Rangeland and Bushfires in Nigeria under the Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa –MESA Bulletin Vol.1 2016.

Others are: Macro and Microscopic Analysis of a Gypsum Sample, Damaturu, Yobe State 1994; and had conducted over 35, 000 Geophysical Surveys in the Basement Complex, the Sedimentary and the Chad Basin 2000 -2013.

As the helmsman of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission, (NIWRMC), Engr. Magashi has introduced laudable initiatives and recorded tremendous success stories. Perhaps, it’s appropriate to highlight some of these mind-blowing achievements.

After several unsuccessful attempts by his predecessors to regularise project staff of the Commission into the mainstream civil service, Engr. Magashi ultimately secured a waiver from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation with subsequent approval by the Federal Civil Service Commission and have since fully integrated these 40 staff into the service.

In effort to reposition the Commission and propel it towards achieving its mandate of regulating, protecting, conserving and controlling equitable water resources for socio-economic development, the National Water Source Protection Policy Framework has been developed, validated and finalized by the stakeholders. Also, the development of Technical Assessment for Environment and Safety performance of Dams in Nigeria have been developed.

The Commission has also created the Databank and GIS Laboratory in its headquarters. The essence is to enable it monitor effectively and efficiently the quality and safety of water resource.

Other achievements include, establishment of a legal framework for sustainable revenue recovery process; Review of Water Use Licence terms and conditions in line with international best practice; Collaboration with State Water regulators for sustainable and equitable water resources management; Expanded protocol on enforcement against water use charges defaulters; commencement of water use charges recovery process which is done in collaboration with recovery law firms and collaborative measures with the Office of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation in the retrieval of the Commission’s complete mandate –collection of water use charges from the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

More so, the Commission under Engr. Magashi’s supervision is working on the following policies: - Water metering equipment, flood insurance, people living on the floodplains and wetlands in Nigeria.

In recognition for hard-work, selflessness and dedication to duties, Engr. Magashi had during his service years received series of commendation letters and Award from both the Government and interest groups. He received letter of commendation from the Honourable Minister of Water Resources for selfless dedication to the organisation of the International Conference on Lake Chad; Leadership Award in recognition of immense support in the hosting of the 12th National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Hydrological Sciences by the Association of Hydrological Services –Rivers/Bayelsa State Chapter; Award of Excellence for contribution, selflessness and dedication by the Urban Development Group and Award of the Thomas Sankara Leadership Prize by the Youth Partnership for African Development.

He is a fellow of several Professional Associations, namely, Nigeria Association of Hydrogeologists (FNAH), Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (FNMGS), Member International Water Association (MIWA), Nigerian Association of Hydrological Sciences (FNAHS), Nigerian Institute of Water Engineers (FNIWE) and a registered practitioner of the Council for Nigeria Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG).


(Mr. Ikemitang, a Writer and Public Affairs Analyst, is based in Abuja).

G7 aspirants for the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives has met with "Greater Majority ", with a resolved to present a consensus candidate for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

The G7 aspirants met at a parly with the "Greater Majority " in Abuja on Saturday at Transcorp Hilton.

The G7 reiterated their commitment to work with the minority caucus in a bid to present a common front for the 10th National Assembly Speaker.

The G7 are made up of Rep. Ahmed Wase, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Reps, Rep. Aliyu Betara, Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Rep Yusuf Gagdi, Chairman, House Committee on Navy.

Others include: Rep. Sada Soli (APC-Katsina), Sani Jaji (APC-Zamfara), Miriam Onuhoa (APC-Imo) and Rep Ado Doguwa.

Sada Soli commended the caucus, while assuring them of their unalloyed support with a promised to present a consensus candidate to the Greater Majority.

Responding on behalf of the greater majority, Rep. Fred Agbedi, commended the G7 in seeing the Greater majority as partners in progress.l for the progressive growth of the 10the House of Reps

He hailed the lawmakers for maintaining sacredness of the hollowed chamber, while assuring the G7 that the caucus had not endorsed any candidate.

He promised that the greater minority would work with all members-elect of the minority to ensure that the 10th House had a speaker for all

The G7 however found the endorsement of Abbas and Kalu as an affront on their aspirations, claiming they were not consulted and such endorsement would be resisted.

The total number of minority in the House from the PDP, NNPP, ADC, YPP and LP is 182, while the APC has 178 members-elect, while the focus of the greater minority is to preserve the independence of the legislature.

By Yemi Itodo

A youth group in the All Progressives Congress, APC, APC Youth Alliance For Progress, APC-YAP, has called on the party and the president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to heed the progressive and patriotic advice of some leaders of the party to jettison the present zoning arrangement.

The APC-YAP in a statement on Sunday in Abuja stressed that ignoring the well-meaning advice of prominent stakeholders like the governor of Ondo state, Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, was recipe for a fractured National Assembly, especially the House of Reps.

Governor Akeredolu had in a statement titled, “Proposed APC Zoning Formula for NASS Leadership Positions is a Skewed Arrangement that Reinforces Injustice And Enhances Inequity,” noted with great concern that the purported zoning arrangement released by the party “represents early signs of steps aimed at attempts to cabin the hard-earned presidency for our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, by a few individuals with eyes on ASO ROCK POWER BUTTONS.”

The youth group statement signed by Isa Pai and Wahab Adeyemi noted that it “stands logic on the head for the party to reward indolence and perpetrate injustice at a time for inclusion and national healing. It is urgent for the party to discard the notion of handpicking officers for the 10th House of Reps. Nigerians are already wary of the party and not attempt should be made to reinforce the idea that the party does not care about party development and democracy.”

Referencing the Ondo governor, the APC-YAP wondered why the party that allowed an open field in the presidential primaries will now micro zone offices for the National Assembly as if it was a department of the party.

Akeredolu had stated, “It is an insidious permutation that North-east will be deprived in the face of the unsavoury generosity dispensed through two slots to a particular geo-political zone. It is self-repudiating for one to argue, therefore, that the Speaker of the House of Representatives cannot also emerge from the North-east.”

By Yemi Itodo


Mr Muktar Betara Aliyu, the leading aspirant for the seat of the Speakership of the House of Representatives says his group hold the ace to who emerges the next Speaker of the lower legislative chamber.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony of the Speakership bid by a member of the coalition, Mr Ahmed Wase, he expressed optimism that their group would arrive at a consensus on who is best suited to preside over the proceedings of the House.

Betara, a fifth termed Member who chairs the House committee on Appropriation describes Wase as a brother and a comrade who is equally qualified to preside over the House.

Reiterating his opposition to the move to impose a Speaker on the House of Representatives, he noted: "For us, we formed this group because we are opposed to the zoning arrangement of the party, We are not fighting and we would not fight. We are in support of a consensus candidate.

"We can picked the candidate from among ourselves but if we all sit down and decided on it. I assure all of you it is only one person that God would choose to be Speaker. I assure we are not going to have any issue. We are going to agree to support one of us as speaker."

For Sada Soli, there is need for fairness, inclusivity and respect for diversity in arriving at the choice of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The Katsina born lawmaker called on members elect to strive to protect the sanctity and freedom of the institution of the legislature.

"Anything short of that, the consequences would be dire. We must drop all personal interest geared towards producing a Speaker who would not take directive for some personal aggrandisement, a speaker who would tell you as it is. Lawmaking is a very serious business. It is beyond personal interests."

Gagdi who spoke in the same vein warned against a rubberstammp Assembly that would take directive from forces outside the hallowed chamber of the National Assembly.

"We are determine to protect democracy. The House of Representatives is the House of the Nigerian people. By the time we are working, no leadership of party would be there. Only we and we would be doing the serious business of lawmaking."

Mrs Miriam Onuoha, one of the members of the coalition reiterated her opposition to injustice in the polity while calling of inclusivity of women and other vulnerable groups that form over half the population of the country.

"I stand with the coalition, indivisibility of Nigeria. Legislature is independent. Member elect would rise up to the challenge to ensure the independence of the legislature," she added.

Wase said it behoves on the leadership of the party to cede the seat to him having served the interest of the APC, the parliament and the nation over the years.

A document from the Nigeria Immigration Service has confirmed that the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig Gen MK Fadah, faked his age.

Although his date of birth remains something of a mystery, it is being alleged that Fadah claims to have been born in 1970.

However, his travelling papers released by the NIS said otherwise as they showed that the NYSC DG was born 10 years earlier.

According to his passport, Fadah was born on 10 October 1960 and will clock 62 next month.

What this means is that the NYSC DG has stayed beyond the 60 years mandatory retirement age permitted by the public service rules and other extant laws on conditions of service in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The papers added that the Brigadier-General‘s birthplace is his hometown of Gushua in Yobe State.

There are also concerns that Fadah may have falsified his academic qualifications to get undue advantage to be enlisted into the armed forces.

According to the NYSC, “He attended the Kaduna Polytechnic from where he obtained an HND before proceeding to bag a Post-Graduate Diploma in Management from the Lagos State University.

“He also holds a Master Degree in Peace and Strategic Study of the University of Ilorin. Driven by his insatiable thirst for knowledge, he enrolled for, and is currently working for a PhD Security and Strategic Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy”.

However, there are reports that the NYSC DG may have forged some documents to reach his current position in the Nigerian Army.

To make matters worse, unlike his predecessors, no information on his date of birth or evidence of education is posted on the NYSC website.

Fadah, who was appointed as the 19th NYSC DG in May, once worked as Direct Regular Commission at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.

In December 2015, he was promoted to the rank of a Colonel and in November 2020, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.

Fadah was the Commandant of the Command Secondary School, Kaduna before he was appointed by President Buhari as the DG NYSC.

But his four months in office have been marred by controversies ranging from alleged corruption, incompetence and age falsification.

A civil society group, Anti-corruption Vanguard, had written to President Muhammadu Buhari in August demanding for Fadah’s sack.

In its letter to the President, the group listed alleged age/academic records falsification, illegal recruitment of 700 workers with priority on northern Muslims, financial misappropriation, non-participation in one year mandatory NYSC scheme, nepotism and gross abuse of office as the “sins” of Fadah.

The group said it “ resolved to investigate the controversies over the birth and academic records of the director general as a check on NYSC portal suggest the deliberate omission of key info on Brig Gen M.K Fadah bio. No date of birth, no primary/secondary school attended”.

It added that the “DG is shady on whether or not he participated in the one year of mandatory service to the nation before joining the military; the same NYSC he heads today”.

A top source in the NYSC said Fadah didn't merit the appointment in the first place as he lacks the requisite academic qualifications and experience.

The insider noted that the NYSC DG enjoys the backing of a senior government official who fast-tracked his promotion and facilitated his appointment.

"We are not surprised by the whole age and academic controversies. You can't give what you don't have," the NYSC staff said.

"The new DG operates with impunity and utter disregard for authorities and protocols. He won't last."

By Ejiofor Alike


With the successful conduct of the presidential primary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s flagbearer for the 2023 presidential election, political horse-trading has begun among the southern politicians, especially from the South-south and South-east geopolitical zones over who will be his running mate.

Atiku was elected penultimate Saturday at a special convention of the PDP, after beating the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike; former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, among others to emerge the party’s standard bearer.

While some South-south governors seem to have positioned themselves for the position, new political considerations however, seem to favour the South-east zone for the simple reason that the zone has not had the opportunity of occupying the number one plum position since 1999.

Currently, there are three governors from the South-south that are potential candidates for the position of Atiku’s running mate. They are: Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State and Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.

Okowa is a calm politician, and an Ika from Owa-Alero, who was re-elected as the governor of Delta State on May 29, 2019.

A medical doctor by training, he has been Secretary to the Ika Local Government and then Chairman of the Ika North-East Local Government Council and has consistently remained in the PDP since 1998.

Okowa was also a former commissioner in Delta State at different times. He was elected PDP’s Delta North Senator in 2011 and clinched the governorship position in 2015. By May 2023, Okowa would have completed his two constitutionally guaranteed terms.

On his part, Emmanuel took office since May 29, 2015. Before becoming governor, he was appointed in 2013 as Secretary to the State Government of Akwa Ibom and in 2015, he was elected governor of the state, succeeding his benefactor, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

He was re-elected in 2019, after defeating 44 other candidates at the poll. Emmanuel, who bagged a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Lagos in 1988, was Executive Director in Zenith Bank Plc before working for the government.

Also being mentioned is Obaseki who is currently the Governor of Edo State. He was in the financial sector as an executive board member of several private companies, including Afrinvest before former Governor Adams Oshiomhole in March 2009 tapped him on the shoulder to join him to run Edo State. He served as the Chairman of the Edo State Economic and Strategy Team. He later succeeded Oshiomhole in 2016 and was re-elected for second term in 2020.

Whether for political expediency, balancing or giving a sense of belonging, Atiku and the leadership of PDP’s searchlight on the South-east geopolitical zone to shop for a running mate is not out of place. Indeed, many feel that it will be desirable to correct real or imaginary marginalisation of the zone.

It is just a convention and political arithmetic that the plum position of the President of Nigeria rotates between the North and the South. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (South-west) had it from 1999 to 2007 for the South. He handed over President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (North-west) in 2007 but by a twist of fate, Yar’Adua died midway and by the provision of the Nigerian constitution, the Vice President Goodluck Jonathan (South-south) assumed the mantle of leadership till 2015.

Due to the deep fracture in the hitherto behemoth, the PDP, the party lost the presidency to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015 with President Muhammad Buhari (North-west) as president. Buhari will complete his eight-year tenure in 2023. Therefore, South-east is the only geo-political zone in the South that has not produced the president.

In the build-up to the primaries of the two major political parties, the clamour for a president of South-east extraction had resonated so well with many people and groups across the country. Chief Ayo Adebanjo of the Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Edwin Clark of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and Dr. Pogu Bitrus of Middle Belt Forum (MBF), had argued eloquently and persuasively that it was the turn of the South-east zone to produce Nigerian president in 2023.

The leaders of the socio-cultural groups argued that on the basis of equity, justice and fairness, the political parties in the country should pick their presidential candidates from the zone as a way of giving the people of the zone a sense of belonging.

The socio-cultural organisations reasoned that if the political class and the retired military Generals could concede the presidency to the South-west zone in 1999, the same approach could be adopted and micro-zone the presidency to the South-east zone in 2023.

Afenifere leader, Chief Adebanjo, was emphatic that the group was in support of the South-east producing the next president. In the same vein, the elder statesman and PANDEF leader, Chief Clark, said: “We stand for power shift to Southern Nigeria. Igbo people deserve the presidency of Nigeria.”

For Bitrus of the MBC, “It is the turn of the South-east to produce the president. Nigeria cannot be a stable and prosperous country if some of its constituent parts behave as if they were the natural masters of everyone and that everyone else exists at their pleasure and to serve them.”

Other groups and notable individuals have made similar appeals to the two major political parties in the country – the APC and the PDP – to zone the presidency to the South-east.

Many feel that since it is becoming obvious that the zone may not get the presidential, the vice presidential tickets should not elude them for equity and justice. This is why they are calling on Atiku and PDP to look in the direction of the South-east where the names of former President of the Senate and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, and short-lived Imo State Governor, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and former Governor of Enugu State and current Senator representing Enugu East, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani are being touted as potential favourite for the plum job.

Anyim and Ihedioha have cognate experiences in the legislature. They were both presiding officers in the National Assembly. While Anyim was Senate President 2000 to 2003, Ihedioha was Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015. On the other hand, Nnamani was a two-term governor of Enugu State and third-term senator.

A respectable blend between the old and the new generations of politicians, Anyim attended Imo State University, where he studied law and graduated in 1987. And since joining politics in 1998, he has progressed enviably as one of the leading lights from the South-east geopolitical zone.

With a good grasp of the nation’s complexities and her fault lines, Anyim has proven to also know what the issues are with profound solutions often suggested on the way forward. Thus, as a force from the Igbo-speaking nation, he qualifies as a worthy complement to the PDP presidential ticket.

Ihedioha is a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives from where he contested the governorship election and lost to Rochas Okorocha in 2015. When he tried again in 2019 and succeeded, it was snatched from him controversially by the Supreme Court on January 20, 2020 and given to Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Another name that has continued to come up prominently is that of Senator Chimaroke Nnamani. The former Enugu State governor has twin advantages over the rest of the potential candidates. Nnamani has both executive and legislative experiences. He was a forefront Governor of Enugu State for eight years and a ranking senator.

Many believe that if merit, competence and capacity are the yardstick, Atiku should settle for Nnamani and search no more.

They believe that Nnamani unarguably possesses the requisite knowledge, ability and statesmanship to be Nigeria’s Vice President. As a great mobiliser, he has demonstrated this through his Ebeano political family since 1999 that leadership is not complex if right steps are taken and putting the interest of the people first.

His Ebeano political family has become a dynasty in Enugu State and has continued to produce successive governors. It has also produced Senate President, Ken Nnamani, Senators, Deputy Senate President, in the person of Ike Ekweremadu, senators, ministers, House of Representatives members, ambassadors, INEC national commissioners, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, state House of Assembly members, local government chairmen and councilors in Enugu State. His Ebeano network is synonymous with grassroots politics in Enugu State. Many analysts believe that such a man is an ideas man and an asset to the PDP going forward.

An American-trained specialist in obstetrician and gynecologist with sub speciality in foetal and maternal medicine (medicine of the unborn babies) of international repute, Nnamani is also a professor of medicine. He currently teaches and supervises medical students at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) pro bono.

As governor of Enugu State, Nnamani demonstrated capacity and provided responsible leadership. It is to his credit that he built and moved the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) to its permanent site, built the ESUT Teaching Hospital at the old site of Parklane Hospital, Enugu, three district hospitals in Udi, Enugu Ezike and Agbani, as well as 24 cottage hospitals. He also built the Enugu Campus of the Nigerian Law School.

(Alike is a political editor of ThisDay Newspaper).

By Esther Daniels

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has warned that any attempt by anyone or group to rig elections in the state will be met with stiff resistance.

The Governor who stated this at the expanded caucus of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, in the state which held at the Benue People's House, Makurdi, Tuesday, May 3rd, 2022 also reiterated his commitment to free, fair and credible primary elections.

He said the recently held council elections in the state where the PDP won all the 23 chairmanship slots and 276 councillors in the state was a testimony of the people's appreciation of the PDP administration in the state.

On the forthcoming PDP primaries, Governor Ortom said, "We will not tolerate anyone who will want to disrupt the primary elections. I am going to be personally involved. My cabinet members will be involved in the process too."

He warned that "any member of my cabinet that will go there (primaries) and do any form of shortchanging, will be sacked the same day".

Ortom used the occasion to congratulate the winners for various positions at the just concluded local government elections in the State, stressing that "I participated. I voted. It was very smooth, free and fair," he added.

On his part, the State Chairman of PDP, Sir John Ngbede, said the PDP Ward Congress of Saturday, 30th April, 2022 was hugely successful, except for a pocket of complaints from a few LGAs which he said would be addressed by the appeal committee.

Ngbede warned against use of thugs to cause mayhem in the forthcoming party primaries, saying anyone caught with such act would be handed over to the security agencies for prosecution, "no matter the status of the individual".

By Yemi Itodo

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, has stated that, if elected, he would run an all-inclusive government and not a regional one, unlike the Muhammad Buhari and All Progressive Congress (APC) led presidency and Federal Government.

Mohammed, a former Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is a top contender for President of Nigeria, under the major opposition, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Addressing his former colleagues, the PDP Ministers in Abuja Tuesday night, Gov. Mohammed accused the APC government of polarising the country along regional and tribal lines, describing the Buhari's presidency as a "regional" and nepotistic government.

He said, "the nation is in pieces. Nigeria is no longer there under APC. The country is too divided. Why is the country so divided. We must reduce the acrimony. APC has destroyed everything. It is all nepotism".

The former lawmaker stressed further: "We are detribalized as democrats. We cannot be a regionalized government”, while urging his former colleagues to assist form a government that would work for all Nigerians, regardless of their region, religion and status.

He vowed to checkmate the current borrowing profile of the APC administration, adding that the Buhari's government is afraid of accountability, "promoting name-calling in the name of investigation that is selfish and unproductive".

“You will help make Nigeria great again by collaborating together in this effort. We shall not take APC for granted. They are planning all sorts of intimidations but we are steadfast", Mohammed told the PDP Ministers Forum, while pledging his loyalty to the party, saying, he would not abandon it.

On building the nation through human capital development, Mohammed said, "there are people with good ideas to help administer and govern this nation. We no longer rely on our human capital. In my administration as the President of Nigeria, we will run a knowledge driven administration".

Chairman of the Forum, Hon. Tanimu Turaki (SAN) in his reaction, described Mohammed as “one of the forces to lead the restoration of PDP and a pace setter”.

He referred to Gov. Mohammed as a successful politician, whose history of performance has been outstanding.

On her part, former Minister of State for FCT, Mrs. Olajumoke Akinjide, echoed the same sentiment on need to run an all-inclusive government in Nigeria, describing Mohammed as a "loyal friend and good human being".