....say fuel queues, prices not abating

....overdependence on fossil fuels make Nigerians vulnerable to price fluctuations

...mobilize for mass protest, writes Tinubu

AS Nigerians get more frustrated and impoverished after the removal of fuel subsidy and no palliative measures, 50 serving Members of House of Representatives led by Hon Philip Agbese and Hon Peter Akpanke, Tuesday, called for the immediate sack of the Group Chief Executive Officer, GCEO, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, Engr Mele Kyari, over poor handling of the crisis and performance so far.

While Hon Agblese and Hon Akpanke led the other 50 Honourable Members, the CSOs were led by Comrade Yusuf Suleiman and Comrade Yetunde Akinfenwa. At the World Press Conference, the Honourable members and the CSOs declared that Mele Kyari must be removed as the situation is getting out of hand and the economy also gasping for breath.

Hon Peter Akpanke is Deputy Chairman, House Committee on FCT Area Councils, while Dr Philip Agbese is the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Publicity.

The address read during the press conference reads thus: "We, the Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, have gathered here today to address a matter of utmost significance that affects each and every Nigerian.

"As representatives of the Nigerian people, it is our duty to speak up when we witness the suffering and distress caused by the actions or inactions of public officials.

"Today, we call for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), based on the recent hike in fuel prices and the resulting scarcity across the nation.

"Fuel is the lifeblood of our economy, and any disruption in its availability or exorbitant price increases can have severe consequences for the ordinary citizens who rely on it for their daily transportation and livelihoods.

"The recent fuel scarcity and price hikes have caused significant hardship for the Nigerian people – disrupting businesses, hindering agricultural activities, and burdening families with additional expenses.

"The GCEO of NNPCL, as the head of this crucial National institution, has failed in his duty to ensure a stable supply of fuel at affordable prices."

They pointed out that the government has also failed to keep to its promises to Nigerians.

"It is a matter of great concern that despite the promises made by the government to address this issue, the problems persist, causing untold suffering to our citizens.

"It has also come to our knowledge that there is a grand plot to sabotage the good world of President Tinubu through this persistent scarcity or how else can you describe the nonchalance of the Kyari towards this scarcity.

However, the lawmakers made it clear that, "We are not here to merely criticize. We are here to demand immediate action.

"The Nigerian people cannot afford to continue enduring the consequences of this fuel crisis. We call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take swift and decisive action by removing the current GCEO of NNPCL and appointing a competent replacement who can effectively address the challenges in the petroleum sector.

"The GCEO of NNPCL holds a position of immense responsibility, and with that responsibility comes accountability.

"We cannot tolerate a situation where the masses suffer while those in power fail to take the necessary steps to alleviate their plight. We, as representatives of the Nigerian people, will not stand idly by while this crisis deepens."

They further stated that, "In addition to the immediate removal of the GCEO, we also call for a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of these recurring fuel problems.

"We need to identify the systemic failures and hold accountable all those responsible for the mismanagement that has contributed to this crisis."

Meanwhile, the lawmakers and CSOs called on the Tinubu-led administration to find alternative energy source to fossil fuel as Nigerians are now at the mercy of international oil price fluctuations.

"Moreover, we urge the government and relevant regulatory bodies to take steps to diversify our energy sources.

"Overdependence on fossil fuels leaves us vulnerable to price fluctuations, which in turn negatively impact the economy and the livelihoods of our people.

"It is high time we explore and invest in alternative energy sources to mitigate the impact of such crises in the future", they said.

They maintained that, "In conclusion, we, the Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, stand united in our call for the removal of the GCEO of NNPCL due to his failure to effectively manage a stable fuel supply system.

"Our duty is to the Nigerian people, and we will continue to demand accountability from those entrusted with the crucial task of managing our nation's petroleum resources.

"We believe that by taking decisive action, we can restore confidence in the petroleum sector, safeguard the nation's economy, and ensure that the Nigerian people no longer suffer the consequences of fuel scarcity and exorbitant prices."
https://kakaakireporters.com/sack-nnpcl-gmd-kyari-now-52-rep-members-csos-tells-tinubu/

BY CONCERNED LABOUR GROUP

As the number of those aspiring to succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State in 2024 on the platform of the Labour Party(LP) keep swelling astronomically per hour some questions are being asked by netizens.

Some of the questions that are being asked most especially has to do with the background of one of the 'aspirants'. The question, which begs for a prompt response, has to do with how prepared he is for the gigantic task ahead of him. How prepared and genuine is he? What is his pedigree?

Can a new face in the political arena lay claims to being prepared for an assignment which is as huge as being governor of a state as big and diverse as Edo which has 18 local government areas?

Can this political neophite have the boldness to preside over the affairs of a state that boasts of some of the best and brightest in the history of the fight against colonial rule in Nigeria?

Why is the 'aspirant' all of a sudden coming out of the 'woodworks' to lay claims to some unverifiable chains of achievements ranging from the abnormal to the absurd. An individual who in local parlance is addressed as having no fixed address which when interpreted have a wide range of meanings mostly absurd.

For instance, what scorecard can a greenhorn like him in politics flaunt as guaranty to convince deeply knowledgeable people that their interests will be well served if, God forbids, he gets to the Osadebey Avenue based Government House in Benin City.

What is the real pedigree of an attention seeking individual whose only claim to administrative cum governance savvy, a once off opportunity to lead a respected group, has been scored as a near disaster in the history of the body?

How can a man, who cannot lead the smallest of a family unit, as the grapevine is awash with gists of his failed marriage of under one year as he was said to have discovered that his love interest(wife) is his relation, (cousin), mount the soap box and promise the about 5million people who are residents of Edo State that he has got a magic wand to turn around their fortunes for the better?

Another issue that is of great concern is the story going around that 'Mr. Aspirant' may after all be a placeholder for Governor Obaseki who it is alleged is solidly behind him in his dubious third tenure plans.

'Mr. Placeholder' had better be informed that the man that the people of Edo State are looking forward to succeed the incumbent and bring forth positive narratives to their living standard must be of high moral standard.

Of course, the man that will be acceptable as governor across the length and breadth of the acclaimed heartbeat state must be somebody who over the years has always been within reach and thus know where the shoes pinch the ordinary folks and not a 'JJC' whose claim to Edo indigeneship is undergoing a tough debate as he, like his sponsor, can hardly speak the local Benin language.

https://kakaakireporters.com/2024-a-greenhorn-cannot-fix-edo-state/

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS WITHDRAWAL OF FERMA CHAIRMANSHIP NOMINATION

President Bola Tinubu has directed the withdrawal of the nomination of Engr. Imam Kashim Imam to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).

The President's withdrawal of the above-mentioned nomination is directed with immediate effect.

All other appointments to the Board and Executive Management team of FERMA are not affected by this directive.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 19, 2023

BY JESUTEGA ONOKPASA

I just read an article, apparently written by sacked former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir David Lawal, which purports to be a rejoinder to a release by All Progressives Congress, APC, National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Felix Morka.

In the miserably incoherent writeup, Mr Lawal pours invective on Barrister Morka, goes shamelessly personal and reinforces blatant falsehoods a man of his age should be know better than to be associated with.

Babachir Lawal claims our party, the ruling APC is an Islamic party, that Barrister Morka is the Christian spokesman of an Islamic political party and that decisions will be taken behind his back by his Muslim colleagues in the party.

If I may ask, when Babachir Lawal was the Christian SGF to a Muslim President, where all critical decisions similarly taken behind his back during the afternoon prayer sessions which he was unable to attend, as well?

Lawal claimed that unknown to Felix Morka, leaders of our party had been reaching out to him apparently to sheath his sword.

I can assure him that whoever is "reaching out" to him (if this is not another blatant lie from a crook who should be cooling his heels in jail), is certainly not an emissary of our party or of President Bola Tinubu.

If, indeed, anyone reached out to him, such folk must have merely sought to talk some sense into Babachir's head for his own good.

The problem with this country is this nauseating phenomenon that sees misfits, dullards and bushmen rise to the greatest heights of power.

How did a character like Babachir Lawal become no less than the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, in the first place?

And what even became of that "grass cutter" criminal case?

Barrister Felix Morka, on his part, is a veteran of the struggle for democracy in this country, the democracy that saw Babachir becoming SGF!

I don't know which grasses Babachir Lawal was cutting at the time President Tinubu and the likes of Morka and others were fighting for democracy.

Frankly, I hope, as a national officer of our party, that Morka does not dignify a character like Babachir with a response - indeed but for the purpose of setting the records straight, I think it is beneath any lawyer to be joining issues with someone that should be in jail.

Babachir says our party is an Islamic party but the leader of the Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, recently accused us of forming a Christian majority government?

Babachir says he does not know who President Tinubu is but supported him throughout the primaries, acknowledged on national television that he is a beneficiary of Tinubu's generosity, and, as we all know, desperately wanted to be Tinubu's running mate?

Who do these gaslighters think they can keep fooling in this country?

It must, indeed, take a compound fool of a village goat to assert that Peter Obi won the last election without offering facts and figures to attend the assertion and then to moronically reiterate such kindergarten bluster like some drunken motor park tout.

Indeed, and as I have pointed out elsewhere, if, according to the likes of Babachir, Obi actually came first, Atiku Abubarkar came second, and President Tinubu came third, then President Tinubu would have had first needed to rig Atiku from second position to third, in which case at that stage he would be second, with Peter Obi still in first and Atiku now down to third.

Then, in order for Tinubu to have ended up at first, he would have had to then displace Obi to second and replace him at first.

The problem of course, is that Obi ended up "carrying last"!

In which case, Atiku must have attacked his boy, Obi, from behind (not necessarily surprising given the Cameroonian indigene of Dubai's rumoured preferences), rigged him to third and then replaced him in second.

You would have to be a certified compound fool or a very dull grass cutter to believe that crap.

But come to think of it, is Babachir Lawal even able to intellectually follow this logic or is he still too engrossed cutting grass?

By the way I know Babachir Lawal is not a very bright man and might have hired some shameless hack to write even that poorly packaged article for him.

And, what was that utterly insane crap about Barrister Morka's baptismal name "Felix" and slavery, of all things?

Every authentic Christian would know that any fellow Christian that is christened "Felix" is named after one of a number of saints in Christianity and has absolutely nothing to do with the character Lawal mentioned in his ode to idiocy.

Indeed, "Felix" is the name of four popes and more than sixty saints but I guess Babachir has been too busy cutting grass and pocketing money to know that, hence he concludes it must have something to do with a biblical character with whom he apparently shares similar questionable antecedents.

Someone who should be wearing khaki in jail calls a senior lawyer a slave?

I wonder what we would discover if we were to go to Delta and investigate the ancestry of Barrister Morka, do the same with the origins of Lawal in Adamawa, and then compare both.

Our party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, is not an Islamic party; it is a Nigerian party.

Our President is the Muslim minority head of a Christian majority family.

Our Vice President is a Muslim who built several churches for Christians while the likes of Babachir Lawal were cutting grass and stuffing money into their boxer shorts at the expense of victims of terrorism.

According to Ishaq Akintola of MURIC, the so-called Muslim/Muslim ticket that Babachir Lawal and his co-travellers in political failure, electoral bitterness and inconsolable disappointment keep complaining about has produced a "Christian majority government" for our country!

I suppose Babachir Lawal is older than Felix Morka but that aside, he can never measure up to Barrister Morka in any ramification, whatsoever.

I accordingly enjoin my learned friend not to pay heed to him other than for the purpose of possibly sending him to jail where he belongs.


***_Onokpasa, a lawyer, was a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Campaign Council, and writes from Abuja._

A group under the aegis of Pathfinder 4 New Edo (P4NE) has called on Edolites to be wary of Gov Godwin Obaseki's antics of trying to install his successor by every means possible.

The convener of the group, Murphy Imafidon who stated this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja said Obaseki is pushing for a third term in office by all means.

He noted that Obaseki's plan is to use the Labour Party (LP) should his quest to enthrone a successor through his party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fails.

Imafidon said from findings, it was discovered that the outgoing governor had already planted a former NBA leader to emerge as the candidate of the LP.

"Our people need to be cautious of Obaseki's antics who wants to remain in office through a surrogate and we have it on good authority that his plans to use LP should his party (PDP) fail.

"We must all deny him the plan of continuing with his draconian policies that have set the state backward in the last seven years.

"We have started seeing how his proxy is already infiltrating and wooing Labour party leaders with with all kinds of offers. We want to remind them that LP is not for sale to the highest bidders.

"We are for nobody but for the betterment of Edo state and any candidate from Obaseki should be resisted by all those who means well for the state " he stated.
Obaseki Pushing For Third Term Through LP, PDP– Group
https://kakaakireporters.com/obaseki-pushing-for-third-term-through-lp-pdp-group/

"ALL ACTIONS SUSPENDED"

The Ondo State House of Assembly has agreed to suspend impeachment processes against the State's Deputy Governor, HE. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and allow for political solutions. On Tuesday, the lawmakers met with the Party's Reconciliation Committee and the NWC.

https://twitter.com/OfficialAPCNg/status/1714308466179772624?t=IaB58toO27_gDStCP9ZpCA&s=19

...demands Senate to disregard Tinubu's nomination for screening


A Civil Society Organization, Center for Democracy and Human Rights, CEDEHUR, Tuesday, protested over President Bola Tinubu's flagrant breach of appointment of Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede.

The protest attracted hundreds of Nigerians at the gate of the National Assembly, and was led by the Secretary General, CEDEHUR, Adebayo Gorry.

The protesters were seen carrying placards with different inscriptions, some read 'Tribalism Kills A Nation Stop It; 'We don't want EFCC Nominee'; Oga Presido, do the right thing', EFCC stands for due process', and others.

The protesters who attracted the attention of NASS members, staff and visitors expressed their concern based on the fact that Tinubu violated the Extant Laws of the EFCC, and demanded he must do the right thing by following due process.

Meanwhile, Gorry in a petition with subject 'LETTER OF PETITION ON THE RECENT APPOINTMENT OF MR OLA OLUKOYEDE AS CHAIRMAN OF THE ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL CRIMES COMMISSION (EFCC) CONTRARY TO THE EXTANT LAWS, THE (ESTABLISHMENT) ACT 20O4 OF THE COMMISSION' and addressed to the President of the Senate, said the President is not above laid down laws governing appointment of EFCC Chair, hence he has disappointed the country and must revert to do what the law states.

He said: "We write to draw your attention to the gross violation of the extant laws, which is the Establishment Act 2004 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in appointing Mr Ola Olukoyede as Chairman of the Commission on Thursday, October 12, 2023.

"The action of President Bola Tinubu in making the appointment of Mr Olukoyede into such a high office with enormous responsibility as the Chairman of the EFCC in flagrant breach of the provisions of the laws of the parliament is contrary to the oath he took on May 29, 2023 to protect and defend the laws of the nation.

"It is important to note that the EFCC Extant laws remain sacrosanct and needed to be strictly adhered to before going ahead to appoint a chairman for the Commission. President Tinubu as the number one citizen, whose office is the creation of the law, needs to comply with the EFCC Extant Laws and not be seen to set a wrong precedence for successive administrations in making his appointment, which can slip the country into a state of anarchy.

In our quest to see that the right thing is done, we have made our findings on “Who qualifies to be the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the law state.

"According to the extant provision of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004: (1) The Commission shall consist of the following members-(a)A chairman, who shall- (i) be the Chief Executive and Accounting officer of the Commission, (ii) be a serving or retired member of any government security or law enforcement agency not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police or equivalent; and (iii) Possess not less than 15 years cognate experience

"Mr Senate President, The provision above is very clear and unambiguous. The functions of the EFCC are not civil in nature. Hence it is a paramilitary organization. That is the rationale behind the inclusion of the police ranking system and its equivalent in other law enforcement agencies as one of the prerequisites for attaining the position of the Executive Chairman.

"Secondly, the person sought to be appointed must not only be a member of the law enforcement family, he must also have 15 years cognate experience. In other words, the person must have the knowledge, skills and abilities in the professional law enforcement activity.

"This section simply means that not all members of the police force, other Forces and indeed the EFCC can be the Executive Chairman of the EFCC. A pilot, medical personnel, Admin officer, etc who have 15 years police or paramilitary service, are ordinarily devoid of the cognate experience of enforcing the laws of the EFCC.

"This much is gleaned from Section 8 (5) of the EFCC Act which states that: "…..all officers involved in the enforcement of the Act shall have the same powers, authorities, privileges (including power to bear arms) as are given by law to members of the Nigerian Police."

"The words that are underlined simply mean that not all officers or members are involved in the enforcement of the EFCC Act. This is not strange as the EFCC started as a new agency lacking in manpower across the board.

"Therefore, there was a massive recruitment and secondment of personnel of staff from sister agencies to boost the personnel capacity of the EFCC. In other words, there were different entry points. However, the EFCC in its wisdom consciously differentiated all the staff.

"To further buttress this point, the EFCC simply identified the officers who are beneficiaries of Section 8 (5) of the EFCC Act and issued them with a warrant card. Evidently, the officers who do not possess a warrant card are not regarded as equivalent to police officers as envisioned by the EFCC Establishment Act.

"To put it in context, there are various members of the law enforcement agencies and Military organisations that are civilians and cannot take on the headship. Examples of these abound in the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Police Force. A person who serves in the EFCC as Chief of Staff (personal staff of the Chairman) or secretary has no law enforcement training as envisioned by the EFCC Act. Just like, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) may consider appointing a non-Police personnel in his office to carry out certain work.

"That does not make the civilian a member of the Police Force in the context of appointment to the headship. Also, a civilian Police pay officer who works with the Police does not become a member of the Police force in the context of appointment as IGP.

"Any appointment that is contrary to the provisions of the Extant EFCC Establishment Act is an assault on the National Assembly which is the constitutional organ responsible for making laws.

"If the Executive is uncomfortable with a provision, the appropriate action will be to beckon on the National Assembly to amend or repeal such provisions. To let such infractions slide is a call to anarchy."

He also pointed out that CEDEHUR's investigation indicated that, "(Olukoyede) was appointed as Chief of staff to the erstwhile Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, and he served in that capacity from 2016 to 2018. He was later appointed the Commission Secretary and he served in that capacity from 2018 to 2019 before he was suspended from Office, and we gathered that same indicted both principal officers were never re-absorbed back to the Commission.

"Dramatically, Olukoyede has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of EFCC, and we also gathered he was recently invited by the EFCC, and have been reliably informed that his offences has been written off, while his salaries and benefits suspended will be all paid while he was on suspension.

"In fact, we are all aware of Olukoyede spending eight years at the Commission between 2016 to 2023. We also queried that how did he manufactured additional 15 cognate years experience as contained in as required by law to as contained in Section 2 (1)(iii) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act, 2004?

"It is against this backdrop that we write the petition and calling you to use your office to give this appointment the proper scrutiny it deserves and stop the flagrant disregard and breach of the provisions of the extant laws of the EFCC Establishment Act 2004.

"We believe you will give our petition the prompt action it deserves and save our nation from anarchy."

CSO Protests Over Tinubu’s Flagrant Breach In Appointment Of EFCC Chair, Olukoyede
https://kakaakireporters.com/30933-2/

…infractions of EFCC Extant Laws, call to anarchy

A Civil Society Group, Center for Democracy and Human Rights, CEDEHUR, Friday, accused President Bola Tinubu, for grossly violating the Extant Laws of the Economic and Financial Commission, EFCC, by appointing Mr Ola Olukoyede as Chairman of the Commission on Thursday.

The National Secretary, CEDEHUR, Adebayo Ogorry, pointed out that Tinubu failed to understand that the EFCC Extant laws remain sacrosanct and needed to be strictly adhered to before going ahead to appoint a chairman for the Commission.

Ogorry said Tinubu needs to comply with the EFCC Extant Laws and immediately cancel the appointment of Olukoyede as EFCC's Chairman, if not he stands to set a wrong precedence for successive administrations,band that will slip into anarchy.

It will be recalled that on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu appointed Mr. Ola Olukoyede to serve as the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission pending Senate confirmation.

He said: “Who qualifies to be the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission?

“To answer this poser, recourse will be made to the highlighted extant provision of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004: (1) The Commission shall consist of the following members-(a)A chairman, who shall-(i)be the Chief Executive and Accounting officer of the Commission(ii) be a serving or retired member of any government security or law enforcement agency not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police or equivalent; and(iii) Possess not less than 15 years cognate experience

“The provision is very clear and unambiguous. The functions of the EFCC are not civil in nature. Hence it is a paramilitary organization. That is the rationale behind the inclusion of the police ranking system and its equivalent in other law enforcement agencies as one of the prerequisites for attaining the position of the Executive Chairman.

“Secondly, the person sought to be appointed must not only be a member of the law enforcement family, he must also have 15 years cognate experience. In other words, the person must have the knowledge, skills and abilities in the professional law enforcement activity.

“This section simply means that not all members of the police force, other Forces and indeed the EFCC can be the EC of the EFCC. A pilot, medical personnel, Admin officer, etc who have 15 years police or paramilitary service, are ordinarily devoid of the cognate experience of enforcing the laws of the EFCC.

“This much is gleaned from Section 8 (5) of the EFCC Act which states that: …..all officers involved in the enforcement of the Act shall have the same powers, authorities, privileges (including power to bear arms) as are given by law to members of the Nigerian Police.

“The words that are underlined simply mean that not all officers or members are involved in the enforcement of the EFCC Act. This is not strange as the EFCC started as a new agency lacking in manpower across the board.

“Therefore, there was a massive recruitment and secondment of personnel of staff from sister agencies to boost the personnel capacity of the EFCC. In other words, there were different entry points. However, the EFCC in its wisdom consciously differentiated all the staff.

“To further buttress this point, the EFCC simply identified the officers who are beneficiaries of Section 8 (5) of the EFCC Act and issued them with a warrant card. Evidently, the officers who do not possess a warrant card are not regarded as equivalent to police officers as envisioned by the EFCC Establishment Act.

“To put it in context, there are various members of the law enforcement agencies and Military organisations that are civilians and cannot take on the headship. Examples of these abound in the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Police Force. A person who serves in the EFCC as Chief of Staff (personal staff of the Chairman) or secretary has no law enforcement training as envisioned by the EFCC Act. Just like, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) may consider appointing a non-Police personnel in his office to carry out certain work.

“That does not make the civilian a member of the Police Force in the context of appointment to the headship. Also, a civilian Police pay officer who works with the Police does not become a member of the Police force in the context of appointment as IGP.

“Any appointment that is contrary to the provisions of the Extant EFCC Establishment Act is an assault on the National Assembly which is the constitutional organ responsible for making laws.

“If the Executive is uncomfortable with a provision, the appropriate action will be to beckon on the National Assembly to amend or repeal such provisions. To let such infractions slide is a call to anarchy.”

Meanwhile, the group also pointed out that the nominee, Olukoyede is not a personnel that rose through the ranks that make him deserve the proposed appointment based on his track record of service on his entry and positions held before his nomination by President Bola Tinubu to be the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The CSO asserted that, "He (Olukoyede) was appointed as Chief of staff to the erstwhile Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, and he served in that capacity from 2016 to 2018.

'He was later appointed the Commission Secretary and he served in that capacity from 2018 to 2019 before he was suspended from Office, and we gathered that same indicted both principal officers were never re-absorbed back to the Commission.

"Dramatically, Olukoyede has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of EFCC, and we also gathered he was recently invited by the EFCC, and sudden.

"We have been reliably informed that his offences has been written off, while his salaries and benefits suspended will be all paid while he was on suspension.

"In fact, we are all aware of Olukoyede spending eight years at the Commissio between 2016 to 2023.

"We also queried that how did he manufactured additional 15 cognate years experience as contained in as required by law to as contained in Section 2 (1)(iii) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act, 2004?", Ogorri queried.


https://kakaakireporters.com/tinubu-grossly-violated-efcc-extant-laws-appointing-olukoyede-chairman-group/

APC Inaugurates Aminu Bello Masari-led Reconciliation Committee For Ondo State

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje while inaugurating the Reconciliation Committee for Ondo State on Friday said their terms of reference are: “To interface and engage with all contending partner(s) with a view to gathering facts and circumstances surrounding the lingering impeachment process of the deputy governor.

To advise the party on the most amicable ways of handling the lingering issues leading to the impeachment process of the deputy governor.

To make necessary recommendations to the party on resolution of issues and any other matter that may come up in the course of the assignment.”

*Committee Members*

H.E. Aminu Bello Masari - Chairman
H.E. Gboyega Oyetola
H.E. Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar
H.E. Martins Elechi
H.E.Obafemi Hamzat
Sen. Tilley Gyado
Sen. Ita Giwa
Sen. Tokunbo Abiru
Liman Abbas - Secretary

...says alleged criminal records makes Maciver unfit

AS the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, sets to conduct governorship election in Bayelsa State on November 11, 2023, 28 lawyers, Sunday, moved to ensure the running-mate of the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Timpre Sylva, Joshua Maciver is disqualified.

This was contained in a suit filed against the defendants, Sylva, Maciver, and INEC, by the plaintiff, Incorporated Trustees of the Trustfield Empowerment Initiative at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

According to the plaintiff in the suit, Maciver's jail term is still running over a criminal offence, and pointed out that based on the current jail term of MacIver, the APC governorship candidate, Sylva does not have a valid running-mate for the election.

Meanwhile, in the suit, the plaintiff decried action of INEC for accepting and allowing Maciver to be Sylva's running-mate despite the Commission knows Maciver currently serves a criminal jail term.

The court summon leaked through an insider working at the court, indicates:
1. Whether having regard to the provisions of Sections 175(1), 182(1)(d) and (2)(c) and 187 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended) and in view of the conviction of the 2nd Defendant for a sentence of imprisonment, the 1st Defendant does not have any valid candidate as his associate for his running for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election?

2. Whether having regard to the combined provisions of Sections 175(1), 182(1)(d) & (2)(c) and 187(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended), the recognition and listing of the 2nd Defendant, who is under a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, as the Deputy Governorship candidate of the 1st Defendant in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is illegal, unlawful, null and a gross violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended)?

3. Whether upon the community reading of the provisions of Sections 175(1), 182(1)(d) & (2)(c) and 187(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended), the 2nd Defendant having been convicted for a criminal offence with a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, is not eligible to be recognised or listed by the 3rd Defendant (INEC) as the associate of the 1st Defendant for his running for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election?

4. Whether in view of the conviction of the 2nd Defendant for a term of imprisonment, his recognition by the 3rd Defendant (INEC) as the associate and running mate of the 1st Defendant for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is not at variance with the Constitution of the Federal of Nigeria, null and void ab initio?
WHEREOF the Plaintiff seeks the following Reliefs:
(a) A DECLARATION that in view of the conviction of the 2nd Defendant for a sentence of imprisonment, the 1st Defendant does not have any valid candidate as his associate for his running for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election.

(b) A DECLARATION that recognition and listing of the 2nd Defendant, who is under a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, as the Deputy Governorship candidate of the 1st Defendant in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is illegal, unlawful, null and a gross violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended), null and void ab initio.

(c) A DECLARATION that the 2nd Defendant having been convicted for a criminal offence with a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, is not eligible to be recognised or listed by the 3rd Defendant (INEC) as the associate of the 1st Defendant for his running for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election.

(d) A DECLARATION that in view of the conviction of the 2nd Defendant for a term of imprisonment, his recognition by the 3rd Defendant (INEC) as the associate and running mate of the 1st Defendant for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is at variance with the Constitution of the Federal of Nigeria, null and void ab initio.

(e) AN ORDER OF PERPETUAL INJUNCTION restraining the 3rd Defendant (INEC) by itself, agents, servants, privies or howsoever described from recognising, listing, publishing or in any other manner whatsoever according any recognition to the 2nd Defendant as the associate and running mate of the 1st Defendant for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election.

…says he’s a man worthy of emulation

The Embassy of Greece, under the auspices of Amb Loannis Plotas has commended the Head of Mission, International Peace Commission (IPC-Nigeria), Amb Hussaini Haruna Coomassie for his exemplary leadership in peace building across Nigeria.
According to the letter sighted by our journalist, it stated that Amb Coomassie has distinguished himself amongst many who are fighting for peace in Nigeria.
He added that his selfless and strenuous effort towards smoothening “Business, Cultural and Diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Greece is what distinguished him among others.

“I would like to reassure you, your Excellency, (President Bola Ahmed Tinubu) that I’m personally pleased with his Peace Mission in Nigeria. I also take advantage to wish him the best throughout his diplomatic career as the Head of Mission of the international Peace Commission, IPC-Nigeria,” the later stated.

It could be recalled that Amb Hussaini Coomassie, a bridge builder was also commended by the previous administration for his efforts to unite all the six geo-political zones through his peace campings.

The Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency of Cross River State, Hon Peter Akpanke, assured that his performance of 100 days in office is a prelude to greater service and effective representation of his people.

Hon Akpanke also said he is not elected for self-aggrandizement but to ensure he changes the narrative in his constituency by meeting the yearnings, aspirations and expectations of his people who graciously and confidently gave him their mandate via the ballot box.

He also said despite the challenges he has been able to touch lives of the people via job creation, various people-oriented projects, aids and interventions, including sponsoring of bills, and on the spot assessment of issues within the constituency, collaborations and partnerships, and carrying every constituent along.

Basically, the MP has been a grassroots politician who have first-hand knowledge, experience and information about the people and their demands, hence he had placed value and resources to ensure these demands are met and others they are yet to ask for.

Meanwhile, he has been active on the floor of the hallowed Green Chamber since he was sworn-in along with his fellow lawmakers in Abuja.

Some of the projects he had provide for his people include; Installation of solar street lights in some communities in Obanliku LGA; Construction of solar powered borehole in Sankwala Market; Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Obudu LGA.

Distribution of sewing machines and motorbikes to selected constituents in Obudu; Construction of solar powered borehole at Obudu Central Market (Old Park); Distribution of sewing machines and motorcycles to selected beneficiaries in Bekwarra LGA.

Construction of solar borehole and toilet in Bekwarra Motor Park; Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Bekwarra; Distribution of hand pumps, herbicides and liquid fertilizers to Obanliku female farmers.

Entrepreneurial training/empowerment of young ladies in hair dressing and makeup business in Obanliku LGA; Distribution of motorbikes to 20 Obanliku youths; Entrepreneurship training and distribution of hair-making and makeup kits for hair stylists in Obudu

Meanwhile, Hon Akpanke gave aids and interventions; Launching of the Akpanke Health Scheme for the benefit of his constituents; Distribution of food stuffs to about 200 widows across the ten wards of Obudu; Payment of hospital bills for patients in Bekwarra General Hospital; Payment of hospital bills for the less-privileged in different hospitals across Obudu.

Distribution of food items to widows across the political wards of Obanliku LGA; Distribution of food stuffs to over 200 widows and people living with disabilities in the 10 wards of Bekwarra; Distribution of incentives, gift packages and cash to constituents, unions and associations across Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra LGA for new yam celebrations.

Timely response to the collapsed of Kafa-Bridge linking Lishiche/Shikpeche and eight other communities of Bishiri North and South where he sponsored temporary paths while waiting for the relevant government agencies to commence rebuilding work on the collapsed bridge.

It is also a major milestone of performance by Hon Akpanke to create jobs within his 100 days in office, indeed a very short period to gave a new lease of life to the people.

Five of his constituents that are currently undergoing training in NDLEA camps and two of his constituents who have resumed work at the Federal College of Education,Obudu.

Being a grassroots leader, Hon Akpanke knows how to fuse and sustain community relationship and partnership, this was even before he was elected to represent his constituency, and this has made him to form a strong partnership with the people for the smooth distribution and execution of constituency projects.

His strategies include; Needs Assessment Tour: He embarked on needs assessment tour with elders, stakeholders, youths and opinion molders across the three LGAs of OBO Federal constituency.

On-the-spot assessment of uncompleted and abandoned federal projects in OBO. He is in discussion with the various ministries, departments and agencies to rehabilitate/complete the construction of such projects.

On-the-spot assessment of Economic sites like the Obudu Dam Resort, illegal mining sites in Utanga, Obanliku LGA etc. for possible attraction of government’s attention so that royalties could accrue to the host communities.

Being a politician and leader who knows why threw his hat into the ring, as soon as he was sworn-in to represent Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency of Cross River State, he immediately hit the ground running as a legislator.

He has been very active on the floor of the Green Chamber without hesitation, and within his 100 days in office he has been able to present notable bills;
A Motion for the immediate rehabilitation of the abandoned Obudu Dam Resort.

He co-sponsored a motion (with other Cross River law makers) which raised alarm that the country was on the verge of losing some parts of Cross River State to Cameroon.

He presented a petition on the floor of the House from some constituents who felt that they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar.

He sponsored a bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Obanliku, Cross River State.

According to SSA Media and Publicity to Hon Peter Akpanke, Awade Friday, "It is evident that the first 100 days of Hon. Peter Akpanke in the House of Reps have been quite impactful and promising.

"The MP has no plans of slowing down in his quest to deliver the dividends of democracy to OBO Federal constituency.

"He is determined to leave no stone unturned until he delivers on his campaign promises of harnessing opportunities for his constituents, emancipate women, empower youths, support children education and better the lot of his people.

"The MP admonish all his constituents to remain steadfast and continue to pray for him as he continues to put their interest first."

A 24-HOUR curfew has been declared in Kano State following the judgment of the election petitions tribunal sacking the state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, in a statement he personally signed, said a combined team of security operatives have been dispatched across the city to enforce the curfew.

“In view of the Constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force alongside the relevant Internal Security and Law Enforcement Agencies to preserve law and order in the State, the Kano State Police Command have mapped out strategies on that direction and call on the good people of the State to give the necessary confidence and supports.

“Going forward, Kano State residents are called upon to note that combined Security Forces have already been dispatched to the nooks and crannies including the entry and exits of the State to ensure enforcement and strict compliance of the Twenty-Four Hours (24hrs) Curfew order as communicated by the State Government via letter with Reference No: K/SEC/H/435/T.1/153 dated 20th September, 2023 taking effect from 6pm of Wednesday, 20th September to 6pm of Thursday, 21st September 2023.
https://kakaakireporters.com/breaking-24-hour-curfew-declared-in-kano/

...Shortlisted for Qatar Business Accelerator Programme

Luxury women fashion brand, DWL, founded by Nigerian designer, Ivie Odemwingie-Osula, has been accepted into the Scale7 Fashion Accelerator program funded by Qatar Development Bank (QDB).

Currently based in Qatar with operations in Lagos and Doha, DWL, an acronym for Defining Women’s Lifestyle, was selected alongside nine other prominent Qatar-based fashion and design brands for the program which kicked off on September 18, 2023. The program involves provision of specialized mentorship, business development activities and funding.

Scale7 is the first fashion and design business incubator in Qatar founded by Qatar Development Bank (QDB) in partnership with M7, Qatar’s epicentre for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion and tech.

Established by Qatar Museums under the leadership of Her Excellency Sheikha Al-Mayassa, M7 responds to the demands of Qatar’s growing fashion and design industries to support Qatar-based promising innovative entrepreneurs with huge market potential to grow their businesses to iconic global fashion and design brands.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have DWL selected for the prestigious Scale7 fashion accelerator program after a rigorous selection process,” says Ms. Ivie Odemwingie-Osula in a statement. “This recognition not only validates our vision and hard work but also provides us with unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, networking, and capacity growth towards positioning DWL as a competitive global brand.”

On how the support from Qatar Development Bank will impact her business, she enthuses: “Undoubtedly, the government of Qatar will enhance the status of the DWL brand, to increase our operations and growth, globally. For us at DWL, the Business Accelerator Program will amplify our capabilities, allowing us to refine our strategies and scale faster for enhanced brand presence, increased capacity, streamlined operations, and a wider reach and audience. We are excited for the journey ahead and the positive impact it will have on the DWL brand and community.”

PHOTO CAPTION:
Ivie Odemwingie-Osula, Founder & Creative Director, DWL (L) and Aysha Al Romaihi, Head, Special Incubation Programs at Qatar Development Bank (QDB), at the kickoff of the Scale 7, Accelerator Program in Doha, Qatar.

Corruption Allegations Against FCT Chief Judge're Junks Of Lies, Cheap Blackmail - Group

Umbrella body of bloggers under the auspices of Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association, BAVCCA, Saturday, vehemently refuted corruption allegations leveled against the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Husseini Baba-Yusuf, as junks of lies and cheap blackmail by faceless bloggers.

This was contained in an address presented by the National President of BAVCCA, Ikechukwu Chukwunyere, during a press conference, where the records were put straight on the heels of allegations of corruption against Justice Baba-Yusuf based on the in-depth findings of the Association.

Chukwunyere said: "RE: FCT judges accuse chief justice (sic) of stealing of multibillion Naira allowances, leaving them vulnerable to bribe traffickers”:
It is quite baffling to note that a publication that was touted to have been made, according to the publisher, after various “discreet interviews conducted over seven weeks”, allegedly with 5 judges, turns out to be a potpourri of lies, exhibition of crass ignorance, and monumental fabrication of falsehood that can only fit into folktales like Tales by Moonlight.

"ON THE ALLEGATION THAT COURT IS RUN LIKE THE PRIVATE ESTATE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE:
The Office of the Chief Judge in relation to other Judges of the Court is that of first among equals. My Lord, Honourable Justice Hussaini Baba Yusuf is very much aware of this, and therefore has always maintained a very cordial relationship borne out of mutual respect for his brother Judges.

"In the discharge of his duties, he has always been very fair to his brother Judges. He has always ensured that they all are given their dues, entitlements, rights, and privileges as and when due, devoid of any segregation in whatever shape or form.

"His brother Judges have, both in the open and in private meetings, expressed their satisfaction with the way he relates with them, carrying them along in his efforts at improving justice delivery in the FCT. No judge has been a better privilege than the other.

"They all, at various times, have always attended trainings, seminars, and conferences due to them within the court's financial strength.

"However, when the occasion so demands, some Judges of this Court are nominated, not by the Chief Judge, but by either the National Judicial Council (NJC), or National Judicial Institute (NJI) or some foreign organisations for some conferences or trainings, within or outside the country.

"On such occasions, the only option is for the Chief Judge to facilitate such travels. On such occasions, it will be preposterous to accuse the Chief Judge of favouritism in any way, having not nominated them in the first place.

"Also, the Chief Judge has done all that is within his power to insulate his brother Judges from several petitions, all in an attempt to afford them the requisite conducive environment, devoid of harassment, to do their jobs.

"At times, even where it is very obvious that some of them had acted less than honourable at some occasions, but considering the distractions of making them go through the tedious process attendant with such issues, the Chief Judge had always personally intervened to assuage the parties concerned.

"It equally important to state that where very serious allegations are made against his brother Judges, or where such petitions are routed through the NJC, the Chief Judge has no option than to allow the process go through it's normal cause. Apparently, this may leave a bitter taste in the mouth of some of these brother Judges who feel that he ought to ALWAYS insulate them from every manner of petition, irrespective of how grievous such petitions may be.

Meanwhile, he (Chukwunyere) said the bloggers would be uncovered.

"The Committee's report came back in the negative saying that Chief Judge Husseini Baba-Yusuf was innocent of all the allegations.

"OUR RESOLUTION: That As Bloggers and Vloggers Content Creators Association (BAVCCA), we have deemed it fit to debunk claims against the Chief Judge Husseini Baba-Yusuf, over alleged corruption and personnel grievances that posses far-reaching implications for the administration of justice in the nation’s seat of power which are not true as they make Nigerians to believe a lie.

"That ordinarily BAVCCA would not have responded to this allegations considering the fact that the allegations are not only false and baseless but the said allegations were levelled by faceless criminals who only embarked on this mission for political purposes and cheap blackmail.

"That we have carefully gone through the articles and discovered that no name was mentioned as the source of their information, no Judge was also mentioned as their source and no evidence was even adduced to substantiate the said allegations.

"That BAVCCA as the umbrella body of all Bloggers, Vloggers and Content Creators frown at the fact that members of our body should be used as tools in the hands of cheap blackmailers who thrive in peddling unsubstantiated information in the media. Bloggers who allow themselves as agents of these false news shall be penalized.

"That from our independent investigations and findings, we observed with keen interest that the stories and reports put out there are all tissues of lies and baseless.

"That the allegation against Honourable Justice Baba-Yusuf milking Judges' meagre allowances, leaving their courtrooms without support personnel, equipment and luring them to bribe, is untrue as he remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of Judges in Abuja.

"That It is unfortunate, some of these publications were hurriedly put together and some news media ran with them without doing due diligence through investigation to verify and balance their reportage.

"We want to make it clear that these allegations against Chief Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf have never been verified and authenticated anywhere and anytime; rather they are deliberately cooked up by some unscrupulous elements who do not mean well for our judiciary.

"We therefore, call on Nigerians to discard this cheap blackmail from persons who are out to defame the Chief Judge of FCT, who has positively transformed the judiciary and repositioned it for high productivity.

"That Honourable Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf is a go-getter, who has transformed the image and the integrity of the Judiciary, therefore, he has attracted local and international recognitions and awards.

"That it is on record that nobody has written any petition against Chief Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf to the National Judicial Council since 1998 when he was appointed as a Judge in Federal Capital Territory High Court. Hence, he is committed to making adjudication of Justice pure and unadulterated.

"That he has been able, through his proactive and pragmatic steps to improve the sanity and independence of the judiciary.

"That members of the Bench, Bar and Judiciary staffs have showered encomium on his sterling performance since he took over the helm of affairs of the Judiciary in the FCT.

"That a disciplinary committee has been set up to investigate erring members and appropriate punishment.

"That BAVCCA assures Nigerians that we will continue to uphold the true tenets of Journalism, we also assure them of our impartiality in the delivery of duties to the Nigerian public."

FCT, ABUJA

SEPTEMBER 5, 2023

PRESS STATEMENT

*PRESIDENT TINUBU’S 100 DAYS IN OFFICE: APC COMMENDS NIGERIANS*

On this incipient milestone of 100 days in office of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the All Progressives Congress (APC) commends Nigerians for their highly valued partnership and support as the President implements bold measures to reset the country’s economy for sustainable growth and beneficial development.

Undeterred by daunting global trends and challenges, President Tinubu is deftly unknotting debilitating complex distortions and inefficiencies, and enacting people-centered policies encapsulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda geared towards expanding livelihood resources, promoting investment and growth opportunities, tackling insecurity and implementing targeted social intervention programs to cushion the difficult but transient impact of the administration’s essential policy reforms. This focused commitment has rekindled enthusiasm among the local business community and foreign investors who now see strong prospects of our country as a choice destination for investment.

We urge Nigerians to stand-fast in their support of the APC-led administration. We are confident that President Tinubu will spare no effort in his determination to radically remake the social, economic, security and material conditions of our country, and expand access to improved quality of life for all Nigerians.

Signed:
*Barr. Felix Morka*
National Publicity Secretary
All Progressives Congress (APC)

APC Appoints National Campaign Council For The 11th November, 2023 Imo Governorship Election

Alleged Claims Of Budget Inflation, Secret Employment, Against NIMASA DG, Dr Jamoh Unfounded, Lies By Detractors - CSOs

Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, under the auspices of Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (CCSON) on Wednesday, debunked allegations of on budget inflation, secret employment leveled against the Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr. Bashir Jamoh, saying they are unfounded and lies from detractors.

This was contained in an address delivered during a press conference organised by the Coalition, which was read by the National Secretary, CCSON, Comrade Dele Anifowoshe in Abuja.

Anifowoshe pointed out that there was no in-depth investigation before some media houses reported what they received as allegations from some persons they described as mischievous and unscrupulous elements.

According to him, they had done their investigations that showed that the allegations were handiwork of detractors whose dirty businesses have be taken away and now are fighting back by using some sections of the media to report unverified facts.

He said, "As Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, CCSON, we have deemed it fit to debunk claims against the Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Director General, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, over alleged financial infractions which are not true as they make Nigerians to believe a lie.

"From our investigations which indicated that the stories and report put out there are all tissues of lies and baseless.

"It's unfortunate, some of these publications were hurriedly put together and some news medium run with them without doing due diligence through investigation to verify and balance their reportage.

"We want to make it clear that these allegations have never been verified and authenticated anywhere and anytime rather they are deliberately cooked up by some unscrupulous elements who does not mean well for our country and peace.

"We call on Nigerians to discard this cheap blackmail from persons who are out to defame the Director General of NIMASA who has positively transformed the agency and repositioned it for high productivity."

According to him, the NIMASA boss is a game changer and goal-getter who had transformed the image of the agency, therefore, he has attracted local and international recognitions and awards.

"Industry players have showered encomium on his sterling performance since he took over the helms of affairs of the agency.

"Today, NIMASA is recognized for his performance by bringing the agency to be at par with its counterparts across the world based on its global best practices.

"Dr Jamoh has stood out among those who were DGs of NIMASA by being gender sensitive and friendly, which the agency has 60 per cent of directors as women.

"He has been able through his proactive and pragmatic steps made the Agency to have strong synergy between other relevant agencies and established international collaboration against piracy and other maritime offences resulting in an all time reduction in vessel and crew attacks.

"With his personal involvement and engagement with the NIMASA Board, Executive Management Team and all staff of the agency, they have all worked assiduously to contribute to the success stories the nation’s foremost maritime administration has been associated with.

"He is currently on the move to ensure NIMASA scales up performance of its statutory functions and activities to woo more for investors, professionals and all stakeholders in the nation’s maritime industry to boost the economy, he said, "Now we have to double our efforts."

"Meanwhile, one of Nigeria's good great brains, Prof Pat Utomi stated that, “the Deep Blue Project and the Blue Economy initiatives Dr. Jamoh continues to champion have brought massive gains to the Agency and the nation’s economic diversification goals.”

"Media reports also have it that the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) in its recent report had disclosed that piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, which had in recent times become the global epicentre for sea piracy, fell to the lowest since Q2 2019 after the Dr. Jamoh started enforcing the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, also known as the Deep Blue Project.

"Based on the impact and achievements of the DG NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, since assumption of office has won several awards including the 2020 Zik Prize in Public Policy.

"Also the prestigious media giant, Vanguard Media has given one of its highest awards to Dr Jamoh as recognition and commendation of his radical transformation of NIMASA, which was the 'Public Sector Icon (Maritime) Award', and critical maritime stakeholders who witnessed the ceremony acknowledged the fact that the NIMASA DG has worked hard within a short period to justify the honour.

"Due to his excellent performance in repositioning NIMASA he was honoured with the prestigious award of 'Public Servant of the Year' in 2022 by Champion Newspapers.

"Also internationally he has been applauded for his doggedness and determination to change the narrative after he hit the ground running as the DG NIMASA", they added.

However, they made their stance known, "We once again state that the allegations against a core technocrat and goal-getter as Dr Jamoh are all lies from the lips of mischief-makers and faceless individuals as well as group."

...want Tinubu's intervention

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Cross River State led by Dame Senator Florence Ita-Giwa on Thursday, had an exhaustive meeting with the National Chairman of the party, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, and strongly appealed for the return of the position of the National Women Leader back the state.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the state Chairman of the Party in Cross River State, Barr Alphonsus Ogar Eba, said a letter has been written to the leader of the party, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and noted that they have received assurance from the national chairman that the issues would be amicably resolved.

Eba also called members of the party in the state to remain calm, noting that the state governor, Sen Prince Bassey Otu, has been fully briefed and has cut short his holiday to return to the country and he is on top of the situation.

He Eba, said: "We the leadership of the Cross River State All Progressives Congress, APC, make our stand known on the purported move by some party chieftains to take away the National Women Leader position from Cross River State to Edo and Delta States.

"Yesterday (Wednesday) the National Working Committee, NWC, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, came out and against due process for the Office of APC National Women Leader, which hitherto was occupied by Dr Mrs Betta Edu, was purportedly zoned to Edo State with Absolute disregard to Article 31.5 of APC Constitution, which is our guiding rules.

"But in a civilized democracy aggrieved persons can only channel their grievances through the appropriate quarters.

"Today, we have come to the National Chairman to inform him of this infraction and we have also written to Mr President to say that the National Women Leader position is commonly shared between Cross River and Akwa-Ibom. Edo and Delta presently have an NWC position, which is the National Publicity Secretary.

"You cannot take our position to over-rate us and overenriching Edo State, and by the grace of God the National Chairman of our party has assured us and asked us to be patient that this matter will be resolved.

"Our Governor is leaving his holiday and vacation to return back so that we can resolve this issue, we don't want trouble, and Cross River State is the only APC State in the entire South-South, we are providing leadership, and we are using this opportunity to appeal to every Cross Riverian that this matter would be resolved amicably.

"They are comparing the in comparables; Government position has nothing to do with party position, it is the APC Constitution that guides the issue of zoning, it is the Nigerian Constitution that guides issues of ministerial appointment. Most States in the South-South have had two ministers we are only lucky that for the first time Cross River State now have two ministers and we are thankful to Mr President who found them worthy.

"But this cannot take the place of our rightful entitlement and I have explained you are taking woman leadership from Cross River and Akwa-Ibom to add to Edo and Delta that have National Publicity Secretary and Assistant Treasurer and other NWC positions, it's like 'robbing Peter to pay Paul', and this is a party of equity and justice and injustice cannot stand, and we trust in the principles of Mr President, he would not allow this to happen."

It will would be recalled that a delegation of Cross River Stakeholders, led by the indomitable Dame Senator Florence Ita Giwa, were on a solidarity visit to the National Chairman of the APC, HE Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.

The purpose of the visit was to address the ongoing saga involving the ceding of the office of National Women Leader of the party reserved for Cross River and Akwa Ibom to Edo state. The delegation maintained that, after the elevation of Dr. Betta Edu to the office of Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the president had approved that another Cross Riverian in the person of Hon Dr Mrs Stella Odey Ekpo should replace her. But the state was arm twisted and the office zoned to Edo State without due process and the name of Dr Stella Odey Ekpo was replaced with Dr Mary Alile Alele. This, they believed, is an infraction and an attempt to deprive Cross River state of its right and as stakeholders, they were there to ensure that justice is served.

In the delegation were other notable stakeholders of the party and top government functionaries of Cross River State along with the State Chairman of APC, Cross River State, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, the Senator representing the Central Senatorial District, Sen. Williams Eteng Jones and the chief of staff to the governor of Cross River State, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.

Others include, member representing Ikom /Boki federal constituency, Hon. Victor Abang, High Chief Higgins Peters, honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Helen Isamoh Egodo, Honourable Commissioner for Information, Hon Erasmus Ekpang, former Commissioner for LG Affairs, Hon. Stella Odey, Chief Victor Effiom Ekpo, High Chief Tony Undiandeye and others.
https://kakaakireporters.com/cross-river-apc-demands-return-of-natl-women-leader-position/

The Head of Mission, International Peace Commission IPC-Nigeria, Amb Hussaini Haruna Coomassie has called on his staff and people of Nigeria to preach peace and focus more on doing good for the sake of humanity.

He made this known while holding an extraordinary general meeting with members of IPC in Nigeria.

He stated that Nigeria is moving forward and should be more focused on peace and security to bring about tranquility in the lives of it's citizens, which are prerequisites for socioeconomic development.

He insisted that there should be synergy with the global body in making sure that members that show true commitment are treated with respect.

"Nobody should take Nigeria for granted because we are working towards a lasting and peaceful democracy. There are people who are illegally running accounts in our name, which is fraudulent. We'll fish them out and take punitive measures against them. We need to take care of of everyone in IPC, especially the women amongst us.

"I'm urging everyone to work diligently to make sure that this organisation achieve the necessary impact that it is expected to for a better tomorrow," he pleaded.

In addition, he urges his staff members to prepare programmes that would enhance their activities and enhance their presence around the country.

"I would also want us to prepare other programme schedules so that we can move our organisation forward. We need to stand firm together as a team for peace and progress," he concluded.

‘I Came On Board To Touch Lives As IPC-Nigeria Boss’ –Amb Coomassie
https://kakaakireporters.com/i-came-on-board-to-touch-lives-as-ipc-nigeria-boss-amb-coomassie/

...insist allegation baseless and unfounded

No fewer than 74 Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, under the auspices of Coalition of Civil Society Organization of Nigeria, COCSON, Tuesday, backed stance of the management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, against Femi Falana, SAN, over alleged claim of acquisition of properties abroad by NIMASA.

COCSON made its position known during a press conference held in Abuja, where leaders of the CSOs expressed disappointment of the accusations made by Falana.

This was contained in a statement signed by some of the leaders including President Transparency & Accountability Group,
Comrade Ayo Ologun; Executive Director, African Leadership Strategy and Transparency Development Initiative, Comrade Nelson Ossaieze; President
Ijaw Youth Assembly, Comrade Dabara Dagogo; The Convener,
Centre for Public Accountability, Femi Lawson; President
Arewa Youth Congress, Nura Alkali; Convener, Transparency Initiative Project, Yemen Ngutor; and Executive Director, Pan African Society for Social and Economic Change Secretary COCSON, Basah Mohammed.

According to them, after a thorough investigation which COCSON had "contracted an independent investigator who's primary Term of Reference was to investigate the accusations made by the respected Femi Falana, SAN against the management of NIMASA that it recently acquired no fewer than three properties in England, UK."

"We want to state today that the report from the investigation has been turned in, we also want to state that other person who were consulted in this matter has unanimously agreed that the accusations are false since.

"We want to state for the record that it is a public knowledge that the agency has not acquire any property abroad for the past 30 years.

"It is important to state categorically that NIMASA is one of the agencies of government which has good administration and high level of integrity. They have also displayed a high level of compliance to the extant laws guiding its operations.

"While we don't want to join words with the learned silk, we indeed appreciate his opinions on topics of public concern but it is obvious that he may have been misguided by other persons on this matter.

"The NIMASA DG, Dr. Bashir Jamoh for the record is known for his proven track records in the NIMASA which is devoid of any form of corruption and scandalous act.

"Dr. Jamoh, since his appointment has shown that he is a round peg in a round hole. Since his emergence, he has identified some of the problems in NIMASA and has successfully put in place solutions.

"Also, The accusations of nepotism, mismanagement of funds and awarding fictitious contracts against Dr. Bashir Jamoh, is false and baseless. As a matter of fact, employment under Jamoh has been transparent and devoid of any manipulation. Jamoh as a person has refused to directly get involved in employment."

However, in strong terms, the 74 CSOs said,"We are therefore appealing to those engaging in such smear campaign to desist from such acts and allow the DG of NIMASA to concentrate on his duties.

"We also enjoin individuals and other Anti-corruption Vanguard, to carry out there personal investigation on the credibility of these claims."

Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and Senator Rochas Okorocha parley.

Ahead of the Imo State Governorship election.

Administration1:
Wow, hope he was not the one who advised him to ban televisions back then

According to a Facebook post by Ebriku John Friday, Baba Dosumu in 1964 led today’s international evangelist and General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry as well as the convener of Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), Pastor Dr William Folorunso Kumuyi to Christ.

He also mentored him till he was established in the faith. He later joined Pastor Kumuyi after he was excommunicated from his former church, Apostolic Church.

Pastor Kumuyi introduced him to the leaders at the 50th Anniversary Luncheon.

Continue to preach and win souls for Christ. They are many Apostle Paul, Apostle Peter and Apostle John out there in the world.

https://kakaakireporters.com/the-man-who-led-pastor-w-f-kumuyi-to-christ/

https://www.facebook.com/100000330048564/posts/pfbid0yRgdXvhvkvw9SXJrdvJnGRinqy1YrEqwPYG2QSwmeG6aYBXtBJ7j9yCKhcQeBpJml/?mibextid=Nif5oz

This is my first address as president to the NEC after the 2023 victory. I join the acting national chairman to celebrate today and congratulate all of you. And to say thank you for all you have done. Permit to equally say congratulations to the Senate President, speaker and the entire national assembly leadership for the way they have conducted their affairs thus far and the promise of the future from them. Thank you.

All the elected leaders of our party, old and new, you have all gone through a process. It is the divine will of God that we are all here. To win the majority both in the Senate, house of representatives. I recalled in the 11th meeting of 20th April, 2022 when the national executive committee of the party devolved some powers to the NWC in accordance to the party's constitution.

To among other things organize our party's primary, I'm happy that the NWC has fulfilled these responsibilities assigned to them faithfully. Let me commend them and once again say congratulations.

I know election is just a step in the process, good governance is another one. We have gotten the trophy the president is standing before you and the reward for hardwork is more work.

The party has a responsibility to promote unity, stability and love among ourselves. And we have to fulfill your dreams and the dreams of our founding fathers. To be sure that Nigeria remains the focal point of our domestic and foreign policies. You are the drivers of the party, when we have all other passengers, the drivers and co passenger must not fall asleep and the break working. Party loyalty becomes very important.

Yes we are facing challenges in the court but I think this is the most credible election in Nigeria. So, we must congratulate ourselves. As a democrat, those who cannot accept the results of a free and fair election do not deserve the joy of victory.

There are governance issues and we are taking it heads on, we must oil the wheel, grease it and we are. I have submitted ministerial list to senate for screening and approval. We are in the process of establishing fully the government of the people, for the people and by the people.

I can see a number of my friends here and you have not been able to see me. It is what you all fought for to bring me here, we have governance issues and you will not see me often as you want to.

Nigeria is going through some issues and I have sufficiently address it in my broadcast and the acting national chairman also spoke about it in his address. We will face it squarely to reengineer the economy of this country. We must find a way to satisfy the yearnings of the common man and we must ensure that all the policies we roll out work for the common man. Our policies are for the people not to punish the people.

To the International community, I sent a message to Europe and America yesterday. To our partners, I ask how can you handle a barking dog and
mad dog and prevent a barking dog from eating from the plate of your enemy. We are hungry and the continent depends on Nigeria. We need help but not at the expense of our joy, peace and happiness.

The party is in your hand, let us redirect this party. Let us show the rest of the country that we are united for a purpose and if we via from the path posterity will not forgive us.

So, ladies and gentlemen let us take a few items on our plates, vote the chairman and secretary while we devolve some powers to NWC to fill the others after consultation. Let us do what we can today.

Ahead of the Bayelsa State governorship election slated for November 11, 2023 by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, strong indications have emerged that the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Timpre Sylva and running-mate, Joshua Maciver, risk disqualification.

This was disclosed on the heels of a suit filed against the defendants, Sylva, Maciver, and INEC, by the plaintiff, Incorporated Trustees of the Trustfield Empowerment Initiative at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

According to the plaintiff, Maciver's jail term still running over a criminal offence, hence the party's governorship candidate, Sylva does not have a valid running-mate for the election.

The plaintiff also queried INEC to allow Maciver to become a running-mate to Sylva knowing quite alright that Maciver is serving a criminal jail term.

Meanwhile, the plaintiff said, "The provisions of Sections 175(1), 182(1)(d) & (2)(c) and 187(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria clearly stated that anybody having been convicted for a criminal offence with a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, is not eligible to be recognised or listed by INEC, which MacIver is affected by these provisions.

"Due to term of imprisonment, MacIver should not be given recognition by INEC as the running mate of Sylva for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is not at variance with the Constitution of the Federal of Nigeria, null and void ab initio?

"On the heels of these we are unequivocally stating here that in view of the conviction of Maciver for a sentence of imprisonment, he cannot be a running mate of Sylva who is contesting for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election, hence Sylva does not have a running mate as submitted to INEC.

"We also declare that recognition and listing of MacIver who is under a sentence of imprisonment, without Presidential Pardon, as the Deputy Governorship candidate Sylva in the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election is illegal, unlawful, null and a gross violation of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"Therefore, we pray the Federal High Court, Abuja to give an order of perpetual injunction restraining the INEC from recognising MacIver and Sylva as not having a running mate for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election."

" They are reacting against David Adeleke's video that have gone viral where he was accused of blasphemy in his video.."

Innocent Billboard. Make una tear Oshoala own abeg. Awon werey

Following the removal of
Niger President, Mohamed Bazoum from power, by a group of soldiers who appeared on the West African nation's national television late on Wednesday, hours after the president was held in the Presidential Palace, the Head of Mission, IPC-Nigeria, Amb (Dr) Hussaini Haruna Coomassie has called on African leaders to sit up and work in unison to prevent further coup d'etat in Africa through better leadership peer review and improved security network across the continent.

According to him, his organisation condemns it in all ramification and want something urgent to be done to restore the democratically elected Government of President Bazoum.

His worlds: " We're not in support of any coup d'etat in Africa. When other countries of the world are working hard towards peaceful democracies and development. African Union (AU) and ECOWAS have become ineffective as far as curtailing such misadventures as coups in the continent. They really need to take a strong stance on such matters.

"A coup d'etat happened in Guinea, nothing happened , Mali followed nothing was done, Sudan and now Niger. Don't forget that Cote D'Ivoire, The Gambia are also under threat.

"If this is allowed to continue, other African countries that are fed up with the so-called foreign borrowed democracy, will adopt the autocratic rule of the military, which we as an organisation stands against. We condemn it in totality because no sane mind would support any coup d'etat, no matter how good it may seem," he advised.

It could be recalled that Colonel Amadou Abdramane was seated and flanked by nine other officers, said defence and security forces had decided: "Put an end to the regime that you know due to the deteriorating security situation and bad governance." Which is a very flimsy excuses and we will not take it.
https://kakaakireporters.com/ecowas-au-are-becoming-weak-to-end-coup-detat-in-africa-ipc-nigeria-boss/

The Niger Delta Festival and Trade Expo, organisers of the Niger Delta Economic and investment summit has unveiled her official partners, the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

This was revealed in a press statement issued by its Executive Director, Amb. Kenule Nwiya jnr in Abuja. According to him, the Niger Delta festival and trade expo is one that would be showcasing the rich culture, innovations and the positive sides of the people of the Niger Delta.

He said though plans are in top gear to kick-off the programme, the endorsement and subsequent partnership by these bodies is certainly an encouragement of a great showcase.

" I want to thank the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Ministry of Petroleum Resources for accepting to partner with us on this epoch event. We believe in their capacity and support towards progressive events like ours.

"The Niger Delta festival is an avenue for people of the region to come showcase themselves in various fields of endeavours. There are top dignitaries expected and soon we would keep you posted, "he promised.

The oil rich Niger Delta has contributed alot to the growth of the upstream and downstream sectors of the economy. Nigeria's petroleum industry is a sole beneficiary of the crude oil generated from the region.