₦airaland Forum

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/tinubu-speaks-on-ondo-apc-crisis-tells.html

With cracks within the fold of the Ondo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, posing imminent danger for the party’s chances in the 2020 governorship election in the state, National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has urged the various aggrieved and warring groups to sheath their swords.

The former Lagos State Governor made the plea on Tuesday’s evening in Akure, the Ondo State capital, after a peace meeting which was brokered by the APC leadership in the South-West.

Tinubu, who was accompanied to the state by the former Osun State Governor, Bisi Akande who was also the former APC interim National Chairman, stressed that political crisis is not strange to party politics but it must be resolve in the overall interest of the party and the benefits of all members.

While emphasising that the 2020 governorship election is crucial for the party’s victory, he enjoined the aggrieved leaders and members to close ranks and work towards the common goal of winning the election for the party.

Tinubu, who spoke at the Dome, Alagbaka, Akure, shortly after a closed door meeting with APC stalwarts in Ijapo area of the state capital, said that, “We are leaving one thing behind. The charity that must begin at home.

“We want to win the next election in Ondo State and every other elections. The solution is in your hands. We want to thank you for your commitment to the party.

“We apply conflict resolution mechanism which is part of politics to resolve any other problem and smoothen the edges.

“The next move is unity; talking together, consulting one another and working together for the interests of our party and in particular Ondo state.”

Also on the entourage of Tinubu, who was received at the Akure Airport by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and his Ekiti State counterpart, Kayode Fayemi, were the former governors of Ogun and Ekiti states, Segun Osoba and Niyi Adebayo, alongside other chieftains of the party in the South-West.

Prominent Ondo APC leaders at the meeting were: Ondo State Deputy Governor, Agboola Ajayi, state Chairman of the party, Ade Adetimehin, former chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, Olusola Oke, APC Board of Trustees, BoT member, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, Segun Abraham among others.

Speaking with newsmen on what was discussed at the meeting, Chief Bisi Akande, former governor of Osun state, said the APC leaders had resolved to mend the broken fences in APC in Ondo state and they have been instructed to work together.

“We talked how we shall win next election resoundingly. You see all our leaders coming out together laughing and happy. We have our leaders in Ondo and we have told them to go and do their job and bring our party together as one.

“We shall also keep encouraging our leaders in Ondo state to do what we have agreed to which is unity at all level,” Akande said.

The former Chairman of the party in the state, Hon. Isaacs Kekemeke, expressed satisfaction, saying all aggrieved members have agreed to sit down and find solution to the party’s problem in the state.

“We have agreed that we will work together and we have agreed to find a domestic solution to address our domestic problem.

“So in a short while we will be putting ourselves together and proffer domestic solution to our domestic problem as motivated and encouraged by our National leader.

“We have all agreed that we have offended ourselves and that the better thing to do is to forgive ourselves and make comprise the way forward and thee most important thing is to build a platform and move the party forward.”

On his part, Chief Olusola Oke said the “leadership of the party in the South-West met with us to foster peace and unity and we have resolved on some fundamentals.

“We will meet again to pursue the fundamentals and when we finally resolve, we will brief them.”

DAILY POST recalls that the Ondo State APC have been enmeshed in series of crisis which started immediately after the party’s governorship primary which saw to the emergence of various factions of the party after some of the aspirants faulted the outcome of the primary.

Also the last general elections further polarized the already divided ranks within the party after accusations of imposition of candidates by the national leadership of the party and counter-accusations of alleged anti-party activities of the governor and the state exco of the party.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/nass-senator-adeyeye-explains-why.html



The lawmaker representing Ekiti South under the platform of APC, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, has defended the pay packages of members of the Senate.

He stressed that they deserve running costs apart from regular salaries.

Adeyeye, while speaking to journalists in Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti state, stated that public officers of lower status get adequate running costs for their duties, hence Senators deserve more given the responsibilities on their shoulders.

“Ordinary clerks have running cost in any organization, why should people believe senators are not entitled to running costs and they attribute that as their salaries, calling it Jumbo pay.

“Senators are entitled to running costs as well, apart from the salary. It is this running cost that people call jumbo pay which is not.

“There are over three thousand staff working for the National Assembly, are they not going to be paid? There’s a National Assembly Service Commission fully populated… (But) You just look at a senator and you say they are the ones sharing Nigeria’s money, No,” he said.

“People don’t appreciate the role of the legislator… that is why no matter how much you pay the legislature, they think it is unjustified.

“They think they don’t earn it which is not the case. But I know that with time, when we begin to engage the Nigerian public and bring them to full Knowledge of the roles of the legislature they will begin to see why the legislators should be given the enablement to perform their roles,” Adeyeye said.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/jamb-under-attack-as-registrar-vows-to.html

Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), says he was sure of a sponsored campaign against the efforts of the board.

Oloyede said this on Thursday in Abuja while presenting another suspect to newsmen, Kokowa Cletus, a 20-year-old, who allegedly falsified his Unified Tertiary Admissions Examination (UTME) result.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the board had on June 24, presented a 19-year-old Adah Eche, who allegedly falsified his UTME result, yet wrote a letter of complaint to the board for presenting him with two results.

The registrar frowned at the fraudulent trend, saying that it was unfortunate that the board was making efforts to serve the public yet it was being discouraged by detractors.

“This is especially when cases that were meant to be investigated were not appropriately done.

“We believe that there is an organised and sponsored campaign against JAMB for whatever reason.

“We have no apology, but will want the public, who might be misinformed to always know the situation at hand and the gravity of what we do.

“This campaign going on against JAMB is done by people who knowingly or unknowingly, are inadvertently employed to do this.

“At the appropriate time, we will come out to tell the people what is really going on but there is a personal war, you will see that soon,” he said.

The Registrar disclosed that many of such campaigns were done through complaints of the board issuing out double results to candidates who sat for the 2019/20 UTME among other complains.

Oloyede said that some of the people who make the claims are aware of the Nigerian factor where most accusations were not properly investigated before undergoing public judgements.

The registrar said instead they preferred to go elsewhere to cry foul instead of approaching the board.

He said Cletus was invited to the board’s headquarters from Bayelsa after he wrote a complaint to the board for issuing him two results, and subsequently he was apprehended.

“He came with his uncle who fortunately, is an army officer and we investigated the matter together before the members of the board.

“He presented two results; one was 206 and the other was 162.

“We found details of transactions on his phone between him and the syndicate, including a video on how to process result upgrade and negotiations were made on the phone too.

“There was also a screenshot of an imposition result of 206, yet, he had the guts to claim that JAMB sent him two results while we also discovered that he checked the results 15 times via `55109’,” Oloyede added.

The registrar explained that the suspect did not know that once a result has been checked, a copy was being sent to the candidate, another was copied back to the board with the date and time of check.

He also narrated how the father of the suspect had written a letter to the board, expressing disappointment at the board’s incompetence.

Oloyede quoted the letter as saying, “your inability in swift response to address the issue has led to my son’s forfeiture of his Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) admission opportunity.

“However, am craving your indulgence to quickly rectify the result in affirmative to enable him have a good chance for the second choice of the institution.’’

The registrar said that the board would stop at nothing to expose the syndicates working against it, noting that about 80 of such cases were already being prosecuted nationwide.

He assured that others would be apprehended in no time, adding that the board would have to focus on admissions process for now.

According to him, the suspect’s result will not be cancelled but be invalidated, while he will be handed over to the police to face the law.

The suspect told newsmen that his parents would be disappointed at his actions.

He said that he did not believe his original result was a reflection of his performance and so, decided to approach the board for a proof.

This, he explained, was because he thought he did better than 162 as the UTME questions he answered were not so difficult believing that the second result is not his.

“Someone sent an mail to me saying that they can upgrade my result, so I asked them to send me a proof that they could do it and they sent me 206.

“The person now asked me to pay N10,000 but I told him I didn’t have that kind of money, he then promised to make things hard for me.

“When I checked later via `55109’, I got 162, then I decided to complain to JAMB to know if my scores were actually changed or not,” he said.

Cletus said that he knew upgrading scores was a criminal offence and did not expect the syndicate to be successful, yet he believed that it was JAMB that sent the 206 result to him and wanted to be sure.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/osun-how-adeleke-reacted-to-supreme.html


The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2018 Osun governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated Governor Gboyega Oyetola on his victory at the Supreme Court, saying his ambition was never a do or die affair.

Adeleke made the statement through his spokesperson, Mr Olawale Rasheed in a statement issued after the court ruling on Friday and made available to journalists in Osogbo, the capital of the State.

He said he has accepted the ruling of the apex court irrespective of his feelings and perception about the verdict.

“As a Democrat and law abiding citizen, I accept the ruling no matter my misgivings and wish Governor Oyetola well in the governance of Osun state.

“In all circumstances, we must thank God Almighty. We gallantly fought a good fight in pursuance of a democratic cause. The ideals we fought for lives on.

“Our ambition was never a do or die affair. We aspired to serve and deliver democratic dividends to the people of Osun state. Our ambition was altruistic. We wish Governor Oyetola the best in governance of the state”, the statement said.

He, therefore, expressed gratitude to his teeming supporters, leaders and members of the PDP for their profound support.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/osun-guber-police-speak-as-supreme.html


The Osun state Police Command, on Thursday, stated that security has been beefed up in the state to prevent any breakdown of law and order ahead of Friday’s Supreme Court’s judgement on the 2018 Osun governorship election.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Folashade Odoro, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the police was fully prepared for the outcome of the petition.

“Officers have been placed on red alert and are pro-active to prevent any kind of violence or demonstration in the state.

“We will, however, want to urge people of the state to maintain law and order and go about their lawful businesses without fear or intimidation,” she said.

NAN reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Sen. Ademola Adeleke, had challenged the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Gov. Gboyega Oyetola, at the Osun 2018 Governorship Election Tribunal.

The tribunal on March 22 declared Adeleke as winner of the election, but the judgement was later overturned by the Appeal Court on May 9.

The case however moved to the Supreme Court for final judgement and the court is set to rule on the matter on July 5.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/what-lampard-said-after-being-unveiled.html


Frank Lampard has expressed delight at returning to Chelsea as manager.

Lampard signed a three-year deal with the Blues worth £4million-a-year and replaces Maurizio Sarri, who has since joined Juventus.

“I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach.

“Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead.

“I am here to work hard, bring further success to the club and I cannot wait to get started,” Lampard told the club’s website.

The 41-year-old becomes the first Englishman to be appointed as a permanent Chelsea manager by owner Roman Abramovich.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/fani-kayode-rejects-suspension-of-ruga.html


Femi Fani-Kayode, former Aviation minister, on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to cancel instead of rejecting the Ruga farm settlement policy.

He said this while reacting to reports of President Muhammadu Buhari suspending the Ruga farm settlement for Fulani herdsmen.

Buhari is said to have suspended the Ruga programme pending further notice.

RUGA settlement scheme was an idea designed to stem the tide of herdsmen/farmers clashes in parts of the country.

But some states affected and members of the public understood it as another form of the earlier proposed cattle colony by the federal government, hence kicked against it.

However, a source close to the presidency hinted newsmen on Wednesday, that Buhari may have resolved to suspend the scheme till further consultations.

The source said, after consultations with stakeholders, Buhari has resolved to put away the idea for a thorough review and well-accepted approach to the constant clashes between herdsmen and farmers.

Reacting, Fani-Kayode, who took to his Twitter handle, wrote: “We do not want you to suspend RUGA, we want you to CANCEL it! Suspension means you are postponing the evil day, cancel means it is NEVER coming back. If you want peace in this country RUGA must be CANCELLED and you must also CANCEL your Fulanisation and Islamisation policy.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/breaking-buhari-reportedly-suspends.html



Barely 48 hours to the planned mass action and following public outcry against the RUGA Settlement Projects, President Muhammadu Buhari is said to have suspended the idea pending further notice.

RUGA settlement scheme, according to presidency, was an idea designed to stem the tide of herdsmen/farmers clashes across the country.

But many states affected and members of the public had misconstrued it as another form of the proposed cattle colony by the federal government.

Some members of the public and civil society groups had also planned mass action in Abuja against the scheme, on Friday, 5th July, 2019.

But a source close to the presidency hinted newsmen on Wednesday, that President Buhari may have resolved to suspend the scheme till further consultations.

The source said, after consultations with stakeholders, Buhari has resolved to put away the idea for a thorough review and well-accepted approach to the menace constituted to national security by the constant clashes between herdsmen and farmers.

According to the source, the announcement would be made any moment from now with detailed explanations, going forward.

Details later…

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/ministerial-appointment-buhari-speaks.html


President Muhammadu Buhari has said his administration required a formidable team in order to deliver on his campaign promise, tagged Next Level.

He stated this at a time reports had it that he sent ministerial list to the National Assembly.

Speaking while receiving the Buhari Media Organisation, BMO-led by its chairman, Omoniyi Akinsiju, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday, the President also insisted that his administration will do everything to end insecurity in the country.

Buhari, who promised to leave Nigeria a better place than he met it, assured that he would ensure the safety of the country.

He said “Our government continues to grow in strength and will place a firm foundation for future generations.

“While there will be those who are determined to drag us back to the bad old days, your visit is timely. It is exactly a month ago that I was sworn in for a second term in office. The task ahead for the four years will require a formidable team.”

He described the BMO as a key communication in the information management asset to his administration.

He said “Your efforts have been commendable. I cannot thank you enough for your sacrifices during the first part of our journey.

“We have just come off rigorous campaigns during which I visit led all the 36 states of the federation campaigning, seeking the votes of Nigerians and telling them what we have done in the last four years.

“I campaign on three simple premises not different from those of 2015. To tackle insecurity, promote economic diversification and to fight corruption. Fulfilling these three promises are fundamental to taking Nigeria to the next level.

“I assure you that I am resolute on fulfilling these promises and will leave Nigeria a far better place than when we came.

“It is not an easy job to sell the administration’s services, we are doing unpopular things and facing powerful individuals and taking on invested interest who are accustomed to the corrupt era. But we must do things the right way; if we promised change then we must deliver it.

“This is regardless of whose interest is touched. There must be a manifest departure from the old order.

“We are making significant progress and these are evident for all to see. Despite attempts by enemies to twist and bend facts, most Nigerians know the truth.

“I acknowledged your steadfastness in telling the story of this administration’s successes. We will continue to intensify our efforts and ensure that our promises to Nigerians are kept and fulfilled.

“One message that is dear to me which I urged you to propagate is that I am determined to end security challenges we are facing in the country and make Nigeria a peaceful and a prosperous country.

“I employ you to continue the good work you have done with such commitment and the determination, ultimately your patriotism and love for this country can never be quantified or repaid.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/07/patience-jonathan-takes-action-over.html


Former First Lady, Patience Jonathan on Tuesday appealed the forfeiture of her N12.2billion to the Federal Government.

Jonathan prayed the Court of Appeal in Lagos to set aside the judgment of Justice Mojisola Olatoregun of the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Jonathan, through her counsel Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), said the judge erred in law by ordering the final forfeiture when she had no jurisdiction to do so.

We reports that a Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday ordered the final forfeiture of the 8.4 million dollars and N7.4 billion found in accounts linked to a former First Lady, Patience Jonathan.

The order was given by Justice Mojisola Olatoregun of the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday, who held that the money is reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime.

The court granted an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that the money should be permanently forfeited to the government.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/chelsea-lose-key-player.html


Chelsea have lost a key player as Real Madrid gained one.

This claim was made by Chelsea’s assistant manager, Gianfranco Zola.

Zola, who is set to leave the club when his contract expires this summer, stated this while speaking on forward, Eden Hazard’s transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid.

We had reported that Real Madrid officially confirmed a deal for Hazard from Chelsea some few weeks ago.

Speaking in an interview with AS, Zola said: “Madrid have bought a fantastic player. This year he was incredible. And as a person, that’s how he is too.

“Chelsea lost a key player and Madrid has gained one.

“I wish him all the best and that it goes as well at Madrid as it did at Chelsea. That’s what he deserves.

“Last year, he was very good for us and he participated in close to 40% of the goals. Not just scoring but assisting too.

“He was really good, his numbers were incredible too. Some leaders speak a lot in the dressing room, on the field and others do it with actions contributing important things in games, deciding big games. He will be a great player for Madrid.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/2019-recruitment-police-announce.html



The FCT Police Command on Friday informed all applicants who applied for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force to check their names at their respective Area Councils.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by DSP Anjuguri Manzah, Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, for FCT.

“The list of shortlisted candidates has been pasted at their Area Councils,” he said.

“The Screening exercise will commence at the FCT Police Command Headquarters Garki, Abuja as from Monday 1st July, to Saturday 20th July, 2019 by 7:00am prompt.

“Shortlisted candidates are advised to report at the screening center on the date indicated against their names.

“Candidates mode of dressing for the exercise is white T-shirt on white short knickers.

“They are to come along with the original and photocopies of their credentials, office file, passport photographs and printout copy of the letter of invitation for the exercise.”

The Police Service Commission (PSC) had announced that screening of shortlisted applicants for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force as Constables will begin nationwide on Monday, July 1, 2019.

lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/transfer-zidane-eyes-one-more-signing.html


Real Madrid manager, Zinedine Zidane, is planning to add just one more summer signing, after a busy summer of incomings at the Bernabeu.

Mundo Deportivo reports that Los Blancos are targeting a central midfielder and have made Paul Pogba their number one target.

Pogba looks set to leave Old Trafford, just three years after his £89million move from Juventus.

Real Madrid are also keen on the 26-year-old, who Manchester United insist is not for sale.

Should Real fail in their pursuit of of the United man, they will turn to Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek or Tanguy Ndombele.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/government-to-open-job-portal-for-fresh.html



Ogun State Government, on Thursday announced plan to embark on fresh recruitment of graduates, skilled and unskilled persons.

Governor Dapo Abiodun said this at a closed-door meeting of the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abeokuta, the state capital.

A statement by Kunle Somorin, his Chief Press Secretary, quoted the governor as hinting that work has started on a portal to register, on a continuous basis, unemployed youths in the State with a view to providing them jobs suitable for their trade and academic qualification.

“We shall be public-private sector oriented in our governance model; we are going to have an inclusive government that will utilise valuable potentails that abound in the State, irrespective of party affiliations.

“All graduates and those with vocational training across the State will give their information and we will endeavour to match them with potential employers, not only within the civil service but also with the private sector, with whom we are partnering.

“We will send a local content bill for legislative action, such that investors will first look inward to availability of workers in Ogun State and make our youths their primary catchment area when they site their companies here.

“We have enumerated the roads and mapped them but we need your insight and buy-in on the roads most important roads to our people. So, help us list your first three roads in each local government and in the order of preference so that work can begin in earnest”, he added.

Abiodun, however, disclosed that he would rehabilitate 236 primary schools, one in each of every ward in the state.

He further promised to engage 10,000 farmers to be supported for mechanised farming with attendant value chain benefits to make agribusiness bedrock of his administration’s plan to lift people out of poverty.

“Each farmer will get a parcel of land and be supported with clearing, seedlings, extension and off takers services to ensure profitability of their ventures.

“The service which has the full support of President Muhammadu Buhari is a partnership arrangement to be funded by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the State Government”, the governor said.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/nigeria-vs-guinea-super-eagles-become.html

Nigeria have qualified for the round of 16 at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, following their 1-0 win over Guinea on Wednesday.

The Super Eagles were already in pole position in Group B, following their 1-0 win over Burundi last weekend.

However, Gernot Rohr’s men found it tough against the Syli Stars, who had Naby Keita in their ranks from the start.

The breakthrough arrived in the second half after Kenneth Omeruo rose highest to head home Moses Simon’s cross.

Nigeria now have six points, ahead of their final group fixture against debutants, Madagascar


lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, Ishilove uboma davide470

Nigeria has become the first team at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, to book a spot in the last 16.

The Super Eagles defeated their biggest rival in Group B Guinea by a lone goal on Wednesday, to confirm their place in the next round.

So, what are the five things we learnt from the fixture at Alexandria?


1. Easy draw in the next round: With Gernot Rohr’s all but certain to finish top of Group B, they will likely get a third-placed team in the Round of 16. Although there are no small countries anymore in (African) football, it would be better to face the heavyweights much later in the competition.


2. Omeruo, Man of the Match: The defender, who spent last season on loan at Leganes from Chelsea, was in sparkling form against Guinea. Solid at the back, Omeruo proved decision at the other end of the pitch, rising highest to head in the winner. A lot of fans and pundits were surprised he kept his place ahead of Troost-Ekong, to partner the returning Leon Balogun. But on the strength of today’s performance, he justified his selection.


3. The Iwobi conundrum: Following the victory over Burundi, there were widespread calls for Rohr to drop skipper John Obi Mikel and start Alex Iwobi as a no. 10. The German listened and made the change. But the Arsenal man was a huge let down overall. He was jittery and clumsy all through the first half and only improved a bit after the break. The search for his uncle Jay Jay Okocha’s replacement is still on.


4. Akpeyi much better: Although it took the Kaizer Chiefs’ stopper just two minutes to flap at his first ball, he produced a much more assured performance. Credit has to be given to the Omeruo-Balogun axis in front of him, that served as a wall of resistance.


5. Kick Keita Out: Paul Put started the Liverpool midfielder against the Super Eagles, hoping that he would pull the strings against the three-time champions. Instead, Keita was given a kick around by Wilfred Ndidi and Oghenekaro Etebo and hardly stayed on his feet to influence the game. Jurgen Klopp must have been grinding his teeth, as his man kept falling and rolling around in agony. He was eventually substituted off.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/nigeria-vs-guinea-5-things-we-learnt-as.html

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/court-endorses-ait-nbc-settlement.html



A Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, Wednesday, endorsed the terms of out of court settlement adopted by the DAAR Communications Plc and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

This development followed the ensued dispute over the controversial suspension of operational licence of DAAR Communications Plc by the NBC.

Justice Inyang Ekwo adopted the 7-point terms of settlement as consent judgment of the court, following the decision of parties which include, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and Attorney- General of the Federation to resolve the matter out of court.

In the settlement terms, DAAR Communications Plc agreed to furnish the NBC with a concrete proposal and ensure the prompt payment of the outstanding licence renewal fee for its national network broadcast licence.

The communication outfit also agreed to take necessary internal steps to ensure balance in its news coverage, especially political commentary on its stations across the country and shall also take full editorial responsibility for the use of content sourced from social media and any other outlet.

Similarly, the parties agreed that DAAR Communications Plc shall ensure that all programmes transmitted on its television and radio stations across the country comply with the provisions of the, 1999 constitution and the National Broadcasting Commission Act as well as the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

On its part, the NBC agreed to immediately withdraw the suspension of the National Network Broadcast Licence of DAAR Communications Plc.

Parties, however, agreed to bear their cost of the legal action.

The terms of settlement was signed by the group managing director, for DAAR Communications Plc, while director general, national Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Kawu Modibbo in the presence of Chief Mike Ozekhome SAN and Eseoghene Roseline Igbako, counsel to the plaintiff and NBC respectively.


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http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/south-west-roads-no-longer-safe-schools.html

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State on Tuesday raised an alarm that roads in the South West region are no longer safe, while schools in the region operate under palpable fear.

Akeredolu, who doubles as Chairman of Western Nigeria Governors Forum, made these revelations while speaking at a summit organised by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission.

The summit christened, “Stakeholders’ security summit: Focus on Western Nigeria” held in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, had all the six governors from the region: Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun) Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), in attendance.

Others are security chiefs, traditional rulers, leaders of thought and prominent groups within the region among whom are a former deputy governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Chief Gani Adams, Secretary of Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), Dr. Kunle Olajide, Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejuyigbe and Olukare of Ikare-Akoko Oba Akadiri Momoh among others.

The list also includes: Dr. Femi Majekodunmi, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulraseed Adewale Akanbi, AIG in charge of Zone 11 which consists of Oyo, Osun and Ekiti, Mr. Leye Oyebade, Commissioners of Police in the six states, among others.

Akeredolu, while addressing the audience, lamented that school children are now abducted for ransom while commuters are no longer safe on the highway.

He insisted that, “This aberrant phenomenon seems blind to class, religion and ethnicity. Nobody is spared. All of us have become victims, suddenly”.

Below is a full text of Akeredolu’s speech while speaking at the summit, obtained by DAILY POST.

BEING THE KEYNOTE SPEECH DELIVERED BY THE GOVERNOR OF ONDO STATE AND CHAIRMAN, SOUTH WEST GOVERNORS’ FORUM, ARAKUNRIN OLUWAROTIMI ODUNAYO AKEREDOLU, SAN, AT THE SECURITY SUMMIT HELD AT THE THEOPHILUS OGUNLESI HALL, OPPOSITE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE HOSPITAL, QUEEN ELIZABETH ROAD, IBADAN, OYO STATE ON TUESDAY, 25TH JUNE, 2019

PROTOCOL

INTRODUCTION

I welcome, most heartily, my fellow brothers from all South Western States and, indeed, all dignitaries invited to this very important gathering in Ibadan, the political capital of the Yoruba people. This meeting has become exigent considering the spate of insecurity in the country. The anxiety of our people is palpable. The growing fear among the populace makes nonsense of any plans conceived for the development of our God-given space.

It is my fervent hope that this engagement will not be limited to the current challenge which threatens to wreck our collective peace. I look forward to future interactions on matters as important and affective as this one which compels this assembly. There is no gainsaying the obvious; the issue of socio-economic integration in the region must be taken seriously for any aspiration towards development to be meaningful. No remarkable progress can be achieved amidst chaos. No State in the Region can achieve greatness in isolation.

We should extend the possibility of cooperation on other socio-economic fronts. Our people stand to benefit from our resolve to ensure that they remain at the centre of all permutations and considerations. Partisan coloration should not delimit the extent of collaboration aimed at maximum service for our people. With shared yearnings for the development of the region, there should be no difficultyin agreeing to provide the best services possible in the interest of our people.

There should be no disagreement in aspiration for service, if altruism is the focus. Our seeming difference, considering political platforms, should not stand in the way of commitment to promote the collective well-being of our people. Convinced of our shared heritage, propelled by the desire to proceed on the enviable tradition of excellence for which our ancestors are reputed, we cannot harbour any extraneous preferences to this inherited and established course of development.

We are particularly lucky; we have many examples to draw from history considering exemplary courage in the face of adversity, uncommon display of hospitality, even in privation, industry and distinctive virtues, all of which mark us as a unique people. The influx of peoples from other parts of the country and beyond attest to our urbanity and humane disposition which accommodate divergence.The evidence of great successes recorded by those who seek refuge in our geo-political space is sufficient reason for the sustenance of our hospitable disposition, provided that our people’s interests are not in jeopardy.

Again, our history compels us to be cautious when confronted with strange occurrences. Our past experiences should teach us that understanding a phenomenon will assist us, tremendously, in proffering useful solutions. As leaders of our people we cannot afford to be emotive in taking decisions for their benefit. Any step taken must reflect the collective will to protect them. No sacrifice is too much to preserve this heritage of peace and prosperity.

The pervasive presence of persons not indigenous to our space bears eloquent testimony to the quality of our upbringing. The preponderance of thriving businesses owned and controlled by our brothers and sisters from other parts of the country is evidence of sophistication. Our land is indeed a lesson to other parts of the country. There is no limit to the aspiration of anyone who lives, peacefully, among us. Nobody is persecuted in our midst. We protect the weak, even against our own. Our borders are thrown open to all and sundry in the spirit of brotherhood and oneness.

There is, however, the urgent need compelling a review of this liberal policy of openness. Our people are under siege, the harbingers of death, sorrow, tears and blood threaten the existing fraternity among the peoples of this country. Narrow-mindedness gloats over the horrendous crimes perpetrated by these criminal elements. Some fail to see beyond partisan parochialism. The situation on ground should compel a broader and open-minded analysis of this strange incursion with a view to ascertaining the real reasons responsible for this disquiet.

We should be particularly worried by the current spate of an insidious phenomenon, hitherto unknown and uncommon in our immediate clime, creeping into our erstwhile peaceful and prosperous ambience. The incessant perpetration of anti social behaviours, occasioning pervasive despair, and the seeming helplessness of our security agencies to stem the tide of these aberrant attitudes, which threaten the very existence of our region as an autonomous socio-political entity, call for serious scrutiny. We must review these unfortunate incidents individually and collectively. Every State must be able to ascertain the extent of this current threat. We must locate the sources of compromise within our space with a view to curtailing same effectively in both the short and long run.

Our collective goal should be the security of our space and safety of our people in all ramifications. On this, there should be no compromise. We must, consequently, be proactive in tackling the current security issues. The adoption of a scientific approach towards the resolution of the current crisis will bear far-reaching effects. Our State will be looking forward to working with other States in the South Western Region to eradicate the menace of armed robbery, drug abuse, cultism, kidnapping, among others.

There can be no argument on the assertion that insecurity has becomea major issue in the polity today. There is virtually no part of the country which is spared at the moment. All the six geo-political zones experience one form of crisis or the other. From Zamfara to Katsina, the current trends are banditry and cattle rustling. Kano, Sokoto and Bauchi are not spared. Kaduna faces an uphill task in combating security challenges.

The Middle Belt Region is also affected seriously. The crisis between the Jukun and Tiv in Taraba State appears intractable. Jos has witnessed a serious upheaval recently. Benue State was practically under siege at a moment. The North East has been waging a seemingly endless war against insurgents who have now introduced an international dimension to the mindless killings and destruction of properties. The South East and South South battle with communal clashes, banditry, armed robbery and kidnapping.

The South West had enjoyed some moments of respite until recently. What started as isolated cases have now become a daily occurrence. Some cases are obviously exaggerated and there are many fictive narratives out there. Some unscrupulous persons hope to derive political mileage from this confusion, no doubt. There is no denying the fact that the region which had enjoyed some relative peace, is currently under siege. Everybody is concerned about the ease with which these fiendish characters operate. Some victims have been unlucky, they paid the supreme price.Others live with bodily scars and bruised psyche. The morale of our people had never been this low. Our security agencies appear overwhelmed by the incessant and sustained attacks on our people in different parts of the country. Our roads are no longer safe. Our schools operate under palpable fear. School children are now abducted for ransom. Commuters are no longer safe on our roads. This aberrant phenomenon seems blind to class, religion and ethnicity. Nobody is spared. All of us have become victims, suddenly.

There have been attempts by some to create disaffection among Nigerians. Others have tried to take advantage of the unfortunate crisis to further compound the problems. A traditional ruler and a pastor have been accused of feigning kidnap to extort money from sympathisers. Crime, of varying hue, is gradually becoming a very lucrative business in Nigeria.

SECURITY CHALLENGES: THE ONDO STATE EXPERIENCE

The Ondo State Government, recognizing the gravity of the current challenges, held a Security Summit early this year. The enormity of these problems made the convocation of the event exigent. There was unanimity in the belief that the location of our state explains the seeming vulnerability of both the government and its people. The assemblage of security experts, personnel and representatives of agencies agreed on the pathway towards the resolution of the current crisis.

Ondo State occupies a very strategic location in the country. Her littoral shores are the longest and, arguably, the deepest. Her northern borders lead to the North Central and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The volume of human and vehicular traffic coursing through the State requires constant alertness. The State is the gateway to the South-West. She shares common borders with Kogi, Edo, Osun and Ogun States. The state is easily accessible from Lagos State by the Lagoon and Atlantic.

These geographical realities dictate that our security architecture be honed, constantly, to reflect the dynamic nature of the challenges faced by our people. Some fugitive criminal elements believe that our State provides a safe haven for them by the simple logic of her heterogeneous composition. Our porous borders encourage seamless ingress and egress, especially by these undesirable elements whose nefarious activities excite anxieties.

The State has had her own share of socio-economic adversities, chief among which has been the issue of crime and the embarrassing presence of army of unemployed youths. We have been contending with common anti- social attitudes like stealing, thuggery, even armed robbery. We have had to resolve crisis between farmers and herdsmen and a new understanding has been reached. The introduction of the novel phenomenon of kidnappinghas, however, been quite unsettling. We are not unaware of the antics of some unscrupulous elements who seek to employ this unfortunate development to divide the people. The pernicious attempt to bring in ethnicity and religion must be condemned by all well-meaning citizens in the country.

The Ondo State Security Summit produced a Security Policy Document for the State. This document considers the current situation and suggests ways through which the problems can be tackled. The Summit identified high level of insecurity, wide gaps in available security architecture, constraints occasioned by these challenges, future institutional arrangements, sustainable structure and funding. It also came up with both medium security and safety strategic plans.

Our administration has exhibited sufficient political will which leaves no one in doubt of its readiness to confront the challenges headlong. This Security Policy Document (SPD) promises to address these problems realistically. The provision of adequate security architecture will enhance the socio-economic development of the people of Ondo State and promote investment and tourism.

The document contains five key Security Policy Objectives which the government proposes to boost public confidence. These are enunciated as follows:

1. Ensuring Public Safety: providing for, and mitigating risks to, the safety of citizens and communities;

2. Preserving Domestic peace and safety: protecting the physical security of residents and their properties;

3. Protecting Public Assets: this is both physical and virtual. The citizens are allowed to communicate, trade and engage in socio-economic activities without any fear of molestation from any quarters;

4. Sustaining economic prosperity: maintaining and advancing the economic well-being of individuals, families, business and communities; and

5. Maintaining democratic institutions and national values: preventing activities aimed at undermining or overturning government institutions, principles and values that underpin the society.

OVERALL STRATEGY

The Ondo State Government has adopted a holistic and integrated strategic approach to manage security risk. We will be relying on the 4Rs to combat the menace. These are:

1. Reduction: this administration believes in the drastic reduction in crime rate through identification and analysis of long term and short term risks with a view to eliminating them.

2. Readiness: developing operational systems and capabilities to prevent crimes.

3. Response: moving swiftly to nip in the bud any significant event before, during and/or directly after occurrence.

4. Recovery: using coordinated efforts and processes to engender immediate, medium-term and long term prevention of crimes.

In achieving these lofty aims, heavy reliance will be placed on collaboration with certain government agencies which deal with crime and delinquency prevention. These include:

Law Enforcement and Investigations

Criminal Prosecution

Justice Administration

Legal Defence, Victims and Witness Protection

Prisons and Offender-Correction.

SPECIFIC STRATEGIES

Need for a proper coordination of the activities of all formal and informal security groups in the State.

Free flow of information regarding crime from members of the public as encouraged by the State.

Need for a toll-free line for crime reporting in the State.

Need for joint border patrols with neighbouring States.

Above all, the need for inter-agency cooperation and collaboration.

We must ensure that we fill the gaps in legislation to sanction deviance promptly, firmly and comprehensively.

The role of the people is vital in the implementation of any conceived ideas. The people must be informed adequately on the strategic importance of collaboration with the agencies of the State. Unless they are made to own the programme, it will be very difficult for the government to make any appreciable impact in its bid to confront insecurity.

CONCLUSION

The South-Western States must ensure that their strategies are harmonized to achieve a common purpose. We cannot afford to work in isolation at this moment. We must cast aside all partisan considerations in the interest of our people. Our ultimate aim must be the socio-economic integration of the Region which reflects our collective aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous environment.

As we seek to collaborate to combat a common challenge, it should also not be tasking for those of us in the saddle to begin to think of the socio-economic benefits accruable from working together to make our Region less dependent, almost solely, on external sources for survival.

I shall be listening, attentively, to the presentations of my brothers. I look forward to gaining more from the practical examples to be presented.

I thank you all for your patience.

ARAKUNRIN OLUWAROTIMI O. AKEREDOLU, SAN

GOVERNOR, ONDO STATE & CHAIRMAN, SW GOVERNORS’

FORUM

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/senate-president-lawan-reveals-monthly.html



The President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan has said that there was nothing like jumbo salary for National Assembly members as being speculated in some quarters.

Lawan made the disclosure, when members of the Senators’ Forum paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja on Tuesday.

While further dismissing the jumbo pay issue, he revealed that his monthly salary as a lawamaker and that of his colleagues was N750,000.

“What I want to emphasize here is that I never believed that that there is anything called Jombo pay to the National Assembly.

“The National Assembly members both the Senate and the House receive what is their salaries and I receive N750,000 as my salary.

“But I need to function as a senator , my office needs to be properly funded,” he said.

He promised that the national assembly was going to be open to the general public in the conduct of its legislative activities, particularly in the area of funding
“National Assembly is going to be open to the public , I believe that the national assembly should have everything open , let Nigerians Know, what we are doing.

“I believe that Nigerians need to understand this, we need to continually engage with Nigerians and I will also argue that we continue to explain to Nigerians, they deserve to know how their resources are being utilised.

“ I believe that the national assembly needs proper funding because the legislature is so critical in any national development,’’ he said.

“This senate is a by-partisan senate, senators consciously decided to work for us and we take that very seriously, what that means is that we are going to make for progress Nigeria .

“Because what we have done is to be patriotic and we belong to various political parties, but once we are here Nigeria is our constituency.

“The Senate is going to be united in the conduct of its oversight. It is a senate that will work for Nigeria. We are going to do everything possible to remain united in a very by–partisan manner and remain focused .

“Because the challenges against Nigeria is enormous, we need to enhance our of security.

“We need to make sure the economy works for every one for those at the lowest ladder and those at the top, this is necessary I don’t believe that rancor or hostility will yield any positive result.

“I have witnessed how rancour undermined national development, I also witnessed a very peaceful and cordial relationship that at the end of the day produce the kind of outcomes that Nigerian desire.

“So we are here to follow the part of peace, but we are going to be very seriously and systematically in our over sight .

“A minister or head of organisation that is expected to function must function,” he said.

He said the senate was determined to ensure that the Nigeria returns to the January to December budget process .

“We have to work together and archive what need to archive for Nigerians .

“We know the challenges and we will work hard to ensure that we get the solution.

“This senate is determined to ensure for example we pass the budget in three months and we believe this is achievable and doable .

“All we require is for the executive to provide the appropriation bill in good time may be at the end of September or early week of September.

“The national assembly will sit to ensure that there is defence of the budget by the MDAs and before we live for Christmas we will ensure that the budget is passed, so that we go back the January to Decemeber budget cycle,’’ NAN quoted him as saying.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/kogi-guber-pdp-aspirants-express.html



Some gubernatorial aspirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State have expressed frustration over the nomination fee for the state’s gubernatorial election slated for November 16.

Some of the aspirants, who spoke with us in Abuja at the Forum of Aspirants meeting with the State Working Committee, described the fee as outrageous.

Mr. Sam Uhuotu, Kogi State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, at the meeting told the aspirants that the fee was the decision of NEC of the party at the national leadership and not that of the state.

“The aspirants were informed that they would pay up N24m basically for the form and expression of interest form.”

The session turned rowdy as many of the aspirants could no longer hold back their frustration saying the recently-concluded general election was not different from the state election billed for November 16th, 2019.

However, normalcy was returned as the party leadership led by Sam Uhuotu took time to explain that it was not the decision of the State Working committee but that of the National Working committee adding that “there is nothing that can be done.”

One of the aspirants, Dr. Idris Omede, who spoke with us after the meeting confirmed: “The form stands at N20m and the expression of interest N1m while the commitment to the party is N3m.

“Basically, the amount for each aspirant that is interested in this contest is N24m.”

He said one of the major points is the fact that the party promised to create a level playing ground for all the aspirants as it equally appealed to the aspirants to work together to bring victory to the PDP.

“On fact that some of the aspirants kicked against the exorbitant amount he said was at the point of discussion but when explanation was given everyone agreed, because it was a NEC decision not that of the State Working Committee.”

He said, “Initially it was rumoured to be N51m but that has been shelved.

“Basically, the point is, yes people argued that this election should be seen as the general election, which just held recently and that there is no reason for the difference in the amount for the form having been an issue that passed through the NEC it cannot be reversed now.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/gov-wike-begs-osinbajo-on-need-to.html

The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has called on Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo to prevail on the Nigeria Ports Authority, NPA, to work with his Government in creating the right environment for the development of the state.

He made the appeal during the commissioning of the Port Harcourt Dockyard Liquid Waste Management Treatment Plant which was commissioned by Osinbajo on Friday.

Wike also called for the dredging of the Rivers Port Waterway to increase economic activities at the Port which will generate more employment.

The governor, while lamenting that the NPA has not been good neighbours to the Rivers State Government, informed the Vice President that the NPA entered into an agreement with his government to construct the Industry Road leading to the Port Facility, but the federal agency reneged on its commitment.

“I want to report the NPA to Your Excellency, the Vice President. They have not been good neighbours. We entered into an agreement to fund the construction of the Industry Road leading to the Port. The NPA reneged and the State Government had to fund the project single-handedly.

“Till date, the NPA has not paid its counterpart fund for the construction of that road. All they are interested in, is to collect rents from the occupants of the Port,” he said.

The Governor said, “The Port here has to be dredged. Without the dredging of the waterway to this port, employment cannot be generated. I call on the Rivers son who is an executive director in NPA to work for the dredging of the waterway by NPA”.

Speaking at the event, Osinbajo said the project was in line with the Build Operate and Transfer Agreement between African Circle and the Federal Government, stressing that the agreement was for a period of 20 years.

He said that Africa Circle has by the completion of the facility, executed a good part of the agreement.

Osinbajo assured that the Federal Government will continue its partnership with Africa Circle Pollution Management Limited for the promotion of environmental protection and sanitation.

Osinbajo said that the commissioning is another opportunity for Nigeria to lead the way in the improvement of the environment.

He added that the Federal Government’s ease of doing business policy will be diligently pursued. He added that the dredging of Warri Port is on course with a railway line into the hinterland.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/kano-agency-summons-wives-of-emir.html

Kano Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Corruption Commission has invited some officials of the Kano Emirate council and others to explain why the council paid their foreign medical bills.

This is despite the court order against Governor Umar Ganduje and the commission.

The commission has asked those affected to appear at the chairman’s office conference room on Monday June 24, 2019, Daily Nigerian reports.

“The commission in the exercise of its power conferred to it under Section 9 and 15 of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended) is further investigating an alleged violation of Section 26 of the Commission’s enabling Law in the management of Kano State Council Funds,” the letter signed by the Director of Public Complaints and Mediation read.

“Consequent upon the above and pursuant to the provision of Section 31(1) (a) and (b) of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended) you are requested to extend the Commission’s invitation to some personalities that expenditures were incurred for them in the respect of medical sponsorship to overseas to appear before this commission along with relevant documents to shed more lights on same…”

Those invited are: Maryam, one of the wives of Emir Sanusi; two wives of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero – Binta and Hadiza; 93-year-old Sarkin Bai and District Head of Dambatta, Mukhtar Adnan; 92-year-old Jarman Kano, Professor Isa Hashim.

Others are: 84-year-old Dan Iyan Kano, Yusuf Bayero; Ma’ajin Watari, Abba Ahmed; former Dan Iyan Kano and uncle to the current emir, Ado Sanusi; Dan Ruwatan Kano, Ibrahim Ado Bayero and; Sallaman Kano, Aminu Dako.

Meanwhile, the Emirate council’s lawyers have written to the commission, drawing its attention to the subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Kano.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/university-of-ibadan-expels-5-students.html

The Authority of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan Oyo State, said that it has expelled no fewer than five of its students.

The students, who were expelled from the institution included; Ajuwon Gabriel, Yetunde Mary Agbanigo, Kehinde Samuel Aluko, Olufemi Olusegun Ogunwo and Saheed Ademola Oshodi with matriculation numbers, EO27559, EO30033, EO16154, EO23128 and EO25356, respectively.

Registrar of the institution, Olubunmi Faluyi, in a special bulletin with serial number 4220, said that the Central Student Disciplinary Committee (CSDC), of the institution, took the decision on the erring students at its meeting held on Thursday, May 9, 2019.

Faluyi in the bulletin sighted by us on Thursday added that 16 other students were also rusticated.

10 students from Distance Learning Centre (DLC) of the institution, were rusticated for two semesters for examination misconduct.

The affected students are: Adekemi O. Balogun, EO26918 from Communication and Language Arts, Seyi Odufuwa, EO28153 from Department of Economics; Blessing Ajeh, EO15987 from Guidance & Counselling.

Lydia Usman, EO17123; Omi-Damola Oyin, EO22060; Otepola Adeniyi, EO29832; Yekini Saheed Abiodun, EO24999, from the Department of Political Science.

Rebecca Ediale, EO15163; Ogiogwa Eunice E EO37834 and Lawal Kafilat Ajibola, EO 37850, from the Department of Social Work.

Kolajo Olajide Kazeem, EO 29368, from the Department of Economics was, however, discharged of the examination misconduct leveled against her.

Also rusticated for two semesters for gross misconduct are 6 regular students from the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology.

The affected students were: Temidayo D. Orimoloye, 184354; Opeyemi Abon, 183966; Opeoluwa Oloundare, 184331; Olalekan S. Adejumo, 190213; Akinboade Adesomoju, 184008 and David O. Gabriel, 185843.

Taye Fasuba, a former Aide to the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has been sentenced to jail by an Ado Ekiti Chief Magistrate’s Court.

Fasuba, a former Assistant to Fayose on Union Matters was sentenced to six months imprisonment over unlawful entry into a land and malicious damage to a property.

Omolola Akosile, the Senior Magistrate, in a ruling delivered on Monday sentenced Fasuba to six months imprisonment with an option of N20, 000 fine on each of the two counts.

Fasuba was found guilty of the two of the three-count charges.

The Police Prosecutor, Insp. Monica Ikebuilo, told the court that Fasuba, committed the offence on January 14, 2018 at Moferere area, Ado Ekiti, in the Ado Ekiti Magisterial District

According to Ikebuilo the defendants unlawfully entered into the land and maliciously damaged fence wall properties of one Catherine Ashowo valued at N350, 000.

The prosecutor pointed out that the offences committed contravene and punishable under Sections 81 and 451 of Criminal Code Cap C 16 Vol 1 Law of Ekiti State of Nigeria 2012.

The former Governor’s aide was also charged with the offence of conducting himself “in a manner likely to cause breach of peace in public place and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 249(d) of Criminal Code C 16 Vol 1 Law of Ekiti State of Nigeria 2012.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The judge held that the defendant had run contrary to the principle of law by entering into the land in possession of the complainant and pulling down her fence.

The Magistrate Akosile declared, “On count 1, the defendant is found guilty as charged; he is hereby sentenced to six months imprisonment with an option of N20, 000 fine. On count 2, the defendant is found guilty as charged, he is hereby sentenced to six months imprisonment with an option of N20, 000 fine” as he was discharged and acquitted of the third count.

“The prison term is to run concurrently while the fine is cumulative,” the chief magistrate said.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/fayoses-former-aide-sentenced-to-prison.html

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/gov-fayemi-milking-ekiti-dry-through.html

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ekiti State has berated Governor John Fayemi over alleged bogus approval of funds for himself and wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, alleging that the Governor’s intention was to milk the state dry not minding the poor resources and allocation accruing to it.

In a statement on Tuesday by the state Publicity Secretary of PDP, Jackson Adebayo, the party described the budget of N2billion by Governor Fayemi for his travelling allowances as purportedly contained in the state’s 2019 budget and alleged increment of his security votes to N250 billion as part of his agenda of milking the State dry in his second term mission.

But the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, denied the claims of the PDP, saying they are baseless and unfounded. He therefore challenged the party to bring forth its evidence.

PDP said: “The governor (Fayemi) has again proved that the welfare of the workers in Ekiti State is not as paramount as what goes to his pocket and family in the face of inability to facilitate the payment of the new minimum wage of N30,000.

“Governor Fayemi believes that Ekiti people could be manipulated financially as he did in elections hence his resolve to corner money meant for the development of the State in different guises as the 2019 budget depicts.

“PDP recalled that when Fayemi assumed office as governor, one of the first thing he did was to increase his security vote to two hundred and fifty billion Naira with another whooping sum running into billions to the office of his wife against the constitution and convention.”

The Party also said that instead of paying the newly-approved minimum wage of N30,000 out of the more than N11 billion Paris refund which allegedly accrued to the State, Governor Fayemi allegedly cornered the funds for personal use and later claimed he had used the money for his road patching project to cover up after outcry by the public.

Adebayo added that the governor did not blink an eye to mop up money left in the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) left by the immediate past governor Ayo Fayose, an amount in billions also for himself; which he covered up with the next leg of the SUBEB fund that was released when he assumed office.

When asked to react to PDP’s claims, Oyebode said: “Did they give you the evidence of the funds? It is not enough to make senseless and baseless allegations all in the name of opposition… they must give the evidence,” he said.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/inec-withdraws-certificate-of-return.html


The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has withdrawn the certificate of return of the All Progressives Congress, APC, lawmaker representing Okitipupa Constituency II at the Ondo state House of Assembly, Sina Akinwunmi.

The certificate of return has however been issued to the supposed winner of the APC assembly primary election, James Ololade-Gbegudu, as the lawmaker representing the constituency.

We gathered that INEC’s decision was in line with the judgement of an Ondo State High Court, which in May 2019, declared Gbegudu as the winner of the party’s primary conducted on October 5, 2018.



Presenting the certificate of return to Gbegudu at the Commission’s headquarters, Alagbaka, Akure, the INEC Chairman, Professor Yakubu Mahmod said a letter had been issued to Akinwumi to vacate the seat with immediate effect while the certificate of return earlier issued to him had since been withdrawn.

Yakubu represented by the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo state, Ambassador Akeju, disclosed that the Speaker and the Clerk of the state House of Assembly had been notified through a letter to comply with the development.

Commenting on the development, Gbegudu expressed delight that truth had prevailed after several months of injustice to his ambition to represent his people at Okitipupa Constituency II, and promised to serve his constituents diligently.





Ololade-Gbegudu had approached the court through his counsel, Femi Emodamori, to seek an order to compel the party and INEC to recognise his client as the authentic APC candidate for the constituency and not Sina Akinwunmi, having won the party’s primary conducted last year.

According to the judgement delivered by Justice Olabode Adegbehingbe, he held that from all evidence laid before the court by officials of the APC, documentary evidence including the primary election result sheet adduced by Counsel to the plaintiff, Emodamori, showed that Ololade-Gbegudu actually won the APC assembly ticket.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/breaking-buhari-signs-polytechnic.html

President Muhammmadu Buhari on Tuesday signed two bills into law.

Buhari assented the Polytechnic Act Amendment Bill as well as the National Institute for Security Bill.

We recalls that the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) on Wednesday appealed to Buhari to sign the Polytechnic Act (Amendment) Bill to address many challenges confronting the sub-sector.

ASUP stated that all observations cited by the President during the Eight Assembly had been rectified, corrected and transmitted, adding that the bill had passed through all legislative processes as all observations initially made by the President had been addressed.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/lagos-sanwo-olu-swears-in-new-chief.html

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Thursday said he would not hesitate in sustaining the reform in the judicial sector.

Sanwo-Olu made this assertion at the swearing in of Justice Kazeem Alogba as the acting Chief Judge of the state, NAN reports.

“We will partner with you and the Federal Government in finding lasting solution to prison congestion.

“We will ensure we support you in achieving the reform.

“We will do an upward review of the running cost of the judiciary. Lagosians will not wait for stories; we must kick the ground running.

“We will work together on issues bothering on traffic and environmental laws. We will use some people as examples to show we are serious,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor, however, expressed confidence in the new Chief Judge’s ability to steer the ship of the judiciary in the state.

He thanked the immediate past Chief Judge, Justice Opeyemi Oke, for her meritorious service.

Alogba, in a vote of thanks, said that judiciary under his watch would ensure speedy and effective dispensation of justice.

The chief judge said he would be counting on the support of the state government in administering effective justice system in the state.

He promised that the judiciary would work closely with the state government in enforcing traffic and environmental laws by punishing offenders.

“I am not oblivious of the responsibility expected from me; I promise to make use of the office for the good of the common man and the state.

“We will do all within our powers to support the government in enforcing traffic and environmental laws.

“Traffic and environmental law offenders will be made to serve their sentences where they committed the offence,” he said.

The new chief judge added that the judiciary, under his watch, would prioritise staff welfare and fight against corruption.

“I pledge to ensure speedy and effective dispensation, zero tolerance for corruption and corruption tendency.

“We will pursue the use of information technology and dwell on staff welfare. We pledge our support for the administration,” Alogba said.


Titope Blog reported that Sanwo-Olu appointed Justice Kazeem Alogba as acting Chief Judge of the State.

According to the statement issued by Mr Gboyega Akosile, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the appointment will take effect from Tuesday, June 11, 2019.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/jamb-university-of-ibadan-insists-on.html


The management of the University of Ibadan (UI) has insisted that their cut-off mark remains 200.

This comes a day after the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) and stakeholders of higher institutions agreed on 160.

UI, on its part, said it will have nothing to do with the national minimum cut-off mark.

In a statement by the office of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Idowu Olayinka, the institution said: “For the avoidance of doubts in the minds of our prospective admission seekers, their parents and guardians, our alumni and alumnae and the general public, the minimum mark for any course at the University of Ibadan, and all its Affiliated Institutions, remains 200 out of the maximum of 400.

“This has been the position of the Senate of the University since the matriculation examinations into Nigerian Universities commenced in 1978.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/9th-assembly-what-happened-in-house-of.html


The 9th House of Representatives on Thursday held its first plenary after members were inaugurated on Tuesday, June 11, 2019.

The Speaker, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila (APC-Lagos) swore-in Rep. Musa Sarki-Adar (APC-Sokoto) who was absent at the Tuesday’s inauguration.

The oath of office was administered by the Clerk of the house, Mr Patrick Giwa at plenary in Abuja.

The swearing-in was delayed for about 8 minutes as the microphone attached to the seat of the speaker was malfunctioning.

Gbajabiamila ordered the clerk to delegate some members of staff to check the entire sound system daily before commencement of plenary.

He also mandated the clerk to notify the President, the Senate and the Secretary to the Federal Government of the Nigeria that the House had elected Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila and Rep. Idris Wase as presiding officers and could now receive communications.

The House at its maiden plenary entertained two motion of Urgent Public Importance bothering on security and environmental hazards.

Rep. Benjamin Kalu (APC-Abia) moved a motion on the need to urgently address erosion and floods ravaging Nkpa and surrounding communities in Bande Federal Constituency of Abia.

Rep. Muraina Ajibola (PDP-Oyo) moved a motion on the need to address the spate of killings and kidnappings across country.

Members unanimously voted in favour of the motions and Gbajabiamila ruled that the resolutions be forwarded to relevant agencies for implementation.

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/june-12-bola-tinubu-sends-powerful.html


Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, has commended Nigeria’s democratic evolution, saying as important as it is, May 29 does not carry the weight of significance that June 12 carries in the country’s democratic sojourn.

He said that what the country had been commemorating on May 29th of every year since the democratic restoration of 1999 has been the day of the handover of power from the military regime to the elected civilian administration.

Tinubu pointed this out in a statement sent to DAILY POST, stating that, “May 29 does not carry the weight of significance that June 12 does in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. May 29th is at best an arbitrary date on which the military chose to hand over the reins of power to an elected civilian government in 1999.”

In the statement titled “June 12: The Truth that Sets Democracy Free in Our Land,” the APC leader said observing May 29 as Democracy Day delinks the country’s democratic experience since 1999 from the protracted and bitter struggle against military dictatorship from June 12, 1993, till the exit of the military in 1999.

“Without those who stoutly stood on June 12 and sacrificed life, limb, freedom, economic ruin, psychological devastation and more in the battle against tyranny, there would most certainly not have been any May 29, 1999, handover to commemorate.

“Nigerians do not take the democracy we enjoy today for granted or do anything to threaten its existence because it was not won on a peaceful and comfortable “platter of gold.

“The power of truth to set men free from the limiting chains of falsehood and limiting superstitions is one of the most poignant spiritual verities that has proven to be valid across time and space over the last two millennia.

“In the realm of politics, the most fundamental truth that man has discovered is that power can be the handmaiden of progress and accelerated development only if it flows from the will of the electorate as determined in regular, free, fair and credible elections.

“This is why, in spite of its many flaws and failings, man is yet to invent a form of government superior to democracy – the famed government of the people, by the people and for the people.

“It is thus understandable and indeed justified that Nigerians are elated that the country has recorded 20 years of unbroken democratic rule since 1999.

“Today, we commemorate the country’s emergent democracy in a way that is certainly more spiritually fulfilling and psychologically satisfying than has ever been the case since 1999.

“For, thanks to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari and the assent of the National Assembly, we are for the first time today celebrating our democracy as a nation on a historic day, June 12, which coincides with the day that the seed of today’s democratic sprouting was sown 26 years ago.

“What we had been commemorating on May 29th of every year since the democratic restoration of 1999 has been the day of the handover of power from the military regime to the elected civilian administration.

“Observing May 29 as democracy day delinks the country’s democratic experience since 1999 from the protracted and bitter struggle against military dictatorship from June 12, 1993, till the forced exit of the military in 1999.

“Without those who stoutly stood on June 12 and sacrificed life, limb, freedom, economic ruin, psychological devastation and more in the battle against tyranny, there would most certainly not have been any May 29, 1999, handover to commemorate.

“The democracy we enjoy today was not won on a peaceful and comfortable “platter of gold”.
‘’It was not gifted to Nigerians by a benevolent military regime. It is the product of the sweat, tears, blood, pain, toil and anguish of millions of Nigerians. That is why we can never afford to take it for granted or do anything to threaten its existence.

“June 12 must serve as a continual reminder to Nigerians on the imperative of pursuing the cause of justice in all spheres of our lives at all times as a necessary condition for peace, prosperity and progress.

‘’As we kick off from today the annual celebration of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, let us renew our commitment to utilizing democracy as a vehicle for eliminating poverty in our land as well as providing prosperity and life more abundant for the teeming millions of our people.

“It was indeed his deep aversion to poverty and the avoidable suffering of the majority of our people that compelled Chief MKO Abiola to contest Nigeria’s presidency and thus his campaign slogan was “Farewell to Poverty”. The problem of poverty remains primal and fundamental in our land today.

‘’Indeed, at the root of the severe existential challenges, which confront the country today such as religious extremism, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cultism, ritual killing, armed, robbery, communal violence and herdsmen/farmers clashes among other is the protracted economic crisis that has worsened poverty, unemployment and inequality in Nigeria over the last four decades.

“It is indeed incumbent on us all, particularly those in positions of authority at all levels, to vigorously support President Muhammadu Buhari administration as it invests massively and on an unprecedented scale in the renewal and expansion of infrastructure as well as its various social intervention programmes aimed at uplifting the vast majority of our people out of dehumanizing poverty, political instability and insecurity.

“We must take concerted efforts to banish poverty from Nigeria. To rid Nigeria of poverty is indeed a task that must be done. As the historic restoration of June 12 to its proper place by the Buhari administration sets democracy free to soar in our land, let us rededicate ourselves to the challenge of utilizing democracy to set Nigeria free from poverty.

“God bless our fatherland.”

http://www.titopeblog.com/2019/06/ahmed-lawan-profile-of-nigerias-new.html


Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Yobe North Constituency on Tuesday, emerged as President of the 9th Senate.

He was born on January 12, 1959 in the Gashua town of Yobe State.

Lawan completed his primary education at Sabon Gari Primary School, Gashua in 1974 and then attended Government Secondary School, Gashua where he got his O’Level in 1979.

He proceeded to the University of Maiduguri where he obtained a Bachelors degree in Geography, in 1984.

Lawan obtained a Master’s degree in Remote Sensing from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Doctorate degree in Remote Sensing/GIS from Cranfield University, UK, in 1990 and 1996 respectively.

Lawan had worked in the Yobe state civil service as an Education Officer in the Ministry of Education from 1985 to 1986. He then got a teaching job at the University of Maiduguri, where he lectured for 10 years from 1987 to 1997.

In 1999, Lawan was elected into the House of Representatives, where he chaired such committee as House Committees on Education and Agriculture.

In 2007, Ahmad Lawan was elected a Senator on the platform of the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP).

In 2009, as chairman of the Senate committee on Public Accounts, he initiated and sponsored the Desertification Control Commission Bill.

In 2011, Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan won a second term as Senator representing Yobe North Senatorial District and was re-elected on the platform of the ANPP.

In the 2015 general elections, he won a third term in office under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was Majority Leader till the 8th Senate was dissolved.

In 2019, Lawan won a fourth term also on the APC platform.

On Tuesday June 11 after the Senate Presidency election, Clerk to the National Assembly, Sani Omolori, declared Lawan as the winner.

He said: “107 cast their votes. Lawan polled 79 votes while Senator Ali Ndume (his main challenger) polled 28 votes of total 107 votes cast.

“On this strength, Lawan is hereby elected as Senate President.”

Lawan, a Muslim, is married with children and holds the traditional titles of Dan Masanin Bade and Garkuwan Daliban Gamui.

He is a recipient of the National Honour of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).