Lagos Chamber of Commerce accused of bias in choice of presidential aspirants invited to economic forum

There is a wave of discontent sweeping through political circles as the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) hosts the 2022 edition of it's private sector economic forum ahead of the 2023 presidential elections.

In furtherance of it's mandate to always provide a platform for public office seekers to present their plans for private sector development in Nigeria, the LCCI once again decided to host the 2022 edition which holds in Lagos from September 14, 2022 at it's corporate headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos.

But what now seems to be causing displeasure is the decision of the LCCI to invite only three out of the 18 presidential aspirants vying for the position of Nigeria's president in next year's elections.
The LCCI appeared to have irked other contestants by inviting only the troika of Abubukar Atiku (PDP), Peter Obi (Labour Party) and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (APC) to the event where they would be given opportunities to articulate and sell their economic agenda to the private sector, using it's platform.

Investigations have revealed that other 15 candidates from the ACCORD, AA, ADP, APGA, APM, AAC, APP, ADC, BP, NNPP, NRM, PRP, SDP, YPP, and ZLP parties have expressed concerns over the neglect, saying it portends a grave danger for Nigeria's political future as LCCI had clearly demonstrated that it is partisan, despite claims to the contrary.

Spokespersons for the other parties are aggrieved that a forum of such importance, that had consistently hosted the series successfully in the last 16 years -- spanning four political transitions in the country -- could yield to the temptation of handpicking only 3 of the 18 contestants that have applied for the job of Nigeria's president to present papers at the event.

"We have always seen the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) as an apolitical organisation that is only interested in furthering the overall economic aspirations of Nigeria through it's policies," a spokesman for one of the parties said.

"We are aware of how they have used their platform to expose candidates vying for top elective positions in the country, and how it has helped in shaping public opinion on the eve of important elections in Nigeria.

"That is why we find it difficult to comprehend why the LCCI would on this occasion deviate from the standards they have set in times past and decide to be partisan this time around.

"Otherwise, why would they decide to narrow the list of invitees to present their economic blueprint for Nigeria in this particular edition of the forum?
"We would have expected that for a big event such as the one they intend to hold in Lagos from Wednesday, September 14, 2022, and which we learned would be streamed live on all social media platforms to allow for public discourse and participation, the LCCI would have adopted a neutral, non-partisan stance that would allow for a level playing field in which all other interested contestants in the race for the country's presidency could partake.

"By this summary exclusion of the other aspirants, the LCCI not only demonstrated it's disdain for an all-inclusive, vibrant economic discourse, they have unwittingly denied Nigerians the opportunity to see other candidates, and assess them ahead of an all-important 2023 elections," the spokesman further said.

The dissatisfied contestants therefore called on the LCCI to review it's policy in order not to damage it's hard won reputation as a non-partisan organisation by being neutral while organising such future events.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Osun Guber: YIAGA's revelations vindicate my position

Ismail Omipidan

Let me state from the outset that this is not a media trial of the case before the Osun Election Petitions Tribunal. Far from it. This is just an attempt to "synchronise" what I said recently with respect to the outcome of the July 16 election with the revelations from The Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth and Advancement, YIAGA.

YIAGA Africa is a civil society organisation, a major stakeholder in our electoral process. Like most Civil Society Organisations, CSOs, they were also in Osun to observe and monitor the election.

I said recently that my Principal, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, did not lose the election but only lost the vote count. But a lot of people were wondering what point I was trying to make.

However, last Thursday's revelations by YIAGA, where it submitted among other things, as reproduced below, is a vindication of my position:

"An analysis of the number of registered voters and the PVC collected by polling units revealed some inconsistencies in the data. Findings from the analysis on the Osun PVC collection data revealed that the total number of PVCs collected for 30 polling units was greater than the total number of registered voters in those polling units. These inconsistencies were recorded in 12 LGAs."

Last Thursday, YIAGA Africa held a stakeholders' conference where it launched the election result analysis dashboard (ERAD) report agenda.

It was at the event that the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, revealed the alleged attempts by some hackers to hack into the INEC's results viewing portal.

At the same event, YIAGA seized the opportunity to present to the gathering its findings on e-transmission of election results on the electronic transmission of results in the 2022 Osun and Ekiti governorship elections. But because I am discussing Osun here, I will only focus on Osun.

The Executive Director of YIAGA, Samson Itodo, according to reports from the event, noted that its organisation curated an Election Results Analysis Dashboard (ERAD) as an independent audit and integrity test assessment tool for the results management of INEC.

Mr. Itodo revealed that some “issues” in the Osun election affected the processing of results on the ERAD platform which, he noted, was targeted at providing credible information.

In the Osun election, he continued, eighty-seven (87) results were not processed on the ERAD, due to some issues.

“Based on ERAD findings, INEC presiding officers uploaded forms or documents other than Form EC8A as prescribed in the guidelines and manual for the election," he added.

The YIAGA Executive Director further revealed that in Osun “Blurry images and poorly captured photographs of result sheets were uploaded on the IReV portal," adding that "it was impracticable to decipher the number of votes scored by political parties on the uploaded forms. In some cases, the presiding officers uploaded truncated images of result sheets. In other words, the images omitted segments of the result sheets."

Hear him further: “From the result sheets downloaded on the IReV, important delimitation data such as number of registered voters and accredited voters for polling units was either omitted or wrongly inputted on the Form EC8A.

“Contrary to the provisions of the electoral act 2022 and INEC guidelines and regulations, some polling unit level results (Form EC8A) uploaded on the IReV were not stamped or signed by the presiding officer.

“Based on results entered on the ERAD database, there was a variation in the total number of rejected ballots, and the figures announced by INEC at the final collation.”

YIAGA boss went further to submit that the ERAD’s findings exposed inconsistencies in the data on the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection, insisting that it was noticed across 12 Local Government Areas in Osun.

“An analysis of the number of registered voters and the PVC collected by polling units revealed some inconsistencies in the data. Findings from the analysis on the Osun PVC collection data revealed that the total number of PVCs collected for 30 polling units was greater than the total number of registered voters in those polling units. These inconsistencies were recorded in 12 LGAs,” he said.

As a political reporter who has covered elections in our clime, I was surprised that the revelations from YIAGA were not critically analysed by the stakeholders at the event. Or maybe it was but it did not get media attention. Regardless, as someone who had attended INEC's chairman engagements with the media in the past, such revelations would not pass without the INEC boss making a comment even if it is in passing.

But if indeed, he did, I am yet to read it anywhere as at this morning when I penned down my thoughts on the event. Our case before the Tribunal is simple.

Sections 47(2) of the Electoral Act says that to vote, the presiding officer shall use the smart card reader or any other technological device that maybe prescribed by the commission for the accreditation of voters to "verify, authenticate the intending voter in the manner prescribed by the commission."

For the purpose of Osun election, INEC had prescribed the BVAS (Bimodal Voters Accreditation System) as the only credible means of accreditation. But from the report we got from the field, in many of the polling units, BVAS was not used appropriately. It didn’t capture the number of accredited voters. But we did not rely mainly on the report we got from our poling agents . We also demanded by law for a CTC of the report of BVAS from INEC, and we got it.

The CTC of the report of BVAS across 10 Local Governments in 749 polling units showed that accreditation through BVAS was less than the number of votes cast in those units.

By implication, there were more voters than accredited by the BVAS. Let me give a few examples to drive home my point.

In Ede-North ward 5, Alusekere Unit 004, Owode Primary School, where the governor-elect comes from, the total votes cast for that unit was 1,267 but BVAS recorded only 858 as accredited voters.

Again, in Ward 5 unit 14, 206 number of votes were recorded for parties against 118 accredited through BVAS. In Unit 15 of the same ward 5 Alusekere, 177 votes were recorded in Form EC8A while the BVAS report says 108 voters were accredited. So, consistently, there were more voters than BVAS accredited, and those are our issues with the Election Results as declared by INEC. (See attached pictures).

Make no mistake, our case is not in any way an attempt to impugn on the integrity of INEC. Far from it. It is to further help deepen our electoral system and to help INEC correct whatever anomalies arising from the Osun Governorship Election ahead of 2023 elections. Most of the reforms we have today were borne out of the decisions of the court. Our observations may as well be part of them.

I rest my case for now.

Omipidan is a former Assistant Editor (Politics) with The Sun

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Vote for candidates with track record of performance -- Accord presidential candidate, Prof. Imumolen tasks youths

Nigerian youths have been urged to elect leaders that can help them maximise their potentials in a country now with less and less opportunities for self actualisation as the stage is getting set for the 2023 general elections.
The younger generation finally had their wishes of active participation in the country's political process granted when the 'Not Too Young To Run' bill was signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018.

That has paved the way for an unprecedented upsurge of candidates of youth extraction coming into the race for top political offices, including that of the presidency which promises to be keenly contested come 2023.
But the progress made so far can easily be eroded should the youths fail to seize the opportunity provided by the new law to effect a change in government by installing one of their own.

This is the view of Accord presidential candidate, Professor Christopher Imumolen who insists there can be no better time than now for that generational change to happen.
Professor Imumolen, 39, while speaking in a recent forum in Abuja told the youths that they can use the two powerful weapons of unity and numerical strength to great effect in their desire to see that they install a president who is not only young, but energetic and empathetic enough to solve their problems and reposition the country on the part of economic growth.

"When God wants to bless a man, He brings him a benefactor," Imumolen said while offering himself for leadership.
"With my track record of service to Nigerians, including the youths at different levels and capacities; where we have solved problems at micro and macro levels, touching lives, offering scholarships to advance the educational needs of thousands and thousands of students, empowering women, farmers to access loans for businesses and agricultural projects, and so many of such humanitarian endeavours, I think I am eminently qualified to administer the affairs of this country if given the mandate by the people," he said.

"How to know a leader who is a problem solver, and who is committed to the welfare of the people is no rocket science. It is evidential. Leadership is the things you do to positively impact the lives of the ordinary man out there.

"That is why I am usually not perturbed when people tell me I lack leadership experience because I haven't held a political office before.
"But tell me, how much experience did Nelson Mandela have before he became president of a post-apartheid South Africa?
"Yet, Mandela was a far better leader than all those who came before him because he was driven by one thing -- the passion to see a better life for the people of his country.

"That is the same passion that is motivating me. I want to see a better Nigeria where things work. Where things will be done differently. And if I can demonstrate this over the years in my little way in the many people -oriented programmes I have initiated and solely sponsored at different levels, then I can definitely do more at a higher level where there will better resources to affect the larger society," he added.

cc: mynd44

Excitement in Kogi as Prof Chris Imumolen doles out scholarship to 2000 students

In keeping with his avowed commitment to always empower and reach out to the less privileged in society so they can fulfill their innate potentials, Professor Christopher Imumolen once again doled out scholarships worth hundreds of millions of Naira to over 2000 students in Kabba, Kogi State on Saturday.

The Accord party presidential candidate took time off his busy schedule where he has been mobilising support for his presidential bid to attend to one of the programmes dearest to his heart -- that is, awarding scholarships to financially handicapped students to aid their academic pursuits.
The Institute of Science and Management under the aegis of the Joint Professional and Support International Limited (JPTS), a school he established three years ago, and which served as venue for the event, took on a carnival-like atmosphere as excited students were given scholarships worth N2million each.

A few of the fortunate students who spoke after being given the awards were elated to be so considered as they promised to make the best use of the opportunity.

"I'm really overwhelmed. I wasn't expecting this, and I really thank God for this opportunity," one of the beneficiaries said.
Speaking to an NTA, Kabba crew afterwards, Professor Imumolen said he was motivated by the reception his scholarship initiative got in Kabba and promised to reach out to more Nigerians as the opportunity presented itself.

"I am delighted to be able to start this scholarship programme that has helped in no small way in advancing the academic aspirations of a lot of Nigerians since inception", he said.

"We will continue to be empowering them any which way we can -- with business ideas, skill acquisition and in general entrepreneurship.
"I am encouraged by the reception this initiative has gotten here in Kabba, and we'll continue to engage more Nigerians to make sure they also get these opportunities," he added.

And while receiving Professor Imumolen during a courtesy call earlier in his palace, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi was full of praise for the Accord party presidential candidate, saying he loved the fact that he was investing in human capital through the scholarships he gave to indigent students of the community.

"What you have done, son, gladdens my heart", he told Imumolen in his palace.

"We have no other industry other than education in Kabba. That is why we would always support anything that would advance the cause of our teeming youths through education," he added.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

2023 Elections: Why I refused to join PDP, APC -Prof. Imumolen

The need to make a clean break from a system that has failed to deliver to Nigerians the dividends of democracy in almost two decades of the country's return to democratic governance was the reason he decided to join a fresh party other than the existing ones like the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Professor Christopher Imumolen says he decided to choose the Accord party as the platform from where he would ventilate his political aspirations to give a fresh view of what he feels governance should look like.

Fielding questions from a panel of interviewers during a popular TV breakfast show recently, the youthful presidential aspirant said the so-called big political parties that have had the opportunity to govern the country throughout the life of the 4th Republic have largely failed to deliver the true dividends of democracy because of an entrenched system that seems not to work.

"I decided not to join any of these so-called big political parties because I wanted a fresh perspective to governance. I told myself that if I wanted to be the agent of change that I really desired to be, I needed to make a clean break by dissociating myself from the system that never seems to work despite a host of very erudite fellows who have worked in it," Imumolen said.
He described Nigeria as a company which has been having the same challenge of management despite several attempts by different personnels to make a difference.

"It's just like an organization which keeps having the same problem again and again for say, 30 years. When you now notice that different solution proferred by those who are supposed to know is not working, the best thing to do will be to bring from outside the confines of that company someone who has not been tainted by the malaise that never seems to make things work in that organisation.

"I am that someone fresh from the outside who is untainted by the system, with no affiliations or any vested interests who will look at the country's problems from a fresh prism and be better placed to solve them," he said.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: PROFESSOR IMUMOLEN HAILS NIGERIANS, OTHERS AS GOODWILL MESSAGES CONTINUE TO RAIN , REASSURES HIS VISION FOR A PEOPLE ORIENTED PRESIDENCY.

Following his birthday celebration yesterday as he became plus one, elated presidential candidate of Accord, Professor Christopher Imumolen, has sent in-depth appreciation to all well wishers who showered prayers and encomiums to make his day blissful.

Obviously elated Imumolen who spoke to media men through a conference call from Abuja expressed his joy and gratitude to Nigerians and other global fans for their raw expression of love through their various goodwill messages and prayers, stressing that these will become great tonic and catalyst for the quest for the Nigerian Presidency to become president for the good of all.
He stated that the unending panegyric words and sterling wishes go a long way to show how much Nigerians love him and wish for his emergence in the ongoing political race.

ACCORDingly, Imumolen promised to proceed in the struggle for the soul of Nigeria with greater confidence and unflinching trust in the people, knowing that with the support of the masses, victory is sure, stating that the voice of the people is the voice of God.

He therefore stated that his greatest motivation, strength and passion emanate from faith in God Almighty, belief in public alliance and unmitigated desire to heal the world of Nigeria through a people oriented and developmental democracy for all.

"I am one of the present presidential gladiators due to my belief that leadership should grow rather than diminish, build rather than deplore, create rather than destroy, make rather than mar, progress rather than re trogress.

"While not particularly blaming any particular person for the sorry state of our state, I am strongly unhappy that consciously, we refused to pursue the establishment of a system that would have become an unshakable democratic culture that revolves on the pivots of good governance, accountability, equitable resource allocation, statesmanship/patriotism values and unbreakable national integration.

"On this ideology and resolve to sacrificially volunteer as a young patriot for the fight against the enemies of our fledgling democracy I am going about this mission, and I look up to none others than God and the good people of Nigeria for my victory", Imumolen submitted.

On the state of the nation, he called on all well meaning citizens to see 2023 as a swim or sink point for Nigeria, stressing that it is no time for hypothetical meandering, but rather a time to shun ethnicity, religion and all socio political alliances to face the significant task of taking Nigeria back from all that pose as her enemies.

"Nobody can say that the present national experience is pleasant, and pretending about the unsavoury situation is tantamount to throwing a stone into a market place which can hit one's relatives, pointing that a typical example is the case of terrorism which began in Borno and spread to everywhere subsequently, situation that now endangers even those who played partisan, ethnic and religion politics about and around it.
"I appeal for the support of all Nigerians towards actualising my "All for All" mantra to restore the national pride of all Nigerians home and in the diaspora.

"There is no me without Nigerians, and I am saying this with the respect of everyone's belief, religion, creed, education and social leanings in mind.
"I am also imploring us all to reject negative inducements that will only help a few elites and their goons to sustain the poverty, pain and gross disregard for the citizens as presently is the order in this indescribable administration", Imumolen ended.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

IMO: WHY UZODINMA, ANYANWU ARE LOSING SLEEP BECAUSE OF IHEDIOHA
 
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. Samuel Anyanwu are losing sleep over the soaring popularity of former Imo Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha.
 
This is because at every turn in Imo State, the consensus to return Rt. Hon. Ihedioha, the peoples’ governor back to power come 2023 has become a consolidated creed that cuts across all divides in Imo State.
 
The reverberating ovation that greet Ihedioha at every event in Imo State has continued to upstage and dim the hope of other political gladiators especially, Gov. Uzodinma and Sen. Anyanwu.
 
The latest being the occasion of a thanksgiving service to commemorate the 80th birthday of foremost business mogul and politician, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, at the Cathedral of Transfiguration of our Lord, CATOL, Owerri, Imo State.
 
The Cathedral was filled to the brim by worshippers, families, friends, political and business allies of the Chief Iwuanyanwu who came from various parts of the country to thank God for the life of the elder statesman. 
 
Among the dignitaries are: Governor of Imo State Senator Hope Uzodinma,  his deputy, Placid Njoku, accompanied by the full compliment of his expanded executive council, council Chairmen and various appointees, Former Imo Governor,  Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, former Deputy Governors of Imo State, Presidents of the Senate, Senator Pius Anyim and Senator Adolphus Wabara, former Military Administrator of Old Imo State, General Ike Nwachukwu, Leader of Afenifere, Pa Adebanjo, Leader of the Niger Delta,  Pa Edwin Clerk, Director General,  PDP Governors Forum, Hon. CID Maduabum, National Secretary  of the Peoples  Democratic Party,  Senator Samuel Anyanwu, among others.
 
While it was evident that Governor Hope Uzodimma had the apparatus of his appointees, fully mobilised to the church service,  Hon. Ihedioha walked in privately and sat quietly while the service lasted. 
 
About eight Bishops from various dioceses and a retinue of clergymen, officiated the high mass which had various media houses present.
 
The service had erupted with cheers in a show of love and solidarity for Hon. Emeka Ihedioha when the Most Rev. David Onuoha, Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, at the opening of his homily, acknowledged the presence of some dignitaries including Gov Uzodinma. But at the mention of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha the congregation erupted in jubilation and applause. 
 
Again, when the host and presiding Bishop, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Oparah, took time to welcome dignitaries,  including Governor Uzodinma; but at mention of the Ihedioha, the congregation again cheered in spontaneous jubilation in demonstration of their love and solidarity to him. The ovation was so loud that it took extra minutes to calm the joyous crowd. Ihedioha, humbled by the ovation, waved in acknowledgement. 
 
Then came the icing on the cake. This time Governor Uzodinma who was already visibly worried, made to address the church. While he was yet on the protocols and mentioned the name of Ihedioha, the congregation could not hold their love as they erupted  in joy. This particular scene, rattled the Governor who had to pause for for the cheers to recede. 
 
Governor  Uzodinma and the top hierarchy of the APC in Imo State have been losing sleep as a result of the rousing receptions and show of love that greet Ihedioha at events across the State.
 
In their separate reactions, one of the officiating priests, Rev. Williams Ibeh and a Knight of the Church,  Sir, Evan's Macaulay, expressed delight, describing the development as a pointer to what to expect in the 2023 election. 
 
"I feel very relieved,  seeing this for myself. For me, I am.positive of the fact that it is not over for Imo State. Hon. Ihedioha will surely return as Governor. Rev. Ibeh stressed. 
 
"Hon. Ihedioha is the man of the people.  He is sp loved. And you can see that the people miss him as Governor. All I will say is that we are ready to reclaim our State under his leadership in this coming election.
 
Recall that Hon. Ihedioha won the March 9, 2019 governorship election in Imo State and his tenure was truncated following January 14, 2020 controversial judgement of the Supreme Court which installed Senator Hope Uzodinma,  who came a distant fourth as the governor of state. 
 
As the 2023 elections draw closer, the clamour by the citizens for the return of Ihedioha, who is the leader of PDP in the state, to the seat of power is gaining consensus across the state.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

7 areas I'll fix when I become president -- Imumolen, Accord Presidential candidate

To give the country a sense of direction and firmly put it back on the path of sustainable growth and development, there are areas of urgent need that must be addressed.

Accord presidential candidate, Professor Christopher Imumolen says he is not going to waste time in fixing the rot in virtually every sector of the Nigerian economy should he be elected the country's president in next year's highly anticipated polls.

While articulating his manifesto for 2023, the youthful presidential aspirant identified very critical areas of the economy that has remained problematic for the country since it gained independence in 1960.

According to him, true development can only begin when every abandoned projects scattered around the country are completed, while juxtaposing it with fighting insecurity that has seemed to have, to a large extent, discouraged investment by both local and foreign investors in the nation's economy.

"The issue of fixing about 56,000 abandoned projects littered all over the country is very dear to my heart," he opened while reeling out his manifesto.

"In those abandoned projects lie the destiny of many a job seeker. Imagine how the nation's unemployment statistics will suddenly be reduced to it's barest minimum when these abandoned projects which include manufacturing industries are completed and fully become operational?" he said.

"In those abandoned projects also lie the prospects of generating raw materials to feed other industries. For instance, our steel rolling mills were originally designed to feed the larger Ajaokuta Steel Company of the eighties.

"This is why am very passionate about revisiting these projects that have been left to rot away by successive governments over the past four, five decades.

"Next will be a well articulated plan to increase the border control systems that has so far proved inadequate in stemming the influx of illegal movement of men, harmful materials like drugs, firearms and contraband into the country.

"Coming next on what my government would do if it gains the people's overwhelming mandate would be the educational system. Do you know that Nigeria's educational system is the worst funded in all of Africa?

"A system that is always in perpetual turmoil with ASUU going on strike intermittently for as long as five months without a sitting government finding a clue as to how to arrest the situation does not augur well for the sound education of our children.

"Such infractions will not be allowed to happen under my watch. As a matter of fact, I intend to fix Nigeria's topsy-turvy educational system six months after coming into power.

"Another critical area we won't delay in addressing is the issue of productive engagement of the increasing number of school leavers without jobs.

"Aside the fact that we intend to complete and revive moribund or dead industries to serve as a source of job creation, we shall be formulating policies that will encourage local production and manufacturing.

"This, we will be doing by helping SMEs to grow through provision of funding and capacity building. Farmers will not be left out as they shall experience increased funding in the areas of getting loans and subsidies to enhance their agricultural activities.

"Then, we shall also vigorously seek to end the spectre of darkness that has seemed to envelope the land because of inadequate power supply.

"We are looking at fixing Nigeria's current electricity generation, transmission and distribution debacle -- a situation that has remained somewhat intractable for a long time in the space of two years of my administration.

"Also, our health sector shall experience a total revolution as serious effort will be made to build hospitals, clinics, dispensaries of world class standards.

"The aim is to discourage the present uninhibited flight of our highly valued and well trained medical personnel to Europe, Asia and America, as well as stop the current trend of having Nigerians travel overseas for their medical needs.

"Lastly, we shall re-brand Nigeria, using the best aspects of our natural endowments in the arts, music, human capacity, sports etc, to sell our country positively to the outside world.

"At this critical stage of our national development, Nigerians need a leader like me that has the capacity, who has a charitable heart, is humane, a unifier, as well as one that is ready to sacrifice all that he has for the sole purpose of developing his country," he summed up.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/pmnewsnigeria.com/2022/09/04/7-areas-ill-fix-when-i-become-president-imumolen-accord-presidential-candidate/%3famp=1

Accord presidential candidate, Imumolen salutes Buhari for his neutral stance on 2023 elections

Accord presidential candidate, Professor Christopher Imumolen has hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for his decision not to interfere in next year's general elections.
The president while hosting state governors who are members of his political party, APC in Abuja on Tuesday had made it categorically clear that he would respect the will and wish of the Nigerian people by not trying to influence the outcome of the elections even though his party would be presenting a candidate in Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The president said he was encouraged by recent governorship elections held in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states, saying it had further boosted the people's confidence in the electoral process.
His position on the elections has since elicited a variety of comments from Nigerians including Professor Imumolen who is easily the youngest candidate in the 2023 presidential race.
Professor Imumolen in his response said the stance of the president on neutrality represents perhaps the biggest victory witnessed in the electoral process in over two decades of the country's return to democratic rule.

He said such neutrality not only had the tendency to boost the confidence of both the contestants and voting public in the electoral process, it was a major milestone in the sense that it negates now well held stereotypes of incumbents using the instrumentality of state power to influence outcomes of elections.
"I really want to appreciate our command-in-chief, President Muhammadu Buhari for stating that he'd be neutral in next year's general elections," Imumolen said on Saturday in an interview.
"What makes his position on non-interference in the elections most remarkable is the fact that he is an interested party. The APC would be presenting a candidate in the elections, and if past antecedents is the yardstick, then we would all naturally believe he'd do anything, including using the security forces and the electoral umpire to sway the results of the elections his way.

"For this, I salute him. Now, Nigerians can be fully assured that their votes will count and all the negative practices of the past will not happen this time.
"Our biggest fear before now has been that the elections will be rigged to favour the party in power. But the president's recent statement will do a lot clear those fears. Our people, assured that their collective wishes would be respected, will now be confident to throng the 176,000 polling booths all across the country on election day to cast their votes," he added.

Professor Imumolen also called on the president to complement his stance on neutrality with adequate support to the security personnel that would be deployed across the voting centres on election day.
"Another wish I'd like the president to grant our people is to ensure that the security forces, personnel are well motivated and mobilised to deliver a hitch-free exercise.

"I hope we can trust the president on this? If he indeed honours his words to steer clear of interfering in the elections and allows the best man win, then he will go down in history as the man who really brought about transparent elections in Nigeria.
"What a legacy that would be? When his story would be told to future generations, he shall be known as a champion of democracy despite initially coming from a military background. I know he will not disappoint, though," he said.

The youthful presidential candidate also commended the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) for cleaning up their acts in such a way as to ensure resounding successes in elections recently held in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun, saying it was a great improvement on elections of the past.

"I will also like to commend INEC for the efficient manner they conducted the governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states.
"Am particularly impressed by the way the results were collated, announced with minimal delay. With their plans to also electronically transmit elections in next year's general elections, Nigerians are in for the best times of their lives.

"With everything appearing to be in place, I have no doubts whatsoever that a candidate like Professor Christopher Imumolen who is the voice of the people, who has the structure, who believes in raising millions of votes will emerge the winner," he said.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Press statement

Vigeo legal advisers caution NERC against illegal takeover of BEDC

Legal advisers to Vigeo Power Limited, the core investors in BEDC Electricity Distribution Company Plc have cautioned Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to refrain from illegal means to alter the composition of the board of directors of the company (BEDC).

In a letter written to NERC and attention to Chairman of NERC Eng. Sanusi Garba and Mr. Dafe Akpeneye, with the headline, “RE: NOTICE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON THE LEGITIMATE AND STATUTORILY RECOGNISED BOARD OF DIRECTORS /MANAGEMENT OF BEDC ELECTRICITY PLC,” Kunle Adegoke, SAN, noted that, “We represent Vigeo Power Limited (VPL), the core investor in BEDC Electricity Plc, and we write this letter upon its instructions, and in connection with an unsigned publication with respect to the above caption, purportedly issued by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC or the Commission) and dated the 1st day of September 2022 (the Contemptuous Publication).

He contended that, “Whilst we have assumed that the Contemptuous Publication did not emanate from NERC, not least because it is unsigned, and will amount to a direct affront to the court (for the reasons stated below), we are, out of abundance of caution, and for the avoidance of doubt, constrained to state as follows:
“We are aware that the Commission is conscious of the fact that NERC is the 2nd Defendant in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1113/2022

between Vigeo Power Limited v. Fidelity Bank Plc; National Electricity Regulatory Commission and 6 Ors. which is pending before the Honourable Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja (the FHC Action) and in which orders of injunction have been granted restraining your Commission from: altering or taking further steps towards altering the management and Board of BEDC; registering or recognising the appointment of Messrs K. C. Akuma, Adeola Ijose, Henry Ajagbawa and Yomi Adeyemi as directors of BEDC pending the determination of the Motion on Notice which is scheduled to be heard on the 5th day of October, 2022.”
Adegoke SAN further argued that, “It is self-evident that the said interim orders are extant and have continuous effect, and none of the acts restrained thereby can be said to have been completed, particularly in view of the present and futuristic effect of the orders.”
According to him,”As NERC is very well aware, the pendency of the FHC Action is sufficient to compel any law-abiding institution (particularly a public institution under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, who seeks to promote the primacy of Rule of Law) to act with restraint, and not to project an image of lawlessness to the general public by acting contrary to the orders of the court and violating the sanctity of pendency of proceedings which both amount to contempt of court.”

“We also note the inaccurate analysis of the effect of the court order in the Contemptuous Publication. Being a party to the FHC Action, the appropriate step to be taken by NERC is to ventilate its grievance with the order before the court, and not denigrate it, as has been purportedly done in the Contemptuous Publication.
“It is on record that whilst NERC is represented by counsel in the FHC Action, it has not (at least as of the last sitting of the Court on the 22nd day of July, 2022) filed any process in the suit and neither has it filed any application to seek that the orders of court were wrongly procured or to have the Court set same aside.”
“We further note the assertion in the Contemptuous Publication that the security created over the shares of one of our client’s shareholders had been enforced, and that the Commission acted in accordance with its business continuity rules.
“In connection with the issue of the security over the shares, we wish to reiterate that the matter is currently the subject of an action before The Hon. Justice Bogoro in FHC Lagos, and the Commission will do well not to comment on an issue that is sub judice. And with respect to the putative powers of NERC to remove directors of licensees, the Commission should be reminded that the power was struck down and declared unlawful in the case of FHC/ABJ/653/2018 – Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company v Minister of Power & NERC.”

“As previously mentioned, we feel certain that no law-abiding public officer or public institution could have authorised the issuance of unsigned Contemptuous Publication. If the Contemptuous Publication is being wrongly attributed to the Commission, we urge the Commission to publicly disassociate itself from the publication.”
“However, in the unlikely event that the Contemptuous Publication was authorised by NERC, the Commission should be reminded of the grave consequences that follow disobedience of court orders.”
“In this regard, the Commission should also be reminded of the contempt proceedings that are currently pending against it in the FHC Action for gross violation of the orders of court and your counsel was in court when the court directed all defendants in the suit to first comply with the orders of court on the 22nd day of July, 2022.”
The lawyer noted that, “We should mention that we are not unaware of the Commission’s plan to collaborate with some elements to invade the premises of BEDC and forcefully impose the illegal directors on the company notwithstanding the absence of authority to impose directors on a company regulated by law. We will urge the Commission to refrain from such action.”
In an unsigned letter purportedly emanating from NERC with the headline: NOTICE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON THE LEGITIMATE AND STATUTORILY RECOGNIZED BOARD OF DIRECTORS/MANAGEMENT OF

BEDC ELECTRICITY PLC, it noted that the attention of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has been drawn to public notices signed by Mr. Lucky Ayomoto purportedly acting on behalf of the erstwhile board/management of BEDC Electricity Plc (BEDC). According to it, “the public notices published on 9 August 2022 sought to reassure the general public on the legitimate and statutorily recognized board of directors/management of BEDC and described the appointment of Messrs Henry Ajagbawa, K.C.Akuma, Adeola Ijose, Charles Onwera and Yomi Adeyemi as directors of BEDC as an unlawful misrepresentation and unfortunate misadventure.”

Former military leader, Abdulsalami Abubakar backs Imumolen for President


Nigeria's former military head of state, Abdulsalami Abubakar has thrown his weight behind the candidacy of Professor Christopher Imumolen as he attempts to become Nigeria's civilian president next year.

The former leader, reputed to have midwife the process that ushered in the 4th Republic which began with the democratically elected government of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999, made his position known when the Accord presidential candidate paid him a courtesy visit at his palatial home in Minna recently.

Abubakar who received the academician and philanthropist in his capacity as a former leader with vast experience in governance said the country was in dire need of vibrant, youthful leaders like Professor Imumolen to seize the initiative and retire a fading breed of the old guard to lead the country.

"I think the old ones should fade away gracefully and allow young people to take over," Abubakar said.

"What we can do as former leaders is to mentor and tutor them in whatever way we can in order for them to lead the country. As a matter of fact, this is the time Nigerians should begin to support young, vibrant and visionary leaders that would steer the country on the path of glory," he added.

Speaking earlier to a retinue of reporters at the home of the former leader and elder statesman, Professor Imumolen had reiterated his stance on the role the next generation of leaders like him should play in taking the country to its promised land.

"We need to reposition the country on the path of development and sustainable growth," he said.

"And if that must be done, Nigerians should start looking at selecting those who have a track record in leadership at various levels from both the private and public sector," he added.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Accord presidential candidate, Imumolen, banks on fresh strategy to end insecurity in Nigeria

With several unguarded routes through which illegal aliens flock into Nigeria, Accord's presidential candidate, Professor Christopher Imumolen, has vowed to tackle and safe guard Nigeria’s borders so as to stem the rising tide of insecurity in the country.

Should he be elected as Nigeria's president come 2023, Imumolen who spoke when he recieved chieftains of the Accord Party in Abuja said he would work assiduously to ensure that more attention is paid the issue of effective manning of the country's borders in order to stop the influx of undesirable elements into the country.

"Nigeria is going through it's most challenging times because of a porous border system that keeps allowing illegal movement of equipment, drugs, contraband, firearms, and people of questionable intentions into the country," Imumolen observed.

"The consequence of this is that the country is reeling from the after effects of such negligence as it keeps witnessing an untoward rise in unwarranted killings, kidnappings and other vices," he laments.

"But a nation that is serious about achieving and enjoying sustainable peace must not allow the current situation to continue as it has the potential to ultimately derail the objective of economic growth as well as our stability as a sovereign country.

"The way forward will therefore be for us to take a holistic look at the current border system that we operate in order to make the necessary adjustments.

"First, we would need to look at the over 1400 unguarded, unmanned illegal routes that makes us so vulnerable as a country.

"And according to available statistics, the country only has about 84 approved border control systems to combat the huge traffic of movement into the country from different points -- north, east, west and south -- on a daily basis.

"My administration will do everything in it's power to raise the number of approved border control systems to an appreciable level to minimize, if not completely eradicate, the uninhibited access outsiders currently have into our country.
"I am in no doubt whatsoever that once this is done, our country will begin to move speedily towards a guaranteed security system, economic prosperity and general wellbeing for it's citizens," he said.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

ENERGY: Stiff Regulation Reason For Nigeria’s Dysfunctional Power Sector - Accord’s Professor Imumolen

Nigeria's youngest presidential candidate and candidate of Accord for the 2023 election, Prof Christopher Imumolen has lamented over the current status of power in Nigeria and has proffered modules for the development of the sector.

Professor Imumolen during a recent media chat in Abuja stated that the power sector has to be opened to local and international players, stressing that its current status of a stiffly regulated realm is not apt.

He said more players are needed in the generation, transmission and distribution segments and that deregulation has to be ensured by the Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission, NERC.

He described as unfortunate the fact that Nigeria has only been able to cover 50% of the nation in terms of power supply since independence.

Condemning Nigeria's low generation capacity which stands at a dangling 6,000 megawatts despite the investment of hundreds of billions of naira by successive governments, he wondered where the about 5 billion dollars generated as tariff annually go to.

He, therefore, decried the spate of corruption in Nigeria's power sector and others, pointing out that for Nigeria to escape the abysmally low supply to homes and industries which stands at an average of 2 hours per day presently, corruption must be tactically killed, and the business of energy generation, transmission and distribution must be entrusted in the hands of professionals who know the business and not to political acolytes or clients.

"For a remarkable impact and success to be recorded in the power sector, it must be handled with govt sincerity as a vital sector tightly hinged to national development.
"With adequate power supply, a palpable economic vibrancy will be injected into the economy and Large, Small and Medium Enterprises will boom", he buttressed.

Concluding, he emphasised the urgent need for a more friendly investment atmosphere in the power sector, such so attractive to players who will make power stable in Nigeria, describing as disgraceful Nigeria's inability to provide adequate power for its citizens since 1960, saying that Nigeria can only attain overall productivity, prosperity and development when her sectors thrive.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Atiku, David Mark, Okowa Celebrate Ihediohia's Mum At 90

Dignitaries from all works of life including Mrs Titi Abubakar, wife of the PDP presidential candidate as well as former senate president of Nigeria, David Mark were among the guest who gathered at the Saint James Anglican Church, Asokoro on Sunday for Mama Dorathy Ihedioha 's 90th Birthday Thanksgiving service.

Mama Dorathy Ihedioha is the mother of former Imo state governor, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha.

In a video shared by Ihedioha New Media Center on Facebook, Titi Abubakar, David Mark and Ifeanyi Okowa described Mama Dorathy Ihedioha as mother to all and not just her biological children alone.

Titi Abubakar said, “I want to thank all mama’s children because they are always taking care of mama because she is a great mother.

“Even me, I am not her biological daughter but the moment she saw me, she was surprised.”

Ex-Senate president, David Mark said, “Mama you have wonderful children and you have brought them up in a way that shows that you were strict with them when they were young.

“I want to join others to thank God for the live you have lived so far and to pray that you’ll live long so that you can reap the wisdom that God has given you. God will continue to bless you.”

70-Yr-Old Woman Picks Accord’s Presidential Candidate Prof. Imumolen Over Peter Obi


As 2023 general elections draw near, candidates, especially those vying for the number one position in the country have continued to latch on to the mass media to reach out to millions of potential voters.

One of these candidates who have been leveraging the media to share their vision is Professor Chris Imumolen, the presidential candidate of Accord.

The 38-yr-old presidential candidate was on TVC recently to speak to Nigeriains on how he intends to fix the country if elected as president. During the live programme which was anchored by veteran broadcaster, Yori Folarin, a woman in her 70s who was apparently impressed by how Imumolen spoke on how he will tackle the problems in Nigeria phoned in from Jos to share her view about the Accord’s candidate.

The woman who introduced herself as Ladeji said: “My contribution is about the Youths themselves. Actually, I am not for any of the old people. I am an old woman, I am in my 70s and I am tired of them. We are supposed to take care of our children but we are killing them in so many ways.”

Continuing, Ladeji said she was once rooting for the Labour Party because of Peter Obi and for the interest of the Igbos, but has decided to go for a younger candidate because she believes the Youths deserve power while pointing out that the old ones need to leave.

“ I am not really for APC or PDP. I went for the Labour Party because I want to give Igbo a chance. But for this morning, I am for Accord, I have changed my mind. I am backing the younger ones. Now my message is to Nigerian Youths, you are the ones that have Nigeria, these ones that are wrecking Nigeria are almost going. Time will tell, they have to go”

Cc: Lalasticlala

Ede Killings: Adeleke's CSO confesses, says he killed just one person

... culprits must be brought to justice - Bereaved family

...as Police conduct autopsy on the corpses

In the wake of the recent killing of two members of the same family in Ede, Osun State, Abideen and Kafayat Olalekan, the alleged killer cop and Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor-elect, Senator Ademola Adeleke, CSP Omoyele Adekunle has confessed to the killing of one of the deceased.

Omoyele's confession came on the heels of the intensive interrogations ordered by the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, into the matter in respect of the petition filed against the Osun State Police Command by the bereaved family and other stakeholders, especially Civil Society Organisations.

It was authoritatively gathered that the prime suspect, CSP Omoyele Adekunle, who allegedly led the Police Squad to the scene of the incident, admitted that he only killed one person out of the two armless citizens confirmed dead same day. But the family is insisting that he was responsible for the killing of the two persons, including a pregnant woman on the instructions of a serving PDP lawmaker, who is the Minority leader of the Osun House ofAssembly, Hon. Kofoworola Babajide Adewumi.

The Police had conducted autopsy tests on the deceased bodies to formally unravel the cause of their death for further investigations.

This is even as the bereaved family insisted that the culprits must be brought to justice to serve as deterrent to other erring officers, power-toxic individuals and those with the belief that they are above the law.

Recall that late Abideen Olalekan and Kafayat Olalekan were allegedly gruesomely murdered by policemen led by CSP Omoyele, on the orders of a lawmaker representing Ede-North State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Kofoworola Babajide.

It was reported that their killing was a fallout of the disagreement that ensued among members of the PDP over sharing of the left over of largesse of the recently conducted Osun governorship election.

However, in the quest for justice, the bereaved family through their lawyer petitioned the Osun Police Command and forwarded same to the Police Headquarters, Abuja, few days after the incident.

The family followed it up with appearance on Human Rights Radio (Berekete Family), Abuja, from where Force PRO in Abuja intervened and requested the family to show up at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where the matter was already being investigated.

In what appears as a swift response to the petition, it was reliably gathered that the Inspector General of Police directed immediate investigation into the matter with an order to ensure justice is served and seen.

The action of the police authority led to the summon of the alleged killer cop and Adeleke's CSO, Omoyele Adekunle and members of the family of the deceased.

The source who claimed anonymity informed that the alleged principal suspect, Omoyele admitted in the course of the investigation that he only shot and killed one of the deceased, Mr Abideen Olalekan.

He further confessed that he was part of the Police Squad invited by Hon. Adewumi but not responsible for the killing of the other deceased, Mrs Kafayat Olalekan who was brutally killed same day few hours to the first killing though at different locations but same area in Ede.

Meanwhile, the Secret Investigative Squad of the Police Headquarters, Abuja, had on Sunday conducted postmortem exercise on the corpse at the Uniosun Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, with the expectations of revealing the results in few days to come.

Speaking on the development, the Counsel to the complainants, Barrister Bola Abimbola Ige, confirmed to the autopsy tests conducted on the two dead bodies.

According to him, the postmortem exercise was carried out by the Secret Investigative Team of Police Headquarters, Abuja on Sunday.

He said the autopsy will aid the investigation as to the quick determination of the matter.

"Police just conducted autopsy having gone through necessary investigations, by interrogating the principal suspect, CSP Omoyele and his colleagues, as well as the complainants.

"What actually led to this was that, on the 5th of August, 2022, the arms-triggered policemen on the invite of a lawmaker stormed the residence of the complainants where two persons were gruesome murdered in the process.

"The deceased are; Abideen Olalekan and Kafayat Olalekan. The act was perpetrated by a member of a team of police officers whose duty was to protect lives and property of the citizens.

"These arms-triggered policemen on the instructions of one Honourable Kofoworola Babajide Adewumi, the minority leader of the State House of Assembly, fired his gun first at Abideen Olalekan and killed him. The corpse was taken away, and thereafter went ahead in less than 24hours to kill Kafayat Olalekan, a member of the same family.

"The information got to my office through family of the deceased. They narrated the incident and how the deceased were killed. We took up the matter and petitioned the Police detailing the information gathered, and this action led to the invite of the suspects and the complainants by the police authority. They were adequately interrogated in Abuja.

"The alleged Police officer, CSP Omoyele didn't deny the killing but only said that he killed one person. He only admitted the killing of Abideen Olalekan. He said he wasn't responsible for the killing of Kafayat Olalekan.

"The investigative team had come and conducted the postmortem on the dead bodies and I was a witness to how the exercise was being carried out.

"So far so good, the police have shown a dispassionate and readiness to look into the matter as it ought to be looked into and I am sure that at the end of the matter, the truth will be known and made to the public.

"We will go to any length to ensure that this gangsterism doesn't go unpunished. Enough of public harassment and high-handedness on the part of the Police, we all knew all happened during EndSars, with what had happened in recent past, we must put a stop to this.

"Nigerians should not hesitate to complain any high-handedness on the part of the police. I urge them not to cover such cases, this is the only way to sanitize our society and rid of such heinous acts", the legal expert added.

Speaking on behalf of the family earlier at the Uniosun Teaching Hospital, UTH where autopsy tests were carried out, a younger sister to the deceased, Mrs Rukayat Olalekan Olasoji said all that the family is seeking for is justice adding that "we don't want this matter to be swept under the carpet."

"We have been told and mocked that we are wretched that we can't prosecute this matter. We have been told that we lack all that can make us to get justice on this incident but we are begging government and well-meaning Nigerians to come to our rescue on this matter because we don't want the dead to die in vain.

"We want justice on this matter because presently our lives are in danger, we are not saved anymore and we don't want the family to be put to shame," she screamed in tears.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

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Okowa, David Mark, Dogara, others honor Dame Dorothy Ihedioha, at 90.

#NsonmaAt90

Accord Presidential Candidate Launches National Prosperity System For Nigerians

Accord Presidential candidate, Prof Christopher Imumolen, has launched an economic system, "I Will Prosper" aimed at providing economic respite or succour to Nigerians to ameliorate their living plights and catalyse prosperity for all.

The program which was announced by the Presidential candidate via a press statement said the program will create collective prosperity towards eradicating increasing socio-economic despondency and frustration which are the pivots upon which criminality and unpatriotic ways revolve.

Speaking about the development, Prof Imumolen noted that the "I Will Prosper Group" or network meant to create collective prosperity towards eradicating increasing socio-economic despondency and frustration which are the pivots upon which criminality and unpatriotic ways revolve.

"This system will provide the basis for business, financial, empowerment, education, healthcare and agricultural supports for all in different dimensions.

"The less privileged, aged and various socially handicapped are greatly considered in the I Will Prosper configuration.

"It speaks volumes of our "All for All" political mantra and our avowed resolve to champion a solution-based electioneering campaigns towards our leadership emergence come 2023", Imumolen intoned.

He reiterated his mission towards thorough and patriotism-based national integration and economic rejuvenation which point to the fact that Nigeria Must Prosper Again, calling on Nigerians to back him in the struggle to take Nigeria back from the stranglehold of poverty, pain, insecurity and retrogression.

Professor Imumolen is coming from a super private sector environment and parades great experience and enviable national and international exploits in his kitty.

He is the youngest of all the presidential candidates in the 2023 race.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

BREAKING: Accord Picks Ex-Zamafara SSG As Vice Presidential Candidate

Bello Bala Maru, a former Secretary to the Zamfara state Government has been announced as the running mate to Accord’s Presidential candidate, Professor Christopher Imumolen.

The announcment which was made via press statement on thursday revealed that the party presented the North West political influencer after due consultations and realisation of his powerful political clout in the northern leadership hemisphere.

Speaking at the occasion, National Chairman of Accord Muhammad Nalado said from all indications, the Accord leadership has struck a good South/ North synergy in the urgency of now when Nigeria must attain a solid form through inter region inclusiveness.

He expressed confidence that the party will produce the next president and vice president of Nigeria.

He pointed that it was with Accord that Nigeria gained independence and produced nationalists, calling on the Nigerian youths to take advantage of Professor Imumolen who is a youth to achieve the long dreamt dream for a youth president who will also embrace wise counsels of elders and collaborate with his older running mate.

The Vice Presidential hopeful responding, expressed appreciation for his selection as the right man for the job.

He noted that this followed a long period of consultation, and that he is keen about good governance having hailed from a state and region grossly terrorised and afflicted by insecurity.

Professor Imumolen while hailing the Accord leadership pointed that the Accord will win the 2023 presidential election, with the support of youths and all Nigerians.

He welcomed his running mate and described him as a square peg in the proper hole.

https://www.newtelegraphng.com/breaking-accord-picks-ex-zamafara-ssg-as-vice-presidential-candidate/

JUST IN: Accord Presidential Candidate, Prof Imumolen, Meets Obasanjo In Abeokuta

Presidential candidate of the Accord Party, Professor Christoper Imumolen has met with former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital.

The meeting is believed to be a consolidation visit considering that it is not the first time the young presidential hopeful is visiting the former president.

During the visit, the people's Prof. was seen at some point on his knees, with head bowed, hands holding that of Baba.

Professor Imumolen who had at other times visited critical stakeholders and elder statesmen did not just leave Baba as Obasanjo is fondly called without showing that he and other well-meaning Nigerians are appreciative of the labours of the founding heroes of Nigeria, living and dead, thus he presented a plaque with the inscription ' the labours of our heroes past - shall never be in vain', to Baba Obasanjo.

Speaking on his visit to OBJ, Prof Imumolen said; " It is good to get prayers and counsel from leadership icons like Obasanjo whose vast experience through direct leadership encounters and experimentations can never be gainsaid.

"There is no limit to such blessing, prayers and nurture for me as I am set to use such map as a measure and energy to rewrite the leadership narrative of our dear nation, and redefine the economic fortune of the Nigerian people, with the sole aim of placing Nigeria in the comity of prosperous nations.

"Our presentation of the plaque is a mark of utmost appreciation for their great leadership sacrifices through time. I am consulting vehemently preparatory to spearheading a new leadership in Nigeria as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2023, knowing that the road is rough and that Nigeria's Presidency is not for the lily liver.

"I represent the long-anticipated better future, the collective ambition and expectation of the youth and the long dreamt paradigm shift, and therefore plead for the support of Nigerians come 2023 towards the realisation of an 'All for All' government for true national integration and development."

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

APC RECONCILIATION: Bago sue for peace and unity

The standard Flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress APC in Niger State, Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, who’s currently representing Chanchaga Federal Constituency in HoR has called on party members and supporters to shun all intra-party grievances and animosity arising from the just concluded primary elections of the party.

Bago spoke at House 7 event center in Bida venue of the five-day reconciliation meetings with critical stakeholders of Zone A which comprised eight local government areas of Bida, Gbako, Katcha, Edati, Lavun, Mokwa, Lapai and Agaei.

The APC flag bearer explained it is only by settling internal wranglings that the party could secure victory in the forthcoming general elections and retain leadership across all the three tiers of governmen.

He added that is is only through this that the party could sustain provision of basic infrastructure and Empowerment to the people of the state, affirming that many mistakes had been committed by the elected and appointed political office holders and the meetings should offer aggrieved parties the opportunity to disclose their complaints so as to allow for amicable resolution.

Bago therefore urged politicians within the APC family to live up to the expectations of the people and remain proactive on the confidence reposed in them through provision of people oriented projects.

According to him, it is only by putting in place projects that will enhance people's lives generally and the provision of robust empowerment of Women/Youths to be self reliant as employers of labor that a cardinal goal of the party could be achieved. He stressed no efforts of government or politician would be felt when there is no serious welfare for the people.

In his remarks at the meetings, the Deputy Governor of the state and political leader of the zone, Alh Ahmed Mohammed Ketso, urged politicians to take solace in the fact that it is God who gives power to whom He wished, and at a time He liked, noting that no individual or group of persons could change that which God had ordained.

The deputy governor added that all aspirants and their supporters must put behind the issues which came up during the primaries of the party and concentrate on winning the fast approaching elections, urging them to do their best for the party of its candidates by campaigning vigorously.

Critical stakeholders of the Zone individually laid bare their grievances some of which were inadequate provision of projects, empowerment, welfare and non chalant attitude of party leaders to challenges of the party, which all combined to create crisis among both the elected and appointed political office holders in the state.

The Flag bearer and his entourage also took time to visit the palaces of the Emirs of Agaei and Lapai, their Royal Highnesses Yusuf Nuhu and Umar Bago III respectively.

The royal fathers in their separate remarks urged politicians to be cautious in their utterances and actions, and to desist from engaging in conducts that could bring chaos in the country, even as special prayers were offered for peace and progress of the state.

Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago commenced his All Progressive Congress (APC) reconciliation tour from Zone-A with a visit to HRH. Etsu Nupe and ended the 5-day long stay in Zone-A with a visit to their Royal Highnesses, Etsu Agaie and Etsu Lapai.

This tour has addressed all underlying issues and misgivings after the primaries in Zone A. The party is now more formidable than ever in the zone and all stakeholders are set to go into next year’s election as a family and partners in progress.

The candidate is set to begin Zone B reconciliation meeting on Monday 22nd August 2022.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

'When will Omoyele, Solo, Emir, others be arrested', OSRA asks CP Olokode

A socio-political group, Osun Shall Rise Again, OSRA, has expressed concern over the inability of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Wale Olokode, to effect the arrest of the alleged Killer cop, CSP Omoyele and a serving lawmaker, accused of killing two persons in Ede, including a pregnant mother.

The group is equally worried that several months after a notorious cultist, who go by the alias 'emir' and another one called Solo were declared wanted by the Osun Police Command, these people were yet to be reined in, even when they are seen attending parties in public glare and frolicking with chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)in the State.

Incidentally, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had openly complained against the activities of these two notorious cultists several months before the July 16, 2022 governorship polls.

In a statement by the Secretary and Chairman of OSRA, Saheed Bakare and Lanre Akeju, respectively, the group noted that there are insinuations that CP Olokode may be deliberately working for the PDP, especially because "these wanted persons are usually provided cover by his men, especially CSP Omoyele and his team.

"We have noticed an increase in the spate of violence and attacks in Osun since Senator Ademola Adeleke was declared Governor -elect.

"Curiously, a police officer whose records of human rights violation is in the public domain, including how he was heavily indicted by Endsars Panel report, is being detailed as the Chief Security Officer to the Governor -elect. We hope it is not what we are thinking.

"If CSP Omoyele and the serving lawmaker cannot be arrested because they are serving the interest of the PDP, we hope CP Olokode is not also conniving with them to set up a killer squad, post November 27.

"Through our credible sources within the Police, we have it on a good authority that CP Olokode has confided in some persons that Omoyele indeed fired the shot that killed one of the victims and that he (Omoyele) was on an illegal duty. We are therefore at a loss why up till this morning, he and other members of his team have not been arrested.

“While we await CP Olokode to tell us when he will be effecting the rest of Omoyele, Solo, emir' and the serving lawmaker, we also call on the IGP to immediately withdraw CSP Omoyele as CSO to the Governor -elect. This, we believe is the only way to tell other criminals lurking around that there are consequences for bad behaviours. For we continue to allow them roam the streets, others will be emboldened to carry out such nefarious acts, like some did yesterday at Owode Ede," the group added.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Breaking!!!! PDP thugs attack Governor's wife convoy in Ede

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, political thugs on Friday , attacked the convoy of the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola, in Owode Ede.

Ede is the home town of the Governor -elect, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

The attack is coming barely two weeks after a list of top Government Officials allegedly marked for attack by the opposition PDP surfaced in the social media.

Trouble was said to have started when security operatives attached to the First Lady tried to clear the traffic around Owode Ede to allow for easy passage. Unknown to them, some PDP thugs had positioned themselves and began hauling stones and other dangerous weapons at the convoy, thereby smatching the vehicles and injuring some security operatives in the convoy.

An eyewitness also said "I saw the convoy. But I did not know who the occupant was. They blared the siren but the truck refused to give way. The truck driver is not even from Osun. But some boys just came from nowhere and asked him to use the truck to block the road, to prevent the convoy from proceeding and he agreed. Before you knew it, stones began flying from left and right, all directed at the convoy. To me, it looked like a planned work. But the truck driver only lent himself to be used."

When contacted, an aide of the First Lady, Iluyomade Oluwatumise confirmed the attack on the convoy. She however said no life was lost in the incident, just as she revealed that some security personnel attached to the convoy sustained various degrees of injuries. She added that all those injured have been taken to the hospital and are receiving medical attention.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

I’ll Fix Education Sector In 6 Months - Accord Presidential Candidate, Professor Chris

Professor Chris Imumolen, the Presidential candiate of the Accord Party has vowed to fix Nigeria’s education sector in six months if elected as president come Febuary 2023.

Imumolen an academia , a vastly certified scholar and the youngest candidate in the current race for Nigeria's presidency made this pledge on during a massive interactive session organized by the PCI movement by his friends across Lagos.

At the sesion, he also unleashed several empowerment schemes for farmers and other practitioners inlucding the "I Will Prosper" business scheme to accommodate Nigerians who will reap freely from a network that raises millionaires through financial and business opportunities.

Same day, he dolled out funds running into several millions to different lucky individuals.
According to Imumolen, the human capital of any nation remains the most vital, the reason he promised to give it paramount attention as president, stressing that the education sector will be allotted about 20% of the budget to ensure that things augur totally well.

He proceeded to assure that the infrastructure in the sector will receive a huge deal through an overhauling strategy that will eliminate age long bureaucracy and corruption that have strangulated the vital sector too long.

"As president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I will ensure that lecturers will be paid as at when due; that the academic environment will be conducive for all students, and they will have cross cultural alignments with foreign students as whites and learners from various climes will find the Nigerian education sector so appealing", Imumolen promised.

Prof. Imumolen is famous as one education enthusiast and investment/management guru who has not just ensured business cum economic empowerments for thousands of Nigerians, but has gone ahead to grant scholarship awards to over 500,000 Nigerians who have educational access to quality international education and certifications, and this has been happening for over 12 years now.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

2023: Prof Chris Imumolen More Competent Than Peter Obi - President YNCW, Williams Emeagi

Williams Emeka, the President of Young Nigerians In Corporate World [YNCW] has described the Presidential candidate of Accord Party, Prof Chris Imumolen, as a more competent candidate than Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

Mr Emeka who stated this during a courtesy visit to Prof Chris at his campaign office in Abuja said the noise about Peter Obi on social media cannot solve the basic issues Nigeria is facing. He described Peter Obi candidacy as one which is working on diving the nation more than uniting the country.

He said; “At this current state that we are in this country, what we need is a president that understands how a sane system works. A president that knows his onions- What to create, what to correct, what to eradicate and then the result. What we have so far including Peter Obi are candidates who just make noise on social media.

“We have a collapsed educational system, our security zero, and many more that you and I know very well. But the purpose of this is not to count our many problems but rather to find solutions to all and the true solution to having a working system that would benefit all is no one else but Prof. Imumolen.”

Speaking further, he reiterated that young Nigerians in the corporate world today are ready to work and vote for Prof Chris based on his credible track record and ability to perform excellently well in his private capacity.

“We have seen what you have done in your private capacity and in the education sector as well. These are the reasons why we have chosen to back you to become Nigeria’s President come 2023.

“We have our own future to look out for and we see that you are capable of protecting our future and charting a new course for our nation, particularly in the education sector which we believe if properly addressed, all other issues can be fixed”.

“ Again, we have decided to back Prof Chris because this is a man with interest in human investment. His primary goal is to see everyone doing fine in a sane system where businesses are thriving and an average or low-class person can start up a business and it will blossom. This is me blowing his trumpet that he is capable of making our economy the best in Africa.”

He also urged Nigerians regardless of their religion or tribe to support Prof Chris who he described as young, strong and willing to serve Nigeria.

On his part, Prof Chris thanked the group and urged them to continue to mobilise the youths to participate in the coming poll and leave social media.

“Let me guarantee you that ours is not a campaign of religion or tribe and as such, we are head hunting for the best to join me in rebuilding Nigeria and it is a task only the youth can do. These old men have less than 10 years to be with us, we must prove that we are capable and ready to lead this nation,” he noted.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

2023 Elections: Only A Candidate Who Isn’t Affiliated To Any Sect Can Solve Nigeria’s Problems - Accord Party Presidential candidate, Prof. Chris

Professor Christopher Imumolen, the presidential candidate of the Accord Party believes that only a candidate who is not affiliated with any sects in Nigeria can solve the effects vested by terrorism on the economy of Nigeria.

The effect of terrorist activities such as suicide bombings, kidnappings, destruction of lives, public infrastructure, private and entrepreneurial investments, the climate of fear, panic and confusion and a heated and ungovernable polity has continued to make Nigeria an unsuitable bride for foreign investments.

Speaking at a youth gathering commemorating International Youth Day, PCI as he’s fondly called by millions of supporters said voting right is the only way to ensure that critical issues are addressed.

He said; “If we lose our votes to those who are already members of, or in one way or the other affiliated to any sects, be it religious, political, ethical, then the effect of the aftermath is that we keep having advocates of sects in offices. You know what that means. How are we going to be out of this menace already affecting every aspect of the nation and her economy?”

Speaking further, he reiterated that one of the major essences of the government is to secure her people adding that “If the government’s efforts aren't working, then there must be internal bottlenecks which need a neutral personality to the headdress.”

“Constitutionally, 2023 should grace a new person in governing this nation. So, canvassing for who to vote for is our civic responsibility. Yes, it is because we have the right as a youth to contest for public office, to be voted for, to vote, to belong to a political party, and to criticize the government provided that our thoughts are not to incite the people against the government.

Prof Chris said he has begun the process of preparing the minds of voters to vote right in the coming election and to educate all and sundry on the kind of personality needed to get Nigeria back on its feet from the menaces of terrorism and insecurity with their effects in Nigeria so far.

Prof Christopher Imumolen who has been using his earnings from diverse businesses home and abroad to alleviate poverty in Nigeria and Africa at large urged Nigerians not to miss this rare personality God has given them to make Nigeria great again.

“The future you desire is here. We must not miss this election. Once missed, to have it back might be difficult. Hardship will end if we vote right,” he said.

Also speaking, the director general of Prof Chris Presidential Campaign Organisation said his principal is not a member or affiliated with any illicit or terrorist sects adding that he will unite Nigeria again.

“I want the youths here to know that Prof Chris won't be in the office and be biased. He will follow the constitution. He won't separate the country. He will unite us together again. No wonder he always says and I quote..."Nigeria will be great again!"

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

BEDC assures stakeholders of restoration of board, management

The Benin Electricity Distribution Company Plc (BEDC) has assured the general public of the restoration of governance and operational control of the company by the legitimate board and management of the company.
 
The Head of Legal Services of BEDC, Mr. Lucky Ayomoto who disclosed this in a statement issued by the company in Benin yesterday said, “This is to assure the general public that BEDC Electricity Plc remains under the governance and operational control of its legitimate and statutorily recognised Board of Directors and Management.”
 
He added that, “As the public is already aware, the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate misadventure by Henry Ajagbawa, K. C. Akuma, Adeola Ijose, Charles Onwera and Yomi Adeyemi (who at some point, unlawfully misrepresented themselves as Directors of BEDC Electricity Plc.), are subject of a pending court action at the Federal High Court, Abuja in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1113/2022, where the court, amongst other things, restrained the Defendants (including Henry Ajagbawa, K. C. Akuma, Adeola Ijose, Charles Onwera and Yomi Adeyemi) from parading themselves as Directors of BEDC Electricity Plc.
 
“We hereby use this medium to assure the general public, both local and international, together with our wonderful customers, that normalcy has since returned to BEDC under the lawful control and management of its legitimate Board of Directors and Management.”
 
Mr. Ayomoto said, “The public is hereby advised that anyone who transacts with Henry Ajagbawa and his collaborators does so at his or her own risk, as they have no authority to transact or enter into any legal relations for and on behalf of BEDC Electricity Plc.”
 
He assured the customers of the company of quality and improved service delivery, adding that their satisfaction is paramount to the company.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Adeleke sacks 28 domestic staff for asking for pay rise

...as victims cry for public's support to secure better jobs

Barely few days after being declared winner of the July 16 Osun governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke and other members of his family have sacked 28 domestic staff working in their residence in Ede.

The affected workers who were reportedly receiving N15,000 stipend monthly were relieved of their job for demanding an increment in their pay.

According to sources close to the Adeleke's country home, the domestic workers were unjustly sacked after the family failed to fulfill the promise made to them regarding salary increment.

It was revealed that the sacked workers were assured of increment in their pay before the election with a false hope that once Ademola Adeleke wins, their stipends will be jerked, a pledge the Adeleke's dynasty has now failed to fulfill which led to the sack of the innocent workers who have been working with the family over 10 years ago.

Meanwhile, the workers have cried out loud to the members of the public and concerned individuals to come to their rescue regretting labouring for the family without tangible things to show for it.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Ede Killing: bereaved family cries for justice, says culprits must face wrath of law

...PDP lawmaker, CSP Omoyele culpable - family

Following the alleged murder of two persons on Friday in Ede, Osun State, members of the family of the deceased have called for government's intervention to beam searchlight into the incident in order to ensure justice.

The bereaved family also urged concerned authorities to come to their aid in fishing out the perpetrators most importantly one CSP Omoyele who allegedly shot at the deceased.

Recall that two persons believed to have worked for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last governorship election in the State were gruesomely murdered over a mere argument which, eyewitnesses said would have ordinarily been settled without leading to rancour or face-off.

It was gathered that one CSP Omoyele who has been penciled down to be the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor-elect, Ademola Adeleke led a team of police officers to the operation that eventually led to the killing of two persons belonging to the same family.

While one of the deceased was a supporter of the APC, other members of the bereaved family are strong members of the PDP in Ede-North.

According to them, the incident started on Friday's evening after a fracas ensued between members of the party at a Ward meeting held in the town.

It was reported that one Mr. Olalekan Abideen and Mrs Kafayat Olalekan were gruesomely killed same day over the crisis.

Narrating their ordeals in tears, the younger sister of deceased, Mrs. Rukayat Olalekan Olasoji alleged that the PDP's lawmaker and CSP Omoyele as masterminds of the unfortunate killings.

According to her, the duo led the team of the police officers that shot and killed the two members of their family over an argument that had been resolved and laid to rest.

Mrs Olalekan who claimed to be a die-hard member of the PDP in Ede-North, affirmed that except his younger brother, Mr Olalekan Ibrahim Tunde who is a supporter of the APC, every other member of the family especially her mother and siblings are PDP loyalists.

"The whole thing started when we had an argument at our Ward meeting last Friday over the left over money that was supposed to be given to each polling unit in form of appreciation to the PDP members that worked for the victory of the party in the last governorship election.

"We were asked to collect N250,000 each from the sitting lawmaker that represents Ede-North State Constituency, Hon. Nurudeen Kofoworola Olajide but we were told that he (Olajide) said he had spent the money. This generated mixed reactions to the extent that everybody in the meeting angrily departed.

"After that, we were invited by the party's elders to forget about it which we obliged. But at the meeting, there was a young guy that insulted our mummy which we rebuked and later, a team of officers came from the Divisional Headquarters to intervene and the matter was settled amicably.

"But 30 minutes after, a team of police officers accompanied by Hon. Olajide, stormed our compound and started shooting sporadically into the air in a bid to arrest. They later asked me to follow them to the station, an order that I obliged immediately. But fortunately, my brother, Mr Olalekan Abideen who was later shot and killed was just returning from work, and he blocked the front that they must explain why I needed to follow them, but in the process, one of the officers, one Omoyele shot at him and he fell down immediately and was taken away.

"Though at that time, nobody knew if he had died or not, and that raised fears in us calling the lawmaker that led them to know where they took his body to but he (Olajide) didn't pick calls.

"The incident instigated many people around and they started reacting as many scampered for their lives. But not quite long after my brother's corpse was taken away, I went to the Police Divisional Headquarters to formally report the incident.

"I was in the police station when same team came back together with Hon. Olajide to inform us that his father's house has been set ablaze and that we were the ones responsible for it.

"He, Hon. Olajide said to my face that he came back to kill me and if not that he didn't bring his gun along, he would have killed me personally too but this was prevented by the police officers from the Divisional Headquarters in Ede who explained to him that since i have been with them, I didn't leave and there was no way I would have perpetrated such as alleged.

"Though he left in anger insisting that he will go after my immediate younger brother to kill him too. I was told that he headed to our compound but he he didn't meet my brother and on his way back, he asked the officers with him to kill my brother's wife who was innocently returning home.

"The deceased, Mrs Kafayat Olalekan who backed her kid was shot on the chest but the military personnels who were passing by at that time rescued the baby and took her to the police station where we later recovered the kid", she added.

Fielding questions from journalists, a younger brother to the deceased whose wife was equally shot and killed accused Hon. Olajide and CSP Omoyele of masterminding the fierce operation that led to the death of her wife and elder brother.

According to him, the lawmaker had on several occasions threatened to harm his late brother for being loyal to the ruling party forgetting that his mother and siblings worked and still working for the PDP.

"I know this was premeditated to eliminate our family. I know those that perpetrated the killings and I know why they are after our family particularly my humble self.

"Prior to the incident and to be precise, before the election, Hon. Olajide who led the team of the police officers that carried out the killings asked me to destroy the APC billboards with offer of cash, a request I declined frankly and since then, I have been on their trail.

"Though I am a loyalist of APC but my mother and other siblings are PDP loyalists and we never quarrelled over this. I was part of those that worked for his victory in 2019 but now, I am in APC but my family are in PDP. They are not ordinary members, they are staunch party loyalists.

"I see no reason for such action. I intervened when I was told that one of the PDP members insulted my mother and was on the verge to beat her up and immediately people came around, we resolved the matter not knowing that they had ulterior motives to destroy our family.

"I can say it categorically that Hon. Olajide and officer Omoyele killed two members of our family and burnt down residence at our family house," Tunde Olalekan added.

Expressing her ordeal in tears, the elder sister of the deceased, Mrs Yetunde Olalekan appealed to the State Government and other concerned authorities to come to the aid of the family saying 'no one is save anymore.

Mrs Olalekan who was crying profusely, said the political party their family chose had destroyed them, and called for immediate investigation into the incident.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Metuh Condemns New Tax Proposed by State Governors

…Demands Ban on Purchase of Luxury Cars, Foreign Trips by Govt. Officials
 
Former National Publicity Secretary of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh has strongly cautioned against the imposition of the new personal tax in on Nigerians as reportedly proposed by State Governors.
 
The former PDP Spokesperson who posted on his verified Facebook handle on Sunday, also demands for immediate ban on purchase of luxury vehicles as well as all unnecessary foreign trips by government officials.
 
He also advocated a constitutional amendment to provide for a six years single term for elected office holders.
 
Metuh lamented that the proposed monthly flat rate 3% Personal Income Tax on Nigerians earning above N30,000 and flat rate of N100 FPIT on Nigerians earning below N30,000 (employed or not) will, in addition to the 10% sales tax as well as further increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) will result in more hardship on Nigerians and a collapse of the lower class.
 
“The governors should note that all Nigerians earning below N50,000($80) monthly are really living in poverty and the government should not inflict them with more financial punishment. They are already burdened with multiple taxation, provide their own water supply and alternative energy as well as cater for their aged and their infants in the absence of any social services cushion. They already provide communal welfare services under our cultural extended family system”, Metuh stated.
 
He noted that the country needs an all-political class conference on the way forward and urged political class to agree to some commitments in the interest of the people.
 
He outlined the commitment to include
 
1. A constitutional amendment for all elected and appointed persons to serve only one term of 6 years in office. We no longer need professional politicians in this country.
 
2. Open and transparent governance across all levels. We need to know the incomes and expenditures of all public and government institutions at all levels . Some public officials feed fat on minor and hidden details in the budget.
 
3. Immediate ban on purchase of vehicles by all government agencies and officials. In this present times, we only need people who genuinely want to make sacrifices in office. The country can no longer afford to buy vehicles for legislators, ministers and those in MDGs.
 
4. The governors should cut all excesses in their spendings. Why would they propose 3% flat tax on low income earners and still hire private jets and maintaina retinue of redundant aides?
 
5. All unnecessary foreign trips by government officials should be banned completely. Legislators, Ministers and others who need to embark on important foreign trips can only be approved premium economy tickets, they may choose to upgrade with their personal resources.
 
6. Introduction of a strong consumer protection agency to save the citizenry from unfair levies and charges by banks, telecoms and indeed major agencies that engage in unnecessarily high charges and fees.
 
According to Metuh, “there is a clear and present danger of an impending revolution against the political class in Nigeria. Some Nigerians who do not have visible means of livelihood have been feeding fat on the national resources whilst masquareding as politicians”
 
He therefore stressed that “no political party or person should campaign without promising cuts at the highest levels.
 
Read the Post on Metuh’s verified Facebook handle on https://web.facebook.com/OlisaMetuh11

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44