The traditional ruler of Otumara community in the Lagos Mainland of Lagos State, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye has faulted the rationing of electricity supply across Consumer service bands.

The monarch raised the concern in his reaction to the newly introduced electricity tariff for consumers.

He however appealed to the Minister of Power, Hon. Adebayo Adelabu, to reconsider the rationing of electricity supply and the increase in electricity tariff from N66 to N225, saying this will inflict more hardship on Nigerians.

According to him, the new electricity tariff will take electricity out of the reach of the common man.

The Federal Government through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had on Wednesday, announced an increase in electricity tariff for Band A consumers who are to enjoy 20 to 24hrs daily electricity supply.

Other Consumers Service Bands and Duration of Electricity Supply include Band B: 16 to 20 hours supply, Band C: 12 to 16 hours supply, Band D: 8 to 12 hours supply and Band E: 4 to 8 hours supply.

Reacting to the duration of electricity supply allocated to Band B, C, D and E, Kalejaiye, described it as ill-conceived, noting that every Nigerian regardless of socio-economic status has the right to 24hrs electricity supply.

He lamented that his business is on Band D while his monthly bill is a reflection of Band C electricity supply.

He said, “The Federal Government is insensitive to the plight of Nigerians. Rationing electricity supply isn’t the way to go. The solution lies in placing every Nigerian on 24hrs daily electricity supply.

The official will start moving from door-to-door to the businesses or residences that truly need 24hrs electricity supply. They will distinguish between apartments and business and thereafter place such on the Band it requires.

The wherewithal of that consumer also plays a part in the Band it belongs. Putting a resident that requires 24hrs electricity supply on Band E will surely affect his business while those that cannot afford to pay for 24hrs electricity will have to strain their budget to cope.

This, will further compound the economic hardship on Nigerians. Apart from this, I cannot but query the rational behind the categorisation of the Federal Government.

No Nigerian deserves epileptic or rationing of electricity supply. Also, where would consumers belong after the increment. This is necessary because many consumers, particularly those in my community have expressed fear of being charged beyond what they consume.

But if every Nigerian is on Band A and those that are able to sustain it are retained there won’t be any issue about rationalisation of electricity will be resolved. Electricity supply will therefore be according to your financial capability.

Currently, I am a victim of such exorbitant charge. I am on feeder Band D but my monthly electricity billing is charged based on Band C. And when I complained at the Ijora office of the Eko Electricity Distribution Company, I was told that I was charged according to my business monthly electricity consumption..

Apart from this, an average technician and a market woman selling groceries and cold drinks require 24hrs electricity just as that industrialist and a wealthy businessman.

Now if 24hrs electricity is concentrated on Band A for residents living in the GRA or in choice areas, how would a trader or a welder that lives in Ebute-Meta and its environs and also requires 24hrs electricity supply but is placed on feeder band E cope with his business with just 4 to 8hrs electricity supply?

One of the reasons why there is an increase in crime rate and huge number of the country’s youths riding Okada is the epileptic electricity supply which has forced many artisans and technicians out of their trade to embrace tricycle and Okada riding business.

These are what the NERC should look into? Nigerians have a lot to contend with already. They should not add to our burden with the introduction of new tariff which obviously many Nigerians cannot afford.

Nigerians have had a fairly bad deal in recent times. To now come back six months down the line after fuel subsidy removal to talk about another subsidy removal whether Band A, Band B, or any Band will ordinarily irritate Nigerians.”

Kalejaiye therefore implore President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the decision and adjust the tariff and make 24hrs electricity supply available for every Nigerian.

He said, “But to now confront us with hike in electricity tariff and above all, rationing of electricity across feeder band, is a misnomer. Every Nigerian deserves 24hrs electricity which was what he promised during his campaign. This is not too much to ask.”

The traditional ruler of Otumara community in the Lagos Mainland Local Government of Lagos State, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has urged the Federal Government to halt its planned increase in electricity prices until electricity consumers are fully metred.

Doing this, according to the monarch, will see to consumers paying for the actually electricity consumption and end estimated billing.

Increasing energy prices, according to him, without providing meters to consumers will lead to continued and agonising estimated billing which is crippling small businesses.

The Federal Government through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had announced an increase in electricity tariff to N225 per kilowatt from N66 for consumers in the band A category.


Reacting to the increase, he said, “The current electricity prices are hurting. Many homes and businesses are unmetered. They are on estimated billings. The distribution companies on a monthly basis serve consumers unjustified bills without supplying electricity.

Nigerians don’t want to pay for electricity consumed on the basis of estimated bills. We want to pay for what we consume therefore we should be provided meters to achieve this.

For instance, in my community, there was power outage for four months, but within this period, residents were served huge bills at the end of each month. The Discos demanded to be paid for the services not rendered. The implication of this is that many of the small businesses, especially those that sell frozen foods are forced out of business while those that require electricity to power their businesses couldn’t operate.

Also, those that live in Ebute-Meta west and East in Lagos Mainland and other parts of the state that are yet to be metred are not finding it easy. They pay through our noses for estimated bills. We have heard severally meetings with Eko Electricity Distribution Company where they promised that they would make metres available but till date we have heard nothing from them.

I cannot count the number of visitors I receive on a daily basis at my Palace complaining of outrageous billings they are served by EKEDC.

Therefore the proposed increase would have adverse effects on businesses if consumers are not metred. The Federal Government through the NERC must do everything possible to make metres available to consumers to end estimated billings.

The electricity distributors should also make it a top priority to meter consumers and desist from extorting and over-billing end users with estimated bills.

With the current economic hardship, it hurts to be forced to pay for the electricity that is not consumed. This kills business and overstretched the finances of unmetered electricity consumers.

Electricity consumers should be made to pay for what they consume and not being forced by the discos to pay for the electricity not consumed. The FG must assist small businesses to survive by making metres available and end estimated bills. The government must ensure that this is done before the implementation of the proposed increased in electricity tariff.”

He called for the review of the licences of the distribution companies for effective delivery of their mandates.

He said, “The FG licenced the discos with the mandate to provide prepaid metres to electricity consumers but they have failed in the discharge of this responsibility. This is because they are raking in more money than they would when consumers are metred.

I therefore want to urge the Federal Government to feel the pulse of the masses and ascertain their level of needs especially as regards electricity generation, distribution and consumption.

Also, the National Assembly should wade into the matter and address why the discos are unable to metre electricity consumers. If there is any need to revoke their licences for inability to live up to expectation, they need to do this for the sake of the masses.

The people at the grassroots cannot be struggling to make ends meet and at the end of the day the distribution companies will collect all the monies through estimated billings.”

A magistrate court in Apapa, Lagos, will on May 21, commence the trial of a National Theatre staff, Ephesian Nodza, over alleged conspiracy, defamation and sponsorship of false and malicious publications against a Lagos-based traditional ruler, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye.

The suspect, a level 13 officer at the parastatal, was earlier arraigned in September, 2023, before Chief Magistrate Olanrewaju Olatunji who ordered his remand at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the perfection of his bail conditions.

However, prior to his arraignment, when he was being investigated at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID, Alagbon, the erstwhile General Manager of the parastatal, Professor Sunday Ododo stood surety for the suspect in the sum of N10million to secure his bail.

In the course of the hearing on March 28, 2024, the prosecutor, Mike Enejere, had told the court that Ephesian committed the offence he is standing trial for on April 9, 2023, at the national Theatre, Lagos.

He added that the offence is punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.

The charge read, “That you, Ephesian Nodza ‘M’ on or about the 9th of April, 2023 at National Theatre, Lagos, within the magisterial jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire to bring false accusation, defamatory news publications against the person of a traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, knowing full well that he is innocent of the alleged offence. You hereby committed an offence punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.”

Meanwhile, after four adjournments to allow for out-of-court settlement by both parties, which failed, the Chief Magistrate, Olarewaju Olatunji, fixed May 21, 2024, for the commencement of trial.

The traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has advised pupils and children to shun cultism and embrace positive learning for a brighter and rewarding future.


Kalejaiye who is the grand patron of Lagos Mainland and Yaba Local Government Schools Sports Officers Association, gave the advise at the annual Inter-House Sports competitions of Lagos Mainland Local Government Primary School, Ijero Baptist Primary School and U.A.M.C Eleja Primary School, Ebute-Meta (west) Lagos held on Thursday and Friday at the schools’ premises.


The traditional ruler urged the pupils to be conscious of their safety and environment and report any suspicious moves, physical harassment or anyone trying to lure them into cultism or wanting to take advantage of them to their teachers or parents.


He said, “We thank Almighty God for making this sports event a successful one.


I commend all participants in various categories of sporting events including the teachers, pupils and handlers in both schools. I must say, the event was well packaged. Congratulations.


Also, let me state this, Ijero Baptist Primary School is very dear to my heart not just because the Omolara Kalejaiye Lemon House is sponsored by me but because I began my primary school education here before I left when I was in primary 2.


In fact walking into the school premises brings to my mind the memories of yester years. I give God all the glory for that.


To the pupils, the best advise I can give and that which I have always been given is for you to be good children to your parents, teachers and your neighbours.


You should always obey your parents because being attentive and an obedient child is rewarding both now and in the future. Don’t join cultists and don’t move with bad friends. Face your education for a brighter and rewarding future. Let me ask you, is cultism good or bad? As you are aware that cultism is bad, don’t join it. We are now in an age that cultism is being introduced to primary schools.


You are leaders of tomorrow and that tomorrow is what you preparing for today. For a brighter future that lies ahead, if anybody tries to lure you into a bad company or cultism, report such to your teachers at school or if it is at home, don’t hesitate to report such person to your parents.


Always remember at all time to be a good child and a good ambassador of your school.”


The highpoint of the sports events was the presentation of trophies and cash gifts to first, second and third places by the grand patron.

A 13-year old, Dhikrullahi Rubbayat, requires N6million for the treatment of ovarian cancer.

Rubbayat, the fifth child of a watch repairer, Mr Zhikrullahi Adepoju, was diagnosed at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) on September 12, 2023.

According to a medical report signed by Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr E.O Ohazurike, Rubbayat, a nulliparous teenager was presented to Gynaecology emergency on account of abdominal distention, abdominal pain and vomiting of 3months duration.

The report reads, “Evaluation suggested intrabdominal tumour, most likely of ovarian origin. She subsequently had staging laparotomy with right salpingoopherectomy and excision of Sister Mary Joseph (SMJ) nodule+omental biopsy on the 6th of November 2023.

Ascitic fluid cytology was positive for malignancy. Multidisciplinary Team pathology review showed juvenile granulosa cell tumor.

She had surgical site infection for which she was on daily wound dressing till discharge and was commenced on Chemotheraphy BEP regimen (bleomycin)/etoposide/cisplatin).

She however reacted adversely to the regimen and was recommenced on Carboplatin/paclitaxel which was well tolerated.

The treatment will cost N6million. She is improving clinically and to continue management at outpatient clinic, kindly accord her all necessary assistance.”

Her father appealed to the general public, “I solicit the support of all Nigerians, Corporate organisations and philanthropists to raise the required amount for her treatment.”

Donation can be sent to: Account name: Adepoju Dhikrullahi, Access Bank PLC 0780089989. Her father can be contacted on 08025224116.

Facts have emerged of how a clergyman impregnated six of his members within a space of two months.

The clergyman who is currently on the run is said to have lured the victims to his bed during night vigil.

Details...

A level 12 officer of the National Theatre, Ephesian Nodza on Thursday appeared before Apapa Chief Magistrates’ court in Lagos State over publication of false, defamatory and malicious news reports against the traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, an offence punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.

The suspect, Ephesian alongside two collaborators were arraigned in September, 2023 before Chief Magistrate Olanrewaju Olatunji who ordered the trio to be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the perfection of their bail conditions.

The prosecutor, Mike Enejere Esq, told the court that the offences were committed on April 9, 2023 at the National Theatre, Lagos.

The charge read, “That you, Ephesian Nodza ‘M’ on or about the 9th of April, 2023 at National Theatre, Lagos, within the magisterial jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire to bring false accusation against the person of a traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, knowing full well that he is innocent of the alleged offence. You hereby committed an offence punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.

That you, Ephesian Ndoza ‘M’ on the same date, place and within the magisterial district aforementioned, caused to be published and circulated, in the online news platform, Nairaland, Newsbreak Naija and Aljaziranpress information likely to provoke High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, knowing same to be incorrect. You thereby committed an offence punishable under section 57 (b) of the criminal laws of Lagos State of 2015.”

At a resumed hearing on January 25, 2024, the complainant, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye expressed his desire to withdraw his case against the first and second defendants while continuing with the 3rd defendant.

According to him, the third defendant expresses his readiness to bear the consequences of his action.

In his letter submitted to the Honourable Court, Kalejaiye wrote, “Kindly be informed of my desire to wholly discontinue my case against the first and second defendants. However, I wish to continue the charge against the 3rd defendant who is the mastermind and actual originator of the false publications and criminal defamation published against me.”


Responding to the withdrawal, the Chief Magistrate, Olarewaju Olatunji pronounced the withdrawal of the case against the first and second defendants while tasking the prosecuting counsel to amend the charges.


The court adjourned to February 20 for either the commencement of trial or hear report on out of court settlement.

Contrary to claims by the outgone General Manager of the National Theatre, Prof Sunday Ododo of bequeathing a revitalised parastatal to Nigerians, the Concerned Stakeholders of the National Theatre has described the claims as false and misleading.

In his farewell speech, the outgone General Manager/CEO, National Theatre, Nigeria, Prof. Sunday Ododo alluded to have revitalised and injected fresh perspectives and growth into the parastatal.

He also claimed to have established an unparalleled industrial harmony within the institution that allowed staff to contribute to the vibrancy of the cultural heritage and output.

Debunking the claims, Spokesman of the group, Comrade Lekan Ayinde alleged that the former GM truly left a fresh perspective of workers’ intimidation and arrest of the Executive Chairman and Secretary of RATTAWU and the running of the affairs of the edifice as a sole proprietorship.

In the 45years history of the artistic edifice, he claimed, no General Manager has ever arrested, persecuted or intimidated any worker using the police or detained union leaders at the police station.

But this, he alleged happened under the leadership of Prof Sunday Ododo when the Chairman and Secretary of RATTAWU, National Theatre chapter were arrested and detained on the order of the former GM for petitioning the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy complaining about unhealthy work environment at the parastatal and calling for the suspension of the erstwhile GM.

He said, “Truly Prof Sunday Ododo has recorded many firsts during his tenure as the GM of the national Theatre. But this was in the negative. While the Federal Government is looking for a way to source for fund to finance capital projects, massive looting of funds and artefacts are being perpetrated at the National Theatre.

These facts are established by series of petitions before the ICPC and DSS against the former GM. The auditor-general report is another lead to unravelling the financial puzzle the edifice was thrown into.

So claiming to be an architect of a revitalised National Theatre was a misnomer because he wasn’t a party to the signing of the rehabilitation neither was he a signatory to all the transactions that led to the reconstruction works.

Rather he benefitted from the deal through the disposal of movable items and only paid paltry sum to the TSA. He has no hands in the FG’s plan to revitalise and rehabilitate the National Theatre. The deal was between the Bankers’ Committee and the Federal Government.”

Ayinde called on the ICPC, DSS and the Ministry of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy under the leadership of Barr Hannatu Musawa to investigate all the allegations levelled against the former GM with a view to unravelling the truth.

Spokesman of the Concerned Stakeholders of National Theatre, Comrade Lekan Ayinde has expressed displeasure and fear over the demeaning staff welfare and hostile work environment at the parastatal.

Ayinde expressed this concern consequent to claims by the former General Manager of the parastatal, Prof. Sunday Ododo that workers’ welfare was prioritised under his watch.

Ayinde alleged that during the tenure of Prof Ododo workers had bad treatment in terms of welfare packages, intimidation and training.

Citing instances of how workers were denied of their rights, contrary to claims by Ododo that workers were given Christmas and Sallah packages every year, he said the last time such were given to workers was in 2021 courtesy the contractors handling projects at the parastatal at the time.

He stated further, “Like we have been saying, the work environment is hostile to growth. Workers are complaining. They are intimidated and harassed by the management. We have many of them being arrested and detained by Prof Ododo while others are demoted.

It is therefore surprising that these are the same set of workers he claimed hosted him to a send forth party where only his allies were present and senior officers and union leaders absented themselves.

In fact workers were deceived to attending the send forth party because the message that was sent suggested a meeting between the workers and the new CEO but on getting to the venue, they turned it to a send forth party for the former General Manager and the few workers that attended left the venue in anger.

On Friday, Prof Ododo commissioned two mini buses and one tricycle to be shuttling between National Theatre and Costain bus stop after he has been removed from office. This commissioning needs to be queried and investigated. Such should not be done after he had been removed from office.

The former GM is taking advantage of the absence of the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hajia Hanatu Musawa and the new CEO of the parastatal, Mrs Tola Akerele who are far away in Dafur on official assignment to remain in office since there is nobody to call him to order.

We are therefore calling on the ICPC, EFCC and the DSS to investigate his illegal stay in office and all the monies expended on the supposes send forth and the purchase of the mini buses and tricycle.”

Ayinde appealed to the new CEO saying, “Workers deserve a better deal. This is why we have high hope in the incoming administration of Mrs Tola Akerele to right the wrong and bring about necessary changes and address all issues relating to workers’ welfare and condition of service.”

While highlighting some of his achievements, Prof Sunday Ododo acknowledged that the achievements of his regime would not have been possible without the support of the staff.

He explained that all the great initiatives as staff training and openness to staff he introduced during his tenure would outlive his tenure.

The Concerned Stakeholders of the National Theatre has urged the former General Manager of the National Theatre, Prof Sunday Ododo to handover administrative and managerial powers to the next in line at the parastatal and discontinue from acting as the CEO following his removal and replacement by President Bola Tinubu.

The group gave the advice on Wednesday after it observed that erstwhile GM, Prof Ododo has been attending to official duties in the capacity of the CEO after he had held farewell meeting with management and staff on Monday.

Speaking on the implication of this, the spokesman of the group, ‘Lekan Ayinde said the presence of the embattled Prof Ododo could disrupt the on-going investigation while also noting that vital documents and numbers could be tampered with or altered in the course of his continued stay in his office after he has been removed.

According to him, CEOs of other parastatals and agencies have stayed away from office and handed over authority in accordance to the Public Service rules.

While wondering why the situation at the National Theatre and the case of Prof Ododo is different, he appealed to concerned authority especially the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy to wade into the matter and ensure his compliance to the Public Service code.

The group alleged that the former CEO moves about with government vehicles which he ought to have handed over to the parastatal as he was removed from office.

He said, “The continued stay of Prof Ododo in office points to only thing and that is the perversion of justice. I wondered why he has been coming to the office and engaging in ceremonial activities to the Palace of a referred monarch since he has been removed and replaced by the Federal Government. Our fear as concerned stakeholders is that he could tamper with vital documents and alter figures that could lead to the root of the investigation.

The anti-graft agencies are already on the allegations levelled against the embattled Prof so are the DSS and the police so we expected that they would have moved into action to prevent the unexpected from happening.

A lot happened at the National Theatre under the watch of Prof Ododo. As Concerned Stakeholders all these need to be investigated if for anything for the sake of justice and the preservation of our national pride and integrity.

We, the Concerned Stakeholders are therefore bothered about the continued stay in office of Prof Ododo in office after he had held farewell meeting with management of the parastatal on Monday. We perceive as bad omen that is capable of undermining the course of investigation and of justice if allowed to continue.

We are therefore calling on the Federal Government, President Bola Tinubu and the supervising ministry under Hajia Hannatu Musawa to intervene and ensure smooth transition of powers to the newly appointed CEO or the next in line at the parastatal.”

The traditional ruler of Otumara community in the Lagos Mainland of the state, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has urged the newly appointed Director General of the National Theatre, Tola Akerele to investigate allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds levelled against the outgoing General Manager of the parastatal, Prof Sunday Ododo.


While commending President Bola Tinubu for appointing Akerele and 10 other Director Generals for various federal parastatals, Kalejaiye tasked the new helmsman of the National Theatre to rebuild the disintegrated and aggrieved workforce and reconcile all aggrieved parties including the leadership of the union.


It will be recall that the traditional ruler has been leading the call for the investigation of the activities of Prof Sunday Ododo led management whose administration he alleged is enmeshed in massive corruption, illegal auctioning of assets, artefacts and movable items of the parastatal and suppression and intimidation of workers’ union who openly confront his atrocities.


According to Kalejaiye, several petitions have been written to the security agencies and the anti-graft agencies including the DSS, ICPC and the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy in an effort to bring to an end the oppressive and corrupt regime of the erstwhile GM, Prof Ododo.


He therefore charged the new DG to chart a new beginning for workers of the parastatal by setting up a probe panel to look into all these allegations with a view to bringing erring officers to justice and importantly, recovering all the stolen and illegally disposed items of the parastatal.

Importantly, the traditional requested the new DG to specially launch an inquiry into how the lathe, drilling and milling machines disappeared from the machine room under the watch of the former GM.


These three machines, he said, are capable of generating millions of naira for the parastatal monthly is managed properly.


He said, “I want to commend President Bola Tinubu for listening to the yearnings of Nigerians who have been calling for a change in the leadership of the National Theatre consequent to the massive corruption and looting of the assets of the parastatal.


Also, I want to appreciate the President for the appointment of Tola Akerele and 10 others as DG for the parastatals under the Ministry of Arts and Culture. To this, I say the appointment cannot come at a better time.

Meanwhile as the new appointees settle in office, I want to specially task the DG, National Theatre to make it a point of duty to investigate the outgone GM of the parastatal, Prof Sunday Ododo for corruption and illegal auctioning of the assets of the parastatal.

Also the allegation of lack of openness and due process in the running of the affairs and sales of the properties of the parastatal against the management by the workers’ Union, RATTAWU and the Concerned Stakeholders should also be looked into.

This should be done with a view to recovering all the stolen items and artefacts including monies that were allegedly stolen through unapproved leasing of land of the parastatal.

It is also necessary to give respite and assurance to the workers’ union who have so far being subjected to untold harassment and intimidation by the erstwhile GM.

I cannot but also state that the audit reports of activities and finances of the National Theatre conducted by the office of the Auditor-General has been left unimplemented for so long. I am therefore appealing to the new DG to find a need in implementing this all-important document.”

The traditional ruler of Otumara Community in the Lagos Mainland of Lagos State, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye has described as false, misleading and an attempt to evade justice the recent statement by the management of the National Theatre denying the investigation of its General Manager/ Chief Executive Officer, Prof Sunday Ododo by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).


In a press release dated January 10, 2024 and signed by the Director, HRM of the parastatal, Agbo Ita, the management claimed that there was never a time the General Manager, Prof Sunday Ododo was invited for questioning by the anti-graft Commission.



It further claimed that no petitions were written against the management or the GM/CEO to the ICPC by the RATTAWU, National Theatre, Chapter while also alleging that the highly revered traditional ruler threatened and launched campaign of calumny against the GM with an assault on Federal Government property.



Reacting to the claims, Kalejaiye described the claims by the management as evasive and an attempt to divert the attention of the public from the allegations of corruption levelled against the GM.



He disclosed that the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) invited Prof Sunday Ododo through a letter dated April 5, 2022 to the Commission’s Lagos office.



He stated further that the invite was sequel to the series of petitions submitted to the anti-corruption agency by the workers’ Union, RATTAWU and the Concerned Stakeholders of the parastatal lamenting misappropriation of funds, lack of openness and due process in the running and sales of properties of the parastatal.


The invitation letter signed by the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Kabiru Elelu, which was titled, ‘Investigation activities/request for documents’ reads in part, “the commission is investigating the alleged violation of the Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act No. 5 of 2000.”


Reacting further, Kalejaiye said, “It is out of place for the management of National Theatre to be economical with the truth. If the ICPC didn’t invite the GM for interrogation, why did he issue a query to the leaders of RATTAWU for petitioning the ICPC?



In an attempt to gag the union and cover for their atrocities, on May 9, 2023, the Director of HRM, Agbo Ita, issued a queried to the leaders of RATTAWU for writing a petition against the management to the Permanent Secretary alleging misconduct and various offences committed by the General Manager.


If this is a case of witch-hunt as alleged by the management, why did the RATTAWU petitioned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy alleging misconduct and corruption on the part of the General Manager and his collaborators?


What’s the explanation of the GM to the alleged intimidation and series of queries issued to staff for speaking the truth to power? The list is endless.


The issue at hand goes beyond witch-hunting as alleged by the management. It is all about cleansing the country and particularly the National Theatre of corruption. Nigerians are suffering and corruption is killing the economy. And this will continue to be if left unchecked.


The management also alleged that removable obsolete materials and items were put together and properly documented in an inventory and auctioned in accordance with government regulations with all the money realised from the public auction paid directly into the TSA of the Federation.


The question is, did the management placed an advert to announce the auction of these property in National dailies? No. They only placed an advert in a local newspaper, Nigerian News Direct of March 31, 2021, page 7 instead of the standard usage of the Federal Tenders Journal owned by the Ministry and two other national dailies.


Also, at a virtual meeting of the Governing Board held on the 31st of March, 2021, the Board was invited by the Management of the National Theatre through the General Manager to approve a lease agreement that has already been signed and sealed between the National Theatre and a private company as well as approve the disposal of unserviceable items belonging to the National Theatre.


The 3-man committee headed by Mr Israel Eboh observed that the management acted in error in auctioning government properties and in agreeing to lease the said land without seeking the approval of the Governing Board.


Now what readily comes to mind in all these is, what has the Ministry done in addressing this? There are allegations of corruption against the management with petitions before the ICPC but the Ministry seems unperturbed about this.



If the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Betta Edu was hurried relieved of her position to pave way for a thorough investigation into the allegations levelled against her, why should Prof Ododo remain in office despite being investigated by the ICPC?


The union has also passed a vote of no confidence on his leadership, the workers are complaining too and importantly, he is being investigated by the anti-corruption agency but he remain s in office while continuing in his nefarious activities.


As a traditional ruler, I know the implication of false allegations therefore I have strong conviction in my claims in the video I released some weeks back which has since gone viral.


It is for Minister Hannatu Musawa to verify and investigate the truth in my claims and not for the alleged to dismiss it as a witch-hunt.


I am therefore appealing to the Federal Government and the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy and also the ICPC to revisit the petitions against the General Manager of the National Theatre, Prof Sunday Ododo with a view to unravelling the truth in all his alleged wrongdoings.”

The traditional ruler of Otumara community and its environs, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye has distributed bags of rice, vegetable oil and live chickens to residents in his community to mark the essence of the birth of Jesus Christ.

According to Kalejaye, the distribution of 450 chickens and other items is to ensure that the people of the community have a wonderful Christmas celebration devoid of lack.


Speaking with journalists during the distribution, he said, “This has been a annual event. It is aimed at relieving the people of my community the harsh economic burden and stress of purchasing these essential items which prices are unbearable for the common man.


In the spirit of Christmas, we must reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ. I urge the people to be tolerant of one and another and be their brothers keepers.


This is no time for tribalism or religious bigotry. We must stay as one to be able to confront our common enemies so that Lagos State and Nigeria may survive.


I urge us all to make this Christmas a celebration of love, tolerance and hope and prayers for our country and its leaders.


I congratulate Christians in Nigeria and urge that we continue to emulate the virtues and teachings of Jesus Christ.”


Meanwhile some of the beneficiaries of the benevolence have expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler for his kind gesture.


Ayomide from New Sute Otumara Community:"We extend our utmost gratitude to High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye for his benevolent gesture. His generosity in providing 450 chickens and bags of rice to members of our community signifies an unwavering commitment to our well-being."


Madam Sakirat Kadara: "I am sincerely grateful to High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye for his thoughtful gesture of providing chicken and rice. His generosity has touched the hearts of many, including mine, and exemplifies his dedication to our community's prosperity."


Mr. Bobby from Iya Agan: "High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye's generosity in providing chicken and rice has made a significant impact on our community. We deeply appreciate his continuous support and kindness towards us."


Madam Funke from Brickfield: "The yearly festive gift of chicken and rice from High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye is a testament to his unwavering commitment to our community's well-being. We are immensely thankful for his generosity and kindness."

The traditional ruler of Otumara community in Lagos Mainland of Lagos State, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye commended the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hajia Hannatu Musawa for aiming to position Nigeria as the world’s culture, creative and entertainment capital.

Kalejaiye also applauded the Minister on her road map which, according to him, is targeted at creating jobs and skills training programs for millions of Nigerians and turning the country to global arts, culture and creativity hubs.

Earlier, during the unveiling of the Ministry’s economic plan at the maiden edition of Creative Economy Roundtable held at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, the Minister stated that her objective is to contribute 10 per cent to the Nation’s GDP while also striving to expand sectorial GDP to a remarkable $100 billion by the year 2030.

Reacting to the proposed economic plan, Kalejaiye expressed high hopes in the capacity of the Minister to turnaround the Arts, Culture and Creative Economy for the betterment of Nigerians especially the talented unemployed youths.

He described the Minister’s economic plan as expedient to taking millions of youths out of the unemployment market.

Quoting from statistics by the National Bureau of Statistics, he disclosed that about 53.40 per cent of youths in Nigeria are unemployed

He said, “We believe in the capacity of the new Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa to repositioning the country’s creative economy. We have incredible talents who are eagerly waiting for the creation of enabling environment for them to showcase their talents and flourish.

However, better days are ahead for the youths of the country as with this road map, the economy is sure to rebound while many of our youths will be productively engaged. I must commend President Bola Tinubu for making the right choice and putting a round peg in a round hole.”

Continuing, the traditional ruler urged the Minister to beam her searchlight on the operations of management and personnel of National Theatre.

According to him, the parastatal has been engulfed in corruption and intimidation of staff and union leaders by the management.

If this is left unchecked, Kalejaiye said, it will have an adverse effect on the productivity of the workers and the country will lost all historic edifice that are housed in the parastatal.

He added, “The management of the National Theatre has been in the news for obviously the wrong reasons ranging from alleged corruption and intimidation of staff and union leaders using the police.

This is unhealthy for the workforce who now go about their daily activities in fear. There have been allegations of looting of historic artefacts and misappropriation of the funds of the parastatal. There are petitions before the ICPC, DSS and the Honourable Minister against the management of the parastatal written by interest groups and the union.

These and more are what we want the Minister to investigate and bring the culprits to justice.

Once again, I congratulate the new Minister on her well-deserve appointment while looking forward to a probe of the allegation levelled against the management of the parastatal.”

While reacting to allegations of corruption levelled against him, General Manager of the parastatal, Prof Sunny Ododo debunked the allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds levelled against him as fallacy, saying they are lacking in merit.

The Traditional ruler of Otumara community in Lagos mainland of Lagos State, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has cautioned the management of the National Theatre to desist from using the police force to intimidate and harass workers of the parastatal especially the union leaders.

Kalejaiye gave the warning following the arrest and detention of Comrade Habib Usman and Comrade Monday Alonge, Chairman and Secretary of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria, (RATTAWU), National Theatre chapter respectively by policemen attached to the Special Enquiry Bureau (SEB) of the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos,

The unionists, according to the traditional ruler, were arrested having been petitioned against by the General Manager of the parastatal, Prof Sunny Ododo for condemning the attitude of the management towards the welfare of the workers.

The union through petitions written to the Minister for Arts and Culture and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, dated March 6th and October 4th, 2023 alleged unfair, unjust and one-sided disciplinary actions against its member and thus demanded for the immediate suspension of the General Manager.

Consequently, the management through a letter issued and signed by the Director, Human Resources Department, Agbo Ita, for the General Manager, invited Comrades Usman and Alonge to the FCID, Alagbon, for interrogation.

Kalejaiye queried the arrest and subsequent detention of the union leaders while describing it as unwarranted and undeserved.

While condemning the act, he wondered when the FCID, Alagbon becomes the disciplinary arm of the National Theatre saddled with the responsibility of arresting and detaining vocal union leaders and workers.

He however implored the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hajia Hanatu Musawa to intervene before it further degenerates into a crisis situation.

Speaking on the consequence of such tyranny on the workers, he said, “It would affect the level of productivity of the workers and also the activism of the union leaders. If any worker or even the union or its leaders are found wanting, one would expect the management to set up a fact-finding panel to investigate the alleged wrongdoings and then come up with their recommendations.

It is out of place for the management to handover its workers to the police when no criminal act has been established against such workers. The workers are in fear of who could be the next victim of persecution.

We are all stakeholders in the Nigerian project. We want a better Nigeria and that is why we should endeavour to do what is right at all time.

To this end, I want to appeal to Minister Hanatu Musawa to investigate into this matter and ensure fairness, equity and probity is attained.”

As tensions heightened over alleged looting of artefacts, assets and funds of the National Theatre by the General Manager of the parastatal, Prof Sunny Ododo, The Concerned Stakeholders of National Theatre, has passed a vote of no confidence on the leadership of the embattled General Manager while also demanding for his immediate suspension to pave the way for an unbiased investigation.

The group, in separate petitions written to the Permanent Secretary and the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hajia Hanatu Musawa, called for the immediate suspension of Prof. Ododo and probe into the involvement of the Technical Director, Mr Abiodun Abe and the Transport Officer, Nodza Ephesian in the alleged corruption.

The group alleged that the General Manager had in split transactions withdrawn N13million in one day from the National Theatre revenue account, an act, it claimed violated the MDAs Treasury Code which limits withdrawal limit to N200, 000.00.

The group also alleged that on the 12th of April, 2023, through Remita, Ododo transferred the sum of N13m with batch number 573 comprising three transactions totalling of N5, 282,555.08, batch number 572 with 3 transactions totalling N5, 000, 537.50, batch number 571 with 3 transactions totalling N800, 064.50, batch 570 with 5 transactions, total N1, 024,822.50 despite being investigated by the ICPC.

The group further alleged that the transactions were forwarded from the National Theatre revenue account between 3:09pm and 3:32pm through the online payment platform, Remita.

The group said, “The General Manager of the parastatal, Prof. Sunny Ododo exceeded the approved withdrawal limit of N200, 000.00 with his cash withdrawal of N13m on April 12, 2023. He authorised the withdrawal in split transactions which is contrary to the MDAs treasury code.

“The account from where he made the withdrawal was for overhead and revenue. It is for maintenance and not for capital projects therefore one wonders what he used the withdrawn amount for when all activities were almost grounded at the parastatal and there was nothing to maintain because of the on-going construction works.

If you could recall, RATTAWU alleged the harassment and intimidation of staff by Prof Ododo and the level of corruption under his watch but nothing was done by the Minister.”

Meanwhile, members of staff of the parastatal have continued to operate in a very hostile and harsh environment that is antithetical to progress. They buy stationery and other secretariat materials from their personal purses while offices are left in total darkness because of their inability to power the generator.

Facts before us revealed that the GM used the N13m to suppress the course of investigation into his atrocious acts. Prof Ododo also granted cash advances above the approved limit. He didn’t comply with Treasury circular No: TRY/A3. B3/2010/OAGF/CAD/026, dated 24th March, 2009, which stipulates that all MDAs should not grant Non-Personal Advances to staff for the purchase of goods and services above N200, 000.00.

“A total sum of N4, 876, 100.00 in respect of cash advances granted by the Agency to the members of staff for various purchases, renovations and other transactions were in excess of the approved amount of N200, 000.00 as stated in Federal Treasury Circular Ref. No TRY/A2&B2/2009/OAGF/CAD/026/V that, all Accounting Officers controlling expenditure are to ensure that all local procurement of stores and services costing above N200, 000.00 shall be made through award of contract.

The GM needs to justify why cash withdrawal and advance was granted to staff in excess of approved rate. Recently, he approved the payment of irregular duty tour allowance of N920, 000.00 to staff while attending capacity building workshop for Management and Staff of the Agency being conducted within the office premises.

But the review of payment vouchers by the office of the Auditor General of the Federation showed that there was no compliance with the above paragraph of the Public Service Rule.
We, the Concerned Stakeholders, therefore called for the suspension and investigation of the General Manager of National Theatre, Prof Sunny Ododo to pave the way for proper investigation.” said the group.

Reacting, Prof Sunny Ododo described all the allegations as fallacy, insisting that he never committed fraud since he became the General Manager of the National Theatre.

He said, “There is actually no merit in what they are saying; absolutely no merit. I wish you were around; I would have asked you to come to my office so that I can take you through evidential documents. However, if you forward their petition to me, I will respond line by line to everything they alleged. But I can assure you that that is a fallacy. Since I assumed office here, nothing of such has happened.”

An Apapa magistrates’ court in Lagos State on Tuesday, remanded an online news publisher alongside an official of the National Theatre and his collaborator at the National Troupe of Nigeria in the Kirikiri Correctional Centre, Lagos, for publication of false, defamatory and malicious news reports.

The Chief Magistrate, Olanrewaju Olatunji, ordered the remand of the three suspects at the Correctional Centre pending the perfection of their bail conditions.

The defendants, a publisher of Society Reporters, an online news platform, Sunday Adebayo alongside level 13 officer of the National Theatre, Ephesian Ndoza and an associate professor at the University of Lagos and a level 16 officer of the National Troupe of Nigeria, Dr Shaibu Husseini are standing trials for defamation of character and peddling of fake news against a businessman, philanthropist and traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, an offence punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.

It would be recalled that in separate online publications, the suspects, on April 9, 2023, published defamatory reports on Society Reporters and circulated same on Nairaland, Aljaziran press, Newsbreak Naija amongst other news platforms under the headline, “Concerned Staff of National Theatre petitions ICPC to wade into corrupt activities of top director, Femi Joel and his co-conspirators.”

The prosecutor, Mike Enejere Esq, told the court that the offences were committed on April 9, 2023 at the National Theatre, Lagos.

The charge read, “That you, Sunday Adebayo ‘M’, Shaibu Husseni ‘M’ and Ephesian Nodza ‘M’ on or about the 9th of April, 2023 at National Theatre, Lagos, within the magisterial jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire amongst themselves to bring false accusation against the person of a traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, knowing full well that he is innocent of the alleged offence. You hereby committed an offence punishable under section 95 (1) (b) of the criminal law of Lagos State of 2015.

That you, Sunday Adebayo ‘M’, Shaibu Husseni ‘M’ and Ephesian Ndoza ‘M’ on the same date, place and within the magisterial district aforementioned, caused to be published and circulated, in the Society Reporter online news platform, Nairaland, Newsbreak Naija and Aljaziranpress information likely to provoke High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, knowing same to be incorrect. You thereby committed an offence punishable under section 57 (b) of the criminal laws of Lagos State of 2015.”

The suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Chief Magistrate, Olarewaju Olatunji granted the accused bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two surety residence within the jurisdiction. He must be gainfully employed and a grade level 14 of the Federal or State Ministry but not Ministry of Education and Information. The surety must possess landed property three years evidence of tax payment with NIN or LASSRA and must not be blood relations.

The court adjourned to December 14 for the commencement of trial or settlement.

Stakeholders commend Tinubu over dissolution of boards of MDAs, call for probe of National Theatre management


The Concerned Stakeholders of National Theatre has commended President Bola Tinubu over the dissolution of Management and Boards of Federal Ministries, Agencies, and Parastatals.


The president, on Friday, through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) had also announced that the disbandment would affect all political appointments made by the former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.


While reiterating its call for the suspension and investigation of the General Manager of National Theatre, Prof. Sunny Ododo, over alleged corruption, administrative misconduct and misappropriation of funds of the parastatal, the group also urged the president to probe the on-going renovation work at the National Theatre by the CBN and Bankers’ committee and the shady representation of the National Theatre by the Technical Director of the parastatal, Mr Abiodun Abe on the committee.


According to its Spokesman, the management of the parastatal has looted the artefacts and has perpetrated series of corruption using the renovation work of the edifice as bait.


Since the handing over of the National Theatre to the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee in July, 2020, it alleged, Prof Ododo led management has been on looting spree of funds, selling assets and historic artefacts of the parastatal.



The group in a statement stated, “We, the Concerned Stakeholders commend the dissolution of the boards of federal government MDAs and parastatal by President Bola Tinubu. This is a step in the right direction.


We also want the president to investigate the rot and corruption in government Agencies and parastatals especially the National Theatre.



Since the Federal Government under former President Muhammadu Buhari handed over the National Theatre to the CBN and the Bankers’ committee in 2020 for renovation works, the historic edifice has retrogressed both in assets, welfare of its workforce and in its management.



Under the guise of relocating machineries and artefacts to pave the way for the reconstruction work, Prof Ododo and Mr Abiodun Abe who represented the parastatal at the Bankers’ Committee connived with the Committee to dispose of all the valuable items including artefacts through a fake auctioneer he personally contracted.


Since he came on board, we have heard allegations of embezzlement and administrative misconduct levelled against the General Manager, Prof Sunny Ododo by workers of the parastatal.


We have also seen and read in the news and online news platforms series of petitions written against the management on how they have looted the artefacts and mismanaged the funds of the National Theatre while the erstwhile Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed feigned ignorance of the wrongdoings.


We are also witness to how RATTAWU dragged the General Manager, Prof Ododo to the Arbitration Court in Abuja over misappropriation of the funds and administrative misconduct.


The court is yet to decide on the case.

It come across to us as a surprise that while the case is still ongoing, the Former Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, despite the volume of glaring evidences against Prof Ododo and Abiodun Abe failed to act on the matter.


There are allegations of how the GM, Professor Ododo conceded the sales of valuable assets of the parastatal including 200kva generator, 1500 metres steel pipes of 8inch thickness, looting of the central workshop to an auctioneer couple with the sales of heavy duty machines at the engineering section and several allegations currently being investigated by the ICPC.


Presently, the National Theatre has become a shadow of itself and urgently in need of government intervention by way of probing the activities, alleged loot and illegal sales of the assets of the parastatal.



Therefore we are appealing to President Tinubu to probe into the activities of management of National Theatre, the alleged sales of FESTAC ’77 artefacts and assets of the parastatal by Prof Sunny Ododo and Mr Abiodun Abe and the Bankers’ Committee for their roles in the on-going renovation at the parastatal.



This, the president owes all Nigerians, particularly the staff of the National Theatre, to safe the historical monument from imminent ruin.”