₦airaland Forum

*Monday Punch to Prof. Soludo on his Developmental Agenda for Ndi Anambra:*

By Paschal Candle.

It is No longer news that This present Government of Prof. Soludo is very insensitive to the Plights Ndi Anambra and Ndi Igbo Living and doing Business in Anambra State. Every Part of State is bleeding as a result of Heavy Taxation they are being subjected to. Many Businesses are being closed down, Keke Drivers are being hunted down to pay 15,000 as their Monthly Tax to the Government, which only Prof. Soludo can say how he arrived at. The same goes to Shuttle Drivers, Bus Drivers and so on.

The same Government have started collecting Loading and offloading fees. If you import a Container into Anambra State, before you offload the container, you must to Anambra State Government N30,000.00. Before you load the container, you must pay the same amount. The lowest amount you can pay for any loading and offloading in this State is N3,000.00 depending on the size of the truck. Also, all these Businesses men pay their taxes to the Government, they also pay for their shops and sanitation fees and other fees in the various markets they are trading. So why these amount. How did we get here.

As if this is not enough, Governor has directed every shop owner to pay Stamp duty of N50 to every business Transaction of over N1000.00 carried out in their shops. On Top of this N50 stamp duty, these Shop owners pay over N36,000.00 for Aswama Fees, Over 18,000 for business Premises and so many other levies. My question has been, who will pay the stamp duty, the customer or the shop owner? How does he intend to collect the money. On top of collecting these stamp duty, Banks are at one side collecting their own stamp duty from every transactions done in all the bank customers account. So, People are paying double Stamp Duties at the same. It is interesting time in Anambra State.

How, I have this to ask Prof Soludo and APGA Government in Anambra State? Was this Part of what Mr if not broken, why amend it, promised Ndi Anambra. Today,Prof Soludo has made This Tax from Informal Sector only source of the State IGR.

The Same Professor Soludo told Ndi Anambra during Campaign that he will use his International contact or Foreign Partners to come and develop Anambra State. Is collecting of these Taxes from the Poor and improvised Anambrians part of importation of Foreign Partners? Or are they the International Contacts Prof. Soludo wants to use to develop the State.

Today in Onitsha, Ndi Agbero has been upgraded to wear Yellow aprons and they have become nightmares to the Residents of Onitsha and its environs. Is this Part of making Anamabra African-Dubai-Taiwan initiative of Prof. Soludo.

These Agberos have become a Competent courts in Anambra State. They arrest and charge you the amount you will pay. Even on the day of sanitation, they arrest you for walking around or going out and charge you to pay.

Ndi Anambra, for how long will you keep mute and allow Prof. Soludo and his agents get away with all these. Nigerian Constitution made it clear about Freedom of Movement. Arresting someone on the day of sanitation is not anywhere in the Constitution. Even the Traffic regulators have no right to arrest you and charge you to pay. It is only a competent court can do so.

On a finally note, it is very obvious that The State is broke and Broken. Prof. Soludo should come out clean and tell Ndi Anambra the true state of things in the State. Prof. We are still waiting for your foreign contacts. Many of the roads you awarded, we are yet to see actions and activities on those roads. A month has passed, going into the second month, nothing yet.

Prof. Soludo and APGA should give their desperate measures to generate money a human face. They should not be insensitive to the plights of the people considering what is happening in the country. The keke Drivers, shuttle Drivers, Bus Drivers and others in the informal sectors should be given a breathing space. Even those Federal Government Workers, how much is their Taxes to the Federal Government, talk of a man who is on the informal sector.

Many businesses are closing. Many people are already gone the State to Delta State. Many of these Keke Drivers have put their Keke’s for Sale? Is this part of the agenda of making Anambra an African-Dubai-Taiwan? Taxation is good for development, but it must have a human face.

Also, The Governor should into the salary of Civil Servants in the state. It is nothing to write home about. Fresh graduates in the state who are under level 007 and 8, earned between 36,000 to 40,000. Is this how they will pay for House rent, marry their own wives and raise their Children. Hosing and Transportation in Awka and it’s environs are nothin to write home about.

I am Paschal Candle. A public affairs analyst and Social Critic.

*NIGERIA WILL CONTINUE TO PARTNER WITH THE REPUBLIC OF BURUNDI AND OTHER KEY STAKEHOLDERS IN THE HEALTH SECTOR IN AFRICA TO MITIGATE MATERNAL/CHILD MORTALITY AND CHILD MALNUTRITION IN THE REGION.*

According to 2021 UNICEF Data on maternal and child mortality, nearly half of all deaths in children under 5 are attributable to undernutrition in developing countries. Undernutrition puts children at greater risk of dying from common infections, increases the frequency and severity of such infections and delays recovery. The effect of undernutrition of the mother can result in infection in both the mother and child; which is capable of creating a potential lethal cycle of worsening illness, deteriorating nutritional status and possible death in extreme cases.
In her determination to end this endemic problem in Africa, The First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari joined her Burundian counterpart, Her Excellency Angeline Ndayishimiye, the First Lady of Burundi, to participate in the high level Women Leadership program organised by OPDAD/OAFLAD Burundi themed: "Health and Nutrition of Woman and Child’’.

Delivering a keynote address on the occasion, the Nigerian First Lady made a case for deliberate effort from concerned stakeholders in the health sector and other key sectors of child/maternal care to implement programmes aimed at alleviating this endemic crisis in Africa. While commending Lady Angeline Ndayishimiye for her outstanding efforts and strong determination in fighting this monster in Burundi using her multi faceted approach via her pet programme, social awareness and public sensitization on the issue, Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari promised Burundians of her strong alliance with the office of the First Lady of Burundi, aimed at mitigating the effects of maternal/child mortality and child malnutrition in the region. She equally donated some made in Nigeria nutritional supplements for distribution to the less privileged as part of her contribution towards sustaining this drive.
Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari expressed her gratitude to all those who have continued to partner with her pet project, *‘’Future Assured Programme’’* which continues to make such donations for the upkeep and wellness of the most vulnerable in the society possible. Through this Support 'Future Assured Programme’ addresses the deteriorating health status of women, youth and children as well as assists in reducing the rate of maternal, neonatal and child mortality. She cited nutrition, lack of health education, lack of clean drinking water and poverty as the glaring problems of the African woman; adding that this has necessitated the focus on provision of clean drinking water, nutrition supplements and health screening exercises against killer diseases like breast and cervical cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and hypertension.

The visibly elated First Lady, Her Excellency Angeline Ndayishimiye thanked the Nigerian First Lady for her numerous interventions and support to their country Burundi, especially to His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari’s diplomatic charter that has greatly deepened both economic and bilateral ties between Nigeria and the Republic of Burundi. She commended the efforts of the Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Burundi, Amb. Elijah Onyeagba for championing various wonderful policies on behalf of the Nigerian President.

Speaking to journalists after the two day working visit of Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari to the Republic of Burundi, the Head of the Nigerian Mission, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi, His Excellency Amb. Elijah Onyeagba thanked their host nation Burundi and further reiterated His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari’s determination to achieve the diplomatic charter in the East African nation which includes a prosperous, secure and healthy Africa, while calling for concerted efforts from all and sundry to tackle the prevalent cases of maternal/child malnutrition in the region.

OPDAD - Burundi (Organisation des Premieres Dames d' Afrique pour le Développement) is the umbrella body for present and past First Ladies of the Republic of Burundi while OAFLAD is the Organisation of African First Ladies. Their goal is to formulate vibrant programmes and policies aimed at improving the living conditions of women and children in Burundi, Africa and elsewhere.

On the Nigerian First Lady’s envoy to the OPDAD/OFLAD program in Bujumbura was the Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Burundi and his wife, Her Excellency Lady (Iyom) Udo Onyeagba, members of the First Lady’s pet project, ‘’Future Assured Programme’’ and other key officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Burundi.

MOVING FROM CONSUMPTION TO PRODUCTION ECONOMY... BEYOND RHETORICS

HE Elijah Onyeagba, Ph.D

Nigerians love clichés, and for the past few months, 'consumption to production' has been renting the wave with everyone trying to outdo each other in the use of the cliché. I have paid close attention to see if I can get anyone who could clearly explain their understanding of the cliché. I have waited and I am yet to find out.

I am an Economist by training; production and consumption are integral parts of what I come across in the course of my academic training and professional career.

Theoretically, a simple open economic model is represented as NI = C + I + G + (X-M)
Where NI = National Income
C = Consumption Expenditure
I = Investments(Savings)
G = Goverment Expenditure
X-M = Net Export(Difference btw Export and Import.

A very important determinant of the size of an economy is the magnitude of its consumption expenditure. A simple consumption function is a straight line equation represented as C = a + byd where a is autonomous consumption, which indicates your level of consumption at zero income level (which must be positive at all times). Yd is disposable income and b is the slope of the function.

Basically, everyone must consume, regardless of income. In truth, to be considered a big economy, the size of its consumption and production must be huge. High consumption indicates higher disposable income and thus higher propensity to spend. When people are not consuming, the economy will experience deflation, which is the opposite of inflation as we have seen in Japan in the last decade. The problem, however, is: what is the composition of the consumption and where do you source the majority of what you consume: Is it sourced from the domestic market or is it from importation?

On the other hand, Production function, in economics as an equation expresses the relationship between the quantities of productive factors (such as labour and capital) used and the amount of product obtained. The general production function formula is Q= f (K, L), Here Q is the output quantity, L is the labour used, and K is the capital invested for the production of the goods.

Producers create goods to satisfy the consumption wants of the people. If no one consumes, no one will produce. Consumption is thus the end of all productive activity. Consumption and production are two actions, which must occur in any economy. One can not give way for the other. They are not mutually exclusive as the cliche tends to make us believe.

Also, consumption along with investment determines the level of income and employment in the economy. If the consumption of goods and services does not increase, the demand for such goods and services will reduce, and it will lead to a fall in production.

I can go on and on about consumption hypotheses and various models of the production function. However, what I think is important at this point, with our population approaching 250m, leading to a possible increase in consumption is to raise our production level to MATCH or SURPASS our local consumption level, so we can export and manage our net export. If we focus on producing to export without matching local consumption, then we will still have a problem at hand. If we continue to consume without producing locally, we will still have a problem. The balance, however, is to increase local production to meet local consumption and export the net.

The cliche 'consumption to production' makes little sense in economics as the treatise has shown. We can only argue on the composition of our consumption. The proper cliche might be: 'Increasing production to match and surpass local consumption'

Security: AbdulRazaq restates continued harmonious relationship with Nigerian Army, others

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday said his administration would continue to explore synergy and harmonious relationship between the government and Nigerian Army as well as other security agencies to maintain security of life and property of the people of the state.

The Governor gave the assurance while receiving the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General Aminu Shehu Chinade on a familiarisation visit.

AbdulRazaq, who received the GOC through his Deputy Kayode Alabi, said Kwara is peaceful with the support and cooperation from the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.

"We thank you for cooperating with us because we need you and we have high regard for the Military. I want to assure you as a government that we are ready to cooperate with you because without security, no meaningful development could be achieved and investors will not come to the State. So, we need to secure our State before we bring in investors.

"Once again I welcome you to Kwara State and pray that you will succeed in your new endeavour", the Governor said.

For his part, the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Governor, General Tunde Bello (Retired) appreciated the men and officials of Nigerian Army for their selfless service in ensuring internal security in the Country.

He said Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq takes the security of the state as first priority of his administration because without security, nothing meaningful could be achieved.

"We are actually appreciate the support of all the previous Brigade Commanders to the state government and GOCs and we want you to continue in the same direction", he said.

Major General Chinade said the visit was part of his familiarization to units and formations under his area of responsibilities after assuming duty as the GOC on the 12th of August, 2022.

"This visit is part of the efforts to familiarise myself with the units and formations within my area of responsibilities. And furtherance to that, I find it necessary to pay a courtesy to the Government of Kwara State. Essentially, the visit is to convey the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Faruq Yahaya's goodwill message and words of appreciation to the government and good people of Kwara State for being good host to Nigerian Army units and formations and indeed by extension the Armed Forces and other security agencies within the State," he said.

The GOC solicited the continued support and cooperation of the state government towards achieving the desired goals of ensuring security of lives and properties of the people.

"I'm also here to solicit the continued support of the government and the good people of Kwara State towards the units and formations within the State so that they would be able to serve you people better as we all know that security is everybody's business and all hands are required to be on deck in advancing the course of security.

"I also want to use this opportunity to assure the government and the good people of Kwara State of our collaboration and continued support towards ensuring the security, safety and welfare of the people of the State and other Nigerians in general", GOC assured.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Security and Intelligence, Alhaji Muyideen Aliu; the Commander 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, Brigadier General, A. A. Babafemi; the Commander 2 Military Intelligent Brigade, Ibadan, Brigadier General B. S. Keji and Commander 2 Division, Military Provost Group, Col R. K. Apata were also in attendance during the visit.


Modupe Joel
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor

*We won't accept collection of illegal fees, Kwara govt tells principals*
• Welcomes pupils, students back to class
• Enrolment surges across public schools
• Warns against encroachment on govt schools

The Permanent Secretary Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, Mrs Mary kemi Adeosun, has warned school principals accross the16 local government of the state to desist from collection of all kinds of illegal fees in all public Secondary Schools of the state.

Adeosun made this statement on Friday in a meeting held with all principals of Secondary Schools at Saint Anthony Secondary School Ilorin.

Any principal caught collecting more than the approved PTA levies by the government will be sanctioned according to the civil service rule, she cautioned.

Adeosun, therefore, solicited the support of the school heads for the Administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who she said wholeheartedly is committed to the welfare of teachers while also making huge investments in the education sector.

Adeosun called for sanity and discipline across the schools and urged the Principals to tolerate one another to allow peace to reign in their respective schools.

She urged the principals to keep their students indoor, saying any school whose students are found roaming the street risks government sanctions.

She also reminded them that no Principal should admit new students into SSI without the BECE result, and where there is overpopulation in school, the students should move to neighbouring schools.

"Also, Vice Principal Academics should take charge of all examinations the school, and staff should not be used as exam officers. Any school found wanting will be sanctioned,: she said.

She asserted that no NGOs, Old Students or Mission bodies, community or individual should be above the government of the State.

"Therefore, there must be appropriate permission from the Government before anyone is allowed to carry out anything in the schools," Adeosun said.

On the issue of PTA levy, the Permanent Secretary declared: "Henceforth, the ministry will deploy auditors to all secondary Schools in the state to know the status of their account."

She therefore listed out the Approved Fees in the Schools as follows:

PTA:

JSS - 1,450
SSS - 1,500

NEW INTAKE:
JSS - 3,930
SSS - 3,980

TEXTBOOKS:
JSS - 4,500
SSS - 5,600

BECE QUESTION AND ANSWER: 1,800.

She announced that government is to provide reading textbooks to pupils at the primary level through the SUBEB, a step she said underscores the commitment of the administration to basic education.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Kwara State Teaching Service Commission Mallam Bello Taoheed Abubakar described as false rumours that the Commission has commercialised the appointment of principals and vice principals into all secondary Schools in the state.

He reiterated the good works of Governor AbdulRazaq in the sector, which Bello said included prompt payment of salary, promotion of teachers, and infrastructure upgrades.

Bello urged the school heads to be punctual and master their subjects to reciprocate the good gesture of the governor.

President of All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Mall. Umar Abdulahi, for his part, applauded the Governor for putting round pegs in round holes in the education sector, assuring the government that they will abide by the outcome of the meeting.

He further advised the Principals to avoid any illicit acts that can dent their images.

Meanwhile reports on recent efforts of the government show a huge surge in pupils' enrolment in public schools as public confidence grows in the government’s investments in the sector.

Peter Amogbonjaye
Press Secretary,
Ministry of Education And Human Capital, Development.

*NIGERIA - BURUNDI BUSINESS SUMMIT WILL CREATE AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY FOR BUSINESS TO BUSINESS & BUSINESS TO GOVERNMENT INTERACTION.*

In a bid to create strategic engagement and partnership with relevant stakeholders on policy, legal, diplomatic and regulatory issues to improve the ease of doing business between Nigeria and the Republic of Burundi, the Nigerian Mission in Burundi is organizing a two day strategic investment summit for prospective participants wishing to take up investment opportunities in the East African nation. The event which is slated to take place between 27th and 29th September 2022 in Bujumbura is expected to champion the promotion of free trade of goods and services, removal of trade barriers, quality assurance, bilateral skill and capacity transfer between the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Briefing the press yesterday in Bujumbura, the business capital of Burundi, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi, His Excellency Amb Elijah Onyeagba indicated that all is now set for the hosting of the maiden edition of the Business Summit.

*_According to him “ we have consulted widely and strategically provided many stimulus offers for willing investors. A free visa application and processing service has been secured and also the program will be totally free for Nigerian and Burundian participants. A start up business facility is also under consideration while residency documentation for Nigerians will receive a high priority attention when filed from prospective participants._*

He also enumerated many other opportunities which this Summit will provide. According to him, one of the best opportunities the Summit will offer is that it will provide an amazing offer of business to business contact for investors in the divide as well as provide business to government contact between the investors and host government.

The Embassy will support interested participants wishing to take up any investment at the end of Summit and also assist in the areas of providing key sector specific markets & business insights, advisory services and bilateral diplomacy services. He urged the prospective participants to explore every hour of the program by harnessing these rare opportunities at the Nigeria - Burundi Business Summit.

In attendance during the press conference yesterday was the Burundi Minister of Commence, Transport, Industries & Tourism, Her Excellency Chantel Mijimbere and member of parliament and chairman of Burundi Chamber of Commerce, Hon Olivier Suguru who also doubles as the Vice Chairman of the Nigeria - Burundi Business Summit and Minister of Commerce.

As promised, the Administration of Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is still on track towards the completion of the General Babatunde Idiagbon Flyover Bridge

We have doubled up our effort on schedule. Work is going as planned and the scheduled date for completion remain December 23, 2022.

Below is the breakdown of construction activities since the commencement of the project;

*Completed Activities*
• Piles 100% completed
•Pile caps 100% completed
•Piers 100% completed
•Precast Beams 100% completed
•Concrete casing protection for NNPC pipeline 100% completed

*Ongoing Activities for the week*
• Final Reinforcement for Abutment wall 1 (80%)
• Second phase of concreting for Abutment wall 2, 70% done
• Concreting of Capping Beam 1
•Concreting of Capping Beam 2
•Formwork and Concreting of Retaining Wall stem (60% done)
• Line drainage. (40% done)
•Concreting of Retaining wall base (60% done)
• Concreting of Precast Parapets (40% done)

We want to specially thank the good people of Kwara State and all stakeholders for the cooperation, patience and support, knowing that this temporary discomfort is for the benefit and good of all Kwarans.

As we look forward to delivering this laudable and iconic project, we want to reiterate this administration’s commitment to providing quality infrastructure across the state, translating to better socio-economic life for all.

#Isenlo

*Applause as AbdulRazaq addresses Kwara school heads*
•Gov’s investments in education inclusive, revolutionary: principals
•How we’re addressing disparity, by SUBEB chairman

Heads of secondary schools in Kwara State on Wednesday said Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s achievements in turning around learning environment and improving welfare of teachers are unmatched in the recent history of the state.

The teachers also commended the introduction of KwaraLEARN which they say is truly impactful, adding that the administration’s interventions have also been spread across every part of the state in a way never seen before.

The school heads made the commendations in Ilorin, the state capital, at an open engagement the Governor held to feel their pulse on government’s focus on basic education and their welfare across board.

At least 300 school principals attended the meeting — along with some key stakeholders from across the education sector in Kwara State.

The teachers, who acknowledged the improvements in their wages and teaching environment, also called on the Governor to consider restoring boarding facilities which died off a few years ago, end the pay disparities between teachers in basic classes and their senior secondary school counterparts which he inherited, commit more funds to laboratories in the schools, and do more to offset the arrears of salaries he met in 2019.

Principal of Ilorin Grammar School, Hajia Abdullahi Muslimat Iyabo, said the school was one of the schools which benefited from comprehensive renovation of schools under Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration.

"Our school benefitted from not just a few renovations but total renovation of the school. On behalf of the management of Ilorin Grammar School, we want to say thank you. I also want to express our gratitude to you for the sense of humility and commitment to the welfare of the teachers and students. I want to also sincerely appreciate your efforts at ensuring that teachers are promoted, and we want you to keep this up,” she said.

Principal of Community Junior Secondary School Ipetu-Igbomina in Irepodun Local Government, Mr. Babatunde Josuah Adegboyega, said the administration has given a befitting facelift to schools while doing its best to promote welfare.

"I want to appreciate your good gesture for the promotion implemented, the welfare packages on salaries as well as changing the facelift of schools through renovation. God will continue to be your guide", Adegboyega said.

Principal Queen Elizabeth Senior Secondary School Ilorin, Sidikat Taye Lawal, commended AbdulRazaq for his prompt interventions on issues affecting the school.

"On behalf of the old students of Queen Elizabeth School of which I am one of them thank you for transforming Queen Elizabeth School to a modern secondary school through the road network. We want to appreciate you again for your care and love for the students on exchange programme because I remember last year I was in Minna, Niger State for the Conference of Principals of Exchange Schools and Kwara State was ranked the best in the programme,” she said.

“We were able to interact with principals from other states and learnt how some had to borrow money to feed their students. But in the case of Kwara, we get money to feed these students as and when due and you transport them at the right time, not leaving them for their parents to send transportation fees. Thank you very much sir."

Mrs Jimoh C. S. of Junior Secondary School Awonga, Shao in Moro Local Government, said the condition of the school was in a sorry state before 2019.

"l want to appreciate Your Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the changes you have made in education sector. In the time past in my former school, Government Junior Secondary School, Bode Saadu, the school was in bad state, I don't even know how to describe the school, all the structures there had been destroyed,” she recalled.

"l used to go to SUBEB almost everyday to beg for renovation of the school but nothing was done. There was a time the man told me that the school is one of the schools to be renovated but nothing happened. But when our Excellency got there, both new construction and renovation were done in the school.”

Umar Abubakar, the Principal of Secondary School, Senior Secondary School Kanko, Shonga District in Edu Local Government, said the trajectory of basic education has changed for good since the Governor came.

Balla Sa’ad, another principal from Islamiyah College Patigi, described AbdulRazaq as a workaholic Governor who has committed so much resources to improve basic education.

“He is a people's Governor and a friendly Governor. In fact, in my local government, the slogan now is everywhere you go, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s good works are there", he said.

The school principals advocated recruitment of more science and languages teachers as well as non-teaching staff, provision of more textbooks in core subjects, in-service training for teachers, improved security network of schools.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development Mrs Mary Adeosun said the Governor has been exemplary in his commitment to education which she said mirrors his passion for the future of the state.

Chairman of SUBEB, Prof Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, described the interactive session as historic in the state.

Adaramaja blamed the longstanding disparity in pay between SUBEB and TESCOM teachers on four factors, out of which two have now been resolved.

He listed the factors to be over-deduction of NUT and National Housing Scheme (NHS) dues — both of which have now been addressed and reflected in the teachers’ salaries — stoppage of step upgrades for SUBEB teachers since 2016, and non-payment of allowances due to teachers with TRCN. He said these challenges will also be resolved, but called for patience and understanding of the teachers.

Adaramaja also said pending promotion arrears would soon be implemented, recalling that the administration had similarly fixed some of the promotion arrears it inherited without any political colouration.

The SUBEB boss said training and retraining of teachers has been paramount to the administration, especially with the renewed cordial relationship between UBEC and SUBEB.

AbdulRazaq, for his part, acknowledged all the issues raised by the teachers and said the administration remains committed to total turnaround of the education sector so that Kwara can reclaim its place in the north and Nigeria as a whole.

"We have introduced KwaraLEARN programme and I thank you all for embracing the programme. That's one of the paths to bringing Kwara back on top in Northern Nigeria and the rest of the country. The investment the government and you are making today may not show immediately but it is something that will speak for all of us later in the future. What you are doing is to produce responsible citizens for Nigeria and the world, and we are grateful for that,” he said
"I have listened carefully to all the issues of promotions, leave bonuses, uniforms in schools, non-academic staff employment, textbooks, harmonisation between TESCOM and SUBEB salary, in-service trainings, seminars, security in schools, unity schools and exchange students within the state, equipping laboratories in our schools, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools, backlog of salaries, girl-child education, encroachment of school properties and building of shops in front schools. These were part of the issues raised today and we will dissect them and take them one after the other.”


Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
September 14, 2022

*Kuyi Bridge: AbdulRazaq Promises Prompt Remedy*

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Tuesday, assessed collapsed Kuyi bridge in Patigi. The bridge collapsed on Tuesday morning following heavy rain and flooding.

Represented by his Deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, the Governor assured the people of Pategi that an immediate solution would be provided because of the economic importance of the bridge to the community.

“Though the road is a Federal Government project, contact has been made immediately to the right channel and they promised to send in the contractor for immediate action. “

Confirming the collapse of Kuyi bridge on Tuesday,
His Royal Highness Etsu Patigi and the vice chairman Kwara State Council of chiefs Alhaji Umar Ibrahim Bologi II described the incident as sad, as thousands of motorists and passengers would encounter hardship as the people of Patigi are cut off from the state capital.

The Emir called on the government to look at the environmental hazard the portion poses to the people of Pategi. He therefore appealed to the Federal and State government for quick intervention.

Part of the Deputy Governor's entourage were the TIC Chairman Patigi, Alh. Ibrahim liman and Director Civil Engineering service, Min of Works, Engr. Biliaminu Folorunsho.

Modupe Joel
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
September 13,2022

*We're impressed with Kwara's use of UBEC grant: House of Reps*
·Says AbdulRazaq a focused Governor
·Recommends Kwara for award of quality delivery

Kwara State again came up for national applause on Tuesday as the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Basic Education and Services commended the state for efficient use of basic education grants and the state government’s determination to improve standard of education.

The commendation came barely one month after UBEC itself said Kwara now stands out for excellent utilisation of the grants — a feat the body observed is a clear departure from its horrible experience with Kwara State in the past when the grants were diverted, resulting in official blacklist of the state for at least seven years (2013-2019).

The committee specifically applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for quality service delivery seen in the management of the Universal Basic Education Commission matching grants, saying the state deserves a pat on the back for the quality of the schools and other facilities funded from the money so far accessed.

“What we have seen so far in Kwara is of high quality and satisfactory. There is evidence of focus and commitment, and a clear interest in promoting basic education and empowering our children to survive in an increasingly complex technology driven global system," chairman of the committee Prof. Julius Ihonvbere told reporters on Tuesday in Ilorin.

Flanked by other members of the ad-hoc committee, Ihonvbere was speaking as the committee wrapped its two-day oversight visit to Kwara State to inspect the completed and ongoing UBEC-SUBEB projects.

"I think the best way to appreciate what is going on is to have the proper understanding of how it used to be, and we've seen a lot in Kwara,” he added.

"It is not always that we find a leadership (like AbdulRazaq) that understands basic education and its value to national growth and development. If the basics - the foundation - is contaminated and corrupted, what it produces can never promote peace, stability, growth and development anywhere in the world, that is why basic education is very critical."

Some of the schools the committee visited included Ogele LGEA Primary School, Ogele and Otte LGEA Primary School Otte-Oja (both in Asa Local Government area); Sheikh Alimi Junior Secondary School (Ilorin West); Amoyo Junior Secondary School (Ifelodun); Gaa-Akanbi Junior Secondary School (Ilorin South); Shao LGEA Primary School, Shao (Moro); and Adeta UBEC Model Smart School in Ilorin West local government of the State.

Ihonvbere said his committee members were just as impressed as he was about how the projects have been greatly executed in Kwara State, adding that the committee will officially communicate their judgement of the assessment to the Governor and other appropriate quarters as part of its oversight functions

"As an academic and the Chairman of this committee, and I am sure my members share the same sentiment, we are very pleased and happy with the programmes of Kwara State. There are states that have collected marching grants from UBEC and have not deployed them to basic education. A few (of the states) have jettisoned the action plans of UBEC; they are doing something else with the money. Some have done wishy-washy works. With time, this Committee will release a list of our observations in various states,” he said.

"Without education you cannot go anywhere. It is not rocket science. And I think Kwara State seems determined to change the narratives. We are pleased about it."

He said no efforts will be spared to sanction the states found to have diverted the UBEC grants, including taking steps to retrieve some abandoned facilities the Commission allocated to some defaulting state governments.

"There are penalties for states where UBEC allocated critical infrastructure to some state governments but were abandoned. We are amending the UBEC Act so that UBEC can retrieve such facilities and put them to public use,” Ihonvbere added.

"Secondly, we are looking at ways to compel compliance with the law of the land; a situation whereby states that have not accessed the marching grant or have accessed it but used it wrongly will face some penalties."

He also hinted that state governments that comply with UBEC's action plans will be rewarded with more support to serve as an encouragement to do more.

"At the level of the committee, the National Assembly and the UBEC, states that utilized UBEC grants perfectly like Kwara will get additional support as a reward, so that it will encourage them to do more,” Ihonvbere added.

"I would like to advise state governments to take basic education seriously in their own interest. Bulletproof cars, dogs and barbed wire cannot save them from the anger of uneducated, abused and marginalised children in the consequences.”

He commended the management of the State Universal Basic Education Board and their Chairman, Prof Sheu Raheem Adaramaja for proper monitoring and their insistence on delivery of quality jobs by contractors.

Other members of the National Assembly Ad-hoc Committee on the oversight visit were: Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin; Hon. Bashir Dawudu; Hon. Oluyemi Taiwo; Hon. Mufutau Egberongbe; Hon. Cook Ganiyu Olododo; Hon. Sylvester Ogbaga; Hon. Usman Abdullahi; Hon. Peter Owolasi; and Hon. Bukola Oyewo.

UBEC was represented during the tour by Dr. Jimmy Equensen and Engr. Yissa Yakubu.

Chairman Kwara SUBEB, Professor Sheu Raheem Adaramaja, said the school projects cover renovation, construction, and comprehensive remodelling of various structures across at least 605 public schools in the State, including provision of furniture, public toilets, and water facilities.

He said the turnaround of the education sector under Governor AbdulRazaq has led to increase in students’ enrolment, decrying how hundreds of classrooms were left dilapidated under the previous administrations.

"In terms of renovation, we have renovated 605 schools as contained in our action plan. The project consists of construction and comprehensive remodelling of classrooms, and provision of furniture for teachers and students,” Adaramaja said.

"The situation before was so pathetic that nobody wanted to put their children in public schools. But the story is different now. Enrolment of pupils into government owned schools has now increased."

Adaramaja, who conducted the team round the places of their choice, described the Governor as the wisest leader for paying the #7.1billion UBEC counterpart fund to access another N7.1bn with which the government is now fixing public schools.

PTA Chairman for Amoyo Junior Secondary School, Prince Adeyemi Garba, appreciated the government for the work done and how the Amoyo community is given a sense of belonging.

"We have to thank the authorities for remembering Amoyo town. I have now discovered that not only does every child counts in the State's education policy, but every community also counts, and we are grateful,” he added.

Chairman, School Based Management Committee (SBMC) for Shao LGEA school, Elder Adigun Abel, said the choice of Shao primary school for the UBEC's renovation project was appropriate, given that the whole Shao has no other community school for basic classes.

Adigun lauded the vision of the government in turning around the education sector in Kwara and renovating school structures in their community.


Ameenat Abiola Atere
Press Secretary
Kwara SUBEB

*NIWA BOSS, CHIEF DR. GEORGE MOGHALU HAILS SGF, BOSS MUSTAPHA AT 66*

The Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, Chief Dr. George Moghalu has send his congratulatory message to the SGF on the occasion of his 66th birthday celebration while describing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha as an accomplished public administrator who had proven records of achievements in both private and public sectors and commend him for his invaluable support to the Management of National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA.

“On behalf of my family and Management of NIWA, I felicitate with the SGF on his glorious age of 66. The SGF is a complete gentleman, seasoned professional and consummate politician.

“He has over the years, served Nigeria in different capacities and has continue to display courage and bravery on many occasions to show his passion for a better Nigeria.

“Boss has brought to bear in his noble assignment, cross-national and multi-sector experience in discharging his duties and responsibilities.

“He has consistently support the Management of NIWA and his wise counsels are priceless.

“As the SGF marks his 66th birthday anniversary, I join his family, friends and associates in celebrating his accomplishments, which are commendable and worthy of emulation,”

While praying to God for longer life and good health as he continue to serve for the progress of the country.


*CHIEF DR. GEORGE MOGHALU MEDIA CENTRE*

Arewa Group Calls For Arrest Of Saraki, AbdulFatai Over Missing N11.9bn In Kwara

September 2, 2022

By Abdulwaheed Olayinka Adubi, Kaduna

Group under the aegies of Arewa Solidarity Group (ASG), has called for the arrest of the former Senate President, Bukola Saraki and the immediate past Governor of Kwara state, AbdulFatai Ahmed over the missing of N11.9bn in the state.

The public funds were said to have been carted away from the treasury of Kwara State between 2011 and 2019 when AbdulFatai Ahmed was the governor of the state.

The leader of the group, Isa Ahmed, while addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Friday said that Saraki being the political god father of the immediate past governor, AbdulFatai Ahmed should be arrested for interrogation.

The group said that investigation has revealed that the said funds were not tied to
any project or programme.

According to the leader of the group, while speaking, he alleged that the funds must have been diverted for personal use at the expense of the state.

” This is the reason why we are calling on EFCC and other relevants agencies to invite the duo of Saraki and AbdulFatai to give answers to the missing of such huge amount of money that would have gone a long way in helping the state in some aspect of governance,” the group explained.

However, the missing funds came to the notice of the public after a forensic audit report was carried out under the present administration in Kwara state.

“The audit report also showed that N2bn cash withdrawals that was not tied to any project or official expenditure got missing within eight days in February 2019, barely one month to the general election, amidst other mind-boggling revelations of alleged maladministration within the period,” the group explained.

*Kwara Gov congratulates Kashim Shettima at 56*

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has congratulated the Vice Presidential Candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Alhaji Kashim Shettima on his 56th birthday anniversary.

“On behalf of the people and government of Kwara State, I join family, friends and associates to congratulate His Excellency Kashim Shettima on his birthday anniversary. The man Kashim Shettima, by his antecedents in leadership, governance and comportment, remains a very bright spot in Nigeria’s leadership environment,” the Governor said in a statement on Friday.

“His superlative outings on the national stage as Vice Presidential Candidate of our great party have served to further showcase the brilliance, charisma, patriotism, and people skills of the man Kashim Shettima. It is clear therefore that his choice to pair His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the APC presidential ticket is right on target.

“I pray Allah, exalted is He, to grant Alhaji Kashim Shettima good health and long life to continue his excellent service to our country and to humanity.”

Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
September 2, 2022

*N11.9bn stolen from Kwara treasury between 2011-2019: Forensic Audit Report*
• N2bn cash withdrawn a month to 2019 poll
• Govt asked to claim exemplary damages for N6bn from firms, individuals
• Raises alarms over suspicious loans
• Report confirms our fears: Gov 
 

At least N11.9bn of public funds were carted away from the treasury of Kwara State between 2011 and 2019 without any lawful tie to any project or programme, a forensic audit report has revealed, amid other mind-boggling revelations of alleged malfeasance within the period.
 
The audit also showed that N2bn cash withdrawals not tied to any project or official expenditure were made within eight days in February 2019, barely one month to the general election.
 
Speaking during the submission of the report to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday, Partner at the SSAC and Professionals Anthony Iniomoh said the report is in two volumes covering Internally Generated Revenue;Capital Receipts; Internal and External Loans; Recurrent / Overhead Expenditure; Personnel Cost (Salaries and Wages); Capital Expenditure; Assets Disposed; Kwara State Internal Revenue Service; Infrastructural Fund Kwara (IFK); Harmony Holdings Limited; amongst others. 
 
“A few highlights of our findings may be necessary for the record. Our forensic audit revealed a colossal pilfering of N11, 981,268,709 which we recommended should be recovered to the public coffers. Similarly, we recommended to the state government to prosecute certain officers and companies in addition to claiming exemplary damages on transactions totalling N6,023,358,444, amongst other key findings,” Inumoh said at the presentation of the report.
 
“This is especially so in the cases of firms that we observed were paid huge public funds without any evidence of work done on record. In one instance, records show that a firm that was incorporated at the Corporate Affairs Commission on 14th June, 2016 was paid by the state government for a contract it purportedly executed for the state in April of the same year. It became apparent that this was a preconceived attempt to defraud the state.
 
“There was an instance of public officer getting paid at two different places for years, which is a clear breach of the law. Other infractions arising as a result of obvious conflict of interest and violation of due process were also spotlighted for the government to draw up new policy instruments to prevent such in the future.
 
“There was also a cash withdrawal within 8 days of N2.06 billion in February 2019 which was of interest to the audit. However, no documentation was made available to validate the purpose for which the money was withdrawn. There were also several other cash withdrawals within the state over the period running into billions of Naira which we could not validate. 
 
“These and others have been recommended to be referred to an Administrative Panel of Enquiry. Furthermore, the audit revealed that loans were obtained by the Kwara State Government within the period under review.

"The elements of these loans could not be validated. Above all, the bank accounts to which these loans were disbursed to and what the loans were used for could not be established or validated.”
 
The report suggested to the government to prosecute some individuals and firms indicted in the two volume report, while other issues are to be referred to administrative panel of inquiry for some individuals to explain their roles in the many  infractions.
 
Governor AbdulRazaq, for his part, said the revelations were truly disturbing but hardly surprising, given the patterns of events in those years.
 
“We thank you for the robust work. It confirms what we have been saying all along,” he added.

“We also saw that it has taken a bit of time and I know that there were certain deliberate efforts to obstruct your work. That was why it has taken some time because you have made certain complaints about that and we tried to push those that were supposed to open the doors to make the doors easy for you.

“Your report, like others, will help us to steadily put the state in the right direction to deepen transparency and accountability. We will go through the report fully and look into your recommendations.

“With few things you said know, it is mind-boggling especially withdrawing cash of over N2bn a month to the election and all sorts of infractions that took place. Certainly, we shall progress from here and do the needful.”
 
The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Governor Prof. Mamma Saba Jubril; Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice Senior Ibrahim Suleiman; Commissioner for Finance Florence Olasumbo Oyeyemi; Accountant General of the State AbdulGaniyu Sani; Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance Abdulrazaq Folorunsho.
 
Other members of the audit firm are Tijani Dako and Bamidele Sobiye.
 
Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
September 1, 2022

https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2022/09/01/n11-9bn-stolen-under-ex-gov-ahmed-in-kwara-audit-report/?amp=1

*NIWA DEPLOYS NEW AMBULANCES TO ENHANCE SAFETY*


In response to incessant boat mishaps on the Lagos inland waterways, the Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Chief Dr George Moghalu, has approved the deployment of new ambulance boat to the Lagos area office.

The new water craft fitted with amber lights and two 175 Horse Power engines made by Yamaha, fitted with medical equipment, first aid boxes, communication system, and stretchers, will form the fulcrum rapid response to accidents on Lagos waterways.

Rugged and built to ferry accident victims and those who require immediate medical attention to the nearest hospital and Medical Hold Bay, the ambulance watercraft can travel at controlled timing without fear or anxieties of being buffeted by high impact waves.

*NIWA TO ENFORCE COMPULSORY INSURANCE FOR BARGES, CARGOES*

_...considers South African firm for inland waterways surveillance_


The Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Chief Dr. George Moghalu, has announced that the authority is working on the modality of making it compulsory for all barge operators to secure insurance cover for both barges and cargoes they carry.

Dr. Moghalu disclosed this in a media parley in Lagos. He said the agency was inundated with complaints from importers on the risk of putting expensive cargoes on the waterways onboard substandard barges.

“I have had a meeting with the barge operators association of Nigeria, and I have insisted on having quality insurance to cover both the barges and the cargoes.

“These were issues raised by the importers themselves. They said they don’t want a situation whereby they would gamble with their goods after importing them from China and Europe, and upon getting to Nigerian waterways the cargo gets drowned.

“So we have reached an understanding with the barge operators association that we want a reasonable insurance cover for every cargo that would go on the inland waterways and for the vessels themselves to be fully insured so that we can give protection to the importer.

“This is a prime project for us because we want to decongest our ports and ease pressure from the roads,” Moghalu stated.

Also, the NIWA boss said the agency is considering a proposal by a South African firm for the installation of cameras and a command control centre for surveillance of Nigerian inland waterways.

According to Moghalu, NIWA has visited South Africa on invitation by the company to see how it operates the same surveillance service for South Africa’s inland waterways, even as the company has equally conducted an assessment of Nigerian inland waterways.

Moghalu stated that with the installation of cameras and a command control centre, NIWA would be better positioned to monitor activities on the inland waterways to curb unprofessional conduct and respond speedily to accidents.

The NIWA boss also stated that the agency has intensified efforts to sensitise riverine communities on safety measures and standards for inland waterways operations, especially on the use of standard life jackets, ban on night travel and overcrowded boats.

“I have told my Area Managers across the nation that I want to have biweekly reports on sensitisation activities. In terms of reaching these locals, using radio is the best but it is also important to engage them physically using the churches, mosques, traditional rulers and religious leaders.”

Dr. Moghalu further warned boat operators to desist from transporting passengers beyond 7.00 p.m. to avoid frequent boat mishaps on the waterways.

He added that NIWA has constituted a waterway task force to arrest any boat operating beyond the stipulated time.

*PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS INTERESTED IN THE UPCOMING NIGERIA BURUNDI BUSINESS SUMMIT CAN NOW REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAMS.*

The Nigerian Embassy, Bujumbura has activated the registration platform for the general public, corporate bodies, Governmental agencies and prospective investors wishing to participate in the upcoming Nigeria Burundi Business Summit.

Interested applicants are to log on to https://nigeriaburundiinvest.com/app and follow the instructions for filling in their details.

The Nigeria Burundi Business Summit is the brain child of the Embassy of Nigeria in Burundi aimed at bringing to the fore, the many economic, investment and business opportunities between the two great countries.

The Summit will feature representatives and investors across several economic sectors of both countries in Education, Manufacturing, Hospitality, Agro-Processing, Mining, Transport and Logistics.

The Nigerian Embassy, Bujumbura recently inaugurated the Nigeria Burundi Business Council; a body charged with the responsibility of helping the Nigerian Embassy host the maiden edition of the Summit. It has Sir Paul Chukwuma and Hon Olivier Suguru as President and Vice President of the Council respectively.

The Summit comes up in September, 2022 in Bujumbura - the Business capital of the Republic of Burundi.

*CHIEF DR. GEORGE MOGHALU FELICITATES WITH HIS EXCELLENCY, DR CHRIS NWABUEZE NGIGE (Onwa) ON HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY*


The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Chief Dr. George Moghalu congratulates His Excellency Dr. Chris Nwabueze Ngige (MD, OON) on the auspicious occasion of his 70th birthday.

Chief Dr. George Moghalu extolls Dr. Ngige as a gallant and refined politician and a medical doctor par excellence whose sterling leadership qualities, selfless philanthropy and commitment to the nation’s unity has remained upward.

The NIWA boss underscores the efforts of Dr. Ngige who retired from the Federal Civil Service as Deputy Director in the Federal Ministry of Health in 1999, and as the Physician-in-Charge, Federal Government Staff Clinics in the Presidency, Abuja before venturing into politics.

Chief Moghalu the Ohamadike of Nnewi, also applauded the sagacity, bravery and forthrightness of Dr Ngige in instituting long lasting changes in Anambra State, particularly the investments in people by enhancing the health, educational and physical infrastructure standard of the state such as robust road network, etc.

As a Labour Minister and later the President of the Governing Board of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Dr. Moghalu acknowledges the vocal and frontline roles Dr. Ngige has played in ensuring the entrenchment of democratic principles in governance by continually emphasizing on the rule of law, people and labour friendly policies, probity and accountability.

As Dr. Chris Ngige celebrates, Chief Dr. George Moghalu the Ohamadike Nnewi prays that the almighty God will grant the Minister longer life and good health to keep serving the nation he loves so much.


*--- CHIEF DR. GEORGE MOGHALU MEDIA CENTRE *

*CHIEF DR GEORGE MOGAHLU PARLEYS WITH TRANSPORTATION CORRESPONDENTS*

The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority,
NIWA, Chief Dr. George Moghalu, Friday in Lagos State has hosted a media interactive session with transportation correspondents.

The NIWA boss was accompanied by Engr. Joseph K. Ororo (GM Marine), Jibril Darda'u (GM Corporate Affairs), Mr. Japhet I. Maisaje (GM Audit) and Engr. Sarat Braimoh (NIWA Lagos Area Manager).

During the media interactive session Dr. Moghalu warned boat operators to desist from transporting passengers beyond 7.00 p.m. to avoid frequent boat mishaps on the waterways.

At the media parley, Dr Moghalu revealed that NIWA had constituted a waterways task force to arrest any boat operators operating beyond the stipulated time.

The Task Force is comprised of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), barge operators, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, and the Marine Police.


---- CHIEF DR GEORGE MOGAHLU MEDIA TEAM

*AMBASSADOR ELIJAH ONYEAGBA PhD VISITED THE GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR HOPE UZODINMA WITH BURUNDI RULING PARTY CHIEF, HON. REVERIE NDIKURIYO; NIGERIA BURUNDI BUSINESS SUMMIT PRESIDENT, SIR PAUL CHUKWUMA; NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY VICE CHANCELLOR, PROF. CHARLES ESIMONE AMONG OTHERS.*

In continuation of its consultations with political, economic stakeholders ahead of the Nigeria Burundi Business Summit, the Nigerian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi yesterday evening paid a strategic visit to the Governor of Imo state, His Excellency, Dr Hope Uzodinma at his residence.

The Head of the Nigerian Mission stated that the consultation was in line with finalising plans to ensure the grand participation of all levels of governance in the program.

"We want to engender economic interaction which will groom trade and investment between these two economies and Africa at large. We are starting first with education, tourism, ICT, creative sectors and political consultation. With the right political will and necessary policies, investors will confidently invest in our economies. That's what we are bringing to table. We are also working to ensure that as Nigeria becomes great, so will Africa. Hence, let's build more of what makes us great as Africans".

The Governor of Imo State welcomed the entourage and promised them his personal support and that of his State towards the Summit.

His Excellency Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba was accompanied by the Burundi Ruling CNDD - FDD Party National Chairman, (SG) Hon. Reverien Ndikuriyo; President of the Nigerian Burundi Business Summit, Sir Paul Chukwuma; Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Prof Charles Okechukwu Esimone; All Progressives Congress Deputy Chairman South, Chief Emma Eneukwu and All Progressive Congress Vice Chairman South East, Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu.

#DiplomaticEngagement

ANAMBRA STATE IS HEAVILY ENDOWED WITH ENERGIZED, INNOVATIVE, CREATIVE AND HARD WORKING YOUTH, WHOM WHEN PROPERLY ENCOURAGED WITH STRATEGIC POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC POLICIES, WILL RULE THE WORLD!
_…………….Amb Elijah Onyeagba PhD opined as he visited the Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo_

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi, His Excellency, Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba PhD recently visited the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency Prof Chukwuma Soludo alongside the Leadership of Burundi’s Ruling Party CNDD-FDD, led by its National Chairman(SG) Hon Reverien Ndikuriyo and other Embassy envoys in continuation of the Embassy’s diplomatic political consultation across key players in the Nigerian governance and political sector.

The Head of the Nigerian Mission in Burundi disclosed to the press after the visit that he had formally congratulated the Governor on his ascension to the office of the Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State and to equally discuss more strategic areas of partnership between the Nigerian Mission in Bujumbura and the Anambra State Government.

According to Dr. Elijah Onyeagba, "Anambra State is heavily endowed with energized, innovative, creative and hard working youths, whom when encouraged with strategic political and economic polices will rule the world." Anambra people are blessed with hard working people who exhibit ingenious business acumen, resilience, creative spirit of innovation and a wonderful disposition as a peace loving people. We are here with the Leadership of Burundi’s Ruling Party CNDD-FDD led by its National Chairman(SG) Hon Reverien Ndikuriyo as part of our continuous political consultation in pursuance of the newly signed Nigeria-Burundi Joint Commission which has educational cooperation, political consultation and economic partnership as its core ingredients.*

His Excellency Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba PhD recalled that he nurtured and midwifed the Nigeria-Burundi Joint Commission which came into effect after its adoption and signing by both economies on July 30th 2021. This has enabled the Embassy reach out to the wider economic, social and political spectra of both countries which has produced great innovation.

For example, the Embassy invited the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikwe University Awka, Prof Charles Okechukwu Esimone and relevant key players in the educational sector to Bujumbura for a Technical Session with the University of Burundi, ably led by its Vice Chancellor, Prof Sanctus Niragira, to explore potential cooperation opportunities in student/Lecturer exchange programs, capacity building, research and grant collaboration in Bujumbura. This culminated in the signing, sealing and exchange of MOU between Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria and the University of Burundi for technical cooperation in academics and research which will see to providing educational exchange opportunities to over 300 students per year between the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka community and the University of Burundi in Medicine, Engineering, Law and Humanities including lecturers alike. A milestone which according to him will offer our deserving academics and students exposure to international learning.

He also shared that his Embassy had engaged many Anambra youths in its diplomatic programs in Bujumbura which include the just concluded RunBuja2021 that saw five Anambra indigenes participating alongside other international participants in the December 2021 maiden edition of the program.

He promised to open up more diplomatic fronts for greater partnership with the Anambra State Government, especially the Ministries of Culture & Tourism, Youths & Sports and Education in the areas of youth empowerment in ICT, trade and investment, tourism and the entertainment/creative sectors.

The highly elated Governor of Anambra State expressed his best wishes and promised his support for policies that will transform the State into a destination of choice for visitors and investors. He thanked the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi for the wonderful breakthroughs in his diplomatic engagements, extolling him as a true son of Anambra State who has made the State proud!

On The News:
The London Graduate School and Commonwealth Univeristy of Business Arts and Technology Honour Hon Ikechukwu John Eyisi in Dubai.

Dubai- The London Graduate School and Commonwealth University of Business Arts and Technology which had the Institution’s Dubai Leadership Summit with wide range of events that brought together top executives, business leaders and other professionals across the globe to share knowledge from July 26 - 28, 2022 honoured one of Anambra State finest and Former President- General of Adazi-Ani Town, Hon Ikechukwu John Eyisi with Masterclass Certificate in Business Management and Leadership.

For distinguishing himself professionally through meritorious service that has impacted many lives positively, the Commonwealth University also has conferred honorary doctorate award (Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)– Honoris Causa) on Mr Eyisi Ikechukwu John.

Eyisi Ikechukwu John, HDIMT, PGD, M.Eng., FIMC- Nigeria, PhD (in view) is the CEO of Aik Global Ventures Ltd., (Aluminium Profiles Assembly Plant for Doors, Windows, Cladding and Partitioning) and Aik Aluminium Company Ltd., Aluminium Profiles Supplier.

He taught for three years in Community High School, Adazi-Ani, set an unbreakable record in which all Physics students got credit, after his NYSC scheme in 1984. He worked as an Assistant Engineer at Varaman Industry, Lagos, a textile mill before venturing into private sector business in 1995. He is the CEO/Chairman of Encompassing Love Initiatives, an NGO involved in the rehabilitation and reformation of the lives of children and youths addicted to drugs, alcohol, illicit sex and prostitution, etc. He is also the Board Chairman of Igbo Welfare Association, Aluminium Village, Lagos.

He had held many leadership positions: member, board of trustees and Ex-President of Aluminium Profiles, Glass and Accessories Retailers Association; Ex-President General of Adazi-Ani Town Union where he set up Computer Skills Acquisition Training Center for the youths; acquired land and built a Primary Health Center through choose your community project by Anambra State Government of Nigeria; built NDPHC 1 x 2.5MVA 33/11kV injection substation with the associated 2km of 33kV and 6km of 11kV lines and installation of 14 units of 300kVA 11/0.415kV distribution transformers for Adazi-Ani Community in Anambra State of Nigeria.

He received award of Excellent Leadership Ingenuity from Adazi-Ani in 2020. He was conferred with the Fellowship of the Institute of Management Consultant, FIMC-Nigeria in 2022.

Commonwealth University is a corporate professional private distance learning university registered in the City of Panama and subject to the laws of Panama. It has the powers to confer degrees, honorary degrees, diplomas, certificates and other academic awards. It is a non-traditional university that is globally focused.

It has accreditation and approvals with the International Association for Quality Assurances in Higher Education (QAHE), UNESCO Learning Badge for advancing the internationalization of education, among others.

As part of the activities lined up to celebrate and challenge leaders like Hon Ikechuwkwu John Eyisi, the Institution selected a number of distinguished personalities who accept to attend and participate in the Dubai Leadership Workshop.

Photos From the Events:

*LEADERSHIP OF THE RULING CNDD-FDD PARTY IN BURUNDI PAYS COURTESY CALL ON THE NATIONAL WORKING COMMITTEE OF NIGERIAN RULING ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)*

Since the signing of the Nigeria-Burundi Joint Commission, Nigeria/ Burundi diplomatic relationship has continued to positively affect different sectors of the economy. The Commission which has educational cooperation, political consultation, agricultural research and technical aid corps as its focus, witnessed a milestone in its implementation.

The Leadership of Burundi’s Ruling Party CNDD-FDD led by its National Chairman(SG) Hon Reverien Ndikuriyo paid a courtesy call on the National Working Committee of All Progressives Congress (APC).

His Excellency Senator Abdullahi Adamu, the Nigerian ruling party was on hand to receive the team. Speaking during the visit, Senator Adamu commended the steerling efforts of the young Head of Nigerian Diplomatic Mission to the Republic of Burundi for his untiring and amazing policies that have birthed this warm relationship between Nigeria and Burundi. He welcomed the esteemed guests promising them that Nigeria and Burundi have many areas of economic and political partnership that will be of huge benefits to both economies.

Expressing his deepest appreciation to the National Working Committee of the ruling Nigerian All Progressives Congress, the Nigerian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi, His Excellency Amb. Elijah Onyeagba PhD, praised the exceptional leadership abilities of the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, noting that such leadership attributes have stabilized the party, polity and governance. According to the diplomat, 'The leadership of the CNN-FDD is in the country in furtherance of their quest to understudy the 'True African Democracy'.

"It's time for Africa to develop her own democracy that will truly reflect who we are as a people. It's time for Africans to come together to form one economic, political and policy strategy to make our continent proud. Africa is blessed beyond measure, our goal is to leave a greater legacy for our future generations, a legacy they we will be proud to say that our efforts today brightened their tomorrow".

Expressing their heart felt appreciation for the warm reception, the National Chairman of the CNDD-FDD Burundi (SG), Hon. Reverien Ndikuriyo thanked the Nigerian Embassy Bujumbura, the Nigerian Ambassador Extraordinary to the Republic of Burundi for the exemplary leadership qualities he has shown in the few years as Nigerian Head of Mission in Burundi. He said that the leadership of their CNN-FDD party is in Nigeria in pursuance of the implementation of the Nigeria-Burundi Joint Commission's bilateral agreement on political consultation.

According to Hon Reverien Ndikuriyo, Nigeria is a very big economy in Africa. Its political decisions to a large extent affect majority of other African economies. Political cooperation between us and Nigeria will help the two economies to see more areas of strategic cooperation, consultation and advancement so as to give our dear people of our various countries, the true politics that they yearn for, which will be truly African and for Africans!

The National Chairman of APC, His Excellency Senator Abdullahi Adamu received the guests in the company of the National Secretary, Deputy National Chairman (South), National Woman Leader, National Legal Adviser, National Treasurer, National Financial Secretary, Special Adviser to the National Chairman and the President of the Nigeria Burundi Business Council, Sir Paul Chukwuma.

#DiplomaticEngagement #Burundi #Nigeria #Apc #cnddfdd

*CHIEF DR MOGHALU EMERGES WINNER OF BUSINESS DAY AWARD OF EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE*


The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Chief Dr. George Moghalu and nine others have emerged as winners of the BusinessDay Excellence in Public Service Award 2021.

The NIWA boss, Dr. Moghalu, while receiving the award in Abuja, expressed his commitment to improve on his pace and achieve more results.

“I am happy that I was recognized for my service.

” When you are recognized by people who are watching you unconsciously and all of a sudden they write to inform you they have been following your activities and they want to recognize you, naturally the reaction is to feel happy, that is the truth, I feel happy about it.

”Yes, for any recognition like this it brings about more work, what they have done is to encourage me to keep working at my pace.

” The award will encourage me to improve on my pace to achieve more results.

”And so I see it as a driving force; somebody telling you, you are doing well, continue, that is exactly what it is,” Moghalu said.

Other awardees includes: The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Sunday Thomas, Managing Director, North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Mohammed Alkali, Chairman/Chief Executive National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Engr. Prof. Mohammed Dani Haruna, the Permanent Secretary, State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja, Alhaji Tijjani Idris Umar and Corporate Recipient, Niger Power Holding Company (NDPHC), were also awarded for excellent performance.

*ABOUT 100 PARTICIPANTS ARE EXPECTED TO TAKE PART IN THE UPCOMING NIGERIA - BURUNDI BUSINESS SUMMIT*

#DIPLOMATICENGAGEMENTS

The Embassy of Nigeria in Burundi on July 14, 2022 received in audience Mr. Dennis Nshimirimara, the Secretary of Burundi Chamber of Commerce for strategic discussions about the upcoming Maiden Edition of the Nigeria - Burundi Business Summit slated for the last quarter of 2022. He was received by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nigeria to the Republic of Burundi, His Excellency Amb. Elijah Onyeagba PhD in Bujumbura. Talks were centered on the participation and arrangements for the highly anticipated Business Summit.

The Nigerian Embassy in Bujumbura is expecting about a hundred Nigerian and Burundian investors who will be visiting both the business capital of Burundi, Bujumbura and the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, Abuja for this all important summit later in the year.

The Federal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Burundi is the apex body representing the interests of the private sector in dialogue with government with regard to designing, proposing and contributing to the promotion and implementation of policies that ensure a conducive business environment in Burundi. It is designed to integrate technical assistance services, specialized information, consulting and development services to the private sector and interested prospective investors.

More details on the participants and other vital information on the Nigeria - Burundi Business Summit will be unveiled in a fortnight from the Embassy.

Also within the period under review, His Excellency Amb Elijah Onyeagba PhD received in audience, one of Burundi's biggest entertainment export @Bigfizzo and his wife. They were on a courtesy call on the Embassy and were received by the Nigerian Head of Mission, His Excellency Amb. Elijah Onyeagba.

Recently, Nigeria and Burundi's entertainment sector have been working out some areas of partnership between the two economies. This includes the untapped talents and resources within the sector.

In later days, the Nigerian Mission will unveil various diplomatic breakthroughs recorded.

Finally, His Excellency Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba PhD received in the resident Pastor of Family Worship Centre Wuye, Abuja, Nigeria, Pastor Wilson Akubo and His lovely wife.

Pastor Wilson is the Spiritual Director of His Excellency Amb Elijah Onyeagba PhD's local Church in Nigeria. He was in Burundi for some clerical and pastoral assignments. They were later treated to a "Burundian reception".

*NDI ANAMBRA NORTH: ARU MELU NKE IKPEAZU.*

*..As Senator Stella Odua Abandons Claims Of Having Degrees, NYSC Cert.*

*…Submits SSCE with only two Passes.*

July 10, 2022

A Senator Stella Odua Abandons Claims Of Having Degrees, NYSC Cert,Submits SSCE Commission (INEC) in 2022 from the one submitted in 2018.

From the latest affidavit submitted by Oduah to INEC on June 24, 2022, the senator who had claimed to have degrees and the National Youth Service Corps certificate, submitted a senior secondary school leaving certificate with only two passes. This is different from the forms she submitted to PDP during The Party Primaries.

The National Youth Service Corps had disclosed that Senator Oduah, representing Anambra North in the National Assembly, did not complete the mandatory one-year NYSC programme.

This was disclosed in a letter, marked NYSC/DHQ/PPRU/783/Vol III.

The letter was in response to an inquiry made by a group known as the Concerned Anambra North PDP Stakeholders.

The group had written to the NYSC, alleging that some officials of the agency colluded with Oduah to bury the truth.

The NYSC responded through a letter by the Director-General of the programme, which was signed on his behalf by the Director of Press and Public Relations.

The agency said Oduah commenced her NYSC programme in 1982 but absconded.

Oduah swiftly reacted in the letter addressed to the Director-General, NYSC and titled, “48 Hours Notice to Retract Your Statement as Contained in Your Letter Dated 24th May 2022 Ref No. NYSC/DHQ/PPRU/783/VOL 111”.

In the letter signed by Ezennia Nonso Chukwudebe, Director, Media and Publicity for Oduah, the senator described the statement made by the NYSC as reckless.


She gave NYSC “48 hours to retract your statement failing which legal actions shall be commenced against you.” It is more than two months now and we are expecting Madam Senator with fake NYSC to sue NYSC.

Meanwhile, in a signed affidavit Oduah submitted to INEC on October 18, 2018, ahead of the 2019 general elections, the lawmaker claimed she has a BSc in Business Administration and attended St. Paul’s College Lawrenceville, Virginia, USA from 1978-1982.

In the document, she noted that she attended St John’s Primary School, Odoakpu, Onitsha, Anambra from 1969 – 1973 and Zixton Secondary School, Ozubulu, Anambra State from 1973 -1978.

But in the recent affidavit in support of personal particulars submitted to the electoral body, INEC, on June 14, 2022, Oduah has carefully abandoned claims that she has a BSc in Business Administration and attended St. Paul’s College Lawrenceville, Virginia, USA from 1978-1982.

The lawmaker only claimed she attended primary and secondary schools, obtaining just FSLC (First School Leaving Certificate) and GCE (General Certificate of Education) in 1973 and 1978 respectively.



A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Casmir I. Ajulu, had called on Oduah to withdraw from the 2023 senatorial race following the certificate forgery allegation against her.

Ajulu, who is a founding member and convener of PDP in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State asked Oduah to emulate former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun.

Adeosun resigned in 2018 after the allegation that she tendered a forged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) exemption certificate as part of her credentials.

It had been reported that the lawmaker representing Anambra North Senatorial zone did not complete her National Youth Service.

The Director-General of the NYSC had said though Oduah was mobilised for the national service in 1982/83 and deployed to Lagos State, she absconded after the orientation and never completed the service.

In a statement, Ajulu said all relevant documents of the Senator would be forwarded to the National Working Committee of the PDP together with an affidavit verifying the facts contained therein for necessary action.

He had said, “From the afore-stated facts, it is not in doubt that Senator Stella Adaeze Oduah committed fraud by claiming that she completed her service year and was issued with NYSC discharge Certificate. She also committed perjury by deposing an affidavit to the effect that she lost her original NYSC discharge Certificate.

“By the extant provision of the law, she is estopped from occupying any public office having not participated or obtained exemption letter from the NYSC and having deposed affidavit to the effect that she graduated from a foreign higher Institution with B.Sc. (Business Administration).”

"YOUR AMAZING, ‘BIG’ DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS WILL ALWAYS RECEIVE OUR SUPPORT" - BURUNDI FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTRY REPRESENTATIVE.

In furtherance of the drive of the Nigerian Mission in Bujumbura to reposition itself for strategic implementation and execution of its Diplomatic Charter, the Head of the Nigerian Mission in Burundi, His Excellency, Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba PhD during the week, met with the Permanent Secretary of the Burundi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, H.E Ferdinand Bashikako in Bujumbura.

The visit was focused on intimating the Ministry of the Mission's aims at fostering the frontier for policy execution between both countries. Speaking with the Permanent Secretary of the Burundi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation H.E Ferdinand Bashikako, His Excellency Amb Elijah Onyeagba PhD hinted at the intentions of the Nigerian Mission to review the activities in Bujumbura. According to him, with the increase in trade, visibility of government to government interactions and bilateral engagements with the two great nations in recent times, the Nigerian Mission here in Bujumbura has deemed it fit to review some of its operational sequences in Burundi to meet up with this pace. This will consequently reposition the Mission strategically, to effectively drive the Diplomatic Charter of our President Muhammadu Buhari, whose vision of ensuring a more prosperous and progressive African nation is foremost.

H.E Ferdinand Bashikako expressed the deepest appreciations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Head of the Nigerian Mission and indeed to the President of Nigeria, His Excellency President Muhammad Buhari on his many warm diplomatic policies across Africa. In his words, "I want to assure you of our continued support of your Mission's amazing BIG diplomatic programs and plans here."

*APC AKWA IBOM PRIMARIES: THE COMPROMISING ROLES OF MR MIKE IGINI TO ENSURE APC AKWA IBOM STATE DID NOT FIELD CANDIDATES FOR 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS.*

By Esin Etim Achibong.

The recent outburst by Mr Mike Igini Resident Electoral Officer on APC Primary Elections in Akwa Ibom State did not come to many people like me as a Suprise and his declaration that INEC has rejected Senator Godswill Akpabio as the Senatorial Candidate of APC For Akwa Ibom North-west senatorial and Obong Akanimo Udofia as Gubernatorial Candidate did not also come to discerning minds and political players as a surprise.

I make bold to ask, who is Mr Mike Igini working for in INEC? This question has become imperative because Mr Mike Igini over the Years from his days in Anambra, Edo, Rivers and Akwa Ibom as Resident Electoral Commissioner has been surrounded with a lot of bad stories and of double standard of man who is expected to be unbiased in discharge of his Duty. It is time for INEC to look towards Mr Igini. He is a compromised Electoral Officer no doubt, who cannot be trusted as Nigeria march towards 2023 elections. Though he is retiring in August 2022,the PDP Government has promised him to ensure APC is not on the ballots in 2023 forth coming general elections in 2023.

I want Mr Mike Igini to know that He cannot destroy Senator Godswill Akpabio. The truth of the matter is that no matter how you want to bury the truth, falsehood can never gain ascendancy over truth and light. The attempt to smear and perhaps destroy Godswill Akpabio’s hard-earned reputation and character by a few egoistic individuals like Mr Mike Igini, both within and outside Akwa Ibom State, will always fall flat when confronted with truth and logic.

To put the records straight, towards the APC 2022 Primary Election, there was Leadership Crisis in Akwa Ibom APC. Two Leaderships emerged after the Party Congress in the State. One of the faction led by Mr Stephen Ntukekpo, which is believed to be loyal to Senator Akpabio and other Faction loyal to Former National Secretary of APC, Senator James John Akpanudoedehe. Senator James John Akpanudoedehe as the Then National Secretary of the Party used the instrumentality of his office to recognise his group and was dealing with them.

The Stephen Ntukekpo led faction went to court. The Federal High Court affirmed their Leadership and before Senator James John Akpanudoedehe led Caretaker Committee left Office after Convention, they appealed the Judgement of the Federal High Court which ruled that Mr Stephen Ntukekpo was legally recognised Executive at the Court of Appeal. After APC Convention that produced Senator Abudullahi Adamu, he withdrew from the case at the Appeal Court and stood with the Judgement of the Federal High Court. That is, the National Working Committee recognised the Leadership of Mr Stephen Ntukekpo Executive and started dealing with them at the State since then.

This is the beginning of INEC REC, Mr Mike Igini, biased attitude to APC in Akwa Ibom. Mr Mike Igini sworn never to recognise Mr Stephen Ntukekpo Leadership and made sure Mr Stephen Ntukekpo did not attend any of his activities as REC in Akwa Ibom. He made it clear to Mr Stephen Ntukekpo that he is an Impostor. Mr Stephen Ntukekpo has not been allowed to attend any Meeting with Mr Igini in Akwa Ibom State. The question is What concerns Mr Mike Igini with Party Structure? Is he a Member of APC in Akwa Ibom? Yet, Mr Mike Igini recognised the other Faction loyal to Senator James John Akpanudoedehe. Is Mr Mike Igini in a position to determine for APC, their Structures in Akwa Ibom?

Prior to APC Congresses in Akwa Ibom and Party Primaries, Mr Mike Igini threatened all INEC staff in Akwa Ibom not to accept any Letter from Mr Stephen Ntukekpo and that any Staff that accepts such letter will be sacked. Many of these Staff fear him so much. So all the Letters sent to the commission in Uyo was not accepted and acknowledged by the Commission. This made Mr Stephen Ntukekpo to complain to the National office and He was asked to be addressing his Letter to the Chairman of INEC at Abuja. After all, the Electoral Act says INEC. They didn’t say it must be INEC in Uyo or Ikoto-Ekpene.

When APC issued a Notice to INEC and informed the commission of the Party’s readiness to conduct Primary Election. The Party wrote to INEC through its Party Chairman in Akwa Ibom State informing INEC where they intend to conduct their Primary Eections in the State for Gubernatorial and other election. Mr Mike Igini refused to acknowledge the letter and repeated to Mr Stephen Ntukekpo that he is an impostor as Chairman. This made the Chairman to address his Letter to the Cahirman of INEC. Those letters were acknowledged and venues of the Primaries were approved by the Party and Acknowledged by INEC. (See Letter attached here).

On the day of Gubernatorial Primary in Akwa Ibom State. The Gubernatorial Primary Electoral Panel sent to conduct the Primary arrived Uyo Airport and on their way to the Approved Venue for the Gubernatorial Primary at the Party Secretariat as contained in the circular issued to INEC, they were ambushed on their way and kidnapped for almost five Hours, in the Presence of Commissioner of Police who was working with the Hoodlums that attacked the Party Officials. These hoodlums were mandating the Panel to take the Materials to SheerGrace Event Centre for that is the Venue for the Primary which is contrary to the directive of the National Working Committee of the Party. Mr Mike Igini and the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom who were working with Senator James John Akpanudoedehe led faction told the Panel that they must conduct the Primary Election at SheerGrace Event Centre. That if they conduct the Primary at any other venue, he will make sure that the Primary is invalid. Mr Mike Igini as REC and Commissioner of Police were seen at SheerGrace Event during Preparation of the Venue giving orders on how the Place will be. Please it is the work of REC and Commissioner of Police? We all watched APC and PDP Conventions, did anybody see INEC Chairman and IGP during Preparation of the convention and during The proper Primary. (see attached Photos of Mike Igini and Commissioner of Police at SheerGrace which is the Venue of Senator James John Akpanudoedehe led faction).

The question is what concerns INEC, Mr Mike Igini and Commission of Police where and how a Political Party intend to conduct and organise its Primary Election. According to Electoral Act 2022 as amended, it says, “INEC shall monitor…” it never says INEC shall tell Parties where and how to conduct their Primary. The Most important thing for Parties to do is to tell INEC how they intend to go about the Primary and their congress Programmes.

I want the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission to query Mr Mike Igini of his involvement in APC Primary? Is he the National Chairman of APC that will choose where APC will conduct its Primary in Akwa Ibom? Why should he interfere in a Political Party activities if he is not compromised? Please who is Mr Mike Igini working for?

Hello Mr Mike Igini, you cannot stop APC from fielding Candidates in Akwa Ibom come 2023 Election. It is very clear to all that you are out to destroy APC in Akwa Ibom. You played this same role in 2019 Election. We will not allow you to succeed this time. This is time to send Mr Mike Igini out of INEC. He is taking more than he can chew. Enough is enough.

*APC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE 2022*:

*THE IDEAL CANDIDATE AND THE NEED TO CHOOSE A PERSON WITH EVIDENCE OF PERFORMANCE IN HIS CURRENT OR PREVIOUS POSITION OF TRUST, ENERGETIC & VIBRANT, GIFTED WITH TRANSFORMATION POWERS, PRUDENT AND TRANSPARENT IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF SCARCE RESOURCES, AND A PERSON WITH PROVEN ABILITY TO REVAMP THE ECONOMY, BATTLE CORRUPTION AND TACKLE INSECURITY.*



*That man is His Excellency Engr Chief David Nweze Umahi FNSE FNATE Governor of Ebonyi State*Governor Umahi is a Professional with a Private Sector background. He has made a great difference as Governor of Ebonyi State. He can do much more as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria*

*Go through this synopsis on the profile, scorecards and proposed policy direction of Governor Umahi, frontline Presidential Aspirant under APC.*

On The News:
Dr Tony Nwoye withdraw from PDP Primary Election.

In a letter dated 25th May, 2022 addressed to the PDP National Chairman and Members of the National Working Committee of the Party that he has officially withdraw from the Party Primary owing to the fact that there is no Party Congress anywhere in Anambra North Senatorial District, violation of PDP Constitution, INEC guidelines and Electoral Act.

Announcing his withdrawal, Dr Tony Nwoye accused the PDP National Secretary of being responsible for what is happening in Anambra PDP, “Under your watch PDP is purpotedly conducting ward congress for election of 3 adhoc delegates this afternoon,25th May 2022 at Women Development Centre Awka instead of the 99 wards in the Anambra North zone,without any single party register,no quorum formed leading to disenfranchisement of thousands of PDP ward members.This violates Article 1(b)(iii) of PDP Guideline and Article 15(4) of PDP Constitution .

He went further to say that, “Uptil 1 pm today,25th may, 2022, the panel to conduct the said 3 adhoc delegates election has not being published, Party members came out yesterday,24th of may 2022, waited from morning till night,no ward congress took place and no communication to our teeming party members as to why the ward Congress did not hold on 24th May 2022 and why the ward congress of 25th May 2022 is not holding at 99 wards of Anambra North District DESPITE THE FACT THAT THERE IS NO SECURITY CHALLENGE AT THE WARDS OF ANAMBRA NORTH SENATORIAL ZONE.
Everything concerning the primary process is shrouded in secrecy.

Further More, Dr Tony Nwoye accused Iyorchia Ayu leadership of its refusal to issue 7 days notice to INEC for rescheduled 3 adhoc congresses so as to give undue advantage to your selected aspirants contrary to Article 1.12 of INEC Guideline .

According to Dr Tony Nwoye, It is obvious that the Party under your watch is deliberately violating all these laid down procedures to enable your humble self and National Organising Secretary (Uma Bature) to handpick candidates for various positions in our Senatorial District.

“For posterity and interest of Party Faithful, who have laboured over the years to keep PDP alive in the zone and State, the may I say this:”It is repugnant to equity,natural justice and fair play to allow your favoured Senatorial aspirants to nominate all the electoral panels and appeal panels who will keep original result sheets at Abuja and come to Anambra State with photocopies and no reprimand from your leadership against such ignoble practice till date.”

It is very sad that. Tragedy has befallen PDP under your leadership to the extent that your favored Senatorial aspirants will appoint their cronies ,domestic staff as electoral panel committee and they will still not allow election to take place.

On Final and sad note, I Dr Tony Nwoye officially withdraw from this contest and humbly appeal to you to use your good offices to ensure that you communicate to appropriate organs of the Party Of this my decision,so that no vote will be credited to me in Anambra purpoted PDP Senate Primary scheduled for thurs 26th May, 2022 and Friday 27th May,2022 respectively Sir.
Please Sir,kindly be informed that my name should be removed as aspirant in the purported Party Primary of 26th may, 2022 and 27th may,2022 or any other date whatsoever. The Statement concluded.