₦airaland Forum

BEING A COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE PDP SOUTH WEST EXPANDED EXCO MEETING HELD TODAY 4TH MAY 2016 AT OMOILU FOUNDATION HEADQUARTERS, IJEBU IGBO, OGUN STATE

The meeting having painstakingly discussed the various issues affecting the zone hereby resolved as follows:-

1.That we received the report of the National Zoning Committee; discussed and agreed with the outcome of the zoning arrangements as approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great party. The meeting commended the vision and selflessness of the National Zoning Committee, under the chairmanship of H.E. Governor Emmanuel Udom of Akwa-Ibom State.

2.That the PDP South West is one and indivisible family working for the actualization of the dreams of the party as articulated in the vision of the founding fathers.


3.That the PDP South West appreciates and supports the political doggedness of our National Chairman, Sen. (Dr) Ali Modu Sheriff as he strives hard to rebuild our great party in line with the party constitution through reconciliation, repositioning and mobilization in readiness for the task of bringing back the party to office in 2019.

4.The meeting agreed that the South West as its presently operating is NOT playing and CANNOT play a second fiddle in view of what accrued to the zone in the just concluded National Zoning viz; National Secretary, National Auditor and National Publicity Secretary. To this end, the meeting enjoined every leader, youth and woman to support the party for a better share of the positions in the not too distant future.

5.The meeting noted and resolved that since the Zonal Executive Committee members were elected on the 11th of October, 2014, their tenure will elapse on the 11th of October, 2018. Therefore, this meeting resolved to support the existence of the Zonal Exco till October, 2018.

6.The meeting agreed that the zone will continue to support the mobilization efforts of our leaders and elders in the absolute interest of the party.

7.The meeting agreed that what played out against our party in Lagos, Ogun Osun and Oyo states, during the last election would not be allowed to repeat itself in future elections. To this end, members must renew their loyalty and support for the PDP. The meeting called on members to vigorously pursue those things that will unite the party rather than divide it.


8.The meeting considered reports from states and commended efforts of state leaders at resolving issues arising. However, the meeting frowned at reported acts of indiscipline and warned that future occurrences would be viewed with all the seriousness it deserved, according to the dictates of our constitution.

________________________________ ________________________________
National Vice-Chairman (SW) Zonal Secretary

Chief Makanjuola Ogundipe Chief Adepegba Otemolu

Tuesday May 3‎rd‎, 2016
PRESS RELEASE
'OGUN PDP EXCO REMAINS INTACT'
... PARTY CHAIR PREACHES PEACE, RECONCILIATION‎
‎
The Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo, has denounced media reports that he and the State Secretary of the party, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo have been suspended from office. ‎
‎
In a statement he issued today in Abeokuta, Dayo Dayo said, "The attention of Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to the action of some former and suspended members of the Ogun State Chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in which they said my humble self and the State Secretary have been purportedly suspended. ‎
‎
"Ordinarily,I would not have joined issues with these characters but for the fact that lies told severally without a debunk will naturally put up the garb of truth. 
‎
"I have decided for the sake of the unsuspecting members of our great party and the general populace to put a lie to the misinformation from the impostors and set the record straight as follows‎:

"While it is true that some of the renegades were elected with me and the Secretary, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo, as members of the State Working Committee ‎during the 2012 Congresses of our Party held in Abeokuta, a good number of them are mere busy-bodies and impostors. ‎
"I‎t is common knowledge that while some of them had either been suspended or expelled between 2012 and 2015 for various offences, ranging from anti-party activities to misappropriation of party/campaign funds; others have since defected to either the APC or SDP as clearly attested to by their operations and activities during the last electioneering to the elections proper; records are available and will be provided as at the appropriate time.‎
 "‎ ‎As a Party that operates within the ambit of law and guided by the letters of our Constitution, I can confirm it authoritatively that they have all been replaced by other deserving, committed and loyal party men and women from their constituencies/zones.‎
 ‎"Their replacements are as follows:‎ Alh. Alli Ajibode replaced Elder Sola Soledolu as deputy chairman‎‎;‎ Asiwaju Ademola Adesina‎ ‎is now the State vice-chairman (Central), while Hon. Boye Adeshina‎ is the ‎State vice-chairman (West). 
Other members of the exco are include Hon. Koye Ijaduoye, State Organising Secretary; Mr. Muyiwa Ojebiyi‎, ‎State Youth Leader‎; Alhaja S.A. Akinola, ‎State Woman Leader‎; Alh. Rahman Adedamola is the ‎State Financial Secretary;Hon. Gbenga Lekuti is the‎ ‎State Auditor and Barrister ‎Shadrach Koleola is the State Legal Adviser."
The State Chairman therefore wondered where "these people derived their powers from. Can they give or take what never belonged to them?" 
 ‎
Dayo went on: "‎It is mischievous that most of these impostors were the same set of people that recently went to the courts in Abuja and Abeokuta seeking court injunctions to sack the State Executive of our party claiming that its tenure has elapsed. So, does it sound logical that it is the same set of people that have again gone on air to proclaim a suspension of the purported expired state executive council? Can an “expired” exco be suspended?
 ‎"‎As the father of all, I am not angry with them but rather, I am pleading with them to eat the humble pie to read Section 8.8(a) & (b) of our party and do the needful before it is too late as they can also feel the airs of peace and reconciliation that is hovering over our Party in the last few days.
"‎My last line is an appeal to our party faithful state-wide, in the spirit of the ongoing peace and reconciliations within our party to take these personalities as the biblical prodigal sons to embrace and re-integrate them fully into party activities once they do the needful."‎
 ‎
 ‎
Engr. Adebayo Dayo‎
State Chairman‎
 ‎
 ‎
 ‎
NOTE:
8.8 (a) (b)‎
PROCEDURE FOR REJOINING
A person who desire to rejoin the party after leaving it shall,
(a) Apply to his Ward Secretary for re - admission; and
(b) Unless, given waiver by the National Working Committee, be placed on probation for a period of not le[truncated by WhatsApp]

The attention of the Ogun State Executive Committee (Exco) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to an outrightly fabricated report by one Clement Idoko, a reporter with the Nigerian Tribune that a Federal High Court in Abuja has given an order restraining the PDP from going ahead with the Ward Congress scheduled for Saturday, 30th April, 2016.

This is a cheap hatchet job by the Nigerian Tribune reporter as nothing could be farther from the truth! Worse still, it is another desperate attempt by desperate politicians who are blinded by their inordinate ambitions.

The Honourable Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court, Abuja, did not grant any orders because he told the parties and their counsel immediately they announced appearances that he had read the file and that from what he read the plantiffs said they live in Ogun State and the subject matter of the suit is in Ogun State. Therefore, he would return the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for it to be sent to the Abeokuta Division of the Federal High Court. The Honourable Justice Gabriel Kolawole then declined jurisdiction and said he will return the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court.

As a matter of fact, the pliable reporter said in the 6th and 7th paragraphs of his report that, “But Justice Gabriel Kolawole, who refused to grant them the prayers, said the status quo should be maintained until the determination by the Federal High Court Abeokuta, where the case has been transferred to for hearing and determination.



“Kolawole, said in spite of the fact that the 1st and 2nd defendants reside in Abuja, the case would be better decided at Abeokuta, for "convenience and quorum" since the issue involved is from Ogun State Chapter of the party.”



The question that should then be asked is: what is the status quo? The status quo is that there is a subsisting state Exco that is running the affairs of the party as at the time the suit was filed and nothing has changed that. Even if anything, the court affirmed the Engr. Adebayo Dayo-led exco should continue to discharge its functions and duties without any let or hindrance.”



We wish to urge all members of the PDP and the general public to discountenance this piece of fabricated alcohol-induced report. It only exists in the perverse minds of the sponsors of the report and their collaborators.

Let me also seize this opportunity to inform our leaders, elders, members and stakeholders that we are aware of another suit that they filed before the State High Court in Abeokuta. It is being well-attended to. It should be noted that their request for an exparte order was rejected by the honourable judge the State High Court in Abeokuta.



Signed

Engr. Adebayo Dayo

Ogun State Chairman, PDP

A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.-proverb 17:25 our attention has been drawn to recent happening within the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic Ijebu Igbo specifically the issue of One Leshi Afolashade. in accordance with our fundamental obligation of giving to Nigerian Students the responsive representation of thier choice the Office of the NANS NAT DIR. OF WELFARE AND MOBILIZATION deemed it fit to intervene in the issue in other to get the true picture of the scenario, and to ensure equity and social justice. It was discovered that Afolashade Leshi was saucy to the soldiers who were sent by the state govt for the protection of students lives and properties, we learnt that as Afolashade was insulting the soldiers she was been hailed and cheered by her colleagues who had gently obeyed the soldiers and were now outside the school's gate and one of the soldiers flogged her with the cane, in the presence of the following who serves as witnesses Mr. Talabi Adekunle B., Mr Hamed Oseni, Mr Tajudeen Sikiru, Mrs Bola T. For her unruly attitude and immediately she jumped on the soldier and tore his uniform., also when the team leader got there in person of llt ZK Dikki the Op Mesa Commander of the OP MESA got there to persuade folashade to let go of the soldier she left the first man and bounced on him holding his uniform, it was during this time that the attention of the rector and dean of students affairs was called and immediately they got there the dsa freed the student from the soldiers and for justice to prevail its imperative to visit the police station in other to know who was actually guilty, but its flabbergasting that leshi who was inside the DSA's vehicle jumped down out of the vehicle on motion immediately she discovered they were heading for the station and there she sustained all injuries on her body, we were also informed that as soon as leshi stood up she ran straight inside the skye bank ijebu igbo, and stripped her self naked, thereby causing a drama for all okada riders and passers by to make a mockery of her unclothedness and real mockery of the school, thanks to the protectors of the joy of motherhood who helped in drawing up her pant and trouser. she was eventually taken to the police station for statement and released on that same day! Its note worthy to state that the lady Afolashade Leshi was later taken to the hospital and she has started writing her exams! On this note we want to categorically state that in as much as NANS will not tolerate any form of injustice on Nigerian Students but it should be a justifiable struggle! Our questions: why didn't shade adhere to the soldiers orders when other students had obeyed? (Obedience is better than sacrifice), why did she tore the OP MESA's uniforms without any respect for the Nigerian Army, why did she jump out of the vehicle on motion thereby sustaining injuries on her body without been placed under duress?, why did she stripe herself naked inside the skye bank premises @ ijebu igbo thereby disgracing the pride and positive image of Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, the image of all Nigerian Students? We hereby call on blogs, print medias, tv and radio stations to be guided with correct and accurate information! We have the statements of both Afolashade and the OPMESA! Pls stop blackmailing the image of the school's rector prof. Jumoke B. Bilesanmi, the school Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Ogun State, and Nigerian Students atlarge!, the sug president of AAP has also debunked the allegation. Aluta Continua Victoria Ascerta, signed: COM.OKUNOWO AYOSILE, NANS DIR OF WELFARE AND MOBILIZATION

PDP Congress:Ladi Adebutu leads burglars to invade Ogun PDP secretariat


In his desperation to realise his much-vaunted governorship ambition, Ladi Adebutu (a.k.a Omo Baba Ijebu) this evening evening led some rough necks, including ex- Chairman of Ifo Local Government Area, Sikirulai Ogundele; his counterpart in Yewa North, Titus Eweje; former Commissioner for Works, Lai Taiwo and one Gbenga Nuberu, to invade the state secretariat of the PDP in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
Their mission was to cart away the party registers and other materials meant for the pending congresses of the PDP which are scheduled to begin on Saturday, 23rd April, 2016, with the ward congress.


Although they stormed the party secretariat with a truck-load of fake policemen brought by Adebutu, but the adequate security measure put in place by the leadership of the party in the state foiled their plan.
Now, they have been rounded up and taken to the State Police Command in Eleweran from where they will be charged to court on Monday.


Reacting to the development, the State Chairman of the party, Engr. Adebayo Dayo, condemned the incident and wondered why anyone, especially a so-called lawmaker will become a lawbreaker by resorting to such an illegality


He said it was unbecoming of someone who genuinely aspires to govern the good people of Ogun State, adding that the younger Adebutu's action was a disgrace to the larger Adebutu family, popularly known as Baba Ijebu.
Dayo urge all well-meaning leaders and elders of Ogun State to prevail on the elder Adebutu to call his son to order and ask him to play by the rules, if he means well for the party and state.

He appealed to all party members to remain calm and law-abiding, adding that the party leadership was on top of the situation and that the relevant security agencies have been briefed.

Kashamu empowers constituents, artisans in Ijebu North East, Ikenne and Sagamu LGAs

In continuation of his “Empowerment For All” programme, Senator Buruji Kashamu has sent a high-powered delegation to the various local government areas that make up Ogun East Senatorial District to distribute empowerment materials, such as motorcycles, sewing machines, grinding machines and several bags of fertilizer.

The week-long programme, which began on Wednesday, saw the delegation visiting Ijebu-North East Local Government Area.

The event, which had in attendance the who is who in Ijebu North East politics amidst a mammoth crowd of supporters, saw some of the constituents going home with  motorcycles, sewing machines,  grinding machines and several bags of fertilizer.

Speaking on the occasion, the Ogun State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo, said the leadership style and philanthropic gesture of Senator Kashamu, who barely 10 months old in the Senate, are second to none.

He noted that this was the third in the series of empowerment programmes since Senator Kashamu’s assumption of office, adding that it was a clear departure from what was obtainable in the past.

The Ogun East Senatorial Chairman of the party, Chief Adeleke Adedoyin, urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the empowerment materials and see the gesture as a rare opportunity for breakthrough.

One of the beneficiaries, Fausat Adagbaye, who got an automated wheel-chair,said she was grateful to Senator Kashamu, adding that her mobility would be more easier.

In Ikenne and Sagamu local government areas, the lawmaker, who was yet represented at the events by the State PDP Chairman, Engr. Dayo, said the empowerment programmes have become regular occurrence in the district. 

"This year alone, between the month of January and April, not less than 256 artisans that have lost hope on how to get their working tools after acquiring the technical know-how have been empowered with different empowerment tools, such as sewing machines, grinding machines, power generating sets, motorcycles and cash assistance, among others,” he said.

The Ogun East Senatorial Chairman of the party, Dr. Adedoyin enjoined all the beneficiaries to use the empowerment tools for their good and their dependents’.

A leader of the party in Remo Federal Constituency, Chief Solomon Osibanjo, expressed gratitude to Senator Kashamu for dazzling his constitutes with massive empowerment.

In his remarks, the Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation in Ogun East Senatorial District,Chief Kola Akinyemi, described Senator Kashamu as a God-fearing man and a friend of the masses.

"Senator Kashamu is God-sent. His commitment to the plight of the downtrodden is peerless," he enthused.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Abiodun Adeosho, a barber from Sagamu Local Government, who was empowered with a generator, was full of praises for the lawmaker for considering him worthy of the gesture. He promised not to disappoint the lawmaker by using the tool judiciously.

Another beneficiary, Mr.Dele Soyebo of Ikenne Local Government Area, also expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for empowering him with a motorcycle.

"Kashamu is indeed the man of the people. I don't know where I would have seen the money to buy a motorcycle of almost Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200, 000) with this present economic hardship in the country. Thank God, it came at the right time when I almost lost hope. God will continue to bless him too for this gesture," he said.

Dignitaries who graced the occasion included the Ogun State Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation, Comrade.Niyi Osoba, a two-term Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Hon. Daisi Akintan; the Director of Organisation and Mobilisation, Omoilu Foundation, Hon.Koye Ijaduoye and a party stalwart, Chief Mrs. Toyin Sonowo, among others.

...seeks more active roles for women

Women leaders of Omoilu Foundation across the 20 local government areas in Ogun State and other dignitaries converged on the foundation's headquarters in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State on Wednesday, 6th April, 2016 where they encouraged women to be actively involved in its various empowerment initiatives.

Dignitaries at the occasion included the Ogun State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Bayo Dayo; the State Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation, Comrade Niyi Osoba; the Vice-Chairman of the foundation, Alhaji Bamidele Idris and the Ogun East Senatorial Chairman of the foundation, Chief Kola Akinyemi.

They also included the governorship candidate of the Mega Peoples Party of Nigeria (MPPN), Chief (Mrs) Iyabo Ogunmefun; the Chairperson of PDP in Ijebu North Local Government, Chief (Mrs) Tuke Omotara;the deputy gubernatorial candidate of labour party in Ogun State and now the political adviser to the foundation,Mrs.Bola Bonojo, Mrs.Nike Ejioye from Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, Chief (Mrs ) Toyin Shonowo(Ogun East) Mrs.Oriyomi Akibu,Mrs Remi Olusoji among other prominent political and community leaders.

Welcoming participants to the meeting, the State Women Leader of the foundation, Chief (Mrs) Remi Odubote-Ogunkoya, said that the meeting was crucial for the women leaders to exchange ideas on the best way to mobilise and sensitise women to participate actively in the party-politics and other empowerment initiatives.

Mrs Odubote-Ogunkoya said economic empowerment was germane for women to gain access and opportunities and thereby realize their ambitions and goals.

She said the various empowerment initiatives of the Omoilu Foundation will go a long way in building the financial strength and capability of women to assume decision-making positions within and outside politics.

Mrs Odubote-Ogunkoya added, "As you are aware, economic empowerment is a key factor in the success of women in any field of endeavour. Omoilu Foundation is offering a rare opportunity for breakthrough of our women economically and politically in the South West and we must reciprocate the gesture by supporting the Foundation and Distinguished Senator Buruji Kashamu.

"Women must bring equal economic strength to the table if we are to gain the kind of access and opportunity we need to make our dreams a reality. The women wing of Omoilu Foundation is grateful to the Chairman of the foundation, Senator Buruji Kashamu, for his sensitivity to our plight. The women in particular had benefitted immensely from the interest-free micro loan and his other empowerment programmes."

Delivering his goodwill message, Dayo urged women to use their numerical strength to support more women in securing juicy positions in the coming congresses.

"We need to reassure this congregation that the women who constitutes over 60 per cent of the population of this country will get what is their due in our party," he said.

Osoba commended Mrs Odubote-Ogunkoya for convening the meeting and urged women to put aside all manner of bickering and unite to achieve their goals. 

Chief (Mrs) Ibiola Solaja from Ogun East Senatorial District emerged as the grand patron of the foundation while Chief (Mrs) Bisola Sodipo-Clark and Mrs. Toyin Isiaka from Ogun Central and Ogun West senatorial districts emerged as patrons for the foundation.

The Omoilu Foundation has done it again as it recently stormed Ijebu Ode and Ijebu North- East local government areas where it presented vehicles to some people.

Two exotic cars were presented to the duo of Chief Odutola Williams from Ijebu-Ode local government and Otunba Sanusi Otusanya from Ijebu North -East local government areas of Ogun State.

Presenting the vehicles, the State Coordinator of the Foundation, Comrade Niyi Osoba, said the gesture was to further reiterate the love and care of the Senator Buruji Kashamu-inspired Foundation for the people of the southwest and the less-privileged in particular.

“These donations clearly shows that the Senator Buruji Kashamu-inspired Omoilu Foundation is fully committed to massive empowerment drive and poverty alleviation across the Southwest.

"Senator Buruji Kashamu-inspired Omoilu Foundation is the only foundation that offers the people of the Southwest a rare opportunity for breakthrough,"he said. 

The beneficiaries, however, showed their gratitude and pledged their unflinching support and loyalty to the foundation.

If you expect your team to work hard and produce quality content, you’re going to need to lead by example. There is no greater motivation than seeing the boss down in the trenches working alongside everyone else, showing that hard work is being done on every level. By proving your commitment to the brand and your role, you will not only earn the respect of your team, but will also instill that same hardworking energy among your followers. It’s important to show your commitment not only to the task at hand, but also to your promises.

Part of Senator Kashamu's rare leadership attribute is to put out fires and maintain the team morale,leaders with this attribute are meagre, many of them pays little or no attention at all.

Senator Buruji Kashamu will always keep his team motivated towards the continued success of the team, and keep the energy levels up.No wonder SPBK is widely accepted and celebrated by the masses.

Senator Buruji Kashamu -inspired Omoilu foundation keeps reaching out to the masses with regular distribution of foodstuffs,cash,cars,motorcycles and lots of empowerment materials across the southwest States.

Embarking on a task in politics often involves a bit of forecasting. Especially in the beginning stages of a startup, inspiring your team to see the vision of the successes to come is vital. Senator Kashamu will make his team feel invested in the accomplishments of the project, generating enthusiasm for the hard work members put in is so important.

Unfortunately, few like Senator Buruji Kashamu have got what it takes to successfully lead a team to the path of greatness.

Senator Kashamu's recent endorsement as the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in the southwest by the PDP southwest leaders who recently paid a courtesy visit to the Acting National chairman of the party(PDP)Alhaji Modu Sheriff in Abuja says it all.

Senator Kashamu embody a spirit of excellence. Spbk is never content to give just the bare minimum, he is always looking for opportunities to be better, serve better and give generously of his time and God's given wealth. Senator Kashamu is never intimidated by the excellence of others, but instead is eager to partner with it and draw it out of those who don’t yet recognize it in themselves.

If Nigeria had more visionary leader like Senator Buruji Kashamu it would be a more better place to live.

The conscientious efforts of the media adviser to Senator Buruji Kashamu,Austin Oniyokor, at mentoring the youths in the Southwest Nigeria towards securing a better future and enhancing the cultural heritage of the Yoruba race as a tourism brand has earned him an award by a group known as Yoruba youth Assembly of Nigeria .

Applauding the efforts and cultural–tourism initiative of Austin Oniyokor through various cultural developmental activities,exemplary leadership attributes and kind gestures towards indigent youths of the southwest States encountered with challenges. In an elaborate ceremony packed with exhibition of Yoruba dances, folks songs and poems, which showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba race, Prince Adeniyi Olusola Olutimehin, President, Yoruba youth assembly,who presented the award to Mr Oniyokor remarked that,

“Your being here this moment to be worthy of this award of Yoruba youth Assembly recognition award is not because you are a friend to any of us here, neither was it because of your wealth or influence, but you are worthy of this award and eminently qualified for it because of your strident and consistent efforts at ensuring our youths are properly guided and exposing our culture.”

“Our culture is beautiful, exciting, alluring, delectable and raw. We have it in us and as values,despite the fact that you are a Non Indigene of the southwest our association found your effort as not only worthy and commendable but must be acknowledged with this Award.

In his response, Mr Oniyokor who expressed his gratitude to the association for considering him worthy of the honour, “If I say I am not elated, I would be deceiving myself. I am not only elated and grateful for this award but I must thank your association for taking note of the effort which God has energised me to expend on the younger generations in the southwest.“

Oniyokor revealed, “So, I have to without looking back commit all my resources, capacity and God’s-given wherewithal at ensuring the upcoming generations are channeled towards the right direction."

The invariably courteous and soft-spoken Austin Oniyokor Oghenekaro hail from Delta State. He is the first Non Indigene of the southwest to be honoured by the association.

REMARKS BY DISTINGUISHED SENATOR BURUJI KASHAMU AT THE SOUTH WEST PDP STAKEHOLDERS MEETING HELD IN IBADAN, THE OYO STATE CAPITAL ON THE 30TH OF MARCH, 2016.

I greet the National Secretary, Prof. Wale Oladipo

I salute members of the BoT and members of the NWC here present

I doff my hat for all the Chairmen from the various states in the South West

I salute all our leaders, elders and stakeholders

 

1.      It is now public knowledge that on the 17th of March, 2016, the National Vice-Chairman, South West, Chief Makanjuola Ogundipe, led a cross-section of what I call “functional leaders” on a visit to the National Chairman, Senator (Dr.) Ali Modu Sheriff.  The events that occurred during the visit have become the subject of public discourse.

2.      Following the uproar that trailed our proposal for the North to retain the position of the National Chairman of our great party, I have done follow up statement and interview that were published in various newspapers and online, on the 19th and 23rd of March, 2016. The views expressed during the visit and thereafter have been reproduced into a single document which our leaders from the various states have endorsed by appending their signatures to it.

3.      As the Chairman, Organization and Mobilization Committee of the PDP in the South West, with offices across the states in the zone, I am armed with relevant information and insights that most people may not be accessible to or might choose to ignore. But, I have a duty to seek the truth and say it as it is.

4.      I have read and heard some of the comments made by some of our leaders and friends in respect of our proposal. For me, that is the beauty of democracy. It is a game of numbers and a contest of ideas. Let the debate continue and let superior argument prevail.

5.      Let me reiterate that I align myself with the earlier position canvassed by majority of the leaders, elders and stakeholders which has been reproduced and signed by leaders from the all the states in the South West which seeks to among others, address:  

Apathy in the funding of the party by leaders in the South West zone.

The risk of shrinking into a regional party because of the decline in the electoral fortunes of the party in the North. The PDP controls 10 of the 17 states in the South, with 10 Governors, 32 senators and 96 members of the House of Representatives, and still counting. Conversely, in the whole of North, the PDP controls only two states, with two governors, 15 senators and about 30 members of the House of Representatives.

A North that is further weakened by being denied the position of the National Chairman of the party will feel marginalized; reconciling a further disillusioned North will be an arduous task for a party in opposition.

 The lack of co-operation in the South West zone will constitute a challenge to the National Chairman from the region. We, the people of the South West, are good at petition-writing and Pull-Him-Down (PHD) tactics. Too much energy will be dissipated on acrimony and conflict resolution

6.      It is unfair to the masses of the South West for anyone to insinuate that our position in canvassing that the National Chairman of our party should come from the North amounts to pushing away good things coming to the region. That is a political game that I do not subscribe to. The position of the National Chairman without the requisite resources and enabling environment cannot be said to be a good thing.

7.      It should be noted that the South West had the Presidency for 8 years as well the Speaker of the House of Representatives for 4 years; these positions are more influential than the chairmanship of the party which some now argue must be given to the South West because no one from the region has ever served as National Chairman.

8.      Thus, it was with a profound sense of responsibility that over 70% of the functional leaders of the zone, under the leadership of the zonal chairman, arrived at the decision to allow the North retain the position of National Chairman of the party.

9.      Again, let me state that we did not just say that the position of the National Chairman should remain in the North. We also suggested that the South West should gear up for the position of the Vice-Presidency which is not likely to change with the present political calculations. 

10. Besides, those pushing a contrary position to that which we have expressed should put forward their reasons beyond the worn-out tales of we have not done it before.

11. I urge all the leaders and elders who have appended their signatures on the position paper asking the North to retain the National Chairmanship of the PDP to remain steadfast in their resolve.  Let us intensify the campaign.  

12. I remain totally in support of whatever is in the interest of our party and country at every level and in every sector. That is why I support the anti-corruption fight of the Federal Government. If we must literally get out of the woods, as a people, we must support the war against corruption. It is the reason our roads are bad. That is why there is no light in our homes or we run on generators every day. It is the reason our mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters die of malaria and other avoidable diseases. Nigeria will be great again if we are willing to unite and do all it takes to make it great, irrespective of our political differences and leanings.

RE:DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTION OF THE FEDERATION REQUEST OF 4/03/2016 FOR INVESTIGATION OF CONSULTANCY AGREEMENT FOR COLLECTION OF STAMP DUTY BETWEEN NIPOST AND KASMAL.

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http://thecogitate.info/2016/03/24/904/#sthash.fDVBGlhd.dpbs

Senator Buruji Kashamu has reacted to the directive by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN) for the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC) to investigate the contractual agreement between his company, Kasmal International Services limited and the Nigerian posta Service (NIPOST).

Kashamu, in a reaction by his lawyer, Ajibola Oluyede in Abuja Wednesday, argued that the directive amounted to a clear criminal contempt of the Federal High Court which had on the 24th of February 2016 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/100/2016 made an order restraining the AGF and the EFCC from “from interfering in a purely contractual relationship between Kasmal and NIPOST.”

He noted that the Federal High Court in its judgments in Suits Nos. FHC/L/CS/1462/2013 (between Kasmal and the 22 Deposit Money Banks – DMBs) and FHC/L/CS/1710/2013 (between KASMAL and the Central Bank  of Nigeria – CBN) had interpreted the Stamp Duties Act LFN 2004 and the NIPOST Act LFN 2004 and found that the Stamp Duties Act made provision for the exemption of certain documents (including receipts for teller deposits and electronic transfers by Deposit Money Banks for sums of 1000 Naira and above) from payment of stamp duties if the documents have affixed to them 50 Naira postage stamps bought from the NIPOST.

“The two actions were brought by KASMAL as public Interest actions to ensure that the banks remitted the 50 Naira to NIPOST after NIPOST had appointed KASMAL as its agent.

“NIPOST as a statutory agency with exclusive authority to produce postage stamps in Nigeria has always operated through agents and pays them up to 20% as commission from collections made for sale of postal services including sale of postage stamps. KASMAL’s position is no different from this and it was agreed that if KASMAL could open up this stream of revenue from the DMBs for use of NIPOST postage stamps to denote stamp duties on receipts for teller and electronic transfers, KASMAL would be entitled to N7.50 from every N50 it collected.

“Although we have no doubt that right minded observers will see the injustice in the move by the AGF’s office to deprive KASMAL of the fruits of its efforts, we believe that the directive by the AGF is mischievous and calculated to bring the judicial process into disrepute. We will bring this unlawful abuse of office to the attention of the court at its next sitting on this matter on the 17th of April 2016,” he said.

REJOINDER TO THE PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION ON THE CONTRACT BETWEEN KASMAL INTERNATIONAL SERVICES LIMITED AND NIPOST

My attention has been drawn to a publication by online media today purporting to be based on a press release made today by Mr. Obon Obla (A special assistant to the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation-AGF) announcing instructions given to the EFCC to investigate the relationship between KASMAL INTERNATIONAL SERVICES -KASMAL and the Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST).

Mr Obono-Obla’s press statement is a clear criminal contempt of the Federal High Court which had on the 24th of February 2016 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/100/2016 made an order restraining the AGF and the EFCC from “from interfering in a purely contractual relationship between the Applicant and the 23rd Alleged Contemnor (NIPOST) with a view to instigating it to breach its binding agreement with the Applicant as confirmed by several correspondence and the judgments of this honourable Court in Suits nos. FHC/L/CS/1462/2013 and FHC/L/CS/1710/2013……..”.
A copy of the order is attached hereto as ANEXURE KAS1.

The Federal High Court in its judgments in Suits Nos. FHC/L/CS/1462/2013 (between Kasmal and the 22 Deposit Money Banks - DMBs) and FHC/L/CS/1710/2013 (between KASMAL and the Central Bank of Nigeria - CBN) had interpreted the Stamp Duties Act LFN 2004 and the NIPOST Act LFN 2004 and found that the Stamp Duties Act made provision for the exemption of certain documents (including receipts for teller deposits and electronic transfers by Deposit Money Banks for sums of 1000 Naira and above) from payment of stamp duties if the documents have affixed to them 50 Naira postage stamps bought from the NIPOST.

The two actions were brought by KASMAL as public Interest actions to ensure that the banks remitted the 50 Naira to NIPOST after NIPOST had appointed KASMAL as its agent.
NIPOST as a statutory agency with exclusive authority to produce postage stamps in Nigeria has always operated through agents and pays them up to 20% as commission from collections made for sale of postal services including sale of postage stamps. KASMAL’s position is no different from this and it was agreed that if KASMAL could open up this stream of revenue from the DMBs for use of NIPOST postage stamps to denote stamp duties on receipts for teller and electronic transfers, KASMAL would be entitled to N7.50 from every N50 it collected.

Because of KASMAL’S success in the courts and in negotiations with the CBN the CBN agreed to issue a circular on 15th January 2016 requiring the DMBs to remit 50 Naira from every teller deposit and electronic transfer of 1000 NAIRA to NIPOST.
The judgment in FHC/L/CS/1710/2013 required that such remittance be done “through the agency of KASMAL”.

The Federal Government has already budgeted on the basis of the revenues from these collections and made no complaint until KASMAL asked for its commission. It is only because of that lawful contractual demand that the AGF was instigated to interfere in order to scuttle the contractual relationship between KASMAL and NIPOST.

Although pressure has been brought on NIPOST, it has not denied the contractual relationship but has been trying to renegotiate the commission down.
When it came to the attention of KASMAL that the AGF was being used as a spoiler it wrote to the AGF and the EFCC explaining the position to them. Copies of that letter are attached as ANNEXURE KAS 3 & 4.

The press release made by Obono Obla is therefore a mischievous attempt to criminalize a purely civil contract in order to instigate public opinion against a lawful business enterprise that has invested effort, time and resources to open up a stream of revenue that was not in existence before.

Although we have no doubt that right minded observers will see the injustice in the move by the AGF’s office to deprive KASMAL of the fruits of its efforts, we believe that the press release by Obla is mischievous and calculated to bring the judicial process into disrepute. We will bring this unlawful abuse of office to the attention of the court at its next sitting on this matter on the 17th of April 2016.

Dated this 23rd of March 2016

Prince Ajibola Oluyede
LEAD COUNSEL TO KASMAL INTERNATIONAL SERVICES LIMITED

By SENATOR BURUJI KASHAMU


On Thursday, the 17th of March, 2016, I was part of a delegation which visited the National chairman of the party. The delegation included all six State party Chairmen, leaders and elders in the zone and was led by the National Vice Chairman of the party in the South West.


The visit was the forum we needed to express our solidarity with his leadership as well as to keep him abreast of the challenges threatening the peace and unity of the party in our zone. Without prejudice, we clearly stated our conviction that the National Chairman of the party should emerge from the North.


Our opinion was informed by the fact that while the PDP controls 10 of the 17 states in the Southern Nigeria, the PDP only controls two of the 19 states in the North. Thus, the need to strengthen the North to pre-empt the lessening of the PDP to a regional party if the National Chairman emerged from the South, as it was already being pushed. The choice of a National Chairman from the South West will be too devastating for the party that is still smarting from the losses it suffered at the last general elections. This development might spark off the tendency to be flighty in those who are fond of breaking away to pursue their own interests when things don’t favour them at any point in time. Another break-away political organisation from the already depleted ranks of the PDP will be dismal.


It was for these simple reasons that we posited that a reversal of the current choice of leadership will certainly shrink our party into a regional party that lacks the capacity to sustain itself. However, I am convinced that our party leaders do have a good sense of history and can clearly recall the fact that once upon a time, key leadership positions like the BOT chairman as well as office of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the nation were occupied by leaders from the South who were adequately empowered and highly influential because the PDP was the ruling party at the time.

Unfortunately, the huge resources at their disposal could not guarantee and secure victory for the party at the polls. It is even a much more daunting task for anyone wanting to be party chairman right now because we have lost the privileges and advantages of being the ruling party.


Thus, it is not an abnormally for both positions to be occupied by the North at this point in time when they need to be encouraged to remain loyal to the party. Furthermore, denying the North the privilege they seek could be perceived as marginalisation because right now they have a depleted membership base as a result of the wave of defections that hit the party with the creation and evolution of the APC.
It should be noted that the South West had the Presidency for 8years as well the Speaker of the House of Representatives for 4 years; these positions are more influential than the chairmanship of the party which some now argue that it must be given to the South West because no one from the region has ever served as National Chairman.
The argument that the quest to have the National Chairmanship zoned to the North is meant to deny the zone the opportunity of producing a Presidential candidate of Northern extraction is untenable. The national leadership of the party has been widely reported as having zoned the Presidency to the North. This was part of the recommendations of Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu-led Post-Election Review Committee, which recommended that it would assuage any ill-feelings caused by the jettisoning of the zoning principle. What is more, as stated earlier the South once had the Presidency and Chairman of the BoT.
I must also say that we need the cohesive political character of the North to re-build and reposition the party, going forward. It will be easier for them to pull the needed resources for rebuilding the party. This possibility is already evident in the way the north has rallied around the National Chairman in spite of their previous disapproval and criticisms of his person.
We are witnesses of how activities have picked up in the National Secretariat since the emergence of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as National Chairman. Our prestigious National secretariat that experienced a lull is now alive and busy with prolific political activities. There are measured steps being taken to appease the aggrieved and bring estranged party men and leaders back home. Since Senator Sheriff came on board, the PDP has been winning most of the re-run elections. There is a ray of hope in the horizon and it will be utterly irresponsible to put off the flicker.


Besides, no one can discount the fact that Senator Modu Sheriff is a man with great political antecedents that speak of the quality of his political service to his people; it takes an extra-ordinary man to win successive elections into the National Assembly and the office of the Governor. We must learn to and be willing to give honour to when it is deserved.
Meanwhile, this is an auspicious moment for the South West to position itself for other political offices like the Vice-Presidency that will certainly emerge as we walk the road to 2019. Without denigrating us, we, the people of the South West, are rather contentious and engrossed with tackling each other through petition-writing. This is sadly evident in the fact that since the emergence of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff most of the petitions that have flooded the national secretariat are from the South West zone. We do not need a National Chairman that is without the critical mass and funds that are imperative for successful leadership.
From my conservative estimate, it should cost millions of naira monthly to run the National Secretariat. Anyone who wants to be National Chairman must be able to source for the money. It is baffling that since our party lost power at the centre, not many of our respectable leaders in the South West have spent a dime on the party at the ward, local government, state and zonal levels; let alone at the national level. If core constituencies are left unfunded, how will the national hub of the party be revived and empowered for mandatory political activities? It is only a straying stubborn chick that frowns at attempts being made to save it from death.
With all due respect, most of those agitating for leadership are simply positioning themselves for the spoils of political office and not service. Gone are the days when the PDP was in power; the party is certainly not in a position to attract funding like it did in the past. Thus those aspiring for leadership must have the capacity to fund the party either directly or through a credible fund raising drive. It is immoral for anyone to look for party positions so as to leverage on it to line their pockets by cornering party or campaign funds.


Our proposal, however, is not cast in stone as the only logical option to choose. Let those with contrary views join the debate and I will be willing to defer to superior arguments. Hopefully, in line with our zoning policy, when a Presidential candidate of Northern extraction emerges in 2018, the various organs of the party will meet and decide where to take the National Chairmanship to.


ON THE LEADERSHIP OF THE SOUTH WEST PDP
Going forward, there are other crucial issues such as the current internal conflicts, rivalries and misgivings that must be progressively resolved. We do not need further recriminations and back-stabbing in the ranks of the party in the South West. The conflict flash points have been identified and we look forward to the reconciliation and healing processes. No single interest is greater than the collective interest of our great party; every true, faithful and loyal party leader should be focused on that and not parochial interests.


Let me state from the outset that going by the constitution of our party, the highest decision making organ of the party in a zone is the Zonal Executive Committee which comprises of the National Vice Chairman of the zone, the state Chairmen and other notable leaders and elders. If these leaders at a certain point in time decide to defer to a particular individual, there must be a reason for it; the most important being the person’s commitment and dedication to the party.

An objective account of the events of that fateful day will reveal that it was simply a spontaneous expression of their esteem and appreciation of the leadership I have provided so far. I must say that I was so shocked and speechless. The National Chairman even urged me to say thank you to my people for the honour, but I could not. It was when I got into my car that I began to say “Thank you, Allah”; “How did it happen?”; “Oh Almighty Allah, You have always got my back”.
It was indeed an honour and privilege to see eminent party leaders and political juggernauts pronounce me their leader. While I remain humbled by their action, I must acknowledge that leadership is earned. If they have decided to reward my unwavering sense of responsibility and commitment to the well-being of the party this way, what option do I have other than to rise to the occasion?

I do reckon that they see me as a rallying point, even though I have superior leaders ahead of me. I do not assume that I am the No.1 leader of the PDP in the South West. I am just a rallying point. I am reminded of what Jesus said to his followers in the Scriptures that those of you who are ashamed of me before men, I will also deny you in the presence of my father in heaven. Frankly speaking, how would anyone expect a people they never catered for to validate them? Even some of those who managed to spend for the party did not go beyond their respective states.

At the level of the Mobilisation and Organisation Committee in the South West, we have consistently ploughed our strengths to meet the needs of the party. Our presence is felt in all six states of the zone where offices are actively working with the grassroots to preserve our political sovereignty and gain new grounds, in spite of the challenges facing us. We have consistently done what it takes to give members and leaders a genuine sense of belonging. My personal travails are reprisals from battles I have fought for the sanctity of our great party and the masses.


There are some people questioning other people’s integrity, yet, we know that they are the perpetrators of some of the mind-boggling acts of corruption that stigmatizes our party and cripples the nation. What a reckless way to abuse the confidence that was reposed on them when they were given the opportunity to serve in various capacities. I do acknowledge that everybody is a leader in his or her state. But, how many of those leaders reach out beyond their states and are committed to building the party and uniting members across the zone?


Thus, if over 70% of the functional leaders across the states spontaneously bestow their confidence in me as the rallying point at this trying time in our political history, it should be seen as a necessary inevitable step and not a superiority contest. I have always, without reservations, acknowledged other superior leaders who have served the party in various capacities. The likes of Chief Bode George, Senator Seye Ogunlewe, Alhaji Yekeen Adeojo, Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun, Chief Clement Awoyelu, Chief Abiola Ogundokun and others too numerous to mention.


To most of them, I should either be a political son or associate and certainly not an opponent. Now is the time for us all to unite for the sake of our great party even as we inevitably swap batons; the old giving it up for the young. The future is now and the young people who own the future must be accommodated and empowered. With great humility, I am grateful to be the rallying point for this vision which I have committed the best of my ideas, time and resources, to promote and sustain.
Most of the contenders for the post of the National Chairman of the PDP in the South West are indeed seeking financial rehabilitation; they do not have the capacity to fund the party or source for funds. Even if they get the funds, they will misappropriate it. Unfortunately the PDP is no longer the money making machine it used to be in the past. The only thing I owe the masses is to tell them the truth and expose those who are professional politicians and liars. I call upon all the zones to team up with the North and drive their vision of re-positioning the party.

OPPOSITION WITH ALTRUISM


Those who know me very well know that I do not play to the gallery. For me, opposition is not about rabid criticisms. We should be solution-providers. If we are united in the current efforts to rescue and rebuild Nigeria, we will stand successful. But, if we are disunited and contentious, we will fail. The failure of the Federal Government is, by implication, the failure of the state and local governments. It is thus foolhardy to sit in our various constituencies and throw stones at the government of the federation, simply because we belong to different political parties.

In as much as criticism is a vital requisite for good governance, I do strongly believe that there is need for balance. There is a crucial need for balance in order to eliminate the negative effects that criticisms tainted with bias could unleash on our country. Being in opposition is not necessarily an obligation to perpetuate dissonance. The culture of mindless criticisms is always adverse because even when the critic means well, the manner of approach and presentation could make it counter-productive. The stability and sustainability of the lower levels of government depends on the well- being of government at the federal level.

It is inevitable that the ripple effects of issues troubling the Federal Government will be felt at the state and local governments. As a lawmaker, I know how many constituency projects that I have attracted to my constituents under this government even when I am of the opposition. I know how many blocks of classrooms, motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, among others, that I have attracted to my constituency for the benefit of my constituents.

The elections are over and governments have emerged at various levels. Wherever we live or belong, let us rally round the government of the day and allow it deliver on its promises to the people. When the election comes, we can then go to the field to campaign.


http://www.nigeriannewspapers.today/2016/03/23/pdp-why-south-west-conceded-chairmanship-slot-to-north-by-buruji-kashamu/

*Donates to Redeem Christian church

The International Association of Lions Clubs, District 404 B1 Nigeria, has conferred the 2015/2016 'Lifetime Community Service of the Year’ Award on the Senator representing Ogun-East Senatorial District and Chairman, Kasmal Group of Companies, Senator Buruji Kashamu,for his humanitarian activities and exemplary leadership.

The award, which was presented by the club at the 2015/2016 Elders/Founders Day celebration held in Abeokuta today (19/03/2015), was received on his behalf by the former Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ogun State and the State Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation,Comrade Niyi Osoba.

It was gathered that Senator Kashamu was chosen for the award alongside other eminent Nigerians.

Eight categories of awards were given out to renowned philanthropists and leaders. They included Community Service Award, Pillar of Service Award, Hallmark of Service Award, Service per Excellence Award, Passion for Service Award, Emerging Leadership Award, Post-Homous Award, Lifetime Community Service Award and Icon of Service Award.

While the Icon of Service Award was given to the doyen of the Accounting profession, Akintola Williams, the Lifetime Community Service Award was bagged by Senator Buruji Kashamu and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the Governor of Ogun State.

The Community Service Award was given to Chief (Mrs) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo and Otunba John Olumide Osunsina, who was the chairman of the occasion.

Attesting to why Senator Kashamu deserved this honour, the Lions Club said, " In the first quarter of this year alone, unknown to many, Senator Buruji Kashamu touched the lives of very many people from politics to business, and even ordinary Nigerians. He added that Senator Kashamu had over the last 10 years made donations to about 5,000 elderly senior citizens as allowances. Scholarships were also awarded to indigent students of Ogun State in various higher institutions of learning."

Comrade Osoba described Senator Buruji Kashamu as a leader with exemplary philanthropic prowess in the class of the late politician and business mogul,Chief M. K. O Abiola.

Osoba assured of Senator Buruji Kashamu's support for the Club and promised that a substantial amount of money shall be donated to support the ongoing Eye Centre project at the General Hospital, Badagry, that is being built by the Club.

Many dignitaries and members of Omoilu Foundation, particularly from the Ogun Central Senatorial District, trooped out in large number to honour Senator Kashamu, who is the chairman of the Foundation.

In a related development, Senator Kashamu has donated the sum of N500,000 to the Redeemed Christian of God (RCCG), Jehovah's Parish, Light's Chapel Area, Province ‎12, Mosan-Ipaja, Lagos.

It was at the fund-raising for the building of a church auditorium.

Senator Kashamu was represented at the occasion by Mr. Tunde Makanjuola, the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State.

Makanjuola reiterated Senator Kashamu's continuous support for the things of God and those that will uplift humanity "as long as he lives"

My attention has been drawn to various reports and accounts about yesterday’s visit of a delegation of leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West to the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party, and wish to state as follows:

· That my sincere appreciation goes to the National Chairman, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff and the respectable members of the NWC, for the warm reception they accorded us.

· I also wish to thank members of the Zonal Executive Committee, which comprised of the Chairmen of the PDP in the six South West states, leaders and elders of the party in the South West, for being part of the delegation.

· It has also become imperative for me to make a few clarifications. The first is that the visit was not done to choose or pronounce anyone as the leader of the PDP in the South West. Rather, it was to pledge our support for the Senator Ali Modu Sheriff-led NWC. All that happened on the occasion was fortuitous. It is also true that people like to have a rallying point, and if some of our leaders and elders see me as a rallying point because of my generosity and empowerments activities over the years, I do not see why anyone should lose sleep over it. Leaders emerge naturally. I also know that leadership comes with responsibility and I accept the responsibility. I appreciate all our party leaders and elders for the confidence reposed in me and will continue to appreciate them. However, it does not mean that I am the foremost or supreme leader of the PDP in the South West. I am just one of the leaders of the PDP in the South West. I do know that I have other superior leaders in the PDP Governors in the zone, Chief Olabode George, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun and other members of the National Caucus, Board of Trustees and the National Executive Committee (NEC), whom I respect and will always do.

· On our proposal that the National Chairmanship of the party should remain in the North, I wish to state that it was the opinion of the delegation. We were and are still of the view that given the strong presence of the PDP in the South, with 10 governors out of 17 governors in the South and just two governors in the 19 states in the North, it would make more sense to leave the National Chairmanship of the party in the North, so as not to be branded a regional party. Our view does not foreclose any other opinion or suggestion. If some other persons have any other idea, they are at liberty to push it. At the end of the day, it is either superior argument wins or we go to the convention. For us, as true party men, whatever is best for our party and majority of the stakeholders is all we want.

Signed

Senator Buruji Kashamu

Ogun East Senatorial District.

Senator Buruji Kashamu donates N2.5million for transplant

The joy of Mr. Adeyemi Aderogba, a patient being treated for kidney failure at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Kano State, knew no bounds yesterday (15th March, 2016) when he was presented a cheque for the sum of N2.5million to perform a scheduled kidney transplant at the hospital, courtesy of Senator Buruji Kashamu.

Kashamu is the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District of Ogun State and the Founder of a non-governmental organisation, the Omoilu Foundation.

The management of the teaching hospital had in January, 2016 written to the Abuja office of the Senator seeking financial assistance to be able to continue the dialysis being done for the patient.

But rather than simply accede to the request for support, Senator Kashamu directed his aides to go further. The Senator wanted to know if more could be done; whether there was a donor for the patient and what the cost of performing a kidney transplant at the hospital would be.

Hospital management confirmed a donor was indeed available and the cost of a kidney transplant would be N2.5million.

In response to the news, Senator Kashamu immediately dispatched two of his aides, Honourable Onadeko Onamusi and Mr. Austin Oniyokor, to Kano where they presented the N2.5 million cheque to the hospital’s management.

The team was received by the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Prof. Aminu Zakari Mohammed, who was accompanied by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council, Dr. Muhammad Mijinyawa and the Director of Administration, Mallam Adamu Aliyu, among others.

In his address, Onamusi, who is the Senior Legislative Aide to Senator Kashamu, said the gesture was natural to the senator as a compassionate leader and philanthropist.

Onamusi spoke of how the Senator has touched countless lives personally and through the Omoilu Foundation, adding that, “I think it is safe to say he has dedicated his entire life to giving without looking back.”

Onamusi also commended the management of the hospital for taking the initiative to write the senator soliciting assistance for the patient, stressing that such a move was novel.

Responding, Mohammed expressed the gratitude of the members and staff of the hospital to Senator Kashamu for the “life-saving initiative,” and added that the hospital had done about 30 kidney transplants over the years.

“We have heard and read about the good things Senator Kashamu has been doing and we thought that we could approach him on the issue of this patient. We are happy that we are witnesses to his kind gesture. We thank him and pray that the Almighty Allah rewards him abundantly.

“We also wish and pray that more wealthy and highly-placed Nigerians would take a cue from Senator Kashamu in giving hope to the hopeless,” Mohammed said.

Narrating his ordeal with tears rolling down his cheeks, Adeyemi, 38, said he took ill in May of last year and thought he had contracted malaria.

But, upon being treated for malaria and typhoid in Akure, Ondo State, where he was based, his condition did not improve. So, he went to a hospital in Palmgrove, Lagos, where he discovered that his kidneys were failing.

He was later referred to the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital where he has been undergoing dialysis with the support of his relations and friends. But, as the days went by, and weeks turned to months, his resources began to thin and it was becoming increasingly difficult to raise funds for the dialysis.

That was when the management of the hospital told him they would appeal to well-meaning Nigerians like Senator Kashamu to come to his aid, and according to Adeyemi, “Here am I today; Senator Buruji Kashamu being a kind-hearted person has decided to come to my aid. I cannot thank him enough.”

The Senior Legislative Aide to Senator Buruji Kashamu, Hon Onadeko Onamusi (left) presenting a cheque of 2.5million naira on behalf of Senator KASHAMU to the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Prof. Aminu Z. Mohammed (right) for the kidney transplant of 38-year old Aderogba Adeyemi(second left) in Kano... today(15/03/2016)

...distribute fabrics, food stuff, others

The executives and ward patrons of Omoilu Foundation yesterday stormed Ifo in Ifo Local Government Area. 

Speaking on behalf of the state coordinator, the state youth leader of the foundation, Chief Edward Adeyi, urged the ward executives and the patrons to work ceaselessly towards ensuring more people are registered in their respective wards. He charged the patrons to be transparent and fair in discharging their duties.

The Coordinator of the foundation in the local government, Alhaji Olaiya Seni, said the foundation was established by Senator Kashamu to empower the less-privileged.

He urged the executives and the patrons to discharge their duties whole heatedly and with the fear of God.

Seni disclosed that plans had been concluded on how interest-free and revolving loans will be disbursed through selected community banks to the masses across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State.

A community leader, Chief Edward Adeyi, later supervised the distribution of clothing materials, grains, noodles and other household items.

Adeyi announced that there are other empowerment initiatives for the aged and the youths, as well as scholarships for students.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Alhaja Taofeekat Salmot, expressed gratitude to Senator Kashamu.

"Kashamu is God-sent. In him, we have a friend, a comforter and a great philanthropist. God will spare his life so that he can do more for the masses. We are grateful,” she said.

...splashes 11 cars, cash on beneficiaries

In furtherance of its commitment to eradicate poverty and improve the well-being of the masses across Ogun State, the Omoilu Foundation has donated vehicles and cash to the people of Sagamu and Ikenne local government areas.

Presenting the vehicles and cash to the beneficiaries, the Coordinator of the Foundation, Comrade Niyi Osoba, said the gesture was part of Senator Buruji Kashamu's commitment towards improving the well- being of his constituents and the masses across Ogun State.

"This is to demonstrate the love and care of Senator Buruji Kashamu for the people. These donations clearly show that the Senator Buruji Kashamu-inspired Omoilu Foundation is fully committed to the well-being of the masses," he said.

Osoba urged the coordinators of the foundation in the two local government areas to work on offering succour to more people in their respective local government areas.

This, according to him, will serve as opportunity for others to benefit from the foundation's empowerment scheme.

In a related development, the duo of Mr. Yisa Oyewoga and Mrs Bisi Sokoya, from Sagamu Local Government were empowered with cash donations of One Hundred Thousand Naira and One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira respectively.

 Oyewoga's son has been on admission and cash is required for urgent medical attention.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Abiola Arikumasa, expressed gratitude to Senator Kashamu, for his kind gesture.

Her words: “Senator Kashamu is a leader that will teach you how to fish and equip you thereafter. He is different from those selfish political office holders. 

"I came here hoping to be assisted with cash to revive my crumbling business. I never expected to be presented with a car also. It has never happened in the history of Ogun State for anyone, be it an individual or a foundation, to give people 11 cars and cash, in one day. We are grateful. God will bless our distinguished senator."

The beneficiaries included Mrs Josephine Makanjuola, Mrs Abosede Erinle Oseni, Alhaji Mayowa Oyederu, Mrs Abiola Arikumasa, Otunba E.A Adeshina, Chief Owopele Shonowo, Hon Olusoga Osinoiki, Hon Segun Taiwo, Engr. S.B Fakiye and Hon. Isaac Sonoiki.

...presents him a wheelchair

The Senator Buruji Kashamu-inspired Omoilu Foundation continued its community outreach programme when it paid a surprise visit to a physically-challenged Taofeek Anifowoshe of Molusi College, Ijebu-Igbo, and presented him with a new wheelchair today, 7th March, 2016.

The State Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation, Comrade Niyi Osoba, presented the wheel-chair to Taofeek in the presence of management and students of the College.

Taofeek, 17, was born with his both hands and legs. However, he was infected with the polio virus when he was nine months old.

Life has been extremely challenging for Taofeek without a modern mobility aid.

With access to the wheelchair, Taofeek said he was very happy and called on the government to support programmes such as the foundation’s because it was positively affecting lives. 

Speaking earlier, Comrade Osoba said, “In this community outreach programme, we are going out to where the physically challenged live instead of them coming to us.

“We have tried engaging other programmes in the past, such as the provision of food and clothing, to draw them out of their homes and come to the facility but they could not come because they are either scared or do not have the devices to move around.

"My team is committed to empowering the physically challenged. We are here to facilitate that change.”

He urged the physically challenged to take responsibility for the change they earnestly desire and deserve, and take advantage of the opportunities being offered by the foundation.

“Without that self-motivation from individual physically challenged persons, their condition will always be a development concept for Omoilu Foundation and we will not achieve any change,” Osoba said.   

Taofeek appreciated the chairman of the Foundation, Senator Buruji Kashamu, for his generosity.

"Words are not enough to thank Senator Buruji Kashamu. Despite the fact that I have been hiding away from the public, his foundation located me and sent its men to my school. This supportive device will aid my movement a great deal.

"God will also locate him with favour and blessings. His children shall also find favour anywhere they go,” Taofeek enthused.

The Omoilu Foundation has concluded plans to donate mobility aids to the physically challenged across Ogun State and even beyond.

Our attention has been drawn to a wishy washy report by a budding online news portal, www.yemojanews.com (what a name!) to the effect that Senator Buruji Kashamu approached the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, to help him appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari to accept him into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and to starve off a purported extradition of the senator.

Ordinarily, we would have ignored this latest effort to blackmail the senator since we know where it is coming from (it would be addressed at the appropriate place and time), but for the wrong impression it might create in the mind of his associates, teeming supporters and admirers across the length and breadth of Ogun State, and beyond.

First, there is no iota of truth in the claim that Senator Kashamu has any plans to join the APC. He has stated time and again that his support for the anti-corruption war of the President should not be misconstrued as ditching his party, the PDP, for the APC. And that he remains and would always remain a member of the PDP. So, the issue of recruiting some people to soften the ground for his defection does not arise.

Secondly, the publishers of this piece of misguided report have only succeeded in exposing their ignorance of our jurisprudence. Otherwise, they should have known that no fresh extradition proceedings can be brought in a case that has been dismissed.

In this instance, besides the two British court judgments that established that the allegation against the senator was that of a "mistaken identity", the purported extradition proceedings commenced against the senator in the last days of the immediate past administration was dismissed by the court on the 1st of July, 2015, as "an abuse of court process", especially when the same issues as were put before the court had been decided by two British courts.

Is it not ludicrous for anyone to think that anyone would lobby our revered traditional rulers to beg Mr. President to bend the rules. Who, except the warped minds behind this fabricated report, does not know that Mr. President and the current Attorney-General of the Federation are men of integrity and apostles of the Rule of Law?

Even if anyone has a case against the senator in court, is it outside the court that the matter will be determined? Does the judiciary not have its own procedure and processes? Is it not distinct and separate from the executive or even the legislative arm of government? If anyone in the executive or legislature can easily influence them, then why do they lose their cases in court?

For the information of those who think they can soil the cordial relationship between Senator Kashamu and the royalty, I have piece of bad news for them: they have only succeeded in re-invigorating it.

Apart from being the Senator representing Awujale's domain, Senator Kashamu is a son and an in-law of the palace. Kabiyesi's younger brother (from the Shote family of Ijebu-Ode) married his immediate elder sister. Thus, it is only normal for him to maintain a cordial relationship with the palace of the Awujale and other royal fathers in the state.

While we regret any embarrassment that this fabricated lies may have caused the highly revered monarchs, we wish to serve a notice on the publishers of yemojanews that should they fail to retract the report within the days stipulated by law, they will soon hear from the senator's lawyers, so that they can substantiate their claims in the open court.

On the activities of Omoilu Foundation, we wish to state that no amount of lies and blackmail told by idiots and spread by the ignoramus can obliterate the positive works and testimonies of the foundation. The Omoilu Foundation is an idea whose time has come. No force on earth can stop it!

Signed
Austin Oniyokor
Media Adviser to Distinguished Senator Buruji Kashamu

The senator representing  Ogun-East Senatorial District, Senator Buruji Kashamu has for the umpteenth time urged Nigerians to support the anti-corruption war of the Federal Government.

He spoke at an empowerment programme held on Sunday in Ijebu-Igbo in Ogun State where he donated cash, vehicles, motorcycles, sewing machines and other equipment, as part of his constituency and Omoilu Foundation projects.

Kashamu said even though he and other lawmakers were in the opposition,they were getting their dues, adding that the sewing machines, motorcycles and wheelchairs were part of his constituency projects.

He said unlike in the immediate past when some of those who were in public offices colluded with others to deprive the people of their rights, the present administration has created a conducive atmosphere to ensure fair and equitable distribution of resources.

"No one dares cut corners with this administration. All those who were doing so in the past have now been exposed. There is no more hiding place for them," he added

Senator Kashamu announced the donation of 15 vehicles and 20 motorcycles for immediate release to the beneficiaries.

He also announced that 163 sewing machines and 180 generators were ready for distribution as part of his empowerment programme for his constituents.

Senator Kashamu declared that, as the only PDP senator in the state, he could not restrict himself  to his senatorial district alone, hence he announced that 150 generators and 200 sewing machines will be distributed across Ogun Central and Ogun West senatorial districts within two weeks at 75 generators and 100 sewing machines per senatorial district.

His words, "I am glad to announce  to you all that 163  sewing machines and 180 generators are ready for distribution as empowerment to the people of Ogun east senatorial district while 100 sewing machines and 75 generators shall also be given to each of Ogun central and Ogun west senatorial districts as empowerment in the other two zones.

On the Federal Government's anti-corruption war, he said, “President Muhammadu Buhari is on course. While I understand the plight of those who received donations in form of cars and money from some people under the immediate past administration, those who directly dipped their hands into the vaults should defend themselves. There is no way the beneficiaries would know the source of the funds.

"I am persuaded that in a short while things will pick up. Nigerians should not allow politicians to deceive them.  We tend to play politics with everything and anything. We forget that the elections and campaigns are over. Now, we have a government in place. We should rise above selfish and narrow partisan interest and join hands to build our country by offering constructive advice just as some senior citizens like Prof. Wole Soyinka and Chief Emeka Anyaoku have done.

"We have no other country than Nigeria. These eminent Nigerians have suggested that the Federal Government should organise a national economic summit and tap from the wealth of experience of the experts. Those are the kind of advice anyone that means well should give and not play politics with everything and pretend as if we are better when we are not.

"I challenge those who are fond of mindlessly criticising the President to show me a proof of what they have done to improve the economy of their states. Is the allocation from the Federation Account not the mainstay source of their states’ revenue? How tolerant are they of the opposition in their states? So, if they pull down the Federal Government, don’t they know that they would have also taken their states and their people back by several years? They should know that it is easier to destroy than to build.”

On the fuel scarcity being experienced in some parts of the country, Kashamu said, "I wish to implore the Federal Government to investigate the activities of the NNPC Depots across the country. I believe that the current scarcity is artificially induced. There are allegations that even though the Federal Government has pegged the official rate fuel should be lifted; many of the depots sell above the amount. They ask the independent marketers to pay the government approved rate into the officially designated account and another difference of between N30 to N35 per litre into other private accounts or they simply collect cash. 
"That is why the marketers sell above the official rate and when they are being pressurised to do so, they shut down their filling stations, saying they do not have fuel, and of course at the detriment of the masses. I believe that if the relevant agencies of government question some of the marketers or trace the movement of funds from their accounts, they will get to the bottom of this issue and Nigeria will be the better for it."

On the criticisms that have trailed the emergence of Senator  Ali Modu Sheriff as the National Chairman of PDP, Senator Kashamu quipped, "Is it not curious that it is now that Senator Ali Modu Sheriff became the National Chairman of our great party, the PDP, that some people remembered that he has been accused of this and that? As for me, the security agencies have information about all Nigerians, especially the prominent ones. If they have not found him wanting in anyway and the courts have not found him guilty, all that is being said about him is the normal muck-raking that goes with politics.

"The other leg of it is how clean are those pointing accusing fingers at Senator Ali Modu Sheriff? What is their electoral and political value in their respective domains? If the highest decision-making organ of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP has in its wisdom decided to choose him as our National Chairman, we cannot but do all within our powers at loyal party men and women, to support him to succeed. I learnt he is already making efforts to woo back some of those who left us shortly before the 2015 elections and even bring new members. That is a step in the right direction. If he is able to build the party and re-energise it before the National Convention, I tell you the sky will not be the limit for him and the party."

The senator representing  Ogun-East Senatorial District and the Founder of Omoilu Foundation,Senator Buruji Kashamu has urged members of the foundation to remain loyal and support the body in its efforts towards eradicating poverty across the state.

He spoke at a meeting held on Sunday,28 February,2016 in Ijebu-Igbo in Ogun State where members across  the twenty local government  areas were in attendance.

Kashamu assured members of his readiness to support the masses with his God-given resources.

He praised the people for their constant support and promised not to let them down.

His words, “Let me begin with the fact that without your commitment, constant support and prayers, we will not be where we are today.

"Today, I must recognise the sacrifices that have been made by you all, the understanding and above all your working together to ensure I was victorious in the last National Assembly election. I equally urge you to do more.

“I want you to ensure that the entire process of selecting the first batch of beneficiaries of the interest-free micro loan across the 20 local government  areas  is completed and must be implemented  in a transparent and democratic manner by  reputable micro-finance  banks in our different  localities.”


Senator Kashamu announced the donation of 13 vehicles and 20 motorcycles for immediate release to the beneficiaries.

He also announced that 163 sewing machines and 180 generators are ready for distribution as part of his empowerment programme for his constituents.

Senator Kashamu declared that as the only PDP senator in the state, he cannot restrict himself alone to his immediate constituency, hence he announced that 150 generators and 200 sewing machines will be distributed across Ogun Central and Ogun West senatorial districts within two weeks at 75 generators and 100 sewing machines per senatorial district.

"I am glad to announce  to you all that 163  sewing machines and 180 generators are ready for distribution as empowerment to the people of Ogun east senatorial district while 100 sewing machines and 75 generators shall also be given to each of Ogun central and Ogun west senatorial districts as empowerment in the two zones also.

“For those saddled with the responsibilities of coordinating the distribution of the items from the state to the ward levels, I urge you to be transparent and avoid being sentimental.

“Omoilu Foundation has always taken the lead as a pacesetter in terms of improving the well-being of the people of Ogun State, and it must retain the position of being the world model for social responsibility," Senator Kashamu added

The State Chairman, Peoples Democratic  Party (PDP), Engr. Bayo Dayo said Senator Kashamu is consistently working towards the well-being of the people of the state.

He said, “Empowerment of this magnitude  will no doubt contribute immensely to the the standard  of living  of the people of Ogun State.

"This act of philanthropy,  if emulated by other political office holders, will ease the suffering of the masses.

...Vehicles, motorcycles, others to be distributed

In continuation of the empowerment programmes of Senator Buruji Kashamu and the Omoilu Foundation, there will be empowerment for some people tomorrow, Sunday, the 28th of February, 2016, at the Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State headquarters of the Foundation. 

Among the items to be distributed are vehicles, motorcycles, generators, sewing machines and wheel chairs.

A statement by the State Coordinator, Comrade Niyi Osoba directed all the coordinators in the local government areas to liaise with their respective LG Grand Patrons and LG chairmen of Elders Councils for proper planning towards making the event a success.

Three buses are to come from each local government area, he added.

The joy of the management and students of Mass Communication Department of Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State knew no bounds when a non-governmental organisation (NGO),Omoilu Foundation donated N100,000  to the association of student communicators of the institution.

 

The State Coordinator of the foundation, Comrade Niyi Osoba made the donation to the President, Association of Student Communicators, Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Mr. Fanika Olatunde, in Ijebu-Igbo at the maiden edition of the association’s Press Week tagged “One Course, Limitless Opportunities”.

 

Olatunde said it was gratifying that Senator Buruji Kashamu is committed to generational change and always striving to put smiles on the faces of the masses through Omoilu Foundation’s massive empowerment drive.

 

Fanika listed the free distribution of foodstuffs across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State, scholarship to students and the interest-free loan scheme, among others, as Senator Kashamu’s legacies.

 

He expressed gratitude to the foundation and the senator for their timely intervention in the case of Omoseke Damilola, a 500- level Law student of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye.

 

Damilola had almost lost hope of writing her final year examinations before succour came her way from the Senator Kashamu-inspired foundation.

 

In another development, the foundation also donated the sum N50, 000 to Imodi Central Mosque in Odogbolu town.

 

Osoba assured the congregation of Senator Kashamu’s regular support.

 

“Senator Buruji Kashamu will keep supporting the work of God morally and financially. Knock at his door anytime you need his support, he will attend to you instantly,” he said.

FOUNDATION PAYS HOSPITAL BILLS
*DONATES CASH TO SCHOOL

A non-governmental organisation, the Omoilu Foundation, yesterday, 22 February, 2016 offset the medical bills of five patients lying critically ill in various hospitals across Ogun State.
 
 
The Comrade Niyi Osoba-led state delegation today paid an unscheduled visit to the patients at the hospitals today, and once again demonstrated why Senator Buruji Kashamu is loved by the masses.
 
The beneficiaries of the foundation's gestures included Chief Segun Fabiyi (N100,000),  Chief Olusade Rahman (N75,000), Mr. Rueben Olakunle (N50,000) ,Mr. Raimi Tahiru (N30,000)and Mr Mufutau Atairu Bakare(30,000)
 
Relations of the patients sheds tears of joy while receiving cheques from Comrade Osoba as they had previously lost hope and never believed relief could come the way it did.
 
One of the beneficiaries, Chief Olusade Rahman, who is to undergo surgical operation shed tears of joy,
saying Senator Kashamu was "God sent" as his operation was delayed due to lack of funds.
 
In another development, the foundation yesterday donated the sum of N75,000 to Ifesowapo Comprehensive High School,Imodi in Odogbolu Local Government Area.
 
Speaking at the school's prize giving ceremony, Comrade Osoba, who represented Senator Kashamu at the event, restated the Senator's commitment towards raising the standard of education in Ogun State.
 
“Distinguished Senator Buruji Kashamu is ready to give whatever is required to lift the standard of education in Ogun State. Omoilu Foundation will continue to support with the Ministry of Education towards offering qualitative education to the young ones,” he said.
 
It would be recalled that Senator Kashamu had during the last general election promised to make the welfare of his constituents his priority. And he has been doing so through the Omoilu Foundation, touching the lives of people across Ogun State and beyond.