₦airaland Forum

Babagana Wakil, the Chief of Staff to Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, is dead.

The governor’s spokesperson, Isa Gusau, announced this in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, Wakil died this morning but details of his death were, however, not disclosed.

Gusau said the remains of the deceased will be buried today in consonance with Islamic rites.

The statement read, “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Jana’iza of late chief of staff, Dr Babagana Wakil is to hold 4pm today at his extended family residence in Shehuri North, Maiduguri.

“May Allah, Subhanahu Wa ta’ala, in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, admit him into aljanna and give his family the strength to bear our collective loss.”


https://www.inform.ng/post/breaking-borno-governor-loses-chief-of-staff

President Muhammadu Buhari named Debo Adesina, ex-Minister of State for defence, Ademola Seriki, Dare Sunday Awaoniyi, among others in 41-man non-career and one career ambassadors submitted to the Senate for screening and confirmation on Wednesday.

Senate President Ahmed Lawan read the President’s letter of request on the floor at the plenary on Wednesday.

Adesina was picked from Oyo State, Seriki from Lagos and Dare Sunday Awoniyi Kogi State

https://www.inform.ng/post/buhari-names-adesina-others-as-ambassadorial-nominees

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called on Nigerians to pray for the speedy recovery of Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, his wife, Edith, as well as other leaders and Nigerian citizens who have tested positive to COVID-19.

The position of the party was made known in a statement signed by Kola Ologbondiyan, its national publicity secretary.

The party expressed concern over the reports of the spread of the disease in the country, but remained optimistic that the nation would soon overcome the pandemic with the concerted effort of all compatriots in various sectors of intervention.

The PDP urged Nigerians not to succumb to fear but to continue to be vigilant and prayerful while redoubling all efforts in adhering to and enlightening others on health safety directives of personal hygiene, social distancing and early reporting of symptoms.

The party noted that with the further easing on restrictions, the nation is facing a critical time, which calls for intensified vigilance and adherence to safety directives.

The PDP restates its commendation to our health workers and other Nigerians in the public and private sectors, who are on the frontline, for their sacrifices at this trying time.

https://www.inform.ng/post/covid-19-pdp-goes-spiritual-asks-nigerians-to-pray-for-okowa-wife-others

The Member representing Aninri constituency in Enugu state house of Assembly, Hon Okwu Chinedu has asked the Federal government to consider the possibility of sustenance for the outgoing beneficiaries of Npower,batch A and B.

This is to avoid discharging them into an already saturated labour market. He beseeched the federal government to provide a fall back plan for the ougoing participants.This can be achieved through developing atransitional program for them.

He revealed this via a press statement, where he stated that the aim of the federal government for commencing the program will be thwarted, it will also bring a hike in the rate of security breach nationwide.

Futhermore, the gains and successes recorded through the scheme will be defeated and brought to its lowest point.

The honourable,whom is also chairman of the house committee on security, youths and sports, has always shown an affinity towards the welfare of the youths and their security.

Continually speaking, hon. Otaka said that this is a very inadequate and wrong time to lay off these beneficiaries, as the government at all levels are struggling to make provision for palliatives, giving the emergence of the COVID19, which was followed by the lockdown and sit-at-home policies.

He however, advised the unemployed youths of Enugu state to register for the Npower program, provided that they are yet to partakein the scheme.

He extended his appeal to the ministry of Humanitarian affairs to be maganimous and kind during their selection process, noting that Enugu state deserves a special attentions, alledging that very few previous participants were chosen from Enugu state.

https://www.inform.ng/post/enugu-state-legislator-tasks-fg-on-outgoing-n-power-beneficiaries

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Monday received briefing from the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The Chairman of PTF on COVID-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Mr. Boss Mustapha, led the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, the Director-General of the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu and the Coordinator of the PTF on COVID-19, Dr. Sani Aliyu, to brief the President as the second phase of the gradual easing of the lockdown ends today.

Recall that the Mustapha had said that the second phase of the gradual easing of the lockdown in the country was for an initial period of four weeks.

President Buhari had on April 27 announced the gradual easing of a five-week lockdown in FCT, Lagos and Ogun states which then were the epicentre of the Coronavirus pandemic.

The first phase of the lockdown was extended by two weeks elapsed midnight on June 1 and the second phase which was implemented over four weeks spanning June 2nd – 29th, is still subject for review.

In the second phase, government had relaxed restrictions on banking operations and worship places, while the Federal government retained nationwide curfew but reduced the time from 10pm to 4am, to limit social interactions and, therefore, reduce the risk of the transmissions of the virus which is now on community transmission level.


https://www.inform.ng/post/buhari-receives-briefing-from-covid-19-ptf

The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Tuesday, dismissed a suit by Senator Dino Melaye, challenging some provisions of the controversial Control of Infectious Diseases Bill 2020.

Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu, in her judgment, held that her court lacked the jurisdiction to hear and determine issues raised in the suit.

Justice Ojukwu also struck out the name of the IGP as a party to the case on the grounds that the plaintiff failed to disclose any cause of action against him.

Justice Ojukwu, who upheld the preliminary objection filed against the suit by the respondents, stated that the issues raised in the suit was not justiciable, as a Bill could not be a subject of litigation until it becomes law.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Clerk of the House of Representatives, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) are respondents in the suit.

NAN recalls that Melaye, who represented Kogi South Senatorial District in the Eight Senate, had, on May 5, filed the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/463/2020, urging the court to delete sections 5, 8, 15, 16 and 17 of the bill which he said constituted a violation or would likely violate his rights under the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights as well the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

The plaintiff had faulted provisions of the bill, also known as the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Bill, seeking to empower the Director-General of the NCDC to compel anyone to take medical examination or treatment and also collect the blood sample of such person in the case of a public health emergency.

He queried the provision to empower the NCDC to take over any premises and turn them into isolation centres without compensation.

https://www.inform.ng/post/court-throws-out-dino-melayes-suit-against-nass-on-infectious-disease-bill

The Peoples Democratic Party in Ondo state has disowned a statement credited to the former spokesman of the southwest chapter of the party, Mr Ayo Fadaka which asked the Deputy Governor of Ondo state, Mr Agboola Ajayi, to resign from office for defecting to the PDP from All Progressive Congress.

The disclaimer was contained in a statement by Zadok Akintoye, the party’s director of publicity (as seen below)

“Our attention has been drawn to a statement made by Mr. Ayo Fadaka in his capacity as a former South West Publicity Secretary of the PDP via an interview granted to Channels Television on Sunrise Daily, wherein he opined that the Deputy Governor and member of the PDP, HE. Hon Agboola Ajayi should resign his position on moral grounds.

The Ondo state PDP wishes to dissociate itself from this statement and inform the general public that the position expressed by Mr. Ayo Fadaka does not represent the opinion of the PDP in Ondo state. H.E. Barr. Agboola Ajayi remains the Deputy Governor of the state and is not under any compulsion (either moral or legal) to resign his position.

The party therefore advice the general public to disregard this statement as it is does not reflect the position of the party on this matter.

Thank you.

Zadok Akintoye
Dir. of Media & Publicity

https://www.inform.ng/post/ondo-deputy-governor-have-no-reason-to-resign-over-defection-state-pdp-insist

This is a strange and sad time. In less than 45 days, a number of our political allies and intimate companions have departed from our sphere to “Iwale asa” as our people will say. Among the lost gems was my dear Egbon Isiaka Abiola Akanji Ajimobi, the immediate past governor of Oyo State.

His death has been very devastating in its impact on me. Egbon was the only ally in the West to our cause and standing by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He was steadfast and unflinching in his commitment to core Yoruba values and the defence of our leadership.

This loyalty cost him a lot electorally and personally. The dark conspiracy against him was quite huge, unsparing and unrelenting. Of course, he calmly weathered the storm and survived the intrigue with a rare comportment and maturity.

Death is a necessary end for mortals. As distressing as his passage is, we are consoled by the fact that Egbon was exemplary in many ways. From his character of accommodation, loyalty, generosity, resilience and love, to courage of conviction and full constitutional tenure of eight years as the governor of Oyo, he towered shoulder-high above most.

He was born great into an illustrious family, but he earned his greatness through hard work, personal sacrifice, grim determination and the force of unconquerable human spirit. Everything he touched became gold. Certainly, Egbon Ajimobi was a colossus! He was a nice and great man.

My heart goes to his wife; Florence Ajimobi, the children and associates. I must remind them of what Allah SWT says in the Holy Quran, Suratul Ar Rahman; 55:26-27; “everyone that is on the earth will perish and pass away: and everlasting, to remain forever is the face and supreme divinity of your Lord, majestic and glorious”.

Please, be consoled that your patriarch was a fantastic human being. A complete OMOLUABI; an epitome of virtue and character. His death is a loss to all nationalists, federalists, genuine democrats and progressives. Please take solace in the enduring legacy of good governance, impactful administration and beautiful relationships he cultivated while on this side of the divide.

May God grant him honourable mention on the tongue of truth among the latest generation, as He forgives all his acts of indiscretion. May he find favours with his Lord and be a companion of Al Jannah Firdaus. Aamen!

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
Ikeja, Lagos

https://www.inform.ng/post/ajimobi-lost-electorally-due-to-his-loyalty-to-tinubu-aregbesola

The Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress has notified the Independent National Electoral Commission of its intention to hold a primary election to pick its governorship candidate for Ondo State.

In the first letter dated June 25 and addressed to INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the committee informed the commission of the dissolution of the APC National Working Committee and the composition of a National Caretaker Committee.

The letter was signed by Governor Mai Mala Buni and Secretary of the Committee, Senator John J. Akpanudoedehe. APC National Caretaker Committee Chairman, Governor Buni.

Other members of the caretaker committee introduced to the commission are Isiaka Oyetola, governor of Osun from South-west, Ken Nnamani from South-east, Stella Okorete, representing women, Niger State governor, Sani Bello, from North-central, Dr James Lalu representing persons with special needs, Senator Abubakar Yusuf representing Senate, Akinyemi Olaide representing House of Representatives, David Lyon representing South-south, Abba Ari representing North-West, Prof Tahir Mamman representing North-East and Ismail Ahmed representing the youth.

“Please be informed that we have scheduled to hold our party’s primary election in respect of Ondo state on 20th July, 2020. 

“Kindly arrange the monitoring of the exercise accordingly. Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem.”

In the heat of the party’s leadership crisis, the electoral commission had written the ruling party that its earlier communique informing it about its primary election in Ondo was invalid because it was written by only Waziri Bulama, former APC National Secretary.

https://www.inform.ng/post/ondo-apc-caretaker-committee-writes-inec

None of our governors will join APC ― PDP


JUNE 26, 2020



The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Friday, dismissed claims by Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State that 10 governors, elected on the PDP platform, will join the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Governor Bello, during a television programme, had boasted that 10 PDP governors would dump their party for the APC in weeks to come.

Though he failed to mention their names, the Kogi governor expressed optimism the PDP governors have signified their intention to leave the PDP after evaluating the APC and the importance of the party towards national development.

But faulting Governor Bello, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Prince Diran Odeyemi, said the Governor was hallucinating.

Odeyemi, who spoke said: ” When the going was good, APC governors were joining the PDP. So, what has gone right in their party that will now attract any of our governors to them? He is hallucinating, he is dreaming big.”


https://www.inform.ng/post/no-pdp-governor-will-join-apc-party-deputy-spokesman

…As He Emerges PDP Governorship Candidate

Benin- After emerging winner of the Peoples Democratic Party’s primary election, having polled a total vote of 1,952 out of the 2020 votes cast, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, Edo State Governor, has revealed that he almost quit the governorship race.

Senator Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi State, who was the Election Committee Chairman while declaring the result, said governor Godwin Obaseki  polled a total vote cast of  1,952 to emerge the sole party’s governorship candidate in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Gov. Bala gave the break down of the votes cast as follows, invalid votes, 72, total delegates, 2,234, accredited delegates, 2202, actual delegates that voted, 2020 while Obaseki pulled a total votes of 1,952.




According to him, this was made possible after the three aspirants who earlier indicated their interest to slug it out with him stepped down for him.

Obaseki who cast his vote at exactly 9:06pm in his acceptance speech, said history has once again been reanacted in Nigeria.

The victory, Obaseki said, has afforded him the opportunity to consolidate on his past achievements in the state.

“Today like I said, history is being made in Nigeria. The victory we are celebrating today has been a long and strenuous walk to political freedom which as from today, in my election as the flag bearer of our great party by the grace of God, I will be governor again for another four years.”

“Much has been entrusted on me by the representatives of our great party and this responsibility will enable me to consolidate on our achievements we have made. It will enable me to deepen good governance in Edo State, it will help us to restore the pride of Edo people and make Edo State one of the best states in Nigeria.”

“Today marks an electrifying moment in the political history of our state and indeed our country”, the governor said.

He noted that he almost quit his ambition of contesting for the second time but for the support and encouragement from his friends, family kept him going.

“With today’s election, we have demonstrated again that no mountain is too high to stop the aspiration of a people that have put their faith in God and that is called by God to make life better for the greater majority of her people.”

“I must admit that there was a time in this struggle when as a mere mortar, I was almost tempted to quit but I thank God for my family, friends, my colleagues governors, my brothers, of course.”

“Let me use this opportunity to thank the chairman of the PDP governor’s forum, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, governor of Sokoto state and other colleagues, particularly, governor Wike of Rivers State and others who have encouraged me to move on.”

“My desire to improve the quality of lives of Edo people has been my daily driving force and also my greatest incentives”, he said.

He said he would be magnanimous in victory but will  always remember that PDP as a party provided him with shelter when he was being drenched by the rain.

“I want to thank those who are leaders of our great party who have provided us that shelter under that large umbrella in the sun when we were pushed out by the broom.”

“We are actually grateful to those who emphatically told me Governor Godwin Obaseki anywhere you go, we will follow. That was an encouragement.”

“I was humbled by this such love and I am challenged by it to confront any man made barriers that will stand in our way to progress in Edo State.

“We could not have overcome our political advisories without prayers and guardians of our traditional rulers, religion and all Edo people particularly, our father, the Oba of Benin Kingdom.”

“With your continued support, we will make Edo greater than we met it. As children of God, we will be magnanimous in victory but we will not forget that when the rain was beaten us, PDP provided us with umbrella”, he said.

The governor enjoined the people of the state to keep faith with him as he is convinced along with his team that the state can be great again if everyone works together citing that much achievements have been made before and that greater ones are still possible in the years to come.

“Our team is convinced about this and have faith in our people as they have us remain unshaken.”

“We have made remarkable improvement in security, job creations among others and we are certain to do more in the coming years.”

“I salute all Edo people at home and abroad as well as our friends from other cities but certainly that a better Edo State is possible if we are allowed to lead and not the godfathers to lead.”

“I employ you to keep faith and to inform you of the tasks ahead.” 

https://www.inform.ng/post/i-almost-withdrew-from-edo-governorship-race-obaseki

Anuoluwa1234:
What am trying to tell him is that, he can't compare girls to eachother, etc.. if he doesn't like a trait in her, he shud feel free to discuss it, if he keeps testing, he might remain lonely throughout.
I HV checked his profile, I know what it means, that is why I told him that.
The girl might love him, but if he didn't like her, let her go. Stop testing etc.
Not all girl are that matured emotionally, mentally etc.. I know what am saying

The girl did nothing wrong

[s]

Danielfx:
No doubt I had doubt if her love was genuine. I have asked myself just how to get the truth out of her head. She came with tales of love, always making me feel like a king. Yes, she told me she thinks about me every seconds and how scared she becomes thinking of losing me.

This relationship started barely a month ago. We started as friends and eventually she became my girl. She was intrigued with tales of my ex and how hopelessly i drowned in love with my ex, how my ex gave me the shove of my life and how i wanted someone to change my obsession.

Then she came, she acted well but the connection just wasn't there but i had to play along and for the first time in my life, i felt what responsibility is, all her expenses became mine and she barely said no to anything i thrilled her to (do you want ice cream ? Yes... Do you want apple ? Yes..).

I became worried because she was a liability, always taking and never giving. She couldn't advise me in the simplest of assumed situations and making love to her doesn't excite me that much because i barely feel the thrust during sex... She lacked bedmathics and financial management. So, obviously she offered nothing.

So I called my friend and confidante to advise me about her, Afterall i was becoming unhappy each passing day with her. He told me to test her, "simply refrain from giving her a dime for now...."

I went to her place and after our usual boring moments i left without giving her money (I usually give her money). I arrived home and settled down to reminisce about the day, just then i realised she didn't call me. Oh no, she always put the call first so what could have been wrong. I texted her, thanking her for the moment we spent talking that evening and finally she called. We spoke for few minutes and bamn, she told me she wants to get busy with her chores, okay. The minute went bye, an hour, 24 hours, a day and few hours and still no call...

[/s]
My brother, you should stop being petty. Sharing with your woman should be done out of love and care towards her and not used to test her loyalty. In fact, I see no test that she failed, only your immature mind is making you feel like she failed test simply because she didn't call you

You accuse her of always saying yes to your offer, I wonder whether you expect her to say no for something you WILLINGLY offered her without her prompting.

Why should i put the call Afterall, i offered her what most guys wouldn't and the only and one thing she had to do is call me to atleast say "Danielfx i miss you...."

Well, i learnt a funny lesson. She ain't loyal....

It's very obvious that what you bring to the table is only money.

This is embarrassing

The newly inaugurated Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, has pledged to restore sanity and ensure justice for all members of the party.


He also said that the National Leader of the APC Mr. Bola Tinubu is not happy with the current situation under which the party is operating.

Buni, who is also the governor of Yobe, made the pledge when he fielded questions from State House correspondents in Abuja on Thursday.

He said: “As a former two-term National Secretary of the APC, I know the party very well and it is all about doing justice to every member of the party because without justice there wouldn’t be peace.

“It is all about team play, I am a team player and I have a capable team that can work with me and if you don’t manage crisis, obviously crisis will manage you. so, I won’t allow any crisis to fester henceforth.”

Buni also dismissed insinuations in some quarters that the emergency NEC was summoned to whittle down the influence of the party’s stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

“Bola Tinubu is one of our leaders and a founding father of this party, I want to say nobody is happy with the current situation under which the party is operating and we are all working together to rescue the party.

“So, this decision was taken by NEC to address some of the issues, so nobody is targeted and it is against nobody.

“Tinubu is a founding father of this party and one of our leaders. That is all I can say for now,’’ he added.

https://www.inform.ng/post/tinubu-is-one-of-the-leaders-in-apc-gov-buni

Some Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West have accused Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of a surreptitious move to replace the party’s National Chairman, Uche Secondus, with Chief Bode George.

They said the plot was capable of causing a crisis in the region because the party leaders in the South-West did not support the move.

The party chairmen, Deji Doherty (Lagos), Clement Faboyede (Ondo), Dr. Sikirulai Olawale Ogundele (Ogun) and Sunday Akanfe (Osun), had in a letter to the national chairman also accused Makinde of propelling the current Caretaker Chairman of Ekiti State, Hosea Agboola, to become the national vice chairman of the party.

The chairmen, in the letter dated June 19, 2020, also frowned at the last Friday’s meeting of the South-West stakeholders of the party in Ibadan, Oyo State, noting that the meeting was unilaterally summoned by Makinde with no recourse whatsoever to the zonal executive of the party.

The letter reads in part: “We the undersigned are party chairmen in states of the South-West Zone and we feel duty-bound to alert you on the need to forestall the festering of any crisis in the South-West zone of the party.

“This action becomes necessary in view of the new schism rearing its head in our zone. It is our immediate concern to ensure that all hands are on deck to halt the growth of needless crisis that will negatively affect the health of our party in the South-West Zone.

“In this respect, we take due notice of the invitation to a purported South-West Zone meeting which held on Friday, June 19, 2020, unilaterally summoned by His Excellency, Oluseyi Makinde, with no recourse whatsoever to the zonal executive. This development, if not arrested, may signal the beginning of terrible developments in our zone.

We are also aware that factors propelling the simmering crisis included that of Chief Olabode to become National Chairman at all cost and also that of Senator Hosea Agboola, the current caretaker chairman of Ekiti State to become national vice-chairman.

“These two men are exploring their closeness to the governor to prosecute inordinate ambition at the expense of the existing amity and understanding within the South-West Zone, which is currently being disrupted for this reason.”

“We urge the National Working Committee (NWC) to take immediate action geared at forestalling unnecessary crisis in our zone by calling the aforementioned men to order and educate them on the need to play by the rules and not create any trouble in the zone.

“We also wish to place it on record our confidence in the zonal caretaker committee to discharge its constitutional responsibilities exquisitely and will always support them in this regard.

“Our interest is majorly to ensure that our party is insulated from any unnecessary crisis and therefore urge the governor to take immediate actions in this respect.”



https://www.inform.ng/post/southwest-pdp-chairmen-accuse-makinde-of-plot-to-hijack-pdp

The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt on Wednesday morning granted a three-hour stand down for parties to explore an a micable out-of-court settlement in the suit seeking to bar Governor Godwin Obaseki from contesting in the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship primary scheduled for Thursday.

Justice E.O. Obile granted the stand down following an oral application by the plaintiff’s lawyer, Mr Ferdinand Orbih (SAN).

The counsel for the respondents -Emmanuel Enoidem, Higher King, Alex Ejesiema, and M. E. Ani – did not object to the prayer for a stand down to allow parties to talk.


Justice Obile ordered the parties to within three hours discuss and document their terms of settlement.

He said the case would be recalled at 12.30pm for the parties to brief the court on the outcome of their discussion.


The Judge said the case would be recalled at adjourned the matter till 12.30pm for contraction of hearing and possible decision on the matter.


https://www.inform.ng/post/edo-2020-court-stand-down-ihama-suit-against-obaseki-to-reconvene-by-1230pm

My dear people of Edo State, and members of the PDP in particular.

By now most of you are aware of the court injunction I instituted against our nomination processes. As painful as it is that i had to do that, I feel it is the quickest and most necessary thing to do at this time to save our party from an impending disaster.

Let me state again that I remain a very loyal and committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). I have been through thick and thin with the party and have labored with many others to build the vibrant, peaceful and stable structure we had before the events of the recent days.

Politics has never been a do-or-die affair for me. I represent a generation that is passionate about its destiny and seeks to grow and thrive in an environment where things are done rightly and people can hope, expecting anticipated results of their efforts.

Before I embarked on this project to serve our state in executive capacity over a year ago, I consulted extensively with leaders within and outside our party, and with the assurances and promise of support I got, we embarked on the tedious and demanding process of reaching out and building relationships and alliances with our members across the 18 local Governments of the state. This year-long exercise culminated with another ‘meet-the-delegates tour’ across the state last week, after which we came back to prepare for primaries. Suddenly the brewing plan by certain ‘leaders’ in our party who for certain reasons had decided they were going to stop my ambition by all means, shockingly materialized with their 'bringing' the Governor into the party on the same day we were to have primaries they had influenced to be postponed.

I have spent quite some time in politics and I understand that due to its dynamism, sudden strategic calculations may necessitate re-alignments and the need to make sacrifices. Such a situation is not one I would reject. What I found difficult to understand was the brazen manner in which a process that was a few hours to completion could be bastardized, established rules and due process turned on its head, hard-work and efforts treated so inconsequentially, and key stakeholders treated so shabbily and disrespectfully, all in the bid to enthrone what had all the clothings of illegality. No dedicated member of the PDP deserves to be treated that way.

Even with such travesty and injustice, my loyalty to the party was my first consideration and I expected that necessary actions would be taken to manage an already ugly situation. If anything changed, the least that was expected was that a meeting would be called where issues could be tabled and discussed, especially pertaining to the internal and external dangers related to the process that brought in the governor. Nothing of such was done. (That a man marries a new wife does not mean the old one must be sent packing ingloriously, forgetting that she contributed to the beauty the new wife saw in the man in the first place).

My action is not an affront to the party or its leadership as some people may decide to interpret it, but rather a last attempt to save the party from making a major blunder that could lead to series of lawsuits with a possibility of disqualification of the party from participating in the September 2020 Edo Governorship Elections.

I state unequivocally that I was very happy to welcome our governor His Excellency Godwin Obaseki into the party. PDP remains a progressive umbrella that is open to everyone that can add value to our common goal, and I believe our governor offers such value.

What this injunction is about is the flawed process that has been adopted to put the governor on the ballot for the primaries. A dispassionate and critical look at the process adopted to allow him participate in the primaries will show that probably as a result of the rush to make it happen, a couple of illegalities may have been made which could create legal loopholes for our opponents or aggrieved parties to exploit. It is expected that we learn lessons from the situation in the last elections with the opposing party in Zamfara and Rivers States.

Sentiments must never override due-process, justice, equity and legality. Established rules should not be twisted or broken at the whims and caprices of anyone who feels like it, for whatever reason. No serious system will thrive in such practices.

It will be a shame and most painful to a lot of us and the Edo people in general if the PDP goes ahead with the primaries coated with irregularities just to have the whole process cancelled at a later date through legal action. That, I believe will be a major setback and greatly demoralizing for our dear party and those passionate about it.

My decision to take this stand is because it seems nobody is paying attention to this very important situation. Let it be clear that my action is actually me putting the interest of the party above all other considerations. I have never played desperate politics. I have won elections, and I have lost election. In all I have accepted the legitimate outcomes and looked to the future. If we will change our society for the future, we must get our politics right by entrenching a process that is decent, fair, follows due process and respects the rights of individuals to achieve whatever visions they chose to pursue. While this has led to all forms of aspersions on my person, (the first of such magnitude since I joined politics in 1999), I have chosen to see my present actions as my contribution to making that happen for my generation and those coming after us who would desire to participate in governance.

A well conducted process will produce a candidate. Whoever that candidate is will have my full support as has been my antecedent in the party; but as I have always promoted, let the right process be followed. We must do what is necessary to protect the stable Edo PDP we have worked tirelessly for, this last couple of years.

I ask that you all disregard the various falsehoods being spread around by these ‘strange’ characters about my actions being sponsored by forces to frustrate the governor, or that this is for pecuniary gain. Such things have never deserved my attention or response. As I have always said, such crude and unrefined politics remain beneath me.

Let me state that these views I have expressed are not mine alone, but also of many of our teeming members and supporters who are saddened and demoralised by this unfortunate situation.

I apologise to all my leaders who I continue to hold in high esteem, supporters and party faithfuls who feel unhappy and surprised at this action I have taken. For me, it is a matter that borders on deep morals, unwavering principles, and strong character, which have formed the cornerstones of my existence.

Finally, I want to express my deep and profound gratitude to the very respected elders across our state who have reached out to me to intervene in this matter. I have listened and I am still listening.

God bless out great party PDP. God bless our dear Edo State. God bless us all.

Rt. Hon (Engr.) Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama .

https://www.inform.ng/post/edo-pdp-aspirant-speaks-on-his-grouse-with-obaseki-pdp

Bromide of the Giadom’s letter convening the NEC meeting

The crisis rocking the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC , took another dimension yesterday when factional chairman, Mr. Victor Giadom, said he has scheduled a National Executive Committee of the Party to hold at the Aso Rock Villa. The meeting is slated for Thursday at 10.00am.

Since the suspension of Adams Oshiomole by court of appeal on June 16, Giadom and members of the party's National Working Committee have been locked over the control of the party's leadership
https://www.inform.ng/post/apc-crises-giadom-calls-for-nec-meeting

GOVERNOR WIKE PULLS OUT OF EDO PDP RECONCILIATION.

* Says some members of PDP NWC are tax collectors

* To sue ThisDay Newspapers

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has pulled out of the reconciliation efforts of the Edo State Chapter of the People's Democratic Party(PDP).

He told newsmen in Port Harcourt today that some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP are sycophants and tax collectors who will never tell the truth.

According to him, instead of the NWC to carry everybody along in Edo state, they resorted to using the media to blackmail him.

"I told them that in Edo State, we must handle the issue carefully and carry everybody along. They must respect human beings and not behave like tax collectors.

"They said because an order was obtained from a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, then I am responsible.

"I have had sleepless nights to resolve the issue in Edo state. The Governors of Edo, Adamawa, and Delta states, know what I have done to resolve the issues in Edo state.

"As a result of this senseless accusation, I have pulled out of Edo State settlement. My integrity matters. I have also directed my lawyer to write ThisDay Newspaper on the publication they made against me in their Tuesday,23rd June, 2020 edition.

"I know the members of the National Working Committee of PDP who connived with ThisDay. They are tax collectors. Let them challenge me and I will come out with more facts.
"Nobody will rubbish me by raising false accusations against me. I will fight back", he stated.

Governor Wike said he would no longer participate in any reconciliation and wondered why the NWC now wants to consult Governors of the party.

He questioned why the NWC did not consult with Governors in the case of Bayelsa State.

The governor warned that if PDP is not careful, the crisis in the All Progressive Congress (APC) would be a child's play.
"I am brought up not to accept injustice, and that is why I keep speaking out on national issues. Nobody in PDP can intimidate Rivers State.

"Nobody can threaten me because I said things must be done constitutionally. I will always continue to satisfy my conscience.

"From now on, I want to concentrate on the development of Rivers State", he added.

Paulinus Nsirim
Commissioner for Information and Communications

June 23, 2020


Picture: Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike pointing to the Thisday publication


https://www.inform.ng/post/governor-wike-pulls-out-of-edo-pdp-reconciliation

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki will on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 know his fate whether he would participate in the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party primaries or not.

A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt had on Monday restrained Governor Godwin Obaseki from participating in the PDP gubernatorial primary.

The suit was instituted by an aspirant, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihiama, asking the court to stop the governor who just defected to the party from participating in the shadow election.

Justice E.A Obile is expected to deliver ruling after hearing the matter on Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s primary of the PDP.

In the meantime, sources say Ogbeide-Ihama is being pushed by a prominent South-South Governor and a PDP Leader in Edo who wants a hold on the PDP structure of the state.

The Governor, fears that the Edo PDP structure will be lost to Obaseki who will become the leader of the party if returned as Edo State Governor come September.

The Edo State PDP primary Committee led by the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed are not parties in the matter, indicating that the process may run without Governor Obaseki.

https://www.inform.ng/post/edo-pdp-primary-obaseki-to-know-fate-tomorrow

A Nigerian man simply identified as Femi, stabbed his wife to death, and thereafter committed suicide in their home in Victory Park estate in Lagos state on Sunday, June 21.

According to residents of the estate, the couple moved into the estate three weeks ago with their two young children. Not much was known about the couple but just a day before the murder-suicide, they were spotted jogging together on Saturday night June 20. 

However, on Sunday, the man who is said to have always questioned the paternity of their second child, stabbed his wife to death, and then took his own life.




A neighbor who spoke on condition of anonymity, said 

On Sunday afternoon, neighbors close to the couple's apartment heard loud music emanating from their home and this lasted for many hours. 

The neighbors went to the estate office to complain about the loud music and insisted the estate officials go there and caution the couple.

The estate authorities went to the couple's compound to appeal to them to turn down the volume of the music coming from their apartment.

They however met with the wife's sister who was downstairs with the couple's children. The sister immediately went upstairs so she can inform her sister and the husband about the complaint laid by the estate authorities. She knocked several times but got no response.

After waiting for so long, the sister and the estate officials decided to pull the door down. They were greeted by a horrific sight.

Apparently, the man had killed his wife. It is believed it was pre-meditated because when they got into the room, they saw different kinds of knives there. The woman's legs and hands were bound and her mouth shut with a cellotape. The husband used a clipper to shave her hair, stabbed her head, her eyes, stabbed her multiple times with different knives. 

The scene was nothing short of a horror movie.

After stabbing his wife to death, the man committed suicide by drinking sniper''

Spokesperson of the state police command, Bala Elkana who confirmed the incident, said

It is true. Homicide detectives have sealed up the place. They have commenced investigation. The corpse of the man and the woman have been moved to the hospital for an autopsy. 

Two kitchen knives were found there and two bottles of Sniper. The woman had injuries from stabbing while foams were coming out of the man's mouth who is suspected to have taken those Snipers.

Investigation is ongoing''

https://www.inform.ng/post/marital-infidelity-husband-stabs-wife-to-death-commits-suicide-in-lekki

Busted: ‘North will not cede power to South in 2023’

…accuses APC chieftains in the S/East of abandoning Kalu

…thanks Northern elders for support Kalu when he was in prison


The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, has reiterated that the North still wanted the presidency in 2023 and would not cede power to the South.

President of the AYCF, Shettima Yerima, said in an interview on Tuesday that it irritates the entire North for some southern politicians to think Northerners will leave power for them in 2023.

“How can you think we will cede power to the South in 2023? The North still want the presidency. The south is in charge of the economy and they have everything, so why would they want to take away the only thing we have.

“What would you call that? Even if we are ceding power to the south in 2023, we should be considering people like Orji Uzor Kalu. He is someone the north trusts and the Northern elders will give him their full support. Most Nigerians don’t know that Kalu’s incarceration emanated from conspiracy and betrayal from his own party, the APC,” he said.

Yerima accused Ohanaeze and some chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, APC, of conspiracy during the travails of Senator Kalu Orji Kalu and thanked the Northern elders for standing behind the former Governor of Abia state and Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu during his six months incarceration at Kuje custodial centre.

He accused the leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) from the south of conspiring against Kalu because of 2023 presidential ambitions.

He also slammed the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo and its leadership for keeping silent during the entire period of Kalu’s travails

He cautioned the North over the dangers of abandoning the former Governor in custody, adding that Northern elders must be commended for “standing firm for Kalu” who he referred to as their “long time ally, brother and friend.”

“We specifically thank Chairman of Northern Elders Forum, Prof. Ango Abdullahi, for proving critics wrong on the North’s stand on Kalu,” he said.

Yerima also thanked the Supreme Court and Justice Muhammad Liman of the Federal High Court for standing on the path of justice.

“It is very important to appreciate the justices of the Supreme Court and Justice Liman of the Federal High Court for their moral and professional courage to uphold justice. Kalu’s release is a victory for decency, for patriotism and respect for the rule of law. They once again proved that Judiciary is the survival of democracy”.

“However, we question the usefulness of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to Igbo elite. It is a disappointment that Ohanaeze under the leadership of Nwodo specifically did nothing to support their own, yet they want a Nigerian president of Igbo extraction.”

“Please where will this president come from? Kalu is one of their biggest assets but they all kept quiet. It’s only the Ohanaeze youths that spoke strongly for Kalu but Nwodo and his members shied away from the real leadership they ought to render. Who knows if they were also paid to betray their own? It’s very shameful of them”.

“It irritates the entire North for some southern politicians to think they will leave power for them (South) come 2023. How can you think we will cede power to the South in 2023?” He queried the journalists. “The North still wants the presidency. The south is in charge of the economy and they have everything, so why would they want to take away the only thing we have."

“Some leaders of the party from the south who have become desperate about 2023 presidency wanted to kick Kalu out of the race through Machiavellian way. They don’t like open competition. I was surprised they have no love. They are full of hatred and they want to be President. The amount of hatred in that party is so much. What’s exactly Kalu’s offence? 2023? Look at what is also happening in Edo state. It’s a pity”

“I remember when Kalu as a governor initiated the idea of publishing the state accounts on the print media. That showed a lot. I think the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, should have a rethink on Kalu’s case. The resources they have wasted on pursuing the case for the past 13 years. Is it worth it?

“My advice is that they should sheathe their swords and let Kalu be. They should not allow some desperate politicians to dictate to them what they should do,” he said.

https://www.inform.ng/post/north-will-produce-buhari-successor-in-2023-arewa-youth-president

Barring last minute reprieve, Ibrahim Magu, acting Chair­man, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), may not only be on his way out of office, but also may be looking towards days of accounting for alleged infrac­tions preferred against him by Abubakar Malami, the Attor­ney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice.

Impeccable presidency sources said on Friday that President Muhammadu Bu­hari had given Malami approv­al to investigate and prosecute Magu following his memo­randum, where he itemised 22 weighty allegations against the EFCC chairman, who has occupied the office for nearly five years in acting capacity.



The sources said the EFCC chairman will temporarily hand over the anti-graft agency to the next most senior person, Mohammed Umar Abba, Direc­tor of Operations of the agency.

Malami had also included a short list of three candidates for consideration to replace Magu. Our sources said FCT Commis­sioner of Police, Bala Ciroma, may ultimately replace him, be­ing the most favoured among the three names Malami sub­mitted to the president.

One of the sources said the president wanted the panel to investigate the authenticity of the property and proxy alle­gations against Magu, noting that “because of the weight of the allegations, and the kind of person managing the EFCC, the president wouldn’t want to take any decision in a hurry. So he made sure a crack team is assembled to look into the matter holistically.”

According to him, Ayo Sala­mi, former President of Court of Appeal, is heading the panel with the offices of National Se­curity Adviser (NSA); Director General, Department of State Services (DSS); Director Gen­eral, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Police, and Attorney General of the Fed­eration as members.

According to the source, the panel has two weeks to submit its report to the president, but had already done a week.

Malami, had in his mem­orandum to the president, made allegations bordering on financial malfeasances in failure to declare actual mon­ey recovered from looters. He also accused Magu of gross in­subordination, refusing direc­tives from the commission’s supervisory ministry; and as a result, the Federal Govern­ment has come under severe attack and embarrassment on account of odium stemming from poorly pursued investiga­tions. The AGF’s memo made strong innuendos purporting that Magu has made himself a willing tool in the hands of politicians thereby reducing the sterling reputation EFCC once enjoyed.

Sources at the presidency insisted on Friday that Buhari has indeed signed off on the memo only awaiting imple­mentation.

“By the recommendation, Magu should be eased out of office, and prosecuted on the strength of the allegations made against him,” explained a presidency source to the newspaper, who said the presi­dent was livid after reading the memo.

Adding further, the sources said that had the matter rest­ed squarely on just Malami’s memo, maybe a form of re­prieve could have been worked out for the commission’s chair­man.

“Malami was extensively debriefed on the matter. Securi­ty agencies were also involved in the matter and they all came back with damning verdicts,” the source added.

So far, the presidency has refused to say much on the matter.

In a text message response by Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity to the President, Mallam Garba She­hu, asking for confirmation on whether Magu will be eased out, the presidential spokes­man simply said, “I don’t know the answer to your question.”

Several attempts at reaching Dele Oyewale, Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, yielded no re­sult as his phones continued ringing without the calls being picked up. However, another source within the commission told the newspaper that there cannot be any official response from EFCC unless matters are directed at them.

But as also learnt, Magu is said not to be leaving anything to chance. It was learnt that some of his backers with link at the Presidential Villa have been putting in words for the embattled anti-graft’s czar, tell­ing Mr. President that Magu is being hounded by corrupt politicians.

One of the result of the alleged brokering resulted in Magu being seen at the Aso Rock mosque where he ob­served the Jumat with Presi­dent Buhari.

As learnt, the EFCC boss was there to have an audience with the president.

It was, however, unclear if the mission succeeded as at the time of filing this report.

It would be recalled that in 2016, the Senate declined to confirm Magu’s appointment as EFCC chairman, citing a Department of State Services (DSS) report, which revealed unsavory activities. Despite the Senate’s rejection of Magu, President Buhari re-nominat­ed him, but the Senate again rejected him.

https://www.inform.ng/post/buhari-to-fire-magu-sets-up-committee-to-probe-him

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic party (PDP) has granted waiver to Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki to contest the Edo governorship election primary.

The action of the NWC is pursuant to Section 29(2)(b) of the PDP constitution and in exercise of the powers of the National Executive Committee (NEC) under Section (50)(3)(b) of the PDP constitution.

The NWC in exercise of the above powers has ratified the application for waiver by the ward, local government and state executives of the party in Edo state and accordingly grants waiver to His Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki to enable him contest the gubernatorial primary of the PDP.

Also the NWC has further shifted the Edo state governorship primary from an earlier slated date of Tuesday, June 23 to a new date of Thursday June 25, 2020.

The shift is again predicated on exigencies of party activities.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

https://www.inform.ng/post/edo-guber-pdp-grants-waiver-to-obaseki-shifts-edo-primary-to-june-25

PRESS RELEASE:


CALL FOR THE IMMEDIATE QUARANTINE OF GOVERNOR GODWIN OBASEKI AND ALL PRESENT AT HIS DEFECTION RALLY OVER VIOLATION OF SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES AND OTHER HEALTH GUIDELINES


Governor Godwin Obaseki exercised his right of assembly to join a political party by completing his defection to the PDP today.


While we note interestingly that this is the same right the Governor, in his usual autocracy and abuse of power, tried to deny Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu last year when he returned to the All Progressives Congress through the sponsorship of physical and media attacks, and the institution of baseless court cases, we, as democrats and staunch believer in the rule of law, unlike Godwin Obaseki, hold nothing against it.




However, we observed with great concern the dangerous and reckless actions of the Governor and his supporters at the venue of his defection. Without any observance of the social distancing rules, or the use of face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Mr. Godwin Obaseki assembled hundreds of Edo youths that his administration failed to gainfully engage following his failure to create 200,000 jobs as promised, and assigned them the demeaning task of singing his praises at great risk to their health during a pandemic.




Apart from violating the guidelines of the Presidential Task-Force on COVID-19 on social gathering, Mr. Godwin Obaseki also openly disregarded the stipulations of his ill-conceived gazette which, among other things, held that no gathering of more than 20 persons shall take place in a single location.




Consequently, to protect the people of the State and ensure that the work of the Federal Government in curbing the spread of the viral disease is not undone by the irresponsibility of a vain Governor who prioritizes politics over public health and human lives, we call on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to aid the Nigeria Center for Disease Control in the commencement of an immediate identification, tracing, and arrest of everyone present at the event for immediate quarantine at nearby isolation centers.




Failure to do this may put in jeopardy the integrity of the fight against COVID-19 and make a mockery of the efforts and sacrifice of frontline health workers and other important stakeholders.


Signed:


John Mayaki
Director of Communication and Media, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu Campaign Organisation

https://www.inform.ng/post/pastor-ize-iyamu-slams-obaseki-for-flouting-his-executive-order

Edo state Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, this afternoon stormed the Secretariat of Edo state chapter of Peoples Democratic Party ahead of his formal declaration into the party.

The Governor who stormed the Secretariat alongside his supporters, is expected to formally join the race for the nomination of PDP candidate for Edo state governorship poll.

He was received into the party by Mr Anthony Azegbemi, the PDP Chairman in Edo state.

Details later








https://www.inform.ng/post/its-official-obaseki-joins-pdp

The Ondo State Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, on Thursday denied a report that he and his supporters were jubilating over the Appeal Court’s verdict affirming the suspension of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Mr Adams Oshiomhole.



The governor, who spoke through the state Commissioner for Information, Mr Donald Ojogo, described a report that he welcomed the plight of Oshiomhole as untrue and mischievous.

The governor said he could not be happy if the party was engulfed in a crisis let alone jubilating over the judgment against the national chairman of the party.

He said, “The level of concern may vary but as leaders and members of APC in Ondo State, we were greatly concerned not because of any personal reason but because we felt that the party didn’t need whatever intrigues that may shake the table at this point in time.

“So, like every other member of the party nationwide, we were all concerned. Mr Governor is the leader of the party and as such, he will be so much disturbed if there are crises in the party.”

https://www.inform.ng/post/akeredolu-denies-celebrating-oshiomole-ouster

Obaseki 4 Governor

As the crisis in the All Progressives Congress deepens, youths from Edo State on Wednesday stormed the National Headquarters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemning what they described as a political godfatherism battle in Edo State.

They also purchased the expression of interest and nomination forms for the embattled governor of the State, Godwin Obaseki.

Leader of the group, Mr. Smith Osazele Akaya explained that the governor has done well in the last four years, saying that the attempt by Adams Oshiomole to return godfatherism into Edo politics was a bad omen at this time.

He said they have consulted widely before opting for ADC.

“We know what the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) represents and we are optimistic that Godwin Obaseki will win the governorship election on this platform.

The Special Assistant to the National Chairman of ADC, Mr. Nzekwesi Samuel Emema who addressed the youths on behalf of his principal, said they have made the right choices.

According to him, the ADC is a party whose ownership is the people, hence, the decision for anything lies with the people.

https://www.inform.ng/post/edo-2020-youth-obtain-adc-nomination-for-obaseki

The Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday ordered that the meeting of the National Executive Council of the All Progressives Congress scheduled for next week Tuesday must not go on except a former Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi; Waziri Bulama and Paul Chukwuma were allowed to attend.

The court, in a ruling by Justice Mohammed Liman, restrained the APC and its officials from “disturbing, preventing or obstructing Waziri Bulama, Abiola Ajimobi, and Paul Chukwuma from carrying out their duties as acting National Secretary, acting National Deputy Chairman (South) and acting National Auditor of the APC, respectively”.


Justice Liman’s orders followed an ex parte application filed by the Lagos State Chairman of the APC, Tunde Balogun, which was argued by his lawyer, Gani Bello.

Balogun, in the application, prayed the court to compel the APC to recognise Bulama as the party’s acting National Secretary; Ajimobi, as the acting National Deputy Chairman (South); and Chukwuma, as the acting National Auditor of the party.

He told the court that after the three offices became vacant and were zoned to different geopolitical zones, Bulama was nominated by the North-East; Ajimobi, by the South-West; and Chukwuma, by the South-East.

Balogun said the nomination of Bulama was ratified at the meeting of the APC National Working Committee held on January 14, 2020; while those of Ajimobi and Chukwuma were ratified at the NWC meeting of March 4, 2020.

“By virtue of the ratification stated above, the nominees have become members of the National Executive Council and are entitled by the constitution of the defendant (APC) to work and operate in acting capacities in their respective offices pending their swearing-in at the National Convention of the party.

“In spite of the foregoing, the defendant (APC), acting through its officials and officers, particularly, the Deputy National Secretary, has not allowed the nominees to perform their duties as members of the National Executive Council,” Balogun said.

He told the court that the APC National Executive Council could not effectively operate unless Bulama, Ajimobi, and Chukwuma were allowed to perform their duties.

Balogun prayed the court to compel the APC to recognise them.

After listening to the applicant’s lawyer, Justice Liman granted the prayers and adjourned till March 25, 2020, to take the Motion on Notice

https://www.inform.ng/post/flash-back-court-orders-apc-to-allow-ajimobi-perform-duties-as-deputy-national-chairman