The last is yet to be heard on the rift between the House of Representatives and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as the House in its response to allegations levelled against it by the Commission accused the latter of ploy to deceive Nigerians about its financial improprieties.

The House in a rebuttal issued on Monday by its spokesman, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, noted that, contrary to claims by the NDDC that it delayed and padded the Commission's 2019 budget, it only compelled the Commission "to do the needful and render account to the Nigerian people."

The Executive Director, Projects and member of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, in an interview on Arise Television, had alleged that the House delayed passage of the Commission's budget and also "vandalized and raped” the budget by adding ₦85bn Naira.

The House observed that the spurious and defamatory claims by Dr. Ojougboh were engineered to cast aspersions on its integrity and credibility, adding that the 9th House cannot speak to the activities of previous assemblies.

Read House of Representatives Full Rebuttal:

RE: DEFAMATORY STATEMENTS BY DR. OJOUGBOH, NDDC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The attention of the House has been drawn to certain statements by Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, Executive Director, Projects and member of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (“NDDC” or the “Commission”), in what can only be described as an unhinged television interview on Arise News. The House of Representatives understands that the spurious and defamatory claims made in that interview by Dr. Ojougboh were engineered to cast aspersions on its integrity and credibility. Therefore, while we cannot speak to the activities of the previous assemblies, it has become imperative for the 9th and present House of Representatives to issue the following rebuttal.

BUDGET DELAY
The claims by Dr. Ojougboh that the House of Representatives delayed passage of the 2019 NDDC budget are simply untrue and indicate a concerning ineptitude, ignorance and/or deliberate mischief by the Executive Director to deceive Nigerians about the financial improprieties of the Commission. When in reality, it has been the House pushing the Commission to do the needful and render account to the Nigerian people.

Section 18(1) of the NDDC (Establishment) Act mandates the Commission to, not later than 30 September in each year, submit to the National Assembly its budget estimates for the following year. The House recalls that for more than 13 months after the time required by law, the Commission deliberately failed to submit its 2019 budget to the National Assembly for approval, choosing instead to engage in illegal and unauthorized spending to the tune of billions of naira. It took the intervention of the House, following a motion moved by Rep. Benjamin O. Kalu on November 26, 2019, to compel the Commission to present its 2019 budget. The House further recalls that on December 10, 2019, the date fixed for the budget defence, the Commission failed to appear with its 2018 budget performance report, a document critical to assessing its previous expenditures and approving its 2019 budget; as a result of which, the budget defence had to be stepped down. The Commission was only able to return with their budget performance report on February 5th, 2020 following which the House passed the 2019 budget 3 weeks after (February 27th, 2020).

The House states that the negligence and/or deliberate mischief of the Commission has also frustrated all efforts by the National Assembly to expeditiously approve the Commission’s 2020 budget. We recall that on April 28 and May 12, 2020, the National Assembly sent joint reminders to the Commission requesting copies of the 2019 budget performance report to enable it consider the Commission’s 2020 budget. Unfortunately, in a reply dated May 13, 2020, the Commission cited the COVID-19 pandemic as excuse for their failure to provide their 2019 performance report. This is curiously ironic considering that despite the pandemic, they have been able to access their offices to spend monies, handle sharing of palliatives, make payments in billions of Naira and undertake transfers, promotions and suspensions of public officers, etc. Therefore, till date, the Commission has refused to render an account of their 2019 budget expenditures to Nigerians.

BUDGET PADDING
Dr. Ojougboh’s claims that the House of Representatives “vandalized and raped” the 2019 budget by adding ₦85bn Naira are not only false, but paint a rather disturbing image of the Executive Director’s emotional state as well as his relationship with facts and reality.

Contrary to the allegations of padding, the House recalls instead, that it was forced to cut down the budget estimates from ₦409bn to ₦345bn when it was discovered that the Commission’s projected expenditures were unrealistic, having exceeded their revenue source by ₦63bn.

The House is also concerned by Dr. Ojougboh’s grave allegations attempting to indict President Muhammadu Buhari of influencing the 2019 NDDC budget by inserting the so called “President’s regional projects”. While we have a duty to remove any suspicious items identified in the budget, it must be stated that the House is not aware of any line items in the 2019 budget estimates bearing the name or indicating the personal interests of the President.

FORENSIC AUDIT
The insinuations by Dr. Ojougboh that the House of Representatives is against the ongoing forensic audit of the Commission are untrue and misleading. The House has always expressed its total support for the forensic audit ordered by the President.
This is further evidenced by the fact that it was the House at Committee level which added a provision for the forensic audit in the 2019 budget after discovering that the Commission’s original budget estimates failed to include a line for the forensic audit.

Echoing the sentiments of Nigerians, our only concern is as to the propriety of the appointment or supervision of the forensic auditors and also to ensure that any auditing process is done in accordance with the Constitution. The House insists that a supervision of the auditing process by the IMC or any other subjects of the audit, defeats the cardinal principle of natural justice, nemo judex in causa sua (no-one is judge in his own cause) and undermines the integrity of the investigation.

As the People’s parliament, the 9th House of Representatives remains committed to exposing corruption, inefficiency or waste in any aspect of the government. We state that our support for the forensic audit does not in any way silence or preclude our oversight mandate in Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) (as altered) as both arms of government must continue to work according to the principles of the doctrine of separation of power. It is an exercise of the system of checks and balance and not a duplicity of effort. Therefore, the House will continue independent investigations in order to be equipped with information in anticipation of the outcome of the forensic audit.


Signed
Rep. Benjamin O. Kalu
Spokesperson, House of Representatives

By Yemi Itodo

As National Assembly set to interrogate the management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) over a N40bn contract scam; the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has called for non interference by the legislators.

The Senate had on Tuesday, set up an adhoc committee, following a motion by Senator George Sekibo (Rivers East), to investigate how the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the NDDC allegedly squandered N40 billion within three months.

The move has been criticised by many stakeholders, including youth bodies in Niger Delta, who felt the action of the National Assembly was targeted at interfering with the ongoing forensic audit at the NDDC, under the leadership of the overseeing Minister, Goodwill Akpabio.

A statement signed by its National President, Comrade Danielson Akpan on Friday, the NANS called on the National Assembly not to be "a clog in the wheel of progress of the Niger Delta".

The body expressed deep concerned that, "under the admirable leadership of the Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan and the Speaker of the 9th Assembly, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the NDDC is again targeted for cheap blackmail".

The Union admonished the leadership of National Assembly not to allow itself be seen as the enemies of the Niger Delta People "or working at cross purposes with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari".

"It will be out of place that, instead of offering to the good people of the region support to achieve the same goals with President Muhammadu Buhari, who mustered the political will to order the evaluation of the impact of the NDDC on the lives of the average Niger Deltan via a forensic audit, the same which has received support from Governors of the region and Nigerians, the National Assembly is giving its hallowed chambers to people who are out to frustrate the forensic audit of the Commission which has commenced in earnest.

"The Leadership of NANS wishes to call on the National Assembly to reign in its covetous members suddenly turn alarmist. It has become needful in the midst of this pandemic to call on Hon. Akpatason, Sen. Peter Nwaboshi and Senator Sekibo, to concentrate on making laws that will uplift the living standard of the Niger Delta people, rather than engage in smear campaign and mudslinging of the Interim Management Committee and the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

"We are frustrated that just when there appears a glimmer of hope that the Commission would bring about sustainable development of the Niger Delta region, the National Assembly has constituted itself as a clog in the wheel of progress. When would development get to the creeks, the people, our siblings, students, poor, teachers, community, when would infrastructure be available for use by the residents of Niger Delta . We are tired of unending probe that only seeks to arm twist the management of the NDDC and probably make them to dish out more contracts to the Honourables and Distinguished which would end up not being executed but fully paid for as recently revealed.

"President Buhari has set the pace with IMC and Forensic Audit and we must follow, he has done it on behalf of the helpless women, mothers and young people of the region, we cannot go back.

"He has even chosen a tested performer, Senator Godswill Akpabio to lead the renewal of hope for our people. We cannot miss the response he will deliver, the legacy he will write on the sands of time, neither will the minister himself throw away the opportunity to right the wrongs done, from infrastructure to the well being of the ordinary people of the Niger Delta and by this the purpose of the commission and ministry would have been fulfilled by fast tracking the development of the region.

"The sons and daughters of Niger Delta deserve excellent not just good Leadership, so we cannot be thankful enough to Mr. President for chosing Senator Akpabio and the IMC, indeed desperate times deserve desperate measures, even the extension of their mandate speaks to the right leadership", NANS stated.

The Union, however, supported any move by the government to unearth the cause of underdevelopment of the Niger Delta region.

It said, " the IMC, having started on a sound footing, must be allowed to discharge their mandate without parliamentary intimidation. The National Assembly must strengthen the Commission through legislative support and the forensic audit must unravel and expose those who have engaged in contract racketeering to keep the region in a state of perpetual underdevelopment and turning the region into a theater of abandoned projects".

The NANS also lauded President Buhari, for the speedy approval of medical intervention in the fight against Coronavirus to the region, through emergency purchase Act.

Xenophobia: Reps want FG to evacuate Nigerians in China, investigate Chinese in Nigeria

By Yemi Itodo

The Nigerian House of Representatives, has urged the Federal Government to urgently evacuate all Nigerians who have tested negative to COVID-19 and are with valid passports and Visas in China, willing to return to Nigeria.

This was, even as, the Lawmakers unanimously resolved to investigate the validity of all immigration documents of every Chinese person and the expatriate quota of all their businesses in Nigeria, to ascertain the number of illegal and undocumented immigrants, with the view to repatriating them to China.

Spokesman of the Nigerian Parliament, Rep Benjamin Kalu and nine others successful moved this motion, at the resumed plenary of the Green Chamber on Tuesday, 28th April, 2020.

The resolution was said to be in line with the mandate of Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Amended), to take actions to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians in China.

Recall that, as a result of the mutually beneficial diplomatic and economic relationship between Nigeria and China, about 10,000 Nigerians, including investors, traders, workers and students currently reside in and around Guangzhou in the Guangdong Province of the Peoples Republic of China and have generated massive trade volume between the two countries, such that for 2019 alone the Nigeria-China trade value was worth over $8.6 billion.

But sometimes in April 8, 2020, photos and videos emanated across various social media depicting the institutionalized racial discrimination, maltreatment, xenophobic assaults, embarrassments, illegal detention and forceful eviction of Nigerians and other Africans living in Guangzhou.

Rep Kalu, while leading the debate on the motion, lamented that, "under the pretext of curbing the spread of COVID-19, which ironically originated in Wuhan, China, several kinds of maltreatments of Nigerian citizens in Guangzhou have been perpetrated by Chinese people and authorities.

"These include, wrongful confiscation of Nigerian international passports, prolonged and illegal detaining of Nigerians in the name of mandatory quarantining despite holding a certificate of clean health and no recent travel history, outright refusal to test or release the test results, and the eviction of Nigerians from their homes, hotel accommodations, refusal of entry into shops, pharmacies, restaurants and hospitals, including beating of Nigerians on the streets with no police intervention among others".

In the exercise of his function of protecting the interest of nationals of his sending State, as provided for under Article 5 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963, the Nigerian Consul General, according to Rep Kalu, "was treated in clear violation of Article 40 of the same treaty which requires the receiving State to treat consular officers with due respect and to take all appropriate steps to prevent attack on their persons, freedom or dignity; this dignity was abused by the Chinese government when they ignored the request of the Nigerian High Commissioner to allow Nigerians back to their accommodation, access to hospitals or restaurants which led to the High Commissioner himself buying and distributing food to Nigerians who where hopeless and lying in the streets under the rain".

The Lawmaker also recalled the troubling case of Mr. Felix Awah Elijah, a Nigerian citizen and legal resident in China who mysteriously disappeared after his abduction and prolonged illegal detention by Chinese police authorities sometime around 6th February, 2019; and of which all letters and appeals from his Representative in the House, were ignored by Chinese Authorities.

The Spokesman contended that, the actions of the Chinese authorities do not reciprocate the favourable treatment enjoyed by their nationals in Nigeria who thrive and operate businesses, which in several cases, "completely disregard our extant laws on immigration and expatriate quota", but have instead, put a strain on the diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and China thereby endangering Nigerian businesses in China valued at billions of dollars.

It was therefore, resolved that, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies should, "as a matter of urgency, ensure that all Nigerians who wish to return home, including Nigerians that only visited for business, Nigerians with any form of travel documents and identification, Nigerians with passports but expired visas, and Nigerians with passports and valid visas who have been ejected by house owners, Nigerians who have tested negative to Covid-19, are evacuated from China and quarantined upon arrival".

The House also urged, "the Attorney General of the Federation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies to provide all necessary financial and other assistance to any affected Nigerian citizen in China who wish to seek redress in any local or international court for breach of fundamental rights, loss of property or any other actionable cause occasioned by their maltreatment or discrimination in China".

It will be recalled that, the Honourable Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila; the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama and the Nigerian Ambassador to China, Ahmed Jidda; undertook various independent and coordinated interventions, including meetings with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr Zhou Pingjian, to register Nigeria’s displeasure with the incidents.

But the Republic of China has not shown any commitment to ending the xenophobic discriminations, while Nigerians in China keep languishing on daily basis.

A former APC governorship aspirant in the 2019 general elections, in Benue State Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi has commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari over the death of his former Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari.


Comrade Okpokwu described Kyari as a faithful and dedicated servant that has put all his best to towards building a better Nigeria.

Below is Comrade Ogenyi's condolence message:


CONDOLENCE MASSAGE

His Excellency,

Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR,

President,

Federal Republic of Nigeria,

State House, Abuja.


On behalf of myself and family, I sincerely commiserate with Mr. President, the All Progressives Congress, APC and Nigerians over the demise of the Chief of Staff to the President H.E Abba Kyari, whose sudden death occurred on Friday 18th April, 2020.


As a devoted Muslim, he died on a Friday, a holy day, translating the acceptance of his soul by the Almighty God.


Until his death, he was a very faithful servant of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, the All Progressives Congress, APC and indeed Nigeria as a Nation. He lived a fulfilled life.


May the good Lord give Mr. President, the All Progressives Congress and Nigerians the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.



Please accept my sincere condolences.



Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi.

APC Governorship Aspirant (2019)

Benue State.

By Oriri Peter

A Coalition, comprising of the North Central Zonal Caucus of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and the Middle Belt Sociopolitical Youth Think-Tank, has lamented the socio-economic consequences of the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) and the association lockdown across the Country.

The Groups, in a joint statement signed by NYCN's Zonal Vice-President, Comrade Felix Onuh and Conveners of the Think-Tank, Comrade Jacob Ochulayi and Comrade Richard Haruna Yakubu noted that a majority of the Country's youth depended largely on earnings from their daily labour, a situation that has been made impossible by the current stay-at-home order by the Federal Government.

The Coalition notes, with dismay, the unavailability of any palliatives to cushion the effect of the lockdown, and regrets that the situation could pose a serious challenge to national stability.

The Youth Body noted that the primary obligation of the government was the protection of lives and property as well as ensuring an improved economic wellbeing of the people.

In the light of this, the Coalition called on governors of the North Central zone to establish world-class isolation/treatment centres and invest robustly on stimulus packages/palliatives through the provision of foodstuff, household items and cash transfers to vulnerable members of the society.

The Coalition further requested the inclusion of its leadership in Relief Committees in order to promote transparency and inclusiveness. It further implored that donations to be made should be devoid of all political and primordial sentiments, while canvassing for adequate measures that would forestall likelihood of embezzlement.

By Oriri Peter

As part of efforts to cushion the economic effect of the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19), the Member representing Ogbadibo State Constituency, Hon. Enemari patrick Peter, has made some donations to people of his constituency. The donations were presented to the 13 council wards of the local government area through Hon. Emmanuel Ogwuche the PDP state financial secretary and Hon. Idoko Obera Jacob the PDP councillorship aspirant of his ward.

The donations, ranging from cash to material items, were made on Thursday, April 9 2020 at the various ward level and major stakeholders.

Hon. Enemari, while presenting the gifts, urged all present to take appropriate preventive measures against the ravaging pandemic.

While sensitizing the people on the causes and symptoms of COVID-19, the State Legislator urged his constituents to report suspected cases to the appropriate authorities.

During the distributions, the Ad'ogbadibo chief Emmanuel Odeh fervently prayed for the house of assembly member for remembering his people. The community leaders of most of the communities visited expressed their joy haven witness the first concern during this pandemic period from the Hon.

Most of the political gladiators in the local government expressed their gratitude to the honorable.

By Yemi Itodo

A 54-year old Susan Okpe, who was said to be the Benue index case of Corona Virus, has cried on President Muhammad Buhari of Nigeria and the British Government, to evacuate her from Benue state.

Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom had on Saturday, 28th March, announced that Mrs. Okpe was the Benue's first recorded case of Corona Virus, also known as COVID-19.

Mrs. Okpe, a British Nigerian, arrived the country on Saturday, 21st March via Kenya Airway, for the burial of her mother slated to hold early next month.

According to a family source, Mrs. Okpe ran series of tests before leaving the United Kingdom with all results showing negative to COVID-19.

"When she arrived Benue State on the 23rd of March, she was running temperature, perhaps, due to the fatigue of traveling, an experienced Doctor was contacted and tests were conducted and she was being treated for malaria and typhoid.

"When the NCDC contacted me, on the invitation of the Benue State government, I gave my consent that she should be tested. But as I speak with you, none of us has seen the test result, not even the Medical Director of the Cottage Hospital who assisted the NCDC to get samples, has seen the result. We only got to see through the television where the Governor announced her name", the source hinted our reporter.

Meanwhile, in a message sent via WhatsApp to our reporter, Mrs. Okpe appealed to the Federal Government and the UK Government to move her out of Benue State.

"I have kept my cool, but am now sick with swollen gums, being stooling throughout the night, no nurses or medical attention. My crime is that am a British who came into Nigeria, particularly Benue State; felt feverish, took myself for check up because I have travelled longer than usual.

"After examinations, I was told by the doctor my temperature was high and I said keep me for observations as I did not experience any before I left London, passed from Lagos to Abuja my temperature was like any other passenger was being monitored by the authorities.

"Back to my self presentation and request for isolation which was done, I was told by the doctors that the standard procedure was to call for a test from the state ministry of health of which two gentle men came to do a throat and nose swoop.

"After two days, by now my temperature has normalised from 38:2 to 36:4 the record are there to be verified. Only to be told by the Doctor after asking why am I still kept in the hospital, a friend now came in to tell me that a press conference is being done with my name that I have Covid-19, on air, on social media, without my knowledge.

"I went mad as a human being and demanded to see the Medical Director who told me he was fighting for me; how, why and for what and with who I don’t understand, still fuming the next thing was armed men, ambulance and a siege round the hospital for me to be removed for what I don’t know.

"As someone who knows the principles of the law (weather it works in Nigeria or not I can’t tell), I said I was not moving without a reason, I was surrounded and to stop the embarrassment to my family and poor junior sister who I think is not fair on, I went down to speak with the Deputy Governor for thirty minutes and he assured me I was safe, will be cared for, though not sick with any symptoms, also that the following day the health commissioner and medical doctors from the state will come and see me.

"I told him that if the state is insisting that am ill I should be taken to Abuja to be tested, I have never in my life seen a staged played drama with human life and politics like this before, I want the world, Nigerians, Benue state to hear my side and verify am not a Covid-19 positive, left my children behind in London they are healthy till this moment", Mrs. Okpe cried out.

She pleaded with the authorities concerned to take her to any standard center and verify her claims, as there was no single facility in Benue to even handle or manage any case, should it be true that Benue had a case.

Already, our reporter gathered that, the Consulate General of the UK in Nigeria had been contacted by Mrs. Okpe, whose fundamental rights have been grossly breached and arrangements were underway to get the Presidency to help the British Embassy evacuate her citizen from Benue State, before it results to death.

By Yemi Itodo

Without prejudice to the importance of security to law, order, stability and the overall wellbeing of the Nigerian state, especially in a convoluted society battling a deadly insurgency, the bitter truth is that, the National Assembly of today is manifesting all the symptoms of a police state.

It is indeed an absurdity that this famed "peoples Parliament" as this critical and independent branch of government is often called, is today on the chokehold of an overbearing fully armed gun totting policemen. At the last count, the National Assembly is secured by over four hundred police officers, an unspecified number of officers of the Civil Defense Corps, smattering of soldiers and of course the internal security of the National Assembly controlled and marshalled by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

In a nation with a police-to citizen ratio of 1400, this is telling. Perhaps, apart from Fort Knox, Kentucky in the United States which houses America's gold bars and other national treasures, no other national institution is as protected as the National Assembly.

A first time visitor to the National Assembly will be shocked and startled by the invidious presence of regular policemen fanning out within the precincts of this hallowed institution. This is without prejudice to other police officers and other security personnel procured by senators and House members as orderlies and body guards. In the visual dimension, the visitor is confronted by the frightening specter of an over policed environment which is suffocating.

When French political philosopher, Baron de Montesquieu espoused the theory of the separation of powers in The Spirit of the Laws (1748), he argued that powers be separated so that no one could usurp complete power. He argued that if legislative and executive powers reside in one man, there can be no liberty.

By inference, for the National Assembly to function unencumbered, every step should be taken to protect its treasured independence. Security should be deployed in such a smart way that it should not create a siege mentality and impinge on its effectiveness in discharging its core mandate of legislation, oversight and representation.

The impression which is inexorably being created in the psyche of our lawmakers by the overbearing presence of security personnel may not be fully assessed within the space of this write up, but the point to be made is that, there are more effective and smarter ways of deploying security without damaging the reputation of the National Assembly as the people's Parliament or inhibiting the capacity of lawmakers to function under as the representatives of the people.

The word security comes from Latin lexicon, se and cura which means "Free from care or anxiety". The United Nations defines security as," freedom from fear, freedom from want and freedom to live in dignity". Governments have always been too willing to control society by force of arms. This impulse which many people see as understandable and necessary to the survival of the society, has in many instances, been counter-productive.

A heavily policed National Assembly does not necessarily translate to better security. The security as presently constituted is amorphous, disjointed and constitutes a nightmare in terms of coordination. Ordinarily, the security of the National Assembly should be under the leadership of the Sergeant-at-Arms but in realtiy, the police appear to be under the authority and control of their own internal command and control structure.

As a matter of fact, while defence and security budgets have ballooned over the years, the reality is that the world has become a more dangerous place. For instance, the military interventions in Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan did not make these nations safer; it has plunged them into instability and chaos.

In the National Assembly, being strangulated by the security Armada, the overbearing security presence did not deter the invasion of the hallowed Chambers of the Senate by hoodlums who caused pandemonium and made away with the maze in 2018. In spite of this heavy police presence, offices of some lawmakers have been burgled and cars of some workers vandalized.

The world is becoming increasingly sophisticated in security, crime detection and prevention. Rather than choke the National Assembly with too many police personnel in the attempt to protect lawmakers and employees from harm and keep away intruders, the management should evolve smarter security strategies which will achieve the same security objective yet make National Assembly a friendly humane institution.

Such strategies should include, building security, which will deal with measures to render the building inaccessible to intruders. Apart from physical measures, smart technology should be deployed.

It also involves boundary security, which defines the avenues to control access to the National Assembly and the various measures put in place to protect the intellectual property.

The deployment of smart technologies such as CCTTV cameras and alarms with signs that the National Assembly is secure and being monitored is a deterrence to intruders with criminal intent.

Given the observed lapses, the recalibration of the security architecture of the National Assembly assumes even greater urgency.

And the time to do it is now.

(Yemi Itodo is the Chairman, National Assembly New Media Forum and can be reached through itodoyemi@gmail.com).

A pro-democracy human rights group and anti-corruption Civil Society Organization, GLOBAL INTEGRITY CRUSADE NETWORK (GICN) among eight other sister groups across Nigeria under the umbrella of COALITION FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN RIGHTS PROTECTION (COALITION-WCRP) aim to tackle problems of violence against women, child rights breach and all forms of discrimination capable of preventing children from reaching their full potentials in life.

The group in it’s press statement yesterday is demanding justice for JALILA, ZAHARA, ZAHEERA, ABUBAKAR ACHIMUGU JNR. AND THEIR MOTHEMOTHER, Mrs. Rabi Achimugu who got married to her husband, Alhaji Abubakar Adaji Achimugu, under the Igala native law and custom on 20th September, 2003. Thereafter, the couple solemnized their union under the Marriage Act on 26th September, 2003 at the Federal Marriage Registry, Ikoyi, Lagos before proceeding to perform yet another elaborate Islamic marriage ceremony in Lagos on 4th October, 2003 with reception same date. At all times material to the marriage, Mrs. Achimugu and her children named Miss Jalila Achimugu (15 years), Miss Zahara Eleojo Achimugu, Miss Zaheera Unekwuojo Achimugu (both 11 years) and Yahya Abubakar Achimugu Jnr. (9 years) who were born in Northern Ireland, London and USA, respectively lived with Alhaji Achimugu at No. 15, Anthony Enahoro Street, Off Ngozi Okonjo Iweala Street, Utako, Abuja.

Here is her pathetic story; It was on 2nd December, 2016 while Mrs. Achimugu was driving home along Berger Express Way, Abuja that Alhaji Achimugu physically attacked her and caused serious damage to her car based upon his ‘suspicion’ that she was engaging in sexual activities with a man inside the car. Mrs. Achimugu promptly reported the incidence to the Police as she feared for her life but on getting to the house that fateful evening, she discovered that Alhaji Achimugu had broken into her room and thrown all her belongings out, saying she must pack and leave the house. The husband did not stop there but broke into her wife’s box and took the International Passports of the four children. Alhaji Achimugu also took from her wife’s box land documents they purchased jointly in CBN Quarters, Garki and Jahi areas of Abuja together with her personal belongings like pure gold and diamond jewelries.

To add insult to injury, Alhaji Achimugu invited his family members to the house that night to intimidate Mrs. Achimugu, calling her all sorts of unprintable names. At the end, she was forced to leave the house late night, without any of her children. From reliable information at our disposal, the children now live at House 12, Cameron Street, Brains & Hammers Estate, Life Camp, Abuja with their father and one strange woman named Hajia Hauwa Bello whom he introduced to them as his “new wife”. We are aware that he has already put modalities in place to take the children out of the country without the consent of their mother; so as to completely severe any form of communication between them.

This ugly incident prompted the Coalition causing GICN to write letters to the Irish Ambassador, British High Commissioner, US Ambassador and Comptroller-General of Nigerian Immigration Service on 19th November, 2019 alerting them on the need to be vigilant so that Alhaji Achimugu does not carry out his plans.

We have already been afforded a response on 21st November, 2019 by the Embassy of Ireland, wherein assurances were given that any woman who appears with Alhaji Achimugu to present herself as mother of the children for purposes of renewing their International Passports which expired in 2017 will be arrested and handed over to security agencies for attempted human trafficking. Meanwhile, Mrs. Achimugu had on Monday, 18th November, 2019 filed a Direct Criminal Complaint before the Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse Magisterial District sitting at Wuse Zone 2, Abuja against Alhaji Achimugu through her lawyers, Messrs Graylaw Solicitors, a human rights orientated law firm.

She is by the said Direct Criminal Complaint applying that Warrant of Arrest be issued to bring Alhaji Achimugu to book for his wicked acts which in law constitute the offences of Bigamy, Perjury, Assault, Mischief, Criminal Intimidation and Criminal Force contrary to Sections 156, 158, 263 – 266, 326, 327, 384, 385, 396 and 397 of the Penal Code Law. In no distant time from now, the FCT Police Command will complete investigation, lay hands on Alhaji Achimugu and arraign him in court.

Fellow Compatriots, we wish to notify you that Alhaji Achimugu on 25th November, 2019 wrote an abusive letter coated with heavy threat to the Chief Convener of COALITION-WCRP in the person of Barr. Edward Omaga. The letter which was received at the office of GICN on 28th November, 2019 contains lies fabricated to malign the character of Mr. Omaga but he has chosen to maintain his usual cool. Alhaji Achimugu after so much ranting in the letter had given an ultimatum of 72 hours to Mr. Omaga and his organization, demanding that they both apologize to him otherwise further actions will be taken. On 2nd December, 2019 Alhaji Achimugu petitioned Mr. Omaga to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) alleging that he is using GICN platform for profiteering and libel. In reaction, Mr. Omaga has since 23rd December, 2019 responded to the said petition, urging that same be dismissed on the ground that no prima facie case of professional misconduct or abuse of privilege was made out against him. Whilst we await the outcome of NBA investigation, the Coalition takes solace in the fact that GICN parades a retinue of highly courageous lawyers who are not be perturbed by the antics of Alhaji Achimugu, irrespective of his deep pocket or connection.

As events unfold in this struggle for justice, the whole world will know who is telling the truth between Mrs. Achimugu and her husband. Therefore, we beseech all of us present here that the solidarity and love we have shown to Jalila, Zaheera, Zahara, Abubakar Achimugu Jnr. and their mother today must not quench. Let us continue to rally round them until justice is attained. We term as wicked and barbaric the action of Alhaji Achimugu who has denied the mother of his four children the opportunity of seeing them for the past three years. The most excruciating part of this situation is that the twins (Zahara and Zaheera) were born with sickle cell anemia. You all will agree with us that these kids deserve above everything else extra medical and biological parental attention that can be best administered by a mother. It is laughable to note that Alhaji Achimugu has gone to doctor some medical reports indicating that the status of those children miraculously changed from SS to AA shortly after their mother was forcefully evacuated from the matrimonial home. Granted that miracles do happen, we cannot sit here and believe this one coming from a man who has no truth in his dictionary. After all, leveling of frivolous allegations against his wife over the years has become a hobby for Alhaji Achimugu.



We advocate that Alhaji Achimugu gives split custody of the four children, who are still minors, to their biological mother. By split custody we mean a situation whereby the children reside with their mother while the father takes care of their responsibilities including feeding, education, medical care and so on until they can decide to live with any of their parents after attaining the age of majority, which is constitutionally fixed at 18 years in Nigeria. It has never been heard on planet earth that a step mother, no matter how kind she may be, can take care of children that are not hers better than the mother of those children. In as much as the presence of a father figure is important in the overall growth process of a child, we maintain that the best training a child can be exposed to early in life would be given by the mother especially when the children in question are girls.



The gap created by Alhaji Achimugu between the four children and their biological mother is a clear breach of Section 14 of the Child Rights Act 2003 as applicable to the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. The Section provides that “Every child has a right to parental care and protection, and accordingly, no child shall be separated from his parents against the wish of the child except – for the purpose of his education and welfare or in the exercise of a judicial determination in accordance with the provisions of this Act, in the best interest of the child”. On this legal note, we submit that the separation of Jalila, Zaheera, Zahara and Abubakar Achimugu Jnr. from their mother is illegal, callous and unacceptable. The extent to which the physic of the children who are living with a strange woman that is a biological parent to two other children from her previous marriage can be affected is better imagined than said. There has been no judicial determination regarding the custody of those children yet, as Alhaji Achimugu has been buying his way through to truncate all the court cases filed in Abuja, Ogun and Nasarawa States from getting to judgment stage.

We stand with Mrs. Achimugu and reiterate that it is a breach of the Child Rights Act 2003 to separate children from their mother. The claims against Alhaji Achimugu bordering on bigamy and other offences are already before the court and we shall not dwell more on them. The time has come for all of us to rise up and speak out for many women and children who are suffering similar fate of rights abuse nationwide. We call on relevant bodies and agencies to wit; the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the Federal Ministry of Justice, Office of the First Lady of Nigeria, UNICEF, UN Women, Pro-Women and Children Civil Society Organizations to join in this cry for justice.

The statement was signed by the following names:



Abiodun Sodiq BABALOLA, Esq.

(Global Integrity Crusade Network – GICN)



Tersagh UNANDE, Esq.

(Make Nigeria Better Initiative – MNBI)



Chief Isaac IKPA

(Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency-CESJET)



Mrs. Mabel ONWENMA

(Women of Purpose Development Foundation)



Silverteen AROH

(Save the Child Initiative Nigeria)



Ene JONATHAN

(Centre for Human Rights Advancement in Nigeria - CHRAN)



Joseph Chinelo NWAEGBU, Esq.

(Lawyers United for Peace, Justice and Development)



Princess Elizabeth IDAHOSA

(Liberty Nigeria)

By Oriri Peter

Joy Fm 96.5 Otukpo has won the award of Most Listened Indigenous Radio Station in West Africa, organized by the West African Citizens Awards (WAFRIC).

The Station emerged winner at the event held at the Genesis Hotels and Suites, Ibadan, after trumping six other radio stations in an online contest that cut across other reputable stations in West Africa.

Mr. Hassan Hussain Ayodeji, founder of WAFRIC Awards, noted that the award was to honour Indeginous products in West Africa who have contributed positively to the development of the society through their various platforms, stating that the 2019 edition was the third edition.

The award was received by Mr. David Sapele Junior (DJ SAP) and Mr. Ramsey Agbo (Sports Machine) on behalf of the Organization.

In a statement, Managing Director of Joy Fm, Mrs. Christabel Ebugo Ogli Iyanya extend her profound gratitude to the organisers, those who nominated her Station particularly Nigerians and other Africans who voted her Station to emerged winner.

Mrs. Iyanya also said that the award has challenge them to do more by exhibiting more professionalism in the coming year.

She also noted that the Organization was open to partnerships with other reputation organizations across board.

By Adoga Gonna Samuel

Publisher of Naija Voice News, Peter Oriri has been conferred with the award of Face of Benue Social Media at Benue Hotels, Makurdi.

The award followed an online voting in which four people were initially nominated for the category.

The event was organized by the Benue Social Media Awards to honour indigenes of the State who have contributed positively to the development of the society, the event brought together important dignitaries such as the Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, Terver Akase and the Chairman, Governing Council of the State Polytechnic. Dr. Joseph Ngbea.

The award was presented to him by the Director of education Benue State Polytechnic who represented the state Commissioner of Education Prof. Dennis Ityavyar.In an acceptance speech, Mr. Oriri thanks the organisers and all those who voted h during the contest, the award was dedicated to God Almighty and all Naijavoicenews followers.

Other categories of the awards went to Ukan Kurugh Ukan, David Mzer, Olikita Ekani, Mathias Aende, Dr. Ushang Anenge, Rev. Dave Ogbole, Bobby Hills and others.

By Oriri Peter

Nigeria and West Africa's number one Senior Crown Leader, BF Suma, Mr. Ajisefinni Idowu Ibukun has, for the fourth consecutive time, been conferred with an Award of Excellence by the Organization. Mr. Ajisefinni who received the 2019 edition of the award in New York City had previously received same award in California in 2016, Los Angeles in 2017, Atlanta Georgia and Las Vegas in 2018.

Speaking with newsmen in his office, Friday, 13th December 2019, Mr. Ajisefinni noted that it was the Company's way of appreciating efforts of its leadership.

According to him, BF Suma, a pharmaceutical company is to establish a production plant in Nigeria, proposing that the project would be located in either of Lagos or Ogun states. He noted that the laboratory was for the discovery and development of new products intended to cure deadly diseases ravaging the world, adding that the Company was working hard to eradicate poverty in Africa.

The construction of the laboratory is coming on the heels of a recent launch of the Company's factory in New York.

In the words of Mr. Ibukun, "we can confidently say that BF Suma is taking a new shape and expanding daily. The most exciting part is that they have great plans for Africans and Nigerians at large. The new proposed production factory which will be situated in Nigeria will absorb thousands of Nigerian youth. Some will be gainfully employed while others will take up the network marketing opportunity and at the long run become financially independent."

Revealed: How Mike Okiro Converted Police Plaza To His Personal Use In Wuye, EFCC, Others To Grill Him.

By Umar Muhammad

Former Inspector General of Police, Chief Mike Okiro, has converted a property meant for the Nigerian Police Plaza in Wuye, Abuja to his personal property. The landed property was given to the police for a Plaza at Wuye by the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) when Okiro was the Inspector General of Police between 2007 and 2009.

Okiro since then converted the land to a personal property instead of being put to use by the Nigerian Police Force, the property is located at Mike Okiro's close, Wuye, Abuja.


The former Police Chief who was sacked some months ago from his position as Police Service Commission Chairman also gave one of the buildings to the Presidential Support Committee PSC headed by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio to cover up the mess.

A retired AIG who spoke in anonymity said, the Land is for the Nigerian Police Force not Mike Okiro but as at now, it belonged to Okiro because he has converted it to his personal use. He believe the Buhari administration may retrieve it for the benefit of all Police officers.

He further task all relevant agencies especially the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Commission ICPC to grill him and all Civil society groups should raise up to this challenge of public officers acquiring public properties.

As of the time of filing this report, Mike Okiro did not take his calls nor respond to text messages hence all efforts to reach him proved abortive.

By Yemi Itodo

An anti-corruption group known as Citizens Committee for Corruption-Free Nigeria (CCCN), on Sunday, came hard on the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, for redeploying a deputy governor to the sensitive Monitory Policy Directorate.

Mr. Okwu Joseph Nnanna, who was suspended alongside four other directors in March 2016, for defrauding the CBN in FOREX scam, was the deputy governor, Financial System Stability (FSS) Directorate.

It was gathered that, the suspended Nnanna responded to some spam emails without first cross-checking the authenticity of the mails and following CBN stringent payment process before authorising the release of funds when the governor and several senior officials of the bank were on a flight to China.

According to a THISDAY report, the sum of $441,000 was initially lost to the scammers. $251,000 was however blocked and recovered, leaving a balance of $190,000, which had already been cashed by the fraudsters.

Despite the huge fraud uncovered by the CBN, Mr. Emefiele, in April 2018, redeployed the suspended deputy governor to the Monitory Policy Directorate, to oversee Monitory Policies .

In a statement issued Sunday afternoon by the Director, Anti-Corruption Unit of the CCCN, Alh. Bagudu Mohammed, the anti-corruption group frowned at the rationale behind keeping Nnanna in such a sensitive position, at a time President Muhammad Buhari's war against corruption was yielding fruitful results, stressing that, people with integrity should be placed in such offices, to get Nigeria back on track economically.

"The CBN Governor is seen as one of the major backbones of the Buhari led administration, judging by his programs in alleviating poverty in Nigeria.

"Since Nnanna became the head of Monitory Policy Directorate, the five hundred billion naira (N500Bn) Non-Oil Stimulation Facility is yet to be disbursed to promote the Non-oil trade in boosting the Nation's economy.

"The big question is, what is the Deputy Governor of the CBN who was suspended for FOREX fraud is still doing in the Central Bank of Nigeria? Why is he redeployed to the Monitory Policy Directorate at a time Mr. President is diversifying the economy to boost Non-oil trade as an alternative to the predominant oil economy?

"Nigerians want to know the relationship between Mr. Godwin Emefiele and Okwu Nnanna and why he is still in the bank", the statement reads.

But in his reaction Sunday night, Mr. Isaac Okoroafor, Director, Corporate Communications of CBN, said the group should not be taken seriously, describing the statement as "ridiculous" and a "blackmail".

Okoroafor said, "This matter had been handled and settled long ago. The President had ordered the Inspector-General of Police to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter. Dr. Nnanna and all other officers of the Bank had been suspended to make for unfettered investigation.

"The case had been investigated and Dr. O J Nnanna and all the officers involved were NOT found culpable and they were cleared accordingly. The IGP had submitted his report to the President who ordered the recall of Dr. Nnanna and the rest. This is public knowledge.

"The authors of this story must be some of these jobbers peddling blackmail stuff. I urge you to disregard this story as it’s only an attempt by blackmailers to ridicule your publication".

Meanwhile, the group has warned, that, should nothing cogent is done to redeploy the suspended deputy governor, a protest letter would be written to President Buhari, which would predate a daily occupation of the CBN complex in protests.

The CCCN, however, pledged its readiness to support President Buhari to achieve his aim of ridding the country of corrupt elements.

By Yemi Itodo

Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) has successfully concluded arrangements with the prestigious University of Ibadan (UI), to run academic programs for its officers and members of the public, on consultancy basis.

To this end, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Corps and the institution, via the university’s Consultancy Services Unit, in collaboration with the Standard Trust Educational Consulting firm (UICSU/STEC).

In a statement signed Wednesday by the Corp's Public Relations Officer (PRO), Patriot Millicent Umoru, the Peace Corps shall be running Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) programs, on behalf of the institution.

Peace Corps of Nigeria, a youth based organization registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), also enjoys consultative status with the United Nations and the ECOWAS, with core interest in orienting youths and students at educational institutions.

Patriot Umoru stated that "the MoU is part of Peace Corps of Nigeria’s efforts to enhance the academic qualifications and subsequent career progression of its teeming members nationwide.

"It is also in line with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 17, which relates to Expanding Access to Quality Education and Forging Partnerships for the Attainment of the SDGs, respectively".

According to the MoU, "members of PCN will be offered the unique opportunity to acquire an expedited and cost-efficient Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Post Graduate Diploma from Nigeria’s premier university, in Peace Building and Conflict Management; Political Science and Public Administration; Mass Communication and Journalism;
Industrial Relations and Personnel Management; Safety and Security Management; English and Foreign Language (French); Transport Management; Public and International Relations.

"The MoU stipulates that all serving members of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, who possess the Ordinary Level Certificate (SSCE) or its equivalent, shall be offered admission into the appropriate Diploma Programme.

"Serving PCN members with University Diploma, National Diploma, NCE or their equivalents shall be eligible for admission into the appropriate Advanced Diploma Programme.

"Serving PCN members with Advanced Diploma, HND, B.Sc. or their equivalents, will be admitted into the appropriate Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) programme".

Umoru said all serving PCN officers shall
enjoy highly subsidized course registration and tuition fees, for all categories of the aforementioned academic programmes.

"All serving PCN officers who have completed the mandatory one-month Initial Training and Orientation will be eligible for admission to study Peace Building and Conflict Management at the appropriate levels, irrespective of their previous programmes of study, as the course aligns properly within the purview of operation of the Corps.

"For PCN staff seeking admission into the Advanced Diploma or PGD categories of the other academic programmes, they are required to possess lower qualifications in a related discipline", she added.

The statement said all graduating students under the scheme will be awarded their certificates at the university’s convocation ceremony, which will take place on predetermined dates.

According to Umoru, application and registration under the programme is currently ongoing in the 36 State Commands of the Corps and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, stressing that registration is expected to officially close on the 31st November, 2019.

By Oriri Peter

The Fleet Entrepreneurship Development Centre (FADEC) has conferred an award of Emerging Leader of the year on Mr. Oche Gordon, founder G12 Foundation G12.

The award ceremony which took place at the Nigerian National Merit House, Maitama, also served as an avenue for the launch of a book titled ''The Passion Driven Entrepreneur," written by Comrade Wisdom Obekpa.

In an acceptable speech, an elated Mr. Oche thanked the organisers for finding him worthy for the award, stating that it was a call to do more for the youth.

Oche noted that since Government could not, on its own alone, do everything for the youth wing, it was important to encourage and support the youth in their ideas. He further encouraged the youth not to give up on their endeavours.

Notable dignitaries at the event included Amb. Dickson Akoh, National Commandant of Peace Corps; Paul Harrison Ogbole (SAN), amongst others. Similarly, students of the University of Abuja and Idoma Youth Coalition Group sent in their Representatives to honour the awardee.

By Okehie Chioma

Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) on Wednesday 16th of october at Sheraton hotel Abuja, rolled out drums to recognise and honour their members who were elected or appointed into government.

So many of their members are into these positions and this body has seen it as an opportunity to drive down to these members the urgency needed to see the pharmacy law signed into an act.

The president of the association pharm Sam Ohuabunwa used this occasion in his welcome speech, to lament the not signing into law the pharmacy act inspire of the several decades the association has been existing.He further said that with the 25,000 membership, of the association, that all necessary assistance are at the disposal of their members to aspire to any level in Government.

Among those recognised and honoured are senator (Pharm) Matthew A. Uroghide, Senator representing Edo South, Senetorial District, Senator Sadiq Umar Suleiman, Senator Representing Kwara North Senetorial District. Honorable Ikengboju Gboluga Dele,pharm(Dr) Otive Igbuzor, Hon Pharm Dr G Nnamdi Okafor, Hon. Pharm Obinna Chris Emeneka and a host of others who are Commissioners, special assistants, Directors, Managing Directors and Executive Secretarys.

It was a time of networking among members present. The honorees said they would use their positions to move the profession to its place of pride.

By Chioma Okehie

The problem of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking is one which has devastating consequences on all sectors of all countries worldwide. It causes adverse effects on health; an upsurge in crime, violence and corruption; the draining of human, natural and financial resources that might otherwise be used for social and economic development; the destruction of individuals, families and communities; and the undermining of political, cultural, social and economic structures.Globally the narrative has changed from drug supply reduction to drug demand reduction, which refers to effects aimed at reducing the public desire for illegal and illicit drugs.

The inauguration of members of ISSUP Nigeria chapter and the public lecture titled drug demand reduction looking at a wholistic and integrated approach for sustenable development is the focal point of the gatheringtoday the 17th October 2019 at chelsea hotel Abuja. The chairman of the occasion, General Buba Marwa(rtd) represented by Otunba Lanre Ipinmosho a former director general of NDLEA and a member of the presidential committee on the elimination of drug abuse in Nigerian in his speech, lamented the huge figures of 14.3 people in Nigeria using drugs,and that the work to be done is huge.He commended the association for collaborating with relevant stake holders to introduce addiction studies in our high institutions.

He said that education of the less priveledged and adequate parental care was key in the fight against substance abuse. He charged the association to get down to work immediately, so that they cover some grounds in one year of their inauguration. He thanked them for bringing on board professionalism in their work.The president of the association Dr Martin Awogie in his opening speech quoted verbatim,that the vision of the organisation is to build a United, trained, skilled, knowledgeable and effective multidisciplinary national network of substance use prevention, treatment, recovery professionals and researchers undertaking and promoting high quality evidence - based substance use prevention, treatment and policies.

He spelt out the objectives of the association of which some are, support and build capacity of substance use research,collaboration with government and relevant stake holders and professional information sharing. The guest lecturer Prof P.C. Stanley in his lecture gave the history of drug abuse in Nigeria from the colonial days to independence era, and to this present day. He said that according to data from World health organisation, 3.3 million deaths each year results from harmful use of alcohol. 275 million people used illicit drugs, such as cannabis,amphetamines,opiods and cocaine, in 2006 which translates into an annual prevalence of illicit drug use of 5.6%.


The current 2018 National Survey on drugs use in Nigeria recently presented by the federal government in Abuja shows 14.3 million people, representing 14.4%of the country's population, between the ages of 15 and 64 abused drugs and substances in the past one year. He mentioned the three consequences of substance misuse/abuse, which are, psychological, socioeconomic, and physical.He said that reengineering and overhauling all approaches with pragmatic and unrepentant zeal will help in dealing with the menace of drugs and substance use. He concluded by saying that ISSUP Nigeria should not only supervise,regulate, and advise but should be given a legislative teeth to bite appropriately,while visibly coordina ting activites.Awards were given to honorary members, members and board of trustees for their work in development of drug demand reduction.

By Oriri Peter

Ahead of the November 30 Local Government Elections in Benue State, a renowned Philanthropist, Hon. Idoko Obera Jacob has picked his Nomination and Expression of Interest form for councillorship of Al-oono Ward 111 of Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State.

This is sequel to his unanimous adoption by stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the local government area.

According to the meeting held by the party ward caucus, it was unanimously agreed that Hon. Idoko of AI-Oono Ward 111 Ogbadibo LGA should contest for the councilorship position since his axis was the only community in the Al-oono 111 ward that had yet to assume any political office.

As a philanthropist,
Hon. Idoko has made personal contributions to the development of his community and Ogbadibo Local Government Area, amongst which are:

1. Construction of the first and only JAMB Computer Based Test (CBT) Centre.

2. Establishment of nursery and primary school.

3. Support to youth groups such as agbafu youth association, Odokwupe youth association.

In a remark, the Ward Chairman of the Party, Hon. Adikwe G. Samson described the move by Hon. Idoko Obera Jacob as an answered prayer, saying the people had long advocated for a people-oriented leader.

The State financial secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Ogwuche, on his part, described the aspirant as a worthy son to be called on at this demanding time, urging party members to throw their support behind the consensus candidate.

In his consultation visit to the political leader of the local government Hon. Christian Adaba Abba aka Mad Lion described the move by Hon. Idoko as timely and well deserved.

He gave his unreserved support to the decision made by the ward chapter PDP caucus by throwing their support behind him.

By Oriri Peter

Benue Hotels and Resort today engaged in voluntary sanitation activities in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State as part of its corporate social responsibility.

The exercise which commenced in the early hours of Saturday the 28th of Sept. 2019. Had in attendance a former Benue State Governorship aspirant of the All progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Ogenyi Okpokwu, APC Chairman, Ado Local Government Area Hon. Alegwu Adadu, evicted housemate of the reality TV show, Big brother Naija (BBNaija) 2019, Nelson Nweke and Jeff Allison amongst other volunteers. This activity, was the Hotel's way of giving back to the society, according to its Chief Coordinator and former Managing Director of NEXIM bank, Chief Roberts Orya.

Speaking to reporters during the exercise, Chief Orya pointed out that the hotel was very interested in the well being of the people and the cleanliness of the environment in which it operates hence, the decision to engage in the activity. In his words, "one of the tenets of our own Hotel is to be one of the neatest in Nigeria. Therefore, it is important that our immediate environment must also be neat". He also stressed on the hazardous effects of a dirty environment and the avoidable cost people incur in terms of medical treatment thereby making it difficult to attend to other pressing needs.

Speaking further, Chief Orya pointed out that "the government alone cannot do everything (so) we must assist the government in everything that they are doing," pointing out that since the government have provided an enabling environment for the Hotel and its activities, the sanitation was their own little way of assisting the government. He also appealed "to all business owners that are operating in Benue, be it in Makurdi, Gboko, Otukpo" or any other place in the State to always engage in sanitation as part of their corporate social responsibility.

The bridge was chosen as the location for the sanitation, according to the Coordinator, the bridge "is the gateway to the South East as well as the North East and there are some people that will pass through (the) Bridge, they will not even get to the town, but once you pass here and you see the cleanliness, you will know that Benue people are very clean people".

On the lingering crisis between the Tivs and the Jukuns, chief Orya said there would be a peace dinner between the Jukuns and the ethnic groups in Benue state by 5 p.m. later in the day at Benue Hotels and Resort in order to "appeal to the Warring parties-the Tivs and the Jukuns and any other tribe that is involved. Benue state do not need crisis we must live as peaceful people so that everybody will be happy.

He further stated that one of the objectives of the dinner is to "find ways of productively engaging our youths who are the major cause of some of these problems" as they are the ones that are used to perpetrate those activities. He said besides the talks, anything raised during the course of the meeting will be given to the people displaced as a result of the conflict. The programme according to him will be open to "everybody" and the evicted housemate will also be in attendance.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/benue-hotels-resort-evicted-bbnaija-housemates-engage-in-sanitation-exercise-in-makurdi-photos/

The Revival of the Igumale Cement Company; A Blessing Under Comrade James Oche’s Leadership.

The Benue State Government made a giant move in the 2000’s to industrialize the Benue south senatorial and create more employment for the people.

The fortune fell on Ado and particularly the Igumale people whose land is blessed in solid minerals (Limestone) a popular raw material used in the manufacture of cement.

Unfolding events after the visit of the Chinese partners gradually eroded the hope of the people as their departure in November 2018 dashed the hope of the people.


The state government under the leadership of H E Governor Samuel Ortom however took a turn to rekindle the hope that was lost and took a deliberate step to restore the people’s confidence in the government with the visit of the team from the ministry of Trade and Industry under the leadership of the Hon Commissioner Industry, Trade and Investment Barr Memga Kachina who had in his team the permanent secretary, Director Industry and other senior staffs of the ministry.

The local government chairman Comrade James Oche and his council who are determined to lift Ado to the top were part of the team who paid an Inspectorial visit to the Igumale cement company with exhaustive discussions with the honorable commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment on the reactivation of the company so as to brace up to production as soon as possible.

The reassurance by the state team on the determination of H E Governor Samuel Ortom were super satisfying as Ado youths, Benue youths and professionals and Nigeria at large should be prepared as the answer to their prayers is already on the way as soon unemployment will be history.

The council boss Hon Jame Oche also recounted during the visit that the Ekile axis of the local government was also blessed and recalled that Dangote Cement Company once visited the site, he directed the DGSA to make available all documents relevant to the project so as to review and reactivate the relationship with the sole purpose of rejigging the project.

The Ado council boss also directed the DGSA to set up a committee of Enquiry to visit Ekile and the traditional council and report back on the progress so as to forward reports to the state on the journey so far.

The Hon Commissioner stated categorically that H E Governor Samuel Ortom upon receipt of the report of the visit will reach out to the technical partners Zhengzhou Cangxi and the Commerce Development Company limited of China on their readiness to continue with the project as the state government is ready with her own side of the counterpart fund(24M dollars) an amount that the UBA bank through her Branch Manager of the UBA Igumale is willing to also raise as the manager stated that they have had a surface discussion with the Council Chairman on getting involved in an advent where the State government was interested in financial partners.

The desk officer stated that the cement factory has an annual production capacity of 600,000 tones and a direct employment capacity of 100,000 people with over 200,000 indirect employment capacity.
The officer further added that the state government is meant to control 30 percent equity and 70 percent control to the Chinese partners and categorically stated that 3.118 dollars had already been committed by the state government on purchase of machinery.


Source: The Revival of the Igumale Cement Company; A Blessing Under Comrade James Oche’s Leadership https://www.naijavoicenews.com/the-revival-of-the-igumale-cement-company-a-blessing-under-comrade-james-oches-leadership/

By Oriri Peter

Former Chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team, Mr. Abdulrasheed Maina has dragged a former aide to Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Reno Omokri, and Vanguard Media Limited before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory claiming Two Billion Naira as specific and general damages over a publication believed to be libelous in it's entirety.

The suit which was filed on 20th September, 2019 with SUIT NO: FCT/HC/CV/2984/19 is claiming, among other reliefs, the payment of Two Billion Naira as damages for the injury caused on the personality of the former Pension Boss.

The defendants have consequently been allowed 14 days within which to enter appearance in the matter, failing which judgement would be entered in the claimant's favour.

The said publication has been described by Mr. Maina as injurious false, untrue, defamatory, libelous, and a desperate attempt to ridicule and disparage him in the eyes of right thinking members of the society.

Mr. Maina further described the publication as vexatious, malignant and malicious emanating from the defendant Mr. Reno, and noted that it was only civil for him as a law abiding citizen to seek legal redress in a court of competent jurisdiction.

Abdulrasheed Maina who is reputed to have worked tirelessly as Pension Boss is said to have among other achievements recovered up to about One Trillion, Six Hundred Billion Naira, Two Hundred and Forty Properties and secured many judgements against persons and corporate entities in favour of the Nigerian Government during his tenure.

Although no one has ever taken Maina to court over anything. Maina is said to be put on media trial only. He is not on any trial and No court of competent jurisdiction has found him guilty of any criminal allegation, Mr. Omokri, in an article published on Twitter, Vanguard Newspapers and some major News Platforms in Nigeria, named Mr. Maina as "Thief Maina."

Mr. Reno Omokri in the tweet made on his verified Twitter handle @renoomokri also made other defamatory and unsubstantiated allegations against Maina and accused him of enjoying illegal promotion and shield of President Buhari. Reno Omokri's continued criticism of President Buhari has been described by a cross section of well meaning Nigerians as uncalled for and fictitious.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/former-pension-boss-maina-sues-ex-jonathans-aide-reno-omokri-for-two-billion-naira-over-libelous-publication/

By Yemi Itodo

The Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) has been invited by the United Nations to attend its 68th annual Civil Society Conference in United States of America.

A letter of invitation was said to have been received on the 24th June, 2019 from the UN.

The 3-day gathering of Civil Society Organisations is being organized by the Department of Global Communications (formerly DPI), in cooperation with the NGO/DPI executive committee and the participation of its associated NGOs that have consultative status with the UN.

A statement signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Corps, Patriot Millicent Umoru, said, the CONFAB is scheduled to hold between 26 and 28 August, 2019 at Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.

"This international forum also brings together senior UN system officials, prominent international Civil Society Organisations, academicians, public opinion makers and international media, to discuss issues of global concern.

"The United Nations Civil Society Conference explores ways and means for strengthening collaborations between local communities and global institutions", Umoru said.

She added that, "the focus of the 68th conference is, however, very cardinal to Peace Corps of Nigeria, as the organization, since its formation, has been in the vanguard of agitating for a sustainable and all inclusive Nigeria, through its activities in all States and Local Government Areas in Nigeria".

The theme for the 68th conference is 'Building Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Communities', with focuses around Sustainable Development Goals II.

National Commandant of the Corps, Amb. (Dr.) Dickson Akoh is expected to lead the 5-man Nigeria's delegation to join other participants from around the globe at the CONFAB.

By Yemi Itodo

In apparent response to the spate of incessant killings, kidnappings, banditry and armed robbery in the country, Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) has flagged-off a nationwide peace campaign tagged 'let's give peace a chance'.

Performing the flag off ceremony in Abuja Wednesday, National Commandant of the Corps, Amb. (Dr.) Dickson Akoh said "peaceful Nigeria is achievable if we collectively make peace not just a passion but our priority".

Akoh also said the event was in response to the 100 days countdown message to the 2019 International Day of Peace by the United Nations Secretary General.

"As an affiliate of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, COSOC and in line with its commitment to promoting national creativity, peace and youth development, the Peace Corps of Nigeria has celebrated the International Day of Peace annually since 2012", he said.

The Commandant said, "as the global community prepares to celebrate this year's International Day of Peace with the theme "Climate Action for Peace", we must remind ourselves that peace cannot be attained in the midst of avoidable crisis, the kind that we are witnessing today in Nigeria.

"It is a sad development that Nigeria is today in the vice grip of inexplicable violent killings of horrendous proportions", which should attract the concern of well-meaning individuals and the government.

Another thing the Peace Corps is concerned with is the "gun culture" which Akoh said, is gradually taking a dominant position in our daily lives, thereby threatening the foundation of peace and security of the country.

As a way out, Akoh said, the Corps will mobilize the youth to play an active role in peace and conflict resolution by forming a new unit of peace missionaries and NGO networks in the grassroots, "concentrating on building the culture of peace and a near violent conflict free society".

He reaffirmed the determination of Peace Corps of Nigeria to join hands with relevant government agencies and NGOs to end wanton and senseless killings through this campaign, peace building and advocacy.

The National Commandant quoted UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres thus: "It is possible to achieve our goals, but we need decisions, political will and transformational policies to allow us to still live in peace with our own climate", adding that a peaceful Nigeria is therefore achievable.

The yearning and aspiration of the good people of Ado among others things have been the desire of good roads and the linking of all the villages to the centre.
Barely a month and few weeks into the tenure of the Ado Caretaker LG Boss Comrade James Oche, to the story of adolites is about to change.

Despite the caveat placed by bureaucracy limiting the approval of major projects by the local government, the LG boss could not stomach the pains of his people as the raining season that is meant to be a blessing have increased the hardship on the people.

In his statement while commissioning the grading and filling of the Igumale/Apa/Akpoge-ogbilolo road, Comrade James Oche lamented the on the poor state of the road and assured the people that the council under his leadership and through the support of His Excellency Gov Samuel Ortom will give in all to ensure that the communities that have been caught off are reconnected via repairs of the roads as the governor Ortom administration is interested in the plight of all rural dwellers.

He added that the roads will further promote agriculture within the local government as farmers will have access to transporting their products from the farm to the relevant destinations.

As a prove of commitment and determination, the super determined LG boss boldly gave up his financial entitlements to ensure that the construction commences and vows to see the project to a logical end.

He stated that political times are over and all hands must be on deck to enhance the development of the local government while calling on all stakeholders from the local government to see this project as an impact on humanity that will stand the taste of time and get involved in supporting to enhance quick conclusion.

He thanked the Ado youths who have volunteered for direct labour as their own contribution towards the development of the local government and vows that their labour will never be on vain as posterity will judge them worthy.

Comrade James Oche submitted by saying the next point of his commitment shall be directed towards health, agriculture and market renovation as these bears direct and immediate impact on the good people of Ado LG.

BF Suma Has Unbeatable Capacity to Eradicate Poverty, Empower Youths Across Africa - Ajisefinni Idowu Ibukun

By Oriri Peter

Nigeria and West Africa's number one Senior crown leader of BF Suma professional network marketing engaged mainly in wealth creation through sale of assorted pharmaceuticals, Mr. Ajisefinni Idowu Ibukun has hinted that, the many possibilities availed by the company and it's products can permanently empower youths and eradicate poverty across Africa.

The third ranking runner of BF Suma worldwide stated this position while responding to questions from journalists in Abuja, Nigeria's capital recently. According to the professional network manager who joined the company since 2013, the company had the ability to help people build and sustain careers in marketing and explained that, the company had a fifty years development plan to take over Africa with its product and services and encouraged men and women to key into the opportunities provided by the company.

For the records, BF Suma which is headquartered in Los Angeles, USA, is a leading global pharmaceutical and health products developer, manufacturer and distributor that is committed to offering high-quality natural herbal formulated products with cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive services across the globe.

Mr. Ibukun, the Ekiti born marketing strategist of international repute while responding on the future possibilities of BF Suma in Africa remarked that, the world largest potential market undiscovered was that of Africa which was capable of raising over a thousand millionaires.

Among other variety of products, BF Suma offers US-Patented formula Products, Bone & Cartilage Supplements, Healthy Beauty Products, Immune Boosters, Digestive Products, Intimacy Products, as well as Sleeping Aid. On BF Suma success story in Nigeria, the widely traveled networking guru hinted that, already BF Suma was growing sporadically in Lagos, FCT, Port Harcourt, Kano, Kaduna, Mina, Maiduguri, Makurdi, Jos, Mararaba, Kuje, Lafia e.t.c where all medical conditions like Artritis, cancer, kidney complications and rheumatism were given ultimate attention.

Talking about his personal achievements since joining the company, Mr. Ibukun said, he had, through the instrumentality of BF Suma raised a league of infallible millionaires who were independent. He also intimated that, he had worked closely with the corporate headquarters and that, a major factory would be set up in Nigeria, while he would also be resuming work at the New York office of the company soon. He enjoined Africans especially Nigerians to seize advantage of the opportunity provided by the company to shoot themselves to their dreams.

You can reach Mr. Ajisefinni via his social media handles; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ajisefinniidowuibukunbfsuma/, IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/B0crR21BIoi/?igshid=kmxpl9omt31q.

By Yemi Itodo

The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, unanimously passed a resolution to recommit the Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill to the Committee of the Whole, for passage.

The Nigerian Peace Corps Bill, which was recently re-gazetted as HB. 17 was re-introduced and sponsored by the Chief Whip, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Tahir Monguno.

The reintroduced Bill passed First Reading in the House of Representatives July 3, 2019.

Leading a debate on the motion on Wednesday, Hon. Monguno said, the move to reconsider the Bill in the Committee of the Whole was in pursuant to Order 12, Rule 16 of the Standing Order of the House, which prescribed that, a Bill passed by the previous Assembly, "upon being re-gazetted or clean copies circulated, be reconsidered in the Committee of the Whole without being commenced de-novo".

The Nigerian Peace Corps Bill, which was overwhelmingly passed by the two Chambers of the 8th National Assembly, is to give statutory backing to the existing Peace Corps of Nigeria, with a core mandate to "Develop, Empower and provide gainful Employment for the youths, facilitate Peace, Volunteerism, Community Services, Neighbourhood watch and Nation-building; and for other Related Matters".

While reacting to the re-introduction of the Bill, National Commandant, Peace Corps of Nigeria, Dr Dickson Akoh, on behalf of the Organisation, expressed his gratitude to the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and the entire Members of the House of Representatives, for the decision to revisit the Bill.

Dr Akoh who spoke to our reporter on phone, urged members of the organisation to be patient and remain steadfast, as he is very optimistic that the Bill will see the light of the day this time around.

He said the main reservation raised by President Muhammad Buhari in withholding assent to the Bill has been adequately addressed.

The Bill shall be passed in the next legislative attempt, after clause-by-clause considerations at the Committee of the Whole.

By Oriri Onu Peter

A clear attribute of a people oriented representative, is his ability to put his manifesto into reality. For such a leader, it is not just about a promise to do things, but a covenant with those he represents.

It is heartwarming to notice the birth of such a representative in Hon. Dr. Francis Ottah Agbo.

Honourable Francis Agbo was never a strange name to the people of Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency. Prior to his being elected as a member of the House of Representatives, the astute Journalist had sought a seat at the Benue State House of Assembly, but lost.

His defeat, however, did not mark the end of the road for him. Rather, it signified greater accomplishments awaiting him.

In recognition of his quintessential qualities, Hon. Agbo was appointed as Media Adviser to the former Minister of Information, late Prof. Dora Akunyili between 2008 and 2010. He also served as Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor of Bayelsa state, The Honourable Seriake Dickson.

While still in Bayelsa state, Hon. Ottah took an objective view of the plight of members of his constituency in Benue State and came to the conclusion that they deserved better representation, and thereafter, offered himself for service.

In less than two months, this Youthful Representative has laid a sound footing for everyone to be proud of, and for his counterparts to emulate.

As promised during the campaigns, Hon. Ottah has announced that his salaries for the years he would be at the Green Chambers would be devoted to meeting the yearnings of widows, orphans and the downtrodden in his constituency.

Already, an 11-man committee has been constituted to work out the modalities for the effective channelling of these salaries.

According to the politician, none of his children is of adult age yet. As such, he has no burden of sending any of his children abroad for studies, and thus, does not need to amass humongous wealth.

Only recently, the Representative distributed high breed "Victim A" cassava stems to farmers in his triangular Constituency, in order to boost their agricultural productivity and hence, their income.

The Moving Train, as he is fondly called is not new to philanthropies. Before his election, the Politician had used his personal resources to finance the construction of the road linking the Ekile Ward in his Ado Local Government Area to the Federal Road, thereby linking the Council Area to Ebonyi state.

Indeed, it was in recognition of his intellectual sagacity that the Minority Caucus unanimously appointed him as their spokesperson. This appointment was without prejudice to the fact that he was only a first term Representative.

What more do constituents seek from their representatives: better representation, intellectualism and empowerment. All these Hon. Ottah has got, and is deploying for the common good of the Constituency.

As such, all that could be will be that constituents, irrespective of party affiliation, rally in his support.

In conclusion, Hon. Francis Ottah has come to redefine the beauty of politics through the delivery of democratic dividends to his Constituency, Idoma and Benue state at large.

As such, I solicit the support of all, for his policies in order to enable him deliver effective representation.

To boost his administrative proficiency, Transition Chairman for Ado Local Government, Hon. James Oche earlier today made two critical appointments. While Mr. Abraham Ochoga was appointed the Local Government Commander of the Homeland Defense Volunteer Organization, Jeffrey Anidile was appointed Personal Assistant .

Hon. Oche who handed to them letters of appointment earlier today, 10th July 2019 in his office in Igumale, the Local Government's headquarters also urged the appointees to be selfless and give in their best to achieving the set goals of his administration. He said their appointments were merited and further charged them to perform above expectations.

It may be recalled that, Hon. Oche who was the pioneer Commander of Homeland Defense Volunteer Organization in the entire Benue South District had, upon his appointment as Transition Chairman for Ado and in consultation with the Executive Council made an Executive Order establishing Homeland Defense in Ado Local Government to complement security agencies in maintaining law and order.

It is also pertinent to inform that, application forms for those willing to join Homeland Defense Volunteer Organization are available at the Council's Secretariat and are in custody of the Security Secretary, Mr. Sam Obande. Interested persons are urged to picked.

In his words of acceptance on behalf of the two appointees, Jeffrey Anidile appreciated the Chairman for the rare opportunity and promised that, they would not fail his expectations.

By Oriri Peter

The Civil Society Network for Good Governance has written a letter to the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan over the ongoing public outcry by Nigerians on the alleged misconduct of distinguish Senator Elisha Cliff Abbo who was believed to have slapped a nursing mother at a sex toy shop in Abuja three Months ago.

The group which comprises of over 83 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working in diverse thematic areas to better the lot of all Nigerians through the strengthening of institutions in order to encourage a more efficient delivery of excellent public services as well as citizen’s enlightenment.

Their core mandate also covers advocacy for institution strengthening by holding institutions and public servants to the highest standards. This involves commending great feats, resolving differences when there is confusion and calling for improvement whenever necessary.

Due to the nature of our mandate, it is customary of us to perpetually keep a close watch on all government agencies and other relevant stakeholders that greatly influence the holistic growth and development of Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular.

We have observed closely, recent events brought about by a viral video circulating on different social media platforms, especially Twitter, involving Distinguished Senator Elisha Cliff Abbo, representing Adamawa North Senatorial District. We find this very disturbing as it portrays a misrepresentation of the image and values of our nascent democracy and also seems a deliberate attempt to bring dishonour, not only to the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria but to the Nigerian-State and its youth who are the future of this great Nation.

The National Convener, Comr. Solomon Adodo says while they are not in support of the despicable act portrayed in the viral video and the accompanying story, they are also not happy with the one-sided media reportage of the incidence by Premium Times; which by critical analysis, shows a clear evidence of a deliberate act to impugn and mudsling the person of Senator Elisha Cliff Abbo.

In the light of this observation, as members of a Civil Society Group concerned with justice for all, deem it necessary to write to the 9th Senate to state our position on the matter to ensure everyone involved is given fair hearing and justice appropriately dispensed. This is because when matters are discussed extensively on social media or in the public space, there is high tendencies of over dramatization and politicization of issues.

Sir, it may interest you to know that this matter is not less important to us than it is to the Senate. Thus our effort to carry out a background investigation and an unbiased, thorough scrutiny of the issue. Through this investigation, some important facts on this matter became clearer than they were. These, to us, need to be scrutinized properly to avoid prejudice in analyzing the matter. He said.

Consequent upon our scrupulous findings, it is important to state that:-

• The incident happened way before Honourable Elisha was sworn in as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

• Premium Times had been in possession of the video for over three months before the swearing-in of the Distinguished Senator and at no time contacted him to get his own side of the story as required by the process of fair and balanced Journalism. The video was only published immediately he was sworn into office, giving the suspicion of possible political vendetta/witch-hunt.

• It is also important to state that some of the narratives about the lady in question, especially concerning her marital and breastfeeding status are only but concocted stories to stir media sympathy and sentiments.

From the current trend of widespread illogical stories being circulated all around, one can clearly see that there is currently a method of using the media as a tool in victimizing individuals and this if not nipped in the bud will ultimately boomerang into a political witch-hunting trend. It is indeed disheartening that we now have a robust media platform that is more interested in Propaganda and destroying the integrity of the Nation, Nigeria, and the lives of her citizens rather than building lives for the betterment of our nascent democracy.


Balanced and fair Justice are fundamental moral and political concepts any nation that wants to record significant progress must adopt. The travails of Senator Abbo, if not managed fairly, can serve as template for other political witch-hunting spree not for political office holders alone, but other equally innocent citizen. We must be cautioned that our action today determines the outcome of our tomorrow.
A popular writer and philosopher, Baltasar Gracian, once said, “A single lie destroys a whole reputation of integrity.” We must ensure we tread carefully in order not to set a terrible precedence in our Nation.



In view of the above we want to state in strong terms our position on the matter:

I. That the real intention of Premium Times publishing the story be investigated and if found culpable of sponsored political vendetta against the person of Senator Elisha, be prosecuted.

II. As it stands, it is obvious that Premium Times failed to follow the laid down protocol of publishing story of this magnitude thereby violating media ethics as stipulated by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) code of practices; thus we recommend Premium Times be sanctioned.

III. That the affected lady in the video be compelled to tell the truth without external influences. And her claims properly scrutinized. If possible with the help of a lie detector.

IV. That henceforth the matter be given less media attention to protect the integrity of the 9th Senate and the Nigeria state especially from the prying eyes of the outside world eagerly looking out for loopholes to make rubbish of our democracy.

V. That all those involved in the fracas at the Shop be given equal opportunity to testify at the committee sitting; including Senator Abbo's sister who was alleged to have been beaten to stupor and was rushed to the hospital but was deliberately not mentioned in the Premium Times report.

VI. That Premium Times withdraw the video from their site with immediate effects as the case is already being investigated both by the Police and the Committee set up by the Senate Committee

VII. That members from the Committee set up to investigate the matter be selected in such a way to avoid passing sentimental and politically motivated judgement. They concludes.

By Yemi Itodo

Gombe state governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has said the Peace Corps organization should be allowed to assist the existing agencies in restoring peace and security in Nigeria.

Governor Inuwa said the state of Nigeria's security calls for all hands to be on deck, especially in the areas of intelligence gathering and neighbourhood watch, adding that, "it is not about having guns everywhere".

The governor was speaking in Gombe, the state capital on Tuesday, while receiving the National Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Amb. (Dr.) Dickson Akoh.

Akoh was in Gombe with other national officials of the Corps for a North East zonal meeting, in continuation of the reformation agenda of the Corps.

Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Muhammad Kabir Usman, in an event well attended by commandants of the 6 north eastern states and officials of the state ministries in Gombe; Governor Inuwa also called on President Muhammad Buhari to give speedy assent to the Nigerian Peace Corps Bill reintroduced at the National Assembly last week.

"Everybody has come to the conclusion that we are on a timed bomb. If we fail to take care of our youths, we are failing to take care of our future. Therefore, no reasonable government will neglect such an important segment of the society.

"We have come a long time in Nigeria that peace is eluding us, there are too many crises in Nigeria, we need peace and the right people who can bring this peace are the Peace Corps Patriots.

"No society can develop without peace. Our approach to security issues in Nigeria calls for a review. To secure the nation, to secure our local communities, is not about having guns everywhere; it is about having people with the right frame of minds and right attitude with a peaceful mind.

"So long the people are not peaceful in their minds, so long our local neighborhood are not in peace, Nigeria can never be in peace.

"Therefore, the core mandate of the Peace Corps is very relevant at this state of our national development.

"I call on the President of the federal republic of Nigeria, Muhammad Buhari, to exercise speed in ensuring that the Bill establishing the Nigerian Peace Corps is being signed into law.

"Nigeria is ours, to bring development, to bring peace, is not a sole responsibility of a particular person or a particular group; our security agencies, considering their numbers, they are not enough. At the current situation, the total number of our security agencies in Nigeria, the personnel, are not up to 2 million, and we are over 200 million. So, divide the 2 million by 200 million citizens, it's a ridiculous percentage.

"And therefore, the task of securing this nation must not be left in the hand of traditional security agencies alone, everybody must come in to contribute. And your contributions as citizens, as a group, is very important, especially at this level of our development", the governor said.

Pending the President's assent to the Bill, governor Inuwa urged various state governors and local government areas to key into the activities of the Corps with the view to assisting the organization where necessary.

He said, "for young people to decide that we are doing this voluntarily, we are using our time, we are using our money to bring peace to this nation, I think you need a great encouragement. It is only a Patriot that can do that.

"My prayer is that, the Bill should be signed into law, so that you now become lawful and maybe certain funding should come your way, so you will be able to discharge your core mandate peacefully and in an orderly and efficient manner. There is no way you can operate efficiently and effectively without funding, no matter how you want to do the job, it's not possible.

"Not only the federal government, all the states and local governments should look into your issue and see how they can come to your assistant so that you can continue to render this your vital role to the society".

While pledging total support of the Gombe state government, Alhaji Inuwa assured that, "the government is articulating a good policy to ensure that the youth of Gombe state are well catered for".

Earlier, the head of the Corps, Akoh, indicated the intention of the organization to establish its north eastern zonal headquarters in Gombe, in line with the newly established offices of the Deputy National Commandants (DNCs) to man each of the 6 geopolitical zones.

A piece of land for the construction of the zonal office is to be provided by the Gombe state governor.