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By Yemi Itodo

A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court sitting in Jabi, Abuja, has dismissed a certificate forgery suit brought against a House of Representatives member for Ajaokuta Federal Constituency of Kogi State Mr. Lawal Mohammad Idirisu to challenge his election.

An aspirant to the House of Reps election Mr. Yusuf Balogun had shortly after the primaries of the All Progressive Congress (APC) held in October, 2018, that produced Idirisu as winner, instituted the suit challenging the qualification of Idirisu, who had won the primaries.

In an originating summon filed at the FCT high court on 17th January, 2019, Balogun prayed the court to nullify the candidacy of Idirisu over alleged forgery of National Diploma (ND) certificate.

But counsel to Idirisu, M.S. Ibrahim, in a preliminary objection, urged the court to dismiss the suit on the ground that it was stature barred and constituted gross abuse of court processes.

He contended that same certificate forgery case had already been adjudicated upon in 2015 and 2019 by both federal high court and court of appeal.

Ruling on the preliminary objection, Justice Charles Agbaza, berated the plaintiff for filing the suit out of time and in contravention of established law, especially the Electoral Act 2010.

Delivering a 15-page ruling on Friday, Justice Agbaza said, the suit was not only stature and time barred, but it has also severally been litigated in different courts of cognate and higher jurisdictions and as such, an abuse of court process.

Dwelling on the judgments of federal high court, Abuja of April 2019 and court of appeal, Abuja in June 2019, Justice Agbaza said the matter was "caught up with Res-judicata" and thus, lacked merit.

The Judge, while dismissing the suit, described the action of the plaintiff as "judicial rascality" as his suit "lacks leg to stand upon”.

It would be recalled that Hon. Aloysius Okino Adeiza of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had in 2015 challenged the qualification of Idirisu to contest the House of Representatives election, but lost the suit at both the tribunal sitting in Lokoja and the appellate court.

Adeiza also dragged Idirisu to federal high court, Abuja and court of appeal, Abuja, in 2019, alleging that Hon. Idirisu forged his ND certificate.

The appellate court in its ruling in June 2019 did not only dismiss Adeiza's appeal, but it also awarded a cost of N400,000 against him, for engaging in abuse of court process.

By Yemi Itodo

The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, reintroduced a Bill seeking to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps.

The Bill titled 'Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2019 HB 17', being sponsored by a ranking lawmaker, Hon. Mohammed Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno), passed the first reading on Wednesday during the plenary.

Both the House and the Senate, had in 2016, passed the Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill 2016.

But President Muhammad Buhari declined assent to the Bill, citing paucity of funds and duplication of functions of other security agencies as the main reasons.

The President's decline of assent, however, elicited a lot of reactions from the lawmakers and members of the public, who felt it was an avenue for All Progressive Congress (APC) led federal government to empower the youth and graduates in the country.

A source at the House of Representatives hinted our correspondent that the reintroduced Bill is a revised version of the rejected Bill.

"The grey areas pointed out by the Presidency have been taken care of, in this new Bill. The Bill introduces more avenues for funding and there is none of its functions that overlaps with any existing security agency.

"I'm sure the President, in line with his resolve to empower the Nigerian youth and also strengthen the intelligence gathering and neighborhood watch in Nigeria, will gladly welcome this Bill", the source hinted.

The Bill seeks to give legal backing to the already existing Peace Corps of Nigeria, which was registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission as a Non-Governmental Organization, with a consultative status with the United Nations and the African Union.

When established, the scheme would empower at least 3 million Nigerian youths, who are currently serving as volunteers.

Since the Bill was passed at both Houses, it may not necessarily need to pass through the legislative procedures of lawmaking, as it may not be subjected to further public hearing, but adoption of clauses, final passage at the green chamber and concurrence at the Senate.

The Nigerian Peace Corps, upon establishment, shall be domiciled with the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, under the supervision Honourable Minister.

The core mandates of the Corps is to develop, empower and provide gainful employment to the youths, in order to facilitate Peace, Volunteerism, Community Services, Neighbourhood Watch, nation-building and other related matters.

For filing what it described as "frivolous appeal", candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for House of Representatives election in Ajaokuta federal constituency of Kogi state, Hon. Okino Aloysius Adeiza, has been fined by the Court of Appeal.

In a frank judgement delivered on Friday by a panel of 3 Justices presided by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the appellate court did not only dismiss Adeiza's appeal against Hon. Lawal Mohammed Idrisu of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC); the court also awarded the sum of N400,000 as cost, against the appellant.

It could be recalled that, Hon. Adeiza, in a pre-election suit filed in 2018, challenged the qualification of Hon. Idrisu, alleging that he forged his National Diploma (ND) certificate which was obtained from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.

This was, even as, Hon. Adeiza had challenged same ND certificate at the tribunal and court of appeal in 2015 when he was first defeated at the poll, but lost at both courts for lack of sufficient proofs.

Justice Taiwo Taiwo, however, delivered judgement on the suit in April, 2019, saying, since the issue of certificate forgery had been settled by the Tribunal and court of appeal in 2015 for lack of proofs, "the action is an abuse of court process and also statued barred".

Irked by the ruling of Justice Taiwo of the federal high court, Hon. Adeiza, through his counsel, Reuben Egwuaba (Esq.), approached the court of appeal, praying that the judgement of the trial court be set aside and Hon. Idrisu be disqualified.

Hon. Idrisu, on the other hand, prayed the appellate court, through his counsels, AA Ibrahim (SAN) and Tawada Adams (Esq.), to uphold the judgement delivered by Justice Taiwo.

Delivering the lead judgement on Friday, Justice Agim frowned at the counsel to the appellant for not properly advising his client.

He said, "Lawyers should advise their clients appropriately", stressing that "law is law, no matter how it is seen".

Justice Agim warned that, when a judgement is given, it is given according to the principles set by law, "and you cannot undo it, no matter how you twist it".

He said, having been decided by the court of appeal in 2015, bringing same certificate forgery appeal before the appellate court in 2019 would amount to abuse of court process, even as he said, " there must be an end to every litigation".

He therefore, dismissed the appeal, upheld the judgement of the trial court and awarded N400,000 cost to the PDP candidate.

By Yemi Itodo

Barely 12 hours to the inauguration of the 9th National Assembly, strong indications have emerged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the camp of its adopted candidate for the speakership of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, have produced Mastercard for their supporters to ensure their victory.

This is a follow-up to the issuance of a green card to the new members-elect to track votes.

The inauguration ceremony which holds Tuesday, 11th June, comes with the election of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House with their respective deputies.

Sources who spoke to this paper on Monday, said the mastercard had been given to over one hundred members across party lines.

Specifically, "the card is a promissory credit note to members who had penciled down the serial number of their ballot paper on the green card", the source hinted.

Acting as a proof, it goes that any member whose serial had been confirmed to have voted for Gbajabiamila would receive instant financial alert to their individual bank accounts after the activation of the mastercard.

The source said, amount expected to be received as reward after a "job well done" is $20,000 each.

It was further learnt that with the number, every individual voter can be traced and identified either for reward or sanction by the party.

At the moment, the APC has a total of 119 new members elect, with the North West leading the table with 39 members, while the South West follows closely with 33.

Others are the North Central with 22, South South, 6 leaving the South East to bring up the rear with just one new member elect.

It will be recalled that most national dailies of Monday, June 10, 2019 were awash with signatures and endorsements for Gbajabiamila.

Some member-elect who spoken with our correspondents, have expressed shock and worry that their names were published in the newspapers without their consent.

One of the members who spoke in confidence said that a mere attendance at a meeting which was permitted by his party does not translate to automatic endorsement for a particular candidate.

The source, who described the development as an act of desperation, stated that it was both untidy, petty and unhealthy for many members-elect.

According to the source, the election of the leadership of both chambers is expected to throw up many surprises.

https://www.naijavoicenews.com/speakership-after-sharing-green-cards-gbajabiamila-procures-credit-cards-for-members

By Yemi Itodo


National Chief Imam of the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, has said the society would feed at least 2,000 indigent Muslims during the Eid-el-Fitr, which marks the end of the month long Ramadan fasting.

Imam Fuad said the feeding on Salah day was part of its “feed the indigent” progamme.

Imam, in a statement in Abuja on Monday July 3rd said the 'feed indigent' programme which it does on salah day, caps the month long iftar programme during which the society served more that 60,000 meals during the holy month of Ramadan, to people who broke their fast in the mosque.

“What we want to achieve with the feed the indigent programme is to provide hot fresh food to people who ordinarily might not be able to provide for themselves. As you know we have been fasting for one month and we know not everyone can afford to have such fresh meal.

"So we try to support them, let them also feel the ambience of the festive season", He said.

He added that, “this feed the indigent programme, does not, however replace the zakatul fitr. Zakat al-Fitr is the mandatory charity taken for the poor by those who can afford it, a few days before the end of fasting in the Islamic holy month of Ramadan”

Imam Fuad, while citing quran 76 verse 8, quoted Allah as saying, "And they give food, out of love for Him, to the poor and the orphan and the captive, [saying] “We feed you, for Allah’s pleasure only — We desire from you neither reward nor thanks. Surely we fear from our Lord a stern, distressful day.”

He also cited the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (saw), as compiled by Tirmidhi, as saying, “O people, exchange greetings of peace (As-Salamu ‘Alaikum to one another), feed people, strengthen the ties of kinship, and be in prayer when others are asleep, you will enter Jannah in peace.”

He called on Muslims to also pay the annual zakat, which is a purification of their wealth.

Imam Fuad said, "Islam provides different avenues for social services and caring for those who are less privileged", challenging Muslims to comply with such provisions to reduce inequalities in the society.

By Yemi Itodo

In a view to resolving the lingering crisis inherent in the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), the apex youth body, on Sunday held an extraordinary Congress in Abuja, the nation's capital.

The meeting which had in attendance, the Board of Trustees (BoT), National Advisory Council (NAC), state chairmen, heads of various Voluntary Youth Organizations (VYOs), the representatives of the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youths Development and other stakeholders, also appointed Kogi-born Asuku Abdullahi Mustapha, as a caretaker chairman for a period of two years.

The Congress also, amongst other things, resolved: to investigate the encroachment of the piece of land given for Youth Village by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and also empowered the BoT to recover all assets and property of the Council; to amend the 2012 constitution of the Council; to sanction anyone impersonating officials or any organ of the Council; to laise with the Ministry of Youth, to review the recently launched National Youths Policy Document, which the Council was not duly consulted.

Recall that, the BoT had in May 2019, dis-recognised all factional presidents and their executives through a letter to the former Minister of Youths, Barr. Solomon Dalung and copied the presidency and heads of various security agencies in Nigeria.

The Board hinged its decision on the order of the Nasarawa High Court, after the Gombe National Convention, where Comrade Bello Bala Shagari emerged national president, with other national executives.

Shortly after that, Comrade Shagari, in a press release last month, declared that he remained the national president and that BoT had no powers to remove him.

Also, former leader of the Council, Comrade Ikenga Ugochinyere appointed former aspirant at the Gombe Congress, Oladele Nihi, from Kogi state as national president two weeks ago.

The third factional president of the Council, Comrade Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubu was also appointed by former Minister, Barr. Dalung in his office, Abuja, a week to the expiration of his tenure as Minister.

But the extraordinary Congress held in Abuja on Sunday, did not only declare all existing factional executives illegal, it also faulted Barr. Dalung of meddlesome in the affairs of the Council.

Speaking at the extraordinary Congress, Chairman of the Board, Amb. (Dr.) Dickson Akoh, lamented how the Council had been hijacked by "strangers" whom he also said are engineering the lingering crisis.

"I want to make this abundantly clear. Any organization that is registered with the CAC, the only people recognized by law or Company Allied Matter Act, are the Incorporated Trustees.

"Thus, nobody can meet legally to take critical decision about the National Youth Council of Nigeria, without the knowledge of the Incorporated Trustees.

"Of course, the NEC has its own powers, the state chairmen also have their own powers, the Advisory Council can also meet and exercise its powers. But when it has to do with critical decision or teething issues affecting the Council, no stranger is permitted to meet anywhere and take decision on behalf of the Council.

"It is in this regard, that we have decided that we are not going to tow the part of what others are doing, but to invite all the stakeholders here, with the view to resolving the crises that are bedeviling the Youth Council.

"Presently, for the first time in the history of the Youth Council, we have three 'national presidents' parading themselves. Some of the leaders we have thought would call the youths to order, also find solace in whatever they are doing. This is highly alarming and threatening!

"The idea of calling people into a beer parlour, inviting clergymen, film actors, retired politicians and even political office holders sitting and adopting a particular person as the national president of the Youth Council is very dangerous to the collective existence of the Nigerian youths", Akoh lamented.

He emphasized that, it was very wrong to delve into the mater which was still in court and the order given has not been vacated, adding that it would amount to illegality and nullity to be acting against the law.

Akoh said the BoT was not happy the way the former Minister was manipulating the Council and a letter of protest was written to him early this year, citing undue influences of the Minister and the ministry staff.

"The ministry replied us on 15th April, 2019, that we should meet urgently and the meeting was held on 18th April, 2019, with the permanent secretary and senior staff of the ministry, where I pointed out to the Minister that whatever he was doing was illegal and would further aggravate the crisis in the Youth Council.

"When we saw how the ministry was fraternising with one of the factional presidents and the way things were going, the Board took a decision, to disrecognise all the executives, in line with the court order. We wrote to the Minister and copied the presidency and all heads of security agencies. Anyone parading himself or herself as an official of the Youth Council now is impersonating.

"For now, there is no EXCO in the Youth Council, the youths are being denied the opportunity of patronage and we shall not fold our hands and allow this to happen. That's why we have called this extraordinary Congress, if we cannot hold elective Congress to fill the vacuum, because of the court order, we can as well discuss the way forward, because the constitution empowers this gathering to find solutions to issues as this.

"One of the steps we can take to resolving the issues, is to appoint interim committee or caretaker committee to oversee the affairs of the Council for a specified period of time, when we would have resolved these whole issues", Akoh added.

On his part, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Olusade Adesola, said he was confident that the extraordinary Congress would find "a way forward that could enhance your unity and cohesion in advancing the Youth advantage in Nigeria".

Represented by the Deputy Director, Youth Network and Social Development, Mr. Aliyu Sule, the permanent secretary said the resolution of the extraordinary Congress should be forwarded to the ministry, saying every necessary attention would be accorded the Council.

"The last speaker talked about some piece of land that was given to the Council during President Obasanjo tenure, well, I'm not aware of that. But whatever that is critical to this body and this Congress find necessary to bring to the knowledge of the ministry, including the document that was launched recently, it should be done through a written document in form of observation and taken to the ministry, so we can take note and act accordingly.

"I'm representing the permanent secretary here and I think by the time you put your voice in a written document and forward to the ministry, he would look at it and tell you the way forward or appropriate direction that it should go.

"We actually launched this document on national youths policy in Akure, I was involved, I was there, stakeholders were also consulted as committee that came up with such document, up to the presidency, but at the same time, I don't know the level of involvement in which you people were engaged before such document came up", he said.

While accepting to serve as caretaker president, Comrade Mustapha promised to work with the stakeholders to "collectively sanitize and restore integrity and lost glory of our dear National Youth Council of Nigeria", adding that the Council would make impact at all levels of governance.

He called on Nigeria youths not to allow any selfish politician use them as agents of destabilization, while appealing to "all groups that resorted to banditry, violence and terrorism for any personal interest or perceived injustice or grievances to give peace a chance".

The following officials were appointed as members of the national caretaker committee for the next two years.

Asuku Mustapha Abdulahi as president; Nnduanya Innocent as deputy president; Echem Chibuike, national vice president, South East; Ibanichukwu Kingsley, national vice president, South-South; Adekunle Marufdeen, national vice president, South West; Gara Soyonga Nongha, national vice president North Eeast; Othniel Sunday Gongden, national vice president, North Central and Ubale Funtua Aminu, national vice president, North West.

Others are, Blessing A. Akinlosotu, secretary general; Ebere Caleb, assistant secretary general; Awujoola Kehinde, public relations officer; Temitope Eniola, financial secretary; Aliyu Magaji Gamji, national programme officer; Uko Michael; treasurer; Millicent Umoru, social secretary; Barr. Tahri Ahmad, legal adviser; Ibrahim Ghasali Ungogo, internal auditor and Anita Chimenye Nnebe, welfare officer.

Also appointed are: Asheazi Musa, organising secretary, HQ; Humphrey Ikechukwuike Osuji, organising secretary, South East; Clinlon Avwoke, organizing secretary, South-South; Kunle Bello, organizing secretary, South West; Bala Buba, organizing secretary, North East; Salahundeen A Lukman, organizing secretary, North Central and Mustapha Umar, organizing secretary, North West.

By Samuel Adoga & Oriri Peter

A delegation of the Benue South Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the deputy governorship candidate Dr Sam Ode has expressed its confidence in ousting incumbent Governor Samuel Ortom at the Elections Petition Tribunal.

The Chapter made this known while on a solidarity visit to the residence of Senator George Akume in Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the Group, Barr. John Ochoga urged the members to remain committed despite the trying times, imploring them to learn to protect the Party across board. In his words, "we will send Ortom packing out of Government House."

State Chairman of the party, Comrade Abba Yaro and the Zonal Chairman conducted the proceedings during the visit. Prominent speakers at the event include Prof John Enyi, Hon Abu Amali, Hon Adam Okloho and a former governorship aspirant of the Party, Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi who emphasized that the loss of Senator Akume was not the end of his political career, stressing that it was a sign of greater things to come.

In his remarks, Deputy Governorship Candidate in the recently held election, Hon Sam Ode said the Senatorial Zone had proved wrong, pundits who thought the Zone was a safe sanctuary for the People's Democratic Party (PDP), stressing that the performance of the APC had put to rest all such conjectures.

On his part, the North Central Leader of the All Progressives Congress and former Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, who expressed his appreciation to the Chapter for the visit, urged all to redouble their efforts to the party. According to him, the dualization of the Abuja-Lafia and Makurdi roads had assumed an interesting dimension. He went further to wish the Party's Governorship Candidate, Barr Emmanuel Jime and his Running Mate, Sam Ode well at the elections petitions tribunal.

Other notable members on the delegation were all State officers from the zone , nine Local government Party Chairmen from the Zone and all Coordinators of the Jime/Ode Campaign Organisation ( JOCO) from Benue South. Barr Jacob Ajene moved the motion for a vote of confidence and was seconded by Mr Peter Ochiba . Others in attendance were Chief Simon Shango, Dr Ashwe Paul, Hon Benard Ochepa and Mr Ella Abechi. Candidate, Barr Emmanuel Jime and his Running Mate, Sam Ode well at the elections petitions tribunal.

Other notable members on the delegation were all State officers from the zone , nine Local government Party Chairmen from the Zone and all Coordinators of the Jime/Ode Campaign Organisation ( JOCO) from Benue South. Barr Jacob Ajene moved the motion for a vote of confidence and was seconded by Mr Peter Ochiba . Others in attendance were Chief Simon Shango, Dr Ashwe Paul, Hon Benard Ochepa and Mr Paul Ella Abechi.

A staff of Daily Post, Yemi Itodo, on Wednesday emerged Chairman of the National Assembly New Media Forum.

Inaugurating the Forum and the executives at the White House, National Assembly, Clerk to the National Assembly, Chief Mohammed Ataba Omolori, charged members to adhere to ethics of the media profession.

He said the inauguration followed the consideration that the New Media will be an avenue to engage each other and a driver for new phase of Journalism.

Represented by the Deputy Director of Publication, Mr. John Gyara, Omolori lamented that the social media has become an avenue for scandal, adding that the forum should teach others true professionalism.

"Check your sources and balance your reportage. Don't fail your integrity, don't destroy your profession", Omolori advised.

While congratulating the forum for a successful Inauguration, Omolori urged the Forum to maintain discipline and ensure that only credible medium, accredited by the Nigeria Union of Journalists are brought into the fold.

Earlier, chairman of the Forum, Yemi Itodo in a welcome address, recalled that "at its inception, the leadership of the 8th Assembly in its wisdom, created an office for, and appointed Special Assistants on New Media to the Senate President and Honourable Speaker, in addition to existing offices such as Special Adviser on Media and Chief Press Secretary; for effective dissemination of information to the global world through the internet as well as liaising between the online media and their principals".

According to Itodo, "the creation has greatly been of immense benefit to the 8th Assembly and was a great contributor to the success of this Parliament, in the face of increasingly digital and new media evolvement.

"This trailblazing precedence, will also inform the leadership of the 9th Assembly on constitution of digital media handlers that would help set narratives for the Parliament in the next four years".

He maintained that the essence of having a forum such as this, is for easy coordination of Online Journalists within the National Assembly; assuring that it will assist the management in regulating the influx and activities of Online Journalists around the complex, with the view to checking quackery and fake Journalists.

On his part, a deputy Director and Clerk of Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Mustapha Oluwuyi, believed the Inauguration of the New Media Forum would assist the management in curbing the menace of fake Journalist around the National Assembly.

The following officials were inaugurated as executives of the New Media Forum: Yemi Itodo (Daily Post) as Chairman; Lizzy Atime-Chirkpi (Order Paper) as Vice Chairman and Haruna Salami (Sharp Edge News) as Secretary.

Others are Goodness Adaoyiche (Pulse. ng) as Treasurer; Clement Nwabuiko (Sundiata Post) as Auditor; George Okpara (Daily Post) as Welfare Officer; while Nasir Ayitogo (Premium Times) and Joyce Ogunbiyi (NASNEWS) were inaugurated in absentia.

A foremost Civil Society Coalition has hailed the passage of a  Bill for an Act to extend the retirement age of teachers in Nigeria, commending the National Assembly, Minister of Education Prof. Adamu Adamu, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Education, Arc. Sonny Echono, the sponsor of the bill Honourable Adesegun Abdel-Majid Adekoya, representing Ijebu-North/Ijebu-East/Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency and the Nigeria Union of Teachers(NUT) who have always been in the fore front of the struggle and have never failed in drawing the attention of the Federal Government and educating Nigerians of the importance of the bill for their support.


In a statement issued by the Joint Action Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, which was signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, the 11 groups under the coalition urged President Buhari to assent to the Bill with the same urgency he treated the Minimum Wage Act.


"This is in view of the importance of the bill and the place of education in the present administration of President Buhari. 


"We are glad that there have been a high level commitment of the President Buhari-led Federal Government as the Government, represented by the Minister of education, Adamu Adamu, was deeply involved during the public hearing on the bill sponsored by Honourable Adesegun Abdel-Majid Adekoya, representing Ijebu-North/Ijebu-East/Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency. 

The bill which seeks to increase the retirement age for Teachers /education officers from 60 to 65 years as incentive for better performance which Teachers at tertiary level are already enjoying the incremental age, so why discriminate against the foundational level which is more important and the bedrock of development of any society. The bill will also revolutionize the education sector at the grassroots level as early retirement of teachers have been robbing the education sector of needed experience. 



 "It is generally accepted that most of our teachers get retired at the age they still have a lot to offer. 


"Most of them often got employed by private schools operators who are always eager to harvest their wealth of knowledge as we all know that older the teachers are more patient in attending to educational needs of pupils and students. 


"As a coalition with special interest in the education sector, we therefore urge Mr. President, who himself is a father that have deep understanding of the need for quality education for our children, to immediately assent to the bill on arrival for immediate implementation", the coalition stated.

Wyte Image Media, organizers of Profile Awards Nigeria and the publishers of WIM Profile Magazine has officially unveiled the activities for the 2019 edition of her annual event Profile Award Nigeria /Unveiling of Profile Magazine 8th Edition.

Most of the time, the society fails to recognize those who devote their lives into making it better, those who take their time to develop it to a better place and those who live their lives serving others. This group of people deserves to be celebrated. They deserve to know that their hard work is not received without appreciation. The reason for this is not to boost their ego, but it is a known fact that when one is appreciated, the person is motivated to do even more that was done before.


So, Profile Magazine/Profile Awards Nigeria celebrates the life, the achievements and accomplishments of great men and women who will rather serve than be served, who will rather give, than be given. In our own little way, we use this medium to let such people know that their good work have not gone without notice.

The President/CEO of Wyte Image Media, Oslimz Festus Vincent has also revealed to the press that the reason why the 2018 edition was cancelled, was because of the political activities within the country during that period. According to him, Profile Awards Nigeria/Profile Magazine is geared towards reinforcing the spirit of hard work among youths, also promoting peace and unity among Nigerians.


Unlike most other awards/magazine, Profile Awards Nigeria/Profile Magazine brings together the corporate, non-corporate and the entertainment world to the podium of honour as entrepreneurs, Icons, Humanitarians, Goodwill Ambassadors, Outstanding Leaders and Talented Entertainers are celebrated. The caliber of personalities that grace this prestigious event is something to reckon with as integrity and excellence is notably appreciated.


Activities for Profile Awards Nigeria 2019 includes:

Live Performance by top Nigeria Entertainers
Spoken Words/Motivational Speech by our guest speakers
Peace Education/Security Awareness
Crowning of Face of Profile Magazine 2019




…Come let’s celebrate hard work and redefine standards



For enquiries/Support/Sponsorship, contact us on:

Email: wyteimagemedia@gmail.com

IG: wim_profilemagazine

FB: Profile Magazine

Whatsapp: 09066325705

Abuja, Oriri Peter & Adoga Samuel

An Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has issued a perpetual injunction against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting a former pension boss, Abdulrasheed Maina.

The judgement, delivered by Justice F.O.G. Ogunbanjo on 31st January 2019 was in a suit filed by Maina on 5th September, 2018 urging the Court to, among others, declare his purported declaration as a wanted individual as null and void.

In his judgement, Justice Ogunbanjo gave an Order of perpetual injunction
restraining the Defendants, both jointly and or severally, whether by themselves, members of staff, agents, privies, representatives and or any person howsoever described, from further
declaring the Plaintiff wanted in relation to the particulars and subject matter of this Suit, either on the EFCC official website, newspaper publication or any other related platform except by a judicial intervention and recourse to all constitutional safeguards available to him in law and equity.”

The Court also held that the declaration of Maina as a wanted person on the EFCC website without recourse to the Court was unlawful and hence, ordered the Commission, its agents, privies, representatives and other related affiliates to forthwith remove the picture, name, references, details and or particulars of the Plaintiff from the wanted list published on the EFCC official website or any other related platform.

The Court however declined the #100,000,000 damages sought by Mr. Maina and also ordered that parties should bear their own cost of the action.

Source: "You Cannot Declare Maina Wanted" High Court directs EFCC https://www.naijavoicenews.com/exclusive-declaration-of-maina-as-a-wanted-person-unlawful-court-rules/

Below is the enrolled court order.

By Oriri Peter

A member of the Presidential campaign council and the Youth Coordinator for the Buhari/Osinbajo Presidential Campaign in Benue State, BUHARI/OSINBAJO, Barr Oche Emmanuel has expressed his appreciation to the people of Benue State and all Nigerians for voting en-masse for President Mohammed Buhari in the 2019 general elections.

Speaking shortly after the declaration of Muhammadu Buhari as winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Barr. Oche assured the people of Benue and Nigerians that their decision to re-elect the President was the best for the country at this time.

While restating President Buhari's resolve to fight insecurity and corruption and his determination to take Nigeria to its pride of place among the Comity of Nations, Barr. Oche, urged Benue people to come out en-masse on the 9th of March to affirm their confidence in the Jime/ode Governorship ambition.

Barr. Oche commended the choice of Jime/ode and urged Benue People to vote massively for the duo as they have the pedigree to deliver.

By Oriri Peter

The Peoples Democratic Party Movement for National Redemption has called on all Nigerians to avoid violence and abide good behavior during the Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly election as citizens will be exercising their franchise in electing credible leaders.

The group in a press statement through her National Coordinator Mr. Akpante Marshal urged Nigerians to elect leaders whose policies are geared towards National security, job creation and economy of the country for the next four years.

The PDP Movement for National Redemption is a pressure group, that brings together like minds with great love for her fatherland, aimed at working assiduously towards a redeemed Nigeria. We are also a patriotic citizens and staunch supporters of events, actions and policies that put Nigeria’s first.


Based on the information gathered from our Group members so far, spread across the 36 states of the federation, down the ward, polling units and voting point Mr. Akpante speaking from his country home at Odajie Mbube in Ogoja LGA of Cross River State where he will also be casting his vote, thanked Nigerians over the high level of participation by voters who have made up their minds to cast their votes for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Mr. Peter Obi and all PDP National Assembly candidates.

Describing the Buhari led Administration and the APC as a failed and expired product Mr. Akpante says he cannot vote a man who does not care about the welfare of her Country declaring his vote and and his entire family for the PDP candidates.

He further admonished Nigerians to come out en-masse to vote and protect their votes against any inducement of vote buying, ‘do not sell your votes for any reason’ he says. As politicians let’s stay off from instigating violence of any means, to the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), remember your oath of office, you are to serve Nigeria and Nigerians rather than the government of the day or any pay master. To all Observers (National and International) and all NYSC Corp members we call on you to do your jobs diligently with utmost level of professionalism, fairness and impartiality.

Finally, we wish to appeal to the APC led government to provide a secured and hitch free environment so as to enable the citizens perform their civil responsibility. Mr. Marshal went on to appreciate all leaders and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the PDP Movement for National Redemption for their commitment, resilience and dogged participation over the past few Months of campaigns.

By: Mathew Apeh

As we approach a very important season in the history of our Nation's democracy, it is paramount we appreciate our individual differences either religion, ethnicity, political group or affiliation. The fundamental rights of every Nigerian to make his or her choice ( who to vote and who not to vote) should not be infringed.

Apostle Paul says "When I was a child, I used to think like a child, act like a child; as an adult I will think and act like an adult and give up childish ways"
Therefore, I need no body to use uncivilized words like gullible, brain dead, sick etc in other for me to believe in their views or to chose my preferred candidates. I am ready to stand by the choice I made without any fear of intimidation or favour.

Many have attacked me personally because of my untamed and constructive criticism for national and dominant issues that has heated up the polity in recent times. As we make the last push to decide who governs this country for the next four years may I throw more light on some lingering issues .

My fellow Nigerians don't be deceived. I do not think you have really sat down to analyse the connection between the past actions of the previous government and the present. There are so many cheap lies in the air on a daily basis concerning our dear nation so be enlightened before you cast your votes.

1) ASUU Strike: Do not forget that it was not this government that went into agreement with ASUU in 2OO9 including an MoU signed in 2O13 and 2O14. Six years after, that agreement was not fulfilled and this adminstration is now facing the heat yet *those who would rather choose to propagate and promote bad image of this government have the effrontery to blame this government for ASUU Strike.* Though government is a continua but I can tell you for free that no administration has done so well in showing commitment to the completion of on-going and abandoned projects more than this government has done.

2) As a Nigerian who is abreast with burning issues in the country, what do you make of the prediction of the former minister of finance and former world Bank vice president (Ngoze Okonjo Iwala ) about our economy in 2O14? In her words; "If Nigerians do not change their ways of spending and safe for the rainy day the country would be heading for economy crises" What did we get? Loot! Loot! and loot! Until this government came in and that prediction came to be that Nigeria was plunged into Recession as a result of poor foundation layed by successive governments. Further more, what do you make of the predictions of the two former CBN Governors, Sanusi Lamido, now the Emire of Kano and Charles Soludo in 2O13/2O14 about the pending danger in our economy? Nigerian government was told if its does not check reckless spending and corruption Nigeria would be plunged into recession yet somebody can be bold enough to tell me this government took us into recession.

3) On security, you and I know how bombs were flying up and down before the emergence of this government. This government has done so much in curtailing the activities of the dreaded boko haram, taking the fight deeper in their quests to tackle all other security relatated challenges and these led to why the military is taking more of the casualties than civilians in recent times.

Fulani herdsmen/ farmer clashes we know is no new security challenges just that it has become more pronounced in this adminstration not because the government has failed but climate change and desertification is playing a great role in the increasing cases of clashes today. Notwithstanding, the government has not failed in its responsibility to respond to it and to proffer solutions to this crisis which many State Governors are foot dragging. Please note that there is no country in the world that does not have it's own security challenges; only that they have a Strong institutions that deals with them and that strong institutions are what we need and when we have that, we would not be blaming the President for every social vices as common as burglary/break in.
These give credence to why our National Assembly should be more alive to their responsibilities but the National Assembly that we see today has became more or less a personal or individual shop that can be locked up and open at will.

4) Closure/Merger of Bank. I have often heard many shout "oh..banks are closing down, millions have lost their jobs all because of this government policy"
Do we still remember Keystone Bank, Intercontinental Bank, Oceanic Bank just to mention a few..where are those banks today? Merger is a process in the system and could come as a result of my willingness to sell my share or mismanagement could force me into doing same therefore, merger is a phenomenal in our banking system and it did not start in this adminstration. If bank can no longer function simply because government chose to remove its money from the commercial bank for proper and effective management through the TSA regime, then you should ask yourself how comes other banks are able to survive without government money? That is to say it has been corruption that had sustained some banks all this while.

5) On infrastructure, if you have traveled recently across the country, you will get to appreciate what I am talking about. There is virtually no part of this country that one federal project or the other is not taking place. If you have not, I have seen Railway receiving a steady attention, Our High ways are not left out, our airport is looking better, Power generation has received tremendous boast since the inception of this adminstration, electricity of which I can boast of personally of conducting a survey on have seen virtually every where visited with improved power supply.

6) Economic Diversification, agriculture has been the focus of this adminstration in shifting Nigeria away from total reliance on oil economy. Today Nigeria can boast of 6.7 metric tones of rice production as against 2.5 metric tones as at 2O16
Everyday you hear the critics of this adminstration shouting on social media "There is hunger in the land, people are dying" First of all how do we define poverty? What is poverty? If there is poverty as you claim you will not even have a smart phone how much more of affording a thousand Naira for subscription and if you are really in the poverty circle then, there is good news for you. The government has in place Social Intervention Scheme. Under this scheme, are the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program of which many extremely poor Nigerians are benefitting from it.

The Home School Feeding Program is one other social intervention program of this government that you can benefit from in case you have a child in school that you can not afford to feed three square meal a day and millions of children are today encouraged to go to school under this program.
Are you a graduate and have no job? Have u consider applying for the N- Power program? It's free and has millions of youth under it. Many unemployed graduates are receiving Thirty Thousand Naira under this scheme. The outcry and outright refusal of the opposition for INEC not to use the set of people in the forth coming election is a testimony of its genuineness.

Trader money is another poverty alleviation program of this adminstration and many market women has befitted from it and are still benefiting but what accolades do we get from those who will never see anything good in this government? "Vote Buying, the timing is wrong" When has it became ever too late to do good to people? Have you considered how far Ten thousand naira can go for that poor woman selling only groundnut on her table?
I can go on and on with you on this and many are there to list.

7) Unemployment. The best way to tackle unemployment is for government to provide a conducive environment for business to strive. This government has shown commitment to that cause by issuing a presidential order on the ease of doing business where Visa can be issued on arrival for potential investors and obtaining Coporate Affairs Commission Certificate has become much more easier; with 5,000 you can actually applied for your CAC within 24hours.

The infrastructural intervention will still go a long way in creating employment to our citizens once we have power, roads and effective transport system.
Let me tell you, the system we find ourselves is completely rotten and it will take a strong will to correct it and in doing so it will cause a lot of pain. Unless we are ready to take this pain as a Nation we are going no where if we continue to do things in the old ways.

This government is not perfect yet and maybe slow but I can assure you that its on a steady cause. This administration deserves another chance, its deserves your support and your votes. Let us make that better choice that will put Nigeria on a steady growth for us and for the unborn generation.

By Yemi Itodo

In continuation of her series of Town Hall meetings in the south east and south states of Nigeria, wife of the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. (Mrs.) Jennifer Douglas Abubakar, on Thursday, interacted with women in Akwa Ibom state.

Accompanied by the wife of PDP vice presidential candidate, Mrs. Margaret Obi, wife of the national chairman of PDP, Pastor Mrs. Ene Secondus and members of the National Assembly; Mrs Abubakar charged the women to continue to support PDP, as that would guarantee them a place in the society.

"We are women that are not only in the other room, we are in the parlour and we are also in the public.

"We will fight for you, the Akwa Ibom women and the women of Nigeria.

"Your President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, awaiting swearing in, says I should tell you, that he believes in equity, and come February 16, when you vote for him, he will make your businesses to flourish, you will have better security, your children will go to school, all our children, not just a few", she said.

Mrs. Abubakar, while charging the women to vote and defend their votes, also acknowledged the level of sensitization and mobilisation done by the wife of the state Governor, deaconess Martha Udom.

On his part, Governor Emmanuel Udom assured total support for the PDP candidate, saying, the partnership between Abubakar and the state, was a partnership that will work".

Represented by his deputy, Pa. Moses Ekpo, the governor said Mrs Abubakar needed not to campaign in Akwa Ibom, as the state already had partnership with her husband.

"It's a partnership that will bring restructuring to Nigeria, it's a partnership that will put food on the table of every Nigerian citizen, it's a partnership that will provide employment for our youths, women and the entire Nigeria, the partnership that will bring an end to incessant killings, a partnership that make Nigeria work again.

"One thing is very clear about Akwa Ibom state, we are the most reliable people on the face of the earth when it comes to elections. There could be a son of perdition, but that son of perdition is being swept off", the governor added.

Earlier, wife of the state governor, Deaconess Udom, said the Akwa Ibom women had great confidence in Mrs. Abubakar and her husband.

She said, "Mrs. Jennifer will speak for women, not the one that is there now that cannot speak for the women. This one will fight for the rights of women and ensure whatever is the entitlement of women gets to them.

"That's why we must return Atiku. We have every reason to vote for Atiku. Atiku will empower the women and ensure they have enough food for their children. With what we have done so far, there is no way PDP will not win Akwa Ibom".

Senator Helen Esuene, who also addressed the mammoth crowd, said
"Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is somebody we know, he has been tested and trusted. He is a father, he is a husband, he will be just, he will unite Nigeria, he will not detribalize the country, he will industrialise the country and create more employment opportunities for the teeming youths in Nigeria".

By Adoga Gonna Samuel

A People's Democratic Party (PDP) group, under the auspices of Movement for National Redemption, has described as gross failure and huge disappointment, the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Movement which brings together like minds working towards a redeemed Country prides itself as comprising of patriotic citizens and staunch supporters of events, actions and policies that put the country at the front burner.

Speaking at the Atiku Presidential Campaign Office (APCO), Abuja, Coordinator of the Movement, Mr. Akpante Marshal, insisted that President Buhari had failed in all spheres, ranging from security, economic management, infrastructural development and employment generation. In his words, " the Buhari administration has, instead, excelled more in bringing disunity amongst ethnic groups."

According to the Group, other areas the President has failed included his inability to direct his appointees as reflected in the former Inspector General of Police's (IGP's) refusal to relocate to Benue against the President's own advice, the illegal suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and the killing of over 25,000 Nigerians comprising of both military and civilian, since assumption of duty.

While expressing regrets over the incendiary comments of Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State, the Group urged Nigerians to turn up in their numbers and vote Atiku Abubakar of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

By Yemi Itodo

With about seven days to the Nigerian presidential election, the leadership of 'Igbo Delegate Assembly' has thrown its weight behind the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

This is coming barely one week after Ohaneze Nd'Igbo, the foremost Pan socio-cultural group in south east Nigeria, adopted Alhaji Abubakar as the sole candidate of the region.

Rising from a stakeholder's meeting in Abuja on Thursday, the Igbo Assembly, in a strong worded communiqué, affirmed its support of the Chief Nnia Nwodo led
Ohanaeze Ndigbo and its endorsement of Abubakar, as the Presidential ticket of choice for Ndigbo.

"The meeting joins Ohanaeze Ndigbo in endorsing the ATIKU-OBI ticket and
urges all Igbo Sons and Daughters, home and abroad to vote massively for
this choice on 16th February 2019.

"The meeting notes that the endorsement of the ATIKU-OBI ticket is because of their clear vision on restructuring and the strategy to make Nigeria work again, a move that has been welcomed and embraced by all ethnic nationalities across the country.

"The meeting strongly believes that a vote for ATIKU-OBI will bring Ndigbo
into the main stream of Nigerian politics.

"The meeting is convinced that presidential campaign train of ATIKU-OBI has garnered tremendous support across the length and breadth of Nigeria to actualize their mandate.

"It therefore believes that voting for ATIKU-OBI is a guarantee for the unity,
survival and progress of Nigeria and the future generation", the communiqué reads in part.

The Assembly also urged "all Igbos at home and in diaspora to disregard
and ignore the nefarious activities of a few disgruntled persons who have
been paid by desperate politicians to sabotage Igbo interests and make it
look as if Igbos are not united in this cause".

The Assembly which was presided by Chief Engr Tony Nwaorah, the President General and Chief Okougo Kenneth, Deputy President General, North East, was attended by 30 other stakeholders from each state of the north and south east.

By Yemi Itodo

Women in Cross River state, on Monday demanded for 50% affirmative action in the next government at all levels.

This position was made known during the visit of the wife of presidential candidate of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP), Dr (Mrs.) Jennifer Douglas Abubakar, to the state, in continuation of her series of town hall meetings to the south east and south south states.

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the PDP presidential candidate had, during the national women conference in Abuja, promised 70% for both women and youths in his government, when elected.

But while speaking on behalf of Cross River women on Monday, wife of the state Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Linda Ayade, said, though the women would pull out 50% of the total votes, it would be necessary that they get 50% inclusiveness when the government is formed.

"When we say this state is for PDP 100%, be assured that more than 50% of them are women. We are warriors and we want to assure you that we shall go out there and win the trophy.

"In Cross River, no woman no vote. We shall prove to Nigerians that Cross River state has political weight.

"As we pull our weight and pull 50% in Cross River, we also demand that in this state, the women affirmative be increased to 50%.

"We are going to pull 50%. We'll contribute 50%, we'll get 50%. We want some of you here to become commissioners, political office holders", Mrs. Ayade said.

On her part, Mrs. Abubakar said the beautiful programs and policies mapped out for Nigerian women by her husband would not be possible if the women did not mobilise massively for his victory.

She said, “Atiku will not do anything for you if you do not vote for him to get to Aso Rock.

“You have to work hard for him to be voted into office. Go and collect your PVCs.

"It is going to be a defining election. It is done. When the sun rises tomorrow, we will send Atiku to Aso Rock".

Mrs Abubakar, who was accompanied by Mrs Margaret Obi, wife of the PDP vice presidential candidate, told the mammoth crowd that, the Atiku and Obi team had a better policy on job creation, restructuring, education and other areas of concern in the country.

Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, former special adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo on National Assembly matters, said she had to return to PDP for the sake of Atiku Abubakar.

Her words, "I served Atiku as Adviser for 4 years. Even me as Adviser, I can make a good President, not to talk of a man who works 24 hours.

"We want human being to be president, not somebody who is not reachable or can not communicate".

In his brief remarks, Governor Ben Ayade assured Mrs. Abubakar of total support for the PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections, while urging the women to "come out on Friday to receive Alhaji Atiku Abubakar", who will be visiting the state for presidential campaign.

Mrs. Abubakar also visited the Obong of Calabar's palace, where the entire traditional council gave blessings to the aspiration of her husband.

Our attention has been drawn to the PDP flag bearer Mr Atiku Abubakar's continued mentioning of Dr Maina's name as a corrupt Nigerian, so as to score cheap political points.

We want to make it very clear that Maina has eminent respect for all the presidential candidates in this country. Hence, Mr Atiku Abubakar should respect himself and desist from further utterances that may be costly for his Campaign. We expect a Presidential Candidate to have a good sense of judgement, an in-depth knowledge of happenings in his country and not rely on media fabrications. Such a person should be knowledgeable and have good sense of reasoning before issuing statements against an individual he has never known or meet in his life.

With all sense of humility we want to further reiterate the fact that Dr Maina is an honest and very patriotic Nigerian. He exhibited that by the meritorious services he rendered to our country - Nigeria.

Your Excellency sir Atiku, you are to be respectfully informed that Dr Maina has never been under any prosecution, nor has he ever been convicted by any court of law in Nigeria or anywhere in the world for corruption or anything whatsoever. He has never been prevented from entering the United States of America. Infact he commands a lot of respect there, where the sanctity of rule of Law is Sacrosanct.


This statement of calling him corrupt, belittles and denigrates you as former Vice President of this country, who supposedly should have made your independent findings before jumping into dark conclusions. Maina is a peace loving person, else he would have come out with issues he may make public to Nigerians against you. Note that all this noise about Maina, Maina, Maina is about fear, least he gets an opportunity of meeting the President to hand over dosiers that may shake the country.

Sir, It will not be right for anyone in Nigeria or the United States to refer to your person as a thief, like you have been doing to Maina. You may take offence. In view of that, We advise that you seriously consider speaking with considerable restraint.

It will be unfair for us as an NGO to call you corrupt or a thief, just because of issues against you making rounds in the news, both here at home and in the United States.

Dr Maina still remains a civil servant in this country, because he was unconstitutionally disengaged as a "Deputy Director" within 24 hours, when he was on an approved leave by the former president. (Jonathan, Records are available) He got judgment for his reinstatement from a competent Court of jurisdiction, but he was denied justice. He is not a politician nor does he participate in any such organisations. Stop dragging his name into your political games.

Your continued personal attacks on his person, makes us (Nigerians) and other informed members of the international Community to think that your Administration if it becomes a reality, may be that in which anything goes and uncoordinated. Rather than facing the issues, you are busy calling names.

Maina's corruption fighting sins are unforgivable by the corrupt Pension crooks in Nigeria because
* He stopped the stealling of N4.125BN per Month at the Office of the Head of Service Pension,

* He stopped the daily stealling of N300m from the Police Pension Office,

* He stopped the monthly stealling of additional N1bn which goes to the Police Pension Office on a monthly basis.

* He blocked leakages in the system and recovered N2.93Trillion between 2011 to 2017.

*For causing the seizure of funds and assets worth #1.63 trillion from the pension thieves with membership from the execute, the legislature the judiciary, and the political class, meant that he stepped on some powerful toes which may have affected some person's close to you.

Kindly observe restraint as this kinds of vituberations does not speak well of a supposedly well informed Presidential Candidate.

Your Excellency, may also wish to note that, to date, MAINA won all the 5 cases he personally instituted against several federal government Agencies, for illegally sacking him, for continously harassing him unlawfully, with impunity and lawlessness. He was awarded damages.

Dr Maina is an honoree of the USA. You may not have been that opportuned, as you seem to be struggling with its lawful entry and exit at the moment.

He studied in the United States of America, created a viable system for the benefit of such a country of opportunity, equal justice and respect for human dignity (USA) and was honoured with the National Black Achievers Award. He was celebrated in the USA as far back as 2001, and still respected.

For the respect that Maina has for Elders as taught him from childhood, we were opportuned to ask that he forgives you and he agreed.

In conclusion, we make bold to say that
If this campaign of calumny against his person continues, We would have no option than to put pressure on him to advice his legal team to do the needful sir.

Hon. Nasiru Ibn Musa
LEGISLATIVE WATCH.

Edo: Atiku's wife charges women not to sell their votes

By Yemi Itodo

As Nigerians get set for another phase of elections in February 2019, electorate in Edo state have been advised not to be deceived into selling their votes for whatever costs.

Wife of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Dr (Mrs.) Jennifer Douglas Abubakar, gave the charge Monday in Benin, while addressing Edo women at a special town hall meeting.

Abubakar said, any woman who allows herself to be deceived by any politician would be inadvertently mortgaging the future of her children.

She urged the women not to be deterred by the smeared campaigns and name callings against the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his vice, Mr. Peter Obi, adding that, voting the duo would ensure that women and youths in the country were given their pride of place in governance through the allocation of certain percentage in the federal cabinet.

"We have the youth, the elderly and those civil servants who may not want to come out to vote, we need to mobilize them.

"Don't mind things they say about Atiku, don't mind the name calling against Peter Obi, we should not invest time and energy on frivolities. We should vote Atiku/Obi to secure the future of our children and guarantee the welfare of the women", she said.

Similarly, Mrs Margret Obi, wife of the PDP vice presidential candidate, said that there was need for Nigerians to vote for Atiku/Obi, as their ticket would ensure that the country embraces restructuring as well as ensure that security of lives and property was at the front burner of the Nation's policies.

Earlier in his welcome address, Chief Dan Orbih, Edo state PDP chairman, said that, with the turnout of electorate, he was optimistic that women in the State were well "Atikulated" to vote the party back to power, while urging them to rise in defence of their votes.

He said, "securing your vote is not only on election day, collecting your PVC and keeping it well is the first step to protecting your votes. If anyone comes to you that you should submit your PVC in the name of any enrollment or empowerment, please don't do that".

On his part, the governorship candidate of PDP in Edo, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, said the party has 2 House of Representatives candidates in Edo and many House of Assembly candidates, which makes PDP women-friendly.

"In APC, you will not see anything like that. When Buhari came recently, no woman was given opportunity to talk on the podium. That's what APC stands for", he added.

In their separate remarks, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Senator Chris Anyanwu, Chief Mrs Josephine Anenih and Hajia Hadizat Umoru, all charged the women on mobilisation of voters for the sole aim of returning PDP to power come February 16.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Abubakar had earlier visited the internally displaced persons camp (IDP) at Uhogua, Edo state, where she was received by the camp coordinator, Pastor Solomon Folorunsho and his overwhelmed camp members.

The camp was set up in 2012, when the people became displaced courtesy of the Boko Haram insurgencies in the North East.

Mrs. Abubakar promised to liaise with the camp coordinator to ensure that those school children amongst them stay back in schools steadily, especially the 26 students who just got admissions to study at the universities, while pledging total commitment to the welfare of the IDPs.

Gbagyi Youths have demand for the return of lands allegedly allocated in the federal capital territory by the trio of Senators Adamu Bello, Smart Adeyemi and Hon. Emmanuel Jime.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the National Coordinator of Gbagyi Youth Assembly, Comrade Yakubu Waziri, alleged that a huge portion of land at Katampe district was cornered and shared among the trio of Senator Adamu, Senator Adeyemi and Hon. Jime when they served as Hon. Minister, Senate committee chairman on FCT and House committee chairman on FCT respectively.

According to him, "It is even discovered that of recent Hon. Emmanuel Jime sold out plots of lands in Katampe district numbering about 40 whose value is in millions of Naira.

"As a group we frown at this development were public officers instead of serving for the development of the federal capital territory which is our ancestral home rather take into converting the land to themselves and either selling it to train their children abroad or for political purposes in their states of origin.

"We are ready to, under our leadership, curb this menace and use every legal means to retrieve all diverted lands within the FCT.

"For the trio of Senator Adamu, Senator Adeyemi and Hon. Jime we give them 14 days to return all lands diverted to themselves back to the federal capital development authority for onwards allocation to average Nigerians who are lacking accommodation within the FCT.

"We won't hesitate to take legal action against them if they don't heed to our warning and act accordingly." He stated.

By Yemi Itodo 


Lady Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of the first Nigeria's Head of State, late Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, on Wednesday, vowed to champion "the fight" for the mobilisation of women of Abia state for the success of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the February 16 election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. 


Aguiyi-Ironsi vowed to work with the wife of Abia state governor, Deaconess Nkechi Caroline Ikpeazu, to ensure all PDP candidates at various levels are delivered in the forthcoming general elections in Abia state. 


Speaking at the special town hall meeting organised for Abia women, the nonagenarian said, "I will lead this fight in Abia, and I promise you that you will never regret it. I will lead Abia women to vote for Atiku", assuring the PDP candidate of victory. 


In her remarks, wife of the PDP presidential candidate, Mrs. Jennifer Douglas Abubakar, assured Abia women of favourable positions in her husband's government, saying, out of the 70% positions promised for women and youths, about a half of the youths would still come from the female folks.


""I have known Atiku since 1986, I have been married to him for 21 years and I can tell you that he is a detribalized Nigerian. Atiku loves the Igbo people, I can attest to that", she said.


The women who took turns to assure Abubakar of victory, however, urged him to look inward in terms of women empowerments and appointments.


"The PDP government was the one that produced Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Dora Akunyili and I'm aware Atiku was part of the government then, we urge him to do more for women in his government to sustain the legacy of PDP, so we won't be relegated to the background as APC government is doing", a participant told Mrs. Abubakar. 


In a related development, traditional rulers in Abia state have called on the people of the state to remain peaceful during the general elections. 


This was, even as they vowed to ensure their subjects vote for a party  that would ensure that cows don't feed on their farm crops any longer. 


Speaking while receiving Mrs. Abubakar in Abia on Wednesday, the Second Deputy Chairman, Abia Council of Ndi-Eze, HRM Eze Elder S.A. Okorie, said, "Abia is a very peaceful state being controlled by the PDP. We also need a PDP President, a president that can stop cows from eating up all our crops in the farm".


On his part, HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogburu Enachioke of Abiriba, eaulogised the PDP presidential candidate, describing him as a detrabilised Nigerian who has his goodwill spread across the length and breadth of Nigeria. 


"Atiku came to my community in Abiriba in 1992 to donate to the less privileged, we are going to reciprocate it this time around, by mobilising for his election. Atiku is a destabilized Nigerian", he said. 

Mrs. Abubakar also visited home of first premier of eastern Nigeria, Late Michael Okpara, where the wife, Adanna and son, Uzodinma, reiterated that Abia would give the PDP candidate 100% votes come February 16.

By Gift Ogbeh

Vice presidential candidate of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Peter Obi, has charged women in Lagos state to vote massively for PDP, to enable them attain freedom from slavery. 

This was, even as Mr. Obi also slammed the All Progressives Congress (APC) led government for subjecting the populace to suffering, hunger and poverty. 

Obi was speaking on Tuesday, at the rally organised by member representing Ajeromi/Ifelodun federal constituency, Hon. Rita Orji, to sensistise the South-East, South-South and Arewa women groups in Lagos.

According to him, "the government of APC has killed the country", adding that, "Lagos is under slavery and it takes Jimi Agbaje (the PDP governorship candidate) to deliver the state". 

Obi urged the women to mobilise for the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the forthcoming election, assuring them of favourable engagements in the Atiku/Obi presidency. 

"It is only Atiku that can deliver us from poverty, he is a business man and he has many companies. This one, when he came, he had 160 cows and up till now, the cows have not increased", Obi told the women. 

On her part, wife of the PDP presidential candidate, Mrs. Jennifer Douglas Abubakar, posited that the key to unlocking the breakthrough of the nation lies with the women, saying only women can redeem the nation through massive mobilisations for the 2019 elections. 

She said, "It is true there is hunger, it is true that our children are dying, but it takes the women to redeem the county. 

"The women have said it enough, about the hunger and about the children dropping out of school, but we cannot say it more than the people who are ATIKULATING", stressing that a vote for PDP and all its candidates across the nation would bring about redemption and breakthrough.

http://dailypost.ng/2019/01/15/2019-obi-urges-lagos-women-vote-pdp-end-slavery/amp/

By Oriri Peter

As Idoma International Carnival enters day 2, a middle-aged man from Bayelsa state, Mr. Lucky Opiah has emerged the overall winner of the 2018 OGBUREKE TRADITIONAL WRESTLING, Lucky defeated Abdullahi Mohammed from Nasarawa state in the finals. 

Addressing newsmen after the program, one of the organizers, Mr. Henry Ipole, said the essence of the wrestling competition was not only to revive the dying cultural values of the people, but to also harness the potentials of the young ones. 

The winner for the senior category, Opiah, was presented with a flat screen 32 inch television set with N35,000 cash prize by the President of Idoma International Carnival, Prince Edwin Ochai courtesy of Polaris Bank, while Mohammed who came second got 50kg bag of rice with N25,000 cash price and 3rd place finalist, Johnson Onu got a live goat and N15,000 cash prize. 


Prizes were also presented to winners in other wrestling categories and traditional dancing competition accordingly.

The various winners extend their profound gratitude to the organizers for their effort, commitment over the years in ensuring that the culture of the Idoma people do not eludes and for their contributions towards the youth across the country.

IDOMA INTERNATIONAL CARNIVAL: LUCKY APIAH WINS OGBUREKE WRESTLING COMPETITION


As Idoma International Carnival enters day 2, a middle-aged man from Bayelsa state, Mr. Lucky Opiah has emerged the overall winner of the 2018 OGBUREKE TRADITIONAL WRESTLING, Lucky defeated Abdullahi Mohammed from Nasarawa state in the finals. 

Addressing newsmen after the program, one of the organizers, Mr. Henry Ipole, said the essence of the wrestling competition was not only to revive the dying cultural values of the people, but to also harness the potentials of the young ones. 

The winner for the senior category, Opiah, was presented with a flat screen 32 inch television set with N35,000 cash prize by the President of Idoma International Carnival, Prince Edwin Ochai courtesy of Polaris Bank, while Mohammed who came second got 50kg bag of rice with N25,000 cash price and 3rd place finalist, Johnson Onu got a live goat and N15,000 cash prize. 


Prizes were also presented to winners in other wrestling categories and traditional dancing competition accordingly.

The various winners extend their profound gratitude to the organizers for their effort, commitment over the years in ensuring that the culture of the Idoma people do not eludes and for their contributions towards the youth across the country.

By Oriri Onu Peter & Adoga Gonna Samuel, Otukpo, Benue State.

Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Benue State, Ambassador Dickson Akoh has urged all men of conscience to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) before they become victims of the anti-democratic forces in the Party. He gave the advice at a grand reception in his honour and that of Chief Mike Okibe Onoja on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at the Norcross Primary School, Otukpo.

Dr. Akoh, who recently left the APC, said if he could run away from the Party, nobody could cohabit therein. He bemoaned the treatment meted out on him by his former Party, despite being its Chief Financier in Zone C and helping it to win its only seat for the State House of Assembly in the Senatorial Zone in the 2015 general election.

According to Dr. Akoh, the manipulation and bastardisation of the processes leading to the choice of a running mate to the governorship candidate of his former party forced him to leave the party. He wondered why the party took three months to resolve the deputy governorship impasse when it only took the Party four days to resolve that of the governorship. All these, he said, were aimed at denying him the slot for the fact that he was not malleable.

Continuing, Dr. Akoh, who is also the National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) extolled the leadership qualities of Late Reverend Father Moses Adasu, and pledged that the SDP would use the Commonwealth of the people for their common good. He promised to devote his official entitlements to the development of the State.

Also speaking, Senatorial Aspirant on the platform of the Party for the Benue North East, Senator Barnabas Gemade, urged Idoma people to rally behind the candidacy of Chief Mike Onoja for the Benue South seat, saying he was a trustworthy individual.

Governorship Candidate of the Party in the State, Dr. Stephen Hwande regretted the non-promotion of primary school teachers since 2006 and promised to place them on their appropriate ranks when voted into power. He also regretted the neglect of the Idoma-speaking areas of the State and it's industries and promised to revitalise them.

Highlight of the occasion was the reception of over 10,000 decampees by the State Chairman of the Party, Dr. John Enemari and Hon. Edo Egboja, member Benue State House of Assembly.

Also, the party's senatorial candidate for Benue South, Chief Dr. Mike Okibe Onoja said for the past 20 years of democracy in Nigeria the Zone has nothing to show due to bad leadership. While assuring supporters of winning the election, he pledged to end rein of cabals when elected.

Four days after the Fulani militia attacked troops in Zamfara state, the whereabout of one sergeant Sunday Itodo, a mobile police officer is yet to be known. 


This was confirmed to our Correspondent Sunday evening by a family source,  Prince Yemi Itodo. 


Sergeant Itodo, a native of Otukpa in Benue state, was among the 1000-man troop deployed to Zamfara by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) November 9th, to "route-out armed bandits" terrorising the state.


According to the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) DCP Jimoh Moshood, the troop was ambushed at about 1600hrs, 29th November, 2018, by "Armed Bandits at Mahanga Forest in Birnin Mogaji LGA of Zamfara State", adding that, in the process, the troop "killed One Hundred and Four (104) Bandits, destroyed over Fifty (50) bandits hideouts in Three (3) Camps, recovered over Five Hundred (500) Cattle and Seventy Nine (79) Sheep from the Bandits, but unfortunately loss a Policeman during the attacks".

 

But in a chat with our correspondent in Abuja, Prince Itodo said it was confirmed to the family Sunday morning by an anonymous source at the operation, that Sergeant Itodo was shot during the attack and a colleague who attempted to rescue him to nearby bush path, was also shot.


The family, however, could not ascertain as at press time, if Sergeant Itodo was still alive or dead, as his cell phone has been permanently switched off. 


"The source told us this morning that my brother and all other officers shot were still under hostage in the forest, as efforts by both Nigeria Police and Army to recover bodies became fruitless. 


"We learnt that dozens of Nigeria Police were killed in the ambush and I'm sure the police authority has not come out clear on this, that's why they pegged the casualty to only one. 


"We were told that about 3 bodies were recovered immediately and brought to Abuja, but our brother was not amongst them. He is still being trapped in the forest with bullet wounds for days, without food, water nor medications. We pray nothing happens to him.


"We therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police to help us. He should please intensify to rescue our brother and hopefully alive too. We don't want to believe he is dead. He can't just abandon his young wife and 4 kids at this moment, my brother will not die, I only want the IGP to act fast", Itodo said, with tears.


Itodo said he has reached out to an Assistant Inspector-General of Police who was recently deployed to the war ravaged state to ascertain the status of his brother and possibly crave for urgent action.


"But we also want the federal government to do all within its powers to quickly salvage the situation and rescue our brother and any other person  in the same predicament with him", he added. 


Sergeant Itodo, a member of Mopol 15 Kwara, according to the family, has been in the Special Mobile Force of the federal government for almost 8 years and was among the foreign peace keeping mission in Somalia in 2013 and returned with award for gallantry. 


He has also been part of the Special forces fighting insurgency for many years in Borno, Kaduna, Sokoto, with his latest posting in Jos, before he was deployed to Zamfara 3 weeks ago.

Former deputy governor Eze Madumere criminal records busted….Not fit to handle any political position

The former Deputy Governor of IMO state, Eze Madumere was convicted in the 180th Court District Court,Houston for felony and theft of property, documents emanating from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office have shown, contrary to initial denials.

This development seems to confirm the position of the Imo State House of Assembly which accused Mr. Madumere of keeping his incarceration secret.


Document Showing his criminal record
It would be recalled that Prince Madumere’s Chief Press Secretary had, in July, denied that his Boss was never convicted, stating that it was the case of “calling a dog a bad name to hang it.” Supporters of the former Deputy Governor had also argued that it was one Uche Madumere that was convicted and that he bore no relationship with the former Deputy Governor.

The Nigerian Constitution bars an ex-convict from holding political positions in the country.

By Yemi Itodo

Foremost youth based organisation, Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) was on Saturday, presented with the award of 'Most Endorsed Initiative in the 8th National Assembly', by the Nigeria Assembly News, a news platform for legislative activities across the country.

Presenting the award to PCN in Abuja, the project coordinator, Omoboye Adeboye, said the Bill for an Act to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps as passed by both chambers was the most popular and widely endorsed legislative piece in the entire 8th Assembly.

Adeboye thanked the leadership of the organisation for coming up with such a laudable and youth attractive initiative which became an indispensable Bill that received massive endorsement from both chambers of the National Assembly.

Deputy National Commandant of Peace Corps, Dr. Edet Ekpeyong, while receiving the award on behalf of the organisation, thanked members of the National Assembly for the resounding support accorded the Bill.

Though President Muhammad Buhari declined assent to the Bill, but Ekpeyong said he was optimistic that the dream of founding fathers of PCN and lawmakers who passed the Bill would soon come to reality.

In his reaction, National Commandant of Peace Corps, Amb. (Dr.) Dickson Akoh, said the award, like numerous others received this year, was dedicated to Nigerian youths and President Buhari.

Akoh, who is being tipped for deputy governorship by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue state, spoke to our reporter via telephone, that, he has never lost hope about the establishment of Nigerian Peace Corps, stressing that, the President was misled by those who sealed the PCN office.

"I'm happy that Nigerians, including the lawmakers appreciate the importance of Peace Corps of Nigeria. That alone supersedes what some few individuals think they can do to us. They thought they have won by sealing off our office, despite several court orders, or by misleading the presidency and telling lies against us, but God has vindicated us as the organisation turns out to be enjoying public endorsement. I'm sure very soon Mr. President will discover this and revisit the Bill", Akoh added.

Other recipients of the award include, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Yusuf Buratai, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Jaiz Bank, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Senators and members of the House of Representatives.