₦airaland Forum

Twenty-three elders in Kwara led by Dr. Dr Hezekiah Oyedepo have endorsed President Muhammadu Buhari, the presidential candidate of APC.

They also resolved to vote for governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APV) in the state, Alhaji AbdulRahman AdulRazaq, Oyedepo told journalists in Ilorin on Sunday.
Reports have it that the press statement was signed by the 23 elders, including Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Brig Gen Saliu Bello (rtd), Prof. Ibrahim Gambari and Engr Simeon Daramola.

According to the elders, Kwara has benefited immensely from the administration of President Buhari and that the people were in agreement with the agenda to tackle corruption, conspiracy against the poor masses and to build a viable country. “We hereby declare our support for the second term bid of President Muhammadu Buhari because we believe he has done well within the socio-economic and political realities of the country and the glaring resistance to positive change by some reactionary elements. “We distance ourselves and our people from the greed-driven diatribes and frustrations of a certain political dynasty in Kwara State against the president. “In that light, we throw our weight behind the president’s plan to evolve a new political culture where nobody is seen to be above the law or is allowed to continue to trade with public funds as they recently exposed themselves to be doing,” Oyedepo said. Oyedepo also said they are backing AbdulRazaq of the APC for the governorship poll, adding that his campaign slogan. ‘O To Ge’ has captured the social political mood of the people who crave for a new dawn in the state. Arrest Timi Frank and prosecute him now, Army tells Police “We agree with the candidate that the crises of governance, poverty and youth restiveness and frustrations in Kwara are directly linked to the irresponsible, corrupt and morally-challenged political leadership in the state which holds our people and their culture in utter contempt. “We submit that this endorsement arose from practical analysis of the political space and its realities. “We believe that AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq shares our concerns and value system as a people and he would run a government that would reflect the wishes of our people,” he added. They also dismissed as insulting, the claim by the state PDP and Senator Bukola Saraki that voting for the APC will lead to a control of Kwara government by some outside forces. “We urge our people to discountenance the lousy claim by the unproductive and corrupt elements from the ruinous dynasty about some persons coming to take over Kwara State from Lagos or Abuja. “We consider the claim very insulting and arrogant as it gives the impression that Kwara has been willed to the shameless characters making the claim. “We state categorically that Kwara is not the property of anyone and any bonafide Kwaran, whatever their political platform or background, is qualified to aspire to any office in the state without being blackmailed that they represent any outside interest. “We find it particularly insulting that the fellows making this claim are those whose origins and credentials are suspect. “These are people, nay political contractors, without any credible roots in this state,” he said. The elders therefore called for credible and transparent elections in Kwara and Nigeria as a whole. “We are worried that the discredited dynasty is trying hard to intimidate the opposition through violence. “The resort to violence came after they failed to plant their moles as the flag bearers of the opposition parties. Onu’s kinsmen, members of APC, others defect to PDP “We therefore call on the president and the security chiefs to put their feet down and ensure that our people are protected as they exercise their civic rights,” Oyedepo added. He called for security beef up before, during and after the elections in the state. “We also urge the civil society/observers to pay good attention to Kwara without being partisan,” he said. Other signatories to the statement were Chief Ayotunde Raji; Chief Philips O.Adekeye, Barrister Titus Ashaolu (SAN), Alh Aremu B. Yahaya; Alh Yinusa Gada; Alh Yusuf Habeeb and Rev.Jacob K.Abimbola. Others were Alhaji Oba Idiaro, Dr Salihu Ajia, Sen Idris Haliru, Engr Umar Shaaba, Amb Nuru Mohammed, Sen Mohammed Ahmed, Hadjia Zainab Ndalolo, Hon Issa Bio, Alhaji Busari Alade, Alhaji Salihu Idris and Alhaji Isiaka Jimoh.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/02/oyedepo-others-endorse-buhari/

Seven Hundred Youths and Women from the eighteen local government areas of Ondo state are to commence skills acquisition programme today across the state.

They had earlier attended an orientation program last month for the commencement of the training.

The Special Adviser to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu on Public and Intergovernmental Relations, Mrs Olubunmi Ademosu said beneficiaries in the northern part of the state should report at either of the council secretariats in Ikare Akoko and Owo while those in the south are billed to have their trainings at the council secretariats in Igbokoda and Okitipupa council secretariats

Trainees from the central senatorial district would be trained at the Skill Acqisition Center at Oke Ijebu in Akure and Ondo West council secretariat.

Mrs Ademosu advised that the trainees should register at the centre nearest to them.

Ondo State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that the much awaited bitumen development in the state come to fruition without rancour between the host communities and the investors.

The state Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, Prof. Bayonile Ademodi stated this at the weekend, during an interactive session with bitumen bearing communities in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State held at the local government secretariat hall in Okitipupa.

According to him, the interactive session became imperative, considering the recurrent crisis in the Niger Delta region of the country as a result of unhealthy relationship amoung the communities and investors which had culminated in all manners of criminal activities.

He stressed that the government was highly committed to peaceful exploitation of the bitumen resources in the state, noting that a similar interactive session had been carried out in Irele local government.

The commissioner, who informed the gathering that the ministry had concluded arrangement with the state ministry of Environment to work out modalities for evolving effective environmental protection strategies that the license bitumen companies must comply with, posited that they would do everything possible to ensure that the companies observe all the internationally acceptable practice of Environmental Impact Assessment(EIA) before commencing operations.

While assuring the Royal Fathers and the community leaders that their views would be adequately captured and implemented to the best level of practice as the process move forward, he said there are immense benefits the development of bitumen will bring to the host communities ranging from direct and indirect employment to physical development.

The commissioner added that the Federal Government, who has the responsibility of awarding bitumen blocks, has allocated blocks to five companies within the bitumen belt of the state.



He equally disclosed that they had concluded arrangement to formally form a Bitumen Production Advocacy Club (B-PAC) where members will cut across the various bitumen bearing communities with their roles well spelt out.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Ebenezer Ogunsanmi, informed that the present government in the state was committed to the development of the industrial sector, hence the need for communities to create enabling environment for investors to operate.

The Consultant to the Ministry ,who is a retired Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Dele Ogunwolere allayed the fear that their farm land would be destroyed without compensation ,noting that the EIA would capture the compensation of the farm owners, while there will be yearly Environmental Impact Auditing to take care of the environment.

The Chairman Caretaker of the local government…. who was represented by Mr David Ojajuni said the gathering was a prerequisite to the commencement of the long awaited project which he affirmed could be found in all Ikale land.

Responding,the Abodi of Ikale Land, Oba George Babatunde Faduyile commended the state government for organising the programme and its commitment to the project.

To him, the project, if well executed will bring a lot of relieve and income to the State.

“The project will change the standard of living of our people. It is now the duties of we the monarchs and community leaders to sensitise the youths in their area to ensure peace”, He said.

Various stakeholders who spoke at the event, stressed the need to duly compensate them because of the cash crops on their lands which is their means of livelihood , emphasising that their unemployed youths should be considered for employment when the project commence.

They however promised to give their maximum support towards the development of the project.

Those who attended the meeting include, the Jegun of Idepe-Okitipupa, Oba Michael Adetoye ,the Majuwa of Ilu-titun, Oba Adeoye Idepefo, The Oniju of Iju Odo, Oba Festus Olumoyegun, Halu of Aye kingdom, Oba N. Akinlade, The Regent of Ode -erinje, Oba Adekoye Ipinsanmi, and various heads of host communities in the area among others.

WE PROMISED, AND WE ARE FULFILLING, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI AS HE INAUGURATES ADVANCED CANCER TREATMENT CENTRE IN LAGOS

President Muhammadu Buhari Saturday inaugurated the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) advanced Cancer treatment centre in Lagos, with a pledge to ensure that facilities for the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of cancer are available to many more Nigerians.

At the inauguration ceremony of the state-of-the-art Centre in LUTH, Idi Araba, President Buhari announced that the model will be replicated across the country to bring quality, first-class healthcare services to cancer patients in Nigeria.

‘‘We are aware that up to 40% of funds spent by Nigerians on medical tourism is attributable to patients seeking treatment for cancer. Despite having an increasing number of citizens suffering from cancer, we until now, had only two working radiotherapy machines in the country.

‘‘Working through the NSIA and LUTH we utilized a PPP model that unlocked investment capital to directly address this issue. We will replicate this model across the country to bring quality, first-class healthcare services to as many Nigerians as we can.

‘‘Indeed, over the coming months, under our leadership, the NSIA will commission two Modern Medical Diagnostic Centres to be co-located in the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano State and the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, Abia State, respectively, bringing additional investment to Nigeria’s healthcare sector,’’ he said.

The President while wishing the management of the hospital good luck in operating the centre, emphasized the need for maintenance of the equipment.

‘‘Our goal today is not simply to celebrate and applaud the culmination of months of hard work to achieve this objective. Neither is it solely to revel in the successful completion of the most modern and best-equipped Cancer treatment centre in West Africa.

‘‘Indeed we are proud, but we recognize that this modest effort to address the gaps in our tertiary healthcare system alone is insufficient to address all the challenges faced by the sector.

‘‘Today, we showcase what feats we can accomplish when we are together, unrelenting in our effort to deliver a common objective.

‘‘No one ever prays to be diagnosed with Cancer, but if they are, what we have made possible here today is the hope that a true chance of survival and good quality of life becomes part of the story of many Nigerian patients with cancer,’’ he said.

The President promised that his administration, which has introduced programmes to alleviate common diseases, including the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund targeted at ensuring access to primary healthcare for all Nigerians, will continue to push hard to raise awareness about cancer, educate the people and facilitate early diagnosis.

He noted that this objective was part of his solemn commitment to Nigerians four years ago to improve the quality of health care in the country.

The President, who performed the ceremony after attending the APC presidential campaign rally at the Teslim Balogun Stadium Surulere, Lagos, said his administration had focused on greater investment in the sector and worked hard to ensure increased access to safe, high-quality healthcare.

‘‘We promised to effect policies that would remove debilitating constraints on the sector and create sustainable structures to strengthen our healthcare institutions.

'‘Today, we are gathered here to acknowledge the modest but laudable strides we are making in fulfilling that promise. We recognize that progress in the health sector is handicapped by several bottlenecks.

‘‘Accordingly, we have worked and we will continue to work to ensure that systems are introduced to bridge these gaps,’’ he said.

The President told the audience at LUTH that the Federal Government has created an enabling environment for institutions such as the NSIA to help fund high impact projects on time and on budget, thereby delivering immense value for our people.

‘‘In the case of the Cancer Centre, we can measure this value in currency, but we prefer to measure the value in terms of its social impact, the number of lives of Nigerians that will be saved and positively affected as well as the impact of capacity building for our people,’’ he said.

In his remarks at the inauguration ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NSIA, Mr. Uche Orji said the Centre is expected to raise the bar in the quality and standard of cancer treatment in Nigeria with outcomes that would be consistent with the 2030 agenda for sustainable development.

‘‘In addition, this Centre will demonstrate the economic potential of healthcare investments in Nigeria and catalyse increased private sector participation,” he said.

Also speaking, Professor Chris Bode, Chief Medical Director, LUTH, noted that the Centre is world-class and no Nigerian cancer patient needs to travel abroad again to receive treatment easily obtainable at home.

‘‘We, therefore, want to assure Your Excellency that we shall give what it takes to run this Centre as a pride to all Nigerians. NSIAs investment is not only safe but will yield ample dividend to encourage other deep pocket investors to open up the health sector as a veritable investors’ haven, ’’ he said.

Also speaking, the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole described the Centre as the single largest investment in cancer treatment in the country by any administration since independence.

Prof. Adewole added that the facility can cater for 100 patients daily and provide training for over eighty healthcare professionals, among many others.

Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 9, 2019

Trade Fair complex in Ojo Area of Lagos State was agog, yesterday, as traders trooped out en masse to endorse the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Muhammadu Buhari, for a second tenure.

The traders, who, during the rally, sensitised the people on the need to vote for credible candidates, also endorsed the APC governorship candidate in the state, Babajide Sanwo-olu.

Executive Director/CEO, Lagos International Trade Fair, Lucy Ajayi, said the traders and the people of Amuwo-Odufin have good reasons to support the second coming of president Buhari.

“He is the only person who is capable of leading this country. Before he came in 2015, there was a government in power and the government made mess of things which Buhari’ s administration is repairing gradually.

“You’ll agree with me that corruption was the in thing then, but, under Buhari’s administration, this has reduced drastically. Even, in this complex, the past executives were not remitting money to the government coffers. When I was appointed, Buhari gave me a mandate to transform the place, which I’ve done.

The good thing is that I’m given freedom to work. This is not the first rally we’ve embarked upon, to sensitise the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, in support of president Buhari’s re-election.

We want them to know that Buhari has done so well and deserves to be re-elected. We are doing this because, when you don’t sensitise people, they will assume he may not want to come back.

“We’ve reasons to vote for Buhari because he has done so well. It is during this administration that we did the facelift of the place. Truck carrying containers used to fall down because of bad road, but, I’ve put some palliative measures in place and trucks no longer fall.

There was no government presence in this complex, until Buhari came in. We are feeling the Federal Government’s presence now. There used to be security challenges, but, when I was posted here, the people stopped fighting, as I gave many of the jobless youths jobs. The jobs were created by Buhari’s administration and more jobs will be created in his second coming.

“People should come out to vote for Buhari, who has brought sanity in the country. He has also brought respect to the country. One of the most important reasons we should vote for him is that he encourages indigenous production. He has been advocating self-reliance, and if we depend on importation, the country will not move forward .

“He has recovered stolen wealth kept in foreign banks. All the recovered stolen money will be put back into the economy. What we are pleading with the people is to exercise patience with him. The past administration caused a lot of havoc and as you all know, Rome was not built in one day.

“We are not only appealing to traders, we are appealing to the public to join hands to vote for Buhari and Sanwo-olu. You should come out to vote for APC candidates. You will not regret it,” she said.

A leader in the market, Pascal Udeh, called on those who have not collected their permanent voter cards (PVCs) to go and collect theirs, so as not to be disenfranchised.

“PVC is the key to election. If you don’t have it, you are not qualified to vote. I’m speaking on behalf of all the traders, we are in support of Buhari. He has done well in the market through Ajayi, the great woman who has spoken to us. We had never had it so good since Buhari came on board. He has done so well. We are appealing to you to come and vote for Buhari and Sanwo-Olu as president and governor respectively. We are fully in support of the two candidates.”

Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari, has called on Nigerian youths to shun violence before, during and after the general elections.

She, however, advised them to come out and vote.

Represented by wife of the Vice-President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo, the President’s wife spoke at the All Progressives Congress’ South-South Women and Youth Presidential Campaign in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Tuesday.

She urged the region’s youths to vote for APC candidates at all levels.

She said, “Vote for APC. There is nothing more precious to us than our children and our youths. So, the APC government is working for you night and day.

“On the days of the elections, nobody should be sleeping at home. On the days of elections, all of us should go happily to vote the APC.

“After voting, we must wait until our votes are counted; we must also make sure that we vote peacefully and that when we vote, there should be no fighting.”

Mrs Buhari explained that the APC had indicated, through it numerous programmes, that its interest is in the development of Nigeria.

She said, “This government is interested in the youth; that is why it is feeding children in schools through the school feeding programme.

“This government is interested in the youth; that is why it has the N-Power programme that is empowering youths.”

AKEREDOLU TURNS BLOOD-SUCKING OKE-ALABOJUTO TO LIFE-SAVING ISALE-ALABOJUTO

There used to be a myth around Oke-Alabojuto, the hilly portion of Ikare-Akoko township road. No native believed the famished and destructive rocky hill could be leveled.

But the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu government has shattered the myth. The hill could be leveled, after all. Oke-Alabojuto has now become Isale-Alabojuto.

Before it was leveled, the hilly road had consumed several lives and destroyed uncountable valuable properties through auto-crashes, making residents to live in fear for decades.

The age-long nightmare has now ended for the people of Ikare and users of the road. Kudos to the government of Akeredolu.

Electorates in Imo State have been advised to exercise their civic responsibility of voting during election appropriately in order to usher in a people-oriented government in the state.

Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu gave this advice during an emergency meeting held at the Comprehensive Secondary School Emeabiam with party leaders in her area.

Mrs Akeredolu reminded the people that election period is the period to take action against politicians characterized by greed, impunity, bitterness, selfishness and corruption through their votes, and urged them to rise up and speak through their votes.

The Imo-born Ondo First Lady decried the level of marginalization the area has suffered under the successive governments in the state till date and encouraged them to take a bold step in the right direction to end the era of bad roads infrastructure, untapped abundant natural resources, absence of basic primary healthcare delivery, and unemployment in the area.

In a related development, the sunshine state First Lady has called on women and youths to participate fully in the forthcoming elections as they constitute a greater percentage of the populace and are major stakeholders in the society.

Mrs Akeredolu made this call while addressing Emeabiam Women Union in her compound recently.

Mrs Akeredolu urged them to get their PVCs ready for action in the right direction, as it is the way to eliminate bad government, alleviate poverty and end hunger in the society.

President Muhammadu Buhari has assured the people of Ondo State that the natural resources the state is endowed with including bitumen will be fully harnessed for the development of the state, if given the chance to rule the country the second term.

Buhari gave the assurance at a meeting with traditional rulers across the state at GPM Plaza in Oba-Ile yesterday, during his visit to the state in continuation of his presidential campaign.

The president stated that the Federal Government will collaborate with the state government and give the necessary support for the bitumen exploration, while fully tapping into other resources readily available in the state.

He assured that the deep seaport project would commence as soon as arrangements are made to open up the state’s coastal area to become an industrial hub for job creation and economic boom.

Highlighting some of his administration achievements in the last three and half years, he said Ondo State has not been left out in its programmes, policies and projects to reposition the state.

He listed other plans of his government for the state to include railway lines in Akure and electrification of towns in the state

While stating that his administration is working towards ensuring that life becomes better for the citizenry, Buhari maintained that his government would not rest on its oars in putting in place infrastructural facilities, reviving the nation’s economy, fighting insecurity and corruption to make Nigeria a better place if given a second term.

Meanwhile, the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), while welcoming the president and his entourage at the event stated that the All Progressive Congress (APC) led Federal government has enjoyed the support of traditional rulers in the state.

Akeredolu who thanked the president for his various social interventions in the state, assured that the direct beneficiaries at the grassroots will continue to support him in his re-election bid.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman, Council of Obas and Olukare of Ikare, HRM Oba Akadiri Momoh welcomed the president and his entourage to the state, urging him to pay adequate attention to the requests of the people of Ondo State.

The Olukare had listed their requests to include the execution of the deep sea port project, electrification of Akoko communities which has been in the dark for long, dualisation of some federal roads in the state and exploitation of bitumen among other natural resources, saying they are key to the development of the state.

He assured the president that the traditional rulers are ready to ensure peaceful conduct of the forthcoming general elections in their various communities.

In separate interviews, the traditional rulers including, Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, HRM Oba Victor Kiladejo, Agadagba of Arogbo Ijaw-ibe, HIM Pere Zaccheus Egbunu and Olowa of Igbara Oke, HRM Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, expressed their readiness to ensure peaceful conduct of their subjects in their respective domains before, during and after the elections, wishing President Buhari success in his re-election bid.

Ondo state government is to commence Inland Waterways Travellers’ Safety Insurance Scheme this February on selected jetties across the riverine communities in the Southern Senatorial District.



The safety plan is meant to provide protection and welfare for travellers both within and outside Ondo State via its Inland Waterways and also provide relief for families of boat mishap.

Speaking with The Hope, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Tobi Ogunleye affirmed that, 250 live jackets will arrive the area for the use of the travellers.

“We have produced about 250 live jackets for passengers on our waterways, we are waiting for the delivery of the jackets from our insurance company, if we get the jackets today, the programme will commence”, he said.



He noted that the initiative was to protect and secure the lives of the people in the riverine areas of the state.

The decision to commence the implementation of the safety plan this month was arrived at after the meeting of stakeholders with the government, headed by the SSA to the Governor at the Ministry of Transportation.

The underlying benefits in case of a boat mishap, include the sum of N200,000 for dead victims, N100,000 for permanent disability, and about N25,000 for medical expenses.

For travellers to qualify for the above benefits which was described as a ‘Life Policy’ by NEM Insurance PLC, each traveller will pay N50 (within the state) and N100(outside the state).

In addition to their travel fare, their names and particulars must be clearly written on the travel manifests and they must wear a life jacket.

The Safety Plan, which was consented to by the state government earlier in August, 2018 started with an inaugural sensitization meeting of all stakeholders and will be coordinated by the appointed consultancy company, Rich Auto Concepts Limited.

The meeting comprised the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Association of Tourist Boat Operators & Water Transporters of Nigeria, and various unions from the Agadagba-Obon communities; with the representative of the Ondo State Commissioner of Police who was also in attendance.



The state government thereby appealed to well meaning residents of Ilaje, Ese-odo and Irele local government areas and environs to take advantage of the scheme, as it is to avoid incessant loss of lives on our water ways; a trend that has become more or less the norm in water transportation nation-wide.

To this end, various boat operators are to ensure strict compliance with the safety plan, especially in the issuance of life jackets to travellers.

In order to further give hope to Breast cancer patients in the state, the wife of Ondo State Governor, and founder of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu -Akeredolu has paid a courtesy visit to the State Head of Service (HOS), Mr Toyin Akinkuotu to plead for the payment of breast cancer victims’ gratuities so that they could care for themselves.

Mrs Akeredolu who was joined by BRECAN members, breast cancer patients and survivors in the State urged the HOS to do everything possible to prioritise the demands of breast cancer victims who diligently served the state to get their gratuity.

While explaining that treating breast cancer is expensive, she said,” Some of the cancer victims do not have money to start the test talkless of other treatments which cost millions of naira. The assessment alone according to Dr Aba Katung of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owo cost N600,000 aside other treatments.

“Although, no budget line for the office of the First Lady yet, I cannot tell a victim of breast cancer to go without figuring out how to assist such person financially, knowing fully well what the person is passing through being a survivor. That is why I came up with the idea of crowd funding for people to donate at least N200 to assist breast cancer victims.

“Everyone who had experienced cancer of any form will tell you that if one is affected, every member of the family feels traumatized, hence, the support of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to establish a befitting World -Class cancer treatment centre in Owo. We want you to fast track the payment of gratuities to breast cancer victims because there are things survivor needs to eat to prolong their lives. We cannot eat anyhow because it is not good for our health.”

The Coordinator, Team Survivor Nigeria who is also a breast cancer survivor, Mrs Oluwatoyin Oluwagbamila appreciated the First Lady for supporting breast cancer victims financially stressing that if not for her financial support, she would probably have faced greater challenges.

Mrs Oluwagbamila also pleaded with the HOS To help cancer victims who had retired across the state to access good health care by paying their gratuities.

In his response, the HOS who said that he was delighted because it was the first time he would be visited by the wife of the Governor, promised to meet with Governor Akeredolu and discuss how to pay the gratuities of breast cancer victims in the state.

His words, “We are very proud of you for all you have been doing like helping young girls to actualise their dreams, addressing poverty among women through Forums for Wives of Ondo State Officials and Women Political Appointees (FOWOSO) and helping breast cancer victims across the state financially.

Ahead of the February 16th Presidential Election, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN has assured President Muhammadu Buhari of handsome vote from the state.

Governor Akeredolu spoke at the MKO Democracy Park, venue of the All Progressives Congress, APC, rally in Ondo State on Tuesday, 5th February, 2019.

Akure, the capital of the state was locked down as massive crowd trooped out to Welcome President Buhari and his entourage to the sunshine state.

Governor Akeredolu said : "In 2015, even when APC was not in government, we delivered Ondo for you Mr President. Now, the All Progressives Congress is in government in Ondo State.

"Mr President, be rest assured that we will deliver handsome votes for you. The people of Ondo State are indomitable. We know what you stand for. I can assure you we will vote massively for APC "

The Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo while making his own remark said 9.2 million children benefit from the Federal Government school feeding programme. But the target is 13 million. He also revealed that the N- Power Programme has over 500'000 beneficiaries and government target was 1.5 million at the Next Level.

According to the Vice President the Lagos /Ibadan railway would be commissioned on 7th February this year.

"President Buhari built the 3 refineries when he was Minister of Petroleum but the people who are now campaigning that they want to return to power couldn't add anything to it in their sixteen years in power.

" The South West people are stakeholders in the present Government. I then urge you to vote for APC."

President Buhari who spoke to crown the campaign said his administration has fulfilled all the campaign promises he made in 2015.

" The Vice President has made my job easy because he's the chairman of the Economy Council. In economy, we have empowered our people to overcome poverty. We have stopped importation of rice.

"We would continue to work hard to secure our people. We have made tremendous progress in the fight against corruption and we shall continue to work hard to secure our people.

"When we came, Boko Haram was in charge of seventeen local government areas in Borno state but now Boko Haram has been reduced abysmally low"

President Mohammadu Buhari said corruption was developed into a culture but we have changed that.

The President earlier met with traditional rulers in Ondo State at the GPM Event Centre, Oba Ile, Akure.

� Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

#Ondo4Buhari
#Aketi4PMB
#Nextlevel

Ondo State says welcome to PMB. as he arrives Ondo State for The Next Level Campaign Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi

#NextlevelCampaign
#OndoforBuhari

Buhari’s second term, inevitable says APC NWC Member


Deputy National Chairman, North, of the ruling All Progressives Congress APC, Sen. Lawali Shuaibu has described the reelection of President Muhammadu Buhari in the forthcoming general elections as inevitable.

Shuaibu who is the National Coordinator of the group, Forward with Buhari FWB, an independent campaign organization initiated by the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum NGF and Governor of Zamfara state, Alh. Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari made the declaration in a statement Monday in Abuja.


“Everywhere we go, we intend to enlighten our grassroots and general public on the inevitable need to reelect President Muhammadu Buhari for a second term based on the good works and resounding achievements.

“There is no alternative to President Buhari in the coming elections. Therefore, in order to consolidate on the gains made so far, Nigerians should massively vote President Buhari”, he declared.

According to him, the group has embarked on an intensive grassroots campaign across the nation’s six geopolitical zones.

The campaign organization comprises mostly youths, mobilisers, sensitizers and grassroots canvassers.

Shuaibu, the group which kick-started its road show from Lagos State has been to Edo and Zamfara states. The next stop for the road show will be Kano State, he said.

While in Lagos, Edo and Zamfara States, the Forward with Buhari campaign organization said it embarked on intense road shows, stopping at various strategic points including markets and event centres to interact with the people and distribute campaign items showcasing verifiable achievements of the current administration and President Buhari as the most viable option among the presidential candidates.

The group intends to tour all the geopolitical zones before the February 16 presidential election

The Deputy General (Coordination) of the All Progressives Congress’ Presidential Campaign Council, Waziri Bulama, has said money will play no role in influencing the 2019 general elections in Nigeria.

He said the election would be largely influenced by voters’ freewill to choose their leaders based on trust, integrity and performance in office, which he said were to the advantage of President Muhammadu Buhari.



Addressing journalists in Abuja, Bulama said Buhari had fulfilled promises he made and deserved a second term to consolidate achievements and secure the nation’s path to economic recovery.

He said the government had blocked loopholes and reduced wastes in government in order to save for the future, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party that mismanaged the economy for 16 years.

Bulama said, “Ours has been an issue-based campaign. We have engaged Nigerians; we are persuading them with respect to show and discuss with them on the condition of Nigeria between 2015 and 2019, particularly in the areas of the President’s undertaking to improve security, economy and prevent waste and mismanagement.

“This campaign is propelled by voluntary support and willing participation. The massive crowds you see at our campaign grounds are not paid crowds. They are people that respect President Buhari and the APC leaders.

“So, what we expect is that the 2019 elections will be largely influenced by the freewill of Nigerian voters and by their desire to exercise their franchise. This is what we expect will influence the election, not money, not party, but issues of national interest and the power of our citizens.”

Bulama said the president’s conduct in office had always been guarded by his desire to ensure Nigerians were respected everywhere they went.

He said it would be wrong for any party to claim glory to the reforms witnessed in elections in the country as it was collective efforts of Nigerians.



“The reforms we saw in the election management in this country were a collective advocacy promoted by all stakeholder groups in Nigeria. President Buhari has been an apostle of ensuring that vote counts. He has been an advocate of free and fair elections.”

During the weekend, the Governor of Ondo state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and Top Ondo state political appointees visited the Ondo state Muslim welfare Board Alagbaka, Akure for the empowerment of less privileged Muslim Umah in Ondo state.

Chairman, Ondo state Muslim Welfare Board Alhaji Khaleel Fawehinmi, was present at the event to receive the Governor, his entourage and the empowerment materials.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu expressed that his administration is concerned about the welfare of every citizen of Ondo state and that is why he has decided to put smiles on faces through this event.

He further expressed his heart felt concerns for less privileged people in the state and advised that his administration will always ensure that people are well catered for in enjoying the dividends of democracy.

Empowerment materials like Grinding machines, sewing machines, amongst others was donated to the board for support.

Alhaji Khaleel Fawehinmi thanked the Governor and his administration for his kind gesture and expressed his sincere appreciation.

Some of the beneficiaries were present to receive empowerment materials from the Governor and they expressed their appreciation.

THE Sani Abacha Stadium in the heart of the commercial nerve centre of the ancient city of Kano, Kano State, yesterday witnessed an unprecedented turnout of residents and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Supporters of the party from the 44 Local Government Areas of the state converged on the stadium, as the campaign train of President Muhammadu Buahari berthed in the state ahead of the February 16 presidential poll.

President Buhari, who arrived at the stadium at about 3.55pm, said he would continue to work relentlessly to make Nigeria a great and peaceful country if given a freh mandate to serve.

Buhari, who was all smiles as party leaders took turns to address the crowd, said: “With the demonstration (massive turnout) witnessed here, I will tell you that I will continue to fulfill the promises I made to you in 2015, which bordered on security, corruption and economy.

“We have promised Nigerians three major issues concerning our survival as a nation. They are fight against corruption, security and economic revitalisation.

“In these areas, I will like to boldly say that we have delivered our promises to the electorate, he said, adding: “If you like you can asked those that came from the Northeast since they use to come to Kano to do business, most them have since returned to their houses and we see that as a significant development.

“I want to remind you that the promise I made to you Nigerians to enhance security has been fulfilled and you can confirm this from the people of the Northeast, since you people have business relations and they will confirm to you that they have returned to their homes. This shows that we have achieved security as promised.

“On the side of development, we have had two successful rainy seasons during which the government provided fertiliser at subsidised rates to farmers in the country, during which we had a bumper harvest.

“We have banned the importation of rice to enhance local production because as a country we have the capacity to feed ourselves and that is a great achievement.

“We want to assure you that we made a promise that we will never fail you. The truth of the matter is that I have been a governor, minister of Petroleum, I have been a Head of State and now a politician.

“There is nothing I want to achieve beyond ensuring that our Nigeria becomes a peaceful and economically developing country. I therefore call on you on election day to vote for us and we assure you of victory and because of that we are going to the next level.”

The President said a lot had been done to make Nigeria stand on its feet agriculturally. He said: “It is a thing of pride that today Nigeria is cultivating rice to feed itself locally. We have subsidised the price of fertiliser for our farmers who embarked on mass production of food to sustain growth and development throughout the country.”

On the economy, Buhari said that the government, under his watch, had done a lot in blocking leakages and introducing the Single Treasury Account policy to put the resources in one basket.


The governor said the President had done a lot in the state, citing, the Lagos- Kaduna-Kano rail being constructed as an example.

“When he came to Kano, we asked him to construct Kano -Kaduna-Suleja road. And, as you can see, work has since reached advanced stage,” Dr. Ganduje said

The Federal Government has adopted the Ondo state government’s model of water provision tagged “Kamomi Aketi Accelerated Water Scheme” for replication across the country.

To this end, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources through its PEWASH programme in conjunction with the Ondo State government has organised a day training programme for participants across the six geo-political zones of the country in Akure, the state capital to understudy the Ondo system.

Speaking at the event, the PEWASH National Coordinator from Abuja ,Mrs Jummai Umar-Wakaso said Ondo State model is cost effective and community driven because , the Federal Government has been spending 400,000 naira to rehabilitate one hand pump borehole contracted out compared to the 81,000 naira been used by the state through the Ondo Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, RUWASSA team to rehabilitate same.

"To achieve our target, we have to go the way of Ondo model, through the training of today ,I and my colleagues have learnt a lot and as we are going back, this is what we are going to adopt.

"Ondo model is a very good one, it is another milestone to the PEWASH family.We are happy that Ondo state has shown us the right direction,the state model is special, therefore Ondo is automatically under the PEWASH programme”, she said.

Addressing the participants, the Chairman, Ondo State RUWASSA, Hon. (Mrs) Yetunde Adeyanju attributed the success recorded in the area of rural water provision to the support the agency received from the governor of Ondo state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

According to her, "It is a plus for us in the state and I am very proud of Mr Governor because ,we were able to achieve the feat based on his direction and the mandate given to us”.

"It is a challenge for us to do more, now that the Federal Government has adopted our system, we will continue to move forward ,we will sustain the tempo and continue to make impact", she said.

The Next level engagement of Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo continued in Ondo State on Wednesday, 30th January, 2019 as he visited the Palace of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladelusi Aladetoyinbo to solicit the support of the people of Akure and its environs ahead of the February 16th Presidential election.

The Vice President was accompanied by the Governor of the stage, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, who received warm cheers from his people in the state capital.

Addressing the monarch, Osinbajo reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to fighting corruption to a standstill and move the country forward.

While stressing the importance of providing jobs for the youths, he said the federal government has through its various Social Investment Programmes, empowered many youths with a view to eradicate poverty in the country.

He enjoined people of the state to re-elect President Muhammadu Buhari whom he described as a trustworthy and honest man who will always ensure that Nigeria's money is not stolen.

Oba Aladetoyinbo said the house-to-house campaign embarked upon showed that Osinbajo did not take his success at the 2015 General elections for granted.

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo in company of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, visited the hilly town of Idanre in Idanre local government area of Ondo state on Wednesday, 30th January, 2019 in furtherance of his #NextlevelEngagement in the state.

The Vice President, who was received into the town admist warm reception visited the palace of Owa of Idanre and later addressed the people.

He said the Buhari’s administration will focus more on jobs for young people, electricity and empowerment of the market women through loans, as the main agenda for the Next level.

Governor Akeredolu urged the people to vote for President Buhari and the APC candidates.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole, has said history will punish former President Olusegun Obasanjo for ceding Bakassi to Cameroon.

He said this while addressing party supporters during the APC’s presidential campaign rally in Calabar on Wednesday. President Muhammadu Buhari was on the occasion.

Oshiomhole said the people of Cross River State should “never forget Obasanjo because he handed over Nigeria to Cameroon because he wanted to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

“Nigeria can never forgive him. History will punish him if we are too weak to punish him.

“He separated fathers from mothers, brothers from sisters. The Nobel Peace Prize is not given to traitors.”

Buhari said, “Those within and outside the country who have honestly assessed our administration can attest to the fact that our administration has done well. We have also improved security in the North-East and the anti-corruption fight is ongoing.

“Our economy has been improving since 2018. The government has helped farmers with soft loans. We are working hard to make the country better.”

The President presented the party’s flag to the APC governorship candidate in the state Senator John Owan-Enoh.

Owan-Enoh said, “Buhari will win. The revolution that started in 2015 will berth in Cross River in 2019. The hunger for change is very palpable in Cross River. Cross Riverians expect that change.”

The acting chairman of the party in the state John Ochala called on Buhari to caution the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Usani Usani, claiming he was causing distraction for the party in the state.

He also said there was poor governance in the state, with the collapse of the local government system, relocation of investors from the state, phantom projects, plundering of forest resources in the guise of constructing super highway.

He added, “Our people are clamouring for change, which the APC governorship candidate Senator John Owan-Enoh and his running mate, Ekpo Okon will provide.”

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday boasted that he was not corrupt because in all the positions he has held in the country, he has never been convicted for corruption.

This is as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has accused the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential candidate of working seriously for the interest of the western world. Buhari, Sultan, Ajimobi extol UI’s achievements at 70 President Buhari made the boast while addressing members of his ruling APC, as well as his supporters at the Presidential campaign rally in Abakaliki township stadium, Ebonyi State.

Recall that Buhari was former Head of State in 1983-85, Governor of the Northeastern State 1975–1976, and chairman Petroleum Trust Fund between 1994-95. According to him, “I can assure you that I, as the President today have never been in a position of abusing trust. As a governor of the whole six north eastern states, as minister of petroleum for over three years and as a former head of state.

I was arrested, detained, investigated but they never found anything against me.“ The President thanked Ebonyi people for turning out in large numbers for the rally, saying that they demonstrated that they cannot be bought. He urged them to hold him by his words. Buhari recalled that when he came for campaign in 2015, he promised three things, first, to tackle the security situation in the country, stressing that at a time 17 local governments in the north east were under the control of Boko Haram.

He enthused that as at today, there was no local government under the control of the terrorists. He said, “The important thing is that, please try and hold us by our promise. When we came here the last time, we told you there are three fundamental things the country is facing. “First, we have to secure the country because part of the country is under threat in the north east, at least 17 local governments were in the hands of Boko Haram. Secondly, the economy.

The able bodied unemployed persons in Nigeria are too many. Thirdly, to fight corruption.” The President congratulated the military and other law enforcement agencies, noting that today none of the local government in the north east was under the control of Boko Haram.


He said, “They have resulted in indoctrinating young men and abducting young girls below the ages of 15, wrap them with explosives and send them to soft targets- churches, mosques, market places and motor parks. Even that is becoming rear now.”

Buhari also said that with favourable weather, Nigeria has achieved food security and no longer imports rice, adding that the money saved from importations was being used for infrastructural development. He added that the monies were now being channeled to building of roads, rails among other infrastructural development. He said, “We thank God that Nigeria prayed very hard and the three previous rainy season were good. The government realized it and asked the Central Bank and the Ministry of Agriculture to give soft loans and make fertilizer available to farmers at half the price it used to be.

“And every able bodied persons who does not feel too big to earn a living went back to the farm and nobody regretted it. “We have now virtually achieved food security, we no longer import rice as we used to and the money we have saved are for infrastructure. We are doing the roads, the rails and we are doing the new standard gauge and we are improving power.”

“The last thing is about fighting corruption and bribery. Fighting corruption is a very difficult process but we are doing our best by trying to reorganize the Nigerian police or and the judiciary itself. “Because, we appointed people that went into public office without their own houses, without even maybe good cars but within three years they build houses in Abuja, open accounts in Europe or America and we cannot touch them. “But when we discover what they have we take them to court and when we take them to court we hope they will be prosecuted and then we will punish them.

“I can assure you that I, as the President today has never been in a position of abusing trust. As a governor of the whole six north eastern states, as minister of petroleum for over three years and as a former head of state. “I was arrested, detained, investigated but they never found anything against me. So I went through all the rigmarole that is against our development as a nation. God has given us people, he has given us resources. President Buhari solicited the votes of the Ebonyi people to enable him continue with the work his administration has started.

He said, “What this administration is doing and what it will continue to do, if you vote me back is to make sure we realize the potential of our people and the resources God has given us to make life better for this country, for our future generations.” Also speaking, National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who received 25 leaders from other parties, who have resolved to work for the APC, accused the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar of working for foreign interest.

He argued that the letters by the former Vice President to United Kingdom (UK), Unites States (US) and European Union (EU), were appealing to western sentiments angling to take over Nigeria’s economy. He said, “The right to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty is not negotiable.” Oshiomhole maintained that Atiku deferring to western interest will only injure Nigeria economy and pauperised the people, calling on the voters never to vote for Atiku.

He described the forth coming elections as a class war between the elites and the poor, just as he insisted that Buhari’s policies including TraderMoni were pro-poor despite the complains of the likes of former president, Olusegun Obasanjo. Don’t allow PDP sabotage democracy, Presidency warns Oshiomhole said no external force can impose leaders on Nigeria.

The Ebonyi APC party boss said, the civil servants in the state have been short changed by the PDP administration and that the governor paid only what he felt like paying at the end of every month. He alleged that Umahi met 5,200 workforce when he resumed in 2015, which has been depleted to 3,200 in 2019 with the governor not employing anyone to replace the dead and the retired.

He also alleged that the governor has refused to appoint permanent secretaries who are supposed to be accounting officers or ministries. He requested the president to order the audit of the state so as exposed alleged corruption in the management of the state resources by Umahi. He assured the president that APC has grown in Ebonyi exponentially to be able to deliver at least 25 percent to ensure Buhari’s victory in the presidential election.

The Ebonyi State APC governorship candidate Senator Sonni Ogbuoji, assured that Ebonyi will deliver a total vote for APC. He said, “We are resolved to lead the state to prosperity and advancement. It has been in the wrong hands since 2015 “Our state has dined with maladministration since 2015?and will die except we rescue it now.”

Think Alash for Continuity of Quality Representative

One good turn they said deserves another. That is why Sen. Tayo Alasoadura, distinguished senator representing Akure South Local government of Ondo State, deserves to be reelected for the continuity of his unprecedented achievements in Akure South.
Senator Alasoadura has been singled out as a Decisive, Determined and Dependable senator Akure south ever had. Today his numerous achievements stand to speak for him.
He has empowered so many through the distribution of 800 motorcycles, 70 Tricycles, 200 Grinding Machines, 250 sewing machines, 24 motor vehicles and he also gave to FUTASU 1 Utility Bus, which in return created employment for the unemployed beneficiaries.
His works also speak on infrastructure were he sponsored construction of bridges and installation of street lights across the streets of Akure south. He also donated a Bitumen Oil and Gas research centre at Federal university of Technology Akure. These and many more are the great strides of Senator Alasoadura. For continuity of quality representative think Alash.
#VoteAPC
#VoteSenAlash

The family of Mr. & Mrs. Ogwuche parents of the Triplet born on 19th January, 2019 yesterday received three envelopes each containing N50,000 totalling N150,000, 3 packs of Pampers and 3 cartons of NAN baby food.

Chairperson of Owo Local government; Mrs. Folashade Adebayo presented the gifts on behalf of Her Excellency, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu.


Present at the presentation of gift are the HOD information dept, Owo local govt, well wishers from the neighborhood and Hon. Aderibigbe Alexander Supervising Councillor representing Isaipen Ward 8 where the triplets were delivered.


Speaking on behalf of the family of the Ogwuche, Mr Ogwuche Peter thanked Her Excellency for the cash gift. Saying its an uncommon thing for a government to remember the non-indigene, he further expressd his appreciation to Arakunrin and Arabinrin Akeredolu.

Araromi/Lekki road

Ondo awards 37.5km Araromi/Lekki dual carriageway for N32bn

The Ondo State Executive Council on Monday awarded contracts for the construction of the 37.5km dual coastal carriage Araromi-Seaside-Akodo-Lekki Road.

The state executive council awarded the 37.5km dual carriageway after a selective tendering method.

The road project execution is to be co-funded by the Ondo State Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) at ratio 60:40.
According to the state exco’s approval, the road project is divided into two lots.

Lot One, which is the 18.850km of the road, is awarded to Craneburg Construction Company, Lagos, for N16.9bn. The execution of Lot one is to commence from Araromi Seaside and terminates at Awodikora/OKLNG.

The 18.65km Lot Two of the road project is awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited, Abuja, for N15.7bn. The construction of Lot Two will start from Awodikora/OKLNG to Akodo-Lekki in Lagos State.

The state executive council intends to pay 30% of the contract sum to the beneficiary contractors as mobilization fee, while subsequent will be paid based on measurements and certificates.

Contractors handling the projects are to deliver them in 36 calendar months.

The Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbanjo will soon launch the Tradermoni for beneficiaries in Ondo State.

The Special Advisers to the Governor on Public and Intergovernmental Affairs and Focal Officer for Ondo state on Social Intervention programmes, Mrs Olubunmi Ademosun made this known yesterday in Akure.

Ademosun said beneficiaries have began to access the money during the weekend but that the official launching will be done today.

She disclosed that between 50,000 and 100,000 market women will benefit from the programme in the state.

She said the idea was not to buy votes as being speculated but to alleviate poverty among the vulnerable traders.

While disclosing that the beneficiaries will access the sum of N10,000 each, Ademosun said the money will go a long way assisting market women on petty trades like sachet pure water, locust beans sellers roasted yam and plantain sellers among others.

You made us proud, Akeredolu tells pilgrims



Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu , has commended the 2018 Pilgrims to Jerusalem for being worthy ambassadors of the state in the Holy land.



The Governor gave the commendation at a welcome and thanksgiving service for the 2018 Christian Pilgrims to Jerusalem held at the Chapel of His Grace, Government House in Akure, yesterday.

He thanked them for protecting the good name of the State by conducting themselves in a godly manner while praying for the state and their respective families.

Stressing the importance of thanksgiving, Akeredolu stated that when we come to God in appreciation of His kindness unto us, He recompenses.



While saying that their experience in the Holyland would enable them serve God more, he enjoined others to endeavour to repent and serve the living God for the salvation of their souls.

“Christ came to this world and died for our sins and I believe we should all accept Him as our personal Lord and saviour and have eternal life”, he said.

In his sermon titled ‘Giving thanks to God’, Chairman of Ondo State Christian Welfare Board, Very Rev’d Rapheal Agboola enjoined all to imbibe the spirit of thanksgiving over God’s unmerited favour in their lives.

He said the service becomes imperative for them, as it is the only means by which they can thank God for the journey mercies, their safety of their while in the Holy land and for uniting them with their respective family members in peace.

Rev’d Agboola however admonished everyone to repent from their sins and submit their lives to God in totality so as to reign with Him in the end.

Intercessory prayers were offered for the development of the State, success of the Akeredolu-led administration and for the peaceful conduct of the 2019 general elections scheduled to start next month in the country.

Highlight of the service included the presentation of Certificate to Jerusalem Pilgrims by Governor Akeredolu, presentation of gift by the Pilgrims to the Governor as well as the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale and rendition of thanksgiving songs.

The entire members of the National Automobile Technicians Association, (NATA) Ondo West and East Local government is holding a meeting for the progress of the association and general development in Ondo kingdom at Oba Adesanoye Civic centre in Ondo city.

His Excellency, Governor of Ondo state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN arrived at the event with other distinguished ladies and gentlemen and honourable members of the House of Assembly:
Hon. Adewale Adelakun, Ondo West Member House of Assembly, Constituency 1
Hon. Olamide Oladiji (Landmark), Ondo East Member House of Assembly
Hon. Jibayo Adeyeye
Sen. Tayo Alasoadura

Also present at the event is the State President of the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA). The State Chairman, Mr Babatunde expressed his support for Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye for Member, House of Reps.

During the event, over 5000 NATA members declares support for Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye MHR Ondo/Ondo east.

Addressing the NATA members at the event, the Governor stressed that Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye deserves to be voted for and urged all members to keep supporting him.

Like the biblical quote in Joel 2:25 "And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you"

Many years ago, Ose/Owo suffered a wantom neglect, no sense of quality and inclusive representation at the green chamber, but the emergence of Otunba Timehin Adelegbe as the Candidate vying for that seat, there shall be total restoration of all lost monuments.

#Support Otunba Timehin Adelegbe for Reps, Ose/Owo Federal Constituency
#Vote APC

Women have been challenged to increase their representation in government by participating in politics.



The wife of Ondo state Governor, Mrs Betty Anyawu Akeredolu spoke at an interactive session with various women groups in the state organised by National council of women’s societies Ondo state chapter.



Ahead the general elections Mrs Akeredolu said it is expedient for women to exercise their franchise without fear as it is their civil responsibility.



She further stated that women have a role to play in the socio economic advancement of a nation.



Other stakeholders who spoke at the event include Inec representative,Mrs Dolapo Alo and FIDA representative,Mrs Bunmi Arajuwa who called on the women to come out in large numbers to vote come February assuring that necessary machinery have been put in

place to ensure a hitch free election.



Several groups including Hausa,Igbo and Ebira women groups restated their commitment to voting APC in the February election.

A minimum wage bill goes to the National Assembly today, as the National Council of State has approved N30,000 and N27,000 as minimum monthly pay for federal and state workers respectively.

A decision to this effect was reached yesterday at the meeting attended by President Muhammadu Buhari, former Heads of State and Governors.

Labour Minister, Dr Chris Ngige who broke the cheery news said governors have agreed to the payment formula.

Ngige said the council approved N27,000 as the minimum wage in the country, but hinted that the federal was topping the approved amount by N3,000, which translates to N30,000 for its workers.

He said states are at liberty to augment the new agreement “as they deemed fit.”

In a swift reaction, the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the N27,000 new National Minimum Wage adopted by the National Council of State on Tuesday.

Dr Peter Ozo-Eson, the NLC General Secretary, made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

According to him, the council has no jurisdiction determining another amount after a Tripartite Committee has submitted its report.

“It is abysmal of government to be delaying the submission of an Executive Bill to the National Assembly and by wrongfully adopting N27,000 through the Council of States,” he said.

Ozo-Eson however said the NLC has called an emergency National Executive Council meeting for Friday, to weigh on the deadline given to government within which to submit an executive bill to the National Assembly.

The NLC general scribe added that the Federal Government was only projecting a shutdown of the economy with its latest action.

“This is because workers should not be held responsible for any development after its NEC meeting on Friday,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ondo State chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has said that it awaits the next directive of the national secretariat on the minimum wage approval by the Council of State.

Chairman, Joint Negotiating Council, JNC, Comrade Opeyemi Oloniyo, while speaking with The Hope on telephone, said the reaction of the national secretariat will determine their next line of action.

He said the difference in the salary is not the best because both federal and state workers patronize the same market and do the same schedule of work.

The council approved the amount at its meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

Following the Council’s approval, a minimum wage bill is expected to be sent to the National Assembly on Wednesday.

According to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, the Federal Government is topping the approved amount by N3,000 to 30,000 for its workers.

He said the states are at liberty to augment the new agreement as they see fit.

The amount approved by the Council of State is N3,000 short of the N30,000 that the Tripartite Committee on Review of National Minimum Wage recommended.

The committee, chaired by a former Head of Service of the Federation, Ms Ama Pepple, had submitted the report, which contained the recommended figure, to President Muhammadu Buhari on November 6, 2018, after many months of deliberations.

Prior to the committee’s recommendation, in October, state governors had offered to pay N22,500 as minimum wage.

Nine days after the committee recommended N30,000, on November 15, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum insisted that the states cannot pay the amount, leading to criticism by organised Labour which insisted on N30,000.

On January 8, 2019, the Nigeria Labour Congress held a nationwide protest over what it said was the delay by the Federal Government to transmit a new minimum wage bill to the National Assembly.

More to follow…
https://www.channelstv.com/2019/01/22/breaking-national-council-of-state-approves-n27000-as-new-minimum-wage/