Bukola Saraki To U.S: Extend Visa Ban To Electoral, Judicial Officers


September 16, 2020



Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has urged the United States (U.S) to expand the visa ban it slammed on Nigerian politicians to include electoral officers, security officials and judicial officers who undermine the nation’s democracy by their actions during and after elections.

He also called for a strong enforcement of the law which provides for punishment of politicians, law enforcement agents, ordinary citizens and electoral officers who are caught subverting the electoral process.

“All stakeholders must show commitment to diligent enforcement of and compliance with the law. This has been addressed in the 2010 Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2019 worked upon by the Eighth National Assembly,” he said.



Saraki spoke on Tuesday on the topic: Electoral Reforms and Democracy, at an event organised by the Centre for Advancement of Civil Liberties to mark the International Day of Democracy.

The former Senate President submitted that a faulty electoral process is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

He enjoined the Ninth National Assembly to expedite action on the Electoral Act as the next general election is almost 30 months away.

Saraki said: “Nothing threatens our democracy more than a faulty electoral process. We cannot afford to allow our populace to lose faith in the democratic process. That will be a recipe for chaos.”

Also, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday hailed the U.S for imposing visa ban on some Nigerian politicians accused of allegedly undermining democracy and electoral process.

In a statement by its spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan, the main opposition said: “It is instructive to note that this announcement by the U.S, which reinforces the determination for resistance in Nigeria, is also an unambiguous caution to the sacked National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, the APC governorship candidates in Edo, Osagie Ize-Iyamu and his Ondo counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu, over their plots to use violence to undermine the sanctity of the Edo and Ondo state governorship elections

30th August, 2020.

Press release.

Let your searchlight be extended to how LG funds are being mismanaged, group urges Adewara led Panel.

A civil society organisation established to promote good governance and social justice known as The People's Voice Advocacy Network has registered her reservations on the manner in which the panel of inquiry set up by the Kwara State Government is carrying out the task to look into the ₦300m LG funds which was allegedly mismanaged.

In the press statement released by the group, the Assistant Publicity Secretary of the group, Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem, stated that the tasks of the panel should not be restricted to the investigation of the acclaimed mismanagement of ₦300million LG funds alone rather its search light should equally be beamed on how Kwara State Government led by Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq manages the entire LG Funds in the last one year of his administration. This request may not be unconnected with the fact that the governor has been the sole administrator of the 16 LGs in the last one year or thereabout.

"The panel’s investigation into the alleged mismanagement of ₦300million LG funds is not an end but a means to it. Rather than wasting time and resources on just a single segment, the group demands that a holistic investigation and probe into how LG funds have been managed in the last one year should be the way to go as that would definitely lead to the missing ₦300m.

Interestingly, the first and second quarters reports of 2020 has enough revelations and can be a guide for Retired Justice Adewara-led panel of inquiry.

"We believe that the panel already got the needed instructions to dig out facts from speculations, if actually they have genuine mission to do an excellent job in the interest of the governed. More reason the Civil Society organization demands that the panel search light should begin from the root, and not on the surface. Any conscious being can easily spot loopholes in the report circulated on social media. Or is it another way of distracting people's attention from raising pertinent questions on more important issues? As the two reports circulated didn't bear any official name nor signature", said Olaitan.

"The report of Retired Justice Mathew Adewara-led panel further reaffirmed the position of the governed in the ongoing investigation that nothing good may come out of it. The non submission of memorandum by members of the public, despite the panel's advertisement on both the print and electronic media, is a signal that the State government had lost the public trust that ushered her into office, especially on area of Transparency and Accountability.

The group further claimed that there are some discrepancies in the released data made available by the Governor's spokesman and the revelation coming from LG Officials who were interrogated by the Panel.

"Both the spokesman of the Governor and Party Mouthpiece had earlier confirmed to the general public that the 15% salary arrears of both the LG and SUBEB teachers paid early this year was as a result of the money saved after completion of loan repayment that ended in September. To our surprise, a contrary report emerged during the facts finding mission from LG staff which revealed that the loan repayment actually ended in December. May we refer the Adewara led Panel to peruse the 4th quarter of 2019 report confirmed that there was no Loan Repayment by LG to any Financial institution?

The group hereby ask the following questions:

1. Where are the receipts of LG share from FAAC since May 2019 till date?

2. Where are the documents that confirmed the receipt of 10% share from the IGR from May 2019 till date?

3. What is the Wage Bill of LG and SUBEB respectively?

4. How much was saved after salary payment since September 2019 LG completed their Loan repayment and how much was used to pay the 15% in January this year?

5. Where is the receipt that confirmed that ₦100million has been expended monthly on gratuities from May 2019 till date even when available facts shows that it is no being paid on a monthly basis but periodically, even as it went as low as ₦30m, ₦40m and ₦60m respectively?

6. The Group is worried about the shameful news of one of the two "Super Commissioners" who recently resigned her appointment as a result of this financial scandal. The group urges the Panel to invite the two Commissioners for interrogation as regards the missing 300m and make the report available within the time.

In the public interest, we hope the panel will dig into the above raised issues and be transparent in her report.

Thank you.

Signed:

Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem,
Assistant Publicity Secretary,
The People's Voice Advocacy Network.

LESSONS WE MUST TAKE INTO POST COVID-19 ERA

By


ISHOWO, Oluwatosin

The end of corona virus won't mark a new beginning of peace in the world. Peace today has been redefined from mere “harmony”; it is built on “strength and confidence”. This is evident in the actions exhibited by the likes of United States of America, North Korea, China and recently Iran testing a nuclear weapon from underground. These are all beat of drums for war and a reminder that once the pandemic is over, we are going to forget all these life changing experiences and lessons and return to our normal way of life with negative mentality.

The outbreak of Corona virus has shaped the perception of the world and should change our negative mentality, who could have thought a virus would bring the world to its knees within 100 days? In the past we constantly discuss about how nuclear weapons are capable of causing world disaster. With the outbreak of the virus, there is only one sacrosanct fact; if there is anything that is capable of wiping out the world faster than a nuclear weapon, it is a “disease; a pandemic”. Everything that has happened during this period worth being documented and everyone's experiences are valuable, most importantly as a Nigerian.

Even countries like USA that is believed to have the capacity to contain any pandemic at any point in time were punched heavily by the deadly virus. The God's own country was worse hit. The disaster exacerbated because of slow initial response, mismanagement of testing and poor coordination between the states and federal government. When Ebola virus broke out, Africa got heavily condemned and criticized for the spread, but with this virus, it has clearly shown that the problem is not African but global. Nearly all countries of the world including Britain, Italy and many European countries suffered that because they capitalized more on government processes than technical capacity. It is normal that when issues become expedient; protocols are to be set aside. In Nigeria, it is now very evident that we are only lucky that out titanic ship didn’t hit an ice berg that would have endangered the compartments of our ships. Invariably, we must have realized by now that leaders and governments that ignore science and investment on health are nothing but a terrible liability.

The virus affected every individual’s economy but the biggest victims of this pandemic are the poor especially in Nigeria where we have comfortable bourgeois and upstarts who have forgotten the misery of others and a government that is irresponsible towards people’s ventilation of grievances. One important lesson we as youths of this country must learn as upcoming leaders is to develop a conscious mind that we should plan for the future without compromising the present. Nigeria is one of the most unfortunate countries to be born, it is increasingly inching towards hopelessness. A country where the the only comfort people get is divine, due to poor leadership and needless politicisation. At this stage, the question of Nigeria is no longer what it has to offer us but what we have to offer it. As African youths, we must not forget that any country where the leaders fail to envision prosperity for their people will surely perish.

This doesn’t mean that Nigeria as learnt a great deal from this horrible experiences. Sadly, it painted a sad scenario as it robbed Nigeria of requisite aspirations towards greatness. However, as good citizens and righteous people, we must note that a righteous person might not always succeed in front of a strong man, if the lamp fails to glow once in a while, everything and everywhere would become dark. Our political culture must transcend from believing in legends and dreams to believing in reality. Public trust in a government is the most valuable asset of any government but Federal government didn’t earn that, from the citizens protesting on social media to demanding the presence of their elected President to address them on volatile issues, to the failed and poorly managed palliative measures put in place, slow Covid-19 testing process and lack of efforts to fast track an economic policy that conforms with the reality on ground. What assisted Nigeria was not the trust of the people in the government because that is visibly low. Rather, what assisted us was the fear of the virus. If not for the general resentment that greeted total national lockdown, a government that has failed to cater for the people could have worsen the extreme human suffering witnessed at the beginning of the global health challenge. The ratings of the government speedily declined during the pandemic and Nigerians should not be blamed for this distrust. Doing so would tantamount to being ungrateful as citizens across different walks of life eventually assisted in alleviating the pains, thus containing the virus. Though we seemed to have avoided chaos yet crisis looms and trouble staring us in the face after the virus. it is the danger of economic recession.

What Nigeria must learn from this is that the major task of nation-building is promotion of good. Our attainment of national goal is supposed to be driven by responsible and credible leadership. Indeed, this virus highlights the need for vigilance and reformed government institutions. On individual level, this period taught us how disastrous it is to waste our lives in endless battle for wealth, status and power. It also demonstrates to us that giving meaning to our lives is very important than anything and finding purpose is the true definition of life.


Conclusively, the pandemic exposed us to the importance of recognising the importance and impact of a working economy, our political ideology and structure. It also redefined our family life, communality - and most important, mindset.

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @Tosinishowo

Mallam Abdulrazzaq Sholagberu the President of Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home and the Executive Director of World Muslim Congress Pays Tribute to the Abdulrazzaq’s Family

Inna lilahi Wa Inna Illahi Rajiun (Verily we belong to Allah, and verily to Him do we return), I extend my condolence to the entire family of the Abdulrazzaq’s over the death of Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Folorunsho Abdulrazzaq (SAN), the Mutawalli of the Ilorin Emirate. He was a great man, not only to his family and not only to Kwara State but to the entire Nation of Nigeria.

The Senior advocate was indeed a great man, he was a stateman and a great philanthropist. He lived a good life and contributed to the social development of Kwara state. He left behind great children who are successful in their various fields.

His contribution could be seen from the school he established in Kwara State. Not to mention that he was also the first Senior Advocate in the North Central of Nigeria, and one-time President of the Nigerian Stock exchange. He lived a successful life, I pray for Allah’s protection over his family.

I commiserate with Dr Alimi Abdulrazzaq, His Excellency Mallam Abdulrazzaq Abdulrahman and his other children, the Emir of Ilorin Alhaji Ibrahim Zulu Gambari, and the people of Ilorin Emirate over this great loss. I pray to Allah to forgive his sins, protect the children he left behind and grant him the best of Jannah (Al jannatul Firdaus).


Signed

Mr Ridwan Sulyman
Media Aide to the President of ASPH

Ilorin, Kwara State

19th July, 2020.

Press release.

Group charges Gov. AbdulRazaq to publish name of panel members, suspend the two Commissioners and produce invite letter sent to EFCC.


The People's Voice Advocacy Network, a civil society organisation established to promote good governance and social justice wishes to express her dissatisfaction in the manner at which the Kwara State Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq is handling the case of alleged misappropriation of local council funds with gloove hands.

We read about the plan of the Kwara State Government to investigate and probe the alleged financial misappropriation emanated from the office of the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mrs Aisha Ahman Pategi, the earst while commissioner for local government, chieftancy affairs and community development and the claim of EFCC invitation to that effect.

We believe that the approach of the State Governor to this unfortunate development has evidently shown that His Excellency was wrongly advised especially when there is simple administrative way to arrest the situation. That, He claimed to have invited EFCC on the allegation which a simple administrative approach by Constituting an internal panel probe from his Cabinet with inclusion of State Auditor General and Accountant General would have addressed but if the Governor seems not satisfied of the internal panel result, he can then proceed on another swift option to recover our looted fund. The group again linked the approach of the Governor on the allegation as an attempt to kill an ant with a sledge hammer.

In respect to the above reservations, the group hereby wishes to make the following submissions:

1. That, the Executive Governor should, as a matter of urgency, publicize the name of all members of the panel of inquiry and comprehensively spell out the terms of their engagement in a notable national dailies and reputable online medium. The recent developments revolving around the government officials at the center in the area of anti graft war has spelt measures for other stakeholders to follow. A presidential panel Probe was set up, headed by justice Ayo salami Rtrd with other six members with their information well detailed on various national dailies and media platforms for all Nigerians to see, which has really strengthened our faith in any justice emanated from the panel. Therefore, we urge His Excellency to honourably follow suit.

2. That, the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Florence Oyeyemi and her counterpart Mrs. Aisha Ahman pateji, handling the ministry of local government, chieftaincy affairs and community development at the time of this alleged financial misappropriation should be suspended with immediate effect pending the outcome of the panel, EFCC and House of assembly findings. The story that led to the suspension of the 16 local government council chairmen still fresh in our memory. until now, no substantial information has been relayed to the public on the State of the allegations by the State House of Assembly and yet they were sent out of office by the Governor despite these people enjoyed the benefit of being the legitimate officers of their respective jurisdictions. Moreover, Like in the case of allegations especially, corruption allegations which has been the common enemy to our socioeconomic development as a Nation. Since the Governor is ready to hit the nail through the head by displaying his office readiness to probe the financial infractions in our local government Treasury. Therefore, such affected holders of office at the time of this unfortunate happening is expected to step aside until all investigating panels cleared them of such. We urge Mr. Governor to display a high level of patriotism in his anti graft war like that of president Muhammadu Buhari in the case of the earst while EFCC boss, Mr. Ibrahim Magu who was suspended alongside with others who may have any oil hands in the probe in order to give clear room for proper investigation and if at the end, He and any of his boys eventually found not wanting, they may resume to continue their national assignment if same still the choices by the president.

3. That, the Governor should produce and publish a copy of the acclaimed invitation letter he sent to the office of Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) in respect of the financial misappropriation allegation. The group shall look forward to hearing from the appropriate Authority as soon as possible.


Signed:

Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem
The Assistant Publicity Secretary
The People's Voice Advocacy Network

IBRAHIM MAGU: THE DOG-EATS-DOG WORLD CREATED BY BUHARI PRESIDENCY

By

Ishowo Oluwatosin

A lot of drama happens at the coven of politics, trying to do psychoanalysis sometimes may prevent us from making logical progression about events that have unfolded. Regardless of the level you are playing your politics, either unionism, state or national politics; the truth is that "an agreement built on trust in politics can be easily broken but the one built on weakness can be sustained". That is why people we so much admire in political space are sometimes brought to their knees because of weaknesses similar to that of Ibrahim Magu.

It will be needless to bore you with unnecessary information about the travails of Ibrahim Magu as EFCC chairman. It is in fact one of the most followed drama in recent days with keen attention and interest from all quarters. Except we want to exhibit conscious amnesia and forget Magu's appointment as Chairman of EFCC, he was rejected by by the 8th Senate twice based on a report that indicted Magu from the DSS. The report described him as a burden on Mr President's anti-graft drive. Four years down the lane, what has changed?

The dog-eats-dog world Buhari presidency created will be very consequential for his administration, a world where the strong pick on the weak, a world where all animals are allowed to devour one another, as it is within the party, so it is within the government. To Buhari, are people swords to be tossed away once broken? They left Adams Oshiomole to devour all those he is capable of picking on. It was when he thought he had become more battle weary that he was ambushed without ill-feelings. Ditto for Ibrahim Magu, the same presidency drummed for their masquerades to be dancing naked in the market.

It's evident in Garba Sheu's statement that Ibrahim Magu has been abandoned and defrauded of his loyalty to Presidency. Just like Adams Oshiomole unceremoniously left office, Ibrahim Magu has also kissed his coveted office goodbye. The Yorubas would say "Adiye nje ifun ara won". It's of public interest when everyone suddenly realised recovered loots were brazenly relooted. However, it also exposes Buhari's incompetence and vindictiveness as he's fond of setting stage for strife among his people, then stand behind the winner or real champion.

The rejection of Ibrahim Magu's nomination by the 8th Senate twice was not enough to set a presidential panel to probe and question him, but a letter from Malami was sufficient enough to draw the rug off his feet four years after?Just like the Nigerian bank that does not lend you money because of business or vision, but lend against your collateral, the support given to Magu was lend to him against his collateral. He was a victim of media-trial approach which he invented as the acting chairman of the commission.

Everybody like to wield the sword (power) but we shouldn't forget the skill of the fighter. It's not wrong to say Ibrahim Magu lacked the skill and the sword he possessed became an obsolete defensive weapon to him. In Buhari Presidency, everyone is a tool to be used and once broken, it is not be repaired but replaced. We have seen it with Oshiomole and Magu, we can only patiently wait for the next person. This dog-eats-dog scenario will eventually lead to mutual ruins, hence imminent collapse of his government.

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
Gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @Tosinishowo

Saraki Welcomes Obaseki to PDP, Congratulates Edo State Chapter




Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has welcomed the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki into the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and congratulated him for taking a good step in the right direction.




In a statement issued in Abuja, Saraki noted that the bigger commendation and appreciation should go to the leaders of the Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the various levels for the sense of sacrifice, patriotism and devotion to the progress of the party demonstrated by them in the process of welcoming Obaseki into its fold.




“I also thank Obaseki’s colleagues, the PDP Governors, for their role and for ensuring that while bringing him into the party, they carried along the local chapter and refrain from just unilaterally taking decisions without the input of the leaders of the party in Edo State. The process our Governors adopted in working with the local chapter to bring in the Governor is a better approach than the system in many of the other parties where the National Working Committee (NWC) would simply just give him a membership card.




“That is why my appeal will, at this point, go to all of us, the leaders and stakeholders, who gave assurances that agreement will be honoured, we need to ensure that the NWC of our party plays its own supervisory role by making sure that those agreements entered into by the Governor and the local chapter should be kept, particularly since I am very sure they are all lawful and in the interest of peace and development of the state. That is the only way to keep our integrity intact.




“At this point, it will be odd if I fail to comment on the situation that led to the change of party by Governor Obaseki. While I have kept my cool and ignored all the verbal attacks directed at me by the suspended chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, I have always known that a day like this would come when his masquerade will dance naked in the market.




“The truth is always constant and no matter how far falsehood travels, the truth will catch up with it one day. Oshiomhole can fool people for a long time but he cannot fool the people all the time. What is happening to him now is a moment of truth. This same man who was garrulously proclaiming the end of the political career of some other people is now about to meet his Waterloo.




“He has continued to use his mouth to divide his party and I believe there is a lesson for all politicians to learn from the fate of the suspended APC chairman. No autocrat can successfully pretend to be a Democrat. The true character of a man will come out one day”, he said.




Saraki further stated that all lovers of democracy should be interested in the emergence of a healthy and strong party system and organisation which would provide viable platforms for people to aspire and provide quality leadership to the country.




Signed 

Yusuph Olaniyonu

Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office

Saraki’s Ikoyi Houses Not Bought With Illegal Funds, Says Court

#Refuses to grant forfeiture order, Adjourns case till Sept. 29


The Federal High Court, Lagos, today refused to grant the application of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for a forfeiture Order on the Ikoyi houses former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and instead ruled that the houses were not purchased with illicit fund or proceed of illegal activity.


Justice Liman Mohammed who began giving judgement also stated that the EFCC has not provided any proof that the money with which the houses located on McDonald Road, Ikoyi, were bought came from any establishment related to the Kwara State Government.


Rather the Judge concluded that the Houses were purchased with a credit facility granted Saraki by the Guaratee Trust Bank (GTB).


It will be recalled that the findings of the court was in line with the conclusion of the Supreme Court in the Asset declaration case involving Dr. Saraki in which the same property were the subjects. The Federal High Court also stated that the matter before him were not criminal in nature like the Supreme Court case under reference. 


End

Press Release

Kwara solidarity & integrity forum ( KSIF)

June 8, 2020.

*It is Undemocratic for Abdulrazaq to Threaten People with State Instruments to Join his Party , APC/AAP*

We are dismayed by the new twist in the anti-democratic tendencies being displayed by Mallam Abdulrahaman Abdulrazaq, the Governor of kwara state to force , intimidate, coerce and harass members of the local government council executives of Kwara State and the local government legislature who are perceived to be in the opposition party into joining his own party , the APC /AAP.

On Sunday, June 7, 2020, we received reports of how the Governor is calling on all Local Government vice chairmen especially from Kwara south and Central regions, telling them to officially decamp to APC on or before Tuesday or risk seizure of their legitimate salaries from the state government.

As a pro democracy group, we wish to state that our recourse to raise this alarm is predicated on the fact that the council elections are just around the corner and the frequency of these intimidations, harassments and use of executive threats by the Abdulrazaq led government to force opposition members into joining the APC ahead of the forthcoming council elections amount to abuse of his executive office and broad day light impunity .

We see this as a furtherance of the grand design by Abdulrazaq to undermine the process of freedom of association as enshrined in the constitution of the country and such is unacceptable in a civilized democracy such as ours.

It is also an arbitrary use of state instruments of power under the custody of Governor Abdulrahman to intimidate political opponents to forcefully submit to the will of the Governor and all lovers of our nascent democracy must speak against this executive rascality. If at all, a Governor must be seen to be leading by example to defend the fundamental rights of people to enjoy their liberty and not to infringe on it for political gains .

By threatening these class of public officers with salary seizures and arrest by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrazaq has relegated himself and our state to a lawless arena where political impunity will soar thereby leading us to anarchy .

We recall on several occasions since his inauguration, the council chairmen, their deputies , the councilors as well as council secretaries and DPMs were on the directive of Governor Abdulrazaq, invited to the Government House, where they were told to denounce the PDP and join the APC or risk EFCC coming after them. Kwarans can still remember what those Chairmen went through in the hands of EFCC before they later succumbed under duress to join the APC.

This is the same way Governor Abdulrazaq has been using the State Assembly to perpetuate his vendetta mission against political opponents in the State especially by coercing them to join his party

While as organization we are not opposed to the war against corruption, we would not watch misuse of the EFCC and other state apparatus as political tools to intimidate, harass, persecute and coerce the opposition members into submitting to the will of the Governor or his agents .

As we have always done, we once again advise Governor Abdulrazaq to focus more on governance for which he was elected and stop unnecessary use of intimidation. How laudable would it have been if Gov Abdulrazaq had used this energies he is wasting pursuing vendetta against opposition to source for capable hands who will run government with him.


Singed:

Barrister Kunle Usman,

For

Kwara solidarity & integrity forum ( KSIF)

Abdulrazaq’s one year in office, a disaster, Kwara deserves better’ - Zakari


A stalwart of the Peoples' Democratic Party and former gubernatorial aspirant in Kwara State, Hon Zakari Mohammed has described Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s one year in office as a disaster foretold, describing his administration as a ‘one chance government’.


In a statement signed by Zakari Mohammed, the politician lamented the dawdle and fate that has befallen the State, adding that the State of Harmony never had it so bad, in recent time. The outspoken two term member of the House of Representatives intoned that even the immediate past administration of the state, which the incumbent had since his assumption of office launched vendetta against, is being rated far better than the current administration.


He said the case is like a ‘one chance bus’ in which governance is run as a deceitful venture, adding that within one year in office, the current government has wasted and lavished the State’s monthly allocation, Internally Generated Revenue, the tax refund billions of naira left by the previous government and the World Bank assisted fund. There is no meaningful project on ground to show for these acquired funds. The question now is: What has Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq used all these resources to achieve for the State?


It is on record that instead of improving on the legacies of his predecessors in managing the civil servants, artisans, professional bodies, civil society organizations, youths and women, all he has achieved was destruction, demolition and destabilization of an existing system, just to settle an age-long family cum political supremacy.


‘One cannot, perhaps, expect much, if the political and social backgrounds that have produced the incumbent is properly interrogated. It is therefore not a surprise with the case of the Kwara State Governor, who is supposed (by providence) to be the leader of his party, and manage all and sundry, but, in the contrary, running the ship adrift. Unfortunately, the lingering inter and intra party crises in Kwara APC today is a crystal roadmap of a man whose dynamics is designed to destroy, but not to build, even though it is not in my jurisdiction to meddle into their party's cracas," Zakari said.


He goes on further to note that the Kwara State ‘public and administrative life is in coma' , largely because ‘capable hands are not appointed and employed to drive the wheel of government.


In particular, according to him, ‘Our Agriculture sector that was revolutionised through the establishment of the Modern Agricultural Development Projects, our Revenue Generation blue prints, Local Government/SUBEB fund mobilization and distribution that were all condemned before and during the 2019 elections are the laudable trees that the current administration now waters every day’.


At the inception, one thought there was some magic wand from this overrated government to service the promised payment of #30,000 minimum wage, free education for all, mass employment for our teaming unemployed youths. Instead, the State began to witness unlawful removal of tenured Permanent Secretaries, who were replaced with Directors, among several anomalies.


The former Commissioner also bemoaned the high level of intimidation and harrasment of the opposition voices in the State, in the past one year that the O to ge e beneficiaries have been in power.


‘Today, the maxim of the State of Harmony under Abdulrahman's watch is 'Speak Truth to Power, and Risk Being Nabbed', largely because the government is doing everything to gag the opposition.


The corruption portfolio in AA's administration hasn't given room for transparency and accountability, and that is why it is difficult for an average Kwaran to know how funds are being received and expended, without due process.

Abdulrahman's performance in several other aspects of the lives of Kwara people has also not been encouraging. Till today, the O to ge e administration has no concrete policies on Agriculture, Education, Industrial Development, Manufacturing, Tourism, Employment Generation/Human Capital Development, State Security, etc. It is thus imperative for all lovers of Kwara to begin to think of what to do before we hit the year 2023 political activities.


What AA and his gang of confused minds are voicing as achievments are repackaging and commissioning of local roads, which are of no much economic benefit to the people, leaving the major roads unattended to; commissioning of schools where renovation works are still ongoing; repainting of Grade II court rooms, health centres, Base-Ball Court in Ilorin. All these are going on side by side heavy taxation and levies being imposed on motorists via inhuman motor licensing policies. This is not to talk of demolition of retail shops, without allocating alternative ones to the traders, thus leaving most of these traders helpless and hopeless.


He thus appealed to Governor Abdulrahman, in the interest of the people and future of the State’s children, not to be ashamed to ask questions on how best to manage civil servants, students, traders, artisans and civil society organizations, so as to benefit humanity. Kwara State, according to Hon. Zakari Mohammed, ‘is blessed with quality men and women of intellectual capacities, as such, the State deserves better than the unfortunate current leadership,’ he concluded.

ABDULRAHMAN ABDULRAZAK: A CELEBRATION OF NON- PERFORMANCE



By Rt Hon Razak Atunwa


It has been one year since the present government in Kwara State was ushered in through a sea breeze of change. It was seemingly a reflection of a general feeling of peoples malcontent with the system as it then was. The whys and wherefores of that event will be left for discussion on another day. As they say, we are where we are. It is now one year that this APC government has been in power. It is therefore a reasonable and legitimate exercise to audit and comment on its performance so far.

Governance is no child’s play. It requires more than the superficial aesthetics of driving oneself around in a Hilux van in an attempt to court populist applause. Governance requires hard work, commitment, dedication to duty and ability to confront and resolve both the mundane and exceptional tasks. Governance requires an ability to balance the various competing factors for the maximum benefit of the masses. It follows therefore that the monotonous finger-pointing at past administration’s purported deficiencies does not cut the mustard and does not benefit the people who elected you into power.

To be fair, this Government should not be benchmarked against other more prosperous states of the federation, regardless of which regions they are. However, the irreducible minimum benchmark has to be the manifesto and campaign promises made to the electorate. Let us therefore evaluate some critical sectors.

THE ECONOMY. In this broad category, there are a number of specific campaign promises made by Kwara APC to the electorate as follows:

JOBS: Kwara APC said that they would create thousands of jobs for the youths of Kwara State on the basis that they will attract investment into the State and also support small and medium enterprises to grow. In the first few months of the administration the Governor was seen globe-trotting solo (USA, Japan, South Africa etc), in the name of looking for “investors”. It is quite disappointing that, after spending so much taxpayers money on these foreign trips, he has not been able to bring a single company to invest in Kwara. Never mind the foreign companies, not even a local Nigerian company has come to invest in Kwara.

This situation can be contrasted with the job creating initiatives of the previous administrations such as Kwara State University (KWASU), International Aviation College, Harmony Advanced Diagnostic Centre and the privately owned Kwara Mall. All these enterprises still employ hundreds of kwarans till today.

MINIMUM WAGE: During the campaign, Kwara APC gave strong assurances that, if elected, they would immediately adopt and pay the new minimum wage of N30,000. Sadly, the Governor has not only reneged on this promise, but has positively taken steps to frustrate its actualisation. First he set up committees to try and delay the matter. When that didn’t work, he orchestrated the committee report to be incomprehensible and unacceptable to Labour. In the end, he simply tossed the whole thing to the sideline never to be spoken of again.

Kwara State is predominately a civil service state. Therefore, if you want to improve your economic growth, you simply cannot ignore uplifting the welfare and purchasing power of your largest employed sector. This was the driving force which led the immediate past administration to implement recommendations of Bukola Saraki led administration that minimum wage should be increased from N5,500 to N18,000 per month. Any Government that cares about its workforce will not keep its workers in penury especially when cost of living has risen exponentially.

SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES (SMEs): The other vital sector of Kwara’s economy is the Small and Medium-sized enterprises that litter every corner and facet of the State- the market women; the petty trader; the electronics trader; the furniture maker; the mechanics; the transporters; the tailors etc. They were promised heaven and earth by Kwara APC during campaign. Sadly, rather than delivering on those promises, these entrepreneurs have been on the receiving end of government draconian actions. Shops have been forcefully closed down and destroyed without compensation on the basis that they “deface” the city. They have been levied higher taxes way beyond their ability to pay. Business are folding up by the day.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION: It is quite pitiful to read the list of achievements that the Kwara State Government is bandying about on social media. A small collection of on-going 1 to 3 kilometre roads totalling about 33km. This is exceptionally shameful. It is nothing to write home about. To be sure, the last two administrations executed road projects measured in hundreds of kilometres in their first years.

EDUCATION: The education sector has not witnessed any improvement under this government. No new schools have been built. No meaningful renovation program has been embarked upon. Schools have been left to deteriorate. Rather than reduce fees as promised, this government has increased fees for KWASU.

HEALTH: Despite the noisy campaign promises, this government has not deemed it fit to undertake any significant capital project in the health sector. With the exception of a handful few, all the equipments present in state-owned health facilities today are those purchased by the last two previous administrations. The occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic has really exposed the ineptitude of the Kwara State Government. Whilst the Federal Government and other State Governments have been very proactive in managing the crises, the response in Kwara can be described as mediocre and lack-lustre at best. It is worthy of note that the Governor, as Chief Executive, failed to take the lead in managing the crisis. In fact, he has been conspicuously absent on the issue, having originally gone into hiding at the initial outbreak of the crisis in the state.

An analysis of all other sectors will yield the same results.

This spectacular failure by the Kwara State Government so far is evidence that the Governor and his Party were not prepared for governance. Having won an unexpected victory, and thrown in at the deep end, they now seem completely lost at sea.

It took the Governor almost 7 months from swearing-in to appoint Commissioners. After such a long wait, all he could muster was a motley collection of administrative and political novices and neophytes who have no experience in running government. The Special Advisers and Assistants are not much better except one or two very experienced well known former original Sarakites.

Even more shocking is the fact that ever since the formation of the cabinet, there has only been one State Executive Council meeting held. It means therefore that for the last one year, decisions have been taken autocratically in Kwara State by the Governor. The normal safeguard of the constitutionally provided cabinet decisions have been completely eroded.

It is therefore not surprising that the Governor does not wish let the Freedom of Information Bill come to light. He has tossed that can back to the House of Assembly in the guise of effecting “minor amendments”. This is obviously a design to ensure that the House kills the Bill.

It would be generous if one described this Kwara State Goverment as ‘under- performing’. The stark reality is that this administration is ‘non-performing’.

As I have said before, the job of opposition is not to be blindly negative, but to constructively criticise the Government. No true Kwaran would want its government to fail, whatever the Party affiliation. I wish civil servants were getting paid the the new N30,000 minimum wage; I wish thousands of jobs were being created for Kwara youths; I wish education is improved and more affordable to Kwarans; I wish our market women, artisans and traders are given support and not stifled; I wish our roads were being constructed at reasonable pace; I wish our health facilities continue to be improved; I wish life was better for every Kwaran.
But alas, if wishes were horses, beggars would ride.

BOLARINWA: KWARA APC AND THEIR PSYCHOLOGY OF REVOLUTION

By

Ishowo OluwaTosin



Hon. Bolarinwa spoke like one with the wisdom of intimate knowledge or understanding of the political machination of Kwara on Sobi FM. In the process, he unconsciously revealed that politics is the same everywhere, as is the quest for power, the only thing that changes in politics is the name of those who wield the sceptre or the sword. This is evident in his acknowledgment of the efforts of past administration(s) in Kwara.

You know as humans we are very intelligent, it is our intelligence that allowed us to domesticate some animals with the reason that we are protecting them from wild animals. We went into the forests, brought cows, goats, camels, chickens among others, domesticated them. We rear them, give them vaccination against diseases, allow them to reproduce and grow, then what happens next?

We take them to abattoir under very sharp and shining knives. We slay them, consume them and use them for other consumable items. Does that mean a goat or pig moaning or dying under a sharp knife is more comfortable than in the mouth of a lion? The bottom line is death, regardless of the process or circumstance. Certainly, our reason or motivation wasn't really to protect them against wild animals but to satisfy our needs.

Such is the psychology of APC's revolution in Kwara State. Their individuals' variation of characters in the time of the said revolution was not known to them. It was hardly codified in any precise language. Hon. Bolarinwa must have come across the word of Napoleon Bonaparte where he said *"in time of revolution, one can only say what he has done, it would not be wise to say one could have done otherwise"*. It must be the reason why he and many others like him within the party are swallowing the disturbances and discomfort.

The interview exposed that majority of them with equal means didn't *tune in before they turned on* in the 2019 elections. *The problem with AA isn't about keeping people but being eclectic about agreement*.

Just like Poetus (AA) and Corbulo (Bolarinwa), two great Roman Generals. They had mutual suspicion for each other but served under the same Emperor (APC/Buhari). While Corbulo and his soldiers led and fought battles for Rome in tougher dispensation (under stiff opposition), the most arduous battle was led by Poetus (AA) against Armenia (PDP) because he had the Emperor's ear. Corbulo and his soldiers had previously engaged the Armenians in battle but was unsuccessful.

In 2019, Poetus with the support of Corbulo and his soldiers devised means to make them surrender, Noreno (Esinrogunjo) was the interlocutor delivering messages through the rough and tough routes the Armenians were unfamiliar with (propaganda). They engaged the Armenians in battle and catapulted the head of the Armenians most respected generals into their camp and finally broke their spirit. Though, the symbol of the battle may be incognito and probably not endowed with requisite native intelligence, yet winning the battle was a fait accomplice political process since having the Emperor's ear was sufficient. Such was the not unexpected victory of the strange bedfellows at the 2019 elections.

Remember Poetus was never comfortable with Corbulo and his soldiers. He wasn't still comfortable even in victory, Poetus tricked and confined Corbulo and his soldiers in Syria (Party) upon assuming office and taking over Armenians territory. Syria is also a territory under the Emperor.

Noreno, ended as an interlocutor on radio (his familiar route) and was no longer needed, he made a terrible mistake and all the dangers he risked were forgotten. He was vilified, demonised, nullified and constructively dismissed. He was banned by DSS not to be seen anywhere near Poetus. Who is to blame really?

Will the Corbulo(s) in APC aid or support Poetus in subsequent battles?

Will the Noreno(s) still deliver spurious and consequential messages?

2023 shall tell!

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
Gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @TosinIshowo

EXECUTIVE ORDER 10 AND THE SARAKI FACTOR: FOCUS ON THE FACT, NOT POLITICS

By

Ishowo Oluwatosin

If you are faced with a choice between changing your mind with available facts and proving your belief is right, which one will you choose?

Nearly all of us will get busy with proofing than changing our mind. As an observer, I've come to realise that the most difficult subject can be explained to a slow-witted person if he has not formed an idea of it and the most simplest subject can be difficult to explain to an intelligent person. Especially if such person has formed the idea that he knows without any doubt. So, if some people can't still fathom anything decipherable about this, it's understandable.

President Muhammodu Buhari signed Executive Order No. 10 into law which granted State Assemblies and Judiciary Financial Autonomy. It is apt to note that State Assemblies and Judiciary gained their autonomy precisely on Friday 8th, June, 2018 in the Fourth Alteration, No. 4 passed by the 8th Assembly that was led by Sen. Bukola Saraki and assented to by the President. Invariably, issuing an Executive Order (EO) and saying its being "implemented" means he referred to that aspect of constitution as a concept which needs executive approval to take effect. Period.

However, doing so without reference to the 8th assembly under which the bill was passed and subsequently assented to by the president was anything but savoury. The attempt to further belittle the towering achievements of the 8th NASS and its leadership also negatively affected the Sexual Harassment Bill. The consequence of the surprising withdrawal of assent to the important bill is telling on the nation, especially with cases of sexual assault in our Higher Institutions. The most important thing in the latest order is it is a welcome development. Needless to bore you with what is constitutional or unconstitutional in the circumstances as we can mutually clap for PMB and Bukola Saraki and have peace; even though it may look like a spectre of false consensus.

Meaning it is important not to delete the valid point that the liberation of both the legislative and judicial arms of government from the control of the executive was made possible by Dr Abubakar Saraki and Yakubu Dogara-led focused NASS Leadersip. Therefore, It's success should not be located within the confines of an executive order.

Perhaps if Saraki had not become the Senate President in 2015, he might never become one in his lifetime thus denying the country the prospect of setting out one of the most illustrious politicians in Nigeria, especially in this age of "customised" political correctness.

On how this will strengthen the Nigerian democratic journey, I must say Saraki have a right to feel accomplished because he gave up on being right but focused on getting the job done, even though it came with an ultimate price and his reputation almost sank. The former charismatic Senate President stimulated the best debates in the history of the apex legislative chamber. What more can a man dream of than leaving enviable legacies when he had the opportunity to serve. He utilized every slightest opportunity in that hallowed chamber judiciously. He kept to his agreement with the Nigerian people, rather than with the cabal, with dexterity and bore every single campaign of calumny against him with equanimity. Indeed, his was a thoroughly demanding and engaging tenure.

Facts don't necessarily change people's mind no matter how valid they are. Convincing some people to change their negative perception about Saraki is like asking them to change their tribe or religion because they tend to accommodate anything anti-Saraki than pro-Saraki. However, you should not hate a man for knowing how to succeed simply because he knows how, nor will one with justice take away what he has fairly earned to give men of less ability.

Though some are moving beyond the propaganda stage, there are still some that are resolute on blackmailing Saraki rather than focus on governance and adjust to the status of ruling party. Comrades, writers, analysts and activists who are failing to convert the same energy used to paint Saraki to demand for good governance, accountability and transparency under the present administration. By extension, those who called others negative names but forgot "thieves who don't have opportunities call themselves saint", we should remind them the opportunity is before them today and people await the difference.

They should note there are still some of us who won't cease to set the record straight because fact is also a meal we must share with those who disagree with us.


ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
Gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @Tosinishowo

Message from the President of Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home on the occasion of this year's (2020) Eid-al-Fitr Celebration)

On behalf of Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home, I would like to wish all Muslims a blessed Eid al-Fitr. I would also like to extend my greetings and best wishes to the People and Government of Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-aI-Fitr.

This holiday marks the end of Ramadan and is a time for celebration across the Muslim communities Worldwide. I believe Eid al-Fitr is a time for love, kindness, compassion and forgiveness, it's also a time of joy and celebration; a time to make peace with all neighbours, relatives and friends, and resolve differences.

"I understand this is an extremely challenging and distressing period for all the Muslims in the World right now due to the effect of the COVID - 19 (Corona Virus) pandemic on the entire World which has made us engage in a lot of spiritual sacrifices during Ramadan and that which will still continue hitherto."

"Let me also use this opportunity to urge Muslims in the World to act in adherence to the set guidelines that has been established in various communities In countries affected by the pandemic during and after Eid-ul-Fitr celebration. We should not forget to follow the necessary safety measures such as regular personal hygiene, use of facial masks and social distancing.

"Islam as a religion of peace; it is permissible for Muslims to perform the Eid al-Fitr prayer at home since the Corona Virus pandemic has forced Mosques around the world to be closed down temporarily, which means the prayer can be performed individually or in a small family group without having to attend a large congregation."

On a final note, I want to urge Muslims all over the World to pray to Almighty Allah on this day of Eid-al-Fitr Celebration to hasten the swift end to this pandemic, so that the World can be back into how It used to be, for the sooner the pandemic is over, the better for Us all.

Lastly, I would like to reiterate Abibakr As-sidiq Philanthropic home's deep commitment to cater for the social needs of West Africans regardless of ethnicity, gender and religious belief and also to give hope and serve vulnerable West Africans systematically by responding to their Humanitarian and developmental needs.

Eid Mubarak.

Signed.

Mallam Abdulrazzaq Salman Sholagberu

The President

Abibakr As- Sidiq Philanthropic Home.

24th, May 2020.

COVID-19: Saraki donates N10,000 stipend to 500 youth artisans

...as another 2500 vulnerable Kwarans get 10,000 each

About 500 Kwara youth whose livelihoods have been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic have each received N10,000 stipend, courtesy of the immediate past President of the Senate, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

This is coming less than a week after no fewer than 2500 economically vulnerable persons across the State each got N10,000, also from Senator Saraki.

The Press Officer to Saraki on Local Matters, Abdulqadir Abdulganiyu, who made this known in a statement, said the money was to support the beneficiaries during this difficult times occasioned by the dreaded Coronavirus pandemic.

Abdulganiyu said this intervention is different from the palliative materials including food items, hand sanitizer and gloves Saraki had earlier distributed to less privileged members of the society, aimed at cushioning the impacts of the lockdown that was earlier imposed by the State government to curb the spread of COVID-19.

According to him, Saraki, had in his usual magnanimity and concern for the less privileged, last week directed the payment of the stipend into personal accounts of the beneficiaries, to alleviate the hardship they are experiencing.

He further explained that beneficiaries of the latest intervention by Saraki, are mostly artisans whose sources of living have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.

He added that the beneficiaries, who are between the ages of 18 and 35 were drawn from the 16 local government areas of Kwara State.

Abdulganiyu also recalled that Saraki, had some days ago, distributed Ramadan packages to numerous individuals and groups in Kwara.

He said this is different from the palliative materials including food items, hand sanitizer and gloves Saraki had in April, distributed to less privileged members of the society, which was intended to cushion the impacts of the lockdown that was imposed by the State government to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The (Abubakar Bukola Saraki) ABS Foundation launches the 4th stage of Covid-19 response efforts with financial assistance targeted at Kwara youth

Hundreds of youth from the heavily hit informal sector across the 16 local governments of Kwara State, woke up on Thursday morning to credit alerts of N10k from the Foundation directly to their bank accounts.

Aged between 18 -35 years, the recipients were selected from across all 16 local governments and were mostly artisans who relied on daily wages whose sources of income have been adversely affected by the restrictions due to the #Covid19 pandemic.

#youthempowerment #PromiseKept #unitedwestand #ABSFOUNDATION

BETWEEN NIGERIANS AND COVID-19 SCOURGE

By

Ishowo Oluwatosin


Just like soccer game among football clubs, so it is between Nigerians and the Corona virus pandemic. In fact, if a betting site could be developed just like bet9ja for the virus, Nigerians will bet on the virus among states and the unestablished daily figures by Nigeria Centre for Diesease Control (NCDC).

The existence of the virus is not disputed by Nigerians but the lack of transparency and accountability of figures released daily is questionable. One would think it's a La Liga league table where Real Madrid managed to beat Barcelona in El-Classico to be one point ahead on the league table only to disappoint their fans against Real Beltis. That's the case of Lagos and Kano State and the number of cases announced daily. Even though Lagos State is leading with points on the COVID table, Kano is not giving up and sits comfortably at the 2nd spot. Though Kano wasn't in form at the beginning of the season and were behind, they are still hopeful of lifting the league.

The Kleptomaniac urge of our politicians and NCDC has also dashed the trust of Nigerians towards the government and seriousness of the virus. In reality, Nigerians believe the virus exist but argue the figures are exaggerated Every day nay the issue between Governor Yahaya Bello and NCDC as alleged is a concern and that of Cross River and NCDC officials has not escaped memory. Nigerians stay awake like as if they were waiting for report card from NCDC, not to be conscious or heed safety advices but to see live scores and mock the government.

Nigerians feel ambivalent towards the virus, this is simply because the goodwill FG enjoyed was squandered. If not, what explains people on twitter spamming NCDC tweets and comments under the President's official handle after virtual meeting with the Governors to be "follow me, I follow back immediately?"

As much as the act exhibited by Nigerians is laughable, it demands serious attention, people have fickle mind towards the Government without even being aided by the propaganda of any opposition. A whole President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria transformed from "Sai Baba" to "Sinzu Money" and the Vice President who is either highly or slightly admired by Nigerians based on personal thoughts became "Spending" simply because after people donated millions and billions to FG, the office of the Accountant General of the Federation got burnt barely 24 hours after Senate demanded they should account for it and explain how the cash transfer to vulnerable households was done.

This explains why it is difficult to blame the few we believed to be "insane" for not believing the virus is real, even those that willingly believed and those that forced themselves to believe after Abba Kyari's death are trying hard to convince themselves that it is not realistic again. Response teams across the states are fishing patients without gloves or face masks themselves, despite the established human-to-human transmission. Nigerians are wondering if those NCDC members are not immune to the virus or they have "Corona Odeshi or Ayę Corona".

If people are not dying like other countries, government should thank all those whatsapp voice notes that scared the people on the virus except the 5G theorists. Nigerians should also thank the government for trying so hard to prevent high death rates. Seems God is pleased with Nigeria than other countries of the world. The prayers in stock in heaven due to the number of mosques and churches we have is working, we can't boast of a good foreign reserve on earth but we can at least boast of the prayers reserves with the Almighty. This survival is miraculous.

Someone needs to tell the government that the good will and support they are enjoying is gradually flying through the window and before it gets worse, the errors should be fixed.

Nigerians now see the virus as webisode, Nigerians await episodes daily like Netflix series. They've even fixed match between NCDC and EFCC once the virus is over. You can't blame us, the good will was squandered. The media is filled with interviews that contradicts the reality with other Countries, WHO and NCDC itself. From hoarding patients test results from them to nearly anyone that is tested becomes positive, Isolation Centres look like event centres. Malaria must have a strong destiny to find itself competing in claims with Corona virus in Nigeria.

The virus is real but the intention and efforts on the virus is not pure and clear in front of Nigerians. Even though our country is trying to drive us insane, don't let us get crazy, let's stay safe. No one debates in heaven.

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
Gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @Tosinishowo

RE: PROPAGANDA MADE AND UN-MADE SARAKI

By

Ishowo Oluwatosin

As educative and beautiful as your piece would have been on media and how it unmade Saraki, you failed to balance the equation by acknowledging the fact that "a government built on propaganda will collapse on propaganda", this present administration was built on that. They were professional propagandists who told people unthinkable lies, more devilish than Saraki who was on the defensive side. Since you are well read on this issue of media as sensed in your article, my candid advice is you should not project yourself as a soi-distant intellectual since you have facts and information from both sides.

Even though the sarcasm in the article can be perceived but should not be dwell upon, everyone is guilty of this including the APC government you shielded in an ignoble manner. An American President, Richard Nixon was forced to resign in the Watergate era because of incontrovertible evidences that exposed attempted cover up, lying, dirty tricks he and his associates perpetrated on the American people. There is also Obamagate trending in America at the moment, that's the power of media, because it is changing the perception of the world about Obama. It can make or mar any body.

The same media that can make Satan a Jesus and Jesus a Satan suffered from people like you and I who are unrelentingly painting Saraki as Satan and the present administration as Jesus whereas they are guilty of the same offense or even their attempted Jesus image did more than the Satan. Attempts to cover up this made you look like a virtuoso propagandist which is evidently avoidable because this could have been a master piece.

To be honest, the motive behind the article pointed to two things: (a) hypocrisy on your part despite having a clear understanding and knowledge about events and the tools that made them possible (b) eye service as every enemy and abuser of Saraki is embraced by the present administration. Whereas it is easy to say "Eyah" than to think critically in the state, if not things that are morally objectionable won't be seen as normal.

The media war that was declared on Saraki both at national and state level can't be survived by anyone coupled with his own silence under the toga of his political maturity to tell his side of the story. His tolerance level has been proven by the recent Esinrogunjo's tape, the same set of people who can go on radio to paint another person black couldn't bodied the same towards them even when it came from one of their own, what an irony! I dare you to criticize any mistake of AA or the subtle grievances in the party and know your place if you are not Pro-AA. This appears like resulting to calumnies because of lack of activities.

From an objective perspective, your article was supposed to be top-notch but from a subjective lens, the excrescences that you allowed to grow out of it made it obvious that you boggled along the line.

As a Convener of Kwara Must Change, you should leave remnants of Saraki dynasty, it's not needed except you are becoming guilty of what you alleged them of, possibly looking for favour. Another one is possibly you want to mentally terrorize your readers.

However, if Kwara Must Change is one of the mantras of the Otoge Struggle or you have decided to change position because of circumstances within or beyond your control, then I will have no expectations from you as an admirer of your work. It's good to criticize, it is understandable to berate but it's unnecessary to vilify another person.

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @TosinIshowo

SHALL WE TELL HIS EXCELLENCY?

By

YUSUF MUBARAQ AUTHORITY

Some things are not dignified of us as human.
We should be guided by moral compass and not egoistic tendencies. coming from an highly privileged background or being in position of authority should not be seen as an opportunity to feast on less privilege, perhaps settles cheap political scores.
"Power corrupts absolute power corrupt absolutely" says Abraham Lincoln.

It's needless to say, the giant strides and his fearless disposition in ensuring the stay of this current government.
Esinrogunjo came into limelight when he fought the Kwara Supremo during the 2017 chairmanship election.
The election marked a new dawn in the history of the state and laid down the path towards present prosperity.
I must admit, many of his claims then are unfounded and pose threat to the state existence and most especially, the damage it does to the personality of the state government during the last dispensation.
Maigida's government soldiered on in good fate and upheld the tenet of freedom of speech as enshrined in the constitution we so much cherished and followed.

Majority of us, who know the danger inherent in his public laundering of the government image sensed danger, perhaps the government sees nothing much to worry about and that catapulted them in to political oblivion.

As a person, whose life and properties were on danger, as a result of his unfounded claims during and after the election. Esinrogunjo felt entitle to some things much sophisticated and pleasing.
He believed he had paid the supreme price and therefore should be compensated.
Some things you and I would also do provided we were the one.
I see nothing wrong in reaping from where you sowed.
Paying him off as claimed by the government influencers further shows how inept and unpatronizing the government we had.

Your excellency, as a patriotic citizen and a loyal boy, I must state it here categorically that your action towards curtailing the outburst of your godson is nothing to write home about.
This should have been an issue to be ironed at the party secretariat rather than using the instrument of the state to hound suspected political adversary.
If Esinrogunjo, despite his efforts could be this treated, what's the guarantee of an average party person to survive this government of DSS?

Sir, Esinrogunjo is wrong but you are also not right.
As a father and a leader of thought, one would have expected you toe line of sanity and surprised every Kwarans on how intelligent you are in managing internal crisis.
You have shot this shot so wrongly, I pray the consequences won't be much gravier.

Indeed, it's high time one compared the last dispensation to what we currently have.
Wallai, the coast is dusty.
I won't want to dwell in the past, I leave you all to your conscience.

On a final note, if the Governor is not able to manage this and politicians make use of the advantage, you and yours will remember this my candid piece.

May AA succeed and May Kwara Succeed.

ESINROGUNJO AND BETRAYAL TRAUMA


By

Ishowo Oluwatosin

A lot has trailed Esinrogunjo's audio record that circulated across social media platforms during the week. It has raised a lot of questions and drew attention from all quarters, what kind of man threatens to kill the Governor of his state?

How the audio got to the public remains a mystery but it is not also difficult to understand that "your friends have access to what your enemies don't". However, it is clear the death threat was an exaggeration on Esinrogunjo's part, even though he made attempts to deny it which further validated the authenticity of the audio, it doesn't invalidate the fact that his fear is collectively shared by most APC members in the state.

It is however unfortunate that those who laboured and took the front seat for the Governor are just realising it is easy to seize power but very difficult to preserve it. Another interesting part is their wrong impression of AA being docile because of his reticence, it's also interesting that he is disappointing all of them and teaching all of us that there is no manual for exercising power.

The efforts of Esinrogunjo can't be undermined in GAA's victory even though if a Ghanian had contested against Saraki and his disciples in the last election, he could have won because people wanted just anybody but Saraki in the state. But the question of what next after victory of the allied warriors against a dynasty remains a rhetorical question to which even Esinrogunjo himself can hardly provide a word of an answer. However, Esinrogunjo embarrasses himself because he saw politics as "occupation" and people who view politics as such usually end up taking the back seat.

The post-election betrayal trauma Esinrogunjo is experiencing contradicts the principles and ideology in which APC adopted to market themselves to the people and their later acceptance into government house. They sold messages of hope that a son of nobody can become somebody and not "Leader so pe". But where are the sons of nobody today?The status quo remains. Absence or void of clear-cut leadership before and after victory has created a wedge, resulting in emergence of many leaders of equal means.

Three interesting areas are paramount in politics, that is: power, betrayal and revenge and Gov AA is sufficiently exhibiting the three. It was obvious from the start that APC’s marriage of inconvenience among its deferring bedfellows was not just an early but forced one; dutifully managed by multiplicity of interests.

Esinrogunjo's actions can be no wiser than his thoughts and his thinking can be no wiser than his understanding about the governor. A man like Esinrogunjo bidding for a local government chairman is a clear indication that he can't differentiate between ability and motivation and the governor is merely helping him and others who feel like him to know their place, when 2023 is near, "we will call you to go and do what you know how to do best on radio stations and get paid" for it. Who could ever think Esinrogunjo will praise Saraki's leadership and compare him with the present realities, the same Saraki that he and other radio parrots used their blood and water to discredit, so he can acknowledge visible Saraki's stellar performances?

One should never mock a situation he hasn't endured, because when life hits you, you might become everything you ever criticized describes Esinrogunjo and his betrayal trauma. The viral audio as a reference point.

Conclusively, would it not be nice if the Governor realises early enough that problems that are left unattended to have potential ability to become crisis?. Esinrogunjo may be wrong but a lot of party members want his neck truly. The division within the party, the federal ministers vs the governor is a path to a gloomy future for APC in the state. It is also signaling that his second term bid will be full of drama and interesting for political audience in the state.

As we all await the next episodes of "Justice League" series from Kwara APC, enjoy the weekend.

ISHOWO, Isiaq Oluwatosin
gmail: tosinishowo2015@gmail.com
Twitter: @Tosinishowo

THE LEAKED AUDIO: ESINROGUNJO AND OTHERS

By Ishaq AbdulSalam

It was a long day yesterday in my home state Kwara, as purported audio of a self-acclaimed aláàánú Mẹkunu and a frontier in the ouster of long reign Saraki dynasty, a once-respected member of the Ó Tó Gẹ̀ crusade, Comrade Musbau Esinrogunjo made its way to Social media. I, at first doubted the authentication of the audio, it may be sponsored by his enemies; both within and outside his circle/party, not yet talk of his political rivals at the other end of the divide. I shrugged it off while I was expecting a disclaimer from its end that would warn his enemies and friends of the impending dangers of blackmail and blackmailers to our hard-earned freedom – as it was regarded that Kwara just got its freedom after the banishment of the most hated dynasty.

I couldn't contain the spread of the news on Social Media and I couldn't ascertain the fact of the matter. It was the most curious thirty minutes of my life yesterday before Fresh Insight, a local and well-defined online news platform in the state uploaded the audio on its page. I went straight for it, put on hold all that I have at hand because I won't forgive myself if a miss out any detail in the audio.

Well, I learned new things yesterday, truly, every day comes with its own lesson to teach human – left to how you as a person take up the lessons – you allowed it to weigh you down or serve as your strength.

After they checkmated Saraki through name-calling and propaganda, the chief propagandist and his paymaster are back at each other's neck salivating for the blood of innocent Kwarans to pay off their bad deeds. An expected subvention not coming to reality, a planned council chairman seat coming to an abrupt end and a show of how ambitious without the love of masses our Ó Tó Gẹ̀ crusaders are.

A house built with saliva would be destroyed by early morning dew the Yorùbá people said and Kwarans can see this playing out in their eyes. Just a year, I mean 365 days and inter and intra party crisis are sinking the efforts the state government.

While forming his teammates, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq forgot the dangers that come with nurturing of pigeon while you are a corn planter. It is dangerous, disastrous and will be full of betraying as the pigeon would not stop jeopardising the efforts of his master – the always right thing to the pigeon is to provide for its hungry stomach.

*Without doubt, Kwarans owe Saraki apologies for betraying his trust, for paying him back in holed coins and for jeopardising his efforts of years in giving us modern Kwara especially during his terms as Governor of the State, a state we can proudly call ours and make reference to with a broad smile on our face*.

*Even him, Esinrogunjo commended the efforts of Saraki in alleviating the masses from impoverished conditions, a clear pointer that they are just a bunch of haters, propagandists and enemies of Kwara and Kwarans development. We should forget about them but they should seek Almighty God forgiveness for bringing down Saraki even with his good intentions for the state*.

Kwarans should be on the lookout as the offender is playing to the script, running from pillar to pole disclaiming the leaked audio as the work of his enemies or hirelings of his haters. We should all watch out if the governor will take his pleas, pat his back and allowed his way to the state money by giving him subvention of 2 million or contract of 100m as the over-ambitious face demanded, so he can have half to himself and another half to give Kwarans substandard projects.

Ishaq AbdulSalam writes from Ilorin, Kwara State

COS APPOINTMENT: ABIBAKR AS-SIDIQ PHILANTHROPIC HOME CONGRATULATES PROFESSOR IBRAHIM GAMBARI

The president of Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home, Mallam Abdulrazzaq Salman Sholagberu, on Wednesday the 13th September 2020 has congratulated Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari as the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.

He made this statement through the campaign officer of the philanthropic organization, Mr Sulyman Ridwan.

" The appointment is a well deserving one that will bring a lot of exceptional amity to the country at large. When you read through the resounding achievements and contributions of Professor Ibrahim Gambari to the globe, it gives you no other choice than to appreciate him as the best man for the job. This is a man who has contributed immensely towards the betterment of the country as a diplomat and as a former Minister for External Affairs," Mallam Abdurazzaq said.

"Myself and the entire Abibakr As-sidiq Philanthropic home appreciates your impeccable character, service to humanity, extensive experience and leadership demonstrated in your previous positions worthy of note as a former special adviser on Africa under the Secretary General of the United Nations, External Affairs Minister of Nigeria, Special Adviser on the International Compact with Iraq and other issues to the Secretary - General of the United Nations amongst many others which you have served exceedingly well."

"I have no doubt that with this versatility of experience and leadership at both your country, the African Continent, and the World in General you are poised to provide exemplary leadership and service to the President and People of Nigeria as the new Chief of Staff.

May Allah grant you good health, guide, preserve and protect you as you take on the new challenge.


Signed:

Mr Sulyman Ridwan
Campaign Officer, Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home Ilorin Nigeria.

#COVID-19 Abibakr As-Sidiq philanthropic Home makes cash donation

Earlier in the week, the President of Abibakr As-Sidiq philanthropic Home Mallam Abdulrazzaq Ibrahim Salman Sholagberu made cash donation of #600,000, #500,000 to the Ilorin Emirate Palliative Committee and #100,000 to Abayawo community of Ilorin in an effort to help the People of Kwara State in the war against Convid-19 (Corona Virus), The President was ably represented by Mr Sulyman Ridwan, the campaign officer of the organization.

Abibakr As-Sidiq philanthropic Home is an organization commited to giving hope and uplifting the vulnerable in West Africa.

Signed.

Sulyman Ridwan
Sudrid2015@gmail.com
Campaign officer (ASPH)

Mallam Abdurazzaq urges Muslims to pray for Global peace during Ramadan.

The President of Abibakr As-Sidiq Philanthropic Home Mallam Abdurazzaq Salman has called on Muslims all over the world to embrace and pray for global peace during the holy month of Ramadan.

He enjoins billions of Muslims across the whole world to see Ramadan as a time of reflection and a time of devotion. To see it as an occasion to join with family and friends in celebration of a faith known for its diversity and a commitment to justice and the dignity of all human beings.

Abdurazzaq also urged Muslims across Nigeria and all over the world to seek and engage in prayers towards the end of Covid-19 virus which has killed many all over the world. He described the virus as a major conundrum that has put the whole world in a catastrophic situation.

He calls on everyone irrespective of race, colour and religion to follow and adhere strictly to the Basic protective measures against the new coronavirus which includes Social distancing, washing of hands and maintaining proper respiratory hygiene.

He described Ramadan as a sacred time that provides insight into knowledge of love, beauty and truth while living a life of gratitude. It tells us that cultivating wisdom is beyond dogma and doctrine; rather the focus is on purification of the spirit.

"The experience of our physical hunger and thirst provides that divine nourishment. It is a month of self-auditing and self-evaluation, where the believers are thankful that they get one more chance to get rid of bad habits. It is a time to reorganize one’s life and establish priorities, to lay down positive habits," he said.

"Ramadan’ is a period of Repentance, Forgiveness and as such, we must make out time to strengthen our relationship with Allah, by asking for his forgiveness and mercy,” he said.

On a final note, he prays for a peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. He enjoins Nigerians whom he describes as good ambassadors to continue instilling morals and values which are sacrosanct to human existence.

"May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His Noble Companions and the entire Muslim generations till the day of accountability." He said.


Signed.
Mallam Farid Abdulrazzaq Salman
Chief Operating Officer (ASPH)

25th March, 2020.

Press release.


Go on isolation, Group charges Governor Abdulrahman.


The People's Voice Advocacy Network, a civil organisation established to promote good governance and social justice has urged the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq to go on absolute isolation with immediate effect.

In the Press Statement released by the Assistant Publicity Secretary of the group, Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem, the group made it known that there are chances that the Executive Governor of Kwara State might have been exposed to COVID-19 during the meeting held between some APC Governors, Adam Oshiomhole and Abba Kyari on 16th of March, 2020.

"It is no longer a news that the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari who actively involved in the meeting has been tested positive after his return from Germany and Egypt few weeks ago. As sad as the news was, we cannot afford to look away from the truth therewith especially when it has to do with the safety of Kwarans.

"With utmost concern, we want to urge the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, to confine himself to absolute isolation as a matter of urgency. We fear that His excellency might have been infected with the COVID-19. We have the report that the Kwara State Governor and some other APC Governors were physically in attendance during the meeting held with Abba Kyari as the photograph depicted.

"At this moment in time, we cannot afford to look away from what can cause danger to thousands of innocent citizens in Kwara State. Harbouring a potentially infected person is not the right way to go. The safety of thousands of innocent Kwarans should be paramount to all and sundry regardless of political affiliation and religious colouration. The Governor should do the needful by confining himself to isolation and get himself tested.

"If the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo could go on self-isolation just because he sat close to the Chief of Staff who tested positive, how more of some Governors that spent hours in a close meeting with the infected person. The Governor of Kwara State and other governors who attended the meeting with Abba Kyari should toll the line of honour by picking a leave from the action of the Vice President.


Signed:


Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem
Assistant Publicity Secretary
The People's Voice Advocacy Network

3rd February, 2020.

Press release.


_LG/SUBEB Salary Arrears: KWSG is some miles away from transparency, group declares_


We have read and listened to different stories on Local Government Salary Arrears coming from the quarter of the Kwara State Government and its accompanied misinformation. As a concerned stakeholders, *The People's Voice advocacy Network* resolved that, the moment has come for all concerned Kwarans to ask the proper questions while drawing the right inferences about the state government deliberate attempt to dance around with unapplaudable steps. Of what critical importance is the manner at which the state government is pilling up rubbles just to house all sort of misrepresentation, misinformation and untrue narratives.

To set the record straight, the People's Voice Advocacy Network, as a group, wishes to briefly project its views in these following direction:

1. That the claim made by the Executive Governor of Kwara State through his spokesperson on 15% payment of Local government salary arrears is an half smart utterances.

2. For people of history, it will be recall that in 2017, local government obtained ₦4billion loan to settle two months out of its outstanding salaries which this repayment came to an end in September 2019.

3. In our findings, it was revealed that a sum of ₦319million has been the monthly loan repayment for two years which was offset last four months ago.

4. Going by this revelation, it will be correct to establish that the month of October, November, December and January are loan free months. By the fact interpretation and logical computation, slight above ₦300m would have been on Local Government account monthly which must have accumulated to a billion plus naira saved couple with the fact the monthly Allocation share from Federal has been in appreciable form. This is a simple arithmetic which should be devoid of any complex concoction of deliberate lies and misinformation.

5. In lieu of this development, the issue of how State Government led by Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq resolved to 15% payment for LG/SUBEB teachers as part of their outstanding arrears requires further explanation. The group submission may further explain the sore fear why the state government has been turning her deaf ears to what could have brought transparency and accountability to fore in Kwara State. A case of helpless FOI bill could quickly comes to mind as it has been Champion by a Sister group.


6. On this note, it will be important to let the populace be aware that our constant engagement with the concerned authorities has also affirmed the fact that the wage will for LG/SUBEB and their respective pensioners still slightly above ₦2.1billion. This is a verifiable fact and figure the government may wish to contest for the sake of clarity.




7. We as a group are if the opinion and going by our calculation the surplus from FAAC savings of LG funds should at least offset 50℅ of a month's salary of these set of workers who are being owed about 3 months plus of salary arrears.

8. We read the unsubstantiated narrative coming from an unknown government official or sympathiser that the said 15% payment for the concerned workers was realised as a result of accumulated ghost workers balance. As funny as this sounds, we can only smile it off and focus on what matter most. But in case the State Government wishes to press further on this unsubstantiated narrative, we can only advise that they should publish the list of the acclaimed ghost schools and several ghost staff Members which their salaries were inherited to offset the 15% LGAs/SUBEB salary arrears. This, we believe, will put an end to their unfounded escape hideout.

9.Finally, may we demand for a comprehensive report of 10% share from IGR that goes to LG as stipulated from the Constitution. At least from month of June last year to January this year. We are in Era where what is coming from Federal (FAAC) has improved impressively and the 10% share from IGR ought to been helpful.


10. At this end, we hold that the State Government led by Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq is still some miles away from being transparent and honest on the subject matter.

10. Thank you.

Signed:

Comrade Abulraheem Olaitan,
Assistant Publicity Secretary,
The People's Voice Advocacy Network

29th January, 2020.

Press release.


Publish ghost schools in Kwara and make the guilty ones the scapegoats, group charges Governor Abdulrahman.


We read the shocking news on the blacklisted list of both Public and private secondary schools in Kwara State by the Board of West African Examination Council (WAEC) on the alleged act of promoting examination malpractice. We consider this to be a stain to the educational image of Kwara State and humbly believe that all the stakeholders in the education sector must be ready to take their fair share of the blame.

You will also recall that a statement was allegedly credited to an investigation committee set up by the Governor of Kwara State which revealed that there are some ghost schools who are operating in the Kwara State. On our part as *The People's Voice Advocacy Network* strived hard by persuading the committee and specifically the state government to make it public, the so called list of the acclaimed ghost schools as boldly captured as the Covered page of *The Herald* dated (July, 28, 2019), the rest has now become a buried story. It's unfortunate that neither an individual nor institution was used as scapegoat in order to halt a repeat of such illegality as the report of the investigation Committee could have possibly, by now, becomes a feast for the ants and rodents.

This group is however sending an urgent wake up call to the Honourable Commissioner for Education and other relevant stakeholders, especially the Governor of the state to urgently Declare a state of emergency in the education sector in view of the recent events so as to fumigate the sector against further attack while also cleansing it against further stains.

We have courageously noticed that the 'carrot approach' has done little good, therefore this is the right time to explore the 'stick approach' before it completely gets out of hands. Just like those who have soiled our good educational reputation be made to face the music.

We however wish to commend the Kwara State government for the payment of the fines leveled on the blacklisted schools as its responsibility despite some being private institutions. Thus, there is need for the Government to put more corrective measures in place that will help in securing a better quality education in Kwara State that devoids of lip services. It is also worthy to note that the service delivery culture of the teachers on the field need to be reinforced with holistic evaluation of their services with attendant motivations on a periodic basis. similarly, the welfare package for the Teachers across board must also be part Of the immediate action of the Kwara State Government.

On the same note, quite a number of our schools are below the average Acceptable standard in the areas of both Vocational, Arts and Sciences. Hence, the need for equipment/ apparatus, training, retraining and updated textbooks so as to try prepare for a better grades in their external examination is a necessity especially at this messy time. When the personnel service is at is lowest heb.

Signed:

Comrade Abdulraheem Olaitan
Assistant Publicity Secretary,
The People's Voice Advocacy Network

My Message to His Excellency, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq

Ishaq Abdulsalam

Governance comprises all of the processes of governing — whether undertaken by government of a state, by a market or by a network — over a social system (family, tribe, formal or informal organization, a territory or across territories) and whether through the laws, norms, power or language of an organized society. No doubt, governance has taken a new turn in Kwara, the act of readiness shown by the "New Sheriff" in charge of the state over the past seven months has positioned him in a strategic manner as someone who is ready to deliver the state from the sackles of its last Eight years.

Kwarans voted out the past administration when they lacked what is expected of a government, the Dynasty suffered political-fracture, a deadly stroke that broke the donkey spine. Kwara eventually had a power shift though I am yet to convince that it is a paradigm shift, of course it was an unchallenged and widely accepted defeat of all the evergreen Saraki Dynasty. What we can actually learn here is simply "Power belongs to God, and Him alone will always be the Mover and Shaker", — not a single human being can contest that with God.

Over the past months, series of dramas have been witnessed in the state, which can be categorized into two: The bad and the good drama. The good dramas come in handy for the masses that voted the new government in turn for social and economic development. The bad ones are witch-hunting of opposition — within and outside the party. The Logun's drama, the Senegalese S.A drama, the party loyalists drama and the latest Controversial Wizkid 50 million drama.

In all these dramas, Kwarans are still optimistic about the government, they all want the best for their state.

Being optimistic alone won't work, the state Governor should take charge, focus on governance that will elevate the state to good expected level of an average kwaran. Witch-hunting of Saraki or anybody whosoever won't complete the uncompleted projects abound the state and that won't start new projects, it will just contribute to politicking which will endanger our dearly needed governance.

The state should not leave in jeopardy for petty politics, revocation of late Saraki's property won't harness the state development but rather lead the state government to losing focus on the need for good governance and the same stroke used for Saraki would be employed at the poll in the next elections.

My message at this moment is not actually because of Bukola Saraki in particular especially if you have issues to settle with him politically, but I deem it necessary to come in because the issue is centered on the late Saraki which by record available his life and death must be honoured as an elder statesman who contributed immensely to the development of this state. It is an advice to go back on your decision by allowing the family members to have the claim of their late father's property.

Your Excellency Sir, have you forgot so soon that Gbemi Saraki is equally involved here or is she no longer member of your party who joined the struggle to fight her Brother? It would be an honour for her if you play politics with her brother and not with her father's property.

23rd December, 2019.

Press release.


WITHDRAW THE 2020 APPROPRIATION BILL SUBMITTED TO KWHA, GROUP URGES GOVERNOR ABDULRAHMAN.


It is with utmost concern, after a careful study on the manner in which the Kwara State government is handling the issue of minimum wage of civil servants in the state, we wish to air our opinion on the subject matter. As a civil organisation group that we are, on no account shall will owe anyone apology for airing the popular opinion of the larger masses in Kwara State.

In lieu of this , below is our submissions:

1. On 18th December, we read the statement delivered by the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq on the 2020 Budget Proposal and the order given to the Minimum Wage Committee he inaugurated to seat with the labour unions in the state in order to fashion out modalities for the minimum wage implementation.

2. That, in our opinion, is quite deceptive as the 2020 Appropriation bill that ought to have captured and addressed the grievances of concerned civil servants has already been submitted to the Kwara State House of Assembly for quick consideration.

3. That being said, we want to mplore the Kwara State government under the leadership of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to make available to the newly constituted committee on the new minimum wage the terms of reference and particularly to pay more attention to the consequential Salary adjustments of employees from Grade Level 07 to 14 who have been receiving the amputated salary of the so called current ₦18,000 minimum wage.

4. Those categories of workers mentioned above fall within that salary bracket that have been cheated for a long time and their issues have to be taken into consideration firstly before embarking on this new adjustment for fairness and equity.

5. In addition, we also call on the state government under the leadership of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, as a matter of utmost urgency, to withdraw the recently proposed appropriation bill of 2020 presented cum submitted to the Kwara State House of Assembly in order to make budgetary provision for the new ₦30,000 minimum wage and its consequential adjustments as this will show high degree of seriousness and commitment on their part to be paying this wage, borrowing a leaf from President Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government in that light.

6. Or better still, the 9th Kwara State House of Assembly can make virement from the current proposed headings order in the submitted 2020 appropriation Bill so as to accommodate the new wage increase. And the state government should work towards this month end deadline as ordered by the federal government which some states have even started last month.

7. We could recall that the APC campaigned vigorously on the issue of amputated salary scale which was tagged as "geri-gedi" in the local parlance in which the civil servants bought into it and used it as a bait to vote out the past government.

8. Of great concern is the pending issue that has to do with the financial burdens the state government is placing on Local government councils in the state. The financial capacity of each local government based on their FAAC allocation and IGR differs. In the light of this, we implore the state government to implement the court judgement given in 2018 in favour of the local government that the burden of Junior Secondary School Education does not fall within its purview, and that the state government should take over that responsibilities to relieve the local councils of more funds to pay the new minimum wage.

9. This, among other public issues, shall form part of the criteria, Kwarans, especially the public servants will use in assessing and rating the new administration. Kwarans are only demanding for the campaign promises, nothing new in their demands.

10. Interestingly, the 2020 budget proposal is favourable because its 53% will be used for capital project while 47% will be used for recurrent expenditure. Therefore, withdrawing Budget proposal from kwara House of Assembly n do necessary amendment will surely make masses to appreciate this government more.


11. Thank you.


Signed:

Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem,
Assistant Publicity* *Secretary,
The People's Voice.

5th December, 2019.

Press release.


WHY IS KWSG AVOIDING THE REAL QUESTIONS?


Our attention has been drawn to the press statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mr Rafiu Ajakaye in response to the clarification statement issued by the earstwhile Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. (Dr) Ali Ahmad.

As a non-governmental civil organisation whose core interest is to call for justice and fairness in the state and beyond, we wish to state it categorically that before the Kwara State Government can take up the challenge thrown at them by Rt. Hon. Ali Ahmad as to any investigations into the activities of KW-IRS and make the report of same to the public, the People's Voice strongly advise that Kwara State Government/Mr Rafiu Ajakaye needs to provide answers to the following questions before they can be taken serious:

1. Where is report of the transition committee headed by Mr Adisa Logun?

2. Where is the report of the inauguration committee headed by Senator Makanjuola Ajadi that indicted those who were alleged to have diverted the Public fund for private use?

3. Where is the report of the committee on the illegal acquisition of government properties headed by Senator Ajadi ?

4. Where is the 9th KWHA report on the illegal activities of the suspended 16 Local Government Council Chairmen and why their respective Vice Chairmen have not been ordered to resume office since they are not indicted by any committee, panel or The House itself?

5. Where is the KWHA report on the purported illegal acquisition of government chalets along Abdulrasaq Street?

6. Where is the status report on the domestication of Freedom of Information Bill(FOI) laid before the 9th KWHA by His Excellency, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq almost 5 months ago?

7. Where is the financial report on the spending of released counterpart funds use in executing some social project?

8. Where is the breakdown report of funds used in executing some infrastructural projects across the state?

9. When shall we continue to have the monthly updates of how much is been generated by KW-IRS & receive from the federal government?

It is quite unclear, going by Alhaji Adisa Logun's account as contained in his press release, how it was only Logun who was invited by the EFCC among others in the present administration. The fact remains that, it was not only Logun who was the brain that drove the Transition Committee. Therefore, his defence of innocence in the press statement dated 2nd of December 2019 was quite off point as it was not comprehensive enough to prove him not being guilty of the weighty Allegation levelled against him.

An apt answers to the abovelisted questions will guide the populace on what to believe and not to believe pending the outcome of the investigation of EFCC. We can only hope that EFCC will not become another teddy bear in the hands of the power that be.

Thank you.

Signed:

Comrade Olaitan Abdulraheem
Assistant Publicity Secretary
The People's Voice.

3rd December, 2019.

Press release.



SUSPEND ADISA LOGUN TO GIVE ROOM FOR TRANSPARENCY, GROUP CHARGES GOVERNOR ABDULRASAQ

In furtherance to our earlier call as contained in our press release dated 29th of November 2019, we deem it fit to reecho our stance on the subject matter.

1. The Kwara State government under the leadership of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq should come out with specific actions without any ambiguities on the corruption issue involving his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Adisa Logun in collaboration with Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) and other key players in the state.

2. Issuing of lifeless press statement is not enough for a serious government who owes Kwarans the rights to information as they are eagerly waiting for a thorough investigation and bringing to the fore name(s) of the perpetrators of this heinous crime against the state.

3. In all honesty, the pro APC, the opposition parties, the gentlemen and women of the public are so much in state of confusion as the issue is making people unaware of the status and the background of the financial controversy swollen around the Governor's aide and the effort put in place by the EFCC on the case.

4. In addition, the body language of the Executive Governor of Kwara State does not, in anyway depict any sign of seriousness in going full throat in unraveling this humongous act of criminality especially as it involves high profile personality in his government. Therefore, the people of Kwara demand the Governor as a matter of urgency to firstly suspend his Chief of Staff in order to allow for an unbiased investigation into this corruption allegation.

5. It should be noted that this new administration came on board with the mantral of change which in our opinion must begin with those saddled with the responsibility of administering our Commonwealth. We must be bold enough to confront any act of illegality even if it is from within the ruling party and not witchunting the opposition at the slightest opportunity.

6. Governance is a serious business which requires selflessness and neutrality especially when it bothers on corruption and mismanagement of public resources. If President Muhammadu Buhari can suspend the embattled Executive Secretary of National Health Insurance Scheme, Mr Usman Yusuf after a report indicting him of his involvement in a corruption act, what is stopping the Executive Governor of Kwara State from borrowing a leave from the President on corruption related matter that involves his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Adisa Logun?

7. Who and who got the cake shared by Professor Awodun through the accused person, Alhaji Adisa Logun? What is the total amount of the money involved in this scandal? Kwarans have the fundamental rights to know the real truth on the subject matter, not the cooked ones being dished out public table for the public to consume.

8. Should Kwarans still have confidence in the current administration especially with the chemistry of people piloting the affairs of the government and the state owned revenue generating agency, KWIRS? All these questions can be well addressed through a formal address from the horses mouth and not a defensive foot dragging utterances made by one Barrister.

9. In conclusion, we strongly advise that the embattled Chief of Staff should be suspended pending the final findings of EFCC on the case. His continue stays in that public office can impede on the wheel of justice and transparency. No man should be allowed to be a judge or a friend of judge in his own criminal case under investigation.

9. A word, as they say, is enough for a wise.

10. Thank you.


Signed:

Comrade Abdulraheem Olaitan
Assistant Publicity Secretary,
The People's Voice.

29th November, 2019.

Press Release.

REFRAIN FROM ANY DISCO DANCE ON THE ALLEGED CRIMINAL CASE AGAINST CHIEF OF STAFF AND CO, GROUP CHARGES ABDULRASAQ AND EFCC


Our attention has been drawn to an information which has gone viral on the social media and some national dailies in which it was alleged that Alhaji Adisa Logun, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kwara State was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), over his alleged involvement in the illegal diversion of Kwara State internally generated revenue with other key actors in the state public service prior the 2019 general elections.

In lieu of the above, we wish to make the following submissions:

1. That the state government and the accused person has been silent on this allegation which bothers on integrity and corruption. We implore the Chief of Staff and the state government to come out with their own position on this in order to either confirm or deny this huge allegation.

2. That the accused person, Alhaji Aminu Logun who is being investigated for receiving over 200 million naira which was illegally issued by the Kwara State Internal Revenue (KWIRS) as a part donation to the Governorship Campaign for the APC gubernatorial candidate, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq.

3. That the said donation, a large chunk of the generated common wealth, was illegally approved and issued by the earstwhile Chairman of Kwara State Internal Revenue, Prof Awodun who is under EFCC custody for questioning and scrutiny on financial crimes allegedly committed during his stay in office as the Chairman of KWIRS.

4. That the well spelled allegations should not be treated with gloved hands neither should it be allowed to be (under any guise) swept under the partisan carpet by EFCC and Kwara State Government, as the excess hill of the involved public officials has filled to the brim.

5. And it should be noted that the money in question was remorselessly looted, shared and deployed by some heartless individuals in public office to pursue a personal cause or vengeance against a personal enemy and/or group of persons which has no benefit on the welfare and development of Kwara State.

6. The accusations of diverting the tax payers' money into private use which involved Prof Awodun and Alhaji Aminu Logun is a weighty one. And we strongly believed that goose and gander shared the same identity and we demand that the two personalities must be treated alike. No going back on this call!

7. We are offering the Kwara State Government under the leadership of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq an unsolicited advice not to make any attempt (either in proxy or in whichever form) to cross the law from taking its full cause. A person or party, especially a government that claimed to have ridden on the back of transparency, uprightness and financial discipline, will not participate in any shameful disco dance that might subject the sanity in the environment to immoral pollution. Afterall, He who comes into equity must appear with clean hands.

8. Thank you.


Signed:

Comrade Abdulraheem Olaitan,*
Assistant Publicity Secretary*,t
The People's Voice.