Experience the OTC 2024 Luncheon & Panel Session, brought to you by Delta Connect, streaming live from the vibrant city of Houston, Texas.

OTC 2024 LUNCHEON & PANEL SESSION NNPC
DELTA CONNECT
Live In Houston-Texas.

Ashiwaju Prince Olatunji Olusoji Gcfr Together with Strong Caliber of The Globe:-
#Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Executive Vice President Upstream NNPC.
#Mr Soso Soberekon.
#Prince Odi Okojie “Member Federal House of Representatives Esan Southeast/Northeast Constituency
#Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere Member House Representative Ideato Federal Constituency.
#Hon. Napoleon Gbinijie Member State House Representatives Okpe Federal constituency 2003-2007.
#RT. Hon. Friday Osanebi Deputy Speaker Delta State House Of Assembly 2015-2019.
#Madam Jane who’s was his classmates back in Uniben Faculty of Engineering after 15years they haven’t met, She’s Currently Based in the US & Representing Her Company at the Conference Ongoing Offshore Technology Conference in Houston-Texas.

More Grace to your Elbow Sir Ashiwaju Prince Olatunji Olusoji “Cheif of Staff & SSA Special Duty to Former Governor High Chief James Ibori

Highlighting this event is the reunion with Madam Jane, a former classmate from Uniben Faculty of Engineering, now representing her company at the conference. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ashiwaju Prince Olatunji Olusoji for his outstanding leadership and unwavering support.

Musty Jada
Loyalist & Northeast Press Aide to Ashiwaju Prince Olatunji.

Ogun West Executive Secretaries Benefit from ICT Training and Laptops courtesy of Senator Adeola Olamilekan

The Executive Secretaries of the Council of Ogun West express sincere gratitude for the invaluable opportunity to partake in a 3-day ICT training program and receive laptops, generously facilitated by our esteemed Senator, the distinguished Aremo of Yewaland, Senator Adeola Olamilekan (popularly known as Yayi). The training, held at Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro, Ogun State, has equipped us with essential digital skills that will undoubtedly enhance our professional capacities.

We extend heartfelt appreciation to Senator Adeola Olamilekan for his unwavering commitment to the development and empowerment of our community. May the Almighty continue to bless and preserve him, granting him success and fulfillment in all his endeavors.

Thank you, Sir, for your benevolence and support.
Eseun pupo,
Merci beaucoup.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU SUSPENDS MINISTER OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION FROM OFFICE

In line with his avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu suspends the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, from office with immediate effect.

The President further directs the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as one or more agencies thereunder.

The suspended Minister is hereby directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and she is further directed by the President to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities as they conduct their investigation.

Furthermore, the President has tasked a panel that is headed by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance to, among other functions, conduct a comprehensive diagnostic on the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programmes with a view to conclusively reforming the relevant institutions and programmes in a determined bid to eliminate all institutional frailties for the exclusive benefit of disadvantaged households and win back lost public confidence in the initiative.

These directives of the President take immediate effect.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

The issue of qualification or disqualification instance. The Supreme Court has clearly in established cases said that it is both a pre election and post election matter.

And it's obvious if somebody has not qualified, it's a constitutional issue. If somebody has not qualified, he has not qualified constitutionally, it can be post election.

Pre-election will be inter-party disputes. The law is settled by the supreme Court that another party cannot come and step into the internal affairs of a party so it is only members of the other party who were aspirants, who can bring a pre election matter complaining that a person was not qualified.

But immediately after elections are held, the other party has a window, because now under the Constitution and even the electoral act, he has a right to challenge, that the person who contested with him, is not qualified to have contested in that election. This is the way the supreme Court resolved it.

–Michael Aondoakaa, SAN former Minister of Justice on arise TV.

My attention has been drawn to a message circulating online linking my resignation to demanding accounts of how 2023 campaign funds were disbursed. The linkage are mere imaginations of mischief makers who are looking for a crack where there is none, and driving a false narrative.

My resignation has nothing to do with campaign funds, but due to other engagements and assignments that require my total attention and devotion.

I appreciate our Leader, Dr. Bukola Saraki and the entire Kwara PDP for giving me the opportunity to serve as the Organising Secretary, while also appreciating everyone that has registered kind words and goodwill towards my new assignment.

Thank you.

Signed:
Hajia Bilkisu Oniyangi Ph.D

@spynaijamedia_blog

The Independent National Electoral Commission has received reports from our officials in Kogi State on incidences of electoral malpractices, particularly the incident of result sheets completed before voting.

Reports indicate that the incidents occurred in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene Local Government Areas. The most serious incidents occurred in Ogori/Magongo, affecting nine of 10 Registration Areas.

This is entirely unacceptable. Any result not emanating from the Commission's process in the Polling Units will not be accepted.

The Commission is determined not to reward bad behaviour. Consequently, the election in the nine Wards in Ogori/Magongo LGA (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) is at this moment suspended. The incidences in the other Local Government Areas are being thoroughly investigated, and the outcome, including the way forward, will be announced in the next 24 hours.

Meanwhile, as the processes continue, we follow the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process. We have a record of all officials deployed at various levels as supervisors, monitors, technical staff or polling unit officials and all election materials issued to them. Appropriate sanctions will be applied where necessary.

The Commission assures voters in Kogi State that their votes are protected, and their wishes will be respected.

Mohammed Kudu Haruna
National Commissioner & Member
Information and Voter Education Committee

Joint security operatives have intercepted one Hon. Okafor Gabriel in possession of election materials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

The commander of the joint force Insp. Ahmed Idris, said that the arrests were made following some intelligent tip-off. He stated that the arrest would serve as a stern warning that the security operatives meant business and would not hesitate to bring any culprit to book.

The suspect, Mr. Hon. Okafor Gabriel, was caught with possession of the INEC Permanent Voter Cards, ballot papers as well as total sum of 183million naira.

He was arrested around Anara in isiala mbano Local Government of Imo State.

The suspect admitted that the materials were given to him on Friday night by a party member.

The State Police boss said investigations would continue into the matter.

Meanwhile sensitive and non-sensitive materials have been distributed by the INEC to all the 27 Local Government Areas of the state, while accreditation for all election monitors and observers have been concluded.

Over 700 observers have arrived the state for Saturday’s election.

Government of Imo State
Press release

Imo NLC pulls out of Strike over Court order
...Occupy Imo politically motivated, CAN tells Ajaero

The Imo State wing of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has dissociated its members from the plan of the President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero to occupy Imo State from tomorrow, November 1, 2023.

Addressing newsmen in Owerri Monday night after a meeting with other Labour leaders in the State, the State Acting Chairman of NLC, Rev Philip Nwansi announced that organised labour in Imo will not be part of the planned action because of a subsisting Court order stopping the NLC from embarking on any such action.

Also, the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Imo State Chapter, has cautioned the Ajaero-led NLC against any workers strike in the State, saying that Occupy Imo is politically motivated.

The Industrial Court sitting in Owerri had last Friday, October 27, 2023 granted an order restraining the NLC from embarking on any industrial action in Imo State.

The NLC chairman said based on the court order, the planned strike code named "occupy Imo" had become illegal.

"All the affiliate unions, we are obeying the court order and we urge all Imo workers to be on their duty posts tomorrow as law abiding citizens," Nwansi directed.

He said apart from the court order, the organised Labour in Imo State doesn't see any reason why the national body should order a strike.

"Workers of Imo State say vehemently no to "occupy Imo" because we have not found reasons enough for the action," he argued.

He noted that Labour in Imo State has been on the same page with the State government and wondered why the national body should cry more than the bereaved.

Rev Nwansi submitted that since the Labour has no industrial dispute with the State government and since the Court has declared the planned strike tomorrow illegal, workers should go about their duties in their offices.

On Monday night, the Christian Association of Nigerian (CAN), Imo State Chapter, advised the leadership of the
NLC, to shelve the idea of occupying Imo State in the name of strike because of the negative impact it will have on the people.

The body said that it is unthinkable for Labour leaders to contemplate strike in Imo or any other part of the country for that matter now because of what the people are already passing through.

Chairman of CAN, Imo State Chapter, Rev. Eches Divine Eches gave the advice when speaking to newsmen during a courtesy call on Governor Hope Uzodimma at the Government House Owerri by the group.

Rev Eches who said the CAN had come to restate her position on the Imo Charter of Equity as the way to go in guaranteeing political stability in Imo, also commended the Governor on the giant strides he has recorded in the State since mounting the saddle.

The CAN also said it was an opportunity for her to "appeal to the Nigerian Labour Congress led by Joe Ajaero to shelve their planned industrial action and occupation of Imo State for its negative impact on the populace of Imo State which include increased hardship and more set back on the economy of the State."

The CAN Chairman said that the Imo State Government under Governor Uzodimma has remained committed to the prompt payment of salaries of workers in Imo State and the pensioners, including payment of 13th month salary to the workers consecutively for two years now and wondered if NLC leadership under Ajaero is not pursuing political agenda with the call for strike in Imo State.

Rev Eches who said that the CAN is not aware of any sour relationship between the workers in Imo State and the Government as the workers themselves have at different fora confessed of being well taken care of by the Governor, cautioned those sowing seed of discord between the government and the workers in Imo State to be mindful of the implications.

He said that the only justification for anyone saying that the government of Imo State has not treated the workers well is if the person saying so has political intention at his or her back. He said such thoughts have implications before God and man.

He however commended the Governor for his achievements in all sectors of the socio-economic angles of the State like in the roads infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth and women empowerment and job creation through the Skill-Up Imo Project.

Governor Uzodimma who thanked the CAN leadership for their thoughtfulness urged them not to relent in preaching the message of Charter of Equity at the Churches, markets and other social gatherings so that Imo people will have a proper understanding of the topic and the advantage it will confer on everyone.

The Governor reiterated the inequality in the political demography of Imo State, saying that with the Charter of Equity the hue and cry about political contestation will be over.

He noted that the rotation of power from one zone to the other is working in the other States of the South East and that he has resolved to go the same way in Imo State and asked those struggling to seize power at all cost to exercise patience because ‘’power belongs to God and God will give it to those he wants at the appropriate time."

He thanked the body for supporting his government in the struggle to bring peace to Imo State including being part of the process to enthrone equity in the Imo State political space.

Governor Uzodimma told CAN that the interest of his administration is the "interest of the State anchored on job creation, robust economy that will guarantee better welfare for the people and empowerment of the youths and women."

He said that he had heard of some conspiracies by enemies of Imo State on how to disrupt the governorship election but assured CAN that the exercise will be free, fair and credible.

Governor Uzodimma emphasized the need to use the Church to drive development to the rural areas "because the Church knows the nuances of development in the rural areas," assuring that his government will continue to partner with the Church as "over 90 per cent of Imolites are Christians."

The Governor announced to CAN that the three brand new general hospitals already built in Ohaji, Oguta and Omuma areas will be replicated in other LGAs for effective healthcare services delivery and urged the Churches to brace up to be part of their management.

“Government is gradually restoring confidence of her citizens through the provision of dividends of democracy and it is essential because it is the responsibility of the Government to make life better for her citizens, hence this administration will continue to take bold decisions on the welfare of her people.”

The Governor reiterated the need for the men of God "to talk to our people to protect our tomorrow," noting that if he is not a Christian he would have kept quite over the Charter of Equity "because if not for any reason it will favour my zone based on numerical strength which is a prime factor in democracy."

Some members of the State Executive of CAN, including the Anglican Bishop of Isi Mbano Diocese, Rt Rev Godson Ukanwa, joined at the courtesy call.

Oguwike Nwachuku
Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor
October 31, 2023

Press Statement

Presidential Appeal:
Supreme Court Judgment is Disappointing.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the judgment of the Supreme Court in the petition filed by the PDP and Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar against the declaration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winners of the February 25, 2023 Presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The PDP and indeed majority of Nigerians are alarmed, disappointed and gravely concerned with the reasoning of the Supreme Court which the PDP believes is against the express provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, the Guideline and Regulation issued by INEC under which the election was conducted.

The PDP asserts that it is indeed a sad commentary for our democracy that the Supreme Court failed to uphold the provisions of the law. Instead, it trashed the expectation of majority of Nigerians who looked up to it as a Temple of Impartiality to deliver substantial justice in the matter having regards to the laws and facts of the case.

Nigerians earnestly expected the Supreme Court to uphold and defend the clear provisions of the 1999 Constitution in terms of qualification and minimum requirement for a winner to be declared in a Presidential election in Nigeria especially with regards to the required statutory 25% of votes in the FCT as well as issues of violation of electoral Rules and Guidelines, brazen manipulations and alterations of election results by the APC.

Nigerians are still at a loss as to how the Supreme Court condoned the serious issues of forgery, falsehood and perjury on the altar of technicalities.

The general gloom, melancholy and sense of despondency across the country upon the delivery of the judgment is an ominous sign of eerie situation which portend grave consequences because of the disappointment embedded in the judgment.

This judgment by the Supreme Court has evidently shaken the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary, especially the Supreme Court as the last hope of the common man.

The PDP remains undeterred and charges Nigerians not to be discouraged or allow the judgment to detract from their collective quest for the entrenchment of a credible electoral system that can guarantee a government that truly derive its legitimacy from the people.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
People’s Democratic Party.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU SHOWS COMPASSION TO ASUU MEMBERS AS HE ORDERS RELEASE OF FOUR MONTHS OF WITHHELD SALARY

Invoking the Principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, President Bola Tinubu has approved the partial waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" Order that was instituted against striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) following the commencement of their eight-month industrial action which began on February 14, 2022 and was terminated on October 17, 2022.

In view of his determination to mitigate the difficulties being felt during the implementation of key economic reforms in the country, as well as his recognition of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" Order on ASUU, which will allow for the previously striking members of ASUU to receive four (4) months of salary accruals out of the eight months of salary which was withheld during the eight-month industrial action undertaken by the union.

The President has directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and all other Education Sector Unions.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is reaffirming the accuracy of its report, released last week, which stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Chicago State University (CSU) certificate is authentic.

In response to concerns raised by specific individuals, the global media organization is standing by the veracity of its coverage.

A letter signed by the BBC Complaints Team, sent to one of its audience members over the weekend, expressed regret that there are individuals dissatisfied with“our findings on this matter”.

The BBC letter reads: “Dear Audience Member. Thank you for taking time to write to us.

We recieved a number of complaints on our investigative report on the authenticity of Nigerian president, Bola Tinubu attending and graduating from Chicago State University' and the forgery allegation concerning the certificate he submitted to the Nigerian electoral body before the presidential election in 2023.

Thank you for taking your time to write us. We regret that you are unhappy with our findings on this matter.

We have looked into this over again and the BBC has not seen any evidence that the certificate is in anyway forged.

We have again contacted Chicago State University' and they confirmed for the umpteenth time that Bola Tinubu' graduated from the University in 1979 with a Bachelor's degree.

We believe our text piece on this matter has been informative and responsible, reporting known facts.
We therefore stand by our journalism on the Tinubu's certificate matter. The document submitted has same font, seal and signature with other diploma issued by CSU around 1990s and we can boldly confirmed this. The fact that the replacement certificates was not issued directly by CSU did not invalidate it. Third party vendors are legally permitted to issue replacement Diplomas on behalf of some US colleges and universities, which are brought to the university for vetting and signing by the vendors before it release it to the owner and the CSU allows this practice as well.

So therefore, we believed those saying otherwise on the matter are either ignorant of the colleges and university system in the US or are deliberately playing political mischief over it. So, we stand by our journalism on the subject matter.

Source: BBC

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW LEADERSHIP ACROSS THE INDUSTRY, TRADE, AND INVESTMENT SECTORS

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new Chief Executive Officers of several agencies and parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in line with his resolve to base Nigeria's economic revival on the foundation of trade expansion through small, medium and large scale industry facilitation in the country:

Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) — Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN

Industrial Training Fund (ITF) — Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin

National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) — Kamar Bakrin

Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA) — Olufemi Ogunyemi

Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) — Nonye Ayeni

Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) — Aisha Rimi

Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA) — Bamanga Usman Jada

Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) — Charles Odii

Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) — Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke

Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) — Rabiu Olowo

Nigeria Commodities Exchange (NCE) — Anthony Atuche, CFA

Lagos International Trade Fair Complex (LITFCMB) — Veronica Safiya Ndanusa

Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board (TBSMB) — Lucia Shittu

National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) — Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin

In view of the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration, President Bola Tinubu expects all new appointees in this critical sector to optimally deliver in accordance with new key performance indicating benchmarks as established by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

By this directive of the president, all of the above listed appointments take immediate effect.


Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 13, 2023

Dear Prince Olatunji Olusoji Asiwaju,

I hope this letter finds you well as the former Senior Special Assistant.

On this special day, I, Idowu Peter, want to extend my warmest birthday wishes to you. Your time as the Senior Special Assistant Special Duties to the Governor of Delta State has left a lasting impact, and today, we celebrate not only your accomplishments but also the remarkable person you are.

Your dedication, hard work, and commitment have been an inspiration to many. As you embark on this new chapter of life, I hope it's filled with joy, good health, and continued success. May you find happiness in every moment and may your endeavors continue to thrive.

Wishing you a fantastic birthday filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with your loved ones. Here's to another year of remarkable achievements and personal growth.

Happy Birthday Sir!

Warm regards,
Idowu Peter

BREAKING

General Gowon Is Alive, Not Dead, Gbagi Refutes Rumour Of Death

Governorship candidate on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), in the last general election in Delta State, Olorogun Barr. Kenneth Gbagi FNIM, OON, has refuted the rumour, making the rounds that former head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), is dead.

The former Minister of State for Education, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Orusi Kenneth, on Monday October 9th 2023, described the purported death as “handiwork of mischief makers”.

Gbagi, disclosed that General Gowon, is alive, hale and hearty and presently in London.

Quoting the much respected leader, Gbagi said: "General Gowon, is still much around with us, hale and hearty. He is not in a hurry to go anywhere.

The former chairman, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, who urged Nigerians, to ignore rumour about Gowon's death said; "I, Gbagi, just spoke with him. I hereby refute the rumour of the death of my friend, General Gowon.

"He has communicated to Nigerians that he is still much around, hale and hearty. Gowon, is alive", Gbagi, insisted.

CHIEF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO'S RESIGNATION LETTER FROM THE FEDERAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL DATED JUNE 13, 1971 TO GENERAL YAKUBU GOWON

Olusegun Awolowo
LLB Law & International Baccalaureate…

Published Sep 19, 2016

June 3, 1971.

My dear Commander-in-Chief,

You will recall that in a statement made by me and published in the SUNDAY TIMES of March 30, 1969, I declared, among other things, as follows:

“Even at the federal level, I have no desire whatsoever, and I certainly cannot be tempted or induced to develop one, to head, or participate in an unelected or even an electoral-college elected civil administration in a military or any setting. At the moment, I am participating in the activities of the military government because I have been invited, and I also think it is right, so to do. I am, therefore, obliged, morally and for the purpose of keeping Nigeria united, to take part, as fully as I can, in any measure designed, in particular, to keep the Ibos as a constituent ethnic unit in the federation of Nigeria, enjoying equal and identical status and benefits with other ethnic units, and in general, to preserve Nigeria as an economic and political entity.”

* I should have, in accordance with this declaration, relinquished my present offices soon after the end of the civil war in January last year.

* But one main matter decided me against such an immediate course of action.

* As you know, before January 1970, the four-year development and reconstruction plan had been under active preparation, and it had been hoped that it would be launched early in the 1970/71 fiscal year.

* It was my strong desire to participate in the consideration of this plan.

* As it turned out, however, the plan was not actually considered until August 1970.

* By that time, three other factors had supervened.

First, the capital estimates for 1970/71 had been delayed until the launching of the four-year development plan, which did not take place until November last year.

At this late stage, I decided that the capital estimates of 1970/71 should be incorporated into those of 1971/72.

Second, by November 1970, the time for the introduction of the 1971/72 budget was only some four months away.

Third, as from September 1970, our foreign exchange position had started to undergo an unusual rapid deterioration.

It occurred to me, in all these circumstances:

That it would be untidy for me to leave without completing the budget for 1970/71;

That it would be hardly fair to my successor for me to leave at a time when preparations for the 1970/71 budget had actively begun under my direction, and;

That it might be interpreted in some circles as an act of bad faith for me to leave at a time when our foreign exchange was in such a bad state, and no sensible formula had been found for arresting its deterioration.

Now with the peace and unity of our great country fully restored and firmly re-established; with the four-year development plan already considered and launched and the capital estimates for 1970/71 completed; with the 1971/72 budget done and a reasonable solution devised for our acute foreign exchange, I feel free to act in accordance with one of my fundamental beliefs, referred to in paragraph 1 above, and publicly declared on March 10, 1969-EIGHTEEN CLEAR MONTHS before the military government’s political programme was announced by you on October 1, 1970.

I would, therefore, like to notify you that, with effect from July 1, 1971, I am no longer willing to continue in the offices of Federal Commissioner for Finance and Vice-President of the Federal Executive Council.

Supplementary to the forgoing, there is another important reason for my present action. After four truly (I hesitate to say exceedingly) exacting (though thoroughly stimulating and educative) years in the Federal Ministry of Finance which, throughout the period, was incessantly beset with fiscal and monetary problems of unprecedented dimensions, and of peculiarly complex and tantalizing nature, I deem it to be in the interest of my continued good health to have a complete change of full-time occupation.

As to my future plan, I have decided to go back to legal practice.

I also want to seize the opportunity, which the military government’s six-year political programme provides, to write, if my professional engagement permit, three books which have always been very much on my mind.

The research connected with two of these books will take me to selected developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, as well to ECA and OAU secretariats in Addis Ababa, the offices of some United Nations agencies in New York, and London University.

I would like to state that though, by this resignation, I am leaving your government and literary activities as mentioned above, it does not mean that I am completely relinquishing all public services to our country and people.

On the contrary, it is my resolve to continue, in all circumstances and until my life’s end, to see the best interests of our fatherland, and promote the welfare and happiness of our people, in every way possible.

In this connection, I would like to assure you that I shall always be willing, on a purely AD HOC basis and providing my professional commitments permit, to render, at your request and without any remuneration whatsoever, any particular service which is within my competence to give.

After my appointment in 1967, I submitted to you a STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS (i.e. OF MY ASSETS AND LIABILITIES) as at June 30, 1967. In keeping with the code of conduct to which I subscribed, I am obliged to send you my statement of affairs as at June 30, 1971.

It is, however, not possible to send the statement along with this letter. *But my accountants are already working on it and as soon as it is finalized up to June 30, 1971, I shall forward it to you.

In closing, I would like, in all sincerity, to say two things:

Firstly, I have tremendously enjoyed working with you; and it is not without considerable reluctance, therefore, that I have to take this step.

Secondly, I will always remember with deep gratitude, your kindness to me in releasing me from prison, and in giving me, within a year of my release, an opportunity to serve our people of Nigeria once again in a ministerial capacity, and at a time when the very existence of our fatherland was in grave peril.

With best wishes to Victoria and your good self, and love to Ibrahim.

Yours very sincerely,

OBAFEMI AWOLOWO.

GENERAL YAKUBU GOWON'S REPLY:

My dear Chief,

I wish to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated June 3, 1971, intimating me of your decision to relinquish your appointments as the Vice-President of the Federal Executive Council and Federal Commissioner for Finance with effect from July 1, 1971.

For some time, there have been rumours about your leaving the government, but I was sure, however, that if there was such an intention you would have not hesitated to notify me.

Since I know that you must have taken your decision after the most careful consideration, no useful purpose would be served by any attempt to make change your mind.

It is, therefore, with the greatest regret and reluctance that I have to concede to your request.

In accepting your decision, I would like to place on record my personal appreciation of your most valuable contribution to our achievements during the last four years.

You have earned for yourself respect from all of us who have seen you at close quarters, for your patriotism, coupled with a strong well-meaning conviction on issues of national importance.

I respect your maturity, objectivity, and sagacity, all of which you placed at my disposal; above all, for your advice and co-operation at all times.

Your outstanding performance as this government’s Commissioner for Finance during one of the most critical and turbulent periods of our history will always be remembered. You demonstrated, consistently, great courage, forthrightness, leadership, and a spirit of understanding which helped us to get out of our financial disaster.

That we did not succumb to the temptation to devalue our currency during the crisis and were able to win the war entirely out of our own resources and face resolutely the immediate post-war problems of rehabilitation, reconstruction and reconciliation was due, in no small measures, to your skill in the management of our finances.

I am aware that your position in this government, particularly as Commissioner for Finance, will be difficult to fill. However, I have a consolation in the fact that during your tenure of office, you laid a sound foundation on which your successors could build and carry on the good work.

I have no doubt that, at this moment, you will have the feeling that you have done your best. I share your feelings, too; and wish to extend my appreciation of the contribution of your dear wife who had had to bear more than her share of domestic burdens as a result of your public assignment.

I am glad to note and to accept your offer to hold yourself in readiness for assignment which the Federal Government may consider necessary to give you even when you will no longer be directly associated with public life.

Since there will be occasions soon for me and your colleagues in government to state our assessment of your contribution to the service of this nation in the last four years, I now merely wish to say how sorry I am to lose your services. We will miss your great sense of humour, your debating ability and useful suggestions at all times.

On behalf of myself, your colleagues on the Federal Executive Council, and the people of our great country, I wish you many more years of useful life.

My wife and Ibrahim join me in wishing you every success in your next sphere of life.

Yours most sincerely,

MAJOR-GENERAL YAKUBU GOWON

COMMENTS

These letters should become national assets for the politicians to study and discern the spirit of service, patriotism and desire to make Nigeria great again.

Precious Igbokwe
The tenses. The Structure. This is a well written letter. Brilliantly worded. Not all these recent nonsense. Politicians don't take grammar seriously. Very Wrong.

I have read this letter severally and I am still wondering on what aspect to comment

Should it be on the mutual respect between the two leaders, or the appreciation of service rendered, or the emotion of parting

This correspondence surely tells us more about the personality of the late Chief Awolowo when General Gowon in his acceptance letter described him thus;

"You demonstrated, consistently, great courage, forthrightness, leadership and a spirit of understanding .............."Paragraph 7.

"We will miss your great sense of humour,your debating ability and useful suggestions at all times" Paragraph 12.

Like I stated initially I still find it difficult to write a comprehensive comment but it is a must read for all.

Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo was an embodiment of service to humanity. I am a proud beneficiary of his party (UPN) free education programme which formed part of his political manifesto for our Nation. But unfortunately the cabal did not allow him to ascend to the political hegemony of our great nation - Nigeria. All the LOOBO states benefited fully from the free education project. Baba Awolowo so much believed in Educating the masses to liberate them from oppression.

The same judicial system that got him incarcerated in the First Republic also schemed him out and prevented his becoming the Nigeria President in the Second Republic through a non-scientific mathematical formula of 2/3 of 19 states. No apology to Richard Akinijide who later became the Minister of Justice/ Attorney General of the Federation during the 2nd Republic.

Nigeria will never have people like Chief Awolowo again and that's why Nigeria is in a quagmire in dire straits a Giant that's wounded and struggling. The bad people killed Chief Awolowo's son to dispirit him, they hated him, jailed him, incacerated him but he still came out good he is the greatest Nigeria ever.

*******COPIED*******

PRESIDENT TINUBU'S CHICAGO UNIVERSITY SAGA: PUTTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT

By

Ademola Bello, New York, US based Journalist

Judge Nancy Maldonaldo will only rule whether she would grant partial release of Tinubu transcript or academic records without jeopardizing the privacy laws in the US which states that students academic records cannot be released to anyone without the students consent.

The first Judge ruled that Tinubu's partial academic record should be released to Atiku without jeopardizing his privacy.

However, Tinubu appealed that. And the Judge agreed with him.

Tinubu attended Chicago State University. The University had confirmed that.

The issue is whether someone else can get access to someone’s academic records.

Forget all these fake news.

Even Barack Obama fought for his academic records from Columbia University and Harvard Law School not to be released to Republicans and Donald Trump who asked for them.

Ditto for former President Trump and President W Bush

There is a law called FERPA ( Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. FERPA safeguards students privacy by limiting who may access student records.

Tinubu is not hiding anything regarding his Chicago State University.

He attended the institution. But like any student or former student he has a right to academic privacy under the U.S. law and he can ask the University not to release his academic records. Obama and Trump did the same thing.

They believe their political opponents will use their academic records for mischief.

Security Crackdown: Ogun State Governor Orders Swift Action Against Cult Menace in Sagamu.

Today, we have issued a directive to the state's security agencies to eliminate the menace of cultists and related activities in Sagamu and its surroundings.

Despite the ongoing efforts by security agencies, supported by our administration, to combat cultism in the state, we have reinforced this directive due to a recent clash between rival cult groups in Sagamu. This unfortunate incident triggered violence, causing distress and fear among the town's residents.

We deeply regret this situation, the loss of innocent lives, and the extensive property damage caused by these criminals.

It's important to emphasize that security personnel, including @OgunPoliceNG and other sister agencies, are already on the ground working to restore peace in Sagamu. They have received clear instructions to take strong and decisive action against those disrupting the town's peace.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU ADVANCES STRONGER ECONOMIC TIES WITH SOUTH AFRICA; SEEKS REFORM OF BRETTON WOODS INSTITUTIONS TO STRENGTHEN ECONOMIC RESILIENCE OF DEVELOPING DEMOCRACIES

President Bola Tinubu has on Monday advanced his economic development diplomatic drive for investment attraction as he engaged extensively in a bilateral discussion with South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, in New York City, ahead of the United Nations General Assembly.

President Tinubu asserted that Africa must have a consensus view that the hundreds of billions of dollars spent through International Development Finance Institutions over the years must meet the specific needs of developing democracies in Africa, even if it is done with exclusive regard for their own enlightened self-interest.

"During the end of the Second World War, the Marshall Plan was established for the reconstruction and economic restoration of European nations through Bretton Woods institutions. Where has this presence been for Africa? We have to be careful not to replace the broken shackle of yesterday with a new set of shackles. You can not have a stable democracy in the presence of a poverty of knowledge and a starvation of people. Democracy without food on the table is a breeding ground for what will consume us, if care is not taken. We must join hands and agree that International Finance Institutions require reform as Africa is not to be a ground for economic scavenging any longer, but it is a place with gifted people that is ready for investment and cooperation.

"We have all the human and natural resources required between our nations. We can collaborate in a mutually beneficial way that enriches our populations. South African Mining industries have a role to play in the Nigerian solid minerals development sector. Your business community has done well in Nigerian Telecommunications. We have great mineral wealth across our land, and you have good expertise in this area. We expect to deliver jobs and mutually beneficial results in this area as brother and sister countries," the President affirmed.

Referencing President Tinubu's quick implementation of what he called "brave" economic reforms, the South African President agreed that the two countries have much more wealth to create together in close and intentional partnership, with each nation leveraging on each other's respective strengths.

"We are two major economies on our continent, and it is important that we deepen economic ties, particularly in light of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. We are very keen on the deepening of our economic relations," the South African President said.

The South African President emphasized that history has proven that Nigeria and South Africa can move the world on matters of mutual concern when the two nations operate on the same wavelength.

"We would love to see Nigeria and South Africa working closely together on a number of issues because whenever we join hands, we have made an impact globally through those joint positions. Together, we can move the global south forward. We are a continent that has been plundered. And wealthy nations made so much of it from us, and we must seek out partners who will help us to advance our own interests," the South African President emphasized.

Recognizing President Tinubu's effective stewardship as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, the South African leader said that Southern Africa needed to emulate the solidarity being demonstrated in West Africa, following the Niger Crisis.

"We believe that we have a lot to learn from ECOWAS and its unity in reaching consensus positions on sub-regional matters. This is something we seek to emulate in the Southern African sub-region in view of events in Mozambique and other areas," President Ramaphosa said.

The South African leader also used the opportunity of the bilateral engagement to extend an invitation to President Bola Tinubu to visit South Africa, following President Ramaphosa's recent visit to Nigeria, as part of efforts to deepen economic ties and the broader relationship between both countries.

While accepting the invitation, President Tinubu affirmed that an Africa, in which Nigeria and South Africa are working in synergy to advance their common interests, is the strongest version of the continent, which can make more impact on global affairs for the benefit of over one billion Africans with its enormous human and natural resource wealth.

"Our continent is the last untapped ground for accelerated, massive growth and new economic opportunity on earth. We must be in charge of our own resources, and we must work to use each other effectively to achieve what is best for all of us, Mr. President. We look forward to an era of economically productive relationship," the Nigerian leader concluded.



Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 18, 2023

Veterans Demand Timely Welfare Improvements and Recognition Amidst Political Changes.

As the former Nigerian government, which included military veterans, concludes its term, concerns arise over the neglect of veterans' rights and benefits. The veterans' community, divided along political, religious, and ethnic lines during elections, now seeks five fundamental improvements:

1. Free Education and Job Opportunities for Veterans' Children
2. Safe and Secure Housing with Adequate Security
3. Proper Medical Care for Injured Soldiers
4. Discounts and Recognition for Service
5. Equitable Pension Adjustments

Despite watching the government appoint new officials and address other demands, veterans' concerns remain unaddressed, leading to growing impatience. The plea is clear: veterans deserve timely recognition and support for their sacrifices.

Warning: January 2024 - Armed Forces Remembrance Day - Will Veterans' Needs Be Met?

Amb. (Dr.) Okhidievbie, Oamien Roy
National Secretary, Retired Members of Nigerian Armed Forces (REMENAF)
Director Media, Coalition of Concerned Veterans (CCV)

Hon Minister Of FCT Hon Wike write to EFCC and ICPC to Invite former Minister of FCT Mallam Muhammed M Bello to explain how he Award 1 kM Road from Gaduwa Estate juntion to NCDC Office at the Cost of 4Billion Naira and paid in full and Award a contract of 10 Billion later jack up to 119 Billion , award Contract of 50 Billion later jack up to 200 Billion, award contract of 6 Billion and later jack up to 70 Billion, Award of emergency maitanance of Usman Dam at the cost of 9 Billion and paid in full without any BOQ and so many procurement infraction.

Leave debt of over 1.2 trillion to FCT without anything show.approval of green areas to residential houses and Converting Residential Houses in Wuse 2, Maitama Gana Street, Garki into Commercial in contrary to the Abuja master plan.

Good afternoon, Gentlemen of the Press.

I am here today to give my official reaction to the judgment delivered yesterday by the Presidential Election Petition Court on the 2023 presidential election.

As you already know, I approached the court following the declaration by INEC that the APC and its candidate are the winners of the February 25, Presidential Election.

My decision to go to court is anchored in my belief that the court is the sanctuary of justice. The journey of my political career, as you know, holds so much to the courage and fearless decisions of our judiciary.

Indeed, I am no stranger to legal battles, and I can say that I have a fair idea of how the court system works. All through my career as a politician, I have been a fighter, and I must say that I have found the judiciary as a worthy pillar to rest on in the pursuit of justice.

The last presidential election in our country and the way it was managed by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, leaves behind unenviable precedents, which I believe the courts have a duty to redress. Our gains in ensuring transparent elections through the deployment of technology was heavily compromised by INEC in the way it managed the last presidential election, and I am afraid that the judgement of the court as rendered by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal yesterday, failed to restore confidence in our dreams of free and fair elections devoid of human manipulations.

Like I did say at the beginning of this legal battle when I instructed my lawyers to file my petition challenging the outcome of the presidential election, my ultimate goal in this pursuit is to ensure that democracy is further strengthened through the principles and processes of fair hearing.

Gentlemen of the press, I take great pains to tell you that the decision of the court of first instance on this matter utterly falls far short of that expectation. I am therefore here to tell you that, though the judgment of the court yesterday is respected, it is a judgment that I refuse to accept. I refuse to accept the judgment because I believe that it is bereft of substantial justice. However, the disappointment in the verdict of the court can never destroy my confidence in the judiciary.

Consequently, I have asked my lawyers to activate my constitutionally guaranteed rights of appeal to the higher court, which, in the instance, is the Supreme Court. It is my conviction that the electoral process in Nigeria should be devoid of untidy manipulations and that the outcome of every election should be a perfect reflection of the wishes of the electorate. I believe that such is the only way through which our democracy can have a manifest expression of its true meaning. Whether I prevail in this quest or not, the record of my effort in ensuring an order of credible elections in Nigeria shall remain for the future generations to evaluate.

On this note, I urge all my supporters to remain steadfast. I urge them to take solace in an immortal lesson I learned from my leader and mentor, the late Shehu Yar’Adua, that losing a battle is less important than losing the war. We might have lost a battle yesterday, but the war is well ahead of us. And I believe that with our hopes in God, we shall win the war of restoring confidence in our electoral system.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, I thank you for your attention.

Atiku Abubakar, GCON
Waziri Adamawa
Vice President of Nigeria (1999 – 2007)
2023 PDP Presidential Candidate

Happening Now!

Press Conference by the Acting PDP National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagun along with the Presidential Candidate, H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON.

Happening at the NEC Hall (PDP) National Secretariat Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, in Abuja.

Live Link: https://fb.watch/mVzQkjw5xK/?mibextid=Nif5oz

Nuru Shehu Jos.
Personal Assistant to the acting (PDP) National Chairman.
Today, 7th September 2023.

Press Conference!!!

This is to invite you to a World Press Conference by H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON scheduled to hold as follows:

Date; Thursday, September, 7th
Time: 2:30pm
Venue: NEC Hall (Ground Floor), PDP National Headquarters, Wadata Plaza.

The governorship candidate of the People's democratic Party in Imo Sen. Samuel Samuel Anyanwu has postponed his guber campaign flag-off due to lack of fund. an insider who pleaded anonymous revealed while speaking to our correspondent earlier today.

In a press release signed by the Chief Press secretary to the candidate of the PDP state's that reasons for postponement was due to issues rising from the national leadership of PDP. According to our source he said "their reasons are watery, false, pretentious and deceptive". He further raised questions why most members of the campaign council are resigning from their various committees as we see in recent times.

One of the members of the media committee name withheld further confirmed that non of the committees has been funded even a Penny to begin with. Support groups in disarray, only a few members of the divine mandate group are seen acting up as if something is going on but deep down nothing is actually happening within the party and the campaign council members.

In all this the question that comes to mind is why is Sam Daddy deceiving his few followers? why can't he come out straight to tell them the truth about not being serious about the guber contest? for How long will he keep deceiving the few remaining in PDP? When will he tell those who had fall for his cheap lies that he only came to play the spoiler game for more serious contenders like Rt Hon. Emeka Ihedioha.

The earlier he begins to speak the truth the better for his headless followers who thinks he contesting to win.

Atanda Modupe Deborah a Student of nursing department stream A, Faculty of basic medical science in FUOYE was reported missing in early September .

According to the report, She was last seen infront of pharmacy twin hall inside Federal University Oye Ekiti on the 4th of September 2023.

Deborah who reportedly went out to read but later found her lifeless body today at Oye Ekiti with injuries on her head also her eyes were allegedly plucked out.

On the Obi/LP petition, the tribunal said the petitioners only made "generic accusations of irregularities" in the election but failed to specify the anomaly, the places where it occurred and those affected.

"They failed to state the number of votes affected and the number of people disenfranchised," says Justice Abba Mohammed on the LP/Obi petition.

The court said although Peter Obi and LP claimed to have scored the majority of lawful votes cast, they failed to state the number of lawful votes they scored.

"The determination of election is about figures," the court held.

"They also failed to prove that their votes were suppressed by failing to specify the number of votes suppressed."

"LP's petition of election malpractices is hereby struck out...."

LP's prayer that Peter Obi be declared winner is incompetent and hereby struck out...."

The Presidential Election Tribunal in Abuja has announced date to deliver judgment on petitions challenging the election of President Bola Tinubu."

However, the tribunal today Monday, announced that it would deliver judgment on the petitions by Wednesday, September 6.

Both the candidates of Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party, Peter Obi are challenging the outcome of the election.

The Tribunal, merged the petitions submitted by the various political parties while giving the pre-hearing report on the petition and presenting the trial schedule.

It had also reserved judgment on the petitions filed by the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party in order to deliver the judgements on the same day as that of Peter Obi of the Labour Party

Recall that it had denied fixing September 16 for the judgment."

Today IBB is 82yrs, Happy Birthday Maradona.
- He created Yobe state,
- He created Katsina state,
- He created Taraba state,
- He created Jigawa state,
- He created Kebbi state
- He created Enugu state,
- He created Edo state,
- He created Delta state,
- He created Osun state.
- He created Akwa Ibom state,

- He created Federal Road Safety Corps

- He created State Security Service (SSS),
- He created National Intelligence Agency (NIA),
- He created Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

- He built Asorock Villa

- He built Third d Mainland Bridge , the largest bridge on the continent at the time.

- He completed the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station .

- He constructed Toja Bridge in Kebbi,

- He created the Jibia Water Treatment Plant,

-He built Challawa Cenga Dam in Kano.

- Kano - Abuja Dual Carriageway FCT, Abuja
- Dam in Kano Others includes:

1. ECOWAS Hdqtrs Secretariat Abuja

2. International Conference Centre Abuja

3. Constr.FHA Estates Nationwide

4. Constr.High Court Bldgs in the States

5. Constr.Fed Secretariat in 36States/Abuja

6. Constr.2 Political Party Office in 36 States

7.Constrd the 4 Divisional Hdqtrs,Nig Army

8.Constr.Military Barracks in Abuja

9. Constr .Army School of Armour Bauchi

10.Nigeria Army Amphibious sch.Calabar

11.Constr.Quarters for the 4 GOCs

12.Constr.Nigerian Navy Dockyard

13. Constr.Nigeria Dockyard Snake Island

14.Constr .Estate for workers of Federal Ministry of Works Housing & FMWH)Nationwide + FCT&Gwagwalada

15. Constr. Site & SVC’s Satellite towns of 20.Constr.Federal Supreme
Isheri,Lagos,Gwagwalada,Abuja,& Prototype Housing Schemes

16.Constr.FEPA Hdqrt,Abuja

17. FEPA Zonal Offices Nationwide & Central Laboratory,Yaba Lagos.

18.Constr.National Eye Centre,Kaduna.

19.Aluminium Smelter Coy Ikot Abasi

20.Constr.Federal Supreme Court,Abuja.

21.Constr.the Ajaokuta Steel Project Engineering Works

22.Constr.Abuja International Airport Phase 1&2

23.Constr.the National Assembly Abuja

24.Constr.the Presidential Villa Abuja

25.National Intelligence Agency(NIA)Hqrtr

26.State Security Services(SSS) Abuja

27.Constr.Federal Mortgage Bank Hqrtr,Lagos 29.Federal Mortgage Bank branches nationwide

30. Constr. CBN Hdqrtr Abuja

31. Security & Minting Hdqters Abuja

32.Constr.Jabi District Abuja

33.Abuja Central Area Phase 1&2

34.Constr.Asokoro Area

35.Constr.Secretariat Bldgs for States created in 1991

36.Houses of Assembly Complex for each States created in 1991

37.Judiciary Buildings for States created in 1991

38.Constr.Maitama Gen Hospital Abuja

39.Wuse Gen Hospital Abuja

40.State Hse Hospital Abuja

41.National Hospital in the States

42.Gusau Water Supply Scheme

43.Asokoro Water Supply

44.Kubwa Water Supply

45.Abuja Municipal Water supply

46.Gboko-Yadav Water Works

47.Boreholes for 1004 Housing.

A meeting between the candidate of the People’s democratic party, Sen. Samuel Anyanwu, Sam Daddy and a former governor of Imo state whose identity will be revealed in our subsequent communication has been held in cotonou of Benin Republic as they perfect plans to rig the November 11, 2023 governorship election in the state, a source privy to the meeting has authoritatively revealed.

Sam Daddy's Meeting With A Former Governor of Imo State in Cotonou, Benin Republic as we are meant to understand is to perfect his rigging plans as he continues to grow unpopular in the state among the electorates.

Worried by his apparent rejection by Imo electorates, the PDP National Secretary is said to have deviced another means by getting this former governor on his side on ways they can rig the election.

The good work of the #PeoplesGovernor has continued to speak for him as his surging popularity among Imo electorates unsettles the opposition as they are devilishly devising other means such as rigging plots having failed to win the heart of the people.

In no distant time, all those involved in this unpatriotic acts, including the identity of the governor will be revealed for Imo people to see those plotting to take Imo State back to Egypt.

The PDP and indeed Sam Daddy should be aware that their evil plans against Imo State has been bursted as we are now fully aware of such plots as we are going to do everything to resist them.

Lunch from the DSS dark room.

Suspended Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele has unilaterally been operating a separate foreign reserve account on behalf of the country without the knowledge of the Federal Government, a security report has revealed.

Emefiele, according to the report, masterminded the creation of two foreign reserve accounts for Nigeria with the second one the Federal Government is not aware of, having about $47billion.

CBN under Emefiele, the report further revealed, has also been running no fewer than 527 private bank accounts with public monies running to several billions stashed in them without the government being in the know.

These allegations, amongst several others against Emefiele, are contained in a security report submitted by the Department of State Services to former president Muhammadu Buhari since January this year.

The security report was sighted by our correspondent over the weekend.

The report handed over to former President Buhari by the DSS Director General, Yusuf Bichi, in January, it was learnt, contains more damning evidence against the suspended apex bank boss over a series of some fresh allegations.

The submission of the security report to the then President, First News had reported, necessitated Emefiele’s visits twice on Thursday January 19, 2023 to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The then CBN governor, First News had reported, was summoned by the then President Buhari following his receipt of the DSS security report on the fresh allegations and “overwhelming evidence” against the apex bank boss earlier that day from the DSS DG.

Emefiele had earlier that same day visited the Presidential Villa as part of the delegation of the Arab Bank for Economic Development led by its Director General, Dr Sidi Ould Tah.

But Emefiele’s second meeting that same day with Buhari was held behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa, where he was confronted with the fresh allegations leveled against him by the DSS. At the end of his closed door meeting with the then President Buhari, Emefiele declined to comment on the issues discussed when approached by State House correspondents.

Earlier, the DSS had accused Emefiele of aiding and abetting terrorism, insisting that the then CBN Gov must be prosecuted for the alleged crimes.

According to the report, DSS’ preliminary investigations revealed Emefiele’s involvement in various acts of terrorism financing, fraudulent activities and economic crimes of national security dimension.

But the already embattled Emefiele continued to employ all means to escape arrest and interrogation by the DSS. He even had to delay his return to Nigeria after a trip abroad. He was also said to have engaged some close associates of the then President Buhari to help him prevail on the DSS to let him off the hook. He was also alleged to have been employing propaganda through organised public protests and demonstrations by CSOs, all in a bid to stop his investigations by the DSS.

A nephew and close confidant of the then President Buhari, Mamman Daura and the then Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai were said to be the arrowheads of the highly influential and powerful politicians pressuring the DSS DG, Yusuf Bichi to let go of Emefiele, resulting in the inability of the secret police to interrogate the apex bank boss on the allegations leveled against him while Buhari’s tenure lasted.

First News, however, learnt that unknown to Emefiele, while he was out of the country, the DSS had interrogated and obtained documentary evidence from his deputies at the apex bank, external auditors to the bank and managing directors of 27 commercial banks regarding the monumental allegations of corruption and fraud being levelled against him by the secret police regarding forex allocations and other corruption allegations.

It was in the course of these widened investigations that the DSS unearthed 12 fresh allegations against the CBN Gov, First News reported.

It was gathered that during interrogation, the CBN external auditors, who have been working for the apex bank in the past six years, “gave evidence under caution” to DSS interrogators and provided documents to back their claim that Emefiele paid them to prepare “doctored audit reports” which the Federal Government under Buhari was inadvertently relying upon.

It was also learnt that during investigations, the DSS discovered that the controversial Ways and Means approval requested by the Finance Minister was actually in the region of N23.7trillion as against the N7.3trn presented to the National Assembly.

Some of the new allegations Emefiele was then being investigated for by the DSS include the N3.6bn COVID-19 palliative funds given Nigeria by the IMF two years ago to cushion the effects of the pandemic.

Emefiele, it was learnt did not inform the Federal Government about the IMF palliative but only allegedly diverted the money into a private account in China.

The demand for acknowledgement letter by the IMF from the Finance Minister let the cat out of Emefiele’s bag. The CBN Gov was however said to have told the then Finance Minister that he invested the money for the country.
The then Finance Minister on her part, was said to have demanded for about $700m out of the IMF palliative to enable her Ministry to “offset staff salary.”

The remaining $3billion, it was gathered, is still being kept in a bank in China without the Federal Government being aware of this development.

Also, the much-vaunted Single Treasury Account (TSA), it was learnt, has been discovered by the DSS to be a phantom device by Emefiele to deceive the Federal Government and all Nigerians. “There’s nothing like TSA account. Only Emefiele knows what he means by this,” a source said.

The DSS, it was further gathered, while grilling bank chief executives in January, also unearthed an allegation that the CBN boss directed all commercial banks’ managing directors to give him N30bn each every year as his own “pocket money.” Only a newly established bank (names withheld) allegedly paid Emefiele the least sum of N5bn. The bank MDs involved, it was learnt, wrote statements and provided the DSS with documentary evidence.

This was part of the reasons Emefiele, on January 18, 2023, through a CSO, approached an Abuja High Court presided over by Justice Belgore to obtain an interim injunction to restrain the DSS from obtaining information from the CBN and the commercial banks regarding forex allocations in the past six years.

But unknown to Emefiele, the DSS had already obtained a comprehensive list of all those involved in the forex distribution deal, including some highly placed Presidency officials and which was included in the security report on the CBN boss submitted to former President Buhari.

This security report, which former President Buhari refused to act upon, it was learnt, was recently dusted by the DSS and re-submitted to the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, which last Friday night suspended Emefiele from the office of the CBN governor and subsequently appointed an acting governor in his stead.

This action by President Tinubu against Emefiele gave the DSS the needed clearance and the green light to move in and arrest the suspended CBN governor on Friday night in his Lagos home, flying him to Abuja, where he’s currently being detained to answer questions on the various allegations leveled against him.

The former governor of Imo state, Senator Rochas Okorocha has endorsed the incumbent Governor of Imo state, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma to contested for a second term in office.

In a meeting summoned by the new party National Chairman of APC, Alhaji Umar Ganduje and in the presence of the Vice president, Senator Kashim Shettimma, the former Imo Governor endorsed his successor as he noted that he will fully support the governor whom he referred as his party man.

With the successful meeting, APC is now united to go into the November 11 election as one united body.

Meanwhile, feelers from the camp of the candidate of the PDP Sam Daddy has it that the camp is currently in mourning moods since the news of the reconciliation of the governor and his predecessor and the former Governor's endorsement broke out in the media.

Sam Daddy who was banking on the supports of people like the former governor are now in tears as their ticket has confirmed early defeat.