The upcoming gubernatorial elections in Anambra state may be seriously compromised as plans to manipulate the electoral exercise have been concluded.
Fresh information made available to POLITICS NIGERIA indicates that a certain South-east Governor, currently in opposition, has doled out a hefty sum of $4 million (more than 2 billion Naira) to ensure that his favoured candidate takes the reigns of power in Anambra state come November 6th.
BACKGROUND
The people of Anambra state will be headed to the polls on November 6th to choose their next governor. Several prominent indigenes of the state are currently vying for the top spot with the Major contenders being Prof. Chukwuma Soludo (APGA), Senator Andy Uba (APC); Mr. Valentine Ozigbo (PDP), Ifeanyi Ubah (YPP)and Dr. Obiora Okonkwo (ZLP).
Over the past one month, the state has witnessed violence, high profile assassinations, arson and Kidnappings.Several power blocs in the region are keen on ensuring that their preferred candidate emerges Victorious.
Investigations by this paper, however, reveal that a serving South-East Governor, in an opposition party, who is so hell-bent on ensuring that his candidate wins, has shelled out $4 million (which has since been disbursed in tranches of $3 million and $1 million) to a commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission.
This commissioner, also from the South-East and has strong influence on logistics, in turn used the funds to 'settle' other key officers to ensure that the election goes the way of their preferred candidate.
A LOOMING ELECTORAL HEIST
Reliable sources under strict conditions of anonymity revealed to this paper that if things remain status quo, the winner of the election has already been decided.
“You see, a ranking opposition Governor in the South East zone of the country, has mobilised huge funds to the tune of 4million US dollars to compromise the governorship election in Anambra State slated for Saturday, November 6, 2021. "
"In fact, an influential INEC National Commissioner is serving as a courier for the said desperate chief executive, who wants his candidate of to emerge victorious, by hook or crook. This South-east commissioner even shares some educational history with the Governor's preferred candidate as they both attended an institution together".
"The other commissioners and many EOs have also been compromised".
To further demonstrate the seriousness attached to the scheme, the Wife of the said state chief executive is said to be majorly coordinating the 'local' aspects of the plan as she has been lobbying and holding 'nocturnal' meetings with some of the electoral officers.
Another source told POLITICS NIGERIA: "We are aware that a very powerful woman is also playing a fundamental role in this whole equation designed to compromise election at a time stakeholders are all unanimous on the need to sanitise the electoral process."
However, highly placed security sources have disclosed that efforts are already in motion to block all attempts to compromise the keenly-contested electoral exercise.
"Rest assured that we will not allow the November 6 Anambra poll to be compromised."
"At the appropriate time, we will take in those involved".
The Police in Rivers state has arrested a man for gaining unlawful access to an electronic billboard and streaming 'pornography' on it in Port-Harcourt.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the LED board, situated around Garrison area, was swiftly shut off after pedestrians lodged complaints over the obscene material being displayed on the screen.
Owners of the billboard, E-motion Advertising, in a statement made available to this newspaper disclosed that the culprit will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The statement read: "It has come to our attention that an unauthorized break-in happened at one of our sites in Rivers State, where an individual (name withheld) gained unlawful access to our site and local server. The individual then caused an obscene material to be uploaded to an external display device.
"Our remote monitoring team was immediately alerted to this incident and the LED board was turned off. The culprit has since been apprehended by the police and taken into custody for questioning."
"As a socially responsible company, we are working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the law takes its full course in prosecuting this heinous and distasteful act that goes against all manner of public decorum."
"Finally and most importantly, we apologize for this distasteful incident and assure the public that we are currently putting additional measures in place across our sites to prevent a reoccurrence."
The Deputy Governor of Anambra state has officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress, POLITICS NIGERIA can authoritatively report.
President Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday received APC Caretaker Committee Chairman and Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, Anambra Deputy Governor Dr. Nkem Okeke and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma.
Dr. Okeke is now a member of the ruling Party after dumping his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance.
This development is coming a few days after POLITICS NIGERIA accurately predicted the move.
Dr. Okeke first served as Anambra State Commissioner for Economic Planning, and again as Anambra State Commissioner for Works and Transport in the administration of Governor Peter Obi.
Nigeria is not in short supply of true leaders. The country’s diversity and generous human resources offer a limitless pool of talents, skills, abilities and character. Nigeria is blessed with all that a nation needs to be a lodestar in the galaxy of nations. But why do misfits end up in the cockpit here? The recruitment process has a bias for ethnic and religious emotionalism. The enlistment process is the snag -- fundamentally.
The political recruitment process at the party level is fatally flawed. Candidates for election are selected not on the content of their character, antecedents, abilities, and verifiable records but on the basis of where they represent, where they worship and how much they have to bribe party officials and delegates – in the case of indirect selection.
Our recruitment process at the party level rarely throws up people with discipline and competence for election. In fact, people with some semblance of capacity are rather planted as running mates of very defective standard bearers. Our politics de-emphasises ability, competence, qualifications, integrity, expansiveness, temperance and compassion as primary values for leadership – but accents the geography and religious identity of power instead.
We have to make a bold departure from this path. Nigeria needs healing. 2023 should be for national healing; closing the chasm and forging new bonds. As I said in ‘Nigeria needs a Nigerian president in 2023 – not Igbo, Hausa or Yoruba’, the country needs a doctor to heal the country in 2023, and it needs a carpenter. It also needs a builder and an architect to build the country back better. It needs an all-in-one president. Yes, Nigeria needs healing from six years of hate-slinging, recriminations and animosity.
We have to get it right in 2023, lest we embark on another tortuous journey through the capricious wilderness.
So, I have made my own list of five Nigerians I think can steer Nigeria away from the tempest. These individuals are notable for their integrity, leadership excellence and brilliance. This list is by no means definitive, but it throws up possibilities of what could be and should be if we must make it out of the doldrums. Enough of the predatory politics and recycling of the same political class.
AKINWUMI ADESINA
Adesina is the president of the African Development of Bank (AfDB). He was first elected as the Bank’s president in 2015 and re-elected in 2020. He is an astounding economist. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree (first class) in agricultural economics from the University of Ife in 1981. He went on to earn a PhD in agricultural economics from Purdue University in the US. He has won many awards, and received global recognition and appointments. He also has sterling records on integrity and leadership. He came into the reckoning of most Nigerians when he was appointed as the minister of agriculture in 2011 by former President Goodluck Jonathan. He was named Forbes ‘African Man of the Year’ for his reforms in the agricultural sector. He is widely regarded as one of the best agriculture ministers Nigeria has ever had. No other agriculture minister after him comes close on the performance-meter. I have checked frantically for any dirt on Adesina, but found none. He has no corruption case in Nigeria or anywhere.
Adesina is not a politician. The odds may be against him because he is not in the mould of the wheeler-dealer politician. But it is comforting that his excellence has not gone unnoticed. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is reported to be ‘’drumming support’’ for Adesina to enter the 2023 presidential race. Adesina is 61 years old, and by 2023 he will be 63 --- still within a good age bracket.
AMINA MOHAMMED
Mohammed is the deputy secretary-general of the United Nations. She was appointed minister of environment by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 – but she left the position to take up the UN job. Mohammed is one of Nigeria’s lodestars. If Nigerians are desirous of a break from the quotidian, then Mohammed will be that elixir that will spring life into the nation. She’s notable in international circles and has received global acclaim for her work on the environment, education, gender inclusion and the SDGs. She has no corruption case and her leadership style is said to be 21st century compliant. She is 60 years old and will be 62 in 2023. Although coming from a conservative and patriarchal society, the odds are stacked against her; she has the refinement and character to lead Nigeria in this age. Can we give women a chance in 2023?
NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA
Okonjo-Iweala is perhaps the most decorated economist out of Nigeria. Her accomplishments are unmatched by any Nigerian finance minister before and after her. She is the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organisation (WTO) as director-general. She became the DG of the WTO after a very competitive process. Leadership at the global level is chaotic with a barrage of interests at war. I believe Okonjo-Iweala can manage Nigeria with all its complexities going by her antecedents. She was once the coordinating minister of the economy, and it is obvious with the current parlous state of the economy her time was a golden era. Nigeria needs a good manager of the economy. Okonjo-Iweala is 67 years old and will be 69 in 2023. Although in Nigeria’s very murky politics, the likes of Okonjo-Iweala do not thrive, we can always chart a different path. After all is 2023 not about breaking the cycle and breaking away from the old order?
MOHAMMED BUBA MARWA
Buba Marwa, chairman of the NDLEA and retired army general, is an accomplished administrator. He has a master's degree in public policy from Harvard. As governor of old Borno state, he introduced the first joint-military patrol in the country, codenamed ‘Operation Zaki’ to tackle banditry and other forms of criminality in the north. Other states soon followed his novel example. As governor of Lagos, he tackled insecurity with ‘Operation Sweep’, set up a bitumen factory in the state; rehabilitated area boys by setting up skill centres and giving them grants to start bakeries, furniture work, tailoring and other businesses. He was also able to manage the ethnic divergences in Lagos very well. His stewardship in Lagos remains stuff of legends and tales pass down from generation to generation. Marwa is a politician and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Even though from the north, I believe Marwa can manage Nigeria’s diversity and effectively tackle insecurity.
YEMI OSINBAJO
Osinbajo is a fine gentlemen; a refined politician. He is cerebral, competent, temperate, and disciplined. He is an example of what the avant-garde Nigerian politician should be. But an albatross hangs on Osinbajo’s neck. He shares in the failures of the current administration and has taken a good lashing in the public for them. He is named in areas where the administration is faltering, but not where it is succeeding. Being the brains at the presidency, Nigerians expected much of him. Osinbajo will have to work at dismantling the web around his persona. But I believe he will be a president, with gravitas and character, for Nigeria.
By Fredrick Nwabufo; Nwabufo is a journalist and writer
Former Governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi has revealed why he opened offshore accounts for himself and his family abroad.
Obi got into hot water after the release of the Pandora Papers, a project carried out by a global International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ).
The project saw 600 journalists from 150 news organisations around the world poring through a trove of 11.9 million confidential files, contextualising information, tracking down sources and analysing public records and other documents.
The leaked files were retrieved from some offshore services firms around the world that set up shell companies and other offshore entities for clients, many of them influential politicians, businesspersons and criminals, seeking to conceal their financial dealings.
Obi was exposed in the report as one of the personalities who clandestinely set up and operated businesses overseas, including in notorious tax and secrecy havens in ways that breached Nigerian laws.
Appearing on Arise TV on Monday, monitored by POLITICS NIGERIA, he addressed the issue stating that the he breached no law and committed no crime. In his words;
"Trust company is a legitimate vehicle used everywhere globally for investment, savings and estate planning purposes. In my Particular case and that of my family, it was done on very valuable advice of our then bankers, Loyce TSB. This is what they did for all their international clients who operated at the time i lived in the UK. They will help you to see that the formulated trust company offshore and that is what we did."
"This company was never used to launder money before, during and after till date. It wasn't used for anything during my time in office. It was strictly a trust company for savings and family planning that was used to support our borrowings which we even invested in this country".
When asked by one of the Programme anchors if he had $500 million in offshore accounts. Obi replied;
"If you see more than 3% of that, in there, confiscate all my properties here and abroad".
He continued: "As a father, I save for my children, i save for my family and they Know".
"If you go there and find more than 3%, about 3% which is about $15 million, if i bequeath my children $500 million, i have cursed them. There is money you bequeath People, you curse them. You bequeath them what is manageable so that they can start their life. If you see anything more than $15 million there, confiscate what i have overseas and here".
The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu has stated that members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB are not as bad as terrorists or bandits in the North, POLITICS NIGERIA has learned.
Ikpeazu, while fielding questions during a recent interview with Vanguard, disclosed that the Federal Government should negotiate with the group. It can be recalled that the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu is currently in the custody of the Department of State Security, DSS after being re-arrested earlier this year.
He said; "We must engage with IPOB. Yes, we must find a way to talk about the issues at stake. These people are not as bad as the ones in the Northeast or northwest who go to schools and seize the whole population of teachers and students or invade the mosques and churches and kidnap all the worshippers and nobody can find them until ransom is paid."
"I believe that there is some ideological sense in what these people in the Southeast are saying. There is something to listen to even though it is criminal to take up arms against the state. There is a message they are trying to pass in the process. We need confidence building among ourselves rather than use words that we should not use even as leaders. Nigeria is sitting on a keg of gunpowder but the solution is not too difficult to find."
"I regard Nnamdi Kanu as my citizen but not as leader of IPoB because I am the governor. I am prepared to engage to resolve the issue."
"I care about his welfare and I care that he should be tried in a just and fair way. I am happy that they want to bring justice to bear by looking at the allegations against him and trying him fair and square but I would not want him to be treated as if he was a convict when he has not been convicted. Not until otherwise, he is still my citizen and as his father it behoves on us to care for him after all the prodigal son had a father."
Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Lagos State governor, has returned to Nigeria on Friday — after spending months overseas receiving treatment.
It was gathered that among those at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos to meet Tinubu was the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and a few APC stalwarts.
This development was confirmed by his media spokesman, Tunde Rahman.
"I can confirm to you that Asiwaju just landed in Nigeria. He just landed in the country", he told our correspondent.
The Nigerian Presidency has revealed that proscribed group, Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, is attempting to hold several states in the South-East 'hostage' with its Sit-at-home orders.
This was contained in statement signed by Presidential media, Garba Shehu on Wednesday evening.
Shehu disclosed that IPOB was a designated terrorist organisation with over 50,000 soldiers that kill security agents and civilians.
The statement read in part; "IPOB is a designated terrorist organisation. It has now publicly revealed a 50,000 strong paramilitary organisation."
"It regularly murders security services and innocent civilians, with a significant uptick of violent attacks this year. And it is currently attempting to hold Nigerian states hostage with orders to stay at home under threat of terror."
Ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan has denied joining the All Progressives Congress, APC.
On Wednesday, a report went viral on social media that the former president has indicated interest to join the ruling party and dump the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
The report fuelled rumours that the former leader may have plans of contesting for the Nation's top seat again in 2023. However, Confirmations by POLITICS NIGERIA reveal that this may be false.
This newspaper reached out to Jonathan's spokesperson, Ikechukwu Eze, and he described the report as 'Fake News'.
"The report is Fake News, if he defects it would be announced through the proper Channels."
He maintained that his boss has not moved or considered moving to the ruling party.
"This is a man that's very busy with other things", he said.
Nigeria's Former Minister of Finance and Current Director-General of the World Trade Organization, WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been featured on the cover of TIME Magazine.
Why is Engr. Ahmed Dikko, Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, (PHRC) coming under series of what appears to be trumped-up campaign of calumny against his personae?
But why would a man like Dikko who has express Presidential mandate to provide hands-on supervision and coordination of the ongoing comprehensive rehabilitation of Nigeria’s largest crude oil refining facility, Port Harcourt Refinery, be the subject of intense media driven umbrage?
The answer to these questions may be found in the not so new but recently renewed campaign of calumny by some Nigerians to smear the character and personality of individuals in the public space working hard to restore sanity to a society disfigured by a tendency towards provincialism, incompetence, graft and nepotism among many vices plaguing the Nigerian society today.
The idea behind what has come to be described as the Pull Him Down(PHD) syndrome is to target an individual, most of the time a leading light in his field, either in the private sector or government, who is engaged in a sensitive and productive activity on behalf of a group or the society at large, trump up allegations against that individual with a view to discrediting him in the eyes of the public and subsequently render him unworthy to continue to carry out that assignment that attracted the envy and ire of his traducers who most of the time operate facelessly by sponsoring dirty campaigns against him in the media, cyberspace and other platforms.
In the last few months in this country, a number of high profile figures in the cabinet of the President Muhammadu, the Nigerian military, and the Organized Private Sector, have been at the receiving end of this nauseating PHD activity.
Engr. Dikko and his boss, Mallam Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of the NNPC, are merely the latest victim in this never ending malfeasance intended to freeze Nigeria in a state of backwardness. That Nigeria has moved significantly away from the enervating 'business as usual' mentality since the administration of Muhammadu Buhari assumed the reins of leadership of this country, is a fact acknowledged globally.
The hemorrhaging of the national economy by buccaneers in power in the years before the coming of the Buhari administration, has stanched by sound fiscal and monetary policies instituted by the Buhari government. More importantly, the NNPC, which before May 2015, was akin to a courtesan ravaged by all manner of lascivious men, has become a chaste, prim and proper damsel keeping the randy men at bay.
Today, the NNPC once reviled as a cash cow milked by officials of governments of the past for personal reasons, and described as opaque on account of the secrecy that surrounded its operations, is today one of the most efficiently run corporations in the world with strong ethical commitment to sound corporate governance. From the time of Dr. Maikanti Baru, the late former Group Managing Director(GMD) to its present helmsman, Malam Mele Kyari, the NNPC has become irrevocably endured to excellence and sound business management.
The ongoing rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery is one of the key planks of this policy.
Given the significance and magnitude of the task, only a thoroughbred, a professional knowledgeable not only in the technical aspects of the job but one also nuanced in the matter of administration and coordination, would effectively deliver on the assignment particularly as President Buhari has set the rehabilitation of the refinery, Nigeria's largest till date, as one of the priorities of his administration.
It was thus not surprising that the NNPC would turn to Dikko, a man who had in the decades he has worked with the corporation beginning from his first stint at Kaduna Refining and Petrochemicals Company limited, where he worked in the Operations and Engineering & Technical Services Departments, he has traversed units and departments within the NNPC until finally rising to the position of Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC) in March 2020. He was charged with key task of delivering the Rehabilitation Project of the Refinery and bring its facilities to optimal production capacity and sustainable operations. Phase 1 of the Rehab Project which is the integrity study and inspection has been completed. The Project is in the second Phase with the signing of the EPC contract for the rehabilitation with Maire Tecnimont SpA and the subsequent Technical kick off meeting in May, 2021.
Dikko, A fellow of the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers, FNSCh.E, with extensive knowledge in Project Management, Process Engineering and Plant Operations is bringing his knowledge and experience to bear in his new assignment as he had during his time at the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas where between 2006 and 2020 he was part of the success story of Train 6 and Train 7 Projects.
It was inevitable as has become customary in this clime that an individual like Dikko, who in the course of his career in NNPC, has received commendations, recognitions, and awards. Notably amongst them are the GMDs commendation for roles as a pioneer engineer of the Nigerian Content Division which set the grounds for the establishment of the NCDMB. MD NLNG commendation for the successful commissioning of Train 6 and recently, GMDs commendation for roles in the achievement of the FID for Train 7 expansion Project of NLNG, nominated and voted as the ‘Most Innovative Public Servant of the Year’ at the Democracy Heroes Award 2021, would become the target of individuals who benefited from the rot within the system, which he has been mandated by both the leadership of the NNPC and President Buhari to transform.
The circulation of stories in the media and cyberspace regarding alleged but unsubstantiated malfeasance at the PHRC is an intrinsic attempt to stop Engr. Dikko in his tracks and scuttle whatever plan he has through his adroit and focus management of the PHRC, to uproot every grace of corruption, sloth, and backwardness in the company.
Nigerians are wise to their antics and are not buying the saddled eggs they are vending. Engr. Dikko and his team are engaged in a delicate national assignment and should not allow themselves to be distracted by faceless charlatans seeking to hark the NNPC and indeed, Nigeria as an entity, back to the dark days of reckless pillaging of national resources.
Odafe-Igho, a public affairs commentator sent in this piece from Abuja
Africa Capitalworks (“ACW”), a Sub-Saharan Africa-focused private equity company, announces a significant equity investment in Dorman Long Engineering Limited (“DLE”) of Nigeria.
DLE is an indigenous and market leading company, providing high value engineering services, fabrication, asset management and galvanising services to a range of high quality international and domestic customers.
DLE operates three manufacturing facilities in the Lagos area, one at its head office at Idi-Oro, the galvanising plant in Agege and the waterfront facility at Navy Dockyard. The company employs over 400 people.
DLE has successfully executed major engineering services works, including onshore flow stations and major structural fabrication and erection, amongst others, for almost all oil majors and energy services companies operating in Nigeria, including Shell, Mobil, Addax, Agip, NLNG, Chevron, Saipem, Daewoo, Dangote Group, Nigerian Navy, American Towers Company and JC Decaux. ACW’s investment will allow DLE to expand existing yards, acquire additional facilities and expand its service offering.
Nana Sao, Managing Partner of ACW, said: “We look forward to partnering with the DLE team to support its next phase of growth. DLE has built a strong reputation over 70 years of operating in Nigeria and its manufacturing facilities have internationally-recognised quality and product certifications. We are thrilled to support DLE’s accomplished management team in this dynamic sector.”
“This investment marks the start of a new journey for Dorman Long, and I am delighted in the vote of confidence executed by our partner, ACW.” said Dr. Timi Austen-Peters, DLE Chairman.
“The hard work, focus and dedication of our team during this process further showcases the depth of our capacity and our resilience to overcome economic challenges, including cyclical oil prices, the CoVID-19 pandemic and the business environment in Nigeria. We have partnered with ACW on the basis of its complementary skillset, strategic insights and differentiated value proposition as a permanent capital vehicle. We look forward to accelerating the implementation of our growth plans and expanding our rich range of capabilities and geographical presence.”
About Africa Capitalworks
Africa Capitalworks is part of the Capitalworks Group, which is a leading independent alternative asset manager concentrating in emerging markets. Capitalworks manages over US$1 billion for a diverse range of investors, including high quality international institutional investors, commercial banks, insurance companies, pension funds, family offices and high net worth individuals. Capitalworks' philosophy is centered on building exceptional businesses through partnering with leading entrepreneurs and management teams. ACW is a permanent capital vehicle focused on the mid-market in Sub-Saharan Africa, excluding South Africa, and combines the deployment of patient capital with a strong partnership approach.
About Dorman Long
Dorman Long Engineering Limited, established in Nigeria in 1949, is a leading indigenous oilfields equipment, structural steel, marine structures engineering and fabrication company. The company focuses on oil and gas (onshore and offshore), telecommunications, manufacturing, and power industries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Dorman Long Engineering has been and continues to be a major contributor to Nigeria’s industrial and infrastructure development.
9mobile has said one of its directors, Abdulrahman Ado, is not on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) terror list.
Daily Trust had reported that six Nigerians were on a 38-man list released by the UAE authorities.
Among the names on the list is Abdurrahaman Ado Musa.
This had fuelled speculations that 9mobile director is among the six Nigerians on the list.
But in statement signed by its management on Tuesday, 9mobile said its director Abdulrahman Ado is not the same as Abdurrahman Ado Musa who is on the list.
“The Management of 9mobile wishes to inform the general public that its Executive Director of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs, Abdulrahman Ado, is not the same as ‘Abdurrahman’ Ado ‘Musa’ purportedly designated along with others by the United Arab Emirates as terror financiers.”
“We, however, wish to clarify that the so-named individual is not 9mobile’s Executive Director, Regulatory & Corporate Affairs, Abdulrahman Ado. The resemblance in names is purely coincidental, and our Director does not bear ‘Musa’’’, the telecom company said.
The company said its director, Abdulrahman Ado, is a respectable law-abiding Nigerian who had served the country diligently in public service for over three decades before transferring his services to the private sector.
He served in various capacities and was Pioneer Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and Executive Commissioner, Licensing and Consumer Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission, 9mobile added.
“As a law-abiding company that believes in the greatness of Nigeria, and the well-being of all its citizens, 9mobile would never accommodate any undesirable element within its management and staff’’, the company added.
A protest against the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB was held today at the National Assembly in Abuja.
A group of men and women carrying placards with inscriptions against the Proscribed pro-secession group were seen in front of the assembly complex on Tuesday afternoon.
POLITICS NIGERIA gathered that the protest was organized by one Chukwuka Ofoegbu popularly known as 'ijelespeaks'.
Some of the protesters were seen carrying placards that read; "Say No to IPOB and their Terrorism", "How is burning WAEC Examination materials going to give you Biafra?" etc.
The protesters also attacked Abia Senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe over his reported support for the group and its leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Photos below;
A daredevil ex-convict has been arrested for stealing a vehicle belonging to the Office of the Secretary to the Katsina State Government.
It was gathered that 33 year old Bashir Hayatu was nabbed after detectives traced to the vehicle to him shortly after it was stolen.
The spokesman of the Command, Gambo Isah, while parading the criminal before journalists, disclosed that this is the 3rd time Hayatu is being paraded for a crime of this nature. He revealed that the vehicle was recovered within 40 minutes after it was stolen.
The vehicle was said to have been reported missing on August 27, at about 2pm, and recovered the same day at about 2:40 pm, barely an hour after the report. According to Isah, the suspected Bishir Hayatu, is a notorious thief, who specialises in breaking into unsuspecting public’s vehicles and stealing them.
The crook, alongside his gang members went to the Government Reserved Area, GRA, Mosque, broke into it and stole the Hilux van belonging to the office of the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, with registration number KT 76 B01.
Speaking to newsmen, Hayatu claimed that the did not steal the vehicle adding that it was a man from the Niger Republic, Sani Danmaradi, that gave him a call to come to Dayi Village, where the vehicle he was driving in, had some mechanical fault and contracted him as an expert to fix.
Hayatu said it was during the process of the repairs, that the police arrested him.
Northern Nigeria's apex youth platform, Coalition of Arewa Youth Organizations, has distanced itself from a publication made by a faceless group known as Arewa Youth Forum which had purported that the former Deputy Speaker of the Federation and former Governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, wanted the proposed visit of President Buhari to Imo State cancelled.
In a release made by the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Abdulmalik Umar Saleh, the group warned those behind the publication to desist from raising tension in the land, noting that Ihedioha who has risen to the position of the No 6 Citizen in the country and a state Chief Executive, should not be associated with making mockery of democracy.
Addressing Journalist in Kano, Comrade Saleh described the publication as treacherous, stressing that the Organizations that make up the coalition are not known for partisan politics. He said their core mandate is the development of the Arewa Nation, based on equity and fairness.
He said it was too petty to associate Arewa Youths with Imo politics, and stressed that those doing that do not mean well for the incumbent Governor of Imo State.
Recall that the a faceless group named Arewa Youth Forum had issued a note of warning to Ihedioha, alleging that He should be held responsible should anything happen to Buhari during his proposed visit to Owerri.
When contacted, a stakeholder in Imo State who pleaded for anonymity said that Ihedioha is a peaceful man. "Who didn’t see how he was removed and despite everything he was never provoked to violence. He carried out his protests peacefully and since then has remained on his own. The problem is that those at the helm of affairs in Imo are unpopular. So they are looking for who to blame,” he disclosed.
President Buhari has landed in Owerri, Imo state, POLITICS NIGERIA has learned.
The Presidential jet landed at about 09:30 a.m. He is set to meet with Igbo leaders and commission several projects in the state.
The President's visit to the state generated some controversy as members of the Proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB vowed to sabotage the visit.
However, the Nigerian police force vowed to crush people who want to cause trouble during and after the President’s visit.
The Police issued the warning after IPOB ordered a sit-at-home exercise in the state and four other southeastern states in apparent disapproval of Buhari’s visit. The pro-Biafra group’s Director of State, Chika Edoziem, announced the protest in a Radio Biafra Broadcast. He said, “Buhari is not welcome to Imo on Thursday, September 9, 2021.”
Several supporters were seen at the airport jubilating over the President's visit.
Islamic Cleric, Shiekh Ahmad Gumi has given some insight into why the Bandit/Killer Herdsmen crisis rocking the nation still persists.
Gumi, in a statement on Monday, seen by POLITICS NIGERIA disclosed that the Nigerian Presidency and the military were not 'on the same page' when it comes to handling insecurity in the country.
He wrote: "I have met many of the bandit leaders to see a way out of this gridlock. I have talked to the political class and security agents. Except for an exception, most state governors want a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The Police and other security outfits have also realised the enormity of the problem."
"But, unfortunately, the presidency for what appears to be political gullibility and the military for budgetary reasons as they are the most beneficiary of conflicts of this nature doesn’t seem to be on the same page. This conflict can be resolved by active engagement of the government with the agitators."
"Just as we saw how ENDSAR agitation was swiftly managed after an initial scandalous failed military confrontation, was peacefully resolved by the government, likewise, the herdsmen crisis can be."
Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has declared that bandits currently troubling the northern part of Nigeria “are going nowhere”.
According to Gumi in a post on his known Facebook page on Monday morning titled’ ‘Zamfara: The Flaring Of Crisis’, military action against criminal herdsmen and bandits will not solve the security challenge, but “will only worsen the situation”.
The controversial Islamic preacher was reacting to the recent perceived military success over bandits at Zamfara forests.
Meaning: “ … Every time they kindle the fire of war, Allah doth extinguish it; but they (ever) strive to do mischief on earth. And Allah loveth not those who do mischief.”
"Zamfara state is unique in many aspects. In early 2000 AD the state ignited a wildfire of states constitutional amendments that accommodated the application of sharia law beyond personal law (i.e. marriages, divorce, and inheritance) to include the Islamic criminal law. It was well received by the local populace with eleven other northern states adopting it. However, it goes without saying, that the international community ruled by leaders that are promoting sodomy and lesbianism in the garment of secularism were at the forefront of fighting it. In a short time, it became political and fizzled away."
"If such shariah implementation move had concentrated in literacy and economic empowerment the kind of which we see in Saudi Arabia, with its rich resources, Zamfara would have become a shining example of the blend of a religiously modern state proud of its development and modesty. Unfortunately, it turned out to became the den of criminality and instability in the region."
"From the blues, in 2009 cattle rustling became rampant. Most of the cattle rustled were headed to the south in trailers where they are sold and slaughtered. This massive movement of rustled cattle greatly reduced their population. Most of the rustling first affected the rural herdsmen and it became more elaborate in the north-western region."
"Herdsmen were left with only one of three options. To join the rustlers or pay tribute to rustlers for protection or lose their cattle. In 2014, the military ‘intervention’ in the Birnin-Gwari Forest to fight cattle rustling changed the headsmen into a resistance movement as many innocent Fulani Ruga settlements were murdered, men, women, and children in hundreds."
"By 2015, banditry has replaced cattle raring that is becoming nearly impossible. Drugs were introduced into the herdsmen that are known to be illiterates or semi-illiterates. The reaction of the town local vigilantes (a natural reaction to any communal aggression in self-defence) pitched the herdsman against the local rural helmets, villages, and adjacent towns to the forests as they are lynched and maimed when whenever they enter markets. Therefore, everybody became an enemy and a target. Fulanis and other tribes, Muslims and non-Muslims were equally kidnapped for a ransom most of which goes to buying weapons."
"Profiling of Fulani herdsmen became another motivative factor of more resistance and more kidnappings which has now led to their metamorphosis into the monster the nation is facing today."
"We should also know that because of their educational status and lack of an effective unified leadership they have faced untold hardship at the hands of authorities where they were extorted and stereotyped. It has been imprinted in the psyche of nomadic pastoralists that the authorities and their town dwellers are ‘evil people’ that should be resisted because they have no place to secure justice for their cases no matter how innocent they may be."
"With their acquisition of weapons, they realized how easy it became to be masters of their abode the forest, where no authority can venture into. This has emboldened them to further attack people for more ransoms to sustain their newfound reality."
"Now with the prodding of the government to take more military actions of an already ugly situation whereby they were left to amass weapons, a huge military budget that is almost draining the economy to a standstill in the purchase of fighter aircrafts and conducting military operations in the region has become to the authorities in their calculations a necessity."
"Unfortunately, this is no solution or wisdom. When you don’t have the monopoly of the instruments of violence, then dialogue has the monopoly of resolving the conflict. This is what the UN is all about. i.e., Roundtable resolution of conflicts. What we are seeing is more than just criminals and criminality, yes it may have started as such but like any conflict, it is dynamic."
"The danger we face now is ideological demagogues changing the narrative. They are trying hard to infiltrate the herdsmen. And we know their objectives. They want to destroy all modern governments by fighting the military and now in the recent cajoling of local populations, they have tormented before to join them in the struggle."
"Let us face the reality, these herdsmen are going nowhere, and they are already in battle gear, and we know our Military very well, so before things get messy, we need cold brains to handle this delicate situation. Its common sense that if you allow your neighbors to be your enemy you are already conquered. Because they can easily be used against you by other forces as we see now the herdsmen are ultimately used to destabilize the region, pauperize and even depopulate it."
"Military actions in the past have worsen the situation stimulating herdsmen resistance. Any more action will push them closer to religious fanaticism. It gives them protection from discrediting them as thieves and also reinforce their mobilization of gullible young unemployed youth as we saw with BH."
"I have met many of the bandit leaders to see a way out of this gridlock. I have talked to the political class and security agents. Except for an exception, most state governors want a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The Police and other security outfits have also realized the enormity of the problem. But, unfortunately, the presidency for what appears to be political gullibility and the military for budgetary reasons as they are the most beneficiary of conflicts of this nature doesn’t seem to be on the same page."
"This conflict can be resolved by active engagement of the government with the agitators. Just as we saw how ENDSAR agitation was swiftly managed after an initial scandalous failed military confrontation, was peacefully resolved by the government, likewise, the herdsmen crisis can be."
"Just as we had the Niger delta conflict resolved with an amnesty which comes with reconciliation, reparation, and rehabilitation packages, so will the herdsmen crisis be resolved. In fact, there is a need for a Marshal plan to educate the nomadic pastoralist so that no citizen is left behind."
"These measures I enumerated are cheaper, easier, and lasting than the kinetic approach which is now taking place. No military especially of a poor economy can win guerrilla warfare. The recent victory of the Taliban in Afghanistan is a factual warning for those that contemplate."
"Lastly, I pay tribute to my late relative, Private Sanusi Salisu Gumi, who lost his life with 10 other colleagues in an ambush by Bandits in Zamfara forest in November 2019. We learned about his death when an acquaintance recognized his body in the Gusau mortuary. Rahmatullah Alaihi and all those who died defending us. Amin."
Abimbola, I have read your piece, titled, WHAT DOES THE DSS REALLY REALLY DO?, published on the back page of 2nd September, 2021 edition of the Punch Newspaper. By my nature, I do not like joining issues and I know the Department of State Services that I represent and speak for does not like same. The reason is not farfetched. For me, I believe that people who have made up their minds about certain issues will hardly see the other side of the matter even in the face of glaring facts. While you may hold tenaciously to your opinions as duly expressed in the said article, I will educate you and many others who do not understand or appreciate what the DSS does. This is because I know, for sure, what it does. I also know what it wants. The DSS, by nature, is not flippant, loquacious or quarrelsome. It works by the rules. Its mandate is clearly spelt out and in case you do not know, you are kindly referred to the 1999 Constitution - Section 315(5); National Security Agencies (NSA) Act 1986 Cap. 74 and the SSS Instrument No.1 of 1999 as set out in Section 2 (3).
The Service is primarily charged with the detection and prevention, within Nigeria, of any crime against the internal security of the country. It is also saddled with the role of protection and preservation of all non-military classified matters and such other responsibilities affecting internal security or as may be directed by appropriate authorities. The aforementioned laws and extant relevant statutes clearly spell out the other functions of the Service to include investigations of threats to National Security (i.e. Espionage, Subversion, Sabotage, Economic Crimes of National Security dimension, Terrorism, Separatist Agitations and Inter-Group Conflicts, Threats to Law and Order); security vetting and background checks of prospective public officials and the provision of timely advice to Government on all matters of National Security. In which of these has the Service failed? None. I know you have many plans for yourself but I am certain you may not have succeeded with all of them. Yet, you have not stopped making efforts. Therefore, no government or its agency has claimed to possess the power to solve all of its problems. It is a steady work. Work in progress.
I hope you are getting the point Aunty Abimbola. Are you with me? Note please that the DSS has not failed in its duty. And whether it has failed or not is left to your judgment, part of which you have explicitly poured out in your article. The Service disagrees with your judgment and some of the issues you have raised. Put in historical perspective and context, the SSS has not failed in the discharge of its duty and the fact that it does not sing its feats does not translate to inefficiency or failure. Like any Intelligence organisation, it is an unsung hero. Its personnel, who daily face daunting challenges, are same. Not many know what intelligence failure or success is. But what do you do in an environment everyone has become a public affairs analyst or commentator.
All around the world, Intelligence agencies, the DSS inclusive, are known for being discreet and working behind the scenes to achieve their objectives. The advent of democracy and sustenance of same as ideal political system has called for more openness in their operations. This has undoubtedly put the organisations under pressure for accountability and transparency. It is therefore on the basis of intelligence governance that the Service considered this piece. As a responsible organisation, the Service deems it necessary to use this opportunity to address the public for the sake of those who lack the simple knowledge of understanding its affairs. Democracy at work! Isn’t it? As guardians of democracy and indeed the State, the Service owes citizens explanations at intervals. It is unfortunate that when the Service does not voice its successes, people like you accuse it of being introverted, uninspiring and antagonistic. I put it to you that the issues you have raised in your article are not factual. You only succeeded in joining those who consistently serve the public with falsehood which they make to look like the truth. The DSS’ quietness in the face of aggression, abuse and attack should not be taken for docility, fear or surrender. Not at all. It is its avowed respect for dissent.
The seemingly sustained false narrative about the DSS dispersing doctors attending a Saudi organised recruitment anywhere in Abuja or Nigeria, despite a disclaimer by the agency, shows a mischievous intent to ridicule the Service. On your claim that "nobody in Nigeria associates the DSS with intelligence-gathering, stealthy and efficient operations” is not true. Many celebrate the DSS. The Service has remained dedicated to its constitutional role of gathering and disseminating actionable intelligence to relevant consumers. You may be a powerful woman of the pen. You may not be well schooled in intelligence. Besides, you are not an intelligence consumer and do not know the quality of what is passed to relevant stakeholders. Intelligence sharing is guided by the basic principle of Need-To-Know. The operational successes of the Service daily make a difference in our country. But how will you know? The accusation of the Service and its sister agencies not doing well does not always add up. Assuming they were not performing, you and your likes will not possibly have the conducive environment to conjure serial propaganda against it(them).
I am surprised at your doublespeak. You don’t like social media regulation, you do not like surveillance. You do not like deployment of technology in security administration. You and those you represent claim these erode privacy, right of expression and association. Ironically, you are recommending them. Why nah! Because they suit your narrative, abi?
Without publicizing its mode of operations, the DSS has continued to provide intelligence to counter threats of various dimensions. The deliberate exclusion of reports of successes by the Service exposes your bias and unfairness to the agency that thanklessly toils to protect you and fatherland. Abeg give us some accolades, arabinrin Abimbola. Wetin be ya interest sef?
It is actually not in question what the DSS does. Ok now let’s go there. Ready? The DSS catches subversive elements, saboteurs, espionage agents, terrorists and insurgents. And it has caught and legally dealt with many. The Service ensures separatist agitators do not cause a breakdown of law and order or dismantle a country like Nigeria whose constitution provides that its unity is indivisible and indissoluble. Mind you, the Service guards the State as it also protects citizens. The Service forms alliances and partnerships with patriotic citizens and groups for common good. In doing these, the Service respects rights of suspects and indeed those of citizens. It obeys court orders and observes constitutional provisions. It collaborates with willing stakeholders to ensure lasting peace in the country. The DSS is loyal to Nigeria and her cause. Are you still in doubt about what the DSS does? Do not be, please.
Aside telling you what the DSS does, let me also tell you what it wants. It wants a peaceful and united Nigeria where everyone can pursue their legitimate businesses. It wants a country without banditry, kidnapping, corruption, political and electoral violence, militancy, armed robbery, ethno-religious conflicts, fake news etc. The DSS desires a country in which the media sees itself as a critical stakeholder in Nation building; a country where journalists will preach peace, tolerance, unity and not push for parochialism, division, violence and disrespect for constituted authorities.
Undoubtedly, sections of the Media, of late, is becoming awash with disparaging articles and commentaries, seeking to either cast aspersions on the DSS or undermine its constitutional roles. Recently, some canvassed for its dissolution and extermination. A few commentators have argued that it has no legal foundation to exist. Many are even engaged in the petty argument about what its real name is – SSS or DSS? No research. Only blind attacks. Other subversive groups also deploy yellow journalism, hacktivism, propaganda, imagined constitutional gaps and other forms of falsehood and subterfuge against the Service to rise to self acclaimed fame or advance pecuniary interests. Another trend is how sections of the media have become biased and willing tools for perpetrating sinister agenda as well as visibly displaying unprofessional journalism for the singular purpose of pulling the country down. These campaigns of calumny to deliberately malign, subvert or weaken the DSS are unnecessary. Publishing the image-sullying piece just days after it intimated the public of sponsored attacks against it is not coincidental. It has validated the agency’s forewarning.
Despite these smear campaigns, the DSS refuses to be distracted by the attempts to damage its reputation, distract it from its core mandate or demoralise its gallant personnel. While reiterating the Service’ commitment to discharging its duties in line with global best practices in line with rule of law and democratic accountability, it enjoins beloved Abimbola and the media to play their parts in preserving the National Security of Nigeria.
Hello! Abimbola, are you still there. Support the DSS. Support SSS. Support Security Agencies in Nigeria. We all deserve the Support, ejoo.
Dr. Peter Afunanya(Phd.) is the Public Relations Officer for the Department of State Services(DSS).
Nigeria's leading financial institution, Zenith Bank Plc, has introduced an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered Chatbot on WhatsApp named ZIVA (Zenith Intelligent Virtual Assistant), which enables customers to perform financial transactions and enjoy real-time customer service from their mobile phones.
Customers can enrol by simply adding the bank's verified WhatsApp mobile number 07040004422 on their mobile devices, agree to the legal terms of use and then initiate a conversation. This product provides the convenience for the bank’s customers to interact and transact on a 24 hours basis on the encrypted WhatsApp platform.
With this capability to respond to chats/queries anchored on the existing WhatsApp platform, customers will be able to open new accounts, receive instant transaction notifications, check their balances on the go, transfer funds and top up airtime. They will also be able to confirm cheques, pay bills, apply for loans, block their accounts, and request mini statements, amongst other banking services.
Commenting on the new banking solution, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu said: "The launch of ZIVA is driven by the need for additional secured channels of communication with our customers as we deepen our retail penetration".
Speaking further on the WhatsApp chatbot, Onyeagwu noted that "since the behavioural pattern of the modern customer dictates that they want to engage with brands over the channel of their choice, it was really important for us as a leading financial services institution and a pioneer of several technological innovations in the financial services industry to implement this solution in order to continue to create value for our teeming customers who incidentally were already using WhatsApp as a primary channel of communication".
Zenith Bank has continued to distinguish itself in the Nigerian financial services industry through superior service offerings, unique customer experience and sound financial indices. The bank has remained a clear leader in the digital space with several firsts in the deployment of innovative products, solutions and an assortment of alternative channels that ensure convenience, speed and safety of transactions.
The bank's commitment to world-class service standards has led to several product innovations, including the "Zenith Timeless Account", which allows Nigerians aged 60 years and above bank for free, the "Zenith Save4me", a high-interest target savings account and the deployment of contactless payments and QR on ATM points, amongst others.
Zenith Bank places a premium on its core business strategy anchored on People, Technology and Service, to create value for its numerous clientele. With a team of dedicated professionals, the bank leverages its robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure to provide cutting-edge solutions and products through its network of branches and electronic/digital channels.
In recognition of its track record of excellent performance and commitment to best-in-class service, Zenith Bank was voted as Best Commercial Bank in Nigeria in the World Finance Banking Awards 2021, Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker's Bank of the Year Awards 2020, Best Bank in Nigeria in the Global Finance World's Best Banks Awards 2020 and 2021, and Best in Corporate Governance 'Financial Services' Africa 2020 and 2021 by the Ethical Boardroom. Also, the bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021, and Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital in the "2021 Top 1000 World Banks" Ranking by The Banker Magazine. The bank was also recognised as Bank of the Decade (People's Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Retail Bank of the year at the 2020 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Awards, and Best Company in Promotion of Good Health and Well-Being as well as Best Company in Promotion of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the Sustainability, Enterprise and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2020.
The fear of ethnic domination is as old as Nigeria. Mutual recriminations and suspicion have been the scourge of Nigeria’s cohesive development. The south-east says it is the north, and the north points the finger back; the south-west looks on its neighbour in the south with chariness, while the south-south is in perpetual trepidation of the south-east. A bartering of blames, mistrust and distrust.
Before Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960, the country’s forbears were united in their resolve to give the British the heave-ho. They were called ‘’nationalists’’ because their cause, as it were, was for the emancipation of the indigenous peoples inhabiting the Niger terra firma. They fought well.
But these leaders retreated into ethnic igloos as soon as the British handed over the reins to them. Ethnic interest now supplanted national interest. The struggle for the collective now gave way for sectional scheming and machinations.
In fact, to put it clearly, while the pre-independence struggle was against British colonialism, Nigeria’s independence agitators had ethnic interest secreted in their national agitation. As far back as 1949 -- 11 years before independence -- Nnamdi Azikiwe said in his speech of June 25, 1949, at the Igbo State Assembly, Aba, that the pursuit of the Igbo was self-determination within a federated commonwealth of Nigeria.
Azikiwe’s words: ‘’The Ibo people have reached a cross-road and it is for us to decide which is the right course to follow. We are confronted with routes leading to diverse goals, but as I see it, there is only one road that I can safely recommend for us to tread, and it is the road to self-determination for the Ibo within the framework of a federated commonwealth of Nigeria and the Cameroons, leading to a United States of Africa. Other roads, in my opinion, are calculated to lead us astray from the path of national self-realisation.’’
The fear of ethnic domination is a foundational Nigerian problem. In an interview in 1964, Ahmadu Bello, the first and only premier of northern Nigeria, vocalised his reservations about the Igbo.
He said: "Well, the Igbo are more or less the type of people whose desire is mainly to dominate everybody. If you put them in a labour camp as a labourer, they will try to emerge as headman of that camp and so on."
As a matter of fact, it was as a result of the fear of ethnic domination and mistrust, that Zik’s National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons went into an alliance with Bello’s Northern Peoples Congress against Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group in 1959. According to Zik, Awolowo’s party must be stopped from taking power at the centre because ‘’it would destroy political opposition’’.
Awolowo as well nursed these fears which he expressed in his public statements. It was the reason he utterly ensconced his political party in an ethnic understructure.
The fear of ethnic domination is as old as Nigeria. But how potent are these fears?
Ethnic rivalry can be beneficial if it is healthy – if it can spur competition on the basis of innovation, education and production. In fact, rivalry is a natural human phenomenon. Even at the cellular level of society there is rivalry – in families, workplaces and groups. It is only natural. But what is uncomely is rivalry for national spoils which the political elite foisted on the country. This type of rivalry engenders hate, fear, suspicion and distrust.
Nigeria is nearly 61 years old, but the fear of ethnic domination is still a kindler of conspiracy theories. But how potent are these fears? Can the Igbo say with absolute certainty they have been hegemonised? Discount the noise of marginalisation. Can the Yoruba, the Hausa, the Ijaw or any Nigerian group hold up such a claim with unimpeachable facts? I do not think so. No group is under the hegemony of another. The fears of ethnic domination lack potency even though pervasive.
The quotidian refrain in Nigeria under Goodluck Jonathan was that there was an ‘’Ijaw agenda’’ -- that the former president had a grand scheme of empowering militants to put the country in Ijaw control. Conspiracy theories were invented out of the insecurity at that time. The Jonathan government was accused of sponsoring Boko Haram and the fable of a special killing squad set up by the government rippled. Time has proved these conspiracy theories to be vacant of verisimilitude.
And in Nigeria under President Buhari, what has changed? The same conspiracy theories -- but of northern domination and terror sponsorship – have been manufactured and propagandised. It appears with every new administration, conspiracy theories steeped in ethnic and religious prejudices are woven around the president – based on his/her ethnic origin and religious background.
Nigerians must realise we are all victims of elite domination. There is no other domination – be it ethnic or religious. The only domination to fear is that of the elite who foist a rivalry over national spoils on the people.
Justice Lateefat Okunnu of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, has ordered the freezing of the assets and funds to the tune of N19,178,253,050 belonging to a convicted former Managing Director of the defunct Bank PHB Plc, Francis Atuche.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the Judge gave the order on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, following an ex parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on August 17, 2021. The funds, investigation showed, were domiciled in 24 different banks in Nigeria, including Citi Bank Limited; Ecobank Nigeria Limited; First Bank of Nigeria Plc; First City Monument Bank (FCMB); Globus Bank Limited; Fidelity Bank Plc; Keystone Bank Limited; Lotus Bank Limited and Mainstreet Bank Plc.
Others are: Polaris Bank Plc; Platinum Mortgage Bank Limited; Providus Bank Limited; Stanbic IBTC Nigeria Limited; Standard Chartered Bank; Sterling Bank Plc; Wema Bank Plc; Zenith Bank Plc; Unity Bank Plc; Titan Trust Bank Limited, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc and others.
Moving the application, counsel to the EFCC, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, told the court that 15 persons as well as 22 firms were used by Atuche and his co-respondent, Ugo Anyanwu, a former Chief Financial Officer of the bank, to launder the funds.
Pinheiro listed the individuals to include Anthony Atuche, Emeka Patrick Atuche, Paul Okobi, Felix Oyiana, Moruf Kazeem Adisa, Olatunji Abiodun, Daniel Enebeli, Aina Olugbenga, Augustine Nwabueze, Omonua Benedict, Oliver King Nduaaron, Dr. Chris Ike Ogbechie, Mr. Murat Bektaslar, Attah Omataikpo Olukemi and Thomas Etuh.
The EFCC counsel further stated that the firms, in which Atuche has either direct or indirect interest are: Aqua Harvest Limited, Hubmart Stores Limited, Hubmart Limited, Sapphire Capital Management Limited, Homeland Real Estate Company Limited, Malechi Foods Limited, Homeland Meridian Partners Limited, Promise Investment Limited and Temple Cottage Hotel Limited.
Others are: Wegas Properties Project Limited, Buckhead Construction Limited, Claremount Management Services Limited, Afco Associates Limited, Platinum Capital Limited, Ghazali Yakubu Investment Limited, The Financial (Services) Company Limited, Venture Resources Limited, Elizabeth-A Company Limited, Signature Partners Limited, Purplepay Technologies Limited, Oakwood Asset Management Limited and Conesto Nigeria Limited.
Justice Okunnu granted the 12 prayers of the applicant and held that “An order is made restraining the 1st defendant (Atuche) whether by himself, or acting through the persons or entities listed or such other persons including but not limited to his family members or agents, from removing, alienating, disposing of, dealing with or diminishing the value of assets, proceeds of economic and financial crimes or otherwise in the name of the 1st defendant.”
The Judge also held that “the assets or funds included those held indirectly by or for Atuche’s benefit, whether solely or jointly held, that are located in Nigeria or worldwide.”
Justice Okunnu further ordered the freezing of any bank account being run and operated by Atuche “personally or jointly, whether in his personal name or otherwise or with the Bank Verification Number (BVN) 22295357230 in any of the respondent banks to the tune of N19, 178, 253, 050 billion, pursuant to the Restitution Order made by this Honourable Court on June 16, 2021.”
Atuche and his privies, including his lawyers, were also barred from presenting to the above listed banks “any mandate or instruction for the withdrawal of any money and/or funds standing to the credit of any of their accounts to the tune of N19, 178, 253. 050 billion.”
Justice Okunnu, who also restrained the banks from honouring any such instruction from Atuche and his privies, further held that “ A mandatory order of injunction is made directing the named respondent banks to file within 48 hours of service of this Order of this Honourable Court on them returns of the Statements of Account of the 1st Defendant (personally or jointly) whether in his personal name or otherwise or with the Bank Verification Number: 22295357230 and the accounts of persons and entities listed in the afore mentioned Schedules A and B maintained with them.
“A further order is made directing service of the Order made herein on persons affected thereby including, in particular, the persons and entities listed in Schedules A and B. by way of advertisement in either The Punch or Thisday or The Guardian newspaper.”
Justice Okunnu had, in June this year, sentenced Atuche to six years imprisonment and Anyanwu four years for stealing and conspiracy to steal to the tune of N25.7bn.
The judge, while sentencing the duo, had ordered them to make a restitution of the sum of N25.7bn to the Federal Government to replace the funds stolen from the public to bail out the bank.
Former Ogun state governor, Ibikunle Amosun was beaming with smiles after he met with the National leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
POLITICS NIGERIA gathered that the two politicians met in London recently where Tinubu is having a vacation.
Tinubu has been having several high powered meetings over the last few weeks in London with many speculating that it could be closely related to his rumoured 2023 presidential ambition.
The popular Lagos politician has meet with Rep James Faleke, President Muhammadu Buhari, Gov. Babajide Sanwoolu, Some members of the Lagos state house of assembly, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, Gov. Kayode Fayemi, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu amongst others.
The General Overseer of Living Faith Ministries, Bishop David Oyedepo has described the Muhammadu Buhari administration as ‘Bloodthirsty’.
The Popular clergyman made this comment during a recent sermon where he expressed anger at the killings carried out by Fulani Herdsmen.Speaking to his congregation, Oyedepo disclosed that he had a vision where he saw “this government coming in with a Bloodthirsty gut”.
He said: “Fulani herdsmen have become a menace. They are sponsored. I know it. There are things you think you know that God shows to prophets. The things they are calling findings now, I found it longest time. You don’t need intelligence antenna as a Prophet to find it.”
“I saw this government coming in with a bloodthirsty gut and I cried.”
“The worst time in the history of Nigeria is 2015 to now and it is getting worse day by day.”
The Nigerian Presidency has revealed that the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB has a stockpile of bombs and different weapons all over Nigeria.
This was announced via a statement on Wednesday evening signed by Presidential Media aide, Garba Shehu.
The statement, which was largely criticising Amnesty International for defending pro-secession groups in Nigeria, described IPOB as a ‘proscribed terrorist organization’ that kills police officers and burns down government property.
“IPOB murder Nigerian citizens. They kill police officers and military personnel and set government property on fire.”
“Now, they have amassed a substantial stockpile of weapons and bombs across the country. Were this group in a western country, you would not expect to hear Amnesty’s full-throated defence of their actions.”
“Instead, there would be silence or mealy-mouthed justification of western governments’ action to check the spread of “terrorism.”
The Nigerian Presidency has declared that Non-governmental organisation, Amnesty International has no legal right to exist in the country.
In a statement on Wednesday, signed by Garba Shehu, the presidency heavily criticized amnesty international over its ‘support’ for Pro-secession groups like IPOB.
The statement read; “Amnesty International’s latest salvo at Nigeria is but more of the same.”
“Again, they have decided to side with terrorists, before the liberty of those they injure, displace and murder.”
“Speaking the language of universal human rights, Amnesty International deploys it only in defence – even outright promotion – of those that violently oppose the Federal Government of Nigeria. Parroting the line of Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB, a proscribed terror organisation, they work to legitimise its cause to Western audiences. This puts them in bad company. Controversial American lobbyists are paid hundreds of thousands of dollars annually to do the same, laundering IPOB’s reputation in Washington DC.”
“IPOB murder Nigerian citizens. They kill police officers and military personnel and set government property on fire. Now, they have amassed a substantial stockpile of weapons and bombs across the country. Were this group in a western country, you would not expect to hear Amnesty’s full-throated defence of their actions. Instead, there would be silence or mealy-mouthed justification of western governments’ action to check the spread of “terrorism.”
“Despite Amnesty’s self-proclaimed mandate to impartially transcend borders, unfortunately in Nigeria they play only domestic politics. The international NGO is being used as cover for the organisation’s local leaders to pursue their self-interests. Regrettably, this is not uncommon in Africa. There is nothing wrong with an activist stance; there are claims of neutrality, when all facts point to the opposite.”
“Amnesty International has no legal right to exist in Nigeria. It must open a formal investigation into the personnel that occupy their Nigerian offices. They should reject the outrageously tendentious misinformation they receive and bring some semblance of due diligence to the sources they base their claims on. Currently, we see none.”
“The Nigerian government will fight terrorism with all the means at its disposal. We will ignore Amnesty’s rantings. Especially when it comes from an organisation that does not hold itself to the same standards it demands of others.”
In continuation of the school’s excellent performance, candidates of James Hope College (JHC) posted outstanding results in the recently released May/June 2021 Cambridge IGCSE Examinations.
The candidates recorded 82% A* – A Grades and 100% A* – C Grades in all registered subjects.
The impressive outing is sequel to the outstanding showing students of James Hope College put up at the Fourth Edition of the British Council recognition and outstanding Cambridge learners awards in the November 2019 Cambridge IGCSE, bagging: 2 awards in the Best in the World Category; 1 award in the Best across eight ( subjects’ Global Category; 3 awards in the High Achievement Category; and 8 awards in the Best in Nigeria Category
In his reaction to the latest feat, Founder/Chairman of James Hope College, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON congratulated the scholars and commended the management of the College.
The billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist noted that the College would continue in its tradition of offering “world class education that will enable our students achieve outstanding grades and compete favorably on a global scale.”
Indeed, James Hope College is making indelible marks in the academic landscape within and outside Nigeria.
Senator Bala Na'allah has reacted to the assassination of his son, Captain Abdulkarim Na'allah adding that the life of his son is not better than that of any Nigerian.
In a statement he issued on Monday, Na'allah disclosed that his son's attackers were not armed with Guns.
The statement reads in part; "They simply gained access to his house through the roof and strangulated him. As a family, we will continue to love him even in death because he was such a wonderful person in his life."
"His life is not better than any other Nigerian. As a family we leave everything in the hands of Almighty Allah to whom we have since surrendered in pursuit of the strength to bear the loss of Abdulkareem in our family and by the numerous calls, messages and visits we have received so far, we have every course to thank Almighty Allah for his love and mercy to the family,"
"We assure the public that though we feel greatly diminished in the manner he was killed, we shall remain steadfast in our unshakable belief in the will of Allah. We shall persevere and overcome this tragic loss of one of the finest Ambassadors of our family who has done us proud in his life."
"We express the hope that his death will play a major role in finding solutions to the problem facing our great Nation."
Senator Na’Allah represents Kebbi South in the Senate .
Senator Bala Na'Allah has reacted to the gruesome murder of his son, Abdulkareem, in his Kaduna home by yet-to-be-identified persons on Sunday, August 30.
In a statement released, the Senator while reacting to the sad incident , mentioned that from the reports he and other family members have gotten so far, his attackers were not armed and that they simply gained access to Abdulkareem's house through the roof and strangled him.
His statement reads
Let me on behalf of Na'Allah's family specifically confirm the death of Abdulkareem Na'Allah snr who was attacked and killed by yet to be identified persons.
From the reports received so far, his attackers were not Armed with guns.They simply gained access to his house through the roof and strangulated him to death.
As a family we will continue to love him even in death because he was such a wonderful person in his life.
His life is not better than any other Nigerian. As a family we leave everything in the hands of Almighty Allah to whom we have since surrendered in pursuit of the strength to bear the loss of Abdulkareem in our family and by the numerous calls, messages and visits we have received so far, we have every course to thank Almighty Allah for his love and mercy to the family.
We assure the public that though we fill greatly diminished in the manner he was killed, we shall remain steadfast in our unshakable believe in the will of Allah.
We shall persevere and overcome this tragic loss of one of the finest Ambassadors of our family who has done us proud in his life.
We express the hope that his death will play a major role in finding solutions to the problem facing our great Nation.
May Allah grant him Aljannah fiddous.
We thank the Nigerian Police and the Government of Kaduna State for their intervention so far.
The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Umahi, FNSE, FNATE inspects the ongoing Ebonyi State International Airport on Saturday.
The Project is currently witnessing massive construction across the length and width of the site. Several heavy types of equipment are on-site and operational as the Governor targets early 2022 for the completion of the project.
The Airport terminal building and the runway are said to be the largest in the country. The project control tower, parking space, hanger, gatehouse, taxiway, and other components of a world-class international airport are simultaneously, and speedily ongoing.
Social Critic and Lecturer, Farooq Kperogi has stated that 'Terrorists' have infilitrated Nigeria's seat of Power in Aso-rock.
Kperogi's comments are coming shortly after a daring attack on the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna by Dare-devil bandits.
In a recent article titled; "NDA attack and Yusuf Buhari’s lavish wedding", Kperogi disclosed that Aso-rock has since been 'breached' adding that it was only a matter of choice for the Terrorists to 'invade'.
The article read in Part; "People who say the next stop for the terrorists is to invade Aso Rock fail to realise that Aso Rock has already been breached, making its non-invasion by terrorists only a question of choice, perhaps because the chief occupant of the Villa isn’t distinguishable from them."
"Apart from Aisha Buhari’s claim that she’d relocated to the United Arab Emirates because of “insecurity” in the Presidential Villa, on May 10, the Peoples Gazette reported that “armed men” had “invaded” the Aso Rock residences of Ibrahim Gambari, Buhari’s Chief of Staff, and Abdullahi Maikano, an Aso Villa admin officer, and made away with “valuable assets.”
"The presidency all but confirmed the authenticity of the story (after one of its officials initially predictably called it “fake news”) but spiced it up with the mandatory official falsehood statements from the government must have by insisting that the breach was only a “foolish attempt” at burglary."
"In Nigeria’s more than 60 years of existence, there had never been any record of a “foolish attempt” at burglarising the residences of key government officials in the Presidential Villa."
"In my May 15, 2021 comments in the aftermath of this incident, I wrote: “If even the most fortified place in the country isn’t secure enough for Buhari’s wife to stay in—and his Chief of Staff is vulnerable to armed raids in it—where’s safe?"
“It’s worse when the person who should be most concerned about this isn’t even alive enough to know what’s happening around him, much less what’s happening in the country.”
"So, the invasion of the Nigerian Defense Academy is only an outgrowth of much worse security breaches in the very seat of power—and elsewhere. Even the characteristically restrained Sultan of Sokoto has said that abductions and murders of people are grossly underreported by the media. Most people know this, but it takes courage for a traditional ruler like the Sultan to voice it openly."
With the abysmal performance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in government, the expectation of the generality of Nigerians for an amelioration of the present situation hinges squarely on the prospects of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) taking power in 2023. But even before that, Nigerians are also full of expectations from the PDP to give the ruling APC a close mark in order to ensure that it gives good governance to the people.
Put differently, the burden of returning the country to the path of sanity shifts increasingly not just to the PDP as a corporate entity but indeed to the key dramatis personnae in its leadership architecture especially the governors, technocrats, business class. In other words, Nigerians, generally, look up to the current crop of visible leaders, to ensure that the party lives up to its bidding as an alternative to the APC. Within the governors, however, one fellow on whom this burden seems to have rested is the Chairman of their Forum, the Sokoto State Governor, His Excellency, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.
As Chairman of PDP Governors' Forum, Governor Tambuwal have all eyes on him, the reason being simply that, aside his track record of democratic exposures, leadership qualities, urbane disposition, he has galvanized his colleagues into actions that have put the party in a good stead to reverse the current trend of events in the country.
Since his emergence as the Chairman of PDP-GF, he has not only been instrumental to the stability of the group, he has provided a rare leadership that has seen it rise to occasions to navigate both the ship of their party and indeed that of State, by providing constructive alternatives and virile opposition to the APC led federal government.
Take for instance, his roles since his party, PDP, found itself in recent crisis, occasioned by certain powerful interests that want its National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus to step down as its Chairman. Governor Tambuwal quickly mobilized his colleagues to stand in the gap, as a trusted mediator and conscience of the party to ensure calm and peaceful resolution of a crisis that would have seen the party implode. What got the attention of watchers was not the fact that he was handy, but the extent at which he has been able to court various interests, stakeholders and organs of the party with confidence and sagacity. The Secretariat of the PDP-GF, headed by its Director General, Hon. CID Maduabum, deserves commendation in this regard.
Today, PDP Governors' Forum, has become a respected formidable bloc that speaks with one voice and driven by a common interest - Nigeria. This group has opened a new vista with its monthly meetings, rotated among member states. What this implies is that, ample time has been given to brainstorming and appraising interests of their respective states and importantly that of the corporate Nigeria entity.
That is not all. Governor Tambuwal’s influence transcends his party, the PDP. He is also Deputy Chairman of the Nigerian Governors' Forum, a position that puts him in a good stead to have a more wholistic view of issues concerning governance in the country. This expectation is heightened by both the governor’s personality and his trajectory as an elected political office holder. As a person, Governor Tambuwal has charisma and a level of comportment that is not quite common among Nigerian politicians.
As a politician, he is astute, courageous, focused and consistent. As an office holder, he is dexterous and honest. His four year stint as Speaker of the House of Representatives gave the National Assembly one of its most glorious era. Nigerians saw robust discourse, engagements and a House that was sensitive to their plight, yearnings and aspirations. As governor, his state, Sokoto, has witnessed tremendous development but interrogations about leadership performance in Nigeria have gone beyond the provincial level.
Where we are now, the question on the leap of every well meaning Nigerian is, who will mount the saddle of national political leadership of Nigeria after the incumbent president and against the backdrop of the several challenges that have put the nation on the precipe.
Of course, there are many angles to the debate but there is a convergence. This is that whether the next President will come from the Southeast, as is being advocated in some quarters, or the Southwest or, indeed from the Northern, Nigerians, must go for their next leader with their head, that is, beyond the emotions and sentiments that were hitherto at play when the incumbent was first elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2019.
Take two criteria. One, democratic credentials and the other, age. There is a general consensus of opinion within and outside Nigeria that one of the major reasons President Muhammadu Buhari has performed below expectations is that he is not a democrat. It is believe in many quarters that the main reason many political issues have remained unresolved since he emerged are traceable to the president’s unwillingness to abide by democratic norms. Then take the second. Not a few have expressed the view that President Buhari’s lackluster performance is also as a result of frailty of age. The president has had to switch off from governance, from time to time, to look after his health. Even when he is on sit, it is not a hidden matter that he does not exude the level of energy and gusto needed to govern a country like Nigeria.
For the PDP as the major opposition party, Nigerians and indeed the international community have 'shined their eyes', watching how it either grabs the opportunity that has divinely presented itself or fritters it on the altar of negative party politicking. Two events will define PDP's readiness to taking the reins of power - the party's National Convention slated for October 2021 to elect its national officers and then its Presidential Convention expected to hold sometime in October 2022 to elect its Presidential flagbearer.
Their is no controversy about the fact that Nigerians are waiting for the PDP, they are also mindful of who they repose their mandate.
Politics › Anambra: SE Opposition Governor, INEC Commissioner In $4 Million Bribery Mess by stephanie11(op): 7:36am On Oct 16, 2021
subjects’ Global Category; 3 awards in the High Achievement Category; and 8 awards in the Best in Nigeria Category
