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AIYEDATIWA SACKS ALL COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED BY AKEREDOLU

The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday, dissolved the State Executive Council, with immediate effect.

“All members of the Cabinet (who were appointed by late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu) are to immediately hand over to the Permanent Secretaries or the most senior administrative officers in their respective offices,” the governor’s spokesman, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said in a statement.

 

Aiyedatiwa also relieved all Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs) of their duties.

 

“All the affected officials are directed to hand over all government properties in their possession.

 

“The Governor thanks the affected officials for their services and contributions to the development of the State.”

Aiyedatiwa, formerly Ondo deputy governor, was sworn in as the substantive governor of the South-West state on December 27, 2023, following the death of Akeredolu.

 

The former deputy governor survived an impeachment plot by some Akeredolu’s allies in the Ondo State House of Assembly when the ex-governor was ill.

ONDO ASSEMBLY TO SCREEN AIYEDATIWA’S NOMINEE AS DEPUTY GOVERNOR THURSDAY

Olayide Owolabi Adelami, the nominee for the position of deputy governor of Ondo state, is scheduled to undergo screening before the Ondo State House of Assembly on Thursday.

The Speaker of the Ondo Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, announced this during Wednesday’s plenary after reading a letter from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Aiyedatiwa, has nominated a kinsman of late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Olayide Adelami, as his deputy governor.

Chief Adelami who hails from Owo, Owo local government area, retired as Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly l in April 2018.

Adelami was an APC governorship aspirant in 2020 but stepped down for the late Akeredolu.

He was first enlisted into the Federal Civil Service as an Accountant II in December 1983 and later posted to resume to the Treasury Department of the Accountant General of the Federation office.

NDLEA INTERCEPTS 1,274 PARCELS OF COCAINE, COLORADO IN LAGOS, 5.6M OPIOID PILLS IN KANO

Operatives of different special units of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have intercepted large consignments of Cocaine and Colorado, a strong strain of cannabis, concealed in containerized household items and vehicles imported from Durban, South Africa and Canada at the Tincan Seaport in Lagos.

Following coordinated intelligence and months of tracking of the containers by three special units of NDLEA, the illicit drugs along with arms, ammunition and sundry military effects were seized during joint examination of the three containers by the Agency’s officers and their counterparts from Customs Service and other security agencies between Thursday 18th and Friday 19th January 2024. Some of the Agency’s sniffer dogs were also deployed to help identify locations and bags used in concealing the illicit items.

Some of the items recovered from the containers include: 1, 274 parcels of Cocaine and Colorado with a total weight of 884.09 kilograms; four pistols; 197 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 49 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 275 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition and sundry military personnel effects as well as some chemicals in kegs. With the exception of 32.5kg shipment of Colorado that came in used vehicles from Canada, the rest of the items were found in two of three containers that arrived the Tincan port from Durban, South Africa onboard a vessel marked MSC RESILIENT III and discharged on New Year eve, 31st December 2023.  A suspect linked to one of the containers, UACU 5348336, bearing the 32.5kg Colorado, 41-year-old Akara Chibugo has already been tracked and arrested by NDLEA operatives.

Two vigilant freight agents and a traveler escaped being roped into two drug trafficking operations by desperate traffickers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos. The two agents were contacted to send a consignment of 1kg cannabis concealed in tins of Milo beverage to Turkey but chose to submit the shipment to NDLEA checks before processing the cargo. The psychoactive substance was later discovered to be hidden inside the shipment.

 

 

 

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives on Friday 19th January arrested one Okosun Paul Punitt, the consignee of a consignment of tramadol concealed in a bottle of dietary supplements, which a staff of Pathfinder International Ltd, Ajuzieogu Mac-Elvis Ugochukwu attempted sending through an intending passenger on Ibom Air to Accra, Ghana at the Lagos airport on Tuesday 16th January. A video of the face-off between the passenger and Ajuzieogu later went viral after the vigilant passenger suspected the consignment contained illicit substances. Both Ajuzieogu and the exhibit were later transferred to NDLEA on Thursday 18th January by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN for investigation. Preliminary findings by NDLEA showed the parcel contained 50 pills of tramadol 225mg concealed in a bottle of dietary supplements. A follow up operation by the Agency led to the arrest of Okosun upon his return from Ghana on Friday. He has in his statement confirmed ownership of the drug.

 

 

 

In Kano, no fewer than five million six hundred and fifty three thousand (5, 653,000) pills of tramadol 250mg and exol-5 were seized from three suspects. While Nura Abdullahi, 38, and Tahir Muhammad Mukhtar, 42, were arrested at Bacharawa area of Kano with 5, 404,000 pills of tramadol 250mg on Sunday 14th January, Yusuf Umar, 50, was nabbed at Gadar Tamburawa area of the state the previous day Saturday 13th January with 249,000 tablets of exol-5 by NDLEA operatives.

 

 

 

In Lagos, two suspects: Ali Abubakar and Murtala Sani were arrested at Ojodu Berger area on Tuesday 16th January with 110kg of cannabis sativa while 69kg of same substance was recovered from the hideout of a fleeing suspect in Akerele, Surulere same day. Not less than 2, 800 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup were recovered by NDLEA officers on Saturday 20th January during a raid operation at Aleyita FCT, Abuja. The suspected owner of the consignment, Jideofor Sochima is still at large.

 

 

 

While a total of 100, 510 pills of opioids were seized from a suspect, Ike Emmanuel, 35, on Thursday 18th January at Dan-Anacha village, Taraba state, NDLEA operatives in Abia state arrested 60-year-old Joseph Isiguzoro, as well as Emmanuel Eugene and Malachi Ndu in parts of Abia state with 34,200 pills of opioids. Isiguzoro was equally found with monetary exhibit totalling Two Million Eight Hundred and Eighty Five Thousand and Forty Five Naira (N2,885,045) only.

 

 

 

The War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, advocacy campaign of the Agency continued in equal measure in schools, markets, worship places and others across the country in the past week. Some of them include: WADA sensitization lecture at Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom; Federal Government College, Ijanikin, Lagos; Edusoko University, Bida, Niger state and WADA advocacy lecture at Community Secondary School, Bichi, Kano state, among others.

 

 

 

While commending the officers and men of Tincan, MMIA, Abia, Taraba, Lagos, Kano and FCT Commands as well as the special units of the Agency for the arrests and seizures of the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) urged them and their compatriots across all formations of the Agency to remain focused and resolute in pursuit of the corporate goal of winning the war against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. He further charged them to maintain the flame of collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders in their areas of responsibility.

 

 

 

Femi Babafemi

 

Director, Media & Advocacy

 

NDLEA Headquarters Abuja

 

Sunday 21st January 2024

OLUKOYEDE TASKS AUCTIONEERS ON PROBITY, FAIRNESS

Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede  has charged auctioneers in the country to be guided by probity, fairness and accountability in the disposal of assets and other engagements relevant to their profession.

 

He gave the charge on Monday, January 22, 2024 when the executives of the National Association of Auctioneers,  NAA, led by their President, Alhaji Musa Kurra Abubakar paid him a courtesy visit at the Commission’s headquarters.

 

Olukoyede who spoke through the Commission’s Secretary, Mohammad Hammajoda stated that “you are expected to operate at a moral high ground. The probity, fairness and accountability you are expected to bring to your job are the core values that drive our work in the Commission. I can therefore say that we are together in the war against corruption.”

 

While noting that the visit testified to the good working relationship between the Commission and the Association, the Chairman pledged enhanced  commitment  of the EFCC to the relationship. “We are committed to the success of your Association.  We can work together and continue to pursue the goal of making Nigeria better for all of us. Luckily enough,  we have up to 18 members of your Association that we are working hand-in-hand with in the disposal of assets that have been forfeited to the government. And they are doing creditably well”,  he said.

 

In his remarks, NAA’s President,   Abubakar stated that the mission of the Association was to congratulate the Chairman and Secretary on their new appointments,  noting that NAA and the Commission have been long-term partners in progress.

 

“We are grateful for the opportunity you gave us to come and have a chat with you. We have been partners in progress for quite a long time and we feel it is right for us to pay a courtesy call since there has been a change of baton in the Commission and show our support to the new Chairman and Secretary”, he said.

 

The  Association later made a presentation of a giant souvenir, bearing the image of the Chairman and a congratulatory message to him.

 

 Media & Publicity

 

January 22,  2024

EFCC ARRESTS 24 SUSPECTED TRAINEE INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN UYO

Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested Twenty Four , 24,  suspected  internet fraudsters being trained for  internet crimes in Uyo,  Akwa Ibom State.

 

They were arrested on Monday, January 22,  2024  at a storey building  suspected to be a criminal hideout for training internet fraudsters.

 

The all- male suspects were arrested in two locations in an intelligence-driven sting operation at D-Line Ewet Housing Estate and Nelson Mandela area both in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

 

They were rounded up at the upper floor of the storey building that looked like a classroom hall with chairs, tables, laptops and notepads on each table. The building is allegedly being  used solely for the training of youths in various aspects of cyber criminality.

 

Items recovered from the premises and the suspects include: five exotic cars; 18 laptops; 17 mobile phones and one internet router.

 

The EFCC had,  on November 28, 2019 arrested 23  trainers and trainees  at a “Yahoo Academy” at Essien Essien Street, Ikot Ibiok village in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. 

 

The suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

 

Media & Publicity

 

January 22, 2024

ALLEGED N2BN FRAUD: COURT ADMITS FRESH EXHIBIT AGAINST EMMANUELLA ETETA ITA, HEAD OF STAKEHOLDERS UNIT OF THE FEDERAL INLAND REVENUE SERVICES, FIRS AND SURESTART SCHOOL LTD

 

Justice F. Giwa Ogunbanjo of  Federal High Court sitting in Abuja  on Monday, January 22, 2024 admitted a fresh exhibit  against Emmanuella Eteta Ita, Head of Stakeholders Unit of the Federal Inland Revenue Services, FIRS and Surestart School Ltd in a trial within trial to determine the admissibility of her statement with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

 

Ita and Surestart School Ltd are standing trial  on 25-count charges  bordering on criminal misappropriation, diversion, criminal breach of trust and money laundering  to the tune of N2billion.

 

Ita’s counsel, Paul Erokoro had objected to the admissibility of the statement of her client before the court,  claiming that it was exacted from her under duress and in the absence of her counsel. This came even as the defendant reportedly volunteered her statement to EFCC’s investigators in the presence of Eka Didara-Abasi Akpata, a lawyer from Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, who accompanied her to the EFCC office.

 

Ruling on the matter on Monday, Justice Ogunbanjo stated that the defence did not prove beyond reasonable doubt that the statement of the defendant was not voluntary. Citing Section 15 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, he further stated that electronic recording of a defendant’s statement was not mandatory, so also the presence of a defendant’s counsel. With the ruling, the statement was admitted in evidence and marked “Exhibit 25.”

 

Further on the matter, Ijeoma Matilda, an EFCC operative,  led in evidence by prosecuting counsel,  Ekele Iheanacho,  concluded her testimony on the matter. According to her, information provided by System Specs, a Federal government Remittance payment platform through which funds were allegedly funneled into Surestart School Ltd between 2017 and 2018, amounted to N173,346,391.50. Surestart School Ltd is the second defendant, owned by the first defendant.

 

“We observed that there were transfers to the tune of N145,218,000 from the account of the first defendant to the second defendant, Surestart School Ltd. During the reconciliation with the defendant`s account she could not provide documents to justify the sum of N 158million which is the total money that came to her account. And in a bid to explain, she brought copies of receipts she signed which she claimed were receipts for Lomein Express Ltd. We contacted the owner of Lomein Express Ltd who said that the receipts did not emanate from them. She also brought letters of reimbursement, we invited all the  companies she mentioned and they all denied that the receipts were from them while other addresses do not exist,” she said.

 

While the first defendant also claimed that she resigned as the director of Surestart School Ltd, the prosecution witness revealed that documents from the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC established that she was the owner of the school.

 

 

Speaking further, the witness stated that Ita has refunded about N19.5million so far, which was made at different dates into the EFCC`s account domiciled with the CBN.

 

According to the witness, “We requested for her salary account with Federal Inland Revenue Services, FIRS. In the course of analyzing the account, we discovered that around 2016, a huge sum of money was moved into the second defendant`s  account and that over N277million had entered into her salary account apart from her allowances, which were funds for travel allowance and entertainment expenses.”

 

Matilda further revealed that the frequency of money paid by the first defendant into the second defendant’s account increased from February 2016 with every of her salary being transferred to the second defendant’s account.

 

 

Justice Ogunbanjo adjourned the matter to January 23 and 24, 2024

 

 Media & Publicity

 

January 22,  2024.

 

N320M MONEY LAUNDERING CHARGE: YOU HAVE A CASE TO ANSWER – COURT TELLS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MEMBER, NICHOLAS MUTU 

Justice F. Giwa Ogunbanjo  of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, on Monday, January 22, 2024  told a member of the House of Representatives, Nicholas Mutu  that he has a case to answer in an alleged N320 million money laundering case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.  

 

Mutu alongside Airworld Technologies Ltd and Oyien Homes, were dragged before the court by the EFCC on an amended 13 -count charge bordering on money laundering and gratification to the tune of N320m between August 2014 and August 2016. He was arraigned before the court while he was serving as the Chairman,  House of Representatives’ Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC.

 

The prosecution, at the last adjourned date, closed its case after presenting four witnesses, while the defense made a no- case submission.

 

 Justice Ogunbanjo while ruling on the no- case submission on Monday, January 22, 2024, told the defendant to enter his defence, ruling that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against Mutu.

 

The EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, in his objection to the ‘no case submission’  by the defense, argued that the money paid to the defendants by Starline Consultancy, a contractor to NDDC, was  gratification.

 

Iheanacho further told the court that Mutu used his official position, as the chairman of the House Committee on NDDC, to influence the payment of money paid by the NDDC contractors, using Airworld Technologies Ltd.

 

After ruling that Mutu had a case to answer, Justice Ogunbanjo adjourned the case till February 21 and 22, 2024.

 

Media & Publicity

 

January 23,  2024

YUSUF AMINU BAGS THREE YEARS JAIL TERM FOR N1.6M FRAUD IN BAUCHI

The Gombe Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentence of one Yusuf Aminu before Justice A.M Sambo of the Bauchi State High Court. Aminu bagged three years imprisonment for dishonesty and obtaining by false pretence.

 

He was arraigned by the Gombe Zonal Command of the EFCC on one-count charge bordering on obtaining by false pretences.

 

The one-count charge reads: “That you Yusuf Aminu (trading under the name and style of Yusuf Aminu General Enterprises ) sometimes in January 2021  at Bauchi, Bauchi State, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court with intent to defraud, dishonestly obtained the sum of N1,600,000.00 from First City Monument Bank by falsely representing that the said sum was for the improvement and enhancement of your working capital which pretence you knew  to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 320 and punishable under Section 322 of the Penal Code Law.”

 

He pleaded “guilty” to the charge, following which prosecution counsel, Mubarak Tijani prayed the court to convict and sentence him accordingly, while his counsel, Adamu Baba prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, stating that the defendant has become remorseful and made full restitution to his victim.

 

Justice Sambo convicted and sentenced him to three years imprisonment with an option of fine of  N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira).

 

Aminu began his journey to the Correctional Centre when he obtained a loan from First City Monument Bank to enhance his business.  He neither used the loan for his business nor repaid the bank that offered him the loan

 

 

In another development, the Gombe Zonal Command of the Commission on January 18, 2024 arranged one Dare Dammas Luggard before Justice J.D. Longden of the Plateau State State High Court, sitting in Jos.

 

Luggard was arraigned on six-count charges  bordering  on intent to defraud and obtaining by false pretence to the tune of N11,550,000.00 (Eleven Million Five Hundred and Fifty – thousand Naira).

 

One of the charges  reads: “That you  Dare Dimmas Luggard sometimes in 2021 in Jos, Plateau State, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did with intent to defraud, induced Samalia Isa Kudi to deliver to you the sum of  Four Million and Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N4,500,000.00)  under the pretence  that you were contracted to deliver 10,000 bags of maize to internally displaced persons and that his profit is monthly  and his capital will be pulled out at his will, which you never did, instead you diverted the said sum to your personal use and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 320 and punishable under Section 322 of the Penal Code.”

 

He pleaded “not guilty” to all the charges, prompting prosecution counsel, A.B. Kware to pray the court for a trial date while the defence counsel, A.S. Amaleh informed the court of an existing bail application for the defendant.

 

Justice Longden granted the defendant bail in the sum of N5 million and  two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must be a district head in the defendant’s community.

 

The judge remanded him in Jos Correctional Centre pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions and adjourned the matter till March 19, 2024 for continuation of trial.

 

Media & Publicity

 

January 23,  2024

19th January, 2024.

Press Release

DELTANS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR AMAZING SUPPORT AND PRAYERS

The Supreme Court today disallowed our appeal in respect of the March 18, 2023 Delta State Governorship Election and affirmed the return of Rt. Hon. Sherrif Oberevwori as the duly elected Governor of Delta State. As the final court of the land, all citizens are bound to accept and abide by its decisions even if they do not accord with their personal or collective expectations of justice. So, we ask our people to respect today’s decision and give their best to promote peace everywhere in our beloved Delta State. The unity, peace, and general good of our dear State are bigger and more important than any individual or group interest.

2.0. Having responsibly and fully played our role in principled defence of our fervent belief in the truth, honour and justice of our case and cause as democrats, we must now yield all to posterity, even as we thank God Almighty who gave us the grace to stand in the first place. Here, I must first thank my beloved wife, our dear children and great family for their huge sacrifices in my quest to offer innovative and caring leadership to our people.

3.0. I am particularly immensely grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his genuine commitment and extraordinary support for our cause as the leader of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a great stateman. Further, I sincerely thank the National Working Committee (NWC) and indeed the entire national leadership of our party ably led by His Excellency Alhaji (Dr.) Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for their unwavering support. We are equally grateful to the Delta State Executive Committee of the APC under the leadership of Elder Omeni Sobotie for its dedication to duty, godly counsel, and support.

4.0. We are also eternally grateful to our Campaign Organisation which, devotedly led by Elder Godsday Orubebe as Director-General, championed our campaign everywhere in Delta for a better State and country. Our special gratitude similarly extends to members of our legal team led by Mr. Robert Emukpoeruo, SAN for their extraordinary scholarship, industry and commitment to the course of justice. In the same way, we thank all our respected political, religious, community, business, professional, and youth leaders, great friends and indeed all our party members and supporter for all they did to support us. May the good Lord bless you all.

5.0. To my dear and dependable brother and running mate, the Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi, thank you for your strong character and firm belief in God who gives power as it pleases Him alone. We ran a great race. Hold your head high as a man of honour. I pray the Almighty God rewards your faithfulness and loyalty beyond ordinary human comprehension.

6.0. Now, to my dear brother, His Excellency, Rt. Honourable Sherrif Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, accept my congratulations for your victory today. It has been a long-drawn out struggle to offer our people the best in the governance of our State. It is about the collective interest and good of our people, not our personal interest. Having now received the Supreme Court’s seal of approval, I must wish you well as a democrat. May the good Lord guide and abide with you and give you good health, strength and wisdom to govern our State well in Jesus’ name.

Signed:

Obarisi, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR

 

January 19, 2024

Press Statement

PDP Congratulates Delta Governor Oborevwori on Victory at Supreme Court

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State over the judgement of the Supreme Court which today, affirmed his victory at the March 18, 2023 governorship election in the State.

The verdict of the Supreme Court is another resounding victory for Democracy, Rule of Law and expressed Will of the people of Delta State in the determination to sustain peace, good governance and development in their State under the banner of the PDP.

Governor Oborevwori’s overwhelming victory at the polls, as affirmed by the Tribunal, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court is a celebratory testament of the triumph of the Will and aspiration of the people of Delta State in resistance to anti-democratic forces that sought to forcefully take control of their State.

The PDP salutes the people of Delta State for their support to the Party and Governor Oborevwori, who epitomizes their collective Will for purposeful, transparent, people-based and development-oriented leadership in the State.

Our Party is proud of Governor Oborevwori’s capacity for leadership as evident in his achievements in the delivery of life-changing citizen empowerment programmes and projects in critical sectors including Agriculture, Education, Healthcare, Power, Industrialization, Oil and Gas, Housing, Road infrastructure among others since his inauguration on May 29, 2023

The PDP congratulates the people of Delta State for this victory and charges Governor Oborevwori to remain steadfast in his delivery of people-oriented programes and projects in line with the policy thrust and manifesto of the PDP.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES OLOROGUN FESTUS KEYAMO ON HIS BIRTHDAY

President Bola Tinubu celebrates Olorogun Festus Keyamo, CON, SAN, Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, as he marks his birthday on January 21, 2024.

President Tinubu congratulates the foremost lawyer and one of Nigeria’s leading advocates of good governance and citizens’ rights on this anniversary of his birth, and commends him for being an irrepressible proponent of justice, truth, and national unity.

Olorogun Festus Keyamo, a protégée of the late Human Rights Advocate, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, GCON, SAN, is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and holder of the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitration in the United Kingdom. On account of his advocacy for democratic ideals and human rights over the years, in 2017, he was awarded the Global Human Rights Award by the United States Global Leadership Council in Washington.

The President also commends the Honourable Minister for his devotion to duty and passion for service demonstrated by his efforts to strengthen the aviation sector to consistently deliver world-class service, safety, and performance.

President Tinubu wishes Olorogun Keyamo good health, wisdom, and strength in the service of the nation.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 20, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES RENO OMOKRI ON 50TH BIRTHDAY

President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mr. Reno Omokri, author and influencer, on his 50th birthday, which is marked on January 22, 2024.

The President commends Mr. Omokri for his dutifulness in providing constructive opinions on national issues, regardless of his political disposition.

Mr. Omokri, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, was the Special Assistant on Digital Media to former President Goodluck Jonathan from 2011 to 2015.

President Tinubu wishes Mr. Omokri many more years in good health as he continues to contribute his quota to national development.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 21, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS EXPANSION OF STUDENT-LOAN PROGRAMME TO INCLUDE SKILL DEVELOPMENT

President Bola Tinubu has directed the management of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to expand its focus area by extending interest-free loans to Nigerian students interested in skill-development programmes.

The President issued this directive at the State House on Monday after a briefing from Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Executive Secretary of NELFUND, on the build-up to the launch of the programme later in the month.

The President said it is important for the scheme to accommodate those who may not want to pursue university education, noting that skill acquisition is as important as obtaining undergraduate and graduate academic qualifications.

“This is not an exclusive programme. It is catering to all of our young people. Young Nigerians are gifted in different areas. This is not only for those who want to be doctors, lawyers, and accountants. It is also for those who aspire to use their skilled and trained hands to build our nation. In accordance with this, I have instructed NELFUND to explore all opportunities to inculcate skill-development programmes because not everybody wants to go through a full university education,” he said.

President Tinubu emphasized the need for equity and inclusivity in the management of the programme, stating: “No matter how economically challenged you are, accredited and qualified students will and must have access to this loan to advance their education in higher institutions. There is no compromise in our commitment to the disadvantaged citizens of this nation.”

In his presentation to the President, Executive Secretary of the Fund, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, said the loan application process will be technology-driven, limiting human interface and “eliminating any possibility of maladministration in the programme.”

“By design, this is a perpetual programme and will not terminate. The funds, earmarked for bona-fide Nigerian students, will be disbursed directly to the institutions in the initial phase through electronic transfer. Our students will be catered to in a way that bypasses human interference through the full utilization of available technological platforms, in adherence to Your Excellency’s stated objectives,” he said.

He also said NELFUND has developed a robust risk-mitigation mechanism to address potential risks that may arise from the programme.

Speaking on the funding mechanism of the programme, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), said funding sources have been made available to ensure the smooth take-off and sustenance of the programme.

“Mr. President is permanently solving the problem of funding for education in Nigeria. By the directive of the President, the Education Tax Fund is being reviewed to additionally cater to the needs of our university students across all local government areas in the country as they seek to access vocational and traditional university education. Funding for the programme will be adequately covered,” he said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 22, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO CAN LEADERSHIP: WE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT CORRUPTION; NIGERIA IS OURS TO FIX

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will not relent in addressing corruption and other vices because it is a sacred duty to ensure that the country is set right for the prosperity of all Nigerians.

Speaking when he received a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President emphasized the role of faith leaders in fostering unity and peace in the country.

President Tinubu called on Christian leaders to support the administration’s ongoing fight against corruption by encouraging Nigerians to have a change of mindset on money-related matters.

“We have no other country but Nigeria. If you do not preach the sermon of understanding, tolerance, perseverance, and hope for Nigerians, you are doing damage to the country, and nobody will help us repair it.

“Let us dialogue because public condemnation of a nation is not what makes any citizen a good one. We must admonish Nigerians to have a change of mindset and not to make money our god or master. I believe we will get to the Promised Land, and Nigeria will flourish.

“We are here to listen, and if you observe any inadequacies in my government, let us know. I am here today because of your prayers and the will of God Almighty. What I have challenged myself to do each day is to be fair to all Nigerians. I have had a number of criticisms, including the rationale behind the size of my cabinet. If you want efficient, mobile, and resourceful people, we have to give people a load they can carry. If you combine too many ministries because you want to save money, you will have a future of non-performance and no results.

“Nigeria needs to turn the corner to grow, and we must give people challenges they can manage, and that is what we are doing,” the President firmly stated.

In his remarks, Archbishop Okoh urged President Tinubu not to relent in his efforts to provide good governance by ensuring security, inclusivity, and peaceful co-existence in the country.

“You have extended a hand of fellowship to us, and we embrace you and your family with the love of Christ and promise to partner with you in nation-building, for the task is quite daunting. You will not stumble, and you will not fall. We believe that you have the sagacity to give leadership in battling our challenges and in turning around the fortunes of our nation, Nigeria, within a short time. You have shown that you are a listening leader, and we appreciate this.

“CAN has maintained an active presence at all levels from the national to the grassroots, and we have remained non-partisan. You will always find our association as a ready and willing partner in nation-building,” Okoh said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 22, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO SOUTH-SOUTH MONARCHS: WE ARE COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING THE CONCERNS OF YOUR REGION

President Bola Tinubu has assured traditional rulers in the South-South geopolitical zone that his administration is committed to addressing their concerns over development and environmental degradation.

The President gave the assurance on Tuesday at the State House during a meeting with the South-South Monarchs Forum, led by His Royal Majesty, Major-General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, and Vice-Chairman of the South-South Monarchs Forum.

The President told the Royal Fathers that his administration is diligently working, both domestically and internationally, to strengthen Nigeria’s durability and approach to climate change, environmental restoration, infrastructure development, all while ensuring security and stability in the region.

Commending the monarchs for their understanding approach to his administration’s ongoing economic reforms, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, President Tinubu promised that Nigerians would soon enjoy the benefits of these tough, yet necessary decisions.

”We are working to revive the economy from the damage of several years. We seek your support, prayers, and understanding, and I am glad that the Vice-Chairman of the Forum served in an organization where we need intelligence to operate.

”You (the traditional institution) will be the source of the intelligence we need for the holistic development of our country, and anytime you need to tell us something, do not hesitate to reach out to this office. I will take on all of your concerns, and I will address each of them one by one.

”We cannot underestimate your contributions to the peace and stability of this country. Continue to uphold us in your prayers and in talking to our youths to keep faith with the country because light is already visible at the end of the tunnel,” the President said.

In his remarks, His Royal Majesty, Major-General Mujakperuo appealed to President Tinubu to follow up on all developmental efforts in the region to be sure that progress is tangible to the people.

“Mr. President, you know the problems of our region as an expert with experience in the energy industry. We see you working hard to solve our problems, and we are comforted that you have pledged to take on our concerns and bring a final solution to them,” the South-South Monarchs Forum Vice-Chairman said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 23, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU: OUR INTERVENTIONS IN OIL AND GAS SECTOR WILL SAFEGUARD AND ENHANCE VALUE OF INVESTMENTS

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will continue to provide the needed interventions in the oil and gas industry in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Speaking when he received a delegation from the Chevron Corporation, led by Mr. Clay Neff, President of Chevron International Exploration and Production, on Tuesday in Abuja, President Tinubu said Nigeria would strengthen its long-standing partnership with the multinational company in line with the evolving dynamics in the oil and gas industry.

The President welcomed Chevron’s commitment to build on its investments in shallow and deep water operations in Nigeria, noting the company’s ongoing $1.4 billion drilling project with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

He also commended Chevron for its dedication to reducing its carbon footprint in the country.

”You must see the PIA as a legacy law. We assure you of quick interventions and turnaround on any issue you may have in your operations in our country.

”Nigeria is proud of the 60-year partnership with Chevron, and we believe this partnership will be strengthened to add mutually-beneficial value for the benefit of your shareholders as well as the living standards and economic opportunities of our population,” President Tinubu said.

In his remarks, Mr. Neff pledged that the company would continue to operate in full adherence to the highest standards, even as it meets its investment commitments in Nigeria.

He highlighted the company’s contributions to domestic gas supply, noting the delivery of 25% gas through a joint venture with NNPC Limited.

He also said Chevron was scaling up its investments in the country with its recent efforts in a new phase of development to include: “the conversion, under the Petroleum Industry Act, of all the NNPCL/Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture (JV) Oil Mining Leases (OMLs) and Agbami OML 127 to Petroleum Mining Leases and Petroleum Prospecting Licences (PPLs); entry into OPL 215 block to boost deep-water development opportunities; signing of 20-year renewal of three deepwater leases; commencement of seismic data acquisition in several deepwater leases; commencement of life extension work on the Agbami project, and, in partnership with NNPCL, securing of $1.4 billion financing to fund the NNPCL/CNL JV infill drilling programme between 2022 to 2026, which includes the drilling of 37 wells in the shallow offshore and onshore Escravos area and associated facilities”.

Mr. Neff further informed President Tinubu that Chevron’s average annual tax and royalty remittances over the past three years had reached $3.4 billion.

”The bold steps you have taken since you assumed office are quite impressive. We are encouraged by our partnership of over 60 years, and we look forward, God willing, to continue that partnership for many decades to come.

”We are also looking at other opportunities as well, while operating with the best environmental practices. We will continue to grow our traditional oil and gas business because we know the countries where we operate are in need of those products, and the world needs those products,” he said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 23, 2024

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU TRAVELS TO FRANCE

President Bola Tinubu departs Abuja for Paris, France, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, for a private visit.

He will return to the country in the first week of February, 2024.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 24, 2024

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A PEOPLE’S ORODJE; BEING A TRIBUTE BY THE OKPE UNION TO ORHORO I, THE LATE ORODJE OF OKPE, ON THE 20TH YEAR MEMORIAL OF HIS PASSING.

A PEOPLE’S ORODJE; BEING A TRIBUTE BY THE OKPE UNION TO ORHORO I, THE LATE ORODJE OF OKPE, ON THE 20TH YEAR MEMORIAL OF HIS PASSING.

 

Tomorrow 20th January, 2024, marks the 20th Anniversary of the transition unto glory of His Royal Majesty, Orhoro I, J.P; OON, the Orodje of Okpe in Delta State of Nigeria. He was the second Orodje of Okpe Kingdom of the modern era. The first Orodje of Okpe of the modern era, Esezi II had joined his ancestors on the 26th of March, 1966. Before the ascension of Esezi II into the exalted throne on the 1st of January, 1945, the Okpe Nation has had a monarchical interregnum of over one hundred and sixty years.

 

This long period without an Orodje (leader or king) was after the epic regicide in which the Okpe people eliminated their first Orodje  after they had concluded that Esezi I had become high handed and dictatorial against the type of office they had created which was a consultative and limited one and not a ruler with absolute powers. By the late 1930s and early 1940s, the Okpe Union was able to convince and mobilise the Okpe people to resolve that it was time to resuscitate the throne of the Orodje of Okpe. This the Okpe people succeeded in achieving in 1945 with the coronation of Esezi II who himself joined his ancestors in 1966.

 

Domingo Amujaine Ejinyere was crowned as Orhoro I, the Orodje of Okpe on the 30th of December, 1972 after his election by the accredited representatives of the the Orhoro Ruling House of the four ruling houses known as Adene Okpe (four gates of Okpe) and his acceptance by the Okpe people.

 

The newly crowned Orhoro I did not waste any time before taking steps to reassure the people that the Orodje Throne was for all Okpe people. Within a relatively short time he visited all communities of Okpe Kingdom. At each community town hall, there was arranged a befitting Royal Seat on which His Royal Majesty, Orhoro I sat to receive greetings and homage from his loving people. The memories of the feeling and spirit of grace, love, solidarity still remain with the generation of Okpe people that witnessed those visits and interactions with the people of the grassroot.

 

Orhoro I engendered love and unity and a sense of justice among the Okpe people throughout his reign. This heralded the decision by the Okpe people to hearken to the call and initiative by the Okpe Union under the leadership of Late Chief Philip Ewetuya as President General, to commence an all Okpe fund raising for the building of a Modern All Okpe Orodje Palace. This vision came to fruition when the then political leader of the Okpe people, the late Okakuro Sen. David Dafinone bought into the Okpe Union vision for the Okpe Modern Palace project. It was great relief and a sweet experience for the Okpe people to have witnessed Orhoro I moving into the All Okpe Orodje Modern Palace and being the first Orodje to have superintended over the Kingdom from there.

 

During his reign, Orhoro I occupied most offices attainable by a Traditional Ruler. He was First Vice Chairman, Midwest Council of Traditional Rulers (1973-1977); Deputy Chairman, Bendel State Traditional Rulers Forum (1977-1991); Member National Council of State (MNCS) 1992; Pioneer Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers (1993); and Chairman, Traditional Rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities (TROMPCON). Also during his reign, he was able to handle and resolve many intra and inter communal conflicts in Delta State.

 

Throughout his reign, there were no notable intra or inter communities conflicts in Okpeland as potential ones were always handled by him in dispassionate and conscientious manner. HRM Orhoro I made all Okpes proud with his carriage, gracefulness and love for his people. Orerokpe the ancestral headquarters of the Okpe Nation felt his love and presence. Okpe people felt throughout his reign, that he was their prayer answered.

 

The Okpe Union worked so closely with him to address the challenges of the Okpe Kingdom. On several occasions when the Okpe Union headquarters visited, he would rise and symbolically personally serve entertainment to the Okpe Union and express as follows:

 

“… allow me to personally serve them. If not for the Okpe Union, this throne I seat today would not be in existence…”

 

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the passing unto glory of Orhoro I, a gift of the Okpe Nation to the world, and with whom the Okpe people are always pleased, we on behalf of the members of the Okpe Union the world over, join his immediate family, and the entire Okpe Nation, to celebrate once again, the life and times of the People’s Monarch; the grassroot Orodje of the Okpe people. May he continue to rest in peace. Amen!

 

*Prof. O. Igho Natufe*,

President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide).

 

*Barr. Kingsley E. Akpederin*, General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide)

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How Gulder Lager Beer is empowering the lives of its Distributors and Retailers across Nigeria 

 

 

31 August 2023

 

How Gulder Lager Beer is empowering the lives of its Distributors and Retailers across Nigeria 

  • Being a Gulder distributor is the best decision I ever made” says Tasho 

 

Gulder Lager Beer, a household name in Nigeria’s alcoholic beverage industry, has again demonstrated its commitment to changing lives. The spotlight shone brightly at the Gulder Ultimate Reward event held on August 29, 2023, at the Lascofis Bar in Ogba, Lagos. The event, which will be etched in the minds of stakeholders for a long time, is a further testament to the transformative power of loyalty, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.

Gulder honoured its esteemed partners, who have played pivotal roles in the brand’s journey to excellence. The selected 15 retailers received ten crates of Gulder, while the ten winners in the regions were presented with 42-inch television sets, generator sets, and deep freezers. Four sub-distributors, the unsung heroes ensuring Gulder reaches every corner of Nigeria, were each rewarded with fifty crates of Gulder and Tricycles, a token of appreciation for their indispensable contributions. The winners were selected across Benin, Ibadan Lagos-North, and Lagos-South regions respectively.

However, the crowning moment of the event arrived with the announcement of the prestigious Grand Prize – a brand new IVM Ikenga car was presented to Taofeek Shodiya of Tasho Limited, a long-committed distributor to Gulder’s success. His extraordinary journey and steadfast dedication to Gulder underscore the brand’s enduring message that loyalty and dedication have the power to elevate lives.

Alhaji Tasho, speaking about his experience, expressed, “Being a Gulder distributor is the best decision I ever made. It’s not just about business; it’s about being part of a family that rewards dedication and hard work. This car is not just a prize; it’s a symbol of the opportunities that Gulder provides to change lives.”

“Gulder Lager Beer has always been more than a beverage; it’s a symbol of strength, determination, and the extraordinary. At the heart of our success are the dedicated partners who have embraced these values.,” stated Chima Dim, Brand Manager, Non-Lager and Craft, Nigerian Breweries.

“We have come to be known as a home brand, a go-to brand for, family, entertainment, and relaxation. Our success story has been one encapsulated and driven by those of our consumers and distributors, and that is why The Gulder Ultimate Reward event is not just a celebration; it’s a testament to the life-changing impact of loyalty and dedication. We are proud to say that being a Gulder distributor is not just a business decision; it’s a journey of transformation, and we look forward to many more shared successes,” he added.

Gulder remains dedicated to providing remarkable experiences and shaping the lives of its partners. The Gulder Ultimate Reward will continue to inspire and motivate partners to reach new heights while reaffirming the brand’s belief that loyalty and dedication are the keys to changing lives.

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LAGOS BLUE RAIL LINE BEGINS COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS SEPTEMBER 4

PRESS RELEASE 

 

 

The Lagos State Government on Wednesday announced that the Blue Line Rail will start commercial operations on Monday, September 4, 2023.

 

The Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, spoke on the commencement date during a press conference at the iconic Marina Station of the Blue Line Rail in Lagos.

 

Akinajo, who took reporters on a guided ride and tour of the physical infrastructure of the Blue Line Rail from the Marina Station to the National Arts Theatre Station in Iganmu, said Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu would take the inaugural ride on the train at 9 a.m. on Monday, September 4, before other passengers begin to ride.

 

She said partial passenger operations will start on Tuesday from 6:30 am to 10 am for the morning peak and the afternoon Peak from 4 pm to 9:30 pm, adding that the operations will start with 12 trips for two weeks, which will later be increased to 76 trips per day.

 

Akinajo disclosed that though the train is electric, it would run on locomotive for the first four weeks of operation to allow the electric system to come up fully and sync properly with the physical infrastructure, adding that the plan is to allow passengers to get familiar with the rail system.

 

She said despite the train running on locomotive for the first four weeks, the tracks would remain energised so that passengers are not allowed to cross them.

 

The LAMATA boss said about 150,000 passengers are expected to board the train daily. “The train would run 12 trips in two schedules for now – 6.30 am to 10 am (morning peak) and 4.30 pm – 9 pm (evening peak). The train will stop for 90 seconds at each station. It will run 76 trips, from 5.30 am to 11 pm, when it becomes fully operational in four weeks,” she said.

 

The full length of the train trip from Marina – Mile 2, according to Akinajo will cost N750 but noted that the 50 percent discount announced by Governor Sanwo-Olu on all Lagos public transportation rides also applies to the train ride.

 

She said passengers can only access the service with their cowry cards, noting that cash or paper tickets would not be accepted.

 

Akinajo, who warned against eating and drinking on the train, said adequate security has been put in place for the security of lives and property, noting that anyone with criminal intent would be arrested and handed over to the Police as there are about 30 cameras along the tracks.

 

She said: “A full Journey from Marina to Mile 2 will cost N750 and Zonal fares will be between N400 and N500 for people not making the complete full trip. The transportation palliative announced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will also cover the Train system, meaning that the highest fare for the full trip will be N375.

 

“We are going to put safety measures in place. There are over 300 CCTV cameras across the whole Blue Line Rail and over 30 cameras monitoring the tracks alone. Command and Control centers are also available in all stations. Plain cloth security agents and officers of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps will ride with passengers at all times. Any altercation on the train will not be tolerated. Vandalism also will not be tolerated.”

 

Speaking on the initial delay in the commencement of the Blue Line Rail, which was earlier scheduled to commence operation in August, Akinajo said the delay was caused by prevailing circumstances around import and export.

 

She, however, noted that LAMATA is committed to starting operations on September 4 without any further delay since all the necessary things have been put in place for the operations of the Blue Line rail.

 

It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari on January 24, 2023, in the company of Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, commissioned the first phase of the Blue Rail Line, which runs from Marina to Mile 2 and also witnessed the signing of the commencement of Phase 2 of the project from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko.

The Blue rail line, part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit, will run 27.5 km from Marina to Okokomaiko, with 13 stations and an end-to-end journey time of 35 minutes.

 

 

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PRESIDENT TINUBU SEEKS EXPEDITED PACE OF PROGRESS IN DIALOGUE AS ISLAMIC ULAMAS PREPARE TO CONTINUE TALKS WITH MILITARY JUNTA

 

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU SEEKS EXPEDITED PACE OF PROGRESS IN DIALOGUE AS ISLAMIC ULAMAS PREPARE TO CONTINUE TALKS WITH MILITARY JUNTA

The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Tinubu has implored a delegation of Islamic scholars (Ulamas), who were previously engaged in discussions to facilitate the restoration of constitutional democratic governance in Niger Republic, to expedite progress in their ongoing dialogue with the military junta.

The President received a comprehensive briefing on Thursday at the State House in Abuja, from the Ulamas, who were led into the meeting by Sheikh Bala Lau. The briefing followed the Ulamas’ two most recent visits to Niger Republic.

The Islamic leaders had informed the President that the military junta was open to deepening dialogue with ECOWAS as more steps are being taken to forestall armed conflict with a more detailed acceptance of the ECOWAS position by Niger military council officials.

Responding to the delegation of Ulamas, against the backdrop of ethnic rumors peddled by domestic political figures inside and outside of the country, President Tinubu emphasized that he is at the forefront of a peaceful resolution of the crisis, even in the midst of more hawkish individuals urging swifter intervention.

“I am managing a very serious situation. If you take ECOWAS aside, other people will react, those who are outside of our control. I am the one holding those sides back. I am the one holding back ECOWAS,” he disclosed.

Addressing the urgency of the situation, the president added:

”Even as at this morning, I have been inundated with phone calls on the readiness of countries with their military force and contributions. However, I told them to wait. I am meeting with the Ulamas and I will get back to you.”

President Tinubu told the Islamic delegation that the military junta must be held accountable for putting the entire people of Niger Republic in jeopardy.

”They cannot use the gun given to them to protect the sovereignty of the country and turn it against the people of the country,” he said.

President Tinubu pledged that ECOWAS will remain steadfast in its commitment to diplomatically engage with all stakeholders and seek a peaceful resolution to the impasse in Niger Republic.

“I will draw a line in the sand and ask you to make arrangements to go back to Niger Republic,” he stated.

On the request by the Islamic scholars for the Federal Government to monitor the distribution of palliatives to States, the President promised that more palliatives are coming for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide.

He also appealed to State governments to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution and management of these palliatives.

“The people reside in the States. Even if I set up a panel, I will have to go through the governors and the local governments. We will continue to talk to the governors. Nigerians must hold them accountable,” he continued.

“It’s unheard of that in a constitutional democracy, a president will sit here and give orders to States. I can only appeal to them to implement. The people reside in the states, and if the Governor is not doing well, the people must vote them out,” he concluded.

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

August 24, 2023

 

 

PRESS RELEASE 

 

SANWO-OLU CELEBRATES CHIEF OF STAFF, TAYO AYINDE AT 59

The Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday joined other well-wishers to celebrate his Chief of Staff, Mr Tayo Ayinde on the occasion of his 59th birthday.

Tayo Ayinde clocks 59 years today, Thursday, August 24.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a congratulatory message issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Mr. Tayo Ayinde as a worthy and trusted partner in the Greater Lagos agenda.

The Governor also described his Chief of Staff as a loyal, dependable, selfless, hardworking and God-fearing man, who has contributed immensely to the growth and development of Lagos State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Ayinde has displayed high capacity in service, noting that the decision to return him in the same capacity, is a testament to his high level of performance, competence, hard work and loyalty.

“Happy Birthday to my Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde. You are indeed a ‘Buffalo’ as you are usually called by your friends and associates because you depict the true strength and survival instincts of a buffalo.

“On behalf of my adorable wife, Ibijoke, the government and the good people of Lagos State, I join family, friends, political associates, leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, to congratulate Mr. Tayo Ayinde on his 59th birthday.

“As you clock 59 years today, I pray that the blessings of God will be with you. You will continue to enjoy God’s favour and grace. God will strengthen you to offer more services to humanity, our dear Lagos State and Nigeria.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

24 AUGUST 2023

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Tilije appointed Finance Commissioner, Uduaghan gets Girl Child Entrepreneurship, Humanitarian Support Services as Aniagwu, Izeze pick Works

 

 

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved the assignment of portfolios to newly sworn-in Commissioners in the state.

 

The approval for the assignment of portfolios was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu on Tuesday evening.

 

The statement listed the Commissioners and their portfolios as follows:

 

  1. Odinigwe Odigie Daniel – Science and Technology
  2. Hon. Joan Onyemaechi Ada-Anioma – Technical Education
  3. Jerry Ehiwario – Power and Energy
  4. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu – Works (Rural Roads)
  5. Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu – Primary Education
  6. Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka – Urban Renewal
  7. Hon. Princess Pat. A. Ajudua, Ph.D – Women Affairs, Community and Social Development
  8. Chief Darlington Ijeh – Culture and Tourism
  9. Chief Fidelis Okenmor Tilije – Finance
  10. Barr. Funyei Manager – Special Projects
  11. Hon. Godknows Angele – Housing
  12. Dr. Joseph Onojaeme – Health
  13. Chief Emamusi Obiodeh – Lands and Survey
  14. Mr Perez  P. Omoun, Esq. – Agriculture and Natural Resources 15. Orode Uduaghan – Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services
  15. Dr Isaac Tosan Wilkie – Water Resources
  16. Agbateyimiro Isaac Weyinmi – Youths
  17. Samuel Oligida – Trade and Investments
  18. Prof. Tonukari Johnbull – Higher Education
  19. Etagherure Ejiro Terry – Bureau for Special Duties
  20. Mrs. Rose Ezewu – Basic and Secondary Education
  21. Jamani Tommy Ejiro – Environment
  22. Onoriode Agofure – Transport
  23. Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben – Works (Highways & Urban Roads)
  24. Chief Vincent Oyibode – Oil & Gas
  25. Sonny Akporokiamo Ekedayen – Economic Planning
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Okumagba apologizes after comments on Uduaghan, Warri land

Okumagba apologizes after comments on Uduaghan, Warri land

 

A member of the Okumagba Royal Family in Delta State, Prince Louis Okumagba, on Monday apologized to the Alema of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, for his comments on Warri land.

‘’I sincerely apologise for dragging the name of the Alema of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, in the mud’’ Louis Okumagba said in a statement entitled ‘’Okumagba: Warri Land Scandal’’.

Louis Okumagba said he was sorry for his comments.

‘’Everything I earlier mentioned is false and untrue. I regret any embarrassment I might have caused him. I hereby undertake never to bring his name to disrepute’’ the statement said.

Last year, key families in Okere-Urhobo took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of Louis Okumagba.

They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.

Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri.

 

 

 

Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.

The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.

‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’

The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.

‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues on family lands and other related family matters’’

They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.

‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.

 

They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.

‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.

The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.

Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.

‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi, Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’

The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.

‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.

They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.

‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,

The notable families also condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.

They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.

In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.

’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’

Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.

‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’

The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.

‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.

The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).

‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.

This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.

‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.

The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families

‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.

 

The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.

 

Uncategorized

DAPO ABIODUN IS OUR GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

DAPO ABIODUN IS OUR GOVERNOR

Our attention has been drawn to the rumours going around that leaders of APC and their followers associated with Otunba Gbenga Daniel are not working for the re-election of Prince Dapo Abiodun as Governor of Ogun State.

Rising from a strategic consultative meeting held today, Thursday 16th March, 2023, where we deliberated on the current state of affairs in our party the APC, we the undersigned, LEADERS of the OGD Political Bloc which decamped from the PDP to APC in 2019 across the length and breath of Ogun state and are now stalwarts of the APC administration in Ogun State led by Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun, MFR wishes to state as follows

  1. That Ogun State has experienced tremendous growth and development in all sectors of governance under the dynamic leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Hence, concerted efforts must be made to consolidate the state’s developmental gains and not detract it from the trajectory of good governance.
  2. That we therefore salute the uncommon courage of the Governor to revamp the state of infrastructure in our State by completing several abandoned capital projects and undertaking new constructions for the benefit of all and sundry.
  3. That we are impressed and satisfied with the scorecard of the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led Administration and condemn any plot by reactionary elements to discredit him in the media under the pretext of nebulous alliances.
  4. That our indefatigable Governor having performed creditably well in almost four years of his administration deserves to be re-elected as Governor of Ogun State for another 4 years.
  5. That we urge the people of Ogun State to support and vote Governor Dapo Abiodun for second term to enable him to consolidate on all the laudable programmes and projects initiated by his administration.
  6. That our irrevocable commitment is for the re-election of Prince Dapo Abiodun and we therefore totally dissociate ourselves from any purported alliance with any opposition candidate to scuttle the second term bid of Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun, MFR.
  7. That any release or article being circulated in the media purporting that we the undersigned and our followers as members of OGD political bloc which decamped from the PDP to the APC in 2019 have collectively taken a decision not to support the re-election of Prince Dapo Abiodun MFR is totally false and without basis as no such decision was ever taken.
  8. That we shall remain ever grateful and committed to reciprocating the kind gesture of the Governor who gave us the veritable platform to contribute our quota to further the development of Ogun State.
  9. That we urge the good people of Ogun State and the generality of Nigerians to rally round the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the task of entrenching democratic dividends by electing all candidates of the party in the March 18th election.

For Concerned APC Leaders

E-Signed by

  1. H E ( ALH) Salimot M Badru.
  2. Chf Mrs Matilda Apampa
  3. Alhaji Bisiriyu Popoola
  4. Hon Waliu Taiwo.
  5. Chf Ibukun Ojosipe
  6. Chief Joju Fadairo.
  7. Chief Pegba Otemolu
  8. Engr. Seni Ayorinde
  9. Chief Fatai Olayode

@2347033403789

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

Peter Obi should stop deceiving his supporters

The defeated Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi goes around inflaming passions, spreading lies as if he is still campaigning for the highest office in the land, weeks after the exercise was concluded and a winner announced.

We are worried about his recent media rounds on Arise TV and Channels TV, in which he made profoundly misleading, criminally false and inciting statements about the election that he lost woefully.

We call on the security agencies to caution him from further making incendiary remarks, especially after he claimed he is challenging the results of the election in the tribunal.

Asked on Arise TV about his loss, he derided the election, considered by many to be the best in our recent history. He described it recklessly as ‘probably the worst’, ‘wrong election’, ‘not God’s will’. In one moment, he likened the election to ‘robbery’.

He also fleetingly wore the toga of a political scientist redefining democracy, which the world knows as government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

According to Obi, “to win in democracy is to win the people. The declared winner, Bola Tinubu did not win- that is what we are challenging…’ Later, he clarified in his moments of sobriety, after leaving the studio, that what he wanted to challenge was the process of declaring the winner.

On Channels TV few days later, Obi made the ridiculous claim about ‘his stolen mandate’, echoing the position of his unthinking mob of supporters, who believe that he won the election, because some sponsored polls made the claim before the election.

We consider the claim by the former governor of Anambra as very fraudulent as he fell short of winning any mandate. He came third, not even second, losing by 2.6 million votes to President-elect Bola Tinubu, despite getting outrageously padded votes from his ethnic South East states.

From the false narrative Obi has been pushing, he is the one trying to steal Bola Tinubu’s mandate, by appealing unashamedly to tribal and religious sentiments and by resorting to his sickening penchant for lying boldfaced to snatch what does not belong to him.

We consider Obi’s TV statements as prejudicial to the case he has filed and contemptuous of the court. Only a desperate politician like Obi will embark on his course of action: seeking justice in court and simultaneously embarking on a mission of blackmailing and intimidating the judiciary.

He is trying to present himself before his case takes off in court as a helpless, cheated victim of the ‘system’, robbed of a mandate by INEC. He is trying to position himself as the candidate ‘who won the people’, who is loved by the people, going by his self-serving definition of democracy.

His antics, if he is able to sway the judges is to make them cancel the entire election, even without sufficient, substantial proof of malpractice. This will pave way for his dream alliance with the PDP, the second losing party, in a fresh election.

The PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar spoke about his readiness to enter into such alliance in his post-poll press conference, as he accused Obi of taking his votes in the South South and South East.

We hope the men and women of the judiciary will not fall for Obi’s cheap tactics and really examine the cases before them on merit and on the basis of substantial evidence presented.

Let us remind Obi once again, he is welcome in the court,, where he is bound to lose woefully.

Finally we advise Mr. Obi to stop attacking the integrity of the election just because he did not win the majority votes and the constitutional spread in 24 states.

He should stop deceiving his gullible followers and raising unrealistic hopes about reclaiming the presidency from Asiwaju Tinubu.

We also advise the NBC to caution TV houses giving Obi the platform to de-legitimise a free and fair election, when he has taken his case to court.

Bayo Onanuga

Director, Media and Publicity

APC Presidential Campaign Council

March 16, 2023

 

 

CORRUPTION AN EXISTENTIAL THREAT TO NATIONS, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI IN MEETING WITH CODE OF CONDUCT TRIBUNAL MANAGEMENT

President Muhammadu Buhari has indicated his desire that the foundation laid by this administration in the war against graft would be sustained by successive governments in the country, as corruption remains an existential threat to nations.

The President spoke Thursday at State House, Abuja, while playing host to Management of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, led by the Chairman, Danladi Yakubu Umar.

He described the Code of Conduct Tribunal as “an important tool in our fight against corruption over the last seven years,” adding that such frontline agencies, “which are in the trenches are relied upon to demonstrate that the government means what it says and remains committed against corruption in all its forms.”

The President expressed his desire for a sustained anti-graft war thus: “It is our hope that the foundation which has been laid by this administration will be carried forward and continued, as the issue of corruption remains an existential threat to all nations.”

President Buhari recognized the sacrifices being made by the Code of Conduct Tribunal and similar agencies “in the midst of very challenging economic and revenue shortages,” and pledged innovative and new models of financing very important agencies and work programs that are critical.

In his remarks, the Tribunal Chairman, Danladi Umar, commended the Buhari administration for the salutary impact it has made in the area of infrastructural development, agriculture, and provision of social services, among others.

He said the Tribunal was hampered by funding challenges, poor staffing, and appealed for intervention of the President.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

March 16, 2023

 

 

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS CHEKWAS OKORIE ON 70TH BIRTHDAY

President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with former National Chairman and 2015 Presidential candidate of United Progressives Party (UPP), Chief Chekwas Okorie, on the occasion of his 70th birthday anniversary.

The President joins family, friends and well-wishers in celebrating the statesman, who shares many values the founding fathers of Nigeria held dear, including unity in diversity, peace and stability of the country.

The President notes that as a community leader, philanthropist and politician of over many decades, Chief Okorie has always been driven by his noble vision of putting the people first at all times, and shared prosperity for all.

The President recalls the unwavering support of UPP under Chief Okorie to his re-election in 2019, thanking him for believing in the administration’s mission to build a better Nigeria.

President Buhari prays that as the celebrant counts the blessings of being a septuagenarian, the almighty God will grant him strength, wisdom and health to do more for humanity.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 17, 2023

ABAVO CHRONICLE ABEJUKOKO VANGUARD ABIA REPORTERS ABIA SUN ABIGBORODO SUN ABRAKA STATESMAN ABUJA Uncategorized

Okowa mourns security aides killed by unknown gunmen

 

 

Okowa mourns security aides killed by unknown gunmen

 

Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa has commiserated with the Delta Police Command and families of police officers killed by unknown gunmen in Anambra State.

 

The officers, Inspectors Lucky Aleh; Celestine Nwadiokwu and Jude Obuh were attached to the Explosives Ordinance Disposal EOD Unit in Government House, Asaba.

 

They were ambushed and killed around 1.30pm yesterday Friday, Feb. 10, by unknown gunmen along Ihiala-Orlu Road enroute Umuahia on official duty.

 

State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu who briefed journalists on the sad incident said the late officers would be greatly missed for their contributions to the peace and development of Delta.

 

He described the unfortunate killing of the officers as barbaric and unacceptable in a country seeking to be united again for peace and development .

 

“We bring you the sad news of our very gallant officers who have helped us in maintaining peace in our state attached to the Explosives Ordinance Disposal EOD Unit in Government House, Asaba.

 

“The officers met their untimely death while they were proceeding as advanced team for the PDP National Campaign Rally in Abia, unfortunately this particular team veered off from the convoy and took another route different from where the convoy was taking.

 

“They were ambushed along the Ihiala-Orlu Road enroute Umuahia by non-state actors who eventually killed three of them in police  uniform while the one on mufti escaped.

 

“We have recovered their corpse and we have also reached out to their families,”

 

He said some accounts of the unfortunate incident trending on social media was untrue adding that the state government delayed announcing their untimely death because efforts were being made to reach out to their families before making the announcement.

 

He called on security agencies in the country to fish out the killers and bring them to book so that Nigerians can once again live peacefully in any part of the country.

 

“What is happening in parts of this country today, particularly in the South East, is not  healthy for our development as a country because the elections are very very close.

 

“The security we are asking for are not just for the purpose of the elections. It is also something that everybody wants. We should be able to have security at every given time; that way, we would have development.

 

“We must also plead with our brothers and sisters who may have taken guns on the account of what they see as agitation to know that the best way to help our people, is to allow peace to reign. That way development will take place in the South East.

 

“Our people in the South East are very very industrious, they are commerce oriented and have developed love for one another over the years.

 

“We will plead with these our brothers to allow this kind of love that permeated the atmosphere in the time past in the South East, to continue to pervade that environment.

 

“That way, they are able to ensure that government will bring development to them and also able to ensure that private sector investments would thrive.

 

“It is unfortunate that these our gallant officers, just like many others have also lost their lives in the past, have lost their lives on account of the activities of individuals who describe themselves today as ‘unknown gunmen’.

 

“We are pleading with them to sheath their swords and begin to allow that love of which the people of the South East have been known for over the years. So that as a people, we will continue to coexist.

 

“We pray the good Lord Almighty to accept the souls of these our loved ones, three of them, that have passed on due to no fault of theirs.

 

“We also pray that God gives their families the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss; even as we seek justice on their behalf,  both as a government, as a state and as a people.

 

“We ask their immediate families to take heart. Only God understands situations like this and we know that God will not allow them die in vain because it was in the course of duty and service to our dear cou try.

 

“But even if it was not in the course of duty, nobody deserves to die the way these our brothers have been killed.

 

“As a government in Delta, we will be with their families in this their trying moments and we will also take steps to seek justice on their behalf by impressing it upon security agencies to take steps to unravel those who have caused  this pain that is in our heart today,” Aniagwu stated.

 

 

 

Delta Guber: Local Govt pensioners reject endorsement of Omo-Agege

 

Members of the Local Government Contributory Retirees of Delta State have disassociated themselves from the recent endorsement of the All Progressives Congress APC Governorship Candidate and the Deputy Senate President, Ovie-Omo-Agege by the Primary School Teachers Retirees under the aegis of the Association of Contributory Retirees (ACR).

 

Mr Daniel Onosanimoni and Engr. Godwin Ekenini, Chairman and Secretary respectively of Local Government Contributory Retirees, in a press statement said that; “We the Local Government arm of the Association of Contributory Retirees (ACR) wish to outrightly dissociate our members from the meeting between Mrs. Helen Ejieh, Chairman Contributory Retirees (Local Education Authorities/Primary Schools Retirees), her supporters/group (among the LEA/Pry. Sch. Retirees) and the Gubernatorial Candidate of the APC in Delta State, DSP Ovie Omo-Agege.

 

They stated that the Local Government Contributory Retirees is composed of all categories of Local Government employees who retired from the Local Government Service of Delta State and are yet to draw their Pensions, adding that as a body they were not consulted nor was a part of the meeting at Ozoro “and therefore  the Teachers group of ACR cannot speak for us nor serve as our mouth piece. Whatever resolution reached is for the Primary School Teachers and should not be misconstrued as the decision of all Local Government Retirees”.

 

According to them ; “We are a non-partisan body that is poised for the payment of the pensions and gratuities of our members using only known legal and constitutional channels to press home our demands and we have not resorted to party politics by endorsing any political party or any Governorship candidate for that matter.

 

“We completely disown the contents of the press release/publicity that followed the said meeting as we remain neutral and apolitical in our approach and agitations for the payment of our pension entitlement,” they wrote.

 

They added that “We do not begrudge any person or group of persons from associating or holding political opinions. But we object to the use of our umbrella Association and name in the promotion of the interests of a political party (the APC), among political parties on ground in Delta State. While we concede that no pensioner of Delta State ought to be owed pensions, having served for 35 years or attained the age of 60 years, we therefore use this medium to urge the State Government to expedite action with the Technical Committee put in place to clear the backlog of pension and gratuities owed the Local Government Retirees in the State”.

 

They commended the Delta State Government for a renewed commitment towards the payment of accrued rights of pensioners, especially, with the release of the 2 tranches of N2.5 billion each making a total of N5 billion lately for the payment of the accrued rights of Local Government and Primary School Teachers in the State.

 

“The information at our disposal from our engagement with the Bureau of Local Government Pension at various times indicate that there are not more than 8,000 retirees yet to be paid. Our figures are not near 10,000 not to talk of the 50,000 cited in the news. And that the number is decreasing on monthly basis due to the enhanced fund release by the Governor for the payment of accrued rights,” they added.

 

They also said that “We therefore condemn in its entirety the attempt by the Primary School Teachers Retirees arm to drag us into unwholesome politics and unnecessary heating up of the polity as we do not want to be caught in any guise, in the unfolding struggles and contests among political actors, since we are ordinary retirees supporting the government of the day to speedily pay our outstanding pensions”.

 

“Therefore, we once again deny and reject any attempt by Mrs. Helen Ejieh and her sympathizers to draw us into any political circus show”, they said.

 

 

Polls: Okowa wants total rejection of Muslim-Muslim ticket

 

Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has called for total rejection of Muslim-Muslim ticket in the forthcoming Presidential election to mitigate religious intolerance and ensure unity in the country.

 

He made the call at the PDP’s Presidential rally on Saturday in Umuahia, and urged the South-East people to stick with the party for Nigeria’s recovery and good governance.

 

Okowa charged Abia citizens to work hard for the party’s victory, pointing out that Nigerians had embraced PDP “and those in South East cannot afford to be in opposition anymore”.

 

“I say this with all seriousness because Atiku Abubakar will win the Presidential election and PDP will return to power at the federal level and when that happens, we want to ensure that Abia State is counted.

 

“We know that the South East has suffered a lot under the APC and that is why Atiku said he would unite Nigerians and ensure that every part of the country is carried along.

 

“We want to restore the dignity of the Igbo man and by the grace of God, when Atiku Abubakar and I become President and Vice President, we will be able to ensure that the construction of railway from Port Harcourt to Aba and Ikot-Ekpene is done.

 

“Atiku is a man who is fair to all and he will work for all Nigerians, including Christians and Muslims to make life better for all.

 

“We say no to a Muslim-Muslim ticket because that is not good enough for our country Nigeria. We can work together to make Christians and Muslims live peacefully in this country.

 

“Let me assure you that the Igbos will benefit from the principal positions due to each of the six geopolitical zones,” he said.

 

He urged to vote for PDP to “take APC out” but remarked that In taking APC out, the opposition must be united to fight the battle.

 

“Let me reiterate that Atiku will raise 10 million dollars to support businesses across the country; so, we must support him because he is the candidate that is best positioned to win the elections and rebuild our country,” Okowa added.

 

On his part, Presidential Candidate of the party, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, said that his quest for PDP to rescue and rebuild the country was not based on ethnic or religious cards but was to provide Nigerians with good governance.

 

He recalled that the country prospered when PDP was in charge from 1999 to 2015 and urged the people of Abia and the entire South East to join hands with the party to return Nigeria to the part of glory.

 

The presidential candidate expressed optimism that the people would come out to cast their votes for the PDP in the forthcoming elections, adding that “PDP is going to win and therefore it is better you are on a winning ticket than a ticket thar cannot take you anywhere.

 

“Do not be distracted by other political parties playing religious or ethnic card. In PDP, we have no religious or ethnic card, we play a Nigerian card, a card that will bring everybody on board and bring a sense of belonging to every part of this country.

 

“I appeal to you Abians to make sure you remain PDP and PDP remains Abia’s party. I have seen the number of requests you have made and they fall within our policy which we tagged ‘My Covenant with Nigerians’.

 

“The issue of railways and rehabilitation of federal roads is also there. Aba is the capital of South-East as far as business is concerned.

 

“I remembered addressing businessmen in this city in 2019 and I assured them that we will set aside funds to rehabilitate and support businesses, particularly in this part of the country,” he stated.

 

He promised to ensure operationalisation of the Abia dry port which he approved while in office as Vice-President and assured that PDP was prepared to give Abia people what they wanted.

 

“It is not an issue of ethnicity or religion, it is about good governance. You can bear us witness that when PDP was leading, Nigeria was prospering and that is the time Nigeria became the biggest economy in Africa.

 

“We created more jobs and more prosperity for everybody in this country. We brought about peace and there was unity and there was not a question of people crying over marginalisation because we created a balanced leadership in this country, so you have no reason not to vote for PDP,” Atiku said.

 

National Chairman of the party, Dr Iyorchia Ayu, urged the people to vote for the PDP to rescue and rebuild the country from the ruins of the APC-led Federal Government.

 

He said “voting Labour Party will not help you rather it will help Bola Tinubu who will again marginalise you for another eight years and am sure that is not what you want.

 

“The PDP is the only alternative because it is an organic party owned by the people and not any individual.

 

“The APC thrives in distortion of truth, propaganda and lies and I repeat here today in Umuahia that APC has brought shame to all Nigerians.

 

“The APC came and made things difficult for the people; they brought hardship to Nigerians and I call on you to unite and let’s send them packing,” Ayu stated.

 

Former Vice-President Namadi Sambo; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wagbara; Chairman, Presidential Campaign Council and Governor of Akwa-Ibom, Udom Emmanuel; Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council and Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, Abia State Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Chukwu; PDP Governorship Candidate in Abia, Chief Okey Ahiwe, among others attended the rally.

 

 

 

Izeze condoles Okowa over death of security aides

 

Member Representing Ughelli South State Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Comrade Reuben Izeze has commiserated with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on the gruesome murder of three of his security aides.

 

Izeze in a condolence message to the Governor, the Delta Police Command and members of the deceased families, the lawmaker condemned the dastard act and called on the police authorities to fish out their assailants and bring them to justice.

 

The Comrade lawmaker said the deceased officers particularly Inspector Jude Obuh would be greatly missed for his impressive service as the EOD officer at the 6th Assembly.

 

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Ughelli South State Constituency, I mourn the passing of three police officers attached to the EOD Unit in Government House Asaba.

 

“I commiserate with our dear Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate of our great party Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the State Commissioner of Police, and families of the deceased police officers who lost their lives in the hands of unknown gunmen at Ihiala-Orlu Road yesterday.

 

“It is my prayer that God will grant their souls eternal repose and give fortitude to the families and friends who mourn their demise.

 

“Once more my condolences to the families  and may their souls rest in peace,” Izeze prayed.

 

Attacks on opposition: SERAP seeks ICC probe of election-related violence

 

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to “promptly seek authorisation from the ICC Chamber to commence an investigation into the situation in Nigeria in relation to the growing cases of pre-election violence, which if not addressed may escalate and lead to post-election violence in the country.”

 

The petition dated 11 February, 2023 was sent to Mr Karim Khan, QC, Prosecutor, ICC.

 

The organization urged Mr Khan to “urgently send the ICC legal team to Nigeria to promote free and fair elections in the country, and gather potential proof of election-related violence before, during and after the general elections.”

 

The petition followed reports of election-related violence in several states including Lagos, Rivers, and Kaduna states. Over 4,000 cases of violent attacks and 11,000 fatalities were reported across the country between 1 January 2022 and 3 February 2023 alone.

 

In the petition signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said: “These cases reflect the gravest election-related crimes in several states ahead of the general elections.”

 

SERAP said, “Based on these cases and other similar cases and trends of election violence, we believe that opening an investigation into the situation in Nigeria will be in the interests of justice.”

 

The petition, read in part: “SERAP urges you to seek authorisation from the ICC Chamber to commence an investigation into the situation in Nigeria in relation to election-related violence that may be committed during and after the elections scheduled for February and March 2023.

 

“SERAP also urges you to identify the suspected perpetrators of election-related violence and those individuals who bear the greatest responsibility for encouraging or facilitating these crimes, and to ensure their effective prosecution by the ICC.”

 

“These are not isolated acts, but part of growing cases of election violence, thus constituting crimes against humanity.”

 

“Seeking authorisation from the ICC Chamber to commence an investigation in relation to election-related violence that may be committed after the general elections is consistent with Article 53(1)(a) of the Rome Statute which allows investigation into ‘a crime which has been or is being committed.’”

 

“SERAP notes that the Prosecutor has consistently relied on the provisions of Article 15 of the Rome Statute and Regulation 49 of the ICC to investigate cases of election-related violence in other countries, including Cote d’Ivoire and Kenya.”

 

“The requested investigation is neither frivolous nor politically motivated. Cases of election-related violence are rarely investigated by the Nigerian authorities. Nigerian authorities are unwilling or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution.”

 

“As a result, suspected perpetrators and those who encourage or facilitate their crimes continue to enjoy impunity. Victims continue to be denied access to justice and effective remedies.”

 

“The escalating cases of election-related violence in Nigeria meet the requirements of the Rome Statute and provide reasonable basis for you to promptly commence an investigation, particularly given the gravity of these cases and the interests of victims.”

 

“The test of ‘reasonable basis to believe’ is the lowest evidential standard provided by the Rome Statute. Thus, the information available to the Prosecutor to make a request for investigation is not expected to be ‘comprehensive’ or ‘conclusive’.”

 

“It is necessary to ensure that any request for authorisation covers investigation into ongoing and continuing election-related crimes during and after the elections, especially given the volatile political environment in the country and the entrenched impunity for these crimes.”

 

“The incidents of election-related violence strike at the integrity of the democratic process in the country, and undermine the right of Nigerians to participate in their own government.”

 

“Victims have been let down when it has come to the prevention and prosecution of these offences, largely because they are regarded as an accepted concomitant of elections in the country.”

 

“The available information provides a reasonable basis to believe that crimes against humanity under Article 7 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court are being committed and may be committed across the country ahead of the elections.”

 

“Nigeria is a state party to the Rome Statute and deposited its instrument of ratification on 27 September 2001.”

 

“According to our information, opposition supporters are routinely targeted, attacked, beaten and ill-treated and subjected to other physical abuse. Violent attacks against political opponents or persons perceived to support the political opponents continue to be reported.”

 

“According to the Nigeria Election Violence Tracker by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) and the Centre for Democracy & Development (CDD), there were over 4,000 cases of violent attacks and 11,000 fatalities between 1 January 2022 and 3 February 2023 alone.”

 

“State governors continue to suppress campaigns by opposition parties within their states, and fail to ensure the security and public safety of opposition candidates, members and supporters.”

 

“These cases followed other growing reports of election-related intimidation, harassment and violence in several parts of the country including Abia, Lagos, Imo, Kaduna, Kano and Rivers states.”

 

“Nigeria has a long history of election-related violence. Dozens of people were killed during the 2019 general election. In 2011, hundreds of people were killed in post-election violence.”

 

“Under Article 15(1) of the Rome Statute, the Prosecutor may initiate investigations proprio motu on the basis of information on crimes that are within the jurisdiction of the Court.”

 

“In accordance with Article 15(3) of the Statute, if the Prosecutor concludes that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation, he shall submit a request for authorisation for an investigation, together with any supporting material that has been collected.”

 

“Under Article 7(1) of the Statute, a crime against humanity involves any of the specified acts that are listed when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population, with knowledge of the attack.”

 

“Similarly, pursuant to Regulation 49 of the Regulations of the Court, the Prosecutor can provide information to the Chamber on the basis of information by non-governmental organisations and the media.”

 

 

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

12/2/2023

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.orgnews@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202

 

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Lawyers petition Buhari over Commander of Navy Special Forces in Kogi State

Lawyers petition Buhari over Commander of Navy Special Forces in Kogi State

 

 

President Muhammadu Buhari was on Sunday asked to sack the Chief of Naval Staff.

‘’We wish to state that the actions of Commander Akalezi and Chief of Naval Staff are a clear breach of the operational code of conduct of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria’’.

The President was also asked to arrest Commander Akalezi of NNS Lugard for all his dastardly acts.

‘’The Nigerian Navy was created by the force of law to protect the territorial waters of the Federal of Republic of Nigeria from external aggressions and to protect the country’s assets situate in waters. It is so disheartening that the Nigerian Navy under the current Chief of Naval Staff has derailed from their constitutional roles and delved into the murky waters of politics in Kogi State’’.

The call was made by a firm of Legal Practitioners, Demaki & Demaki.

‘’Nigeria is not a banana republic where laws are nonexistent or not obeyed. Nigeria has laws and no person or group of persons are above the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Therefore, Commander Akalezi and the Chief of Naval  of Staff are not above the laws of the land. The action of Commander Akalezi and the Chief of Naval Staff dents the image of the disciplined officers of Nigerian Navy who are reputed for their bravery and uprightness; and, if left unabated will lead to breakdown of law and order; and destruction of lives and properties in Kogi State.’’

They accused the governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, of using Akalezi to intimidate, kill, abduct and kidnap kogi indigenes opposed to his political ambitions.

‘’These series of extrajudicial killings, intimidation, abductions and kidnappings of Kogi indigenes have been occurring since 2019 and has not abated rather Akalezi is further emboldened to continue carrying out his dastardly acts. It is our brief also that the families of the victims of Akalezi’s brutality have written several petitions to the Department of State Security, the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Naval Staff; however, none were investigated by the respective authorities’’.

 

‘Entitled ‘Petition on the genocide and extra judicial killings/abduction/kidnappings of Kogi indigenes to wit, Hon. Musa Adelabu, Mr Rufai Jimoh, Mr. Hadi Abdulmaliki, Mr Kashim Ismaila, Ismaila Momoh, Mr. Monday Idowu and Mr. Abdulazeez Salami by Uchendu Nicholas Akalezi a.k.a (Charles Akalieze), Commander of the Navy Special Forces in Kogi State and the Chief of Naval Staff, the lawyers urged Buhari to direct that Commander Akalezi be arrested and brought to justice for all his genocidal acts.

‘’Commander Akalezi was reposted from NNS Kano, Lagos state to NNS Lugard in Kogi state on the 9th of January 2023 by the Chief of Naval Staff and that no form of disciplinary action was taken against him neither were our clients reached out to in furtherance of any investigation to their petition before the Naval Command. Also, the return of Commander Akalezi to Kogi was influenced by the Governor to have him continue his reign of terror on the people of Kogi Central during this critical yet vulnerable political season in a bid to frighten and scare the people from willfully exercising their civic responsibilities as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended’’.

In a letter to President Buhari, the lawyers said the Nigerian Navy under the current Chief of Naval Staff had derailed from constitutional roles and delved into the murky waters of politics in Kogi State.

‘’It is very shameful that the Chief of Naval Staff is allowing the Men and Officers of the Nigerian Navy to be the personal attack dogs/ killer squad used by the Government of Kogi State to eliminate its perceived political enemies’’

They accused the Chief of Naval Staff of shielding Commander Uchendu Nicholas Akalezi from the long arms of the law.

‘’It is our brief that since the return of Commander Akalezi back to Kogi State, he has boasted of Gov. Yahaya Bello’s support and financial influence over the Naval Chief making him untouchable and unanswerable to any petition. In view of reinstating fear in the indigenes and political opponents of the Kogi State governor/ Commander Akalezi with his team recently abducted one Ahmed whose whereabouts is still unknown’’.

They alleged that the said Akalezi has hands in the disappearance of over one hundred and fifty person of Kogi origin who are political opponents of Bello.

‘’It is a brief of fact that the said Commander Akalezi was transferred out of Kogi in the last quarter of 2022 by the Naval Authorities upon the uproar and protest against his illegal activities. The said transfer of Commander Akalezi out of Kogi State to NNS Kano in Lagos state brought relative peace to the state as indigenes of Kogi State were able to go about their political activities without the fear of being killed’’.

Calling Uchendu Nicholas Akalezi personal Hit man of the Kpgi State governor, the lawyers listed those kidnapped, extra-judicially killed and executed by Uchendu Nicholas Akalezi.

‘’Hon. Musa Adelabu who was the PDP Chairman of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State has since been abducted by Akalezi and his team on the 10th day of August, 2019 from his residence and till this very moment hasn’t been found by his family nor close associates. Mr. Rufai Jimoh (A.K.A Lover) was abducted by the same Akalezi and his team on the 27th day of January, 2021 along Old Ageva Secretariat on the Lagos Highway and till this very moment, Mr Rufai Jimoh’s whereabouts is unknown, Mr. Hadi Abdumaliki was also abducted on the 3rd day of January, 2022 at Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area by the said Commander Akalezi and that Mr. Kashim Ismaila (A.K.A Kamuche) on the 21st of December, 2020 was abducted by Commander Akalezi and his team and till this very moment has not been seen or heard from’’

‘’That Ismaila Momoh was abducted/kidnapped from his house by the team led by same Akalezi. That Mr. Monday Idowu was also abducted/kidnapped on the 10th day of January, 2022 at Ihima by the Akalezi team in company of the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Abdulraheem Ohiare, That Abdulazeez Salami was also kidnapped/abducted on the 10th day of July, 2019 by Akalezi and his team in company of one Abdulraheem Ohiare; the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State’’.

 

The lawyers denounced the roles played by the Chief of Staff to Governor Bello in the extra judicial killings, abduction and kidnapping.

‘’It is worthy of note that at every time these Extrajudicial Killings, Abduction and Kidnappings are being carried out by the said Commander Akalezi and his team, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Mohammed Jamiu Asuku is always with Akalezi serving as a pointer in identifying the governor’s political opponents to be eliminated’’

 

On the brutality and killings of innocent youth corps members assigned to Kogi State for their mandatory one year service to the nation, the lawyers noted that Ogunwo Adetola Oluwaseye with state code KG/21C/2009 was tortured and brutalized by Commander Uchendu Nicholas Akalezi for no just cause.

‘’The brutality and killings are not limited to our clients who are opposed to the Governor of Kogi State but also innocent members of the National Youth Serving Corps who are assigned to Kogi State for their mandatory one-year service to the nation. Worthy of note is the case of corp member Ogunwo Adetona Oluwaseye with state code KG/21C/2009 who was tortured and brutalized by Commander Akalezi for no just cause’’.

Signed by Shedrack M. Demaki Esq, the lawyers recalled several petitions written to the Chief of Naval Staff by the families of those killed by Commander Akalezi.

‘’Mr. President, dishearteningly, we notify you that that several petitions have been written to the Chief of Naval Staff by the families of those killed by Commander Akalezi using various human rights organizations and law firms. Nothing has been done by the Chief of Naval Staff to bring the perpetrator to justice. We wish to state that we are in receipt of the acknowledged copies of these petitions written to the Chief of Naval Staff which he has failed to act on’’.

The legal practitioners urged the president to order the arrest of Akalezi

 

‘We humbly urge you that Commander Akalezi be arrested and brought to justice. We further wish to State that the representatives of the above listed victims are willing to come forward to testify to all the atrocities that have been and are still being committed by Commander Akalezi’’.

 

 

23RD January, 2023

GENERAL MOHAMMADU BUHARI GCFR,

PRESIDNT AND COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES,

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA,

ASO ROCK,

ABUJA.

SIR,

OPEN LETTER

PETITION ON THE GENOCIDE AND EXTRA JUDICIAL KILLINGS/ABDUCTION/KIDNAPPINGS OF KOGI INDIGENES TO WIT, HON. MUSA ADELABU 2. MRRUFAI JIMOH 3. MR. HADI ABDULMALIKI 4. MR KASHIM ISMAILA 5. ISMAILA MOMOH 6. MR. MONDAY IDOWU 7. MR. ABDULAZEEZ SALAMI BY UCHENDU NICHOLAS AKALEZI A.K.A (CHARLES AKALEZI) COMMANDER OF THE NAVY SPECIAL FORCES IN KOGI STATE AND THE CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF. The above subject matter refers.

 

INTRODUCTION:

We are a firm of Legal Practitioners and we have been briefed and our services retained by the Families of the victims of the extra Judicial Killings/Abduction/Kidnappings of Kogi Central indigenes of Kogi State by AKALEZI ; Commander of the NAVY SPECIAL FORCES IN KOGI STATES and they are Herein referred to as our “CLIENTS”.

This open letter is necessitated by issues of urgent importance connected with the atrocities, killings, maiming, kidnapping and the reign of terror been carried out by one AKALEZI of the NNS Luguard who is the Commander of the “Navy Special Forces” in Kogi State and the Chief of Naval Staff for his lackluster disposition in taking disciplinary actions against the said COMMANDER UCHENDU NICHOLAS AKALEZI (hereinafter called Commander Akalezi).

It is evident that the Chief of Naval Staff stalls the probe of Commander Akalezi’s extrajudicial activities in Kogi state.

THE ACCUSATIONS AGAINST AKALEZI; COMMANDER OF THE NAVY SPECIAL FORCES IN KOGI STATE.

Mr. President, we humbly bring to your attention the case of Commander Akalezi of NNS Lugard, who is the Commander of the Navy Special Forces, (a taskforce created by Gov. Yahaya Bello in Kogi State. Upon our clients’ brief and verifiable evidence, we believe that the said Akalezi is the personal Hitman of the Governor of Kogi State; Yahaya Bello. That the Governor uses the said Akalezi to kill, abduct and kidnap Kogi indigenes who are opposed to his political views. It is also our brief that these series of extrajudicial killings, intimidation, abductions and kidnappings of Kogi indigenes have been occurring since 2019 and has not abated rather Akalezi is further emboldened to continue carrying out his dastardly acts.

It is also our  brief that the families of the victims of Akalezi’s brutality have written several petitions to the Department of State Security, the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Naval Staff; however, none were investigated by the respective authorities.

Mr. President Sir, our Clients further intimated us that the said Uchendu Nicholas Alkalize has hands in the disappearance of over one hundred and fifty (150) persons of Kogi origin who are political opponents to the Governor of Kogi State.

Amongst the lot but not limited to the mentioned are as follows: 1. HON. MUSA ADELABU who was the PDP Chairman of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State has since been abducted by Akalezi and his team on the 10th day of August, 2019 from his residence and till this very moment hasn’t been found by his family nor close associates. 2. MR. RUFAI JIMOH (A.K.A LOVER) was also abducted by the same Akalezi and his team on the 27th day of January, 2021 along old Ageva Secretariat on the Lagos Highway and till this very moment, MR RUFAI JIMOH’s whereabouts is unknown. 3. MR. HADI ABDUMALIKI was also abducted on the 3rd day of January, 2022 at Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area by the said Commander Akalezi. 4. That also MR. KASHIM ISMAILA (A.K.A KAMUCHE) on the 21st of December, 2020 was also abducted by Commander Akalezi and his team and till this very moment has not been seen or heard from. 5. That Ismaila Momoh was also abducted/kidnapped from his house by the team led by same Akalezi. 6. That Mr. Monday Idowu was also abducted/kidnapped on the 10th day of January, 2022 at Ihima by the Akalezi team in company of the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Abdulraheem Ohiare. 7. That Abdulazeez Salami was also kidnapped/abducted on the 10th day of July, 2019 by Akalezi and his team in company of one Abdulraheem Ohiare; the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

It is worthy of note that at every time these Extrajudicial Killings, Abduction and Kidnappings are being carried out by the said Commander Akalezi and his team, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, MR. MOHAMMED JAMIU ASUKU is always with Akalezi serving as a pointer in identifying the Governor’s Political Opponents to be eliminated.

The brutality and killings are not also limited to our clients who are opposed to the Governor of Kogi State but also innocent members of the National Youth Serving Corps who are assigned to Kogi State for their mandatory one-year service to the nation.

Worthy of note is the case of Corp member OGUNWO ADETONA OLUWASEYE with state code KG/21C/2009 who was tortured and brutalized by Commander Akalezi for no just cause.

Sir, it is a brief of fact that the said Commander Akalezi was transferred out of Kogi in the last quarter of 2022 by the Naval Authorities upon the uproar and protest against his illegal activities. The said transfer of Commander Akalezi out of Kogi State to NNS Kano in Lagos state brought relative peace to the state as indigenes of Kogi State were able to go about their political activities without the fear of being killed.

However, it is to the consternation of our clients to discover that the said Commander Akalezi was reposted from NNS Kano, Lagos state to NNS Lugard in Kogi state on the 9th of January 2023 by the Chief of Naval Staff and that no form of disciplinary action was taken against him neither were our clients reached out to in furtherance of any investigation to their petition before the Naval Command.

Sir, its worthy to mention that the return of Commander Akalezi to Kogi was influenced by the Governor to have him continue his reign of terror on the people of Kogi Central during this critical yet vulnerable political season in a bid to frighten and scare the people from willfully exercising their civic responsibilities as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended.

Mr. President, dishearteningly, we notify you that that several petitions have been written to the Chief of Naval Staff by the families of those killed by Commander Akalezi using various Human rights organizations and law firms, yet nothing has been done by the Chief of Naval Staff to bring the perpetrator to justice.

We wish to state that we are in receipts of the acknowledged copies of these petitions written to the Chief of Naval Staff which he has failed to act on.

Sir, the Nigerian Navy was created by the force of law to protect the territorial waters of the Federal of Republic of Nigeria from external aggressions and to protect the country’s assets situate in waters. It is so disheartening that the Nigerian Navy under the current Chief of Naval Staff has derailed from their constitutional roles and delved into the murky waters of politics in Kogi State. It is also very shameful that the Chief of Naval Staff is allowing the Men and Officers of the Nigerian Navy to be the personal attack dogs/ killer squad used by the Government of Kogi State to eliminate its perceived political enemies. A food for thought is: Why is Navy Commander Akalezi living in and operating from the hilly Okene when the waters are in Lokoja?

It is our brief that since the return of Commander Akalezi back to Kogi State, he has boasted of Gov. Yahaya Bello’s support and financial influence over the Naval Chief making him untouchable and unanswerable to any petition. In view of reinstating fear in the indigenes and political opponents of the Kogi State Gov., Commander Akalezi with his team recently abducted one Ahmed whose whereabouts is still unknown.

Sir, we wish to state that Nigeria is not a banana republic where laws are nonexistence or not obeyed. Nigeria has laws and no person or group of persons are above the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Therefore, Commander Akalezi and the Chief of Naval of Staff are not above the laws of the land.

The action of Commander Akalezi and the Chief of Naval Staff dents the image of the disciplined officers of Nigerian Navy who are reputed for their bravery and uprightness; and, if left unabated will lead to breakdown of law and order; and destruction of lives and properties in Kogi State.

CONCLUSION

Mr. President, it is worthy of note that just recently on National Television; you called on Nigerians to go about performing their civic responsibility of voting for anybody or party of their choice in the forthcoming general elections without fear of molestation from anybody or quarters.

It is on the above premise we are calling on your good office to call the Chief of Naval Staff to order and we humbly urge you that Commander Akalezi be arrested and brought to justice.

We further wish to State that the representatives of the above listed victims are willing to come forward to testify to all the atrocities that have been and are still being committed by Commander Akalezi.

Find attached to this petition the said picture of Commander Akalezi.

We also wish to state that the actions of Commander Akalezi and Chief of Naval Staff are a clear breach of the operational code of conduct of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

PRAYER OF THE PETITION.

It is the prayer of our Clients that you use your good office to call the Chief of Naval Staff to order and direct that Commander Akalezi be arrested and brought to justice for all his genocidal acts.

Thanks.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 For: DEMAKI & DEMAKI

Shedrack M. Demaki Esq