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Edo leaders slam PDP, Obaseki
- Pronounce Okpebholo next governor
- Say September 21 election will be violence-free
Top political leaders in Edo State on Sunday slammed the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for spreading unfounded rumour, refusing to sign the peace agreement and envisaging election violence.
They also urged PDP and Labour Party members in the state to shun violence in the September 21 governorship election.
At a meeting to review strategies for the September 21 governorship election, the leaders expressed belief in Okpebholo’s capacity to restore trust in government and open new business and investment.
‘’ ’There is a strong hunger for change right now in Edo State. There is no question about APC’s expected victory as the party has very strong connection to the grassroots in the state’’
The notable leaders spoke with deep sincerity on the APC candidate’s approach, skill at persuasion and ethos.
They hailed Okpebholo for making a positive difference in the lives of the people of Esanland.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is the candidate that is strong on the economy, security, infrastructure and welfare programmes’’.
Dr. Amos Obasuyi, spokesman of the Edo Rescue Mission 2024, in a statement in Igueben pronounced the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as ‘’ the right man for the governorship job’’.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo will run an economy driven by the private sector, improve the business environment, empower the people and ensure good governance and unity in the state’’
The influential people in Edo politics listed infrastructure, healthcare, security and, education, agriculture, industrialization, minimum wage and good jobs for all as areas of interest to the APC governorship candidate.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo will attract foreign investments, lower certain taxes to encourage industrialization and get rid of useless regulations that discourage economic development. He will push for more investments in roads, bridges and infrastructure’’
The statement emphasized Okpebholo’s exceptional creativity, liveliness and positive leadership traits.
’’Senator Monday Okpebholo will increase public education funding and expand state’s literacy programmes’’
The statement also highlighted economic growth, a strong focus on modern education for our children, meaningful infrastructural development that properly integrates our state from end to end, qualitative, consistent and accessible healthcare and expansion in private sector led industry that takes our youth of the streets.
They praised Okpebholo for having the type of empathy and direction Edo State needs
‘’Edo North people are looking up to Okpebholo. The Esan hope is in Okpebholo. The Benin people want Okpebholo to be the next governor of Edo State’’
They said Okpebholo has the record to govern Edo State and that the people of the state were ready to take their destiny in their hands through Okpebholo in the September 21 polls.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo has ideas and understands the current challenges’’
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Edo Unity Forum showers encomiums on Okpebholo, says PDP has lost its direction
The Edo Unity Forum (EUF) on Friday showered encomiums on the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a great asset to the state.
‘’Out of those jostling for the Edo State governor’s seat, it is doubtful if any of them is more focused, committed and level-headed like the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo’’
The group in a statement in Auchi said that APC will convincingly coast home to victory in the September 21 governorship election.
‘’The PDP is suffering from factional divisions, problematic shallowness and lack of meaningful engagement with ordinary citizens. The party has lost its direction. The APC is solid in Edo State. The party’s candidate has heavyweights and traditional institution on his side and will coast to electoral victory’’
Signed by EUF National Chairman, Deacon Solomon Izevbigie, the group made up of business bigwigs, political leaders, senior civil servants, academics and members of civil society from Edo State denounced the PDP government for the breakdown of infrastructure in the state.
‘’We want honest, transparent and accountable leadership in Edo State. We want a governor we can trust. We want a governor with energy, vision for the rapid development of the state and dynamism to tackle challenges. Senator Monday Okpebholo wants to drive Edo State in the direction of economic growth, rehabilitate moribund industries and alleviate the suffering of the people’’
The statement underscored Opebholo’s deep love for Edo State, his excellent dedication to duty and sincerity of purpose.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is an embodiment of sincerity, a lover of the downtrodden and a very compassionate gentleman’’
On the expectations of Edo people at home and abroad, the group said Okpebholo would pursue appropriate policies, create jobs, fight corruption, uphold the virtues of human rights, improve manpower development and our health care delivery system, guarantee equal opportunities and rekindle in the citizenry a faith in their fatherland’’.
The statement also emphasized Okpebholo’s pedigree in politics, administration and management of resources.
“Senator Monday Okpebholo will devote attention to the welfare of senior citizens, comply with the Beijing Manifesto and give consideration to the spread of development projects”, the group said
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Edo Unity Forum showers encomiums on Okpebholo, says APC will coast home to victory
A group, the Edo Unity Forum (EUF), on Friday showered encomiums on the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a great asset to Edo State.
‘’Out of those jostling for the Edo State governor’s seat, it is doubtful if any of them is more focused, committed and level headed like the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo’’
The group in a statement in Auchi said that APC will convincingly coast home to victory in the September 21 governorship election.
‘’The All Progressives Congress (APC) is solid in Edo State. The party’s candidate has heavyweights and traditional institution on his side and will coast to electoral victory’’
Signed by EUF National Chairman, Deacon Solomon Izevbigie, the group made up of business bigwigs, political leaders, senior civil servants, academics and members of civil society from Edo State denounced the PDP government for the breakdown of infrastructure in the state.
‘’We want honest, transparent and accountable leadership in Edo State. We want a governor we can trust. We want a governor with energy, vision for the rapid development of the state and dynamism to tackle challenges. Senator Monday Okpebholo wants to drive Edo State in the direction of economic growth, rehabilitate moribund industries and alleviate the suffering of the people’’
The statement underscored Opebholo’s deep love for Edo State, his excellent dedication to duty and sincerity of purpose.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is an embodiment of sincerity, a lover of the downtrodden and a very compassionate gentleman’’
On the expectations of Edo people at home and abroad, the group said Okpebholo would pursue appropriate policies, create jobs, fight corruption, uphold the virtues of human rights, improve manpower development and our health care delivery system, guarantee equal opportunities and rekindle in the citizenry a faith in their fatherland’’.
The statement also emphasized Opebholo’s pedigree in politics, administration and management of resources.
“Senator Monday Okkpebholo will devote attention to the welfare of senior citizens, comply with the Beijing Manifesto and give consideration to the spread of development projects” , the group said.
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TRIBUTE NIGHT FOR WILSON SANTA EBIRERI HOLDS SEPTEMBER 18 IN SAPELE
A praise night for the late Wilson Ebireri, a Niger Delta businessman, is set to take place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Wetland Event Centre in Sapele.
The family released details about Wilson Ebireri’s funeral arrangements Friday morning.
‘’The Night of Tribute will take place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Wetland Event Centre. A funeral mass will begin from 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024.’’
Wilson Ebireri, warmly known as Santa, died on July 12, 2024, and will be laid to rest at Marford Close, Sapele on Friday, September 20, 2024.
Called “A Night of Tributes and Celebrations,” the event promises a delightful evening filled with melody, presentations and deepest tributes dedicated to a man of great integrity and wisdom.
‘’This gathering aims to extol the virtues of this exceptional and visionary leader, celebrate his wonderful life, higher vision, legacy, contributions to humanity and great sense of humour’’ a statement signed by Henry Ovie Ebireri said.
The family also announced Okotie-Eboh Grammar School, Sapele as reception venue.
‘’A special thanksgiving mass will take place on Sunday, September 22 at St John Paul 11 Catholic Church, New Ogorode Road, Sapele’’ the statement added.
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At Julius Berger, we’re aiding government to empower our youth – Kaita
. Another batch of trainees’ graduate from company’s Plant & Equipment Academy
Against the backdrop of prevailing economic and related downturns in the country, leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc continues to support the federal government in aiding youth empowerment for a better future. This is just as another batch of trainees graduated from the Plant and Equipment Academy of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
Speaking at the grand event last weekend, the company’s Director, Administration, Alhaji Abdulaziz Kaita who described the event as a celebration of another key mileage in the company’s consistency of purpose and proactive contribution to the country’s industrial and technological development and industrial advancement, said that developing Nigeria’s teeming youths for a productive future cannot be left to government alone. Patriotic corporate citizens according to Alhaji Kaita, must seek ways and opportunities to aid government in the foregoing regards.
You cannot leave everything to the Government; you also must contribute. Nigeria has one of the biggest populations of youth in the world, not only in Africa, but in the world, because 70% of the population of Nigeria are young people. So out of a population of 220 million people, 150 million people are between the age of 23 and 38 years. So, it’s very important to tap into this population which we have and train them, Kaita said.
Adding that the spate of insecurity in the land pose another cause for worries, the Director said, if we train more youth so that we can possibly take them out of the streets, all these issues of insecurities we have in Nigeria, maybe, will be over.
He disclosed that part of why the construction company established its Plant and Equipment Academy is to complement efforts of government in empowering the youths even as he challenged other corporate entities operating in the country to do same for better results. In order to complement the efforts of the Government, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, set up this Plant Academy to train people so as to complement the efforts of the Government. So, companies like Julius Berger usually contribute and help the Government to train youths to take them out of the streets, to get them employed. It is not only Julius Berger that should be doing this. I am also calling for other companies to emulate what Julius Berger is doing, to train people, so that we can take all the youths out of the streets, he further said.
Concluding, Kaita said a report of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation shows that this type of training contributes to performance. He continued: According to the report, we have about 26% increase in performance for people who are trained against those people who are not trained at all. So, I think some or most of you will get employed in Julius Berger. But even if you go elsewhere, I am sure you are going to be a big asset to the company where you go. This is something which is timely, and it is laudable too. We have trained about 40 technicians so far since we set up this academy and I think about 16 are graduating today. This is a very good achievement.
Kaita commended a major partner in this Julius Berger’s effort, Armed Forces Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Mechatronic School (AFEME for their continued support.
The Head of Julius Berger Plant and Equipment Department, Francois Roos who kickstarted the programme, praised the graduating youths for seizing the opportunity of the training programme to develop themselves as well as encouraging people around them to engage in similar training. But the most important other thing you need to do is to inspire the people around you that they would also want to be trained that they would ask your supervisors and also do not be scared to share your knowledge, you now know something; go share it with the people around you, Roos added; even as he thanked everybody that contributed to the life of the trainees for helping to fulfil their dreams.
Other senior Julius Berger officials at the event were the Head of Human Resources, Mr. Olorunfemi Ojomo; the Senior Manager, Training, Festus Akin Ogunfuyi; Talent Manager, Adeyinka Adeniyi; the Coordinator of the Academy, Ajamah Himernuel; Head of Corporate Communications Department, Mr. James Agama; and Happiness Moses mnipr, Media Relations Office.
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Senator Monday Okpebholo is a shining example of honesty, humility and quality leadership and will make Edo great, steer the ship of state back to the path of rectitude and progress
We are confident of Okpebholo’s victory – Edo Leaders
- Insist PDP lacks justification and moral standing to continue in office
Notable personalities in Edo State, including leaders of ethnic and youth groups, political parties, former council chairmen and past political appointees on Saturday resolved to build a united front for the September 21 governorship election.
‘’Edo is urgently in need of salvation, purposeful leadership and efficient government. Eight years of wasted opportunities are enough. The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo is a shining example of honesty, humility and quality leadership and will make Edo great, steer the ship of state back to the path of rectitude and progress’’
They also declared that “it will be a victory for APC in the September 21 Governorship Election.
“The September 21 governorship election is about the future of our state. It is also an opportunity to strengthen the bond of unity, enhance development and promote good governance. Our support for Senator Monday Okpebholo is total and we are quite confident and ready for the election” the leaders said.
Arising from a meeting in Uromi, the leaders explained that the issue of winning the September 21 election is already a foregone conclusion.
“A vote for APC is a vote for progressive policies, high management capacity and vision for serious challenges besetting the state. It is also a vote for upgrading the state’s infrastructure, creating larger space for small and medium- sized business, investing in education, healthcare, transportation, housing and urban development, upholding the rule of law, improving the living conditions of the needy, protecting our communities and offering more opportunities for our young people”
A statement issued by the Chairman of Edo Political Congress (EPC), Dr Joshua Eboigbe said Okpebholo has the personal gravitas and organizational support to take the state to the next level.
“Senator Monday Okpebholo is effective, knowledgeable, consistent and open to dialogue. He will spread employment opportunities across the state, shape our state for the better, ensure economic growth for all and greater transparency in public life and accelerate the social, political and economic development of the state.
The prominent men and women noted that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) government in the state is already heading for the rocks occasioned by its parochialism, deceit and betrayal of the people’s mandate.
‘’The PDP lacks the justification and moral standing to continue in office. It has been an era of disappointment and unfulfilled promises’’
The cheerful leaders said the plans to take over the state leadership cannot be deterred by the power of incumbency.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is a man of character and competence, has vision, moral fortitude, zeal, leadership, commitment and love for all. He will invest in farmers, attract local and foreign investors, promote an environment of enduring peace, progress and development, provide meaningful, sustainable and dignified employment to the youth, defuse social conflicts and give a sense of belonging to the various ethnic groups through the enthronement of political and economic justice”.
They said Okpebholo’s quest is to redeem the state.
‘’Now, more than before, Edo State needs quality and focused leadership. Senator Okpebholo will galvanize the people to self-development, energize the economy, and raise the standard of living of the people through adequate inter-village communication such as good road network, electricity, pipe-borne water, recreational facilities. He will also stimulate rural industries and show the necessary leadership by matching words with action through evolving workable development approaches, proper coordination and funding’’.
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We will Continue to Promote Rule of Law, Tolerate Dissenting Voices
*PRESIDENT TINUBU AT NBA CONFERENCE:*
*Says his government’s policies, actions will soon bring enormous relief to Nigerians*
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to keep promoting the rule of law, adhere to the principles of separation of powers, and tolerate dissenting views within the ambit of the laws of Nigeria.
This, he said, explains why since he assumed office, his administration had been making steady progress in rebuilding the nation through legal and judicial reforms.
The President made the vow on Sunday when he declared open the Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Lagos.
President Tinubu, who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, acknowledged the association’s sterling history of championing democratic ideals, as well as promoting the rule of law.
“Let me reassure you all that this administration will continue to promote the rule of law, adherence to the principles of separation of powers and tolerance of dissent within the bounds of the law,” he declared.
The President implored Nigerian lawyers and other citizens to join hands with his administration in resolutely working towards a Nigeria of everybody’s dreams, saying the nation cannot continue to toe the path threaded in the past, if it must achieve sustainable development.
He assured that though making difficult decisions to change the way things were being done in the past would produce hard results, his administration’s policies and actions will bring relief to Nigerians very soon.
President Tinubu noted: “Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, while I acknowledge the temporal existence of some daunting challenges besetting us as a nation, I would like to urge you all not to adopt a defeatist approach; rather, we should remain resolute in working for a country of our dreams.
“It is obvious that Nigeria as a nation cannot continue to sojourn on the trajectory of the past if we must be assured of sustainable development; hence, the need to sanitize the Augean stable and chart a proper course of rebuilding the nation.
“I acknowledge that altering the status quo requires difficult decisions and changes, which also inevitably come with hard outcomes. However, I am confident that this is a passing phase and our policies and actions, as an administration, are bound to usher in relief in no distant time.”
The President thanked the Supreme Court for consistently sustaining good governance and the tenets of democracy in Nigeria, citing the recent verdict of the highest court in the land which granted financial autonomy to the local government councils.
The judgment, he noted, “will spur the much-desired developments at the grassroots level,” even as he expressed confidence “that more of such strategic and reform-oriented legal interventions will be achieved” by the third arm of government.
On the part of the executive arm, President Tinubu restated his administration’s commitment to continue making the welfare of the judiciary a top priority of his administration.
He stated: “I want to assure the Learned members of the Bench and the Bar that this government will continue to accord top priority to the welfare of the judiciary to ease avoidable burden on their Lordships and speed up the adjudicatory process which is a sine qua non for social order and economic development.
“It is, therefore, my fervent expectation that the NBA would provide the appropriate legal compass for all persons, government, and businesses towards rebuilding our dear nation”.
He outlined efforts being made by his administration in reforming the judiciary including signing the Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances) Act 2024, leading to a 300% increase in the remuneration of our judicial officers, and putting in place the full complement of Justices of the Supreme Court.
The President also disclosed that his administration “is also working on the construction of a permanent and befitting edifice for the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal.
“Furthermore, provisions are being made to provide conducive accommodation for federal judicial officers within the Federal Capital Territory. All these are part of measures to boost the independence, welfare, and capacity of the judiciary,” he added.
President Tinubu applauded the theme, “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria,” chosen by the NBA for this year’s annual national conference, just as he commended the Association for always being part of “the vanguard for initiating and driving reforms to stimulate economic growth and development”.
On her part, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said efforts must be made towards accelerating growth and development, as Nigeria has all it takes to succeed.
In her keynote address titled, “A Social Contract for Nigeria’s Future,” the former Nigerian Finance Minister as well as the first woman and first African to lead the WTO regretted that Nigeria is not progressing as much as it should in its over 60 years of existence.
“Strong macro economic reforms is something we need in Nigeria. Oil has dominated Nigerian exports but we must diversify to agricultural and solid minerals exports,” she added.
Lamenting the lack of policy consistency which, according to her, has also affected the growth of the nation, the WTO DG said that to minimize the volatility of inconsistent policies, Nigeria needs a social contract, stressing that achieving a social contract involves the security of lives and national assets.
She said an organization like the NBA has a role in achieving a social contract.
“We need a new social contract to achieve growth in our country. My conviction on the need for a social contract is based on the need to tolerate different political parties and past administrations that preceded any administration in power,” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala noted.
For his part, the host Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, maintained that the security of lives and property was one of the cardinal things that the social contract was all about.
Urging the judiciary to strengthen the nation’s electoral process, he assured that Lagos, as a state, is ready to take on the social contract, even as he said for five years, he has not taken a kobo from the local government treasury.
“And we have demonstrated that even in the legal profession that all of you are part of we have more women in our judiciary consistently than any other part of the country and we kept faith in that,” Sanwo-Olu added.
Earlier in his welcome address, President of the NBA, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), assured that the bar will continue to work for the course of justice in Nigeria, adding that the respect the bar has is a symbol of freedom in the county.
“The bar is represented primarily by the need to serve justice to the people. Our existence as a people is intricately connected to our responsibility as the defenders of the people,” he said.
Mr. Maikyau urged lawyers to ensure that they discharged their duties to the people of Nigeria with determination like the resilience of an eagle and eschew corruption at all levels.
The occasion also featured the launch of a book titled, “History of the Nigerian Bar Association,” written by a Nigerian lawyer, Olanrewaju Akinsola.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama; Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (the Ọjájá II), and representatives of the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, among others.
*Stanley Nkwocha*
*Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications*
*(Office of The Vice President)*
*25th August, 2024*
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES GOVERNOR BABAGANA ZULUM AT 55
President Bola Tinubu warmly congratulates the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, MNI, as he marks his 55th birthday.
Governor Zulum is an academic, visionary, reformist, and statesman.
President Tinubu joins family, friends, and the people of Borno State to celebrate the young and dynamic leader who embodies the pragmatism and energy of youth, as well as the sobriety, prudence, and wisdom of the elderly.
The President commends Governor Zulum’s hands-on approach to leadership, demonstrated by his unchoreographed, pre-dawn inspections of rural clinics and critical agencies to ensure their smooth operations and that staff are on hand to provide essential services at world-class standards.
President Tinubu also applauds the governor’s courage, exemplified by his personal interventions in security situations in Borno State and in the recent resettlement of displaced citizens.
The President appreciates Professor Zulum’s facility for providing unifying leadership, epitomized by his efforts towards ensuring the welfare of citizens from other parts of the country and in the promotion of Nigerians of diverse ethnic backgrounds and faiths through the ranks of the Borno Civil Service on the exclusive basis of merit.
“Babagana is one of those luminescent northstars of meritocratic rise in the Nigerian political firmament. From humble beginnings, his tenacious pursuit of personal growth and later on, expeditious state and national development, is a guide to Nigeria’s future generations. Borno State and Nigeria at large are fortunate to benefit from his benevolent brand of modest, rigorous, and visionary political and administrative leadership,” the President states.
As the governor marks this milestone, the President wishes him many more years in good health and renewed strength in his service to the nation.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 25, 2024
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We are going to make sure Okpebholo is elected governor – Edo elders
Edo elders on Tuesday outlined some of the key priorities of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
‘’We need a governor who cares about public education, health and environment. We need a governor who cares about women, youths and elderly. Senator Monday Okpebholo understands Edo voters’ economic struggles and will work every day to make our state a better place to live. We are going to make sure that he is elected governor. We shall make the APC governorship candidate to succeed. This is the project of Edo people. God willing, we shall succeed”.
They also described Okpebholo as the soul of a new Edo State.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo has vowed to serve the good people of Edo State faithfully and diligently. Thus, a vote for APC is a vote for transparency, accountability, due process, prudent management of scarce resources and development’’
The elders in a statement shortly after meeting in Benin City urged the electorate to reject political extremism, unremarkable politicians, brutal dictatorship and administrative incompetence.
“Senator Monday Okpebholo’s vision is virtually limitless. He will build structures for real, concrete development, translate our hopes to viable reality, fight for honest, transparent government, protect the interest of Edo people, build the infrastructure base of the state, appoint people from the three senatorial zones into key positions, create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish without official policy impediments and protect the wealth of the people in all parts of the state”
The statement issued by the Chairman of Edo Elders Forum (EEF), Chief Efua Abudu accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of failing to improve the state.
‘’Edo State needs a visionary leader, who can think out of the box, come up with solutions that will address the paucity of development in the state. Senator Monday Okpebholo has what it takes in terms of exposure, education and vision to take Edo State to the next level of development’’
Okpebholo joined the gubernatorial race to bring in the much-needed investment to develop the state, harness the huge resources, shore up revenue and fill the gap in infrastructure. He is favored to defeat Ighodalo and Akpata.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is committed to building a state where there would be economic buoyancy, a hub of modern development and beehive of business investments and employment generation activities. He will create new jobs, ensure proper training and enabling environment for the civil servants in the state, lead an all-inclusive government, bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, provide developmental initiatives and encourage women by reserving forty percent of appointment for them’’
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Family rolls out burial activities for Wilson Santa Ebireri
A notable family in the Niger Delta on Tuesday described the death of business magnate, Wilson Ebireri, as sad and painful.
Santa, as his friends and classmates, called him died early hours of Friday, July 12, just five months short of his 71st birthday.
The family of Ebireri in a statement Monday morning highlighted the late business man’s sense of humour, extraordinary intelligence and awesome memory.
‘’We are already feeling the exit of Wilson Santa Ebireri but our consolation is that he lived a good life and left many things to gleam from – all for the betterment of the family’’
The statement released in Sapele by Henry Ovie Ebireri underscored late Wilson Ebireri’s hobbies in reading, music, football and movie.
It described Wilson Ebireri as a rare gem, a visionary leader and defender of family values.
The statement urged the younger generation to take a cue from the ideals that Wilson Ebireri lived for- building a united family.
“As a family head, Wilson Santa Ebireri demonstrated exceptional administrative prowess. The good people of Sapele will certainly miss him. We will certainly miss this quiet and unassuming man on so many fronts” the statement said.
‘’Christian Service of Songs will take place at his residence, 2 Ikomi Road, Sapele on Thursday, September 19 while the graveside service and interment will take place at Ebireri’s Marford Close home on Friday, September 20, 2024.
He left behind his brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews, nieces, wife, children and grandchildren.
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PDP Hails Supreme Court Judgement Affirming Governor Diri’s Election
August 23, 2024
Press Statement
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri over the judgement of the Supreme Court, which today affirmed his victory in the November 11, 2023 governorship election in the State.
The verdict of the Supreme Court is another victory for Democracy, Rule of Law and the expressed Will of the people of Bayelsa State in their quest for good governance and development on the platform of the PDP.
Governor Diri’s re-election by the overwhelming majority of the people of Bayelsa State is a resounding testament in recognition and appreciation of his outstanding achievements in the delivery of life-changing citizen empowerment programmes and projects in the State.
The PDP however raises serious concerns on the decision of the Supreme Court to uphold the governorship elections in Imo and Kogi States despite confirmed reports and evidence that the elections were heavily flawed and blatantly compromised, marred by widespread violence and manipulations by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in connivance with certain unscrupulous officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The general melancholic disposition in Imo and Kogi States at the news of the judgment validates the concerns and views of our Party and majority of Nigerians that the results of the elections declared in the two States did not reflect the true aspiration of the people as expressed in their votes.
The upholding of the governorship election in Imo and Kogi States further underscores a very serious challenge created by the blemished operation and violation of the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 and Electoral Guidelines by INEC.
The judgement also underlines the clamour and demand by our Party and Nigerians for a comprehensive review of the Electoral Law particularly with respect to the declaration of results of election without due regard to issues and complaints arising from obvious violation of the provisions of the law and electoral processes.
This again highlights the need to strengthen the electoral law and processes to ensure that elections are determined by votes cast and not by violence and manipulations as were prevalent in the Imo and Kogi State governorship elections.
Such situation places a lot of pressure on the judiciary which would have been avoided if the Electoral Commission ensured strict adherence to the Electoral Act and Guidelines in the conduct of elections in our country.
Our Party restates its position that no candidate should be declared a winner of any election until all legal processes are concluded. This is to prevent the inclination to resort to self-help through the use of violence and manipulation to secure unearned victory as witnessed in the Imo and Kogi States governorship elections.
The PDP as a law-abiding Party, respects the decision of the Supreme Court despite our Party’s deep reservations and urges Nigerians to remain calm but determined in the collective quest to ensure the entrenchment of credible elections in our country.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PDP GOVERNORS’ FORUM
2024/4TH MEETING HELD @ GOVERNMENT HOUSE, JALINGO, TARABA STATE ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2024
COMMUNIQUE
The PDP Governors’ Forum today, Friday, August 23,2024, held its regular monthly meeting in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital and issued the following communique’;
- The Meeting deliberated on crucial intra-party and governance matters affecting our states as well as those of overriding national interest and importance.
- The Governors noted with a sigh of relief the end of the #EndBadGovernance protests which was edging to a major national crisis. We salute the dexterity of the Governors especially of the PDP extraction in handling the situation in their respective States with maturity, thereby restraining hoodlums and other unscrupulous elements from hijacking the protests.
- The Forum reiterates that peaceful protests are the inalienable rights of the citizens through which they vent their genuine grievances. The Forum commiserates with the families of those innocent souls that were lost and calls on the Federal Government to ensure fair and speedy trial of those who were arrested.
- The Forum laments that rather than undertake a review of macro-economic and social policies with a view to giving them a human face, the Federal Government has resorted to blackmail. We call on Mr. President to show statesmanship by restraining his officials from blame games, that make the sub-nationals look bad by mentioning piecemeal interventions that cannot solve the problem. We remain unshaken in our firm resolve to stand with the suffering Nigerian masses and to take all legitimate steps to ameliorate their plight.
- The Forum notes the political impasse in Rivers State where court judgements are employed to determine the outcome of the party congresses. The PDP Governors’ Forum restates its stand with the Governor of Rivers State and will engage the NWC of our great party to revisit the congress with a view to correcting the anomaly and allowing His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara to take his rightful leadership position of the party in the state,
- With regard to the forth coming governorship election in Edo State, we condemn the pronouncements by the President to compromise the election in favour of his Party as well as the systematic intimidation of PDP supporters by the Nigeria Police and call on the Inspector General of Police to call his men to order.
- The Forum notes with concern, the refusal of the Federal Government to distinguish between the Federal Government of Nigeria, FGN revenue and revenue accruing to the Federation which must be allocated in accordance with extant laws. We call on the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General of the Federation to be more transparent in obeying the law, particularly section 162 (1) (2) (3). And equally call on the Accountant General of the Federation to stop behaving like the Accountant General of the Federal Government and to exercise her role in line with constitution. Therefore, we call for the separation of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation and that of the Accountant General of the FGN.
- Finally, the Forum commends the host, the Taraba State Government, under Governor Agbu Kefas, for the hospitality accorded members of the Forum and the Secretariat and noted with delight the giant steps taken to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of the state; which is in line with the governance philosophy of the PDP.
His Excellency Sen. Bala Mohammed.
Governor of Bauchi State.
Chairman PDP Governor’s Forum.
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU SWEARS IN JUSTICE KEKERE-EKUN AS ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA, SAYS INDEPENDENCE OF JUDICIARY CRITICAL FOR PRESERVING SOCIAL ORDER, PEACE AND SECURITY
President Bola Tinubu on Friday administered oath of office on Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), pending her confirmation by the Senate.
The swearing-in of the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria and the second female justice to hold the office took place at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.
In his remarks, President Tinubu urged the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria to defend the independence of the judiciary and promote the cause of justice.
The President emphasized the importance of strengthening mechanisms that will uphold and enhance integrity, discipline, and transparency in the judiciary.
”Undoubtedly, the position of the Chief Justice of Nigeria comes with enormous responsibilities as the head of all judicial institutions in the country. It is a position of considerable influence that demands temperance and sobriety.
”The occupant of the office must exude the highest level of integrity in the discharge of their duties. This is more so because of the finality of the Supreme Court’s judgments.
”I, therefore, urge your Lordship to be faithful and loyal to the Constitution when discharging your duty as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria.
”I also encourage you to defend the judiciary’s independence and always promote the cause of justice. It is vital that you strengthen all mechanisms for integrity, discipline, and transparency in the judicial sector, and pursue other reforms or initiatives to sustain and build public confidence in the judiciary,” the President stated.
President Tinubu also lauded the contributions of Justice Kekere-Ekun to the judiciary, noting that she is coming to the position with an admirable family and professional pedigree.
”Over the years, she has established a respectable and incorruptible reputation within the bar and the bench, which asserts the cause of justice.
”Her meritorious rise from a magistrate to justice of the Supreme Court is a testament to her exceptional talent, hard work, unblemished record, strong work ethic, and dedication to her calling as a priest in the temple of justice.
”Her sterling contribution to the growth of the Nigerian judiciary has been remarkable. We are inspired by her unwavering commitment to a higher ideal of upholding the principles of fairness and a strong commitment to humanity.
”Justice Kekere-Ekun is a brilliant lawyer who was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981. She’s now a trailblazer becoming the second woman to hold this esteemed position after Honourable Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, GCON,” the President said.
President Tinubu noted that the appointment of the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria is an inspiration and a beacon of hope to young women who aspire to break glass ceilings across sectors and seek to make meaningful impact on society.
Reflecting on the roles and evolution of the Nigerian Supreme Court since it was empowered by the 1963 Constitution to take over from the then Judicial Committee of the Privy Council as the highest court, the President noted that the court has played a critical role in resolving complex legal conflicts, even under the military.
He acknowledged the role of the Supreme Court in shaping public policies that impact all segments of society, citing the recent interpretation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) regarding the financial autonomy of local councils in Nigeria.
Highlighting the expedited passage of the Judicial Autonomy Act of 2024, which increased the remuneration of judicial officers by 300 percent, President Tinubu assured the judiciary of continued support from his administration in the expeditious improvement of its welfare and capacity.
He cited the appointment of 11 new justices of the Supreme Court in December 2023, which is enabling the court to work efficiently as it attained its full complement of 21 justices for the first time in decades.
”Let me also reassure you that the judiciary under this administration will continue to receive prompt and adequate attention, recognizing its status as a driver of social order, rule of law, peace, security and economic development,” the President said.
President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, commending him for his 32 years of service to the judiciary and the nation.
Speaking to the media after the swearing-in, the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria pledged to elevate the judiciary to new heights, improve its reputation, and sustain public confidence in the judicial system.
”We will make sure that people have more confidence in the judiciary, and I believe that it is not a one-man job. We all have to be on board because we all see the areas that are in need of improvement.
”I believe that there will be maximum cooperation because we all want to see a better judiciary.
”A better judiciary is for the benefit of the entire nation. Whatever the shortcomings that we see today are, we are all members of the society so, if we want to see a better society, if we want to see improvement, let the improvement start with each and every one of us and our approach to justice.
”Let us all have faith in the system and then also be particular about the process of appointment, I know it is a source of a lot of concern; the issue of discipline on the bench and at the bar as well.
”All of these things are aspects that we will look into and I believe that by the grace of God, at the end of my tenure, we should be able to have a judiciary that we will all be proud of,” the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria said.
The event was witnessed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio; the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola; former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed; justices of the Supreme Court, senior judicial officers, and some members of the Federal Executive Council.
The family of the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, led by her spouse, Mr. Akin Kekere-Ekun was also present at the State House Council Chamber.
As part of measures to ensure the welfare of the judiciary, the federal budgetary allocation to the institution was increased by 100 percent during President Tinubu’s first year in office.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 23, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU FELICITATES LAGOS CHIEF OF STAFF, TAYO AYINDE, AT 60
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, the Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as he marks his 60th birthday.
The President commends Mr. Ayinde for his diligence and dedication, which he demonstrated while working as his chief detail during his time as Governor of Lagos.
The President notes that Mr. Ayinde, an accountant, has brought the same zeal and exemplary devotion to duty to his job as Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Chief of Staff.
President Tinubu congratulates the Lagos Chief of Staff on the milestone and wishes him long life and robust health.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 23, 2024