

Reject garbage in 2023, media professionals tell Kwara People
- Say last 41 months, brightest in Kwara State’s history
- Drum support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq
The last 41 months have been described as the brightest chapter in Kwara State’s political history.
Making the declaration in Lagos on Saturday, Chairman of the Nigerian Media Professionals Group, Mr. Daniel Okeme, said between 2019 and 2022, Kwara State went through the brightest chapter of its political history.
He traced the state’s socio-economic and geo-political development to the dogged determination and progressive policies of the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq administration.
‘’We want to lay the facts before the good people of Kwara State. In 2019 when the incumbent governor took charge, Kwara State was in a mess. 41 months on, the story has changed. Urban and rural roads, electricity and water supply projects, educational and health institutions as well as decent housing have turned Kwara State into one of the best states in the country’’
Okeme spoke on the realistic roadmap of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, progress made so far, outstanding qualities of sustained commitment, exemplary performance and a special publication of the activities of the administration at a press conference in Lagos.
He narrated how under AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq leadership; Kwara State evolved into one of the most progressive states in Nigeria.
Particularly, Okeme praised AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq for demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities, restoring accountability and responsibility to the electorate, transforming the state in so many fundamental ways, working in complete harmony with the legislature and judiciary and managing the people and finances with a set of well-defined ethical standards.
Okeme also spoke on the governor’s brilliant mind and his transformation agenda in Kwara State.
He listed accumulation of wealth, abuse of office, running of public offices as private estates, chaos, indiscipline, confusion and underdevelopment as key features of the previous administration.
The media professional applauded the governor for strengthening administrative infrastructure, improving staff quality and efficiency, tackling water problems, creating jobs and liberating the good people of Kwara State from socio-economic ruin, forces of oppression and marginalization.
‘’The governor has done what no other governor has done in the history of Kwara State’’
Okeme who was speaking after visiting twelve of the sixteen local government areas in Kwara State with other media professionals commended the governor for the massive renovation in over 500 Secondary and Primary Schools, improvement in infrastructure and welfare of Staff at the Kwara State University, Kwara State Polytechnic, Colleges of Education and Nursing in the State.
He also praised the governor for encouraging agriculture, renovating and equipping hospitals, rehabilitating several strategic roads across the State and empowering the youths, elderly andbusinesswomen.
‘’Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq has done well in the areas of housing and sports. Kwara has never had it so good. No wonder traditional rulers in the state endorsed him for a second tenure’’.
Okeme emphasized the governor’s formidable agenda of socio-economic reforms and readiness to complete all ongoing projects in his second term.
He urged the people to re-elect AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq.

Delta PDP Chieftain, Anthony Akpeki, set to marry Endurance Ojokolo
Anthony Akpeki, a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Delta State, is set to marry Nigerian athlete, Endurance Ojokolo.
The marriage is billed to take place on Saturday, December 17, 2022, in Sapele.
Akpeki is a notable politician in Delta State and advocate for good governance and politics of development.
The traditional marriage will be held at 17 Ikpereva Street, Okirighwere in Sapele Local Government Area
“Finding a person who loves you is the best thing in life.” Anthony Ogheneyerowo Akpeki and Endurance Ojokolo said in a joint statement.
The reception will take place after the historic ceremony at Sapele Township Stadium.
Meanwhile, security is expected to be beefed up in Sapele and its vicinity in view of the presence of top government functionaries in the country, sports personalities, captains of Industry and royal fathers.
PRESIDENT BUHARI WISHES SIERRA LEONE WELL IN GENERAL ELECTIONS NEXT YEAR
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday received a Special Envoy from President Julius Mada Bio of Sierra Leone, wishing the West African country best of luck in its general elections billed for June, next year.
“I am pleased that you are pursuing your political programs effectively, just like us. We wish each other the best of luck,” President Buhari said.
The Special Envoy, His Excellency Andre Thomas Hope, said his country was bidding for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, and solicited Nigeria’s support.
He also said his country, which saw the interventionist ECOWAS military force, ECOMOG, restoring normalcy in the past, was no longer defined by its inglorious history, “but is now a beacon of hope,” and thanked Nigeria for the role she played.
Special Envoy Andre Hope submitted that Sierra Leone has made progress in laying a foundation for free and fair polls in June 2023, and the citizenry has had unhindered access to registration.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
October 19, 2022
ANTHONY AKPEKI MARRIES ENDURANCE OJOKOLO
Delta politician, Anthony Akpeki, will on Saturday, December 17, 2022 marry former African track queen, Endurance Ojokolo.
The ceremony will begin at 10:00am.
According to a press release issued by the families of Pa Emmanuel Ojokolo and Pa Stephen Amatowa Akpeki of Ukwuani Nation and Okpe Kingdom, the marriage is scheduled to be held at 17 Ikpereva Street, Okirighwere in Sapele Local Government Area.
The traditional marriage will bring together high-ranking government functionaries, sportspersons and administrators, prominent traditional rulers, professionals, 2023 candidates and leaders of political parties around the world.
‘’The high society marriage reception of the 100 metres specialist and the renowned politician will take place at Sapele Township Stadium’’.
Anthony Ogheneyerowo Akpeki is a unique and essential player in Delta State politics.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS 150-CLASSROOM BLOCKS, HOSTELS IN 15 LAGOS SCHOOLS
- 362,730 pupils benefit from Governor’s school infrastructure scheme
Education in Lagos State witnessed another remarkable moment of infrastructure expansion, with the addition of newly built 150 blocks of classrooms and 1,386-bed hostels to 15 existing schools across the six education districts in the State.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, unveiled the iconic school projects and virtually commissioned them at a physical event organised by the Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) in Agidingbi, Alausa.
The virtual commissioning was conducted in order not to disrupt academic activities at the beneficiary schools.
The projects were designed with the signature features of New School Design introduced by the Sanwo-Olu administration. Other facilities inaugurated by the Governor included composite furniture, lavatories and laundromats.
The projects were developed and delivered by SCRPS set up in 2019 by the Governor for the revamp of public schools and reduction of classroom deficit across the State.
The commissioning coincided with the unveiling of compendium of school infrastructural transformation carried out by the Committee since inception. Adding the new projects, SCRPS has successfully completed a total of 1,047 freshly-constructed and fully-furnished classroom buildings across public schools across the six education districts.
Inaugurating the school projects, Sanwo-Olu said his administration’s commitment to scale up access to education at all education levels was not in doubt, stressing that the State had committed more investment to Education and Technology in line with the cardinal objectives stipulated in the THEMES Agenda of his Government.
The Governor said his focus was predicated on complementary interventions in provision of physical infrastructure, technology, capacity building, teacher and student welfare, and reduction of the number of out-of-school children in the State.
He said: “When we came on board, one of the things we decided to do in building on the legacy of my predecessors in education was to inaugurate a Special Committee on the Rehabilitation of Public Schools in Lagos State (SCRPS) in November 2019, with a mandate to accelerate and actualise the core vision of revamping schools’ infrastructure in our State.
“Since its inauguration of SCRPS, we have started and completed several new building projects, including classrooms, hostels, security infrastructure like fencing and gate-houses, among others, and supplied new furniture for students and teachers. We have also embarked on several rehabilitation projects leading to the completion of rehabilitation projects in 197 schools.
“With the complementary activities of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) and Ministry of Education, we have successfully delivered a total of about 2,280 classrooms so far, with associated sanitary facilities, potable water systems, and security infrastructure.”
Sanwo-Olu said no part of the State was left out of the interventions injected in education, maintaining his administration’s determination to ensure equitable distribution of the dividends of good governance to all divisions in Lagos.
The Governor urged communities yet to benefit from the scheme to be patient, noting that the Committee would not carry out rehabilitation projects at once and cover every school in the State within limited period of time, but he assured that his Government would continue to expand the scale of its interventions.
He asked the beneficiaries to make good use of the facilities provided and shun any form of vandalism that may render the Government’s effort useless.
Sanwo-Olu said: “We are working very hard to make sure as many schools as possible benefit from this intervention. We cannot do everything at once and cannot cover every school in the State within a limited period of time, but rest assured we will continue to expand the scale of our interventions. I ask for the patience and understanding of those schools that are yet to benefit.
“From the schools that have benefited from this rehabilitation programme, I ask that you use these facilities judiciously and responsibly. Shun all forms of vandalism and carelessness; treat these buildings and projects as public goods that must be maintained for future generations. I have no doubt that Lagosians will be proud to see what has been done, in terms of an infrastructure revolution in Lagos public education.”
Chairman of SCRPS, Hakeem Smith, said the Committee, in the last three years, had been strategic in rolling out the programme objectives under the guidance of the Governor and had achieved significant mileage in revamping decrepit schools’ infrastructure and reducing classroom deficits.
Smith said SCRPS employed the model of constructing and furnishing one block of classroom daily since inception, which translated to 52,350 students being properly seated in a standard and conducive environment.
“We have rehabilitated 197 schools, translates to over 2,280 classrooms with associated toilets and building up new fence walls where required. We have built 1,584-bed new hostels and improved facilities for students in model colleges with complimentary laundromat and reading areas. Our intervention has led to the provision of 181,365 school furniture and this translates to 362,730 students being provided with comfortable seats to learn,” SCRPS boss said.
The beneficiaries schools are Lagos State Junior Model College, Meiran, Lagos State Baptist Secondary School, Orile-Agege, Abesan Senior High School, Alimosho, Orisunbare Senior High School, Alimosho, Luwasa Senior High School, Ijede, Lagos State Girls Junior Model College Agunfoye (Ikorodu) and Ojota Junior Secondary School, Ojota.
Others are Eva Adelaja Junior Secondary School, Bariga, Muslim Junior College, Oworoshoki, Lagos State Model College, Badore, Lagos State Model College, Agbowa (Epe), Araromi-Ilogbo Junior Secondary School, Oko-Afo, Badagry Junior Grammar School, Badagry, Ajumoni Junior Grammar School, Daleko, Mushin, and St. Joseph Secondary School, Mushin.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
19 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, SAYS SANWO-OLU
As Heritage Bank MD commends Governor’s great works in Lagos
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday said his administration will continue to ensure a mutually beneficial relationship with financial institutions in the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement when the new management of Heritage Bank led by its Managing Director, Mr. Akinola George-Taylor, paid him a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Ikeja.
The Governor said his administration was poised to do more as it continued to play its roles in providing an enabling environment, improving the ease of doing business and being forward-looking in its dealings with financial institutions.
He said: “Lagos is the Centre of Excellence and the commercial, economic nerve centre, so we cannot but ensure that we have a very forward-looking mutually beneficial relationship with all of our financial institutions and of course, Heritage Bank is not an exception.
“I want to implore you and your team to be intentional and think something fresh; think something different that can indeed stimulate us. You can rest assured that we know how important it is to spread our businesses and to ensure that everybody gets a part of it knowing that you and your staff will also have a corporate responsibility on the Personal Income Tax component. It is expected that we will continue to play our roles and play our parts.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu congratulated the Managing Director and his new team on the huge and great responsibilities that shareholders and other stakeholders in Heritage Bank have reposed in them.
“I wish you the very best. On behalf of the Lagos State Government, we thank you for your validation of your endorsement of our government because it is a period of endorsement. We get endorsements on a daily basis. The endorsement of our government is saying that we are doing a good job and we are encouraged to do more. We are humble with those words and it will encourage us to do a lot more,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of Heritage Bank, Mr. Akinola George-Taylor, commended the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration in Lagos State and wished the governor well as the 2023 general elections approach.
He said the bank would continue to increase the wallet of its business transactions with the Lagos State Government.
“We are here to introduce ourselves as the new management of the Heritage Bank and being that we have had a relationship with the state (Lagos) for a number of years now, we felt it was necessary to come and present ourselves to the Governor; to say thanks for the business that we enjoyed with the government and that we align and commend the great work he is doing for Lagos State.
“And of course as bankers, we want to try and increase our own size of the wallet of the business that we do with the government and to extend our best wishes to him and his government. It was a courtesy call to say thank you and wish him well in the next coming elections,” he said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
19 OCTOBER 2022
JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER SENDS CONDOLENCE TO PRESIDENT BUHARI OVER SEVERE FLOODS
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has offered his condolence to President Muhammadu Buhari after severe floods claimed many lives and affected millions in the country.
In a message issued on Wednesday, the Japanese Prime Minister expressed deep sadness over ”the recent floods caused by heavy rainfall in many states in the Federal Republic of Nigeria which have claimed many precious lives and forced many people to evacuate.”
He said: ”On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives and their bereaved families.
”My sympathies are with those who are affected and I sincerely pray for the prompt reconstruction of the affected areas.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 19, 2022
SANWO-OLU: GIVE MEDIA PRACTITIONERS PRIVILEGES, RIGHTS TO DO THEIR JOBS WITHOUT HINDRANCES
- Governor to unveil NMMA Alumni Association in November
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described media as one of the real engines of growth and a real barometer that gauges the mood of the nation and helps to stabilise the polity of any sovereign country.
He said press freedom is an important ingredient of any civilized democracy, noting that media practitioners in Nigeria should be given the rights and privileges to do their jobs without any hindrances.
Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke during a courtesy visit by the Board of Trustees of Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) led by its Chairman, Dr. Haroun Adamu, at the Lagos House Marina, on Tuesday.
The Governor who commended the role of the media in Nigeria said media practitioners should be recognised and encouraged to continue to perform their roles in society.
He said: “Press Freedom is an important ingredient of any civilized democracy. The profession is noble and very sacred. It must also be given the rights and privileges to do its job. People must be able to continue to know that there is somebody that would be the voice for the voiceless. Media practitioners should continue to deploy their skills and intellect to check people in authority, speak truth to power and use their training and intellect to direct leadership to ensure that we are not in a banana republic.
“Personally, I see the media profession as one of the real engines of growth. I see them as a real barometer that gauges the mood of the nation and helps to stabilise the polity of any sovereign nation. I am sure Nigeria is not an exemption. You can see and measure where the country is based on what the media is saying. And if people have donated their time and intellect to be the voice for the voiceless, I think it is proper that such people should be recognised and be encouraged to continue to do that.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who praised the NMMA for appreciating media practitioners and their works in Nigeria, assured the organisation that Lagos State government will support the 30th anniversary of the award.
“I am happy that you have been able to explain to us that over the years Lagos and its citizens and businesses have played major roles and so we feel highly honoured and encouraged that a landmark celebration; 30th anniversary would be taking place in Lagos. We will not shy away from supporting the anniversary because that is something that is proper.
“On behalf of my entire team, we want to congratulate you for continuing to hold the space high and for continuing to ensure that you are identifying and encouraging men that have kept the profession. We also commend you for using the merit award as a proper yardstick to encourage others to continue to do what is right at all times and to continue to give proper and fair reportage because there is a body that is looking at them,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Media Merit Award, Dr. Haroun Adamu, said the choice of Lagos to celebrate 30 years anniversary of the awards in November is not accidental, noting that “Lagos is the birth place of Nigeria’s struggle for press freedom from which all other freedoms emanate.
He said Governor Sanwo-Olu during the 30th anniversary of the NMMA will unveil the Nigeria Media Merit Award Alumni Association, which comprised over 1,000 past winners in the print and electronic media categories on NMMA in the last 30 years.
Adamu said NMMA has become a cornerstone that has continued to promote the values and ideals of journalism in Nigeria, as well as freedom of speech.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
19 OCTOBER 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES PROF PANTAMI AT 50, DESCRIBES HIM AS ‘A RESOURCEFUL, INNOVATIVE, EFFECTIVE PUBLIC OFFICIAL
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami as one of the most “resourceful, innovative and effective public officials that I have in the administration.”
President Buhari stated this in a goodwill message on Wednesday on the occasion of Professor Pantami’s 50th birthday anniversary, October 20, 2022.
According to the President, “the appointment of Pantami was one of the best choices I have made because he has added tremendous value to good governance.”
President Buhari explained that “Pantami’s depth of knowledge of complex issues is amazing and remarkable,” and that “his loyalty and dedication to duty is worthy of emulation.”
“As you attain this remarkable journey of life, I pray to Almighty Allah to continue to bless you with more good health and wisdom in the service of your country and humanity,” the President told the Communications Minister.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 19, 2022
Dettol, FG Commemorate 2022 Global Hand washing Day.
Leveraging its position as a foremost advocate of hand hygiene habits and regular handwashing, Dettol Nigeria has once again partnered with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to commemorate the 2022 Global Handwashing Day. The event, which served as further emphasis on Dettol’s dedication to advance the cause of enhanced hand hygiene as a tool to decrease hygiene-related diseases held on the 17th of October 2022 in Abuja.
Expressing his belief in the theme “Unite for Universal Hand Hygiene”, the Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Sulaimon Hussein Adamu, Represented by Director, Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh , while commending the stakeholders for their support, said, “Through this celebration, we are further raising awareness on the importance of handwashing with soap as a fundamental action of hygiene for our well-being — in line with the objectives of the United Nations General Assembly.”
“Though hygiene is a critical element of an integrated approach to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) service delivery, an estimated 2.3billion people globally and 171 million Nigerians do not have access to hygiene services. In Nigeria, only 13% of the rural population has access as against 25% of the urban population, while the wealthiest households are about four times more likely to have basic handwashing services compared to the poorest households.”
“The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Unite for Universal Hand Hygiene’, is therefore, a call to action to build on the progress made from previous years by uniting to ensure hand hygiene access and practice for everyone, everywhere. On the part of government, there has been increased prioritization of hygiene programming and deployment of needed resources. I would also like to particularly appreciate the contribution of our partners for their financial and technical support, in the promotion of sanitation and hygiene, through programmes and activities aimed towards the attainment of the SDG Goal 6 for water and sanitation.”
Commenting on Dettol’s commitment to the importance of the international advocacy day, the Marketing Director, Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Tanzim Rezwan, stated, “The purpose of the annual Global Handwashing Daay, which promotes handwashing with soap as an essential step in illness prevention, is to raise public awareness of the necessity of hand hygiene across the globe. With Dettol, we have made this vision more than a one-day activity and are devoted to seeing Nigerians inculcate a handwashing lifestyle as reports have stated that diarrhea prevention focused on safe water, improved hygiene and sanitation is not only possible, but cost effective.
He further asserted that “With our veritable cache of initiatives such as the Dettol Clean Naija Initiative, the introduction of the Hygiene Quest Curriculum, and recent partnership with Wellbeing Foundation Africa, we are well on our way to fulfilling our vision of impacting 6 million children with healthy hygiene and handwashing habits by 2025.”
Over the past 8 years, Reckitt Nigeria has, through the Dettol brand, become a hub of inspirational public health campaigns aimed at revolutionising the hygiene habits of Nigerians of all ages and gender. Through the School Hygiene Quest Program and New Mum’s Program, Dettol has furthermore begun to build new hygiene habits in children of all ages at various educational levels.
PDP SHOULD APOLOGISE IF ATIKU’S COMMENTS ON NORTHERNISING PRESIDENCY IS TRUE-WIKE
*Insists Ayu Didn’t Inform NWC, Govs, About N1.1B He Received
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has expressed mixed feelings over comments credited to the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar that what the north needs is a northerner, not an Igbo or a Yoruba person as next president of Nigeria.
Such statement, if true, Governor Wike said, is a threat to the unity of Nigeria at a time when efforts should be concerted in giving every Nigerian a sense of belonging.
Governor Wike spoke on Monday at the international wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa in Ikwerre Local Government Area, shortly on arrival from Spain. Governor Wike, was accompanied by the governors, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Samuel Ortom (Benue).
“I don’t believe that my candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could make such statement. But assuming he did make that statement, and this is one of the things we have been saying, this country needs to be united and part of the way you unite it is to include everybody.”
Governor Wike expressed his stances against anything that relegates any section of Nigeria and treat them as second fiddles.
The Rivers State governor is of the thinking that the handlers of Alhaji Atiku should also share in the blame for allowing their principal to make such comment in public which is capable of heightening tension and deepening the feeling of alienation among Nigerians.
“That has now confirmed to me one of the reasons why those of them in their camp, do not want Ayu to resign because they do not want inclusivity.
“I don’t know how those who are packaging the presidential candidate will allow him to make such statement. I was reading where somebody was saying that it was a direct response to a question he was asked.”
Given that the statement is now in the public domain, Governor Wike advised the leadership of PDP to tender apology to Nigerians while explaining the circumstances in which the statement was made.
“Be that as it may, I don’t think that it was necessary at this time, as people who are going in for election, as people who want Nigerians to trust them to have allowed such a statement to be made. “If it (statement) was made, as they said, I think, as a party, we need to apologize to Nigerians, assuming the (statement) was made.
“People are denying that it was made but if you watch the video, it appears true but people are saying with recent technology, anything can be done.
“This requires further explanation by our party, because Nigerians, as it is today, we can’t go this way if we want this country to remain as the way our finding father’s struggled, laboured, and toiled all the night to see that there is a country called Nigeria.”
Speaking further, Governor Wike took a swipe at the PDP national chairman, Senator Iyorciha Ayu, saying going by his responses to the allegations levelled against him, he stands indicted except proven otherwise.
“Luckily for me, he (Ayu) has now mentioned that he went to the presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Waziri of Adamawa where they discussed on the issues of borrowing.
“Now, the question is, when you talk about borrowing, who approves borrowing? You must go to the National Working Committee (NWC) to say you want to borrow money.
“I challenge him to bring the records where NWC approved that the party should go and borrow N1billion. What is the collateral?”
Governor Wike explained that in matters of funding the party, the governors had been up to that responsibility dutifully. According to him, it was therefore unthinkable that the national chairman would, in the guise of seeking funding for the party, opt to collect loan on behalf of the party without notifying the NWC and governors.
“Be sincere, how can you talk of N1 billion loan without the NWC mooting the idea, without the governors knowing. Then you talk about the N100million (One Hundred Million Naira) he said he told the Board of Trustees (BOT).
“If any governor gives you One Hundred Million Naira in order to rebuild one of the structures of the party, the Democratic Institute, let him show the minutes of the NWC where he said a governor has contributed N100million. Let him show the account to reflect this N100million.
“Let him also say that the N100m was in Naira or in Dollars. He said he gave it to the treasurer. I thought he would have told the world that NWC was aware.
Governor Wike stated for emphasis that his allegations against Ayu were categorical and it was expected that his responses should address each of the issues separately.
“In fact, the normal thing is that when once any governor or any party person has donated money to the party, you will go and tell NWC that so and so person has donated money. Let him (Ayu) show us the account where this money was paid into.
“Coming out to do a general denial is not denial. You (Ayu) must deny specifically to the allegations that were made.”
Governor Wike also wants Ayu to mention names of those he has contacted to handle the rehabilitation works going on at the PDP Democratic Institute and at the National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone in Abuja.
“Ask him, the contracts that are going on in this Democratic Institute and that of Wadata, who is doing that contract, is it not one of his sons?
“As a party, we believe that Nigerians must trust us. We must show leadership and part of that leadership is integrity. You don’t just come and deceive Nigerians that you did not collect one billion naira.
“So, let Ayu come out and tell us, tell the PDP people and tell the public that this matter was discussed in NWC.”
Governor Wike also described as out of order the PDP Board of Trustees resolution that mandated Ayu to make commitment that he would resign after the 2023 elections.
The governor wondered why the BOT could not make Ayu to fulfil his initial commitment that he would resign if a northerner emerges as presidential candidate from the PDP convention.
“To say he should make another commitment that he will resign after the elections, for me, BOT resolution is ridiculous.”

Flood: Build dams, desilt major rivers, Okowa urges FG
Delta Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Tuesday, called on the Federal Government to build new dams and desilt major rivers in the country to check flooding, especially when neighbouring countries open their dams.
He also urged the government to make efforts at desilting River Niger and River Benue to deepen the depths of the rivers to accommodate high volume of flood water.
Okowa made the call when he visited flood victims at some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in the state.
Camps visited by the governor included those at Ogbe-Afor Primary School and Oneh Primary School in Asaba and Ewulu Mixed Grammar School, Ewulu in Aniocha South Local Government Area.
He told journalists in an interview at the end of the visit that the best way to end the loss of lives and valuables to flood was for the government to take proactive steps towards stalling perennial flooding each time neighbouring countries opened their dams.
While commiserating with families that lost persons and property to the flood, Okowa disclosed that five persons died in various communities, adding that 11 holding camps had been established to take care of those displaced by the flood.
To make the camps comfortable, he said that daily feeding of the IDPs was a priority, and that medical facilities and personnel were in various camps to take care of medical needs of the inmates to avoid possible outbreak of diseases.
“I was informed by the SSG when the team briefed me yesterday that as a result of the flood, five deaths were recorded, although not inside the camps but across the state, and that is very unfortunate.
“We have 11 camps that are currently in place and some of them are in schools and some others are in high places in some locations where the schools have been overrun by the flood water.
“Climate change, obviously, is becoming very impactful globally and it is beginning to affect a lot of issues. The sea levels are rising and so is the water level.
“Another issue is the dam in Cameroon. It always causes a major overflow in our river. From the preliminary information I have, what could be done is to build our own holding dams here in Nigeria and a regular desilting of our rivers.
“And, that is not going to be the state government’s function. It is that of the Federal Government because of the type of dam that will be built across the river. So, it is going to be a major dam.
“So, I believe that it is important that the Federal Government will look into it very quickly and begin to start the process,” he stated.
Okowa affirmed that the PDP government that would, by the grace of God, be headed by Atiku Abubakar from 2023, would spare no effort in ensuring that the construction of dams and desilting of Rivers Niger and Benue got the desired attention because of the sufferings of Nigerians occasioned by flood.
“When we look at the pains that come to our people cumulatively as a result of the flood and the destruction it brings, it is so huge and runs into several billions.
“So, I think that it is something that the Federal Government would consider building a dam across River Niger to prevent this from happening and I believe that the PDP government under the watch of Atiku will truly take that as a priority.
“We are immediately taking care of the people in the camp, which is the first thing to do by providing food, security and healthcare for them here.
“They have been organised into groups and they are cooking for themselves and we ensure that there is regular supply of food items to cook. So, we are sure that they are not suffering from any form of hunger.
“We can see doctors and nurses here, living under the same conditions as the IDPs just to provide health care. In two of the camps, some pregnant women have already been delivered by the medical personnel.
“You can see that they are well taken care of. In previous years, after their return to their homes, we have always provided some form of assistance and we will also do so this year. We are always compassionate,” the governor said.
He called on donor agencies and well-spirited individuals to partner government in alleviating the plights of those affected by the flood, adding that his administration would give assistance to those in IDPs’ camps as soon as the flood was over.
Ogbe-Afor Primary School camp has 1,548 IDPs, Oneh Primary School,1,684 IDPs and 1,475 in the camp at Ewulu.
Highpoint of the visit were primary school children among the IDPs seen receiving lesions from teachers in an improvised classroom at Ogbe-Afor Primary School camp in Asaba.
Remarks by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Governor of Kaduna State, at the commissioning ceremony of the OCP Africa fertilizer blending plant, located at the Green Agro-allied Industrial Zone, held on Tuesday, 18th October 2022
PROTOCOLS
- I am pleased to be here today for what I consider to be another milestone in the sustained quest of the Kaduna State Government for development. We welcomed with gratitude OCP’s decision to locate a fertilizer plant in Kaduna. You can therefore imagine our delight that the factory is ready for commissioning today, months after construction of the plant and installation of equipment were completed.
- Every new factory, every new shop, every new park implies more jobs, bringing incomes that help to feed families and reduce poverty in our state. OCP locating a fertilizer blending plant within Kaduna State also expand the access that our farmers have to fertilizer supplies. It helps to improve the availability of a very essential ingredient for farming.
- I recall the partnership between the Kaduna State Government and OCP back in 2016 on fertilizer supplies for our farmers. That partnership helped to demonstrate that it was possible to get fertilizer into the hands of farmers without an expensive and inefficient subsidy regime. It was apparent when we took office in 2015 that the interests of our farmers were not the priority of the fertilizer subsidy arrangement.
- Since the fertilizers for the 2015 farming season had already been bought before we took office, we had to wait till 2016 to take action for a new way forward. We approached OCP and together delivered fertilizer without subsidy at almost the same price as the subsidized fertilizer of the previous year.
- At the time, OCP had no blending plant in Kaduna, so we brought in Flour Mills to help. The inauguration of the Kaduna blending plant today means that Kaduna State can, going forward, has greater scope for making affordable fertilizer available to our farmers.
- Kaduna State has comparative advantage in agriculture. We have leveraged this endowment as a priority sector for our investment drive. OCP is joining Olam and Tomato Jos in investing in our agriculture sector. We are grateful to Olam for being the first major company to respond to our investment push. They have had a major impact on our farmers and our state. OCP is a neighbour to Olam. We wish you similar success.
Thanks for listening.
Remarks by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Governor of Kaduna State, at the presentation of the 2023 Draft Estimates of Revenues and Expenditure to the Kaduna State House of Assembly, on Tuesday, 18th October 2022.
PROTOCOLS:
The Right Honourable Speaker,
Principal Officers of the Kaduna State House of Assembly
Honourable Members of the Kaduna State House of Assembly
Members of the Kaduna State Executive Council
Permanent Secretaries, Clerk of the House and
Gentlemen of the Press
Ladies and Gentlemen,
- Let me begin by expressing my profound gratitude to the Honourable Members of the Kaduna State House of Assembly for the opportunity to address you today. I recall vividly the warmth of the reception when I first entered this chamber as governor on June 10th, 2015, less than two weeks after we took office.
- During that first visit, I was able to update this House on the preliminary findings from the briefings we began receiving from ministries, departments, and agencies in our first week in office. I concluded my update by requesting a constructive partnership between the three arms of the Kaduna State government in the important task of improving the wellbeing of our people and delivering progressive outcomes for them.
- Mr. Speaker, I am glad to say that the Kaduna State House of Assembly has been a positive partner in the last seven years. There may have been a few storms and stresses along the way. But the honourable members of this House have been supportive of our efforts to reform governance and build the foundations for a new era of progress and development in Kaduna State. We have sent many executive bills over the last seven years, and this House has commendably discharged its duty of enacting vital legislation. I wish to register the gratitude of the government for the 140 laws so far enacted by this House.
- I stand before this House for the final time as governor with immense gratitude to Almighty Allah for the work He has enabled us to do to uplift Kaduna State. We have since May 2015 erected the platform for Kaduna State to takeoff. Rooted firmly in new laws and a robust approach to governance, our reform efforts have been about putting people first. That is by prioritising the delivery of public goods that build human capacity, that improve public wellbeing and that promote equality of opportunity for all the residents of our dear state.
- In 2015, we committed ourselves to develop human capital by investing in education, healthcare and social welfare; institute a good governance system that is founded on a competent and responsive public service; foster security; maintain, rebuild and expand Infrastructure (including water supply, electricity and road networks) to accelerate economic growth that will create jobs, jobs and more jobs; promote agriculture and food security and reform land administration as a basis for wealth creation and capital formation, while preserving and enhancing environmental management.
- We have been successful in accomplishing much of our governance agenda. Our governance attainments were achieved amidst considerable hurdles. Fiscal challenges threatened our ambitions, but we tapped into other funding sources to enable us implement some of our projects. Security challenges and the consequences of a pandemic and two national recessions have also proven to be severe limiters, but we have persevered in doing the work needed to make the future of Kaduna State more glorious than its past.
- This government has worked to make healthcare more accessible. Each of our 255 wards now has a staffed and equipped primary health care centre. We have installed solar power in some of them, enabling those ones to offer 24-hour services. All our Primary Health Centres are run by the same board to help standardise the level of care that residents can expect.
- We have upgraded secondary health facilities and rural hospitals and staffed them. We made the necessary investments to secure accreditations for Barau Dikko Hospital as a teaching hospital and for the clinical programme of KASU. This enabled KASU to begin graduating medical doctors, rather than having to send medical students elsewhere for clinical training.
- These improvements in health care have helped to make pregnancy less hazardous for mothers and children alike. We are reducing maternal and infant mortality and enabling more women to give birth with trained personnel in attendance. Immunisation coverage has been expanded to protect more children against vaccine-preventable diseases.
- We have supported the Kaduna State Health Supplies Management Agency (KASHMA) to provide our health facilities with the required medicines and other consumables. Hard to reach areas are already being served through delivery by drone, courtesy of our partnership with Zipline. The contributory health insurance scheme we introduced in 2018 is helping enrolees to access healthcare without incurring out of pocket expenses.
- Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to inform you that Kaduna State is poised for recognition as a centre for specialist medical services, including cancer treatment. We have signed an agreement for an international firm to manage the 300-bed specialist hospital which is nearing completion. We have persuaded the Islamic Development Bank to provide funding for a cancer centre there, and we have no doubt that this will help reduce medical tourism.
- This government has undertaken similar efforts to expand access to education. We introduced free basic education for the first 12 years of schooling, from Primary 1 to the completion of SS3. We launched a programme to renovate schools, provide furniture and sanitation, increase the number of classrooms, and build new schools where necessary. We have not reached all the 4,250 public primary schools in the state, but we have mitigated the worst instances like in Rigasa where in one primary school over 20,000 pupils were being taught in tents.
- We are consistently trying to improve teacher quality and teaching standards in our public schools to ensure that pupils graduating from our schools have the skills and knowledge to enable them to successfully climb the ladder of opportunity and social mobility.
- Mr. Speaker, this focus on human capital development explains why education and health have consistently had the highest allocations in all the budget estimates we have presented to this honourable House. We have accompanied this with social welfare initiatives like the Kaduna State Women Empowerment Fund (KADSWEF), the Kaduna State Start-up Entrepreneurship Fund (KADSTEP), the school feeding programme, and collaboration with the Federal Government through our Social Investment Office on various social programmes. Kaduna State has so far enrolled into the state social register almost 3m poor and vulnerable persons from 778,662 households.
- Our programme to register the residents of Kaduna State has so far registered 5.3m persons. This is slightly more than half of the estimated population of Kaduna State, but it is one of the highest rates of identity registration in the country.
- Mr. Speaker, we are especially delighted that our investment drive has been successful in bringing new businesses to the state. Private investors have poured billions of dollars into our state in businesses like hatchery and feed mill, livestock ranching and dairy iron and steel, tomato processing, fertilizer blending, pharmaceuticals, automobile assembly, ICT, housing, shopping malls and markets. These businesses are creating direct and indirect jobs and bringing new skills to the state.
- As you are aware, the African Development Bank has selected Kaduna as one of the eight states in which a Special Agro-Processing Zone will be built and run. This will help to further leverage on our endowments in agriculture in developing our state.
- This investment drive has been accompanied by massive investments in infrastructure to improve the wellbeing of residents and encourage economic competitiveness. The urban renewal programme we launched in 2019 is an unprecedented investment in infrastructure upgrade and expansion in our three major cities: Kaduna, Kafanchan and Zaria. Many of the urban renewal projects have been completed and commissioned. Several other projects await completion, and we seek the cooperation of this House to enable the completion of as many of them as we can.
- With the support of this House, we have enacted laws to create metropolitan authorities to manage each of these three major cities as organic entities, maintain the municipal infrastructure and build more as required. The urban renewal programme extends the investments in rural trunk and feeder roads we made in the first term.
- Mr. Speaker, we have completed the Zaria Water Project. We have signed an MoU with the Federal Government for the Greater Kaduna Water Supply Project. This entails the FG building the Itisi Dam, while KDSG will build the water treatment plant and the infrastructure to deliver the treated water to homes and businesses.
- We hope to complete an 84MW thermal power plant before leave office next year. The two gas turbines required for the project are being expected from the UAE. Kaduna State is also part of the project to build 100MW solar power plant in each of the 19 northern states and the FCT.
- One of our earliest decisions was to establish the Kaduna State Geographic Information Service (KADGIS) to land administration in the state. KADGIS has digitised the land registry, and enabled residents to get valid land titles through systematic property registration and the recertification programme. The work done by KADGIS has enabled me to sign over 50,000 certificates of occupancy since 2016.
- We have done all these in an environment that has compelled us to spend more money on security than a subnational would under normal circumstances. It is our earnest hope that ongoing military operations will be sustained to enable our people to live in peace, farm in peace, do their business in peace, worship in peace and relax in peace.
- As a progressive government, we have promoted women and young people into positions of responsibility. Our State Executive Council has more female commissioners than men. We have enacted laws for child welfare and protection, initiated public service reforms, paid inherited arrears of gratuity and death benefits and tried to run a decent contributory pension scheme. We are the first government to pay the new national minimum wage following which we also raised to N30,000 the minimum monthly pension for retirees on the old defined benefit system.
- Our government has structured a mortgage and foreclosure system for the state. We are implementing an unprecedented transfer of wealth to traders at the Sheikh Gumi market. Across the state, we are building new markets and empowering traders with single-digit interest mortgages to pay for them.
- Mr. Speaker, a review of budget performance since our first full budget in 2016 indicates that the 2021 budget performed at 97%. This is the highest ever in the history of the state. In fact, our second term budget performance has not been less than the 73% recorded in 2020. Budget performance was 92% in 2019, dipped to 73% in 2020 due to Covid-19, before recovering to 97% in 2021.
The Draft 2023 Budget of Continuous Growth and Development
- Uncertainties persist in the global economy. Promising signs of a sustained recovery from Covid-19 have been replaced by fears of inflation and recession in the major economies. This economic climate may affect demand for Nigeria’s main export, petroleum, with consequences for the exchange rate, prices and general economic performance. The proposed 2023 budget estimates assume that crude oil prices will stabilise around USD70 per barrel and that the official exchange rate will be around N435.57 to the dollar. Considering these economic parameters, the draft 2023 estimates are based on the following considerations:
- Making provisions for funding of ongoing vital infrastructure projects.
- Maintaining the minimum budgeting baseline model of 60:40 ratio of capital to recurrent.
iii. Education and Health sectors holding a minimum of 26% and 15% of the total proposed budget respectively.
- Mr. Speaker, Honorable Members, as we present for your consideration our eight and final draft budget, it is with a consciousness that this government will continue to discharge its responsibility to the people of this state as vigorously in these final months as we did at inception.
- The revenue and expenditure estimates that we present today for your consideration conforms to the governance agenda that we have expounded since 2015. The draft 2023 budget prioritises the Education and Health of our people. It maintains the capacity of the government to fund significant infrastructure to improve citizen wellbeing and retain economic competitiveness.
- The proposed N370.33bn 2023 Draft Budget is a 21.82% increase from the 2022 revised appropriation of N303.99bn. The sum of N242.21bn is proposed as capital expenditure, and N127.7bn as recurrent expenses in the 2023 estimates. The capital to recurrent ratio of 65.5% to 34.48% reflects our consistent commitment to investment over consumption.
- The 2023 estimates maintain our focus on human capital development. Our proposal allocates 45.34% of the budget to Education and Health. The allocations of 29% to the Education sector and 16.05% to Health leave no doubt about our abiding commitment to human capital development.
- Mr. Speaker, the 2023 budget estimates make provisions for continued pro-poor interventions in nutrition, health care, skills acquisition and empowerment funds for women, youths, and vulnerable groups. Along with provisions for the Social Investment Programme, these pro-poor interventions are costed at N11.32bn, representing about 3% of the proposed budget size.
- Mr. Speaker, we shall shortly be forwarding the Finance Bill for 2023, to reflect proposed amendments to the Tax Code. The Finance Bill is a flexible mechanism to enable annual adjustments for raising revenues that would be required to implement the Budget. Its enactment does not require a reenactment of the Tax Consolidation and Codification Law.
- This final budget concludes eight years of determined effort to make lives better by putting people first. We have implemented empowerment policies, respecting people our enough to free them from dependence on those who insert themselves between the treasury and the people. We have diligently sought to promote equal opportunity, improve human capital development, build infrastructure, attract new businesses, support existing ones and run a system that promotes the ease of doing business. We have reformed government, while celebrating what was good in the past, honouring people and completing inherited projects. We have done our best amidst the continuum that disciplined governance should be.
- Mr. Speaker, our governance journey since 2015 has had smooth phases as well as rough junctions. We have been sustained in sadness and joy by faith and our commitment to our sacred oath to do our best for the people of Kaduna State. We are proud of our record of governance. We have charted a new path forward. We will be leaving it to our successors to further extend, build on and expand our efforts to deliver progressive outcomes for our people. The roadmap is clear, anchored on the State Development Plan and a relentless focus on robust policies and capacity to implement through an efficient public service.
- Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to inform you that we shall be proceeding to commission the OCP fertiliser blending plant after the budget presentation today. This will improve fertilizer availability for our farmers. It will also enable us to resume the partnership with OCP that helped us exit the inefficient fertilizer subsidy regime in 2016.
- We have made Kaduna State better and giving our successors a strong base from which to carry the baton still further to achieve more for our people.
Thank you for listening
2023: ARTISANS IN SOUTHWEST, NORTH CENTRAL MEET GOV AKEREDOLU, DECLARE SUPPORT FOR TINUBU/SHETTIMA
Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the South West Coordinator of Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON on Tuesday played host to the leaders of South West and North Central Artisan’s Association of Nigeria (AAN).
The artisans, who gathered in their large numbers declared their support for the Tinubu/Shettima joint ticket.
They pledged to work for the victory of the APC Presidential candidate come 2023 presidential election.
At the meeting were the President-General of Lagos, Alhaji Chief Nurudeen Buhari; Oyo, Alhaji Kolayode Amsat; Kwara, Alhaji Jimoh Adesina; Kogi, Comrade Emmanuel Gimbo; Ogun, Comrade Anthony Ayodele; Osun, Comrade Adetunji Ezekiel; Ondo, Comrade Daisi Komolafe; and Ekiti, Comrade Julius Oluwadara.
Speaking, the President General, United Artisans Group of Ondo State, Comrade Komolafe Daisi, lauded Governor Akeredolu over his commitment to the wellbeing of artisans in the state.
Comrade Daisi used the occasion to congratulate Governor Akeredolu on his appointment as South West Coordinator of Tinubu/Shettima Campaign.
He assured that all the leaders and members of professionally skilled workers across the South West and North Central would give the Governor all necessary support to ensure overwhelming victory for Tinubu at the polls.
Comrade Daisi disclosed that the artisans across the South West and North Central came together under the umbrella body of Artisan’s Association of Nigeria (AAN), to work with Governor Akeredolu to ensure the success of Tinubu/ Shettima joint ticket.
The President General expressed happiness that Ondo State is the first state to officially host the group.
“Our coming together is to make sure we work with you as the Coordinator of Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Group for the South West in making sure our candidate, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu becomes the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria by next year.” He said.
In their separate goodwill messages, the President, Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, Alhaji Nurudeen Buhari and his counterpart from Kwara State, Alhaji Jimoh Adeshina commended Governor Akeredolu for providing leadership in the South West and the country at large.
They also assured the Governor of their readiness to give their best for overwhelming victory of Bola Tinubu.
Receiving the artisan leaders, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, appreciated them for their belief in the Nigeria’s project, describing their support as a sign of good thing to come.
Governor Akeredolu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr Dare Aragbaiye, said Tinubu/Shettima joint ticket is a collective project which everybody must support for a better Nigeria.
He equally called for unity and togetherness among members of the group to achieve a common goal, saying that the present administration gives priority to the welfare of all including artisan groups.
“Ondo State Governor and Ondo State government appreciate you. And I want to assure you that we need the support of all and sundry. We believe that with the support of the Almighty God, victory is assured.
“We thank you for your determination to support Mr Governor in the task ahead so that we can achieve success together.“ He said.
October 17, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Condemns APC’s Attack on Its Kaduna Presidential Campaign Rally
…Insists It is Undeterred
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns in the strongest terms possible the violent attack on its Presidential Campaign Rally in Kaduna, Kaduna State capital today, Monday, October 17, 2022 by heavily armed hoodlums sponsored by the liquidating All Progressives Congress (APC).
This unprovoked attack is not only reprehensible but also exposes the desperation of the APC which is overwhelmed by the continuing popularity of the PDP and our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar for which they have now resorted to violence.
The aim of the APC for this attack is to frustrate the PDP Presidential Rally, trigger tension, violence and cause bloodletting in Kaduna State. This is contrary to the undertaking in the Peace Accord signed by political parties on September 28, 2022 in which the Presidential Candidate of the APC was conspicuously absent.
The attack today by the APC must give well-meaning Nigerians concern as some report allege that the vicious assault on the PDP Presidential Campaign was spearheaded by the APC governorship candidate in Kaduna State.
The frustrated APC having realized that it cannot legally and legitimately sponsor candidates for the 2023 general elections has now resorted to violence and attacking our party members and innocent citizens with the aim of derailing the entire democratic process.
The APC is intimidated by Atiku Abubakar’s popularity and acceptance among majority of Nigerians following their confidence in Atiku Abubakar’s practical experience, record, capacity, broad-mindedness, Pan-Nigerianism and willpower to unite our nation, revamp our devastated economy and guarantee security of lives and property in our country.
In any case, our Party is undeterred by such cowardly attack as Nigerians are already connected with our issue-based campaign and Atiku Abubakar’s message of hope which is already resonating throughout the nooks and crannies of our country.
The PDP salutes the courage displayed by the people of Kaduna State in coming out enmasse to resist and overwhelm the APC and its agents, ensure the success of the PDP Rally, reinforce their support for Atiku Abubakar and re-emphasize the fact that Kaduna State is home to PDP, which gave Atiku Abubakar the highest votes in the 2019 Presidential election.
These desperate elements should be reminded that from history, the people of Kaduna State have never been cowed or subjugated and cannot now especially in their present resolve to vote in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of Nigeria.
The PDP acknowledges the massive inflow of new members into our Party, especially from the fizzling APC in Kaduna State and throughout the country because of APC’s failures in governance.
Kaduna State is a Melting Pot State and such inflow into the PDP denotes the confidence and trust Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion and political affiliation, repose in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of the country.
It should be recalled that the PDP, on Sunday, October 16, 2022 alerted on the plot to disrupt our scheduled Presidential Campaign in Kaduna State today. Our Party therefore charges security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this attack are brought to book.
The PDP calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to call his partymen to order and ensure adequate security for a free, fair and credible electoral process in our country.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
October 18, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Congratulates Governor Ikpeazu on his Birthday
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, as he marks his birthday today.
Governor Ikpeazu is a courageous leader who remains unwavering in his commitment towards the unity, stability and economic development of the nation in general and Abia State in particular.
Our Party recognizes his roles with other PDP leaders especially in the mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP celebrates Governor Ikpeazu on this auspicious occasion and pray to God to continue to protect and grant him many more years in his service to our nation and humanity at large.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
2023: Tinubu Cannot Be Trusted With Power – Ologbondiyan
…Says Presidency Not for Selfish Entitlement Seeker
Spokesperson of the Atiku Presidential Campaign Organization, Kola Ologbondiyan, has said that the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, cannot and should not be trusted with power as the President, given his overtly exposed selfish motives.
Ologbondiyan asserted that from Tinubu’s persistent self-centered assertions, haughty claims, annexation and brazen entitlement messaging, which he further displayed during his interaction with stakeholders in Kaduna on Monday, it is clear that the APC Presidential Candidate is being driven by the lust to appropriate the nation as his personal estate and not for the national interest.
Nigerians watched with utter dismay as Tinubu, as usual, avoided questions and discussions on critical and imperative national issues, which confirms that he is in the Presidential race for reasons other than the wellbeing of Nigerians.
The APC Presidential Candidate has not been forthcoming on issues of transparency, accountability and answerability in government, devolution of power, state police, federal character and other key issues that will enhance democratic tenets for the benefit of Nigerians; a development that further confirms a selfish intention against the inclusive interest of our nation.
Perhaps this explains why the APC Presidential Candidate has not composed a campaign organization; a foretaste of exclusionist agenda.
Even his proposed economic policies were generalised without addressing the specific problems of galloping inflation and its attendant unbearable rising costs, unemployment, high interest rates and the abysmally low purchasing power of Nigerians.
Nigerians must therefore resist such tendencies as any government built on what the APC Presidential Candidate ostensibly represents will amount to creating a fiefdom for a self-conceited ruler over our nation.
Never in our national history have Nigerians seen a politician with this level of self-entitlement.
It is laughable that since he became the APC Presidential Candidate, Tinubu has sought for endorsement under every guise forgetting that 2023 election is a referendum against the mass failures of the APC in governance.
Nigerians must note that it will be a disaster for our country, Nigeria, if we allow a Presidential Candidate that will ‘alphabetize’ our revenue generating agencies such as Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Plc among others to take over the reign of governance.
DON’T ABANDON GOVERNANCE FOR ELECTIONEERING, PRESIDENT BUHARI WARNS MINISTERS, TOP GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
- DIRECTS SGF, MINISTERS TO START PREPARING TRANSITION DOCUMENTS
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday in Abuja warned Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Government Agencies not to abandon the business of governance for electioneering, saying ”any infraction will be viewed seriously.”
The President issued the directive at the closing ceremony of the 2022 Ministerial Performance Review Retreat, preceded by his signing of Executive Order 012 on Improving Performance Management, Coordination and Implementation of Presidential Priorities.
The President told participants at the Retreat that with the commencement of campaigns towards the 2023 general elections, the business of governance must continue to receive the needed attention during this period.
”Consequently, all Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Agencies must remain focused in the discharge of their duties, as any infraction will be viewed seriously.
”Our collective goal is to map out a transition plan for the incoming Administration to ensure proper documentation of all the Policies, Programmes and Projects of Government with up-to-date status of implementation,” he said.
President Buhari noted that the lessons learned in the last three years of implementing the administration’s policies, programmes and projects would serve as the needed tool to propel every Ministry to remain committed, towards the achievement of developmental objectives.
He, therefore, charged all ministers, permanent secretaries and heads of government agencies to step-up, double their efforts and work in synergy toward total delivery of the Administration’s set targets.
On Executive Order 12, the President explained that it would institutionalize a culture of accountability and transparency in the pursuit of good governance.
President Buhari also directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to continue with the quarterly review process and assessment of ministries for the third and fourth Quarters of 2022, saying the reports will form part of transition documents of his administration to the incoming government.
To achieve this objective, the President ordered all Ministers and Permanent Secretaries to ensure that the performance reports of their Ministries are submitted on a quarterly basis to the Office of the SGF for review by the Central Delivery Coordination Unit.
”The outcome of these reviews would be made available for my consideration,” the President said.
The President also declared that following discussion and recommendations, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has been directed to engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure the completion of all large-scale integrated Rice Processing Mills before the end of this Administration.
”This will help our country to maintain sufficiency in the local production of rice as the ban on the importation of foreign rice will be sustained, ” he said.
On electricity, President Buhari directed that all hands must be on deck to ensure timely realization of the increase in electricity generation to 25,000 Megawatts in six years.
He recounted that the plan on electricity generation, through the partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and German Siemens AG, is on course as the first batch of the transformers has arrived Nigeria already.
Considering the huge investment made in the rail sector, the President directed the Ministry of Transportation and relevant security Agencies to ensure the provision of maximum security along the railway corridors.
”We must ensure the safety of our rail users and strive to achieve the intended economic goals. We must at the same time ensure realizable schedules and first-class maintenance.
”Following the milestones recorded in the road sector, coupled with the innovative ways of funding road infrastructure, the Ministry of Works and Housing has been directed to compile a list of all completed roads, bridges and other infrastructure for commissioning before the end of this Administration, ” he said.
Furthermore, the President directed that the Federal Government’s investment in the reconstruction of 21 selected on-going Federal Roads totaling 1,804.6km, under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Policy must be closely monitored and tracked to ensure the roads are completed on schedule.
”In line with the outcome of the Panel session on Priority 4 (Improve Transportation and Other Infrastructure), the Ministry of Aviation is hereby directed to conclude and ensure the take-off of the National Carrier Project before the end of the year.’’
In order to expand the fiscal space and improve the nation’s revenue generation efforts, President Buhari directed the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning to ensure effective implementation of the Strategic Revenue and Growth Initiative.
”In the same vein, we must also build synergy between the fiscal and monetary authorities in order to avoid unnecessary drawbacks in our economic planning and performance, ” he said.
On the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, the President directed that a monitoring and evaluation framework be put in place by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with relevant agencies and partners to track the disbursement and utilization of the Fund.
On humanitarian issues, the President noted that in the three years of existence of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, the ministry has provided substantial support and assistance to vulnerable citizens through various programmes.
He, therefore, directed the Minister to facilitate and work with the Attorney General of the Federation in transmitting the Federal Executive Council’s approved National Social Investment Programme Establishment Bill (2022) to the National Assembly.
This, he said, would ensure the sustainability of this important programme which leaves a lasting legacy for the vulnerable Nigerians by this Administration.
On industry, trade and investment, the President directed the Ministry to engage relevant stakeholders to secure privatization of the six Special Economic Zones as approved by the Bureau of Public Enterprise.
To complement the current efforts in the Oil and Gas Sector, the President announced that the Ministry of Petroleum Resources has been mandated to ensure the completion of the reorganization of the new Agencies unbundled from the defunct Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation in line with their mandates.
”This should be completed by the end of the 1st Quarter of 2023, ” he said.
President Buhari also used the occasion to appeal to the National Assembly to fast-track the consideration and passage of key legislative bills as agreed during the Panel Session at the Retreat.
According to him ”this will serve as our collective legacy towards entrenching key reforms that will serve as a springboard for the next Administration.”
President Buhari, who described the two-day retreat as time well-spent, said it has provided an opportunity for ‘‘reflection and lesson learning aimed at reviewing progress and agreeing on key actions that will ensure we finish well by the end of our Administration come May 29th, 2023.’’
”We have used the opportunity provided by this Retreat to carry out an objective assessment of our commitments in line with the contract we signed with the Nigerian people at the inception of this Administration in 2019.
”I am glad to note that we have sustained this yearly stock-taking innovative initiatives introduced in 2019 by holding three consecutive Performance Review Retreats in 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively. This has helped us to clearly identify what we have done, what needs to be done and how best to get it done.
”From the assessment report and discussions at this Retreat, it is evident that we have made appreciable progress through collective efforts in setting the Nation on the path of sustainable development while improving the well-being of our people.
”Notwithstanding these achievements, there are still unfinished businesses that we must speedily complete to ensure we finish well. We must, therefore, endeavour to close every gap in our implementation efforts to ensure the attainment of set targets by 2023, ” he said.
The Nigerian leader thanked former President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, the Keynote speaker at the Retreat, for sharing his wealth of experience during his tenure in Office.
He wished the former President a productive retirement and expressed the hope that he would continue to serve his people and the African continent in every way possible.
He further thanked the Kenyan delegation led by the former President for their support and contributions during the Retreat.
Commending the efforts of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and his team for successfully organizing four Retreats in the life of this Administration, the President acknowledged the support of the technical partners and resource persons for adding immense value to the process.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 18, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH GEN. YAKUBU GOWON AT 88
President Muhammadu Buhari sends warm felicitations to former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on the occasion of his 88th birthday, October 19, 2022, celebrating with the elder statesman, whose words of wisdom, prayers and sacrifices continue to bring goodwill to the country.
President Buhari notes the dedication of the former Head of State to pursuing unity, peace and progress of Nigeria, West Africa and the African continent, playing a major role in the structural, economic and social growth of the country, and paving way for a regional bloc, Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS).
The President rejoices with Gen. Gowon on his 88th birthday, knowing that most of his years, which include working as a military officer and Head of State, were committed to building the nation, with policies like the creation of states, National Youth Service Corps and Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Reintegration (3Rs) forming the core for inclusive development.
President Buhari joins family and friends in thanking God for His mercies and favour upon the life of the former Head of State, who is the youngest to lead the country at 32 years and has consistently championed a movement to always pray for Nigeria.
The President prays for good health, strength and longer life for Gen. Gowon and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 18, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
IT’S A WASTE OF TIME CONTESTING AGAINST SANWO-OLU IN LAGOS – WIKE
- Rivers Governor hails Lagos for lifting women
Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike may have set a new precedent in the nation’s political culture with his open endorsement of an opposition Governor in an electoral contest in which his political party has a candidate.
Wike, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governor, on Tuesday, openly pitched his tent with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, endorsing the Lagos Governor for second term.
It was at the 22nd National Women’s Conference organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO). The event with theme: “Spring Forth, Stand Out”, was held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Another PDP leader and former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose accompanied Wike to the event.
The Rivers helmsman rated Sanwo-Olu high in performance, noting that the Lagos Governor had raised the standard of governance with quality of projects being delivered across Lagos.
Wike said any political party contesting against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos would be wasting time, as Sanwo-Olu’s performance would outshine anyone campaigning against him.
The Rivers State Governor said he had no regrets for openly endorsing Sanwo-Olu, stressing that his endorsement of his Lagos colleague was borne out of his personal conviction about good governance.
Wike said: “If Sanwo-Olu is not doing (well), even if he belongs to my party, I will not come here. If you belong to my party and you are not doing well in governance, you won’t see me. If you don’t belong to my party and you are doing well, you will see me. Good governance is what I stand for. I will not regret to say that I am in support of you (Sanwo-Olu) for second term. Others should not waste their time.
“Look at the kind of project coming from this women’s group. Why would any reasonable person not support the Government that is encouraging this. Let’s also look at the kind of physical infrastructure being delivered in Lagos. This confirms Lagos as a State of excellence. There are some people who will come here; instead of them to continue to make Lagos improve, they will bring Lagos down. For me, I’m satisfied with what Sanwo-Olu has done and it doesn’t matter the party he belongs.”
Sanwo-Olu responded to Wike’s endorsement, describing it as another example of “politics without bitterness”. He said Lagos and Rivers states had learnt from each other in terms of projects and development, adding that both states would continue to cooperate on shared interest.
He said: “There is no better person that is fit as a guest speaker at the conference other than the hardworking Governor Wike of Rivers State. We brought him here to share in his experience and also for him to see what we are doing in Lagos.
“We are encouraging collaboration without bitterness and without talking about our parties or political differences. If you are doing well, it doesn’t matter where you belong. We should encourage peer review across parties. Gov. Wike had invited me to Rivers for projects commissioning in the past. We have challenged ourselves in a positive way; this is good for the growth of our politics and the nation.
Gov. Wike also spoke about the qualities that the next president must bring forward, saying the nation deserved a president that would have the interest of Nigerians at heart.
He urged Nigerians to queue behind someone with vast experience in governance, who has the capacity to turn around the economy and confront insecurity.
Wike said: “We are looking for a president that has the capacity and experience in governance, who can put food on the table for everyone and fight insecurity. That’s the person we are looking for; not some people who are talking about ethnicity.”
The Rivers Governor said he would be going back home with lessons of the Lagos’ National Women’s Conference, stressing that Lagos had set the standards on how to empower women for growth and development. He promised to replicate the idea in his State to further empower women in Rivers State.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
18 OCTOBER 2022

WITH HIGH-IMPACT PROJECTS ACROSS NIGERIA, WE HAVE MET THE YEARNING OF NIGERIANS, PRESIDENT BUHARI DECLARES AT LAST MINISTERIAL RETREAT
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Abuja declared open the last Ministerial Performance Review Retreat of this administration, saying high-impact projects have been implemented across the country meeting the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.
Addressing the Retreat organised to evaluate the level of progress made in the implementation of the Nine Priority Agenda of his Administration, the President highlighted remarkable progress made in the areas of agriculture, economy, infrastructure, security, health, anti-corruption among others.
The President told participants and guests at the retreat including the Keynote Speaker and immediate past President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, that over 3,800 KM of roads have been constructed across the country, while 38 new aircraft were acquired for the Nigerian Air Force to boost the fight against insurgency.
He also added that 38.7 million Nigerians have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, representing 35 per cent of the total eligible population target for vaccination.
On infrastructure, the President said:
”In recognition of the importance of critical infrastructure in economic development and the quest of this Administration to leave a lasting legacy, we have implemented high-impact projects across the length and breadth of the country that meet the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.
”Some of the notable achievements include the completion of 326km Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri rail line and railway ancillary facilities; the completion of over 156.5km Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge railway modernization project with extension to Lagos Port, Apapa.
”On road projects, this Administration has constructed 408Km of roads; 2,499Km of SUKUK roads and maintenance of 15,961Km of roads across the Country.
”Key among these projects are the construction of 1.9km 2nd Niger Bridge linking Anambra and Delta States with 10.30km approach road; rehabilitation, construction and expansion of Lagos-Shagamu-Ibadan dual carriageway; the ongoing rehabilitation of Abuja-Kaduna – Zaria – Kano Road, among others.”
Stressing that the Federal Government under his watch has sustained commitment to infrastructural development for the past 7 years, President Buhari said over 941km of completed SUKUK road projects nationwide have been handed over.
Furthermore, he said the Federal Government has embarked on the reconstruction of 21 selected Federal Roads totaling 1,804.6km, under the Road Infrastructure Development & Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Policy.
He explained that the roads, which are funded by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, are in addition to similar existing collaboration with Messrs Dangote Industries Limited and other corporate organisations to improve the stock of the country’s road infrastructure.
On aviation, the President assured that the establishment of a National Carrier for Nigeria is at 91 percent completion, and is expected to commence flight operations before the end of this year.
He said the feat is being boosted with the certification of Lagos and Abuja International Airports by the International Civil Aviation Organization, while Kano and Port Harcourt Airports are undergoing similar certification processes.
On the economy, the President restated that the country had witnessed seven consecutive quarters of growth, after negative growth rates recorded in the 2nd and 3rd Quarters of 2020.
”The GDP grew by 3.54% (year-on-year) in real terms in the 2nd Quarter of 2022. This growth rate represents a sustained positive economic performance, especially for the Non-Oil GDP which fell by 4.77% in Q2 2022 against Oil GDP that grew by -11.77%.
”Most sectors of the economy recorded positive growth which reflects the effective implementation of the economic sustainability measures introduced by this Administration,” he said.
On the Communications & Digital Economy Sector, the President noted that giant strides have been made through broadband coverage which currently stands at 44.32%, reinforced by 77.52% 4G coverage with the establishment of 36,751 4G base stations nationwide.
Similarly, the President declared that the Power Sector has remained a critical priority for the Administration, adding that the implementation of a ‘Willing Buyer-Willing Seller’ policy introduced by the Federal Government has opened up opportunities for increased delivery of electricity to underserved homes and industries.
”We are also executing a number of critical projects through the Transmission Rehabilitation and Expansion Programme, which will result in achieving the national goal of improved power supply by 2025.
”It is important to state that the partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and German Siemens AG through the Presidential Power Initiative to increase electricity generation to 25,000 Megawatts (MW) in six years is on course, as the first batch of the transformers has arrived Nigeria already.”
On the oil and gas sector, the President recalled that on 16th August 2021, he signed the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) into law, providing a legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian Petroleum Industry, as well as the development of host communities and related matters.
He noted that to achieve the objectives of the PIA, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation was unbundled while the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority were established.
On efforts towards strengthening national security, the President said his administration has substantially invested in arms, weapons and other critical military hardware as well as continuous training for the Armed Forces.
”The Nigerian Air Force has acquired 38 brand-new aircraft and is expecting another batch of 36 new ones, while the Nigerian Navy has been equipped with new platforms, sophisticated riverine, Rigid-Hull Inflatable, Seaward Defence, Whaler & Fast Attack Boats as well as Helicopters and Capital Ships.
”To boost the number of our Police personnel, 20,000 policemen have been recruited, trained, fully integrated and deployed in 2020 and 2021. This exercise has strengthened our community policing strategy which is enshrined in the Police Act, 2020.’’
On the fight against corruption, the President promised that the administration would continue to review and prosecute high-profile corruption cases and ensure speedy completion.
Concerning Social Investment Programmes, the President said 9,990,862 pupils are being fed through the School Feeding Programme, which employs 128,531 cooks in local communities.
”Following the passage of the National Health Act in 2014, this Administration began the inclusion of the 1% minimum portion of the Consolidated Revenue Fund to cater for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
”Consequently, 988,652 poor and indigent Nigerians have been enrolled in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
”We should also note that a total of 7,373 primary health facilities have been accredited and capitated under the National Health Insurance Scheme pathway, while 7,242 Primary Health Care facilities are receiving Decentralized Facility Financing under the National Primary Health Care Development Agency – Basic Health Care Provision Fund gateway,” the President said on milestones in the health sector.
President Buhari also lauded Nigeria’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, noting that the country’s achievement has been commended by the World Health Organisation.
He said at the end of September 2022, 51,713,575 eligible people had received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, representing 46.3% of the eligible population.
”Out of this number, 38,765,510 people have been fully vaccinated, and this represents 34.7% of the eligible population.
The President urged all eligible Nigerians to ensure that they are fully vaccinated as Nigeria’s vaccine stock balance stands at about 27 million doses.
On agriculture, the President expressed delight that as a direct result of investment, the sector has experienced significant growth.
”The shortfall in food production and food importation bills have both been reduced significantly. Along with the production of other staple crops, we have reached our goal of self-sufficiency in rice production.
”We are exerting a lot of effort to solve the problem of the rising cost of food that is related to inflation, being a global crisis.”
President Buhari directed Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and all Heads of Agencies to reinvigorate their efforts in ramping-up delivery of flagship programmes and projects contained in their Ministerial Mandates.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and his team in sustaining the Annual Performance Review Retreats, adding that this has enabled the cabinet to maintain focus on the nine-point Agenda and more importantly, providing solid evidence that supports the achievements.
”I am also proud to see that our Administration is staying true to our commitment to the Open Government Partnership initiative which I signed up in 2017. In this regard, the Presidential Delivery Tracker was launched on 30th August 2022, which is a clear testament to this Administration’s commitment to participatory governance.
”As part of efforts to strengthen performance management culture, the Central Delivery Coordination Unit is being institutionalised.
”As an initiative of this Administration, I am delighted to bequeath this legacy to my successor as part of the mechanisms that will assist the next Administration in delivering on its promises to the Nigerian people,” he said.
Setting the context for the two-day meeting, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the retreat has been structured into three main focus areas.
”First is an overview of ministerial performance within the last three years of the administration, presenting key achievements and identifying opportunities for improvement.
”Second will reflect on lessons and good practices from the Kenyan presidential delivery unit while the third is ways to accelerate the delivery of flagship projects and programmes of the Buhari administration before the end of the tenure in May 2023.”
Mustapha announced that President Buhari would sign an Executive Order on Improving Performance Management, Coordination and Implementation of Presidential Priorities of the Federal Government of Nigeria at the end of the 3rd Ministerial Performance Review Retreat.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, Speaker of the House Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Senate President Ahmed Lawan delivered goodwill messages at the Retreat.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 17, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS FORMER DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF BAUCHI STATE, NUHU GIDADO AT 64
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Nuhu Gidado, on his 64th birthday, joining family and friends to celebrate with the public servant, who has served the nation and his state in many capacities.
President Buhari notes the zeal, courage and vision that Gidado has brought to the various positions and responsibilities held over many years, including Commissioner of Education, where he initiated and implemented reforms that saw increase in enrolment, improvement in output of teachers and better performances in WAEC/NECO.
The President extols the former Deputy Governor for contributions to the development of the country, while in the private sector, supervising projects at state and national levels, like the Headquarters of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) in Abuja, and infrastructural projects in Bauchi State.
As Gidado turns 64, President Buhari commends his humility, diligence and discipline, especially in delivering remarkable and built-to-last projects, with a clear sense of detail.
The President prays for long life and more prosperity for the former Deputy Governor.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 17. 2022
October 17, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Condemns APC’s Attack on Its Kaduna Presidential Campaign Rally
…Insists It is Undeterred
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns in the strongest terms possible the violent attack on its Presidential Campaign Rally in Kaduna, Kaduna State capital today, Monday, October 17, 2022 by heavily armed hoodlums sponsored by the liquidating All Progressives Congress (APC).
This unprovoked attack is not only reprehensible but also exposes the desperation of the APC which is overwhelmed by the continuing popularity of the PDP and our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar for which they have now resorted to violence.
The aim of the APC for this attack is to frustrate the PDP Presidential Rally, trigger tension, violence and cause bloodletting in Kaduna State. This is contrary to the undertaking in the Peace Accord signed by political parties on September 28, 2022 in which the Presidential Candidate of the APC was conspicuously absent.
The attack today by the APC must give well-meaning Nigerians concern as some report allege that the vicious assault on the PDP Presidential Campaign was spearheaded by the APC governorship candidate in Kaduna State.
The frustrated APC having realized that it cannot legally and legitimately sponsor candidates for the 2023 general elections has now resorted to violence and attacking our party members and innocent citizens with the aim of derailing the entire democratic process.
The APC is intimidated by Atiku Abubakar’s popularity and acceptance among majority of Nigerians following their confidence in Atiku Abubakar’s practical experience, record, capacity, broad-mindedness, Pan-Nigerianism and willpower to unite our nation, revamp our devastated economy and guarantee security of lives and property in our country.
In any case, our Party is undeterred by such cowardly attack as Nigerians are already connected with our issue-based campaign and Atiku Abubakar’s message of hope which is already resonating throughout the nooks and crannies of our country.
The PDP salutes the courage displayed by the people of Kaduna State in coming out enmasse to resist and overwhelm the APC and its agents, ensure the success of the PDP Rally, reinforce their support for Atiku Abubakar and re-emphasize the fact that Kaduna State is home to PDP, which gave Atiku Abubakar the highest votes in the 2019 Presidential election.
These desperate elements should be reminded that from history, the people of Kaduna State have never been cowed or subjugated and cannot now especially in their present resolve to vote in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of Nigeria.
The PDP acknowledges the massive inflow of new members into our Party, especially from the fizzling APC in Kaduna State and throughout the country because of APC’s failures in governance.
Kaduna State is a Melting Pot State and such inflow into the PDP denotes the confidence and trust Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion and political affiliation, repose in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of the country.
It should be recalled that the PDP, on Sunday, October 16, 2022 alerted on the plot to disrupt our scheduled Presidential Campaign in Kaduna State today. Our Party therefore charges security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this attack are brought to book.
The PDP calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to call his partymen to order and ensure adequate security for a free, fair and credible electoral process in our country.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
Labour Party Call Out Ebonyi Governor, Umahi To Release Its Kidnapped Senatorial Candidate By His Vigilante Outfit
THE National Chairman of the Labour Party (AP) Comrade Barrister Julius Abure has directed Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi to secure the release of its Senatorial Candidate who was allegedly kidnapped on Saturday night by the South East Vigilante outfit called Ebubeagu.
But the Police Command in Ebonyi State described as ‘fake’ the alleged abduction of Linus Okorie, Labour Party Senatorial candidate for Ebonyi South in the state.
SP Chris Anyanwu, Spokesman of the Command said, in a statement, he issued to newsmen in Abakaliki on Monday, that Okorie was only arrested and not abducted.
He said that Okorie, an ex-House of Representatives Member, was arrested over drug related matters and several other offences.
Anyanwu urged the public to desist from painting pictures of insecurity in the state by propagating unfounded rumours.
“Sequel to initial viral rumours renting the air, cum a Press Release accredited to one Dr David Ogbonna of Linus Okorie Caring Heart Foundation, purporting that the former member of House of Representatives, was abducted on Sunday.
“The State Police Command swung into action and later traced the said Okorie, who had evaded many Police arrests/invitations, to the head office of the Ebubeagu Security Outfit at the Old Government House.
“Police detectives were briefed on why he was arrested which includes his activities and utterances that incited and provoked the violence that engulfed Onicha Community which led to suspected gunmen to unleash mayhem in the area in 2021.
“Hence, the case has now been taken over by the Police Command for a scrupulous investigation.
“Secondly, Okorie was severally invited by the Security and Intelligence Bureau of the Command over a petition dated, March 23, authored by the State’s Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, alleging that he was spreading fake news against Gov Dave Umahi.
“When invited by the SIB over the false allegations/petition, Okorie, in his characteristic pompous manner, refused vehemently to report. Rather, he chose to file fallacious suits against the Police Command.
“It is also pertinent to mention that Okorie also have a pending case in which he is implicated in a drug-related offence where the suspects purported to be his agents were arrested for Hard drug sales and use at his City Hub Inn, Mile 50, Abakaliki,” the spokesman stated.
Okorie is contesting the same senate seat with Governor Umahi.
A statement from Okorie’s organisation, Caring Heart Foundation and signed by one Dr David Ogbonna, alleged that the senatorial candidate was abducted on Sunday morning on his way to Abakaliki by gunmen.
According to the statement, we implore our supporters, CaringHeart Foundation members and friends of Hon Linus, not to give into unlawful acts but allow the security agencies do their professional jobs.
Calling out the security agencies and the State Governor to assumed their constitutional duties in a press statement, Barrister Abure said the incessant attacks on the Labour Party and its candidates across board is a threat to democracy and freedom of association.
“It has come to my notice that our senatorial candidate in Ebonyi South, Hon Linus Okorie has been kidnapped on his way to his house, in Ebonyi state this evening (Sunday October 16) allegedly by the personnel of the South East Vigilante outfit, Ebubeagu.
“It is no longer news that some political actors in some South Eastern states particularly, Ebonyi and Enugu have vowed that Labour Party and its candidates will not be allowed to campaign freely in the zone. This is evident with incessant attacks on members and supporters of the Labour Party and that of our candidates, particularly, our presidential candidate.
“This night attack is viewed by the party as a furtherance of the determination of these political hirelings to frustrate the progressive incursion of the party across the nation and particularly in the South East.
“I therefore call on the Ebonyi state governor, His Excellency, Dave Umahi and the hierarchy of the security agencies particularly, the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State to immediately effect the release of our senatorial prospect, Hon Linus Okorie.
“The frequent attack and kidnapping of innocent Nigerians, particularly the political class could have a major consequences in the coming general election. This is quite unfortunate and it is not good for democracy. We see it as a threat to our democracy and it should not be allowed to progress or institutionalised.
“I want to recall what happened to our party in Anambra State last year when our governorship candidate, Hon. Obiography Agbasimalo was kidnapped and as I speak, nothing has been heard about him. Sadly, this is happening again.
“We therefore call on Inspector General of Police and other agencies responsible for the protection of life and property to rise to the occasion and ensure that Hon Linus Okorie is released.
“As alleged, the Ebubeagu Vigilante security in Ebonyi State is under the strict over lordship of the state authority and is known to carry out orders of the state government, deploying brute force on the people and residents of the state. We therefore demand that His Excellency, Governor Dave Umahi must rein in on this Vigilante or any other of the government agents to ensure that intimidation of perceived political opponents ceases, and that political rights of every Nigerian as enshrined in the constitution is respected.
“Finally, we urge the government to give directive for Hon Linus Okorie’s unconditional release from these criminal elements”, Abure said.
Fans celebrate as BigC wins GreenCamp Rap Battle in Lagos
Rising Rapper, BigC Sunday evening won the second GreenCamp Rap Battle held in Lagos. The second runner-up was Etwildheat.
The announcement of the battle results threw the crowd of enthusiasts into a frenzy of celebration with chants of Big C everywhere.
Organised by the renowned Green Camp group, the annual event is designed to identify, encourage and support young musical entertainers, especially Rappers. In a rap battle, the rapper with the best delivery, lyrics, and crowd response usually wins.
By writing his own rap songs, freestyling as often as possible, staying relaxed, and feeling the energy of the crowd, the Rapper is expected to not only survive these battles, but also thrive, rising to the top of the challenges. Oftentimes, the Rapper either improvises lyrics or have written lyrics to insult the other Rapper.
In a congratulatory message on its twitter handle, the organisers, @GreenCampNG stated, Thanks for an amazing Rap battle yesterday and congratulations to the winner BIG C @OfficialBigC_ for coming correct with the bars and second runner up @etwitdheat for making the battle a show.
Special recognition to our judges @tosanwilts @thepdstrn and @whoistawati
Reacting to the big win, BigC, son of top journalist and Public Relations expert, Emmanuel Isibor, thanked the organisers for the “real Battle of Rappers.” He had kind words for his supporters and the crowd at the event, saying, “ without you, there will not be me. Thank you for always being there for me.”
Messages from thousands of his followers and fans on social media platforms continue to stream in at press time.
CHINESE PRESIDENT COMMISERATES WITH PRESIDENT BUHARI ON ANAMBRA BOAT MISHAP
President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China has commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari on the recent boat mishap in Anambra State.
Over 40 people were reported to have died in the accident which happened Friday, October 7, at Umunankwo in Ogbaru local government area of Anambra State.
In a letter to President Buhari, the Chinese leader wrote:
“Distressed to learn of the boat mishap in Anambra State, Nigeria, which has caused heavy casualties, I’d like to, in the name of the Chinese government and people, extend deepest condolences to the victims and sincere sympathy to their families.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 14, 2022

PDP MUST RESOLVE ITS CRISIS TO WIN 2023 ELECTION-WIKE
EMAIL EDITOR: henryebi@yahoo.com
CALL EDITOR: 08036977194
PDP MUST RESOLVE ITS CRISIS TO WIN 2023 ELECTION-WIKE
*Calls for dredging of River Benue and River Niger to end sufferings of Nigerians
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has again urged the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to do the right thing, if the party must win the presidential election in 2023.
The right thing, Governor Wike insisted, is the resignation of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as PDP national chairman, in order for a southerner to occupy the seat within the principle of equity, fairness and justice.
Governor Wike restated his position during a live interactive media chat in Port Harcourt on Friday.
He emphasised that any leader of a group who causes crisis within the group that he leads, truly lacks the requisite skills to navigate affairs of such group.
“This is the time to show leadership skill on the part of those who are leaders of the party. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is the presidential candidate. He is the one who feels the pain.”
Governor Wike made reference to the party’s constitution that spells it out in Section 7 (3) (c) that that all political and elective positions must be zoned.
He wondered why it is now so difficult for Senator Ayu to respect the constitution or even keep to his promise and quit the office if a northern is elected as PDP standard bearer.
“We have not held the presidential primary before the national chairman of the party said if the presidential candidate emerges from his area, he will quit.”
Governor Wike also accused Senator Ayu of collecting one hundred million Naira, first from a certain governor to renovate the party’s democratic institution, and later went to PDP National Working Committee (NWC) to collect exact amount for the same purpose. Governor Wike dares Senator Ayu to deny it.
“In fact, let me also tell you, Ayu collected N100million naira from a governor that he was going to renovate our democratic institution and then he went back to the PDP NWC and took the same N100million naira for doing the same work.”
He further added, “What kind of system is that? I am telling you all these are facts. Let him (Ayu) say no first and I will tell you (those he collected money from).”
The Rivers State governor pointed to the importance of the mission of rescuing Nigeria expected of the PDP by Nigerians. But the mission, he said required a leader with proven integrity to lead the party.
“For God’s sake, knowing that you are in a party that wants to take over the reign of governance in the country, we know Nigerians know the problems confronting the country.
“If a leader does not have integrity, forget it. We need a man who will tell his people this; a man who will be firm, a man who will be courageous to do those things that even people find it difficult to do.
“You are presenting a man who is the head of the party, the chairman of the party, who has no integrity to lead the campaign to take over the reigns of governance.”
Governor Wike explained that the chairmanship position of the party should go to the south before the elections. According, if Alhaji Atiku Abubakar wins in February presidential election, the hawks around him won’t wait until May to take major decisions.
“Who is there to decide for the South? Why will you tell me until when you finish election that’s when a southerner will emerge as chairman.”
Governor Wike described as untrue the report in the media that some former PDP governors, including Dr Peter Odili, were sent to him to resolve the crisis in the party.
Speaking further, Governor Wike decried the perennial flooding experienced in parts of the country as a result of lack of initiative on the part of the federal government to dredge the River Benue and River Niger respectively.
Governor Wike asserted that one way of solving the ravaging yearly flooding situation, is to pay attention to the sources of water flow and end the suffering of Nigerians who become impacted every year.
“I asked what is this problem that we can’t dredge River Benue and River Niger? Each time I fly over Benue, the sight makes me cry. We won’t have had so much problem to this extent if we dredge them
“But the politics, I do not know. Who is interested for River Benue, River Niger not to be dredged, and that has caused so much hardship for our people.
“How can government from time refused to dredge the rivers and I heard, sometime, that they awarded the Calabar River. What happened, where is the money?”
Governor Wike imagined why the federal government will award an all important contract like the dredging of Calabar River and will not demand its execution, even when communities continue to suffer from such negligence.
Governor Wike also informed that the taskforce on flood set up in the State is directly supervised by him to ensure that the impacted victims directly benefits from the relief materials that they would eventually require.
The governor dismissed insinuation that Sir Celestine Omehia was derecognised as ex-State Governor of Rivers State by the State lawmakers because he is supporting Atiku. According to him, the lawmakers took their decision based on Supreme Court judgment that sacked him.
Governor Wike dismissed claim by the management of Africa Independent Television (AIT) that the company acquired the land from the State government.
According to him, when the State Assembly started deliberation of the land, AIT until date failed to provide any letter of allocation to claim ownership of the land that was supposed to house its regional office in Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike also mentioned that he desired to construct a ring road that is estimated to cost N70B. The road, he said is planned to start from Okrika Town axis through Eleme to the Port Harcourt International Airport and terminate at Choba town.
He stated that since the tenure of his administration will end in May 2023, he will recommend to the incoming administration to execute the project because of its importance.
The Rivers State governor said the appointment of fifty thousand Special Assistants by him has provided jobs opportunity for the affected persons.
October 14, 2022
October 16, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Undeterred by Plots to Disrupt its Progammes
…To Hold Presidential Rally in Kaduna Tomorrow, Monday Oct.17
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the Atiku/Okowa Presidential ticket and the Sen. Iyorchia Ayu leadership is undeterred by the exposed plots by certain anti-democratic forces who are uncomfortable and unhappy with the success of the on-going reconciliation efforts, stability and popularity of the Party, to cause tension and disrupt the Party’s programmes in Kaduna State.
Our Party’s position is predicated on information at our disposal of how these anti-party elements who are not happy with the campaign successes achieved by the National Chairman, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu and other Party leaders, have concluded plots to orchestrate tension and create an impression of crisis within the PDP by recruiting thugs to protest and disrupt scheduled programmes of the PDP in Kaduna State, tomorrow, Monday, October 17, 2022.
The PDP has information of how these individuals, who were frustrated by the huge success of the PDP Presidential Campaign Flag-Off in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State capital last Monday, are bent on creating a situation to discredit the PDP Presidential Campaign Rally scheduled for tomorrow in Kaduna State.
These anti-party interests plot to stage a protest tomorrow in Kaduna State with unfounded allegations, claims and selfish demands aimed to embarrass the National Chairman as well as discredit the integrity and decisions of top organs of the Party including the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT).
For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP is undeterred and standing shoulder to shoulder with the good people of Kaduna State who are set for our Presidential Campaign Rally, which will hold peacefully in Kaduna State on Monday, October 17, 2022.
Our Party will never be distracted from its mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC); the reason Nigerians are rallying with Atiku Abubakar and the PDP.
The PDP salutes and appreciates the people of Kaduna State for the overwhelming reception that they have accorded our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa and other Party leaders who have been in Kaduna State in the past two days ahead of Monday’s Presidential Campaign Rally.
Our Party implores all members, our teeming supporters and the public to be at alert, note and resist these unpatriotic elements whose heinous plots has the capacity to cause a breakdown of Law and Order, undermine our democratic processes and derail the smooth conduct of the 2023 general elections.
We hereby call on security agencies to immediately set in motion machinery to forestall any attempt by anybody or group to disrupt the programmes of our Party particularly given the consequential effect of such on our democratic process and our nation’s corporate existence.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
EKITI: SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES NEW GOVERNOR, OYEBANJI, DEPUTY
- Hails Fayemi’s giant strides
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated the newly sworn-in Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, describing his assumption into office as blessing for the people of the State.
He also congratulated the new Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, and urged the people of Ekiti State to support the new governor and his deputy for continuous growth and development of the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Oyebanji and Afuye’s landslide victory during the June 18 governorship election and their swearing-in as Ekiti State Governor and Deputy Governor as a testament to the good work the All Progressives Congress, APC-led government has done in the State.
Sanwo-Olu, who attended the swearing-in ceremony, along with the Presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and some other State Governors at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, urged Governor Oyebanji to continue the good work of his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
The Lagos State governor also applauded ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi for his commitment and selfless service to Ekiti State and her people, saying that Fayemi did his best to transform and develop the Fountain of Knowledge State during his tenure.
He said the people of Ekiti and South-West, as well as Nigerians, will continue to remember the contributions of Fayemi to governance and politics as the Governor of Ekiti and the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
“I congratulate Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his deputy, Mrs. Monisade Afuye on their swearing-in as the Governor and Deputy Governor of Ekiti State following their victory in the June 18 gubernatorial election in the State. I also rejoice with their families, friends, associates, APC members, and the people of Ekiti State on today’s swearing-in ceremony.
“Governor Oyebanji is the right choice by the people of Ekiti State. I have no doubt that based on his antecedents and experience in the private and public sectors; he will not disappoint the people of Ekiti State, who elected him as their governor.
“As an active participant in Ekiti State politics and governance, having served with two former governors, I believe Governor Oyebanji will continue the people-oriented programmes and good governance of his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who served passionately and delivered dividends of democracy to the people of Ekiti State in different sectors.”
“Without any iota of doubt, Governor Fayemi has set a good template of good governance for his successor. I will urge Governor Oyebanji to follow the path of good governance set by Dr. Fayemi.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also applauded Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, for being a worthy and supportive partner to Governor Fayemi during their tenure in office.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
16 OCTOBER 2022
Publish names of perpetrators of oil theft or face legal action, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “promptly set up a presidential panel of enquiry to thoroughly, impartially, and transparently investigate the operations of illegal oil pipelines from 2001 to date, and to widely publish the names of anyone suspected to be involved.”
SERAP urged him to “ensure the prosecution by appropriate anti-corruption agencies of anyone suspected to be responsible for the plundering of the country’s oil wealth and the full recovery of any proceeds of crime.”
SERAP also urged him to “promptly authorise the investigation of reports of the destruction of an oil bunkering vessel by security agencies and to ensure that suspected owners of the vessel are identified, named and brought to justice.”
SERAP’s letter followed the recent reports that two illegal pipelines used to steal the country’s oil wealth from Forcados Terminal, and connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, have been uncovered.
In the open letter dated 15 October 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Poor and socio-economically vulnerable Nigerians have continued to pay the price for the stealing of the country’s oil wealth apparently by both state and non-state actors.”
SERAP said, “Your government has a legal obligation to ensure that the country’s oil wealth is used solely for the benefit of the Nigerian people, and that the wealth does not end up in private pockets, for the sake of the present and future generations.
The letter, read in part: “Despite the country’s substantial oil wealth, successive governments have largely squandered the opportunity to use the wealth to improve the lives and well-being of ordinary Nigerians. This is a clear violation of the government’s anti-corruption and human rights obligations.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“SERAP urges you to consider referring the reports to the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court [ICC] to investigate whether the allegations of oil theft in the country amount to crimes against humanity within the jurisdiction of the ICC, and to surrender all suspected perpetrators for trial by the ICC.”
“SERAP is concerned that the illegal pipelines have been operated for many years without notice, implying a flagrant violation of constitutional and international obligations to ensure the proper, effective and efficient management of the country’s wealth and natural resources.”
“It is in the public interest to promptly investigate the discovery of the illegal pipelines, publish the names of those suspected to be involved, and ensure that they are brought to justice, and that any proceeds of crime are fully recovered.”
“Taking these steps would advance the right of Nigerians to restitution, compensation and guarantee of non-repetition and improve public confidence in the fight against corruption and related crimes, especially in the oil sector.”
“As the President and Minister of Petroleum Resources, you and your government have a legal responsibility to ensure accountability for these human rights crimes, and end the culture of impunity, which is fuelling the stealing of the country’s oil wealth”.
“The proposed presidential panel of enquiry should be headed by a retired justice of the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal, and its members should include people with proven professional record and of the highest integrity that can act impartially, independently, and transparently.”
“The plundering of the country’s oil wealth has resulted in the downward trend in revenue and increasing level of borrowing, with reports of a projected N11.30 trillion deficit budget for 2023.”
“SERAP is concerned that the unaddressed plundering of the country’s oil wealth has for many years contributed to shrinking revenue, chronic underfunding of public goods and services such as education, health, and access to safe drinking water, recurring budget deficits, growing level of borrowing, and unsustainable debt profile.”
“According to our information, security agencies recently reportedly uncovered an illegal pipeline used to steal the country’s oil wealth for nine years from Forcados Terminal.”
“Another illegal pipeline connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, at the rear of a military security post in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State has reportedly been discovered.”
“The discovery of the second illegal pipeline followed the recent destruction by security agents of a vessel allegedly used for crude oil theft off the Niger Delta creeks. About 58 illegal oil points have reportedly so far been discovered.”
“Section 15 subsection (5) of the Constitution requires your government to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
“The UN Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party obligate your government to effectively prevent and investigate acts of corruption and hold public officials and non-state actors to account for any violations.”
“Specifically, article 26 of the UN convention requires your government to ensure “effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions” including criminal and non-criminal sanctions, in cases of grand corruption.”
“Article 26 complements the more general requirement of article 30, paragraph 1, that sanctions must take into account the gravity of the corruption allegations.”
“According to a Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) audit report, 160 million barrels of crude oil valued at $13.7 billion, was stolen in four years (2009-2012). There is also report of $17 billion debt of under-declared crude oil lifted by some international oil companies (IOCs) between 2011 and 2014.”
“According to reports, Nigeria has seen increased oil theft in recent years. The country loses 470,000 barrels of crude oil monthly amounting to $700 million to oil theft.”
“The country has reportedly lost $10 billion to crude oil theft in seven months, which is stated to be more than 50 per cent of Nigeria’s external reserves. The Chatham House, a think-tank based in the United Kingdom has noted that oil theft in Nigeria is ‘on an industrial scale.’”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
16/10/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
LAGOS SET AGOG FOR ASA FESTIVAL
Writers and scholars of international repute will be addressing theatre art practitioners in Nigeria on Thursday, November 9 as Black Edge Production commences the 2022 ASA Festival.
A statement issued in Lagos on Monday by Black Edge Artistic Director, Babatunde Abideen, said the four- day programme would take place from Wednesday, November 9 to Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the National Theatre, Iganmu.
‘’The 2022 ASA workshop will address the challenges in the theatre art business in Nigeria, identity of Yoruba society and perceived traditional values of Yoruba people.
According to the statement, the 2022 festival would focus on the role of the theatre practitioner in the cultural, political and economic development of Nigeria.
‘The ASA Festival is typically a mixed bag of teaching, recitations in Yoruba, cultural displays of traditional dances and modes of dressing. It also brings writers, actors, theatre directors, movie producers, dancers and people of different cultural backgrounds to interact together’ the statement said.
Aside from the opportunity by the theatre practitioners to share experiences, improve business and management skills, the statement said the 2022 ASA festival designed to encourage theatre arts practitioners in pursuit of excellence and give a platform for life stage performances of Yoruba and English troupes, exhibitions and art shows.
.
‘It will also teach the participants a lot,’ he said.
The 5th ASA festival will be a wonderful, great programme for everyone to enjoy, it’s something that’s exciting and people who are coming to Lagos will be in for a surprise’ the statement added.

DANCERS, ACTORS, THEATRE DIRECTORS, MOVIE PRODUCERS, OTHERS ARRIVE NATIONAL THEATRE AS ASA FESTIVAL BEGINS IN LAGOS
Writers and scholars of international repute will be addressing theatre art practitioners in Nigeria on Thursday, November 9 as Black Edge Production commences the 2022 ASA Festival.
A statement issued in Lagos on Monday by Black Edge Artistic Director, Babatunde Abideen, said the four- day programme would take place from Wednesday, November 9 to Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the National Theatre, Iganmu.
‘’The 2022 ASA workshop will address the challenges in the theatre art business in Nigeria, identity of Yoruba society and perceived traditional values of Yoruba people.
According to the statement, the 2022 festival would focus on the role of the theatre practitioner in the cultural, political and economic development of Nigeria.
‘The ASA Festival is typically a mixed bag of teaching, recitations in Yoruba, cultural displays of traditional dances and modes of dressing. It also brings writers, actors, theatre directors, movie producers, dancers and people of different cultural backgrounds to interact together’ the statement said.
Aside from the opportunity by the theatre practitioners to share experiences, improve business and management skills, the statement said the 2022 ASA festival designed to encourage theatre arts practitioners in pursuit of excellence and give a platform for life stage performances of Yoruba and English troupes, exhibitions and art shows.
.
‘It will also teach the participants a lot,’ he said.
The 5th ASA festival will be a wonderful, great programme for everyone to enjoy, it’s something that’s exciting and people who are coming to Lagos will be in for a surprise’ the statement added.

Publish names of perpetrators of oil theft or face legal action, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “promptly set up a presidential panel of enquiry to thoroughly, impartially, and transparently investigate the operations of illegal oil pipelines from 2001 to date, and to widely publish the names of anyone suspected to be involved.”
SERAP urged him to “ensure the prosecution by appropriate anti-corruption agencies of anyone suspected to be responsible for the plundering of the country’s oil wealth and the full recovery of any proceeds of crime.”
SERAP also urged him to “promptly authorise the investigation of reports of the destruction of an oil bunkering vessel by security agencies and to ensure that suspected owners of the vessel are identified, named and brought to justice.”
SERAP’s letter followed the recent reports that two illegal pipelines used to steal the country’s oil wealth from Forcados Terminal, and connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, have been uncovered.
In the open letter dated 15 October 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Poor and socio-economically vulnerable Nigerians have continued to pay the price for the stealing of the country’s oil wealth apparently by both state and non-state actors.”
SERAP said, “Your government has a legal obligation to ensure that the country’s oil wealth is used solely for the benefit of the Nigerian people, and that the wealth does not end up in private pockets, for the sake of the present and future generations.
The letter, read in part: “Despite the country’s substantial oil wealth, successive governments have largely squandered the opportunity to use the wealth to improve the lives and well-being of ordinary Nigerians. This is a clear violation of the government’s anti-corruption and human rights obligations.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“SERAP urges you to consider referring the reports to the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court [ICC] to investigate whether the allegations of oil theft in the country amount to crimes against humanity within the jurisdiction of the ICC, and to surrender all suspected perpetrators for trial by the ICC.”
“SERAP is concerned that the illegal pipelines have been operated for many years without notice, implying a flagrant violation of constitutional and international obligations to ensure the proper, effective and efficient management of the country’s wealth and natural resources.”
“It is in the public interest to promptly investigate the discovery of the illegal pipelines, publish the names of those suspected to be involved, and ensure that they are brought to justice, and that any proceeds of crime are fully recovered.”
“Taking these steps would advance the right of Nigerians to restitution, compensation and guarantee of non-repetition and improve public confidence in the fight against corruption and related crimes, especially in the oil sector.”
“As the President and Minister of Petroleum Resources, you and your government have a legal responsibility to ensure accountability for these human rights crimes, and end the culture of impunity, which is fuelling the stealing of the country’s oil wealth”.
“The proposed presidential panel of enquiry should be headed by a retired justice of the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal, and its members should include people with proven professional record and of the highest integrity that can act impartially, independently, and transparently.”
“The plundering of the country’s oil wealth has resulted in the downward trend in revenue and increasing level of borrowing, with reports of a projected N11.30 trillion deficit budget for 2023.”
“SERAP is concerned that the unaddressed plundering of the country’s oil wealth has for many years contributed to shrinking revenue, chronic underfunding of public goods and services such as education, health, and access to safe drinking water, recurring budget deficits, growing level of borrowing, and unsustainable debt profile.”
“According to our information, security agencies recently reportedly uncovered an illegal pipeline used to steal the country’s oil wealth for nine years from Forcados Terminal.”
“Another illegal pipeline connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, at the rear of a military security post in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State has reportedly been discovered.”
“The discovery of the second illegal pipeline followed the recent destruction by security agents of a vessel allegedly used for crude oil theft off the Niger Delta creeks. About 58 illegal oil points have reportedly so far been discovered.”
“Section 15 subsection (5) of the Constitution requires your government to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
“The UN Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party obligate your government to effectively prevent and investigate acts of corruption and hold public officials and non-state actors to account for any violations.”
“Specifically, article 26 of the UN convention requires your government to ensure “effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions” including criminal and non-criminal sanctions, in cases of grand corruption.”
“Article 26 complements the more general requirement of article 30, paragraph 1, that sanctions must take into account the gravity of the corruption allegations.”
“According to a Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) audit report, 160 million barrels of crude oil valued at $13.7 billion, was stolen in four years (2009-2012). There is also report of $17 billion debt of under-declared crude oil lifted by some international oil companies (IOCs) between 2011 and 2014.”
“According to reports, Nigeria has seen increased oil theft in recent years. The country loses 470,000 barrels of crude oil monthly amounting to $700 million to oil theft.”
“The country has reportedly lost $10 billion to crude oil theft in seven months, which is stated to be more than 50 per cent of Nigeria’s external reserves. The Chatham House, a think-tank based in the United Kingdom has noted that oil theft in Nigeria is ‘on an industrial scale.’”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
16/10/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
LAGOS SET AGOG FOR ASA FESTIVAL
Writers and scholars of international repute will be addressing theatre art practitioners in Nigeria on Thursday, November 9 as Black Edge Production commences the 2022 ASA Festival.
A statement issued in Lagos on Monday by Black Edge Artistic Director, Babatunde Abideen, said the four- day programme would take place from Wednesday, November 9 to Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the National Theatre, Iganmu.
‘’The 2022 ASA workshop will address the challenges in the theatre art business in Nigeria, identity of Yoruba society and perceived traditional values of Yoruba people.
According to the statement, the 2022 festival would focus on the role of the theatre practitioner in the cultural, political and economic development of Nigeria.
‘The ASA Festival is typically a mixed bag of teaching, recitations in Yoruba, cultural displays of traditional dances and modes of dressing. It also brings writers, actors, theatre directors, movie producers, dancers and people of different cultural backgrounds to interact together’ the statement said.
Aside from the opportunity by the theatre practitioners to share experiences, improve business and management skills, the statement said the 2022 ASA festival designed to encourage theatre arts practitioners in pursuit of excellence and give a platform for life stage performances of Yoruba and English troupes, exhibitions and art shows.
.
‘It will also teach the participants a lot,’ he said.
The 5th ASA festival will be a wonderful, great programme for everyone to enjoy, it’s something that’s exciting and people who are coming to Lagos will be in for a surprise’ the statement added.

JULIUS BERGER AFP: VICE-PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO VISITS AFP EXHIBITION PAVILION AT ARCHIBUILT CONFERENCE 2022….Commends AFP Product Quality
JULIUS BERGER AFP: VICE-PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO VISITS AFP EXHIBITION PAVILION AT ARCHIBUILT CONFERENCE 2022….Commends AFP Product Quality
The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, GCON, was at the Archibuilt Expo 2022, the annual conference organized by the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
The Vice President, during the Conference, spoke on the goals of the National Infrastructure Plan. He highlighted the exponential population growth in Nigeria and Abuja. The implication according to Professor Osinbajo is that the necessity for sustainable and innovative infrastructural planning is a ‘categorical imperative.’ Capital expenditure and investment in roads, rails, energy pipelines and industry in general both by the public and private sector has become even much more compelling than ever before.
According to the Vice President, the goal of the administration’s National Infrastructure Plan is to grow the country’s infrastructure stock by at least 70%, which he said is the global best practice. Professor Osinbajo called on the Nigerian Institute of Architects to collaborate with other professionals in the built environment to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure stock for national development.
The Vice President said, the goal of the administration’s National Infrastructure Plan is to grow the country’s infrastructure stock by at least 70%, which he said is the global best practice. Professor Osinbajo called on the Nigerian Institute of Architects to collaborate with other professionals in the built environment to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure stock for national development.
The General Manager of Julius Berger AFP, Mr Oliver Cohnen who led the company’s team to the conference also received the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, GCON, to the Julius Berger AFP exhibition pavilion at the venue of the event. The Vice President commended APF’s product quality and enjoined AFP to keep up its great product quality and service. Oliver Cohnen thanked the Vice President for his gracious visit and for his kind and encouraging words to AFP.
Other important dignitaries that graced the conference and exhibition included the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and Planning, Hajiya Zainab Ahmed, and her husband, Architect Shamsudeen, and the Honourable Minister for Water Resources. The National Coordinator of Nigeria’s Social Investment Programme, Dr. Umar B. Bindir, Professor Uche Uwaleke an exponent of the use of Infrastructure Bonds for infrastructural development, the President of the Sierra Leonean Institute of Architects as well as the current and past presidents of the NIA were in attendance at the event which held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adu Centre Abuja.
Other AFP officials at the conference included the Commercial Manager of AFP, Norbert Kossmann, APublic Relations Officer, Alhaji Kaita Ahmed, Comrade Jamiu Akinola, Sales Consultants Sandra Kyaan and Khadija Usman, and AFP Procurement Manager , Jan Baumgaertener
Archibuilt is a forum that provides a platform for organizers and participants alike a platform for direct communication and value exchange between architects, consultants, contractors, developers, product and other service providers in the built environment. According to the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), “Archibuilt is an annual exhibition and forum organized to bring to the fore trends, technologies, systems, and policy issues that impact the building industry’s intervention and response to everyday living.” Sourcing of Products and services at the expo is a major reason attendees go for the Archibuilt Conference and Exhibition every year. Attendees go the conference and exhibition to evaluate products and services and develop business relationships with the built environment manufacturers.
JULIUS BERGER WINS 7TH CONSECUTIVE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR LEADERSHIP AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’S TOP 50 BRANDS 2022
The Country’s practically most reliable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has robustly for the 7th consecutive time won top rating as “Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category” at the Top 50 Brands Nigeria Awards.
At a ceremony to unveil the Top 50 business brands in Nigeria last week in Lagos, the highly acclaimed construction experts, again retained its leadership position in Nigeria’s engineering construction sector in recognition of its outstanding and ever trustworthy quality, brilliant innovativeness and operational best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for the year 2022.
At the eagerly anticipated annual national brands evaluation event anchored in Lagos, where who is who in the various industrial sectors are assessed and named with ranking awards, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Brand Strength Measurement, BSM, of 66.5, notching up an additional 6 points to strongly beat and best its own previous brand performance record of 60.5 points at the previous 2021 ratings.
The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and other sectoral winners declaring that, “…today, these are the Best Brands in Nigeria”.
According to Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of Top Brands Nigeria, the drivers of the #TOP50BRANDSNIGERIA awards, the Brand Strength Measurement (BSM) ratings of nominated companies are determined by their consistency of corporate mission, professional resilience, individual Brand Identity, Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market Category Leadership as well as a brand’s Diversification activities and Productivity. Other BSM assessment considerations include Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and a brand’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement. According to Taiwo Oluboyede, “…This becomes the objective measurement and merit-driven outcome of the annual brand research endeavour, where we evaluate a brand’s ability to deliver on its promise to its customers or clients who consume its products and services from the customers’ or consumers’ point of view….”
Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2022 Manual, further said that, among many other fine technical qualities of Julius Berger, the company places emphasis on the deployment of progressive construction methods and innovative technologies to achieve sustainable and value-driven solutions. He said the scope of Julius Berger’s operations covers “…all areas of construction including the pre and post phases. Success is built on the strategy of having vertically integrated operations, which improve efficiency and timelines of project execution”.
To underscore the foregoing, the Top Brands Nigeria CEO said, “Julius Berger is a brand that is unmistakably recognized throughout Nigeria, a brand that has built a track record of delivering the highest level of performance and a brand synonymous with quality and reliability”.
Congratulating Julius Berger at the unveiling of the 2022 awards in Lagos, Taiwo Oluboyede reiterated that“…the engineering construction leader is a company seized of a progressive and open-minded corporate culture constantly progressively driven by a development and growth-oriented Board and executive management. The company empirically never stands still in its efforts to drive both the Organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to good success”.
Julius Berger at this year’s event was also again positively cited and commended by Taiwo Oluboyede for its consistent business culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule and well prepared for maximum productivity in all of its projects and operational tasks with ready clients.
It would be recalled that the Executive Director of Administration of Julius Berger, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, earlier told news correspondents during one of the company’s media parley events that: “…In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business and, as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly and productively underpins our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us to consistently win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award…” Bayi added that, “…we promise to maintain our matchless productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matter most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise.”
With regard to the 2022 construction sector leadership award to Julius Berger, Alhaji Bayi who had to give his remarks on the telephone from offshore where he was for official assignment said: “…On behalf of the Board, Executive Management and entire Staff of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, I wish to appreciate and thank the BrandNigeria organization for this valuable award, and for the objectivity that has continued to define the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven”.
The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that since the advent of Julius Berger in Nigeria for the construction of Eko Bridge in Lagos in 1965, the engineering construction company has historically and decisively stood strong as a preferred partner for project success anywhere there is an engineering challenge in the country
Besides Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, other winners at the 2022 BRANDNIGERIA TOP50BRANDS Award event included the Dangote Group, Globacom, Lafarge, MTN, Oando, FCMB, Access Bank, Coco-Cola, Zenith Bank, First Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, UBA Plc, Nestle, Cadbury, BUA Group, Fidelity Bank, Total energies, Guinness, Airtel, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, P&G, Channels Television, Samsung, Multichoice, etc.
PRESIDENT BUHARI IN CHAD, ASKS FOR PATHWAY TO ENDURING DEMOCRACY
President Muhammadu Buhari, who is the current Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Countries, LCBC, Monday joined the celebrations of the people of Republic of Chad in inaugurating their interim administration to lead the country to elections and the formation of a democratic government.
At a bilateral meeting held by the two leaders, shortly before the inauguration of General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno as the Head of the Transition Government and Head of State to oversee the transition process, President Buhari congratulated the country’s leader on behalf of the LCBC for earning the trust of the majority of Chadians to head the transition process to full fruition.
The President equally congratulated the participants of the just-concluded Inclusive National Dialogue for the patriotism they demonstrated in reclaiming their country from the path of instability and repositioning it for sustainable governance and development.
President Buhari expressed hope that the event will, “hopefully bring to closure, the painful phase of the Chadian political history which led to the sad passage of one of Chad’s most illustrious sons, late Marshal Idriss Deby itno.”
President Buhari extolled the Chadian state’s responsible engagement within the sub-region and beyond, citing the country’s “very active involvement in the collective activities for peace within the LCBC and MNJTF, the Sahel and in the reactivation of her relationship with Sudan,” which he said were exemplary.
The President expressed his hope and that of the LCBC, which he chairs, that “today’s event will usher in another period of peace and stability within Chad and our sub-region in order to build on the gains of previous efforts.”
President Buhari urged all stakeholders in the Chadian political process to work towards consolidating and re-establishing a resolute, resilient and sustainable democracy for the benefit of the good people of Chad.
At the ceremony, the Head of the Transition Government, thanked President Buhari for the warmth and friendliness he had demonstrated towards the country and sub-region, especially in ensuring peace and stability.
Itno commended the Chairman of the LCBC for historic interventions in upholding the interest of the Chad Basin, and Africa, assuring that President Buhari’s leadership had been impactful.
He promised to put in place a transition process that would reflect the will of the people, while focusing on ameliorating poverty through provision of quality education, better health facilities and sustainable infrastructure.
President Buhari returned to Abuja after the ceremony in N’Djamena.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 10, 2022
2023: TRUE FEDERALISM WILL THRIVE UNDER TINUBU’S PRESIDENCY – GOV AKEREDOLU
- Says APC Candidate Towers Above Atiku, Obi
- Afenifere Doesn’t Speak For The Yorubas
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has identified true federalism as one of the strong pillars that can be used to build a prosperous nation.
Governor Akeredolu said true federalism is important in a diverse nation like Nigeria, adding that it will properly address the fundamentals of nationhood.
The Governor made this known on Sunday evening while speaking on the topic, “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Business of Nation Building”, during a Twitter Space session.
He assured Nigerians that the APC Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will bring a new vista into governance and ensure that true federalism thrives if voted into power.
Governor Akeredolu said the APC Candidate understands the serious issues affecting the wellbeing of the country.
“If voted into government, Nigerians will see that we have someone in place who had gone through democratic tutelage. He has been Governor. He led a party.
“Asiwaju has deep knowledge about the problems of this nation. He has been part of the struggle to ensure that democracy is enthroned and that a true federal system runs in the country,” Arakunrin Akeredolu said.
The Governor recalled that Asiwaju Tinubu was part of the founders of NADECO and participated in the struggle that led to the return of civil democratic rule in the fourth Republic.
He said: “Tinubu’s contributions in the NADECO struggle can not be denied. As you know, when the 1993 presidential election was held, MKO Abiola was deemed to have won that election. But the military junta canceled the election and set up an interim government.
“Asiwaju Tinubu and few others felt they weren’t going to take it. They formed the NADECO and fought the military. They stood on June 12. Then the whole country conceded that the next President must be from the Southwest. That is why in 1999, only former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Olu Falae ran for the election.
“You can not deny Asiwaju his role. He ran away from the county and set up the Radio-Kudirat. Those were the struggles we had before the forth republic came up.”
On the endorsement of Peter Obi by the Pan Yoruba Socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, the Governor declared that Afenifere doesn’t speak for the Yoruba people.
Arakunrin Akeredolu noted that Afenifere is divided in respect of the purported endorsement and emphasised that the group’s views do not represent the stance of the Yoruba people.
Governor Akeredolu said Asiwaju Tinubu has always remained a progressive despite the prevalence of political prostitution in the country.
“Prostitution in politics is very common. When you have people who stick to their guns and stay in their parties, you must respect them. It is not common. We have seen a situation where governors left their parties and go to other parties. For me, it is integrity. Asiwaju has shown integrity. Asiwaju’s form of politics has taught us that political prostitution is unnecessary.”he stressed.
Governor Akeredolu said Asiwaju Tinubu made efforts to build Lagos State when he was governor of the state, adding that the APC presidential standard bearer was able to make Lagos State a country within the Country.
He noted that Asiwaju Tinubu promoted national unity by appointing people from different ethnic backgrounds across the country into his government.
“Asiwaju was able to make Lagos a country within country. As you know, Asiwaju was in the saddle for eight years in Lagos. And you will find out that because of Lagos peculiarities, people from virtually all parts of the country were part of his government.
“Asiwaju Tinubu assembled the best brains for the job and these people moved from Lagos to become leaders in their respective states. Aregbesola was there as a commissioner and went from there to become governor in Osun State.
“Everybody has its own part to play. Today, we have people who have been senators in Lagos and gone back to their states to contest. Lagos can be described as a mini Nigeria. An Hausa man can thrive in Lagos. An Igbo man thrives in Lagos.
“Aliko Dangote lives in Lagos and his business is in Lagos and he’s thriving. So many other people thrive in Lagos. Our brothers from the East own the whole of Alaba. They have representatives in the National Assembly and Lagos State Assembly . You must give credit to Asiwaju for laying the foundation for such things to thrive in Lagos,” Governor Akeredolu said.
The Governor expressed confidence that the APC Presidential candidate would make state police happen in the country.
He said: “I strongly believe that the Presidency of Tinubu will give chance for State Police. He is lucky. Today, all governors in the 36 states of the federation support creation of state police. That should be a centre piece of his campaign.
“There must be restructuring and Asiwaju is one President that will come and restructure the country in accordance with the APC constitution. I look up to him as a leader who would say come 2023, a state police would happen.
Expressing his view on the Muslim/Muslim ticket, Governor Akeredolu said what is important to the country is capacity and knowledge, not religion and ethnicity.
“There are lots of discussions about the Muslim/Muslim ticket. And some of us have tried to explain to our people. The ticket itself can not be the issue. The main issue is who will serve the country. When you talk about the issue of ticket, you also want to talk about the issue of inclusivism. Should the presidency go back to the north? No!
“And what are we left with? We are left with an Obi and Asiwaju. Then you will weigh the two. Some of us have made a decision about Asiwaju. And the decision is based on what he has to offer.
“When put together on a scale, Tinubu weighs higher. We look at intellect, experience and what we stand to gain from his presidency. Capacity and knowledge are different from religion and ethnicity. We have always voted for experience and capacity.
“We have said it clearly. President must come to the South. It has come to us now to make a choice. In making the choice, we must think about capacity and competence. And the scale tilts towards Asiwaju Tinubu,” He stressed.
The Governor further assured that Asiwaju Tinubu will promote youth inclusion in his government, adding that young Nigerians will have enough participation in the government.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 10, 2022.
Monday, October 10, 2023
PRESS RELEASE BY THE TINUBU/SHETTIMA CAMPAIGN COUNCIL:
PDP PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN FLAG-OFF IN UYO: A DISASTER FORETOLD
The launch of PDP’s presidential campaign today in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was, as expected, a disaster waiting to happen. Once again, the delinquent PDP continued to treat the now discerning Nigerian public with disdain and disrespect.
Aside from the obscenity of a poorly-scripted farce misnamed a flag-off, Nigerians suffered today additional trauma of having to witness a show of shame, listening to a litany of falsehoods spewed out at the gathering by failed, expired and rejected politicians. Speaker after speaker kept echoing a farrago of incomprehensible political jargons that left most Nigerians wondering whether it was a circus.
For example, if not the loss of the sense of shame, what else could have goaded PDP’s now discredited “sit tight” National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, to be audacious enough to stand on a podium today in Uyo and make any promise to Nigerians? Has he been able to fulfill the promise he made to himself and his party members to step down from office should a Northerner emerge as the presidential candidate at their party primaries? How can a party that cannot unite itself promise to unite Nigeria? How can a party that brazenly violates its own constitution on zoning be trusted to obey the constitution of Nigeria if again trusted with power?
When you have a flag-off campaign that is shunned by the National Vice-Chairmen of the South-South, South-West, and five sitting Governors out of thirteen, that is a definitive and resounding red-flag that Nigerians should not vote the Presidential candidate of the PDP in this coming election. If the people’s representatives at the state levels are so unanimouly against their party’s candidate that they would shun his campaign launch, then indeed, we would say to Nigerians, “A word is enough for the wise”.
Fortunately, to the benefit of Nigerians, there remains a few good men within PDP. These honourable men belonging to the party’s NWC, deemed it right to return hundreds of millions of Naira allegedly transferred into their individual bank accounts as “hush money” to suppress the investigation of the scandal of humongous financial misappropriation levelled against their National Chairman.
It is quite obvious to Nigerians that the PDP is a house that is divided against itself and it sure won’t stand. At their presidential campaign flag-off in Uyo today, the absence of many of the PDP State Governors tells a story to Nigerians that no amount of political jamboree can whitewash PDP’s cracked walls. It tells a story of a budding autocratic leadership, nourished by impunity, which now fans the flame of divisions and absolute disrespect for laid down rules and regulation.
Not much should, therefore, be expected from such a gathering. With the obvious inability of its Presidential Candidate to assuage frayed nerves of disaffected persons within their ranks, how will it be possible for such a person to unite people within such a diverse landscape as Nigeria? You definitely cannot give what you don’t have.
After being voted out of power in 2015 ignominiously, Nigerians had hoped that the PDP would, by now, be contrite as a party. Just as many had expected it would be able to muster the organisational acumen to play a formidable opposition Party, having been at the helm of running the affairs of our dear nation for 16 years prior to its disgraceful fall in 2015.
Alas, such expectations now seem far-fetched. Rather than seize every opportunity to redeemed its battered image, PDP has continued on its free fall, much the same way it bungled the running of the affairs of our country for 16 good years in an orgy of incompetence, unabated corruption and impunity.
The PDP and its self-conceited leadership failed woefully to put its house in order before hitting the streets to ask for the votes of Nigerians and, ironically, telling Nigerians they are on a rescue mission. Till date, their National Secretariat remains uncompleted, whilst the APC, in its relatively shorter existence, now has a permanent headquarters.
Our democracy is young. This Fourth Republic is barely 24 years old. But then, a 24 years old man would be said to be coming of age. At this time, Nigerians are no longer interested in a trial-and-error leadership. Those who have not been proven to be “good enough” leaders should have no access to our highest office. If nothing else speaks to the disaster an Abubakar Atiku presidency will be, this crisis within the PDP does so eloquently.
It is high time Nigerians called out the PDP for their spurious promises and the obnoxious behaviour of their helmsmen. It is highly unfortunate that some of the most honorable of their leaders are being sacrificed on the altar of the greed of a few persons and their inordinate ambition.
Festus Keyamo, SAN, FCIArb(UK)
*Director of Public Affairs and Chief Spokesperson, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council.
* Minister of State, Labour and Employment,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
PRESS STATEMENT
Yakubu Dogara and his band of so-called APC Christian leaders are impostors
Former Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr. Yakubu Dogara has apparently lost his mind since he could not realise his self-imposed ambition to be on the presidential ticket of All Progressives Congress. On account of this he has certainly become a reprobate and demagogue, delivering hate speeches and whipping up emotions, with the aim of setting our country ablaze.
The Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council is therefore not surprised by media reports about a meeting of some so-called Northern Christian leaders, who claimed to be members of our All Progressives Congress that was championed by Dogara and his ilks.
The claim was totally fraudulent.
Yakubu Dogara, the peripatetic and politically unstable politician who organised the meeting left our party officially and unceremoniously weeks ago. And those who attended the meeting were representing themselves, their selfish agenda, not Northern Christians.
Before then, the former speaker had spearheaded a campaign of vitriol and hate against our party, using religion as camouflage, after he lost the vice-presidential candidacy to a better qualified Senator Kashim Shettima.
A careful reading of the people who attended the unholy meeting he called also showed that they were all PDP members, masquerading as APC members.
Among the politicians at the unholy consultative meeting were Mukhar Shagari, Boni Haruna, Abdulfattah Ahmed; Damishi Sango; Senator Idris Ahmed Umar; and two former deputy governors of Kogi State, Yomi Awoniyi and Simon Achuba. They are all PDP members working for the presidential ambition of Atiku Abubakar.
We were not surprised by the resolutions adopted. Our surprise was that the media failed to read through their smokescreen.
The APC PCC wondered how the assembly of strange bedfellows hoped to foster unity and cohesion in our country, when their candidate represents the antithesis of the goal, having emerged the greatest divider of our polity, between the north and south.
All Nigerians are aware that Atiku’s emergence as the PDP presidential candidate grossly violated a power rotation code between the north and the south. His insistence on snatching and retaining what righly belongs to another political region has triggered a crisis within his party, making him run from Port Harcourt to London to mend fences.
We want to assure Dogara and his co-travellers fanning hate campaign against our Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, that they will fail spectacularly at the polls.
From the engagements our leaders have had with men of all faiths, bigotry will not win next February election. What will prevail are the track records of our candidates and the solution-driven and all-inclusive progressive programmes the candidates offer Nigerians.
Asiwaju Tinubu and Senator Shettima are going into this campaign with clear objectives to engage Nigerians across the socio-economic brackets on policy actions that will make their lives better. Our candidates will not exploit our country’s fault lines to win election and sell religion as Kool Aid.
Bayo Onanuga
Director, Media & Publicity
Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council
Okowa mourns Ex-LG Chairman, Jonathan Eghweree
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has commiserated with the Eghweree family and people of Oghara over the passing of former Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area, Mr Jonathan Eghweree.
The late Eghweree was the first Executive Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area between 1991 and 1993, after its creation from the Old Ethiope Local Government Area.
Until his passing, he was a member of Delta State Scholarship Board, and a chieftain of the PDP in Delta.
In the condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa expressed sadness over the incident, saying that it was a big loss to the deceased’s family, the PDP and Oghara people.
According to him, the passing of the PDP chieftain is a big blow to our party, his family, Oghara community and Ethiope West, considering his immense contributions to the party’s fortunes in the state.
The governor described the late Eghweree as a “fine gentleman”, who contributed to the growth and development of his community and local government area, and stated that he would be greatly missed by his political associates and others close to him.
He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of an astute politician and a gentleman of amiable personality.
“Jonathan Eghweree was a renowned party leader, a man of peace who was passionate about the development of his people of Oghara and Ethiope West in general.
“The news of his death was shocking and a great loss because he was a valued asset to PDP in Delta and had distinguished himself in the service of the party and his people.
“His huge contributions to our party’s victories in several elections in Oghara and Ethiope West remains laudable and highly commendable.”
Okowa prayed to God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends to bear his exit.
How APC can win 2023 polls, by Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has provided insights into how the ruling All Progressives Party (APC) can continue its winning streak in 2023.
He said the party must take advantage of the women population and spread campaigns to the most remotest parts of the country.
He spoke at the inauguration of the Tinubu-Shettima Women Presidential Campaign Team, held at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, also tasked the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, and the Minister of Women Affairs to work with the Office of the First Lady to come up with sets of legislations that can be put before the National Assembly to make laws to ensure women receive just recognition for their contributions in society.
Speaking on how the APC could win the presidential and other elections next year, Buhari called the attention of the audience, including the National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, and other leaders of the party, to the potentials of the women voters, highlighting the sheer number of votes they contributed in the last two elections, charging the party to court the support of the female voters.
“Considering the strategic role women have played in APC victories, we call on you once again to begin organizing and mobilizing vigorously the electorate at all levels for APC victory at the 2023 polls through the committee in an inclusive and cooperative manner.
“The inauguration of APC Women Presidential Campaign Committee today is the most crucial component of the 2023 campaign. To this end, I call on all members of this committee to take up this great responsibility as a testament of your selfless service to the APC.
“I strongly believe that this committee will take the APC to greater heights by developing and implementing a collective and inclusive party’s strategy to ensure APC victory in the 2023 election because there is no alternative to our victory.
“In the 2015 general elections, about 3.6 million housewives voted in the presidential election. And this figure ranks third next to about 4.4 million students in the 2019 general elections. Women accounted for 47 percent, almost 40 million of the 84 million registered voters throughout the nation.
“We must continuously co-opt and make significant in-road into these demographic and voting segments.
“The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently made a projection that Nigeria’s voting population could be as much as 95 million for the 2023 general elections. For statisticians in the room, you can imagine what that means in terms of potential votes that women could bring to the table.
“Counting today, we are left with approximately 137 days before the Presidential and National Assembly elections, which is scheduled for the 25th of February, 2023. Out of the 36 states of the federation, 30 states will be holding their gubernatorial elections on the 11th of March. The mission that lays ahead of the committee is very clear and time is not on your side,” he said.
The President went further to remind the campaign council and other party functionaries to also work hard to reach the inner recesses of the country in canvassing for votes, warning that the real work in getting votes is not in Abuja, but in the over 8,000 wards across the country.
“As this launch is being hosted in Abuja, we must remember that the real war lies in far flung places away from Abuja. The task ahead lies in over 8000 wards and 774 local governments across the country, where party faithful will have to make a case before fellow citizens on our party’s candidate articulating the vision and the programme for the country.
“The campaign, therefore, should resist the temptation for it to be turned into an Abuja centric activity but establish the connection between the voting public and our presidential candidate, and for other candidates for offices throughout Nigeria, that should be the ultimate objective”, he said.
Buhari noted that women had been the most supportive groups to his administration and throughout his political journey, calling on women of the party to extend same commitment they had shown him all along to the flag bearer of the party and his team.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES ABIKE DABIRI-EREWA AT 60
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her 60 years birthday.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) celebrated broadcaster and three-term federal lawmaker, who clocks 60 on Monday, October 10, has emblazoned her name on the international stage as a respected legislator, lover of truth, advocate of social justice and a loud voice of the voiceless.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the former Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora is a good ambassador of Lagos State, who has used her experience and position to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria in different sectors.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the good people of Lagos State, leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), I heartily congratulate the Chairman/CEO of Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, before venturing into politics in 2006 was a celebrated broadcaster, who worked for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) for 15 years, anchoring the weekly NTA News line programme and taking a particular interest in poverty and social justice issues.
“As a lawmaker, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency between 2003 and 2015, she contributed immensely to legislative business during her 12 years in the House of Representatives. She served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Publicity, and later Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.
“She was never a ‘sleeping lawmaker’ as she sponsored significant bills that were passed by Parliament, among which were the Freedom of Information Bill, Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill and a Bill to repeal the Nigerian Press Council Bill and replace it with the Nigerian Press and Journalism Council Bill.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa as the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora and now Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, has been the voice of Nigerians in the Diaspora, championing and working for their interests in a foreign country.
“As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I pray that God will continue to preserve and grant you good health to enable you to render more service to humanity, Nigeria and our beloved state, Lagos.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
09 OCTOBER 2022
October 9, 2022
Press Statement
Eid-el Maulud: PDP Felicitates with Nigerians, Urges Faith, Unity, Tolerance
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) felicitates with Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-el Maulud, the birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW), urging them to use the occasion to strengthen their faith in God as well as the bond of unity among one another.
Indeed, the Eid-el Maulud offers us as a people and humanity the divine reassurance of the mercies, compassion and provision of the Almighty Allah as well as divine call to put our trust in His unending love towards mankind.
The PDP therefore urges Nigerians to use the occasion of the Eid-el Maulud to end all forms of divisiveness, acrimony, strife and sense of hopelessness and embrace a new beginning by rekindling the virtues of love, kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, peaceful co-existence and charity towards the poor in line with the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet.
Our Party charges Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for divine intervention in the country especially as the nation prepares for the 2023 general elections. The PDP also calls on those behind the mindless killings, banditry and other forms of violence to use the occasion to turn a new leaf and end their acts of hostility against humanity.
The PDP felicitates with Nigerians and wishes them a happy Eid-el Maulud celebration.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

RE: 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 CLIENT; 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
- EGBOYI & CO
Legal Practitioner, Corporate & Property Consultants
No 9, Effurun / Sapele Road
Opposite High Court Junction,
Effurun .
TEL: 08035759764
Email: luckyegbuyi@ gmail.com
Our Ref: LOE/IGP/COM/BREA/OKUMAGBA/1/22 Your Ref……………
THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE,
NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE
EDET LEWIS HOUSE
ABUJA.
Sir.
RE: 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 CLIENT; 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
We are counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, herein called our Clients.
The Olodi , Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri, make up 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.
In 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria 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 Clients family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients
Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thuggery and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Head Quarters, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Right action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. That action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police.
We wish to inform you that suit, of the suspect against the Police, has been 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). A copy of the enrolled order is herein annexed as annexure as Annexure A.
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 has created several apprehension in the minds of locals, which apprehension 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 that he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had 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.
Our Clients are bunch of responsible families known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society.
Our Client therefore takes the allegation of hiring of assassins by its members very serious, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country.
It is against the background of the foregoing that we have the instruction of our Clients to petition you to use your good office to investigate these allegations against the suspect, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiris and the Urhobos of Okere Urhobo Kingdom. God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive.
We therefore urge you to use your good offices to investigate these allegations of our Client and cause anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
We assure you of our clients co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition.
Yours faithfully
L.O. EGBOYI ESQ
CC;
The Head:
Olodi, Oki and Ighogbudu families,
Of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri
Okere-Urhobo royal families knock Louis Okumagba over Uduaghan, land comments
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
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 Monday morning.
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.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
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. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. 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’’,
Last week, the families 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 use his good office 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.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
Okere-Urhobo royal families rebuke Louis Okumagba, seek IGP’s Intervention
- Move to prevent monumental communal war between Itsekiri and Urhobo
Royal families in Okere-Urhobo have condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released by the Delta State government 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 members of the community for 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 use his good office 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 of Mid-Western Nigeria 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.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
……………………………………………………
THE HEADS AND MEMBERS OF THE OLODI, OKI AND IGHOGBADU FAMILIES OF OKERE-URHOBO OF WARRI, THE GOOD PEOPLE OF DELTA STATE AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC AT LARGE SHOULD COMPLETELY DISCOUNTENANCE THE FALSE PUBLICATION BY ONE LOUIS OKUMAGBA AS HE DOES NOT REPRESENT THE INTERESTS OF THE T FAMILIES OF OLODI, OKI & IGHOGBADU. HERE ARE THE FACTS BY CHIEF GEDEON OKUMAGBA, A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE FAMILIES.
My attention has just been drawn to the recent publication by Louis Okumagba published by some newspapers and online organizations. I am here on behalf of the tripartite family to refute that fallacy and to posit the true position.
Firstly, it is clear here that the maker of that publication fabricated the story.
The Okumagba family does not own any land by itself in Warri. It is a fact that the tripartite families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in the Warri metropolis, facts that have been judicially noticed by the majority of the good people of Delta State.
The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was compulsory 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 bothering on their family lands and other related family matters. 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.
Having stated the above narratives, I will now move further to clear the air on the position of the families of Olodi, Oki and Okumagba on this matter. 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. 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 my humble self-Chief, Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office, Warri wherein we both dragged the matter to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja. While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within the Warri environment.
Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan is equally false. As I have stated earlier, the land was compulsory 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 & lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. The first barge of 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and the second barge of the release of the unused land was released to the Olodi, Oki &1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki & Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land stated above.
To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan is one of the Directors of that company and the said company also have an internal agreement with the families and half of the land described in this paragraph was released to the families and I can vividly remembered that individuals of the three families benefited from it including Louis Okumagba.
In the final analysis, it is very clear there was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki & 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 & 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.

Okere-Urhobo royal families knock Louis Okumagba over Uduaghan, land comments
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
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 Monday morning.
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.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
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. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. 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’’,
Last week, the families 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 use his good office 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.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
PRESS RELEASE
TINUBU’S LEADERSHIP ANTECEDENT VERIFIABLE, MARKETABLE – SANWO-OLU
…Advocacy Group Holds Talks, Targets Grassroots Voters For APC Victory In Lagos
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has endorsed a grassroots movement targeting two million votes in the State for the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
Sanwo-Olu personally led members of his cabinet, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, to a conference organised by Asiwaju Grassroots Talk (AGT), where the Governor drummed support for group’s political advocacy and its voter mobilisation strategy across local communities in Lagos.
The event with the theme: “Political Evangelism: Raising Active Voters Above 50 Percent”, was held at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Oregun, Ikeja, and had 5,000 mobilisers working with the group in attendance.
The group is mobilising for the electoral victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential polls, while also working with APC for the continuity of progressive government in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu said his endorsement of the AGT advocacy project stemmed from the proven ability of the group to influence and mobilise real voters, noting that AGT had a strong presence across communities in Lagos.
The Governor said Tinubu remained the most qualified and marketable candidate for the top job, pointing out that the APC’s presidential standard bearer possessed verifiable records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers could use to sell him to voters.
He said: “We are ready to take the gospel out to the electorate and canvass for their support for the Tinubu presidency. Asiwaju has verifiable track records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers can use to engage and win the support of potential voters. We must talk about the transformative leadership, progressive ideals and vision possessed by Asiwaju to take this country to another level of meaningful development.
“Tinubu is coming to bring hope, bring about change that will translate to real prosperity. He is coming to address the challenges facing the youth, women and the vulnerable in our country. His programmes will touch the lives of traders, artisans and those in search of legitimate means of livelihood. It is because of our strong belief in Asiwaju’s leadership that we are all coming together to endorse this grassroots movement to ensure Lagos is delivered for APC.
“With Tinubu in charge of the country, not only would Lagos get due attention, the Southwest and the entire nation would feel the impact of his progressive vision. The result of his leadership in Lagos is for everyone to see. There is no better candidate to lead the country from next year than Tinubu. All hands must be on deck to work and achieve this objective; we must show the opposition parties how we are better than them on election day.”
Sanwo-Olu dismissed the notion that Tinubu’s candidacy was to advance ethnic agenda, stressing that the APC presidential candidate belonged to the rank of the most detribalised Nigerians.
The Governor said the fulfillment of his promises to the electorate in Lagos would make the residents vote for continuity in the State, noting that his Government touched all parts of the State in projects and service delivery.
He urged AGT members not to be intimidated by the propaganda of the opposition in the course of engaging voters at the community level. He charged them to show commitment to deliver their pledge to the party.
“This movement should not be limited to the 5,000 mobilisers who are gathered for this event. You must show the commitment to deliver the highest votes which you have pledged. I believe you have the spread and ability to achieve it,” Sanwo-Olu said.
AGT Director-General, Dr. AbdulHakeem Tugbobo, said the group was formed in 2018 to drive community advocacy and educate voters at the grassroots level about Tinubu’s vision and political philosophy.
He said the group aligned itself with the progressive ideals of APC, given various development goals achieved by the party, especially in Lagos.
He said: “We are ready to complement the party’s campaign council and get many people to join the Tinubu-Shettima ticket and make it realisable. We have our tentacles spread across the State and we are targeting the 4,156 CDAs in Lagos to realise 2,000,000 votes from farmers, artisans and others for Tinubu to become the president.”
Lagos APC chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, hailed members of the group for the initiative, saying the party faced an “important election” that would further strengthen it to deliver more dividends of good governance to Lagosians and Nigerians.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
06 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
WHY COWLSO IS INVESTING IN EDUCATION, WELFARE OF THE VULNERABLE, BY SANWO-OLU
…Says All Is Set For 22nd National Women’s Conference
…Aisha Buhari, Wike, Ganduje, Zulum, Others To Grace 2022 NWC
Lagos State First Lady and Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr Ibjioke Sanwo-Olu on Thursday explained the rationale behind the massive investment of the Committee in education and welfare of the vulnerable.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at a Press Conference held at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja to unveil activities for the 22nd National Women’s Conference (NWC) of COWLSO, said as a community-based gender organization, the Committee was established primarily to complement efforts of government officials in bringing about exponential development and generally improving the welfare of Lagosians.
According to her, “Since we came on board, we have worked in line with the founding vision of COWLSO to invest in the education of our children. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we donated 5,000 transistor radios to support the education of children in the riverine communities.
“The donation was part of efforts to ensure that no child is left behind in the access to quality education in the state on account of the challenges thrown up by the pandemic, while we equally factored in electricity challenges as the radios are such that can function with batteries.
“We have equally invested in the welfare of vulnerable children and elders, particularly those in orphanages and elderly care homes across the five administrative divisions of the state namely Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.
“As we speak, we are also constructing a senior secondary school in Ogombo Community, Ajah in collaboration with the Lagos State Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS). The school is the first public school with a ramp specifically designed to facilitate the ease of movement of physically challenged students within the school.”
She said COWLSO also holds quarterly seminars for market men and women on sanitation, security and safety, among other projects.
Speaking on activities lined up for the 2022 COWLSO NWC, the First Lady said as a purpose-driven international conference through which women are positively galvanized, the event will hold from October 18 to 20, 2022 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
Explaining the reason for the theme, she said: “In 2019 when we came on board, our theme was: “UNLEARN, LEARN AND RELEARN: 21ST CENTURY WOMEN’S T.H.E.M.E.S PERSPECTIVES/APPROACH.” In 2020, we discussed “EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITIES IN A NEW WORLD”. In 2021, our theme was “AWAKE!”, while this year, our theme is: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
“Haven extensively dealt with issues around awakening last year, what naturally follows an awakening is to emerge into something more beautiful and into something better. You emerge into a better version of yourself and keep pushing forward to make a positive difference. This is the message we are passing across to women this year.”
Aside from the main theme, other topics to be extensively discussed by seasoned facilitators and speakers, according to the First Lady, are: “Our Health: A Challenge and a call to reference; Mastering Performance Parenting in a Gen-z World; Insecurity: A threat to National Development; My Civic Responsibility: My Power; Smart Investment Options for the Forward Thinking Woman; Roles of women in Educational Development in Nigeria; Overcoming Adversity with Confidence; and Utilizing Technology to Manage Business and Market Changes,” among others.
“We have made adequate preparations to ensure that we have more plenary sessions this year to extensively deliberate on the highlighted topics and associated issues, while on Day 3 of the Conference, there will be a Recap and Communiqué to state the position of COWLSO on the Conference and developments in the nation, particularly as regarding women and children,” she said.
On the expected guests, she said Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Muhammadu Buhari will serve as the Mother of the day and would declare the Conference Open, while His Excellency, Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is the Special Guest of Honour at the Opening Ceremony.
She added that the Special Guest of Honour for the Gala Night is His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, while the Special Guest of Honour at the Closing Ceremony is His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State.
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
OCTOBER 6, 2022
PARAMOUNT AFRICA ANNOUNCES BET AFRICA CHANNEL NOW PERMANENTLY AVAILABLE TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
THE HOME OF BLACK EXCELLENCE COMES TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
As of 7 October 2022, Paramount Africa’s channel brand, BET Africa will be permanently available to all DStv Family viewers. This follows an initial announcement by the business, informing audiences that BET Africa (channel 129) would only be available to DStv Family viewers during the DStv open window, which commenced on 26 September 2022.
The move is a testament to Paramount Africa adhering to audience demands for new, relatable content that resonates with audiences and speaks to the impact and global channel currency of the BET brand.
In addition, the decision also implies that Paramount Africa will now be able to continue to execute its commitment to providing access to relevant stories and extending the authentic storytelling mantra by providing exclusive premium local and international content.
“As the home of black excellence, the BET Africa channel is synonymous with showcasing the best African and African American stories. We are excited to be extending our audience reach as this means the stories will reach new and more viewers. This is not only good news for viewers but for the black entertainment industry as well, putting our work in the spotlight and growing our industry.” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.
“MultiChoice has embraced ‘Africa to the world’ and ‘the world to Africa’ as a business philosophy, as such we strive to continually review our packages so as to continually curate a quality viewing experience of both quality local and international and content. We are proud to expand the number of our customers that can enjoy the great BET experience and look forward to the continuation of a great partnership between the Paramount team and the MultiChoice Group.” said Georginah Machiridza, Executive Head: Content Strategy & 3rd Party Channels at MultiChoice Group.
BET Africa is the leading provider of black entertainment on the globe and provides a plethora of diverse programmes, including reality, entertainment, docu-series, and recently launched weekly original drama, Redemption, BET Africa’s biggest production of the year.
Viewers will also have access to a slate of new and exclusive international programming, including the premiere of the scripted anthology music series Tales: Every Song Has A Story, the new family drama Carl Weber’s: The Black Hampton, and the highly anticipated celebration of hip hop culture, the 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards, all premiering this October.
BET Africa will be available to DStv Family viewers from 7 October 2022 on channel 129 across all African countries excluding Ethiopia.
“One day, I am going to win the Grammys”, WhiteMoney shares on #WithChude
Reality TV star and Singer, WhiteMoney sits with Chude Jideonwo on #WithChude to discuss winning BBN in 2021, his music career and his ultimate goal of inevitably winning the Grammys.
On the show, WhiteMoney discussed not having a degree and how watching foreign films and observing people has helped him improve himself. “The biggest teacher any man can have is experience. The second teacher anyone can have is life, and the third is people, not even your parents. You need life, people and experience to become a better person in life. School won’t give you that experience you need. The school will give you theory; life will give you practical. For example, the highest educational qualification I have is O’ level, National Examination Council (NECO), that’s all I wrote. I didn’t write WAEC, JAMB or anything, but I still speak good English. I hate reading, but I love to listen, so I watch a lot of movies and emulate the way they talk and it impacted me. If I am to act the role of someone with an American accent, I have to watch five Black American movies. By the time I’m done with them, it automatically programs in my head against the shoot the next day. It helps fine-tune my English, and how to read contracts and sign them. I stopped at NECO because that was where the money stopped. It was my uncle who sent the 3,500 for the form. It was like two days before it closed that I got it, and I passed very well.
He also shared how poverty helps him remain tenacious in spite of rejections “The biggest motivation for me is poverty. If you love your situation and the way you are, then don’t work. But if you are tired of begging for handouts, not being recognized, or tired of Grammys. Poverty will motivate you to go out there and do something for yourself. So, poverty pushed me to audition four times in a row, and I won the fourth time.
On handling vicious feedback from the audience on his song, ‘Selense’, he shared, “it didn’t affect me like that, to be very honest. If you really watch the show, or if you ask people, they’ll tell you that WhiteMoney has zero impulses, my emotions are zero. If you talk, it hardly gets to me because once I do what I am satisfied with, any other thing is Jara. The thing is that the song that I drop if you give it to one of the A-List artists, it will get more buzz than what it is now, but of course, I was known for cooking in the Big Brother house, if it’s not cooking nobody wants to hear it. And I’m in a position where I have to constantly prove myself that I can do this and actually cook and be successful at both of them. But I won’t be the guy that gets old and regrets doing what he didn’t love. I’ll keep dropping it and I know that one day, White Money is going to get the Grammys.
“Even the big celebrities get criticized. In fact, the criticism I got for Selense, is not up to what I got for Na We We, the one I featured Zoro, but it helped the music to enter Apple’s chart in two days. Up till now, I am still promoting the song, and the comments on YouTube now are positive”, he added.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS STRIKES DEAL WITH PRIVATE FIRM TO MANAGE, OPERATE 32-METRIC TONS IMOTA RICE MILL
- Sanwo-Olu presides over MoU signing with WACOT Rice Ltd
Ahead of the commissioning and operation of the 32-metric tons per hour Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu, Lagos State Government has handed over the management of the facility to private investor for efficient running.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, presided over the ceremony where officials of the State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WACOT Rice Limited, a subsidiary of TGI Group.
The private firm is to provide operational support and manage the mill for nine months in the first instance through Joint Venture. The partnership is subject to renewal subsequently.
Sanwo-Olu is expected to hand over the rice mill in the next few months, after which it would commence commercial operation.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said the privatisation of the rice mill’s operations was to ensure efficiency in the output of the facility, noting that the idea was initiated in 2019 when the State Government started the discussion with the firm.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture (Rice Initiative), Dr. Rotimi Fashola, said the Governor believed the mill would be optimised if it had a respectable private brand behind it and a technical support team that could provide intervention towards making the mill sustainable and functional to its capacity.
He said: “There is a need for the Government to put the rice mill on the path of sustainability and give it to a handling that will project quality. We sourced to have a partnership in rice production business that has a stable brand and eye for efficiency. This brings forth this Joint Venture and technical support agreement with WACOT.
“In Nigeria today, this is a brand consumers want to purchase in the market. We are delighted that we are able to bring WACOT to the table for technical support, managerial and quality assurance skills. The partnership agreement being signed today will be for nine months in the first instance and subsequently can be renewed. All i’s have been dotted and all t’s have been crossed.”
Group Managing Director of TGI Group, Rahul Savara, said Lagos Government found a great partner in the firm, pledging that the company would be deploying standard technology and services in managing the rice mill.
He said the private firm shared the Sanwo-Olu administration’s conviction to meet high demand for rice and make Lagos self-sufficient in rice production and processing.
“We are ready to work with Lagos State to make the facility run at its best. We will be deploying the best expertise, technique and training to make the Government proud of this investment,”
Savara said.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, provided the legal instruments backing the MoU.
Other top management staff of TGI Group at the ceremony included the Group’s Executive Director, Jerome Shogbon, Company Secretary, Omowumi Fajemiroye, Head Corporate Communication, Rafiat Gawat, and representative of Banwo & Ighodalo Partner, Azeezah Muse-Sadiq.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Access Bank to acquire 51% majority equity stake in Angola-based Finibanco S.A
Access Holdings Plc. has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Access Bank Plc., has entered into a binding agreement with Montepio Holding SGPS S.A to acquire a 51% majority shareholding in Finibanco Angola S.A.
Finibanco Angola S.A. is a profitable, well-capitalised full-service commercial bank with over 20 branches and around US$300 million in total assets that has operated in Angola since 2008. The Transaction will be effected via the purchase of existing shares owned by Montepio, the holding company for Banco Montepio, one of Portugal’s well-established commercial banks.
The Angolan market is the 6th largest economy in Africa and the 7th largest country overall, with a vast and diversified natural resource base and a growing population representing a strong potential for the Bank’s growth aspiration.
The Transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals in Nigeria and Angola is expected to close in the first half of 2023 following fulfillment of customary conditions precedents. It will be consummated at 1.0x tangible book value less pre-agreed adjustments to be determined by a customary completion audit. Upon completion of the Transaction, the Bank is expected to increase its shareholding in Finibanco S.A and has reached certain conditional agreements in this regard.
Commenting on the transaction, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings Plc., said “At Access, our vision remains clear as ever and our determination to harness accretive opportunities within and outside Nigeria is our core strategic focus. Angola represents an opportunity for our shareholders to participate in what we believe will engender stronger value upside as Africa fully emerges. We remain committed to making these disciplined and well-structured investments towards creating a strong, holistic platform that will be competitive, diversified, and compelling for years to come.”
The Transaction furthers the Bank’s strategy to be Africa’s payment gateway to the world whilst working with other Africa-focused multilateral to provide robust and efficient payment platforms and ecosystems to serve the continent. The prospective operation is expected to contribute strongly to the Bank’s overall growth path and financial results over the long term.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS TEACHERS ENDORSE SANWO-OLU FOR SECOND TERM
…You’ve Made Teaching Rewarding For Us, ‘Cheerful’ Teachers Tell Governor
The event marking the World Teachers’ Day in Lagos State turned into a platform to share testimonies of the positive transformation recorded in State’s teaching service by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Teachers cheerfully shared their experiences in the last three years, giving Sanwo-Olu a pass mark in raising the standards of education through investment in infrastructure and capacity building.
At the symposium organised by the Lagos wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the NUT Pavilion in Ikeja, Lagos teachers unanimously threw their weight behind Sanwo-Olu, endorsing the Governor’s re-election bid.
Comrade Hassan Akintoye, NUT Lagos chairman, who spoke on behalf of the teachers, said the Sanwo-Olu administration prioritised teachers’ welfare and committed unprecedented investment in education and teaching.
Akintoye said not only had the teaching environment been made more conducive for teachers, he noted that there had also been improvement in the performance of pupils in national examinations.
The NUT chief said the Governor met and fulfilled majority of demands of the teachers without any confrontation, thereby limiting the prospect of disagreement between NUT and the Government.
Lagos, he said, pioneered the creation of the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General position, which is the apex cadre in teaching career, and designated six slots for teachers across the six Education Districts in the State.
Akintoye added that Sanwo-Olu’s approval of career harmonisation in teaching service placed thousands of Lagos teachers on grade Level 17 – the highest level. This, he said, made Lagos the pace-setting State in the transformation of the teaching profession.
He said: “In Lagos, teachers have not had any major demands which the Government has not prioritised. It is only in Lagos teachers are promoted and get salaries of the new grade level before the promotion letters get to them. It is in Lagos that thousands of teachers are on Grade Level 17 when their colleagues in other states are either stagnant at Level 14 or demoted.
“On occasion of World Teachers’ Day in Lagos, it is about showing appreciation to the leadership of the State. We are using this opportunity to tell our Governor that we have a large number in the teaching service, and this has never been a burden to the system. Come February 2023, we will mobilise not only ourselves, but also our families and relatives to make the election work in your favour.”
NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, sent a note of appreciation to Sanwo-Olu on behalf of Lagos teachers, stressing that Lagos Government had lifted the teaching profession and set enviable standards in the State.
Represented by Comrade Titi Adebanjo, NUT National Secretary, Amba said: “In some states, apart from the Governors being afraid to meet with teachers, Sanwo-Olu can walk confidently among teachers because he has raised not only the standards of teaching in Lagos, the Governor has also improved on the welfare package for teachers to make teaching rewarding.”
Sanwo-Olu described teachers as “important stakeholders” in moulding behaviour and creating a functional society. He said his administration’s efforts towards boosting teachers’ capacity through capacity building led to over 10,000 teachers benefiting from various initiatives to refresh their teaching skills.
The Governor said priorities were placed on career progression of teachers in Lagos, making their promotion an annual exercise while ensuring prompt implementation of benefits and earnings due to them.
He said: “Today, I join our resilient and outstanding teachers in celebrating a legacy of excellence, dedication and commitment built on the foundation of a unique profession that involves the promotion of the complex personal development of young minds in preparation for future roles as responsible citizens. No Society can deliver quality education without placing premium value on its teachers. While many only expect the Almighty God to reward teachers, it is our firm resolve that our teachers must receive and enjoy the rewards for their labour, first here on earth and then, later in Heaven.
“As a teacher-friendly Government, we developed various initiatives to enhance teaching and further motivate our teachers. Our commitment to increasing the capacity of our teaching staff is visible through local and international training. Over 10,000 teachers have been exposed to various training programmes to hone and refresh their teaching skills. To ensure that we don’t lack teachers in any subjects, we introduced an Exit-Replacement Policy, which ensures prompt recruitment of qualified teachers to replace the ones that retire. This has created employment for over 6, 000 qualified teachers in the last three years.”
Sanwo-Olu urged teachers to always uphold the ethics of their profession and continue to show uncommon sense of responsibility and greater commitment to duty.
He pledged his administration would continue to accord priority to investment in education, while also improving the capacity and welfare of teaching personnel. The Governor said Lagos schools would further become more ICT-compliant, as he promised to expose teachers to international best practices.
“I urge you not to relent in your effort to impart quality knowledge in our children. You are the diamonds set in gold rings for this noble profession. As partners, we will appreciate your continued commitment and support in achieving an effective and efficient education system for the benefit of our dear citizens,” the Governor said.
In a show of appreciation, the teachers honoured Sanwo-Olu with an Education-friendly Award.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Run for the Coal City: Amstel Malta Ultra rewards winners with cash prizes
Winners of the just-concluded ‘Run for the Coal City’- the 20km Ultra marathon race organized by Amstel Malta Ultra, in conjunction with Enugu State Ministry of sports have been rewarded with cash prizes.
Held on Saturday, October 1 2022, the Ultra marathon kicked off by 7 am after registration.
Flagging off the Ultra marathon, Honorable Commissioner for Youths and sports, Enugu state, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe, welcomed all participants and urged them to have fun and run for more than the prize. According to him, the essence of the marathon is to support healthy living and fitness.
Participants commenced at Okpara square, Enugu and covered the mapped-out route spanning eleven vantage points from Okpara square to the Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium gate. The participants were given color-coded wristbands at every point to ensure that they followed the mapped route exactly.
Finishing first, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia, breasted the tape and won the marathon, as well as the grand prize of 500,000 naira for the male category, Okechukwu Donatus and Egu Kenechi, followed closely, winning 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
For the female categories, 20-year-old, Affigbo Esther from Lagos state came first place, followed by 35-year-old Helen Mammah from Abuja and 14-year-old Patience Joseph, from Imo state, winning 500,000, 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
Expressing joy, the winner of the male category, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia said “I am so happy and excited that I got to compete and win. I am especially grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra and the Enugu state government for organizing this competition.”
Also, expressing her delight, winner of the female category, Affigbo Esther, said, “I feel great, coming first place for the females in this marathon. I am grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra for organizing this competition as it is a great way to help the youths.”
“This is the beginning of new things for the people of Enugu,” said Chidi Egwu, Senior Marketing Manager, Amstel Malta, while speaking on the success of the event. “Amstel Malta is a brand that encourages people to choose the best way to live and will continue to support the good people of Enugu state in their journey to a healthy and better living.”
Further commenting on the turnout of the event he said, “I am very impressed with the turnout, seeing lots of very promising talents both in the male and female category. It was a fantastic outing, the first for Amstel Malta in Enugu.”
In addition to the prizes won by the first three finishers in both categories, participants that came in 4th to 20th place in the marathon in the male and female categories were also rewarded with 10,000 naira each.
The Ultra Marathon race is the second event in the 3-week long fitness lineup of activities scheduled to be held between September 24 to October 8 in the coal city.