A meeting between Labour leaders and the Ondo State government ended with raised voices on Friday.
While the meeting was ongoing, Rotimi Akeredolu, Governor of Ondo State, "walked out angrily".
SaharaReporters learnt that the meeting was called to deliberate on the true position of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Civil servants and pensioners in the state had protested for several hours at the entrance of the governor’s office on Tuesday, following an alleged plot by the Akeredolu-led government to divert the Paris Club Refund accurable to the state.
Sources who attended the meeting told our correspondent that trouble started when Akeredolu, who arrived late to the meeting, expressed his disappointment with the labour leaders concerning the Tuesday protest.
"Mr. Governor kept us waiting at the venue of the meeting, which is the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor's office for close to five hours. And instead of him to tender an apology, he began to frown and express his disappointment with the protest we organised on Tuesday.
"He was telling us that he really felt embarrassed by the protests as we the workers shut down the entry to his office. Before we knew what was happening, he stylishy walked out on us. Many of our leaders raised their voices in solidarity as he walked out."
Comrade Soladoye Ekundayo, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) told sources close to SaharaReporters that the union would meet to deliberate on the next line of action.
"Although, as I'm speaking with you, our labour leaders are still meeting and we are eager to know their next line of action. But the best thing is to call for an industrial action. Let all the workers sit at home and show their anger with this tyrannical government which doesn't care about out welfare," the source said.
Meanwhile, after the protest on Tuesday, Tunde Akinsanmi, the state Deputy Accountant confirmed that the state government received the alert of N20.9 billion as its own share of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Akinsanmi later added that the fund was withdrawn by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from the state treasury account because the Federal government want to verify Ondo State Statement of Account.
He noted that only Lagos and Osun states had received their own share of refund of all the states in the South West.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
Akeredolu 'Walks Out On' Labour Leaders During Meeting In Ondo
A meeting between Labour leaders and the Ondo State government ended with raised voices on Friday.
While the meeting was ongoing, Rotimi Akeredolu, Governor of Ondo State, "walked out angrily".
SaharaReporters learnt that the meeting was called to deliberate on the true position of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Civil servants and pensioners in the state had protested for several hours at the entrance of the governor’s office on Tuesday, following an alleged plot by the Akeredolu-led government to divert the Paris Club Refund accurable to the state.
Sources who attended the meeting told our correspondent that trouble started when Akeredolu, who arrived late to the meeting, expressed his disappointment with the labour leaders concerning the Tuesday protest.
"Mr. Governor kept us waiting at the venue of the meeting, which is the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor's office for close to five hours. And instead of him to tender an apology, he began to frown and express his disappointment with the protest we organised on Tuesday.
"He was telling us that he really felt embarrassed by the protests as we the workers shut down the entry to his office. Before we knew what was happening, he stylishy walked out on us. Many of our leaders raised their voices in solidarity as he walked out."
Comrade Soladoye Ekundayo, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) told sources close to SaharaReporters that the union would meet to deliberate on the next line of action.
"Although, as I'm speaking with you, our labour leaders are still meeting and we are eager to know their next line of action. But the best thing is to call for an industrial action. Let all the workers sit at home and show their anger with this tyrannical government which doesn't care about out welfare," the source said.
Meanwhile, after the protest on Tuesday, Tunde Akinsanmi, the state Deputy Accountant confirmed that the state government received the alert of N20.9 billion as its own share of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Akinsanmi later added that the fund was withdrawn by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from the state treasury account because the Federal government want to verify Ondo State Statement of Account.
He noted that only Lagos and Osun states had received their own share of refund of all the states in the South West.
While the meeting was ongoing, Rotimi Akeredolu, Governor of Ondo State, "walked out angrily".
SaharaReporters learnt that the meeting was called to deliberate on the true position of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Civil servants and pensioners in the state had protested for several hours at the entrance of the governor’s office on Tuesday, following an alleged plot by the Akeredolu-led government to divert the Paris Club Refund accurable to the state.
Sources who attended the meeting told our correspondent that trouble started when Akeredolu, who arrived late to the meeting, expressed his disappointment with the labour leaders concerning the Tuesday protest.
"Mr. Governor kept us waiting at the venue of the meeting, which is the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor's office for close to five hours. And instead of him to tender an apology, he began to frown and express his disappointment with the protest we organised on Tuesday.
"He was telling us that he really felt embarrassed by the protests as we the workers shut down the entry to his office. Before we knew what was happening, he stylishy walked out on us. Many of our leaders raised their voices in solidarity as he walked out."
Comrade Soladoye Ekundayo, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) told sources close to SaharaReporters that the union would meet to deliberate on the next line of action.
"Although, as I'm speaking with you, our labour leaders are still meeting and we are eager to know their next line of action. But the best thing is to call for an industrial action. Let all the workers sit at home and show their anger with this tyrannical government which doesn't care about out welfare," the source said.
Meanwhile, after the protest on Tuesday, Tunde Akinsanmi, the state Deputy Accountant confirmed that the state government received the alert of N20.9 billion as its own share of the last tranche of the Paris Club Refund.
Akinsanmi later added that the fund was withdrawn by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from the state treasury account because the Federal government want to verify Ondo State Statement of Account.
He noted that only Lagos and Osun states had received their own share of refund of all the states in the South West.
Man Loses Teeth As APC, PDP Youths Clash In Makurdi
Sdff Several supporters of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were yesterday left injured in the aftermath of a clash between both sides at Gyado Villa,Makurdi,the Benue state capital .
There was an exchange of words which resulted in a fight with one of the APC boys losing two teeth.
But for the timely intervention of personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) , the incident would have probably claimed lives.
APC Youth leader in the state, Tersoo Baki ,accused PDP supporters of provoking the fight by mounting a bill board of Governor Samuel Ortom on the same spot APC youths had erected one for their party.
Tersoo Baki urged youths in the area to eschew violence and bitterness in politics.
There was an exchange of words which resulted in a fight with one of the APC boys losing two teeth.
But for the timely intervention of personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) , the incident would have probably claimed lives.
APC Youth leader in the state, Tersoo Baki ,accused PDP supporters of provoking the fight by mounting a bill board of Governor Samuel Ortom on the same spot APC youths had erected one for their party.
Tersoo Baki urged youths in the area to eschew violence and bitterness in politics.
2019: We’ll Unseat El-Rufai, Say Southern Kaduna Youths
Youths from Southern Kaduna on Friday said they would do everything constitutionally possible to unseat the state governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, in the 2019 governorship election in the state.
To this end, the youths, under the aegis of the Southern Kaduna Youth For Progress and Development, vowed to deliver bloc votes for the candidature of Alhaji Isa Ashiru of the Peoples Democratic Party and his running mate, Sunday Katung.
Addressing a press conference at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Secretariat in Kaduna, the state capital, the Chairman of the group, Mr. Danjuma Sarki, said the group would deliver bloc votes in 11 local government areas in the state, which include eight from the Southern Kaduna Senatorial Zone; two from Kaduna Central; and one from Kaduna North.
“Coming at a time when our dear state is in dire need of unity, stability and purposeful leadership, an Ashiru/Katung ticket ushers in a new dawn and brings hope to the electorate,” he said.
To this end, the youths, under the aegis of the Southern Kaduna Youth For Progress and Development, vowed to deliver bloc votes for the candidature of Alhaji Isa Ashiru of the Peoples Democratic Party and his running mate, Sunday Katung.
Addressing a press conference at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Secretariat in Kaduna, the state capital, the Chairman of the group, Mr. Danjuma Sarki, said the group would deliver bloc votes in 11 local government areas in the state, which include eight from the Southern Kaduna Senatorial Zone; two from Kaduna Central; and one from Kaduna North.
“Coming at a time when our dear state is in dire need of unity, stability and purposeful leadership, an Ashiru/Katung ticket ushers in a new dawn and brings hope to the electorate,” he said.
Barkley’s Last Minute Goal Denies Man United Win In Thrilling Encounter
Chelsea continue their impressive season opener as Ross Barkley scored a 96th minute goal to share the points in a thrilling match that ended 2-2 between the Blues and Manchester United.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Barkley’s Last Minute Goal Denies Man United Win In Thrilling Encounter
Chelsea continue their impressive season opener as Ross Barkley scored a 96th minute goal to share the points in a thrilling match that ended 2-2 between the Blues and Manchester United.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Barkley’s Last Minute Goal Denies Man United Win In Thrilling Encounter
Chelsea continue their impressive season opener as Ross Barkley scored a 96th minute goal to share the points in a thrilling match that ended 2-2 between the Blues and Manchester United.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Antonio Rudiger gave Chelsea the lead but United went ahead with two goals from Anthony Martial.
Barkley, however, got a goal when gifted the ball within the box to give the team a point in a keenly contested game.
Rudiger headed home Willian’s corner in the 21st minute to open the scoreline.
Martial levelled the match scoring from close range.
A cross from Juan Mata, which Chelsea’s defender failed to clear fell to Martial who controlled before smashing the ball home.
Martial got his second goal from a quick counter to put United ahead.
Mata and Marcus Rashford combined to open the defence.
Rashford spotted lonely Martial in the box and passed to him. The youngster calmly controlled the ball forward before hitting a curling shot beyond the reach of Kepa and into the back of the net.
Resilient Chelsea were rewarded in the 96th minute.
Pedro’s cross was headed towards goal by David Luiz but hit the woodwork.
De Gea pushed Rudiger’s rebound header to the path of Barkley who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Madrid Continue To Miss Ronaldo As They Suffer Another Shocking Defeat
Real Madrid lack of finishing touch in front of goal cost them another win as Levante grabbed the full three points at Santiago Bernabeu.
Two goals in seven minutes put the visiting team ahead and were able to extend Madrid winless run.
Madrid found the back of the net in the second minute of play but was disallowed by VAR.
Jose Luis Morales capitalised on a mistake from Varane to give Levante the lead.
The striker made a good first touch of a direct pass from Postigo to take the ball around Courtois before slotting the ball into an empty net.
Roger Marti converted from the spot kick to give Levante two goals after Varane was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the 18 yards by VAR.
Marcelo got a consolation goal for Madrid ending the longest goalless run of the club.
Bale’s cross was controlled by Benzema, who cuts back to Marcelo before smashing into the roof of the net.
Mariano Diaz thought he had scored the equalizer in the 88th minute but he was offside.
Madrid are now five games without a win in all competitions, their worst run since May 2009.
Julen Lopetegui is now on the brink of an early sack as Real Madrid head coach.
Two goals in seven minutes put the visiting team ahead and were able to extend Madrid winless run.
Madrid found the back of the net in the second minute of play but was disallowed by VAR.
Jose Luis Morales capitalised on a mistake from Varane to give Levante the lead.
The striker made a good first touch of a direct pass from Postigo to take the ball around Courtois before slotting the ball into an empty net.
Roger Marti converted from the spot kick to give Levante two goals after Varane was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the 18 yards by VAR.
Marcelo got a consolation goal for Madrid ending the longest goalless run of the club.
Bale’s cross was controlled by Benzema, who cuts back to Marcelo before smashing into the roof of the net.
Mariano Diaz thought he had scored the equalizer in the 88th minute but he was offside.
Madrid are now five games without a win in all competitions, their worst run since May 2009.
Julen Lopetegui is now on the brink of an early sack as Real Madrid head coach.
Madrid Continue To Miss Ronaldo As They Suffer Another Shocking Defeat
Real Madrid lack of finishing touch in front of goal cost them another win as Levante grabbed the full three points at Santiago Bernabeu.
Two goals in seven minutes put the visiting team ahead and were able to extend Madrid winless run.
Madrid found the back of the net in the second minute of play but was disallowed by VAR.
Jose Luis Morales capitalised on a mistake from Varane to give Levante the lead.
The striker made a good first touch of a direct pass from Postigo to take the ball around Courtois before slotting the ball into an empty net.
Roger Marti converted from the spot kick to give Levante two goals after Varane was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the 18 yards by VAR.
Marcelo got a consolation goal for Madrid ending the longest goalless run of the club.
Bale’s cross was controlled by Benzema, who cuts back to Marcelo before smashing into the roof of the net.
Mariano Diaz thought he had scored the equalizer in the 88th minute but he was offside.
Madrid are now five games without a win in all competitions, their worst run since May 2009.
Julen Lopetegui is now on the brink of an early sack as Real Madrid head coach.
Two goals in seven minutes put the visiting team ahead and were able to extend Madrid winless run.
Madrid found the back of the net in the second minute of play but was disallowed by VAR.
Jose Luis Morales capitalised on a mistake from Varane to give Levante the lead.
The striker made a good first touch of a direct pass from Postigo to take the ball around Courtois before slotting the ball into an empty net.
Roger Marti converted from the spot kick to give Levante two goals after Varane was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the 18 yards by VAR.
Marcelo got a consolation goal for Madrid ending the longest goalless run of the club.
Bale’s cross was controlled by Benzema, who cuts back to Marcelo before smashing into the roof of the net.
Mariano Diaz thought he had scored the equalizer in the 88th minute but he was offside.
Madrid are now five games without a win in all competitions, their worst run since May 2009.
Julen Lopetegui is now on the brink of an early sack as Real Madrid head coach.
BREAKING: Shehu Sani Quits APC
Shehu Sani, the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District has left the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He announced his resignation from the party in a letter dated October 19, 2018 and addressed to Adams Oshiomhole, the APC National Chairman.
He, however, did not give reasons for his resignation.
Details later...
He announced his resignation from the party in a letter dated October 19, 2018 and addressed to Adams Oshiomhole, the APC National Chairman.
He, however, did not give reasons for his resignation.
Details later...
BREAKING: Shehu Sani Quits APC
Shehu Sani, the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District has left the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He announced his resignation from the party in a letter dated October 19, 2018 and addressed to Adams Oshiomhole, the APC National Chairman.
He, however, did not give reasons for his resignation.
Details later...
He announced his resignation from the party in a letter dated October 19, 2018 and addressed to Adams Oshiomhole, the APC National Chairman.
He, however, did not give reasons for his resignation.
Details later...
Nnamdi Kanu Has Agreed To Work With Us To Vote Buhari Out, Says Fani-Kayode
Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation, has said Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has agreed to work towards voting President Muhammadu Buhari out.
He disclosed this on Saturday, after he said he received a call from Kanu.
Nnamdi Kanu resurfaced in a video on Friday, 13 months after he 'disappeared' following a raid on his residence by the Nigerian Army on September 17, 2017
Fani-Kayode revealed his conversation with Kanu via a tweet that read: "I just received a call from my brother Nnamdi Kanu. I am delighted that he is alive and well. I commend his strength and courage even as I marvel at the loyalty, resilience and commitment of his lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor and IPOB. We have agreed to work together to VOTE Buhari out."
I just received a call from my brother Nnamdi Kanu. I am delighted that he is alive and well. I commend his strength and courage even as I marvel at the loyalty, resilience and commitment of his lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor and IPOB. We have agreed to work together to VOTE Buhari out.
He disclosed this on Saturday, after he said he received a call from Kanu.
Nnamdi Kanu resurfaced in a video on Friday, 13 months after he 'disappeared' following a raid on his residence by the Nigerian Army on September 17, 2017
Fani-Kayode revealed his conversation with Kanu via a tweet that read: "I just received a call from my brother Nnamdi Kanu. I am delighted that he is alive and well. I commend his strength and courage even as I marvel at the loyalty, resilience and commitment of his lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor and IPOB. We have agreed to work together to VOTE Buhari out."
I just received a call from my brother Nnamdi Kanu. I am delighted that he is alive and well. I commend his strength and courage even as I marvel at the loyalty, resilience and commitment of his lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor and IPOB. We have agreed to work together to VOTE Buhari out.
11 EFCC's Charges Against Fayose
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has listed the charges it intends to file against Ayodele Fayose, former Governor of Ekiti State.
The charges, numbering 11, include offences bothering on receiving illegal monies to fund his 2014 governorship campaign in Ekiti State, among other allegations of benefitting from proceeds of money laundering.
Fayose will be arraigned by EFCC before a Lagos High Court on Monday.
SEE AL THE FULL LIST
COUNT 1
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and MR. ABIODUN AGBELE (now facing another charge) on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took possession of the sum of N1,219,000, 000.00 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Nineteen Million Naira) to fund your 2014 gubernatorial campaign in Ekiti State, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) and (4) of the same Act.
COUNT 2
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without going through the financial institution received cash payment in the sum of $5,000,000 (Five Million Dollars) from SENATOR MUSILIU OBANIKORO, the then Minister of State for Defence, which sum exceeded the amount authorised by law and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 16 (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 16 (2) (b) of the same Act.
COUNT 3
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 7th April, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did retain in your fixed deposit account No: 9013074033 with Zenith Bank Plc, the sum of N300,000,000.00 (Three Hundred Million Naira) which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 4
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED between 17th June, 2014 and 4th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N317, 000, 000.00 (Three Hundred and Seventeen Million Naira) by depositing same into the Zenith Bank Plc’s Account No: 1010170969 belonging to SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, a company controlled by you and members of your family and which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 5
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 26th June, 2014 and 27th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N305,760,000.00 (Three Hundred and Five Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account No: 1003126654 which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 6
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 18th June, 2014 and 23rd June, 2014 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure DE-PRIVATEER LIMITED and one ABIODUN AGBELE to retain in their Account No: 1013835889 domiciled with Zenith Bank Plc, Apapa branch, Lagos, an aggregate sum of N719,490,000.00 (Seven Hundred and Nineteen Million, Four Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira) on your behalf, which sum formed parts of proceed of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 7
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED on or about 4th August, 2014, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use the sum of N270, 000, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property at Plot 1504, Yedsema Street, Maitama, Abuja from one RABI KUNDILI, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 8
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 12th November, 2014 and 20th August, 2015, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N1,151,711,573 (One Billion, One Hundred and Fifty One Million, Seven Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five hundred and Seventy Three Naira) to acquire chalets 3 and 4, 6 and 9 of the property situate at Plot 100 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos in the name of JJ TECHNICAL SERVICE, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 9
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira) to acquire a property known as No. 44, Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja in the name of MOJI OLADEJI (your elder sister), which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 10
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N270,000,000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property known as Plot 1504 Yedseram Street, Maitama, Abuja in the name of SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 11
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 30th January, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure STILL EARTH LIMITED to retain in its account with First City Monument Bank (FCMB), the sum of N132,500,000.00 (One Hundred and Thirty Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) for your benefit, which sum formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity, to wit: gratification which you received from SAMCHASE NIGERIA LIMITED and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
The charges, numbering 11, include offences bothering on receiving illegal monies to fund his 2014 governorship campaign in Ekiti State, among other allegations of benefitting from proceeds of money laundering.
Fayose will be arraigned by EFCC before a Lagos High Court on Monday.
SEE AL THE FULL LIST
COUNT 1
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and MR. ABIODUN AGBELE (now facing another charge) on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took possession of the sum of N1,219,000, 000.00 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Nineteen Million Naira) to fund your 2014 gubernatorial campaign in Ekiti State, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) and (4) of the same Act.
COUNT 2
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without going through the financial institution received cash payment in the sum of $5,000,000 (Five Million Dollars) from SENATOR MUSILIU OBANIKORO, the then Minister of State for Defence, which sum exceeded the amount authorised by law and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 16 (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 16 (2) (b) of the same Act.
COUNT 3
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 7th April, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did retain in your fixed deposit account No: 9013074033 with Zenith Bank Plc, the sum of N300,000,000.00 (Three Hundred Million Naira) which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 4
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED between 17th June, 2014 and 4th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N317, 000, 000.00 (Three Hundred and Seventeen Million Naira) by depositing same into the Zenith Bank Plc’s Account No: 1010170969 belonging to SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, a company controlled by you and members of your family and which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 5
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 26th June, 2014 and 27th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N305,760,000.00 (Three Hundred and Five Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account No: 1003126654 which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 6
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 18th June, 2014 and 23rd June, 2014 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure DE-PRIVATEER LIMITED and one ABIODUN AGBELE to retain in their Account No: 1013835889 domiciled with Zenith Bank Plc, Apapa branch, Lagos, an aggregate sum of N719,490,000.00 (Seven Hundred and Nineteen Million, Four Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira) on your behalf, which sum formed parts of proceed of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 7
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED on or about 4th August, 2014, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use the sum of N270, 000, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property at Plot 1504, Yedsema Street, Maitama, Abuja from one RABI KUNDILI, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 8
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 12th November, 2014 and 20th August, 2015, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N1,151,711,573 (One Billion, One Hundred and Fifty One Million, Seven Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five hundred and Seventy Three Naira) to acquire chalets 3 and 4, 6 and 9 of the property situate at Plot 100 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos in the name of JJ TECHNICAL SERVICE, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 9
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira) to acquire a property known as No. 44, Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja in the name of MOJI OLADEJI (your elder sister), which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 10
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N270,000,000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property known as Plot 1504 Yedseram Street, Maitama, Abuja in the name of SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 11
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 30th January, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure STILL EARTH LIMITED to retain in its account with First City Monument Bank (FCMB), the sum of N132,500,000.00 (One Hundred and Thirty Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) for your benefit, which sum formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity, to wit: gratification which you received from SAMCHASE NIGERIA LIMITED and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
11 EFCC's Charges Against Fayose
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has listed the charges it intends to file against Ayodele Fayose, former Governor of Ekiti State.
The charges, numbering 11, include offences bothering on receiving illegal monies to fund his 2014 governorship campaign in Ekiti State, among other allegations of benefitting from proceeds of money laundering.
Fayose will be arraigned by EFCC before a Lagos High Court on Monday.
SEE ALSO
THE FULL LIST
COUNT 1
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and MR. ABIODUN AGBELE (now facing another charge) on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took possession of the sum of N1,219,000, 000.00 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Nineteen Million Naira) to fund your 2014 gubernatorial campaign in Ekiti State, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) and (4) of the same Act.
COUNT 2
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without going through the financial institution received cash payment in the sum of $5,000,000 (Five Million Dollars) from SENATOR MUSILIU OBANIKORO, the then Minister of State for Defence, which sum exceeded the amount authorised by law and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 16 (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 16 (2) (b) of the same Act.
COUNT 3
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 7th April, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did retain in your fixed deposit account No: 9013074033 with Zenith Bank Plc, the sum of N300,000,000.00 (Three Hundred Million Naira) which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 4
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED between 17th June, 2014 and 4th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N317, 000, 000.00 (Three Hundred and Seventeen Million Naira) by depositing same into the Zenith Bank Plc’s Account No: 1010170969 belonging to SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, a company controlled by you and members of your family and which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 5
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 26th June, 2014 and 27th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N305,760,000.00 (Three Hundred and Five Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account No: 1003126654 which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 6
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 18th June, 2014 and 23rd June, 2014 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure DE-PRIVATEER LIMITED and one ABIODUN AGBELE to retain in their Account No: 1013835889 domiciled with Zenith Bank Plc, Apapa branch, Lagos, an aggregate sum of N719,490,000.00 (Seven Hundred and Nineteen Million, Four Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira) on your behalf, which sum formed parts of proceed of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 7
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED on or about 4th August, 2014, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use the sum of N270, 000, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property at Plot 1504, Yedsema Street, Maitama, Abuja from one RABI KUNDILI, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 8
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 12th November, 2014 and 20th August, 2015, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N1,151,711,573 (One Billion, One Hundred and Fifty One Million, Seven Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five hundred and Seventy Three Naira) to acquire chalets 3 and 4, 6 and 9 of the property situate at Plot 100 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos in the name of JJ TECHNICAL SERVICE, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 9
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira) to acquire a property known as No. 44, Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja in the name of MOJI OLADEJI (your elder sister), which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 10
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N270,000,000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property known as Plot 1504 Yedseram Street, Maitama, Abuja in the name of SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 11
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 30th January, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure STILL EARTH LIMITED to retain in its account with First City Monument Bank (FCMB), the sum of N132,500,000.00 (One Hundred and Thirty Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) for your benefit, which sum formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity, to wit: gratification which you received from SAMCHASE NIGERIA LIMITED and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
The charges, numbering 11, include offences bothering on receiving illegal monies to fund his 2014 governorship campaign in Ekiti State, among other allegations of benefitting from proceeds of money laundering.
Fayose will be arraigned by EFCC before a Lagos High Court on Monday.
SEE ALSO
THE FULL LIST
COUNT 1
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and MR. ABIODUN AGBELE (now facing another charge) on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took possession of the sum of N1,219,000, 000.00 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Nineteen Million Naira) to fund your 2014 gubernatorial campaign in Ekiti State, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) and (4) of the same Act.
COUNT 2
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 17th June, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without going through the financial institution received cash payment in the sum of $5,000,000 (Five Million Dollars) from SENATOR MUSILIU OBANIKORO, the then Minister of State for Defence, which sum exceeded the amount authorised by law and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 16 (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 16 (2) (b) of the same Act.
COUNT 3
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 7th April, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did retain in your fixed deposit account No: 9013074033 with Zenith Bank Plc, the sum of N300,000,000.00 (Three Hundred Million Naira) which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 4
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED between 17th June, 2014 and 4th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N317, 000, 000.00 (Three Hundred and Seventeen Million Naira) by depositing same into the Zenith Bank Plc’s Account No: 1010170969 belonging to SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, a company controlled by you and members of your family and which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 5
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 26th June, 2014 and 27th August, 2014 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took control of an aggregate sum of N305,760,000.00 (Three Hundred and Five Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account No: 1003126654 which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 6
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 18th June, 2014 and 23rd June, 2014 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure DE-PRIVATEER LIMITED and one ABIODUN AGBELE to retain in their Account No: 1013835889 domiciled with Zenith Bank Plc, Apapa branch, Lagos, an aggregate sum of N719,490,000.00 (Seven Hundred and Nineteen Million, Four Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira) on your behalf, which sum formed parts of proceed of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 7
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE and SPOTLESS LIMITED on or about 4th August, 2014, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use the sum of N270, 000, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property at Plot 1504, Yedsema Street, Maitama, Abuja from one RABI KUNDILI, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 8
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 12th November, 2014 and 20th August, 2015, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N1,151,711,573 (One Billion, One Hundred and Fifty One Million, Seven Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five hundred and Seventy Three Naira) to acquire chalets 3 and 4, 6 and 9 of the property situate at Plot 100 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos in the name of JJ TECHNICAL SERVICE, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 9
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira) to acquire a property known as No. 44, Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja in the name of MOJI OLADEJI (your elder sister), which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 10
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE between 23rd April, 2015 and 30th April, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did use an aggregate sum of N270,000,000.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Million Naira) to acquire a property known as Plot 1504 Yedseram Street, Maitama, Abuja in the name of SPOTLESS INVESTMENT LIMITED, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust/stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
COUNT 11
That you MR. AYODELE FAYOSE on or about 30th January, 2015 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did procure STILL EARTH LIMITED to retain in its account with First City Monument Bank (FCMB), the sum of N132,500,000.00 (One Hundred and Thirty Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) for your benefit, which sum formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity, to wit: gratification which you received from SAMCHASE NIGERIA LIMITED and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (c) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.
Journalists’ Welfare Is Critical To The Growth Of Journalism In Nigeria By Alao Abiodun
Low wages and other sundry issues tempt journalists to engage in unethical practices that allow them to supplement their incomes, so they can feed their families and meet up with various expectational demands. There is need for employers to increase the pay of not just journalists but other administrative workers in media establishments.
Okoya Tasks Private Sector On Supporting Flood Victims In Bayelsa
Reuben Okoya, a frontline architect and philanthropist in Bayelsa State, has beckoned on well-meaning Bayelsans, both in Nigeria and in the Diaspora, to contribute their quota to Bayelsans in distress by donating relief materials and other forms of comfort to victims of flooding in the state.
He said their contributions would also suppport governments' efforts.
Okoya, who made a cash donation of N1 million to some of the victims at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps he visited in Ogbia, Amassoma, Boro town Kaiama and Igbogone, observed that the flood water was gradually receding, noting that the next stage was how to ensure that those affected could be properly reintegrated into their communities.
He said: “In flood mattes, there are pre-flood issues, flood issues and post-flood issues. I think we have come to the point where we are dealing with post-flood activities. How do these people go back to their homes that were flooded? If they go back and fall sick, how do they respond? The private sector needs to come in and help them sort out all these."
At Ogbia IDP camp, where he felicitated with six women who put to bed at the camp, he promised to do his best to contribute to their upkeep. He also sponsored some sick children and the elderly to be taken to the nearest hospital for urgent medical attention.
He commended the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for coordinating the different camps in the state effectively and enjoined medical professionals and other relevant professionals in the state to render free services in the camps as a way of contributing to the relief of the people.
“I will try and see if I can meet some doctors and other medical professionals privately, who can visit these camps with some medications and medical services. I am going to organise that with SEMA to ensure that as we go into post-flood activities, everybody will be properly settled and return home safely without diseases.
“I want to specifically thank SEMA. They have done excellently well. Today I have taken time to go to Bayelsa East, Bayelsa West and Bayelsa Central as a private individual to see what is happening. It is tough when you see people suffering. In Ogbia, we saw babies being born in the IDP camp. Two were born today. But it is gladdening to see that government is doing something," he said.
On finding permanent solution to flooding in the state, Okoya said there has to be holistic approach where scientific studies would be commissioned for experts to brainstorm and proffer ideas. He also recommended the clearing of all drainages, while also stating that all natural waterways should be identified and made to flow uninhibited.
He said their contributions would also suppport governments' efforts.
Okoya, who made a cash donation of N1 million to some of the victims at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps he visited in Ogbia, Amassoma, Boro town Kaiama and Igbogone, observed that the flood water was gradually receding, noting that the next stage was how to ensure that those affected could be properly reintegrated into their communities.
He said: “In flood mattes, there are pre-flood issues, flood issues and post-flood issues. I think we have come to the point where we are dealing with post-flood activities. How do these people go back to their homes that were flooded? If they go back and fall sick, how do they respond? The private sector needs to come in and help them sort out all these."
At Ogbia IDP camp, where he felicitated with six women who put to bed at the camp, he promised to do his best to contribute to their upkeep. He also sponsored some sick children and the elderly to be taken to the nearest hospital for urgent medical attention.
He commended the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for coordinating the different camps in the state effectively and enjoined medical professionals and other relevant professionals in the state to render free services in the camps as a way of contributing to the relief of the people.
“I will try and see if I can meet some doctors and other medical professionals privately, who can visit these camps with some medications and medical services. I am going to organise that with SEMA to ensure that as we go into post-flood activities, everybody will be properly settled and return home safely without diseases.
“I want to specifically thank SEMA. They have done excellently well. Today I have taken time to go to Bayelsa East, Bayelsa West and Bayelsa Central as a private individual to see what is happening. It is tough when you see people suffering. In Ogbia, we saw babies being born in the IDP camp. Two were born today. But it is gladdening to see that government is doing something," he said.
On finding permanent solution to flooding in the state, Okoya said there has to be holistic approach where scientific studies would be commissioned for experts to brainstorm and proffer ideas. He also recommended the clearing of all drainages, while also stating that all natural waterways should be identified and made to flow uninhibited.
Okoya Tasks Private Sector On Supporting Flood Victims In Bayelsa
Reuben Okoya, a frontline architect and philanthropist in Bayelsa State, has beckoned on well-meaning Bayelsans, both in Nigeria and in the Diaspora, to contribute their quota to Bayelsans in distress by donating relief materials and other forms of comfort to victims of flooding in the state.
He said their contributions would also suppport governments' efforts.
Okoya, who made a cash donation of N1 million to some of the victims at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps he visited in Ogbia, Amassoma, Boro town Kaiama and Igbogone, observed that the flood water was gradually receding, noting that the next stage was how to ensure that those affected could be properly reintegrated into their communities.
He said: “In flood mattes, there are pre-flood issues, flood issues and post-flood issues. I think we have come to the point where we are dealing with post-flood activities. How do these people go back to their homes that were flooded? If they go back and fall sick, how do they respond? The private sector needs to come in and help them sort out all these."
At Ogbia IDP camp, where he felicitated with six women who put to bed at the camp, he promised to do his best to contribute to their upkeep. He also sponsored some sick children and the elderly to be taken to the nearest hospital for urgent medical attention.
He commended the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for coordinating the different camps in the state effectively and enjoined medical professionals and other relevant professionals in the state to render free services in the camps as a way of contributing to the relief of the people.
“I will try and see if I can meet some doctors and other medical professionals privately, who can visit these camps with some medications and medical services. I am going to organise that with SEMA to ensure that as we go into post-flood activities, everybody will be properly settled and return home safely without diseases.
“I want to specifically thank SEMA. They have done excellently well. Today I have taken time to go to Bayelsa East, Bayelsa West and Bayelsa Central as a private individual to see what is happening. It is tough when you see people suffering. In Ogbia, we saw babies being born in the IDP camp. Two were born today. But it is gladdening to see that government is doing something," he said.
On finding permanent solution to flooding in the state, Okoya said there has to be holistic approach where scientific studies would be commissioned for experts to brainstorm and proffer ideas. He also recommended the clearing of all drainages, while also stating that all natural waterways should be identified and made to flow uninhibited.
He said their contributions would also suppport governments' efforts.
Okoya, who made a cash donation of N1 million to some of the victims at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps he visited in Ogbia, Amassoma, Boro town Kaiama and Igbogone, observed that the flood water was gradually receding, noting that the next stage was how to ensure that those affected could be properly reintegrated into their communities.
He said: “In flood mattes, there are pre-flood issues, flood issues and post-flood issues. I think we have come to the point where we are dealing with post-flood activities. How do these people go back to their homes that were flooded? If they go back and fall sick, how do they respond? The private sector needs to come in and help them sort out all these."
At Ogbia IDP camp, where he felicitated with six women who put to bed at the camp, he promised to do his best to contribute to their upkeep. He also sponsored some sick children and the elderly to be taken to the nearest hospital for urgent medical attention.
He commended the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for coordinating the different camps in the state effectively and enjoined medical professionals and other relevant professionals in the state to render free services in the camps as a way of contributing to the relief of the people.
“I will try and see if I can meet some doctors and other medical professionals privately, who can visit these camps with some medications and medical services. I am going to organise that with SEMA to ensure that as we go into post-flood activities, everybody will be properly settled and return home safely without diseases.
“I want to specifically thank SEMA. They have done excellently well. Today I have taken time to go to Bayelsa East, Bayelsa West and Bayelsa Central as a private individual to see what is happening. It is tough when you see people suffering. In Ogbia, we saw babies being born in the IDP camp. Two were born today. But it is gladdening to see that government is doing something," he said.
On finding permanent solution to flooding in the state, Okoya said there has to be holistic approach where scientific studies would be commissioned for experts to brainstorm and proffer ideas. He also recommended the clearing of all drainages, while also stating that all natural waterways should be identified and made to flow uninhibited.
INEC, Security Agencies Robbed Buhari Of Bayelsa Votes In 2015, Says Sylva
Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies deployed to the state during the 2015 presidential election of working with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rob President Muhammadu Buhari of votes in his favour by people of the state.
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
INEC, Security Agencies Robbed Buhari Of Bayelsa Votes In 2015, Says Sylva
Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies deployed to the state during the 2015 presidential election of working with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rob President Muhammadu Buhari of votes in his favour by people of the state.
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
INEC, Security Agencies Robbed Buhari Of Bayelsa Votes In 2015, Says Sylva
Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies deployed to the state during the 2015 presidential election of working with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rob President Muhammadu Buhari of votes in his favour by people of the state.
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
INEC, Security Agencies Robbed Buhari Of Bayelsa Votes In 2015, Says Sylva
Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies deployed to the state during the 2015 presidential election of working with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rob President Muhammadu Buhari of votes in his favour by people of the state.
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
INEC, Security Agencies Robbed Buhari Of Bayelsa Votes In 2015, Says Sylva
Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies deployed to the state during the 2015 presidential election of working with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rob President Muhammadu Buhari of votes in his favour by people of the state.
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
According to Sylva, the actual results showed that Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in Bayelsa with a wide margin in 2015, but were denied their victory during collation and announcement of result.
The former governor and the leader of the APC in the state stated this on Friday at a rally held at the state secretariat to receive more than 2,000 PDP decampees from Otuan community in Southern Ijaw Local Government area. He also vowed that the APC will resist any attempt by the INEC, security agencies, and the opposition party to "rob President Muhammadu Buhari of his votes in Bayelsa".
He said: "In the morning of the election, the DSS accosted me and harassed me not to move. And we can see, individuals and results were being shunned out automatically by INEC.
"The Police also did not do the right thing. They accosted APC boys during elections. This time, we will resist such illegal actions. We will not give in this time around. Police should do the right thing. We want INEC to do the right thing because they did not do the right thing during the last election."
Sylva also alleged that PDP was "stockpiling arms to kill the same people they promised to govern".
He continued: "President Buhari loves Bayelsa people and that is why he is coming to the state next week. The last time, they did not allow some party members vote and feel secure. We are ready and we will resist them. We will show them that Bayelsa is an APC state.
"In the next elections, nobody can rob us of election victories again. We will show Bayelsa and Nigerians at large that Bayelsa is for APC. Buhari has done well for the people of Bayelsa State in the area of roads, agriculture and many others. Buhari loves Bayelsa people and the Bayelsa people love him."
He accused the present administration in the state of poor governance.
He said: "Armed robbers and armed gangs have taken over Bayelsa. This administration sacks at will and borrows huge amount of money, despite the huge amount that comes to the state. Very soon, they will borrow our soul.
"The only project they claim to be doing is the Cargo Airport project. They have been borrowing under the cover of the project. The project is the most expensive in the country. How many are we that the state government can not take care of its people? Bayelsa people should shine their eyes. We have to chase them out and we must be peaceful."
Buhari On Abia Explosion: That Particular Pipeline Was Vandalised 684 Times In Six Months
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed regrets over the pipeline explosion that occurred in Osisioma Ngwa community of Abia State on Friday, October 12, 2018.
Although he described the incident, which claimed more than 100 persons, as an "unnecessary loss of lives and property", he sympathised with those who lost loved ones.
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Saturday, read: "Preliminary reports by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) show that the incident was not an accidental explosion, but a result of vandals who pilloried the pipelines to scoop the products.
"Despite repeated warnings, these unscrupulous people have vandalised that particular pipeline 684 times in the last six months alone. Each time the pipeline is repaired, they resume their activities, even collaborating with security agents, who are reported to have set up toll gates collecting fees from the vandals. A fight broke out as a heist was going on and there was shooting, which is believed to have ignited Friday morning's explosion, during which three security personnel also lost their lives.
"President Buhari urges communities and state governments that host oil pipelines to be more vigilant and rise to combat the challenge posed by pipeline vandalism. The Enugu depot of the NNPC has been repaired and ready to function, but remains idle today because of the vandals.
"The President also appeals to host communities to collaborate with the NNPC to tame oil pipeline vandalism in their areas."
Although he described the incident, which claimed more than 100 persons, as an "unnecessary loss of lives and property", he sympathised with those who lost loved ones.
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Saturday, read: "Preliminary reports by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) show that the incident was not an accidental explosion, but a result of vandals who pilloried the pipelines to scoop the products.
"Despite repeated warnings, these unscrupulous people have vandalised that particular pipeline 684 times in the last six months alone. Each time the pipeline is repaired, they resume their activities, even collaborating with security agents, who are reported to have set up toll gates collecting fees from the vandals. A fight broke out as a heist was going on and there was shooting, which is believed to have ignited Friday morning's explosion, during which three security personnel also lost their lives.
"President Buhari urges communities and state governments that host oil pipelines to be more vigilant and rise to combat the challenge posed by pipeline vandalism. The Enugu depot of the NNPC has been repaired and ready to function, but remains idle today because of the vandals.
"The President also appeals to host communities to collaborate with the NNPC to tame oil pipeline vandalism in their areas."
Buhari On Abia Explosion: That Particular Pipeline Was Vandalised 684 Times In Six Months
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed regrets over the pipeline explosion that occurred in Osisioma Ngwa community of Abia State on Friday, October 12, 2018.
Although he described the incident, which claimed more than 100 persons, as an "unnecessary loss of lives and property", he sympathised with those who lost loved ones.
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Saturday, read: "Preliminary reports by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) show that the incident was not an accidental explosion, but a result of vandals who pilloried the pipelines to scoop the products.
"Despite repeated warnings, these unscrupulous people have vandalised that particular pipeline 684 times in the last six months alone. Each time the pipeline is repaired, they resume their activities, even collaborating with security agents, who are reported to have set up toll gates collecting fees from the vandals. A fight broke out as a heist was going on and there was shooting, which is believed to have ignited Friday morning's explosion, during which three security personnel also lost their lives.
"President Buhari urges communities and state governments that host oil pipelines to be more vigilant and rise to combat the challenge posed by pipeline vandalism. The Enugu depot of the NNPC has been repaired and ready to function, but remains idle today because of the vandals.
"The President also appeals to host communities to collaborate with the NNPC to tame oil pipeline vandalism in their areas."
Although he described the incident, which claimed more than 100 persons, as an "unnecessary loss of lives and property", he sympathised with those who lost loved ones.
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Saturday, read: "Preliminary reports by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) show that the incident was not an accidental explosion, but a result of vandals who pilloried the pipelines to scoop the products.
"Despite repeated warnings, these unscrupulous people have vandalised that particular pipeline 684 times in the last six months alone. Each time the pipeline is repaired, they resume their activities, even collaborating with security agents, who are reported to have set up toll gates collecting fees from the vandals. A fight broke out as a heist was going on and there was shooting, which is believed to have ignited Friday morning's explosion, during which three security personnel also lost their lives.
"President Buhari urges communities and state governments that host oil pipelines to be more vigilant and rise to combat the challenge posed by pipeline vandalism. The Enugu depot of the NNPC has been repaired and ready to function, but remains idle today because of the vandals.
"The President also appeals to host communities to collaborate with the NNPC to tame oil pipeline vandalism in their areas."
Buhari Condemns Killing Of 55 In Kaduna Violence
President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the latest communal violence in Kasuwan Magani in Kaduna State, which claimed 55 lives.
Expressing worries over the frequent resort to bloodshed by Nigerians over misunderstandings that can be resolved peacefully, he said “no culture and religion support the disregard for the sanctity of life", adding that "peaceful coexistence is necessary for the progress of any society and its wellbeing".
He noted that without communal harmony, the environment for the conduct of "our everyday businesses would be impossible to achieve".
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on Saturday, quoted Buhari as saying: "Violence cannot be an alternative to peace. On the contrary, reliance on violence leads to ultimate self-destruction. Violence is an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Embracing peace is a necessity".
He also commended the Kaduna State Government for its rapid response to the crisis, and appealed to community leaders to engage in regular dialogue to nip imminent crises in the bud.
He further admonished the people to develop the spirit of tolerance and patience at all times.
Expressing worries over the frequent resort to bloodshed by Nigerians over misunderstandings that can be resolved peacefully, he said “no culture and religion support the disregard for the sanctity of life", adding that "peaceful coexistence is necessary for the progress of any society and its wellbeing".
He noted that without communal harmony, the environment for the conduct of "our everyday businesses would be impossible to achieve".
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on Saturday, quoted Buhari as saying: "Violence cannot be an alternative to peace. On the contrary, reliance on violence leads to ultimate self-destruction. Violence is an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Embracing peace is a necessity".
He also commended the Kaduna State Government for its rapid response to the crisis, and appealed to community leaders to engage in regular dialogue to nip imminent crises in the bud.
He further admonished the people to develop the spirit of tolerance and patience at all times.
Buhari Condemns Killing Of 55 In Kaduna Violence
President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the latest communal violence in Kasuwan Magani in Kaduna State, which claimed 55 lives.
Expressing worries over the frequent resort to bloodshed by Nigerians over misunderstandings that can be resolved peacefully, he said “no culture and religion support the disregard for the sanctity of life", adding that "peaceful coexistence is necessary for the progress of any society and its wellbeing".
He noted that without communal harmony, the environment for the conduct of "our everyday businesses would be impossible to achieve".
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on Saturday, quoted Buhari as saying: "Violence cannot be an alternative to peace. On the contrary, reliance on violence leads to ultimate self-destruction. Violence is an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Embracing peace is a necessity".
He also commended the Kaduna State Government for its rapid response to the crisis, and appealed to community leaders to engage in regular dialogue to nip imminent crises in the bud.
He further admonished the people to develop the spirit of tolerance and patience at all times.
Expressing worries over the frequent resort to bloodshed by Nigerians over misunderstandings that can be resolved peacefully, he said “no culture and religion support the disregard for the sanctity of life", adding that "peaceful coexistence is necessary for the progress of any society and its wellbeing".
He noted that without communal harmony, the environment for the conduct of "our everyday businesses would be impossible to achieve".
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on Saturday, quoted Buhari as saying: "Violence cannot be an alternative to peace. On the contrary, reliance on violence leads to ultimate self-destruction. Violence is an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Embracing peace is a necessity".
He also commended the Kaduna State Government for its rapid response to the crisis, and appealed to community leaders to engage in regular dialogue to nip imminent crises in the bud.
He further admonished the people to develop the spirit of tolerance and patience at all times.
Boko Haram Capture Farmers, Set Women Free But Butcher Men 'Into Pieces
Boko Haram terrorists have invaded Kuwa-Yangewa village on Maiduguri-Damboa Road in Borno.
The attack, which occurred on Saturday, was targeted at farmers in the area.An eyewitness told NAN that when the insurgents attacked the community, they asked women to go while the men were macheted.
Recounting her ordeal, Ms Rachel Hassan, said: “I hired somebody, a displaced person residing at the Bakassi Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), to work on my farm. The insurgents came and gathered us in one place. They asked women to go and macheted the males."
She also noted that some of the corpses were cut to pieces, and that she reported the case to the GRA Police Station.
Malam Ahmadu Salisu, a relative of one of the victims, said his brother and 11 other farmers of Maduganari area of Maiduguri went to work in their farms in the morning, but were butchered by the insurgents.
“So far, we recovered four corpses from the farms, while eight others are missing or abducted by the insurgents,” he said.
Another victim, Aisha Waziri, said she was informed by her neighbours that her husband was among the victims.
Although the Nigerian Army confirmed two persons killed by the terrorists, sources told SaharaReporters that at least 10 persons were killed.
Speaking on the attack, Brigadier General Abdulamalik Biu, Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, said: “Some people went to the farms and Boko Haram insurgents attacked them. They butchered an elderly man and a youth.
“The wife to the elderly man ran and informed the troops, who rushed to the scene to save them. The insurgents fled on sighting the approaching troops. Only two persons were killed and no abduction in the attack."
However, a source in the village told SaharaReporters that the attack happened around 9am on Saturday morning in the outskirts of Molai village.
SaharaReporters was informed that the insurgents rode on utility vehicles to attack the farmers.
"No fewer than 10 farmers were either shot or slaughtered, while more than a dozen were seriously injured by the invaders," the source said.
'FG Has Rehabilitated 254 Repentant Boko Haram Members So Far'
At least 254 repentant Boko Haram members have so far been reintegrated into society by the Federal Government.
Major General Bamidele Shafa, Coordinator, Operation Safe Corridor, stated this during a town hall meeting and dialogue with residents of communities affected by Boko Haram on Saturday, in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.
The meeting was organised by the Presidential Committee on the North East Initiative in collaboration with the Centre for Democracy and Development, and was designed for the reconciliation and reintegration of repented Boko Haram members from Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.
According to NAN, Shafa noted that majority of the repented youth were victims of circumstances.
He said: “So far, the Operation Safe Corridor has treated no fewer than 254 repented Boko Haram members.
“Out of this number, 95 were already handed over to their respective states."
He explained that the remaining 157 reintegrated members would soon be dispatched as follows: Adamawa will receive three persons, Yobe seven and Borno 143. Three persons are from Chad Republic.
They have also benefitted from skill acquisition programmes such as tailoring, carpentry and shoe-making, and were provided with funds and business equipment for their business ventures.
According to the coordinator, the operation Safe Corridor is in collaboration with PCNI and National Directorate for Employment where tools and other small business entrepreneur equipment for the reintegrated members are distributed.
He solicited the support of the affected communities.
General Theophilus Danjuma, the PCNI chairman, said the initiative was in collaboration with various government and non-governmental authorities towards rehabilitation, resettlement and reintegration in the region.
Danjuma, who was represented by Asmau Joda, said the initiative had made major efforts in assisting and restoring the economic development of the area.
Major General Bamidele Shafa, Coordinator, Operation Safe Corridor, stated this during a town hall meeting and dialogue with residents of communities affected by Boko Haram on Saturday, in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.
The meeting was organised by the Presidential Committee on the North East Initiative in collaboration with the Centre for Democracy and Development, and was designed for the reconciliation and reintegration of repented Boko Haram members from Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.
According to NAN, Shafa noted that majority of the repented youth were victims of circumstances.
He said: “So far, the Operation Safe Corridor has treated no fewer than 254 repented Boko Haram members.
“Out of this number, 95 were already handed over to their respective states."
He explained that the remaining 157 reintegrated members would soon be dispatched as follows: Adamawa will receive three persons, Yobe seven and Borno 143. Three persons are from Chad Republic.
They have also benefitted from skill acquisition programmes such as tailoring, carpentry and shoe-making, and were provided with funds and business equipment for their business ventures.
According to the coordinator, the operation Safe Corridor is in collaboration with PCNI and National Directorate for Employment where tools and other small business entrepreneur equipment for the reintegrated members are distributed.
He solicited the support of the affected communities.
General Theophilus Danjuma, the PCNI chairman, said the initiative was in collaboration with various government and non-governmental authorities towards rehabilitation, resettlement and reintegration in the region.
Danjuma, who was represented by Asmau Joda, said the initiative had made major efforts in assisting and restoring the economic development of the area.
Friday, October 19, 2018
WHAT!!! Village School Students Invent Generator That Runs On Water
A tech enthusiast and convener, Emeka Okoye has shared an amazing discovery of a village school in Akwa, Anambra State, where some school children broke the norm to emerge as one of the most gifted sets of kids ever seen.
The school was said to be located in a typical village with no access to internet, computers, and electricity.
They created a generator that generates 610 watts of electricity and it has been tested for about 5 hours, the most amazing thing about this generator is that it is powered by water, a discovery that none has ever discovered ever in the world.
The digester breaks waste including plastics into different useful and valuable components that can be used by for other things, they also make locally made batteries from discarded Dettol bottles. Each cell generates more than 3 watts of electricity.
The school was said to be located in a typical village with no access to internet, computers, and electricity.
They created a generator that generates 610 watts of electricity and it has been tested for about 5 hours, the most amazing thing about this generator is that it is powered by water, a discovery that none has ever discovered ever in the world.
The digester breaks waste including plastics into different useful and valuable components that can be used by for other things, they also make locally made batteries from discarded Dettol bottles. Each cell generates more than 3 watts of electricity.
Kunle Afolayan, Paul Psquare, Aki, Gideon Okeke and Other Celebrities arrive Kigali for AMAA 2018
Kunle Afolayan, Paul Psquare Gideon Okeke and Chinedu Ikedieze aka Aki have arrived Kigali, the capital of Rwanda ahead of the 2018 Africa Movie Academy Awards, AMAA.
Real Reasons Mourinho Was Annoyed With Pogba Revealed
It has emerged why Manchester United boss, Jose Mourinho was annoyed with midfielder, Paul Pogba ahead of his side’s Premier League clash with Chelsea on Saturday afternoon at the Stamford Bridge.
Mourinho’s men head to the game following a 3-2 victory over Newcastle in their last Premier League encounter, while Chelsea defeated Southampton 3-0.
According to Evening Standard, Mourinho was annoyed with Pogba because he has tried everything possible to get the best out of the France international but it’s not working.
The report added that the Portuguese gaffer was also frustrated after Pogba failed to perform well at Old Trafford.
Pogba since joining United in 2016 for £89million from Juventus has failed to impress for the Red Devils.
The midfielder was stripped of his vice-captaincy few weeks ago by Mourinho. The 25-year-old was linked with a move away from United last summer to join Barcelona.
Mourinho’s men head to the game following a 3-2 victory over Newcastle in their last Premier League encounter, while Chelsea defeated Southampton 3-0.
According to Evening Standard, Mourinho was annoyed with Pogba because he has tried everything possible to get the best out of the France international but it’s not working.
The report added that the Portuguese gaffer was also frustrated after Pogba failed to perform well at Old Trafford.
Pogba since joining United in 2016 for £89million from Juventus has failed to impress for the Red Devils.
The midfielder was stripped of his vice-captaincy few weeks ago by Mourinho. The 25-year-old was linked with a move away from United last summer to join Barcelona.
60-Year-Old Woman Welcomes First Child After 36yrs Of Marriage
A 60-year-old woman gave birth to her first child after being married for 36 years. Mr & Mrs Bose Joda had their bundle of joy after waiting for over three decades and they named the child Ore Ofe Oluwatodimu Joda. According to Facebook user Oluyemi Ajibola, the baby was christened on Sunday, October 14, by Pastor Olusola Oyewole of Divine Heights Bible Church, Abeokuta, Nigeria. (New father and mother in Brown attire)
NHIS Suspends Executive Secretary, Usman Yusuf, Indefinitely
The governing council of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has suspended the Executive Secretary of the scheme, Usman Yusuf, indefinitely. Chairman of the council, Eyantu Efene, announced the decision at a press conference which held at the NHIS headquarters in Abuja after a meeting which lasted for about three hours with relevant stakeholders today October 18th. Yusuf’s suspension followed allegations of attempts to illegally execute a N30 Billion investment in federal government bonds, inflation of costs of bio-metric capturing machines, as well as insubordination. Consequently, a panel was set up to investigate the allegations. The panel is expected to submit the report in three months. Meanwhile, Yusuf has immediately been replaced by Sadique Abubakar as the acting Executive Secretary of the scheme.
Nigerian Father Reports Yahoo-Yahoo Son To EFCC After He Bought A House And A Shop Valued Over N2 Million
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC Kaduna Zonal office has investigated a case of conspiracy and theft reported to the Commission by an exceptional father. The father (name withheld) in April 2017 became a whistleblower after his son (then a secondary school student) told him that he had bought a house and a shop valued at over N2 Million (Two Million Naira). The information of the purchase shocked the father beyond his imagination as such he decided to make a formal complaint to the Commission having perceived signs of fraud from his son's explanation of how he got the money. His son, Adamu, said he got the money through his phone line. He claims after purchasing it, he began receiving alerts running into millions of Naira. Investigation into the matter began immediately and all parties involved were invited accordingly and their statements were taken as the principal accused person mentioned two other accomplices in the crime. In the course of investigations, it was discovered that Adamu withdrew monies in bits from a First Bank account number 3033389599 owned by one Porong Daniel Nash (a farmer in plateau state); and credited same to different accounts. Consequently, all accused persons where arrested and recoveries were made to the tune of N939,000 (Nine Hundred and Thirty-Nine Thousand Naira) only of which same was returned to the rightful owner by the Zonal Office.
PDP Calls For Immediate Reconstitution Of Osun Election Tribunal
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Appeal Court to reconstitute the Osun State governorship election petition tribunal.
The party's position was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary,.
PDP warned that any further delay would jeopardise the course of justice in the matter, noting that disbanding the panel, if not quickly addressed, would send a wrong signal regarding the integrity of the judiciary.
Earlier on Thursday, members of PDP in the state had stormed the premises of the state high court to protest the disbandment of the three-man election petition tribunal, on the premise that no reason was given for the disbandment.
The panel was set up to adjudicate complaints arising from the conduct of the September 22 governorship election.
The statement read in part: “We invite Nigerians to note that in our lawful effort to reclaim our stolen mandate, PDP duly filed its petition on Tuesday, October 15, 2018, in accordance with Section 285 (6) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which prescribed that judgment must be delivered on or before 180 days.
“While the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was served, the APC and its candidate [allegedly] evaded service.
“Consequently, the PDP on Wednesday, October 17, 2018, applied for substituted service, which was slated for hearing today, Thursday, October 18, 2018, only to be informed that the panel has been disbanded on Wednesday without any reason and without providing a new panel to hear our matter.
“Election petition matters are sui generis, with specific timeframe allotted to various stages up to the final determination.
“The failure to set up a new panel to timeously hear our application for substituted service on APC and its candidate smacks of a shenanigan to deny our party full justice in the matter.”
The party's position was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary,.
PDP warned that any further delay would jeopardise the course of justice in the matter, noting that disbanding the panel, if not quickly addressed, would send a wrong signal regarding the integrity of the judiciary.
Earlier on Thursday, members of PDP in the state had stormed the premises of the state high court to protest the disbandment of the three-man election petition tribunal, on the premise that no reason was given for the disbandment.
The panel was set up to adjudicate complaints arising from the conduct of the September 22 governorship election.
The statement read in part: “We invite Nigerians to note that in our lawful effort to reclaim our stolen mandate, PDP duly filed its petition on Tuesday, October 15, 2018, in accordance with Section 285 (6) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which prescribed that judgment must be delivered on or before 180 days.
“While the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was served, the APC and its candidate [allegedly] evaded service.
“Consequently, the PDP on Wednesday, October 17, 2018, applied for substituted service, which was slated for hearing today, Thursday, October 18, 2018, only to be informed that the panel has been disbanded on Wednesday without any reason and without providing a new panel to hear our matter.
“Election petition matters are sui generis, with specific timeframe allotted to various stages up to the final determination.
“The failure to set up a new panel to timeously hear our application for substituted service on APC and its candidate smacks of a shenanigan to deny our party full justice in the matter.”
Delta Former Speaker, Ochei Drags APC, INEC, Ogboru To Court Over Gov Primary
Victor Ochei, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, has dragged the All Progressives Congress (APC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the winner of the controversial state APC governorship primary, Great Ogboru, before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.
Ochei, a governorship aspirant of the APC in a suit with case No FHC/ABJ/CS/1085/ 2018, is seeking among other things, the nullification of the governorship primary election conducted in the state, as well as the declaration that the APC governorship primary election held on September 30, was illegal and unlawful, on the ground that delegates not known to law were used for the exercise.
It would be recalled that during the governorship primary held at the College of Education (Technical), Asaba, factional APC governorship fly bearer, Great Ogboru and the Senator representing Delta Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Ovie Omo-Agege, had hijacked the primary process, characterised by crisis. Armed thugs suspected to be working for Ogboru and Omo-Agege were seen with guns shooting sporadically at the venue.
The All Progressives Congress, (APC), Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), and Great Ogboru are defendants in the suit.
Ochei, through his legal counsel, Ahmed Rahi (SAN), noted that a judgment that was delivered by Justice Anwuri Chikere on June 19, authenticated a list of APC delegates in Delta State, alleged that the national leadership of the party sidelined the said list during the primary election.
Ochei, who is the plaintiff in the case, told the court that contrary to the judgment, the APC leadership used unknown delegates for the primary poll and therefore urged the court to nullify the primary election.
The immediate past speaker also prayed the court for an order compelling the APC to immediately conduct a fresh primary election with the list of delegates endorsed in the consent judgment of the Federal High Court. as well as an order of perpetual injunction restraining INEC or its agents from accepting, recognising or utilising the name of Ogboru as winner of the election.
In his 40-paragraphed supporting affidavit, Ochei told the court that he was denied fair participation in the primary election, despite paying the sum of N22.5 million for expression of interest and nomination forms.
Ochei, however, insisted that the court’s order was brazenly violated by the national leadership of the party in the conduct of the primary poll, stating that unless the court intervened, the governorship election in Delta State would "be a product of fraud".
Our correspondent reliably learnt that both the APC and Great Ogboru, through their lawyer, Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), have since filed preliminary objections to challenge the competence of the suit.
Meanwhile, the presiding judge, Justice Nnamdi Dimgba has adjourned the case till November 13 for adoption of all processes filed in respect of the case.
Ochei, a governorship aspirant of the APC in a suit with case No FHC/ABJ/CS/1085/ 2018, is seeking among other things, the nullification of the governorship primary election conducted in the state, as well as the declaration that the APC governorship primary election held on September 30, was illegal and unlawful, on the ground that delegates not known to law were used for the exercise.
It would be recalled that during the governorship primary held at the College of Education (Technical), Asaba, factional APC governorship fly bearer, Great Ogboru and the Senator representing Delta Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Ovie Omo-Agege, had hijacked the primary process, characterised by crisis. Armed thugs suspected to be working for Ogboru and Omo-Agege were seen with guns shooting sporadically at the venue.
The All Progressives Congress, (APC), Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), and Great Ogboru are defendants in the suit.
Ochei, through his legal counsel, Ahmed Rahi (SAN), noted that a judgment that was delivered by Justice Anwuri Chikere on June 19, authenticated a list of APC delegates in Delta State, alleged that the national leadership of the party sidelined the said list during the primary election.
Ochei, who is the plaintiff in the case, told the court that contrary to the judgment, the APC leadership used unknown delegates for the primary poll and therefore urged the court to nullify the primary election.
The immediate past speaker also prayed the court for an order compelling the APC to immediately conduct a fresh primary election with the list of delegates endorsed in the consent judgment of the Federal High Court. as well as an order of perpetual injunction restraining INEC or its agents from accepting, recognising or utilising the name of Ogboru as winner of the election.
In his 40-paragraphed supporting affidavit, Ochei told the court that he was denied fair participation in the primary election, despite paying the sum of N22.5 million for expression of interest and nomination forms.
Ochei, however, insisted that the court’s order was brazenly violated by the national leadership of the party in the conduct of the primary poll, stating that unless the court intervened, the governorship election in Delta State would "be a product of fraud".
Our correspondent reliably learnt that both the APC and Great Ogboru, through their lawyer, Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), have since filed preliminary objections to challenge the competence of the suit.
Meanwhile, the presiding judge, Justice Nnamdi Dimgba has adjourned the case till November 13 for adoption of all processes filed in respect of the case.
Kano Assembly To Investigate 'Video Cliffs' Of Governor Ganduje
The Kano State House of Assembly has written to invite Jafar Jafar, the editor of Daily Nigerian, over the publication of a video of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje receiving kickbacks from contractors.
In the letter, which was dated October 18, the state assembly said it is inviting the editor in relation to the “video cliffs”, an obvious error that might have arisen from accented pronunciation of ‘clips’.
The letter read: "I am writing on behalf of the committee to inform you that you are required to attend an investigatory hearing relating to your publication and video cliffs, showing the Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, been caught severally on spy camera receiving bribe from contractors.
"All hearings will be public and you will be asked to talk through your recollections of the above incident(s), you will also be given opportunity to offer your perspective, tender exhibits and ask questions."
The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 26, 2018 at the Kano State House of Assembly lobby.
The videos of Governor Ganduje receiving bribes from alleged contractors went viral on social media over the weekend. The Kano State government has since denied the video, claiming it was doctored.
”We wish to state that there is no iota of truth to these allegations and if indeed there is any such alleged video, it is at best cloned,” Commissioner for Information in the state, Muhammad Garba, said in a statement.
In the letter, which was dated October 18, the state assembly said it is inviting the editor in relation to the “video cliffs”, an obvious error that might have arisen from accented pronunciation of ‘clips’.
The letter read: "I am writing on behalf of the committee to inform you that you are required to attend an investigatory hearing relating to your publication and video cliffs, showing the Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, been caught severally on spy camera receiving bribe from contractors.
"All hearings will be public and you will be asked to talk through your recollections of the above incident(s), you will also be given opportunity to offer your perspective, tender exhibits and ask questions."
The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 26, 2018 at the Kano State House of Assembly lobby.
The videos of Governor Ganduje receiving bribes from alleged contractors went viral on social media over the weekend. The Kano State government has since denied the video, claiming it was doctored.
”We wish to state that there is no iota of truth to these allegations and if indeed there is any such alleged video, it is at best cloned,” Commissioner for Information in the state, Muhammad Garba, said in a statement.
CONFIRMED: Lawal Idris, Kogi APC House Of Reps Candidate, NOT CLEARED Of Certificate Forgery
Mohammed Lawal Idris, the lawmaker representing Ajaokuta Federal constituency of Kogi State, may been announced candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the House of Representatives election for the constituency, but he still hasn’t been absolved of the certificate forgery scandal he has been battling for almost two years.
During the 2019 general election, Idris will be re-contesting for his seat in the lower chamber despite forging the Ordinary National Diploma certificate he is claiming to have earned in 1987 from the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech).
Last month, SaharaReporters had reported how Idris connived with one Seun Adekoya of Yabatech’s Department of Exams and Records, forged an OND certificate which the lawmaker presented to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the buildup to the 2015 general election. The certificate was already investigated and dismissed by the institution itself.
During the 2019 general election, Idris will be re-contesting for his seat in the lower chamber despite forging the Ordinary National Diploma certificate he is claiming to have earned in 1987 from the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech).
Last month, SaharaReporters had reported how Idris connived with one Seun Adekoya of Yabatech’s Department of Exams and Records, forged an OND certificate which the lawmaker presented to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the buildup to the 2015 general election. The certificate was already investigated and dismissed by the institution itself.
FG Cuts 2019 Spending, To Focus On Revenue Generation
Udo Udoma, Minister of Budget and National Planning, has said the country will focus on getting more funds from oil revenues and increasing non-oil revenues in 2019.
While presenting the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2019-2021 on Thursday, the former Senator said a budget proposal of N8.6 trillion has been planned for next year, as against the N9.12 trillion approved by the National Assembly and signed by the president for 2018.
He also noted that the government will borrow less in 2019 and improve the tax to GDP ratio as well.
“In 2019, we will concentrate on getting more revenue, oil and non-oil, by squeezing the maximum from oil, and build up non-oil revenue by an average of 30 per cent up from the previous figure.
"Here, we all know that the rate of tax to the GDP is still very low. We can do much better than we are doing. So, going forward, we will rely less on borrowing and debt, but do more on revenue build-up so that debt service to revenue is brought down," he said.
The presidency projects an oil output of 2.3 million barrels per day at the cost of $60 per barrel. It had also made a similar oil production average for 2018. However, the country's production has so far hovered between 1.9 and 2.02 million bpd.
While presenting the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2019-2021 on Thursday, the former Senator said a budget proposal of N8.6 trillion has been planned for next year, as against the N9.12 trillion approved by the National Assembly and signed by the president for 2018.
He also noted that the government will borrow less in 2019 and improve the tax to GDP ratio as well.
“In 2019, we will concentrate on getting more revenue, oil and non-oil, by squeezing the maximum from oil, and build up non-oil revenue by an average of 30 per cent up from the previous figure.
"Here, we all know that the rate of tax to the GDP is still very low. We can do much better than we are doing. So, going forward, we will rely less on borrowing and debt, but do more on revenue build-up so that debt service to revenue is brought down," he said.
The presidency projects an oil output of 2.3 million barrels per day at the cost of $60 per barrel. It had also made a similar oil production average for 2018. However, the country's production has so far hovered between 1.9 and 2.02 million bpd.
Aside 400 Bags Of Rice, FG Has Done Nothing For Bayelsa Flood Victims, Says Dickson
Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has said the Federal Government has not rendered any financial assistance to alleviate the plight of those affected by flood.
He also said the state had spent about N500 million on the upkeep of displaced persons.
Dickson disclosed this in a statement, where he noted that the state has only received around 400 bags of rice as intervention from the Federal Government in the raging flood that has sacked about 70 per cent of communities and destroyed properties worth billions of Naira in the state.
According to Dickson, the state government was struggling with the responsibility of ensuring the maintenance of those internally displaced by the flood and ensuring they return to their homes afterwards.
“Other than receiving about 400 bags of rice for thousands of displaced people, I cannot point to any concrete help the Federal Government has rendered. No cash support, not even in 2012 did the state government receive any monies from the Federal Government. I know that we raised some money on our own and some agencies and philanthropic individuals and companies came to our rescue," he said.
Dickson called on public-spirited individuals, organisations and donor agencies to come to the aid of the victim, noting that while the state government was doing its best to alleviate the suffering of the displaced persons, there was the challenge of inadequate funds to deal decisively with the situation.
His words: “I want to use this opportunity also to call on public-spirited individuals and organisations, partners and donor agencies to please come to the aid of the people of my state. People in the state are terribly displaced and are living in very terrible conditions. How many IDP camps can we build?
“We are trying our best to help them manage a very bad situation. We've got two issues to deal with — taking care and ensuring that the IDPs are managed for as long as the flooding situation lasts, and also the challenge of helping them to return to their homes in order to be resettled to continue with their lives after the flood. It is truly challenging considering that we are still in a recession.
“The state government doesn't have funds for most of these. We have spent over half a billion now in the area of giving support to these IDPs, the construction of the various centres, providing relief materials, medical care, support to law enforcement agencies to assist in evacuation and maintenance of law and order in the IDP camps and so on and so forth."
He also said the state had spent about N500 million on the upkeep of displaced persons.
Dickson disclosed this in a statement, where he noted that the state has only received around 400 bags of rice as intervention from the Federal Government in the raging flood that has sacked about 70 per cent of communities and destroyed properties worth billions of Naira in the state.
According to Dickson, the state government was struggling with the responsibility of ensuring the maintenance of those internally displaced by the flood and ensuring they return to their homes afterwards.
“Other than receiving about 400 bags of rice for thousands of displaced people, I cannot point to any concrete help the Federal Government has rendered. No cash support, not even in 2012 did the state government receive any monies from the Federal Government. I know that we raised some money on our own and some agencies and philanthropic individuals and companies came to our rescue," he said.
Dickson called on public-spirited individuals, organisations and donor agencies to come to the aid of the victim, noting that while the state government was doing its best to alleviate the suffering of the displaced persons, there was the challenge of inadequate funds to deal decisively with the situation.
His words: “I want to use this opportunity also to call on public-spirited individuals and organisations, partners and donor agencies to please come to the aid of the people of my state. People in the state are terribly displaced and are living in very terrible conditions. How many IDP camps can we build?
“We are trying our best to help them manage a very bad situation. We've got two issues to deal with — taking care and ensuring that the IDPs are managed for as long as the flooding situation lasts, and also the challenge of helping them to return to their homes in order to be resettled to continue with their lives after the flood. It is truly challenging considering that we are still in a recession.
“The state government doesn't have funds for most of these. We have spent over half a billion now in the area of giving support to these IDPs, the construction of the various centres, providing relief materials, medical care, support to law enforcement agencies to assist in evacuation and maintenance of law and order in the IDP camps and so on and so forth."
Aisha Alhassan, Nigeria's former Minister of Women Affairs, has retrieved items she donated to the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Taraba State. Following her resignation from the party after she was disqualified from contesting for the state governorship ticket on the platform of the APC, 'Mama Taraba', as she is popularly known, removed rugs, computer systems, tables, among other items from the state secretariat, insisting that "APC doesn't deserve anything of mine".
Condemning the development when he spoke to NAN on Wednesday, Aaron Artimas, APC Publicity Secretary in the state, said: "We find this development shameful, unfortunately, it is true. The former Minister has emptied the office she furnished when she was a member of the APC. It is amazing to us because Aisha Alhassan was the highest beneficiary of the party in the state. It is a very shameful action, but we shall leave her to conscience." However, Alhassan denied physically removing the items but said she supported those who did, as the party did not deserve them.
Her words: "I bought the items with my money. When my boys told me they were removing them from the party secretariat, I gave them the go-ahead because the APC does not deserve anything of mine. I could not have moved the items to Abuja. I merely gave my boys the nod to move them out because the APC was wicked to me. If I had left the party on my own, I would not have bothered about the items, but you know the circumstances that pushed me out. I bought the items to furnish the party secretariat, but since I have moved to the UDP, I did not see anything wrong with moving with all my belongings. They should buy their own furniture for the offices."
I’ll Continue Holding Jonathan In High Esteem, Says Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has again reiterated his respect for former President, Goodluck Jonathan, for accepting the outcome of the 2015 presidential election.
Speaking on Thursday evening while hosting some entertainers from Kannywood, the North’s movie industry, to a dinner at the Presidential Villa, Buhari said: “I will continue to hold former President Jonathan in high esteem as a result of that singular act.
“He was in power as Deputy Governor (Bayelsa), Governor (Bayelsa), Vice-President and President, all for about 10 years, and he voluntarily accepted defeat and surrendered power to me.”
He urged the entertainers to continue using their talent to promote the culture of peaceful co-existence and unity among the diverse socio-political groups in the country.
Also at the programme, Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said fans of the entertainers would guarantee Buhari at least five million votes in the 2019 presidential election.
He implored them to use their social-media platforms to promote the achievements of the Muhammadu Buhari administration ahead of the election.
Speaking on Thursday evening while hosting some entertainers from Kannywood, the North’s movie industry, to a dinner at the Presidential Villa, Buhari said: “I will continue to hold former President Jonathan in high esteem as a result of that singular act.
“He was in power as Deputy Governor (Bayelsa), Governor (Bayelsa), Vice-President and President, all for about 10 years, and he voluntarily accepted defeat and surrendered power to me.”
He urged the entertainers to continue using their talent to promote the culture of peaceful co-existence and unity among the diverse socio-political groups in the country.
Also at the programme, Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said fans of the entertainers would guarantee Buhari at least five million votes in the 2019 presidential election.
He implored them to use their social-media platforms to promote the achievements of the Muhammadu Buhari administration ahead of the election.
Nnamdi Kanu Is like Ojukwu Who Fled The Country After Causing Many Deaths By Fredrick Nwabufo
I just watched a video of “Nnamdi Kanu in Israel”. And truly, it was him. In the video, he stands before the Wailing Wall, “wailing”; a voice in the background spits platitudes as the “supreme leader” prays. He then terminates his ritual and turns to the camera to affirm his “invincibility”.
Choreographic marvel!
But many young Igbo lives were lost because of Kanu. When he was incarcerated in Nigeria, young, impressionable men and women staked out relentless protests across the south-east for his sake. Some of them died in the struggle.
When Kanu effectuated an insurrection in Abia state after his release from prison, many young men paid with their lives - all for his “ego agitation”. Operation Python Dance was launched in the south-east because of him. No doubt, the operation led to the loss of some innocent lives and property.
But where was Kanu in all of these? He was in a safe place; totally unscathed.
Obviously, there is an umbilicus of cowardice connecting the late Emeka Ojukwu with Kanu.
Ojukwu started a war unprepared. Besides other genuine reasons for his action, ego took the better part of his thinking. More than a million Igbo sons and daughters died in the war; most of them of starvation. But Ojukwu and his family were not hungry. He fled the country with his family afterwards to Ivory Coast, far away from the death and destruction in the land he gambled to “liberate” from Nigeria.
I doubt if Ojukwu suffered any loss in the war.
Kanu has taken the same path. After many deaths resulting from his agitation, he flees to Israel. He is safe. And home and dry.
“Aspiring” revolutionaries or liberators must be sincere to their struggle. They must be ready to go the whole hog. Che Guevara died in the struggle to free Bolivia from anti-progressive forces. He had teamed up with Fidel Castro to oust the corrupt government of Fulgencio Batista before the Bolivian quest. But even after breasting victory in Cuba, he was not sated. He dreamt of liberating all of South-America from capitalist vultures. However, he died in the pursuit of that “glory”.
There is just something revolting about people who lead other people to battle only to flee to safety in the heat of it.
And by the way, why is Kanu revealing himself now, a few months to the general election?
I do not know though. But I am suspicious of that bolt out of the blue.
Fredrick is a media personality.
Choreographic marvel!
But many young Igbo lives were lost because of Kanu. When he was incarcerated in Nigeria, young, impressionable men and women staked out relentless protests across the south-east for his sake. Some of them died in the struggle.
When Kanu effectuated an insurrection in Abia state after his release from prison, many young men paid with their lives - all for his “ego agitation”. Operation Python Dance was launched in the south-east because of him. No doubt, the operation led to the loss of some innocent lives and property.
But where was Kanu in all of these? He was in a safe place; totally unscathed.
Obviously, there is an umbilicus of cowardice connecting the late Emeka Ojukwu with Kanu.
Ojukwu started a war unprepared. Besides other genuine reasons for his action, ego took the better part of his thinking. More than a million Igbo sons and daughters died in the war; most of them of starvation. But Ojukwu and his family were not hungry. He fled the country with his family afterwards to Ivory Coast, far away from the death and destruction in the land he gambled to “liberate” from Nigeria.
I doubt if Ojukwu suffered any loss in the war.
Kanu has taken the same path. After many deaths resulting from his agitation, he flees to Israel. He is safe. And home and dry.
“Aspiring” revolutionaries or liberators must be sincere to their struggle. They must be ready to go the whole hog. Che Guevara died in the struggle to free Bolivia from anti-progressive forces. He had teamed up with Fidel Castro to oust the corrupt government of Fulgencio Batista before the Bolivian quest. But even after breasting victory in Cuba, he was not sated. He dreamt of liberating all of South-America from capitalist vultures. However, he died in the pursuit of that “glory”.
There is just something revolting about people who lead other people to battle only to flee to safety in the heat of it.
And by the way, why is Kanu revealing himself now, a few months to the general election?
I do not know though. But I am suspicious of that bolt out of the blue.
Fredrick is a media personality.
2019: Why Women Matter By Emmanuel Onwubiko
Few hours back, I strolled into one of the key offices under the office of the president of the federal republic of Nigeria with a singular matter for constructive dialogue with a friend who is a senior aide of President Muhammadu Buhari.
My concern was on the observed lack of observation by the mainstream political parties of the policy framework that greeted the 1995 Fourth United Nations women conference in the Chinese capital of Beijing which basically recommended certain percentages of women inclusion in all aspects of political governance globally. Under the Sustainable development goals (SDGs) out of the seventeen key goals, the number five demanded gender equality in terms of appointments into decision making process.
Given the lack of adherence by the major political parties to the basic imperative of observing gender mainstreaming in deciding aspirants to run for public offices in the forthcoming election, i was seriously worried by the decline in the number of women that emerged from the fratricidal warfare that was termed the party primaries of such major political platforms of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the leading opposition party of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Of the two mainstream national parties, only the All Progressives Congress (APC) picked very insignificant percentage of women aspirants to run for the available slots in the forthcoming elections in 2019. Adamawa has two women who got tickets to stand for office of Senators out of the three slots.
On the other hand, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which for over the decade respected the mainstreaming of women participation in governance, unfortunately ,did very badly.
Take for instance the Federal government that was administered by the former university don Dr Goodluck Jonathan between the year 2011 to 2015, made sure that women got a greater chunk of the top flight federal appointments. Women got 33 percentage of top appointments made by the administration of Dr Goodluck Jonathan according to a statistics made available by the Nigerian Institute of management.
Women for instance headed both the petroleum and the national economy portfolio for the duration of the President Jonathan’s era. Jonathan also gave unfettered opportunities to his wife to engage constructively in pro-women projects which to a very large extent achieved a lot of mileages for the advancement of the rights of women and children. The current government of Muhammadu Buhari is reported to have offered only a paltry 19 percent of such appointments to women which is like 50 percent decline from the benchmark made by the immediate past administration as claimed by Professor Olukunle Iyanda, the respected President of the prestigious Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). Indeed the NIM accused President Muhammadu Buhari's administration of sidelining women.
Ironically, the list of those to run for elective offices in the coming election amongst the women members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has significantly declined compared to the All Progressives Congress which is accused of marginalizing women.
The party that is affiliated to the current president known as All Progressives Congress (APC) looks set to present more women to run for offices than any other political party of national significance. For instance the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) schemed out the wife of the renowned South East legend the late Ikemba of Igboland Chukwuemeka Ojukwu. Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu was rigged out of the Senatorial Primary in Anambra state by a political party that rode on the good name of her late husband to gain tremendous acceptance amongst Igbo. These scheming out deliberately of women by political parties preparatory to the 2019 poll is worrisome.
So this friend I met in the presidency also expressed shock and disappointment with the turn of events which according to her will not augur well for the advocacy for gender equity in governance that has gone on in Nigeria for so long.
She was rather sad that Nigeria instead of making progress in this area has suddenly declined.
She referred this writer to the practice in a place like Rwanda where by in the parliament, women make up over fifty percent representation.
Whilst still lamenting over the unfolding scenario, yours faithfully then flipped through a copy of the day’s newspaper only to behold a very sad story about a couple in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, who sold their week old baby boy for N200, 000 to human trafficking syndicate so they can relocate from a part of Ngwa land in Abia State to Port Harcourt in Rivers State or any other urban center.
The couple, who hail from Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, confessed to the crime, saying it was hard times that forced them into the decision.
Narrating her part in the deal, the wife said: “I have given birth to four children, one is late. I have two now. So when I became pregnant I told my husband that we would sell the baby and use the money to relocate from my village to township to start a better life. He refused but I forced him into agreeing with my plan.
“My husband is a labourer, he is a wheelbarrow pusher. I owe debts everywhere and I needed to settle them. So, we sold the baby for N200, 000 but I later learnt the baby was sold for N500, 000.”Her husband, Richard said: “We were owing N10, 000 and the hardship was too much for us to bear. I went round seeking for help but no help came. We wanted to relocate to the township for a chance of a better life, that was why we sold the baby to enable us raise money and rent an apartment in the city.”
Parading the suspects alongside other seven child traffickers at the IGP complex in Aluu, Ikwere Local Government Area of Rivers State, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the IGP Monitoring Team, DCP Benneth Igwe, disclosed that the team rescued six pregnant women and arrested seven child traffickers in connection with the business.
He said: “Based on reliable intelligence about a notorious child trafficking cartel operating in Obigbo-Afam in Oyigbo Local Government Area and Omagwa, Aluu, the operatives burst into Afrique Hotel in Oyigbo and rescued six pregnant women awaiting delivery.
“The hotel is used as a harbinger by suspected child traffickers. Information further revealed that on October 7, the victims, one Richard Benson and his wife, Chidinma Benson, delivered a baby boy at Grace Land Maternity Homes, Afam Obigbo.
“The maternity is owned by a quack nurse called Grace Daniel. After delivery, the parents were paid N200, 000 by one Mrs. Rose Onyia and the baby was later sold to Mrs. Eucharia Jaja of Omagwa for N500, 000 and thereafter, the baby was resold by Mrs. Jaja to her potential client in Lagos. Operatives are on a trail to recover the baby.
“The cartel pay N150, 000 for a girlchild and N200, 000 for a boy to the mother. The baby is later trafficked to an unknown destination for amounts between N1 million and N1.5 million,” he said. Meanwhile, another couple, Eucharia Ihunna, aged 48 and her husband confessed that they have been in the business for four years and have sold over four babies.
Not long ago an ugly story also trended about the sexual slavery of Nigerian girls to some European nations just as international news channels found a notorious forest in France whereby Nigerian girls who are trafficked into sexual slavery are engaged in forced prostitution.
The US based Cable News Network reported only last month about the discovery of the forest in France and further reported that the trafficking of Nigerian women for prostitution began in the late 1980s, according to the UN, when women were sent to Italy and forced into sex work. Returning home, they became the first generation of madams. They, in turn, made other young women suffer as they did.
Aurélie Jeannerod, who works with NGO Aux Captifs, la Liberation, which visits and supports prostitutes in the Bois de Vincennes and other parts of Paris, says there are also men involved with the networks.
Happy Iyenoma, aka "Mama Alicia," the head of a Paris-based network called the Authentic Sisters, was jailed along with her husband Hilary in May.
They were both sentenced to 10 years in prison for charges including human trafficking. In total, 15 members of the network were found guilty of trafficking roughly 50 women.
A charity that was a civil party in the case said one of the victims claimed the network assaulted her parents in Nigeria in 2015. She claimed her father died of his injuries.
In France, the maximum sentence for human trafficking is life imprisonment. But their juju oath forbids the women from speaking to authorities, making it more difficult for police to take down the networks.
And some of the women on the streets have asylum documents, says Jeannerod. Being a prostitute isn't illegal in France, only paying for sex is. "What do you want [the police] to do with the girls?" she says.
Besides, says Nadège, "The people who are doing the real business, the real human traffickers, they are in Africa."
The head of the Paris police department in charge of prostitution and trafficking described the difficulties in fighting the crime. "As soon as you dismantle a network, you see the effect in the street," he told CNN, "but that only lasts, at most, 24 hours, because we create a vacuum for another network to set up."
What the two stories relayed above show is that Nigeria is experiencing unquantifiable degree of problems associated with promoting, protecting and nurturing the human rights of Nigerian women and babies.
This therefore dovetails into the next area of concern which is the necessity for demanding from all aspirants to political offices in the coming election to swear to a court affidavits explaining to the electorate what programmes and achievable projects and timelines they would implement in the next four years if they are elected with specific and unique reference to addressing the fundamental developmental issues affecting women and children.
If truth be told, the current government has not done well in the area of protecting the human rights of women and children.
Women and children have in the last three years suffered the most from the numerous criminal acts of terrorism and bloody violence unleashed by armed bandits including armed Fulani herdsmen.
Also, the different levels of government administrations have yet to vigorously implement and enforce laws against human trafficking and the emerging phenomenon of babies’ factory.
On the issue of healthcare for women, it is a notorious fact that most public hospitals are dysfunctional even as Nigerian women have become victims of maternal deaths.
The British Guardian recently reported this ugly incident of high maternal mortality of Nigerian women.
According to the latest UN global estimates, 303,000 women a year die in childbirth, or as a result of complications arising from pregnancy. This equates to about 830 women dying each day – roughly one every two minutes.
The majority of deaths are from conditions that could have been prevented had women received the right medical care throughout their pregnancies and during birth. Severe bleeding and infections after childbirth are the biggest killers, but high blood pressure, obstructed labour and unsafe abortions all contribute.
Accurate maternal mortality figures require strong in-country data collection, which is often unavailable in developing countries, so the number of deaths is likely to be underreported.
The overwhelming majority of maternal deaths occur in developing countries. About two-thirds of all maternal deaths take place in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria and India alone account for one-third of global deaths.
The maternal mortality ratio in the world’s least developed countries stands at 436 deaths for every 100,000 live births, which is in stark contrast to the corresponding number – just 12 – in wealthy countries.
In 2001, UN member states agreed the millennium development goals, which included a call for the number of maternal deaths to be cut by three-quarters by 2015. While the MDGs boosted efforts, the goal was not met in the countries with the highest death rates. In fact, it was the target that made the slowest progress. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 1990 and 2005, maternal mortality rates decreased by an average of 2.3% a year – way below the 5.5% needed to achieve the MDGs. And now the decline seems to have plateaued.
The electorate in Nigeria should therefore demand clear pro-women agenda from candidates running for all offices in the 2019 poll and the presidential candidate who has the most convincing pro-women agendum should be considered and voted for by the majority of Nigerians who are youngsters. Women by the way constitute over 50 percent of Nigeria's current population computed by standardized agencies locally and internationally. Women therefore should exercise their powers during the election to elect candidate whose blueprints include the issues of women and Children.
This is precisely why civil society groups should mobilize Nigerian youngsters who have already enrolled to vote to resist the tendencies to mortgage their votes to the highest bidder but should look at the developmental blueprints of each candidate before casting their votes in 2019.
Recently, the United Nations population agency told us that majority of Nigerians are youngsters going by the current statistical evidence. These youngsters must demand from political office seekers for a clearly implementable agenda for women and children.
The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, said that Nigeria’s population is 195.9 million at the moment.
UNFPA also stated that 76 percent of Nigerians are between ages 0 to 24.
In its UNFPA state of world population report themed “The power of choice: Reproductive rights and the demographic,” the UN agency further said that 148.8 million Nigerians are under the age of 25.
The UN report goes in contrast with National Population Commission, NPC, figures, which claimed that the country’s population was at 198 million as early as April 2018.
The UNFPA report added that 44 percent of Nigeria’s population is aged 0 to 14, while 32 percent are aged 14 to 24.
The UN agency also revealed that Nigeria has one of the highest fertility rates in the world, with less than 20 percent of married women in urban communities using a modern contraceptive method.
In rural communities within the country, less than 10 percent of married women use a modern contraceptive method, UNFPA added.
“No country can yet claim to have made reproductive rights a reality for all. Choices are limited for far too many women,” the report read.
“And this means that there are still millions of people who are having more—or fewer—children than they would like, with implications not only for individuals, but also for communities, institutions, economies, labour markets and entire nations.”
These are exactly why women matters must matter in the year 2019 elections.
My concern was on the observed lack of observation by the mainstream political parties of the policy framework that greeted the 1995 Fourth United Nations women conference in the Chinese capital of Beijing which basically recommended certain percentages of women inclusion in all aspects of political governance globally. Under the Sustainable development goals (SDGs) out of the seventeen key goals, the number five demanded gender equality in terms of appointments into decision making process.
Given the lack of adherence by the major political parties to the basic imperative of observing gender mainstreaming in deciding aspirants to run for public offices in the forthcoming election, i was seriously worried by the decline in the number of women that emerged from the fratricidal warfare that was termed the party primaries of such major political platforms of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the leading opposition party of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Of the two mainstream national parties, only the All Progressives Congress (APC) picked very insignificant percentage of women aspirants to run for the available slots in the forthcoming elections in 2019. Adamawa has two women who got tickets to stand for office of Senators out of the three slots.
On the other hand, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which for over the decade respected the mainstreaming of women participation in governance, unfortunately ,did very badly.
Take for instance the Federal government that was administered by the former university don Dr Goodluck Jonathan between the year 2011 to 2015, made sure that women got a greater chunk of the top flight federal appointments. Women got 33 percentage of top appointments made by the administration of Dr Goodluck Jonathan according to a statistics made available by the Nigerian Institute of management.
Women for instance headed both the petroleum and the national economy portfolio for the duration of the President Jonathan’s era. Jonathan also gave unfettered opportunities to his wife to engage constructively in pro-women projects which to a very large extent achieved a lot of mileages for the advancement of the rights of women and children. The current government of Muhammadu Buhari is reported to have offered only a paltry 19 percent of such appointments to women which is like 50 percent decline from the benchmark made by the immediate past administration as claimed by Professor Olukunle Iyanda, the respected President of the prestigious Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). Indeed the NIM accused President Muhammadu Buhari's administration of sidelining women.
Ironically, the list of those to run for elective offices in the coming election amongst the women members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has significantly declined compared to the All Progressives Congress which is accused of marginalizing women.
The party that is affiliated to the current president known as All Progressives Congress (APC) looks set to present more women to run for offices than any other political party of national significance. For instance the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) schemed out the wife of the renowned South East legend the late Ikemba of Igboland Chukwuemeka Ojukwu. Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu was rigged out of the Senatorial Primary in Anambra state by a political party that rode on the good name of her late husband to gain tremendous acceptance amongst Igbo. These scheming out deliberately of women by political parties preparatory to the 2019 poll is worrisome.
So this friend I met in the presidency also expressed shock and disappointment with the turn of events which according to her will not augur well for the advocacy for gender equity in governance that has gone on in Nigeria for so long.
She was rather sad that Nigeria instead of making progress in this area has suddenly declined.
She referred this writer to the practice in a place like Rwanda where by in the parliament, women make up over fifty percent representation.
Whilst still lamenting over the unfolding scenario, yours faithfully then flipped through a copy of the day’s newspaper only to behold a very sad story about a couple in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, who sold their week old baby boy for N200, 000 to human trafficking syndicate so they can relocate from a part of Ngwa land in Abia State to Port Harcourt in Rivers State or any other urban center.
The couple, who hail from Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, confessed to the crime, saying it was hard times that forced them into the decision.
Narrating her part in the deal, the wife said: “I have given birth to four children, one is late. I have two now. So when I became pregnant I told my husband that we would sell the baby and use the money to relocate from my village to township to start a better life. He refused but I forced him into agreeing with my plan.
“My husband is a labourer, he is a wheelbarrow pusher. I owe debts everywhere and I needed to settle them. So, we sold the baby for N200, 000 but I later learnt the baby was sold for N500, 000.”Her husband, Richard said: “We were owing N10, 000 and the hardship was too much for us to bear. I went round seeking for help but no help came. We wanted to relocate to the township for a chance of a better life, that was why we sold the baby to enable us raise money and rent an apartment in the city.”
Parading the suspects alongside other seven child traffickers at the IGP complex in Aluu, Ikwere Local Government Area of Rivers State, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the IGP Monitoring Team, DCP Benneth Igwe, disclosed that the team rescued six pregnant women and arrested seven child traffickers in connection with the business.
He said: “Based on reliable intelligence about a notorious child trafficking cartel operating in Obigbo-Afam in Oyigbo Local Government Area and Omagwa, Aluu, the operatives burst into Afrique Hotel in Oyigbo and rescued six pregnant women awaiting delivery.
“The hotel is used as a harbinger by suspected child traffickers. Information further revealed that on October 7, the victims, one Richard Benson and his wife, Chidinma Benson, delivered a baby boy at Grace Land Maternity Homes, Afam Obigbo.
“The maternity is owned by a quack nurse called Grace Daniel. After delivery, the parents were paid N200, 000 by one Mrs. Rose Onyia and the baby was later sold to Mrs. Eucharia Jaja of Omagwa for N500, 000 and thereafter, the baby was resold by Mrs. Jaja to her potential client in Lagos. Operatives are on a trail to recover the baby.
“The cartel pay N150, 000 for a girlchild and N200, 000 for a boy to the mother. The baby is later trafficked to an unknown destination for amounts between N1 million and N1.5 million,” he said. Meanwhile, another couple, Eucharia Ihunna, aged 48 and her husband confessed that they have been in the business for four years and have sold over four babies.
Not long ago an ugly story also trended about the sexual slavery of Nigerian girls to some European nations just as international news channels found a notorious forest in France whereby Nigerian girls who are trafficked into sexual slavery are engaged in forced prostitution.
The US based Cable News Network reported only last month about the discovery of the forest in France and further reported that the trafficking of Nigerian women for prostitution began in the late 1980s, according to the UN, when women were sent to Italy and forced into sex work. Returning home, they became the first generation of madams. They, in turn, made other young women suffer as they did.
Aurélie Jeannerod, who works with NGO Aux Captifs, la Liberation, which visits and supports prostitutes in the Bois de Vincennes and other parts of Paris, says there are also men involved with the networks.
Happy Iyenoma, aka "Mama Alicia," the head of a Paris-based network called the Authentic Sisters, was jailed along with her husband Hilary in May.
They were both sentenced to 10 years in prison for charges including human trafficking. In total, 15 members of the network were found guilty of trafficking roughly 50 women.
A charity that was a civil party in the case said one of the victims claimed the network assaulted her parents in Nigeria in 2015. She claimed her father died of his injuries.
In France, the maximum sentence for human trafficking is life imprisonment. But their juju oath forbids the women from speaking to authorities, making it more difficult for police to take down the networks.
And some of the women on the streets have asylum documents, says Jeannerod. Being a prostitute isn't illegal in France, only paying for sex is. "What do you want [the police] to do with the girls?" she says.
Besides, says Nadège, "The people who are doing the real business, the real human traffickers, they are in Africa."
The head of the Paris police department in charge of prostitution and trafficking described the difficulties in fighting the crime. "As soon as you dismantle a network, you see the effect in the street," he told CNN, "but that only lasts, at most, 24 hours, because we create a vacuum for another network to set up."
What the two stories relayed above show is that Nigeria is experiencing unquantifiable degree of problems associated with promoting, protecting and nurturing the human rights of Nigerian women and babies.
This therefore dovetails into the next area of concern which is the necessity for demanding from all aspirants to political offices in the coming election to swear to a court affidavits explaining to the electorate what programmes and achievable projects and timelines they would implement in the next four years if they are elected with specific and unique reference to addressing the fundamental developmental issues affecting women and children.
If truth be told, the current government has not done well in the area of protecting the human rights of women and children.
Women and children have in the last three years suffered the most from the numerous criminal acts of terrorism and bloody violence unleashed by armed bandits including armed Fulani herdsmen.
Also, the different levels of government administrations have yet to vigorously implement and enforce laws against human trafficking and the emerging phenomenon of babies’ factory.
On the issue of healthcare for women, it is a notorious fact that most public hospitals are dysfunctional even as Nigerian women have become victims of maternal deaths.
The British Guardian recently reported this ugly incident of high maternal mortality of Nigerian women.
According to the latest UN global estimates, 303,000 women a year die in childbirth, or as a result of complications arising from pregnancy. This equates to about 830 women dying each day – roughly one every two minutes.
The majority of deaths are from conditions that could have been prevented had women received the right medical care throughout their pregnancies and during birth. Severe bleeding and infections after childbirth are the biggest killers, but high blood pressure, obstructed labour and unsafe abortions all contribute.
Accurate maternal mortality figures require strong in-country data collection, which is often unavailable in developing countries, so the number of deaths is likely to be underreported.
The overwhelming majority of maternal deaths occur in developing countries. About two-thirds of all maternal deaths take place in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria and India alone account for one-third of global deaths.
The maternal mortality ratio in the world’s least developed countries stands at 436 deaths for every 100,000 live births, which is in stark contrast to the corresponding number – just 12 – in wealthy countries.
In 2001, UN member states agreed the millennium development goals, which included a call for the number of maternal deaths to be cut by three-quarters by 2015. While the MDGs boosted efforts, the goal was not met in the countries with the highest death rates. In fact, it was the target that made the slowest progress. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 1990 and 2005, maternal mortality rates decreased by an average of 2.3% a year – way below the 5.5% needed to achieve the MDGs. And now the decline seems to have plateaued.
The electorate in Nigeria should therefore demand clear pro-women agenda from candidates running for all offices in the 2019 poll and the presidential candidate who has the most convincing pro-women agendum should be considered and voted for by the majority of Nigerians who are youngsters. Women by the way constitute over 50 percent of Nigeria's current population computed by standardized agencies locally and internationally. Women therefore should exercise their powers during the election to elect candidate whose blueprints include the issues of women and Children.
This is precisely why civil society groups should mobilize Nigerian youngsters who have already enrolled to vote to resist the tendencies to mortgage their votes to the highest bidder but should look at the developmental blueprints of each candidate before casting their votes in 2019.
Recently, the United Nations population agency told us that majority of Nigerians are youngsters going by the current statistical evidence. These youngsters must demand from political office seekers for a clearly implementable agenda for women and children.
The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, said that Nigeria’s population is 195.9 million at the moment.
UNFPA also stated that 76 percent of Nigerians are between ages 0 to 24.
In its UNFPA state of world population report themed “The power of choice: Reproductive rights and the demographic,” the UN agency further said that 148.8 million Nigerians are under the age of 25.
The UN report goes in contrast with National Population Commission, NPC, figures, which claimed that the country’s population was at 198 million as early as April 2018.
The UNFPA report added that 44 percent of Nigeria’s population is aged 0 to 14, while 32 percent are aged 14 to 24.
The UN agency also revealed that Nigeria has one of the highest fertility rates in the world, with less than 20 percent of married women in urban communities using a modern contraceptive method.
In rural communities within the country, less than 10 percent of married women use a modern contraceptive method, UNFPA added.
“No country can yet claim to have made reproductive rights a reality for all. Choices are limited for far too many women,” the report read.
“And this means that there are still millions of people who are having more—or fewer—children than they would like, with implications not only for individuals, but also for communities, institutions, economies, labour markets and entire nations.”
These are exactly why women matters must matter in the year 2019 elections.
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