Tuesday, 19 July 2022

NigerianEye: “‘The rejected stone now chief cornerstone’ – Ohanaeze eulogizes Peter Obi at 61” plus 29 more

NigerianEye: “‘The rejected stone now chief cornerstone’ – Ohanaeze eulogizes Peter Obi at 61” plus 29 more

‘The rejected stone now chief cornerstone’ – Ohanaeze eulogizes Peter Obi at 61

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 09:49 AM PDT

 


The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has felicitated with the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi on his 61st birth anniversary.

 

The former Anambra State governor who was born on July 19, 1961 will clock 61 years on Tuesday.

 

A goodwill message issued by the Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, described the LP candidate as a "rejected stone that has finally become the chief corner stone".

 

Ohanaeze assured Obi that prosperity would continue to celebrate his legacy even in thousand years to come.

 

According to Ogbonnia Obi was able to use his morals, uprightness, persuasions to change the political narratives of the country.

 

Part of the message reads, "The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador Professor George Obiozor feels highly elated that the rejected stone has seamlessly become the cornerstone that gravitates the Nigerian grassroots including men and women of timber and caliber.

 

"My brother, Okwute, be assured that in over one thousand years to come, July 19 will remain a day in history: a day a great African was born into Agulu community, Anambra State, Nigeria.

 

"A man who with a mere force of morals, uprightness, persuasions and goodwill was able to change the political narratives of the most populous and backward African country".

BREAKING: Buhari gives education minister 2 weeks to resolve issues with ASUU

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 09:45 AM PDT

 


President Muhammadu Buhari has given Adamu Adamu, minister of education, two weeks to resolve issues of contention regarding the strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

 

The president gave the directive on Tuesday at a meeting with the minister and other stakeholders.

 

ASUU has been on strike since February 14 over the federal government's failure to honour an agreement on issues bordering on funding of universities, as well as salaries and allowances of lecturers.

 

According to sources at the meeting on Tuesday, the minister is expected to report back to Buhari on the development in two weeks.

 

The president, who received briefing from relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) on Tuesday, also reportedly directed that Chris Ngige, minister of labour and employment, must be present at all the meetings involving the federal government and the union.

 

The education minister is also expected to address issues raised by other unions such as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) Non-Academic Staff Union of Allied and Educational Institutions (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

 

Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), is also expected to be involved in discussions with ASUU and other unions currently on strike.

 

Present at the meeting were Adamu; Ngige, Zainab Ahmed, minister of finance; Isa Pantami, minister of communications and digital economy; Folashade Yemi-Esan, head of the civil service of the federation; Ekpo Nta, chair of the National Salaries Income and Wages Commission; and Ben Akabueze, director-general, budget office.

 

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said it would embark on a nationwide protest on July 26 and 27 over the ongoing strike.

 

Also, the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) has threatened to shut down airports over the ASUU strike.

 

From N5k to N40k — Police increase character certificate fee

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 09:43 AM PDT

 


The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reportedly increased the fee for police character certificates (PCC) from N5,000 to N40,000.

 

A police source confirmed the development on Tuesday morning.

 

The PCC also known as police clearance report/certificate is procured by Nigerians travelling abroad to study, get employment or do other pursuits.

 

This implies that Nigerians seeking to study abroad will be required to pay the 700 percent increase.


Some organisations in Nigeria also request the certificate before giving employment to applicants.

 

The document certifies that the holder has no criminal history in Nigeria, has not been convicted, and is not attempting to evade justice for crimes committed in the country.

 

Olumuyiwa Adejobi, NFP spokesperson, did not respond to calls and text messages seeking comment on the development.

 

The development comes amid reports that many Nigerians are seeking to leave the country in search of employment abroad owing to a fall in the standard of living and high unemployment rate.

 

In 2021, Nigeria hit a new record on unemployment rate as a report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that unemployment rate climbed to 33.3 percent in the fourth quarter (Q4 2020) from 27.1 percent recorded in Q2 2020.

 

Persistent level of underinvestment compared to global standards, university strikes, availability of post-study work options, and permanent residency have also boosted the interest of Nigerians seeking education abroad.

Gunmen kidnap Ex-Oyo governor’s farm supervisor, demand N100m ransom

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 09:29 AM PDT


Some gunmen have abducted a farm supervisor on the farm of a former Governor of Oyo State, late Adebayo Alao-Akala.


Alao-Akala, who was an indigene of Ogbomoso, ruled the state as governor between 2007 and 2011.


The farm worker, who hails from Gbongan in Ayedaade Local Government Area in Osun State, was kidnapped on the farm named TDB farms located in Jabata in Surulere Local Government Area in Oyo State.


It was gathered on Tuesday that the worker, Christopher Bakare was kidnapped around 7 pm on Saturday by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen.


The kidnappers are also demanding the sum of N100m as ransom.


A close source to the Alao-Akala family and an indigene of Ogbomoso, confirmed the abduction on Tuesday.


He said that the matter has been reported to the police.


"We have been trying to negotiate with them even though the police had been informed".


Another source added that Police Area Command in Ogbomoso, has been informed about the incident.


But, all efforts made by newsmen to get a reaction from the Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Adewale Osifeso proved to be abortive as calls put through his mobile number were not successful while an SMS sent to him has not been replied as at the time of filing this report.

Facebook users troll Atiku, besiege birthday post to describe Obi as incoming president

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 08:43 AM PDT


Supporters of the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi have besieged a Facebook post by Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to declare him the incoming president.


Atiku had gone on Facebook to wish Obi well on his 61st birthday, earlier today.


He wrote, "On behalf of my family, I wish my good friend, presidential candidate of the LP, and former Governor of Anambra State, H.E Peter Obi, a memorable 61st birthday celebration. I wish you many more years in good health and vitality. -AA"


But the post which gathered 11,000 comments saw supporters of Obi congratulating him, and also describing him as the incoming president of Nigeria.


Some commentators, however, eulogised Atiku for being open-minded to wish his opponent a happy birthday.


A Facebook user, with the username Basil Eze urged supporters to concentrate on wishing Obi a happy birthday like Atiku, instead of describing him as incoming president, since Atiku too was in the race, but others cautioned him.


In various comments, users urged Atiku to besides congratulating Obi on his birthday, also congratulate him in advance as the winner of next year's presidential election, while others urged Atiku to withdraw from the race and support Obi.

Flood: Local govt authorities must be first responders to disaster – Yobe Gov, Buni

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 08:39 AM PDT


Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni has said the government in the state would establish Local Government Emergency Management Committees (LGEMC) for the 17 council areas for early response to disaster.


The governor through his Spokesman, Mamman Mohammed stated this when he paid a working visit to the headquarters of the National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA), saying the LGEMCs are to provide first support to victims of disaster at the grassroots before support comes from the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).


Governor Buni noted that the Committees would be adequately equipped to function efficiently. "These Committees would serve as first aid to victims of disaster across the state".


Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA), Mustapha Habib Ahmed commended the Yobe State government for the initiative, saying it will provide fast and efficient support to disaster victims.


"Yobe state has been a leading role model in disaster management providing efficient support to victims" the DG stated.

20 candidates were considered for NNPP VP position – Kwankwaso on Idahosa’s selection

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 08:20 AM PDT

 


The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, unveiled his running mate, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, on Monday.

 

At the event in Abuja, Kwankwaso explained that the cleric was chosen based on his credentials

 

The former Kano governor noted that the NNPP was presenting good candidates for the general elections.

 

He said Idahosa's selection was guided by competence, courage, acceptability, credibility and the desire to heal Nigeria of the wounds threatening its existence.

 

Kwankwaso revealed that Idahosa was among over 20 prospective candidates considered for the position.

 

"Given the necessary desire to carefully balance all sensibilities, sensitivities, and differences in order to have an all inclusive government that will be fair and just to all Nigerians.

 

"Also bearing in mind that the country requires competent, credible, empathetic, courageous, and God-fearing leaders, I came to the conclusion of a rare Nigerian that very fit these requirements.

 

"I present to you this 57 year-old man-of-God who hails from Oredo Local Government Area of Edo; a trained automobile engineer, a highly educated Nigerian with Bachelor and Masters degrees in theology."

 

Kwankaso described Idahosa as a self-made achiever whose lifetime work was improving the lives of Nigerians.

 

Idahosa is the senior pastor of God First Ministries Inc. popularly known as Illumination Assembly.

 

The NNPP vice presidential candidate is a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Education.

2023 Presidency: We’ll deliver best-ever general elections – INEC

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 08:17 AM PDT

 


The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday promised to deliver the best general elections ever in Nigeria in 2023.

 

Its chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, gave the assurance when he received delegations of the International Republican Institute (IRI) and that of the National Democratic Institute (NDI) in Abuja.

 

He said the meeting was the first that INEC was hosting after Saturday's governorship election in Osun and assured that it would improve on its successes in subsequent elections.

 

"We are encouraged by your kind words, but there is still a lot of work to do.

 

"We assure you that we will continue to work not only hard but even harder to deliver the 2023 general elections.

 

"I have listened to some of the issues raised but perhaps, when we go into the working session there will be an opportunity for us to respond to some of the issues,'' he told the delegations.

 

Prof. Yakubu also spoke about the governorship elections held in Ekiti in June and that of Osun held on Saturday.

 

"As for the preparation for the 2023 general elections, I want to assure you that we promised Nigerians that Ekiti was going to be good and Ekiti was a good election.

 

"We promised that Osun was going to be better, Osun was a better election. We are promising that the 2023 general elections will be our best election ever and we are committed to delivering the best election ever,'' he said.

2023: APC defeat in Osun will not affect Tinubu’s chances – Mumuni

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 08:15 AM PDT


 

A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Abayomi Mumuni has said the recent defeat of the APC in the 2022 gubernatorial election will not affect the changes of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of APC in 2023.

 

Mumuni, who contested in a gubernatorial election on the platform of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) in 2011 in Lagos State, made this disclosure on Tuesday.

 

Recall that the gubernatorial election which was held on Saturday was won by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ademola Adeleke.

 

But, Mumuni has declared that the outcome of the Osun election would not dampen the chances of Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.

 

Mumuni who said the APC has learnt its lesson regretted that the APC lost the election.

 

He, however, said the outcome of the Osun election would not affect Tinubu's chances.

 

Mumuni, while speaking further added that the presidential election would be a different ball game.

 

He added that the presidential election has its own dynamics and involves entirely different personalities.

 

The APC in a statement insisted that only narrow-minded people will say that the outcome of Osun election will affect the chances of Tinubu.

 

He said: "It was very sad that we lost Osun State to the PDP. Though we gave a good fight, I believe important lessons have been learnt going forward.

 

"However, it is very narrow-minded for people to think that the Osun election will affect the chances of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his presidential bid. I have read such commentaries; I find them laughable and uninformed.

 

"The presidential election is a different ball game. It is about different personalities. The dynamics will also be different.

 

"The PDP should not have the illusion that the Osun scenario automatically means a win for them in the forthcoming presidential election. Asiwaju Tinubu is a factor across the country, and he garners votes from across the party, religious lines."

Buhari lauds Archbishop Okolo’s appointment as Vatican Ambassador to Czech

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 07:25 AM PDT



President Muhammadu Buhari has sent his congratulations to His Lordship and Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, the Ambassador of the Vatican City to the Czech Republic.


The President's greetings were conveyed by H.E Ambassador Kevin Peter, the Nigerian Ambassador to the Czech Republic, during a courtesy call on the Bishop.


According to Ambassador Kevin, Buhari in his fatherly message of congratulations and encouragement, urged both men to strive toward making Nigeria proud.


Archbishop Jude who was recently installed as the Vatican City Ambassador to the Czech Republic is from Ozubulu in Anambra State, he was born and raised in Sabon Gari, Kano State.


Ambassador Kevin Peter in a press statement said the visit to the Apostolic Nuncio, was to synergies on how to protect the interest of Nigeria and ultimately move the country forward.

Osun Election: Buhari’s decision helped me defeat Oyetola – Adeleke

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 07:12 AM PDT

 


Osun State Governor-elect, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has admitted he would have lost Saturday's election to Governor Gboyega Oyetola if President Muhammadu Buhari hadn't signed the amended Electoral Act 2022 into law.

 

Adeleke stated this on Monday while speaking on Channels TV's Politics Today.

 

He also commended President Buhari for reaching out to him on his victory.

 

"I am planning to visit him (Buhari) when I receive my certificate of return. Most of the time, the opposition don't congratulate one another.

 

"So, Buhari is trying to leave a legacy. If he had not signed the Electoral Act, there would have been room for rigging because they did that to me in 2018.

 

"But with the Electoral Act now, the result was just flowing in without hindrance," Adeleke said.

 

When asked if Governor Oyetola had reached out to him, he said: "I am still waiting to hear from him."

Reform of NNPC, critical for Nigeria’s economy – Shehu Sani

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 07:09 AM PDT

 


Shehu Sani, a former Kaduna lawmaker says reform in the petroleum industry of Nigeria is critical for the survival of its economy and future.

 

The former lawmaker said this as he commended the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, for the transitioning of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC LTD to NNPC Limited.

 

President Muhammadu Buhari unveiled NNPC limited on Tuesday in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act.

 

According to the Act, NNPC Limited will run a commercial and profit-focused organisation under the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

 

In a post on his Twitter page, Sani said the reform of NNPC as a limited liability company will reposition Nigeria for the next step.

 

His tweet read: "Reform in the petroleum industry is critical to the economic survival and future of Nigeria. The rebirth of the state firm as a limited liability company is unprecedented, important and commendable.

 

"Kudos to the GMD and the Minister. Repositioning it to post-oil Nigeria is the next step."

RCCG clears air on alleged Tinubu, Adeboye meeting over Muslim-Muslim ticket

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 07:06 AM PDT

 


The Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, has opened up on the reported meeting between its General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye and the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu.

 

RCCG said contrary to reports, Pastor Adeboye never met with Tinubu over the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

 

A  ThisDay newspaper report had claimed Tinubu met with Adeboye over the weekend.

 

But, efforts by our correspondent to confirm the reported meeting from Tinubu's Media Aide, Tunde Rahman, failed as he was yet to respond to a text message sent to his mobile number.

 

However, a statement from the church dismissed the claims.

 

The statement reads partly: "It has come to our notice that some new outlets are reporting that a meeting between Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God worldwide and former Governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, was held a few days back at the Redemption Camp where our esteemed father in the Lord was said to have supported the preferred candidature of the party the former gover

 

"Pastor E.A. Adeboye and RCCG have not and will not endorse any candidate for the 2023 general elections in Nigeria."

Ganduje floors group as court discharges order stopping N10bn CCTV project loan

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 06:08 AM PDT

 


A Federal High Court in Kano, presiding over a case against the Kano State Government's bid to obtain N10 billion for a CCTV project, has discharged a restraining order allowing Governor Abdullahi Ganduje's government to go ahead and obtain the loan for the project.

 

Kano First Forum, a non-governmental organisation took the state government to court, trying to stop it from obtaining the loan.

 

However, Justice AM Liman of the Federal High Court One, Gyadi Gyadi Road, Kano, ruled on Tuesday that the plaintiff, Yusuf Isiyaku Rabiu, has misled the court in the case, therefore the interim restraining order in the case has been discharged.

 

Liman further said in his ruling that the plaintiff has misrepresented the fact in the filing of the case as such the order lacks locus standi to be continued with and hereby discharged.

 

The judge transferred the case to a vacation judge in Abuja as the court proceeded to vacation to continue with an interlocutory order before the court on the same case.

 

It could be recalled that the Kano State Government had sought the approval of the state House of Assembly to borrow N10 billion for the CCTV project.

 

Already it was reported that the state House of Assembly had approved the loan.

Government, security agencies have failed to secure Nigerians, says Masari

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 06:05 AM PDT

 


Aminu Masari, governor of Katsina, says the government has failed to secure Nigerians.

 

Masari said this in an interview published by BBC Hausa on Tuesday.

 

He said the people rely on the government and the security agencies for protection.

 

"Security officials and we the government are who the people rely on to protect them, and we have failed in doing so," Masari said.

 

 "But if you take a look at the cause of the failure, a lot of security operatives have been killed. Not up to two weeks ago a commissioner of police lost his life; an inspector lost his life; soldiers have been killed, officers have lost their lives in their efforts to tackle insecurity.

 

"Insecurity has not just affected Katsina state only, it has affected almost every state in Nigeria and also some of our neighbours like Niger, Mali are also battling this issue.

 

"There has been improvement unlike before, but we haven't reached where we want to and we are praying to God we will overcome and tackle the issue of insecurity before handing over to the next administration."

 

Katsina is among the north-western states battling banditry.

 

On July 5, gunmen opened fire on the advanced security team of President Muhammadu Buhari near Dutsinma LGA of the state.

 

The security team was on its way to Daura to prepare for the arrival of the president when it was attacked.

Bandit kingpin given chieftaincy title in Zamfara on wanted list – Police

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 06:05 AM PDT

 


The Katsina state police command says Ado Aleru, suspected kidnap kingpin who was given a chieftaincy title in Zamfara, has been on its wanted list.

 

Aleru was turbaned as the Sarkin Fulani by Aliyu Marafa, Emir of Birnin Yandoto of Tsafe LGA, on Saturday.

 

The traditional ruler is said to have given him the title to prevent attacks on his emirate.

 

Consequently, Bello Matawalle, governor of Zamfara, suspended the emir. This is not the first time Matawalle will do so.

 

In 2021, the governor suspended at least three traditional rulers for their alleged involvement in banditry.

 

Speaking with Channels Television on Monday, Gambo Isah, spokesman of the police command in Katsina, said Aleru is wanted for alleged homicide, terrorism, armed robbery, and kidnapping in the north-western state.

 

Isah said the kidnap kingpin is responsible for the killing of over 100 residents in Kadisau village in Faskari LGA in Katsina.

 

The bandit attacked the village in June.

 

After the attack on Kadisau, the police put a N5 million bounty on his head.

 

Aleru is known for terrorising Katsina and Zamfara states.

Peter Obi has exhibited uncommon wisdom, vision – APC chieftain, Orji Kalu

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 05:50 AM PDT


A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu, says the Labour Party presidential candidate has uncommon wisdom.


The former Governor of Abia State stated this in a post on his official social media handles while congratulating Obi on his 61st birthday.


Obi who was born on July 19, 1961, will clock 61 years on Tuesday (today).


Senator Kalu, in the felicitation post, wished Obi good health and peace of mind.


The post reads, "I wish my dear brother and Presidential Candidate of Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi a very happy birthday.


"You have exhibited uncommon wisdom, remarkable vision, and exemplary leadership. I wish you peace, good health, and happiness. Congratulations and happy birthday!"

Buhari’s aide clears air on FG selling NNPC Limited

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 05:03 AM PDT


President Muhammadu Buhari's Special Assistant on New and Digital Media, Tolu Ogunlesi, has dismissed claims that the Federal Government has sold the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC, LTD.


Ogunlesi assured that the Federal Government still owns NNPC.


He explained that NNPC was only transitioning from a government parastatal into a commercial liability company.


In a tweet, Ogunlesi wrote: "NNPC has not been 'SOLD', please. It is still wholly owned by Govt. What has happened is a TRANSITIONING from a Government 'Parastatal', into a commercially-run Limited Liability Company (still wholly owned by Govt of Nigeria,on behalf of the people of Nigeria), governed by CAMA."


Buhari had unveiled the new NNPC Limited on Tuesday in Abuja.


The event had the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; among other top government dignitaries in attendance.

Buhari unveils NNPC Limited, says transformation will strengthen oil sector

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 07:16 AM PDT

  


President Muhammadu Buhari has unveiled the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Limited.

 

The landmark event, which took place in Abuja on Tuesday, officially transformed the oil firm from a state-run oil corporation to a commercial venture.

 

On July 1, 2022, the NNPC Limited legally transformed into a company whose operations and activities are regulated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), following the provision of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

 

Speaking at the event, Buhari said the transformation would strengthen the capacity and market relevance of Nigeria's oil industry.

 

 "This is a landmark event for the Nigerian oil industry. Our country places a high premium on creating the right atmosphere that supports investment and growth to boost our economy and continues to play an important role in sustaining global energy requirements. We are transforming our petroleum industry to strengthen its capacity and market relevance for the present and future global energy priorities," he said.

 

"By chance of history, I was privileged to lead the creation of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation on July 1, 1977. 44 years later, I was again privileged to sign the Petroleum Industry ACT (PIA) in 2021, heralding the long-awaited reform of our petroleum sector.

 

"The provision of PIA 2021 has given the Nigerian petroleum Industry a new impetus with improved fiscal framework, transparent governance, enhanced regulation and the creation of a commercially-driven and independent national oil company that will operate without relying on government funding and free from institutional regulations such as the treasury single account (TSA), public requirement and fiscal responsibility act (FRA).

 

 "It will of course conduct itself under the best international business practices in transparency, governance and commercial viability.

 

"Coincidentally, on the first of July 2022, I authorised the transfer of assets from the NNPC to a successor company, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited  (NNPC) Limited and stirred the implementation leading to the unveiling of Africa's largest national oil company today."

 

Buhari added that NNPC Limited would now operate as a commercial oil company with over 200 million shareholders with integrity and excellence.

Osun: Adeleke yet to receive Certificate of Return from INEC – Davido

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 05:01 AM PDT

 

Popular singer, Davido has insisted that Osun State governor-elect, Ademola Adeleke, is yet to receive his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

 

Davido, whose uncle is Adeleke, said this in a tweet via his Twitter handle on Tuesday.

 

INEC had on Sunday declared Adeleke as the winner of Saturday's governorship election in Osun.

 

Announcing the results, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, the INEC Returning Officer, said Adeleke polled 403,371 votes to beat his closet rival, Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 375,027 votes.

 

"48hrs after our @AAdeleke_01 victory at the Osun Gubernatorial elections, we are yet to receive our certificate. @inecnigeria should we send you fuel money? LOL," Davido tweeted.

 

"Please no one should tamper with the will of the Osun People! Issue the certificate as required by Law!"

Senate suspends plenary over lawmaker’s death

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 05:00 AM PDT



The Senate on Tuesday suspended plenary over the recent death of Rep. Jude Ise-Idehen, a lawmaker representing Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency in Edo.


Until his death, Ise-Idehen was a member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).


The Senate, on resumption from its two-week recess, adjourned the plenary to July 20, 2022, to honour the deceased, who died on July 1, at the age of 52.


The motion for adjournment was moved by Sen. Ajayi Boroffice (APC-Ondo), the Deputy Leader of the Senate, and seconded by Sen. Philip Aduda (PDP-FCT), the Minority Leader.


The Senate also observed a minute of silence to mourn the departed before suspending the plenary.


The plenary was presided by Ovie Omo-Agege (APC – Delta Central), the Deputy President of the Senate, NAN reports.

Insecurity: Nigeria at the brink of collapse – Prof Kokonba

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 04:24 AM PDT


A Professor of Political Science at the Bayero University Kano, Prof. Usman Kokonba on Tuesday said some terrible things happening in Nigeria, such as banditry, the killing of religious priests, demand for large sums as ransom from families of abducted victims, the compulsory levy imposed on communities by bandits, control of some communities and installation of bandit kingpin as a community leader, are all indications that Nigeria is at the brink of collapse.


He told newsmen, in Kaduna on Tuesday, that Nigerians should forget about the 2023 elections, adding that all preparations, and hope of change amount to nothing, if insecurity continued without control.


According to him, in so many communities in the north, residents have deserted their homes, many have lost their lives, and many are not interested in collecting their Permanent Voters' Cards (PVC) because they are after what their families will eat.


He said in some communities in the north, bandits are busy preaching, persuading villagers that they are better off, taking care of them, providing them with their basic needs, and protecting them against attack, thereby deceiving them that there is no government.


"Do you think those bandits controlling some local government in the north, and the recently installed bandits' kingpin in one of the states in the north, will allow people to vote in 2023?


"Do you think that fears will allow the INEC officials and polling clerk to conduct elections in such high-risk areas?" He asked.


Kokonba, who said it's better for him to be out of university as a lecturer, further berated the federal government for stopping their salaries for being on strike.


He noted that if the strike continues till the election period, who will serve as collation officer, among other senior officials that will help in the conduct of the 2023 election.


He claimed that the president is even ready to hand over to bandit leaders, whose representatives are present in the Police, Army, Navy, Airforce and above all, many of them are now on the recruitment lists or newly recruited forces across the country.


He said as those criminals are gradually taking control of communities, they will graduate to take control of the local government, states, and the federal government.

Buhari attends unveiling of NNPC Limited

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 04:15 AM PDT



President Muhammadu Buhari has attended the unveiling of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC LTD.


The event taking place in Abuja on Tuesday has some top government officials in attendance.


The unveiling has the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan; the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva; and the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari; among other top stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.


The transitioning from NNPC Group to NNPC Limited is in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act.


According to the Act, NNPC Limited will run a commercial and profit-focused organisation under the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

Morocco vs Nigeria: Sports minister reacts as Super Falcons lose 5-4 in WAFCON semi-final

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 03:52 AM PDT

 


Sunday Dare, Minister of Youth and Sports Development, has lauded the Super Falcons' performance against Morocco in the semi-finals of the ongoing Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

 

Dare, in a statement from his media office on Tuesday, praised the team's resilience, character, and game management.

 

"I salute your doggedness, commitment, and fighting spirit.

 

"For holding the Moroccans in front of an over 45,000 capacity crowd, you have once again displayed the never-say-die attitude of true Nigerians.

 

"Even when down to nine players after those red cards, you held your own.

 

"You are our champions. Nigeria is proud of you. I am proud of this team, even in defeat," Dare said.

 

The nine-time champion bowed out after losing 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 scoreline at regulation time.

 

Nigeria will square up against Zambia on Friday for the third-place match of the tournament.

 

Nigeria, Morocco, Zambia, and South Africa have qualified for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

My good friend – Atiku sends message to Peter Obi as he clocks 61

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 03:40 AM PDT

 


The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday sent a birthday wish to the Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

 

Atiku wished Obi many more years in good health and vitality.

 

In a tweet, the former Vice President described the former Anambra State governor as his good friend.

 

He tweeted: "On behalf of my family, I wish my good friend, presidential candidate of the LP, and former Governor of Anambra State, @PeterObi, a memorable 61st birthday celebration. I wish you many more years in good health and vitality. -AA"

 

The former Anambra State governor, who was born on July 19, 1961, will clock 61 years on Tuesday.

 

Obi was Atiku's running mate during the 2019 presidential election.

 

However, the former governor dumped PDP for LP in 2022.

El-Rufai blocked use of Arewa House in Kaduna – Peter Obi’s supporters

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 03:36 AM PDT

 


Peter Obi Support Network (PSON) has accused Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-rufai, of preventing a Northern meeting in support of Peter Obi.

 

The followers of the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate planned to use the popular Arewa House on Rabah Road.

 

In a statement on Monday, the POSN lamented that they had fallen victims of power misuse.

 

The spokesman, Sani Saeed Altukry said the venue's manager "called to notify that we cannot have Peter/Datti Northern Summit in Arewa House".

 

Noting that the programme was scheduled for Tuesday, Altukry said no reason was given for the refusal.

 

"The governor issued a directive cancelling the use of the venue after the group had paid for its use.

 

"The decision is disheartening at the critical point when Northern Nigerians are desperate for development and liberation from poverty."

 

Altukry added that "the Peoples Movement which Peter Obi represents" will not bow to "intimidation aimed at suppressing the liberation of the North".

 

The POSN charged "all oppressed Nigerians and everyone that desires good governance" to keep their spirits high ahead of the 2023 elections.

Osun guber: Some associates of Aregbesola worked with me, says Adeleke

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 03:36 AM PDT

 


Ademola Adeleke, governor-elect of Osun state, says some associates of Rauf Aregbesola, minister of interior, supported him during the governorship election.

 

The governor-elect spoke in an interview aired by Channels Televison on Monday.

 

On Sunday, Adeleke, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was declared winner of the Osun governorship election.

 

Adeleke secured 403,371 votes to defeat his closest contender, Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 375,027 votes.

 

The governor-elect had also contested in 2018 and polled ahead by less than 400 votes, but the election was declared inconclusive after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said the number of cancelled votes –over 3,000 — exceeded the difference between both parties.

 

Oyetola eventually become governor after he won the rerun, and although Adeleke challenged the election outcome, the Supreme Court, in July 2019, upheld Oyetola as winner of the poll.

 

Adeleke's victory has stirred varied reactions, with some political analysts saying the feud between Aregbesola, a former Osun governor, and Oyetola contributed to the defeat of the APC.

 

Prior to the election, Aregbesola and Oyetola fell out over the tussle for control of the Osun APC leadership.

 

The minister was also absent during the party's campaign in the state, and did not vote in the election.

 

Speaking on the claim that Aregbesola supported the PDP, Adeleke said he did not work with the minister on his governorship bid.

 

"I did not work with Aregbesola. I didn't even talk to him, but all I know is his associates, for example, Kolapo Alimi, one of the lawyers that represented Oyetola at the tribunal," he said.

 

 "Then, anytime I saw him (Alimi) in court, because I'm a civilised person, I will go to them and greet them and say 'how are you doing?' It was later he apologised and said 'he was thinking 'why is senator Adeleke greeting me? We are trying to mess him up and he is still greeting me'.

 

"But he later told me that while I was greeting him, I didn't know that I was giving them poison. They knew that I won the election and they rigged me out and I was still greeting them. I believe that Aregbesola and Oyetola fell out.

 

"He (Alimi) came to me and said he has watched me and that he wants to join our party and we accepted. But Aregbesola directly? No. But we know a lot of top APC that joined.

 

"Assuming that I had been talking to Aregbesola one way or the other, then I would say that maybe he gave them go-ahead to support me.

 

"These people have grown; they have their own minds to decide if they want to join me or not. They believed that I was the one to beat and they came to me. I won't know whether Aregbesola gave them go-ahead or not, because I have not been talking to Aregbesola."

 

Asked what was his reaction when Oyetola and Aregbesola fell out, the governor-elect said he thanked God for the development, while admitting that the conflict paved way for his victory.

 

 "I said God is good. These (Aregbesola and Oyetola) are the people that colluded that time. They were together. Kolapo Alimi told me the truth that they robbed me. Even the president said it when he came over here that they won the election through remote control," he said.

 

AAC nominates Caroline Danjuma as Akwa Ibom deputy governorship candidate

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 02:59 AM PDT

 


The African Action Congress (AAC), Akwa Ibom State has nominated actress Caroline Danjuma as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Mr Iboro Otu, for the 2023 election.

 

The party said this on Monday, in a statement signed by the State Chairman and the Secretary, Utip Etiebet and Mr. Gabriel Ekpo, respectively.

 

It said Danjuma was chosen because of her love for humanity, leadership ability and commitment towards the betterment of Akwa Ibom communities.

 

The statement read, "On behalf of our great party, the African Action Congress and the Iboro Otu Governorship Campaign Organisation, we write to inform members of our great party, Akwa Ibom State citizens and fellow Nigerians of our party's deputy governorship candidate for the 2023 elections in Akwa Ibom State, in the person of Chief Mrs. Caroline Uduak Danjuma.

 

"Chief Mrs. Caroline, the Obong Uwana of Eket, is an international businesswoman, award-winning actress and philanthropist.

 

"She is from the family of the former paramount ruler of Eket, His Royal Majesty, Edidem William Esiet Ekwere."

 

The party highlighted Danjuma's support in separating the conjoined Ayeni Twins, feeding over 3,000 people and advocating for the rights and freedom of Lybian slaves.

 

"Chief Mrs Caroline is a hardworking mother of three who is passionate about education for all children and youths especially women, she's a supporter and campaigner for women equality, and an advocate for community development through youth and women enterprise," the statement read.

 

The party noted that Caroline will bring to the table her experience in rallying global and national attention towards developmental, political and social issues, which will be instrumental to the party's success at the polls.

Nnamdi Kanu's brother reacts as Ebubeagu kills 7 Imo youths, blasts Uzodinma, Umahi

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 02:56 AM PDT

 


The younger brother to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Kingsley Kanunta Kanu has reacted to the killing of seven youths in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State by operatives of Ebubeagu security outfit.

 

Reports have it that operatives of Ebubeagu security outfit had killed the seven youths while returning from a traditional wedding in Awomama.

 

However, Kanu condemned the killing of the youths.

 

In a tweet, Kanu accused Governors Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Dave Umahi of Ebonyi States of "competing in killing Igbo youths."

 

"The massacre of 14 innocent #Biafran youths in Awo Omamma by Gov Uzodinma's Ebubeagu militia in Imo state today is unacceptable and must be condemned.

 

"@Govhopeuzodinma and @DaveUmahi are competing in killing #BiafranYouths," he tweeted.

 

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, Micheal Abattam, confirmed the incident.

 

Abattam disclosed that Mohammed Ahmed Barde, the Commissioner of Police, ordered investigations into the killings.

Osun 2022: North-Central Forum demands APC national chair, Adamu’s resignation

Posted: 19 Jul 2022 02:20 AM PDT


Following the defeat of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in last Saturday's gubernatorial election in Osun State by the main opposition, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, some leaders and members of the APC under the aegis of North Central APC Forum have called for the resignation of the National Chairman of the party, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu.


The Forum said the National Chairman is already failing the party and that if he continues to remain as the party's leader, they would suffer great loss in the 2023 general election.


Saleh Mandung Zazzaga, on behalf of the Forum, made the call in Jos, the Plateau State Capital, in an interview with journalists.


Zazzaga said, "since the recent emergence of Adamu as the APC National Chairman, our party has been going through rapid setbacks, ranging from defection of members to other parties and losing of election like that of a State like Osun where the governor is from the party and an incumbent.


"Adamu prior to the election vowed to deliver Osun for the party and they were hopeful, but now he has failed to deliver and is now a set back to our party, and a boost of confidence for the PDP in the forthcoming 2023 elections."


According to him, "Adamu's arrogant posture and his non-tolerance of suggestion and advice has made many members of our party to be disenchanted with the party and have lost faith in the party, as well.


"We want to call on the party leaders to urge the National Chairman to resign or call him to proper order and task him to deliver on his mandate so that the party will not suffer defeat in 2023 because the election will be fierce from the national to State and local government levels, including that of the legislative arm."


He further said from the way the PDP was restrategizing and the recent threat from the Labour Party, particularly at the national level, if the APC was not careful and urgently restrategize, they would be surprised in 2023.


Zazzaga revealed that they have credible information that between now and 2023, many APC leaders and members alike would be leaving the party to other parties, and such defections would greatly affect their chances in the elections.


He called for urgent constitution of reconciliatory committee "to pacify aggrieved members from the fallout of the primary election across the States and the federal level, so that they will remain in the party and work for its victory."


The Chairman also called on the party to also set up a committee to brainstorm on the anger the APC Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket is generating in many quarters and find a way to resolve the issue amicably "because it is a very dicey, sensitive and delicate issue."
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