Urhobo News

Epileptic grid: SERAP gives Buhari 7 days to probe missing N11trn electricity fund

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly and thoroughly investigate how over N11 trillion meant to provide regular electricity supply has been allegedly squandered by governments since 1999.”

SERAP said: “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing public funds should be traced and fully recovered.”

SERAP also urges him to “refer to the International Criminal Court all unimplemented reports of corruption in the electricity sector gathering dust on the shelves, and to arrest and surrender those named in the reports to the court for prosecution.”

SERAP’s letter followed the collapse of the national grid, which has plunged the country into total darkness. Generation capacity has dropped to 2,000 megawatts with about 14 power plants shutting down.

In the letter dated 19 March, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Nigerians have for far too long been denied justice and the opportunity to get to the bottom of why they continue to pay the price for corruption in the electricity sector–staying in darkness, but still made to pay crazy electricity bills.”

SERAP said: “The staggering amounts of public funds alleged to have been stolen over the years in the electricity sector have had catastrophic effects on the lives of millions of Nigerians, akin to crimes against humanity against the Nigerian people.”

According to SERAP, “Investigating the allegations of missing N11 trillion electricity funds, prosecuting suspected perpetrators and recovering any missing public funds would end a culture of impunity. It would also address persistent collapse of the electricity grid, and improve access to and affordability of electricity in the country.”

The letter, read in part: “The situation will not improve unless you fulfil your campaign promises to probe corruption in the electricity sector, prosecute perpetrators, and recover any missing public funds.”

“Corruption in the electricity sector and the lack of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds to support the operations of DISCOS have resulted in regular blackouts, electricity grid collapse, and unlawful hike in electricity tariffs.”

“Corruption in the electricity sector has also continued to disproportionately affect the most disadvantaged and vulnerable sectors of the population who cannot readily afford expensive generators in order to have a reliable power supply.”

“Your government has constitutional and international obligations to ensure regular and uninterrupted supply of electricity, even in times of resource constraints.”

“SERAP urges you to urgently implement documented reports of cases of corruption in the electricity sector, and ensure full accountability and restitution.”

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

“The failure of successive governments and high-ranking government officials to prevent corruption in the electricity sector and to bring suspected perpetrators to justice is the primary cause of the persistent crisis in the electricity sector, including the exploitation of electricity consumers, and collapse of the electricity grid.”

“SERAP notes that in your inaugural speech on May 29, 2015 you stated that, ‘it is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even less. We will not allow this to go on.’ The national grid collapse suggests that this promise remains unfulfilled.”

“The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has adjudged the failure of the States to provide basic services such as electricity as violating the right to health.”

“Corrupt officials and corrupt contractors in the electricity sector know well that their conduct is criminal and injurious, and the denial of human dignity coupled with a radical breach of solemn trust, aggravate their alleged crime.”

“Citizens are frustrated at persistent allegations of corruption in the sector, and the impacts on their human rights. Prosecuting perpetrators would address the grave travesty that has for many years occurred in the power sector.”

“Impunity for corruption in the electricity sector has for many years forced ordinary Nigerians to stay in darkness, but still made to pay crazy electricity bills.”

“Successive governments have failed to increase power generation and provide Nigerians with regular and uninterrupted electricity supply, with many electricity contracts shrouded in secrecy, and trillions of Naira going down the drain.”

“Impunity for corruption in the electricity sector will continue as long as high-ranking public officials go largely unpunished for their alleged crimes. It is by pursuing these allegations and taking the evidence before the court that the truth will be revealed and justice best served.”

“The failure by successive governments to tell Nigerians the truth about allegations of corruption in the power sector amounts to a failure to ensure that electricity services are progressively made available, on the basis of equality and non-discrimination.”

“The details of the missing N11 trillion electricity funds are contained in a SERAP report titled: From Darkness to Darkness: How Nigerians are paying the Price for Corruption in the Electricity Sector.”

“According to the report, the total estimated financial loss to Nigeria from corruption in the electricity sector starting from the return to democracy in 1999 to date is over N11 trillion. This represents public funds, private equity and social investment (or divestments) in the power sector.”

“It is estimated that the loss may reach over N20 trillion in the next decade given the rate of Government investment and funding in the power sector amidst dwindling fortune and recurrent revenue shortfalls.”

“SERAP also urges you to immediately implement the judgment by Justice Chuka Austine Obiozor in suit number FHC/L/CS/105/19 which ordered your government to immediately publish the names of companies and the whereabouts of the contractors paid by governments since 1999 to carry out electricity projects across the country but disappeared with the money without executing any projects.”

“The enforcement of the judgment could potentially reveal individuals, contractors, and companies allegedly responsible for squandering over N11 trillion meant to provide regular electricity supply under successive governments, lead to the prosecution of suspected perpetrators, and recovery of any missing public funds.”

The letter was copied to Mr Malami.

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

20/3/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

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

OPINION

OPL 245: What the Italian court said about Adoke

By Femi Oboro

In view of the serial and unrelenting misrepresentation of facts and mischief orchestrated by forgers, pathological liars and pseudo anti-corruption activists in partnership with an online publication globally notorious for its culture of blackmail and extortion, it is important to set the record straight on the pronouncements of the Court of Milan, Republic of Italy, in the OPL 245 trial. The court discharged and acquitted all defendants of criminal charges on 17 March 2021. Of particular interest to me is the extent of involvement of my client, Mr Mohammed Bello Adoke SAN, who served as the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice of Nigeria between 2010 and 2015 during which the OPL 245 dispute was resolved and the oil block was acquired by Royal Dutch Shell Plc and ENI S.p.A. from Malabu Oil & Gas Ltd for a combined consideration of $1.3bn.
Although Mr Adoke was not on trial in Italy, his name came up frequently in the court proceedings because of the desperate desire of Mr Fabio De Pasquale, the Deputy Public Prosecutor for Milan, to criminalise the OPL 245 transaction by impugning the integrity of Mr Adoke and casting aspersions on his legal advice as the Attorney-General of the Federation in which position he acted on the lawful and legitimate instructions of President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR.

In trying to work to an answer, Mr De Pasquale came up with a series of investigative theories, some of which were propounded by the so-called anti-corruption campaigners who were out to win awards as transparency champions by trampling on the truth. To them, all is fair in war. They can cook up anything, forge any e-mail and stage-manage any interview as long as they would get applause from their funders and promoters.
Mr De Pasquale argued in court that the OPL 245 Resolution Agreement of 2011, which was based on a Settlement Agreement reached between the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and Malabu Oil & Gas Ltd on 30 November 2006, was illegal. He argued that it was also illegal to award an oil prospecting licence (OPL) through a court-ordered Settlement Agreement. De Pasquale and his team theorised that the $801 million paid by Royal Dutch Shell plc and ENI S.p.A. to Malabu Oil & Gas Ltd to acquire the rights to the oil block was illegal and was a scheme to bribe FGN officials. They alleged that Mr Adoke participated in the bribery scheme and profited to the tune of N300m ($2.2m at the time) from the $1.3bn transaction. Specifically, they said Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar, a property developer known to both Chief Dan Etete, the promoter of Malabu Oil and Gas Limited, sold a property worth N700m for N500m to Mr Adoke. They further alleged that the N200m difference was a bribe. The Italian prosecutors tried to use the property transaction as evidence of corruption.
Since some of these expended allegations are sub-judicial in Nigeria because Mr Adoke is still being tried in two honourable courts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the same issues, my comments would have to be limited to the Milan Court decision.
Also, some of the facts are already in the public domain and as such do not require any further comments from me. Luckily, the full text of the 458-page judgment, marked “Judgment No. 3055”, is available on the internet. Anyone interested in reading the document, which I intend to quote generously in this article, should google “OPL 245 full decision” and download it. It documents the key presentations made by the prosecutors and the final pronouncements of the court after nearly three years of trial.
It is significantly of note that no adverse findings were made against Mr Adoke, contrary to the lies being peddled online by the coalition of miserable pseudo activists. I may allow myself to speculate that some of their tantrums might be out of ignorance, because, admittedly, it is not every lay person that can read and understand a court decision. The judges normally summarise presentations by the prosecutors and the defendants before making a pronouncement. It is not uncommon for those not familiar with legal proceedings to take a summary of presentation as part of the court finding or decision. However, because these mischief makers have been on this project for a while, and because they have enjoyed the funding and support of those well versed in law, I am very much tempted to conclude that ignorance is not the case, or perhaps ignorance is just red herring. It is malice.
I will now go into the specifics. It had been alleged that Mr Adoke exerted “unlawful pressure” on the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to endorse the Settlement Agreement. But the Milan Court pronounced at Page 241 of its judgment: “We cannot instead accept the comments on the fact that Adoke Bello allegedly exerted unlawful pressure on NNPC and DPR. In fact, as we have seen, it had been the Minister himself who had engaged these departments and demanded that an agreement be made reflecting their suggestions, so that the companies (Shell and ENI) were forced to give ground on recognition of the back-in rights, which were not included in the previous contractual framework, which called for direct purchase from Malabu, considering that that company had been granted a license free of these restrictions.”
On the rightfulness of awarding an OPL based on an out-of-court settlement (and the attempt to link it to corruption), the judges said at Page 248: “The opinions of the Public Prosecutor’s expert are absolutely contradictory and legally erroneous. Although she admitted that licenses in Nigeria may be issued by the government on a discretionary basis, it underscores the anomaly represented by the issuance of a license in the context of an out-of-court settlement agreement that involved a party, Eni, that was considered to have nothing to do with the legal disputes over ownership of the license. On the basis of these erroneous premises of its own expert, the prosecution transforms a fact from common experience (out-of-court settlements of disputes may come about through the intervention of a third-party investor or financier) into circumstantial evidence of underlying corrupt arrangements.”
They continued at Page 249: “Contrary to what was revealed during the trial proceeding, the prosecution argues that there were no other cases of assignments of oil license after out-of-court settlements, although the defense experts pointed out that the use of a Resolution Agreement as the basis for a direct award is not an unprecedented event. Examples are found in the Annual Report 2016 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry published by the DPR, which reports that certain assets were assigned/reassigned on the basis of out-of-court settlement agreements. The circumstance generates no wonder, since the settlement is a typical arrangement, which is common practice in circumstances involving a dispute. In this regard, we should mention in passing that, from the legal point of view, the license was not awarded with the Resolution Agreement, but the latter was used as the negotiating tool whereby the Government assured itself approval by Snud (Shell Nigeria Ultra Deep) and Malabu to reassignment in favor of Snepco (Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Co) and NAE (ENI-Agip). Indeed, the deed of assignment is comprised of a discretionary measure issued by the Minister and of which the Resolution Agreement constituted a simple factual premise.”
On the allegation of conflict of interest, the prosecutors argued that Chief Etete, as Minister of Petroleum in 1998, should not have awarded an oil block to a company in which he had interest. The court agreed with the position of the defence lawyer that it was never raised as a breach of law before any court. In fact, the 1998 assignment was subsequently confirmed several times by the government, even before Mr Adoke became AGF. The court agreed with the defence lawyer who had argued that the “fallaciousness of the prosecution’s reasoning was such that the Public Prosecutor was forced to contradict himself when he explicitly affirmed that confirmation of the license awarded to Malabu had legitimated it to sell the license”. The court then declared at Page 249: “So, the Court agrees with the defense attorneys, and even with the Public Prosecutor, that the confirmation of the license by the Nigerian Government in July 2010, during the pendency of the arbitration proceeding, definitively legitimated the negotiations for acquisition of the license itself.”
On the charge that Adoke’s involvement in meetings and communications with key actors in the OPL 245 negotiations was evidence of vested interest for corrupt enrichment, the judges said at Page 291: “Equally devoid of evidentiary value is the fact that the Minister Adoke Bello intervened in the context of these communications, guaranteeing the legitimacy of the agreements underlying the payments, legitimacy that has already been demonstrated and would in fact also be recognized by the Nigerian judicial authority at the request of the same public official (see the ruling of Judge Binta Nyako). The prosecution’s argument, based on the fact that the defendants knowingly provided the money for the bribe paid by Etete to the public officials, is reasonably contradicted by the outcome of the SOCA authorizations…”. SOCA is the UK Serious Organised Crime Agency which gave JP Morgan the go-ahead to transfer funds to Malabu in 2011 after investigating suspicion of fraud.
At Page 317, the judges, in dismissing allegations of bribery in the OPL 245 deal for lack of proof, reproduced the transcript of the interrogation of a defendant, Mr Vincenzo Armanna, a former ENI manager, by the prosecutor over the issue of kickbacks. Armanna said that, in fact, Adoke threatened to arrest and prosecute ENI officials for negotiating kickbacks. The conversation is reproduced below:
PUBLIC PROSECUTOR: But the meeting, which I can now specify directly because you mentioned it this morning, when the Attorney General said: “They’re bribes, I’ll put you all in jail,” when was that? And who was there?
DEFENDANT ARMANNA: It was the first one with a bigger group, so it was…I think it was after November 15.
PUBLIC PROSECUTOR: And what did he say exactly?
DEFENDANT ARMANNA: That they were bribes and that we were blackmailing Dan Etete and forcing him to pay a fee to Obi and that we would be arrested.
It is, therefore, a matter of public record that Mr Adoke actually warned against bribery in the transaction and threatened to get the commission agents arrested and prosecuted. This is the same Adoke that is being maligned and defamed as a bribe taker. Before Mr Armanna’s testimony, Ednan Tofik ogly Agaev, a former Russian ambassador to Colombia, had also withdrawn his earlier claim to the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in which he said Mr Adoke was involved in bribery. Agaev refused to adopt the statement in court, saying he was pressured to mention a name during interrogation and he mentioned Adoke. In other words, Agaev lied to the FBI to get off the hook.
I must, however, regret that there was an allegation against Mr Adoke before the Italian court that was not exhaustively dealt with: the accusation that he bought a house from his supposed share of the kickbacks. Every piece of evidence was purely circumstantial and an over-extension of the facts just to fit the narrative: one, that Mr Adoke previously knew the property developer; two, that the property developer was close to Chief Etete; three, that Mr Adoke tried to buy a house for N500m after the OPL 245 transaction; four, that the property had just been acquired by the developer for N700m; five, that the N200m difference was his kickback; six, that as a public servant, where could he have earned the N500m to buy the property. Of course, the conclusion of the judges was that there was no proof of corruption and while we may say Mr Adoke was exonerated, that will still not totally solve the puzzle around the mortgage and will continue to be used by the mischief makers as evidence of corruption.
But here are the facts, most of which were presented in Italy by the prosecutors but which they deliberately jumbled together because they were shooting at a target. Mr Adoke never denied knowing Alhaji Abubakar, the property developer. He never denied being offered a house at Plot 3271 Cadastral Zone A06, Maitama District, Abuja. What he has said, and quite consistently, is that Alhaji Abubakar approached him to buy the property for N500m. He then approached his bankers, Unity Bank Plc, where he was a substantial shareholder, and asked for a mortgage of N300m. He was to make an equity contribution of N200m to complete the payment. The bank opened a mortgage account, credited it with N300m and transferred the funds to Carlin International, owned by the developer. However, because Mr Adoke could not raise his equity of N200m, Alhaji Abubakar had to return the N300m to Unity Bank. The bank took the money and closed the account. The developer then sold the property to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). All the documents presented in court by the prosecutors as provided to them by EFCC established the facts. Actually, Mr Adoke lost money because he had to pay high interests on the loan. But the prosecutors fiddled with the facts.
Since there was an agenda, the prosecutors said the same property had previously been purchased for N700m by Alhaji Abubakar. What they maliciously hid from the court was that three buildings were being developed on the 5,500sqmtr-plot. They also did not tell the court that it was just one of the three buildings that was offered to Mr Adoke for N500m. They made it look like it was the entire property and cruelly calculated a discounted “benefit” of N200m. This is evil, to put it mildly. Also, they failed to disclose to the court that the property now belongs to the CBN who bought it in 2013 because Mr Adoke could not complete the payment. Mr Adoke said he had been hoping to sell a plot of land in Abuja to raise his N200m equity but he did not get a buyer. He never said he was going to pay for it from his salaries as a public officer. But this was the impression presented to the court.
To sum up, the Italian court has, after an extensive trial, put a lie to the allegations levelled against Mr Adoke over his role in the OPL 245 deal. The Hon. Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court declared in 2018 that Mr Adoke could not be held personally liable for carrying out a lawful presidential order. The US Department of Justice investigated the transaction and brought it to a close in October 2019 without any charges. The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) closed its own investigation in April 2020. As yet, no court of law has concluded that the OPL 245 deal is a scandal. It is just the narrative cooked up by self-serving pseudo activists and forgers, and vented by notorious online blackmailers. The truth will eventually prevail and those who participated in the defamation should know that they will pay when the stage-managed storm is finally over.
My intervention is aimed at those who may not know the truth and are confused or have wrongly believed the concoctions being served online in the name of activism. To be frank, I am not hoping that my clarifications would stop the mischief makers from continuing with their malicious project. They are not reasonable characters. All they want is miscarriage of justice so that they would be decorated with murderous medals for destroying an innocent soul. They will never succeed. But if the intention of Mr Adoke’s traducers is just to destroy his name and keep him busy with having to declare his innocence every day, they have succeeded to some extent. I congratulate them. They should continue to enjoy their pyrrhic victory. It is just a matter of time before they stew in their own juice. No matter how many miles a lie travels, it takes the truth just a nanosecond to pursue and overtake. In fact, with the truth now coming to the fore, many of them are already regretting their actions and apologising in private to Mr Adoke. But their day of inescapable reckoning beckons.

. Femi Oboro, Solicitor at Gromyko Amedu Solicitors wrote via femi.oboro@gromykoamedusolicitors.co.uk

PRESIDENT BUHARI”S GOVERNMENT IS A COMPLETE FAILURE.

In all my adult life, I have never seen a government that is this confused, incompetent, spineless, uncreative, rudderless, tactless, clueless and demoralising like this one headed by a medical tourist, President Muhammadu Buhari. In seven years, it is a big shame that the Buhari presidency is unable to build a state of the art hospital that could answer his medical needs and the needs of other Nigerians . In seven years, our megawatts still revolve around 4,000 and 5,000 with so much so-called investment in the energy sector; and the president hops to London at the slightest opportunity to enjoy uninterrupted power supply, while leaving us in darkness. They go for medical tourism like post-graduate students seeking post-graduate degrees abroad. In seven years, electricity is in a quandary, possibly leading the country to a state of near total darkness;, and General Buhari would still thump his chest as president of Nigeria;  presiding over failure? In seven years, not a single Refinery has been fixed or has any brand new one being built. It is an unpardonable failure on the part of this APC-led Federal government under the watch of President Buhari. I have never seen this level of incompetence being exhibited in high office like what we are witnessing today.

Life has become unbearable under a system that is manifestly asphyxiating, dehumanising and discomfitting. Nigeria and Nigerians have become internally displaced persons in their own country as a result of the blood-spilling activities of bandits and kidnappers. From the North to the South, we are seeing rivers of blood flowing with cake of crimson, as a result of general insecurity.

Nothing seems to be working in Nigeria except failure. Only last week, the Auditor-General made mind-boggling revelations about the millions of barrels of oil without any trace under a president and minister of petroleum whose adherents see as “mai-gaskiya”. How on earth can 107 million barrels of oil be declared missing under a government that sings about anti-corruption, yet not many heads have rolled, nobody has been sacked, nobody has been apprehended and no one is cooling off in jail!! Imagine such a whooping figure as if it is a piece of groundnut in a pupil’s pocket. To make matters worse, the Finance Minister reportedly told the nation that the Federal Government was thinking of raising euro-bond cash to fund oil subsidy. What a cataclysmic catastrophy!. What impudence!

The APC and the Federal Government are two sides of a dysfunctional system that are unassailably confused, directionless and running amok. The president is confused, the APC is confused, the general psyche of the people has been utterly affected. Aside from dithering from one dysfunctional emanation to another, the confusion in the party is a manifestation of the confusion in the government. As if to rub insult on our collective injuries, the President’s Spokesman told an already befuddled nation and a citizenry that is heavily overburdened that “heaven will not fall”, no matter the lamentations and difficulties we are experiencing. Imagine such infamy! How do you score such a wicked and sullen statement from a government that was voted for? For over a month now, fuel scarcity has remained a perpetual crisis across the country. Man-hours wastages are affecting the economy in a very debilitating manner. Long queues of vehicles occasioned by the scarcity have become ugly sights across the country. Diesel has risen to over N700 per litre, kerosene which ought to be the cheapest for the average masses is now selling for N450 per litre. Electricity tariffs have risen astronomically, almost beyond the reach of the ordinary Nigerian. In all of these, an elected president abandoned his citizens to seek medical attention in London.

I have stated on several occasions in the last that a sick country cannot do well under a president that has health challenges;  one of the reasons I am vehemently opposed to those old and tired politicians who now want to temporarily acquire the Aso Villa as their retirement home, and use the office to rejuvenate and repair themselves by contesting for presidency. Rather than attend to our needs, they would be making all efforts to sustain their own wellbeing at the detriment and expense of Nigerians. They will force the country to work and walk at their own slow pace. Rather than be on the fast lane, the country will naturally be detained in a motion without movement scenario, because the supposed enabler is busy attending to his health needs. It is pathetic that in president Buhari’s 7 years in office, he could not build a world standard hospital to look after hisOWN  health needs and those of other citizens. Just take a look at the curious contradictions; the president of the country is in London for medicals, the First Lady is reportedly in Dubai, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the ruling party was in Dubai for medicals. Both party and government are immersed in unpardonable voyageS of wellness while the rest of the country can go to hell. This government is not just wicked and inconsiderate, but also a cultivator of poverty, impoverishment, deprivation, hunger and starvation. The government has shown visible signs of underperformance, incompetence and crass materialism. The level of corruption in the system rubbishes the so-called anti-corruption mantra of the government.

This is a clarion call to all and sundry that we must collectively add our voices to make the 2023 election a referendum by Nigerians against the abnormalities of the ruling APC. We have been demobilised by suffering and economic dislocations, hence we must speak with one voice against a system and party that has crippled our sense of creativity and productivity. As hard working Nigerians, we must conscientize, mobilise, and synergize amongst ourselves to create the right nexus for citizen action against the ruling party in 2023. We must bail our country from the octopoidal grip of the present incompetent leadership and lead it on the path of constructive and collective engagement in the overall interest of our people. We cannot continue to cultivate failure, embellish incompetence, glamourise inertia, celebrate nepotism and decorate cronyism in a 21st century world, as our article of faith. Never again! 2023 beckons.

Signed….

PRINCE KASSIM AFEGBUA

FORMER COMMISSIONER FOR INFORMATION,

EDO STATE.

MEMBER, PDP, WARD 5, OKPELLA.

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU MOURNS PUBLISHER OF HALLMARK NEWSPAPERS, EMEKA OBASI

 …Says Nigerian media industry has lost a Colossus

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the death of a veteran journalist and Publisher of Hallmark Newspaper, Prince Emeka Obasi, as a colossal loss to the media industry and the country as a whole.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Thursday said the exit of the former Abia State Commissioner for Information and Strategy is painful and heartbreaking, considering his impact in the journalism profession.

Prince Obasi, an award-winning journalist and publisher, who battled a medical condition over the past few years, died on Tuesday at an undisclosed hospital in Lagos at 58.

Sanwo-Olu urged the deceased family, especially his widow, Dr. Betty Obasi; as well as friends, colleagues and associates of Prince Emeka Obasi to take solace in God and the fact the deceased lived a good life.

The Governor also commiserated with the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) over the demise of the Publisher of Hallmark Newspapers.

He said: “The death of Prince Emeka Obasi is a great loss to the media industry and he will be greatly missed. He made lots of positive impacts during his lifetime, contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria as well as politics at the state and federal level.

“Obasi’s landmark achievements in the media industry are unprecedented as he managed several newspapers, among which are National Mirror, Hallmark and Business Hallmark, thereby providing job opportunities for hundreds of people, especially journalists in different parts of the country.

“He also contributed his quota to governance in Abia State by serving as Commissioner for Information and Strategy.

“I sympathise with his family, friends, business, associates, and entire media practitioners in Nigeria. I pray that God will grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

17 MARCH 2022

JULIUS BERGER EXHIBITS COMMANDING ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION CAPABILITY AND CONTRACTUAL RELIABILITY AS ICONIC SECOND RIVER NIGER BRIDGE NEARS INAUGURATION

• Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari commends Julius Berger’s performance as “Excellent and visible for all to see….we are very impressed with the work done so far,”

• Labour Minister, H.E. Dr. Chris Ngige enthuses: “People often say ‘seeing is believing, but today having not only seen but walked on the fully constructed length of the 2^ndRiver Niger Bridge, I now say, ‘Walking is believing; Julius Berger is reliable, indeed.”

• Works Minister, H.E. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, says,“Before now, some people said there was no bridge, but now we are walking on the bridge. This is real now….We will complete it as promised…from what we can all see today, the contractor (Julius Berger) has performed well; after the link of the spans on April 2^nd, this bridge will be awaiting inauguration for use by Mr President.”

The Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, led a federal Government delegation to inspect the 2^nd River Niger Bridge that is being constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc on Tuesday, 8 March 2022. Other dignitaries in the entourage of the Chief of Staff included the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, His Excellency Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, and the Honourable Minister of Labour and Productivity, His Excellency, Dr. Chris Ngige. The Managing Director of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Uche Orji was also on the entourage of the Chief of Staff to the President.

The inspection visit commenced at the Owerri interchange end of the project, where the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter made a presentation to the Chief of Staff on the progress of the ongoing works. Richter spoke of Julius Berger’s introduction and implementation of innovative solutions for soil improvement using the Geotextile Encased Sand Columns (GEC) system for base reinforcement. The innovation, Richter said, is a foundation method for embankments on ground with low bearing capacity. It also consist of mega prefabricated vertical drains (PVD), which speed up the settlement and consolidation process, in which settlement happens within construction period. Richter significantly put progress so far achieved on the Second River Niger Bridge works at 83% as at February 2022. Status of the works as presented showed that the substructure of the Bridge is completed, while its superstructure and finishing works are in steady progress. Secondary bridges are also completed. Richter also pointed the visitors to ongoing culverts and drainage works. Julius Berger, in conformity with its impeccable adherence to safety on site, also held a Safety brief for the important visitors prior to walking the full length of the constructed bridge where finishing works are still ongoing. Other company officials, including Engr. Friedrich Wieser the Project Director for the 2nd River Niger Bridge, accompanied the Managing Director.

All things being equal, the second River Niger Bridge project is scheduled for commissioning by October this year. The bridge aims to minimize traffic congestion on the old bridge and to strengthen connectivity in the entire region. The project, which is being funded by the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority through the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, is expected to boost economic activities and open up development in the southeastern part of the country.

The project involves the construction of a 1.6km bridge over the River Niger, scheduled for completion in August 2022, construction of two secondary bridges at CH25+166 (Amakom Village Road) and CH28+304 (Atani Road) spanning 21.7m each, which have now been completed. It also involves demolition of an existing flyover and construction of a new interchange at CH34+100 (Onitsha-Owerri Road), scheduled for completion in August 2022. The project also consists of the construction of a 3.3km approach road on the Asaba end and 7.0km approach road on the Onitsha end of the main bridge, scheduled for completion in October 2022. There is also a toll plaza at CH25+700 consisting of 8 lanes in each direction, scheduled for completion in October 2022, and Site clearing of the Right of Way (RoW) including the removal of all bush, trees and shrubs.

The second River Niger Bridge, when commissioned, will deliver huge socio-economic benefits for the nation, particularly the surrounding states, by improving commercial activities, enhancing traffic flow as well as road safety for commuters.

PRESS STATEMENT

CARE CONDEMNS INCESSANT ELECTRICITY TARIFF HIKES

LABOUR LEADERS’ REFUSAL TO RESIST TARIFF HIKES IS A BETRAYAL TO WORKERS AND THE NIGERIAN PEOPLE

The Minister of Finance, Mrs Zainab Ahmed disclosed on Thursday, March 10, 2022, that the federal government had quietly removed subsidy on electricity tariff. The implication of this policy is that working people and the poor masses will be forced to pay higher tariffs twice every year. Coalition for Affordable and Regular Electricity (CARE) condemns the policy that will allow the power companies to hike tariff incessantly and periodically. Besides, the government claimed that it was subsidizing the power sector to the tune of N1.7 billion daily but in reality, the government was only bailing out the corruption, expensive lifestyle of the directors and top managers and unsustainable debts incurred by the power companies. For instance, N6 billion released by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) was subjected to insiders abuse and sharp practices in 2017 wherein IBEDC gave a loan of about N6 billion to its parent company (Integrated Energy Distribution and Marketing Group), this is one example of how privileged private companies mismanage so-called subsidy and bailout funds.

In a profit-first system there will always be unjust hikes in petrol and electricity prices just like other essential commodities. The bourgeois ruling class and their private collaborators always clamour for higher rates and prices to guarantee super profit. The power companies have shown obvious incapacity to develop the sector, they are only interested in higher tariff and outrageous estimated billing while power infrastructure and facilities are in decrepit conditions triggering incessant system collapse and leaving communities mostly in darkness. In fact, hike in tariff is a reward for failure and inefficiency. In the last 15 years, the government has spent over $15 billion on power and nothing to show for it fundamentally except darkness. Since the power sector was privatized in November 2013, electricity tariff has been steadily hiked from about N12.50 to about N48 representing a whopping 280% increment.

The most worrisome is the fact that the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ayuba Wabba, the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Quadri Olaleye and other key labour leaders have kept quiet only for the government to quietly remove the so-called subsidy that practically implies that power companies can go-ahead to increase tariff so often and unjustifiably. Labour leaders threatened to embark on strike on September 28, 2020 over increment in the price of electricity and petrol only to back down and resorted to talks with the government. As a matter of fact, it was the botched strike action and the refusal of NLC and TUC to lead a mass struggle that led to the ENDSARS mass movement that protested police brutality and rising poverty. Talks with the government led to the setting up of a Technical Committee comprising 6 representatives of government/DISCOS and 3 representatives of NLC and TUC. The only thing labour leaders got from the talks was a delay in the implementation of the then tariff hike for a month and government acceptance to have labour represented in NERC. Given the labour strategic alliance with the self-serving ruling elite, it appears the natural course of action or inaction of labour leaders is to allow anti-people policies unchallenged and unchecked.

Put simply, labour leaders have agreed with the government to have electricity tariff increased so often despite growing poverty and cost of living. Labour leaders went into talks with the government but never reported back to Nigerian workers on what was agreed upon as they have chosen to remain quiet. It is the same manner NLC and TUC bark for a struggle but refuse to bite and undemocratically call off strikes. In October 2020, labour unfortunately and openly endorsed privatization and deregulation and so, it is not shocking to endorse tariff hikes, though quietly.

Labour leaders have left the flood gate open for numerous attacks on the working people. N30,000 minimum wage has not been implemented by many State Governments despite being eroded by the rising cost of living and labour leaders stand akimbo. Diesel and Kerosene have been deregulated and the prices have steadily moved up and currently, about 720 per litre and over N500 per litre respectively and this does not worry labour leaders. There is rising cost of living, hyperinflation and rising poverty; there is massive infrastructural deficit and unemployment and labour leaders are less concerned. There have been three electricity tariff hikes since NLC threatened to go strike in September 2020 but labour leaders have quietly looked the other way. The anti-labour policies such as casualization are endemic in workplaces but labour leaders pretend it is not happening while in some cases like what we have seen in the food industry, NUFBTE (Food Union) leaders themselves set up outsourcing companies for the purpose of casualizing workers. These privileged right-wing labour leaders are comfortable with the present socio-economic crises because they are now aristocratic and the capitalist system has made them privileged such that they do not feel the impact of the economic crises ravaging the working people.

Privatisation, deregulation and other anti-people capitalist policies are responsible for the growing socio-economic crises. Instead of doing away with these policies, the capitalist ruling elite is sustaining it for its self-serving profit interest. It is high time the labour movement and the working class struggled for an alternative socialist programme wherein the commanding heights of the economy are nationalized and democratically controlled by the working class. What the power sector requires like any other key sector of the economy is a massive public investment to expand infrastructure and facilities and to motivate workers via decent working conditions in order to guarantee uninterrupted electricity at an affordable tariff rate.

SIGNED:

Chinedu Bosah                                                     Shoyombo Monsuru

National Coordinator                                             National Secretary

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: PRESIDENT BUHARI SALUTES WOMENFOLK

President Muhammadu Buhari extols Nigerian women on the occasion of International Women’s Day, March 8, 2022.

The celebration, under the hashtag #Break the Bias, and the theme; Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow, the President says, is an opportunity to reflect on the vital roles women play in society, homes, governance, the professions, and in all walks of life.

President Buhari observes that women are not where they should be yet in different spheres of endeavor, but believes that they can no longer be deprived for too long, as they consistently prove that they can hold their own on all fronts, and in all fields.

He applauds the contributions of women to the current administration as Ministers, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Executive Directors, Executive Secretaries, and many others, noting that they are pulling their weights, and making it impossible for anyone to downplay their essence.

The President rejoices with women and mothers, around whom the tranquility of homes and society revolves, praying God to grant them peace, joy and satisfaction, as they celebrate today and always.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

March 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS VICE PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO AT 65, EXTOLS HIS LOYALTY AND RESOURCEFULNESS

On behalf of the Federal Executive Council, Government and people of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the auspicious occasion of his 65th birthday, March 8, 2022, joining family, friends and associates to celebrate the man of many parts.

President Buhari notes the worthy contributions of the Vice President to the development of the country as a lawyer, scholar, administrator and pastor, working selflessly and sacrificially to bring government closer to the people, and placing the people at the centre of governance by regularly advocating policies that support human development.

As the lawyer and scholar turns 65, the President affirms that his loyalty and dedication to duty have been most exemplary, especially in supervising the economy, which involves regular interface with heads of public and private institutions, and other government structures to ensure synergy and harmony that put the welfare and wellbeing of all Nigerians first.

President Buhari extols Vice President Osinbajo’s courage, humility and resourcefulness, praying that the Almighty God will continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health to serve the nation and humanity.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH FAMILY OF VETERAN BROADCASTER, FABIO OLANIPEKUN

President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of veteran sports broadcaster, Adesola Fabio Olanikpekun, praying for God’s comforting arms over all loved ones.

President Buhari also condoles with members of staff of Nigeria Television Authority, where Olanikpekun worked for many years, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigeria Guild of Editors over the loss of the veteran.

The President notes that the renowned broadcaster brought a lot grace, style and diligence to his work, setting a good example for many, and encouraging the growth of sports in Nigeria.

President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the soul of the departed.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 7, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS VETERAN ACTOR, PETE EDOCHIE AT 75

President Muhammadu Buhari joins entertainers in the music and movie industry, particularly Nollywood, in celebrating with veteran actor, script writer and movie producer, Pete Edochie, on his 75th birthday.

President Buhari congratulates the renowned actor for the many pioneering and motivating roles in the entertainment industry, hitting the limelight in the 80s as Okonkwo in the screen adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”, where his superlative performance brought the spotlight to Nigeria and Africa.

The President notes that Edochie’s background of living and working extensively in various parts of the country and the world, after serving the government as staff of the Nigeria Railway Corporation and Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation, greatly shaped his global outlook and influenced his interpretation of roles as a thespian.

Congratulating Edochie, the usually stereotyped actor as king and father in movies, President Buhari affirms that his role in the founding and growing of Nollywood as one of biggest entertainment industries in the world deserves commendation, especially in incubating younger professionals and nurturing talents like his son, Yul Edochie.

The President prays that the Almighty God will crown the award-winning actor, who has many international recognitions, with good health and strength to keep serving the nation.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 7, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES FORMER PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO AT 85

On behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians in general, President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 85th birthday, joining family, friends and associates in celebrating the joyous occasion.

President Buhari believes the former Head of State, 1976 — 1979 and former President of Nigeria, 1999-2007, is a study in patriotism, leadership and courage, leading the country to democratic government in 1979, and taking over the reins of power as elected President in 1999.

The President affirms that the former President’s influence continues to resonate beyond the country, extending to the international community and multilateral institutions.

As a former military and civilian leader, with a strong network nationally and internationally, President Buhari extols the wisdom, insight and versatility that Chief Obasanjo brings to bear on things, reflecting his experience, diligence and versatility.

On his 85th birthday, the President joins family members in thanking God for the life, health and alertness of the former leader, praying for grace and more strength as he serves country, Africa and the world.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 5, 2022

Press Statement

OAUSTECH SENATE BUILDING NAMED AFTER GOV AKEREDOLU

The Governing Council and Management of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, have named the University’s Senate Building after the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, in recognition of his giant stride in the institution.

The Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution, Professor Akinbo Adesomoju made the announcement during the commissioning of some project at the University on Tuesday.

Governor Akeredolu Commissioned the Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge; Principal Officer’s Quarters; and some Privately Donated Buildings at the institution.

Governor Akeredolu had within the first hundred days in office, laid asphalt on the road of the University from the Main Gate into the heart of the campus after visible neglect for eight years by the previous administration.

The Governor also commissioned the University Library; University Auditorium; and the Administrative Building on the 13th August, 2020.

Under his administration, all programmes due for National Universities Commission’s accreditations have been accredited, even as the University has been enlisted as a beneficiary of TETFund for the first time since inception.

Governor Akeredolu, who expressed surprise at the gesture, described the development as a call to do more.

“This came as a surprise to me, but all the same, it will surely spur us to do more in our education sector. What we have done is for the good of the state. We will continue to do more so as to build a stronger institution for the coming generation. We thank the founder, late Dr. Olusegun Agagu,” he said.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

March 8, 2022.

Press Statement

I STAND ‘GIDIGBA’ WITH WOMEN- Akeredolu

*Senate’s rejection of Special Bill for Women, a great setback

*Reps on path of posterity

Today, as the World marks the International Women’s Day, it is with an admixture of hope and despair that I identify with our Women folk. Be hopeful because the journey to the final berth of the most desirable moment shall remain undaunted. Remain focused. And, it is, undoubtedly, a sting of despair that there are still, fundamental existential challenges confronting us all in this journey.

Specifically, last week’s rejection of the Bill by the Senate to create the required leverage for our Women is unarguably, a great disincentive. Without prejudice to the sense of judgement of the Senate, we have, as a Nation, embarked on an insiduous self-denying trip. It is a great set-back because we have derobed ourselves of an ample opportunity for progress and development. The World is watching !

I am convinced, extraneous issues may have been allowed an uncanny space in taking a decision on that Bill. We have moved backwards in the most undiscernably inexplicable manner. We have taken a painful decision that seeks to insulate and detach wider, our dear Nation from Modernity.

In unambiguous terms, our Women have come of age; their virtuous and indelible marks of honour as well as dexterous individual determinations, not only toward self-development, but their displayed benevolence and compassion for humanity are huge narratives that cannot be discountenanced by society.

Examples abound in limitless counts all over Nigeria. We cannot all be oblivious of the exploits of our Mothers, Wives, Sisters and Daughters. If not now, when can we be proud of this great breed and specie of humans. How else do we intend to show gratitude to God?

At this point, I must salute the courage of the House of Representatives that has demonstrated its readiness to align with the mood of the Nation. The Green Chambers, by the decision to revisit the Bill clearly shows that all hope is not lost, after all. I, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN shall, alongside persons of likemind, leverage on this window of hope to break the yokes of oppression against Women.

Proudly, I stand ‘Gidigba’ with women on this course and many others to liberate women from the artificial barricades and shackles constructed by men and the society at large. Not even the challenge of the seemingly natural mien of needless envy that pervades the Women folk itself can discourage me. With shrewd determination, ceaseless display of courage and candour we shall all together, overcome this challenge that seeks to hold down our Women from advancement.

Ji Masun, ti e ba sun o lewu(wake up, do not sleep; careless sleep has consequences)

Signed

Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN

Governor, Ondo State

March 8, 2022

Press Statement

Akeredolu Salutes Vice President, Osinbajo @65

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has congratulated the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

Governor Akeredolu saluted the Vice President for his commitment and dedication to national development and nation building.

The Governor described the Vice President as a friend and colleague with endearing qualities which have distinguished him as a sterling personality.

“Very unassuming, Vice President Osinbajo is a man of many parts. His wealth of experience in law and by extension in the service of the people, stand him out as a reservoir of knowledge.

“A legal luminary, Professor Osinbajo has deployed his versatility in law to the admiration of all, especially in the affairs of the nation. He is one Vice President who exhibits admirable values.” The Governor said.

While congratulating the Vice President, Governor Akeredolu prays for more of God’s exceeding grace and abundant blessings as he continues to play critical roles in nation building.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

March 8, 2022.

March 8, 2022

Press Statement

Leadership Crisis: APC is Defunct, Not Eligible to Contest Elections – PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) again cautions all intending aspirants on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) for various positions in the 2023 general elections to note that APC is legally defunct, structurally crippled and no longer a legitimate and valid vehicle to field candidates for elections under our extant laws.

The unilateral dismissal and replacement of Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni with his Niger State counterpart, Abubakar Sani Bello by President Muhammadu Buhari as Chairman of the nebulous contraption called the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) confirms that the CECPC is an illegal creation that lacks statutory powers, authority and legitimacy of party leadership.

Mr. President’s action confirms that the APC is not a political party under our laws but a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which became legally nonoperational when in December 8, 2020, it dissolved its national, state as well as local government structures and handed its affairs over to a team of “political undertakers” known as the CECPC.

With the absence of a National Working Committee (NWC), National Executive Committee (NEC), a Board of Trustees (BoT) or legitimate structures in the States, the APC is plagued by confusion and fierce infighting by its various warlords with two National Chairmen, multiple factions in the States and a national secretariat now taken over by security agencies.

This further validates PDP’s sustained position that the APC is just a bunch of strange bedfellows and inchoate sailors clobbered together for remote personal gains and not for governance and public good.

Moreover, by virtue of Section 183 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which bars a sitting governor from holding “any other executive office in any capacity whatsoever” while serving as a State Governor, the APC’s CECPC whether headed by Governor Buni or Governor Bello remains constitutionally invalid.

The PDP draws the attention of intending aspirants on the platform of the APC to the fact that the CECPC has no statutory authority under the law and that any State Congress or National Convention conducted by it to produce any party leadership at any level remains invalid and unrecognized by law.

Consequently, any Governorship, State Assembly, National Assembly as well as Presidential Primary election conducted by any leadership produced by the illegal CECPC can only produce invalid candidates just like in the case of Zamfara and Rivers States in the 2019 general elections where the APC had invalid candidates due to defective primaries.

Our Party therefore urges aspirants intending to contest in the 2023 general elections under the APC as well as their supporters to read the hand writing on the wall and not waste their resources, time and energy in the APC.

The PDP urges Nigerians not to be distracted by the turmoil in the APC but remain focused on the platform of the PDP as we continue to take appropriate steps and actions in our mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the misrule of the fizzling APC.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

IWD: WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE GENDER EQUALITY, SAYS SANWO-OLU 

• Nigerian Women Should Remain Steadfast, Resolute In Demanding End To Bias, Discrimination – Lagos First Lady

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said his administration would continue to ensure gender equality in line with the theme of the 2022 International Women’s Day, which is “Gender Equality Today, for A Sustainable Development.”

With thirty-five percent women representation in government, Sanwo-Olu appreciated the invaluable contribution of women in making his administration’s goals realisable for a Greater Lagos through the T.H.E.M.E.S developmental Agenda.

Speaking at the 2022 International Women’s Day celebration held on Tuesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Governor Sanwo-Olu, said the celebration is a “call to action and the stepping up of advocacy aimed at raising the awareness to what the society stands to gain if equal opportunities were provided for both the female and male genders to pursue their dreams and attain their potential.”

He said Lagos State today has one of the highest numbers of women in any State cabinet in the country, noting that the State can also boast of more women than men as judges, Permanent Secretaries and heads of government agencies and parastatals.

“In Lagos State, our commitment to this yearly celebration reflects our belief in the critical role our women must play and are playing side by side with the men.

“As I address you today, I can attest to the invaluable contributions that our women are making to the attainment of the goals and objectives of this administration, as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S development agenda.

“Lagos State today has one of the highest numbers of women in any State Cabinet in the country. That was and remains a deliberate decision. We are a Center of Excellence, and we will demonstrate this in every facet of what we do,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos, in line with government policies and programmes has continuously demonstrated its seriousness about improving the quality of the lives of women, noting that Lagos was a national pioneer in the introduction of a six-month fully paid maternity leave, and paternity leave to allow fathers work-free time to support their partners after childbirth.

He said his administration in the last 34 months, has remained faithful to its promise to improve the socio-economic status of women by expanding the representation of women in government, empowering women and building various programmes and policies that are being faithfully implemented.

In her goodwill message, the Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu who had earlier led a protest rally to the State Assembly, against the recent rejection of some gender bills by the National Assembly, urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast and resolute in demanding an end to acts of bias and discrimination.

She commended Governor Sanwo-Olu, who she described as champion of the ‘He for She’ Campaign and Advocate for gender equality, for Lagos State Government zero tolerance for all forms of Gender-Based violence, child marriages, sexual harassment and harmful practices against women and girls.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, I wish to encourage all our women to strive and be the best in their chosen fields as this will lead to success and make them stand out even amongst their male counterparts. By so doing, more women will get to power and occupy better positions at all levels of Governance,” she said.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu who also spoke on the death of Miss Oluwabamise Ayanwole who went missing after boarding a BRT and was later found dead, described the development as sad, shocking, and devastating and called for one minute of silence in honour of the deceased.

“Let us give one-minute silence for Oluwabamise Ayanwole, the young lady that was gruesomely murdered. Lagos State condemns ritual killings. It is not acceptable. We pray that this would be the last time that we will hear this kind of bad news in Jesus name,” she prayed.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said Governor Sanwo-Olu is very passionate about the plight of the women in Lagos State.

She spoke on some of the achievements of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to empower women and youth in Lagos State, noting that thousands of people have benefitted in different skills from the established 19 Skills Acquisition centres across the State where no fewer than 20 vocations are taught free of charge.

Dada also encouraged women in Lagos state, Nigeria and all over the world to avail themselves of various opportunities to become empowered, self-reliant, self-confident, even as women strive to attain leadership positions across the world.

Lagos State chapter All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader, Mrs. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, stressed the need for gender equality for sustainable development and called for more women representations at the state and federal levels in the 2023 general elections.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

PRESS RELEASE

SLAIN BRT PASSENGER: INVESTIGATION WILL BE THOROUGH, PERPETRATORS MUST ANSWER FOR THE CRIME – SANWO-OLU

• ‘Those twisting, trivialising facts have no conscience’ – Governor

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said the circumstances surrounding the alleged disappearance and death of a 22-year-old lady, Miss Oluwabamishe Ayanwole, while in transit on a BRT bus, would be fully unravelled, stressing that stiff punishment awaits anyone found culpable in what he described as a “criminal and dastardly act”.

Sanwo-Olu said the State Government remained determined to pursue the matter transparently and to a logical conclusion, but cautioned those making attempt to twist the issue with unfounded insinuation and conjectures to desist from making comments that may pre-empt outcome of investigation being conducted by security agencies.

The Governor said those raising allegations of cover-up against the State Government were low-minded and had no conscience, stressing that there should be no reason for anyone to trivialise an incident that claimed the life of an innocent citizen.

Sanwo-Olu spoke to reporters during an event held on Tuesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan to commemorate International Women’s Day.

The Governor said: “There is an investigation that is currently going on and because it is a criminal matter, only the police are empowered constitutionally to fully unravel all of the events that happened, which led to the death of the lady. The development has been condemned at the highest level of the Government. I personally stand to condemn it and offer condolences to the family of our citizen, Oluwabamishe.

“I have read some narratives and write-ups in the social media in the last few hours. Some people are deliberately and extremely being sensational, posting that Lagos State Government wants to cover something; even my person. These people trivialise life, which appears to me like they just want to score a cheap point. These people are of low minds and have no conscience.

“Our Government will certainly not be deterred with such wicked narratives. What we are about is to ensure that we transparently get to the roots of the matter. That is why the police and the Department of State Service (DSS) picked up the driver, who ran to another State, where he was arrested. Full wrath of the law will be applied on whoever is found wanting in this matter. And we will ensure the incident does not repeat itself.”

Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the ability of the police to conduct thorough investigation and expose anyone or group of persons behind the death of the bus passenger.

The Governor also reacted to some of the concerns raised by the public on safety measures put in place before the incident, especially on absence of short-circuit cameras in BRT buses.

He said there were inbuilt cameras and trackers in buses procured abroad for BRT operations. But those acquired locally to shore up the BRT fleet did not have cameras, the Governor said, pointing out that the particular bus in which the slain victim rode was one of the buses locally supplied.

The Governor promised that safety measures on Government-owned buses would be improved upon in order to prevent re-occurrence of similar incident. He, however, cautioned members of the public not to board BRT buses after the close of bus services in the evening, noting that buses that have closed for the day would indicate by switching off its inner lights.

When BRT drivers switch off their inner lights, Sanwo-Olu said the buses were expected to be taken back empty to their yards.

“Any bus that has its inner lights on at night is certainly still on service. Once the lights are off and the radar in the bus is not displaying, people should desist from boarding such bus, because it is no longer in service at that period. By that time, the checker and conductor would have been out of the bus, except the driver who is expected to take the empty bus back to their yards,” the Governor said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES OSINBAJO AT 65, SAYS HE IS PRESIDENT’S DEPENDABLE PARTNER

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on the occasion of his 65th birthday, describing him as worthy, committed, loyal and dependable partner to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Prof. Osinbajo as a beacon of selfless service, seasoned administrator, legal icon, university don, and religious leader who has used his skills and positions in different capacities for national growth and development in both the private and public sectors.

The Governor also hailed Prof. Osinbajo’s contribution to the growth and development of Lagos State, especially in the judicial sector during his eight years tenure as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the State.

He said Lagos State witnessed a lot of transformation in the judicial sector in Lagos State during Prof. Osinbajo’s tenure as Commissioner for Justice, adding that the Vice President deserves commendation for many legal battles fought and won by the State during Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor.

“On behalf of the good people of Lagos State and my adorable wife, Ibijoke, I heartily congratulate Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the occasion of his 65th birthday celebration and commend him for his patriotism, doggedness, dedication, exemplary leadership qualities, commitment and tireless efforts exhibited so far as Nigeria’s Vice President.

“Prof. Osinbajo is worth celebrating because of his remarkable achievements in the legal profession, as well as his contributions, selfless services, and sacrifices to our dear Lagos State and Nigeria.

“Vice President Osinbajo’s contributions to the success of the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration at the federal level are commendable, considering how he is partnering and working with President Muhammadu Buhari and other critical stakeholders to steer the ship of Nigeria in the right path to deliver dividends of democracy to millions of Nigerians.

“I wish Prof. Osinbajo more years of joy and good health for continued service to the country and humanity as a whole,” he said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS FIRST LADY LEADS RALLY AGAINST REJECTION OF GENDER BILLS

…Condemns Murder Of Oluwabamise Ayanwole, Assures Of Justice  

Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday led a rally of women from different walks of life against the recent rejection of gender bills by the National Assembly, demanding an immediate passage of the bills.

The rally, organized by the Purple Women Foundation in collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Wives Forum tagged “One Million Women March Against Gender Discrimination, saw the First Lady and the women marching from Lagos State Secretariat to the House of Assembly in Alausa, Ikeja where they were received by principal officers including the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa; Deputy Speaker, Wasiu Eshinlokun; Majority Leader, Sanai Agunbiade; Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, Poverty Alleviation and Job Creation, Hon Mojisola Alli-Macaulay, among others.

It was put together as part of activities to commemorate the 2022 International Women’s Day Celebration, with the theme: “BreakTheBias: Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.”

Addressing the women, the First Lady described the rejection of the gender bills as an act of brazen discrimination against Nigerian women, calling on the National Assembly to promptly reconsider the bills and approve them.

“Our interpretation of what transpired with this pattern of voting at the National Assembly on March 1st, 2022, is that the progress of Nigerian women has been rejected. All the proposed constitutional amendments were meant to end bias against women and ensure the minimization; if not total removal of barriers millions of women face on the basis of their gender.

“We hereby condemn in no uncertain terms this brazen discrimination against Nigerian women. As half of the population of the country, our voices and our lives matter. There can be no development without the full and equal participation of women in all spheres, and any country that continues to deliberately undermine the advancement of women, is simply stifling its own advancement,” she said.

The First Lady also urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast and resolute in demanding an end to acts of bias and discrimination, assuring that victory awaits the womenfolk.

“As another March 8th comes upon us, we charge Nigerian women to rise and demand that all the political, economic, social, and cultural biases that keep eroding our dreams and that of our daughters be brought to an end. Our beloved country Nigeria belongs to all of us, men and women, boys and girls.

“On behalf of all the wives of Governors, I stand with our women that have come from all walks of life; I stand with our women that are here from different states. We are here standing for our rights and saying no to the rejection of the gender bills by the National Assembly. We are standing as one,” she said.

The First Lady, who also spoke on the death of Miss Oluwabamise Ayanwole who went missing after boarding a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and was later found dead, described the development as sad, shocking, and devastating.

“As mothers, we are devastated; we are in shock; we are not happy. Lagos State is not known for ritual killings and we will not tolerate such.

“Investigations are going on and I am sure there will be justice. Mr. Governor is not sleeping. There will certainly be justice,” she assured.

The First Lady called for one minute of silence in honor of the departed, just as she commiserated with her immediate family over the unfortunate incident.

Besides, she urged people to continue to be security conscious, adding: “When you see something, say something and do something.”

SIGNED

OLUBUKONLA NWONAH

ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS

OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY

MARCH 8, 2022

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING

PRESS RELEASE

Monday, March 7th 2022

PALLIATIVE MEASURES ON NIGERIAN ROADS ARE PAYING OFF – FASHOLA

• Says Rehabilitation, Construction works ongoing across the country as Ministry presents 2021 Ember Months, Post Rainy Season Palliative Works Report to Stakeholders
• Minister urges truck drivers to desist from parking on road shoulders
• NARTO, NURTW, other stakeholders commend FG as FRSC reports 9% reduction in accident rates during the period

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN has said the Federal Government’s ember months palliative measures on fixing Nigerian roads are paying off.

Fashola made the remark in Abuja during a performance review meeting of stakeholders on the 2021 Ember Months and Post Rainy Season Palliative Works on Nigerian Roads.

Fashola said that the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) yearly undertake routine palliative repairs of federal roads across the country during the ember months and post rainy season to facilitate easy movement of travelers, motorists, goods and services.

Fashola reiterated that different seasons bring different challenges and so the plan for every season is based on the report available and with such feedback things would be done better.

“Seasons of the year bring different challenges, so what works for one season is not going to work for another season and we must remember this as public servants.  It is with plan we can make things better. Things don’t happen by accident, we can control how they happen with good planning,” he said.

The Minister explained that ember months is not a period to toy with. It is a period when most things begin to happen naturally and based on that the roads become so busy which compels the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to carry out palliative works on the roads to reduce accidents and other ugly incidents on the roads.

“So, let’s remember what ember months is, it is months indicating clearly that the year is coming to an end.  And as the year ends certain things begin to happen naturally.  People still travel, there are a lot of social and religious gatherings and movements, people consume a lot more items than they normally consume and the roads will be busy,” he added.

Fashola stated that with the ember months palliative measures on busy roads to ensure seamless travelling by the general public, accidents rate according to reports by the Federal Road Safety Commission reduced by 9% which is a positive development.

“There is an indication that accidents rate has reduced with about 9% and that is a very positive thing, which means there were less deaths and loss of property,” he said.

The Minister tasked every road user to be conscious of the fact that the road is a shared asset and can only last when used properly and no asset will last if it is abused.  He urged the truck drivers to avoid parking on road shoulders because it reduces its life span.

He, however, stated that road palliatives are not the final answer but construction and rehabilitation and that the Ministry has repaired and constructed many roads and still doing more across the states of the Federation.

The Minister charged contractors on Nigerian roads to use proper road signages at all the construction sites and to ensure that standards are not compromised. He warned that any contractor not complying with the standards must be sanctioned according to the law.

In their remarks at the event,  the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) representative, Deputy Corps Marshal Operations, Kayode Fanola, the National President Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO),  Yusuf Lawal Othman and National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) representative, Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Anthony Asogwa, commended the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency for the laudable achievements on roads maintenance palliatives across the country during the ember months as they helped curb accidents rate.

Earlier, the Director Highways Construction and Rehabilitation in the Ministry, Engr. Folorunso Esan, rmade a detailed presentation on the various Highways across the country where the ember months and post rainy season palliative measures were carried out.

Engr. Esan stated that the Federal Government released the needed funds to carry out the palliative works on the affected roads.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Engr. Nuruddeen Rafindadi also corroborated the fact that the Federal Government provided the needed funds for the execution of the repair works on the affected roads.

Boade Akinola (Mrs)

Director (Press & Public Relations)

March 7, 2022

Press Statement

Rt. Hon Dekor Congratulates Gov Wike On Conferment Of Chieftaincy Title Ekpeye Nation, Infrastructural Development

As Gov Nyesom Ezenwo Wike adds another chieftaincy title to his feather courtesy Ekpeye ethnic nationality, Rt. Hon Dumnamene Robinson Dekor, member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives says this is yet another honour well deserved.

Rt. Hon Dekor noted with joy the clear vision of Gov Wike and the corresponding determination to ensure that no part of the state was left out in his developmental strides, the result of which every community has thought it wise to appreciate him for his efforts through chieftaincy conferment and myriad of other honours.

He said Ekpeyeland no doubt has immensely benefitted from the Wike-led government in multiple ways and thanked God this fact was not lost on the people who have done well to honour His Excellency with Eze Ugbabuzewe Ekpeye Olu of Ekpeye land (the leader who has uplifted Ekpeye ethnic nation).

The federal lawmaker commended the foresight and wisdom of the Ekpeye people to reciprocate the government’s love and care for them, stressing that appreciation especially when it comes from the heart will trigger greater love and care from the benefactor.

Rt. Hon Dekor who is also the chairman, House Committee on Host Communities said it’s no exaggeration to say that Gov Wike has surpassed all previous administrations in the state put together in infrastructural development across the 23 local government areas of the state.

The Ogoni born politician and former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and one time Works Commissioner in the state described Gov Wike’s infrastructural development of the state as a revolution.

“All the evidence are therefore for all eyes to see. Even the blind can feel it and it does not matter whether these projects are acknowledged or not by political opponets; they are there and they are there for posterity. History must be kind to His Excellency long after he is done and gone as the man who came, saw and conquered, Rt. Hon Dekor declared.

He congratulated Gov Wike for being a pace-setter and assured him of the full support of majority of Rivers people whose lives he has greatly impacted, and who are ceaselessly praying for him for life and greater breakthroughs.

Signed:

Rt. Hon Dum Dekor Media Team   

Monday, March 7, 2022     

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU IS SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR

• Lagos helmsman also named Independent Newspaper’s Governor of the Year

• Dedicates awards to citizens toiling daily to make country work

Laurel came in double for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, over the weekend. The Lagos State’s helmsman picked two coveted leadership prizes for redefining governance in the current dispensation.

Independent Newspaper, a foremost national daily, named Sanwo-Olu as Governor of the Year for Infrastructure and Urban Renewal. The Governor, the newspaper said, has matched his campaign promises with actions, delivering tangible projects across Local Government Areas in Lagos.

Also, Sanwo-Olu was voted by Nigerians as Silverbird Man of the Year, becoming the 20th recipient of the prestigious award initiated by the Silverbird Group to celebrate public and private citizens whose actions have shaped the course of development positively.

The Governor received both awards at separate events organised by the awarding institutions at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The newspaper held its own event on Saturday, Silverbird Group’s ceremony was held on Sunday evening.

Independent Newspaper said Sanwo-Olu was shortlisted for the prize for providing service-centred leadership in Lagos, stressing that the Lagos Governor had become the reference point for excellence in public service in contemporary time.

Independent newspaper said: “The methodical implementation of the THEMES Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration is an eloquent testimony to the Governor’s resolve to transform Lagos State into a leading mega-city. From Ikorodu to Badagry, from Epe to Alimosho, from Agege to Satellite Town, more than 301 inner roads were rehabilitated and modern infrastructure in schools, health care and transportation spring up daily.

“His magic wand is visible in education, with the introduction of Eko EXCEL programme to revolutionise primary school in Lagos. Education appears to be the dearest project to Sanwo-Olu. He is determined to leave no child behind in his drive for quality education. The Eko EXCEL has reached over 1,000 primary schools, while over 13,000 teachers and 450,000 pupils have benefitted from the scheme.”

Presenting the plaque to Sanwo-Olu at the well-attended event, the Silverbird Group chairman, Sen. Ben Murray-Bruce, said the approach adopted by the Governor in the implementation of his administration’s development agenda, known as THEMES Agenda, showed Sanwo-Olu fully prepared for the position of leadership and had been discharging on his mandate with good results.

Murray-Bruce said the Governor’s footprint has been felt across sectors, stressing that his recognition as Silverbird Man of the Year affirmed legitimacy and people’s trust in Sanwo-Olu’s leadership.

The Silverbird award, which started 20 years ago, subjects its nominees to a public voting mechanism through which recipients are picked for the recognition.

Murray-Bruce said: “Sanwo-Olu got the highest number of votes to win the prize. What we are seeing here reflects the wishes of the people of Nigeria. The Governor is a great man, who has achieved great things while still in office.”

In his acceptance speech, Sanwo-Olu dedicated both awards to Nigerians who toil daily to make the country work for all citizens and particularly to residents of Lagos for standing by his Government.

The Governor said he did not accept the recognitions with the belief that all set objectives to take Lagos on higher pedestal in growth and development had been achieved by his administration, but take the awards as an unbiased acknowledgment of his modest effort to rekindle the hope of the citizens in the development of the country.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated that he would keep all his campaign promises to the residents of Lagos.

He said: “The awards are indeed an expression of what it means to be of humble service to the people. For every breath that we have, I’ll continue to ensure that all the promises that we have given to Lagosians, we keep them. Our journey to Greater Lagos is not complete; our work is not done yet. We are convinced that with the support of all of our citizens, we are on the right track.

“We get to fix things, because we have no other country. Whether we are youth, middle-aged or senior citizens, we have one property in common; our country. We all must get to work, roll up our sleeves and contribute efforts to fix this country for the current and coming generations. I strongly believe we have the potential, energy and commitment; it is only the leadership we must get right.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

07 MARCH 2022

—

Fuel scarcity: Probe spending on refineries or face legal action, SERAP tells Buhari

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to probe the spending on the country’s four refineries, and alleged corruption and mismanagement of public money budgeted for the rehabilitation, operation, and maintenance of the refineries since 1999.”

SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any mismanaged public funds should be fully recovered.”

SERAP also urged President Buhari to “direct Mr Malami and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to bring to justice those suspected to be responsible for the importation and distribution of dirty fuel into the country, and to urgently identify and ensure access to justice and effective remedies to affected victims.”

In the letter dated 5 March, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector and the resulting importation and distribution of dirty fuel and protracted fuel scarcity in the country.”

SERAP said, “The importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and the current fuel scarcity across the country demonstrate the need for effective accountability measures to weed out, expose, and punish allegations of corruption in the sector, and to ensure justice and effective remedies for victims.”

According to SERAP, “Allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector have contributed to the importation and distribution of bad fuel, causing environmental problems and violating the human rights of many users, including to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.”

The letter, read in part: “Investigating and prosecuting allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the spending on the refineries would be entirely consistent with constitutional guarantees and international standards. It may also galvanize public support for your government’s anti-corruption efforts.”

“Alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, the importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and protracted fuel scarcity amount to a fundamental breach of constitutional and international human rights obligations, depriving Nigerians of economic opportunities and subjecting them to cruel and degrading treatment.”

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

“SERAP also urges you to instruct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to jointly track and monitor the spending of public funds to rehabilitate, operate, and maintain the country’s refineries.”

“SERAP is concerned that fuel scarcity in several parts of the country has subjected many Nigerians to harsh economic and social conditions, making them incapable of developing their abilities and realising their potential.”

“Unfortunately, this is not the first time that Nigerians will be put through severe economic conditions, which may amount to torture or cruel or degrading treatment or punishment.”

“SERAP is concerned about the human rights impact of many years of alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, the importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and protracted fuel scarcity, including the impact on the environment and harm to the many people whose vehicles were damaged as a result of adulterated fuel.”

“The impunity of perpetrators has continued to expose Nigerians to a string of misfortunes: poor living conditions, ill-health, marginalisation, and an inability to enter into the life of society and assume responsibilities.”

“Ensuring justice and accountability in the spending of public funds on refineries which have for many failed to ensure the availability of petrol and access of economically and socially vulnerable Nigerians to their own natural wealth and resources would serve the public interest.”

“It would also be entirely consistent with your constitutional oath of office, and with your duty as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.”

“Ending impunity and ensuring access of victims to justice and effective remedies would contribute to preventing and combating corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector. It would also help to address the protracted problem of dirty fuel and fuel scarcity, as well as improve availability and access to fuel in the country.”

“High-ranking public officials, including officers of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited suspected of complicity in the allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, and in the importation and distribution of adulterated fuel have continued to enjoy impunity.”

“Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended] imposes clear responsibility on your government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution. Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to ‘abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.’”

“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’ Section 16(2) further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’”

“Under article 24 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Nigerians have the ‘right to a general satisfactory environment favourable to their development.’”

“Similarly, articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption impose legal obligations on your government to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs.”

“SERAP also notes your oft-expressed commitment to give ‘the utmost priority to fighting corruption and other related offenses’ in the country.”

“According to reports, petroleum products with methanol quantities above Nigeria’s specification were recently imported into the country. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) reportedly stated that the methanol-blended petrol was imported into the country by a few suppliers through four premium motor spirit cargoes under its Direct Sales Direct Purchase (DSDP) arrangement.”

“According to reports, for every 200 litres of the adulterated product, 800 litres of petrol with good quality would be required for the blending to be done. Millions of Nigerians are also currently witnessing fuel scarcity across the country. There has been protracted problem of fuel scarcity under successive governments, and under your government.”

“Many Nigerians are queuing up at petrol stations to buy fuel to power their cars or generators, despite their right to natural wealth and resources, and other socio-economic rights.”

“According to reports, the government spends over N264 billion annually to operate and maintain the country’s refineries. Successive governments have reportedly spent trillions of Naira to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the refineries that have produced little or no fuel.”

“Your government reportedly spent $396 million for maintenance of the country’s refineries between 2015 and 2020 alone. Despite this huge spending, millions of Nigerians continue to lack access to full and unhindered supply of fuel.”

“About N82.82 billion was reportedly spent in 2015; N78.95 billion in 2016; N604.127 billion in 2017; N426.66 billion in 2019; N218.18 billion in 2019, and N64.534 billion expenditure was recorded from January to June 2020.

The letter was copied to Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

6/3/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

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

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: PRESIDENT BUHARI SALUTES WOMENFOLK

President Muhammadu Buhari extols Nigerian women on the occasion of International Women’s Day, March 8, 2022.

The celebration, under the hashtag #Break the Bias, and the theme; Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow, the President says, is an opportunity to reflect on the vital roles women play in society, homes, governance, the professions, and in all walks of life.

President Buhari observes that women are not where they should be yet in different spheres of endeavor, but believes that they can no longer be deprived for too long, as they consistently prove that they can hold their own on all fronts, and in all fields.

He applauds the contributions of women to the current administration as Ministers, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Executive Directors, Executive Secretaries, and many others, noting that they are pulling their weights, and making it impossible for anyone to downplay their essence.

The President rejoices with women and mothers, around whom the tranquility of homes and society revolves, praying God to grant them peace, joy and satisfaction, as they celebrate today and always.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

March 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS VICE PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO AT 65, EXTOLS HIS LOYALTY AND RESOURCEFULNESS

On behalf of the Federal Executive Council, Government and people of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the auspicious occasion of his 65th birthday, March 8, 2022, joining family, friends and associates to celebrate the man of many parts.

President Buhari notes the worthy contributions of the Vice President to the development of the country as a lawyer, scholar, administrator and pastor, working selflessly and sacrificially to bring government closer to the people, and placing the people at the centre of governance by regularly advocating policies that support human development.

As the lawyer and scholar turns 65, the President affirms that his loyalty and dedication to duty have been most exemplary, especially in supervising the economy, which involves regular interface with heads of public and private institutions, and other government structures to ensure synergy and harmony that put the welfare and wellbeing of all Nigerians first.

President Buhari extols Vice President Osinbajo’s courage, humility and resourcefulness, praying that the Almighty God will continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health to serve the nation and humanity.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH FAMILY OF VETERAN BROADCASTER, FABIO OLANIPEKUN

President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of veteran sports broadcaster, Adesola Fabio Olanikpekun, praying for God’s comforting arms over all loved ones.

President Buhari also condoles with members of staff of Nigeria Television Authority, where Olanikpekun worked for many years, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigeria Guild of Editors over the loss of the veteran.

The President notes that the renowned broadcaster brought a lot grace, style and diligence to his work, setting a good example for many, and encouraging the growth of sports in Nigeria.

President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the soul of the departed.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 7, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS VETERAN ACTOR, PETE EDOCHIE AT 75

President Muhammadu Buhari joins entertainers in the music and movie industry, particularly Nollywood, in celebrating with veteran actor, script writer and movie producer, Pete Edochie, on his 75th birthday.

President Buhari congratulates the renowned actor for the many pioneering and motivating roles in the entertainment industry, hitting the limelight in the 80s as Okonkwo in the screen adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”, where his superlative performance brought the spotlight to Nigeria and Africa.

The President notes that Edochie’s background of living and working extensively in various parts of the country and the world, after serving the government as staff of the Nigeria Railway Corporation and Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation, greatly shaped his global outlook and influenced his interpretation of roles as a thespian.

Congratulating Edochie, the usually stereotyped actor as king and father in movies, President Buhari affirms that his role in the founding and growing of Nollywood as one of biggest entertainment industries in the world deserves commendation, especially in incubating younger professionals and nurturing talents like his son, Yul Edochie.

The President prays that the Almighty God will crown the award-winning actor, who has many international recognitions, with good health and strength to keep serving the nation.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 7, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES FORMER PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO AT 85

On behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians in general, President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 85th birthday, joining family, friends and associates in celebrating the joyous occasion.

President Buhari believes the former Head of State, 1976 — 1979 and former President of Nigeria, 1999-2007, is a study in patriotism, leadership and courage, leading the country to democratic government in 1979, and taking over the reins of power as elected President in 1999.

The President affirms that the former President’s influence continues to resonate beyond the country, extending to the international community and multilateral institutions.

As a former military and civilian leader, with a strong network nationally and internationally, President Buhari extols the wisdom, insight and versatility that Chief Obasanjo brings to bear on things, reflecting his experience, diligence and versatility.

On his 85th birthday, the President joins family members in thanking God for the life, health and alertness of the former leader, praying for grace and more strength as he serves country, Africa and the world.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 5, 2022

Press Statement

OAUSTECH SENATE BUILDING NAMED AFTER GOV AKEREDOLU

The Governing Council and Management of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, have named the University’s Senate Building after the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, in recognition of his giant stride in the institution.

The Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution, Professor Akinbo Adesomoju made the announcement during the commissioning of some project at the University on Tuesday.

Governor Akeredolu Commissioned the Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge; Principal Officer’s Quarters; and some Privately Donated Buildings at the institution.

Governor Akeredolu had within the first hundred days in office, laid asphalt on the road of the University from the Main Gate into the heart of the campus after visible neglect for eight years by the previous administration.

The Governor also commissioned the University Library; University Auditorium; and the Administrative Building on the 13th August, 2020.

Under his administration, all programmes due for National Universities Commission’s accreditations have been accredited, even as the University has been enlisted as a beneficiary of TETFund for the first time since inception.

Governor Akeredolu, who expressed surprise at the gesture, described the development as a call to do more.

“This came as a surprise to me, but all the same, it will surely spur us to do more in our education sector. What we have done is for the good of the state. We will continue to do more so as to build a stronger institution for the coming generation. We thank the founder, late Dr. Olusegun Agagu,” he said.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

March 8, 2022.

Press Statement

I STAND ‘GIDIGBA’ WITH WOMEN- Akeredolu

*Senate’s rejection of Special Bill for Women, a great setback

*Reps on path of posterity

Today, as the World marks the International Women’s Day, it is with an admixture of hope and despair that I identify with our Women folk. Be hopeful because the journey to the final berth of the most desirable moment shall remain undaunted. Remain focused. And, it is, undoubtedly, a sting of despair that there are still, fundamental existential challenges confronting us all in this journey.

Specifically, last week’s rejection of the Bill by the Senate to create the required leverage for our Women is unarguably, a great disincentive. Without prejudice to the sense of judgement of the Senate, we have, as a Nation, embarked on an insiduous self-denying trip. It is a great set-back because we have derobed ourselves of an ample opportunity for progress and development. The World is watching !

I am convinced, extraneous issues may have been allowed an uncanny space in taking a decision on that Bill. We have moved backwards in the most undiscernably inexplicable manner. We have taken a painful decision that seeks to insulate and detach wider, our dear Nation from Modernity.

In unambiguous terms, our Women have come of age; their virtuous and indelible marks of honour as well as dexterous individual determinations, not only toward self-development, but their displayed benevolence and compassion for humanity are huge narratives that cannot be discountenanced by society.

Examples abound in limitless counts all over Nigeria. We cannot all be oblivious of the exploits of our Mothers, Wives, Sisters and Daughters. If not now, when can we be proud of this great breed and specie of humans. How else do we intend to show gratitude to God?

At this point, I must salute the courage of the House of Representatives that has demonstrated its readiness to align with the mood of the Nation. The Green Chambers, by the decision to revisit the Bill clearly shows that all hope is not lost, after all. I, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN shall, alongside persons of likemind, leverage on this window of hope to break the yokes of oppression against Women.

Proudly, I stand ‘Gidigba’ with women on this course and many others to liberate women from the artificial barricades and shackles constructed by men and the society at large. Not even the challenge of the seemingly natural mien of needless envy that pervades the Women folk itself can discourage me. With shrewd determination, ceaseless display of courage and candour we shall all together, overcome this challenge that seeks to hold down our Women from advancement.

Ji Masun, ti e ba sun o lewu(wake up, do not sleep; careless sleep has consequences)

Signed

Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN

Governor, Ondo State

March 8, 2022

Press Statement

Akeredolu Salutes Vice President, Osinbajo @65

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has congratulated the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

Governor Akeredolu saluted the Vice President for his commitment and dedication to national development and nation building.

The Governor described the Vice President as a friend and colleague with endearing qualities which have distinguished him as a sterling personality.

“Very unassuming, Vice President Osinbajo is a man of many parts. His wealth of experience in law and by extension in the service of the people, stand him out as a reservoir of knowledge.

“A legal luminary, Professor Osinbajo has deployed his versatility in law to the admiration of all, especially in the affairs of the nation. He is one Vice President who exhibits admirable values.” The Governor said.

While congratulating the Vice President, Governor Akeredolu prays for more of God’s exceeding grace and abundant blessings as he continues to play critical roles in nation building.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

March 8, 2022.

March 8, 2022

Press Statement

Leadership Crisis: APC is Defunct, Not Eligible to Contest Elections – PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) again cautions all intending aspirants on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) for various positions in the 2023 general elections to note that APC is legally defunct, structurally crippled and no longer a legitimate and valid vehicle to field candidates for elections under our extant laws.

The unilateral dismissal and replacement of Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni with his Niger State counterpart, Abubakar Sani Bello by President Muhammadu Buhari as Chairman of the nebulous contraption called the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) confirms that the CECPC is an illegal creation that lacks statutory powers, authority and legitimacy of party leadership.

Mr. President’s action confirms that the APC is not a political party under our laws but a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which became legally nonoperational when in December 8, 2020, it dissolved its national, state as well as local government structures and handed its affairs over to a team of “political undertakers” known as the CECPC.

With the absence of a National Working Committee (NWC), National Executive Committee (NEC), a Board of Trustees (BoT) or legitimate structures in the States, the APC is plagued by confusion and fierce infighting by its various warlords with two National Chairmen, multiple factions in the States and a national secretariat now taken over by security agencies.

This further validates PDP’s sustained position that the APC is just a bunch of strange bedfellows and inchoate sailors clobbered together for remote personal gains and not for governance and public good.

Moreover, by virtue of Section 183 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which bars a sitting governor from holding “any other executive office in any capacity whatsoever” while serving as a State Governor, the APC’s CECPC whether headed by Governor Buni or Governor Bello remains constitutionally invalid.

The PDP draws the attention of intending aspirants on the platform of the APC to the fact that the CECPC has no statutory authority under the law and that any State Congress or National Convention conducted by it to produce any party leadership at any level remains invalid and unrecognized by law.

Consequently, any Governorship, State Assembly, National Assembly as well as Presidential Primary election conducted by any leadership produced by the illegal CECPC can only produce invalid candidates just like in the case of Zamfara and Rivers States in the 2019 general elections where the APC had invalid candidates due to defective primaries.

Our Party therefore urges aspirants intending to contest in the 2023 general elections under the APC as well as their supporters to read the hand writing on the wall and not waste their resources, time and energy in the APC.

The PDP urges Nigerians not to be distracted by the turmoil in the APC but remain focused on the platform of the PDP as we continue to take appropriate steps and actions in our mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the misrule of the fizzling APC.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

IWD: WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE GENDER EQUALITY, SAYS SANWO-OLU 

• Nigerian Women Should Remain Steadfast, Resolute In Demanding End To Bias, Discrimination – Lagos First Lady

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said his administration would continue to ensure gender equality in line with the theme of the 2022 International Women’s Day, which is “Gender Equality Today, for A Sustainable Development.”

With thirty-five percent women representation in government, Sanwo-Olu appreciated the invaluable contribution of women in making his administration’s goals realisable for a Greater Lagos through the T.H.E.M.E.S developmental Agenda.

Speaking at the 2022 International Women’s Day celebration held on Tuesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Governor Sanwo-Olu, said the celebration is a “call to action and the stepping up of advocacy aimed at raising the awareness to what the society stands to gain if equal opportunities were provided for both the female and male genders to pursue their dreams and attain their potential.”

He said Lagos State today has one of the highest numbers of women in any State cabinet in the country, noting that the State can also boast of more women than men as judges, Permanent Secretaries and heads of government agencies and parastatals.

“In Lagos State, our commitment to this yearly celebration reflects our belief in the critical role our women must play and are playing side by side with the men.

“As I address you today, I can attest to the invaluable contributions that our women are making to the attainment of the goals and objectives of this administration, as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S development agenda.

“Lagos State today has one of the highest numbers of women in any State Cabinet in the country. That was and remains a deliberate decision. We are a Center of Excellence, and we will demonstrate this in every facet of what we do,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos, in line with government policies and programmes has continuously demonstrated its seriousness about improving the quality of the lives of women, noting that Lagos was a national pioneer in the introduction of a six-month fully paid maternity leave, and paternity leave to allow fathers work-free time to support their partners after childbirth.

He said his administration in the last 34 months, has remained faithful to its promise to improve the socio-economic status of women by expanding the representation of women in government, empowering women and building various programmes and policies that are being faithfully implemented.

In her goodwill message, the Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu who had earlier led a protest rally to the State Assembly, against the recent rejection of some gender bills by the National Assembly, urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast and resolute in demanding an end to acts of bias and discrimination.

She commended Governor Sanwo-Olu, who she described as champion of the ‘He for She’ Campaign and Advocate for gender equality, for Lagos State Government zero tolerance for all forms of Gender-Based violence, child marriages, sexual harassment and harmful practices against women and girls.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, I wish to encourage all our women to strive and be the best in their chosen fields as this will lead to success and make them stand out even amongst their male counterparts. By so doing, more women will get to power and occupy better positions at all levels of Governance,” she said.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu who also spoke on the death of Miss Oluwabamise Ayanwole who went missing after boarding a BRT and was later found dead, described the development as sad, shocking, and devastating and called for one minute of silence in honour of the deceased.

“Let us give one-minute silence for Oluwabamise Ayanwole, the young lady that was gruesomely murdered. Lagos State condemns ritual killings. It is not acceptable. We pray that this would be the last time that we will hear this kind of bad news in Jesus name,” she prayed.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said Governor Sanwo-Olu is very passionate about the plight of the women in Lagos State.

She spoke on some of the achievements of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to empower women and youth in Lagos State, noting that thousands of people have benefitted in different skills from the established 19 Skills Acquisition centres across the State where no fewer than 20 vocations are taught free of charge.

Dada also encouraged women in Lagos state, Nigeria and all over the world to avail themselves of various opportunities to become empowered, self-reliant, self-confident, even as women strive to attain leadership positions across the world.

Lagos State chapter All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader, Mrs. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, stressed the need for gender equality for sustainable development and called for more women representations at the state and federal levels in the 2023 general elections.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

PRESS RELEASE

SLAIN BRT PASSENGER: INVESTIGATION WILL BE THOROUGH, PERPETRATORS MUST ANSWER FOR THE CRIME – SANWO-OLU

• ‘Those twisting, trivialising facts have no conscience’ – Governor

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said the circumstances surrounding the alleged disappearance and death of a 22-year-old lady, Miss Oluwabamishe Ayanwole, while in transit on a BRT bus, would be fully unravelled, stressing that stiff punishment awaits anyone found culpable in what he described as a “criminal and dastardly act”.

Sanwo-Olu said the State Government remained determined to pursue the matter transparently and to a logical conclusion, but cautioned those making attempt to twist the issue with unfounded insinuation and conjectures to desist from making comments that may pre-empt outcome of investigation being conducted by security agencies.

The Governor said those raising allegations of cover-up against the State Government were low-minded and had no conscience, stressing that there should be no reason for anyone to trivialise an incident that claimed the life of an innocent citizen.

Sanwo-Olu spoke to reporters during an event held on Tuesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan to commemorate International Women’s Day.

The Governor said: “There is an investigation that is currently going on and because it is a criminal matter, only the police are empowered constitutionally to fully unravel all of the events that happened, which led to the death of the lady. The development has been condemned at the highest level of the Government. I personally stand to condemn it and offer condolences to the family of our citizen, Oluwabamishe.

“I have read some narratives and write-ups in the social media in the last few hours. Some people are deliberately and extremely being sensational, posting that Lagos State Government wants to cover something; even my person. These people trivialise life, which appears to me like they just want to score a cheap point. These people are of low minds and have no conscience.

“Our Government will certainly not be deterred with such wicked narratives. What we are about is to ensure that we transparently get to the roots of the matter. That is why the police and the Department of State Service (DSS) picked up the driver, who ran to another State, where he was arrested. Full wrath of the law will be applied on whoever is found wanting in this matter. And we will ensure the incident does not repeat itself.”

Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the ability of the police to conduct thorough investigation and expose anyone or group of persons behind the death of the bus passenger.

The Governor also reacted to some of the concerns raised by the public on safety measures put in place before the incident, especially on absence of short-circuit cameras in BRT buses.

He said there were inbuilt cameras and trackers in buses procured abroad for BRT operations. But those acquired locally to shore up the BRT fleet did not have cameras, the Governor said, pointing out that the particular bus in which the slain victim rode was one of the buses locally supplied.

The Governor promised that safety measures on Government-owned buses would be improved upon in order to prevent re-occurrence of similar incident. He, however, cautioned members of the public not to board BRT buses after the close of bus services in the evening, noting that buses that have closed for the day would indicate by switching off its inner lights.

When BRT drivers switch off their inner lights, Sanwo-Olu said the buses were expected to be taken back empty to their yards.

“Any bus that has its inner lights on at night is certainly still on service. Once the lights are off and the radar in the bus is not displaying, people should desist from boarding such bus, because it is no longer in service at that period. By that time, the checker and conductor would have been out of the bus, except the driver who is expected to take the empty bus back to their yards,” the Governor said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES OSINBAJO AT 65, SAYS HE IS PRESIDENT’S DEPENDABLE PARTNER

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on the occasion of his 65th birthday, describing him as worthy, committed, loyal and dependable partner to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Prof. Osinbajo as a beacon of selfless service, seasoned administrator, legal icon, university don, and religious leader who has used his skills and positions in different capacities for national growth and development in both the private and public sectors.

The Governor also hailed Prof. Osinbajo’s contribution to the growth and development of Lagos State, especially in the judicial sector during his eight years tenure as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the State.

He said Lagos State witnessed a lot of transformation in the judicial sector in Lagos State during Prof. Osinbajo’s tenure as Commissioner for Justice, adding that the Vice President deserves commendation for many legal battles fought and won by the State during Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor.

“On behalf of the good people of Lagos State and my adorable wife, Ibijoke, I heartily congratulate Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the occasion of his 65th birthday celebration and commend him for his patriotism, doggedness, dedication, exemplary leadership qualities, commitment and tireless efforts exhibited so far as Nigeria’s Vice President.

“Prof. Osinbajo is worth celebrating because of his remarkable achievements in the legal profession, as well as his contributions, selfless services, and sacrifices to our dear Lagos State and Nigeria.

“Vice President Osinbajo’s contributions to the success of the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration at the federal level are commendable, considering how he is partnering and working with President Muhammadu Buhari and other critical stakeholders to steer the ship of Nigeria in the right path to deliver dividends of democracy to millions of Nigerians.

“I wish Prof. Osinbajo more years of joy and good health for continued service to the country and humanity as a whole,” he said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 MARCH 2022

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS FIRST LADY LEADS RALLY AGAINST REJECTION OF GENDER BILLS

…Condemns Murder Of Oluwabamise Ayanwole, Assures Of Justice  

Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday led a rally of women from different walks of life against the recent rejection of gender bills by the National Assembly, demanding an immediate passage of the bills.

The rally, organized by the Purple Women Foundation in collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Wives Forum tagged “One Million Women March Against Gender Discrimination, saw the First Lady and the women marching from Lagos State Secretariat to the House of Assembly in Alausa, Ikeja where they were received by principal officers including the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa; Deputy Speaker, Wasiu Eshinlokun; Majority Leader, Sanai Agunbiade; Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, Poverty Alleviation and Job Creation, Hon Mojisola Alli-Macaulay, among others.

It was put together as part of activities to commemorate the 2022 International Women’s Day Celebration, with the theme: “BreakTheBias: Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.”

Addressing the women, the First Lady described the rejection of the gender bills as an act of brazen discrimination against Nigerian women, calling on the National Assembly to promptly reconsider the bills and approve them.

“Our interpretation of what transpired with this pattern of voting at the National Assembly on March 1st, 2022, is that the progress of Nigerian women has been rejected. All the proposed constitutional amendments were meant to end bias against women and ensure the minimization; if not total removal of barriers millions of women face on the basis of their gender.

“We hereby condemn in no uncertain terms this brazen discrimination against Nigerian women. As half of the population of the country, our voices and our lives matter. There can be no development without the full and equal participation of women in all spheres, and any country that continues to deliberately undermine the advancement of women, is simply stifling its own advancement,” she said.

The First Lady also urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast and resolute in demanding an end to acts of bias and discrimination, assuring that victory awaits the womenfolk.

“As another March 8th comes upon us, we charge Nigerian women to rise and demand that all the political, economic, social, and cultural biases that keep eroding our dreams and that of our daughters be brought to an end. Our beloved country Nigeria belongs to all of us, men and women, boys and girls.

“On behalf of all the wives of Governors, I stand with our women that have come from all walks of life; I stand with our women that are here from different states. We are here standing for our rights and saying no to the rejection of the gender bills by the National Assembly. We are standing as one,” she said.

The First Lady, who also spoke on the death of Miss Oluwabamise Ayanwole who went missing after boarding a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and was later found dead, described the development as sad, shocking, and devastating.

“As mothers, we are devastated; we are in shock; we are not happy. Lagos State is not known for ritual killings and we will not tolerate such.

“Investigations are going on and I am sure there will be justice. Mr. Governor is not sleeping. There will certainly be justice,” she assured.

The First Lady called for one minute of silence in honor of the departed, just as she commiserated with her immediate family over the unfortunate incident.

Besides, she urged people to continue to be security conscious, adding: “When you see something, say something and do something.”

SIGNED

OLUBUKONLA NWONAH

ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS

OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY

MARCH 8, 2022

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING

PRESS RELEASE

Monday, March 7th 2022

PALLIATIVE MEASURES ON NIGERIAN ROADS ARE PAYING OFF – FASHOLA

• Says Rehabilitation, Construction works ongoing across the country as Ministry presents 2021 Ember Months, Post Rainy Season Palliative Works Report to Stakeholders
• Minister urges truck drivers to desist from parking on road shoulders
• NARTO, NURTW, other stakeholders commend FG as FRSC reports 9% reduction in accident rates during the period

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN has said the Federal Government’s ember months palliative measures on fixing Nigerian roads are paying off.

Fashola made the remark in Abuja during a performance review meeting of stakeholders on the 2021 Ember Months and Post Rainy Season Palliative Works on Nigerian Roads.

Fashola said that the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) yearly undertake routine palliative repairs of federal roads across the country during the ember months and post rainy season to facilitate easy movement of travelers, motorists, goods and services.

Fashola reiterated that different seasons bring different challenges and so the plan for every season is based on the report available and with such feedback things would be done better.

“Seasons of the year bring different challenges, so what works for one season is not going to work for another season and we must remember this as public servants.  It is with plan we can make things better. Things don’t happen by accident, we can control how they happen with good planning,” he said.

The Minister explained that ember months is not a period to toy with. It is a period when most things begin to happen naturally and based on that the roads become so busy which compels the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to carry out palliative works on the roads to reduce accidents and other ugly incidents on the roads.

“So, let’s remember what ember months is, it is months indicating clearly that the year is coming to an end.  And as the year ends certain things begin to happen naturally.  People still travel, there are a lot of social and religious gatherings and movements, people consume a lot more items than they normally consume and the roads will be busy,” he added.

Fashola stated that with the ember months palliative measures on busy roads to ensure seamless travelling by the general public, accidents rate according to reports by the Federal Road Safety Commission reduced by 9% which is a positive development.

“There is an indication that accidents rate has reduced with about 9% and that is a very positive thing, which means there were less deaths and loss of property,” he said.

The Minister tasked every road user to be conscious of the fact that the road is a shared asset and can only last when used properly and no asset will last if it is abused.  He urged the truck drivers to avoid parking on road shoulders because it reduces its life span.

He, however, stated that road palliatives are not the final answer but construction and rehabilitation and that the Ministry has repaired and constructed many roads and still doing more across the states of the Federation.

The Minister charged contractors on Nigerian roads to use proper road signages at all the construction sites and to ensure that standards are not compromised. He warned that any contractor not complying with the standards must be sanctioned according to the law.

In their remarks at the event,  the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) representative, Deputy Corps Marshal Operations, Kayode Fanola, the National President Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO),  Yusuf Lawal Othman and National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) representative, Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Anthony Asogwa, commended the Ministry and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency for the laudable achievements on roads maintenance palliatives across the country during the ember months as they helped curb accidents rate.

Earlier, the Director Highways Construction and Rehabilitation in the Ministry, Engr. Folorunso Esan, rmade a detailed presentation on the various Highways across the country where the ember months and post rainy season palliative measures were carried out.

Engr. Esan stated that the Federal Government released the needed funds to carry out the palliative works on the affected roads.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Engr. Nuruddeen Rafindadi also corroborated the fact that the Federal Government provided the needed funds for the execution of the repair works on the affected roads.

Boade Akinola (Mrs)

Director (Press & Public Relations)

March 7, 2022

Press Statement

Rt. Hon Dekor Congratulates Gov Wike On Conferment Of Chieftaincy Title Ekpeye Nation, Infrastructural Development

As Gov Nyesom Ezenwo Wike adds another chieftaincy title to his feather courtesy Ekpeye ethnic nationality, Rt. Hon Dumnamene Robinson Dekor, member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives says this is yet another honour well deserved.

Rt. Hon Dekor noted with joy the clear vision of Gov Wike and the corresponding determination to ensure that no part of the state was left out in his developmental strides, the result of which every community has thought it wise to appreciate him for his efforts through chieftaincy conferment and myriad of other honours.

He said Ekpeyeland no doubt has immensely benefitted from the Wike-led government in multiple ways and thanked God this fact was not lost on the people who have done well to honour His Excellency with Eze Ugbabuzewe Ekpeye Olu of Ekpeye land (the leader who has uplifted Ekpeye ethnic nation).

The federal lawmaker commended the foresight and wisdom of the Ekpeye people to reciprocate the government’s love and care for them, stressing that appreciation especially when it comes from the heart will trigger greater love and care from the benefactor.

Rt. Hon Dekor who is also the chairman, House Committee on Host Communities said it’s no exaggeration to say that Gov Wike has surpassed all previous administrations in the state put together in infrastructural development across the 23 local government areas of the state.

The Ogoni born politician and former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and one time Works Commissioner in the state described Gov Wike’s infrastructural development of the state as a revolution.

“All the evidence are therefore for all eyes to see. Even the blind can feel it and it does not matter whether these projects are acknowledged or not by political opponets; they are there and they are there for posterity. History must be kind to His Excellency long after he is done and gone as the man who came, saw and conquered, Rt. Hon Dekor declared.

He congratulated Gov Wike for being a pace-setter and assured him of the full support of majority of Rivers people whose lives he has greatly impacted, and who are ceaselessly praying for him for life and greater breakthroughs.

Signed:

Rt. Hon Dum Dekor Media Team   

Monday, March 7, 2022     

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU IS SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR

• Lagos helmsman also named Independent Newspaper’s Governor of the Year

• Dedicates awards to citizens toiling daily to make country work

Laurel came in double for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, over the weekend. The Lagos State’s helmsman picked two coveted leadership prizes for redefining governance in the current dispensation.

Independent Newspaper, a foremost national daily, named Sanwo-Olu as Governor of the Year for Infrastructure and Urban Renewal. The Governor, the newspaper said, has matched his campaign promises with actions, delivering tangible projects across Local Government Areas in Lagos.

Also, Sanwo-Olu was voted by Nigerians as Silverbird Man of the Year, becoming the 20th recipient of the prestigious award initiated by the Silverbird Group to celebrate public and private citizens whose actions have shaped the course of development positively.

The Governor received both awards at separate events organised by the awarding institutions at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The newspaper held its own event on Saturday, Silverbird Group’s ceremony was held on Sunday evening.

Independent Newspaper said Sanwo-Olu was shortlisted for the prize for providing service-centred leadership in Lagos, stressing that the Lagos Governor had become the reference point for excellence in public service in contemporary time.

Independent newspaper said: “The methodical implementation of the THEMES Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration is an eloquent testimony to the Governor’s resolve to transform Lagos State into a leading mega-city. From Ikorodu to Badagry, from Epe to Alimosho, from Agege to Satellite Town, more than 301 inner roads were rehabilitated and modern infrastructure in schools, health care and transportation spring up daily.

“His magic wand is visible in education, with the introduction of Eko EXCEL programme to revolutionise primary school in Lagos. Education appears to be the dearest project to Sanwo-Olu. He is determined to leave no child behind in his drive for quality education. The Eko EXCEL has reached over 1,000 primary schools, while over 13,000 teachers and 450,000 pupils have benefitted from the scheme.”

Presenting the plaque to Sanwo-Olu at the well-attended event, the Silverbird Group chairman, Sen. Ben Murray-Bruce, said the approach adopted by the Governor in the implementation of his administration’s development agenda, known as THEMES Agenda, showed Sanwo-Olu fully prepared for the position of leadership and had been discharging on his mandate with good results.

Murray-Bruce said the Governor’s footprint has been felt across sectors, stressing that his recognition as Silverbird Man of the Year affirmed legitimacy and people’s trust in Sanwo-Olu’s leadership.

The Silverbird award, which started 20 years ago, subjects its nominees to a public voting mechanism through which recipients are picked for the recognition.

Murray-Bruce said: “Sanwo-Olu got the highest number of votes to win the prize. What we are seeing here reflects the wishes of the people of Nigeria. The Governor is a great man, who has achieved great things while still in office.”

In his acceptance speech, Sanwo-Olu dedicated both awards to Nigerians who toil daily to make the country work for all citizens and particularly to residents of Lagos for standing by his Government.

The Governor said he did not accept the recognitions with the belief that all set objectives to take Lagos on higher pedestal in growth and development had been achieved by his administration, but take the awards as an unbiased acknowledgment of his modest effort to rekindle the hope of the citizens in the development of the country.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated that he would keep all his campaign promises to the residents of Lagos.

He said: “The awards are indeed an expression of what it means to be of humble service to the people. For every breath that we have, I’ll continue to ensure that all the promises that we have given to Lagosians, we keep them. Our journey to Greater Lagos is not complete; our work is not done yet. We are convinced that with the support of all of our citizens, we are on the right track.

“We get to fix things, because we have no other country. Whether we are youth, middle-aged or senior citizens, we have one property in common; our country. We all must get to work, roll up our sleeves and contribute efforts to fix this country for the current and coming generations. I strongly believe we have the potential, energy and commitment; it is only the leadership we must get right.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

07 MARCH 2022

—

Fuel scarcity: Probe spending on refineries or face legal action, SERAP tells Buhari

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to probe the spending on the country’s four refineries, and alleged corruption and mismanagement of public money budgeted for the rehabilitation, operation, and maintenance of the refineries since 1999.”

SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any mismanaged public funds should be fully recovered.”

SERAP also urged President Buhari to “direct Mr Malami and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to bring to justice those suspected to be responsible for the importation and distribution of dirty fuel into the country, and to urgently identify and ensure access to justice and effective remedies to affected victims.”

In the letter dated 5 March, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector and the resulting importation and distribution of dirty fuel and protracted fuel scarcity in the country.”

SERAP said, “The importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and the current fuel scarcity across the country demonstrate the need for effective accountability measures to weed out, expose, and punish allegations of corruption in the sector, and to ensure justice and effective remedies for victims.”

According to SERAP, “Allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector have contributed to the importation and distribution of bad fuel, causing environmental problems and violating the human rights of many users, including to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.”

The letter, read in part: “Investigating and prosecuting allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the spending on the refineries would be entirely consistent with constitutional guarantees and international standards. It may also galvanize public support for your government’s anti-corruption efforts.”

“Alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, the importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and protracted fuel scarcity amount to a fundamental breach of constitutional and international human rights obligations, depriving Nigerians of economic opportunities and subjecting them to cruel and degrading treatment.”

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

“SERAP also urges you to instruct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to jointly track and monitor the spending of public funds to rehabilitate, operate, and maintain the country’s refineries.”

“SERAP is concerned that fuel scarcity in several parts of the country has subjected many Nigerians to harsh economic and social conditions, making them incapable of developing their abilities and realising their potential.”

“Unfortunately, this is not the first time that Nigerians will be put through severe economic conditions, which may amount to torture or cruel or degrading treatment or punishment.”

“SERAP is concerned about the human rights impact of many years of alleged corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, the importation and distribution of dirty fuel, and protracted fuel scarcity, including the impact on the environment and harm to the many people whose vehicles were damaged as a result of adulterated fuel.”

“The impunity of perpetrators has continued to expose Nigerians to a string of misfortunes: poor living conditions, ill-health, marginalisation, and an inability to enter into the life of society and assume responsibilities.”

“Ensuring justice and accountability in the spending of public funds on refineries which have for many failed to ensure the availability of petrol and access of economically and socially vulnerable Nigerians to their own natural wealth and resources would serve the public interest.”

“It would also be entirely consistent with your constitutional oath of office, and with your duty as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.”

“Ending impunity and ensuring access of victims to justice and effective remedies would contribute to preventing and combating corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector. It would also help to address the protracted problem of dirty fuel and fuel scarcity, as well as improve availability and access to fuel in the country.”

“High-ranking public officials, including officers of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited suspected of complicity in the allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, and in the importation and distribution of adulterated fuel have continued to enjoy impunity.”

“Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended] imposes clear responsibility on your government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution. Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to ‘abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.’”

“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’ Section 16(2) further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’”

“Under article 24 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Nigerians have the ‘right to a general satisfactory environment favourable to their development.’”

“Similarly, articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption impose legal obligations on your government to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs.”

“SERAP also notes your oft-expressed commitment to give ‘the utmost priority to fighting corruption and other related offenses’ in the country.”

“According to reports, petroleum products with methanol quantities above Nigeria’s specification were recently imported into the country. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) reportedly stated that the methanol-blended petrol was imported into the country by a few suppliers through four premium motor spirit cargoes under its Direct Sales Direct Purchase (DSDP) arrangement.”

“According to reports, for every 200 litres of the adulterated product, 800 litres of petrol with good quality would be required for the blending to be done. Millions of Nigerians are also currently witnessing fuel scarcity across the country. There has been protracted problem of fuel scarcity under successive governments, and under your government.”

“Many Nigerians are queuing up at petrol stations to buy fuel to power their cars or generators, despite their right to natural wealth and resources, and other socio-economic rights.”

“According to reports, the government spends over N264 billion annually to operate and maintain the country’s refineries. Successive governments have reportedly spent trillions of Naira to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the refineries that have produced little or no fuel.”

“Your government reportedly spent $396 million for maintenance of the country’s refineries between 2015 and 2020 alone. Despite this huge spending, millions of Nigerians continue to lack access to full and unhindered supply of fuel.”

“About N82.82 billion was reportedly spent in 2015; N78.95 billion in 2016; N604.127 billion in 2017; N426.66 billion in 2019; N218.18 billion in 2019, and N64.534 billion expenditure was recorded from January to June 2020.

The letter was copied to Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

6/3/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

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