News From Nigeria
President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Vice President Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo, GCON, SAN on the occasion of his 66th birthday, March 8, 2023.
The President equally felicitates with the entire Osinbajo family, wishing them many happy returns, as their son, husband and father turns another year, in good health and sound mind.
President Buhari lauds the sterling service the celebrant has provided to the country, as an academic, Attorney-General of Lagos State (1997-2007), and Vice President (2015 till date).
He applauds the deft way Osinbajo, a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has combined scholarship with governance, and pastoral work, commending such dedication to the younger generation whom the Number 2 man serves as a torchbearer to.
President Buhari wishes the Vice President and his family joyful celebration, and greater grace ahead.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
March 8, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI CALLS ON NIGERIANS IN DIASPORA TO SUPPORT TINUBU’S GOVERNMENT
– Commends their contributions to national development
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, called on Nigerians living in the country to support President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he takes over the reins of government on May 29.
Speaking at a Town Hall meeting as part of his visit to the State of Qatar, President Buhari said his administration set forward to emplace credible, transparent and fair elections which will conclude on Saturday, March 11, with the Governorship and State Assembly elections. He therefore called on them to “support the incoming government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, so that Nigeria will continue to be the beacon of hope and prosperity in our continent and an example for other African countries to emulate.”
Speaking further, the President acknowledged the noble roles that Nigerians in Diaspora all over the world have been playing in the development of Nigeria, adding that his administration had approved a National Diaspora Policy, and supported the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) all the way to develop programmes for the engagement of Nigerians in the Diaspora for the ‘ambassadors’ to contribute their quota towards the development of their fatherland.
In his remarks, the Nigerian Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Yakubu Ahmed congratulated Buhari President on conducting successful Presidential and National Assembly elections on February 25, 2023. He said the process has proven that Nigeria’s democracy is indeed strong while praying for an equally successful Governorship and State Assembly elections.
Ambassador Ahmed informed the President that Nigeria and the State of Qatar have maintained brotherly bilateral relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2013 noting there are currently about 7,000 Nigerians residing in Qatar, and gainfully engaged in diverse areas of human endeavours.
“I’m proud to inform you, Your Excellency that majority of our nationals in Doha are professionals who have excelled in their chosen careers, playing critical roles in healthcare, safety, oil and gas, aviation, construction, among other sectors,” he added
Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian community in the country, Dr Arabo Ibrahim, a Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, said he had every reason to thank the President especially for restoring peace in the North-eastern part of Nigeria. “Our people were chased out of Mubi in Adamawa State by Boko Haran terrorists, peace is back. Now we go there and sleep peacefully. There is a lot of food now. People from the neighboring countries even come to buy food in Nigeria,” he added.
Another member of the community, Professor Akintunde Akinade, also thanked President Buhari for conducting an electoral process “alluded to as one of the best. We have gone through elections many times before and we all know what it’s all about. This is an election where money has taken a back seat. We’re very grateful to see what has happened this time in the presidential election. Thank you for bringing sanity to the country and the electoral process. We wish that this would continue.”
He equally lauded the President for the infrastructural revolution in the country, his anti-corruption war, keeping Nigeria together as well as his well-known democratic crusade in Africa. “I really want to thank you for your unwavering critique of African Presidents that really want to stay in office forever. I wish you a well-deserved rest,” he added.
The event was put together by the Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 8, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMISERATES WITH VICTIMS OF LAGOS AUTO SPARE PARTS MARKET
President Muhammadu Buhari has learned with deep sadness the death of a 65-year-old security guard, the loss of personal property and means of livelihood of some hardworking Nigerians at the Akere Spare Parts market in the Apapa Ajegunle area of Lagos State.
The President’s deepest sympathies are with the traders and their families, who bear the brunt of this unfortunate incident and are at crossroads of what to do after this temporary setback.
The President is equally concerned that a similar fire incident occurred at the popular Balogun market a few weeks ago, calling on relevant authorities to take precautions to stem the tide.
While the full extent and cause of the damage is being assessed, President Buhari commends the Lagos State Fire Service for responding to the incident, salvaging a nearby filling station with a 33,000 litres PMS tanker, amongst other adjoining buildings.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 8, 2023
Rivers Guber Election
Vote PDP’s Sim Fubara For Youth Empowerment, Free Health Services, Peace, Prosperity Of Rivers State – Obuah
…Says, Sim’s Candidacy Is Divine
The Director-General of the Rivers PDP Campaign Council, Bro. Felix Obuah has called on the good people of the State to go to the polls on Saturday, March 11, 2023 and vote for Sir Siminalayi Fubara of the PDP, assuring that their votes would bring about sustainable peace, economic growth, youth empowerment, free healthcare services for pregnant women, aging mothers and all round prosperity in the state.
Speaking ahead of the governorship polls which hold on Saturday, March 11, Bro. Obuah said the opportunity has again presented itself for Rivers people to prove that no other party exists in the state other than the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Bro. Obuah told Rivers people that Sim, when voted into office would focus on engineering the reindustrialization of Rivers State with appropriate policies, scale and institutional measures in partnership with the private sector as the propelling force for economic growth and development.
“Sim Fubara would build on the gains of the Wike administration. He will develop a 10-year reindustrialization master plan to provide the road map for achieving the industrial transformation of the state while encouraging private investors to take over and revive state companies”, Bro. Obuah said.
He noted that because the PDP is a party whose foundation is rooted in God, their choice of candidates has always had the backing of God.
“This assertion was proven with the choice of Governor Nyesom Wike in 2015, and you could see that despite the battles he went through, God preserved him, and the result is the all-round prosperity which his administration has brought to the State.
“God has once again given us a man, Sir Sim Fubara. This is another opportunity Rivers people should grab with two hands by filing out in their millions to vote for Sir Sim Fubara. A vote for Sim is a vote for continuity and consolidation of the gains brought by Governor Nyesom Wike”, Bro. Obuah stated.
A vote for Sim is a vote for peace, progress and more developments in Rivers State”, Obuah declared.
Bro. Obuah told people of the state to use the expected election of Sir Sim Fubara as a show of appreciation to Governor Wike for the great works he did for the state, for the eight years mandate given to him.
Bro. Obuah who was the immediate past State Chairman of the PDP as well as former Sole Administrator of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) said by turning out en masse on Saturday to vote for Sim Fubara, this generation of Rivers people would be writing their names in gold and posterity would continue to celebrate them.
He also charged the electorate to vote for all PDP House of Assembly candidates on the ballot, stressing that as a family, the executive and the legislature in the state are like brothers of same parents who speak and understand one language.
Jerry Needam
Secretary, Directorate of Publicity
& Communications
Rivers PDP Campaign Council.
Wednesday, March 8, 2023
Dum Dekor Appeals To Ogonis To Vote Siminalayi Fubara
With three days to the all important Governorship and State Assembly Elections in Rivers State, the member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dukor has appealed to Ogonis to troop out en masse and vote for the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
He said it is crystal clear from all indices that Sim Fubara is a divine choice for Rivers people, adding that his candidacy satisfies both the upland and riverine requirements in the State.
Reeling out strong reasons why Ogonis should vote for Sim Fubara, Dum Dekor said: “Sim is our brother from Opobo and Opobo is in the Rivers South East Senatorial District. He has supported and touched the lives of many Ogoni people even from his days as a school teacher at Eleme.
“Sim is humble and well educated. He has no issues with anybody in Ogoni and Rivers State at large. He will bring development to Ogoni which is something we have been yearning for. Sim definitely stands out among the other governorship candidates.
“As each of the other candidates in the race has one or two scores to settle with people, Sim has nothing against anyone.
Sim Fubara is Godfearing, charismatic, pragmatic, peaceful, impeccable, resourceful, dependable, compassionate, dedicated to service, humane and a careful talker who chooses his words. Sim Fubara does not have the ‘boys’ like many other governorship candidates”.
The federal lawmaker urged the Ogoni people to use their votes to prove to Sim Fubara that he is indeed one of their own.
“If we say that Ogoni is PDP and PDP is Ogoni, then another opportunity has come for us to make it real. We should cast all our votes for Sir Sim Fubara on Saturday”, he said.
Dum Dekor also appealed to Ogonis, especially the people of Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency to vote for the PDP House of Assembly candidates in Khana Constituencies 1 and 2, as well as that of Gokana Constituency.
“From Gokana Constituency, we will vote for Dumle Maol. He is a tried and tested lawmaker who has proven his mettle as an able representative of Gokana people. He should return to the Assembly.
“The good people of Khana Constituency 1 and 2 should vote massively for Hon. Mrs. Barile Nwakoh and Barrister DineBari Loolo, for Khana Constituency 1 and 2 respectively. They have been carefully chosen because we believe in their capacities to deliver. Give them your votes and be rest assured they won’t disappoint us”, Dum Dekor assured.
Signed:
Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor Media Team
‘Lagos is operating far below its potential’, Funso Doherty shares #WithChude
The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State, Funsho Doherty sits with Chude Jideonwo, host of #WithChude on a Lagos Election Special, Eko l’ on pebi, featuring the leading candidates in the Lagos Governorship election, asides the incumbent Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was unavoidably unavailable for the interview.
On the interview, Doherty discusses the gaps in the current leadership in the state and what he wants to do differently.
“My overall sense is that Lagos is operating far below its potential. Lagos is blessed with a lot of natural advantages relative to other cities in Nigeria. The managers of this city have been entrusted with a lot. If I look at the last 23 years that Lagos has been governed by essentially one ruling entity, even though you have had different governors, I think of where we are relative to where we could have been, and the difference is very wide”.
Reacting to the claim that overpopulation makes it difficult for the current government to do more than is presently being done, he said, “I think that is a narrative, I don’t think there is evidence to support it. Yes, we have a large population but remember that Lagos’s budget this year alone is about 1.7 trillion. I think that there is always an explanation for why we are where we are and there will always be some ground that you cover as a result of just time passing, to the extent that you spend 1.7 billion in passing. You will do some things but the question is are we doing the right things? Are we getting value for the resources that we are spending? What is the overall outcome for all of what we are doing, is the society becoming more equitable, or are the resources of the society becoming more and more concentrated?”
Doherty also shared from his TIGER agenda on what he plans to do when in office, “One of the first things that we will do is, we will unwind the revenue collection agreement that the government have with the AlphaBeta agency, we think that it is something that doesn’t happen in a modern society like Lagos. We don’t see the reason why you should have a small group of people with limited transparency accounting for the revenue and keeping a share of those revenues. For the transportation project, the rail project has been on for almost 16 years, there is no reason why that should be, and there is no transparency around those things. A large public works project like that should be in the public domain, and people should know. When we come into office, we will open it up and share the information with Lagosians and understand what the issues are. And we will ensure that the project is delivered or amended as needed”.
On the evidence to back the perception that Lagos has been being ruled by the same entity for the past 23 years, he shared, ‘I think there are significant arrangements that you can point to, and the AlphaBeta arrangement is one of them, that is something that originated from one administration many years ago, I don’t think any governor that comes from the platform of the ruling party can do anything about it when they come. This thing that I talk about is even in the Agbero space, some of the actions that were taken in the issue with NURTW the other day and how that was handled, you can see that there is a coziness in that relationship that goes beyond the person that is currently occupying the seat. Even some of the actions of the governor in relating to whom we might think of as the principal – Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The other day, our governor was in Chatham House answering questions for ex-governor Tinubu. There is perception and reality and all of them apply in this case’.
Sanwo-Olu, blessing to Lagos State, says Adeyinka Adedoyin
Lagos leader, Adeyinka Adedoyin, on Tuesday applauded the leadership qualities of the member representing Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Desmond Olushola Elliot, describing him as an inspiring leader.
“Honourable Desmond Olushola Elliot has become the standard yardstick to measure performance of politicians in Surulere”
He also heaped praise on the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for translating the hopes and dreams of the people into reality and creating for Lagos State an environment of good order and civilization.
“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deserves credit for addressing challenging issues facing Lagos State, protecting the interests of the people and channelling his energies towards executing projects that ameliorate the suffering of the people.
Adedoyin spoke on the prospect of re-electing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Desmond Elliot during catch the vote rally in Alaka, Surulere Local Government Area.
He commended Sanwo-Olu for articulating a clear, compelling and attainable vision for the people, developing the state and empowering the people.
Particularly, the Lagos APC leader extolled the leadership qualities and proven records of service of Sanwo-Olu, urging the good people of the state to reject other parties in the March 11 governorship elections. ”We are on track. The process of re-electing Sanwo-Olu and Desmond Olushola Elliot is expected to be a formality”.
He eulogized the Lagos lawmaker for his vision, maturity, leadership style and his service to the wonderful people of Surulere Constituency 1.
“A change is not on the cards. The result of the House of Assembly election won’t surprise anyone. Desmond Elliot deserves another term”
Adedoyin said Elliot’s opponents would suffer a humiliating electoral defeat.
“The choice of the people is not in doubt. The people have confidence in Desmond Olushola Elliot” the Lagos leader said.
He lauded the member representing Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly for delivering verifiable and functional projects in the constituency, raising the standard of living through his poverty alleviation programs, electrification and water schemes, construction and rehabilitation of schools across the constituency and facilitating employment and admission for a lot of people in the constituency.
“Even acknowledged authorities in the field of politics and government recognize the efforts of Elliot in the development of the constituency. He is an outstanding lawmaker and deserves re-election”.
The Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain also praised Desmond Elliot for initiating free health care for the people.
“Hon Desmond Olushola Elliot has done a good job. He richly deserves re-election”.
… Appreciates Ondo South People
Senator- elect for Ondo South senatorial district, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR has received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the International Conference Centre, Abuja on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.
He was among the 98 senators-elect presented certificate of return on Tuesday.
The billionaire business mogul and candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) was presented the certificate by the INEC National Commissioner, Prof Kunle Ajayi.
Ibrahim defeated the former deputy governor and governorship candidate of Zenith Labour Party in last governorship election in Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi in the just concluded National Assembly election.
Agboola Ajayi was the senatorial candidate of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the election, having defeated the incumbent Senator Nicholas Tofowomo at the party’s primary.
Ibrahim won in all the six local government areas in Ondo South senatorial district to emerge winner of the election on February 25, 2023.
He polled 110, 665 votes to defeat his main rival, Agboola Ajayi of PDP who scored 65, 784 votes.
Receiving the certificate of return, the senator-elect appreciated the people of Ondo South for the confidence reposed in him by giving him their mandate to represent them at the Senate.
He assured them of responsible and responsive representation, adding that all his electioneering promises would be fulfilled earnestly.
Ibrahim has been receiving congratulatory messages from the Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, traditional rulers, elder statesman and stakeholders from the district since his emergence as the winner of the poll.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU TAKES CAMPAIGN TO MARKETS, ASSURES IGBO TRADERS OF SAFETY
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, received warm hospitality from communities of Igbo traders and businessmen across the State, as he embarked on campaign tour of major markets populated by people from the Southeast.
The Governor took a tour of the markets ahead of the Saturday gubernatorial election, following the open endorsement and show of support for his re-election by Ndigbo community in Lagos.
It was a rousing welcome for Sanwo-Olu at an open forum organised by traders, under the aegis of Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA), in Trade Fair Complex, Ojo.
The engagements sent a note of re-assurance to Ndigbo community in the State, as the Governor pledged to ensure safety of their businesses and properties.
Besides, Sanwo-Olu met an amalgamation of Igbo traders across 58 major markets in Lagos. The traders, under the aegis of Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, unanimously backed the Governor’s re-election.
The Governor also had interaction with traders at the popular mobile phone market (Computer Village) in Ikeja.
The engagements were initiated in response to concerns raised over safety of businesses and properties owned by Southeast traders in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu allayed the fears of the Igbo traders, assuring them that Lagos would continue to be a melting pot for all Nigerians. He said his administration would continue to foster security and promote peaceful coexistence among all ethnic nationalities in the State.
At the Trade Fair forum, the Governor said: “I am here on a solidarity visit and to thank you for your public endorsement of my humble self, which I believe will be reflected at the polls on Saturday with the highest number of votes cast from members of your community. You are not giving us your support for anything; you believe we deserve this encouragement because my team and I have worked tirelessly to improve your well-being.
“Very soon, Ojo will have a brand new General Hospital that will serve your needs. You also have seen expressways and bridges being completed on this corridor and we have awarded rail project into Okokomaiko that will aid movement of people and goods. I am excited that Lagos is on the path of growth. Through your cooperation and peaceful coexistence, we can ensure that we will not only build the State, we will build a better country for ourselves.”
Sanwo-Olu assured the Igbo traders of his Government’s commitment to their prosperity, stressing that the approval recently received by the State for development of Badagry Seaport was to facilitate economic development and boost logistics, especially in the movement of goods.
The Governor pledged his administration’s commitment to the safety and security of non-indigenes living in Lagos. He urged the Igbo traders not to listen to the scaremongers threatening to attack them because of their electoral choices.
He said: “We will continue to work with your leadership to enhance cooperation and identify areas we can improve on to foster peace and stability. We will not be hostile to any community of non-indigenes. For as long as you conduct yourselves in a peaceful manner, your safety and security will remain our priority. There is no need for any law-abiding resident to be scared.”
President, Chief Ngozi Emechebe, described Sanwo-Olu as “a true friend of Igbo”, noting that the Governor had never been hostile to non-Yoruba residents living in the State.
Emechebe said the forum was initiated as a re-assurance of support of the Ndigbo community to Governor’s re-election, saying the traders would work for the Governor’s electoral victory in their respective polling stations.
He said: “Sanwo-Olu is a good man and has demonstrated that he is a lover of Igbo. We have resolved to support the Governor for second term because of his performance and his economic policies that have supported our businesses. Through this forum, we are assuring the Governor that we shall sing the song of victory together with him.”
At 7pm, Sanwo-Olu ended his tour with the visit to the biggest international market in Lagos – Alaba International – where he had engagement with Igbo traders.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
07 MARCH 2023
President Muhammadu Buhari will, on Saturday, March 4, leave for the 5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LCDs) in Doha, the capital city of Qatar.
This follows an invitation by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The conference which is from 5th to 9th March, 2023 under the theme: “From Potential to Prosperity,” holds once in a decade and provides an opportunity to garner the support of the international community for accelerating sustainable development in the LDCs as well as assist them make progress towards achieving prosperity.
In Doha, President Buhari will reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to support the most vulnerable countries to meet their development challenges, highlighting areas through which the Nigerian government has provided them with various forms of assistance over time.
As most of these countries struggle to find sustainable solutions to challenges of poverty, adverse effects of climate change, food and energy crisis as well as high-debt burden among others, the Nigerian leader will vigorously reiterate the need for sustainable solutions for countries facing these severe challenges.
The Summit will be attended by world leaders, the private sector, civil society and youth organisations. It aims to share developmental ideas and mobilize political will, solidarity, action and solutions to transform the LDCs, by finding sustainable solutions to the challenges of poverty, food insecurity, hunger, weak or non-existent infrastructure, inadequate health facilities, climate change among others as they struggle to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
President Buhari’s delegation includes some Ministers and top government officials who are expected to use the opportunity of the visit to sign some agreements and Memoranda of Understanding with the Qatari government.
The President is expected to return to the country on Wednesday, March 8.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 4, 2023.
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMISERATES WITH ABACHA FAMILY OVER DEATH OF ABDULLAHI
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to the former First Lady, Marayam Abacha, and family on the death of their son, Abdullahi.
The President’s prayers and thoughts are with the family of Abacha as they grieve the passing of the young Abdullahi.
The President prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased and comfort for those who mourn.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 4, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI FELICITATES WITH MOST REVD AKINWALE AS NEW METHODIST CHURCH ARCHBISHOP OF ABUJA
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates most warmly, His Grace, the Most Revd Michael Olusegun Akinwale as he officially assumes office as the new Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese of the Methodist Church Nigeria.
The President wishes the Archbishop a successful Enthronement ceremony on Sunday, March 5, 2023, to be performed by the Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Oliver Ali Aba.
President Buhari, while commending Archbishop Akinwale for his services to the church particularly, during his immediate past position as the Secretary of Conference, expresses confidence that he will deploy his wealth of experience to do greater exploits in his new post in Abuja.
The President enjoins the Archbishop and other church leaders to use their exalted positions to preach love, unity and peaceful co-existence among their followers, especially during this period of general elections in the country.
According to him, “Our religious leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting brotherhood in our nation since they command large following and should serve as vanguards of peace and stability. As role models, their utterances and messages have the capacity to influence their listeners positively or negatively.”
President Buhari also prays for Archbishop Akinwale to have a blessed tenure as he continues to serve God and humanity in his new capacity in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
March 4, 2023
Naira Redesign: ‘Disclose how you’re obeying Supreme Court orders’, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “disclose details of the measures your government is taking to immediately and effectively obey the Supreme Court decision extending the validity of the old N200, N500, and N1,000 notes, and directing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to continue to receive the notes from Nigerians.”
SERAP urged him “to publicly instruct the CBN to immediately and effectively implement the Supreme Court decision ordering an end to the cash withdrawal limits imposed by banks because such restrictions violate citizens’ right to freely use their property.”
SERAP also urged him “to disclose the measures that your government is taking to direct the CBN to immediately re-circulate the old N200, N500, and N1,000 notes, as ordered by the Supreme Court.”
In the letter dated 4 March, 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said, “There is an overriding public interest in disclosing the details of the measures your government and the CBN are taking to effectively and satisfactorily obey the Supreme Court decision.”
According to SERAP, “Disclosing the measures that your government and the CBN are taking to implement the Supreme Court decision would also enable Nigerians to monitor and scrutinize the level of compliance with the decision.”
SERAP said, “The public should not be kept in the dark on what your government and the CBN are doing to implement the decision. Widely publishing the implementation measures would also improve accountability of state officials and public confidence in the rule of law and Nigeria’s democracy.”
The Supreme Court last week extended the validity of the old N200, N500, and N1,000 Naira notes till 31 December, stating that the CBN must continue to receive the notes from Nigerians. The Court held that the president’s directive on the redesign of the new notes without due consultation is invalid.
The letter, read in part: “We would be grateful if the requested information and recommended measures are implemented within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our requests.”
“The implementation by your government of the CBN policy on the redesign of the country’s currency has contributed to violations of citizens’ rights.”
“SERAP is concerned about the persistent disobedience of court orders by your government, and the apparent lack of respect for constitutional and international rule of law obligations.”
“Nigerians are entitled to the details of the level of compliance by your government and the CBN with the Supreme Court decision as a matter of transparency, justice and the rule of law.”
“The Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, and human rights treaties to which the country is a state party rest on the principle that citizens should have access to information regarding their government’s activities.”
“Your government has the legal duties to act as ordered by the Supreme Court, and consistent with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, the CBN Act, and the country’s international obligations.”
“Our requests are brought in the public interest, and in keeping with the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended]; the Freedom of Information Act; the CBN Act, and the country’s international obligations including under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“According to our information, the Supreme Court has extended the validity of the N200, N500, and N1,000 Naira notes till 31 December, and directed that the CBN must continue to receive the old notes from Nigerians.”
“The Court held that your directive for the redesign of the new notes and withdrawal of the old notes without due consultation is invalid.”
“The Court also stated that the disobedience of its interim order of 8 February that the old N200, N500, and N1,000 notes should continue to circulate alongside the new ones makes Nigeria’s democracy look like a mere pretension while democracy is replaced with autocracy or dictatorship.”
“The Supreme Court also ruled that the cash withdrawal limits imposed by banks as a result of scarcity of currency notes in circulation is illegal, as it amounts to impermissible restriction on citizens’ right to freely use their property.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
5/3/2023
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
. As Gov Wike commissions completed Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road and flags off extension of dualisation of Ahoada-Omoku road and the reconstruction and dualization of Emohua Road to Abalama/Tema Junction in Rivers state
Managing Director of Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter has again assured the government and people of Rivers state of prompt delivery of top quality projects within agreed schedule.
He spoke at the flag-off of various road projects recently awarded the company in Rivers State even as Gov Wike enjoined the company to meet the projects’ deadlines assuring that an effective payment schedule has been put in place even beyond his tenure in office come May 29 this year.
At the flag-off ceremony of the Ahoada-Omoku road extension and dualisation, Engr Dr. Richter reminded all that “we have the privilege of dualising 25kms of road in just 18 months.” He however offered his personal thanks to the Rivers State Governor, saying, “I would like to personally thank His Excellency for his great confidence in our company.”
In order to meet the deadline for the Ahoada-Omoku road dualisation extension project, Engr. Dr. Richter sought the cooperation of all stakeholders. “In order to be able to meet the construction deadline, which is actually short, we need the cooperation of all stakeholders involved. The good and cooperative collaboration with the Rivers State administration so far makes me very confident that we will also successfully realise this project as a well-coordinated team,” Julius Berger Managing Director said. He further pleaded for understanding from “communities along the road alignment,” stating that they will all benefit from the project at the end of the day.
Earlier at the event, Rivers State governor said he believes that Rivers people deserve the best, which is why his administration has not looked back on committing resources, while engaging the best construction firm, Julius Berger, to deliver those critical road and other infrastructural projects.
Governor Wike recalled that when phase one of the Ahoada -Omoku Road was inaugurated, he promised to return and flag off the phase two of the road, adding that it has now been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to handle. According to the Rivers State Governor, it is now a promise fulfilled to the Rivers people.
He said when the road project is completed, it will not only ease movement of farm produce from the rural area to the city, but also reduce travel time and encourage people to stay in their communities and go to work in Port Harcourt. The Ahoada-Omoku Road Project is expected to have a significant impact on the communities in the area, as it will provide better access to schools, hospitals, and other public facilities. It will also make it easier for farmers to transport their goods to the markets and for businesses to move their products across the state.
Wike also flagged off the reconstruction and dualization of Emohua Road to Abalama/Tema Junction by Julius Berger. Speaking at Ogbakiri junction in Emohua Local government Area, the venue of the flag off, Governor Wike thanked Julius Berger for the company’s efforts at giving the state “beautiful infrastructures that will stand the test of time.” He said the road project is dear to his heart and would want it completed as soon as possible.
During the event at Ogbakiri junction, a confident Engr. Dr. Lars Richter said that, “given the competence, experience and delivery records of the Julius Berger projects team in the state, there should be no cause for worries as the company has always delivered on its contracts with the State Government with excellent results.” He promised that the Emohua Abalama-Tema Junction Road will be completed and delivered on time as well.
Another road project completed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road, was also commissioned by Governor Wike. The Governor did not mince words in congratulating Julius Berger for clinching the road construction contract adding that, “you well deserve it from your previous high premium deliveries.”
Giving his speech during the commissioning ceremony of the Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road in the state, Julius Berger Managing Director said, “this Project for which we are gathered here today was awarded to us only on the 19th of July last year with completion period of 6 months, which was achieved. This completed road construction project is another addition to 10 flyovers and other road works, which our company also constructed and commissioned here in Rivers State. The remaining two flyovers are at their various stages of completion.” Engr. Dr. Lars Richter added, “…we have achieved this through the co-operation of our client, the Rivers State Ministry of Works and the various affected Communities whose enormous sacrifice had paid off today.”
At the different project flag off and project commissioning ceremonies, Engr Richter said that, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc will ever remain grateful to the administration of Governor Nyesom Wike “for giving our company the opportunity to be part of his transformation agenda which substantially transformed the entire State.”
The various flag-off ceremonies were attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, and the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi Owaji-Ibani, members of Rivers State Executive Council and traditional rulers, community leaders, and members of the public in the host communities.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, on the occasion of his 81 years birthday.
He described Pastor Adeboye, who clocks 81 on Thursday, March 2, as a respected global preacher whose unblemished records of service in God’s kingdom over several decades have made him a role model to many religious leaders and Christians.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Pastor Adeboye, popularly known as “Daddy GO” is worth celebrating due to many positive impacts he has made in the lives of millions of people locally and internationally, which he has done by building one of the largest spiritual institutions in the world.
He said Pastor Adeboye has raised millions of committed followers of Jesus Christ within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and outside the church, adding that the respected global evangelist had contributed immensely to the propagation of the gospel globally without any blemish or scandal.
“On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, the Lagos State Government, and the people of Lagos State, I want to congratulate a respected global evangelist and preacher of the undiluted word of God, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, on his 81st birthday.
“Pastor Adeboye has been a blessing, not just to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), but also to us in Lagos State. His unceasing prayers for us and wise counsel over the years have contributed in no small measure to the phenomenal progress our dear state, Lagos has continued to witness.
“Daddy G.O. is a true child of God, who is passionate about the gospel. His devoted service in God’s Vineyard has helped put Nigeria in the global spotlight, as a land of spiritual exploits and greatness. Yet, amidst all these wonderful accomplishments, Pastor Adeboye has remained as simple and humble as ever, never seeking the limelight or personal glory.
“As Pastor Adeboye clocks 81 today, it is our prayer that the Almighty God will grant him more grace and strength to continue to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray that the Almighty God will continue to crown him with good health to enable him to render more service to God’s kingdom. May he continue to enjoy God’s manifold blessings and everlasting goodness.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
02 MARCH 2023
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Political and community leaders in President Muhammadu Buhari’s native Katsina State have continued to pour into his private residence in Daura to express their happiness, following the emergence of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the country’s next president.
Receiving Governor Aminu Bello Masari and the Emir of Daura, Dr. Umar Faruk Umar, who led members of their cabinets on separate visits, President Buhari reiterated what he had often said about the President-elect that “Bola Tinubu truly believes in Nigeria and is genuinely committed to the progress and sustainable future of Nigeria.”
He thanked the electorate for their massive support for the APC in the Presidential and the National Assembly elections, asking them to further mobilize for the upcoming gubernatorial and Houses of Assembly elections.
President Buhari profusely thanked the people for supporting him for two terms in office, which he will complete on May 29, 2023.
The Emir said they had visited the President to congratulate him on the outcome of the elections, and commended him for preserving Nigeria as an indivisible entity.
He described the preservation of the country as historic achievements.
The Emir said he was proud of his people in Daura who did not fail the President and his party in the elections.
“APC won everywhere,” the Emir said.
On his part, Governor Masari said he felt happy that projections by pundits that Katsina would not vote for the APC turned out to be false, saying that he was proud of what was achieved.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 1, 2023
Press Release
Presidential/NA Elections:
Leave Gov Wike Out Of Your Failure – Bro Obuah
The Director General of Rivers State PDP Campaign Council, Bro Felix Obuah says the state governor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike should not be blamed for the failure of any political party and the hypocrisy of a handful of desperate politicians whose hopes were scuttled by the electorate in last Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly elections.
Bro Obuah said this against the backdrop of a seeming campaign of calumny against Governor Wike for allegedly interfering in the voting process in some electoral units in the State.
He described the allegation as baseless and unfounded because His Excellency having performed excellently well to the admiration of majority of Rivers people could naturally be expected to be rewarded for his commitment and selfless service to the people and that was exactly what played out during the election.
Bro Obuah noted that some unpopular politicians have formed the habit of dragging in the name of Gov. Wike in anything they do in order to draw attention and sympathy.
He recalled that it was Gov Wike who had raised alarm about the slow pace of the BIVAS machine at the point of voting. It is therefore ironical and irresponsible he noted, of anybody to come around to blame the Governor for any perceived systemic failure that was witnessed across the states and not only Rivers State.
According to the Rivers State PDP Campaign Council DG, the Rivers people are more informed and sophisticated to be deceived by such cheap propaganda and misinformation.
He challenged any person or electoral officer that claims to have been confronted by His Excellency in person or by proxy to distort the election results to own up or provide evidence to that effect.
“The best we can decipher from the results of the Presidential and National Assembly elections is that anywhere the PDP candidates won in the state, it was rigged or influenced and anywhere it lost, it was properly conducted. This is not the spirit. In a contest where two or more people are involved and one is required, there is bound to be a winner and a loser.
“Besides, it is natural justice that what goes around comes around. Check it out if our sense of history is still intact, all the individuals crying wolf now, had had their own share of rejoicing and celebrations when others were crying and bemoaning the same electoral system they benefitted from. It is very wrong to think it is only good when the outcome is in your favour, and only bad when you are at the receiving end,” Bro Obuah declared.
He therefore appealed to Rivers people and residents to remain calm while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) comes up with the rest of the results of the elections across the country, and discountenance any ill-conceived information aimed at tarnishing the image of the people’s governor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike and also vote for the PDP Governorship candidate, Sir Siminalayi Fubara in the March 11, 2023 Governorship and State Assembly elections.
Pastor Jerry Needam
Secretary,
Directorate of Publicity & Communications
Rivers State PDP Campaign Council.
Tuesday, February 28, 2023.
Demand for cancellation of presidential election treasonable – Ndoma-Egba
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, has condemned in strong terms the call by some opposition parties for the outright cancellation of the presidential election held on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
Describing the demand for the cancellation of the election as treasonable, unpatriotic and selfish, Ndoma-Egba, an erstwhile Senate Leader and former Chairman Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), wondered why anyone would want to truncate the country’s democratic process at this crucial stage.
The national chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), Iyorchis Ayu, Julius Abure and Ralf Nwosu respectively, while addressing a world Press Conference at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, said they were calling for a total cancellation of the Presidential poll and passing a vote of no confidence on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu because, in their words: “The conduct of the February 25, 2023 election has been marred by widespread violence, rigging, intimidation of voters, doctoring of the results, and violation of the laid down electoral process which was communicated by the national electoral body, INEC.”
But the legal luminary cum politician argued that “There is no provision in our laws to grant such a demand which is preposterous and selfish. It is even treasonable as they seek to truncate our democratic process and therefore destroy democracy.”
According to Ndoma-Egba, who is the Secretary of the Campaign Planning Directorate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), “Democracy is about processes not outcomes. They should allow the processes play out. There are copious legal provisions available to them to ventilate their grievances.”
Stating further that the call for the cancellation of the presidential election was needless and not in the best interest of the country, the ex-Senate Leader advised that political leaders should desist from making provocative and inciting utterances that are capable of engendering crisis or violence.
He said what should be paramount in the minds of all well-meaning Nigerians at this point in time should be how to join hands and work together with whoever emerges as the next president to build and reposition Nigeria for greatness.
Meanwhile, the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is set to be declared the winner of the election after securing a total of 8,805,420 votes upon the conclusion of the state-by-state collation of results at the National Collation Centre Abuja. Presidential flag bearer of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar, scored 6,984,290 votes to place second, while the LP standard-bearer, Peter Obi, polled 6,093,962 votes to come third.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU: WITH TINUBU’S EMERGENCE, A NEW CHAPTER IN LEADERSHIP BECKONS IN AFRICA
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the nation’s democracy has recorded another major victory, following the emergence of his predecessor and leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the just concluded presidential election.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a swift reaction to the announcement of presidential election results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the early hours of Wednesday, said Tinubu contested and won a fiercely-fought democratic battle, stressing that the victory reflected the All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate’s belief in deepening democracy in the country.
The Governor said the choice offered the citizens to pick their leaders in peaceful electoral process further confirmed democracy as the only credible means of attaining power, with the people at the centre of the struggle.
Sanwo-Olu said: “Asiwaju has worked tirelessly in the past two decades to deepen democracy in Nigeria, building bridges across the length and breadth of the country. His political credentials, which are a product of his many years of genuine investment in human and national development have played critical roles in giving him the national spread and endeared him to millions of Nigerians.
“Asiwaju’s decades of political activism and democratic struggle are well understood by the people. They, in return, have built their trust in him as a true democrat and a man to work with for Nigeria to continue on the path of unity, economic growth and development.’’
Congratulating the President-elect, Sanwo-Olu said he is confident that Asiwaju Tinubu would work hard to return the country to the league of nations where economic prosperity, security and political stability are hallmarks of development.
‘‘I congratulate my leader, mentor and president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on this historic achievement. Beyond that, I am confident that you will, in no time turn around the fortunes of Nigeria for the better in all the areas for Nigeria to sit permanently among nations with stable political, economic and social development,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Tinubu, Lagos Governor added, will be leading Africa’s biggest democracy and set great example for Africans aspiring to lead countries and cities on our continent.
“I have no doubt in my mind that Tinubu’s leadership style and democratic credentials will soon become a major lesson to other African leaders, who in turn will benefit immensely as they watch Nigeria navigate her ways through the various paths to economic recovery, social and political development.
“Congratulations to Nigerians and all lovers of democracy,” Sanwo-Olu said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
01-03-2023
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday arrived in Daura, Katsina state, in preparation for the Presidential Elections on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
The President, who was received by the Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari and Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Amb. Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, will be casting his vote at a polling unit close to his country home in Daura, alongside his wife, Aisha Buhari and other family members.
President Muhammadu Buhari, whose helicopter landed at 5:25 in Daura, preparatory to the elections, will be participating, not as a candidate as he had done since 2003, but as a voter.
Knowing the importance of every single vote, the President makes sure that all members of his family, members of the entourage, including security, protocol and other staff are registered to vote in Daura.
Before heading home for the elections, President Buhari had actively participated in the campaigns of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and presented the flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as his preferred successor, showcasing his record of statesmanship and contributions to economic development and democracy.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 23, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDEMNS KILLING OF OYIBO CHUKWU, LPs SENATORIAL CANDIDATE IN ENUGU
President Muhammadu Buhari strongly condemns the gruesome killing of Chief Oyibo Chukwu, the Labor Party senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District and his personal aide.
The President believes that the perpetrators of this ignoble act, in Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State,
have no respect for human life and dignity, and therefore deserve the wrath of natural and divine justice.
The President affirms his avowed commitment to an election that is devoid of violence and rancor.
He reminds all political actors that it is the choice of the electorate that counts, and therefore all eligible Nigerians should boldly exercise their civic rights without any fear of intimidation.
The President directs security agencies to track down the culprits of this heinous crime, even as he commiserates with families of the victims, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Labour Party.
President Buhari prays for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for those who mourn.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 24, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
YOUTHS IN LAGOS DECLARE FOR TINUBU
…Adopt Sanwo-Olu as their governorship choice
…‘Young people will be the backbone of Tinubu presidency’ – Youth Commissioner
As the nation counts down to the presidential election, youths in Lagos have come under a single umbrella to reiterate their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Tinubu, they submitted, is the most experienced and reliable candidate to lead the country in the next dispensation.
The youths, who came from all the traditional divisions in Lagos, converged on Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, on Thursday, to unanimously adopt the APC presidential candidate and his running mate, Sen. Kashim Shettima.
Besides, the youths endorsed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for another term, describing the Lagos helmsman as the most performing state administrator in the outgoing dispensation.
The attendees included members of non-political youth organisations, members of voluntary youth organisation (uniform) operating in Lagos, and their non-uniform counterparts in various groups.
Reading out the decisions agreed at the event, chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Lagos, Comrade Biliamin Oba, said the attendees were convinced that Tinubu remained the only presidential candidate who possessed the capacity and vision to turn things around in the country.
“We watched carefully all the campaigns ran by the major presidential contenders and we came to the understanding that only one of them understands the challenges facing our country. His manifesto is believed to offer solutions, because we have seen his track record.
“Tinubu governed a modern city that could be a country of its own and initiated development plans that have been efficiently implemented by his successors. Lagos, today, has become a pacesetter in governance. On the day of election, we have resolved that all of us will be independent canvassers for Tinubu.”
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Olusegun Dawodu, on whose instance the event was convened, said the Saturday election would be another watershed moment in the country’s political history, stressing that Tinubu remained the only true unifier among the contenders, who would bring the country together.
Dawodu, who recalled how Tinubu scouted for youths under age 35 for cabinet appointments in 1999, said the leadership tutelage model adopted by the APC presidential candidate had raised and thrown up new generation of leaders working to improve governance across the country.
The Commissioner said Sanwo-Olu, appointed into Tinubu’s cabinet in his 30s, had risen on the leadership ladder to become the best performing Governor in the country. Dawodu said young people would be the backbone of the Tinubu presidency if elected, urging the youths to mobilise members of their constituency into voting for APC on Saturday.
He said: “Among those running for president, Tinubu is the only candidate who stands out with verifiable track record. He is a visionary leader who will take our country to its destiny. Tinubu has always been a true believer in the youth. Governor Sanwo-Olu was appointed into Tinubu’s cabinet when he was in his 30s.
“Today, we have a Governor who has been fulfilling and delivering on his promises. This is a sign of things to come when Tinubu is elected as president. We have seen the Lagos experience and records of performance that have been the benchmark for quality governance. Tinubu is a true unifier; he will bring the country together.”
Youngest Lagos cabinet appointee, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, who supervises the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, said the “catch-them-young” legacy bequeathed in Lagos by Tinubu had created opportunities for young people across the State.
“Let us be prepared to vote on Saturday. We need to continue to build on the legacy set by Asiwaju, so that his vision can lead the country forward,” Ogunlende said.
Special Adviser to Gov. Sanwo-Olu on Education, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, said it was vision which differentiated Tinubu from other candidates, reminding the youths of the progress recorded in Lagos education system.
Wahab said Lagos would not have recorded the progress if there had not been continuity in the governance of the State by political parties backed by the APC presidential candidate.
He said: “Election is a science of mathematics and numbers. This will work out better if we are able to mobilise people to vote for APC on Saturday. With a good head start of 4.5 million votes in Lagos alone, this will give Tinubu a comfortable edge over other contenders,” Wahab said.
Lagos Youth Ambassador, Zainab Aderounmu, acknowledged the impacts and opportunities created for young people in Lagos, noting that she personally won support of the APC government in Lagos to pursue her goals.
Miss Aderounmu said the Saturday election was crucial for youth in Lagos to choose between a leader who care about young people’s future and opportunists who came every election year to seek support.
She urged young people to be peaceful in their conduct on Election Day.
Speaker of Nigeria Youth Parliament, Dr. Azeezat Yishau, said she personally endorsed Tinubu and urged her colleagues in the parliament to support the APC candidate for the country’s progress.
Igbo Youths endorse Atiku-Okowa, PDP candidates
The Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Youths Worldwide on Thursday endorsed the candidacy of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa for President and Vice President as well as all candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP.
The endorsement was given at the maiden Igbo Youth Town Hall Meeting held in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
The Igbo Youths led by Mazi Livinus Obasi Onu said the youths were concerned about the drifting economy and insecurity plaguing the once peaceful South-East and urged the PDP Presidential Candidate Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Dr Ifeanyi Okowa to ensure they reverse the challenges facing Ndi Igbo.
Responding, Okowa said the Atiku-Okowa Presidency would apply dialogue to unite Nigerians and provide more jobs to the teeming youths with the setting aside of $10billion dollars for MSMES.
He further said that a constitutional amendment would be carried out to devolve more powers to states and local governments and to also enable states establish their police force to tackle insecurity in their various states.
“Throughout Nigeria there is cause for every youth to worry and there is the need for the Igbo Youths to be more worried because insecurity in Igbo land is now more worrisome than other parts of the country.
“The Polices of the APC government in the last 8 years have impacted badly on the igbo man particularly the traders.
On resolving the crisis in the South-East, Okowa said Atiku Abubakar had assured that he would dialogue with key stakeholders with a view to releasing Nnamdi Kanu within the first 100 days of his administration.
“There is need for dialogue and we have said there is need to release our brother Nnamdi Kanu. Atiku has said he will open up dialogue assuring that through dialogue process he will release Nnamdi Kanu within 100 days.
“The elders of Igbo land have made the request and it means it was important to them,”
He said Delta was badly affected by the agitation in the Niger Delta but had become very peaceful because he sat with them and dialogued with them.
He added that his administration had engaged many youths through skill acquisition and empowerment programmes which had made many youths to become successful entrepreneurs and job creators.
“We will devolve more powers to the states and local government. We already have a draft bill to amend the constitution for states to have their own police force.
He lauded the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo youths adding that they would benefit immensely from the MSMES fund to be provided by the Atiku-Okowa presidency.
“It is not in the best interest of Igbo land to re-elect APC and we will do everything possible to bring security and development back to the South-East and other parts of the country.
“When the country is peaceful and united it will be easier to create jobs and bring development to the country.
“There is great pain in Nigeria today but there is help on the way with Atiku-Okowa presidency. We will run a transparent government with every part of the country carried along, so be rest assured that the Igbos would no longer be marginalised,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by Senatorial Candidate of Delta North, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko; Minority Leader House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Commissioner for Youths Development, Ifeanyi Egwunyenga among others.
Press Statement
PDP Closes Presidential and National Assembly Campaign Activities Midnight Today
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby informs the general public that, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, all campaign activities and materials related to our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and our National Assembly Candidates for the Saturday, February 25, 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections close at midnight today, Thursday, February 23, 2023.
Consequently, the PDP directs all our campaign units, support groups and supporters of our candidates to end all forms of campaign activities accordingly.
The public, particularly the media should take note that our Party and candidates will not be liable for any campaign activity and/or material that appears on any platform after the stipulated time.
The PDP sincerely appreciates Nigerians for the unprecedented outpouring of love, solidarity and support for our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and the National Assembly candidates of our Party throughout the campaign period.
We urge Nigerians to remain at alert and resist any attempt by anybody to subvert their Will at the polls.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
2023 Elections: Technology experts explain how Atiku, Okowa’s voices were cloned*
In the run-up to the 2023 Nigerian Presidential elections tomorrow 25th Febuary, a new kind of political attack campaign has emerged, using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to clone the voices of political figures. The most recent example involves the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose voices has been cloned using A.I. technology in an attempt to discourage voters before tomorrow’s elections .
The viral voice recording, which purports to be Atiku Abubakar making comments about INEC, has been circulating on social media in Nigeria, causing a stir among the electorate. However, technology experts have now come forward to debunk the recording, pointing out irregularities that prove it is a fake, generated using sophisticated A.I. software that can mimic the sound and intonation of any human voice. They cited online services like www.respeecher.com and www.Resemble.ai which clone speech that are indistinguishable from the original speaker.
“Artificial intelligence is an incredible tool that has many useful applications, but it can also be used for nefarious purposes,” said Dr. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a technology expert based in Lagos. “In this case, someone has used A.I. to clone Atiku Abubakar’s voice and create a recording that never actually happened. We need to be vigilant and aware of these kinds of techniques, especially in the political sphere. I also hope the law enforcement authorities are getting more sophisticated inn their investigations to hold those propagating these sort of dangerous activities”
Dr. Ekekwe went on to explain that A.I. voice cloning technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and it is now possible to create convincing fake recordings that are almost indistinguishable from real ones. However, there are ways to detect fake recordings, such as analyzing the waveform and frequency of the voice, which can reveal anomalies that are characteristic of A.I. generated speech.
As the Nigerian Presidential election approaches, it is likely that we will see more instances of A.I.-generated voice cloning being used in political campaigns. However, with the help of technology experts like Dr. Ekekwe, it is possible to expose these fake recordings and prevent them from influencing the outcome of the election.
Atiku to Nigerians: Ignore fake audio in circulation
*Says it’s last kick of a dying horse
The Presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar has described as utter rubbish, an audio clip on social media wherein he purportedly revealed plans by himself, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State to rig the presidential election.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Phrank Shaibu, the PDP presidential candidate, said the latest fake audio clip in circulation was a confirmation of his warning last week that the opposition would deepen its propaganda ahead of the election.
Shaibu said, “We warned last week that as the election approaches, there will be a spike in the rate of propaganda on social media. With barely 24 hours to the poll, we have witnessed propaganda from not just the All Progressives Congress but the Labour Party as well.
“In this latest drivel, a montage of speeches delivered by Atiku, Tambuwal, and Okowa since last year were manipulated and pieced together to give an impression that they were discussing plans to rig Saturday’s election. In this age of artificial intelligence technology, even dead people can be portrayed as delivering speeches. This is nothing new.
“For the record, Atiku has run in two presidential elections and has never been indicted or prosecuted for election violence or vote buying.
“But some people think they can sell a narrative of Atiku manipulating this election. This is indeed the height of desperation, the last kick of a dying horse. The APC and the Labour Party must note that elections are not won on social media but at the polling units.”
Atiku said the audio clip, which had been shared numerous times on WhatsApp, could be identified easily as a fake even from the tone of the purported discussants.
He added, “It is unfortunate that those seeking power will engage in outdated defeatist tactics. How can Tambuwal be referring to Atiku by his full name in a one-on-one private conversation? This is nonsensical, similar to the type of meaningless chatter about President Muhammadu Buhari being dead and replaced by one Jubril from Sudan.”
Atiku also advised his supporters not to engage in the propaganda war, which had become the style of both the APC and the Labour Party. He said they should respond by voting massively for the PDP on Saturday.
He added, “When they descend to the level of baseless propaganda, we will rise above it with dignity and respond with our PVCs. This election is a watershed in Nigerian history. Nigerians must not lose sight of what is most important, which is the need to rebuild this broken system, revitalize the economy, and improve security and the hope of the people in a united Nigeria.”
The presidential candidate called on the police and other security agencies as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain fair and neutral in the polls.
He asked them to go after those behind the audio tape in line with Section 123(c) of the Electoral Act which provides that any person who before or during an election publishes any statement to the personal character or conduct of a candidate calculated to prejudice the chance of election of the candidate or to promote or procure the election of another candidate and such statement is false and was published without reasonable grounds for belief by the person publishing it that the statement is true, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a maximum of N100,000 or imprisonment for a term of six months or both.
Signed:
Phrank Shaibu
Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar
President candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria.
Abuja
24th February, 2023
Peter Obi Drops Passionate Message Hours To Presidential Poll.*
Fellow Nigerians, it’s 3 days to go and in my quiet moments I know that Nigerians are wondering what Peter Obi is thinking. I will share my thoughts here because I have Nigeria on my mind!
We are currently at a crossroads. We need a leader to show us the way forward. We need a prudent president, a principled president who has what it takes to lead.
As we say in Naija: “We need a person who sabi road; a person we go follow make this country better.” A new Nigeria is possible. We can make it.
We have national elections coming up next Saturday, on the 25th of February 2023. The presidential election is the most critical because we will be electing the next president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It is the only chance to elect a leader of our choice. We must choose someone who can solve our problems. This is an essential and existential election. It is a make-or-break moment in our history. Future generations will not forgive us if we make a wrong choice.
The person of your choice must have these four qualities minimally:
Character: A person with a proven record of fairness, honesty, and trust. We need an honest person with a verifiable background: We must know his real name. We must know where he said he schooled.
We must know people who knew him then. We must know where he has been, what he has done, what he has said, and what he has been doing these past months during the campaigns.
Competence: Someone who has the proven capability and the drive to move us forward. The person must have the required skills and must show the physical and mental ability to manage the affairs of Nigeria.
The president we need must present the correct image of Nigeria abroad and stand tall among his peers at the United Nations and other international forums.
Commitment: We need someone who is committed and has the capacity to stop official corruption in this country. We have heard far too many talks about change. Enough of empty promises! We are tired of hearing sorry stories.
We want real changes, not endless pity parties and porous pledges.
Compassion: We want a leader who is concerned about the welfare of Nigerians, not his clique of praise singers. Our fellow citizens are in IDP camps. I spent Christmas and New Year with them.
They should be home. People die daily, are kidnapped, killed, and raped. No one in government offers the right level of response. It must end. We need a leader with the courage to do whatever it takes to bring relief to our citizens in distress.
Let us perfect the federation of our forefathers. Every generation is destined to make the country better. The post-Independence generation has arrived. This is our turn. This is our time. This is our chance to make a difference.
Making the same old choice will yield the same result. We are Nigerians. We are rational citizens. We can make rational decisions. Let us keep a date with our destiny. Let us make a new nation for future generations.
The world is watching. We must take our destined position as the giant of Africa. You and I know the right thing to do. The greatest lie one can tell is a lie to one’s soul. If you are still undecided, please talk to yourself. Allow your conscience to guide you.
No one is perfect but, ask yourself, “Should I choose someone I do not wish as a role model for my children?
Be introspective. Ask: Could I live with myself for making the wrong choice just for a moment just for few new naira notes or because of my region and my religion?
I believe you will make the right choice and vote Labour Party: LP (Mama. Papa, and Pikin): The election is not about Obi and Baba-Ahmed. This election is not about our ethnic groups, African traditional religion, Christianity, or Islam.
It is not about our sacred churches, mosques, and shrines. The election is about the future of this land that God gave to our great generation.
Why Labour? I will tell you.
We want to move our economy from importing and consuming products to producing, consuming less, and exporting more. That is the essence of Consumption to Production.
Datti and I will work hard every day and with everyone. Many things went wrong in the past 24 years. There are enough blames to go round. We will not share blames. We will share hope. No more excuses. In life, what matters more is not what happened to us; it is what we do with what happened to us. Honesty is the best policy. We must be truthful to ourselves. Truth is the essence of life. I pride myself in striving to be an upright citizen.
I endeavour to do the right things. Fairness is the golden rule: do unto others as you wish them to do unto you. When I fail, I learn.
Our revered Chinua Achebe stated that our humanity depends on the humanity of others. We are in this word with great gifts. Our world presents challenges and opportunities. Challenges stimulate our creativity.
We will use the opportunity of vast resources in our God-given earth to meet those challenges confronting humanity. The welfare of one is the welfare of all.
My modesty is not words of mouth: I live it. We can feed off each other’s simplicity. By producing more and consuming less, we can balance our needs, not wants,and make society more equitable. It makes no sense fighting over issues that require rational thinking & good conscience.
I love this country. It is not perfect. Nothing is perfect. Perfection is a continuum. The labours of our heroes past must not be in vain.
Please come out and vote for Labour Party (LP) Please subscribe to success, to the triumph of a tested, trusted, and verified leadership. Do not renew the subscription to suffering, to the sorrow of tomorrow.
A new Nigeria is possible. Let’s make it happen like a TEAM: Together, everyone achieves more.
These past months have been quite a journey. I have met millions of fellow Nigerians from all walks of life: men and women, young and old, rich and poor.
I thank our vice-presidential candidate, my brother, my friend and partner Senator Dr Datti Ahmed for coming with me on this journey. I thank the Obidients and my core team. History will record this campaign as the best: focused, friendly, mega rallies delivered with no shịshị, always respectful, and zero violence.
Salute to all of us!
We all made it happen: organically structured, passionate, united, and verified!
I ask you, my people, to empower me as your president and commander-in-chief. I will be in charge. I have the requirements for correct leadership: character, competence, commitment, compassion, hard work, honesty, humanity, and humility.
I have the courage and the heart with which to deliver the dividends of democracy freely and fairly to our people. Where we fail, hold me responsible; where we succeed, kudos to you. We can change this country. If it takes us making the supreme sacrifice, let us make it for a greater tomorrow.
I am most grateful that you found me worthy to take the torch and lead. I would not have come this far if you did not follow me. You are my strength, the wings that power the historic Obidient movement.
Let us make it for a greater tomorrow.
On~ behalf of all our dedicated team, I promise to deliver on all core values.
These are my thoughts. This coming Saturday, let us promote the Family Value – by voting for the Labour Party—LP: Mama, Papa, and Pikin.
Vote Labour correctly, peacefully, and hopefully. Labour Party: Forward Ever!
23RD FEBRUARY, 2023
DELTA PDP CAMPAIGN COUNCIL DISCLAIMER ON POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS/CLOSE OF CAMPAIGNS
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Delta State Campaign Council, wishes to alert our Local Government Campaign Organizations, Ward/Unit Campaign Outfits, and support groups amongst others, to TAKE NOTE that political campaigns ends at midnight, today, Thursday, 23rd February, 2023.
As a responsible political party that believes in and respects the rule of law, we call on all affiliate groups to pull down all campaign advertisements in the social media, in newspapers, magazines, radio, and television stations, in obedience and adherence to the electoral rules and guidelines for the 2023 general elections.
We, therefore call on all such groups to immediately comply with the electoral rules which bars and forbids political advertisements 24 hours before the elections.
We further wish to emphasize that the Delta State PDP Campaign Council will not take responsibility for any infringement, as anyone found culpable will be held fully responsible and bear the punitive consequences that may arise therefrom.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant law enforcement agencies, are hereby put on Notice that the Delta State PDP Campaign Council, by this Public Statement, completely exonerates itself from any subsequent breaches that may occur and will take no responsibility for any infraction or contravention of the established guidelines, should anyone flout this regulation.
Please be informed and guided accordingly.
Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza,
Deputy Director, Media & Publicity,
Delta PDP Campaign Council/ State Publicity Secretary,
Delta State PDP.
23RD FEBRUARY, 2023
DELTA PDP URGES DELTANS TO VOTE ATIKU/OKOWA FOR PRESIDENCY, PDP ALL THE WAY FOR SENATE, HOUSE OF REPS, ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Campaign Council, has urged Deltans to come out en-masse and vote for Atiku Abubakar/Ifeanyi Okowa for President, as well as, all the Senatorial candidates in the 3 (three) Senatorial Zones of the State and 10 (Ten) Federal Constituencies in Delta State.
This appeal was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Deputy Director, Media/Publicity Committee, Delta PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State ahead of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
The statement reads: “Beloved Deltans, friends, brothers, and sisters, on Saturday, February 25th we will come out once more, to perform our constitutional duty by voting for the man who will become the next President of our country, as well as the Members of the National Assembly, who will make the laws to guide our nation in the next four years.
“The election this year is arguably the most crucial and critical national assignment we have been faced with in our democratic journey because, never before in the history of our nation, has Nigeria and Nigerians been so divided, polarized, endangered, faced with life-threatening insecurity and a regime of unmitigated suffering, choking suffocation and prolonged uncertainty, foisted upon us, by the All Progressives Congress, APC; a government they elected by themselves, with their votes.
February 25 provides us with a great and the best opportunity to correct this mistake that has delivered eight years of endless horror by voting out the APC and returning Nigeria to the glorious era of peace, prosperity, a sense of belonging, and the patriotic confidence of knowing that our identity as Nigerians, which we enjoyed when the PDP administration was in power, will be achieved again.
As you go out to cast your vote on February 25, we urge you to come out en-masse and vote PDP all the way, comport yourselves with decency, discipline, and decorum, guard your votes jealously, and don’t allow anybody to harass, intimidate or cajole you with their actions. Remain steadfast and be vigilant, peaceful, and unwavering in your resolve to ensure that your votes will count and be counted, as we march to victory after the election.
Remember the code:
ATIKU/OKOWA for President.
VOTE the UMBRELLA on ALL the ballot papers.
VOTE PDP All the way.
Let Us Recover, Reset and Unify Nigeria Together.
PDP, Power to the People!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
2023 Elections: Technology experts explain how Atiku, Okowa’s voices were cloned
In the run-up to the 2023 Nigerian Presidential elections tomorrow 25th Febuary, a new kind of political attack campaign has emerged, using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to clone the voices of political figures. The most recent example involves the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose voices has been cloned using A.I. technology in an attempt to discourage voters before tomorrow’s elections .
The viral voice recording, which purports to be Atiku Abubakar making comments about INEC, has been circulating on social media in Nigeria, causing a stir among the electorate. However, technology experts have now come forward to debunk the recording, pointing out irregularities that prove it is a fake, generated using sophisticated A.I. software that can mimic the sound and intonation of any human voice. They cited online services like www.respeecher.com and www.Resemble.ai which clone speech that are indistinguishable from the original speaker.
“Artificial intelligence is an incredible tool that has many useful applications, but it can also be used for nefarious purposes,” said Dr. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a technology expert based in Lagos. “In this case, someone has used A.I. to clone Atiku Abubakar’s voice and create a recording that never actually happened. We need to be vigilant and aware of these kinds of techniques, especially in the political sphere. I also hope the law enforcement authorities are getting more sophisticated inn their investigations to hold those propagating these sort of dangerous activities”
Dr. Ekekwe went on to explain that A.I. voice cloning technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and it is now possible to create convincing fake recordings that are almost indistinguishable from real ones. However, there are ways to detect fake recordings, such as analyzing the waveform and frequency of the voice, which can reveal anomalies that are characteristic of A.I. generated speech.
As the Nigerian Presidential election approaches, it is likely that we will see more instances of A.I.-generated voice cloning being used in political campaigns. However, with the help of technology experts like Dr. Ekekwe, it is possible to expose these fake recordings and prevent them from influencing the outcome of the election.
Atiku to Nigerians: Ignore fake audio in circulation
The Presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar has described as utter rubbish, an audio clip on social media wherein he purportedly revealed plans by himself, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State to rig the presidential election.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Phrank Shaibu, the PDP presidential candidate, said the latest fake audio clip in circulation was a confirmation of his warning last week that the opposition would deepen its propaganda ahead of the election.
Shaibu said, “We warned last week that as the election approaches, there will be a spike in the rate of propaganda on social media. With barely 24 hours to the poll, we have witnessed propaganda from not just the All Progressives Congress but the Labour Party as well.
“In this latest drivel, a montage of speeches delivered by Atiku, Tambuwal, and Okowa since last year were manipulated and pieced together to give an impression that they were discussing plans to rig Saturday’s election. In this age of artificial intelligence technology, even dead people can be portrayed as delivering speeches. This is nothing new.
“For the record, Atiku has run in two presidential elections and has never been indicted or prosecuted for election violence or vote buying.
“But some people think they can sell a narrative of Atiku manipulating this election. This is indeed the height of desperation, the last kick of a dying horse. The APC and the Labour Party must note that elections are not won on social media but at the polling units.”
Atiku said the audio clip, which had been shared numerous times on WhatsApp, could be identified easily as a fake even from the tone of the purported discussants.
He added, “It is unfortunate that those seeking power will engage in outdated defeatist tactics. How can Tambuwal be referring to Atiku by his full name in a one-on-one private conversation? This is nonsensical, similar to the type of meaningless chatter about President Muhammadu Buhari being dead and replaced by one Jubril from Sudan.”
Atiku also advised his supporters not to engage in the propaganda war, which had become the style of both the APC and the Labour Party. He said they should respond by voting massively for the PDP on Saturday.
He added, “When they descend to the level of baseless propaganda, we will rise above it with dignity and respond with our PVCs. This election is a watershed in Nigerian history. Nigerians must not lose sight of what is most important, which is the need to rebuild this broken system, revitalize the economy, and improve security and the hope of the people in a united Nigeria.”
The presidential candidate called on the police and other security agencies as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain fair and neutral in the polls.
He asked them to go after those behind the audio tape in line with Section 123(c) of the Electoral Act which provides that any person who before or during an election publishes any statement to the personal character or conduct of a candidate calculated to prejudice the chance of election of the candidate or to promote or procure the election of another candidate and such statement is false and was published without reasonable grounds for belief by the person publishing it that the statement is true, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a maximum of N100,000 or imprisonment for a term of six months or both.
Signed:
Phrank Shaibu
Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar
President candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria.
Abuja.
24th February, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
20TH FEBRUARY, 2023
APC Lied Again In Shameless Hoax Headline
The attention of the Delta State PDP Campaign Council, has again been drawn to another diatribe sponsored by the sinking and shameless All Progressives Congress (APC), with the headline: “The growing rage against PDP in Delta State,” written this time, by two hack scribblers with the names – Ted Uwadiusor/Anthony Arugba.
The Deputy Director, Media/Publicity of the PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, reacting, described the write-up as the job of two hatchet men who, just like their colleagues in the past, made meaningless marks with their messy write-up.
The PDP notes that the headline given to the write-up exposed the writers as impetuous fellows who produced a dirty and disorderly work, produced largely from the figment of the imagination of their sponsors.
Discerning Deltans and other observers have since seen that what was put out was a potpourri of lies against the truth and reality on ground.
Indeed, the first lie is the headline which gave the impression that there’s extreme anger against PDP in Delta State. If anything, the growing rage is in fact against the APC, who Deltans have come to know as a lack-lustre party, one that cannot be trusted and believed, and one that lacks true progressive credentials. It is the reason the APC has become the most dumped and abandoned political party in Delta State, by ex-faithful that have now seen the light and made bold to walk away from the drowning political party. And the PDP has been the greatest beneficiary of those dumping the hapless opposition party.
Yes, pieces of evidence abound across all the 270 Wards and 25 Local Government Areas of Delta State, of how erstwhile faithful of the APC jumped ship and by sheer determination crossed over to the PDP. They did this through an open, public declaration of their decision and spiced with the reason they took such a decision. A few examples will suffice:
In Ward 5, Ekwukwu Agbor, Ika South, on November 11, 2022, the former Chairman of the APC in the Ward, Mr. Onyeme Libenson along with his supporters dumped the APC and embraced the PDP. Libenson said: “I have seen the good work being done by the PDP. Our women, traders are doing well because they are receiving help from the PDP administration. Our youths are receiving empowerment from the PDP administration in Delta State. APC has no administration. If APC wins again, things will be difficult for people in Nigeria. Buhari has failed; even the broom, APC symbol has become firewood.”
At Umunede Ward 11, Ika North East LGA, APC Ward 11 Chairman, Mr. Abel Adagbor openly dumped the party and embraced the PDP. He said the APC was not on ground in the Local Government Area.
At Ndokwa West LGA, Ward 1, Eke market, Kwale, the Integrity Ladies led by Philomena Ojeje dumped the APC openly and embraced the PDP. She said: “APC are liars and big deceivers. There’s no road in APC.” Also at Onicha-Ukwuani Ward 5, Chigwe Ojodume, while decamping from the APC said he had been suffering in the APC. “I have returned to the PDP; this broom will be burnt. Now I throw away this broom that should go away with all the bad things associated with it,” he said.
At Ughelli North LGA, Chief Osiobe and his followers dumped the APC for the PDP. Osiobe said: “I am here today to tell you that there’s no other party than the PDP. We are here to tell you that the PDP will win across board in 2023.”
Just on Saturday, February 18, former Secretary of the APC in Delta State and foundation member of the party, Nick Ovuakpore who renounced his membership of the APC openly during the PDP Presidential Campaign Rally at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, received his PDP membership card from the party’s Chairman in Oyede Ward 12, Isoko North LGA, Mr. Joel Orute.
Receiving his PDP membership card, Mr. Ovuakpore promised to bring electoral value to the PDP, saying: “It is incumbent on me to deliver my Unit and Ward to the PDP. I am from Unit 005 of this Ward. The result from my Unit will prove my mettle. I assure you that I will win my Unit and Ward for the PDP in the coming elections.” He described the APC as crisis-ridden and that the party stands no chance at the polls.
The forgoing exposes the lie put up by the political jobbers in their reckless write-up.
The points of eulogies made to try to shore up the image value of the APC Delta State Governorship candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has long been deflated and flattened by several write-ups on him that abound in the public domain, that it will be superfluous to warrant repeat here. Except to state that Omo-Agege has no electoral value in the Gubernatorial contest, one being a loner and a soldier without troops. He is on his own, especially as it is said that a tree cannot make a forest.
Incidentally, Omo-Agege’s attack dogs have their focus on His Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, who is already on a pedestal higher than Omo-Agege. The one that Omo-Agege has to contend with is the indomitable Delta State PDP Governorship candidate and Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Oborevwori is a tested politician, and grassroots mobiliser; he is street-wise, a quality that Omo-Agege lacks, yet, one among many other qualities that endeared Oborevwori to the PDP family and Deltans in general. He is the man that Ovie Omo-Agege has to contend with.
So, all the fuss for which he is sponsoring hack writers to do against Dr. Okowa is all misplaced aggression. Governor Okowa has already gone past the position that the APC Governorship candidate seeks. Okowa has his eyes on a higher position.
Omo-Agege is therefore advised to face the consequences of his imminent defeat by the one that is already well-positioned to deliver to him that electoral uppercut. That person is Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Ukodo of the universe and Delta State PDP Governorship candidate in the forthcoming March 11th, 2023 election.
With the above, we in the PDP Campaign Council dismiss the silly, poor, and messy message in its headline as a shameless hoax.
VOTE FOR THE UMBRELLA!
VOTE PDP ALL THE WAY!!
PDP! Power to the people!!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
. We will deliver the project, and in due time, assures JBN MD, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed implicit confidence in the ability of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to deliver on critical construction works even as he enjoined the country’s leading construction company to once again prove its historically established, trusted and reliable engineering construction competence.
Represented by the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, the President spoke at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre and the Local Content Conference Hotel both in Bayelsa state Tuesday just as former President, Goodluck Jonathan among other guests at the event lauded the award of the construction contract to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc saying that the project is in safe professional hands.
According to the President, “I trust Julius Berger will deliver the project in due time and according to specifications and timeline meant for its completion.”
He encouraged Julius Berger to, in its usual operational practice, carry their host communities along in executing the projects. Noting that the Federal Government has put needed machinery in place, including funding arrangements to ensure hitch-free delivery of the project, President Buhari urged the communities to own and protect the projects, he emphasized the need for the contractors to comply with the Community Content Guidelines of the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB Act.
Said Buhari, “I hereby direct the contractors to integrate the host communities and their traditional institutions and skilled youths in the various scopes of the projects.
He further added that, “I also expect that you will build capacities where necessary to ensure a hitch-free project delivery. Specifically, I recommend that the contractors should study the Community Content Guidelines issued by the NCDMB.”
For the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Mr. Simbi Waribote, “Julius Berger is a reputable construction company in Nigeria and it is not a stranger to this terrain. I have no doubt it will put up a befitting edifice here for this project.”
Bayelsa state governor, Senator Douye Diri represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, the Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Samuel Ogboku and the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, His Majesty, King Charles Owaba and a representative of Otuabagi, Prof. Teddy Adias expressed similar confidence in Julius Berger to do the needful on the project even as they respectively pledged their cooperation for the success of the project.
Tracing the history of Nigeria’s oil industry and its developmental impact on the country to the discovery of petroleum in commercial quantities in Oloibiri in 1956, Julius Berger’s Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, in his speech at the event stated that, “the Oloibiri Museum will showcase the history of the oil industry in Nigeria and the region, providing a platform to reflect on the past, present and the future of the industry. ” Richter added that the Oloibiri museum will also be “an essential center for education and research, providing a valuable resource of scholars, students and researchers. ”
In his now widely acknowledged proactive interest in the well-being of Julius Berger’s host communities, the company’s MD, Engr.Dr. Lars Richter also said that, “…the (Oloibiri) museum will also celebrate the unique cultural heritage of the people of Oloibiri, showcasing their life, traditions and contributions to Nigeria’s development.” He further added that “…this museum will become a source of inspiration, a place to learn and reflect, a platform for dialogue and engagement. ”
Dr. Richter thanked the Project Shareholders, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and the Bayelsa State Government for promoting the iconic project, and for choosing Julius Berger as the prefered contractor to deliver the Olibiri Museum. Pledging the company’s professionalism and proven track records in project accomplishment, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter said, “I am confident, and without doubt, that with the strong commitment of our client and the project shareholders, Julius Berger will unfailingly deliver on the project requirements, and on time.”
Other important dignitaries at the ceremony included His Excellency, the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, the Honorable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, His Excellency Timipre Sylva, the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Wabote, the Executive Secretary, Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Dr. Bello Aliyu Gusau, the Chairman of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mutiu Sunmonu, CON; and the Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Osagie Okunbor.
The Oloibiri Museum and Research Center is being erected at the location where commercial quantities of oil was first discovered in 1957 by Royal Dutch Shell.
The historical museum is coming sixty-six years after the epochal discovery of hydrocarbon resources, which became a strategic and positive turning point for the Nigerian economy.
Furthermore, the Centre is being developed as a collaboration between the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) and the Bayelsa State Government (BYSG).
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had on February 8, 2023 awarded the contract for the Phase-1 Engineering, Procurement & Construction of the OMRC to Julius Berger. When completed, the Centre will aid the retention of historical artefacts of Nigeria’s oil and gas journey, dissemination of knowledge across generations, creation of an attractive destination for tourists, and the restoration of the image of the Oloibiri community among other numerous benefits.
PRESS RELEASE
The nationwide presidential campaign rallies of All Progressives Congress (APC), on Tuesday, peaked in Lagos State – the political base of the ruling party’s presidential standard bearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The metropolis witnessed what appeared to be its largest political parade; elegantly dressed residents and party supporters trooped into streets with various shades of campaign banners, dancing and chanting APC slogans. They walked to the rally ground – Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere – to wait for the presidential candidate and members of the campaign council.
Tinubu, who flew into Lagos from Abuja, was received by a tumultuous crowd of residents, and rode in a large motorcade from the airport through the city. The crowd grew stronger as the political procession moved from Ikeja to Oshodi, Mushin and Ojuelegba.
The physical presence of President Muhammadu Buhari sent a message of reassurance to the crowd of party supporters that thronged the rally ground.
The campaign’s grand finale was attended by all APC Governors, Senate President, Sen. Ahmad Lawan, House of Representatives Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, APC National Chairman, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, members of Lagos State Executive Council, party leaders in Lagos and other States in the Southwest.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while declaring the rally open, said the sight of a massive crowd that accompanied APC presidential candidate’s motorcade to the stadium further demonstrated Lagos remained a stronghold of the progressives, thanking Lagosians for supporting and keeping faith with the party.
Sanwo-Olu said Tinubu had not only traversed the country to canvass for the support of all Nigerians, the Governor said the candidate had shown his commitment to lead the country on a new path to peace, stability and prosperity.
He said: “From Ikeja down to this rally, we witnessed overwhelming show of support and love for Asiwaju on the streets, which is an acknowledgment of the love Lagos people have for the City Boy (Tinubu). Thank you Lagosians for believing in the progressives party and for rising to receive our leader.
“On Saturday, we have another opportunity to consolidate the support which you have shown our party. I urge you all to troop to your polling stations and massively vote for the man who has the capacity to bring the country to another level of development. With your support, I have no doubt APC will be victorious.”
Tinubu, apparently moved by the massive turnout at the rally, said he heard the message from the electorate “loud and clear”. He expressed his readiness to offer his intellectual ability to lead the country and chart a new future for the youth.
The APC presidential candidate described the level of support he received throughout the electioneering “as extremely remarkable”, pledging to deploy his physical and mental energy to work out his vision for Nigeria and renew the citizens’ hope.
He said: “I am coming to give Nigerians renewed hope, because there is hope in the country. The level of support I have received throughout the campaign is extremely remarkable. I assure you all that, as you work hard for my victory, I will work hard for Nigeria.
“I will sustain that hope by prioritising your wellbeing at all times. Those who are feeling helpless today will have their expectations revalidated. All the agenda set out in our manifesto will be pursued vigorously with all our energy.”
Explaining why the choice of his running mate, Tinubu said Sen. Kashim Shettima stood out among the list of qualified party members he had in mind. Aside possessing knowledge, attitude and capacity, Tinubu said Shettima faced Boko Haram crisis as Borno State Governor with perseverance, determination and grit to overcome the challenge, while protecting citizens of his State from the effects of terrorism.
The APC presidential candidate expressed gratitude to Buhari for allowing internal democracy within the party and freedom to choose the party’s flag bearer.
Tinubu said: “Mr. President, thank you in a million time. You set our feet on the path to the future, to work on and achieve greatness because it is desirable for Nigeria to be great.
“You said, for anyone to succeed you, he or she must work and follow the guidelines for nomination and that the primaries must be very transparent. You said our party will be a shining example like dew on the mountain.”
Buhari raised the hands of Tinubu and Shettima in demonstration of his commitment to APC victory at the election.
Director General of APC Presidential Campaign Council and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, hailed Lagosians for trooping out for the rally, saying: ”The crowd that welcomed us looked like we were already celebrating the victory of our party.”
Lalong said a new president was already in place, adding that the country was only waiting for the presidential election to ratify the party’s victory.
He thanked Nigerians in advance for electing Tinubu.
APC chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, said the party and its standard bearer traversed the length and breadth of the country, and organised successful campaigns.
“By the feelers we got across the country, we are sure of victory. I believe by this time on Saturday, we would be celebrating. The die is cast; Tinubu will be sworn in May 29, 2023,” Adamu said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
21 FEBRUARY 2023