News From Nigeria
HENRY EBIRERI BIDS FAREWELL TO LATE YOUNGER BROTHER, OYIBO
Political communication expert, Henry Ovie Ebireri, on Saturday lamented the death of his younger brother, Blessing-Kelly Oyibo Ebireri.
He also described the past ten years as frightening and confusing.
Disaster struck the family of the African Journalist last week. Blessing-Kelly Oyibo Ebireri succumbed to death.
‘’The cold hand of death has taken Blessing Oyibo Ebireri and left a void in our family’’
A quiet-spoken and deeply religious man, Blessing Ebireri was buried on Saturday in Igbimidaka, Sapele Local Government Area.
The renowned journalist and political strategist in a statement in Lagos said he was weakened by the demise of his late father and mother, three sisters and five brothers.
‘’I was still grieving for my eldest brother, Wilson Santa Ebireri and then to hear such news’’
The family lost Festus Omajemite Ebireri, Veronica Ikpera Ebireri, Mrs Victoria Unubreme, Lamonde Ebireri and Victor Okpako Ebireri in the last two decades.
The family also lost Mrs Beauty Ejirhomu, Tony Ebireri, Florence Ufuoma Ebireri, Wilson Ebireri and Oyibo Ebireri
‘’I do not expect death to take away my relatives from me in quick succession’’ traumatized Henry Ovie Ebireri said.
The statement emphasised the late Blessing Ebireri’s humility, capacity for love and his perception of human nature.
Born and educated in Sapele, Blessing Oyibo Ebireri pursued two very different occupations: One as a furniture maker and the other as a foodstuff distributor.
‘’Since he came from a well-to-do family, there was no pressing financial need for him to get down to business on leaving college. Consequently, he spent several years travelling to Northern Nigeria and bringing soup ingredients, edible oils, rice and beans to Sapele and Warri’’
STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT
Since his defeat in the last election, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has shown more interest in undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu than in addressing his party’s implosion. We suspect he is envious of Tinubu’s position—an office he has unsuccessfully sought six times.
It is perplexing that he would elevate his untested, hypothetical proposal, which Nigerians soundly rejected during the 2023 Presidential Election, and seek to present it as a superior alternative to the multi-faceted reform programmes implemented by the Tinubu administration. If his plan lacked popular appeal, he must acknowledge that merely repackaging it will not resolve the social and economic challenges his People’s Democratic Party (PDP) bequeathed after 16 years in power.
Atiku’s economic analysis demonstrates a significant misunderstanding of Nigeria’s realities. His narrative, “What We Would Have Done Differently,” indicates an inability to engage with the pressing economic realities being revitalised multidimensionally under President Tinubu’s leadership.
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What reforms would Atiku propose at the onset of his hypothetical and fabled presidency? While he suggests a consultation period upon assuming office, the reality is that the Nigerian economy requires immediate and decisive action. A leader must be prepared to tackle challenges from Day One, as President Tinubu has done.
Atiku, going further to accuse President Tinubu of “stealing his presidency,” exposed his sense of entitlement and his disconnect from the electorate. The truth is that Tinubu rightfully won the presidency, a position Atiku was simply unqualified for due to his arrogance, insensitivity to Nigeria’s diversity, and the decision to disregard his party’s power rotation arrangement between the North and the South after eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Atiku’s idea of a consultation period upon entering office shows a troubling lack of awareness regarding the state of the economy, which was in dire need of urgent action. The Tinubu administration came prepared with a firm action plan to address the shortcomings that persisted during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s time when Atiku was vice president.
We can only speculate what detrimental impact Atiku’s proposed lengthy town hall and Village Square meetings would have had on Nigeria’s economy if he had been elected president and taken such an approach. The country needed a proactive leader such as Tinubu, who immediately set to work on addressing economic challenges rather than one who would have squandered precious time on consultations and a questionable privatisation agenda.
Atiku’s critiques of Tinubu’s presidency are mere harebrained propositions devoid of realistic alternatives. He must reckon with the decades of mismanaged economy inherited by the current administration, including exorbitant subsidy expenditures far exceeding government earnings from crude oil. As of mid-2023, the landing cost of fuel was between N500 and N600, while it was sold nationwide at an average of N200. The 2023 budget allocated N3.36 trillion for fuel subsidies until June 2023 against a projected N2.23 trillion in oil revenue for the year. The Nigerian state was on life support.
Instead of conjuring imaginary scenarios, we expect the former vice president to engage with these urgent realities.
The estimated N5.4 trillion savings from subsidy removal in 2024 are being actively directed toward infrastructure development and social intervention programmes, initiatives that will benefit all tiers of government and enhance Nigerians’ quality of life.
We expect Atiku to commend what the Tinubu administration has done concerning revenue generation for the Federation. Without factoring in oil sales, revenue proceeds generated by the Federal Inland Revenue Service almost doubled in the first half of 2024, compared with the level Tinubu met in 2023. The states and councils are more prosperous because of it, as many states have increased the minimum wage for their workers to between N70,000 and N85,000.
Atiku’s proposal to privatise the four government-owned refineries, which collectively can only meet a fraction of the nation’s daily fuel consumption when activated, lacks originality.
In 2007, investors were only willing to offer $160 million for 51% equity in the Port Harcourt Refinery, while the Kaduna Refinery had an offer of $102 million. According to industry experts and the late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua, Nigeria’s Head of State at the time, who cancelled the sale of the refineries by the Obasanjo-Atiku government, the offered bids were considered scrap value.
As vice president, Atiku oversaw the sale of the nation’s assets to private individuals and cronies at low prices. Today, most public enterprises Atiku sold have been stripped and become dead assets.
The model of farming the completely rehabilitated refineries to private sector managers at an agreed-upon rate of return to the government, as adopted by Tinubu’s government, is more practical and value-laden than selling our national patrimony to some private interests that are not technically capable of operating the refineries. The Tinubu administration focuses on revitalising these refineries while supporting modular refineries and the Dangote Refinery, which has greater capacity.
This approach will guarantee domestic production and stabilise retail prices by reducing foreign exchange challenges. It includes selling crude oil to the refineries in Naira, enabling potential cost reductions that could reflect in retail prices.
Regarding Atiku’s allegations of corruption within the NNPC, the fuel subsidy has historically been the leading corruption enabler in the state-owned oil company. President Tinubu’s removal of this subsidy eliminated the most significant incentive for corruption within the NNPC. During his eight-year tenure as Vice President, Atiku and his boss had an opportunity to address this issue but failed to make any significant reforms in the oil sector.
In any case, is it not ironic that an Atiku, who was entangled in corruption allegations, including one in which his wife was indicted and his business associate, former US Congressman William Jefferson, was jailed for 13 years, is now talking about corruption matters?
The suggestion of phased-out subsidy removal is an outdated approach that has historically led to fiscal challenges for countries like Indonesia, which Atiku references. Nigeria has gradually phased out subsidies since 1978, with numerous adjustments made. Fuel prices were adjusted 22 times between 1978 and 2020. Rather than pushing for unrealistic timelines, Atiku should recognise the necessity of President Tinubu’s bold reforms.
Notably, while Atiku peddles his economic fantasies, he has yet to denounce President Tinubu’s removal of the fuel subsidy because he knows that the reform was necessary and correct. We can only urge him to purge himself of the petty, derisive politics of a sore loser.
To alleviate the effect of the fuel subsidy removal on the very poor and vulnerable, the Tinubu administration has embarked on an active social intervention campaign involving cash transfers and the distribution of palliatives. So far, 20 million Nigerians are being targeted for direct cash transfers, an established social protection mechanism described as economically transformative by the World Bank and many development partners. The Tinubu administration has designed well-targeted social inclusion programmes, including student loans, consumer credits, and the Presidential CNG Initiative, all initiated within the first 12 months.
In his foreign exchange management proposal, Atiku declared that a fixed exchange rate system was out of the question. Yet his managed float proposal, another gradualist approach, is still the same as the old fixed exchange rate system, which stagnated the national economy by subsidising forex up to $1.5 billion monthly to a privileged few.
Atiku should remember that a managed float is also known as a dirty float because of its inherent flaws. The system combines elements of fixed and floating exchange rates. The CBN will still have to set the exchange rate and make it available to people and businesses. Access is not guaranteed to all, as it is now.
In conclusion, Atiku’s economic proposals fail to present a viable alternative to Tinubu’s decisive reforms. We encourage him to reassess his approach and repair his reputation as a statesman. The rejection of his proposals in the 2023 election indicates that Nigerians will be reluctant to entertain his future political ambitions.
President Tinubu remains focused on leading Nigeria toward a prosperous future and addressing our nation’s real challenges. Atiku Abubakar should abandon his politics of distraction and fantasies and focus on constructive discourse.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 10, 2024
Stop Wike, governors from giving cars, houses to judges, SERAP tells Tinubu
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to “stop the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike and Nigeria’s 36 governors from usurping the authority and responsibilities of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and heads of court through giving cars and houses to judges.”
SERAP said, “Such practices are clearly antithetical to the constitutional principles of separation of powers, checks and balances and the rule of law, and may create the perception that the judiciary is subservient to the executive.”
“SERAP also urged him to “direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, as a defender of public interest, to challenge in court the constitutionality and legality of the practices by members of the executive of giving cars and houses to judges in Abuja and across the states.”
In the open letter dated 9 November 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Politicians ought to keep their hands off the judiciary and respect and protect its integrity and independence. Politicians must treat judges with dignity and respect.”
SERAP said, “The Nigerian Constitution and international standards make clear that the judiciary is neither subservient to the executive nor the legislature.”
The letter, copied to Ms. Margaret Satterthwaite, UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, read in part: “Undermining the fundamental principle of separation of powers risks constraining the ability of the judiciary to act as a check on the executive.”
“SERAP urges you to substantially improve funding for the judiciary to enhance their working conditions, welfare and pensions through existing constitutional arrangements and mechanisms, to uphold the independence and autonomy of the judiciary and to protect judges from executive interference.”
“Your government has the constitutional and international obligations to promote public confidence in the judiciary and safeguard the rule of law.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government and the attorneys general of the 36 states to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“The reports that members of the executives in the FCT and across several states are giving cars and houses to judges appear to take place without following any constitutional or procedural process, which may have a chilling effect on the rule of law and access to justice and effective remedies.”
“Promoting the effective implementation of constitutional provisions and international standards on the financial autonomy of the judiciary would contribute towards ensuring the balance of power between the executive and the judiciary, and judicial integrity and independence.”
“Your government has the constitutional responsibility to ensure equality of arms in the relationship between the three branches of government: the judiciary, executive and legislature and to uphold the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances.”
“An independent judiciary, the essential guardian of the rule of law, is the linchpin of the scheme of checks and balances through which the separation of powers is assured. Members of the executive should not have any control over the judiciary’s funds.”
“The rule of law is the bedrock of a democratic society. It is the only basis upon which individuals, private corporations, public bodies and the executive can order their lives and activities. And if the rule of law is to be upheld it is essential that there should be an independent judiciary.”
“Because it is the executive that exercises the power of the State and because it is the executive, in one form or another, that is the most frequent litigator in the courts, it is from executive pressure that judges require particularly to be protected.”
“SERAP urges you to direct Mr Fagbemi to ensure full compliance by Mr Wike and the 36 state governors with the provisions of sections 81(3) and 121(3)(a)-(h) of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and to respect and protect judicial integrity and independence.”
“SERAP urges you to ensure that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under your leadership stops the practice of approving construction of houses for judges, as the exercise of such responsibility is entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international obligations.”
“According to reports, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved the construction of 40 houses in Abuja for judges of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.”
“Several of Nigeria’s 36 state governors including Abia, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Imo, Kogi, Lagos, Oyo, Osun, and Rivers also reportedly routinely engage in the practices of giving cars and houses to judges in their states.”
“Section 121(3)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution provides that, ‘Any amount standing to the credit of the – (b) Judiciary in the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State shall be paid directly to the heads of the courts concerned.’”
“Under section 121(4) a Supplementary Appropriation Bill shall be passed if the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Law for the judiciary is insufficient; or a need has arisen for expenditure directly to the judiciary.”
“Section 81(3) of the Nigerian Constitution contains similar provisions, stating that ‘The amount standing to the credit of the – (c) Judiciary in the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation shall be paid directly to the National Judicial Council for disbursement to the heads of the courts’ for the Federation and the States.”
“Similarly, the UN Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary provides in article 1 that, ‘It is the duty of all governmental and other institutions to respect and observe the independence of the judiciary.’”
“The Basic Principle in article 2 obligates states including Nigeria to protect the judiciary from ‘any restrictions, improper influences, inducements, pressures, threats or interferences, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reason.’”
“Under article 7, ‘It is the duty of each Member State to provide adequate resources to enable the judiciary to properly perform its functions.’”
“Judicial independence and autonomy means that judges must be appropriately remunerated commensurate with their special responsibilities, have adequate support staff and equipment, and adequate welfare and pension provisions.”
“SERAP notes that while exercising his powers under section 5 of the Nigerian Constitution former president Mohammadu Buhari signed Executive Order No.10 of 2020, to ensure that the judicial arms of government in the 36 states of the federation no longer have to wait on state governors for funds.”
“Specifically, the Executive Order states that allocation of appropriated funds to the state judiciary in the state appropriation laws in their annual budget shall be a charge upon the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, as a First Line Charge.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
10/11/2024
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
PRESS RELEASE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday.
The Governor, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Akande, a renowned economist, accountant and industrialist, as a distinguished Nigerian who has served the country passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Chief Onikepo Akande, the Iyalaje of Ibadanland, who turns 80 on Tuesday, deserves all the accolades for her immense and impactful contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy and governance.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate the first female Minister of Industry, Chief (Dr) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday.
“Dr. Onikepo Akande is worth celebrating on her 80th birthday based on her positive impact in the country. She has served Nigeria passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society. She is an icon in the business world and beyond.
“She contributed positively to governance and nation-building as a Minister of Industry and later as delegate at the 2014 National Conference.
“As Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande joins the league of octogenarians today, I pray that God will grant her good health to enable her to render more service to humanity, the business community, Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
29 OCTOBER 2024
ONDO GUBER: APC INAUGURATES SANWO-OLU-LED 305-NEMBER NATIONAL CAMPAIGN COUNCIL
Lagos State Governor and the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Campaign Council for November 16 Ondo State governorship election, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured his party leadership that the committee would win the forthcoming governorship election with nothing less than 80 percent of the total votes.
He urged all the party leaders and members to work for the victory of the APC gubernatorial candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16 poll.
Sanwo-Olu, who is the South-West leader of APC, spoke on Monday during the inauguration of the APC National Campaign Council by the party leadership led by the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, at Akure, the capital of Ondo State
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who noted that the party had given him the same assignment in the state twice, pledged that the campaign council will do everything within their means constitutionally and professionally to defeat other political parties in the November 16th poll.
The Lagos State Governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu, who he described as the leader of the party, for giving his support for the APC National Campaign Council to lead the governorship campaign in Ondo State.
He said: “On behalf of my entire team, most of whom are here today, we want to assure our party and everybody that we will do everything within our means; constitutionally and professionally to ensure that a free, fair, highly competitive election and campaign about issues is what we will be doing.
“It will not be a campaign on sentiment and abuse but on issues because Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has made our life a lot easier. We can boldly come out for Governor Aiyedatiwa because he has made us proud within his 305 days period as a governor of the state.
“We will go out with our full chest to campaign for him. We will not disappoint the party and the people of the state. We will win with nothing less than 80 percent of the total votes.”
In his address, the APC National Chairman, Ganduje, expressed confidence that the ruling party in Ondo State will win the governorship election with a wide margin in a free and fair contest.
Ganduje while inaugurating the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led 305-member council, urged them to swing into action and build a strong synergy with the state and local campaign council for APC to be victorious in the next month gubernatorial poll.
“We are here to create an enabling environment so that the election will be free and fair. And the election will be victorious for our party. We must support him (Governor Aiyedatiwa) so that he will continue to provide good governance for the state. He is a lucky man, and he will continue to be lucky,” Ganduje said.
Speaking earlier, Governor Aiyedatiwa said he deserved to be reelected based on performance, noting that within the last 10 months in office, he had focused on infrastructural development, public utilities renewal, boosting agricultural production, entrepreneurship and youth development, job creation and security.
He said: “We are filled with hope and determination as we look forward to the election of 16th of November, 2024 with so much enthusiasm. For us, it is an election that promises to be a defining moment for our great Party, Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
“What we are doing here today is a display of the strength of our will when we work together. It is the evidence of our capability which by God’s grace will produce victory on 16th November, 2024.
“I believe government is about the people. We are resolute and committed to that faith. We have worked hard for the heart of the people. We are talking to them house to house, door to door and mouth to ears. Above all, we are committed to a peaceful and credible election, where votes count.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
29 OCTOBER 2024
Promoting equal opportunity, healthy ethnic diversity among multicultural workforce
Top notch engineering Construction Company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc recently kicked off the first phase of its contracted construction works in Cotonou, Republic of Benin. The field operations which began after preliminary works on a major highway, Acces et traversee de Cotonou, ATC 2 are already completed, which signifies the commencement of rehabilitation works including reconstruction of access roads in the city.
Last week, a visit to Section 1 of ATC 2 showed that work on Roads 7, 9 and 10 was in a full gear, especially on Road 10, the major presidential route to and from the Aeroport. Though the road is a very busy highway, Julius Berger has deployed its renowned engineering expertise in the construction works without obstructing traffic flow.
According to the Site Manager, Vodounou Blaise, there is a lot of work we are doing here in Benin. Here, before you start any major construction work, the first thing you do is to identity any network cable buried underground. Next, you must work with the service company to unearth and relocate them before you can commence real construction work. So, a lot of expertise and patience is required. He added that while Julius Berger has the seasonal weather changes to contend with, work is still on.
He disclosed the details of work being done on that site; thus, we are now working on the drainage, putting slabs on the adjoining Road 9. This includes the changing of interlocking stones on the road pavement preparatory to the laying of asphalt on the road. We have a government engineer who is the liaison with the community and stakeholders and for this, we are thankful that we do not have nor envisage any problem with the communities.
Work on Road 7 of the ATC 2 has also commenced with the demolition of old and dilapidated pavements and concrete walls.
At Julius Berger’s workshop in Cotonou too, workers were busy on diverse installations in the garage as work on the offices have since been completed
The Workshop Supervisor, Mr. Noal Lacey was upbeat last week when he explained that the Asphalt plant located at Calavi, North of Cotonou city, will not take time to be ready. We have completed the concrete wall. The Hot storage section have been completed too, he said.
On what was left to make the plant functional. Lacey said, “the mixer will be done today, (Thursday last week.) Then we will move on to the Screens, Filter, Box, Dryer, Loading Bins and Elevator. Very soon, this 200 tonnes per hour Asphalt Plant will be operational.”
Equal opportunity/Ethic diversity
Further to its acclaimed status of equal opportunity employer of note, Julius Berger in Benin, continues to live true to its role in this direction. We are encouraging the people from Benin North. We are conscious of the ethnic diversities as well as the way we treat our women here at Julius Berger, the head of projects in Julius Berger, Benin, Christoph Fierrens said.
He added thus: “Julius Berger promotes a sense of teamwork and collaboration among colleagues. Here we have workers from far and wide. There are Burkinabes, Cote d’Ivoire nationals, Ghanaians, Togolese, Nigerians and Beninois working here. They represent a good mixture and its good for the work force to meet the project delivery deadline,”
Giving an overview of the company’s projects in the West African port city of Cotonou, Fierrens said “Roads 9 and 10 and most aspects of the Asphalt plant will be completed this year and that is just on the ATC 2. There are others. But we have to meet the project deadline. We are demolishing pavements, retaining walls, reinforced and unreinforced concrete structure and surveying networks in central earthwork areas and along the retaining walls.”
Hope dims for Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council Member
d against- Okpe Leaders
Leaders of the Okpe Nation on Monday urged Okpe nationals not to be deterred by the recent events in Okpe Kingdom, but to ensure that the Okpe Union autonomy was protected.
‘’Being the umbrella membership ethnic organisation of the Okpe Nation which has played several historical roles in the making of the modern Okpe Nation (including the restoration of the Okpe monarchy in 1945), Okpe people cannot afford to allow it to be captured for selfish, personal or political purposes’’.
They also implored the Udogun Okpe to be alive to its historical and strategic role of stabilising traditional administration of the Okpe Nation.
‘’The Okpe people continue to recognise the unique status of the Udogun and its capacity to ensure that Okpe Kingdom is administered within the traditional doctrine of consultative, democratic, and limited monarchy as opposed to despotic systems inherited by some other kingdoms in Nigeria and the African continent. Indeed, Udogun Okpe is a chamber of sober reflections and not a rubber stamp of an Orodje as Okpe people expect her to play a pivotal role of checks and balances on the Orodje’s policies’’.
In a communiqué from an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union held on 27th October, 2024, on the approach of the High Court, Orerokpe by a member of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council, Okakuro Robert Onome to declare him as President General of the Okpe Union, the leaders urged Okakuro Robert Onome to withdraw his baseless and irrational suit at the Orerokpe High Court.
‘’The case is res judicata as it has already been decided by a court of competent jurisdiction. A court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal or entertain any facts different from the facts that were laid before the court that had given the judgement. For the sake of emphasis, in paragraph 17&18 of the Affidavit with which the Federal High Court, Lagos gave the Okpe Union Autonomy Judgement on the 19th of January 2023, it was clearly averred that Prof. Igho Natufe was the elected President General whose executive committee instituted the suit. Okakuro Robert Onome is a stranger to that case and can therefore not claim the benefit of a suit that he had battled against, along with the Illegal Interim executive committee. But in any case, the previous tenure which began in November 2016 (with a four-year tenure) was a collective one of the executive committee and not that of one man’’.
The leaders described the Orerokpe suit as the height of desperation.
‘’The Okpe Union National Executive Committee (NEC) is in possession of videos of his accompanying the nullified Illegal Interim executive committee in press conferences and also in possession of the audio recording of the 3rd of October 2020 event in which he abdicated office. For reasons of preserving the integrity of revered institutions, NEC has resolved not to let the latter one out. NEC shall recommend to the next General Assembly of the Okpe Union the expunging of the name of Okakuro Robert Onome from the list of former officials of the Okpe Union where he fails to accede to this advice’’.
The communiqué signed by Prof. Igho Natufe, President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide), Barrister Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin, General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide) and Mrs. Atarhe Abuh, National Publicity Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide) said it took over a year for the Palace of the Orodje and a group led by Okakuro Joseph Aboze to whom the Illegal Interim EXCO handed over, to finally accept to comply with the judgement of the Federal High Court.
‘’To further destabilize the Okpe Union, the same group of persons who orchestrated the previous destabilization of the Okpe Union have put together another plot with an approach to the State High Court, Orerokpe requesting the court to interpret the Federal High Court, Lagos Judgement for the Prof. Igho Natufe Executive Committee of the Okpe Union and declare former President General, Okakuro Robert Onome as President General’’.
The notable leaders vowed to work with all to make the Okpe Nation great.
‘’The current National leadership of the Okpe Union pledges to continue working with all to achieve so much more and make the Okpe Nation great again as it occupies its place of pride in the comity of Ethnic Nationalities in Delta State, Niger Delta and Nigeria’’.
In the suit filed by Okakuro Robert Onome (Suit No. HOR/M/2/2024), the Orerokpe High Court is being asked to interpret the Judgment of the Federal High Court which was delivered on the 19th of January 2023 in the suit filed by the Prof. Igho Natufe led National Executive Council of the Okpe Union in May 2022 (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022).
The judgement granted all the reliefs sought which include declaration that the purported dissolution of the elected National Executive Council of Okpe Union by HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe was illegal and of no effect whatsoever, nullification of the Illegal Interim Executive Committee headed by Prof. Emrobome Idolor, and an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Imposed Interim, their privies and all those who derived authority from their actions from acting in any capacity in the Okpe Union.
On the 3rd of October, 2020, for reasons best known to HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, he invited some leaders of the Okpe Union (under the leadership of Okakuro Robert Onome) to the Orodje’s palace where he read out a declaration that he was dissolving the Executive Council of the Okpe Union and imposing his own Interim Executive Committee on the union and banning all members of the then executive committee from getting involved in any leadership position of the Okpe Union for two years.
Of the then membership of the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union, only Okakuro Robert Onome accepted the dissolution declaration by picking up the microphone and pledging his support for the Imposed Interim executive committee.
Having abdicated the office of President General, by the operation of the Okpe Union Constitution, the next in hierarchy, Mr. Patrick Akpotor assumed the office of Acting President General and led the EXCO to complete the tenure after the General Assembly (the highest decision making organ of the union, held on the 14th of November, 2020), set up an Electoral Committee that conducted elections which the Prof. Igho Natufe led EXCO became elected as the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union on the 15th of May, 2021.
As the Illegally imposed Interim Executive Committee were still parading themselves as the National leadership of the Okpe Union, in spite of several attempts by eminent Okpe nationals to mediate and recommend to the palace not to interfere with the administration of the Okpe Union, the elected National Executive Council led by Prof. Igho Natufe was left with no other options but to approach the Federal High Court, Lagos (suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), in attempt to resolve the matter.
Meanwhile, Okakuro Robert Onome and some others teamed up with the Illegal Interim EXCO to approach the Corporate Affairs Commission to appoint a Board of Trustees for the Okpe Union as the previous trustees had all passed on. The legitimate NEC led by Prof. Igho Natufe had already commenced the process of regularising the affairs of the union with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) which included the process of appointing trustees with an application to the Federal High Court, Lagos. The Illegal Interim funded heavily by some Palace chiefs got ahead through the backdoor and surreptitiously procured a new Certificate of Registration with a Board of Trustees that included Okakuro Robert Onome. The elected NEC was however steadfast with the judicial redress believing that the wheel of justice grinds slowly but surely.
After nine months, the Federal High Court, Lagos gave judgment/victory to the elected Prof. Igho Natufe led NEC.
To ensure that the Board of Trustees and Certificate procured through the backdoor was not employed to further destabilize the Okpe Union, the court validated Prof. Igho Natufe Executive Committee had to approach the Federal High Court, Abuja (which was earlier used by the Illegal Interim EXCO to legalise their backdoor Board of Trustees/Certificate) so that the same court would vacate the earlier empowering order and nullify the trustees and certificate.
On the 30th of April 2024, the Federal High Court, Abuja gave its Ruling (Suit No.FHC/ABJ/CS/395) and nullified the Board of Trustees/Certificate and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge them (including Okakuro Robert Onome) from the records of the Okpe Union with CAC.
The new Vice Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University, Prof Dimie Ogoina has pledged to transform the tertiary medical institution into a globally recognised leader in medical education, research and innovation.
He spoke via his inaugural speech as the 2nd Vice Chancellor of the young institution saying that his vision for the school aligns with the founding ideals upon which this institution has been established.
Expatiating further, Prof Ogoina who was the Chief Medical Director of Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital before his new appointment, said his vision to transform BMU is deeply rooted in the shared goal of the university community to transform the school into a globally recognised leader in medical education, research and innovation; adding that, together, through collaboration and collective effort, we will work towards a future where BMU is celebrated for academic excellence, technology-driven initiatives, commitment to sustainability, and a significant global health impact.
On his agenda to achieve the goals he already set for his administration; the Vice Chancellor he has a strategic agenda named ASPIRE which he will employ to do the job. He said the agenda simply means, Academic Excellence, Sustainability, Partnerships and Engagement, Innovation and Technology, Research Excellence, Empowerment and Welfare.
He was however, quick to state that his immediate priorities for the next six months will include but not limited to undertaking a familiarization tour of the university to engage directly with students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders including listening sessions to gather valuable insights, identify strengths and challenges, and foster open communication across the BMU community.
The Vice Chancellor said that he intends to appraise and address the university’s Accreditation requirements towards ensuring that all existing programs meet national and international accreditation standards, saying, I will establish an Accreditation Task Force to address accreditation gaps in current programs and assess future needs as the university expands.
He plans to establish a Centre of Excellence Committee to be tasked with recommending and developing Centres of Excellence in key medical fields, adding that using data-driven decision-making, such centres will focus on specialized research and academic leadership.
Prof Ogoina also disclosed that he would conduct a comprehensive audit of Academic and Research Readiness by initiating an audit to assess BMU’s readiness for achieving academic and research excellence. The audit will cover critical areas like faculty qualifications, infrastructure, and research output, informing both the strategic plan and immediate interventions.
Also among his priorities the varsity don said will be the establishment of a Financial Sustainability and Revenue Generation Committee to explore new revenue streams, focusing on consultancy services, entrepreneurial initiatives, and partnerships. This committee will ensure financial sustainability for BMU by diversifying income and minimizing financial risks, he said.
Prof Ogoina, is a Time 100 Honoree of the Class of 2023 who was honoured by the influential Time Magazine as a global player in the field of medical sciences. According the US-based publication last year, in 2017, when Dr. Dimie Ogoina sounded the alarm on a new presentation of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) that he was seeing in his home country of Nigeria, the world wasn’t ready to listen. Recognizing the importance and potential implications for global spread, he persisted, documenting the potential for sexual transmission of Mpox and publishing the data in high-impact scientific journals. As the global Mpox outbreak unfolded in 2022, Dimie’s insights became critically important to developing better strategies to prevent and control outbreaks.
The publication further added that, Dimie is also a passionate champion for global health equity. He has often made the point that Mpox is not a new disease and that had the world paid attention sooner, we could have avoided a global outbreak. It is this drive that has led Dimie to make significant contributions to the field through his advocacy, leadership, and research.
Time 100 is a yearly list of top 100 influential personalities whose works or deeds have influenced mankind globally. The List is drawn by the equally influential Time Magazine, an American news magazine based in New York City.
Representatives of Bayelsa State government, Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Tarila Tebepah, the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ebitimitula Nicholas Etebu and other notable members of the BMU community witnessed the event last week.
Appointed October 2, 2024 to succeed Prof Etebu, the new Vice Chancellor assumed office next day, October 3, 2024
. Prof Dimie Ogoina
The new Vice Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University, Prof Dimie Ogoina has pledged to transform the tertiary medical institution into a globally recognised leader in medical education, research and innovation.
He spoke via his inaugural speech as the 2nd Vice Chancellor of the young institution saying that his vision for the school aligns with the founding ideals upon which this institution has been established.
Expatiating further, Prof Ogoina who was the Chief Medical Director of Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital before his new appointment, said his vision to transform BMU is deeply rooted in the shared goal of the university community to transform the school into a globally recognised leader in medical education, research and innovation; adding that, together, through collaboration and collective effort, we will work towards a future where BMU is celebrated for academic excellence, technology-driven initiatives, commitment to sustainability, and a significant global health impact.
On his agenda to achieve the goals he already set for his administration; the Vice Chancellor he has a strategic agenda named ASPIRE which he will employ to do the job. He said the agenda simply means, Academic Excellence, Sustainability, Partnerships and Engagement, Innovation and Technology, Research Excellence, Empowerment and Welfare.
He was however, quick to state that his immediate priorities for the next six months will include but not limited to undertaking a familiarization tour of the university to engage directly with students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders including listening sessions to gather valuable insights, identify strengths and challenges, and foster open communication across the BMU community.
The Vice Chancellor said that he intends to appraise and address the university’s Accreditation requirements towards ensuring that all existing programs meet national and international accreditation standards, saying, I will establish an Accreditation Task Force to address accreditation gaps in current programs and assess future needs as the university expands.
He plans to establish a Centre of Excellence Committee to be tasked with recommending and developing Centres of Excellence in key medical fields, adding that using data-driven decision-making, such centres will focus on specialized research and academic leadership.
Prof Ogoina also disclosed that he would conduct a comprehensive audit of Academic and Research Readiness by initiating an audit to assess BMU’s readiness for achieving academic and research excellence. The audit will cover critical areas like faculty qualifications, infrastructure, and research output, informing both the strategic plan and immediate interventions.
Also among his priorities the varsity don said will be the establishment of a Financial Sustainability and Revenue Generation Committee to explore new revenue streams, focusing on consultancy services, entrepreneurial initiatives, and partnerships. This committee will ensure financial sustainability for BMU by diversifying income and minimizing financial risks, he said.
Prof Ogoina, is a Time 100 Honoree of the Class of 2023 who was honoured by the influential Time Magazine as a global player in the field of medical sciences. According the US-based publication last year, in 2017, when Dr. Dimie Ogoina sounded the alarm on a new presentation of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) that he was seeing in his home country of Nigeria, the world wasn’t ready to listen. Recognizing the importance and potential implications for global spread, he persisted, documenting the potential for sexual transmission of Mpox and publishing the data in high-impact scientific journals. As the global Mpox outbreak unfolded in 2022, Dimie’s insights became critically important to developing better strategies to prevent and control outbreaks.
The publication further added that, Dimie is also a passionate champion for global health equity. He has often made the point that Mpox is not a new disease and that had the world paid attention sooner, we could have avoided a global outbreak. It is this drive that has led Dimie to make significant contributions to the field through his advocacy, leadership, and research.
Time 100 is a yearly list of top 100 influential personalities whose works or deeds have influenced mankind globally. The List is drawn by the equally influential Time Magazine, an American news magazine based in New York City.
Representatives of Bayelsa State government, Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Tarila Tebepah, the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ebitimitula Nicholas Etebu and other notable members of the BMU community witnessed the event last week.
Appointed October 2, 2024 to succeed Prof Etebu, the new Vice Chancellor assumed office next day, October 3, 2024
. Prof Dimie Ogoina
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Bola Tinubu thanked NIPCO for investing in Nigeria’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) sector during a meeting with the company’s executives at the State House in Abuja.
The President commended NIPCO’s contributions to the nation’s energy transition efforts, particularly its support for the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI).
During the meeting, President Tinubu acknowledged NIPCO’s role as a critical player in enhancing the adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel, noting that such investments align with his administration’s energy security and economic diversification strategy.
He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in driving the transition to cleaner
and more affordable energy solutions for Nigerians.
The President lauded NIPCO’s efforts in promoting and supporting the “Switch to CNG” campaign, which has been instrumental in boosting public awareness and providing affordable CNG conversion kits even before the official kickoff of the Presidential CNG Initiative.
He highlighted the significance of this initiative in reducing the nation’s reliance on petrol and cutting down fuel costs for consumers.
CNG, being a cleaner and more affordable fuel, reduces the carbon footprint and saves consumers significant fuel costs.
“Nigeria’s motorists can buy petrol at N1,000 per litre or equivalent gas per Standard Cubic Meter at N200. We have also introduced incentives for commercial motorists to convert from petrol to gas” free of cost,” President Tinubu said.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for private sector investments and expanding Nigeria’s CNG infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency and economic growth.
He further encouraged NIPCO to continue its innovative approach to CNG expansion while supporting the government’s broader goals in the energy sector.
Mr Ramesh Kasangra, NIPCO director, who led the delegation, thanked President Tinubu for his steadfast support of the CNG sector.
He expressed NIPCO’s commitment to furthering the partnership with the government to ensure Nigeria’s energy transition remains on track.
He assured the president that the company was ready to invest in infrastructure to make CNG more accessible nationwide.
According to him, NIPCO has been a key player in various sectors of Nigeria for over four decades and will continue to believe in Nigeria for the long term.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
October 22, 2024
TINUBU’S RESTRUCTURING OF MINISTRIES AND MINISTERIAL PORTFOLIOS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has approved the immediate implementation of eight far-reaching actions to reinvigorate the Administration’s capacity for optimal efficiency pursuant of his commitment to deliver on his promises to Nigerians.
The eight actions approved by Mr. President include:
LIST OF MINISTERS REASSIGNED TO NEW PORTFOLIOS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
S/N
Name of Minister
Current Designation of Minister
New Designation of Minister
1.
Hon Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu
Minister of State, Education
Now Minister of State Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction
2.Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa
Minister State, Health
Now Minister of Education
3.Barr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo
Minister of State, Water Resources and Sanitation
Now Minister of State Works
4.Hon. Abubakar Eshiokpekha Momoh
Minister of Niger Delta Development
Now Minister of Regional Development
5.Uba Maigari Ahmadu
Minister of State Steel Development
Now Minister of State Regional Development
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment
Now Minister of State Finance
7.Sen. John Owan Enoh
Minister of Sports Development
Now Minister of State Trade and Investment [Industry]
Minister of State, Police Affairs
Now Minister of Women Affairs
Minister of State for Youth Development
Now Minister for Youth Development
Minister of State, Environment
Now Minister of State, Health
MINISTERS TO BE DISCHARGED ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Minister of Women Affairs
2.Lola Ade-John
Minister of Tourism
3.Prof Tahir Mamman SAN OON
Minister of Education
4.Abdullahi Muhammad Gwarzo
Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development
Minister of Youth Development
LIST OF NEW MINISTERS APPOINTED AND PORTFOLIOS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
S/N
Name of Minister
Designation of Minister
Ministry
1.Dr Nentawe Yilwatda
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction
Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction
S/N
Name of Minister
Designation of Minister
Ministry
Minister of Labour & Employment
Federal Ministry of Labour & Employment
3.Bianca Odinaka Odumegu-Ojukwu
Minister of State Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
4.Dr Jumoke Oduwole
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment (Trade and Investment)
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment
5.Idi Mukhtar Maiha
Ministry of Livestock Development
Federal Ministry of Livestock Development
6.Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata
Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development
Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development
7.Suwaiba Said Ahmad PhD
Minister of State Education
Federal Ministry of Education
The President thanked the outgoing members of the Federal Executive Council for their service to the nation while wishing them the best in their future endeavours.
He then charged the newly appointed ministers as well as their reassigned colleagues to see their appointment as a call to serve the nation. He added that all appointees must understand the administration’s eagerness and determination to set Nigeria on the path to irreversible growth and invest the best of their abilities into the actualisation of the government’s priorities.
The Presidency Federal Republic of Nigeria
October 2024
Former Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, on Monday earned huge commendation for inspiring the people, creating a paradigm shift in humanitarian activism in Nigeria and maintaining cordial relationship with the traditional institution across the country.
‘’You are a man of great integrity and a rare gift to the fatherland. As a governor, you encouraged women participation in politics, promoted the rights and welfare of minors, built bridges of hope and created an enabling environment for sustainable development. You showed uncommon commitment and patriotism on issues bordering on the Niger Delta region and its development’’.
He was also applauded for embarking on massive construction of roads and bridges, creating special economic zones and industrial clusters, constructing modern markets, building Asaba International Airport and expanding the Osubi Airstrip.
‘’You touched on the lives of several Deltans especially by your free healthcare programme for pregnant women and children, scholarship scheme for students, micro credit and agricultural schemes. You restored peace in Warri and environs and took action that supported Nigeria’s crude oil production. The increased oil and gas production is to some extent a result of your peace and security initiatives’’.
In a statement on the joyous occasion of the ex-governor’s 70th birthday and his achievements, the Alema of Warri, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, described the former governor as ‘’a peace promoter and a bridge builder’’.
‘’You delivered on your three-point agenda: peace and security, human capital and infrastructural development of the state’’.
He also described his 8-year tenure as the executive governor of Delta State as glorious and memorable.
‘’You opened a new vista for commercial and economic prosperity of the state, demonstrated unusual knack in the pursuit of education in Delta State, expanded the frontiers of the dividend of democracy to the people and encouraged citizens to embrace entrepreneurship skills. You ensured a sound culture of accountability, invested in electricity and housing and provided cheap, comfortable and affordable means of transportation’’
Alema of Warri who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Webster Group of Companies highlighted the ex-governor’s impact as Commissioner for Health.
‘’As Commissioner for Health, you made a mark that cannot be rivaled. You constructed and upgraded several health centres, provided special rehabilitation funds for hospitals across the state and established remarkable industrial peace in the sector through improved welfare packages. No progress-loving person can deny your character of discipline, integrity and passionate commitment to the sector.
The Warri High Chief emphasized Uduaghan’s administrative experience and political sagacity.
‘’As Secretary to the State Government, you left your name in gold. You brought your vision and vast experience to bear on the purpose-driven administration of Chief James Onanefe Ibori. Indeed, you did the job with dignity, grace and generosity of spirit’’
He also underscored the ex-governor’s natural tendency for open door policy and participatory management style.
‘’You deserve to be honoured for your unique ability, uncommon administrative ingenuity, the work that you did for the people of Delta State and the example you set for Nigeria. You deserve to be celebrated for your vision, forthrightness, sophisticated bearing and knack for solving the most complicated problems. You also deserve to be celebrated for your exemplary leadership, immense contributions to humanity and the good name that you built for the family by your excellent conduct in the private and public sector’’.
Ending the statement, Uduaghan said ‘’ On behalf of myself, my family and the good people of Abigborodo, I join all well-meaning Nigerians to felicitate with an astute and upright leader on the joyous occasion of his 70th birthday and I pray to Almighty God to protect him, grant him more wisdom, strength and good health to continue to serve mankind’’
ALEMA OF WARRI EXTOLS DELTA EX-GOVERNOR’S SACRIFICES TO FATHERLAND AT 70, CALLS HIM MAN OF GREAT INTEGRITY
Former Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, on Monday earned huge commendation for inspiring the people, creating a paradigm shift in humanitarian activism in Nigeria and maintaining cordial relationship with the traditional institution across the country.
‘’You are a man of great integrity and a rare gift to the fatherland’’
He was also applauded for promoting the rights and welfare of minors, encouraging women participation in politics and building bridges of hope.
‘’As a governor, you created an enabling environment for sustainable development, showed uncommon commitment and patriotism on issues bordering on the Niger Delta region and its development. opened a new vista for commercial and economic prosperity of the state, demonstrated unusual knack in the pursuit of education, expanded the frontiers of the dividend of democracy to the people, encouraged citizens to embrace entrepreneurship skills, invested in electricity and housing and provided cheap, comfortable and affordable means of transportation’’.
In a statement on the joyous occasion of the ex-governor’s 70th birthday and his achievements, the Alema of Warri, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, described the former governor as ‘’a peace promoter and a bridge builder’’.
‘’You delivered in your three point agenda: peace and security, human capital and infrastructural development of the state’’.
He also described his 8-year tenure as the executive governor of Delta State as glorious and memorable.
‘’You pursued the unity and development of Delta State with all sense of patriotism and passion, embarked on massive construction of roads in the three senatorial zones, created special economic zones and industrial clusters, touched on the lives of several Deltans especially by your free maternal health care programme for all pregnant women in the state, free health service for children, scholarship scheme for students, micro credit and agricultural schemes’.
‘’In areas like tourism, sports and housing, you stamped your feet and left legacies that would continue to bear up in many years to come’’.
Alema of Warri who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Webster Group of Companies highlighted the ex-governor’s impact as Commissioner for Health.
‘’As Commissioner for Health, you made a mark that cannot be rivaled. You constructed and upgraded several health centres, provided special rehabilitation funds for hospitals across the state and established remarkable industrial peace in the sector through improved welfare packages. No progress-loving person can deny your character of discipline, integrity and passionate commitment to the sector.
The Warri High Chief emphasized Uduaghan’s administrative experience and political sagacity.
‘’As Secretary to the State Government, you left your name in gold. You brought your vision and vast experience to bear on the purpose-driven administration of Chief James Onanefe Ibori. Indeed, you did the job with dignity, grace and generosity of spirit’’
He also underscored the ex-governor’s natural tendency for open door policy and participatory management style.
‘’You deserve to be honoured for your unique ability, uncommon administrative ingenuity, the work that you did for the people of Delta State and the example you set for the Itsekiri Nation. You also deserve to be celebrated for your vision, forthrightness, sophisticated bearing, knack for solving the most complicated problems, exemplary leadership, immense contributions to humanity and the good name that you built for the family by your excellent conduct in the private and public sector’’.
Ending the statement, Uduaghan said ‘’ On behalf of myself, my family and the good people of Abigborodo, I join all well-meaning Nigerians to felicitate with an astute and upright leader on the joyous occasion of his 70th birthday and I pray to Almighty God to protect him, grant him more wisdom, strength and good health to continue to serve mankind’’