

Lagos Assembly rejects Barakat Bakare, Fashola, Adefisayo, Abayomi, Oluyomi, Ambrose, Omotosho, Odusote, , Dada, Egube, Fatodu, Hammond, George, Adeyoye, Osiyemi, Ogunwuyi, Oluyinka.
The Lagos State House of Assembly, on Wednesday, rejected 17 out of the 39 cabinet nominees sent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for screening.
Those rejected by the House include Mrs Folashade Adefisayo, Prof. Akin Abayomi, Mr Yomi Oluyomi, Mrs Folashade Ambrose, Ms Barakat Bakare, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, Engr. Olalere Odusote, Dr Rotimi Fashola, Mrs Bolaji Dada, Mr Sam Egube, Mr Olalekan Fatodu, Mrs Solape Hammond, Mr Mosopefolu George, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, Mr Seun Osiyemi, Mr Rotimi Ogunwuyi, and Dr Olumide Oluyinka.
The confirmed nominees include Layode Ibrahim, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, Bola Olumegbon, Mr Idris Aregbe, Ms Abisola Olusanya, Mr Moruf Fatai, Mr Kayode Bolaji-Roberts, Engr. Abiola Olowu, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Dr Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, Mr Yakub Alebiosu, Mr Lawal Pedro, Mr Tunbosun Alake, Mr Gbenga Oyerinde, Dr Adekunle Olayinka, Dr Jide Babatunde, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, Mr Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun, and Mr Abdulkabir Ogungbo.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the day’s plenary, said the confirmation followed a rigorous and detailed screening of the nominees by an ad hoc committee led by the Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Fatai Mojeed.
Obasa commended the committee for its effectiveness and urged the confirmed nominees to always remember that they are in office to serve the people of the State and not individuals.
He also promised that the House would continue to do its best in the interest of the State.
The confirmation was done through a voice vote as Obasa mentioned the name of each of the nominees.

Abuja is not Port Harcourt, Bwala Daniel tells Wike
An aide to former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday reminded Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike the basis needs of the residents of the nation’s capital.
“The basic needs of the residents of the FCT are; affordable healthcare facilities; access to good education facilities, clean sports and recreational centers, affordable transport services system, efficient and workable street light in the city Centre and the suburbs; and finally, security’’ Atiku’s Aide, Bwala Daniel said in a social media post
.
He advised the former Rivers State governor not to create chaos in the city.
‘’You came with a bullish and vendetta spirit venting fire and brimstone about demolition and revocation of titles. Abuja is not Port Harcourt. If you create chaos in the city, you will jeopardize your principal’s interests and he will be forced to sacrifice your job’’ the aide to the People’s Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, said.
‘’ You will learn humility on the job” the legal practitioner added.
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS IN TWO AGENCIES AND DIRECTS OUTGOING NIMC DG/CEO TO COMMENCE 90-DAY PRE-RETIREMENT LEAVE
President Bola Tinubu directs the commencement of 90-day pre-retirement leave for the Director-General/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Aliyu Abubakar Aziz, with effect from August 24, 2023, leading to his eventual retirement from service on November 24, 2023.
The President approves the appointment of Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote to serve as the Acting Director-General/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for a 90-day period, with effect from August 24, 2023, after which, a full term of four years will begin as the substantive NIMC Director-General/CEO, beginning on November 24, 2023.
Furthermore, President Tinubu approved the appointment of Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub to serve as the Director/CEO of the Directorate of Technical Aid Corps (DTAC).
This follows the recent expiration of tenure of the former DTAC Director/CEO, Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi.
This appointment takes immediate effect.
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 22, 2023
Tilije appointed Finance Commissioner, Uduaghan gets Girl Child Entrepreneurship, Humanitarian Support Services as Aniagwu, Izeze pick Works
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved the assignment of portfolios to newly sworn-in Commissioners in the state.
The approval for the assignment of portfolios was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu on Tuesday evening.
The statement listed the Commissioners and their portfolios as follows:
- Odinigwe Odigie Daniel – Science and Technology
- Hon. Joan Onyemaechi Ada-Anioma – Technical Education
- Jerry Ehiwario – Power and Energy
- Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu – Works (Rural Roads)
- Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu – Primary Education
- Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka – Urban Renewal
- Hon. Princess Pat. A. Ajudua, Ph.D – Women Affairs, Community and Social Development
- Chief Darlington Ijeh – Culture and Tourism
- Chief Fidelis Okenmor Tilije – Finance
- Barr. Funyei Manager – Special Projects
- Hon. Godknows Angele – Housing
- Dr. Joseph Onojaeme – Health
- Chief Emamusi Obiodeh – Lands and Survey
- Mr Perez P. Omoun, Esq. – Agriculture and Natural Resources 15. Orode Uduaghan – Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services
- Dr Isaac Tosan Wilkie – Water Resources
- Agbateyimiro Isaac Weyinmi – Youths
- Samuel Oligida – Trade and Investments
- Prof. Tonukari Johnbull – Higher Education
- Etagherure Ejiro Terry – Bureau for Special Duties
- Mrs. Rose Ezewu – Basic and Secondary Education
- Jamani Tommy Ejiro – Environment
- Onoriode Agofure – Transport
- Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben – Works (Highways & Urban Roads)
- Chief Vincent Oyibode – Oil & Gas
- Sonny Akporokiamo Ekedayen – Economic Planning

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS IN TWO AGENCIES AND DIRECTS OUTGOING NIMC DG/CEO TO COMMENCE 90-DAY PRE-RETIREMENT LEAVE
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Bola Tinubu directs the commencement of 90-day pre-retirement leave for the Director-General/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Aliyu Abubakar Aziz, with effect from August 24, 2023, leading to his eventual retirement from service on November 24, 2023.
The President approves the appointment of Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote to serve as the Acting Director-General/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for a 90-day period, with effect from August 24, 2023, after which, a full term of four years will begin as the substantive NIMC Director-General/CEO, beginning on November 24, 2023.
Furthermore, President Tinubu approved the appointment of Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub to serve as the Director/CEO of the Directorate of Technical Aid Corps (DTAC).
This follows the recent expiration of tenure of the former DTAC Director/CEO, Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi.
This appointment takes immediate effect.
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 22, 2023
Tilije appointed Finance Commissioner, Uduaghan gets Girl Child Entrepreneurship, Humanitarian Support Services as Aniagwu, Izeze pick Works
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved the assignment of portfolios to newly sworn-in Commissioners in the state.
The approval for the assignment of portfolios was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu on Tuesday evening.
The statement listed the Commissioners and their portfolios as follows:
- Odinigwe Odigie Daniel – Science and Technology
- Hon. Joan Onyemaechi Ada-Anioma – Technical Education
- Jerry Ehiwario – Power and Energy
- Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu – Works (Rural Roads)
- Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu – Primary Education
- Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka – Urban Renewal
- Hon. Princess Pat. A. Ajudua, Ph.D – Women Affairs, Community and Social Development
- Chief Darlington Ijeh – Culture and Tourism
- Chief Fidelis Okenmor Tilije – Finance
- Barr. Funyei Manager – Special Projects
- Hon. Godknows Angele – Housing
- Dr. Joseph Onojaeme – Health
- Chief Emamusi Obiodeh – Lands and Survey
- Mr Perez P. Omoun, Esq. – Agriculture and Natural Resources 15. Orode Uduaghan – Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services
- Dr Isaac Tosan Wilkie – Water Resources
- Agbateyimiro Isaac Weyinmi – Youths
- Samuel Oligida – Trade and Investments
- Prof. Tonukari Johnbull – Higher Education
- Etagherure Ejiro Terry – Bureau for Special Duties
- Mrs. Rose Ezewu – Basic and Secondary Education
- Jamani Tommy Ejiro – Environment
- Onoriode Agofure – Transport
- Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben – Works (Highways & Urban Roads)
- Chief Vincent Oyibode – Oil & Gas
- Sonny Akporokiamo Ekedayen – Economic Planning

Tilije appointed Finance Commissioner, Uduaghan gets Girl Child Entrepreneurship, Humanitarian Support Services as Aniagwu, Izeze pick Works
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved the assignment of portfolios to newly sworn-in Commissioners in the state.
The approval for the assignment of portfolios was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu on Tuesday evening.
The statement listed the Commissioners and their portfolios as follows:
- Odinigwe Odigie Daniel – Science and Technology
- Hon. Joan Onyemaechi Ada-Anioma – Technical Education
- Jerry Ehiwario – Power and Energy
- Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu – Works (Rural Roads)
- Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu – Primary Education
- Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka – Urban Renewal
- Hon. Princess Pat. A. Ajudua, Ph.D – Women Affairs, Community and Social Development
- Chief Darlington Ijeh – Culture and Tourism
- Chief Fidelis Okenmor Tilije – Finance
- Barr. Funyei Manager – Special Projects
- Hon. Godknows Angele – Housing
- Dr. Joseph Onojaeme – Health
- Chief Emamusi Obiodeh – Lands and Survey
- Mr Perez P. Omoun, Esq. – Agriculture and Natural Resources 15. Orode Uduaghan – Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services
- Dr Isaac Tosan Wilkie – Water Resources
- Agbateyimiro Isaac Weyinmi – Youths
- Samuel Oligida – Trade and Investments
- Prof. Tonukari Johnbull – Higher Education
- Etagherure Ejiro Terry – Bureau for Special Duties
- Mrs. Rose Ezewu – Basic and Secondary Education
- Jamani Tommy Ejiro – Environment
- Onoriode Agofure – Transport
- Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben – Works (Highways & Urban Roads)
- Chief Vincent Oyibode – Oil & Gas
- Sonny Akporokiamo Ekedayen – Economic Planning

“SERVE NIGERIA, NOT REGIONS OR STATES,” PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS AS MINISTERS-DESIGNATE ARE SWORN-IN TO OFFICE
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Bola Tinubu on Monday charged the 45 newly inaugurated Ministers of the Federal Republic to prioritize the interests and welfare of the entire nation and its diverse population, above any regional or state-specific considerations.
Speaking at the inauguration of new members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at the State House Conference Centre, the President underscored the immense responsibility the ministers now bear in shaping policies that will significantly influence the lives of hundreds of millions of Nigerians.
“You are not a minister of a particular state, colony, region, or ethnic nationality. You are a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” President Tinubu declared, setting the tone for his directive to the new ministers.
“This is all about the cohesion and work of a great team, and I believe we now have it. It is an honour to be chosen to serve as a minister in the Federal Executive Council, and such a high honour comes with tremendous responsibility. In this moment of abundant promise and peril in equal measure, all of you that have been sworn in have been called to distinguish yourselves. Nigerians are highly expectant of excellence in service delivery, accountability, and transparency,” he said.
The President also reminded the new ministers that they can not disappoint Nigerians, who expect them to serve with integrity, dignity and competence to actualize the Renewed Hope manifesto of the administration—failing which he will not hesitate to take necessary remedial measures.
“As your country honours you today, you must each work to make yourselves worthy in the eyes of God and our entire nation’s people. Your highest obligation is to restore public faith in government so that our people can once again believe that government can be a positive force for transformation and a vehicle for collective progress of all citizens of this great country,” President Tinubu said, while congratulating each of the ministers and welcoming them to “the Administration of Renewed Hope.”
He further affirmed that the newly appointed ministers were selected based on their track records of excellence in both the public and private sectors, noting their effective representation of the rich diversity present within Nigeria.
Expressing his wishes for the success of the cabinet members in the discharge of their duties, the President invoked a metaphor of a journey, in which he is the driver of a vehicle, along with all Nigerians as passengers.
“In this new assignment, we are in this boat together, even if it is a vehicle, I am the driver. The entire nation sits watchful, as you and I navigate this vehicle. We must hold each other responsible. We have to do the job to meet the expectations of all Nigerians. God be with you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2023

PRESIDENT TINUBU ANNOUNCES NEW MINISTER-DESIGNATE FOR NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT; DIRECTS MINOR AMENDMENTS TO MINISTRY NOMENCLATURE AND PORTFOLIO ALLOCATION
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Bola Tinubu has approved the redeployment of Engr. Abubakar Momoh from the Federal Ministry of Youth to the Federal Ministry of Niger Delta Development.
The Federal Ministry of Youth is to be re-assigned to a Minister-Designate soon.
The Ministers-Designate allocated to the Federal Ministries of Transportation, Interior, and Marine & Blue Economy have been reshuffled as follows:
(A) H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola is redeployed as the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy
(B) Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo is redeployed as the Honourable Minister of Interior
(C) Hon. Sa’idu Alkali is redeployed as the Honourable Minister of Transportation
Furthermore, both Ministers of State in the Oil & Gas sector are now domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources with the following designations:
(i) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri is the Hon. Minister of State (Oil), Petroleum Resources
(ii) Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo is the Hon. Minister of State (Gas), Petroleum Resources
The President approves the renaming of the Federal Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management as the Federal Ministry of Environment.
All aforementioned changes take immediate effect by these directives of the President.
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 20, 2023
Gbajabiamila pledges FG’s commitment to South East development
The Chief of Staff (CoS) to President Bola Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has urged stakeholders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State to embrace peace and unity to entrench the party in the state and the southeast in general.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu in Abuja.
Gbajabiamila spoke on Saturday, when he received Abia APC stakeholders in his house on a thank-you visit on the election of Hon. Benjamin Kalu as the deputy speaker of the 10th House of Representatives and other Abia indigenes which included Hon. Nkiruka Onyejiocha, the incoming minister of State for Labour and Employment and Hon. Sam Onuigbo who was appointed a member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) by President Tinubu.
According to Gbajabiamila, unity was a sine qua non to achieving the lofty ideals of the party in the south East as he assured that the doors of the federal government under President Tinubu were open to them at all times.
He however enjoined the stakeholders to work assiduously to make APC the number one party in the south east, assuring that it will boost the fortunes of the region in no small measures.
Earlier in their separate remarks, the stakeholders through their leaders, Senator Adighije, Senator Nkechi Nwogu, the former minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Nwogu and a member of APC National Caucus, Chief Sam Nkire expressed gratitude to Gbajabiamila for facilitating Kalu’s election, the appointment of Onyejiocha and Onuigbo amongst others.
While applauding Gbajabiamila for mentoring Kalu, the leaders recalled with nostalgia that the mentorship started in the early days of 9th House of Representatives when the Chief of Staff as the then speaker gave Kalu the opportunity to move the first motion on during the plenary session.
They said it was no surprise that Gbajabiamila later appointed Kalu the spokesman of the House, a position, they said prepared him for his current office.
The leaders also appealed to the chief of staff to use his good office to attract more appointments for both the state and the region, pledging their loyalty to the Tinubu led government.
Sunday, 20th August, 2023
Press Release
ISESE DAY 2023 – Elegushi praises government’s recognition
The traditional ruler of Ikate Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi has praised the Lagos State Government and other state governors who accorded recognition to the traditional festival celebration, Isese Day, saying that such recognition will promote inclusion and equality.
Oba Elegushi, who was speaking at the celebration of the day in his palace, said the recognition was long due, as traditional worshipers, are part of the society, they belong to the same community as other faiths and it is only appropriate they get their own holiday as a mark of respect to their beliefs as it is with Christianity and Islam.
Special Assistant on Public Affairs to the traditonal ruler, Temitope Oyefeso, quoted the king as saying he his happy that after years of making the calls to the government, the date is now on the calendar and recognized by the Lagos state government and some other governors in the south west.
The king also appealed to the federal government to ensure that the date becomes a national holiday, adding that believers who are not of the two known faith, also contribute to the peace and progress of the country.
Isese day, a day set aside to recognize and celebrate traditional religion worhisp is celebrated annually on the 20th of August.
Signed:
Temitope Oyefeso,
Special Assistant, Public Affairs to HRM
—
‘Tope Oyefeso (Mr.)
Special Assistant, Public Affairs
Office of The Elegushi of Ikateland
08023839100
ARE MUSLIMS SHORTCHANGED IN SANWO-OLU’S CABINET LIST?
We, concerned Lagosians, have watched in the past few days with keen interest the unfortunate attempts by some groups of individuals, Muslim clerics and organizations to discredit the list of Cabinet nominees of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.
The aforementioned interests have criticized the proposed cabinet composition, alleging marginalization of Muslims. The clerics have resorted to various rough tactics to malign the image of the Governor by dangerously using the media with indiscretion to paint him in the colour of what Mr Governor is not.
It is of note that in the true spirit of a true leader and a genuine “omoluabi”, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has displayed remarkable calmness and confidence in the face of all this provocation, knowing well that the peace, progress and prosperity of Lagos are his primary focus.
We view all the actions so far, including a protest march on the House of Assembly, as uncharacteristic of the progressive people of Lagos, whose major preoccupation is peaceful cohabitation, growth and development.
For the records, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is a completely detribalised individual and a man with an open heart whose religion is humanity. He has run Lagos for over four years now without any form of discrimination whatsoever.
Specifically, the claim by these groups of persons and interests about the number of Muslims in the proposed cabinet is not correct. It has no backing in facts; nor in logic. It is all sentiments and emotions that are unworthy of all we stand for as Lagosians. We will never be proud of such potentially destructive and divisive tendencies.
The claim, obviously out of ignorance, in many media reports is that there are only 8 Muslims among the 39 nominees. This is FALSE. There are 16 Muslims on that list, which is out there for anyone to check.
For the records, of the 7 Special Advisers (non-Cabinet) recently appointed, four are Muslims and 3 are Christians.
The newly composed Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board has seven members; six of them are Muslims and one a Christian. There are three Distinguished Senators from Lagos State, all of whom are Muslims. Of our House of Representatives members, the majority are Muslims, same with the House of Assembly and the Local Government Chairmen.
The truth is that to achieve the excellence that Lagos is famous for, the government, in our view, looks out for competence. The task of running a mega city like Lagos State deserves more from the driver’s seat than religion and other divisive and destructive tendencies.
If such retrogressive seeds are sown and allowed to grow and blossom in our dear state, we will lose our vision and leadership in the comity of states.
Imagine traditional worshippers with all their special groups, such as Ifa, Ogun and Obatala adherents, also protesting that they are excluded!
We would like to appeal to all Lagosians, especially some sections of the Muslim community, who are pushing the discrimination narrative, to allow the State to continue to enjoy the peaceful coexistence of all religious groups and not sow any seed of discord among residents who only crave for service, not minding the religious affiliation of whoever renders such service.
To those who feel genuinely aggrieved (without checking the facts), we implore them to show deep understanding; that is what these times require.
We are making history everyday. Those who want to plunge our peaceful and cosmopolitan state into a religious crisis should retrace their steps. It is uncivilized and dangerous. Lagos and Lagosians will not join such an empty campaign.
SIGNED:
- Razaq Olokoba,
Campaign for Dignity in Governance;
- Ramat Mohammed Abdul Rahman, Women in Islam Network
- Nelson Ekujumi, Centre for Social and Economic Rights;
- Ajayi Popoola, Centre for Socio Economic Rights
- Linus Okoroji,
Humanity Services Project;
- Raji Rasheed Oyewunmi, Yoruba Citizen Action for Change
- Gbenga Soloki,
Campaign Against Impunity and Domestic Violence;
- Alex Omotehinse, Centre for human Rights and Socio-Econimic Rights;
- Awakulu Galadima,
Women Integrity Forum.
- Ramat Abdukrazak,
Women Grassroots Network;
- Ramat IYANDA
Centre for promotion of Work ethics and Values;
- Oliseh Charles, Labour Veterans;
- Princess Abidemu Dosunmu, Salamotu Dosunmu Skill Acquisition for Women and Underprivileged;
- Funso M. AbdulGafar,
Islamic Unity Network;
- Akin A. Jimoh ,
NATIONAL Engagements and Interactive Network
- Alesta Wilcox, Professionals in Politics
- Peter Oparah, Patriotism Awareness Forum
- Gbenga Omage, Lagos Progressive Youths
- Wosilat Alarape, Justice for Women and Youth Initiative
- Mukaila Jimoh, Centre for Conflict and Peaceful Process
- Shola Omololu, Centre for Leadership and Democratic Ethics.
KOGI STATE CARETAKER COMMITTEE (KGSCC)
The National Working Committee (NWC) of our Great Party, the PDP, after extensive consultations with the Kogi State Stakeholders, has approved the appointment of the following as the *KOGI STATE CARETAKER COMMITTEE* to run the affairs of our party in the state following the expiration of the tenure of the then-elected State Working Committee.
The composition of the KGSCC is:
- Sen Philip Aduda – Chairman
- Hon Joshua Adejoh – Member
- Hon Sunday Shigaba – Member
- Paul Ukwenya – Member
- Hon Gbenga Olorunnipa – Member
- Hon MO Sule – Member
- Chief Dayo Akande – Member
- Hon Tola Ade – Member
- Audu Idris – Member
- Hon Sheidu O Abara – Member
- Bilkisu Onusagba – Member
- Abiola Olajubu – Member
- Grace Atawodi – Member
- Hon George Daika – Secretary
MRS. MARIA ADEYEMI – ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY
The Committee shall be inaugurated as follows:
Date: Monday, August 21, 2023
Venue: National Executive Committee (NEC) Hall, Wadata Plaza, Abuja FCT
Time: 10AM
Hon. Umar M. Bature
National Organizing Secretary

ECOWAS Vs Niger Republic: Is peace the opposite of War? (Part Two)


Stop Wike, Umahi, others from collecting life pensions or face legal action, SERAP tells Tinubu
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to “publicly instruct the former governors who are now serving as ministers in your administration to stop collecting life pensions, exotic cars and other allowances from their states while they serve as ministers.”
SERAP urged him to “instruct the former governors to immediately return any pension and allowances that they may have collected since leaving office to the public treasury.”
The following former governors are now ministers in the Tinubu administration: Badaru Abubakar; Nyesom Wike; Bello Matawalle; Adegboyega Oyetola; and David Umahi. Others are: Simon Lalong; Atiku Bagudu; and Ibrahim Geidam.
In the letter dated 19 August 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “The appointment of former governors who collect life pensions while serving as ministers is implicitly forbidden by the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international legal obligations.”
SERAP said, “You would be acting in the public interest by stopping former governors now serving as ministers in your government from collecting life pensions, especially given the current grave economic realities in the country.”
The letter, read in part: “If the ministers that the president appoints are those who collect life pensions rather than serve the public interest, then that may show little about the conduct and integrity of the ministers, but speak volumes about the exercise of presidential power of appointment.”
“Nigerians will judge you in part by the conduct, integrity and honesty of the ministers that you appoint to work in your government. Ultimately, the success of your government would depend on the conduct of the ministers that you appoint.”
“While many pensioners are not paid their pensions, former governors serving as ministers get paid huge severance benefits upon leaving office, and are poised to enjoy double emoluments on top of the opulence of political office holders.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“The exercise of your power of appointment ought to reflect ethical and constitutional safeguards and requirements, and the fundamental principles of integrity and honesty.”
“Stopping the former governors from collecting double emoluments would be entirely consistent with the proper exercise of your constitutional power to appoint ministers.”
“Stopping the former governors from collecting life pensions would ensure that the country’s wealth and resources are used for the common good and benefit of the socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians rather than to satisfy the opulent lifestyle of a few politicians.”
“Instructing the former governors now serving as ministers in your government to stop collecting life pensions from their states would also improve public confidence in the integrity and honesty of your government.”
“Constitutional oath of office requires public officials to abstain from all improper acts, including collecting life pensions, that are inconsistent with the public trust and the overall objectives of the Constitution. A false oath lacks truth and justice. The oath statements require the oath takers to commit to uphold and defend the Constitution.”
“According to our information, the following former governors are now ministers in your administration: Badaru Abubakar (former governor of Jigawa State and Minister of Defence); and Nyesom Wike (former governor of River State and FCT Minister).”
“Others include: Bello Matawalle (former governor of Zamfara State and Minister of State for Defence); Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola (former governor of Osun State and Minister of Transportation); and David Umahi (Minister of Works).”
“Others are Simon Bako Lalong (former governor of Plateau State and Minister of Labour and Employment); Atiku Bagudu (former governor of Kebbi State and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning); Ibrahim Geidam (former governor of Yole State and Minister of Police of Affairs.”
“The states currently implementing life pensions for former governors reportedly include Jigawa, Kebbi, Jigawa, Ebonyi, Yobe, and Rivers. Many of these states owe workers’ salaries and remain the poorest in the country.”
“Several of the pension laws in these states include provisions for six cars every three years, a house in Lagos worth N750 million, and another in Abuja worth N1 billion, unrestricted access to medical attention, and pensionable cooks, stewards, and gardeners.”
“Other provisions 100 per cent annual salaries of the incumbent governor, security operatives and police officers permanently assigned to former governors.”
“SERAP notes that in your inaugural speech as president you promised that your administration will be guided by ‘the principle of the rule of law, a shared sense of fairness and equity’, and that ‘Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution.’”
“These commitments are consistent with your constitutional duties under sections 5, 130 and 147, and oath of office, under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).”
“By the combined reading of these provisions, your government has a legal obligation to appoint as ministers former governors whose conduct is entirely consistent and compatible with constitutional and international legal requirements.”
“These constitutional provisions also require you to instruct the former governors to stop collecting life pensions and to return any pensions collected to the public treasury.”
“The country’s international legal obligations especially under the UN Convention against Corruption also impose a legal commitment on public officials to discharge a public duty truthfully and faithfully.”
“Life pensions for former governors serving as ministers are entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption.”
“The convention specifically in paragraph 1 of article 8 requires you and your government to promote integrity, honesty and responsibility in the management of public resources.”
“Furthermore, Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo in a judgment dated 26 November, 2019 also indicated that double emoluments for former governors are unacceptable, unconstitutional and illegal. Indeed, former governors collecting life pensions while serving as ministers would clearly amount to taking advantage of entrusted public positions.”
“‘Public function’ means activities in the public interest, not against it. The alleged collection of life pensions by former governors now serving as ministers amount to private self-interest or self-dealing. It is also detrimental to the public interest.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
20/8/2023
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
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MEDIAGATE MANAGEMENT: PRESENTING THE BEST POSSIBLE IMAGE
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Julius Berger Nigeria Plc receives ‘Best Construction Firm (Roads & Bridges) Award 2023’ at National Waves Newspaper & Magazine 15th Anniversary Ceremony
- …As Nigerian Union of Journalists’ Correspondents Chapel also honour Julius Berger in Abuja with a golden trophy for its transparent and healthy relations with the Media
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has been honoured with an award of ‘Best Construction Firm (Roads & Bridges) Award 2023’ in the nation’s capital Abuja.
At the well-attended National Waves Newspaper & Magazine 15th Anniversary and Honours Ceremony which held recently at Merit House, Maitama Abuja, the very credible and highly respected news platform, commendably cited Julius Berger as unarguably Nigeria’s “leading construction company offering holistic services covering the planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, infrastructure and industry projects in Nigeria.”
Going further, the publishers and organisers of the event also said that “Since its pioneer project in 1965, Julius Berger has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s industrial and civil infrastructure”, adding that “the company specialises in executing complex works requiring the highest level of technical expertise and Nigeria-specific knowhow.”
Speaking of Julius Berger’s qualitative operational processes, the organisers of the event elucidated and said: “State-of-the-art methods and technologies ensure that quality and innovation are prioritised for the benefit of clients. Subsidiaries and additional facilities make it possible to realise multifaceted projects at the highest level of performance. This structure allows Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to effectively manage and fulfil construction projects, starting from the initial idea, through to planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance.”
The Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the National Waves newspaper and magazine, Jimmy Enyen, who apparently did his research on all recipients of the awards to guarantee merit, noted Julius Berger’s subsidiaries, namely, Julius Berger Services Nigeria Ltd, a multipurpose terminal operator at the Warri Port; Julius Berger Medical Services Ltd, a medical services provider to the Julius Berger Group; Julius Berger Free Zone Enterprise, which facilitates opportunities to participate in projects within the Free Trade Zones across Nigeria; Abumet Nigeria Ltd, the country’s leading aluminium and glass windows and doors manufacturer, which strengthens the Group’s ability to provide turnkey building solutions; PrimeTech Design and Engineering Nigeria Ltd, a provider of integrated design and engineering resources in Nigeria; and Julius Berger International GmbH, in Germany, a key provider of planning, design and engineering, in addition to logistical support for businesses in Nigeria. The Publisher described the Julius Berger subsidiaries and its effectual head office coordination as the harmoniously integrated engine room which strongly, seamlessly fuels the matchless efficiency and effectiveness of the operational deliveries of the company.
Every Keynote speaker at the event including the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, the National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Christopher Ikechukwu Isiguzo, MFR, who is also the President of the Congress of African Journalists, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Esq., OON, and the Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, also acknowledged Julius Berger as a key development partner of Nigeria.
The head of the Julius Berger Group’s Media Relations Office, Prince Moses Duku, Fnipr, led the company’s delegation to receive the award at the event.
According to Prince Duku, the Julius Berger Group is guided by a value system that defines and differentiates it. Adherence to internationally specified standards and a focus on efficient and value-driven delivery of services further solidifies the company’s operational and competitive edge. Duku added that with unwavering reliability, unmatched quality, leading governance and a true focus on sustainability, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and its subsidiaries continue to set a benchmark for progressive success.
It would be recalled that Julius Berger also recently received an award of a golden trophy from the FCT Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists for what the media practitioners described as ‘the engineering construction leader’s transparent and healthy relations with the Media’.