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OKOWA IS AN ASSET TO YOU AND I – ATIKU ABUBAKAR

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU CELEBRATES FASHOLA AT 59

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), on the occasion of his 59th birthday.

Fashola, a former Lagos State Governor, will clock 59 on Tuesday (tomorrow).

Sanwo-Olu, who was Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions during Babatunde Fashola administration in Lagos State, described the former Governor as a seasoned administrator, legal icon and technocrat who has used his skills and positions in different capacities for the growth of Lagos State and Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued in Lagos on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile.

The statement read, “On behalf of my adorable wife Ibijoke, the good people of Lagos State as well as leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), I heartily congratulate my brother and one of my predecessors, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) on the occasion of his 59th birthday.

“Mr. Babatunde Fashola is a true ambassador of our dear Lagos State. He was a major pillar of support as Chief of Staff when our National Leader and Presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was Governor of Lagos State. His commitment, loyalty and track records made him a worthy successor to Asiwaju and he built on the solid foundation and master plan laid down by our leader.

“Lagos State witnessed growth and development during Fashola’s tenure as two-term governor. As our class captain, he set a high standard and raised the bar of corporate and good governance in Lagos. He served our dear state passionately, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding achievements and laudable projects, which are visible in different parts of the State to date.

“Mr. Fashola’s contribution to the success of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led APC government is commendable. He was trusted with three portfolios as Minister of Power, Works and Housing by President Buhari between 2015 and 2019. His stellar performance is evidently addressing infrastructure and housing challenges in different parts of the country.

“On this special day, I wish our own BRF (Babatunde Raji Fashola), the very best that life can offer. I wish him more years of joy and good health for continued service to the State, Nigeria and humanity as a whole.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

27 JUNE 2022

OKOWA IS AN ASSET TO YOU AND I – ATIKU ABUBAKAR

The first most important decision that any candidate for an executive position in a democracy must make is the choice of a running mate.

The office of the president in particular requires that the holder of that office must have clarity of the mind on decision-making.

That is why that in countries that have acquired more experiences in democratic acculturation, the choice that a presidential candidate makes about their running mates, and how they make the decision, provides a window of assessing their preparedness for the job that potentially waits ahead of them.

In meeting up with this expectation, and more importantly to ensure that I make a pick of a running mate that you shall be proud of, it became necessary for me to be introspective about my choice.

The Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, and I share a lot of personality attributes in common. He is a fine gentleman, but tenacious. His experience as a Senator will come in handy in some of the legislative reforms that are urgently needed to reformat our governmental processes.

Ifeanyi and I are incurable optimists in the future of Nigeria and the promises it holds as one united, peaceful and prosperous country.

Having him on the ticket brings a lot of assets to our campaign. In the months ahead of the general election, together with other great leaders of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party, and, with your esteemed support, we shall work very hard to ensure a convincing victory for our party. A victory for the PDP in the general election is a victory for Nigeria. When we win, Nigeria wins. The stakes in the election are very high, and it gives me tremendous joy that I can count on your support to win the election and get to work in earnest.

Thank you and do have a pleasant weekend.

___

His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS EMBODIES EMPATHY, PROTECTS RIGHTS OF REFUGEES – SANWO-OLU

Inter-Governmental Agencies certify Lagos a refugee-friendly city, as Governor Signs Instrument

Lagos State will remain open and continue to provide non-discriminatory assistance to all displaced persons seeking safety of their lives from violent conflicts and disasters, the Governor of the State reiterated the pledge on Monday.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu vowed that the State will remain a refugee-friendly city and provide economic opportunities to displaced persons legitimately seeking to rebuild their lives.

The Governor made the pledge during a commemorative event organised in Lagos to mark the World Refugees Day. Sanwo-Olu, at the event, also signed an instrument confirming Lagos as a city with refugees.

There are estimated 84,000 refugees settled in Nigeria from other African countries. Lagos is hosting 1,656 registered refugees and 611 asylum seekers from 34 countries; most of these persons have been integrated into communities to start a new life.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos took the responsibility to offer protection to refugees as a sacred duty of human rights, rather than privilege. He said the State had maintained a non-discriminatory policy to enforce the rights of persons seeking safety, regardless of their gender, age, ethnicity, religion and their origin.

He said: “It gladdens our heart as a Government to receive the validation that Lagos is a city with refugees. I make further pledge that we will continue to make the State a refugee-friendly city and a land of opportunity for refugees legitimately seeking to rebuild their lives here. As a Government leader, my administration will continue to offer protection and provide the ambience for displaced persons to improve their well-being.

“No matter what the political belief, religion, tribe or gender of anyone seeking safety in our communities from violent conflicts, we will not do anything that will make them uncomfortable living in the State. Once we give the refugees social protection, we believe they can use their talents and energy to flourish, thereby contributing their own quota to the development of their host communities and the State’s economic growth.”

Sanwo-Olu, however, spoke to the root cause of the refugees’ proliferation, appealing to political actors to fashion out ways to amicably resolve disagreements that have the potential to result in violent conflicts.

This, the Governor said, is necessary to stem the growing number of persons running away from their communities due to violent conflicts. He said the global refugee figures remained an “embarrassing number” to humanity, calling for restraint among warring global leaders.

Sanwo-Olu hailed the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs (NCFRMI), United States Government and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for responding to the challenges of displaced persons.

“I’m also using this platform to enjoin Lagosians to exhibit the true spirit of the State, by welcoming all asylum seekers who have genuine interest to be part of their communities. The refugees must not be forced to return to where their lives and well-being would be threatened again,” the Governor said.

Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajia Sadiya Umar Farouq, called for more action to address discrimination against refugees in non-conflict zones, pointing out that the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian War had aggravated the crisis of refugee.

Represented by Dr. Abubakar Suleiman, the minister said Nigeria would continue to respect the provisions of the 1951 Convention on Refugee, stressing that international best practice would be employed in handling the IDPs across the country.

NCFRMI Federal Commissioner, Hajia Imaan Ibrahim-Sulaiman, said the signing of the Declaration of Lagos as a ‘City With Refugees’ signified “a defining moment” with global significance.

The signing, she said, underscored the place of refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons and other Persons of Concern (PoCs) in the heart of Lagos.

“Under the current leadership, Lagos has created inclusiveness and promoted hope for refugees and other PoCs through favourable policies in the areas of education, health and social services. With the signing, Lagos is going to join other league of towns and cities in the world that have signed the Declaration”, Ibrahim-Sulaiman said.

UNHCR Representative to Nigeria, Ms. Chansa Kapaya, said the commemoration was created as a day to build empathy, celebrate the strength and courage of refugees, while also recognising their resilience and taking action to solve their plight.

She urged global leaders to step up and work together to solve the global refugee challenges.

A Cameroonian refugee, Zemkwe Nekuna, a lawyer, who spoke on behalf of international refugees in Nigeria, delivered the appreciation note of IDPs to the Government for offering them the platform to grow beyond their predicament.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

27 JUNE 2022

PRESS STATEMENT

23rd June, 2023

DELTA PDP HAILS UNPRECEDENTED RECEPTION, AS NIGERIANS ROLL OUT DRUMS TO CELEBRATE OKOWA’S HEROIC HOMECOMING; SAYS VICE PRESIDENTIAL POSITION HAS LIFTED HOPES, EXPECTATIONS IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA FOR GREATER EXPLOITS IN 2023

The Delta State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has saluted Deltans and indeed all Nigerian citizens and nationalities residing in Delta State, for the unprecedented heroic welcome they gave to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, as he returned home to Delta State, from Abuja, after emerging as the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate to His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and running mate on the joint ticket, as PDP Flag-Bearers in the 2023 Presidential election.

A statement signed by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary of the party, said it was overwhelmed by the tremendous outpouring of love, pomp, and celebration, which greeted Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on his return, adding that the hopes and expectations of Southern Nigeria for greater achievements come 2023, have been lifted with Senator Okowa fully endorsed as the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate and running mate on the joint ticket as party flagbearers.

The statement reads: “Delta PDP is completely awed and overwhelmed by the massive outpouring of love and celebration by Nigerians, which greeted our dear Governor and Leader, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on his return to Delta State, after emerging as Vice Presidential candidate and running mate to our Presidential candidate, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on the joint ticket as our Party’s flag-bearers for the 2023 Presidential election.

“This unparalleled reception is not only a massive testimony of endorsement and acceptance for Governor Okowa’s elevation on the political ladder, by Deltans and Nigerians, but also a huge reflection of the fact that the Vice Presidential position has positively lifted the hopes and expectations of the people’s of Southern Nigeria to anticipate that their desires and aspirations will be on the front burner and of paramount attention in the scheme of things, when the PDP takes over in 2023.

“We want to especially extend our deep and profound gratitude to all Deltans; our youths, women, traders, artisans, professionals, captains of industry, traditional rulers, the clergy, our leaders, chieftains, elders, statesmen, and indeed all residents in Delta State including the Oha n’eze Ndi-Igbo, the Arewa Community, Egbe Omo Odua and our other numerous brothers and sisters, who turned out in their massive numbers to give “Ekwueme” our leader and Governor, a befitting and heroic homecoming reception.

“Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s emergence as the Vice Presidential Candidate and running mate to pair with our Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on the PDP joint ticket is, without doubt, one of the best political decisions in favour of Southern Nigeria and acceptance to the rest of the country as it has achieved a satisfactory balance, instead of the lopsided arrangement which some of the major parties will produce.

“Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa combine a tried, tested, experienced, trusted, and results-driven leadership team that boasts a fantastic track record of astute administrative excellence, sterling innovative brilliance, and an admirable nationalistic and detribalised political philosophy, which embraces and accommodates all Nigerians and will work for all Nigerians, irrespective of creed, gender, demographics, ethnicity, religious inclination, and social stratification, while ensuring that prominent and adequate considerations are given to all, when they take over the reins of power in 2023.

“The massive reception and heroic welcome which hallmarked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s homecoming, is not only a demonstration of the faith and confidence reposed in him and the PDP Presidential joint ticket to deliver on the people’s mandate, it is most importantly a clarion call and an unequivocal S.O.S by Deltans and Nigerians that they are earnestly waiting and are fully prepared to embrace and participate in the Rescue Mission of the PDP, which has now become a collective national crusade to sweep the nightmare of APC leadership away.

“Atiku Abubakar is a GOAL. Ifeanyi Okowa is a GOAL. PDP is a GOAL. 2023 is a sure GOAL”.

God Bless Nigeria.

PDP! Power to the People!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,

State Publicity Secretary,

PDP, Delta State.

PRESS STATEMENT

23rd June, 2022

“Atiku Abubakar is a GOAL. Ifeanyi Okowa is a GOAL. PDP is a GOAL. 2023 is a sure GOAL”.

God Bless Nigeria.

PDP! Power to the People!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,

State Publicity Secretary,

PDP, Delta State.

June 24th, 2022

MSD DENOUNCES PRINCE KPOKPOGRI’S PETTY, FRIVOLOUS CRASSNESS

The Movement for Stronger Delta (MSD) states that the “Open Letter to PDP Stakeholders Atiku/Okowa Ticket: Dead on Arrival” missed the point. Of course, the so-called letter reeks of malice. To the contrary, MSD acknowledges it as a terrific hit on the target of moving forward for the progress and changing the change in Nigeria.

The point to ruminate on is, if the ticket is “dead on arrival”, why is the author and his sponsors het-up and full of anxiety? If they strongly believe that the Atiku/Okowa PDP Presidential ticket is a non-event, why are they getting agitated and hollering everywhere and being pugnacious?

This is why the full-page advertorial by one Comrade Prince Kpokpogri, source of the headline published in Vanguard of Tuesday, June 21, 2023 is nothing but a disgraceful outpouring of despicable emotions that exposed the cynical state of the author’s mind. Clearly in the write-up, is an attitude that exuded disparaging sarcasm and contemptuous scoffing of the person of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State.

Let it be said that those in the know about the source of the worthless, empty, and vain arguments pushed in that piece, understand the style of the author and that of his cohorts, one of which was unashamedly mentioned. These are birds of the same feather, which are smart at deploying the weapon of blackmail to extort lily-livered victims.

But never Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, a man that has proven to them to be too hard a nut for them to crack by his disposition and determination not to get entangled in frivolities bandied about by coercers with a penchant for filthy lucre. So, when persons like Prince Comrade Kpokpogri came out the way he did in the Vanguard advertorial signed by him, the understanding of an underhand engagement will sink deep and clear.

For starters, Kpokpogri, who is not a PDP member, wants people to believe his infantile argument, when he claimed that the description of Okowa by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as “President in waiting“ is a big slap to PDP stakeholders and, the people of South-South Geo-political zone and Southern Nigeria.” But his argument has been deflated by the series of felicitations and goodwill messages that have flooded the information space both in the print and social media. It has been an avalanche of commendations and congratulations for Governor Okowa.

Maybe he should be told that even the apex socio-cultural organisation of the Ijaw nation, worldwide, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has felicitated the Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, for emerging Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

A Daily Independent newspaper report of this reads: “The organisation, in a message issued by its Publicity Secretary, Engr. Oyakemeagbegha Ezonebi said the INC was highly elated by the emergence of Okowa, describing him as a humble, listening, and visionary leader, whose experience is needed at this critical time in the history of the country.

“INC commended the Presidential candidate of PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and the National leadership of the party for seeing and appreciating the sterling leadership qualities of the Governor, assuring them that he would not betray the confidence reposed in him.

“The foremost Ijaw group called on the South-South region to accept Okowa’s emergence in good faith and work with him to restore the lost glory of the Niger Delta region.” Ironically, it must be noted that Kpokpogri, as we have been informed, is an Isoko man from Delta State in the Niger Delta.

And in his delusion, Kpokpogri, Chairman of the ignoble ‘Anti-Corruption And Integrity Forum’, claims that the Delta State Governor has lost credibility. How? Of course, it’s now clear that it is he and his base organization that has integrity challenges, not Okowa. No one is buying into the emotional instability caused by a self-imposed trauma that he is displaying.

Indeed, no one is begrudging Kpokpogri of having his fancy of the APC Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, it is his cup of tea, and he is free to eulogize him as much as he wants. But he should not infuriate the sensibilities of knowledgeable Nigerians by addressing Tinubu in borrowed robes of “a unifier.” In Nigeria?

How much did he try to unify the people when Nigerians across the country continue to be assailed by the evil assaults of herdsmen who unleash terrorism on the people, killing, raping, maiming, and kidnapping of people? He should show Nigerians a record of even mere verbal interventions made by Tinubu to the clueless Federal Government of his ruling APC, and of which he is the National leader? How much concern has Tinubu shown to the plight of callers and the clamour for the practice of true federalism, and restructuring of the country?

When communities come under barrage of attacks by land grabbing herdsmen and people are displaced from their ancestral lands and homes and made refugees in their own country and made to live in IDP camps, where is Tinubu? Kpokpogri did not see the integrity question here because Tinubu is in the good books of his anti-corruption and integrity crusading forum.

Besides, it was expected that Kpokpogri’s ‘Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum’ should have been at the forefront in taking up Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu when on the eve of an election he brought bullion vans to his home to distribute money to voters to compromise them. Where was the anti-corruption crusader then? It is this type of selective anti-corruption and integrity forum work that has called to question Kpokpogri’s work.

It is therefore clear why many people understand his eccentric behaviour especially, his persistent and unprovoked attacks on the person of Governor Okowa. The Governor clearly read the issue very well; shunned his antics and treated such with ignominy. He should not delude himself that people don’t understand the undercurrent behind his gaudy spat against Okowa.

The people know and understand his silly pranks and luckily for him, one of them has fallen for his underhand social crusading antics to dole out a fee for his well-known puerile advertorial 419. Of course, some discerning Deltans will still remember how his attempt to blackmail a sitting Senator backfired, when the Senator, another wily character himself, reportedly refused bluntly, to succumb to a certain nefarious out-of-court arrangement, proposed by Kpokpogri and his accomplices.

One of the grounds on which the judge, in the subsequent EFCC prosecuted litigation against the Senator, dismissed the case, was reported by the Guardian Newspaper thus: “The court held that the evidence led by PW1 (Prince Kpokpogri) was based on a call from an anonymous caller, adding that he did not tender the documents supplied to him by the said caller, who was also never called as a witness to testify.”. This just goes to show how phony and mischievous these characters are.

Hear Kpokpogri again! “I make bold to say that PDP cannot win more than six States in the coming elections.” Oh, yea. Let him prove first that he has a voters card, and that his one vote will fetch the party he is canvassing support for, about 20 million votes. Then, maybe people will take him seriously.

The phony social crusader and anti-corruption activist talks about “humongous borrowings” and exhibited his lack of respect for facts. With all the real borrowings being made by the Muhammadu Buhari-led APC Federal Government, the bogus social crusader did not see the implications of that on the future of Nigeria and her citizens. It is convenient to throw his eyes elsewhere and pretend that the Federal borrowings don’t matter. What a social crusader.

No, Okowa is his headache and must be hacked down. And that a social crusader and an anti-corruption and integrity forum leader can talk about putting up a =N=20 million bet to any person who can challenge him that PDP would win more than six States, speaks volumes about the integrity of an integrity forum man.

Infact, why would an Integrity crusader be boasting of putting down =N=20 million on a ‘bet’ (gambling)? Where did he even get =N=20million to so confidently fritter away with on gamble in the first place? This just goes to reinforce the suspected sponsorship of ‘bullion van’ connections to this so-called crusader and the sad, warped and unfortunate mindset which now rules the integrity community and defines its crusaders.

If he thinks that PDP, because of the emergence of Okowa on the party’s joint Presidential ticket with Atiku Abubakar, cannot rescue Nigeria from the shipwreck that APC and its self-styled ‘National Leader’ has put the country in, then Kpokpogri should leave that for the electorates to decide. He should keep his rants and delusions to himself.

Truth is, Kpokpogri is not God. It is only God that blesses. And Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has been blessed by God to be on the joint Presidential ticket with the PDP Presidential Flag Bearer, Atiku Abubakar. it has happened, and this blessing, a thousand bellyaching Kpokpogris cannot change it.

This anointing cannot be broken, but is an anointing that will break the strangulating yoke of APC on Nigerians, because the scripture says: “No man can get anything except it be given him by the Lord.” This one has been given to Okowa; it is a blessing from God, and “He who the Lord has blessed let no man curse.”

This, as we always say in MSD, is the Simple Agenda.

MOVEMENT FOR STRONGER DELTA (MSD)

June 28, 2022

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Your Incitement Cannot Save Oyetola- PDP Mocks Abdullahi Adamu

WE’VE BUILT PH LAW SCHOOL CAMPUS TO BE SELF SUSTAINING – WIKE

*As Gov. Wike hands over more titled document to chairman, Council of Legal Education, Chief Ngige.

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has reemphasised that the Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas Campus of the Nigerian Law School in Port Harcourt has been provided to be a self sustaining institution in Nigeria.

To achieve that mandate, Governor Wike, on Monday, handed over the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) of adjoining property to the campus acquired by the Rivers State government to the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN.

The presentation was made when Governor Wike conducted the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN, together with the Director General of Nigeria Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN and other dignitaries round structures within the Law Campus that are completed and ready for formal handover.

Governor Wike said the acquisition of the adjoining property to the campus will enable the operators of the campus to use them for sundry commercial and revenue generating activities in order to meet the financial needs of the Law School in Port Harcourt.

“We are using this opportunity to present the Certificate of Occupancy of the property we have acquired and paid for by the Rivers State government for the Nigerian Law School, Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas, Port Harcourt Campus to you (Chairman).

“We are giving the property to you for the purposes of making some revenue to run this campus. Whatever revenue derived is to be utilised for this campus alone.

“Very soon, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and the Director General will meet to prepare a Memorandum of Understanding. It will ensure that you won’t take revenue from here to subsidise for other campuses. Any money you make here, put it here in this campus.”

Governor Wike also told them that with the construction work on all the structures in the campus now completed, the state government awaits the Council of Legal Education to choose a date when they desire the campus be formally handed over to them.

In his response, Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN noted that they were on inspection of the facility and are amazed at what they have seen.

“17th July 2021 was when we came for the foundation laying ceremony and His Excellency promised that this project will be delivered in one-year. Behold, today is June 27th, not up to July yet and he had delivered.

“Recalled that when we were doing the ground breaking ceremony, His Excellency promised that every month he will give this campus N10million for four years, and will be given in advance, that is about N480 million to run this institution.

“When I learnt that he had acquired adjoining property; houses, shopping malls and other business facilities for the Law School to rent out to raise revenue to run this institution. I can tell you it is unparalleled.”

On his part, the Director General of Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma described the Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas Campus in Port Harcourt as the best and mother of all Law campuses in Nigeria.

“On behalf of the Council, we are very grateful for a promise made and promise kept. This is the turning point in the history of legal education in Nigeria.”

During the inspection of the lecturers quarters in New Government Residential Area in Port Harcourt, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Onueze C. J. Okocha, SAN, said governor Wike is a performer, who keeps promises and has delivered the Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas Port Harcourt Campus that is tastefully constructed and furnished before the record time he set for himself.

Also speaking, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association. Okey Wali, SAN, noted that Governor Wike has done this to show that he is a lover of democracy and for promotion of the judicial system in Nigeria.

The Rivers State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor, SAN, described the project as historic and iconic because there is nothing like it across the country. He said Governor Wike has provided it as a commitment to advancing legal education in the country.

June 25, 2022

Press Statement

Your Incitement Cannot Save Oyetola- PDP Mocks Abdullahi Adamu

…Says APC Jittery Over Adeleke’s Popularity

The National Chairman of the fizzling All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Abdullahi Adamu should know that his resort to incitement in the forthcoming Osun State Governorship election cannot save the colorless, rejected and sinking Governor Gboyega Oyetola from inevitable defeat in the July 16, 2022 poll.

The PDP describes the statement by the APC National Chairman as reckless, irresponsible and shows the level of APC’s aversion to peaceful electoral process and disdain for the democratic right, freedom and sovereignty of the people of Osun State to freely and peacefully choose their leaders.

It is pertinent to remind Abdullahi Adamu that election is not a warfare! Directing his party members to “go down to the trenches” in the Osun State Governorship election and brazenly asserting zero tolerance for election defeat cannot find accommodation within the ambits of the law.

Abdullahi Adamu’s comment further confirms that the APC is in mortal fear of Senator Adeleke’s soaring popularity, realizing that Governor Oyetola is no match for Senator Adeleke; a blunt reality for which the APC National Chairman has now become frenetic.

It is distressing that the APC has become so chaotic in the pursuit of its territorial occupation agenda that the National Chairman views the Osun State governorship election as a warfare in which the people must be conquered.

More provoking is Abdullahi Adamu’s brazen assertion that the APC has no apology for such an irresponsible, reckless and offensive “posture” against the sensibilities of the people of Osun State.

Nigerians clearly observed the nerviness and dread of defeat written all over the APC National Chairman’s face while inaugurating and threatening the APC’s National Campaign Council on Osun Governorship Election not to come back crying in defeat; a fate that already awaits the APC on July 16.

Abdullahi Adamu should know that the Osun State Governorship election is not about incitements, issuing of threats and grandstanding as a ruling Party. He must understand that this election is a referendum on the monumental failure of the APC in Osun State and that the people are solidly behind Senator Ademola Adeleke in their resolve to liberate themselves from the stranglehold of the incompetent, vicious and inhumane APC administration in Osun State.

Governor Oyetola in the last four years, displayed unparalleled incompetence in governance and ran the most ineffective and clueless administration in the history of Osun State.

This is why the people of Osun State are determined to kick out Governor Oyetola and elect Senator Ademola Adeleke who, in any event, defeated Governor Oyetola fair and square in the September 2018 Governorship election.

The PDP therefore cautions Abdullahi Adamu to retreat and rein in his thugs, political terrorists and band of riggers as they will be stiffly resisted by the people.

The PDP also urges President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately call the APC National Chairman to order and advise him to accept the imminent defeat that awaits Governor Oyetola and the APC on July 16.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

Press Statement

Akeredolu Constitutes Board of Ondo State Pension Commission

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has constituted the Board of the Ondo State Pension Commission.

The Governor has equally approved the appointment of Dr. (Mrs) Anthonia Smart as the Part-Time Chairman of the Board.

The Appointment is to further deepen the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of pensioners and consolidate the gains already recorded in line with the Ondo State Pension Reform Law, 2014 as amended.

The new Chairman is expected to work closely with the Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Jaiyeola Olowosuko, and other members of board.

Governor Akeredolu congratulates Mrs Smart, charging her to give her best to the service of the state.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

June 27, 2022.

ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE POLICE IS THE SOLUTION

The press statement released by the Ministry of Information of the Zamfara State Government on the need for citizens to arm themselves for self-defense, among others, confirms the pervasive loss of confidence in the current security arrangement the Country. It signals a situation of near- capitulation on the part of the security agencies centrally controlled by the Federal Government. It portends great danger for the polity.

It is a sad commentary on the increasing inability and impotence of the Zamfara State Government, and other States, to protect their citizens in the wake of relentless and mindless assaults by terrorists and bandits. It suggests a total lack of trust between that State Government and Federal Government on one hand, and the helpless and hopeless situation in which the people have found themselves concerning the security of lives, on the other. The stark reality confronting the people of Zamfara leaves the Government with no esoteric option than to lean heavily on the current arrangement.

The Government and the people of Zamfara State have been pushed to the wall. The feeling of despondency is pervasive in the land. We must, however, advise caution. The directive of the State Governor to the Commissioner of Police to issue licenses to qualified citizens to bear arms in the defense of their immediate environments and the State in general is commendable. But the NSA and Inspector General of Police may have to issue license to possess a certain category of arms. No such licenses have been issued to individuals since 2007 while those which existed had been revoked. Therefore, this directive, attractive and compelling in the current circumstances, may be stifled by existing federal arrangement.

The Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, commends the boldness of his brother Governor, Bello Matawalle, in his bid to confront the security challenges in his State, adopting a pragmatic approach. The Governor notes, with great concern, the continued refusal by the Federal Government to grant licenses to security outfits, run by some States, to bear sophisticated firearms capable of restraining, effectively, acts of criminality and brazen impunity with commensurate responses.

The deliberate policy of the Federal Government to deny exigent regional security outfits of the rights to bear firearms, when it is evident that the security agencies in the country are overwhelmed and distracted by centrifugal forces, is a major factor, among many, exacerbating the current security challenges in the country. A federal system of government cannot be administered as if the country is a unitary colony, controlled, rigidly, at the centre, while the constituent units are treated as mere outposts.

This fact, coupled with the logic of divergence and rapid growth in population, imposes no other practicable measure on the managers of this country, including our legislators, than to accept the inevitability of the establishment of a State Police.

DR DOYIN ODEBOWALE

SSA, SPECIAL DUTIES & STRATEGY

ONDO STATE GOVERNMENT

Press Statement

Akeredolu Issues Executive Order On Compulsory Installation, Use Of CCTV Devices

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has signed an Executive Order for the compulsory installation and use of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) devices in all public and private institutions in the state.

This becomes imperative in the light of the increased spate of insecurity in the country and the need to ensure security of lives and properties in all public and private institutions and centres throughout the state.

The executive order shall be enforced at all religious places of worship, financial institutions (of all kinds), event centres, supermarkets, educational institutions (Schools), Hotels/Motels, Guest House, inns, Restaurants, Clinics and Health Centres, eateries (of all kinds), recreation or vehicular parks and other places regularly used by the public.

“Pursuant to Section 176 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which vests in the Governor of Ondo State the Chief Executive powers of the state, the Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, hereby issues the following Executive Orders:

That the owners, occupiers, managers and operators of public/private institutions within Ondo State shall mandatorily install, use and maintain CCTV devices and other secret cameras to monitor and keep surveillance on the daily activities in their premises and especially monitor the ingress and egress of people/vehicles at the said places, venues and centres.
That the installed CCTV devices apart from capturing all activities at the public/private institutions must also have data storage hardware and data stored therein should be made available to security agencies whenever it is required.

iii. That public/private institutions shall employ and maintain well-trained security personnel who shall man the entry and exit points to their various facilities/premises.

That where necessary, the owners and occupiers of public/private institutions shall erect a well fortified perimeter fence with a security post at the entry and exit points.
That this Executive Order shall be enforced by all security agencies particularly the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun) and the Department of State Security Services (DSS).
That violators of this Executive Order shall be prosecuted in accordance with Section 203 of the Criminal Code (Cap. 37) Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

June 25, 2022

June 28, 2022

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June 27, 2022

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How humility earned Senator Eyakenyi Akwa Ibom deputy governorship slot

Promises to give women sense of belonging in governance

By Bisi Ezekiel

Fortune smiles on Dr.(Mrs) Akon Etim Eyakenyi, the serving senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District as she was named the Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State.

She got the position without much Ado while many male political figures in the party lobbied in the state and even in Abuja to be picked. But the party and it’s candidate beam the searchlight on the woman of substance who is no push over in Akwa Ibom politics.

Many factors could have worked for the Senator to have been found worthy of the position by the party’s governorship candidate, Pastor Eno Umo.

Among the many factors is her unprecedented humility.

She was screened by the PDP Deputy Governorship Screening Committee on Wednesday, June 22 alongside 27 other state running mates of the party at the PDP secretariat, Abuja.

Seeing herself as the face of Akwa Ibom women in government, she told journalists after being screened that she will represent the interest of women in government.

In her words, she said ” I am going to represent the slot of the women but I am going as a mother for the 31 local government of Akwa Ibom State covering both men, youth, elderly.

“I am going there to serve, to set a standard and ensure that after me, another woman can pick up the position, I will also ensure that women have their due and right at the executive, legislative and party level.

“I am also going to be a model and standard to every woman in Akwa Ibom State.”

She appreciated the party, the governor of Akwa Ibom and stakeholders who approved that a woman be given the slot of deputy governor for the first time.

Senator Eyakenyi has always acknowledged the grace of God for every position she attain in life.

She said ” I want to start by saying that for every position, God is the one that identifies who to put into position, but people also have a way of pushing one to a position. I belong to the Peoples Democratic Party, the PDP in my state. I have been there since inception and I have contributed my own quota to my people under the umbrella. I am accessible to the people. I have served my people in different capacity.”

Speaking on how she has been getting appointments and positions in a male dominated environment, she said “I want to say that I identified what the needs of my people were, I identified what they definitely wanted me to do”

She said her own philosophy is service and commitment to humanity.

Always at home with her people in her senatorial district, the Senator said “Without pride, if you have access to my people in Akwa Ibom South senatorial district, they will tell you that this time they have a Senator. If you have listening to radio, online , social media you will see that Senator Akon Eyakenyi is working.”

“The three things that a good Senator or a good representative is expected to do are good quality representation in and out of the floor of the Senate on behalf of your people, the oversight function and then the briefing of the people.

The deputy governorship candidate called on the people of Akwa Ibom to fully support the party, herself and the governorship candidate to win the coming election.

She said “it is by voting us into power that we can continue the good work and developmental strides of our efficient governor, Emmanuel Udom.”.

Senator Akon Eyakenyi PhD is a native of Mbokpu Eyoakan in Urue-Offong/Oruko Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State by birth and Oron Local Government Area by marriage.

She attended Primary School, Uko Uyukim, Oron; Methodist Teacher’s Training College, Oron; University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Uyo, AKS; and University of Calabar, Calabar where she obtained First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) in 1974; Teacher’s Grade II Certificate (TCII) in 1979; Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) in 1986; BEd, MEd and PhD in 1990, 2000 and 2015 respectively.

As a professional teacher, Senator Akon Eyakenyi started off as an auxiliary teacher and upgraded to Mistress II and I, Education Officer and Senior Education Officer while working for the then Cross River State Ministry of Education, Akwa Ibom State Secondary Education Board, and lastly, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education before retiring voluntarily from the civil service.

Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi’s political journey started with her appointment in 1991 as Executive Chapter President of Better Life Programme in Oron Local Government Area and Supervisor for Education, Youth, Sports and Culture and she had to run both offices concurrently. She was subsequently appointed as Board Member 1, Akwa Ibom State Secondary Education Board in 1991, Commissioner for Industry, Commerce and Tourism in 2000 – 2005, Chairman Akwa Ibom State Technical Schools Board in 2013 – 2014, Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2014 – 2015, Chairman Governing Council, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic in 2016 – 2018 and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District from June 2019 – 2023.

The deputy governorship candidate has held several other part-time appointments locally and internationally. She is widely travelled, has attended several local and international conferences, organised and coordinated several programmes, workshops and conferences and has a number of publications to her credit.

Distinguished Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi is extensively experienced and exposed. She has civil and public service experience ranging from local government, state to federal government. She has served in both executive and legislative arms of government. Senator Eyakenyi has been in the service of Nigeria for 4 decades and counting.

She held many leadership positions and appointments in the past. These include; Member, Technical Committee on the Realization of Ibom Deep Sea Port inaugurated by His Excellency, The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State – June 2015, Chairman, Presidential Implementation Committee (PIC) on White Paper of Commission of Inquiry into Alienation of Federal Government Landed Property – 2014 to date. Chairman, Technical Board, Federal Housing Authority, Nigeria – 2014, President, 24th Governing Council of United Nations Habitat (UN-Habitat) – Worldwide – 2014 – 2015 and Rapporteur of the African Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (AMCHUD).

Others are; National Focal Point / Champion of the Continental Initiative on ‘Strengthening Partnerships for a New African Urban Agenda’, Chairperson of the Administrative and Technical Coordination Team -New Africa Urban Agenda being co-championed by Mr. President and His Excellency, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana , Chairperson, Ministerial Representative to the Committee on Pilot Housing Scheme Project to deliver 50,000 Homes, Chairperson to the Committee on the Implementation of Nigeria Mortgage Re-Finance Company (NMRC) 10,000 Housing Units, Chairperson to the Committee on Verification and Auditing of Federal Government Lands and Landed Property in the 36 States of the Federation and the Capital Territory, Abuja – July 2014, Chairperson to the Committee on Reclamation and Infrastructure Development of Water Bodies In Lagos State .

She is a mobiliser, mentor, role model, philanthropist and an unrepentant community servant. She has received several awards, honours and recognitions among which is the Paul Harris Fellow (PHF), a major donor in the Rotary International. Senator Eyakenyi is a pace setter, peace maker, very humble and exceptionally diligent and dutiful, she is an advocate for children and women welfare, a staunch advocate for democracy and rule of law, highly detribalized and very accommodating. She is a good Team Player, honest and a member of several professional organisations. Distinguished Senator Akon Eyakenyi is a devoted Christian. Her hobbies include reading, community development and travelling.

Senator Akon Eyakenyi is happily married to Elder Etim Eyakenyi of Iquita in Oron Local Government Area and the family is blessed with 5 Godly and adorable children.

By Bisi Ezekiel

June 24, 2022

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June 20, 2022June 20, 2022

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LAGOS AGOG AS TINUBU RETURNS TO LAGOS AMID JUBILATION BY PARTY SUPPORTERS

PRESS RELEASE

…Gov. Sanwo-Olu, party leaders, cabinet members receive APC presidential candidate

All roads leading to the presidential wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) were a beehive of activities as residents of Lagos State trooped to the airport to receive the presidential flag-bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tinubu, a former Governor of Lagos, returned to the State for the first time after clinching the APC presidential ticket during the primaries held early this month in Abuja. The party’s National Leader touched down in Lagos in company of APC notable leaders of the party.

Various groups of artisans, women and youth joined thousands of APC faithful in Lagos to welcome Tinubu back to his base. Also, there were various cultural troupes and musical bands, entertaining the massive crowd.

At 3:40pm, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in company of his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, received Tinubu and his entourage, which included the Governor of Kano State, Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, Sen. Kashim Ibrahim, former APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, and Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, among others.

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinmma, Sen. Solomon Adeola, Sen. Tokunbo Abiru, Lagos APC chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, and members of Lagos Executive Council joined the roll call of dignitaries who received the APC presidential flag-bearer at the airport.

Tinubu’s homecoming turned to a carnival immediately his motorcade rolled into the town. Crowd of residents lined up along the the convoy’s route, with Tinubu acknowledging cheers and waving his broom from the window.

The convoy moved to the palace of Oba of Lagos, Alayeluwa Rilwan Akiolu, where the APC National Leader received royal blessings.

Tinubu recalled that his victory at the party’s presidential primaries did not come easy, noting that he fought a hard battle to clinch the ticket.

He said: “There is no Lagos indigene that has had the opportunity to become President of the Nigeria, despite the contribution of the State to the national stability and progress. The highest position attained by any Lagosian in national leadership is the position of Chief Judge of the Federation.

“I took up the fight to break this jinx. The battle to secure the APC ticket was hard. When I was almost fed up, I resorted to prayers. I also poured out my mind when I felt there was a gang up against my person. Thank God that I have brought home the presidential ticket.

The task ahead is to galvanise our people to get their voter cards and vote to enable us realise this ambition. Getting our people to vote is the most important task before all of us. We need to take this message to our people across communities and sensitise them on the need to vote in the general elections.”

Akiolu, who described Tinubu as his “stubborn son”, said it was time for political leaders in Southwest region to close ranks and work for the victory of Tinubu at the 2023 presidential election, saying the massive support received by the APC National Leader across the country must be complemented by politicians in the region.

The monarch said: “Your emergence as presidential candidate of your party is the beginning of another journey in your political career. All Yoruba ancestors shall be with you on this journey to make our fatherland a better place.”

Tinubu left the palace to his house on Bourdillon Road in Ikoyi, where the APC Governors, led by chairman of Progressives Governors Forum, Atiku Bagudu, were waiting to receive him.

Other dignitaries who received Tinubu at his Bourdillon home included Jigawa State Governor, Muhammed Abubakar Badaru, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and former Governor Gbenga Daniel, among others.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

19 JUNE 2022

Ekiti election: Prosecute vote-buyers or face legal action, SERAP tells INEC

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has given Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seven days to “gather information about reports of vote-buying, undue influence, intimidation, ballot box snatching, and other electoral offences by the three leading political parties in the just concluded Ekiti State governorship election.”

SERAP also urged INEC to “promptly and effectively prosecute those arrested, and bring to justice anyone who sponsored, aided and abetted them.”

In the letter dated 18 June 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Corruption of the ballot box intrudes on the freedom of Nigerian voters to make up their own minds. Vote buying and other forms of electoral corruption freeze out the less wealthy candidates and parties.”

SERAP said, “Wealthy candidates and their sponsors ought not to be allowed to profit from their crimes. We are concerned that impunity for vote buying and electoral bribery is widely prevalent in Nigeria, as perpetrators are rarely brought to justice.”

According to SERAP, “If voting is as important as INEC always claims it is, now is the time to end the buying of democracy by wealthy politicians and their sponsors.”

The letter, read in part: “Vote buying encourages poor governance and weakens citizens’ capacity to hold their ‘elected officials’ accountable for their actions.”

“When political candidates or their sponsors decide to buy the support of the people rather than contest fairly for their votes, there are possibilities that such candidates and sponsors will show a disregard for democratic rules and a disposition to adopt illegal means becomes inevitable.”

“Vote buying is entirely an act of election malpractice connected with vested interest since an election can be said to be free and fair when it is devoid of vote buying, ballot snatching, and intimidation.”

“Your commitment to these issues will demonstrate to the voters that INEC is ready, willing and able to combat vote buying and electoral bribery and reassure Nigerians that INEC will do everything within its mandates to ensure that the 2023 general elections are not tainted by corruption.”

“Ending impunity for vote-buying, undue influence, ballot snatching, intimidation, and other electoral malpractices would contribute to free and fair elections and show that INEC would not tolerate these illegal practices during the 2023 general elections.”

“There are reports of a brazen pattern of vote-buying and electoral bribery in several polling units during the just concluded Ekiti governorship election. There are reports of bargaining prices for votes and payments made in uncompleted buildings and bags of foodstuff being shared after votes have been cast.”

“Acting swiftly to address the brazen impunity and reports of vote-buying and electoral bribery and other electoral offences during the Ekiti state governorship election would also send a strong message to politicians that INEC under your watch would not tolerate such practices during the 2023 general elections.”

“SERAP is concerned that the failure of INEC to rein in vote buying, electoral bribery and intimidation is illustrated by the fact that the body has not seriously addressed similar incidents in previous elections.”

“Vote buying and electoral bribery is a threat to fair and representative elections. Vote buying amounts to undue influence and improper electoral influence.”

“By engaging in vote buying and electoral bribery in so blatant a fashion, the politicians involved and their sponsors have clearly influenced voters to vote for him, contrary to the Electoral Act, thus raising serious questions about the legitimacy and validity of the election.”

“A corruption-free electoral process is essential for building public confidence in the electoral process, and the credibility and legitimacy of the 2023 elections.”

“One of the people’s most sacred rights is the right to vote. INEC has a constitutional and statutory responsibility to ensure the effective exercise of the right of all eligible voters to participate in their own government in free and fair elections.”

“Preventing and combating vote buying and electoral bribery would advance the people’s right to vote and to participate in their own government, as well as bolster the ability of INEC to discharge its constitutional and statutory mandates effectively and satisfactorily.”

“Many years of allegations of vote-buying, undue influence, ballot snatching, intimidation, and other electoral malpractices, as well as entrenched impunity of perpetrators have undermined public confidence in the electoral process.”

“Prosecuting allegations of vote-buying, undue influence, ballot snatching, intimidation, and other electoral malpractices during the Ekiti state governorship election would be entirely consistent with the Nigerian Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the country’s international human rights anti-corruption obligations.”

“Prosecuting those that have been arrested and identifying and arresting those who sponsored, aided and abetted them and bringing them to justice would act as a deterrent against vote buying and electoral bribery and other electoral malpractices and offences in the February 2023 general elections.”

“Agents of the three dominant political parties in the state, namely All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Social Democratic Party (SDP), were reportedly involved in buying votes across the state. According to reports, agents of the three parties in Ward 007, PU 001, Ado LGA offered voters as high as N10,000 in exchange for their votes.”

“There are also several reports of ballot box snatching including in polling units with codes 13/05/06/005 and 007 in Ilawe Ward IV, near St. Patrick’s School. In several voting units, party agents for the APC, PDP and SDP reportedly clustered around the voting cubicle and saw how voters marked their ballot papers.”

“Vote buying and electoral bribery, intimidation of voters, ballot snatching and other electoral malpractices and offences undermine the ability of INEC to discharge its responsibilities under Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and paragraph 15(a) of the third schedule of the Constitution, and the Electoral Act 2022.”

“The Nigerian Constitution provides in Section 14(1)(c) that, ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’”

“Section 145(2) of the Electoral Act provides that, ‘a prosecution under this Act shall be undertaken by legal officers of the Commission or any legal practitioner appointed by it.’ Under section 2(b), the commission ‘shall have power to promote knowledge of sound democratic election processes.’”

“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 INEC to comply with our request in the public interest.”

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

19/6/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

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

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

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

PRESS RELEASE

EKITI GUBER ELECTION: SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES OYEBANJI, FAYEMI FOR SATURDAY VICTORY

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his resounding victory in Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described Oyebanji’s landslide victory as a testament to the good work the All Progressives Congress-led government has done in Ekiti state as well as the sterling qualities of her candidates.

He also congratulated the leadership of the party at the federal and state levels on the latest feat.

Sanwo-Olu in a statement, issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said he did not doubt the APC’s victory because Ekiti people are progressives and would always vote for the party.

The Governor added that the progressive nature of the Ekiti people as well as their culture of reciprocating good gestures also played a major role in Oyebanji’s victory.

He said: “I congratulate Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for emerging victorious in yesterday’s gubernatorial election and returned as duly elected next governor of Ekiti State.

“I must note that our party, the All Progressives Congress and its government under the able leadership of Governor Kayode Fayemi has delivered beyond the expectations of the Ekiti people. I, therefore, believe it was only natural for the citizens to reciprocate by voting for our party.

“Our confidence was further buoyed by the quality of candidates presented for the governorship poll. The combination of Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his deputy, Mrs Monisade Christiana Afuye is what Ekiti needs to continue with the great work started by the outgoing governor.

“I once again congratulate the winners for running a good race and emerging victorious. I also congratulate my brother-governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi who has set a winning template for the party, with good governance over the years.

“Finally and more importantly, my hearty felicitations go to the people of Ekiti State for voting wisely for APC, the party that will continue to deliver the good for all the citizens.”

Sanwo-Olu also applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security operatives for the hitch-free election.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

19 JUNE 2022

Adeyinka Adedoyin heaps praise on Femi Gbajabiamila, dismisses PDP, Accord Party, LP

A leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Adeyinka Adedoyin, has described the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as a symbol of strength, compassion and dignity for the people of Lagos State.

“Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila is an extraordinary politician, a great leader and a man of principle. He deserves another term” Adedoyin said.

He also commended the presiding officer of the country’s House of Representatives for his commitment, courage and dedication to service.

‘’Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has done Surulere proud and we should all be proud of him as a Lagosian and a Nigerian’’

In a congratulatory letter to the Speaker on his 60^th birthday, Adedoyin extolled Gbajabiamila’s leadership qualities, high moral character and passion for justice.

“Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila remains the measurement of positive leadership, courage, accountability and performance in the country”.

He hailed Gbajabiamila for improving infrastructure in Lagos State, infusing hope in the minds of the youths and providing jobs for the people.

Adedoyin acknowledged the erudition, humility and charisma of Mister Speaker.

‘’Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has record of achievement. He has a lot to offer Nigerians in terms of development, stability and unity of our great country’’

The respected party man who is putting maximum efforts in the nooks and crannies of Surulere Constituency 1 to ensure the re-election of Mister Speaker next year commended him for improving the well-being of women in Surulere Constituency 1, showing the required courage, will power and ability to bring political and economic benefits to Lagos State.

‘’I rejoice with you as you mark your 60^th birthday. The Almighty God will grant you many more years of exemplary service to our country’’

Particularly, the APC chieftain applauded Gbajabiamila for displaying a high degree of professionalism and astuteness in the National Assembly.

‘’We are celebrating what God has given to us. We are celebrating Gbajabiamila’s huge professional and political accomplishments. We are celebrating a personality of great honour and a man of the people’’

Adedoyin reminded Gbajabiamila of the decision of the wonderful people of Surulere Constituency 1.

‘’Surulere Constituency 1 is APC. There is no room for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Accord, Labour Party and others in 2023’. The candidates of the opposition parties lack political tact and diplomacy. They also do not have visible plan for the constituency’’

He urged Gbajabiamila to continue to serve the country prudently.

‘’I congratulate you for your noble service to our fatherland and your role in ensuring a better future for progress, prosperity and well-being for the good people of Surulere Constituency 1.

Ending, Adedoyin said “ it is my prayer that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with robust health and many more years of happiness and fulfilling service to our fatherland’’

PRESS RELEASE

RT200: SANWO-OLU ADVOCATES ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION, NON-OIL EXPORTS

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated the call for economic diversification in Nigeria, saying that the country should shift from overdependence on oil and gas, to agricultural produce, solid minerals, chemical products, furniture and clothing as well as tourism among others.

He also stressed the need for Nigeria to discourage over-reliance on mono-economic revenue, which is oil and scale up its exports, noting that a situation in which oil and gas consistently account for the bulk of government revenues and foreign exchange earnings, is not an ideal one.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the call at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) RT 200 Non-Oil Export Summit with the theme “Setting the Roadmap toward achieving RT200 and non-oil export for development” held on Thursday at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu who commended the Central Bank of Nigeria for organising a summit to promote non-oil exports in Nigeria said Lagos State is delighted to host the maiden edition of the strategic meeting.

He said: “Lagos State is home to the biggest and most important sea ports in the country. There cannot, therefore, be any conversations about growing non-oil exports in Nigeria, without bringing Lagos State and our transport and logistics infrastructure into the picture. This is why I am pleased that Lagos State is hosting the maiden Summit.

“For us as a Government, a lot of the work we have been doing and still doing is aimed at improving the state of transportation infrastructure, to enable imports and exports, and generally bring down the cost of doing business.

“When goods for export get stuck on the roads and can’t make it to the ports, we have a big problem on our hands. There is a big price that the economy pays for these dysfunctions, at all levels – from the small and large businesses whose goods are being exported to the people in the business of exports, to the users of our roads who have to waste valuable time in traffic because of worsening gridlock.

“It is, therefore, our responsibility, as governments, to ensure that we make the business of exporting (and also importing) as seamless as possible. Nigeria has so much potential to scale up its exports, shifting from over-dependence on oil and gas to agricultural produce, solid minerals, chemical products, furniture, clothing, and so on.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu while stressing the need for Nigeria to scale up its exports said “a country in need of foreign exchange has no business downplaying the importance of exports.”

He said: “We can do a lot to strengthen the Naira and our external reserves by focusing on our non-oil exports. This diversification also gives us immunity from the severe shock of depending on a limited pool of exports.

“I commend the Central Bank for making this a priority, through the launch of the Race To US$200 Billion FX Scheme (RT200), among other laudable initiatives. The RT200 FX Scheme seeks to generate as much as US$200 Billion in FX earnings, specifically from non-oil sources, over the next few years.

“I am aware that, so far, the Central Bank has approved the payment of billions of Naira to more than 100 exporters who have taken advantage of the scheme and have scaled up their non-oil exports of finished and semi-finished goods in line with it.

“I have no doubt that this scheme will go from strength to strength, and deliver to an extent beyond the expectations of the Central Bank and the Nigerian economy. I urge exporters to readily take advantage of it. I also urge the Central Bank to continue to finetune and strengthen this process, while also thinking of new and innovative initiatives that will achieve similar outcomes.

“Let me also commend the efforts of all the businesses that are investing heavily in the production of products that qualify for the RT200. One example that comes to mind readily is the Dangote Group, which recently commissioned the largest granular urea plant in Africa, right here in Lagos. I am delighted to note that the factory’s main product, urea, displaced Sesame seeds as Nigeria’s biggest non-oil export in the first quarter of 2022. I look forward to similar impactful investments of this nature, in Lagos and across the country.”

Earlier, the Governor of Central, Godwin Emefiele charged Nigerians to maximise the opportunity inherent in the FT200 initiative of the Central Bank towards attaining the non-oil exports projection for Nigeria.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

16 JUNE 2022

June 20, 2022

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52ND AGM: JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC DELIVERS PROGRESSIVELY HIGHEST DIVIDEND IN FIVE YEARS TO LOYAL SHAREHOLDERS

– “We stand strong”, says confident MD Lars Richter

Chairman of the Board of foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, CON has said that though the company had challenges in the 2021 financial year, it excelled and overcame the challenges by dint of hard work and unflinching commitment to success on the part of the management and staff of the company.

He spoke just as the Managing Director, Engr Dr. Lars Richter disclosed that the company stood strong in the year under review even as the company’s shareholders approved a N2.50k per share dividends.

Speaking at the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the company Saturday in Abuja, the Chairman presented the Consolidated Financial Statements of the year under review saying that within the period, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc performed positively despite the numerous macro-economic hiccups which affected businesses during the year. He added that the company achieved exceptional financial performance, meeting targets for both revenue and cash flow. “One for those challenges, of course is COVID-19, which remains ever present in our personal and professional lives – with prolonged consequences. Unfortunately, we are unable to put this virus behind us just yet,” the Chairman said.

However, the Chairman did not mince words in declaring that, “while 2021 was certainly a challenging year, more positively, it was also a dynamic and industrious year,” adding that, “within our core construction business, we made meaningful progress across our portfolio of private and public projects”. He listed the projects to include the International Worship Centre, Uyo, the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, the Bodo-Bonny Road as well as infrastructure projects in Lagos state and in Rivers state, where Julius Berger have supported the State Governments to achieve a remarkable infrastructure transformation within the year.” Specifically, Dr Richter also listed some successfully commissioned major projects to include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation office, several flyovers and civil infrastructural works in Port Harcourt; and the Rehabilitated Control Towers at Tincan Island and the Lagos Port Complex.

Underscoring the shining example of the trust the federal government placed on Julius Berger, the Chairman harped on the priority projects of the government being financed via the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund at an excellent pace, Mr. Sunmonu said that the company forged ahead with all of them including the Second River Niger Bridge and the Abuja-Kano Road “ with our values, standards and capacities remaining core to our competitive edge.”

Stating that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc closed for the year under review “with a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate of 0.19, equivalent to our 2020 results”, the Chairman added that the various subsidiaries of the Group also made reasonable progress in 2021.

Mr. Sunmonu said, “the year 2021 has been largely positive, with many great accomplishments to reflect on”, forecasting with good confidence that “…this year 2022, we will continue to work hard, remain resilient and champion progress in regard to the potentials ahead of us. Furthermore, Sunmonu also said, “We do not underestimate the effort or the endeavour it will take to achieve our vision, but we also do not underestimate our collective diligence and determination.”

In his own remarks to shareholders at the AGM, the Managing Director, Engr. Dr Lars Richter built on the Chairman’s earlier remarks saying that the three pillars of Julius Berger’s business strategy, “the core business, group subsidiaries and diversification” have remained central to all operations even as he shared an update on the company’s sustainability and inclusivity efforts, as well as on the company’s outlook for 2022 and beyond.

The Managing Director firmly declared that “Julius Berger continues to stand strong, our values are firmly in place and our reputation for reliable and quality delivery remains unmatched…. And within our core business we continue to realize meaningful progress across our portfolio of projects as a foundation for our continued success and growth.”

On the business trajectory of the company, Richter said Julius Berger continues to acquire new projects for major clients such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Lagos and Port Harcourt State, the Federal Ministry of Works & Housing and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Richter also celebrated Julius Berger’s achievement with regard to the company’s recertification of its Quality Management in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, “…proving that our commitment to quality and process continues to stand strong.” Richter further stated that Julius Berger continues to “…bolster the foundations of its competitive edge, manpower and machine power, with the modernization of our Human Resources structure and strategy and the update and expansion of our equipment fleet; both major investments that will payback in many folds, both today and in future.” To emphasize the worthy development, Richter, cited the company’s recent operational “rollout of more equipment to support the success of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road.”

On the performance of the company in 2021, the Managing Director said that, as a group Julius Berger has achieved an overall exceptional financial performance in 2021 ”meeting targets for both revenue and cash flow; enabling the company to extend a dividend payment to you, our loyal shareholders.”

Enumerating the specific challenges faced by the company in 2021, Dr Lars Richter listed those stemming from the indirect impacts and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as “global procurement where prices for logistics remain elevated, shortages and delays remain a reality and as a result, prices for raw materials and goods continue to increase.”

The Ukrainian war, Engr. Richter added, compounded supply chain disruptions, with prices soaring for other essential building materials like steel, sand and wood just as it has led to increases in the price of crude oil. “For us in Nigeria, the higher cost of diesel combined with fuel scarcity, has led to another layer of price increase… an extraordinary surge in transport costs,” he added. Dr Richter also informed shareholders that the greatest and most hard-hitting challenge the company continues to face is the sustained shortage of FOREX. He described the forex scarcity as “…a critical crisis which has persisted with far reaching negative impact on the economy generally and on Julius Berger specifically, as it creates major and substantial financial losses.” He, however, disclosed that management was able to put in place robust, resilient and business continuity planning; providing preparation and strategies to navigate the key risk.

Three directors including Chairman Mutiu Sunmomu, CON, Mrs Belinda Ajoke Disu, CAL, and Mrs Gadys O. Talabi were also re-elected by Shareholders to the Board of the company at the 52^nd Annual General Meeting in Abuja.

The highlight of the event was when Shareholders voted overwhelmingly for a N2.50 per share dividend owned compared to the 50kobo per share paid out last financial year. This year’s dividend payout is the highest shareholders are receiving in the last five years. Happy Shareholders overwhelmingly commended the company’s management for excellent performance.

JULIUS BERGER INCREASES CSR EFFORT, BUILDS MORE WATER BOREHOLES AND TOILETS FOR SCHOOLS WITHIN ABUJA-KANO ROAD PROJECT CORRIDOR

In the company’s continuing and strong commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibility, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc again donated boreholes and toilets to schools on its Abuja-Kano Road Project corridor.

Students of Government Day Secondary School, Sabon Wuse, Tafa L.G.A, were full of excitement, when Julius Berger Nigeria Plc notched up its CSR efforts to their schools in the company’s determined bid to protect and preserve the health and wellbeing of the students by providing them with water boreholes and toilets.

After a brief introduction by the leader of Julius Berger CSR team, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the Principal of the school, Saidu B.A. Wuse said, “the importance of water borehole and toilets in the school environment cannot be over emphasized, especially with the incessant rise in cholera, adding that “…it is a very kind gesture being exhibited by the construction company. We are indeed very pleased with the outstanding contributions made by Julius Berger. On behalf of the Management and students, we say a very big thank you to Julius Berger.”

The PTA Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Akawu, who was present at the commissioning of the project said, “we are very excited for the compassionate steps taken by Julius Berger. Looking at the smiles on our children’s faces gives me so much happiness. We appreciate God first and then Julius Berger for what they have done today. The Head girl of the school, Miss Emmanuel Vivian, who was also present at the event said, “I am one of the happy and thankful students here today, especially being able to see that my school now have water borehole and hygienic toilets. I want to thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for bringing borehole to not just our school, but also our community.”

At the Government Day Secondary School, Gujeni Kagarko L.G.A, Kaduna State, Julius Berger’s CSR efforts were also commended and gratefully acknowledged by the school management and the students.

The Head Teacher of the school, Musa D. Jasper, was effusive with thanks and prayers for Julius Berger. “…I want to specially thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for providing us with water boreholes and toilets. This is in no way a small project, or something we should take for granted; this has been one of the things we could not afford for our children and Julius Berger has given it to us on a platter. On behalf of the staff, parents and the pupils of Government Day Secondary School, Gujeni, I say thank you.

The representative of the Village Head, Reverend Ishako Emmanuel, said, “The Village Head extends his gratitude to the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the newly constructed borehole and toilets. We also want to use this opportunity to thank the entire management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. The company, indeed, created a lasting legacy in our hearts and Community.”

The Chairman of the School Base Management Committee, SBMC, Mr. Umar Sambo, who was present at the event, thanked the company also for the CSR projects gifted to the schools and communities. adding that, “Words won’t be able to show how happy we feel. I pray God rewards the company and continuously bless the works of their hands. Once again, Thank You.”

The Julius Berger delegation to the event was led by the AKR Project Coordinator, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim. Other JBN Officials include Akeem Lawal, Michael Ashofor; and Olivia Uzoma.

June 20, 2022

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