News From Nigeria
.Wins Awards as Construction Company of the Year and Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility
It was a week of double honours for Nigeria’s foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger last week, as leading specialist newspaper in Transport Management, Transport Day and foremost national newspaper, Champion Newspapers honoured the company big. While Transport Day newspaper gave Julius Berger the Construction Company of the Year Award, Champion Newspaper pronounced and gave the company an Award of Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR; 2023.
At the 10th Transport Day Award ceremony which held at the Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos mid last week, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Frank Kintum said the Board of Editors of the publication reviewed all the roads and bridges as well as related construction activities of construction companies across the country by employing the services of the newspaper’s numerous coreespondents in the states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, before arriving at the unanimous decision to crown Julius Berger as Constrcution Company of the Year.
Said he amidst applause: Transport Day has grown to be acknowleged as the acclaimed authority in reporting activities in the Transport sector. We have also received accolades for our objectivity and professionalism. The emergence of Julius Berger as the Construction Company of the Year of the lot was a product of painstaking work by our correspeondents across the states as well as diligent stakeholders, who overwhelmingly voted for the giant engineering construction company. Welldone julius Berger and congratulations.
The Project Manager, Technical, Region West, Mr. Christl Thomas who received the Award on behalf of the company expressed how humbling it was to be so rewarded for doing one’s professional job, adding, we thank the organisers and we appreciate this honour.
Stakeholders in the transport sector as well as media gurus joined others to grace the event.
The Transport Day Awards ceremony also featured the 10th Nigeria Transport Lecture with the theme: Transportation Safety in Nigeria: The Way Forward.
Excellence in CSR Award
Before she announced Julius Berger Nigeria Plc as winner of it 2023 edition of Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, the Group Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of Champion Newspaper Limited, Dr. Mrs. Nwaduito Iheakanwa told the teeming audience that, the annual Champion Awards is all about responsiviness to the things that hold us together as a people with common destiny; adding that,all that we strive to do is to recognise excellence and hardwork with the view to agitating our minds into doing more.
The prestigious annual Award to Julius Berger she continued, is a product of the painstaking selection of its Board of Editors, adding that the Award underscores the zeal of the newspaper to appreciate outstanding leaders in both public and private sectors of the economy as well as institutions and companies that have made greater sacrifices in ensuring that the objectives and fundamental ideals of the corporate community and the the Nigerian state are sustained.
She continued: on all rankings, our findings, largely corroborated by that of credible independent assessors, confirm that under your management, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC has remained very committed to discharging its Corporate Social Responsibility creditably well especially in the educational sector and bringing succour to less privileged members of the society in the country.
The media House said that it is particularly impressed by the Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company’s improved Corporate Social Responsibility portfolio of initiatives to benefit its host communities across the country through donations of principal’s offices, classrooms, desks and chairs to provide a conducive learning environment for students, enhance their wellbeing in order to
encourage them to put more efforts into their education.
Describing Julius Berger’s efforts as heartwarming and particularly significant since education remains the bedrock of the social, economic and technological development of every nation, the Group Managing Director further said that such massive donations complement government’s efforts in laying the necessary foundation for Nigerian youths, the leaders of tomorrow to acquire the needed knowledge at the primary and secondary school levels.
Not done, the Editor-in-Chief said, we note with satisfaction that beneficiaries of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, CSR’s efforts, worth hundreds of millions of naira during the period under review include, Government Secondary School Gwarinpa, Life camp, FCT, Abuja and Government Day Junior Secondary School, Boyi, Gurara LG.A, in Niger State while the company had also donated books to many students through its literacy campaign initiative to boost their zeal for writing and reading as well as constructed standard basketball courts for sports development.
Also, on Julius Berger’s CSR efforts to orphanages, the media personality said, indeed, your company’s unrivalled commitment to the welfare of inmates of orphanages across the six gee-political zones through regular donation of various food items and other consumables to such institutions has gone a long way in making life meaningful for the less privileged members of society and is worthy of emulation.
Concluding, Nwaduito said that as a watch dog of the society, a newspaper worth its salt is duty-bound not only to track and document Julius Berger’s commendable track record of service to humanity but also to acknowledge the company’s commitment to profitability even as it contributes its quota to Nigeria’s socio-economic and technological development.
Speaking after receiving the Award on behalf of Engr Dr Lars Richter, Julius Berger’s Managing Director, the company’s Chief Risk Officer, Mrs Shakira Mustapha said, we are honoured to be so honoured with this Award. We assure you we will continue to raise the bar in our Corporate Social Responsibility efforts to man, society and the nation.
Among the creme de la creme that graced the event were the Chairman, Nigeria Drug Law Enforment Agency, Gen. Buba Marwa, the Chief Excutives of Zenith and UBA banks, the deputy governors of Anambra and Borno states as well as the former governor of Cross River state, Donald Duke among several others
Commissioning of Emohua- Kalabari Road: Julius Berger very understanding, patriotic, says Rivers State Governor
. As excited residents hail construction company
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has hailed Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company as a very understanding company that has been committed to the development of infrastructure in the state, and indeed the country.
The governor spoke during the historic commissioning of the Emohua-Kalabari road constructed by the company weekend.
Reacting to remarks by the Deputy Regional Manager of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mr. Rimon Marisho, the Governor said, the company’s representative may have deliberately refused to state the obvious on the cost of the contract because of the understanding the company has shown in all their undertakings across the state.
He said, let me also say it here, maybe, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC was being economical with their presentation. On my table as I am talking to you, there is a request for variation of the cost of this project.
This is because, as at the time this project was awarded, and while the project was on-going, there were serious exchange rate differences. But I told them not to worry that they should go ahead and complete this project, and I assured them that we will sort them out and they accepted.
Amidst overwhelming ovation for the company, the governor added that the position the company took on the matter showed patriotism worthy of emulation by other companies working for government.
Earlier in his presentation, Morisho, said the Emohua-Abalama-Tema Junction Road project was awarded to the company in February, 2023, with a completion period of 18 months.
He continued: because of our company’s commitment to meeting contractual obligations, we ensured delivery of the project in good quality and ahead of schedule.
He added: Julius Berger is proud to have contributed significantly to the development of infrastructure in this region, and we are grateful to Governor Fubara for the opportunity, including the trust reposed in them to be part of his success story.
Commenting on the project, Governor Fubara said it was awarded on February 18, 2023, by the immediate past administration at the cost of N21.2 billion but only paid N6 billion.
Governor Fubara stated that his administration paid the remainder of N15.2 billion and completed 70 percent of the job to confidently claim it as part of his projects delivered for the good of the people in Kalabari land.
So, let me thank the four local government areas which co-operated to make this project a success: Emohua, Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru. And let me also thank the traditional leadership of the Kalabari Kingdom, please just be peaceful, everything that we desire, by the special grace of God, will definitely come our way, he further said
In his short presentation, the Permanent Secretary of Rivers State Ministry of Works, Atemea Briggs, said the Emohua-Kalabari Road is 15.24 kilometres in length, and was awarded at the cost of N21.26 billion by the previous administration, which paid only 28 percent of that sum, which amounted to N6 billion with work left at preliminary stage.
Briggs said other features of the road that is serving as major access into Kalabari land include its width as 5.3 meters, with asphalt thickness of 100 millimeters – made up of 60 millimeters concrete asphaltic binder course and 40 millimeters asphaltic wearing course, with a median divide of 600 millimeters and installed street light, now completed and fully paid.
In her welcome address, the Vice Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Area, Mrs Tekena Daphne Wokoma, recalled that the road, which was properly constructed with bridges first in the 1990s, eventually collapsed few years after.
CSR: Julius Berger pleased with unforgettable partnership with Nigerian Army
. Donates housing units, camp facility, office, others to military
In furtherance of its acclaimed Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR activities, leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigerian Plc, last Tuesday handed over a newly built Life Camp Quarters to the Nigerian Army at Jaji Barracks, Kaduna State.
The Quarters comprises 45 fully furnished one-bedroom housing units, an administrative office, a gym house and a Club house among others.
In his address at the event, the Head of Corporate Security and Compliance, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mr. Poul Nielsen who described the occasion as fulfilling said, the partnership between Julius Berger and the Nigerian Army has certainly come to stay and it goes way beyond here. Today, we are here to donate 45 fully furnished 1 bedroom housing units, a camp facility administrative office, Gym House, and a Clubhouse. On behalf of the Management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, we are indeed appreciative to the Nigerian army for this unforgettable partnership.
Brig. General AS Bugaje who represented the Infantry Corp Commander, Major General OO Oloyede commended Julius Berger for the quality of work done while also thanking the company for the donations made to the Nigerian Army. He said, we commend Julius Berger for the excellent quality it has put into this work even as he prayed for stronger ties with the engineering construction company.
“On behalf of Major General OO Oloyede, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Julius Berger for this donation. Like Mr. Poul rightly stated earlier, this relationship has come to stay. Once again, we say thank you,” he added.
The Julius Berger CSR Team to the event included Julius Berger Head of Corporate Security and Compliance, Mr. Poul Nielsen supported by the Executive Project Director, Civil, Engr. Benjamin Bott, AKR Project Manager, Mr. Schiffner Sebastian, Project Coordinator, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, Uzoma Olivia and Ayomide Sunmonu.
PRESS RELEASE
‘WE’VE LOST OUR FINEST PUBLIC SERVANT IN LAGOS’ — SANWO-OLU PAYS MOVING TRIBUTE TO HIS LATE DEPUTY COS
Testimonies poured out in torrents for the late Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Olumade Soyannwo, as colleagues, friends and relatives gathered, on Tuesday, at a Night of Tributes to share memories of their moments and encounters with him.
The accolades, profound accounts of the deceased’s professional conducts and virtue of his generosity shared by those who had encounters with the deceased literally became the consoling legacy left for the bereaved family, just as the good testimonies dispersed the pall of grief that had enveloped Alausa — the seat of the Lagos State Government — since the passing of the State’s Executive Council member.
Soyannwo, 55, breathed his last on May 15, after a brief illness. He is survived by wife and two children.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, led members of the State Executive Council, members of the State’s legislature and the judiciary to the Night of Tribute held at Alausa Sports Ground, as part of the funeral programmes organised for the deceased.
Sanwo-Olu, in an emotive tone, described the late Sayannwo as the “rallying point” in the Governor’s Office, extolling the deceased’s commitment and his dedication to any cause to which he had conviction.
The Governor, who said Soyannwo’s death was a personal loss to him, revealed that he and the deceased had been together for 20 years, as they both had their stints in the banking sector, before moving to Government together.
Sanwo-Olu recalled that the late Soyannwo was the first staff in his team immediately he declared his intention to run for governor, noting that the deceased showed up in his house 24 hours after with a well thought-out strategy to go about party primaries.
The Governor said: “From the moment I was sworn in till today, Gboyega had made me a better manager than I was. He helped me to be a better Governor. He managed my daily itinerary and understood what the job entails. For once in the last five years when I appointed him as my Deputy Chief of Staff, I never had the cause to raise my voice at him because he fully understood the dynamics and tedious tasks of his office. He was the rallying point of my office.
“Gboyega made indelible impacts in the lives of each and every one of us. In the classes of the past and current cabinet, we have just lost our strongest confidant and a true bridge builder. Gboyega would call me 33 times in 25 minutes and each call would be quick to get my final approval for tasks listed in my itinerary. I’ve lost a great friend, brother and cherished colleague. Lagos has lost one of its finest public servants. I will forever be thankful to God for making our paths cross.”
Sanwo-Olu said the late Soyannwo was “fiercely loyal” and never coloured his official duties with friendship throughout his career.
The Governor said smooth organisation was not only the late Soyannwo’s main skill which stood him out as a professional banker.
“Give him a very difficult spreadsheet to analyse or transactions that anyone has no idea to unravel, Gboyega would resolve it in a simplified way. That’s how he started in banking industry,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He continued: “I certainly will not be here to mourn Gboyega’s death, but to celebrate his life and legacy left behind in service of our great country. He has done more than anyone can expect of a 55-year-old. He showed us there is reward for hard work. Gboyega taught all of us how to live well and make lasting impact on humanity.”
Dr. Hamzat recalled his first meeting with the late Soyannwo in 2018 ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, pointing out that the deceased was a man who was careful with promises.
The Deputy Governor said the late DCoS never used any word carelessly, noting that his words were his bond.
“Any agreement reached with DCoS is cast in stone, he would never shift ground on agreed terms,” Dr. Hamzat noted.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, broke down in tears, as she made a moving tribute on behalf of the Executive Council members, describing the late Soyannwo’s death as “painful loss”.
She said the late Deputy Chief of Staff was the revolving door of the Sanwo-Olu administration that interfaced with all ranks and streamlined the governance process for smooth flow of Government’s programmes.
“DCoS was a team player for the good of our principal. His ability to inspire and galvanise others for result-oriented actions was unparalleled. He left an indelible mark on our administration and the State. The Executive Council will miss his intellectual contribution, his camaraderie and sense of humour. As we bid farewell to our departed brother, we take solace in the memories we shared together as one family,” Salu-Hundeyin said.
Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, eulogised his deputy, noting the late Soyannwo left at the time he had so much to offer to humanity.
“He was a dedicated, meticulous and committed public servant who was always passionate to serve the people. His loyalty was total and he never chickened out of agreed decisions,” Ayinde said.
Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, who attended the same primary school with the deceased, recalled the late Soyannwo’s astuteness and problem-solving ability since their days as schoolchildren.
“The late Gboyega would not look out for himself alone; he would look out for others and take their wellbeing personally. He was a gifted and extraordinary problem solver. If you share any problem with DCoS, he would properly analyse it for you as if he initiated the problem and he would proffer two solutions, not one.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
22 MAY 2024
Nigeria’s pioneer and leading organised private sector Gas Infrastructure development, production and distribution company, Greenville LNG has been announced the winner of Nigeria’s “Most Reliable Domestic Gas Distributing Company of the Year” Award. Greenville LNG won the highly coveted award at the keenly vetted, robustly competitive and worthily anticipated annual transportation awards ceremony of the country’s media flagship of the Transportation sector, the TransportDay Media organisation.
The Ceremony which has become an annual landmark event that defines best transportation and safety standards and practices in Nigeria, was attended by the who is who in the regulatory and transportation industry as well as executives from other industrial corporations with huge logistical operations across the country. The exciting ceremony held last Thursday at the iconic Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria.
The publisher and editor-in-chief of the TransportDay Media Organisation, Frank Kintum kickstarted proceedings at this year’s ceremony which marked the tenth anniversary of the TransportDay Lecture and Awards with a welcome address which celebrated the resilience, progressive improvements and achievements recorded year-on-year in a proactive, determined and patriotic pushback against otherwise manifest operational challenges in the transportation sector, particularly in terms of infrastructure, regulation and funding.
Participants at the event included the Corp Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), and the Honourable Commissioner of Transportation in Lagos State; all of whom presented papers at the Lecture session of the event.
Others who attended and also received different categories of awards at the ceremony included Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Toyota, Nigeria Railway Corporation, Infinity Tyres, Kaduna Dry Port, etc.
This year’s TranportDay Media Lecture and awards ceremony was themed ‘Transportation Safety in Nigeria – The Way Forward’.
Greenville LNG is Nigeria’s private sector’s pioneer and flagship producer and distributor of LNG and CNG for the domestic market. With the company’s efficient virtual pipeline system consisting of about 600 specialized LNG-powered gas delivery trucks capable of driving about 1,200 kilometres to 1,800 kilometres without the need to refuel, Grenville from its Rumuji Gas Plant and its Gas hubs, delivers sustainable and reliable LNG and CNG energy supplies to every part of Nigeria. With Gas Stations in Rumuji, Benin, Shagamu, Koton-Karfe and Kaduna, and with Lafia station about to be commissioned into service and Enugu station being progressively developed, Greenville LNG is working actively to open 25 Hubs to enable the delivery of cost-cutting and more affordable, cleaner, and more dependable LNG and CNG fuels for homes, industry, and uninterrupted power plants across the country.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday received praise for his exceptional commitment and outstanding performance.
‘’The picture in Delta State is different. It has been eleven months of development and clear evidence of competence. The good people of Delta State are happy with the state of infrastructure and improvement in the quality of government services’’ Okakuro Godwin Atose said.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain spoke in a positive way about what the governor is doing in the oil rich state.
‘’His Excellency has consistently given the people of Delta State what they need. He deserves titanic admiration for his fiscal discipline, spending on the right economic priorities, encouragement of private sector investment and provision of basic services’’
Speaking at a meeting organized by Sapele PDP Stakeholders, Atose praised Oborevwori for pursuing with vigour and determination the MORE agenda of the current administration.
He commended Oborevwori for raising the standard of living of the people through road development, bridges, education and health-care delivery.
He applauded Oborevwori for encouraging economic prosperity, enhancing the political empowerment of women and youths, carrying out the business of governance in an open, participatory and transparent atmosphere and improving the standard of living of the people.
‘’Delta State is moving in the right direction’’.
Atose who spoke on behalf of Sapele PDP Stakeholders, said the Sapele PDP Movement passed confidence vote on Governor Oborevwori for his well-known vision, aggressive health policies, fiscal responsibility and infrastructure.
The stakeholders also passed confidence vote on the Chief Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Perkins Umukoro.
They praised Umukoro for quality representation, deep knowledge of the legislative process and the bringing of a much-needed perspective to the Delta State House of Assembly.
At the well-attended gathering, the group vowed to play an active and constructive part in the victory of the ruling party in 2027.
The stakeholders kicked against political neophyte as the next chairman of Sapele Local Government.
‘We need a man of impeccable credentials and reputation, an excellent organizer, the embodiment of good temper and affability. We need someone that can renew the spirit of patriotism in Sapele, consider the public needs and opinions, provide stability and institute massive amounts of change in Sapele’’ the group, sensitizing the people on government policies and the major achievements of the governor, said.
‘’The next chairman of Sapele Local Government should be a consummate administrator, visionary leader, thoroughbred democrat and prudent manager of human and material resources’’ the PDP Followers in Sapele added.OBOREVWORI, A TRULY GIFTED LEADER, SAYS OKAKURO ATOSE
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday received praise for his exceptional commitment and outstanding performance.
‘’The picture in Delta State is different. It has been eleven months of development and clear evidence of competence. The good people of Delta State are happy with the state of infrastructure and improvement in the quality of government services’’ Okakuro Godwin Atose said.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain spoke in a positive way about what the governor is doing in the oil rich state.
‘’His Excellency has consistently given the people of Delta State what they need. He deserves titanic admiration for his fiscal discipline, spending on the right economic priorities, encouragement of private sector investment and provision of basic services’’
Speaking at a meeting organized by Sapele PDP Stakeholders, Atose praised Oborevwori for pursuing with vigour and determination the MORE agenda of the current administration.
He commended Oborevwori for raising the standard of living of the people through road development, bridges, education and health-care delivery.
He applauded Oborevwori for encouraging economic prosperity, enhancing the political empowerment of women and youths, carrying out the business of governance in an open, participatory and transparent atmosphere and improving the standard of living of the people.
‘’Delta State is moving in the right direction’’.
Atose who spoke on behalf of PDP Recovery Movement, said the group passed confidence vote on Governor Oborevwori for his well-known vision, aggressive health policies, fiscal responsibility and infrastructure.
The stakeholders also passed confidence vote on the Chief Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Perkins Umukoro.
They praised Umukoro for quality representation, deep knowledge of the legislative process and the bringing of a much-needed perspective to the Delta State House of Assembly.
At the well-attended gathering, the group vowed to play an active and constructive part in the victory of the ruling party in 2027.
The stakeholders kicked against political neophyte as the next chairman of Sapele Local Government.
‘We need a man of impeccable credentials and reputation, an excellent organizer, the embodiment of good temper and affability. We need someone that can renew the spirit of patriotism in Sapele, consider the public needs and opinions, provide stability and institute massive amounts of change in Sapele’’ the group, sensitizing the people on government policies and the major achievements of the governor, said.
‘’The next chairman of Sapele Local Government should be a consummate administrator, visionary leader, thoroughbred democrat and prudent manager of human and material resources’’ the PDP Recovery Movement added.
*MAY 8, 2024.*
Dear Esteemed Okpe Leaders,
I am coming to you on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, and members of the Union in Nigeria and the Diaspora. The purpose of this Open Letter is to seek your intervention in the ongoing schism between HRM Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe, and the democratically elected leadership of the Okpe Union. Some of you may be familiar with certain portions of this Open Letter, whose inclusion is for the benefit of those seeing them for the first time.
As is well known by all of you, the Okpe Union was established by a group of young Okpe nationals based in Lagos, on May 16, 1930. It is the oldest registered ethnic nationality organization in Nigeria. Thanks to the Okpe Union, the Okpe Kingdom in the modern era was resuscitated in 1945. From its inception in 1930, the Okpe Union launched a campaign for the restoration of the Okpe Kingdom, irrespective of the opposition of several influential Okpe leaders who were apprehensive about the likelihood of our having another dictatorship akin to the rule of HRM Esezi l. It was not until 1943 that these apprehensive Okpe leaders acquiesced to the demands of the Okpe Union for the resuscitation of the Okpe monarchy, after the Sapele land case which got to the West African Court of Appeal (WACA). It is an incontrovertible fact that the Okpe Union birthed the Okpe Kingdom in the modern era that produced HRM Esezi ll (1945 – 1966); HRM Orhoro l (1972-2004); and HRM Orhue l (2006 – present). Thanks to the Okpe Union, the Okpe Monarchy was restored in January 1945 after an interregnum of almost 200 years. Since its inception the Okpe Union has played and continues to play vital role in the socio-economic and political development of the Okpe Nation. It is the umbrella organization and mouth piece of the Okpe people. Its role at the coronation of HRM Orhue l is well documented.
*Introduction.*
The Okpe Union is a membership based organization with a Constitution that defines its administration and autonomy. It relies on membership dues, fees, and donations to execute its projects for the benefit of the Okpe Nation. The Okpe Union has provided a voice for the Okpe Nation in the comity of ethnic nationalities in Delta State and in Nigeria.
Like most organizations, the Constitution of the Okpe Union contains mechanisms for conflict resolution, without the interference of a non-member. Though the Orodje of Okpe is considered a Patron of the Okpe Union by tradition, he possesses neither the power nor authority to interfere in or seize the administration of the Okpe Union. This has been the recognized rule observed by all Orodjes since 1945, including HRM Orhue l, until the latter purportedly dissolved the democratically elected NEC of the Okpe Union led by Okakuro Robert Onome on October 3, 2020, and appointed an illegal interim national executive of 9 members, led by Prof. Emurobome Idolor. It is significant to note that the purported dissolution occurred barely 42 days to the Annual General Assembly, as scheduled by NEC, to take place on November 14, 2020 at the Okpe Hall, Sapele. The Palace instructed the leadership of the Sapele Okpe Community to deny the Okpe Union access to the Okpe Hall.
*Attempts at a Peaceful Resolution.*
Before the election of the current NEC on May 15, 2021, which I am privileged to lead, and since then, NEC has engaged in the search for peace on several occasions.
Prior to the intervention of the Rev. Dr. Osume-led Okpe Peace Reconciliation Committee in the search for peace, NEC had gone to court in Sapele praying the Court to restrain members of the Orodje-imposed Interim Executive Committee and its agents from parading themselves as leaders of the Okpe Union. When Rev. Dr. Osume intimated us about his committee’s peace mission, he requested that we withdrew the case from court so as to give peace a chance. We obliged and withdrew the case accordingly. However, immediately we withdrew the case from court, the Palace wrote to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requesting them to recognize the illegal Interim Executive Committee. This was a plot to oust the democratically elected NEC from CAC recognition. It was therefore obvious that the intention of the Orodje-imposed illegal Interim Executive Committee was not to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict but to gain time in its treacherous move to get CAC to de-recognise the democratically elected NEC and the legitimate Okpe Union leadership. Faced with this treachery, and having before us a subsisting resolution of the General Assembly of the Okpe Union that the NEC should seek legal redress if mediation fails, we elected to lodge a suit at a Federal High Court in Lagos. HRM Orhue l, the Prof. Idolor-led Interim Executive Committee and the CAC were served as joint defendants in the case.
To demonstrate the insincerity of the Orodje-imposed committee in respecting the court process, they obtained a court order in Abuja to appoint an illegal Board of Trustees, without disclosing to the Abuja Federal High Court that they were already defendants in a Lagos Federal High Court on the same subject. Furthermore, we had already lodged an application at the Lagos Federal High Court with a similar prayer much earlier known to the CAC, the Orodje and the illegal Interim Executive Committee. They surreptitiously acquired a new certificate of incorporation for the Okpe Union with the Board of Trustees which they got through the back door; an issue that we dealt with immediately.
Regarding our substantive case that was lodged in the Federal High Court, Lagos, the Judge, on January 19, 2023, declared the imposed interim Executive Council led by Prof. Emurobome Idolor illegal and ordered a perpetual injunction restraining them, their privies and those who derive any powers from them from acting or parading themselves as the national leadership of the Okpe Union. The Judgement affirmed the autonomy of the Okpe Union, and declared that the Orodje has no authority to interfere in the administration of the Okpe Union.
On April 30, 2024, the Federal High Court, Abuja vacated its earlier order granted to the illegal Interim executive of the Okpe Union to appoint its Board of Trustees, that organized the election of Okakuro Joseph Aboze’s illegal executive that succeeded Prof. Idolor’s illegal interim executive. The ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja effectively nullified the pretence of the Okakuro Aboze led illegal executive committee. We recognize the lamentation of Okakuro Aboze and his cohorts, when he disclosed at the Okakuro Oghenevworo Jemikalajah Peace Meeting of August 9, 2023, that his illegal executive had presented to the Palace their resolution that they would abide by the judgement of the Federal High Court, Lagos of January 19, 2023, and step aside, which the Orodje rejected by promising them that the Palace had the resources to pursue an appeal to its logical conclusion. We question the strategic intent of the Palace to want to elongate the court process instead of lending support to the Okpe Union in building a united Okpe Nation to benefit the Okpe people.
*Consequences of Continued Schism.*
Okpe Nation is renowned as an organised and law abiding people. A disregard for the Rule of Law is injurious to the socio-economic and political development of any society, including the Okpe Nation. This can lead to a break-down of law and order and intra-communal confrontations.
This schism has halted the implementation of several projects designed to benefit Okpe nationals and Okpe Nation. It has also diminished the status of Okpe Nation in the comity of ethnic nationalities in Delta State and in Nigeria. The proclamation of Okpe as the most populous monolithic nationality in Delta State is rendered obsolete without a powerful Okpe Union to articulate and defend Okpe interests at state and national levels. Okpe Identity is the obvious victim in this prolonged schism.
*Concluding Remarks.*
We believe in a bright future for Okpe Nation; a future with great opportunities for growth and development that will benefit Okpe nationals. We believe that this can be facilitated by a united front of the Okpe Nation ably represented by a powerful Okpe Union and a ceremonial fatherly role of the Orodje. We therefore appeal to you all to persuade HRM Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe, to dissolve the factional executive led by Okakuro Joseph Aboze and withdraw from the court cases. As stated in our letter to the Orodje immediately after the May 15, 2021 election that produced the current National Executive Council of the Okpe Union that I am privileged to lead, we are ready to cooperate with the Udogun Okpe and HRM Orhue I to have a way out of the differences based on the Rule of Law and the autonomy of the Okpe Union.
*Long live the Okpe Nation!*
*Long live the Okpe Union!*
*Long live the Orodje of Okpe!*
6th May, 2024.
RESPONSE OF ABOZE TO THE ABUJA FHC RULING NULLIFYING THE BACKDOOR BOT FOR THE OKPE UNION: LET THE ILLEGAL FACTION STOP DISGRACING THE OKPE NATION.*
*PRESS RELEASE*
The National Executive Council of the Okpe Union was seized this morning (being 6th of May, 2024) of the response of Okakuro Joseph Aboze (who still illegally parades himself as President General of the Okpe Union) to the Federal High Court Ruling vacating its earlier order which effectively nullified the Dick Gberevbie and Austin Ayemidejor led illegal Board of Trustees. Aboze’s response was titled “RE: ABUJA FEDERAL HIGH COURT RULING VACATING AN ORDER GRANTED THE INTERIM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE OKPE UNION”.
We shall quote verbatim below part of Okakuro Aboze’s reaction signed by him so as to lay it bare for an objective analysis. Hear Aboze on behalf of the illegal faction below:
“… The court in its ruling says, that “the pleadings at the Federal High Court Abuja are the same as what has been pleaded at the Federal High Court Lagos”.
He continues: “This ruling comes after the ruling in Lagos that had been appealed since 2023. It is crucial to note that the Orodje In Council did not and never dissolved the Executive Committee of the Okpe Union led by Prof. Igho Natufe. This clarification became necessary because the case which is on appeal came up as a result of misunderstanding of how the system works…”
The legitimate National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe hereby responds as follows to Joseph Aboze’s most uninformed position quoted above.
*Conclusion*
How can any sane persons accept the lawlessness being displayed by Messrs Joseph Aboze, Kings Iriri, Jackson Amererhorone and their allies who still illegally parade themselves as the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union? The stay of execution application which the losers at the Federal High Court, Lagos filed is yet to be heard by the court yet they continue parading themselves unlawfully.
It is time for stakeholders of the Okpe Nation to call these persons to order. Contempt of court sanctions are not a panacea for law and order and good governance in any polity. Let Aboze and his gang stop disgracing the Okpe Nation.
Long live the Okpe Nation!
Long live the Okpe Union!
Long live the Orodje of Okpe!
*Signed:*
*Akpederin Kingsley Ehensiri Esq.*, General Secretary, Okpe Union.
…………………………………………………………………………
Dear Okpe Compatriots,
On behalf of a group of dedicated Okpe Nationals, I am pleased to inform you of the establishment of the *_CENTRE FOR OKPE STUDIES LTD/GTE_*, which has been duly registered and certified by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), to undertake the following functions, inter alia:
A Management Committee shall handle the affairs of the *_Centre_* while an Editorial Board shall oversee the *_Journal of Okpe Studies_*. They will contribute their personal resources and seek external funds for the execution of the projects of the Centre. The activities of the Centre include the hosting of an annual or biennial conference on *_OKPE HISTORY AND SOCIETY_*, the publication of its quarterly *_Journal of Okpe Studies_*, and the
+ organization of workshops and seminars on topical issues of Okpe History, Language, Culture, and Economic Development, etc. In due course members of both the Management Committee of the *_Centre_* and the Editorial Board of the *_Journal of Okpe Studies_* shall be announced.
For further information on the *_Centre_*, please contact Dr. Lucky Akpere at: luckyakpere@okpeunionng.net
God bless the Okpe Nation.
God bless the Okpe Union.
God bless the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom
Prof. O. Igho Natufe
May 5, 2024
UTOPIA FREE TRADE ZONE ESTABLISHMENT ATTENDEES
The Managing Director of Nasarawa State Investment Development Authority, Alhaji Ibrahim and Representative of the Governor of Nasarawa State, H.E. Engr. Abdullahi Sule, the CEO of Utopia Free Trade Zone, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, Mr Liu Tom Qinpeng, the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Iya Loja-General of Nigeria, Chief Dr (Mrs) Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the Emir of Keffi, HRH Dr Shehu Cindo Yamusa III, the Representative of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Kashim Shettima Mustapha GCON, Jessica Anuna, CEO/Founder of Kasla International Payment System; and Mr. Dimitri van den Broeke, the Representative of the Chairman of Greenville LNG, Eddy van den Broeke at the Investment Summit and Utopia Free Trade Zone Establishment Ceremony at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja Nigeria last Saturday.
A conference of Okpe leaders in different parts of the world will take place in Lagos on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.
‘’About 300 delegates from Okpe Union branches in Asia, North and South America, Africa, Europe and Australia will attend the Okpe Union General Assembly at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende..
Secretary General of the Okpe Union, Barrister Kingsley Akpederin who announced this on Sunday in Lagos said: ‘’the Okpe Union Conference comes at a critical time for Okpe leaders throughout the world. We must rub minds and devise pro-active and creative ways to promote lasting development and ensure better quality of life for our people’’.
A statement from Okpe Union headquarters Sunday morning stated that the delegates would examine the condition of the Okpe Union, discuss political, social and cultural problems and recommend practical steps for implementing development strategies in Delta State.
The statement listed international standards of good governance, socio-economic development and means of advancing Okpe interests as important matters to be considered by delegates from all over the world.
‘’State of the Union address by the President General, reports from branches and regions of the Okpe Union and the State of the Nigerian Nation and Delta State are three points which will receive greatest attention of the delegates’’.
The statement said the men and women of action from Nigeria and abroad would think in larger terms, act on a wider plane of ideas and arrive at positive conclusions which will give a new impetus to Okpe Union and Delta State’.
The conference, planned for 10.00 am on the 15th of May, 2024 will take place in an atmosphere of complete frankness and cordiality.
‘’The Okpe Union, a socio-cultural group, is the mouthpiece of all the people of the Okpe nation and the oldest registered ethnic union in Nigeria’’ the statement added.
Business Mogul, Feli Aganbi, on Tuesday commended Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse 111 for demonstrating exemplary leadership, living above board and for serving as a source of strength and inspiration for many within and outside Warri Kingdom kingdom.
‘’His Royal Majesty, Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse 111, is an intelligent, straightforward, courageous, selfless, amiable and committed patriot’’.
He also praised the Warri monarch for playing significant roles in the promotion of harmony, socio-cultural cooperation, communal living and peaceful co-existence among diverse peoples.
‘’The current peace, progress and prosperity in the Warri Kingdom can be attributed to his wise and benevolent leadership” he said.
Aganbi in a statement in Koko, headquarters of Warri North, praised Ogiame Atuwatse 111 for serving the kingdom with unerring grace, dignity and decency.
Aganbi, Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Water and Ajimele Oil, praised the monarch for stimulating harmony and development in Delta State, Keeping Itsekiri firmly on the road to development and uplifting the fortunes of Warri Kingdom.
Particularly, he lauded His Royal Majesty for utilizing his boundless energy, robust intellect, uncommon courage and tenacity of purpose to motivate members of the traditional council and prominent leaders for the highest ideals of governance, unity and development in Warri Kingdom.
“Ogiame Atuwatse 111, CFR is a man of impeccable character, a man of dignity, wisdom and compassion” he said.
The statement highlighted the monarch’s visionary leadership and selfless service to humanity.
“May the Good Lord, who has blessed Warri Kingdom, grant you good health, wisdom and strength”.
Ending the statement, Aganbi said “Please accept the assurances of my highest esteem and warmest congratulations on occasion of your 40th birthday’’
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, for Dakar, Senegal, to attend the inauguration of Senegal’s President-elect, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
The President’s trip is on the invitation of the Republic of Senegal.
President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, will join other regional leaders to witness the inauguration at Diamniadio Exhibition Centre on Tuesday.
The President will be accompanied on the trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and other senior government officials.
The President is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the inauguration.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 1, 2024
President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, for Dakar, Senegal, to attend the inauguration of Senegal’s President-elect, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
The President’s trip is on the invitation of the Republic of Senegal.
President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, will join other regional leaders to witness the inauguration at Diamniadio Exhibition Centre on Tuesday.
The President will be accompanied on the trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and other senior government officials.
The President is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the inauguration.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 1, 2024
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has expressed his satisfaction with the progress of work on the ongoing Port Harcourt Ring Road project assuring the people that in 36 months the project which he described as a Signature project of his administration will be delivered.
He spoke at the end of his inspection visit to the project site to assess the extent of work that has been achieved just as the Managing Director of Nigeria’s foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter revealed that appreciable progress has been made on the project and that the company will meet agreed completion deadline.
Speaking to news men at the end of the inspection, Governor Fubara explained that the contract for the Port Harcourt Ring Road project was the first of such agreement that he signed with the driving objective of making sure that it is delivered to Rivers people. The Governor whose convoy drove on the stretch of the road from Airport road access through Jesuit Memorial School down to Rumuosi and Uzoba Communities before terminating the inspection tour at UTC junction said, “I think we are good considering the understanding that we have with Julius Berger.”
Gov Fubara continued: “We signed off that in 36 months this project will be done and delivered, and with what we are seeing here today, they are meeting up with that target. I am satisfied. Although we have few issues. The price rate at that time and current one is not the same. However, whatever it is, I have assured them that we will give them all the necessary support to make sure that they deliver. You know this project is very important to us; it’s one of the first projects that I signed off when I came in as Governor of this State. Whichever way anybody wants to look at it, for me, it is a signature project. We signed up for it and we are paying dearly for it. Also, it is one of the objectives of this administration to make sure that we deliver it to our people. Thank you.”
In his remarks the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, who conducted the Governor round the project site said work has advanced after piling and laying of beams on the first flyover, which started on January 15, 2024, and accomplished two months after.
Richter who explained that why they have intensified work on the second Flyover with beams ready to be laid, significant strides have been achieved in laying down the road and the drains for accelerated construction.
“As we drove along the project route, we saw several spots where we are working; on the road construction and even on the two flyovers. Just after the Easter break we will start the laying of the first beams of one of the flyovers, on the other flyover we will finish drilling,” Richter said.
He continued; “We are using two drilling rigs to complete the piling; and then we are moving to the third flyover already. So you can see the fist flyover we started on the 15th of January, two months later, we are already laying the beam. So we are on track; we are on schedule as we promised his Excellency. I am really satisfied with the work, and with my team of course. And also, I am very satisfied with his Excellency for his support and the fact that we had the opportunity today to inspect together and to discuss the challenges for example compensation, allocation. He assured me that everything will be done as soon as possible and that he will assist us to meet our timeline. All I can say is that I am really happy and satisfied with the work done here.”
All along the route of the inspection visit ecstatic residents of communities on the project corridor hailed and sang praises of the Governor and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc shouting, “na good collabo“ which means the collaboration between the Governor and the company is for the good of all.
On Julius Berger’s Team at the working visit were; Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, Technical Assistant to the Managing Director, Engr Benjamin Bott; Project Manager, Engr Finn Drosdowski, Operations Manager, Engr Ulrich Stahl, Region South East Project Coordinator, Chief Sam Ngbor and Deputy Regional Manager, Region South East, Engr. Rimon Marisho.
Emulate Otti, obey court judgment stopping pensions to ex-govs, SERAP tells Tinubu
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to emulate the good example of governor Alex Otti of Abia State by immediately obeying the judgment ordering the Federal Government to recover pensions collected by former governors, and to challenge the legality of states’ pension laws permitting those involved to collect such outrageous pensions.”
The judgment, dated 26 November, 2019 was delivered by Honourable Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo following a suit by SERAP.
Mr Otti last week signed into law the bill to repeal ‘The Abia State Governors and Deputy Governors Pensions Law No 4 of 2001’, following the passing by the house of assembly. Under the repealed law, former governors and deputy governors in the state were paid lifetime salaries and got houses in Abia and Abuja.
In the letter dated 23 March 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “We urge you to emulate the good example of governor Otti by urgently obeying the judgment, something which former president Muhammadu Buhari blatantly failed to do.”
SERAP said, “Unless the judgment is immediately obeyed, former governors and their deputies including those now serving as ministers in your administration and members of the National Assembly who receive pensions would continue to evade justice for their actions.”
The letter, read in part: “SERAP agrees with former president Olusegun Obasanjo’s conclusion that states’ pension laws are ‘acts of daylight robbery’, and his call for such laws to be abolished by other state governors.”
“Immediately obeying the judgment would show the sovereignty of the rule of law in Nigeria and go a long way in protecting the integrity of the country’s legal system.”
“Obeying the judgment would also show you as a defender of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 (as amended), the rule of law, and public interest within government.”
“Nigeria’s democracy needs courts so that public officials and private actors including former governors and their deputies collecting life pensions, exotic cars and other allowances from their states can be held accountable for any infraction of Nigerian laws.”
“Mr Buhari turned a blind eye to the judgment. State governors have failed to provide names of former governors and their deputies who have collected and continue to collect pensions from their states and the amount so far spent on these ex-officials.”
“Constitutionalism and the rule of law are not in conflict with democracy; rather, they are essential to it. Justice Oguntoyinbo’s judgment has pointed the way for your government to provide the leadership to ensure the reform of pension laws allowing former governors and their deputies to collect lifetime salaries and allowances. It is now time for your government to restore the rule of law systemically.”
“Like pension laws of several states, the repealed Abia state pension law stipulated that former Abia governors and deputies are entitled to 100 percent of the annual basic salaries of the incumbent governor and deputy; their cooks, stewards, drivers, and gardeners are to be paid by the state; and are entitled to three police officers and two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).”
“Justice Oguntoyinbo in her judgment granted ‘AN ORDER of mandamus compelling and directing the Attorney General to urgently identify former governors and their deputies collecting pensions from their states and to seek full recovery of public funds from those involved.’”
“Justice Oguntoyinbo also granted ‘AN ORDER of mandamus compelling and directing the Attorney General to urgently institute appropriate legal actions to challenge the legality of states’ laws permitting former governors, serving as senators and ministers to enjoy governors’ emoluments while drawing normal salaries and allowances in their new political offices.’”
“Justice Oguntoyinbo also indicated that double emoluments for former governors are unacceptable, unconstitutional and illegal.”
“SERAP also notes that former president Olusegun Obasanjo this week correctly asked state governors to emulate governor Alex Otti in repealing laws supporting the payment of pensions to former governors and deputies in their states. Mr Obasanjo described life pension laws as ‘rascality’ and ‘acts of daylight robbery’”
“Over N40 billion have reportedly been collected by former governors serving as ministers and members of the National Assembly.”
“Justice Oguntoyinbo who recently retired from the bench expressed ‘regret’ during a valedictory court session held in her honour that the judgment has not been obeyed.”
“Justice Oguntoyinbo stated: ‘I remember with pride my landmark judgment in SERAP vs. The Attorney-General. Regrettably, that order is yet to be obeyed. I find it very disappointing that Court orders are often not obeyed. If there’s anything I wish to change, it is the impunity towards judicial decisions and the disrespect for the bench.”
“Immediately obeying the judgment would demonstrate your oft-repeated commitment to the rule of law, and respect for the judiciary as the guardian of justice in this country. A democratic state based on the rule of law cannot exist or function, if the government routinely ignores and/or fails to abide by court orders.”
“Many of the former governors serving as ministers in your administration and as members of the National Assembly are reportedly enjoying pensions from their states while drawing normal salaries and allowances in their new political offices.”
“SERAP is concerned that while many Nigerian workers and pensioners have not been paid by state governors for several months and struggle to make ends meet, former governors continue to collect double emoluments and enjoy opulent lifestyles.”
“According to our information, those who are reportedly receiving double emoluments and large severance benefits from their states include: Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom); Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano); Kabiru Gaya (Kano); Theodore Orji (Abia).”
“Others are Abdullahi Adamu (Nasarawa); Sam Egwu (Ebonyi); Shaaba Lafiagi (Kwara); Joshua Dariye (Plateau), and Jonah Jang (Plateau).”
“At least 22 states starting from Lagos State have reportedly passed life pensions laws for former governors and other ex-public officials. Other states include Akwa Ibom; Edo; Delta; Ekiti; Kano; Gombe; Yobe; Borno; Bauchi; Abia; Imo; Bayelsa; Oyo; Osun; Kwara; Ondo; Ebonyi; Rivers; Niger; Kogi; and Katsina.”
“The 20-page judgment in suit no: FHC/L/CS/1497/2017 signed by Honourable Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo reads in part: ‘The Attorney General has argued that the States’ laws duly passed cannot be challenged. With respect, I do not agree with this line of argument by the Attorney General that he cannot challenge the States’ pension laws for former governors.’”
“In my humble view, the Attorney General should be interested in the legality or validity of any law in Nigeria and how such laws affect or will affect Nigerians, being the Chief Law Officer of the Federation.”
“I have considered SERAP’s arguments that it is concerned about the attendant consequences that are manifesting on the public workers and pensioners of the states who have been refused salaries and pensions running into several months on the excuse of non-availability of state resources to pay them.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
24/3/2024
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
23rd March 2024.
Press Release
CAMPAIGN OF CALUMNY AGAINST THE PERSON AND THRONE OF ELEGUSHI OF IKATE KINGDOM
The Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, has watched with embarrassment, various posts on social media by all manner of characters, in an attempt to tarnish the image of His Royal Majesty and bring the throne to disrepute.
Ordinarily, we have remained silent as we find it ridiculous joining issues with these reckless individuals, firstly, because the Police are continuing in its investigation into the death of Ilerioluwa Aloba, (Mohbad) and also out of respect for the bereaved family. It is our belief that the rights of the family should be respected, even as they come to terms with the painful death of their son.
However, these individuals continue to go on various platforms to link Mohbad’s death to the palace and His Royal Majesty, using unprintable words against the person and stool of Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, even when there was no record of any meeting or relationship between the palace and late singer or any member of his family, including his wife, Wunmi
Our lawyers have been briefed in Nigeria and overseas, and they are working with law enforcement agents, locally and internationally, to invite these individuals to come and substantiate their allegations against the stool and the person of Oba Saheed Elegushi.
Let’s not be mistaken, no one will be victimized or harassed; we have the names and contacts of many of these individuals, who continue to hide behind their phone cameras to spread wide allegations and cause unimaginable embarrassment to the palace and traditional ruler. They will be invited in the next few days to substantiate their claims and assist the police in their on-going investigation.
On behalf of His Royal Majesty, we want to thank all those who have reached out to us to express their solidarity and also urge us to take necessary action in seeking redress against this cyber attacks and bullying.
The law will definitely take its course.
Signed:
Temitope Oyefeso
Special Assistant, Public Affairs to HRM
