News From Nigeria
Addis Ababa, 8 October 2023 (ECA) – African countries have been urged to promote gender responsive and inclusive policies to support women and youth entrepreneurs to accelerate trade development in Africa.
Speaking at the 14th African Congress for Women Entrepreneurs and 4th COMESA Federation of Women in Business Forum, the Principal Regional Advisor for Regional Integration and Trade Division at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Brendah Phiri-Mundia, said women and youth, have revolutionized entrepreneurship in Africa and they are better positioned to boost trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Congress ran under the theme, Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Promotion for Women and Youth and support of MSMEs for realizing Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Regional Integration in line with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The congress took stock of progress on tackling challenges in accessing economic opportunities faced by women and youth across the African continent.
Ms. Phiri-Mundia noted that the AfCFTA which came into force in May 2019, could advance the global and continental goals on gender equality and women empowerment.
According to the ECA, the full implementation of the free trade area will increase the value of intra-Africa trade to US$195 billion by 2045 compared to US$113 billion recorded in 2020 which is the baseline.
Women have made an undeniable impact in the entrepreneurial landscape with research indicating that Africa alone has more entrepreneurs than other regions for both females and males. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rate of female entrepreneurs globally with approximately 26% of female adults involved in entrepreneurial activity.
The ECA’s 2021 Women’s Entrepreneurship Report estimates that reducing gender inequality will boost African economies by US$316 billion.
Ms. Phiri-Mundia stressed that Africa’s youth is a potent force for innovation and economic development with incubators, accelerators and government initiatives helping young entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality.
Recognizing the potential of women and the youth in business development, the ECA is providing support to Member States across the continent in the development of gender-responsive and inclusive policies and context-specific interventions to drive women and youth empowerment within the continental integration agenda.
“Support is being provided for gender mainstreaming in national and regional AfCFTA implementation strategies, capacity building of women’s business associations and MSMEs to ensure they also take advantage of the opportunities under the AfCFTA,” said Ms. Phiri-Mundia.
However, the challenges faced by both women and youth entrepreneurs cannot be ignored, Ms. Phiri-Mundia added, acknowledging the access to start-up financing, skills development, mentorship, promoted by various Women Business Associations and development partners to overcome the challenges faced by women and the youth.
The ECA has also stepped up its efforts to contribute to addressing the complex issue of collecting gender disaggregated data to support better policymaking and evidence-based advocacy across the African continent, said Ms. Phiri-Mundia, who represented the ECA Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist, Hanan Morsy.
These efforts include a joint project with UNCTAD and the UN Economic Commission for Europe to “develop a coherent approach to measuring the impact of trade on gender equality using official statistics and building on the existing statistical data and capacity of countries”.
She called for collective action to amplify collaboration in initiatives that address multiple barriers faced by women and youth which finance literacy and digital finance, apprenticeships especially in male-dominated sectors, digital skills training and profitability information across sectors.
The ECA is keen to deepen its partnerships and work towards a future where every woman and youth entrepreneur in Africa not only achieves their aspirations but also transforms their dreams into impactful, sustainable enterprises Ms. Phiri-Mundia said.
7th October, 2023
PRESS RELEASE:
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) yesterday accused prominent Muslim leaders in the country including Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Sultan of Sokoto of attempting to influence the ongoing litigation on the gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State.
However, an Islamic human rights organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has warned HURIWA to stop blackmailing Muslim leaders. MURIC challenged HURIWA to present its evidence if it has any instead of engaging in mudslinging.
The full statement reads :
“The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) yesterday accused prominent Muslim leaders in the country of attempting to influence the ongoing litigation on the gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State.
“Those accused by HURIWA included Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’d Abubakar and the Emir of Lafia, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammadu I. HURIWA further alleged that the Muslim leaders were trying to ‘weave Islamic sentiments’ around the Nasarawa State governorship litigation’.
“These allegations are baseless, unfounded and outrageous. HURIWA is just seeking ways of tarnishing the images of Muslim leaders whose profiles tower above those of ordinary Nigerians. As an outfit which has long been known as a biased, Muslim-hating and Muslim-bashing outfit, HURIWA wishes to drag these Muslim leaders of impeccable character in the mud.
“We challenge HURIWA to come forward with any shred of evidence in its possession within 48 hours if it has any instead of engaging in mudslinging. No human rights organization worthy of the name should rely on beer parlour gossip the way HURIWA has been operating in the past few years.
“We urge all the honourable judges involved in litigation matters on the 2023 general elections to ignore attempts by merchants of rumour and peddlers of lies to hoodwink, blackmail and whip up inordinate sentiments among them.
“We must always show interest in the facts of cases, not in the sentiments. Facts are sacred. For instance, the Court of Appeal will be interested in knowing why the court gave the petitioners what they did not ask for by setting aside the election of Governor A. A. Sule. Was the tribunal’s decision not reached per in curiam here?
“The tribunal also appears to have breached the principle of ex dolo malo non oritur actio i.e. he who comes to equity must come with clean hands as the written statements of 8 of the 22 witnesses called by the petitioner were not frontloaded. The Court of Appeal will also be interested in knowing why this happened.
“Another fundamental flaw in the tribunal’s handling of the case was its failure to make witnesses tender documents. This has jeopardized veracity of the case. Something happened to audi alteram partem here, the principle of hearing from the other side.
“We advise the Nasarawa State Court of Appeal to spare no efforts in ascertaining whether or not there has been a miscarriage of justice at the election tribunal. We urge them to discharge their duties without fear or favour. Neither should they be swerved by ridiculous, frivolous and preposterous allegations like that of HURIWA. Meddlesome interlopers are uncertificated UFOs in litigation.”
#StopBlackmailingMuslimLeaders
#NasarawaElectionPetition
#DontBullyNasarawaCourtOfAppeal
Professor Ishaq Akintola,
Executive Director,
Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).
Nigeria will become a net exporter of petroleum products by next year, says Mele Kyari.
The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, projects that Nigeria will become a net exporter of petroleum products by next year.
Speaking at the PENGASSAN Energy and Labour Summit 2023 in Abuja on Monday, Kyari said as a resource-dependent country, Nigeria should not be exporting 100 percent of its crude as it does at present.
“Today, we export 100 per cent of our productions, no resource-dependent country does this and that is why we must deliver on our mandate. I don’t want to speak about it; when it is done, you will see it,” Kyari said.
“So, I don’t want to tell you we are going to revamp our refineries. That is too much of PowerPoint talks. So, it will be done and you will see it. I don’t want to speak about it, we are tired of speaking about it.
“But what we must achieve is that this country must be a net exporter of petroleum products and this is within sight.”
“I strongly believe now, without giving you a date so that people don’t get angry again, but in 2024, this country will become a net exporter of petroleum products.”
I want to see more Women at Work in Shaping the Society…First Lady
Says it is a new dawn for women especially with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, says efforts to reshape Nigeria and address societal ills plaguing the female gender require active participation of women.
She said this when she granted audience to the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who led senior female police officers on a courtesy visit to her office at the State House, Abuja.
Noting with pride, the fact that a large number of women are actively involved in policing and securing the country, the First Lady says the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has given more room to women to contribute their own quota to national development.
” It is the beginning of a new dawn for women in the country as the current administration will give women more room to contribute their quota. I am also looking for ways to contribute. We can not have a Nigeria without people doing new and great things”.
On how the senior female police officers and other women can help forge a better Nigeria, the Senator Oluremi Tinubu charged them to lead the action in addressing some of the ills, such as rape, child abuse, human trafficking and proliferation of baby factories, that affect them the most in the society.
“Women must thrive and be empowered in a safe environment. We want to see our children not abused through crimes and maltreatment, rape of minors and children. There must be reduction in cases of human trafficking, organ harvesting and baby factory.”
She added that she is looking forward to a day when a female will become the nation’s Inspector General of Police.
Applauding the steadfast advocacy by the First Lady for setting the pace and advancing the interest of women in the country, the minister of State for Police Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that gender equality, safeguarding of human rights and empowerment of women were key anchors of a just and fair society.
“We are working on a bold initiatives aimed at not only addressing existing challenges, but fundamentally reshaping the Nigeria Police into a modern, responsive, intelligence-led and technology-driven institution. We recognize the limitations of past reforms and are now taking a more proactive and holistic transformation that permeates every facet of police operations.
We are here today not just to discuss but to seek your collaboration, for we understand that the collective advancement of these crucial issues requires your esteemed support and partnership”.
Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim is the First female Minister of State for Police Affairs in Nigeria.
SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
9th October 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU GREETS GOMBE GOVERNOR INUWA YAHAYA ON 62ND BIRTHDAY
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Executive Governor of Gombe State, H.E. Inuwa Yahaya, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday, describing him as a very focused leader who has a clear vision to put in place a prosperous and stable state for the benefit of his people.
The President commends the leadership qualities of the Governor, noting his diligent implementation of policies and programmes which are aimed at achieving the economic empowerment of Gombe people through mass job creation. He further applauds the NSGF Chairman for devising practical solutions to the challenges facing the state and for making a difference in the lives of his people.
President Tinubu also takes note of Governor Inuwa’s penchant for responsiveness, which was witnessed most recently in his robust approach to addressing the economic situation resulting from the removal of fuel subsidy, including the introduction of a 40% subsidy on fertilizers and other key agricultural inputs to boost food production in Gombe State, as well as the implementation of salary increases for workers.
“It is my prayer that as you add another year to your life, God Almighty will imbue you with renewed strength and vigour to continue to work in the best interest of Gombe State, the Northern region, and the entire country,” the President said.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 8, 2023
.. As First Lady leads Awareness Walk, Visits Lady Otedola
…Mama Otedola lauds efforts of COWLSO in impacting the lives of women
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Mrs Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has urged women and youths to participate actively in this year’s National Women’s Conference, saying that the Conference is specifically designed towards influencing participants for positive outcomes in the society.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu gave this charge while leading members of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) on a road walk/ awareness campaign held at Epe Division, as part of Pre-Conference activities for the 23rd National Women’s Conference scheduled to hold from 17th – 19th October, 2023.
She emphasized that this year’s conference themed “Unleash your Potentials” is a platform that brings together women from all walks of life to learn and share knowledge on topical issues affecting women in the society, noting that this forum will further educate and inform them to be better ambassadors in their various communities.
According to her, “We have various distinguished facilitators and personalities coming to talk to our women on isues such as empowerment, food security, education, family, lifestyle, cybersecurity, utilizing technology, among other critical topics”.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu explained that participants can join physically or virtually and can register via the link www.COWLSO.org.ng
She encouraged the youth to maximize the virtual platform as it is more convenient for them to access technology in a bid to gain from the wealth of knowledge proposed for the Conference.
The First Lady also stated that the Conference is an avenue to enlighten women and youths on the various happenings and current trends such as food security, eco friendliness and cyber security is which is very rampant now, out of pocket expenses and the health insurance scheme provided by the State Government and how it can be utilized effectively for themselves and families.
She further stressed that the proposed conference will also be a good platform for women to interact and network as the various segments will be streamed for many participants to join.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu extended appreciation to the Executive Chairman, Epe Local Government, Hon. Surah Animashaun for her hospitality and warm reception as the team commenced the walk from the Lekki-Epe T Junction, visiting Pobo Market, Aiyetoro Market, Oluwo Modern Fish Market, among other areas in Epe.
Other highlights of the road walk/ awareness campaign was the courtesy visit by the First Lady and members of COWLSO to Former First Lady and Matriarch of the Otedola Family, Lady Doja Otedola.
At her residence, Lady Otedola appreciated the timely visit of the team, acknowledging that the Conference initiated by COWLSO over the years has continued to emancipate and advocate for women, proffering lasting solutions to various issues confronting them.
She lauded the efforts of COWLSO in impacting the lives of women and youth’s, emphasizing that they play a critical role in driving economic growth and influence in the society.
Olubukonla Nwonah
Deputy Director, Public Affairs
Office of Lagos State First Lady
8th October, 2023
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has applied for leave of the Supreme Court to file what he termed as fresh evidence.
Atiku, in the motion he filed through his team of lawyers led by Chief Chris Uche, SAN, said the evidence he is seeking to tender before the apex court, would establish his allegation that President Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, submitted forged documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in aid of his qualification to participate in the presidential election that held on February 25.
The former Vice President maintained that President Tinubu, by his action, committed a twin offence of forgery and perjury, and therefore deserved to be sacked from office by the Supreme Court.
Specifically, Atiku, sought the leave of the court to tender Tinubu’s academic records which he said were handed over to him by the Chicago State University, CSU, on October 2, 2023.
According to the motion, the 32 paged documents, were released by the CSU on the orders of Judge Nancy Maldonado of the District Court of Illinois, Eastern Division, Illinois, United States of America.
Atiku predicated his motion for leave to file fresh evidence against Tinubu, on Order 2, Rule 12(1) of the Supreme Court Rules 1985, Section 137(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, as well as the inherent jurisdiction of the apex court as encapsulated in section 6(6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution.
Though the application was dated October 5, however, Atiku’s legal team perfected the filing process on Friday night.
The PDP flag-bearer basically prayed the court for an order, granting him leave, “to produce and for the court to receive fresh and additional evidence by way of deposition on oath from the Chicago State University for use in this appeal to wit: the certified discovery deposition made by Caleb Westberg on behalf of Chicago State University on October 3, 2023, disclaiming the certificate presented by the 2nd respondent, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Independent National Electoral Commission.”
He equally prayed the apex court to “receive the said deposition in evidence as exhibit in the resolution of this appeal,” and to further make order or orders the apex court may deem fit to make in the circumstances of the case.
The application was predicated on 20 grounds, among which included a claim that the deposition sought to be adduced along with its accompanying documents, “would have important effect in the resolution of this appeal.”
“The deposition is relevant to this matter, having confirmed that the certificate presented by the 2nd Respondent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not emanate from Chicago State University, and that whoever issued the certificate presented by the 2nd Respondent, did not have the authority of the Chicago State University, and that the 2nd Respondent never applied for any replacement certificate nor was he issued any replacement certificate by the Chicago State University.
“The deposition which is on oath and deposed to in the presence of the 2nd Respondent’s Attorney is credible and believable, and ought to be believed.
“The deposition is clear and unambiguous, and no further evidence is needed to be adduced on it.
“The evidence is such that could not have been obtained with reasonable diligence for use at the trial, as the deposition required the commencement of the suit in the United States of America before receiving same. It was not possible to obtain the said evidence before the trial at the Court below.
“The deposition was made on October 03, 2023 after the conclusion of trial at the Court below, and was not available to be tendered at the trial,” Atiku averred.
He contended that “the presentation of a forged certificate to the independent National Electoral Commission by a candidate for election to the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a weighty constitutional matter, requiring consideration by the Courts as custodians of the Constitution.”
Atiku’s lawyer, Uche, SAN, stated that the original certified deposition from the CSU, had since been forwarded to the Supreme Court by a letter that was addressed to the Chief Registrar of the court.
More so, in a 20 paragraph affidavit that was attached in support of the appeal marked: SC/CV/935/2023 with petition number: CA/PEPC/05/2023, the deponent, one Uyi Giwa-Osagie, who is a legal practitioner, averred that the certificate President Tinubu presented to INEC in support of his qualification to contest the presidential election, was earlier tendered in evidence before the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, and was marked as Exhibit PBDlB.
He attached a copy of the said certificate that was admitted in evidence by the PEPC in the appeal before the Supreme Court as Exhibit “E”.
Giwa-Osagie added that the same document was tendered with the deposition in the USA and that at the trial, a certificate obtained from the Chicago State University was also tendered in evidence as exhibit PBE4.
He also annexed the document as exhibit “G”.
“That the deposition is a relevant piece of fresh evidence explaining the status of the certificate the 2nd Respondent presented to INEC in support of his qualification to contest the election,” Giwa-Osagie added.
Atiku’s legal team said they would during the hearing at the Supreme Court, rely on the Record of Appeal already transmitted.
“My Lords, we most humbly adopt the facts as presented in the supporting affidavit, and same will be referred to in the course of the argument,” Atiku’s lawyer added, insisting that the apex court has the power, jurisdiction and discretion to grant an application for fresh or additional evidence to be adduced on appeal.
“Order 2 Rule 12 (7), (2) and (3) of the Supreme Court Rules provide as follows:
(1) A party who wishes the Court to receive the evidence of witnesses (whether they were or were not called at the trial) or to order the production of any document, exhibit or other thing connected with the proceedings in accordance with the provisions of Section 33 of the Act, shall apply for leave on notice of motion prior to the date set down for the hearing of the appeal.
“The application shall be supported by affidavit of the facts on which the party relies for making it and of the nature of the evidence or the document concerned.
“lt shall not be necessary for the other party to question the additional evidence intended to be called but if leave is granted the other party shall be entitled to a reasonable opportunity to give his own evidence in reply if he so wishes.
“My Lords, we submit that the requirements for the grant of applications to adduce fresh or additional evidence on appeal have been established by this Honourable Court in a plethora of cases, and they are as follows:
“It must be shown that the evidence sought to be adduced in evidence could not have been obtained with reasonable diligence for use at the trial.
“The fresh evidence must be such that if given, it would probably have an important effect on the result of the case, although it need not be decisive; and
“The evidence must be such as is presumably to be believed, in other words it must be apparently credible,” Atiku’s lawyer, Uche, SAN, argued.
Besides, he contended that in line with plethora of cases that were previously determined by the Supreme Court, the only requirement from the court was for it to do justice, fairly, equitably and justly.
“We humbly submit that the grant of the present application will certainly be in furtherance of the course of justice in this matter.
“This is a case in which the 2nd Respondent was returned purportedly as the winner of the said election to the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Appellants/Applicants have amongst other grounds, challenged the election of the 2nd Respondent on the ground of his qualification to contest the said election and more especially on the basis that the 2nd Respondent’s presented a forged document to the INEC.
“The Appellants/Applicants have also in their appeal challenged the striking out of their pleadings raising the issue of qualification of the 2nd Respondent to contest the said election.
“The evidence required to establish that the certificate presented by the 2nd Respondent to the 1st Respondent in support of his qualification to contest the said election is the deposition from the Chicago State University, which deposition did not become available until after the determination of the case by the lower Court.
“The said evidence is now available, and forwarded to this Honourable Court”.
“We submit that the Appellants/Applicants have successfully explained the delay and difficulties in obtaining the said evidence earlier than now, and all the necessary steps taken to obtain the evidence and to present same to this Honourable Court.
“We submit that a successful proof of the said allegation will render the 2nd Respondent unqualified to have contested the said election ab initio for presentation of forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) pursuant to the provisions of Section 137(1)(j) of the Constitution, being a weighty matter of constitutional importance,” Uche, SAN, added.
He equally argued that the Supreme Court had in the case of Saleh vs Abah, 2017, held thus: “The intention of the Constitution is that anyone who had presented a forged certificate to INEC should stand automatically disqualified for all future elections if, as in this case, a Court or tribunal finds the certificate to have been forged, and it matters not whether or not such fact is further fraudulently or desperately concealed in subsequent elections or declaration forms.
“No decent system or polity should condone, or through judicial policy and decisions, encourage the dangerous culture of forging certificates with impunity to seek electoral contest.”
Atiku’s team maintained that “a weighty constitutional issue” as the one raised in the case against Tinubu, was “akin to a jurisdictional issue which is so fundamental and important that it can be raised at any time and in any manner in the course of the proceedings or on appeal.
“We pray this honourable court to resolve this issue in favour of the Appellants/Applicants and grant this Application,” Atiku’s lawyer added.
Meantime, the Supreme Court is yet to fix a date for the motion to be heard.
Kalu Kalu, one of the lawyers to Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, says the legal battle in the United States has revealed sufficient discoveries to upturn the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal at the Supreme Court.
Mr Kalu, during the press briefing held by Atiku on Thursdays in Abuja, said the legal team discovered five major discrepancies in the academic records of President Bola Tinubu during the deposition of the Registrar of Chicago State University (CSU), Caleb Westberg.
The lawyer said the Atiku’s team was able to establish that Mr Tinubu committed forgery, has dual citizenship, and presented an NYSC certificate that has a different name from the one he submitted to INEC.
“One, on the certificate issued or released by Chicago State University to the lawyers of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar— Bola Ahmed Tinubu forged the certificate he presented to INEC.
“Two, that the qualifying certificate from Southwest College to Chicago State University bears a female, therefore, the document does not belong to Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The Chicago State University admission form has a claim that Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended Government College, Lagos, and graduated in 1970, when indeed that school was established in 1974.
“The same document has it that the owner of that document is a black American, and (in) the document Bola Ahmed submitted to INEC, he denied having dual citizenship, which means it does not belong to him.
“Then, the same document, under deposition, says the “A” in Bola A. Tinubu is Ahmed, but the NYSC certificate Tinubu submitted to INEC says the “A” is Adekunle,” he said.
Atiku had requested the documents from CSU to back his allegation of certificate forgery against Mr Tinubu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February poll.
The allegation of forgery was one of those dismissed by the Presidential Election Petition Court in the suit Atiku filed to challenge the election of Mr Tinubu who was sworn in as president in May.
CSU Registrar, Mr Westberg, made a deposition at the court, giving further details on the documents that were released to Atiku’s legal team earlier.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and nine other former governors in the 10th Senate over their collection of both salaries and pensions as senators.”
Joined in the suit as Respondents are the following senators and minister: Abdulaziz Yari; Aminu Tambuwal; Adamu Aliero; Adams Oshiomole; Ibrahim Gaidam; Seriake Dickson; Ibrahim Dankwambo; Aliyu Wammako; Gbenga Daniel, and Dave Umahi.
In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1360/2023 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Mr Akpabio, nine other senators and Mr Umahi to stop collecting both salaries and pensions, and to return any pensions collected to their respective state treasuries.”
SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Mr Akpabio, nine other senators and Mr Umahi to clarify and disclose if they have collected and/or currently collecting both salaries and pensions as former governors.”
SERAP is also seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Mr Akpabio, nine other senators and Mr Umahi to disclose the details and amounts of the pensions so far received by them.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that: “The Seventh Schedule to the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) requires the former governors to stop collecting both salaries and pensions and to return any pensions collected.”
SERAP is arguing that, “Unless the reliefs sought are granted, the former governors would continue to both enjoy life pension packages, and collect salaries as serving public officers, and the travesty and private self-interest would continue.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “It a fundamental breach of their fiduciary duties for former governors to collect both salaries and pensions. The alleged collection by former governors of double emoluments is detrimental to the public interest.”
According to SERAP, “Collecting pensions as former governors and salaries while serving as public officers is a flagrant violation of the letter and spirit of the Nigerian Constitution and the public trust.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “It is a travesty for former governors to be looking after themselves while over 137 million Nigerians are living in extreme poverty exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidy.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare and Ms Valentina Adegoke, read in part: “The UN Convention against Corruption requires public officials to discharge a public duty truthfully and faithfully.”
“The UN Convention also implicitly prohibits large severance benefits for public officials. The convention specifically in article 8 requires public officers to promote integrity and responsibility in the management of public resources.”
“Paragraph 2 (a) of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers in the Fifth Schedule, Part 1 of the Nigerian Constitution provides in part: ‘a public officer shall not receive or be paid the emoluments of any public office at the same time as he receives or is paid the emoluments of any other public office.’”
“Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo in a landmark judgment dated 26 November, 2019 also indicated that double emoluments for former governors are unacceptable, unconstitutional and illegal.”
“Constitutional oath of office requires public officials including former governors in the Senate and serving as ministers to abstain from all improper acts, including collecting life pensions. A false oath lacks truth and justice. The oath statements require the oath takers to commit to uphold and defend the Constitution.”
“According to reports, there are fourteen former governors in the Senate and as ministers who may be collecting pensions running into billions of naira from their states. The former governors include: Godswill Akpabio (Akwa-Ibom State); Adams Oshiomhole (Edo State); Adamu Aliero (Kebbi State); Dave Umahi (Ebonyi State); Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto State); and Abubakar Sani Bello (Niger State).”
“Others are: Ibrahim Danwkambo (Gombe State); Danjuma Goje (Gombe State); Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara State); Gbenga Daniel (Ogun State); Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto State); Orji Kalu (Abia State); Ibrahim Gaidam (Yobe State); and Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa State). Also, there are at least seven former governors in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet who may be collecting both salaries and pensions.”
“The states currently implementing life pensions for former governors reportedly include Akwa-Ibom, Abia, Edo, Jigawa, Niger, Kebbi, Kano, Ogun, Sokoto, Jigawa, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Benue, Gombe, Yobe, Taraba, Kaduna, Plateau, Katsina, Rivers, and Delta.”
“Under Akwa Ibom Life Pension law [as amended] a former governor is entitled to an annual pay of N200 million, two official vehicles with chauffeurs, furniture allowance of 300 per cent of basic salary replaceable every four years, an aide, a cook, and lifetime security guards worth N5 million monthly, and N2.5 million for their deputies.”
“There is also state-sponsored annual medical service of about N100 million for ex-governors and their spouses and N50 million for the ex-deputy governors, five-bedroom mansions in Abuja and Akwa Ibom.”
“Other benefits include: 300% annual basic salary as ‘severance gratuity’, 300% of annual basic salary for ‘car maintenance’; 100% of annual basic salary for ‘entertainment’; and 100% of annual basic salary for ‘utility.’”
“In Abia State, a former governor is entitled to 100 per cent of the salary of the incumbent. Benefits for former governors include an official car, a police orderly, two operatives of two police men for the security of his house and allowances for cooks, stewards, driver and gardener.”
“In Gombe State, there is N300 million executive pension benefits for the ex-governors. Ex-governor and deputy governor are also entitled to a 30-day paid travel expenses annually to any country of their choice alongside their wives.”
“A former governor is also entitled to two utility cars, while his deputy is entitled to one car to be replaced periodically. Both the governor, deputy governor and their wives are entitled to paid medical treatment at home or abroad.”
“In Sokoto State, former governors and deputy governors are to receive N200m and N180m respectively being monetization for other entitlements which include domestic aides, accommodation and vehicles replaceable every four years.”
“According to the 2013 life pension law, the pension should be charged upon the consolidated revenue fund of the state. Former governors and their deputies are also entitled to other privileges, such as free medical treatment anywhere for themselves, their spouses and biological children, and the payment of all their utilities.”
“Under the life pension law in Jigawa, former governors are entitled to the same salary as the incumbent, two vehicles replaceable every four years, a six-bedroom apartment, furnished office, two personal assistants, and two drivers.”
“In Edo State, former governors and their deputies are entitled to a house in any location of their choice, pension for life at 100 per cent of their last salary, three brand new cars after five years, drivers, domestic members of staff, medical bills for them and their immediate families, amongst many other benefits.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
8/10/2023
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
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Omo-Agege To Osanebi On His Birthday: You Are A Bold Change Agent
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has described Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi, his running mate in the March 18, 2023 gubernatorial election in Delta State, as a bold change agent that is always prepared to sacrifice personal comfort in the fight for a better society.
In a goodwill message to celebrate the one-time Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly on his birthday, Omo-Agege described Osanebi as a pride to the youth as he is always unwavering in his fight for responsive governance in Delta State.
The former Deputy Senate President who is gunning for governorship of Delta State under the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside Osanebi noted in the message personally signed by him, that Osanebi is a leader that will not hesitate to sacrifice his personal comfort for a higher cause.
“In our campaign to rescue Delta State from years of the locust under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a cause which, by the grace of God will be realised, Rt. Hon. Osanebi displayed uncommon passion, boldness and fighting spirit. These are attributes of a man truly committed to the enthronement of a better society. It is a cause we share deeply and, ultimately, God will restore our dear state and put it on the inexorable path of true greatness when we both take over the reins of government shortly”, Omo-Agege stated.
“I pray that our people, especially the younger generation will draw inspiration from your commitment to building a great Delta State. Happy birthday, my dear brother.”
Signed:
Sunny Areh
Media Adviser to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES MINISTER OF SOLID MINERALS, DELE ALAKE, ON 67TH BIRTHDAY
President Bola Tinubu extols the virtue of his long-time ally, confidant, and present Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Dele Alake, on the occasion of his 67th birthday.
The President cherishes Hon. Alake’s patriotism and unwavering dedication to service, as well as the close relationship they have shared over the span of four decades.
President Tinubu reflects on the long journey they have embarked upon together, from the Minister’s days as Editor of the National Concord to his tenure as the Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State during the President’s service as the Executive Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, all the way through to their most recent and extraordinary journey into the State House.
“Through it all, Dele has proven to be a partner and worthy brother,” the President declares.
President Tinubu affirms that Hon. Dele Alake possesses uncommon versatility and strength of character that leaves a lasting impression on everyone he encounters, imparting the true essence of loyalty, trust, respect, and empathy.
The President thanks the accomplished public servant for his loyalty over the years, both in times of triumph and in times of difficulty.
President Tinubu looks forward to many more years of great memories, successes, and continued camaraderie.
As the beloved celebrant embarks on a new chapter of service to our nation, the President joins family, friends and well-wishers at home and abroad in offering heartfelt prayers, seeking divine guidance and success for the Honourable Minister in his new assignment.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 6, 2023
Press Statement
October 06, 2023
Kogi 2023: Dino Melaye Opens Platform for Sacked Workers to Register Complaints
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 11, 2023 Kogi State governorship election, Senator Dino Melaye, has officially opened a platform for all the workers of Kogi State who were unjustly sacked by the outgoing administration of Governor Yahaya Bello.
Senator Melaye, who revealed this action during his interface with Council of Ulama in Lokoja Local Government on Thursday, promised to review the cases of all those who were summarily relieved of their duties and unjustifiably thrown into the labour market.
According to him, the existential challenges in the state became heightened when the means of livelihood of many Kogites were lost, half salaries became the order of the months and the economy of the state, which was built around the civil service earnings, was paralyzed.
He assured the members of the Council of Ulama and the people of Kogi State that all the cases inputed to the platform would be reviewed and “there shall be justice.”
“The moment we are elected into office and sworn-in, insha Allah, percentages salaries will become history, promotion without cash-backing will end and every worker in this state will get their dues as and when due,” he further assured.
Lamenting the situation of the state, Senator Melaye recalled that many of the workers lost their lives while being invited for screening, pensioners are denied their benefits even as ordinary responsibilities of government like provision of water supply have been stopped.
He urged the sacked workers, including the lecturers of the state university, to enter their complaints in the platform created for the purpose of ensuring that they get justice.
Signed:
Prince Inuwa Iyodo
Director-General,
Dino/ Habiba Campaign Council
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Wednesday applauded President Bola Tinubu for the wisdom and appropriateness in the appointment of Mr Chiedu Ebie, Samuel Ogbuku and other Board members of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
‘’The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is the hope of the Niger Delta people and the future of the region rest primarily in the hands of Mr Chiedu Ebie, Samuel Ogbuku and other Board members’’.
In congratulatory message to Ebie, Ogbuku and others on the occasion of the inauguration of NDDC Board, Uduaghan called Ebie, Ogbuku and others perfectionist and catalyst for change.
“Years of experience make Ebie, Ogbuku and other members of the new board suited to serve the region at this time”.
Titled ‘’ Right set of people in NDDC’’, Uduaghan said Tinubu, in appointing Ebie, Ogbuku and others, has chosen leaders of huge experience and efficiency to serve the people of the Niger Delta region.
He commended the president for inaugurating the board.
The Warri High Chief urged the good people of the Niger Delta to encourage the Bola Tinubu led All Progressives Congress (APC) government in its efforts to develop the region.
He called on the new board to work harder to meet the expectations of the people.
‘’ The task demands the highest standards possible’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies underscored Tinubu’s vision and selfless service to mankind.
Mr Chiedu Ebie, (Delta State) was appointed Chairman by President Tinubu; Dr Samuel Ogbuku – Managing Director / CEO (Bayelsa State), and Mr Boma Iyaye – Executive Director (Finance and Admin) – Rivers State
Others are Mr Victor Antai – Executive Director (Projects) – Akwa-Ibom; Mr Ifedayo Abegunde – Executive Director (Corporate Services) – Ondo and Sen. Dimaro Denyanbofa – State Representative – Bayelsa
Also, Mr Abasi Nkono (Akwa Ibom State Representative); Hon. Monday Igbuya (Delta State Representative) and Chief Tony Okocha (Rivers State Representative).
Hon Patrick Aisowieren ( Edo State Representative), Mr Kyrian Uchegbu (Imo State Representative) and Hon Otito Atikase – (Ondo State Representative).
Chief Dimgba Eruba (Abia State Representative; and Rt. Hon. Orok Otuk Duke (Cross River State Representative).
The three zonal members of the board are Hon. Nick Wende – Zonal Representative – North Central; Hon. Namdas Abdulrazak – Zonal Representative – North East; and Sen. Ibrahim Abdullahi Gobir – Zonal Representative – North West.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘we look forward to working with the Chairman, Managing Director and other NDDC Board members on developing the region’’.
Titans in Surulere politics on Thursday listed vision, knowledge of issues and the right temperament as reasons for approving Hon Kabir Olajide Lawal as the All Progressives Congress (APC) preferred candidate in the forthcoming House of Representatives election in Surulere Constituency 1.
‘’We want someone that is approachable; we want someone that can communicate with the people in a way that makes sense to all. We want to put the constituency on a more reasonable course. Hon Kabir Olajide Lawal has a vision that could set Surulere Constituency 1 toward real development and a better quality of life for the people’’
The towering political figures in the constituency in a statement after the party’s meeting in Surulere said Lawal’s time in the Lagos State House of Assembly was incredibly meaningful.
‘’Hon Kabir Olajide Lawal is enjoying an overwhelming support of the electorate and top APC leaders in the country’’ the statement issued by the Chairman of Surulere All Leaders Forum (SALF), Dr Adebayo Adeyemi, said.
The House of Representatives race is a definite one for the future of Surulere Constituency 1. Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila was appointed Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, making the position vacant.
The leaders spoke passionately of Lawal’s life story and record of service, patriotism and courage.
‘’We are inspired by the style the two term member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and persuaded by his temperament, sacrifice, intellect and wisdom. In his eight years in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Kabir Olajide Lawal made a positive difference. He demonstrated through his actions, through the way he conducted himself, what it means to be kind to other people, what it means to be generous, what it means to be thoughtful, joyful and helpful’’
Popularly called Caesar, the leaders stressed on Lawal’s humane approach to governance, charisma and functional politics.
They praised APC members in Surulere Constituency 1 for igniting the Surulere spirit.
‘’Surulere Constituency 1 has certain values and ideals that have made the people great and that greatness doesn’t include the wrong person in power’’
Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has appealed for patience for the national leadership to reconcile warring factions of the party in Rivers State.
Ganduje said this when he received APC stakeholders from Rivers State on Thursday in Abuja.
He said that Rivers was a very important state in the country because of its oil deposit and large population, describing it as an asset for election to any political party.
“So, you can see why we cannot rubbish the state. Rivers, as a state in politics, is very important. Coincidentally, some of us are conversant with the politics, in Rivers,” he said.
He said that the current crisis in the Rivers State chapter of the party started in 2015.
“Our party in Rivers is highly factionalised, that is the fact about it. Our party in Rivers was killed by litigations, that one is a fact,” Ganduje said.
He thanked those who worked to ensure the party’s electoral success at the poll, saying it was a miracle that it won the presidential election and lost the state to PDP in the 2023 elections.
“There is confusion in the party in Rivers, but we don’t want members to overheat the system, we are focused, we are organised, we work scientifically in politics.
“And therefore, you give us an enabling environment, give us a chance so that we can put a round peg in a round hole, square peg in a square hole, so that we maintain our dignity as a party.
“We have to capitalise on what we have, we have to capitalise on the fact that we have worn the national election in Rivers.
“We are not extracting anything less again, but give us a chance to see how we can have both the state and the national election together,” Ganduje said.
He said that the APC National Committee (NWC) would constitute a leadership that would reconcile the waring factions in the state in the interest of its members.
“But do not overheat the system, overheating the system will bring litigation and then a vicious cycle will come again.
“We don’t want too much analysis because they say too much analysis leads to paralysis.
“So, give us a chance so that we can consult, so that we look at the Constitution of APC and then we wait and see how we can put things in order,” he said.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr Tony Okocha, said the visit was partly to express discomfort of the state stakeholders over the recent visit of a faction of the state chapter to the party’s national secretariat.
“Those who visited are pretenders masquerading as members of Rivers APC.
“This group of persons, we see as watermelon with the characteristic feature of presenting green in the outside but red in the inside.
“They have long abandoned the APC and are disqualified from speaking for Rivers APC in any forum or fora.
“Those persons never supported the party nor are they sincere in their hearts, to be happy that President Bola Tinubu made it to the presidency,” he said.
He added: “The only group in APC Rivers legitimate to seek compensation for the victory of APC and Tinubu in the State, is the one here.
“Please contact us through the leader of the political infantry in Rivers, who is serving in the Federal Cabinet presently.”
Okacha urged the APC national chairman to discountenance any other group that claimed to be APC Rivers stakeholders or individuals, especially those that didn’t support the party at the 2023 general elections.
Nigeria will get better when men of integrity and honour drive the affairs of the nation – Peter Obi
LP’S RESPONSE ON THE INVITATION BY ATIKU
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi is presently in the Supreme Court seeking to reclaim his stolen mandate and he is focused on that.
He has been in the vanguard of ensuring a just nation where justice must be the watchword, and he will not stop until Nigeria achieves a leadership it truly deserves.
Obi has pontificated severally on the need for leaders to be good role models and to live a life worthy of emulation. This he has done by publicly putting his credentials in the open for verification. Nigeria will get better when men of integrity and honour drive the affairs of the nation.
We therefore welcome every other interest willing to join us in our pursuit of a nation where justice shall reign.
Obiora Ifoh
LP’s NPS
WHY GMB HAD TO GO, BY BUHARI
Immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, has responded to muted calls by his followers and admirers over the eight years of his leadership that they preferred the old General Muhammadu Buhari (GMB) to President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB).
The General had been military head of state between December 31, 1983 and August 27, 1985, when his administration was removed in a palace coup.
In the 20 months that the regime lasted, Nigerians knew that a new Sheriff was in town. All forms of indiscipline, corruption and malfeasance were promptly dealt with. With his kindred spirit, Major General Babatunde Idiagbon, the unsmiling duo knocked a lot of sense into the heads of their countrymen and women. And we were fast shaping up. Then the move was truncated.
In his second coming 30 years later, as a democratically elected leader, a lot of people still expected the vestiges of GMB, but found a President that was completely transformed, devoid of all totalitarian tendencies. And there were many people who privately whispered to one another. We prefer GMB to PMB.
Was the President aware of those sentiments? “Yes, I was,” he told this writer with a laugh. He added:
“I was in the military, and rose from 2nd Lieutenant to Major General. When I joined partisan politics, the General had to go. I’ve heard people say they prefer General Buhari to President Buhari. But democracy is different from military rule, with its ruthlessness. Now, the system for decision making is different. We had Supreme Military Council then, but now, you have Federal Executive Council, which is constitutionally backed. I try to allow the system to work. I like to be remembered as a President that was constitutionally compliant.”
And truly constitutionally compliant he was.
The details, and more, are in a forthcoming book, ‘Working With Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015-2023).’
Even this writer is looking forward to reading the book soon, as it rolls off the press.
*Adesina was Special Adviser to President Buhari, 2015 to 2023
October 5, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Celebrates Governor Bala Mohammed on Birthday
…Says He is an Outstanding Patriot
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) celebrates the Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum, our own dear Senator Bala Mohammed as he marks his birthday today.
Governor Bala Mohammed is a quintessential legislator, highly experienced yet very humble, selfless and compassionate leader, who continues to demonstrate an extraordinary sense of duty and dedication towards the wellbeing and development of Bauchi State and the Nation at large.
Over the years, through his meritorious career in the Federal Civil Service to his excellent performance as Senator of the Federal Republic, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and now two term Governor of Bauchi State, Governor Bala Mohammed has distinguished himself as consummate statesman with exceptional commitment towards the unity, stability and development of our Nation.
Our Party is proud of Governor Bala Mohammed’s massive infrastructural, human capital and citizens empowerment projects with which he has further repositioned Bauchi State as an Oasis of Development in line with the manifesto of the PDP; for which the people of Bauchi State overwhelmingly re-elected him in the 2023 Governorship election.
The PDP also appreciates Governor Bala Mohammed for his untiring roles and contributions with other Party leaders in stabilizing and ensuring the growth of our great Party especially, in his current capacity as the Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum.
On this special day, the PDP family celebrates Governor Bala Mohammed and prays to God to grant him many more years in wisdom and good health in the service of Bauchi State and our dear fatherland.
Congratulations, His Excellency!
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
‘AFRICAN FILM CITY PROJECT IN EPE TO EXPAND NOLLYWOOD GROWTH’ — SANWO-OLU
Better days are coming for practitioners in the creative sector with the proposed development of African Film City in Epe, Lagos State.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, disclosed that ground breaking for the $100 million project will be done in coming weeks to enhance originality in content creation in Nollywood – Nigeria film industry.
Sanwo-Olu made the announcement at the 12th African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) Press Briefing held at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House in Marina.
The news excited veteran filmmakers, movie producers, Nollywood actors and celebrities who attended the briefing organised at the instance of AFRIFF and its sponsors.
The Governor also disclosed that the State Government would be doubling the capacity building support for talented young industry players to enhance their skills in modern filmmaking. Besides, Sanwo-Olu said the grants being given to creative young talents for the production of short stories will be doubled.
Sanwo-Olu assured the filmmakers of his Government’s commitment to providing resources and time in promoting anything that would put Lagos and the country on the global map.
He said: “We will be doing the groundbreaking for the African Film City before the end of this month. It is a $100 million project to be sited in 100 hectares of land in Epe. Lagos is taking the lead in promoting sustainable growth in creative industry. The first set of studios will be up on the site in the next 24 months after the groundbreaking.
“We are also going to be doubling the State Government’s support for the training of young industry players. We will also double the grants being given to creative young talents for the production of short stories. We have supported over 5,000 people in creative sector with different kinds of capacity building opportunities and film production grants to scale up the numbers in the sector.
“I am excited that the 12th AFRIFF is around the corner to further showcase the original local content to the world. The festival has offered platform for young talents to flourish. I believe this year’s event will be the biggest. We are excited as a Government to be part of it. We believe this is the right thing to do. It is only when we can hold ourselves together and tell our stories that the world will understand our history.”
Sanwo-Olu said there was no better time for all stakeholders to work collaboratively and churn out put quality contents that would confirm the position of the country as a global player in filmmaking, while attracting foreign investment.
The Governor urged the practitioners to use their ingenuity to create Africananised contents that would change the continent’s socio-cultural narrative. This way, he said the world would know Nigeria is ready.
He said: “We should take the world in an ingenious local way that will be original, content-driven and Africanised. I believe the 12th edition of AFRIFF will be a platform to leapfrog all shortcomings we have had. What you did not do yesterday, you have today to correct it because tomorrow is not promised.
“Lagos State Government, by itself, bears all the hallmarks of excellence in all aspects. Excellence starts from everything we can imagine; the creative community sits right in the middle of that. As a Government, we have committed to anything m puts Nigeria on the global map and supports our creative citizens on the world stage.”
Consul General of United States Consulate in Lagos, Mr. Will Stevens, said digital technology had transformed Nigerian film industry over the last decade, stressing that it was time for practitioners to fully benefit from Nollywood.
Given the quality content and advanced production capabilities of African films, the envoy said the second half of the 21st century would be “African moment” to fully expand the growth of its cinema industry.
AFRIFF founder, Chioma Ude, said the film festival would be held next month to celebrate African cinema and promoting original storytelling.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2023
FCT, ABUJA
OCTOBER 5, 2023
APC PRESS STATEMENT
*YET AGAIN, ATIKU ABUBAKAR BEATS HIS TATTERED DRUM OF SHAME*
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is unfazed by the press conference addressed by former Vice President and Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar earlier today. The press conference lacked purpose and delivered nothing except the pitiful regurgitation of lies, mindless distortions and deliberate falsehood on his infantile obsession with the academic record of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
For several weeks now, Nigerians and the world have watched with incredulity Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s display of utter desperation in his failed bid to become the President of Nigeria.
Earlier today, he put his desperation in overdrive during his press conference where he addressed some of the issues in his appeal at the Supreme Court and bandying unproven charges against the President of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a calculated attempt to shamelessly whip up public sentiments and inordinately pressure the Supreme Court.
We believe Alhaji Atiku Abubakar should have known better than to demonstrate gross contempt of the highest court by making public comments on a matter that he has submitted to the court for adjudication.
The major takeaway from his Yar’Adua Centre show, especially at question time, was that Atiku harbours deep animosity towards Tinubu whom he believes was responsible for his electoral woes in 2007, 2015, 2019 and this year.
In desperation, unbecoming of a statesman who once occupied the second highest office in the land, the PDP candidate in the last election has thrown every decency, decorum, dignity and national respectability out the window on his purposeless judicial voyage of discovery to the United States in search of a magic wand for taking power against the will of the Nigerian electorate loudly expressed in last February’s presidential election.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar holds the unenviable title of Nigeria’s most prolific election loser and longest running presidential candidate in history, and we see his recent US fishing expedition as the last kick of a roundly rejected presidential aspirant.
While we sympathise with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for spending a lifetime pursuing unrealised dream, we strongly condemn the perfidious road he has taken and the needless negative exposure of Nigeria and the institution of the Presidency in foreign land.
Just for the record, we wish to provide some clarity on the matter of the deposition of Mr. Caleb Westberg, the Registrar of Chicago State University, last Tuesday under oath at the Chicago office of Atiku’s lawyer, Angela Liu, to save unsuspecting Nigerians from barrage of untruths, distortions and campaign of misinformation being dished out by Atiku and his PDP
Mr. Westberg was unmistaken and unambiguous in his deposition as to the fact that President Bola Tinubu graduated with honours from Chicago State University. He also emphatically provided clear answers on all other issues raised which we can sum as follows:
Furthermore, he stated that the ‘F’ on the Southwest college certificate, a feeder institution to CSU, which President Bola Tinubu used to gain admission into CSU was a clerical error which could of course happen. He reiterated that Southwest College was a major feeder source for CSU.
Westberg further deposed that Accounting is a rigorous field of study. Anyone who did not take the requisite courses at the lower levels could not have done well at CSU.
In President Tinubu’s case, he did excellently well at CSU. He graduated with High Honours. That to him point to the fact that the person who attended and graduated from CSU was the same person who went to Southwest College
“He said further that the difference in the date of award on the diploma versus the certified copy is likely the result of human error. The graduation date on the certified copy is typed in manually by a person and can be inaccurate”.
It should now be clear to all Nigerians that despite Atiku’s lies before the Illinois Court that he wanted to use the discoveries in pursuit of his appeal at the Supreme Court, he has rather chosen to use same as an instrument of mischief and blackmail in clear contempt of the highest court of the land.
We want to urge former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to graciously accept his defeat and quietly lick his political wound with some dignity. Nigerians rejected him at the polls, and he cannot get by subterfuge what he failed to get through the ballot box.
Nigerians validly elected President Tinubu to revamp our economy, restore security, create jobs, provide transformative infrastructure, improve electricity supply and enhance the living conditions of the masses.
President Tinubu has undertaken to serve Nigerians and he will not be distracted by a man who has consistently failed to achieve his self-serving and brutal quest to become Nigeria’s president.
Signed:
*Felix Morka, Esq.*
National Publicity Secretary
All Progressives Congress (APC)
Being text of a press conference by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar (GCON), Waziri Adamawa, Vice President of Nigeria (1999-2007) and Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (2023), at the Shehu Yar’Adua Centre on the 5th of October 2023.
Protocol
Gentlemen of the Press, Fellow Citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I consider it important to address and report to you today on issues that define the future of elective government and legitimate leadership in our country.
Political leadership and active citizenship matter because they are ways through which we all work together to build a country that works for all who live in it. Our country is bigger than any of us, and its standing in the world affects the fate of all who come from or live in it. As leaders, it is our duty to advance the well-being of all our people and of the country.
For this purpose, my generation worked hard to return the soldiers to the barracks and to defend the right of the people to elect and establish for ourselves a legitimate government. Our elections are established and governed by law and founded on the constitution from which leadership and government in Nigeria alone derive their legitimacy.
The people look up to us as leaders to respect these rules and, where necessary, to defend them. This is what brings us here.
Today, we are called upon again as a people to uphold and defend the ground rules of elective government in our country. The constitution prescribes the requirements for those who seek the highest elective office in the land.
It should not take months or, indeed, decades, for the institutions concerned to be able to do their work in establishing the credibility of any certificates presented by candidates for public office.
We undertook this journey at great cost and for important reasons. The ground rules for legitimate governance in our country need to be upheld, and the reputation of our country is at stake. That affects everyone, Nigerians everywhere.
I am a democrat by conviction and a citizen of a country that I love. The issues at stake in this case require us once more to re-dedicate ourselves to both the country and our constitution.
Now, we entrust these facts to us all as citizens and as leaders of the institutions charged with interpreting our constitution. I should thank the lawyers both in Nigeria and in the United States, who have assisted us in bringing clarity and definitive answers to these issues that appear to have defied our institutions for nearly a quarter of a century. I also want to extend my gratitude to Nigerian citizens and friends of Nigeria both within and beyond the shores of our country for their patience as we have sought to find the facts and establish the truth.
I wish to pay tribute to the late human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, who inspired us on this path of discovery. Now, he can truly rest in peace in the assurance that what he started about 23 years ago has come to fruition. Gani’s vindication today gives credence to the saying that no matter how fast a lie runs, the truth will someday overtake it.
Former American President Thomas Jefferson once said, “If I had to choose between government without newspapers, and newspapers without government, I wouldn’t hesitate to choose the latter”. From exposing the Watergate scandal and unravelling the dubious certificates of politicians, journalists have maintained eternal vigilance by bridging the gap and stepping in when other arms of government failed.
It is for these reasons that commendation must be given to David Hundeyin, an independent journalist whose extraordinary work and those of many more young people like him has become a source of inspiration. Special thanks must be given to the millions of Nigerian youths and citizen journalists too who continue to put out the truth online even when no one is listening. Indeed, the price of Liberty is Eternal Vigilance. They have put the country first in their firm commitment to unravel the truth and hold leaders accountable. This gives me the hope that we have worthy partners in the struggle to reclaim the country we call home.
This quest is not for or about Atiku Abubakar. It is a quest for the enthronement of truth, morality, and accountability in our public affairs. In line with this, therefore, I am calling on all well-meaning Nigerians, leaders of thought, our religious leaders, our traditional leaders, our community leaders, our political leaders, and in particular, Governor Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP and, the leaders of every political party in Nigeria, and, indeed, every single person who loves this country, as I do, and who wishes nothing but the best for the country, as I do, to join me in this campaign to enshrine probity, accountability and the basic principles of justice, morality and uprightness in our country and in our government. This is a task for each and every one of us.
Thank you for listening. May God bless you, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
*By Professionals For Good Governance and Social Justice (PGGSJ)*
The destiny of a people is about to slip; hence, it is time for good men and women with virtue to rise in defense of our collective existence. Where evil thrives for too long, it is expected that something must be done to give hope and turn a new chapter. We have thought with pains for too long, how to reach out and appeal to the conscience of the entire judiciary in Nigeria to save the soul of the country from imminent and collateral damage in case they do not know or have refused to know or taken our current situation for granted.
The judiciary is one of the arms of government in any democracy that stands distinctly out. They exist to stabilize the polity, protect the down-trodden, give meaning to the rich, reassure hope and separate every fight among individuals, groups, institutions as well as governments. All these powers rest with the Supreme Court and that is why they are called SUPREME. Anyone can reject any ruling/judgment from other lower Courts in Nigeria, hence, the opportunity for appeal, but once the judgment/pronouncement/ ruling comes from the Supreme Court, it is expected to be obeyed by both government and others in the country.
Therefore, the judiciary is represented in this write-up by the Supreme Court as the most powerful arm of government. In any society where the executive and the legislature are more powerful than the judiciary, something must be wrong. Either the democracy being practiced is fake or corruption is pervasive in the system or that the judiciary does not know her powers or that they are afraid to exercise such powers, or they have joined the corrupt government to serve the nation soured judgments. Whichever is the case, as identified above, it will not be a good sign to engender development. For a country to develop, there must be discipline on the part of individuals, groups, institutions, and governments. Such discipline is driven by adherence to the rule of law. Such laws are provided by the Constitution of Nigeria, Acts of the parliaments, administrative laws, rules and regulations as well as convention.
It is the duty of the Courts to interpret these laws on their merits and to ensure that such laws are obeyed and enforced. When the Courts allow an individual, group, institution, or government to breach any of these laws and get applauded, know that the nation is drifting to the sideline and will not take too long for anarchy to surface.
It will be our greatest interest if everyone’s attention is draw to the February 25th, 2023, presidential election in Nigeria, as well as the activities before, during and after the election. We saw the impunity displayed by the political class, the collaboration with security agents and thugs to unleash mayhem on the citizens of Nigeria. We all saw the hijack of ballot boxes and destruction of election materials; we saw the killings and injuries sustained by Nigerian electorates at various pooling units. We equally saw the ethnic profiling and deprivation of many Nigerians from voting. We were not unaware of the abandonment of the use of Bimodal Vote Accreditation System (BVAS) and multiple thumb-printing that existed in some pooling units during the election. We witnessed the counting of results and the inability of the BVAS to upload the results to the IREV at various pooling units. We also witnessed when electoral officers told the presiding officers to bring the pooling units results to the collation centres at ward levels to upload. Nigeria saw the forceful hijack of some results and electoral materials at pooling units thereby depriving Party Agents the opportunity to have copies of the result sheets and other electorates from snapping them with their phones. Further, Nigerians witnessed the alteration of those results by parties that benefited from them before security agents, some party agents, and some observers. We saw that some results were uploaded to the IREV while others took a very long time to upload, and the rest could not be uploaded till date. We witnessed that many results uploaded to the IREV did not tally with what we snapped from Form EC8As at the pooling units and other results were blurred or empty and some having images not connected to the election. THERE IS NONE THAT NIGERIANS DID NOT SEE.
With the help of social media, we shared all that we saw to our platforms and the whole world got the evidence. Hence, it was easy for all the observers both local and international to align with the position that “the 2023 presidential election falls short of what any reasonable democracy can offer”.
When we witnessed our results being changed, we had two options available to us. First, was to resort to violence and destroy everyone involved in the malicious act, including the security agents, since we know and believe that no Army of a nation can be greater or more powerful than the collective resolve of the people. We knew and we were not afraid to act, but we put the nation first and took the second option as the best option. This second option was to take our matter to the judiciary that has all the powers to resolve the injustice. All Nigerian electorates would have taken the information we have to the Court but since the rules stipulate filing by lawyers, we allowed them to do their job.
When it comes to election matters, we ought to note the following:
This open letter is addressed to the Supreme Court to save this country by taking steps to discover the truth and return our stolen mandate.
No One Can Develop a Country With Stolen Mandate
Peter Obi won the presidential election of February 25th, 2023 and INEC is hiding the results in their headquarters. We have seen the ones from IREV where Peter Obi won in many areas, but INEC declared other things. Help us to get them so that Nigerians will not be tempted to go to INEC Headquarters physically to get the results. The price of the latter will be too high, and the Supreme Court will not like us to do so.
We have put several efforts to achieve a new Nigeria. First, we ensured the passage of the 2022 Electoral Act. Second, we turned out en masse to register to vote. Third, we queued to collect our voters’ cards (PVCs), notwithstanding the obstacles. Fourth, we campaigned for our candidate in a Political Party different from APC and PDP without anyone elected on that platform. Fifth, we deployed our resources devoid of stolen money from government to ensure widespread campaign. Sixth, we did millions of matches across the length and breadth of Nigeria to sail our candidate. Seventh, we protected our candidate with our lives, when we were not sure what the security agents would do since they serve the government that we want to retire. Eight, we voted en-mass during the election in a manner that has never been done before in Nigeria. Ninth, we ensured that we gathered evidence of the election electronically as much as possible.
However, INEC switched off the IREV server and stole our mandate. In a bid to pursue them, they made several mistakes in collating and tabulating the results. That is why we want the SUPREME COURT to revisit the matter and get our results out. It is an insult to the Judges for INEC to look them on their faces and gave Blurred results to Labour Party to submit to them. Judges saw the unreadable blurred results and applauded INEC for doing so. Does this Act not make the Tribunal an accomplice to the Electoral Fraud of February 25th, 2023? INEC destroyed our dream of getting a new Nigeria where things work for everybody. The Tribunal has energized INECs effort to steal our mandate. We appeal to the Supreme Court to help us retrieve the mandate.
This Is the Right Thing to Do. This Is What Our Founding Fathers Want Us to Do. This Is How to Build a Great Society. The World Will Hail You for Your Bravery.
Signed:
Dr Ben Chukwu, Convener.
Mr I. Emmanuel, Secretary.
‘It is undemocratic’—SERAP sues 36 governors over failure to account for N72bn subsidy palliative
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the 36 state governors in the country over “their failure to account for the spending of the N72 billion palliative collected from the Federal Government, including details of the beneficiaries and the reliefs provided with the money.”
The Federal Government recently disbursed N2 billion out of the N5 billion palliative package to each state of the federation and the federal capital territory (FCT), to address the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy.
In the suit number FHC/L/CS/1943/2023 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel each of the 36 state governors to account for the spending of the N2 billion palliative collected by the governors from the Federal Government.”
SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel each of the 36 state governors to disclose details of the beneficiaries and the reliefs provided to the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians with the money.”
SERAP is also seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel each of the 36 state governors to instruct the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to monitor the spending of fuel subsidy palliative collected by them.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that: “Government secrecy is fundamentally anti-democratic. Secrecy in the spending of the N72 billion collected by the 36 state governors would create distrust or suspicion of the government. The failure by the governors to account for the public funds is both legally and morally wrong.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “The 36 state governors are constitutionally required to act in the public interest. Secrecy in government is a form of coercion. Government secrecy promotes arbitrariness and covers illegal acts.”
According to SERAP, “The right of access to official information such as the spending of the N72 billion by the governors exists to facilitate the exercise of free expression right, discover the truth, and encourage citizens’ participation in a democracy.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “The right to access information held by public officials and bodies is also essential for collective decision-making in a democratic society. The right to know strengthens the enjoyment of other constitutionally guaranteed human rights and expands the whole system of freedom of expression.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare and Mrs Blessing Ogwuche, read in part: “It is in the public interest to direct and compel the 36 state governors to account for the spending of the N72 billion palliative and any subsequent disbursement of public funds to the states.”
“There is no democratic freedom without accountability and the basic postulate of accountability is that the people should have information about the functioning of the government.”
“Compelling and directing the governors to account for the spending of the N72 billion would increase government transparency and enhance an open and democratic society.”
“A functioning democracy rests upon participation and accountability. Citizens cannot fully participate in a democracy unless they are allowed to effectively enjoy the right to know what their government is doing in their name.”
“The right of access to information also lets in light and allows the public to scrutinise the workings of the government and find truth in them. Nigerians have the right to know how their states are spending the fuel subsidy relief funds. It is part of their legally enforceable human rights.”
“Transparency and accountability in the spending of the N72 billion and any subsequent disbursement to the governors would help to reduce the risk of corruption, mismanagement, diversion, or opportunism.”
“The oversight afforded by public access to the details of the spending of the N72 billion palliative and any subsequent disbursement to the governors would serve as an important check on the activities of the states, and help to prevent abuses of the public trust.”
“The constitutional principle of democracy provides a foundation for Nigerians’ right to know details about the spending of the N72 billion fuel subsidy palliative. Citizens’ right to know is crucial for the country’s democratic order.”
“The effective operation of representative democracy depends on the people being able to scrutinise, discuss and contribute to government decision making, including on the fuel subsidy relief funds.”
“The removal of subsidy on petrol continues to negatively and disproportionately affect the poor and socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians in several states, undermining their right to adequate standard of living.”
“The Freedom of Information Act, Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee to everyone the right to information, including about how the N72 billion fuel subsidy relief funds are spent.”
“By the combined reading of the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, the Freedom of Information Act, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, applicable throughout Nigeria, there are transparency obligations imposed on the 36 states to account for the spending of the N72 billion fuel subsidy palliative.”
“The Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, and the country’s anti-corruption and human rights obligations rest on the principle that citizens should have access to information regarding their government’s activities.”
“States cannot hide under the excuse that the Freedom of Information Act is not applicable to them to refuse to provide the details being sought, as all the 36 states also have clear legal obligations to provide the information as prescribed by the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and. Enforcement) Act.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
1/10/2023
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202