Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator James Manager, as he clocks 62 years.
The gôvernor recalled that as pioneer Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, the distinguished senator contributed to the successes in elections and administration, a legacy that he had sustained through the years.
According to him, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Senator Manager has patriotically contributed immeasurably to the growth and development of our state, Delta and Nigeria.
He remarked that the fifth-term senator was a dependable political ally and a leader of great value, “a patriot, gentleman par excellence, team player and God-fearing leader.”
“As pioneer chairman of our great party in Delta, you worked very hard to ensure that PDP solidly positioned and had an unassailable reach, which culminated in our sustained winning streak in the past 23 years.
“I commend your robust and impactful representation of your people in the past 19 years as a ranking lawmaker which had enabled you to contribute immensely to well-being.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I congratulate our dear pioneer chairman of PDP in the state, Distinguished Senator James Ebiowou Manager, CON, on the occasion of his 62nd birth anniversary.
“At 62, you have made remarkable and outstanding contributions to national development and as one of the most ranking senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, you have continued to lead by example, showing the way to budding lawmakers,” the governor said.
He prayed that the Almighty God would grant Senator Manager longer life, good health and strength to keep serving Him and humanity.
EFCC Arrests Man with 41 ATM Cards, POS Machine
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested a 27 years old suspect and indigene of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nwamannah Chuks Ifeanyi, for alleged ATM card fraud.
He was picked up on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at the Fruits Market, Wuse Zone II, Abuja, following an intelligence report.
At the point of arrest, 41 ATM cards of different banks, bearing various names, were found in his possession.
Other items recovered from him are a Toyota Venza car with Registration Number KUJ -300 MK, one PoS Machine, two Apple Laptop computers, six iPhones, one Nokia torchlight, one Apple wrist watch and one Driver’s license.
The Benue State University graduate of Political Science and agent to a soccer betting company, claims he uses the ATM cards for Chargeback.
Chargeback is the fraudulent act of using an ATM card to withdraw money and afterwards call the bank to dispute the transaction and ask for a reversal.
He will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded.
Media & Publicity
5 July, 2022
Two Convicted of Cyber-fraud in Ibadan
Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, convicted and sentenced the duo of Olalekan Faruk Opeyemi and Abiodun Emmanuel Olalekan on a separate one count charge each for criminal impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000 and punishable under same Act.
The charge against Olalekan reads: “That you, Olalekan Faruk Opeyemi “M” sometime in September, 2021 in Ibadan, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did falsely represented yourself as Linda Kate, an American woman, while using the email address: farukolalekan@gmail.com which representation you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”
The charge against Abiodun reads: “That you, Abiodun Emmanuel Olalekan ‘M’ on or about the 30th day of March, 2022 at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did falsely represented yourself as Sara Hill, which representation you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”
The defendants who were arraigned by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC, pleaded guilty to the charges.
Following their pleas, Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Olalekan to six months imprisonment and Abiodun, six months community service.
In addition, the judge ordered that the convicts restitute their victims and forfeit to the Federal Government, all items recovered from them.
Media & Publicity
5 July, 2022
EFCC Arraigns Man for Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on July 4, 2022, arraigned one Solomon Akhigbe Idonije before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on a seven-count charge to the tune of N20,080,000 bordering on obtaining money by false pretence contrary to Section 1(1) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.
One of the charges reads: “Solomon Akhigbe Idonije sometimes on 21st of December 2020 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of N4,800,000.00 from one Iyen Omowuiugbe by falsely representing to him that the money was for Forex Trade through Solomon Ace Forex Investments and that as an investor, will be entitled to 25% ROI (Return on Investment) in 25 days, whereas you used the money to offset your debts to other investors in your company.”
Another count reads: “Solomon Akhigbe Idonije sometimes on 23rd of December 2020 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of N4,100,000 from one Iyen Omowuiugbe by falsely representing to him that the money was for Forex Trade through Solomon Ace Forex Investments and that as an investor, will be entitled to 25% ROI (Return on Investment) in 25 days, whereas you used the money to offset your debts to other investors in your company.”
He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.
Thereafter, E.S. Okongwu, who held the brief of the prosecuting counsel, G.C. Akaogu, prayed the court for a trial date in order to enable the prosecution present its witnesses and evidence to prove the case against the defendant.
The defence counsel, Jonathan Okagbero, however informed the court of an application for the bail of the defendant.
Justice Taiwo, afterwards adjourned till July 13, 2022 for hearing of the bail application, and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody till then.
Media & Publicity
5 July, 2022
Alleged N762.6m Oil Fraud: EFCC Presents More Witnesses Against Nadabo
The trial of Abubakar Ali Peters and his company, Nadabo Energy Limited, over a 21-count charge bordering on forgery and subsidy fraud before Justice S.S. Ogunsanya of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos continued on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, presenting two more witnesses to prove its case.
Abubakar and his company are being prosecuted by the EFCC for offences bordering on obtaining money under false pretence, diversion of Federal Government funds and forgery to the tune of N761,628,993.84.
One of the counts reads: “Nadabo Energy Limited and Abubakar Ali Peters, on or about 26th day of September, 2011 in Lagos, within the Ikeja judicial division , fraudulently obtained the sum of N761,628,993.84 from the Federal Government by falsely representing that the sum represented the subsidy accrued to Nadabo Energy Limited under the Petroleum Support Fund for the importation of 16,808,064 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which Nadabo Energy Limited purported to have purchased from Delano Petroleum Corporation Akara Tortola British Virgin Island, and transported the 16,808,064 litres through MT Gotland Carolina (mother vessel) and MT Sonia (daughter vessel) to Nigeria, whereas Nadabo Energy Limited only imported 7,953,962 litres of PMS from Delany Petroleum Corporation Akara Tortola British Virgin Island and transported 7,953,962 litres of PMS through MT Gotland Carolina (mother vessel) and MT Songa (daughter vessel) to Nigeria.”
He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when he was arraigned on October 7, 2015, thereby prompting the commencement of his trial.
The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, who testified as the second prosecution witness, had on Monday, May 9, 2022 concluded his testimony during which he reasserted that the investigation into the alleged fraud, including documents from banks, Staco Insurance Plc, and Q & Q Control Services Limited among others, indicated that the defendant supplied about 6,000 MT (about 7,953,962 litres) of PMS and not 12,000 MT (about 16,808,064 litres) as claimed by the defendant for which he claimed payment from the Federal Government.
Led in evidence by the prosecuting counsel, S.K. Atteh, Tunji Nasiru, a staff of Staco Insurance Plc, who at the time of the said transaction was the Assistant Director, Technical, testifying as the third prosecution witness, told the court that he knew Nadabo Energy Limited in the course of his work at the company.
He said: “In 2013, we received a letter dated 20th August from the EFCC requesting us to confirm the authenticity of two Marine Insurance certificates attached to the letter.
“We went through our records and we responded to the letter, vide ours dated 6th September, stating that we had no such certificate in our records.”
He thereafter, identified the investigation letter written by the EFCC to Staco Insurance Plc, and the response to the EFCC inquiry on Marine Insurance certificates attached, which were already exhibits before the court.
“We stated that we do not have such Marine Insurance certificate in our records,” he said.
He testified that indeed, Staco Insurance Plc had done some transactions before for Nadabo Energy Limited, adding that, “this particular one, was not in our record”.
While going through the exhibits, he said, “The letter written by the EFCC is the one dated 20th August 2013, which is the first document.
“The second document, we know nothing about it, which is the Insurance certificate number 40016.
“The third document, also an Insurance Marine certificate number 40017 is not in our records.
“The fourth document is our reply to the third document, which was the EFCC letter.
“The fifth document, I can recognise this very well, this is what we have in our record as Marine Insurance certificate 40017.”
He further identified the certificates attached by the EFCC, which the company was asked to authenticate.
He said: “Our response was that we do not have these certificates in our record.
“In other words, the certificates were not issued by us.”
Under cross-examination by the defence counsel, E.O. Isiramen, the witness, confirmed that he had never met Abubakar, the second defendant, but only had dealings with the company, Nadabo Energy Limited, the first defendant.
“The Marine Insurance certificate number 40017 is the original one that we have in our record and I can tell you the details contained therein,” he said, stressing that the content of the Marine Insurance certificate number 40017 sent to the company by the EFCC for authentication was far different in content from the one in the company’s record.
“Moreover, the Marine Insurance certificate number 40016 is not in our record,” he stressed.
Testifying as the fourth prosecution witness, Matthew Oladunjoye, a staff of Quality & Quantity, Q & Q Control Services Nigeria Limited, confirmed working with Nadabo Energy Limited with respect to the case.
In his examination-in-chief, he testified that the company received more than one letter from the EFCC and that the company responded to all of them.
He identified the letters, which were already before the court as exhibits, adding that the EFCC wrote to the company with regards to MT Songa, which he described as the daughter vessel, that covered the loading, and also MT Gotland Carolina, which he described as the mother vessel that carried out Ship-to-Ship, STS with MT Songa.
“We covered the operation between the transfer between the mother vessel and the daughter vessel,” he said.
He testified further that the EFCC had requested the company to authenticate some documents relating to the transaction.
“We checked and verified and sent to EFCC those which are true copies from our company, and those not true copies were also identified and sent back to the EFCC,” he said.
He further identified the documents certified by the company to be true copies, and those which he said did not emanate from Q & Q Control Services Limited, yet had a stamp and signature which did not belong to the company.
He said: “My lord, in summary, the quantity discharged by Gotland Carolina is 7,986,355 litres and the quantity received by Songa is 7,983,150 litres.
“They claimed to have discharged 16,808,054 litres as quantity discharged at Masters Energy by Songa, but based on the figures that we have at the STS point, the figure is higher than what is stated in our documents.”
The case has been adjourned till July 6 and 7, 2022 for continuation of trial.
Media & Publicity
5 July, 2022
Delta to complete 24-km Isoko ring road December
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has said that the 24-kilometre Isoko Ring Road project running from Ellu, Ovrode, Ofagbe, Orie, Okpe-Isoko, Uro to Ada-Irri traversing Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas would be completed in December, 2022.
Okowa disclosed this to newsmen shortly after inspecting construction works at the bridge linking Ellu and Ofagbe on the road.
The governor, who was conducted at the site by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Noel Omodon, said that work on the entire stretch of the project had progressed appreciably and expressed certainty that it would be ready for inauguration before Christmas.
He explained that the project was divided into three sections for ease of execution, adding that the bridge being constructed was to address the perennial problem of flooding on the existing bridge on the road which was usually flooded whenever it rained heavily.
“This is the site of the bridge; you will be wondering why the new bridge because there is an existing onehere; the information we have is that when it rains heavily truly, this bridge stays under water.
“There was, therefore, the need to construct another bridge that is raised up and that is why you find the alternate bridge being constructed now.
“The alternate bridge being constructed is going to be 1.2 meters higher than this current bridge. I think that will take care of the flooding situation on the existing bridge.
“But this bridge itself is not going to be destroyed in anyway because during the dry season, it will still be useful but during the rainy season and dry season, this alternate bridge can be used at all times,’’ he said.
Okowa added that the contractor had promised that “in another few weeks, they are likely to be through with the piling process on the bridge and that in three months, they will be through with the deck of the bridge, and that they intend to deliver the project by December, this year.
“So, hopefully, we will be inaugurating this project before Christmas, this year.”
NSF: Delta will maintain dominance in sports – Okowa
Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa has said that the state was prepared to host and win the most memorable competition in the annals of the National Sports Festival to maintain its sports dominance in the country.
Okowa gave the assurance on Wednesday, in his remarks at the Unveiling of the National Sports Festival Logo and Mascot, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
He said hosting the festival tagged “Delta 2022” with theme “Uniting Nigeria, inspiring the next generation” was in recognition of the role of Delta as a leader and role model in sports in the country.
According to him, the choice of Delta as host of Nigeria’s version of the Olympic Games was in recognition of the state’s pioneering role in sports growth and development, which has made it a role model and a leader in the country.
“Delta State as you are well aware, has won every edition of the National Youth Games and National Sports Festival in the past five years to confirm its position as the number one sporting State.
“We intend to continue this leadership as Delta hosts the entire sportsmen and women across the length and breadth of our country.
“Let me also state that Delta was primed to host the 20th edition of the festival but lost its bid to our sister State, Edo, at the very last minute in Abuja.
“As a sports-loving State, we were not discouraged in our quest to bring home to roost, this sporting extravaganza we have dominated for a long time. We are also positioned to be number one in the hosting of the games.
“However, as the nation looks forward to seeing Delta host our sportsmen and women to this feast, I can assure you that we are doing our best to host a most memorable competition in the annals of the festival.
“We are guided by our excellent hosting of the 21st Senior Africa Athletics Competition in August 2018 in Asaba, which received a global ovation, because of our facilities and our hospitality to our guests on that occasion. We have resolved to do even more this time around.
“We are already updating our facilities and putting in place, new ones of international standards, because of the multi- dimensional nature of the festival,” he said.
He added that the security of athletes and officials was a top priority and urged intending participants to feel free to savour the state’s hospitality.
Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare lauded Delta State for providing 61 percent of athletes in the national teams.
He said beyond oil, Delta has another gold in sports and talents development and commended the State for it.
“I have been a Minister of Youth and Sports for three years but I have seen seven years of Governor Okowa’s investments in sports development.
“Governor Okowa you tower above your colleagues in sports development and I call on you not to rest on your oars because you keep inspiring us.
“The National Sports Festival is a celebration of Nigerian athletes irrespective of tribe and religion and today’s event which entails branding of the festival is the very essence and symbol of our unity in diversity.
“The festival is a tool for the promotion of unity of our country and we recall that when Delta won the hosting rights, we were pleased because we know we have a governor who is not afraid to break new grounds and lift the stakes higher.
“In this year’s competition, Delta will be hosting what we term the ”
‘Nigerian Olympics’ and 40 different events would be competed for in 14 days with 16,700 athletes attending.”
He called for private sectors collaboration and investments in sports infrastructure in order to unlock the multi-billion dollar business potentials in sports in the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, Emmanuel Emefienem said the bank was pleased to identify with the Festival as sponsors and official banker.
He said the contribution of sports to unity and progress of the nation couldn’t be over-emphasised.
“In partnership with the Sports Festival, Premium Trust Bank is committed to providing the needed platform to help the athletes grow in their chosing career.
“As an institution we will continue to partner with government to make our youths occupy their rightful place in global sports competitions,”
Chairman of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, said the timeliness for the festival was designed to ensure a successful hosting of the games.
Represented by the Secretary of MOC, Dr Peter Nelson, commended the state government and the local organising committee for their efforts in ensuring a success for the games which would be held 4th-13th November, 2022.
He said the Mascot and the logo represents the identity of the game in line with international best practices shall be used to brand all materials that will be used for the games.
He added that the MOC was determined to improve the standard of the games to make it at par with other international competitions and urged state governments to give maximum support for the games.
Welcoming guests earlier, Chairman Local Organising Committee (LOC), Chief Patrick Ukah, said the unveiling signals the beginning and launching of images for merchandising of the event.
Ukah said the message was in line with the theme of the festival to unite the nation and inspire the new generation, assuring that Delta would host the best National Sports Festival in the history of the country.
The ceremony was attended by Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, President of the Nigerian Olympics Committee NOC, Engr. Abu Gumel, President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa and former AFN President, Chief Solomon Ogba among others.
Press Statement
Akeredolu Appoints New Members Of OSOPADEC
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has approved the appointment of Nuel Olatunbosun Elehinle and Olafusi Kehinde Akintoroye as members of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
The appointment takes immediate effect.
The new appointees are to replace Mrs. Morenike Witherspoon and Mr Abiola Oladapo, who resigned their appointments as members of OSOPADEC to contest elective positions in their respective state constituencies.
Governor Akeredolu congratulates the new appointees, while charging them
to work for the development of the mandate areas and the state at large.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 4, 2022.
Press Statement
Akeredolu Congratulates Ademola Adegoroye
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has congratulated Prince Ademola Adegoroye over his nomination, confirmation and Swearing-In as Minister of State for Transportation.
Governor Akeredolu charged the new Minister to exploit the opportunities of his new office to help the Sunshine State in its quest for development, particularly the establishment of the Port Ondo.
“I congratulate Prince Ademola Adegoroye on his inauguration as Minister of State for Transportation. Adegoroye has been a long-standing member of this progressive family. His appointment as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is gratifying.
“Having transcended the various phases of this progressive fold, from the Action Congress (AC) to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and now the All Progressives Congress(APC), Prince Adegoroye, no doubt, is equipped with the political experience and the knowledge to galvanise the needed support for the development of the State and the progress of the APC in the sunshine State.
“We thank President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing Prince Adegoroye into the Federal Ministry of Transportation. Mr President must be aware of our dire need for a Port Declaration in light of the promise we made to our people that Ondo State will have its own Deep Seaport.
“Undoubtedly, Prince Adegoroye will add value to the government of President Buhari and impact positively on the people of the State as a Minister. He’s a round peg in a round hole.”He said.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 6, 2022.
GOV AKEREDOLU: STATE POLICE, REALITY OF THE TIME
- Says Attack On President Buhari’s Convoy Daring
- You’re The Soul Of The Southwest, Former School Mates Tell Gov Akeredolu
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said that the call for State Police is not for self aggrandizement but a reality of the time.
This is even as the Governor condemned the attack on President Muhammadu Buhari’s convoy by bandits in Kastina State on Tuesday, describing the attack as daring.
He spoke on Wednesday while playing host to his former school mates at Loyola College Ibadan (1968/1972) set in his office, Alagbaka Akure, the state capital.
The Old Boys were led by their Acting President, Mr Ayodele Adigun. Other school mates on the entourage are; Gboyega Ogunojemite; Dotun Ladunni; Evangelist Segun Ayanniyi; Jide Lalemi; Sir Tony Adejinle; High Chief Wole Akindele; Gbenga Fashakin; Leo Onayemi; Deji Adams and Sunkanmi Shotonwa
Governor Akeredolu lamented the security situation in the country, adding that it had gone from bad to worse.
He noted that the country’s security challenges have gone beyond Fulani herdsmen to the menace of bandits and ISWAP.
“We Governors in the Southwest met and we are still more than convinced that there is no solution other than State Police. The truth is that we will be prepared to protect ourselves and die in the process more than other people from outside. We can only protect ourselves better.
“We will be more committed to protecting ourselves. By the time we have State Police, we will be encouraged to recruit people in a Local Government to work in that Local Government as security.
“For me, State Police is not for self aggrandizement. It is a reality of the time. For us in the South and even in the North, I know so many of them that have come to accept that a single command of Police is not good for this country. This country is too big.
“We will continue to make our voice heard everywhere. We are almost there. We are licking our wounds here over the June 5 attack in Owo. It is a serious wound. We will never forget. We are putting together a memorial in a conspicuous place in Owo.” Governor Akeredolu said.
Earlier, the Acting President of the Loyola College Old Boys’Association (1968/1972) set, Mr Ayodele Adigun condemned the June 5 attack in Owo, while expressing shock that such heinous crime could be carried out in the Southwest.
He said the attack was particularly aimed at tarnishing the image of the Governor and rubbish his efforts so far, especially on the security of lives and property of the people.
“We want to commend you. You are the soul of the Southwest on Security. We know your attitude against injustice. Your name has been written in gold in the history of Southwest.
“Yesterday we heard about bandits attacking the President’s convoy. We need to end these lawlessness. We need to bring out this evil that is destabilizing Nigeria.
“As your former school mates, we are solidly behind you. We don’t want you to relent on your efforts in championing State Police. The first of a government is to provide security of lives and property. Without security, there would be no development. Farmers are afraid to go to the farm. Investors are afraid to invest in Nigeria. We must put an end to this insecurity.” Mr Adigun said.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Òndó State.
July 6, 2022
July 6, 2022
Press Statement
Terrorism: APC Complicit in Kuje Prison Attack – PDP Asserts…Queries Redeployment of Soldiers 24hrs Before Incidence
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns in the strongest possible term, the spate of insecurity and the audacity with which terrorists ravage our country unchallenged under the rudderless All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
The simultaneous terrorist attacks on the advance convoy of President Muhammadu Buhari in Katsina State as well as the Correctional Facility in Abuja, the nation’s capital, underscore the collapse of our security command and control structure under the failed, ineffective and uncoordinated Buhari-led APC administration.
The terrorist attack on President Buhari’s convoy in his home State of Katsina as well as the ferocious invasion and the freeing of hundreds of terrorists and criminals from the Kuje Correctional Facility further confirm that Mr. President has lost control of the security of the nation and that Nigerians are no longer safe under the APC.
The escalated spate of terrorism across the country has heightened apprehensions of complicity by the APC to open up our nation to more terrorist attacks with the view to stall the 2023 general elections.
The failure of the APC administration to act on the intelligence provided by the Directorate of State Services (DSS) which on Tuesday July 5, 2022 reportedly warned of an impending attack on the Kuje Correctional Facility gives credence to fears by Nigerians of complicity at very high level of the APC administration.
This is in addition to further reports that soldiers deployed to the precinct of the Kuje Correctional Facility and who had become familiar with the terrain were redeployed 24 hours before the terrorists attacked.
The PDP demands that the APC government should come clean on who ordered the reported redeployment of soldiers and who failed to act on the intelligence provided by the DSS.
Nigerians can recall the public confession by the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai at the wake of the bloody Abuja-Kaduna terrorist attack that the APC-led administration knows the whereabouts and the plans of the terrorists ravaging our nation but deliberately refused to act. Nigerians will also recall how APC leaders publicly romanced and paid money to terrorists.
It is rather distressing that President Buhari appears helpless without any decisive and concrete steps taken to stem the tide of terrorist attacks in our country.
Even more curious is that President Buhari continues to retain Mr. Isa Pantami as Minister of Communication and Digital Economy to head and coordinate this very critical sector in the fight against terrorism in our country in spite of Isa Pantami’s confession of affiliation to terrorists.
With the sequence of events in the last 48 hours, it is clear to Nigerians that the APC government headed by President Buhari has failed in the basic purpose of government which is to secure life and properties of the citizens.
Given the urgency of the security situation in the country, it has become imperative that President Buhari convenes an emergency Council of State meeting for a review of the prevailing dangerous security atmosphere in our country.
The PDP also calls on the National Assembly to pass a vote of no confidence in Isa Patimi and insist on his immediate removal as a minister. The National Assembly should also immediately summon the Security Chiefs for a thorough investigation on the circumstances resulting in the failure of our security system.
The PDP urges Nigerians to remain at alert and keep hope alive as the nightmare of the APC administration will be over by May 2023.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI VISITS KUJE, ASKS QUESTIONS ABOUT INTELLIGENCE AND WHY PRISON DEFENCES FAILED TO WORK
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday visited the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje attacked by terrorists, spending about 30 minutes there.
Soon after he arrived, he was briefed about the attack by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Shuaib Mohammad Lamido Belgore and the Controller General of Nigerian Correctional Service, Haliru Nababa, showing him the bombed-out section used to access first, and the records office which was set on fire, adding that the invaders thereafter launched an attack on all cells in which Boko Haram terrorists were held.
The President was apprised that, at the end of it, none of the 63 terrorists are accounted for, but it was emphasized that records are not lost because they have been backed up.
President Buhari, who, like most Nigerians was shocked by both the scale and audacity of the attack queried: “How did the defences at the prison fail to prevent the attack? How many inmates were in the facility? How many of them can you account for? How many personnel did you have on duty? How many of them were armed? Were there guards on the watchtower? What did they do? Does the CCTV work?” Question after question.
The President was also informed that the security forces have recaptured 350 of the escapees while about 450 others are still unaccounted for, and that rapid work is under way to recapture the rest.
After inspecting some of the points impacted by the attack, President Buhari spoke to newsmen, expressing disappointment with the intelligence system (and utilization).
“I am disappointed with the intelligence system. How can terrorists organize, have weapons, attack a security installation and get away with it?”
The President, accompanied by Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff, said at the end of the visit that he is expecting “a comprehensive report” on the incident.
The Presidency wishes to use this opportunity to react to mounting criticism of the trip to Dakar, Senegal by the President, and to stress that Governments don’t stop working because nations face terrorist threats. To cancel the trip to Senegal would mean that the terrorists are successful in calling the shots, something that no responsible government in the world will allow.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 6, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI PRESENTS PARTY FLAG TO GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE, COMMENDS OYETOLA FOR TIRELESS SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE
President Muhammadu Buhari, Wednesday did the ceremonial presentation of flag to the All Progressives Congress, APC candidate in the upcoming elections in Osun State, giving assurances that the Party is committed to furthering the development journey of the state.
The President commended the performance of Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, the candidate of the party, for serving the people tirelessly in his first term in office, adding that he has confidence in the Party winning the election, fairly and squarely in the coming week.
President Buhari gave kudos to the co-chairs of the Osun State Governorship Campaign Council, Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as well as the Vice Chairman, Niger State’s Abubakar Sani Bello for putting in so much energy into the campaign to re-elect Governor Oyetola.
“I wish you the best of luck”, said the President.
In response to the invitation to participate at the Grand Finale of the rallies, next week, he said, “I hope I will make myself available to boost your morale.”
The Deputy National Chairman of the Party, Senator Abba Kyari, who presented the candidate on behalf of Senator Abdullahi Adamu, the National Chairman, commended the President for leading the Party to victory.
He described Governor Oyetola as a performing Governor who has done well in his first term and is deserving of a second.
He also expressed optimism that the Party will emerge the overall winner in the general elections in February next year.
Present at APC presentation were the National Secretary, Senator Omisore and the Secretary of the Osun Campaign Council who is also the Sokoto State APC gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu.
Garba Shehu
Senior Assistant to the President
(Media and Publicity)
July 6, 2022
SERVE THE NATION DILIGENTLY, PRESIDENT BUHARI CHARGES NEWLY APPOINTED MINISTERS; RE-ASSIGNS FOUR OTHERS
President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday assigned portfolios to seven newly appointed ministers, charging them to serve the nation diligently, maintain unalloyed loyalty to the country and office of the President.
The President also announced the reassignment of portfolios in his cabinet, saying the new redeployment is aimed at reinvigorating certain sectors where the government desires to accomplish improved results.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, which preceded the virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, the President said as his administration is now on the home-stretch of its second term, more work still needs to be done in diverse areas of the economy and national life.
The newly appointed ministers and their portfolios are: Ikechukwu Ikoh, Minister of State, Science and Technology; Umana Umana, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs; Udi Odum , Minister of State, Environment; Ademola Adegoroye, Minister of State, Transport; Umar Ibrahim El-Yakub, Minister of State, Works and Housing; Goodluck Opiah, Minister of State, Education and Nkama Ekumankama, Minister of State, Health.
The following ministers were re-assigned: Senator Adeleke Mamora, Minister of Science and Technology (formerly Minister of State, Health); Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, Minister of Transportation (formerly Minister of State, Works and Housing); Sharon Ikeazor, Minister of State, Niger Delta (formerly Minister of State, Environment) and Sen. Gbemisola Saraki, Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development (formerly Minister of State, Transportation).
President Buhari urged the newest members of his cabinet to consult and collaborate with older cabinet colleagues and focus on driving key programmes already initiated by this administration.
He also warned all members of the cabinet against corrupt practices, reiterating that public officers must be above board and those caught in corrupt practices would face the full wrath of the law.
‘‘I begin this address by welcoming on board, all newly sworn-in members of the Federal Executive Council. I also congratulate you because the process that you all passed through to reach this stage has been rigorous and meticulous.
‘‘The appointment of these new Ministers is in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which prescribes that the Federal Executive Council shall be made up of members from every state of the Federation.
‘‘I therefore urge you to consider your emergence out of millions of equally qualified Nigerians within the purview of selection from your State, as a call to duty which imposes the obligation to serve the nation diligently and presents to you the unique opportunity to work hard in service to the Government and the country.
‘‘At the valedictory session for six former Ministers that departed to pursue other political careers, I promised that their replacement shall be a matter of priority so that the business of governance would not experience delays or setbacks.
‘‘This administration has been in the saddle since 2015 and is now on the home-stretch of its second term, as the nation prepares for the 2023 general elections. All through, it has vigorously pursued the three main electoral objectives namely: Securing the nation; Diversifying & growing the economy as well as fighting corruption.
‘‘You are all coming on-board at this time with new energy, ideas, experiences and vigour, to join the existing team so that the implementation of policies, programs and projects associated with these electoral objectives would be escalated and accelerated.
‘‘There is still so much to be done for our country in the areas of infrastructure development, energy, access to finance, access to justice, technology and innovation, trade, agriculture, education and security. The list is inexhaustible,’’ he said.
President Buhari urged the newly appointed ministers to be conscious that time is of the essence as they assume office.
‘‘As I assign you portfolios, therefore, I expect you to carefully study your sectors, take wise counsel, reach out to key stakeholders, consult and collaborate with older cabinet colleagues and focus on driving key programs already initiated by this administration. Above all, be loyal to your President and your country.’’
Underscoring the need for the old and new members of his Cabinet to work with common objectives of leaving indelible legacies for Nigerians and ending strongly with verifiable accomplishments, the President warned:
‘‘You must resist bad counsel, resist temptation and be circumspect in your utterances and conduct. You must totally eschew corruption and be above board because if caught there will be no sacred cows,’’ he said.
The President told the newly appointed ministers to await further communication on their appropriate Ministerial Mandates from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Prior to the commencement of the FEC meeting and swearing-in ceremony, the Council observed a minute of silence in honour of the Secretary-General of Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mohammed Barkindo, who died on Tuesday in Abuja.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 6, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
IT’S TIME TO DEBUNK MYTHS AGAINST WOMEN’S RIGHTS, PARENTING – LAGOS FIRST LADY
…Hosts 2nd Muslim Sisters’ Seminar
…As Lagos CP Releases Security Tips For Women
Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday called for a deliberate effort to debunk the various myths against the rights of women and parenting, saying the reality of today has made it imperative for the modern woman to be adequately equipped and empowered.
The First Lady spoke at the 2nd edition of the Muslim Sisters’ Seminar hosted by her office at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja in line with the vision to impact lives and build legacies, and most importantly serve as the forerunner to the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir Festival.
She said the seminar, with the theme: “Women: Nurturing Lives to Secure a Better Future,” was aimed at highlighting the strategic role of women in ensuring a better future for the younger generation and society at large.
Other sub-themes include: “The Rights of a Woman; Women’s Health: Total Wellness; and Security & Self Awareness in a Modern Society. There was also a Panel Session on “Parenting: The Role of a Mother/Grandmother in Molding a Contemporary Child.”
According to the First Lady, “We decided that it is important that we talk to our Muslim Sisters ensuring that if they are going to have a better future, they must put their health first; they must know their rights, and they must be security conscious.
“So, we have considered these three topics; put them together on the basis of the fact that they are apt for the moment to debunk a lot of myths out there so that the modern woman can understand what is happening and be empowered to make informed choices and decisions.”
She said the enthusiasm demonstrated by the participants was encouraging as the seminar provided the platform for them to interact properly, understand their various roles in society and also have a better future for the next generation.
Besides, the First Lady said the seminar was designed as a platform to bring professional women, the old, and students together to dissect relevant topics on parenting, security, health, and rights of the Muslim sisters, with the view to engendering sustainable and positive solutions to contemporary issues, just as she said it was imperative for all parents and guardians to imbue in their children and wards the virtues of love of God, respect for the rights of others, and prayers without ceasing.
“My message to the Muslim Sisters is that they should not give up; they should continue to encourage the younger ones out there. We know that the system of the children is now different from when we were much younger and there are so many challenges and obstacles out there; however, we need to keep doing our best and there is hope for the future,” the First Lady said.
In his special message, the Chief Imam of Lagos, His Eminence, Engr. Sulaimon Oluwatoyin Abou-Nola commended the First Lady for the initiative and recommended that it should be held twice annually to cascade the message to more women as it was in tandem with the instruction of Prophet Muhammad to his wife, Aisha to gather women together and teach them lessons on virtuous living and parenting.
Represented by Imam Musbauhudeen Gaji, Abou-Nola also advised women to train their children beyond the first degree and lead them by example.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, CP Abiodun Alabi, in his session on security, urged women to be wary of jumping at any business deals, and always deploy artificial intelligence such as the installation of CCTV and general employment of technology to prevent crime.
He said: “Your children should know important numbers; you must always run a background check for your staff, including domestic staff; desist from displaying expensive wares in your car; you must be observant and your movements must be confidential to a few; your car alarm is a great security device; and also the neighborhood watch groups are important.
“Remember, your security starts with you. The extent of how secured you are, is dependent on your level of security consciousness, awareness and cooperation with the law enforcement agencies. You are your security.”
Dignitaries at the seminar include the Wife of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; former Deputy Governor of the state, Dr. (Mrs.) Idiat Oluranti-Adebule; wife of first civilian Governor of Lagos State, Alhaja Abimbola Jakande; Iyalode of Lagos, Chief (Mrs.) Bintu Fatima Tinubu; and the mother of Head of Service, Alhaja Ramdat Muri-Okunola.
Other facilitators are media personality, Mrs. Nihmatallah Akashat Zibiri; and Consultant Public Health Physician, Dr. Omowunmi Bakare; while the panelists are Mrs. Hamzat, Mrs. Azeezat Funso Raji, Mrs. Halimat Olayinka Abou-Nola and Mrs. Kafayat Oyewo, who moderated the panel session.
The participants were drawn from various organizations. They include the Association of Professional Women Builders of Nigeria, Society of Women in Taxation, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Professional Women Accountants In Nigeria, National Association Of Teachers Of Arabic And Islamic Studies, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Police Wives Association, Association of Women Town Planners In Nigeria, Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, and the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).
Others are the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, Ansar-U-Deen Society Of Nigeria, Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, Al-Fathu-L-Qareeb Muslim Organization of Nigeria, Nigeria Association Of Women Journalists, Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque, Alausa, Nigerian Air Force Officer’s Wives Association, The Criterion, FOMWAN, Muslim Lawyers Association Of Nigeria, Institute of Charter Accountants (ICAN), Nigerian Army Officer’s Wives Association, Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque, Fatimah Charity Foundation, Al Imratus Solihat, At-Taariq Muslim Sisters of Nigeria, The Global Congregation Of Samadaani Family, NADWAT, Epe Professional Women, Al-Muminaat (The believing women) Organisation, and Islamic Education and Training Initiative.
There was also Islamic Nasheed by the Alaka Twins.
SIGNED
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
JULY 6, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI VISITS KUJE, ASKS QUESTIONS ABOUT INTELLIGENCE AND WHY PRISON DEFENCES FAILED TO WORK
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