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TB JOSHUA EXPOSÉ: HOW THE PASTOR COVERED UP FATAL LAGOS BUILDING COLLAPSE

TB JOSHUA EXPOSÉ: HOW THE PASTOR COVERED UP FATAL LAGOS BUILDING COLLAPSE

 

The BBC has unearthed new evidence the late Nigerian mega church leader TB Joshua hid dead bodies and intimidated families, to cover up his role in the collapse of a building which killed at least 116 people at his church in 2014.

 

The collapse is one of the worst disasters to ever strike a place of worship in Africa.

 

The BBC’s investigation is the first time insiders from TB Joshua’s Synagogue Church of All Nations (Scoan) in Lagos have presented evidence of what caused the incident nearly 10 years ago, and of how the pastor allegedly orchestrated a cover-up.

 

It follows evidence uncovered by the BBC of widespread abuse and torture by the founder of one of the world’s biggest Christian evangelical churches.

 

Two days after the collapse on 12 September 2014, TB Joshua publicly said it was linked to an aircraft that flew over the building used to house visiting pilgrims.

 

But an inquiry by a Lagos coroner agreed with emergency workers that structural failure had caused the guest house to collapse, and said it had been built without proper planning permission.

 

Eyewitnesses told the BBC that TB Joshua had been warned of serious structural problems prior to the disaster. They say the aeroplane explanation was a “lie”.

 

“He knew the building was unstable,” says Emmanuel, who spent more than a decade as a disciple of TB Joshua – a group of devout followers who lived in his church in Lagos.

 

Like most of the former disciples interviewed by the BBC, he opted to only use his first name.

 

He described the pastor receiving a report, hours before the collapse, that the building was “swaying” and “shaking”.

 

Multiple witnesses say the visitors were not warned. Instead more than 200 of them were led into the building’s dining room on the ground floor to eat their lunch – where they were seated when all six storeys of concrete descended on top of them.

 

Many were killed instantly, but more than 100 were trapped inside alive.

 

“I could hear people crying out: ‘Help me, help me, help me,'” says Emmanuel, who was on the scene within minutes of the collapse.

 

“Their voices were fading and you could tell these people were dying off.”

 

Others described horrifically injured victims, with missing eyes and limbs – splintered by the beams which came down on top of them.

 

“It was quite clear that that building was never built for the height that TB Joshua built it to,” says Rae, from the UK, who spent 12 years living in the church as a disciple.

 

She says she was present when TB Joshua ordered his workers to construct additional floors: “The foundations weren’t built to hold a building of that many storeys.

 

“He just kept kind of pushing and saying: ‘I want it higher. It must go higher. It must go higher.'”

 

The church insiders who spoke to the BBC also say lives could potentially have been saved had TB Joshua responded promptly to the collapse itself. Instead, they say, he blocked emergency services from accessing the site for 24 hours – an allegation corroborated by news reports at the time.

During this crucial window for rescuing people and assisting the injured, the BBC’s eyewitnesses say some church workers attempted to save lives in reckless and amateur ways. Without the use of mechanical equipment or medical training, they used tools from the church’s maintenance department.

 

In one instance, a church worker allegedly used a chainsaw to amputate the leg of a man who was trapped under a fallen beam.

 

“He was screaming!” says Emmanuel, visibly shaken during his interview. He is not sure if the man survived.

 

“I saw a lot of things that really traumatised me… faces were crushed,” says Michael, a disciple who was in his late teens at the time.

 

Eyewitness testimonies of the horrific aftermath have never been published before, with many church insiders sworn to secrecy, and the site of the collapse shielded from public view by a large wall.

 

Three sources, including Michael, say TB Joshua ordered his workers to move piles of dead bodies away from the building collapse site during the night, to hide them from the media and the authorities.

Two say they were asked to film this activity, and to deliver the tapes to TB Joshua in his office.

 

“We were recording them as they put them into body bags… loads and loads of people,” says Michael.

 

Chloe, a former disciple of TB Joshua from the UK, also witnessed the aftermath of the collapse. She says she got into a bus and immediately noticed an awful smell.

 

The driver told her the vehicle was “full of dead bodies… and we’re transporting them at night so that the press can’t see them”.

 

Multiple sources believe that the death toll was higher than the 116 figure given by the church, and cited friends and church workers who were inside at the time of the collapse who they say were not recorded in the official list of the dead.

The Nigerian authorities initially took a strong stance on the disaster. The Lagos coroner recommended that TB Joshua be charged with criminal negligence.

 

Despite multiple summons, the pastor never attended court.

 

A number of his former disciples say he handed out vast amounts of cash to people with influence over proceedings during this period. This included thousands of US dollars, South African rand and Nigerian naira to the families of the building collapse victims, 85 of whom were from South Africa.

 

Sihle, a former disciple of TB Joshua, told the BBC she was given this job in South Africa “to go and give money, bags of money” to those who had lost relatives.

 

“We would tell them they mustn’t speak to the media, they mustn’t give reports or anything. Basically, we were silencing them,” she says.

Three families in South Africa confirmed to the BBC that church representatives tried to give them money and discouraged them from speaking to the press.

 

Llwandle Mkhulisi, from Johannesburg, who lost his sister Pumzile in the disaster, described this cash as “blood money” and turned it down.

 

After accepting an initial gift from the church of 50,000 rand (about $2,500; £2,000), Sonny Madzhiye from Benoni near Johannesburg says she turned down subsequent bundles of money for the death of her teenage daughter Sibongile.

 

She says she began to realise she was being offered the cash not to take further action. TB Joshua harassed her with phone calls after she turned it down and threatened her: “He sent me these messages. It says: ‘If you focus on what you have lost, you might lose everything.’

 

“Now he’s threatening me that my whole family will go down, the way my daughter went down.”

 

She showed these messages and a recording of a call from TB Joshua to the BBC.

 

Ms Madzhiye has subsequently attempted to sue Scoan in civil court in Nigeria, seeking damages for her daughter’s death. The case is ongoing.

 

Sihle says journalists were also provided with financial incentives in the aftermath of the disaster, to influence their reporting.

“We’d have journalists coming to the church for one thing or another, but journalists would leave with envelopes… he would give in dollars,” she says.

 

Chloe, who worked in TB Joshua’s press department, confirmed that multiple journalists were given money during this period. This was confirmed by two journalists who spoke to the BBC and openDemocracy – a partner on this investigation.

 

In a secret recording made by Nigerian journalist Nicholas Ibekwe in September 2014, TB Joshua can be clearly heard saying: “Now what will you write about?” after providing a table full of reporters with envelopes of money. Ibekwe turned down the cash offer.

 

Emmanuel and Michael, who each spent more than 20 years inside the church, say they were ordered by TB Joshua to place envelopes of money in the cars of Nigerian politicians and court officials during the Lagos coroner’s inquiry.

 

“He covered up everything,” says Emmanuel. “He bought the whole system.”

 

TB Joshua died in June 2021, aged 57, but the church is now run by his widow Evelyn.

 

The BBC contacted Scoan with the allegations in our investigation. It did not respond to them, but denied previous claims against TB Joshua.

 

“Making unfounded allegations against Prophet TB Joshua is not a new occurrence… None of the allegations was ever substantiated,” it wrote.

 

 

CNPP TO TINUBU: REDUCE CASES OF CORRUPTION AND ABUSE OF OFFICE AMONG MINISTERS AND CIVIL SERVANTS FOR THE MASSES TO BREATHE

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) says President Bola Tinubu must reduce cases of corruption and abuse of office among ministers and civil servants for the masses to breathe.

 

The group, in an open letter addressed to the President and dated Jan. 8 and released in Lagos on Monday, said the CNPP listened to Tinubu’s New Year message and observed the various responses from Nigerians to all promises.

 

The letter, titled “Reduce Corruption in Your Administration”, was signed by Oloye Adegboyega-Adeniji, the Secretary General, South-West CNPP.

Adegboyega-Adeniji urged the President not to forget years of struggle as a veteran activist and opposition leader from the days of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida transition process that culminated in the annulment of the June 12, 1993, general elections.

 

The letter read in part: “We members of the CNPP in the South West admonish you not to forget the years of struggles, in company of our national chairman, Alhaji Balarabe Musa of blessed memory, to foster and sustain our nascent democracy.

 

“Now that you have achieved your life ambition to be the President of Nigeria, it is not an end to your legacy.

 

“It is a natural challenge that you must use the opportunity to foster and sustain our democracy for posterity and generations hereafter to appreciate your service to humanity.

“To this end, anything or action that doesn’t promote national interest for the development of human and natural resources should be expunged from your administration.

 

“We have over the years confirmed that nepotism, the Mother of all indices of corruption,  has always stand against National Interest for Fundamental Change in our interpersonal and intergovernmental relationship for positive development in Nigeria.”

 

The CNPP chieftain admonished Tinubu to set a worthy example to reduce corruption while also compelling and civil and public servants to step aside from public office pending outcomes of all investigations.

“Such decision shall go a long way to prevent any official from committing misdemeanors while in service.

 

“Nigerians have lost hope in probes and investigations by committees and the security agent because many of such investigative reports seldom come out for public use nor sanction erring officials in service.

 

“It will be your  legacy if Nigerians imbibe the Internationally accepted standards of behaviour by leaving office once misdemeanors are established against them.

 

“Looking forward to your swift action in the case of Minister Betta Edu and others. We shall continue to engage your administration constructively,” the letter further read.

 

 

NDLEA intercepts Colos consignment in boxing kits on New Year day

– Arrests female bandits supplier with cache of ammunition, 11 others over 3 tons of illicit drugs in raids across Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, Osun

 

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos on New Year day, Monday 1st January 2024 intercepted a consignment of Colorado, a very strong strain of cannabis, concealed in boxing kits imported from the United States of America.

 

A weeklong intelligence-led operation to get the receiver arrested was consummated on Saturday 6th January following the successful tracking and arrest of 38-year-old Olorunfunmi Saheed Olakunle who distributes the dangerous psychoactive substance to dealers across Lagos state. The consignment had arrived the country on Monday 1st January via Cairo on Egypt Airlines flight marked as boxing kits.

 

According to Saheed, he delivers such consignments to different recipients whenever his childhood friend, US-based Sagir Salami sends them. The latest shipment has a total weight of 1.80 kilograms.

 

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old female supplier of ammunition to bandits, Bilkisu Suleman came top on the list of twelve (12) other suspects arrested by NDLEA operatives in new year interdiction operations in Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun states.

 

Bilkisu was arrested on Wednesday 3rd January by NDLEA officers on patrol along Zaria Kano expressway in possession of 249 rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition concealed in a black nylon bag kept in her ladys handbag.

 

She was on her way to deliver the ammunition to an identified bandit in Kakumi village, Katsina state when she was nabbed after which she was transferred to the Kaduna state command of the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

 

The military authorities at the Bonny camp cantonment in Lagos on Tuesday 2nd January transferred a suspect, Francis Suru, 37 and 63 jumbo bags of Ghana Loud, a strain of cannabis, weighing 2,104.2 kilograms and a truck to the Lagos state command of NDLEA.

 

The suspect and the drug exhibits were earlier intercepted by NDLEA officers on 12th December 2023 close to the gate of the military cantonment in Bonny Camp, Victoria Island. Some armed escorts however resorted to sporadic shooting to obstruct the operation, a development which attracted soldiers from the cantonment, who eventually intervened and took custody of the consignment and suspect before transferring them to the Agency.

 

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Niger state on Thursday 5th January during a stop and search operation along Suleja-Kaduna road intercepted a J5 bus coming from Ondo state to Zaria, Kaduna state with twenty-three (23) bags of cannabis sativa weighing 219.5kg. Two suspects: Umar Musa, 26 and Isachiru Abubakar were arrested in connection with the seizure.

 

While a female drug trafficker, Queen Onyema, 27, was arrested on Saturday 6th January in a commercial bus enroute Abuja along Okene-Lokoja expressway with 12 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 4.6kg and 0.046kg designer drugs concealed in an indomie carton, another suspect Mubarak Sani, 20, was nabbed at Gadar Tamburawa area of Kano on Monday 1st January with 445.9k kilograms of the same psychoactive substance.

 

In Borno, four suspects: Zanna Alhaji Dala, 32; Musa Umar, 21; Mushe Ibrahim, 23, and Shehu Idris, 19 were arrested at Pomfomari bye pass area of the state with 60kg cannabis.

 

Also, in Osun, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Osogbo-Ode Omu road on new year day, Monday 1st January intercepted a consignment of illicit drugs sent through waybill from Lagos to Osogbo. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of Ibrahim Olawale, 43. The drugs recovered include: cannabis sativa 10.8kg; Loud 150grams; Colorado 19grams; Molly 5grams totalling 10.974kg. A digital scale, N18,000 monetary exhibit and customized wrapping papers for Colorado were also seized.

 

NDLEA Commands across the 36 states and the FCT equally continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitisation lectures in schools, communities, work places and others. Some of these include: WADA sensitisation lecture for students of Nurul Huda Community Islamiyya school, Farin Yaro, Katsina; members of first aid group of Jamaatul Izalatul Bidia Waiqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) at Ajilari community school, Gomari, Maiduguri, Borno; WADA sensitisation lecture at the 2024 Oke Afo youth day, Olorunda LCDA Lagos and WADA advocacy visit to the Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim Gaya by the Kano state command of the Agency.

 

Commending the arrests and seizures of the past week by officers and men of the MMIA, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun Commands, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) charged them and their compatriots across all formations of the Agency to continue to remain vigilant and double their drug demand reduction as well as drug supply reduction efforts in the new year.

 

Femi Babafemi

 

Director, Media & Advocacy

 

NDLEA Headquarters Abuja

 

Sunday 7th January 2024

 

EMEFIELE: EFCC TO APPEAL N100M FINE

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has expressed dissatisfaction with a judgment of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court awarding N100 million damages against it in favour of a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN,  Godwin Emefiele.

 

Justice O.A Adeniyi, on Monday, January 8, 2024  fined the Commission after he ruled that the Commission’s detention of Emefiele in the course of his investigation was a violation of his right to liberty.

 

The decision failed to take cognizance of the fact that the former CBN boss was held with a valid order of court. Consequently, the Commission will approach the Court of Appeal to set it aside.

 

Head, Media & Publicity

 

January 8, 2024

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

 

SANWO-OLU FELICITATES WIFE, IBIJOKE AT 57

 

 

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated his wife and First Lady of the State, Dr. (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on her 57th birthday, describing her as a dependable partner, committed prayer warrior, caring and loving wife and mother.

 

Dr. Sanwo-Olu, the Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) and a medical doctor by profession will clock 57 tomorrow January 8.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Gboyega Akosile, on Sunday, described his wife as a courageous, kind-hearted and strong pillar of support, noting that the First Lady is a reliable partner in the delivery of the THEMES+ development agenda of his administration to Lagos residents.

 

Sanwo-Olu also described the Lagos First Lady as his jewel of inestimable value who has touched many lives first as a medical practitioner and now as Governor’s wife.

 

He said: “On behalf of the government and the good people of Lagos State, I celebrate my trusted, committed and reliable partner, a prayer warrior and the First Lady of Lagos, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.

 

“Ibijoke is a God-fearing woman, a good companion, a caring and loving wife and mother. She is a passionate Christian and lover of children.

 

“My dear wife of over two decades has complemented the roles that God has given us now with all sense of dignity. She has put everything she learned into work and I can see the complementary role she brings on board in ensuring that good governance and dividends of democracy are delivered to millions of Lagos residents.

 

“On this occasion of her 57th birthday, I thank God for her life and appreciate her for all the support, time, sacrifice and contributions to the growth and development of Lagos State. She has impacted many lives through her pet project and other people-oriented programmes sponsored by her office and COWLSO.

 

“I also use this auspicious occasion to appreciate the First Lady for her remarkable contributions to our family, the medical profession, Lagos State, and humanity in general, especially her role as the First Lady of our dear Lagos State.

 

“Happy birthday my darling wife. I wish her good health, more fruitful, prosperous and impactful years ahead.”

 

 

 

SIGNED

 

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

 

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

 

07 JANUARY 2024

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

 

WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENFORCE LAW IN 2024, SAYS SANWO-OLU

 

 

 

  • Governor to sign 2024 Appropriation Bill this week

 

 

 

  • Ambode, Hamzat, Ogun First Lady, others attend Lagos Thanksgiving Service

 

 

 

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, said his administration is dedicated to the successful implementation of pivotal projects to foster the robust growth of the State and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

 

 

 

He said the Year 2024 will be an important one for his administration in terms of enforcement of the various laws and regulations that have been meticulously crafted to safeguard the lives and property of residents of the State, noting that “Without adherence to the rule of law, no society can guarantee progress and prosperity.”

 

 

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that he will sign into law this week the 2024 Lagos State Appropriation Bill, passed a few days ago by the Lagos State House of Assembly, saying the signing of the Budget will mark an important milestone in the delivery of all that his administration has promised the people of Lagos, this year.

 

 

 

The Governor spoke on Sunday in his address during the state’s 24th Annual Thanksgiving Service with the First Family of Lagos State, themed, ‘The Righteous Shall Praise Your Name’ held at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.

 

 

 

The service was attended by Governor Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Ibijoke; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and his wife, Oluremi; the immediate past Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and wife, Bolanle; Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, represented by the Chairman of House on Home Affairs, Hon. Jubril Abdulkareem; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, former deputy governors, religious and traditional leaders, public office holders and politicians, among others.

 

 

 

Speaking during the service, Governor Sanwo-Olu, urged Nigerians and Lagos residents in particular to continue to pray for him and other public office holders, who have been given the privilege to serve as leaders, in various capacities in government.

 

 

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu said public office holders need divine wisdom and grace, as they make multitudes of decisions that will have an impact on the lives of the people.

 

 

 

He said: “As a Government, we are resolutely committed to fostering the robust growth of our State and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. We are unwaveringly dedicated to the successful implementation of pivotal projects.

 

 

 

“In every sector, we have major projects ongoing that will define the legacy of our administration, and positively transform the economy and the landscape of Lagos State.

 

 

 

“This week, by the special grace of God, I will sign into law the 2024 Lagos State Appropriation Bill, passed a few days ago by our hardworking and committed Lagos House of Assembly. The signing of that Budget will mark an important milestone in the delivery of all that we have promised you the people of Lagos, this year.

 

 

 

“Indeed, all Lagosians have so much to look forward to this year 2024, which is also the first full year of our second and final term in office. You are already familiar with our T.H.E.M.E.S+ development agenda, which will guide and propel all that we do for the progress and development of Lagos State.”

 

 

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed that “This year will also be an important one for us in terms of enforcement of the various laws and regulations that have been meticulously crafted to safeguard our lives and property. Without adherence to the rule of law, no society can guarantee progress and prosperity.

 

 

 

“I, therefore, want to implore each and every one of us, as Lagosians, to play our part in respecting and obeying the laws of the land. From paying our taxes to obeying traffic rules to disposing of our waste responsibly to speaking up when we see other people breaking the law. These are all responsibilities that we carry as good people of Lagos State.

 

 

 

“On our part, as Government, we will continue to strive to make it easier for you to be law-abiding. Our transport reforms are all aimed at improving the commuting experience for all Lagosians, just as our Emergency Hotlines are there to make it easy for you to ‘say something if you see something!’

 

 

 

“In the same way, we have in place various reforms aimed at making it easier for you to pay your taxes, and generally making Lagos a more enabling place for business and investment. Together, we can all play our part in achieving a truly Greater Lagos.”

 

 

 

Speaking on the significance of the Thanksgiving Service, Governor Sanwo-Olu said there is, indeed, so much to be grateful for and therefore urged people as they raise their voices in praise, adoration and supplication, to commit Lagos State and Nigeria to God, for his guidance, and His mercies.

 

 

 

He said: “As a people, we have every reason to praise God, most especially for the preservation of our lives to witness this year; for His mercies, protection, provisions, providence, love, grace, favour, compassion, deliverance and numerous blessings.

 

 

 

“We have every reason to give all the glory and thanks to the Almighty God because He has been faithful in the affairs of our dear State. He has granted us great achievements and testimonies; he has given us peace and security; and mightily blessed the work of our hands.

 

 

 

“He has granted us the privilege of seeing yet another edition of this annual Thanksgiving Service, organized in keeping with Lagos State’s tradition of starting every New Year in thanksgiving to God and in acknowledgment of the fact that in Him we live and move and have our being. This is the fifth one so far since I assumed office as Governor, and the first one since the start of our second term.”

 

 

 

In his exhortation, the Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rt. Revd Stephen Adegbite said there is a need to appreciate God who answers prayers for the election of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as President and the re-election of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat during last year’s general elections.

 

 

 

He said God is good to Lagos State and the State will continue to hold the Annual Thanksgiving Service to appreciate God for the continuous peace, growth and development in the State.

 

 

 

Also speaking, Lagos State Commissioner of Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Layode, said the Thanksgiving Service was necessary to appreciate God for His mercy on Lagos State in the past year.

 

 

 

He said the State witnessed the commissioning of people-oriented and impactful projects by the Sanwo-Olu administration, adding that the administration is leaving no stone unturned to make life easy for residents through more developmental projects in line with the THEMES+ Agenda.

 

 

 

SIGNED

 

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

 

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

 

07 JANUARY 2024

Probe payment of N585.2m grant into private account or face legal action, SERAP tells Tinubu

 

 

 

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly and thoroughly probe the alleged payment by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu of N585.2 million meant for disbursement to vulnerable people in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun states into a private account.”

 

 

 

SERAP also urged him “to direct Mr Fagbemi and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly and thoroughly investigate whether the N585.2 million has been paid into any private account, and to identify and publish the names of anyone who may have received the money.”

 

 

 

SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be involved in any improper payment or diversion of public funds should be brought to justice and any diverted public funds returned to the public treasury and paid directly to the rightful beneficiaries.”

 

 

 

In the letter dated 6 January 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Paying public funds into private accounts may create the perception or appearance of impropriety and give cover to any potential wrongdoing or diversion.”

 

 

 

According to SERAP, “Investigating these allegations and ensuring that the public funds meant to take care of the poor are transparently and accountably spent and recovering any diverted public funds are serious and legitimate public interests.”

 

 

 

The letter, read in part: “The public interests in safeguarding against the perception or appearance of impropriety or corruption also require your government to remove the opportunity for abuse inherent in the payment of public funds into private accounts.”

 

 

 

“The Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], the country’s financial regulations and international obligations impose a fundamental obligation on your government to ensure transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds meant for socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians.”

 

 

 

“Your government has a legal responsibility to ensure full compliance with the Financial Regulations 2009, prohibiting the payment of public funds into private accounts, to reduce vulnerability to corruption or risks of the funds being diverted for personal ends or other unlawful purposes.”

 

 

 

“Government officials hold positions of public trust. Public officials are expected to ensure compliance with Nigerian laws and international standards in the discharge of their public functions.”

 

 

 

“The persistent lack of transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds meant to take care of the poor raises issues of public trust, makes the funds vulnerable to corruption or mismanagement, and undermines the integrity of poverty intervention programmes.”

 

 

 

“Your government has a legal obligation to probe and prosecute allegations of abuse of office and corruption in the spending of public funds meant to improve the conditions of vulnerable Nigerians.”

 

 

 

“SERAP is concerned that successive governments have failed to ensure transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds budgeted for social safety-nets and poverty alleviation programmes and projects.”

 

 

 

“Any risks of corruption in the spending of public funds meant to take care of the poor would erode the effectiveness of the government’s oft-repeated commitment to address the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy on vulnerable Nigerians.”

 

 

 

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.

 

 

 

“Any failure to investigate these grave allegations, bring suspected perpetrators to justice and recover any diverted public funds would undermine the integrity of the government’s poverty intervention programmes”

 

 

 

“It would also create cynicism, and eventually citizens’ distrust about the ability of your government to prevent corruption or the appearance of corruption in the programmes.”

 

 

 

“Nigerians have the right to be free from poverty. Any risks of diversion of public funds budgeted to lift vulnerable Nigerians out of poverty would pose both direct and indirect threats to human rights, and exacerbate extreme poverty in the country.”

 

 

 

“It would also undermine your government’s legal obligations to effectively and progressively address and combat extreme poverty as a matter of human rights.”

 

 

 

“SERAP also urges you to direct Betta Edu to publish details of spending of public funds drawn from the account of the National Social Investment Program (NSIPA), an agency under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Allegation, including the names of beneficiaries and details of the amounts received by them since 29 May 2023.”

 

 

 

“SERAP urges you to instruct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to jointly track and monitor the spending of any public funds drawn from the account(s) of the National Social Investment Program (NSIPA).”

 

 

 

“According to our information, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, in a memo dated 20 December 2023 reportedly requested the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer public fund – N585.2 million – into a private account of an official in her ministry.”

 

 

 

“According to the memo, the money was transferred from the National Social Investment Program office account and is meant for disbursement to vulnerable people in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun states, under the federal government poverty intervention project called Grants for Vulnerable Groups. N219.4 million is to be transferred to the vulnerable people in Akwa Ibom State, N73.8 million to Cross River State, N219.4 million to Lagos State, and N72.4 million to Ogun State.”

 

 

 

“SERAP is seriously concerned that years of allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the spending of public funds meant to support and assist vulnerable Nigerians and entrenched impunity of perpetrators have undermined the ability of successive governments to support those most in need.”

 

 

 

“Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to ‘abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power’ in the country.”

 

 

 

“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’ Section 16(2) further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’”

 

 

 

“Chapter 7, Section 713 of the Federal Government’s Financial Regulations 2009,  provides: ‘Personal money shall in no circumstances be paid into a government bank account, nor shall any public money be paid into a private account.’”

 

 

 

“Articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption also impose legal obligations on your government to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs.”

 

 

 

 

 

Kolawole Oluwadare

 

SERAP Deputy Director

 

7/1/2024

 

Lagos, Nigeria

 

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

 

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

 

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

 

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

 

January 7, 2024

Press Statement

N44bn Fraud: Official Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria Demands Betta Edu’s Sack, Prosecution

…Alleges Involvement of Two Top APC Leaders

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) demands the immediate sack and prosecution of the embattled Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu over the alleged looting of N44 billion National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) fund, including the N585.2 million audaciously diverted by her to a private account.

The exposed fraud in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs is just a tip of the iceberg of the unprecedented treasury looting, unbridled stealing and plundering of resources going on in the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration which has practically brought the nation’s economy to its knees.

Is it not tragic and heartbreaking that a Minister entrusted with public funds to support millions of poor Nigerians who have been impoverished by the APC, turned around to divert hundreds of millions of naira meant for the wellbeing of the poor?

The continuing stay of Betta Edu as Minister is therefore provocative and amounts to stealing from a people and daring them to do their worst. It further confirms our Party’s position that the Tinubu-led APC government is a cesspit of corruption; a haven for thieves and treasury looters.

Nigerians were shocked by reports of how Betta Edu and the suspended National Coordinator of NSIPA, Halima Shehu allegedly engaged in brazen looting of billions of Naira while Nigerians who the funds are meant for are deprived and abandoned to excruciating hardship and misery.

Equally disheartening is the reports of how Betta Edu allegedly directed the transfer of the N585.2 million NSIPA money into the private account of one of her fronts in clear violation of Chapter 7, Section 713 of Nigeria’s Financial Regulations, 2009 which expressly prohibits the payment of public money into a private account.

For emphasis, Section 713 of Nigeria’s Financial Regulations, 2009 provides that “Personal money shall in no circumstances be paid into a government bank account, nor shall any public money be paid into a private bank account. An officer who pays public money into a private account is deemed to have done so with a fraudulent intention”.

The apparent fraudulent intention by Betta Edu in diverting public funds into a private account; an action which was appropriately declared illegal by the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, is consistent with APC’s character and proclivity for plundering of public resources.

The lack of remorse by the Minister especially in her lame attempt to justify the illegal diversion of funds meant for poor Nigerians is also consistent with the insensitivity, heartlessness, impunity and criminal audacity inherent in the APC administration.

A very disturbing information in the public domain indicates that the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs is allegedly working with two prominent APC officials in the Presidency and the National Assembly, who are alleged to be using Ministers and other officials of government to divert billions of naira to personal accounts.

Additional information reveals that there are moves to use the suspended National Coordinator of NSIPA, Halima Shehu as a scapegoat so as to sweep the involvement of the Minister and the said APC leaders under the carpet.

What Nigerians demand of President Tinubu at the moment is to demonstrate commitment to the fight against corruption by immediately sacking Betta Edu, hand her over for investigation, prosecution and take steps to recover the stolen N44 billion and channel the fund recovered towards the wellbeing of Nigerians.

The PDP also demands that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) immediately invite Betta Edu for questioning and take further steps to commence a system-wide investigation into the alleged large-scale corruption and treasury looting pervading in Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs) under the APC administration.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU EXTOLS NIGERIANS’ CREATIVE EXCELLENCE, CONGRATULATES FUNKE AKINDELE ON BOX OFFICE RECORD

President Bola Tinubu celebrates the ingenuity, creativity, and immense artistic talents of Nigeria’s thriving entertainment industry.

President Tinubu congratulates Ms. Funke Akindele on her record-setting film and commends the ace thespian for her contributions to the growth of the industry.

The President extols the excellence of the Nigerian creative industry, acknowledging its pivotal place as a medium not only for artistic expression but also a source of enormous soft power and viable export.

“The creative industry is one of the high-employment sectors, providing jobs for our able and talented youths. It is an industry that is crucial to my administration. I salute Nigerians for their enduring support and patronage of home-grown creative efforts. We will provide the conducive environment for the industry to thrive further,” President Tinubu states.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 5, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO SECURITY CHIEFS: YOU ARE MAKING GOOD PROGRESS, BUT THERE MUST BE CONCLUSIVE VICTORY

President Bola Tinubu has asked the nation’s security chiefs to ensure that there is conclusive victory against the myriad of security threats assailing the country.

Addressing security chiefs and heads of intelligence agencies at a Presidential Security Briefing at the State House, in Abuja, on Friday, President Tinubu said while good progress is being made with the elimination of some security threats across multiple theatres, success will ultimately be defined by a final conclusion to the multi-dimensional menace.

“We have too many investments that we need to make now in soft and physical infrastructure, in social security, in MSME empowerment, and other growth enablers. We are pursuing a $1 trillion economy in the next few years, and our efforts will be undermined if we do not finally wrap up our progressive onslaught against enemies of progress. Be encouraged. The confidence of our people in your capacity is rising, and they are appreciative of the sacrifices of our men and women.

“The success you are recording is undeniable. Nigerians are seeing it, but the avoidable errors, as witnessed recently in Kaduna, are unacceptable and cannot be repeated. I am pleased that coordination between all agencies has dramatically improved over recent months, but there is no room for celebrations until we can end this; until we can bring our troops back to their own localities, and until we can free up resources for our critical economic expansion programme,” the President firmly stated.

The President emphasized that the armed forces must deliver on his objective to ensure the nation achieves a sustainable production of two million barrels of crude oil per day, including condensates, within the first quarter of 2024.

“I do not play with my intelligence reports. I have multiple lines of sight. The Navy and sister branches must step up their game to achieve our aims for the benefit of all Nigerians. All malign actors will be aggressively uprooted from our midst. Those working against the national agenda from within and without will meet justice. Your task is clear. We will sustain our momentum. Failure is not an option under my leadership,” the President warned.

The President also commended the Commander of the Presidential Air fleet (PAF), the Commander of the Brigade of Guards (BoG), and his Chief Personal Security Officer (CPSO) for their dedication and commitment in the discharge of their assignments, which has earned them a promotion.

Speaking at the decoration of the PAF Commander, Air Commodore Olayinka Olusola Oyesola, with his new rank of Air Vice Marshal in the Nigerian Air Force; Commander, BoG, Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, who is promoted from Colonel to the rank of Brigadier-General; and the Police CPSO, Usman Musa Shugaba, who is now a Deputy Commissioner of Police after being promoted from his prior rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, President Tinubu said he was very impressed by the officers’ “loyalty and dedication to duty”.

“Nigeria calls all to serve. We are the servants of the country, not the masters as you have seen. Your stewardship as leaders in your various categories is reflected in the assignments and responsibilities you have undertaken. I hope that Nigeria will continue to recognize your service to motherland,” the President concluded.

The newly promoted officers were decorated by the President who was assisted by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar; the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja; and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, respectively, in the presence of the spouses of the elevated officers.

The event was witnessed by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; the Service Chiefs; Heads of Intelligence Agencies, as well as presidential aides.

Speaking on behalf of the officers, AVM Olayinka thanked the President for the promotion of the officers and for the privilege to be of service to the nation. He assured the Commander-in-Chief of their continued loyalty and commitment to duty.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 5, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT FELIX TSHISEKEDI OF DR CONGO ON RE-ELECTION

President Bola Tinubu congratulates President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo on his re-election.

President Tinubu commends the government and the people of DR Congo for ensuring a successful conduct of the last elections.

The President also congratulates the people of DR Congo for deepening democratic norms by exercising their rights without resorting to acts inimical to the sustenance of democracy.

“It is welcoming that the last elections in DR Congo were well-concluded. Democracy is sustainable on the continent. I congratulate President Tshisekedi on his victory. The President has demonstrated statesmanship in his handling of regional and continental matters. Africa will overcome any challenge with governance by popular consent, and democracy will thrive,” President Tinubu states.

The President wishes President Tshisekedi a successful term in office.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 6, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES FIRS CHAIRMAN, ZACCH ADEDEJI, ON BIRTHDAY

President Bola Tinubu celebrates the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, as he marks his birthday on January 8.

The President extols the fine defining qualities of the young first-class graduate of accounting who steadily rose through the ranks in public service by dint of hard work, loyalty, and competence, noting his service as the Commissioner of Finance in Oyo State at the age of 33; the CEO of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC); Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, and now Chief Executive Officer of the nation’s apex tax authority.

“Zacch is an innovator who consistently turns his creative ideas into change-making actions. He is a disciple of the ‘think-and-do’ school of changemakers. He will reform Nigeria’s tax system for the benefit of Nigerians. Give him a task, and it will be done and done well,” the President states.

President Tinubu wishes the FIRS Chairman more strength and zeal in the discharge of his duties.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 7, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS NIGERIA’S GLOBAL TROPHY-WINNING COACH, SEBASTIAN BRODERICKS-IMASUEN

President Bola Tinubu receives the news of the passing of one of Nigeria’s finest football coaches, Mr. Sebastian Brodericks-Imasuen, with a heavy heart.

Brodericks-Imasuen, a footballer-turned-coach, led Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets to victory at the inaugural FIFA U-16 World Championship in China in 1985.

President Tinubu celebrates the football icon, who brought hope and inspired national pride by his industry, devotion, and diligence on and off the pitch, describing him as a true Nigerian hero.

The President sympathizes with the Imasuen family, the football community, the government of Edo State, and all those who mourn this agonizing loss while praying for the repose of the soul of the dearly departed.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 7, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU DISMISSES TWO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

In conformity with plans to restructure and reposition critical agencies of the Federal Government towards protecting the rights of Nigerian consumers and providing a strong basis for enhanced contributions to the nation’s economy by key growth-enabling institutions, President Bola Tinubu has dismissed the following Chief Executive Officers:

(1) Mr. Babatunde Irukera — EVC/CEO, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC)

(2) Mr. Alexander Ayoola Okoh — Director-General/CEO, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE)

The two dismissed Chief Executives are directed to hand over to the next most senior officer in their respective agencies, pending the appointment of new Chief Executive Officers.

By this directive of the President, their removal from office takes immediate effect.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 8, 2024

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU SUSPENDS MINISTER OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION FROM OFFICE

In line with his avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu suspends the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, from office with immediate effect.

The President further directs the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as one or more agencies thereunder.

The suspended Minister is hereby directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and she is further directed by the President to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities as they conduct their investigation.

Furthermore, the President has tasked a panel that is headed by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance to, among other functions, conduct a comprehensive diagnostic on the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programmes with a view to conclusively reforming the relevant institutions and programmes in a determined bid to eliminate all institutional frailties for the exclusive benefit of disadvantaged households and win back lost public confidence in the initiative.

These directives of the President take immediate effect.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 8, 2024

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU FELICITATES NNPCL GCEO, MELE KYARI, ON BIRTHDAY

President Bola Tinubu felicitates the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, as he marks his birthday on January 8.

The President commends the diligence, passion, and expertise the foremost geologist brings to tasks as one of the longest-tenured chief executives in the history of Africa’s most valuable energy company.

“Mele is a man of action, rather than words. He is proactive in his approach. His ability to diagnose complicated problems with thoughtful and pragmatic solutions has created a path for him to continue rendering valuable service to our nation. I wish him a happy birthday,” the President says.

President Tinubu prays that Almighty Allah grant the business executive more wisdom and strength in his service to Nigeria.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 7, 2024

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES BUSINESS TYCOON, GILBERT CHAGOURY, ON BIRTHDAY

President Bola Tinubu celebrates business titan, Ambassador Gilbert Chagoury, as he marks his birthday on January 8.

The President appreciates Ambassador Chagoury’s consistency and reliability demonstrated throughout his storied career, noting his desire to see Nigeria rise to the highest of heights in all spheres of human endeavour.

The President recalls how the Chagoury family kept faith with Africa’s largest economy by continually investing in various projects and philanthropic activities over the decades, irrespective of all the socio-political challenges that characterized the road to the nation’s return to civilian rule in 1999 and beyond.

“Gilbert is a shining light in any room. He is compassionate, discerning, and totally reliable in every respect. He has invested in our country in both good and bad times. He is generous with both his heart and his resources. With friends like him, one can sleep with a still mind. He is a valuable and cherished person who is worthy of celebration,” the President says.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

January 7, 2024

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HERALD KWARA STAR LABOUR PARTY BELIEVERS LADIPO JOHNSON LAGOS EAGELE LAGOS GOVERNMENT HOUSE LAGOS NEWS LAGOS NOW LAMONDE EBIRERI LEADERSHIP NEWS LEADERSHIP TODAY LOKOJA MONITOR LONDON DIGEST MALIK ADO IBRAHIM MALIKA SANI MARITIME MARKETING MEDIAGATE MEDIAGATE AFRICA MEDIAGATE AGBOR MEDIAGATE AGHALOKPE MEDIAGATE AJAMIKAWA MEDIAGATE AMERICA MEDIAGATE ANTHONY MEDIAGATE ASABA MEDIAGATE ASIA MEDIAGATE BOMADI MEDIAGATE BURUTU MEDIAGATE BUSINESS MEDIAGATE DAILY INDEPENDENT MEDIAGATE ECONOMY MEDIAGATE EDUCATION MEDIAGATE EKU MEDIAGATE ELUME MEDIAGATE ENUGU MEDIAGATE EUROPE MEDIAGATE IBUSA MEDIAGATE IKA MEDIAGATE ISOKO MEDIAGATE ITARY MEDIAGATE ITSEKIRI MEDIAGATE KWALE MEDIAGATE LAGOS MEDIAGATE LISBON MEDIAGATE MANAGEMENT MEDIAGATE MILITARY MEDIAGATE MONITOR MEDIAGATE MOSOGAR MEDIAGATE NEWS MEDIAGATE NIGERIA MEDIAGATE OGHARA MEDIAGATE OKPARA WATER SIDE MEDIAGATE OREROKPE MEDIAGATE PATANI MEDIAGATE POLITICS MEDIAGATE PORTUGAL MEDIAGATE SAPELE MEDIAGATE SOUTH AFRICA MEDIAGATE SPORTS MEDIAGATE SUN 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WEEKLY OCHONOGOR EDUCATION CENTRE OCHONOGOR ENGINEERING CENTRE OCHONOGOR FAMILY OCHONOGOR HEALTH CENTRE OCHONOGOR MANAGEMENT CENTRE OCHONOGOR MUSICAL SCHOOL OCHONOGOR RADIO OCHONOGOR SPORTS CENTRE OCHONOGOR TELEVISION ODE OMU REVIEW ODO OTIN COURIER ODO-IRE PUNCH OFU DIARY OGAMINANA MONITOR OGBONNAYA ONU OGHARA ART AND BUSINESS NEWS OGHARA ECHO OGHARA MAIL OGHARA OBSERVER OGHARA POINTER OGORI MAGONGO VOICE OGORI MANGOGO MAIL OGORI MANGOGO MEDIA OGORI MANGOGO MIRROR OGORI MANGOGO NEWS OGORI MANGOGO OBSERVER OGORI MANGOGO TIMES OGUMA DIGEST ogume OGUME ONQUIRER OGUME PEOPLE OGUN HERALD OGUN NEWSPAPER OGWASHI UKU HERALD OGWOAWO BUSINESS DAILY OIL AND GAS OJA TIMI NEWS OKE ILA ORANGUN TIMES OKE ITA ORANGUN SUN OKE OGBO ECHO OKEHI HORIZON OKEHI MONITOR OKEHI MUSIC OKEHI NEWSPAPER OKEHI OBSERVER OKEHI ONLINE OKEHI POINTER OKEHI POLITICS OKEHI RADIO OKEHI TELEVISION OKEHI THEATRE OKEHI TIMES OKEHI VOICE OKENE CONCORD OKENE MAIL OKENE NEWS OKENE TIDE OKENE TIMES OKERE SUN ADVERTIZER OKEY UDO OKPANAM NEWS OKPARA WARER SIDE JOURNAL OKPARA WATER SIDE TRIBUNE OKPARA WATERSIDE DAILY OKPARA WATERSIDE MAIL OKPARA WATERSIDE NEWS OKPARA WATERSIDE RADIO OKPARA WATERSIDE TELEVISION OKPE BULLETIN OKPE HERALD OKPE KINGDOM OKPE LEADER OKPE LEADER NEWS OKPE NEWS OKPE PILOT OKPE SUN OKPE WORLDWIDE OKPO TOWN DAILY OKUKU COURIER OKUKU TIMES OKWUDILI NWA ANYAJIKA OLA OLUWA MORNING REVIEW OLAMABORO NEWS OLD BENDEL MAIL OLEH COURIER OLONA REGISTER OLORUNDA EXPRESS OLUSEGUN OBASANJO OMALA VOICE OMOWOLE SOWORE ONDO INFORMER STAR ONDO MIRROR ONDO REGISTER ONDO STATE NEWS ONDO TRIBUNE ONITSHA CHRONICLE ONYEDEGA MIRROR OREROKPE ENTERPRISE OREROKPE NEWS OREROKPE PILOT ORI OKE MAIL ORIADE SENTINEL ORISA STAR ORITSEJOLOMI UDUAGHAN ORJI KALU OROGUN NEWSPAPER OROLU VOICE OSHIMILI HERALD OSHIMILI NEWS OSHIMILI NORTH BULLETIN OSHIMILI SOUTH REPORTERS OSHIMILI SUN OSOGBO GAZETTE OSOGBO MERCHANT OSOGBO NEWS OSU STAR OSU VANGUARD OSUN HERALD OSUN OSOGBO COURIER OSUN RECORD OTAN AYEGBAJU SENTINEL OTAN ILE DAILY NEWS OVIE HENRY EBIRERI OVIE OMO AGEGE OYO ADVOCATE OYO NEWS OYO STATE NEWS OYO TODAY OZORO HEADLIGHT OZORO NEWS PATANI NEWS PDP FOOT SOLDIERS PDP NEWS PETER OBI PETER UMEADI PETROLEUM PLATEAU EAGLE PLATEAU MESSENGER POLITICAL COMMUNICATION POLITICAL NEWS POLITICIAN Politics PORT HARCOURT MESSENGER POWER SHIFT AGITATION PRESIDENT BUHARI PRESIDENTIAL NEWS PROFILE PUBLIC RELATIONS QUALITY REPRESENTATION RABIU KWANKWASO RAUF AREGBESOLA RECLAMATION TIMES RELIGION TODAY RESTRUCTURING NEWS RIVER OSUN GAZETTE RIVERS STATE NEWS RIVERS STATE POLITICS RIVERS STATESMAN ROBERT AJAYI BOROFFICE ROCHAS OKOROCHA ROTIMI AMAECHI SAGBAMA TRIBUNE SAM OHUABUNWA SAPELE BEACON SAPELE BRAND SAPELE COMMUNITY NEWS SAPELE FACTS SAPELE GAZETTE SAPELE LIGHT SAPELE PEOPLE SAPELE PIONEER SAPELE REPORTER NEWS SAPELE TELEGRAM SECURITY SECURITY CHIEFS SEYI MAKINDE SHERIFF OBOREVWORI SHINA PETER SOCIETY NEWS South SOUTH WESTERN NIGERIA CHRONICLE SOUTH-SOUTH TODAY SOUTHERN NIGERIA COURIER SOUTHERN OBSERVER STATE ELECTIONS STATE OF OSUN HERALD SULE LAMIDO SUNDAY ADENUGA TAMINU TURAKI TARABA COASTER TARABA HERALD TEIN JACK RICH THE SENATE TIMIPRE SYLVA TODAY NEWS TRANSPORTATION TRINADAD TIMES TUNDE BAKARE UDOM EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN BLUE PRINT UDUAGHAN DAILY INDEPENDENT UDUAGHAN DAILY NEWS UDUAGHAN HALLMARK UDUAGHAN MAIL UDUAGHAN MEDIA UDUAGHAN MIRROR UDUAGHAN MONITOR UDUAGHAN NEWAGE UDUAGHAN PILOT UDUAGHAN POINTER UDUAGHAN POST UDUAGHAN RADIO UDUAGHAN TELEVISION UDUAGHAN THISDAY UDUAGHAN TIMES UDUAGHAN VANGUARD UDUAGHAN VOICE UGBEKU STAR UGBIMIDAKA TODAY UGBIMIDAKA VANGUARD UGBORHEN OIL UGHELLI EAGLE UGHELLI MONITOR UGHELLI SOUTH CITIZEN JOURNAL UGHELLI WEEKLY UGHOTON NEWS UJU KENNEDY OHANENYE UKWUANI NEWS UKWUANI PEOPLE UKWUANI REPORTERS UKWUANI TIMES UMUNEDE OBSERVER Uncategorized UNITED KINGDOM NEWS UNIVERSITY NEWS URHOBO ADVOCATE URHOBO GAZETTE URHOBO HERALD URHOBO INDEX URHOBO LEADER URHOBO NATION URHOBO NEWS URHOBO PIONEER URHOBO RECORD URHOBO RECORDER URHOBO REVIEW URHOBO SENTINEL URHOBO STATESMAN URHOBO TIMES UYO MIRROR UYO REPORTERS VERONICA IKPERA EBIRERI WARRI HIGHLANDER WARRI NATION WARRI NEWS WARRI NORTH PIONEER WARRI REPORTERS WARRI SOUTH NEWS WESTERN REGION SENTINEL WESTERN STATE DEFENDER World News YABANJI SANI YAGBA EAST DAILY YAGBA WEST MONITOR YAHAYA BELLO YAKUBU DOGARA YEMI OSINBAJO YEMOJA SUN YORUBA DAILY TRUST YORUBA GUARDIAN yoruba news YORUBA PEOPLE DAILY UNION YORUBA PUNCH YORUBA THISDAY YORUBA TRIBUNE YUSUF DANTALIE ZAMFARA DAILY PROGRESS zipowei zipowei ochonogor
RE: PENDING SUIT FILED BY THE ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY; ORDER OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA

RE: PENDING SUIT FILED BY THE ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY; ORDER OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA, TOGETHER WITH AN APPLICATION TO SET ASIDE THE PURPORTED SCREENING AND CONFIRMATION OF MRS. LAURETTA ONOCHIE AND CHIEF SAMUEL OGBUKU AS CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR RESPECTIVELY OF THE NDDC BY THE SENATE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CARRIED OUT ON DECEMBER 21, 2022, IN THE FACE OF THE PROCESSES AND ORDER OF COURT IN SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022, IN WHICH YOU ARE A PARTY.

  • AMA ETUWEWE (SAN) & CO.

LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, ARBITRATORS & NOTARY PUBLIC

GOTTGUNST VILLA

27, Gbiaye Street

3rd Marine Gate, Warri, Nigeria

Tel: 08033136059

E-mails: info@amaetulegal.org

amaetulegal@yahoo.com

ama.etuwewe@amaetulegal.org

www.amaetulegal.org

 

 

JANUARY 2, 2023.

 

THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND MINISTER OF JUSTICE

ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE MAITAMA,

ABUJA.

 

Dear Sir,

 

RE: PENDING SUIT FILED BY THE ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY; ORDER OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA, TOGETHER WITH AN APPLICATION TO SET ASIDE THE PURPORTED SCREENING AND CONFIRMATION OF MRS. LAURETTA ONOCHIE AND CHIEF SAMUEL OGBUKU AS CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR RESPECTIVELY OF THE NDDC BY THE SENATE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CARRIED OUT ON DECEMBER 21, 2022, IN THE FACE OF THE PROCESSES AND ORDER OF COURT IN SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022, IN WHICH YOU ARE A PARTY.

 

MATTERS ARISING THEREOF:

 

As you are aware, we act as Solicitors to the ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY ably represented by CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO, MR. EDWARD OMAGBEMI & ENGINEER VICTOR WOOD, whom we shall hereinafter refer to as our Clients and we write to you on their precise, concise and unequivocal instructions.

 

  1. INTRODUCTION:

 

  1. Our Clients are members of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thoughts and Natives of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State, Nigeria.

 

  1. It is our Clients’ grouse that since the inception of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2001, the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality having over 21 oil-producing communities and producing about 58% of the crude oil in Delta State and 17% of the Country’s crude oil production, which is doubtless a major contributor to the Crude Oil and Gas Resources in Nigeria, which by virtue thereof, the Itsekiri communities suffered and continues to suffer the attendant environmental degradation, loss of livelihood as well as destruction of their farmlands and water resources, have their woes compounded by the marginalization suffered in the hands of the Federal Government of Nigeria that has repeatedly failed to consider any Itsekiri nationals competent to occupy the positions of Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC despite having previously afforded other ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta States the opportunity to fill such positions.

 

  1. Upon the dissolution of the NDDC Board in 2019 by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the NDDC has been run by various interim administrators with acting Managing Directors who hail from other oil and gas producing communities and states to the exclusion and continued marginalization of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State of Nigeria.

 

  1. Whilst the pains of marginalization of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality remained unaddressed, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on November 22, 2022, or thereabout, forwarded to the Senate of the National Assembly the names of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively, amongst other nominees of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s new board, for confirmation.

 

  1. This development did not meet the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality well as Mrs. Lauretta Onochie whose name was forwarded by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a Deltan no doubt, hails from Onicha-Olona Community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, a NON­OIL AND GAS PRODUCING area of Delta State, and whereas, Chief Samuel Ogbuku whose name was forwarded as the Managing Director of the NDDC Board hails from Bayelsa State, is contrary to an established rotation arrangement in accordance with the NDDC Act. By the said rotation, it is the turn of Delta State by extension the ltsekiri Ethnic Nationality, to produce the next Managing Director of the NDDC.

 

  1. THE SUIT

 

  1. Displeased by the unlawful actions of both the Executive and the Senate of the National Assembly to nominate, screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission, our Clients filed SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022: CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO & 2 ORS. v. THE PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA & 5 ORS., at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on December 12, 2022.

 

  1. Our Clients in the said suit, in which the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and your humble self are the 1st and 2nd Defendants respectively, are seeking the following reliefs:
  2. A declaration that by virtue of Section 4 and other enabling sections of Niger Delta development Commission (Establishment, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), it is the turn of Delta State to produce the next Chairman of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

  1. A declaration that by virtue of Section 12(1) and other sections of Niger Delta development Commission (Establishment, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), it is the turn of Delta State to produce the next Managing Director of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

iii.        A Declaration that the nomination of the 5th Defendant who hails from a non-oil producing area in Delta State as the next Chairman of the Niger-Delta Development Commission is unlawful and contrary to the intent and purpose of the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act.

 

  1. A declaration that the nomination of the 6th Defendant as the next managing Director of the Niger-Delta Development Commission is unlawful for being contrary to the intent and purpose of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act.

 

  1. An order quashing the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next Chairman and Managing Director respectively to the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, by the 1st Defendant, as the said nomination is contrary to the spirit and intendment of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act 2000 as amended.

 

  1. AN ORDER restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming the 5th and 6th Defendants for the positions of the next Chairman and Managing Directors respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission as their nomination by the 1st Defendant is contrary to the spirit and intendment of the Niger­ Delta Development Commission Act.

 

vii.        A declaration that by virtue of the provisions of the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act, 2000 as amended, the Plaintiffs as suitable members of the ltsekiri nationality of Delta State are qualified to be nominated as the next Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

viii.        Any further order(s) as this Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.

 

10.0. Our Clients on December 12, 2022, filed an ex-parte application seeking the following reliefs from the Federal High Court, Abuja, to wit;

  1. a)An order of interim injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming or taking any further steps to screen or confirm the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), ,Pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-action Notice already issued on the 3rd and 4th Defendants and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.

 

AND/OR

 

  1. b)AN ORDER directing that the STATUS QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-action Notice already issued by the Applicants on the 3rd and 4th Defendants on November 30, 2022 and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.

 

  1. c)An order granting leave to the Plaintiffs to serve the 5th and 6th Defendants with the originating processes in this suit by substituted means by advertising the processes in at least one National Newspaper circulating within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court and to deem same as proper service.

 

  1. d)Any order or further order as this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.

 

11.0. As is customary, our Clients accompanied the ex-parte application with a motion on notice filed on December 12, 2022, seeking the following reliefs to wit;

  1. a)An order of interlocutory injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming or taking any further steps to screen or confirm the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

 

AND/OR

  1. b)AN ORDER directing that the STATUS QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

 

  1. c)Any order or further order as this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.

 

12.0    The Federal High Court on December 15, 2022, in refusing reliefs 1 and 2 of our Clients’ ex-parte application filed on December 12, 2022, ordered the parties in the suit not to take any step that will render nugatory our Clients’ pending application for interlocutory injunction filed on December 12, 2022.

 

13.0    The Court also emphatically ordered that any act or step or action taken in order to render nugatory. the outcome of our Clients’ motion for interlocutory injunction filed on December 12, 2022, and scheduled for hearing on January 11, 2023, shall be a nullity. A copy of the said Order has been duly served on all the parties including your office.

 

14.0    Despite the fact that all the Defendants, your office inclusive, were served with the originating process, our Clients’ application for interlocutory injunction and the order of the Court restraining all parties from acting otherwise, the leadership of the Senate of the National Assembly proceeded to screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively, of the Niger Delta Development Commission, on December 20, 2022.

 

15.0    Further displeased by the brazen act of the National Assembly in proceeding defiantly to screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission in gross and total disregard to the order of Court restraining all parties from taking any step capable of rendering nugatory our clients’ motion on notice for interlocutory injunction,, our Clients on December 22, 2022, filed an application at the Federal High Court seeking inter alia the following relief;

 

AN ORDER setting aside the purported screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants on December 20, 2022, by the 3rd and 4th Defendants during the pendency of the order of this Honourable Court delivered on December 15, 2022, restraining the parties from taking any step that may render nugatory the outcome of the Applicants’ pending application for interlocutory injunction.

All the Defendants have been served with the said application.

 

16.0    Whilst our Clients’ suit and in fact their most recent application to set aside the screening and confirmation of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC by the Senate of the National assembly has not been determined, our Clients are aware and already in the public domain, that the Honourable Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs is making plans and has circulated letters to that effect, to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku on January 4, 2023, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, as ·the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC. The Minister has hinged his brazen disregard of the order of the court and the due process of law, on the purported approval of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who is the 1st Defendant in the suit under reference.

 

17.0    As the Chief Law Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a party in the suit, you are doubtless aware of the position of the law which is to the effect that once there is a pending litigation, all parties to the suit are expected to stay every action that will adversely affect the outcome of the adjudicatory process so as not to render the said process a nullity and foist upon the court a fait accompli. We most humbly refer you to the case of EZEGBU v. F.A.T.B. LTD. (1992) 1 NWLR PART 220 PAGE 699 PARTICULARLY AT PAGE 724, where NIKI TOBI J.C.A. (as he then was) stated thus:

“Where a matter is before a court of law, none of the parties can legally or lawfully take any unilateral decision that will prejudice or tend to prejudice the hearing or adjudication of the matter by the court. Parties who have submitted to the jurisdiction of the court are under a legal duty not to do anything to frustrate or make nonsense a possible court order. They must, whether they like it or not, wait for the court order. They must whether they like it or not wait for the court to take a decision one way or the order. The procedure at arriving at a decision may be slow. It may even be sluggish. But the parties cannot jump the gun and do their own thing their own way. That will be tantamount to undermining the integrity of the court. What I am saying in effect is that a party who has submitted to the jurisdiction of the court is not entitled to resort to self-help. That will be chaos and disability of the social equilibrium if the opposing party reacts.

 

None of the parties to a litigation process before a court of law is allowed to take the law into his own hands and foist upon the court a fait accompli thereby rendering it impossible for the court to arrive at a decision one way or the other on the merit of the issue before it render any decision it may take nugatory or futile”.

 

18.0    Furtherance to the reliefs being claimed by our Clients in the suit, there is a pending application filed by our clients seeking an injunction against the Defendants for an order of Court restraining the Defendants from taking steps capable of rendering nugatory the pending application for interlocutory injunction and an application seeking to set aside the confirmation made by the Senate of the National Assembly, which step more to undermining the Judiciary’s role and the Rule of Law, has pre­ determined the issues presented by our Clients for judicial determination in the substantive suit.

 

19.0    Having notified your humble self and the other Defendants of the pendency of an application for injunction, we wish to draw your attention to the following judicial authorities on the duty of a party or parties where there is a pending application for injunction. In the case of ELF MARKETING (NIG.) v. J.L. OYENEYIN 8: SONS (1995) 7 NWLR PART 407, PAGE 371 AT 380 PARAGRAPHS A-8, the Court held thus:

 

“Once the court is seized of a matter, no party has a right to take the matter into his own hands. Thus, after a defendant has been notified of the pendency of a suit seeking an injunction against him, even though a temporary injunction be not granted, that party acts at his peril and is subject to the power of the court to restore the status wholly irrespective of the merit as may be ultimately decided…”

 

20.0    Furthermore, in the case of OKEKE-OBA v. OKOYE (1994) 8 NWLR. PART 364, PAGE 605 AT 617-618 PARAGRAPHS H-A, the Court stated as follows:

“The general practice is that an application for an order of interlocutory injunction, all activities affecting the res, here the land in dispute, are automatically terminated as a mark of respect to the court before whom the application is pending. Such practice is encouraged by counsel in good chambers consistent with the ethics of the profession”.

 

21.0    THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022: CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO 8: 2 ORS. v. THE PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 8: 5 ORS.

 

22.0    We wish to state without any iota of doubt that in the light of the development set out herein, no step whatsoever should be taken by the Federal Government to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as same will not only jeopardize the outcome of the litigation process but concomitantly operate to completely erase the confidence reposed in the Judiciary by the common man and a clog in the wheel of the administration of justice.

 

23.0    We have cause to believe, as documentary evidence clearly suggests, that the Federal Government through the Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, is making frantic and brazen efforts to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission despite the pendency of the suit as well as several applications, and order made by the Court, with the sole aim of stealing a match, stultifying the ·court process and bringing the Rule of Law to ridicule.

 

24.0    CONCLUSION:

Our Clients have done all that is required of them by submitting for judicial consideration and determination their grievances against the Executive and Legislative Arms of Government, it behooves these Arms of Government to resist the urge to defy the Judiciary and indeed the judicial process by refraining from conducts which will render nugatory issues presented by our Clients to the Court.

 

25.0    The attendant implications on the faith and belief of the common man are dire and would almost be dampened if the Executive and the Legislative Arms of Government continue to bond towards shattering the fabric and fibre of the judicial process upon which true democracy is enshrined; which the Judiciary seeks to mend and this certainly does not bode well for the Rule of Law if a precedent of Executive and Legislative disregard to court orders, is so easily displayed with impunity, just before the forthcoming general elections.

 

26.0    Having fought to ensure that there is peace and stability in the Country, it would be manifestly antithetical to the goals of this Administration of which you are a key player, if solely for a refusal to await and comply with the judicial process, all the Executive has worked for in the past seven (7) years, translates to naught.

 

27.0    We are of the firm belief, taking into cognizance the judicial authorities referred to above, that as the Chief Law Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and a strong proponent of the Rule of Law, you will not in any way advise the President and indeed the Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, to proceed with the inauguration of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku on January 4, 2023, as the Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC and or concretize their positions, pending the outcome of the adjudicatory process already initiated by our Clients.

 

28.0    Trusting you will advise the relevant parties on the need to allow the judicial process take its course and refrain from taking steps which will ridicule the Rule of Law and further weaken our nascent democratic structure.

 

We remain,

 

Very truly yours,

PP: AMA ETUWEWE (SAN) & CO.

 

 

 

AMA ETUWEWE, SAN.

 

CC:    THE HONOURABLE MINISTER

MINISTRY OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS

ABUJA.

 

 

 

AMA ETUWEWE (SAN) & CO.

LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, ARBITRATORS & NOTARY PUBLIC

GOTTGUNST VILLA

27, Gbiaye Street

3rd Marine Gate, Warri, Nigeria

Tel: 08033136059

E-mails: info@amaetulegal.org

amaetulegal@yahoo.com

ama.etuwewe@amaetulegal.org

www.amaetulegal.org

 

 

JANUARY 2, 2023.

 

THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND MINISTER OF JUSTICE

ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE MAITAMA,

ABUJA.

 

Dear Sir,

 

RE: PENDING SUIT FILED BY THE ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY; ORDER OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA, TOGETHER WITH AN APPLICATION TO SET ASIDE THE PURPORTED SCREENING AND CONFIRMATION OF MRS. LAURETTA ONOCHIE AND CHIEF SAMUEL OGBUKU AS CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR RESPECTIVELY OF THE NDDC BY THE SENATE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CARRIED OUT ON DECEMBER 21, 2022, IN THE FACE OF THE PROCESSES AND ORDER OF COURT IN SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022, IN WHICH YOU ARE A PARTY.

 

MATTERS ARISING THEREOF:

 

As you are aware, we act as Solicitors to the ITSEKIRI ETHNIC NATIONALITY ably represented by CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO, MR. EDWARD OMAGBEMI & ENGINEER VICTOR WOOD, whom we shall hereinafter refer to as our Clients and we write to you on their precise, concise and unequivocal instructions.

 

  1. INTRODUCTION:

 

  1. Our Clients are members of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thoughts and Natives of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State, Nigeria.

 

  1. It is our Clients’ grouse that since the inception of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2001, the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality having over 21 oil-producing communities and producing about 58% of the crude oil in Delta State and 17% of the Country’s crude oil production, which is doubtless a major contributor to the Crude Oil and Gas Resources in Nigeria, which by virtue thereof, the Itsekiri communities suffered and continues to suffer the attendant environmental degradation, loss of livelihood as well as destruction of their farmlands and water resources, have their woes compounded by the marginalization suffered in the hands of the Federal Government of Nigeria that has repeatedly failed to consider any Itsekiri nationals competent to occupy the positions of Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC despite having previously afforded other ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta States the opportunity to fill such positions.

 

  1. Upon the dissolution of the NDDC Board in 2019 by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the NDDC has been run by various interim administrators with acting Managing Directors who hail from other oil and gas producing communities and states to the exclusion and continued marginalization of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State of Nigeria.

 

  1. Whilst the pains of marginalization of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality remained unaddressed, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on November 22, 2022, or thereabout, forwarded to the Senate of the National Assembly the names of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively, amongst other nominees of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s new board, for confirmation.

 

  1. This development did not meet the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality well as Mrs. Lauretta Onochie whose name was forwarded by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a Deltan no doubt, hails from Onicha-Olona Community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, a NON­OIL AND GAS PRODUCING area of Delta State, and whereas, Chief Samuel Ogbuku whose name was forwarded as the Managing Director of the NDDC Board hails from Bayelsa State, is contrary to an established rotation arrangement in accordance with the NDDC Act. By the said rotation, it is the turn of Delta State by extension the ltsekiri Ethnic Nationality, to produce the next Managing Director of the NDDC.

 

  1. THE SUIT

 

  1. Displeased by the unlawful actions of both the Executive and the Senate of the National Assembly to nominate, screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission, our Clients filed SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022: CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO & 2 ORS. v. THE PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA & 5 ORS., at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on December 12, 2022.

 

  1. Our Clients in the said suit, in which the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and your humble self are the 1st and 2nd Defendants respectively, are seeking the following reliefs:
  2. A declaration that by virtue of Section 4 and other enabling sections of Niger Delta development Commission (Establishment, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), it is the turn of Delta State to produce the next Chairman of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

  1. A declaration that by virtue of Section 12(1) and other sections of Niger Delta development Commission (Establishment, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), it is the turn of Delta State to produce the next Managing Director of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

iii.        A Declaration that the nomination of the 5th Defendant who hails from a non-oil producing area in Delta State as the next Chairman of the Niger-Delta Development Commission is unlawful and contrary to the intent and purpose of the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act.

 

  1. A declaration that the nomination of the 6th Defendant as the next managing Director of the Niger-Delta Development Commission is unlawful for being contrary to the intent and purpose of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act.

 

  1. An order quashing the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next Chairman and Managing Director respectively to the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, by the 1st Defendant, as the said nomination is contrary to the spirit and intendment of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act 2000 as amended.

 

  1. AN ORDER restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming the 5th and 6th Defendants for the positions of the next Chairman and Managing Directors respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission as their nomination by the 1st Defendant is contrary to the spirit and intendment of the Niger­ Delta Development Commission Act.

 

vii.        A declaration that by virtue of the provisions of the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act, 2000 as amended, the Plaintiffs as suitable members of the ltsekiri nationality of Delta State are qualified to be nominated as the next Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger-Delta Development Commission.

 

viii.        Any further order(s) as this Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.

 

10.0. Our Clients on December 12, 2022, filed an ex-parte application seeking the following reliefs from the Federal High Court, Abuja, to wit;

  1. a)An order of interim injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming or taking any further steps to screen or confirm the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), ,Pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-action Notice already issued on the 3rd and 4th Defendants and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.

 

AND/OR

 

  1. b)AN ORDER directing that the STATUS QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-action Notice already issued by the Applicants on the 3rd and 4th Defendants on November 30, 2022 and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.

 

  1. c)An order granting leave to the Plaintiffs to serve the 5th and 6th Defendants with the originating processes in this suit by substituted means by advertising the processes in at least one National Newspaper circulating within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court and to deem same as proper service.

 

  1. d)Any order or further order as this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.

 

11.0. As is customary, our Clients accompanied the ex-parte application with a motion on notice filed on December 12, 2022, seeking the following reliefs to wit;

  1. a)An order of interlocutory injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening and confirming or taking any further steps to screen or confirm the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

 

AND/OR

  1. b)AN ORDER directing that the STATUS QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

 

  1. c)Any order or further order as this Honourable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.

 

12.0    The Federal High Court on December 15, 2022, in refusing reliefs 1 and 2 of our Clients’ ex-parte application filed on December 12, 2022, ordered the parties in the suit not to take any step that will render nugatory our Clients’ pending application for interlocutory injunction filed on December 12, 2022.

 

13.0    The Court also emphatically ordered that any act or step or action taken in order to render nugatory. the outcome of our Clients’ motion for interlocutory injunction filed on December 12, 2022, and scheduled for hearing on January 11, 2023, shall be a nullity. A copy of the said Order has been duly served on all the parties including your office.

 

14.0    Despite the fact that all the Defendants, your office inclusive, were served with the originating process, our Clients’ application for interlocutory injunction and the order of the Court restraining all parties from acting otherwise, the leadership of the Senate of the National Assembly proceeded to screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively, of the Niger Delta Development Commission, on December 20, 2022.

 

15.0    Further displeased by the brazen act of the National Assembly in proceeding defiantly to screen and confirm Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission in gross and total disregard to the order of Court restraining all parties from taking any step capable of rendering nugatory our clients’ motion on notice for interlocutory injunction,, our Clients on December 22, 2022, filed an application at the Federal High Court seeking inter alia the following relief;

 

AN ORDER setting aside the purported screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants on December 20, 2022, by the 3rd and 4th Defendants during the pendency of the order of this Honourable Court delivered on December 15, 2022, restraining the parties from taking any step that may render nugatory the outcome of the Applicants’ pending application for interlocutory injunction.

All the Defendants have been served with the said application.

 

16.0    Whilst our Clients’ suit and in fact their most recent application to set aside the screening and confirmation of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC by the Senate of the National assembly has not been determined, our Clients are aware and already in the public domain, that the Honourable Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs is making plans and has circulated letters to that effect, to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku on January 4, 2023, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, as ·the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC. The Minister has hinged his brazen disregard of the order of the court and the due process of law, on the purported approval of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who is the 1st Defendant in the suit under reference.

 

17.0    As the Chief Law Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a party in the suit, you are doubtless aware of the position of the law which is to the effect that once there is a pending litigation, all parties to the suit are expected to stay every action that will adversely affect the outcome of the adjudicatory process so as not to render the said process a nullity and foist upon the court a fait accompli. We most humbly refer you to the case of EZEGBU v. F.A.T.B. LTD. (1992) 1 NWLR PART 220 PAGE 699 PARTICULARLY AT PAGE 724, where NIKI TOBI J.C.A. (as he then was) stated thus:

“Where a matter is before a court of law, none of the parties can legally or lawfully take any unilateral decision that will prejudice or tend to prejudice the hearing or adjudication of the matter by the court. Parties who have submitted to the jurisdiction of the court are under a legal duty not to do anything to frustrate or make nonsense a possible court order. They must, whether they like it or not, wait for the court order. They must whether they like it or not wait for the court to take a decision one way or the order. The procedure at arriving at a decision may be slow. It may even be sluggish. But the parties cannot jump the gun and do their own thing their own way. That will be tantamount to undermining the integrity of the court. What I am saying in effect is that a party who has submitted to the jurisdiction of the court is not entitled to resort to self-help. That will be chaos and disability of the social equilibrium if the opposing party reacts.

 

None of the parties to a litigation process before a court of law is allowed to take the law into his own hands and foist upon the court a fait accompli thereby rendering it impossible for the court to arrive at a decision one way or the other on the merit of the issue before it render any decision it may take nugatory or futile”.

 

18.0    Furtherance to the reliefs being claimed by our Clients in the suit, there is a pending application filed by our clients seeking an injunction against the Defendants for an order of Court restraining the Defendants from taking steps capable of rendering nugatory the pending application for interlocutory injunction and an application seeking to set aside the confirmation made by the Senate of the National Assembly, which step more to undermining the Judiciary’s role and the Rule of Law, has pre­ determined the issues presented by our Clients for judicial determination in the substantive suit.

 

19.0    Having notified your humble self and the other Defendants of the pendency of an application for injunction, we wish to draw your attention to the following judicial authorities on the duty of a party or parties where there is a pending application for injunction. In the case of ELF MARKETING (NIG.) v. J.L. OYENEYIN 8: SONS (1995) 7 NWLR PART 407, PAGE 371 AT 380 PARAGRAPHS A-8, the Court held thus:

 

“Once the court is seized of a matter, no party has a right to take the matter into his own hands. Thus, after a defendant has been notified of the pendency of a suit seeking an injunction against him, even though a temporary injunction be not granted, that party acts at his peril and is subject to the power of the court to restore the status wholly irrespective of the merit as may be ultimately decided…”

 

20.0    Furthermore, in the case of OKEKE-OBA v. OKOYE (1994) 8 NWLR. PART 364, PAGE 605 AT 617-618 PARAGRAPHS H-A, the Court stated as follows:

“The general practice is that an application for an order of interlocutory injunction, all activities affecting the res, here the land in dispute, are automatically terminated as a mark of respect to the court before whom the application is pending. Such practice is encouraged by counsel in good chambers consistent with the ethics of the profession”.

 

21.0    THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/2294/2022: CHIEF EDWARD EKPOKO 8: 2 ORS. v. THE PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 8: 5 ORS.

 

22.0    We wish to state without any iota of doubt that in the light of the development set out herein, no step whatsoever should be taken by the Federal Government to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as same will not only jeopardize the outcome of the litigation process but concomitantly operate to completely erase the confidence reposed in the Judiciary by the common man and a clog in the wheel of the administration of justice.

 

23.0    We have cause to believe, as documentary evidence clearly suggests, that the Federal Government through the Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, is making frantic and brazen efforts to inaugurate Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as the substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission despite the pendency of the suit as well as several applications, and order made by the Court, with the sole aim of stealing a match, stultifying the ·court process and bringing the Rule of Law to ridicule.

 

24.0    CONCLUSION:

Our Clients have done all that is required of them by submitting for judicial consideration and determination their grievances against the Executive and Legislative Arms of Government, it behooves these Arms of Government to resist the urge to defy the Judiciary and indeed the judicial process by refraining from conducts which will render nugatory issues presented by our Clients to the Court.

 

25.0    The attendant implications on the faith and belief of the common man are dire and would almost be dampened if the Executive and the Legislative Arms of Government continue to bond towards shattering the fabric and fibre of the judicial process upon which true democracy is enshrined; which the Judiciary seeks to mend and this certainly does not bode well for the Rule of Law if a precedent of Executive and Legislative disregard to court orders, is so easily displayed with impunity, just before the forthcoming general elections.

 

26.0    Having fought to ensure that there is peace and stability in the Country, it would be manifestly antithetical to the goals of this Administration of which you are a key player, if solely for a refusal to await and comply with the judicial process, all the Executive has worked for in the past seven (7) years, translates to naught.

 

27.0    We are of the firm belief, taking into cognizance the judicial authorities referred to above, that as the Chief Law Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and a strong proponent of the Rule of Law, you will not in any way advise the President and indeed the Minister of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, to proceed with the inauguration of Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku on January 4, 2023, as the Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the NDDC and or concretize their positions, pending the outcome of the adjudicatory process already initiated by our Clients.

 

28.0    Trusting you will advise the relevant parties on the need to allow the judicial process take its course and refrain from taking steps which will ridicule the Rule of Law and further weaken our nascent democratic structure.

 

We remain,

 

Very truly yours,

PP: AMA ETUWEWE (SAN) & CO.

 

 

 

AMA ETUWEWE, SAN.

 

CC:    THE HONOURABLE MINISTER

MINISTRY OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS

ABUJA.

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Crown Troupe of Africa other artists to perform in Lagos Zipowei

Zipowei, Crown Troupe of Africa, other artists to perform in Lagos

 

  • National Theatre Festival of Unity begins
  • Femi Osofisan, Ahmed Parker Yerima, others speak on play creation

 

Zipowei, Crown Troupe of Africa and Blackedge Productions will perform in Lagos.

 

Gifted Steppers, JP Artistic Troupe and selected up-coming solo artistes will also perform at this year’s National Theatre Festival of Unity

 

Zipowei, a graduate of the University of Ibadan and currently participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), made her debut in the music scene with the official release of her first single, “Free Falling,” in October 2022″ a statement issued Friday morning by the Director of Communications, MediaGate Nigeria, Mr. Victor Oki said.

 

The 2022 National Theatre Festival of Unity with the theme Celebrations is designed to consolidate upon the gains of the first two editions.

 

The theme was carefully chosen to give Nigerians an opportunity to take stock of God’s abundant blessings in their lives.

 

The edition which runs from 16-18th December 2022 falls within the last four months of the tenure of the President Muhammadu Buhari led democratic government.

 

‘’It is therefore only fitting to leverage this festival to take stock of the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari despite daunting challenges foist on Nigeria by escalating global economic recession and daunting security challenges’’.

 

The festival shall commence on Friday 16th December 2022 with a new addition to the activities- a virtual roundtable on play creation anchored by the Nigerian Centre of International Theatre Institute (ITI-UNESCO).

 

The innovative roundtable shall feature two leading Nigerian playwrights and former Chief Executive Officers of the National Theatre of Nigeria, Professors Femi Osofisan (2004-2007) and Ahmed Parker Yerima (2007-2014) as mentors and lead speakers.

 

The panellists shall include the three National Theatre Play Reading Series-award winning playwrights.

 

The National Theatre Festival of Unity was introduced in 2020 as an annual event by Professor Sunday Enessi Ododo, (fsonta, fta, fnipr,fsna, fana, FNAL), the General Manager/CEO of the National Theatre.

 

The maiden edition which featured music, dance, and stand-up comedy held at the National Theatre complex, Iganmu-Lagos from 10-13th December 2020.

 

The festival was conceived to celebrate life, build bridges of unity, promote peace and harmony as well as rekindle hope in humanity following the disruption by the Coronavirus pandemic which rocked the globe.

 

Accordingly, the maiden edition had the theme: Healing Nigeria.  In Nigeria, besides the pandemic, there was also the unprecedented youth protest that engulfed the nation shortly thereafter.

 

The maiden edition offered Nigerians and residents alike fresh opportunity to engage and enjoy live performances which were temporarily suspended because of the pandemic.

 

Continuing in its tradition of preaching hope and perseverance amongst Nigerians, the National Theatre hosted the second edition of the festival from December 10th- 12th, 2021 under the theme Enduring Optimism.

 

The 3-day event which also held at the National Theatre, Iganmu- Lagos featured more events than the maiden edition. The new events include carnival procession, film show, visual arts exhibition and awards ceremony. These were in addition to the usual live-theatre performances, music, stand-up comedy and dance.

 

The festival aimed to encourage advancement of the performing arts throughout the country, create opportunities for up- coming Performing Artistes and aid the promotion of social development and improvement of quality of life.

 

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Zi always knew she wanted to be involved in the music scene. From primary school choirs to secondary school mini sessions in her classrooms during free periods, she always seized the opportunity to belt out a few tunes.

 

On some occasions, this involved approaching random classmates in hallways and singing to them.

 

Writing songs since age 13 has helped Zi develop her formula as she delivers lyrics laced with vulnerability and soul in expressions of love, hope, healing, and fun

 

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES STATE TECHNICAL, MONITORING COMMITTEES ON ENGINEERING REGULATIONS MONITORING

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday inaugurated the State Technical Committee (STC) and State Expatriate Monitoring Committee (SEMC) on Engineering Regulations Monitoring (ERM).

Governor Sanwo-Olu while inaugurating the committees at Lagos House, Ikeja, urged them to ensure that all infrastructure in the State meet the global standards of engineering practice.

The Governor warned that nothing short of the best standards will be tolerated and therefore urged the Committees to come up with stringent regulations that will guide the ethics and practices of the profession, as well as adherence to project specifications.

He said: “We have, with all sense of responsibility, given priority to the development of infrastructure. My tour of the State will demonstrate the attention of our administration to massive construction of roads, bridges, housing, water infrastructure, among others.

“The inauguration of the Lagos State Technical Committee of the Engineering Regulations Monitoring of COREN is the birth of a new dawn in what I consider COREN’s effort to revolutionalise the practice of engineering in Nigeria in general and Lagos State in particular.

“With this inauguration, the era of mediocrity should be gone. Engineering must take its pride of place and be the driver in our development effort in the State.

“Let me reiterate that in carrying out engineering projects in Lagos State, there will be no tolerance for quackery. In the same token, no Engineer will be allowed to supervise any project except he/she is duly registered by COREN and possesses current practising license. Possession of current Practising License shall be a condition for prequalification by Licence by all companies assigned to carry out engineering projects in the State.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu who congratulated members of the Lagos State Technical Committee and Lagos State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, for being found deserving of the selection, urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them and perform the assignment with maximum commitment and credibility.

He said “In selecting, the members of the Lagos State Technical Committee and Lagos State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, extreme care and diligence were applied. It is also ensured that these nominees are from very reputable organisations.”

Speaking earlier, the President of Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) Engr. Ali Rabiu FNSE, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for being strategic and deliberately enhancing available human and material resources to serve the people of Lagos State.

He said Governor Sanwo-Olu led administration is being applauded for many projects in the State, which are transformational projects meant to improve the qualities of life in Lagos State

“You are transforming the state into an industrial and economic wonderland of the continent. This is particularly true in Mr. Governor’s efforts in the construction of over 308 roads and the delivery of the red and blue rail project, which he promised to be operational by the first quarter of 2023,” he said.

The Committees are to be guided by the responsibilities of locating document organisations and practitioners and report to the Registrar; verify and monitor the professional competence of works approving Officers; act as COREN watchdogs on maintenance, upholding Engineering codes of practice in public works, prohibit default, and ensure that all such works are in accordance with Engineering design and specification by Registered Engineers; among others.

 

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

15 DECEMBER 2022

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ABAVO CHRONICLE ABEJUKOKO VANGUARD ABIA REPORTERS ABIA SUN ABIGBORODO SUN ABRAKA STATESMAN ABUJA AKWA IBOM PILOT ANAMBRA RECORDER BAYELSA SUN BENUE NEWS DISPATCH CROSS RIVER SENTINEL DELTA LEADER EBONYI TIMES REVIEW EDO COURIER EKITI STAR NEWS ENUGU ADVOCATE FCT MIRROR IMO GAZETTE IMO INDEX KWARA DAILY SUN LAGOS EAGELE NASSARAWA IMPACT NEWSPAPER OGUN NEWSPAPER ONDO INFORMER STAR OSUN RECORD OYO NEWS PLATEAU MESSENGER RIVERS STATE NEWS TARABA COASTER
2023: Ensure people’s right to hold rallies 36 governors SERAP tells Buhari

2023: Ensure people’s right to hold rallies, SERAP tells Buhari, 36 governors

 

 

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari and 36 state governors to “publicly instruct the Nigeria police and state security outfits to respect, protect, and facilitate the rights of everyone to freedom of expression, assembly, association, and equal participation during the election campaigns, regardless of their party affiliation.”

 

SERAP also urged Buhari to “publicly instruct the Nigeria police to facilitate the right of every Nigerian to participate on an equal basis in the political process in any part of the country, and to ensure that the police is not used by state governors to target supporters of opposition parties and those holding differing political views.”

 

According to reports, there are concerns about the lack of a level playing field. The police in Ebonyi State recently dispersed hundreds of supporters of the Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi who gathered for a rally in Abakaliki. Mr Obi has also condemned the attack and intimidation of the party’s supporters.

 

In the letters dated 8 October, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said, “Facilitating the rights of supporters of political parties to hold rallies and processions on an equal basis would promote public confidence in the integrity of the democratic process.”

 

SERAP said, “The right to participate meaningfully and equally in the political and electoral processes including to hold rallies, processions or meetings during the campaigns is part and parcel of any system of representative government.”

 

The letters, read in part: “We would continue to monitor how authorities at all levels are respecting, protecting, and facilitating these fundamental rights ahead of the 2023 elections. We would take all appropriate legal actions to ensure accountability for violations of these rights.”

 

“Respecting, protecting, and facilitating the equal enjoyment of the rights of everyone to speak, assemble, hold rallies, processions or meetings would ensure that the individual citizen can effectively participate in and contribute to the country’s democracy.”

 

“These rights cannot be denied or abridged on account of differing political views or affiliations.”

 

“Authorities must promptly, thoroughly, independently, impartially, and effectively investigate the reports of any violations of these rights, and bring suspected perpetrators including non-state actors, to justice. The victims must be provided access to justice and effective remedies.”

 

“Candidates and political parties and their supporters should be allowed to hold rallies, processions or meetings on an equal basis, and free of intimidation, harassment or threat of attack.”

 

“Section 14(2)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) provides that ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’”

 

“Section 91(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that the Commissioner of Police of each State ‘shall provide adequate security for proper and peaceful conduct of political rallies and processions in their respective jurisdictions.’”

 

“Section 91(4) provides that ‘No political party in Nigeria, its candidates [and supporters] shall be prevented from holding rallies, processions or meetings at any time for their constitutional political purposes.’”

 

“Several provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights both of which Nigeria guarantee the rights of everyone to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.”

 

“Furthermore, the African Union African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which Nigeria has also ratified also calls upon States Parties to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the right to political participation.”

 

“Popular participation is the bedrock of democracy. Ensuring the equal right of every Nigerian to hold rallies, processions or meetings in any state of the country, and Abuja during the election campaigns is essential to the functioning of our participatory and constitutional democracy.”

 

“The constitutional guarantee of equal protection confers a substantive right to participate not only in elections but also to hold rallies, processions or meetings on an equal basis.”

 

“Whether elections ultimately produce accountable and legitimate government depends not only on voting rules but also on factors such as how the rights of people are respected, protected and facilitated during campaigns.”

 

“We hope that the aspects highlighted will help guide your actions in acting to ensure full respect for the human rights of every Nigerian during the campaigns regardless of their party affiliation.”

 

 

 

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

9/10/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

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

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

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

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

EID-EL-MAULUD: SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES MUSLIMS, PREACHES PEACE

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Muslims as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammed.

 

He urged them to emulate the life and good virtues of Prophet Muhammed and also follow the path of peace for the sustainable development and growth of Lagos State.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, urged Nigerians, especially Muslims to continue to pray and work for peace in Nigeria, especially as the country prepares for the 2023 general elections.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians as a whole to embrace peace, harmony and tolerance in line with the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), adding that we must remain tolerant and continue to work in harmony with other religious denominations for a peaceful and violence-free society.

 

He said: “Today, I join millions of people around the world, to wish our Muslim brothers and sisters in Lagos State and in Nigeria Happy Maolud Nabiy, which is the celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

 

“I want to urge Nigerians, especially Muslims to seize the opportunity of the celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) to strengthen their love towards one another and make the society a better place by shunning tendencies that could tamper with the unity and stability in the country.

 

“Let us continue to pray and work for peace of our dear State, Lagos and Nigeria, especially as we prepare for the forthcoming 2023 general elections. Let us do everything within our best to eschew violence and acts inimical to our democracy.”

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu reassured Lagos residents of his government’s commitment to delivering dividends of democracy, good governance and people-oriented programmes through the six pillars THEMES developmental agenda for Greater Lagos.

 

The Governor, who commended Lagosians for their steadfastness, resilience, support and cooperation with his administration, assured them that the Greater Lagos agenda he promised is on course, adding that he will work harder for the progress and development of the State in line with his campaign promises.

 

 

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

09 OCTOBER 2022

 

Okowa mourns Vincent Ogbulafor

 

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has condoled with his Abia counterpart, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, over the death of former National Chairman of PDP, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor.

 

Ogbulafor, pioneer National Secretary of the party, reportedly died on Thursday in Canada at 73.

 

In a condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika in Asaba on Saturday, Okowa expressed sadness over the death of the erstwhile party boss and commiserated with members of his family and the people of Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government of Abia State.

 

He said that Ogbulafor would be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the party, especially from its formative years.

 

“The death of our former National Chairman, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor, came to me with shock, especially now that his wealth of experience is needed in our rescue mission for our country.

 

“He was a true embodiment of a ‘partyman’ who contributed immensely to the party’s growth and development.

 

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I commiserate with members of Ogbulafor family, his community, my dear brother Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu and the government and people of Abia state over the passing of this great Nigerian.

 

“He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, political associates, particularly those whose lives he touched in diverse ways,” he said.

 

Okowa prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and the immediate family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

 

 

2nd October, 2022

 

DELTA PDP CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR OKOWA OVER NATIONAL AWARD

 

Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has Congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the recognition and conferment of the national award; Commander Of The Order Of The Niger, CON on him, by President Mohammadu Buhari.

 

The felicitation was contained in a congratulatory message by the State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “The entire Delta State PDP family, heartily Congratulates His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on your recognition and conferment of the national award of Commander Of The Order Of The Niger, CON, by His Excellency, President Mohammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

 

“Your nomination and endorsement, as the recipient of this prestigious national honour and award, is ample testimony of the national acclaim you have attained, not only as the distinguished Governor of Delta State, but indeed in full cognizance of your sterling reputation and contributions, as a true national statesman, nation builder, peacemaker, detribalized unifier and an exemplary leader in our collective quest towards strengthening and deepening our democratic experience as a people and nation.

 

“We are very proud of your unparalleled achievements as the Governor of Delta State and the undisputed leader of our party at this auspicious time in our national history and we are fully confident that this prestigious award will serve as a catalyst to spur you to greater heights and glory at the national stage.

 

Once again, Congratulations Your Excellency.

 

 

 

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza

State Publicity Secretary,

PDP, Delta State

 

 

 

3rd October, 2022

 

DELTA PDP HAILS HON. ELUMELU ON HIS NATIONAL AWARD

 

Delta State PDP has extended warm felicitations to Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin ELUMELU, Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, over his nomination and approval for the National Award in the rank of OON, (Officer of the Order of the Niger), by President Mohammadu Buhari.

 

The congratulatory message was contained in a press release by the State Publicity Secretary of Delta State PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “Delta State PDP warmly congratulates the Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, on his approval as the recipient of the National Award in the rank of OON, (Officer of the Order of the Niger), by President Mohammadu Buhari.

 

“Your contributions as Minority Leader of the Federal House of Representatives, have been incisive, penetrating, and robust all of which have underscored and established your passion and patriotism as a true Nigerian deserving of the national recognition which the President has so graciously approved.

 

“We have no doubts whatsoever that this National Award is well deserved and will further energize and galvanize you with greater zeal to deliver more democracy dividends to your people and your country.

 

Once again, Congratulations, Sir!

 

 

 

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza

State Publicity Secretary,

PDP, Delta State.

 

 

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

ELUMELU: APC HAS NO RESPECT FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY

 

Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, has responded to a recent Press Release by the All Progressives Congress, APC, titled: “Your government is an embarrassment, Delta State APC chides Okowa… Urges him to apologize to Deltans for his failures,” signed by Ebata Onojeghuo Esq, Delta State Publicity Secretary, APC, describing it as an unfortunate and regrettable manifestation of disrespect for constitutional authority.

 

A statement by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary, Delta PDP,  in response to the APC Press Release, which took a swipe at the Delta State Government for apologising to Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, through the State Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr. Noel Omodon over an embarrassing incident in his Federal Constituency, reads:

 

“Our attention has been drawn to a recent Press Statement by the All Progressives Congress, APC, signed by Ebata Onojeghuo Esq, Delta State Publicity Secretary, APC and we note with dismay, the unfortunate and regrettable manifestation of disrespect for the constitutional authority vested in the person and office of the Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

“That the APC would reference and justify with its warped logic, the unconscionable acts of a bunch of misinformed and misguided youths to obstruct, impede, embarrass the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, with an unruly display of hooliganism, is not only in bad faith, no matter how genuine their intentions and demands may be, but an act of barbarism, couched in the form of an obviously scripted protest deliberately taken beyond the boundaries of civility.

 

“We have no doubts whatsoever that this show of shame obviously contrived to embarrass the distinguished Minority Leader in his own Federal Constituency, is the handiwork of the APC, who apparently deployed their thuggish agents in the Constituency, to engage and compromise some idle, misguided and disgruntled youths, who obviously relish every opportunity to exhibit their recalcitrance.

 

“This crass and unfortunate manifestation of disrespect for recognized constitutional authority, is a clear and shameful reflection of the brazen disregard with which the APC equally treats its own members occupying such constitutionally empowered positions and we are not at all surprised by their robust and gleeful endorsement of this primitive act of rowdy protest which ought to and should be roundly and comprehensively condemned, by all civilized individuals and groups. There are better and more responsible, civilized ways of presenting issues than this.

 

“Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, is a mercurial and outstanding PDP lawmaker, who has, in his two separate tenures at the House, distinguished himself both as a lawmaker and as the Minority Leader, with an excellent track record of unparalleled delivery of democracy dividends to his constituents in the four Local Government Areas of the Federal Constituency he represents and to the Nigerian masses, as one of the most robust and dynamic leaders in the country, in the opposition gallery of the lower House of the National Assembly.

 

“We are proud to confirm that Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, keyed into the SMART Agenda and the #Stronger Delta objective of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration from the onset and has been one of the exemplary leaders in the implementation of the initiatives, through his comprehensive empowerment programmes, jobs creation, skills acquisition, infrastructural development projects and other incentives, which have impacted positively on the lives of his people across all strata and the transformation of the communities in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.

 

“It is therefore totally unacceptable for the APC to cast aspersion on the Delta State Government for apologising to one of our star performers in the democratic space and we want to state here categorically that we not only fully align with the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr. Noel Omodon by adding our own voice to the apologies, but we are fully satisfied with his very concise, cerebral and articulate explanation of the circumstances that resulted in delaying the completion of the project.

 

“Let us put it on record by reminding the APC that due to the sorry state of Federal roads, particularly in Delta State, heavy-duty trucks passing through the Issele-Uku metropolis to access the Benin/Asaba/Onitsha Expressway, particularly, the Ogbeofu Road, which is the very artery of the Issele-Uku NYSC Orientation Camp Road Project, now put pressure on these State/Community roads, thereby destroying them.

 

“Sadly, the Deputy Senate President does not see any reason to comment or intervene on this dire situation which falls squarely on the table of the Federal Government and is yet another glaring example of APC’s ineptitude, which notwithstanding, the Delta State Government is finding a lasting solution to the terrible conditions of our Federal roads.

 

“We are quite pleased that Mr. Omodon has equally expressed the sympathies of the State Government and identified with the pains the people of Aniocha North, particularly the inhabitants of Idumuje-Ugboko, Issele-Uku, Onicha-Uku, and other road users in the area have to go through as a result of the road, even as he has also assured the people that all the necessary logistics, equipment and materials have been secured and the project will be handled with accelerated effort and efficiency to ensure speedy completion, to the shame and chagrin of the APC detractors.

 

“We have consistently maintained that the PDP administration of Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is a listening and action Government, which has always responded and will continue to deliver the full dividends of democracy to Deltans, especially with the continued active contributions and invaluable support of the Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Minority Leader Federal House of Representatives, as we march towards achieving a #Stronger Delta for all Deltans.

 

Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta.

 

PDP! Power to the People.

 

 

 

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,

State Publicity Secretary,

PDP, Delta State.

 

 

 

 Delta deplores state of federal roads, calls for power devolution

 

Delta Government has decried the deplorable state of some federal roads in the state and called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the situation.

 

Addressing a news conference in Asaba on Wednesday,  the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said that the deplorable state of federal roads across the country justified calls for devolution of power in the polity.

 

Aniagwu who was with the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said that the state government had spent enormous resources on interventions on federal roads but pointed out that some others had become dilapidated, without attention from the Federal Government.

 

He stressed that devolving power to component units would provide them more funds to undertake the task of infrastructural development of the states, including roads, that seemed to have overwhelmed the Federal Government.

 

“We have continued to intervene on federal roads in the state since 2015, and some of you have had cause to accompany us on inspection of these federal roads.

 

“You also know that we have intervened three times on the Eku-Agbor-Uromi road which is also a federal road.

 

“Not long ago, we wanted to start another intervention on the road but the Federal Government said the road has been awarded to a contractor and that made it very difficult for us to do what we needed to do,” he said.

 

The commissioner disclosed that the attention of the state government had been drawn to a viral video on a failed part of Uromi(Edo)-Agbor(Delta) road and said that it was a federal road.

 

He explained that the state government had intervened on two different occasions on the road.

 

“We were intervening on that road and other federal roads in the state until we were told by the Federal government that the job of the road had already been awarded to a contractor.

 

“The road has gone very bad to the extent that commuters are going through a lot of troubles on it and we have pleaded with the Federal Government to take another look at that road because it is in a very bad shape.

 

“You will recall that when we revamped the Agbor Technical College, we intervened on that road and we never asked for any refunds in these interventions.

 

“What has become a challenge is that the Federal Government has taken far more than they can deal with in a number of these projects and that’s why people have been calling for the devolution of powers to the component units.

 

“This is important because when you devolve power and allow the component units to tackle these issues it means that you will also have an adjustment in the revenue sharing formular such that states will have more resources to to deal with some of these issues that affects our people.

 

“We are very very pained as a government that these federal roads are in a very terrible situation and commuters from across the country are actually going through hellish situation to travel through these routes,” Aniagwu stated.

 

“All the federal roads we have intervened have gulped several billions of naira and we are not even going to ask the federal government to refund us because what we did was to remedy the situation along those roads.

 

“We wish the federal government had given us approval for us to possibly intervene fully and that would have given us hope that we would be able to get back the funds, but even when we knew we won’t get back the funds, we have tried continously to intervene on these roads.

 

“We are therefore asking the federal government to mobilise the contractors to come and work on these roads because Nigerians are going through hell along these roads,” he added.

 

On the recent protest against EFCC by alleged “Yahoo boys” in the state, Aniagwu urged the people to remain calm, adding that government had ordered investigation into the incident.

 

He assured that the government would continue to protect the rights of law-abiding individuals, but that it would not protect anyone found to have gone against the law.

 

“The state government will carry out a thorough investigation to ascertain whether the EFCC operated within the confines of the law and whether in doing so they realised that there is need to respect the fundamental rights of those arrested.

 

“We will also examine whether those alleged to have gone on rampage to protest also respected the rights of the EFCC to carry out its duties as enabled by law,” Aniagwu said.

 

On his part, Ifeajika thanked journalists in the state for their support and urged them to do more critical analysis on issues as watchdogs of the society by making governments accountable to the people.

 

He said that Delta had been adjudged by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) as second least poverty state in the country, adding that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa was being accorded a national honour by the APC-led Federal Government in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in the governance of the state.

 

 

 

Okowa wants improved condition of service for healthcare professionals

 

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on Thursday, called for improved condition of service for healthcare professionals so as to discourage their migration from the country in search of greener pastures.

 

Okowa made the call when he received members of the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria led by Prof. Abubakar Auwal who visited him at Government House, Asaba.

 

He lamented the exodus of medical doctors and nurses from the country in search of greener pastures, and said that healthcare providers should be provided with facilities to enable them discharge their peofessional duties as a way of halting brain drain in the country.

 

According to him, the federal and sub-national governments should do the needful by prioritising healthcare delivery through deliberate policy framework that would enable the country to retain its healthcare professionals.

 

The governor said federal and state governments should place high premium on the healthcare needs of the masses, their education and welfare scheme as a veritable means of enhancing their living standard.

 

“Every visionary government must take proactive steps aimed at providing qualitative and affordable healthcare delivery system that will take care of the vulnerable segment of the society.

 

“I am glad that you have a strong committee, especially in the current times that we are in with lots of issues in our nation. I believe that your work is not easy and you realise the challenges we face in medical institutions.

 

“So, I believe that when you continue to sit together, you will be able to proffer solutions to issues, share ideas as to what to do to help this country at this time when it appears that things are going wrong in every facet.

 

“I truly want to let you know that we have had a very strong relationship with the Federal Medical Center, Asaba. I know that they did carry a lot of load.

 

“As a nation, there are too many things going wrong both in the health and education sectors. And truly, I am one person that believes that we must prioritise health and education in this nation if we are to do well,” he said.

 

While reiterating the need for government to improve the condition of service for doctors and other health personnel, the governor noted that their exit, if not checked, will culminate in loss of capable hands to render critical medical services to patients.

 

He disclosed that the contributory health insurance scheme of his administration had no fewer than one million enrollees, including pregnant women and children under five years of age, with the government paying premium for their healthcare services.

 

“With a lot of our people below the poverty line, the greatest service you can do to touch their lives, is to ensure that we provide a process through which they can stay healthy and also ensure that their children are educated.

 

“Unfortunately, our priorities do not seem to be taken in the right direction. I believe that there are so many policies that we undertake in this nation that is anti-poor.

 

“Most times, we tend to undertake policies that impact more positively on the middle class and the rich and erroneously, we belive that we are touching the lives of the poor.

 

“Most poor persons are not able to see their children through school nor access healthcare. And many times we talk about health tourism and how to curb it, when we should first talk about the foundation of the health of our people, which is the primary health care.

 

“When people have functional primary health care centres, we can now progress to the issues of secondary health care institutions. The foundation is nearly lost and it is not the best for our nation.

 

“The National Health Act was signed into law in 2014, have we really implemented that Act by trying to do the things we ought to do?

 

“In this country, a lot of persons are getting poorer by the day. We have not created opportunity for people to have access to good healthcare. Many people still self-medicate and many die in the course of that.

 

“So, we need to find way to revisit the entire process and rework our health delivery system in such a way that it works.

 

“We have included in our National Health Act, the basic healthcare provision fund. It has been very sloppy the way they try to work out the operations.

 

“I am aware that they only released monies for one or two years and that is all, every other thing has not been done.

 

“I am one person that believes that if we try that process, with the seed money there, encouraging the state government with the collaborations of the local government, we can truly go very far in providing basic health care for all our vulnerables for a cost that is low.

 

“We can ensure that a lot of our people are able to access health care, without having to pay out of their pockets at that point in time of their need. We need to implement the National Health Act in full,” he added.

 

Other areas of necessity, Okowa stressed, included education, security, job creation and human capital development, and described as unfortunate, the eight months industrial action by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that had kept students at home.

 

He said that the four universities owned by the state had been in session because his administration understood the importance of education and provided adequately for the institutions and the personnel.

 

He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to do the needful so that the union’s strike would be called off to enable students resume studies.

 

“Coming to the education of our people, it is unfortunate to see that our children in higher institutions have been out of school for eight months now. No matter the situation, it ought not to be so.

 

“We need to find a solution on both sides because the children and their parents are suffering. We have four Universities in Delta because of the huge educational gap in the state before now. So, we have to upgrade some institutions to university.

 

“We did this because we have prioritised education and know the importance of education. If we educate our people, we are actually helping to lift them out of poverty,” Okowa stated.

 

He assured that the state government would continue to ensure that education was given the prime attention that it deserved.

 

He charged medical directors to fashion out ways of expanding access to healthcare services both in urban and rural communities.

 

Earlier, leader of the team, Prof. Auwal had said that they were in the state for their meeting, and thanked Governor Okowa for prioritising healthcare delivery for residents of the state and his giant strides in other sectors of the state’s economy.

 

He called on other sub-national governments in the country to emulate Okowa’s developmental policies and programmes.

 

Auwal observed that the collaboration between Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba and the Delta State Government had significantly helped in reducing the burden of healthcare delivery services.

 

He noted that the free medical care for pregnant women and children under five years of age in Delta State was a model for other states to emulate, adding that the healthcare policy was a right step in them right direction.

 

While pledging the readiness of the Committee towards improved healthcare delivery in the country, Prof. Auwal called on government at all levels to assist in making healthcare services available and affordable for the masses.

 

 

 

 

 

Delta repudiates Ayakoromo bridge contract

 

Delta Government on Friday said the multi-billion naira contract for the construction of Ayakoromo bridge in Burutu Local Government Area of the state had been repudiated due to poor performance by the contractor.

 

Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Noel Omodon, told newsmen in Asaba, that the decision on the contract was taken at the State Executive Council meeting presided by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

 

According to him, Exco approved the repudiation of the Ayakoromo bridge contract because the contractor was not able to carry on with the job as expected.

 

“The pace of work has become so slow and they are having their own internal challenges and because it is one of the very important projects we are desirous of completing, Exco approved the termination of the contract to enable us get a new contractor to complete the project as soon as possible,” he explained.

 

Omodon also disclosed that Exco approved the 2023 budget estimates for transmission to the House of Assembly for approval.

 

“The main purpose of today’s Exco meeting was to consider the 2023 budget estimates and we have approved it for onward transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and approval”

 

The commissioner who was flanked by his counterparts in Rural and Riverine Roads, Chief Solomon Golley and Girl-Child Empowerment, Mrs Nkechi Chukwurah, said Exco also approved the construction of Kwekagbor Road opposite Summit Junction, Asaba; Mission Road, Akumazi in Ika North East; Idheze internal road; Olomoro-Enwhe Road and Yanga Market Oleh-Irri-Aviara Road all in Isoko South.

 

He said more projects were reviewed due to rising cost of diesel, granite, sharp stone, rods, bitumen, asphalt among other construction materials.

 

“Exco approved the review for Orere Bridge, Achala-Ibusa Road, NYSC Road Issele-Uku; and Trans Warri Road and bridges.

 

“We also approved contracts for the construction of College of Medicine Faculty at University of Delta Agbor; construction of Faculty of Management and Social Sciences in the three new universities among others,” he said.

 

He said Exco also gave approval for some projects to aid the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival billed for November 2022 in Asaba.

 

 

 

October 8, 2022

Press Statement

PDP Grief-Stricken, Mourns Former National Chairman, Vincent Ogbulafor

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grief-stricken over the death of one of our founding members, former National Chairman, former National Secretary of our great Party and former Minister of State, Special Duties, Prince Vincent Ogbulafor.

Prince Ogbulafor was an exceptionally patriotic leader, a detribalized Nigerian and quintessential democrat who dedicated his skills, resources and energies in selfless service towards the unity, stability, democratic advancement and economic development of our nation.

As the National Secretary of the PDP, Prince Ogbulafor played key roles alongside others leaders of our Party in laying a solid foundation for effective Party management and administration as well as development and implementation of our robust policy guidelines that led to key accomplishments of successive PDP administrations in the country.

As PDP National Chairman as well as Minister of Special Duties, he displayed a unique leadership capacity in leading the PDP to effectively deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

The PDP mourns over this great national tragedy especially coming at this point in our national life when our Party and indeed the nation need his wealth of experience the most.

The PDP commiserates with the Ogbulafor Family, the Government and people of Abia State, the PDP in Abia State as well as the people of Olokoro, Umuahia South of Abia State and pray to God to grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

 

Text of Press Interactive Session by the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Hon. Debo Ologunagba, Today, Saturday October 8, 2022

The PDP formally informs Nigerians that our Party, the PDP will officially flag off its 2023 Presidential Election Campaign on Monday, October 10, 2022 in Uyo Akwa-Ibom State Capital.

Our Party is fully prepared for an issue-based campaign and our Presidential Candidate, H E. Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, H.E. Ifeanyi Okowa are fully “Articulated” for the campaign.

The PDP will take our campaign to all the States, Local Government Areas, Wards and Polling Units across the country under the Unified Campaign Structure as approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our Party.

Our Campaign will be people-driven and focused on PDP and H.E. Atiku Abubakar’s mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the abysmal misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

From our consultations across the six geo-political zones of the country, it is clear that Nigerians across board, irrespective of religion, ethnicity and even political affiliations accept the PDP Presidential Candidate, H.E. Atiku Abubakar as the best Candidate with the practical experience, capacity, broad-mindedness and willpower to Unite our nation, Revamp our national economy, and guarantee security of lives and property in our country.

Why Nigerians Want H.E. Atiku Abubakar

H.E. Atiku Abubakar as Vice President to President Olusegun Obasanjo was the Chairman of the National Economic Council.

During that period;

  • Our nation achieved unprecedented national productivity
  • Secured $30bn overall debt relief from the Paris and London Clubs
  • Nigeria’s economy was revamped to become one of the fastest growing economies in the world with stable exchange rate.
  • Foreign reserves rose from $2bn in 1999 to $43bn in 2007
  • Power generation rose from average daily generation capacity of 1,800mw in 1999 to 4,000 mw in 2007.
  • Our country witnessed the liberalization of the telecommunication industry and the advent of GSM and Internet facilities in Nigeria
  • Our country also witnessed a boost in private Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Nigeria
  • More Nigerians opened investments in sectors hitherto controlled by foreigners including in the downstream and upstream petroleum sectors.
  • Owing to the conducive economic environment, there was increase in Foreign Direct Investment and more Nigerians in the Diaspora returned to establish businesses in the country
  • Expanded and consolidated the Nigerian banking industry to make it operate and participate effectively in global banking businesses.
  • Nigeria achieved one of the most profitable Stock Markets in the world with an average Return on Investment of over 31%
  • Our nation also achieved a consolidated Pension System both in the private and public sectors. (The APC has been seeking to siphon money from that Fund).
  • Under Atiku Abubakar as coordinator of the economy, Nigeria achieved economic rebound after military rule. Today Nigeria and Nigerians need Atiku Abubakar to achieve a rebound after the misrule of the APC.

On APC Campaign:

The APC has become prostrate, handicapped and incapacitated to campaign as it has no legally valid candidate for the 2023 general elections.

  • Recall that the PDP had on February 22, 2022 and March 8, 2022 cautioned that with its foisting of an illegal and unconstitutional leadership, the APC has become “legally defunct, structurally crippled and no longer a legitimate and valid vehicle to field candidates for elections under our laws”.
  • The PDP had cautioned all aspirants in the APC then “not waste their resources, time and energy in the APC as they will be on a journey to nowhere. Today, the chicken has finally come home to roost.
  • As you are aware, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday, September 30, 2022 nullified the candidature of Governor Gboyega Oyetola’s in the July 16 2022 Osun State Governorship election on the ground that his nomination was invalid, having been conducted and submitted by Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, in violation of Section 183 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).
  • For emphasis, Section 183 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) provides that a state governor “shall not, during the period when he holds office, hold any other executive office or paid employment in any capacity whatsoever”.
  • This judgment reaffirms the judgment of the Court of Appeal in the case of Jegede vs INEC that a violation of any provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) particularly as it relates to Section 183 portend grave consequences.
  • The import of the September 30, 2022 judgment of the Federal High Court is that every decision made by Governor Mai Mala Buni as Chairman of the APC is null and void as you cannot place something on nothing and expect it to stand.
  • Consequently, the Congresses as well as the National Convention which produced APC Excos including the Sen. Adamu Abdullahi-led NWC is void
  • In effect the primaries and Presidential Convention conducted by the Sen. Adamu Abdullahi-led NWC, including the nomination of Sen. Ahmed Bola Tinubu as Presidential Candidate of the APC is invalid, null and void ab-initio.
  • In any case, the APC candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nothing to offer being the architect of the woes, calamities and life-discounting experiences faced by Nigerians in the last seven and half years.
  • Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should go home and face the issues of inconsistencies in his educational qualifications, name, ancestry, age as well as corruption allegations.
  • Thank you

 

GOV AKEREDOLU HONOURS AKIN OLOTU AT DAUGHTER’S WEDDING

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Saturday joined the family of Akin Olotu at the Solemnization of Holy Matrimony between Olamide Akin-Olotu and Paul Williams.

Olamide is the daughter of the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Akeredolu on Agric and Agribusines, Pastor Akin Olotu.

The wedding ceremony was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Redemption Court Ondo Province 4, Akure.

The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Olowo of Owo,Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye; the Ondo State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; some members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries attended the Church wedding.

The Officiating Minister, Pastor Dele Akinyan who spoke on “Partnering for Life” identified two pillars of marriage including love and submission.

He called on the wife to submit to her husband and avoid unnecessary argument to sustain their marriage.

 

WE ARE CREATING ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR BUSINESSES, ENTREPRENEURS-GOV AKEREDOLU

  • Presents Business Grants to Ten Entrepreneurs
  • Launches Online Classified Marketplace

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said that his administration will continue to create enabling environment for the entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.

The Governor pointed to his administration’s efforts on security and infrastructural development as some of the basic arrangements put in place to ensure enabling environment for entrepreneurs and investors to do business with ease.

Governor Akeredolu spoke on Friday at the Entrepreneurs’ Summit held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The DOME), Igbatoto road, Akure.

At the event, the Governor gave out one thousand free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Registration Certificates to businesses and presented business grants to ten innovative entrepreneurs.

He also launched the first Ondo State online classified marketplace with the assurance that it will expose entrepreneurs products and services to the world.

“This is a platform where businesses and entrepreneurs can upload their innovative products and services, buy and sell from one another as well as position their businesses for global brand visibility. Please join me as I hereby launch www.ondomarket.com.

“Our world today has gone digital even with marketplaces, and as a State we deem it fit to encourage business listing for our entrepreneurs. Now it is easy to showcase your businesses to the world. Anyone from around the world can easily locate businesses in Ondo State and I believe this will also help angel investors find you easily.” The Governor said.

According to Governor Akeredolu:”Security of lives and property, provision of health care, infrastructural development, constant power supply, innovative education, access to funds and many more, need urgent and constant attention.”

Arakunrin Akeredolu said his administration is connecting roads across the local government areas, from the rural to urban settlements, especially access to the market, adding that it has made commuting for entrepreneurs less stressful.

On security, the Governor noted that the Amotekun Corps is recording huge success in fighting crime and criminality to ensure that businesses and individuals are safe with a view to making the Sunshine State an attractive destination to investors.

He said:”Creating an enabling environment aids the process of achieving value in business and it is a major driver in achieving business goals.

“When the corporate environment is bedeviled with inclement atmosphere, businesses suffer, services are unsatisfactory, investors are discouraged, ideas and innovations die, unemployment rate increases, hunger and insecurity become the order of the day.”

Governor Akeredolu, while assuring that entrepreneurship will continue to remain a priority in the state, stressed that it has been a major priority of his administration since his first term in office.

“Part of our efforts is the creation of Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) through which this programme is being anchored. I am glad to disclose to you that thousands of people seated in this hall are beneficiaries of the agency, which is unarguably the first of such entrepreneurship agencies designed and solely directed to develop, manage and empower entrepreneurs for poverty eradication, job creation and economic development, in Nigeria today.

“It is important to note that our theme for today’s summit is not just “Creating an Enabling Environment for Entrepreneurs”, but an enabling environment for us all. Our dear country needs to be an enabling environment for all.

“Today, we are giving out to 1,000 businesses, free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Registration Certificates.

“This is because for businesses to create a reputable and relevant brand identity and to access corporate opportunities while doing business in Nigeria, such business must be registered with the appropriate commission. I am also aware that in 2022 alone, 100 businesses have benefitted from Business Setup and Rebranding Packages.

“Tonight, ten innovative entrepreneurs will definitely smile home with business grants. They will also embark on an international business trip.

“This tour is designed to foster networking opportunities also to open up their entrepreneurial minds for global awareness and innovative approach to proffering economic solutions for the advancement of the State and the country at large.”

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship Development and CEO ONDEA, Dr. Summy Smart-Francis, lauded Governor Akeredolu for his unwavering commitment to development of young entrepreneurs in the state.

He hailed the Governor for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

He equally encouraged the young entrepreneurs to be focused and determined, saying Governor Akeredolu has created a lot of business opportunities in the state through ONDEA.

Other panelists including the deputy Governor, lucky Aiyedatiwa, who spoke at the well attended summit applauded Governor Akeredolu for his sterling achievements in all sectors of the economy in the state.

Highlights of the summit were Panel Sessions with Entrepreneurs, Heads of Government Parastatals, and the Deputy Governor.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

October 8, 2022.

 

 

Delta Politician, Anthony Akpeki marries former African track queen, Endurance Ojokolo

 

Delta politician, Anthony Akpeki, will on Saturday, December 17, 2022 marry former African track queen, Endurance Ojokolo.

The ceremony will begin at 10:00am.

According to a press release issued by the families of Pa Emmanuel Ojokolo and Pa Stephen Amatowa Akpeki of Ukwuani Nation and Okpe Kingdom, the marriage is scheduled to hold at 17 Ikpereva Street, Okirighwere in Sapele Local Government Area.

 

The traditional marriage will bring together high-ranking gov­ernment functionaries, sportspersons and administrators, prominent traditional rulers, professionals, 2023 candidates and leaders of political parties around the world.

 

‘’The high society marriage reception of the 100 metres specialist and the renowned politician will take place at Sapele Township Stadium’’.

 

Anthony Ogheneyerowo Akpeki is a unique and essential player in Delta State politics.

Okere-Urhobo royal families knock Louis Okumagba over Uduaghan, land comments

 

Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.

 

They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.

 

‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’

 

Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri Monday morning.

 

Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.

 

The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.

 

‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’

 

 

 

The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.

 

‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues. on family lands and other related family matters’’

 

They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.

 

‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.

 

They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.

 

‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.

 

The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.

 

‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.

 

Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.

 

‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi,. Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’

 

The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.

 

‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.

 

They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.

 

‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,

 

Last week, the  families condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.

 

They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.

 

In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.

 

’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’

 

Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government  acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.

 

‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’

 

The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.

 

‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.

 

The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).

‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.

This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.

‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.

The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families

‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.

The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.

‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.

 

 

 

Remarks by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Governor of Kaduna State, at The presentation of the staff of office to the new Esu Chikun of Chikun Chiefdom, His Highness Isyaku Yari, held in Kakau on Wednesday, 5th October 2022.

PROTOCOLS

  1. As we gather here today for the official commencement of the reign of a new Esu Chikun, permit me to pay deserved tribute to the memory of his immediate predecessor, His Highness Dr. Danjuma Barde. We honour his dedication to peaceful relations between the diverse people who now live within Chikun chiefdom. Dr. Barde had a successful reign and we wish his successor an even more successful time in leading this important chiefdom which is one of the very largest in the state.
  2. We congratulate His Highness Isyaku Yari on his appointment as the new Esu Chikun of Chikun Chiefdom. We wish him a happy and accomplished reign in the service of Chikun Chiefdom and the state. He has been elevated into a position of privilege, with all the reverence people often show to their traditional institutions. But this is a throne with many responsibilities, beyond the visible trappings of royalty.
  3. We urge His Highness Mr. Isyaku Yari to see his new appointment as a call to service. In his new responsibilities, he will be able to put into use his experience as a District Head and vast knowledge of the traditional institution. We call on the members of the Chikun Traditional Council, title holders and all ruling houses in the Chiefdom to accord respect and provide their full support to to the new Esu Chikun. We appeal to all residents of Chikun chiefdom to continue to uphold peace and harmonious coexistence.
  4. Your Highnesses, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, let me at this point express our gratitude and appreciation to our esteemed and respected traditional rulers for their contributions to peace and progress in the state. Our traditional institutions are helping our agencies with intelligence at the local level. Across the state, district and village heads are helping to promote better record-keeping and data gathering in our communities on births, deaths and routine immunization of children against vaccine-preventable diseases.
  5. On our part, the Kaduna State Government has taken steps to strengthen the traditional institution. We have enacted a law to reform the traditional institution, clarify succession processes for every chiefdom and emirate and insulate the institution from political interference and capricious decisions. The law provides for the posting of well-trained and experienced personnel to staff the various traditional councils. We expect the Reform of Traditional Institutions Law passed in 2021 to assist the traditional institutions to better discharge their roles.
  6. The Kaduna State Government is addressing the welfare and working conditions of the traditional institution in the state, within its constraints. We have purchased and distributed official vehicles to all the 32 graded emirates and chiefdoms in the state. We have also purchased and are currently distributing another set of official vehicles to the 88 district heads in the State. Many palaces are also being renovated to improve the living conditions of the royal fathers.
  7. As you are aware, this government has undertaken unprecedented measures to expand infrastructure in the state and to improve the access of ordinary people to education and health care. Our investment drive continues to attract new business to the state. Chikun chiefdom hosts some of the largest new investments in the state.
  8. The state government is also implementing infrastructure projects within this chiefdom. Early this year, President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the road from Millennium City to the Eastern Bypass, one of the longest road projects we constructed in the first phase of our urban renewal programme. In addition, the Kaduna Capital Territory Authority (KCTA) is undertaking the following projects within Chikun LGA:
  9. Completion of the Romi-Karatudu Road
  10. 2.9km road network around the Sabon Tasha market

iii. Millennium City to Keke road

  1. Baptist Church Road at Janruwa
  2. Water intake to Sabon Tasha road
  3. Ungwan Gimbiya road.
  4. Also, the Kaduna Markets Development and Management Company (KMDMC) is reconstructing the Sabon Tasha Market in a public-private partnership.
  5. I urge all our communities to continue to uphold friendly relations and mutual coexistence.

Thank you for listening.

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