The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Actress Anita Joseph in love with Queen Naomi

    Actress Anita Joseph in love with Queen Naomi

    Actress Anita Joseph has beamed with joy after meeting the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Queen Naomi.

    Upon meeting themselves, Queen Naomi expressed love for the screen goddess during the exclusive premiere of the Pandora perfume.

    Read Also: Uzoma Omenka laments injustice in ‘Freedom’

    Anita claimed that following her unexpected statement, she fell even more in love with the former Queen, who she couldn’t believe was a fan of hers. She wrote: “Have you met the Prophetess before? She’s so gorgeous OMG. When she said she’s my fan, I fell more in love with her”.

  • Singer Dammy Krane replies Davido over accomodation assistance claim

    Singer Dammy Krane replies Davido over accomodation assistance claim

    Popular Afrobeats musician, Dammy Krane has fired superstar singer, Davido over what he described as his childish and weak response on X app.

    This is coming after Davido called out Dammy Krane for forgetting the days he housed him in his Atlanta house.

    However, Dammy Krane denied the claim, stating he only lived with Davido after he convinced him to because of a Sony deal he was about to sign.

    In his words: “See as you wan disgrace yourself na now you go really get that izzue.”

    Read Also: How Orijin celebrated Fela’s Legacy at 2023 Felabration

    “1: ‘Izzue is your song’, you featured me bro & it was released on your YouTube & Digital platforms (you chop all the money alone) Thank God everything is Online (receipts dey).”

    “2: You convinced me to come stay in your house because Sony music guys in Atlanta reached out to you that they want to sign me (that’s wen We did an affiliation with my label & DMW)because You wan chop out of my Sony music deal, Na you still scatter the deal cos d deal go help me”.

    “So because your friend gifted you , so he shouldn’t pay for the goods he took from your shop?” That Got me like.David-owe warn yourself owe.”

  • My ex-wife wasn’t a mistake, says Actor Ninalowo Bolanle

    My ex-wife wasn’t a mistake, says Actor Ninalowo Bolanle

    Actor Bolanle Ninalowo has stated that his ex-wife Bunmi wasn’t a mistake but divinely orchestrated to cross his paths.

    The celebrity crush of many ladies revealed to TVC that he is a special person, as he is anointed, graceful and spiritual.

    The father of two stated that irrespective of his failed marriage, he still doesn’t consider his wife a mistake, adding that the next woman he will meet will also be divine.

    Read Also: Uzoma Omenka laments injustice in ‘Freedom’

    Speaking of journey, Ninalowo mentioned that he is still on a journey and he hasn’t gotten to his destination yet.

    “I am a special kind of person, I am anointed, graceful, and very spiritual. My ex-wife wasn’t a mistake in my life, it was divine and the next woman I will meet will also be divine.

    “You can’t have a destination without a journey, and I am journeying through life. I am not interested in any woman but when I see the woman I will know,” he said.

  • How I was beaten on set, by actress Toyin Abraham

    How I was beaten on set, by actress Toyin Abraham

    Actress Toyin Abraham has narrated her experience as an upstart in the film industry.

    She recounted how she got beaten on a movie set before finally hitting stardom.

    The mother of one made this known during a recent Interview with BBC Pidgin.

    Read Also: How Orijin celebrated Fela’s Legacy at 2023 Felabration

    “I never see road wey smooh, I don travel, I don go London, I don go Canada, I don go America, I dey look for road wey smooth, e no dey. You go see one something, so anything no smooth, challenge go come. But all those big ones, dem don beat me for location well well, because I don become star? Different things don happen pass but those ones na past, so challenge must dey,” she said.

    The Edo-born actress became more popular with her self produced movie Alakada which she said is her favourite film till date.

  • Supreme Court to get more Justices soon, says CJN

    Supreme Court to get more Justices soon, says CJN

    • Retiring Justice Muhammad seeks reform of judiciary  
    • Says every part of Nigeria ought to be represented in presidential election appeal panel   
    • Seeks reduction in Chief Justice’s powers    
    • Queries application of Judiciary’s budgetary allocations

    The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has assured that the problem of depletion on the Bench of the Supreme Court will soon be addressed.

     Justice Ariwoola said efforts were in top gear to appoint new Justices to the apex court.

    He spoke in Abuja yesterday during a valedictory court session held in honour of the retiring Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad.

    The CJN said: “His retirement today has further depleted our ranks and opened a yawning gap that will hardly be filled. 

    “With him leaving us today after the retirement of Hon. Justice Adamu Amina Augie a few weeks ago, we are now left with just 10 Justices on the Supreme Court Bench; being the lowest we have ever had in contemporary history of the Court. 

    “However, I can confidently assure all the litigant public that efforts are in top gear to get on board a sizeable number of Justices to boost our rank and complement the tremendous effort we have been investing in the business of the court.”

    Justice Ariwoola, who eulogised Justice Muhammad, hailed him for his contribution to the development of the nation’s Judiciary.

    He added: “His Lordship is one judicial officer that could be blunt, even to a fault; and is never known to be afraid to say things the way they are; and also never shies away from calling a spade by its name, irrespective of whose ox is gored. 

    “Through his mien and conduct, His Lordship has succeeded in erecting an edifice of hope and optimism in the minds of his teeming admirers and even generations yet unborn who will be privileged to access and behold his great works in the judicial landscape that have already been well documented and displayed conspicuously in the shelves of various libraries across the world.”

     In his address, Justice Muhammad called for immediate reform of the Judiciary, particularly as it relates to the powers of the CJN, the management of its finances, the process of appointing judges, commitment to justice dispensation, among others.

    He lamented the dwindling fortunes of the Judiciary, saying: “It is obvious that the Judiciary I am exiting from is far from the one I voluntarily joined and desired to serve and be identified with. The institution has become something else.”

    He said a situation where the Constitution gives enormous powers to the CJN was unhealthy because such powers were easily abused.

    The retiring Justice said: “As presently structured, the CJN is Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC) which oversees both the appointment and discipline of judges. He is equally Chair of the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC), the National Judicial Institute (NJI), the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC) that appoints Senior Advocates of Nigeria. 

    “In my considered opinion, the oversight functions of these bodies should not rest on an individual alone.

     “A person with absolute powers, it is said, corrupts easily and absolutely. As Chair of NJC, FJSC, NJI and LPPC, appointments as council, board and committee members are at his pleasure.

     “He neither confers with fellow justices nor seeks their counsel or input on any matter related to these bodies. He has both the final and the only say.

     “The CJN has power to appoint 80 per cent of members of the council and 60 per cent of members of FJSC. The same applies to NJI and LPPC.

     “Such enormous powers are effortlessly abused. This needs to change. Continued denial of the existence of this threatening anomaly weakens effective judicial oversight in the country.

     Justice Muhammad, who retired as the second most senior Justice of the court, argued that it was not ideal where the second most senior Justice in the country was not constitutionally assigned any role, with the CJN having all the powers and responsibilities.

     “Regrettably, the next most senior justice of the Supreme Court, like Deputy Governors of a state, shorn of any official function except at the pleasure of the Governor, is neither consulted on anything nor does he have any official function.

     “His job as No. 2 is purely as the CIN pleases. It is incumbent that the system provides for more inclusion and consultation among the stakeholders.”

     Justice Muhammad regretted the depletion of the number of Justices of the Supreme Court.

     He argued that it would have been ideal to have Justices from all geo-political zones on the panel of the presidential election appeal, saying such was impossible because of the shortage in the number of the court’s Justices.

     He blamed the delay in appointing new Justices to fill the existing vacancy to complacency on the part of the CJN.

     Justice Muhammed said: “The conversation about the diminishing number of justices at the Supreme Court has become a refrain. 

    Read Also: Mutiu Are hails Tinubu’s Supreme Court victory

    “As I bow out today, the number is further reduced to 10 against the constitutional requirement of 21 justices. 

    “That this avoidable depletion has affected and will further affect the court and litigants is stating the obvious. 

    “As the justices, who hear these matters are grossly overstretched, unable to meet the demands of their onerous assignment, the litigants who approach the court seeking justice are left in limbo; waiting endlessly for justice to be served. These, as I have said before, are avoidable.

     “When I exit today, the North Central zone that I represent ceases to have any representation until such a time new appointments are made.

     “My lord Hon. Justice Ejembi Eko JSC, who also represented the zone, retired on the 23 of May, 2022. It has been a year and five months now. There has not been any replacement.

    “With the passing of my lord, Hon. Justice Chima Centus Nweze, JSC on 29th July 2023, the South East no longer has any presence at the Supreme Court.

     “My lord, Hon. Justice Sylvester Nwali Ngwuta JSC died on 7 March 2021. There has not been any appointment in his stead for the South East.

     “To ensure justice and transparency in presidential appeals from the lower court, all geo-political zones are required to participate in the hearing.

     “It is therefore dangerous for democracy and equity for two entire regions to be left out in the decisions that will affect the generality of Nigerians. This is not what our laws envisage.

     “Although it can be posited that no one expected the sudden passing of Hon. Justice Nweze JSC, yet, it has been two years and seven months since previous Justice from the South East died and no appointment was made.

     “Ditto for the replacement of Justice Eko JSC of North Central, who exited nearly two years ago. Hon, Justice Sidi Bage JSC, now his Royal Highness the Emir of Lafla, from the North Central, had earlier voluntarily retired. He equally is yet to be replaced.

      “Also, it was clear ab Initio that I would be leaving the court this day on attaining the statutory age of 70. It is then not in doubt that there has been sufficient time for suitable replacements to have been appointed. This is yet to occur.

     “As it stands, only four geo-political regions – the South west, South South, North-West and North-East – are represented in the Supreme Court. While the South-South and North East have two serving justices, the North West and South-West are fully represented with three each.

     “Appropriate steps could have been taken since to fill outstanding vacancies in the apex court.

     “Why have these steps not been timeously taken? It is evident that the decision not to fill the vacancies in the court is deliberate. It is all about the absolute powers vested in the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the responsible exercise of same.”

    Justice Muhammad, who questioned the manner budgetary allocation to the Judiciary was deployed, argued that those who complain about poor funding of the sector should also demand to know how what is allocated is expended.

     He noted that “beyond the issue of the salaries of Justices remaining static with no graduation for over 15 years now, it is instructive to enquire what the Judiciary also does with its allocations.

     “Who is responsible for the expenditure? An unrelenting searchlight needs to be beamed to unravel how the sums are expended. 

    “In 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari became the president, the budgetary allocation to the Judiciary was N70 billion. In the 2018 Appropriation Bill submitted to the National Assembly, the President allocated N100 billion to the Judiciary. 

    “The legislature increased it to N110 billion; N10 billion above the N100 billion appropriated for the 2017 fiscal year. At the end of President Buhari’s tenure in May 2023 Judiciary’s allocation had increased to N130 billion. That is an increase from N70 billion to N130 billion in eight years.

    “The present government has allocated an additional sum of N35 billion to the Judiciary for the current financial year, making the amount of money accessible by the Judiciary to N165 billion.

     “More than 85 per cent of the amount appropriated by the 9th Assembly has so far been released to the Judiciary. It is envisaged that the additional 35 billion naira will equally be released by the present government. 

    “Notwithstanding the phenomenal increases in the sums appropriated and released to the judiciary, Justices and officers welfare and the quality of service the Judiciary render have continued to decline.

     “It may interest one to know that the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court earns more than the Justices.

     “While she earns N1.2m per month, justices take home 751,000 in a month. The CJN on his part takes home $400,000 plus. The salary of a Justice, curiously, drops rather than increases when he gets the added responsibility of being a CJN.

     “That the unjust and embarrassing salary difference between the justices and the Chief Registrar still abides remains intriguing to say the least.

     “Valedictory session after valedictory session lapses and challenges that should be nipped are restated to no avail. Why the silence and seeming contentment? “

     Justice Muhammad called for a reform of the process of appointing judicial officers at every level of the nation’s court system to ensure that the best and most qualified make the list.

     He added: “A couple of years ago, appointment to the bench was strictly on merit. Sound knowledge of the law, integrity, honour and hard work distinguished those who were elevated.

     “Lobbying was unheard of. I never lobbied, not at any stage of my career, to secure any appointment or elevation. As much as possible, the most qualified men and women were appointed.

     “That can no longer be said about appointments to the bench. The judiciary must be uniquely above board. Appointments should not be polluted by political, selfish and sectional interests.

     “The place of merit, it must be urged, cannot be over-emphasised. Public perceptions of the Judiciary have over the years become witheringly scornful and monstrously critical.

     “It has been in the public space that court officials and judges are easily bribed by litigants to obviate delays and or obtain favourable judgments.

     “Recently, fresh allegations have been made that children and other relatives of serving and retired judges and justices are being appointed into judicial offices at the expense of more qualified candidates lacking in such privilege and backing.

     “It is asserted that the process of appointment to judicial positions are deliberately conducted to give undue advantage to the ‘children, spouses, and mistresses’ of serving and retired judges and managers of judicial offices. 

    “At the Court of Appeal, it is also asserted, presiding Justices are now being appointed out of turn. And there is the further issue of the unpredictable nature of recent decisions of the courts as well.

     “A number of respected senior members of the bar inter alia, citing the Ahmed Lawan, the former President of the Senate and the Imo governorship appeals, claim that decisions of even the apex court have become unpredictable.

     “It is difficult to understand how and where, by these decisions, the judicial pendulum swings. It was not so before, they contend.

     “In some quarters the view is strongly held that filth and intrigues characterise the institution these days! Judges are said to be comfortable in companies they never would have kept in the past.

     “It is being insinuated that some judicial officers even campaign for the politicians. It cannot be more damning!

     “President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2016, ordered the forceful entry into the houses and the arrest of Justices, some of whom were serving at the apex court.

     “Not done, in 2019 the government accosted, arrested and arraigned the incumbent Chief Justice before the Code of Conduct Tribunal for alleged underhand conduct.

     “With his retirement apparently negotiated, he was eventually left off the hook.

     “In 2022 a letter signed by all the other justices of the Supreme Court, including the current Chief Justice, the aggrieved protested against the shabby treatment meted to them by the head of court and the Chief Registrar. 

    “At the centre of the friction was their welfare and the cavalier attitude of the Chief Registrar thereto. In the event, his lordship lbrahim Tanko Muhammad disengaged ostensibly on grounds of ill-health.

     “Intrinsic in what I have said today are indices to dampen, nay eradicate the lapses in the Judiciary. The duty to revive the institution remains a collective one. We must persist.”

  • Actor Akeem Adeyemi welcomes son with wife after five miscarriages

    Actor Akeem Adeyemi welcomes son with wife after five miscarriages

    Actor Akeem Adeyemi has announced the birth of a baby boy after his wife experienced five miscarriages and three failed IVF attempts.

    The new father stated that he has been married to his wife for seven years but unable to bear children.

    After seven years of marriage and days of grieving day and night over the matter, he shed tears of pleasure at becoming a parent.

    Read Also: Naira Marley threatens legal action against K-Solo for defamation

    He wrote: God did it! Tears of joy can’t stop flowing … After seven years of marriage… Five miscarriages Three failed IVF When all hope was lost… Miraculously, God did… He surprised Sarah and made the impossible possible. Truly, what God can not do does not exist! Ni Tooto Oluwa to sin. You shall become a blessing to your generation Ati mo ibere, ani mo opin e You shall live to fulfil God’s plan in your life .”

    “Dear Mom, I wish you were here to witness this priceless moment you have been waiting for years, but God knows best and I am sure you are watching over us from Heaven as an angel You can call me the latest big daddy. I am more than elated. Congratulations to the latest mom @beautybymarylyn”.

  • Elections are over, it’s time to move forward, says Jonathan

    Elections are over, it’s time to move forward, says Jonathan

    • More plaudits for Tinubu on Supreme Court victory
    • We must respect apex court as final arbiter – Minister
    • Hard times will soon be over, Otu assures Nigerians
    • Atiku , Obi should congratulate Tinubu – Ben Bruce

    The euphoria that greeted Tinubu’s Supreme Court victory in the petition filed against him by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr. Peter Obi, the candidates of PDP and LP in the February 25 presidential election, continued yesterday with individuals and groups admonishing aggrieved parties to bury the hatchet and work for the nation’s progress.

    Leading the charge was former President Goodluck Jonathan, who reminded Nigerians that elections were over and it was time for the nation to move forward.

    In apparent corroboration of Jonathan’s stance, a former Senator representing Bayelsa East in the National Assembly, Ben Murray Bruce, urged both Atiku and Obi to put their differences with the President aside and congratulate him over his election as Nigeria’s President.

    Doing so, he said, is only right, fitting and sportsmanly.

    More congratulatory messages also poured in from former and serving governors and other statesmen, some of whom expressed optimism that with the distractions caused by the legal battle now over, the President can face the task of governance squarely for the nation to get over the hard times.

    Former President Jonathan, who spoke after a closed-door meeting with President Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, called on political leaders, especially former Presidents, to come together to ensure that citizens do not suffer.

    He also asserted that the ability of Nigeria to lead the African continent has become a consensus among African countries.

    He said: “We need to bring all our political leaders, including all our former Presidents, together. If top leaders continue fighting, they will not suffer that much, but the downtrodden will suffer, and we want to end that tension so we move forward.

    “Elections are over and so we must move forward.”

    Jonathan also said that Nigeria has all it takes to lead the black continent despite the current economic challenges facing the nation.

    “That is what all Africans are saying. I had a programme on democracy dialogue and Prof Lumumba spoke there. He emphasised the need for Nigeria to take the lead in Africa.

    “Yes, we have challenges economically now, but we still have what it takes to lead Africa.

    “These are some of the issues I will continue to have conversations with Mr President on, including briefing him on all my foreign programmes.

    “They are not personal issues. Traditionally, former Presidents, when they go outside the country for continental or regional programmes and even some international ones, when you come home you brief the President. That is the tradition.

    “Most times when you see me here, that is what we come to do, to move Nigeria forward, to move ECOWAS forward and to move the African continent forward,” the former President said.

    He added that he seized the opportunity of the visit to update President Tinubu about his regional and continental engagements, and to also congratulate him on his victory at the Supreme Court.

    He said: “I have been involved in a number of things in West Africa and Africa. In fact tomorrow, I will be in Kenya and on the 14th of November I will be in Liberia. So I am like a roving Ambassador, seeing how we can bring peace to the sub-region and the continent.

    “My visit would have taken place since last week but it couldn’t hold. Today, it has now coincided with the judgment of the Supreme Court of yesterday, so it is an opportunity for me to also congratulate Mr President.

    “We talked a lot about the country. You will see more of me because there are certain things we discussed and the country must move forward,” Jonathan added.

    Acknowledging the current economic concerns, he added that the country will overcome its financial trials with adequate support for the government.

    “That is what all Africans are saying. When my foundation had a programme on democracy dialogue and Professor Lumumba spoke there, he emphasized the need for Nigeria to take a lead in Africa.

    “Yes, we have challenges economically now, but we still have what it takes to lead Africa,” he said.

    Congratulate President now, Ben Bruce tells Atiku, Obi

    In a message he posted on his X handle, Senator Bruce said it is only right, fitting, and sportsmanly for both Atiku and Obi to congratulate President Bola Tinubu for his victory in the 2023 elections.

    He said: “There must be an end to litigation, and the Supreme Court must end it. All talk by some persons that ‘Bola Tinubu is not my President’ is frivolous and unhelpful.

    “As long as you call yourself a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, you do not have ‘your’ President. Nigeria has a President, and whether you like it or not, he presides over you as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Head of the State.

    “The Peoples Democratic Party must now play their role as Nigeria’s most viable opposition party. It is incumbent on them to work on unifying their ranks.

    “Disunity and treachery against President Goodluck Jonathan cost them the 2015 election. Disunity also cost them this election. If they allow it to repeat itself a third time, they are done.

    “To the youths of Nigeria, do not allow anybody, whether candidate, party or TV station, to set you against the government. The future is yours, as Millennials, not ours, the fifties and sixties generation. Use it well. Organise now for 2027 or agonise when it is 2027.”

    Diri: Why I visited President at Presidential Villa

    The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, said as a sitting governor, there was nothing unusual in his visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa on Thursday.

    Speaking at Igbedi community in Constituency 2 of Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state during the visit of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship campaign train, Diri said he was at liberty to congratulate President Tinubu following the Supreme Court verdict on the presidential election.

    Read Also: UPDATED: Jonathan visits Tinubu, charges political class, ex-presidents to unite for citizens’ comfort

    A statement by his spokesperson and member of the Publicity Directorate of the Bayelsa PDP Governorship Campaign Council, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying he was at the Presidential Villa to discuss serious state matters with the President, whom he said attended to the issues positively.

    He contended that he was not disturbed by the speculations and lies of the opposition, whom he said became jittery because of the visit, stressing that propaganda had been the hallmark of their politics.

    Diri said: “Yesterday (Thursday), I was in Abuja and most of you saw the video trending. The opposition is now jittery and are telling lies. Of course, that is in their character.

    “As a sitting governor, there is a sitting President and I do not owe them any explanation about my visit to the President.

    “If the Supreme Court affirms the President of the country, as a sitting governor, I reserve all the rights to visit him. But beyond that, I went for very serious state business and I can tell you that Mr. President attended to all the issues I raised.

    Hard times will soon be over, Gov Otu assures Nigerians

    Cross River State Governor, Bassey Out, yesterday assured Nigerians of better days ahead under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that the current hard times will soon become history.

    He spoke shortly after paying a congratulatory visit to the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on the victory of President Tinubu and the party at the Supreme Court on Thursday.

    The elated governor observed that both the apex court verdict and what the country was going through now was God’s design to take the country forward.

    Out, who was reacting to the Supreme Court judgment, said: “We are very happy. Actually, that was God’s design and we have to take Nigeria forward.

    “We are facing very difficult times now, but we know that better days are ahead. You know anything you do in this world to get maximum success, there has to be a level of sacrifice.

    “We are paying for those days when the subsidy should have been withdrawn a long time ago. But we believe that the way the economy is going now, not too long we will be able to stabilise and move forward,” he assured Nigerians.

    On why he was at Muhammadu Buhari House – APC national headquarters, the governor said: “I came to congratulate the national chairman of the greatest party in Africa and to thank all our party faithful that have shown fidelity as far as this trouble is concerned.

    “We believe this is a stepping stone. We are going to achieve greater heights.

    “My position on this has always been no victor, no vanquished, so long as the common denominator was to serve our people; so long as there is unity of purpose was to take Nigeria to the next level.”

    He then called on the opposition candidates, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his Labour Party (LP) counterpart, Peter Obi to join hands with President Tinubu to build a great country.

    Afenifere: Coast clear for Tinubu to serve diligently

    Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, yesterday congratulated President Ahmed Bola Tinubu on his victory at the apex court.

    He said in a statement by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, that the coast is clear for him to serve diligently.

    He said the judgment has produced monumental effects.

    Fasoranti stressed: “Monumental because of the clarifications made in respect of certain aspects of our electoral processes. One of such was the pronouncements made regarding the position of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Ditto for the position of the law in regard to the deadline for filing papers relating to elections”.

    Fasoranti lauded the justices that adjudicated on the cases “for being so painstaking in their assignments.”

    He said: “What they did and how it was done have further enhanced the image of the judiciary positively.”

    Fasoranti congratulated Nigerians for the peaceful atmosphere that, on the whole, characterised the electoral and judiciary processes.

    He reminded the President about some of the issues he had raised with him, particularly security.

    Fasoranti stressed: “It is a matter of concern that insecurity is still being experienced. This can be seen in the upsurge in banditry, kidnapping, herdsmen and attacks on farmers, cultism and even terrorism”.

    He said President Bola Tinubu “is now on a firmer ground to execute noble ideas contained in his Renewed Hope Agenda so as to make life more abundant for Nigerians.”

    We must respect apex court as final arbiter – Minister

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has appealed to all political opponents to join hands with the government to move the country forward.

    Idris, who briefed the press following the Supreme Court affirmation of President Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 presidential election, said the judgment of the apex court must be respected.

    Jonathan said: “Our differences in terms of political leanings will always be there. But it is important that now that the Supreme Court, which is the final arbiter in this judgment has spoken, we should all respect that and come together, unite for Nigeria in the interest of our country.

    “The time will come again when politics will reopen and the things you want to say, provided they are constructive, will be allowed. But for now please let us unite in the interest of Nigeria.

    “Now that the legal contest regarding the outcome of the Presidential election is now behind us, it is time for all of us to come together and move forward into a season of governing that is without distraction,” Idris said.

    Mr. Jonathan added that President Tinubu has made it clear that he will be a President for all Nigerians, regardless of regional, ethnic, partisan or religious affiliations.

    The minister said the administration will continue to strive to rebuild the trust of citizens in the ways and workings of government, and boost the credibility of public information and communication.

    Judgment affirms Nigerians’ trust in Tinubu —Are

    The Otun Baba Adinni of Lagos, Chief Mutiu Are, in his congratulatory message to President Tinubu, described his victory as “a resounding affirmation” of the trust and mandate bestowed on him by the Nigerian people.

    Jonathan said: “Your leadership journey from May 29, 2023 to May 29, 2027 has been validated and solidified.

    This outcome not only reinforces the will of the Nigerian citizens who freely chose you as their leader but also reaffirms the strength and integrity of our democratic processes.

    “As the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this victory is a testament to your dedication, vision, and your ability to connect with the aspirations of the people.

    “I would also like to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, whose commitment and contribution have been pivotal in this success.

    “Your partnership and collaborative efforts are a testament to the unity and resolve within your administration.

    “Furthermore, I offer my sincere congratulations to our esteemed First Lady, Yeye Asiwaju Remi Tinubu, whose unwavering support has undoubtedly been a source of strength and encouragement for you.

    “As we celebrate this momentous victory, I join millions of Nigerians in earnest prayers for your continued good health, longevity, and the wisdom to lead our great nation to greater heights.

    “May your leadership be characterised by peace, progress and prosperity, and may you guide Nigeria through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

  • The Delborough’ Board strongest in quality I’ve ever chair – Obi of Onitsha

    The Delborough’ Board strongest in quality I’ve ever chair – Obi of Onitsha

    One of Africa’s most respected traditional rulers, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (CFR) has said that the Board membership of The Delborough Lagos is one of the most strongest and illustrious he has ever chaired given the quality of its board members.

    The revered monarch was recently appointed as the Chairman of the Board of what is being positioned as one of Africa’s most iconic luxury brands ahead of its upcoming commissioning in Lagos.

    Igwe Alfred, who has served in over 50 prestigious organisations in the public and private sectors as either Chairman or Board Member, made the remarks while addressing newsmen after the official inauguration of the nine-member Board in The Delborough Lagos.

    The traditional ruler said: “I am grateful for the honour to serve on this Board. I must say that this is the biggest Board I have served as Chairman.

    Read Also: EFCC grills Emefiele over alleged $15b foreign debts, new currency

    “The Delborough Lagos has been planned and executed today to the highest levels of excellence. It is a top hotel in Nigeria that beats all international standards.”

    The Obi of Onitsha added: “This first-class hotel though taking off from Lagos Nigeria, will be replicated across continents. And with the calibre of people appointed into this Board, I can assure the public that the laid down standard of this luxury facility is going to be sustained.”

    The nine-member Board headed by His Royal Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe CFR, mni Obi of Onitsha (Agbogidi), consists of: His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal (Abisogun II, Oniru of Iruland); Prof. Chief Mike A.A. Ozekhome SAN,OFR, FCIArb, PhD; Usman Alkali Baba CFR; Arc. Dns. Yemisi Suswam PhD, FNIA; Mrs Olajumoke Benson; H.E Dr. Valentine Ozigbo; Matt Aikhionbare, OON and Dr. Linus Idahosa.

  • Otedola gifts N750m to 750 Augustine University students

    Otedola gifts N750m to 750 Augustine University students

    Billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Chairman of Geregu Power Plc, and Director, FBN Holdings Plc, Mr Femi Otedola, turned his generosity to the education sector, yesterday, and took human development a step further, as he donated N750 million to 750 returning and fresh students of Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos State. The money covered the students’ school fees for the 2023/2024 academic session.

    Otedola announced the donation yesterday in an address shortly after his installation as the second Chancellor of the university during the school’s 5th Convocation Ceremony.

    Otedola also donated N140 million for the furnishing of the university’s Engineering Faculty building and another N110 million for the installation of street lights on the campus and purchase of a new standby power generator.

    He explained that each of the 750 returning and fresh students of the university would receive N1 million from the N750 million, explaining that the gesture is to alleviate the plight of the students and their parents under the current harsh economic situation in the country. He explained that each of the 750 returning and fresh students of the university would receive N1 million from the N750 million, explaining that the gesture is to alleviate the plight of the students and their parents under the current harsh economic situation in the country.

    Otedola has been a major financial supporter of the university. He donated the Engineering Faculty Complex to the school, an edifice comprising four blocks, constructed at an estimated cost of N2 billion.

    The first phase of the building was completed at a total of N670 million, and the facility was inaugurated in February 2023, and has been in use since then.

    Announcing the donations amid thunderous cheers and applause from the benefiting students and the entire audience at the occasion, Otedola expressed strong belief in transforming establishments he was affiliated with.

    He stated that the N750 million donation to the 750 students was to commemorate his appointment as the second Chancellor of the university and also to help cushion the effect of the difficult situation in the country on the beneficiaries.

    Otedola said, “As stated in my citation, I strongly believe in transforming establishments that I am associated with. Therefore, to commemorate my appointment as the Chancellor of the university today and in recognition of the harsh economic situation in our country, I hereby announce a scholarship donation to each returning student of the university and each new first-year student of our university, the amount of one million naira each towards the 2023/2024 session school fees of each student.

    “I am told that there are 500 returning students and about 250 new first-year students, making a total scholarship donation of N750 million

    “I hope this donation alleviates the plight of the parents of our students in this difficult time. I am depending on the Governing Council and the management of the university for the efficient management of these funds.”

    The renowned entrepreneur said to be entrusted with the role of chancellor of such a distinguiashed institution was both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

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    He said the latest donations to the school were in addition to his earlier pledge of N2 billion for the construction of the Engineering Faculty Complex.

    Otedola announced that the design of engineering number two within the complex had been completed, adding that the contract for its construction would soon be awarded, with a completion date of December 2024.

    He expressed hope that his kind gesture would encourage the students of Augustine University to study hard to be first class graduates who would contribute positively to the growth of Nigeria.

    The famous business mogul further said, “I feel emotional as I make this speech today as this university was also my late father’s dream. I remember the Fund Raising Committee visiting my father several times, when he was alive, and also approaching me in 2008 for help in building the university.

    “What they did not know and, indeed, no one knew at the time was that I was bankrupt in Nigeria. I thank God Almighty for changing my fortune and for all that He has provided for me since then.

    “I firmly believe that Almighty God has empowered me to help in the development of this university and to help the multitude of students here. I thank God for using me as an instrument to assist the Catholic Church and, in particular, our Archbishop in all the good works of the Archdiocese of Lagos in promoting quality education in Nigeria.”

    Otedola said, “I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and humility and it is with immense honour that I accept this appointment.”

    Noting that his predecessor, Rev. Monsignor John Aniagwu, had passed on a huge task to him, the entrepreneur assured that he was acutely aware of the weight of the responsibility and the expectations that come with it. He assured of his commitment to upholding and advancing the values and visions that Augustine University represent.

    Otedola recalled that he had refused the appointment of chancellor from several universities in the past due to his extremely busy schedule, stating that he could, however, not refuse such an appointment from his Archbishop.

    He added, “Having accepted, I intend to work for the advancement of the growth of our university to ensure that it is listed in the ranking charts among the top universities in Nigeria and among the top Catholic universities in the world.”

    In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Augustine University, Professor Christopher Ojetunde, welcomed the new Chancellor, thanking Otedola and his family for their generous financial support towards the establishment and development of the university.

    Ojetunde said the Faculty of Engineering Complex, built by Otedola, was a significant boost to the school.

    He added that the successes being recorded by the university were made possible through the generous contributions of people like Otedola, and prayed that God would continue to bless him.

    Earlier, while reading Otedola’s citation, Orator of the university, Dr. James Onyeashie, said the businessman was considered and appointed as the new Chancellor of Augustine University in recognition of his immense contribution to the growth of the Nigerian economy and the school.

    Onyeashie described Otedola as a philanthropist with an unflinching commitment to the development of education in Nigeria.

    He described how Otedola started a N2 billion Faculty of Engineering Complex, with the first phase completed at the cost of N670 million. He said the complex, which was inaugurated in February this year, was currently in use.

  • Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa polls: NSA, CDS, IGP warn troublemakers

    Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa polls: NSA, CDS, IGP warn troublemakers

    • Say court martial ready for officers who compromise
    • There will be no interference in elections, Ribadu vows
    • I’ll demystify money politics, says LP candidate

    The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Chris Musa, yesterday  warned those poised to forment trouble during the forthcoming governorship elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states to steer clear of the states  as they will be met with the full weight of the law.

    The two security chiefs spoke just as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had ordered that everything possible should be done to ensure that the elections in the three states are free, fair and credible, without any form of interference.

    While Egbetokun said police and other security agencies are monitoring activities of those planning to forment trouble in the three states, Gen Musa said a general court martial had been placed on standby for security personnel who may compromise their position during the elections.

    Addressing newsmen after a meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) comprising the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security chief, Egbetokun said the police was aware that supporters of some candidates in the election were already mobilising to torment trouble during the elections.

    The INEC Chairman  had at the meeting,  expressed concern about violent activities of party supporters in the three states.

    The IGP said “We have just concluded the ICCES meeting with INEC.  This election is an off season election and we are committed to making it a free and fair election.  The security agencies are ready for this election.  We have received all necessary information from INEC which has informed us where to deploy to during this election.

    “We have carried out our threat assessment and that has informed us where to allocate our resources and the deployment of our men. All the security agencies are collaborating seriously to ensure that this election is violence free.

    ‘My appeal to people who want to come out and make trouble during this election is for them to stay away from the election because there will be no place for them to operate.

    “We are aware of mobilisation by supporters of some candidates. We are already monitoring them and we are ready for them during this election. I appeal to those who just want to come out and disrupt this election to stay away.

    “I appeal to the electorate to come out en masse to cast their vote during this election.  We are committed to a peaceful election and there is no going back on that.”

    Also speaking, the Chief of Defence Staff said other security agencies will fully be on ground to assist the Police to deliver a credible election, saying “we are here fully to show collaboration, cooperation and support for the Police who are the lead agency in election security.

    “The armed forces are going to provide full comprehensive support to ensure that the police is able to do its job without any interference.

    “We want to show the people in those three states that there is no need to entertain any fear as the armed forces, the police and other security agents will be fully on ground.”

    “All Nigerians are tired of election violence and we intend to do things differently so that at the end of the day, every Nigerian will be proud to be a Nigerian and come to the realisation that election is now free and fair and everybody that wins an election should be proud that he won a free and fair election.

    “We have fully deployed and are on ground both covertly and overtly. Anybody who attempts to disrupt any of the elections will have himself to blame.”

    General Musa warned security agents involved in the elections not to compromise their position, but abide by the code of conduct given to them

    He said “the security men know the code of conduct and what they are supposed to do and we have explained to them.

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    “We have sent warnings and have court martial on standby and any member of the armed forces who misbehaves will have himself to blame. The court martial is operational already and we want to ensure that we act professionally in everything that we do.”

    On his part, the National Security Adviser who is the co-Chairman of ICCES, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu assured that the election will be conducted without any form of interference as directed by the President.

    Ribadu said “We are prepared and will be with you 100 percent and will work to meet the standard that you want us to meet.  There is nothing as important as a free and fair election in a democracy.

    “This government is interested in that and Mr. President has directed that he wants to see a free, fair and credible election.  This is the first election that is going to be held under his watch.

    “He said everything possible should be done to ensure that Nigerians witness a free and fair election.  I want to assure Nigerians that this election will be better than the previous ones.  This election is going to be without violence and a litmus test for us.”

    Speaking earlier, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu said elections will be conducted in about 10,510 polling units across the three states with about 5.1 million registered voters who have collected their PVC eligible to vote.

    He said further that eligible voters in the three states will vote in all the 10,510 polling units, with the exception of two  polling units in Bayelsa State and 38 in Imo State without registered voters.

    While saying that the list of these polling units is available on the commission’s website, he disclosed that election results will be collated in 649 Registration Areas/Wards, 56 Local Government Areas and three state collation centres.

    He said “this gives us a cumulative figure of 11,178 voting and collation locations to deploy security personnel in the three states. This is in addition to ensuring a secure environment for the ongoing campaigns and rallies by political parties and candidates, security of voters, the escort of personnel and materials, protection of assets and general security for all persons with legitimate reason to participate in the election and electoral activities”.

    He stressed that “the three states of Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi are not the easiest states in Nigeria to conduct elections. The difficult geographical terrain and prevailing insecurity are compounded by negative mobilisation by political actors, especially since the commencement of campaign in public on 14th July 2023.

    “Our message to politicians is that they should call their candidates and supporters to order. Violence and other undemocratic activities such as vote buying, attacks on election officials and disruption of the electoral process must stop.”

    Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State governor, Senator Douye Diri, has said that the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 11 governorship election remained disqualified based on the first amended list of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and urged the Bayelsa electorate not to waste their votes on a party that is not on the ballot.

    Diri, who noted he was not in Igbedi to campaign, said the projects of his administration in the community were evident.

    The governor assured the people that during his second tenure he would construct a road linking Igbedi to Kaiama, which will create a better access to and from the Bayelsa International Airport from the East-West road and the Delta State axis.

    He said: “Those whose names have been delisted by amendment number one of INEC can no longer sleep. They will continue to have sleepless nights.

    “In our second tenure, the other road that will be important to Bayelsa and even the people of Delta State and for the use of our airport will be to connect Igbedi to Kaiama. That will be the next project we will embark upon in our next tenure.”

    Also speaking, wife of the governor, Dr. Gloria Diri, who is a native of Igbedi, thanked people of the community for the rousing welcome accorded her husband and the support given him over the years and urged them not to relent.

    The governor inaugurated an internal road in the community and also observed a minute’s silence in honour of Mr. Peremobowei Tukuwei, who died in a tragic boat mishap on Wednesday while the APC campaigned in Nembe Local Government Area.

    The Labour Party (LP) candidate in the state,  Udengs Eradiri, said , with the growing grassroots support to his campaigns,  he will demystify money politics in the November 11 poll.

    Eradiri spoke during his campaign tour with stakeholders and supporters of the LP to Nembe City, Opu Nembe and Otakeme community in Nembe and Ogbia local government areas.

    Eradiri, who was overwhelmed by the crowd that voluntarily trooped out to receive him, said he was aspiring to become a people-oriented leader that would provide mentorship to young people and reposition the state for greatness.

    Eradiri lamented the crisis that had befallen Nembe, sympathised with them and assured them that if elected his administration would focus on the development of the area and stop all forms of politically-induced unrest.

    He noted that  he was in the race to rescue Bayelsa, develop all communities insisting that the state was suffering from bad leadership and clueless government.

    Eradiri said:  “We are the second poorest state, and the highest school drop out in the whole of the country, which is very sad. I am moving across all the communities of our state selling my manifestoes.

    “I will change the old order of doing things. I will not clap hands for myself for building roads, infrastructural development and other social amenities which ordinarily are the rights of the people. Together we will make Bayelsa work again.”