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Convicted baron loses VGC mansion, SUV

• NDLEA arrests grandma for drugs in Lagos
• Recovers South Africa-bound drugs, 2.2kg cocaine in Owerri

A multi-million naira mansion located at k-5a/2 road 14, Victoria Garden City (VGC) Estate, Lekki, Lagos has been forfeited to the federal government, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has said.

The mansion, according to NDLEA, was used as clandenstine laboratory for the production of methamphetamine by a convicted drug baron, Chris Nzewi.

Spokesman for the agency, Femi Babafemi, who made this known in a statement in Abuja yesterday, said Okenwa was arrested along with his associate, Sunny Okeh Ukah, on July 30, 2022 and subsequently arraigned on four-count in charge number FHC/L/527C/2022, at the Federal High Court, Lagos.

Babafemi said they both pleaded guilty on July 17, 2023, while they were convicted and sentenced to four and three years’ imprisonment each, with an option of fine of four million (N4,000,000) naira and three million (N3,000,000) naira, in addition to community service for four and three weeks each.

According to the statement, his Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) marked EKY 496 DJ was equally forfeited to the Federal Government.

Babafemi said: “To further deny him of enjoying the proceeds of his criminal activity, the NDLEA filed a civil forfeiture charge against the building used as clandestine laboratory at the Federal High Court, Lagos, which initially granted an interim forfeiture order that elapsed on December 6 before the final forfeiture on December 7, 2023.”

Read Also: Kano: No deal with NNPP to compromise Supreme Court judgement, APC dispel rumour

According to the statement, NDLEA operatives in Lagos on Friday, December 15 arrested a 75-year-old grandma, Mrs. Sekinat Soremekun, for dealing in illicit drugs.

The statement said at the time of her arrest in Oshodi area of Lagos, quantities of cannabis and litres of codeine syrup were recovered from her.

She claimed her son, Segun, who is now at large, supplied her the illicit substances, which she retailed, Babafemi said.

The statement said: “In Imo, operatives on patrol along Owerri-Onitsha expressway on December 14 intercepted a way-billed consignment containing cocaine weighing 2.287kg. The shipment coming from Lagos was concealed in cellophane condoms, and heading for Port Harcourt, Rivers State. A suspect, Isaac Okoh, 45, has been arrested.

“No fewer than 10 jumbo bags of cannabis weighing 100kg were recovered from the ceiling of a dealer, Ibrahim Yahaya, 35, when his house was raided in Tudun Kofa area of Lafia, Nasarawa State on December 15, while he was also arrested.

“At the SAHCO export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, over 1.5 million pills of tramadol 225mg and rohypnol were intercepted in a cargo going to South Africa by NDLEA operatives in collaboration with personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

“Two suspects: Bada Olanrewaju Akorede and Amusan Olufela Sharafadeen have so far been taken into custody in connection with the consignment, which consists: 1,050,000 pills of tramadol 225mg and 510,000 tablets of rohypnol.”

December 18, 2023
Ex-lawmaker Idimogu urges Sanwo-Olu to fix Oke-Afa bridge

Former lawmaker who represented Oshodi/Isolo State Constituency 11 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Jude Idimogu, has called on the Lagos State Government to repair the Oke-Afa bridge before it finally collapses.

He said the bridge is of importance to the state, as it connects communities in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government and Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

Some of the areas the bridge connects are Isolo, Cele, Jakande Estate Gate, Isheri, Ijegun, Egbe, Ikotun, Bucknor, Idimu, Canoe-Ajao Estate and Oke-Afa Estate, among others.

The former lawmaker added that the Canoe-Ajao Estate Road has become a deathtrap for motorists and pedestrians and makes transit to Airport Road taxing.

He said: “The popular bridge, which is beside the Oke-Afa Memorial Arcade (mass burial site), where about 1,000 victims of the January 27, 2002, Ikeja Military Cantonment bomb blasts were buried, has developed serious deep holes; some rods used in constructing the bridge are exposed and often burst tyres of some motorists.

Read Also: Clark to CJN: correct grave anomalies in judiciary

“A portion of the bridge, which caved in some months ago, has become a source of worry and frustration to thousands of commercial bus drivers, heavy-duty trucks and thousands of other road users, who ply the road daily and posed a threat to their lives.

“Lagos State Government should add this important bridge and Peter Agha Road leading to Canoe to the various roads it has mapped out for reconstruction in the current budget for 2024, which incidentally has a greater percentage of allocation for capital projects. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu should add the bridge and Peter Agha Road rehabilitation to the expansion and reconstruction of Isolo, Mushin-Oke-Afa Road axis.”

Some motorists, commuters and other stakeholders have also called for urgent fixing of the bridge and the road, as their conditions have caused gridlock along the routes.

A commercial bus driver, who identified himself as Ajayi, said: “The roads in this axis are synonymous with heavy traffic. The holes on the bridge have complicated the situation, as traffic around the axis has gone from bad to worse.”

He added that over 7,000 vehicles, including heavy-duty trucks, commercial buses, private cars and tricycles (Keke) ply the bridge everyday.

A motorist who spoke in confidence said it has become dangerous using the bridge, as some portions have collapsed.

“We need both the state and federal governments to take immediate action to fix the bridge, to avert the looming disaster,” the source said.

December 18, 2023
Dividends of economic reforms already manifesting – Tinubu

Following his nomination as Person of the Year 2023, The Nation reached out to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discuss the impact of his economic reforms. They have been widely hailed across the world, but have had a biting impact for the generality of the populace. In this interview with Editor, Weekend Titles, Festus Eriye, the president acknowledges the pains people are enduring but insists the nation is about rounding the bend.

What do you say to millions of Nigerians battling a cost-of-living crisis caused by spiralling inflation, high petrol price, and currency devaluation, and desperately want some relief?

As your President, I am deeply aware of the economic crisis’ severe impact on Nigerians, and we are part of a global challenge with the rising costs of living. To help our people, my administration is taking proactive steps. We are focused on providing financial support to businesses and ensuring the availability and affordability of staple foods, which are essential for every Nigerian family.

One of our key initiatives is the provision of N25,000 monthly to 15 million households, for a three-month period. To further support food security, we’re working with our partners, local and international, to improve agricultural practices and provide essential resources to farmers.

In addition, the National Single Window Project is being implemented to enhance international trade efficiency. All these efforts are in line with our commitment to reducing the economic burden on our citizens, especially the working class and vulnerable groups.

The reallocation of funds from the removal of the petrol subsidy is also a strategic move to bolster our government’s finances, contributing to a stable economic environment for all.

Furthermore, in our commitment to ease the economic strain on our citizens, particularly the working class and vulnerable groups, my administration is championing the shift to cleaner energy sources. We recognize the benefits of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in providing an affordable and cleaner mass transit system. To facilitate this, we have waived the Value Added Tax (VAT) on CNG purchases. Additionally, to reduce the costs in food transportation and manufacturing, we’ve also waived VAT on diesel for six months.

I fully appreciate that these massively important reforms have been hard, but the dividends are already manifesting, with even more in sight. We have already seen improvements in our economic outlook, as corroborated by the likes of Fitch and Moody’s. These may seem ‘academic’ to many but the impact on investor confidence is significant.

Many have criticised the cash transfer initiatives of your government, saying they are superficial and cannot address the level of poverty in the land. Are you still convinced about the efficacy of these programmes?

I am steadfast in my belief in the efficacy of our cash transfer initiatives. These initiatives are a crucial part of our strategy to target and provide relief to the most vulnerable segments of our population, especially during the last three months of the year when the prices of basic items typically rise. This is not just about providing temporary support; it’s about strategically delivering assistance when it’s needed most. We continue to work closely with all key stakeholders – including state governments, civil society groups, international partners, and private sector entities like telcos and fintechs – to refine these programmes. Moreover, we urge all Nigerians to be mindful of the current economic situation and avoid exploiting it for abnormal profits.

In addition to these cash transfers, my administration is deeply committed to empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, along with nano businesses. Significant financial support is being directed to these enterprises to foster human capital development, economic growth, and financial inclusion.

For instance, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, we launched the 3MTT programme, aiming to develop technical talent across Nigeria in fields such as software engineering and cloud computing. This programme is designed not just to aid businesses but also to enable our youth to participate in the global gig economy, earning competitive wages while contributing to our nation’s growth.

Our interventions extend beyond what some may call ‘cash handouts’. They are about creating a sustainable environment where Nigerians can innovate and thrive. By focusing on sectors like digital and creative industries, we are fostering growth and job creation, harmonising efforts between monetary and fiscal bodies to build a stronger, more resilient Nigeria.”

This response integrates the initial draft and your provided statement, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to both immediate relief and long-term economic empowerment and growth.

Read Also: World Bank affirms positive impacts of Tinubu’s economic reforms in Nigeria

You have been quoted in the past promising to pay Nigerians a minimum wage they can live on. What is delaying the unveiling of the new minimum wage? How do you manage a situation where many states without the Federal Government’s resources may not be able to meet whatever commitments the government at the centre makes to workers?

I understand the concerns regarding the unveiling of the new minimum wage and how states will manage these changes, especially those with fewer resources. To address this, my administration has approved a provisional increase in the federal minimum wage to N35,000 per month for a six-month period, two months of which have already paid. This decision follows extensive consultations with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

In managing the situation with the states, we are working closely with them to ensure the new wage structure is practical and sustainable. It’s important that each state’s unique financial situation is considered. We are focused on strategies to help states strengthen their economies, considering factors like tax efficiency and economic diversification.

We are committed to ongoing dialogues with labour unions and state governments. This collaborative approach is crucial to ensure that the new minimum wage is fair, reasonable, and implementable across all states. Our goal is to balance the economic well-being of our workers with the overall financial health of the nation.

We ask Nigerians to rest assured that my administration will not rest until we have delivered a sustainable solution in the best interest of Nigerians.

One feature of the last few months has been your aggressive pursuit of foreign direct investment. What are the tangible results of these shuttles around the world?

It is essential to place our initiatives within the broader context of our economic recovery and growth strategy. This strategy encompasses several key reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of the naira’s exchange rates, the adoption of the customs single-window, the streamlining of our tax system and enhancement and diversification of our revenues. These strategic moves are designed to enhance liquidity and create a more attractive investment environment for both domestic and foreign investors, thereby stimulating sustainable growth.

FDI is not ‘chicken change.’ FDI is substantial, long-term financial commitments made by serious enterprises and investors. What is happening right now is that Nigeria is re-engaging with the global market – both foreign and domestic investors. We are telling the story of our significant and far-reaching reforms and rebuilding confidence in Nigeria as an accessible and safe investment. We are clearly communicating that ‘Nigeria is open for business’ and that the direction of travel is clear and fully committed.

So far, our pursuit of foreign direct investment has been met with positive outcomes. We’ve secured a $500 million deal with Germany to fund renewable energy projects, particularly in rural Nigeria. Additionally, through local enterprises, Nigeria will supply LNG yearly to Germany, starting in 2026, solidifying our role as a key global energy partner. Our focused efforts to attract European FDI are yielding fruit, notably with the $116 million French investment in the I-DICE program, aimed at creating 65,000 start-ups and 150,000 jobs, particularly empowering women.

As announced on the side-lines of COP28 in Dubai, we’re deploying 100 electric buses nationally, affirming our commitment to sustainable, ecofriendly initiatives and creating a platform for Public-Private-Partnerships in the mass transit category. Since this announcement we have received serious requests for co-investment opportunities from within Nigeria and across the world – Europe, India, China and the Middle East, key global markets my administration has been energetically engaging with.

December 18, 2023
First Lady splashes N4m scholarships on rescued female versity students

First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Sunday, December 17, said that learning and education are veritable weapons in the fight against terrorism and criminality by individuals and communities.

Also First Lady Tinubu, through her pet-project, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), gave N4 million scholarship grants and four brand new laptops to four of the five rescued Federal University Dutsin-Ma students, who visited her at the State House, Abuja.

She said: “I join a cheerful nation to welcome our beloved daughters home as you re-unite with your families. We grieved over the sad fate that had befallen you and we join your family to celebrate your safe return. Since your dreadful abduction on October 5, 2023, it has been a period of pain for you, your parents, your teachers and indeed all Nigerians.

“Throughout this period, we have kept faith and trust in God and in our law enforcement agencies that you will return safely. Since the incident, law enforcement officers from various agencies worked tirelessly to ensure your return home. Today we thank Almighty God for protecting you and reuniting you with your loved ones.”

The First Lady assured the rescued girls of the Federal Government’s commitment and that of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to support them psychologically and with their education as they begin their healing after more than 70 days in captivity.

Read Also; Ex-APC national chair, Adamu, announces retirement from politics

According to a statement issued by her spokesperson, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady added that it is imperative that their experience does not hinder their educational pursuits and career interest.

She added: “Beyond your safe return, we would follow up on your journey, not only to recover from this sad episode in your lives, but to see that you accomplish your mission in your educational pursuit and career interests. Already, I have been briefed on the courage you have shown so far and I encourage you to turn this episode in your lives into a story of triumph.

“You must continue to pursue your educational interests. By ensuring that you continue to learn, as we provide you with the necessary medical and psychological support, we at the Renewed Hope Initiative, (RHI) are also committed to providing you with guidance and support to reach your full potential.”

Senator Oluremi Tinubu noted that their experience and that of other Nigerians who have been kidnapped is difficult and encouraged them that this phase will pass with the determination and tenacity of the security and intelligence forces and the support of all Nigerians.

Each rescued girl received a scholarship grant of N1 million and a brand-new laptop from the Renewed Hope Initiative, an Initiative of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Also, she announced that the Federal Government was giving a sum of N2 million to the parents of each of the rescued girls and N1 million to the Vice Chancellor of the University.

She expressed gratitude for their safe return and commended the exemplary leadership role of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the effective coordination of law enforcement agencies who worked diligently over the past few months to ensure their safe return and the return of every Nigerian held against their will.

The Representative of the National Security Adviser Brigader General Olutayo Adesuyi while handing over the girls said the First Lady meeting with the rescued girls is significant as it shows the solidarity of the Federal Governments support.

Present at the meeting were parents of the rescued girls, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin Ma Katsina, Representative of the Inspector General of Police and National Counter Terrorism Legal Officer.

December 17, 2023
Insecurity: Uzodimma harps on need for southeast leaders to work together

Imo state governor, Hope Uzodimma, has emphasised the need for leaders in the southeast to work together to curb insecurity facing the zone.

He, however, expressed the determination of Governors of the southeast to work together towards alleviating the sufferings of people of the zone, especially as they concern the tide of insecurity.

Governor Uzodimma made the remarks on Sunday, December 17, at the Thanksgiving Church Service of the Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Rt Hon Nkeiruka Onyejiocha at Umunneochi LGA of Abia State

He acknowledged that people of the zone are going through difficult situations as a result of insecurity and high cost of living, but assured that the Governors are working hard, in collaboration with critical stakeholders, to bring the situation under control.

He said: “Leaders of the zone in collaboration with heads of security agencies and community leaders are working hard to bring lasting solution to the challenges of insurgency, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the zone,” he said and called on “politicians irrespective of their political parties to join hands in building the economy of the zone for the good of the people.”

Governor Uzodimma said that Hon Onyejiocha has given a good account of herself and the All Progressives Congress in her Constituency and called for the prayers of the Church for God’s intervention in the affairs of the country in general and the zone in particular.

He congratulated the celebrant for her efforts in bringing development to her Constituency and the Southeast in general.

Read Also; Ex-APC national chair, Adamu, announces retirement from politics

Governor Uzodimma, who congratulated the traditional rulers for their role in maintaining peace in the communities, also thanked the clergy for their prayers that have so far sustained the state and the nation.

The governor donated a bus to the Methodist Diocese of Umunneochi, Abia State in line with a request the Church made on him.

The presiding Bishop and celebrant of the Church Service, Most Rev Dr. B.L Onuagha thanked Governor Uzodimma for his efforts in providing leadership for the Southeast, describing him as “a great and trusted leader in the South zone.”

Bishop Onuagha also thanked the National Chairman of APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and others for coming to identify with Hon Onyejiocha.

In his goodwill message, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi acknowledged the sterling qualities of Hon Onyejiocha and described her as a woman of “value and valour.”

Fagbemi said that President Bola Tinubu is happy with the commissioning of the High Court Complex built by the Minister for her Constituency.

Also in his message, the National Chairman of APC, Ganduje, appreciated the Minister on her giant strides as a Federal lawmaker and now, as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He said he was happy returning to Hon Onyejiocha’s place again to identify with her people on their daughter’s Thanksgiving Service.

Highlights of the ceremony was the commissioning and handing over of Umunneochi High Court Complex built by Hon Onyejiocha by Ganduje assisted by Governor Uzodimma, Fagbemi and other dignatories, both from the federal government and Abia State.

Governor Uzodimma’s wife, Chioma, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti and his wife, APC Deputy National Chairman South, Chief Emma Enukwu, the APC National Vice Chairman South East, Dr. Ijioma Arodiogbu, Chief of Staff to Governor Uzodimma, Barr Nnamdi Anyaehie, Mrs. Glory Akobundu of NEPAD, among other key personalities attended the event.

December 17, 2023
Nation building: Shettima, Adelabu, Albert, others calls for radical shift in attitude, approach

Vice President Kashim Shettima, a professor of African History, Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Ibadan, Isaac Olawale Albert, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, among other speakers have called for an attitudinal change among Nigerians as the key to driving economic growth, social cohesion and environmental protection in the country.

They said the call became imperative in order to re-engineer Nigeria for sustainable development.

The stakeholders noted that the problems facing Nigeria are not new but require bold and decisive action to address, adding that attitudinal change will require the buy-in of all citizens and called for renewed commitment to nation-building.

The speakers made the call at the University of Ibadan, during their seperate remarks at the 74th posthumous birthday of a former governor of the state, Abiola Ajimobi, which coincided with the 6th Annual Senator Abiola Ajimobi Roundtable.

The event which held at Senator Abiola Ajimobi Resource Centre, Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies, University of Ibadan held under the chairmanship of Vice President Kashim Shettima while Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and immediate past Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje was the special guest of honour.

While speaking, the vice president, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (Legal and Compliance matters), Bashir Maidugu, urged Nigerians to take a more active role in improving the country’s social, economic, and environmental well-being.

He stressed that attitudinal change is a key component in transforming the country into a prosperous nation.

Read Also; Ex-APC national chair, Adamu, announces retirement from politics

According to Shettima, attitudinal change is a crucial element of this effort, as it will require a fundamental shift in the way people think and act.

He, however, highlighted the need for citizens to take responsibility for their own actions and work together for “Nigeria’s future prosperity and sustainability.

“Nigerians must stop the blame game and work together to develop our nation. We must stop pointing fingers and realize that our success as a nation is dependent on each and every one of us. We must change our attitudes and start building a new Nigeria, where every citizen is committed to progress and development.”

He added that the government alone cannot transform Nigeria, and called on the private sector, civil society, and the international community to join in the effort, saying that a collective commitment to attitudinal change is the key to a brighter future for Nigeria.

In his keynote address, the power minister, Adebayo Adelabu noted that re-engineering, implies changing and improving the design of a product or system, adding that, “crritically applied to Nigeria, re-engineering is changing and improving our society with the objective of achieving a better society as contained in parts of the Preambles to the Nigerian Constitution.

“Promoting the good government and welfare of all persons in our country on the principles of freedom, equality and justice, and for the purpose of consolidating the Unity of our people.

“Leadership and followership are the twin problem of Nigerian underdevelopment in the 21st Century. No nations can exist and truly carry out the cause of nationalism without leadership and followership. The two are so interwoven that hardly can you talk about one without the other.”

“It is likened to a thread and the needle which are both needed to function in tailoring a cloth without which no proper sewing can be made. In tailoring a nation, leadership and followership must be involved. For where there is bad leadership, the followership will be grossly contaminated and where there is a bad followership, the leaders will be turned sour.

“Both will lack the necessary inspiration, motivation and encouragement to drive the wheel of national progress and keep the nation on the right track. The 21st century Nigeria is on the threshold of backwardness due to bad leadership and followership.

While proffering recipe, Adelabu said: “We should note that our options are limited to unleashing the vast potential in this country through industrialization. Investing in industries and promoting local production will strengthen the economy. More focus should be on investment in Education.”

He described Ajimobi as his great benefactor who persuaded him to contest the governorship election in 2019.

Also in his lead paper presentation, the guest speaker, and the pioneer dean, Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies, University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Albert, stated that re-engineering a society for a sustainable development requires that individuals and groups drop their selfish goals for the higher goals of national survival.

Speaking on the theme: “Re-engineering Nigeria for Sustainable Development: Options, Cost and Prospects,” the don observed that what is needed for the building of sustainable peace and democracy in Nigeria, being a federal state, is a constitution that truly connects the people and that the Nigerian leaders will obey.

He appealed to Nigerians to be mindful of the criticism of the policies of President Bola Tinubu so as not to discourage him from reaching the full potentials of his vision.

According to him, the recent creation of some new ministries by the President, particularly the ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as well as that Art, Culture and Creative Economy among others are indications that that the President saw several things that could take the country forward.

He said: “The President has created some new ministries and one of the most interesting of them is the Blue Economy. The Blue Economy in Nigeria is rich. With oil not properly exploited, divesting into the sea suggested to me that the man saw several things and we should allow him to come up with all that he is looking at that will take this country forward.

“Criticism of the President might prevent him from telling us all that he saw or that he is seeing and therefore, we should encourage him.

“And the next one also is the Ministry of creative industry. Anywhere I go in the world, people talk about Nollywood than any other thing.

“Now, If we have that type of reputation outside as a result of Nollywood, I was asking myself why is it that government cannot see it, invest in it and use it to the advantage of the country. And that we are just seeing”, he added.

Also in a goodwill message, the Vice Chancellor, UI, Prof Kayode Adebowale described the deceased as one of the most highly revered personalities Nigeria has produced.

He added that the former governor introduced some initiatives which helped to ensure the security of lives and property in the state during his tenure.

Adebowale said: “Today, we are here gathered again to honour posthumously one of the most highly revered personalities that this country has produced; an illustrious son of Ibadan, a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the first two-term Governor of Oyo State who served from 2011-2019 and thereafter served as the Deputy National Chairman South of the All Progressive Congress (APC) – the Late Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

“Everyone who knew Oyo State and especially Ibadan before his reign can attest to the high level of crime and insecurity in the state, such as armed robbery, including banks in front of

University; the NURTW perennial crisis in the state, and all manners and forms of insecurity.

“The establishment and equipping of the ‘Operation Burst’ took care of the problems of insecurity in the state. With regards to the NURTW menace, some people went to prison and that brought about peace in the state throughout his eight-year tenure.”

Earlier in her address of welcome, wife of the late former governor, Chief Mrs Florence Ajimobi, said the roundtable further signposts the unflinching belief in the vision behind the budding collaboration, mainly succinctly put as the pursuit of the ideals of good governance and the accelerated development for the Nigerian state.

The event attracted dignitaries from different walks of life, which included Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, captains of industries, All Progressives Congress, APC chieftains, among others.

Some of the notable personalities at the event Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Dr. Zacheus Adedeji; former Minister for Trade, Mrs. Onikepo Akande; former Minister for Finance, Kemi Adeosun; and the deceased’s wife, Florence Ajimobi.

Others are the senator representing Oyo North, Dr. Abdulfatai Buhari; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Saliu Adelabu; Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale; former Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Professor Adeolu Akande; former APC Chairman, Chief Akin Oke; Professor Tunji Olaopa and Professor Tajudeen Akanji.

Also at the event are former Assistant Inspector General of Police Leye Oyebade, former ALGON Chairman Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye, friends, family members and associates of the former governor.

December 17, 2023
IPPIS: Centralised payment platform will reduce ghost workers — NAAT

The National Association Academic Technologists (NAAT) has hailed President Bola Tinubu for removing public tertiary institutions from the Integrated Personnel Payment System (IPPIS).

The union, however, expressed reservation over the decision.

NAAT argued that a centralised payment platform like IPPIS would reduce ghost workers.

The union said this in a statement signed by its President, Ibeji Nwokoma on Sunday in Abuja and said it was looking up to the Federal Government on the way forward after exiting IPPIS.

Last week, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) exempted universities, polytechnics and colleges of education from the IPPIS.

The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, who briefed the media, said FEC observed that Vice Chancellors of Universities didn’t need to abandon their work to come to Abuja to process the salaries of their personnel.

Read Also: Ex-APC national chair, Adamu, announces retirement from politics

The decision was hailed by the Academic Staff Union of Universities who had been against the usage of the payment platform by the government.

But in its statement, NAAT said the removal of public institutions from IPPIS, university autonomy will be restored.

It, however, expressed reservations on “payment uniformity of salaries and allowances across federal tertiary institutions as it was achieved under IPPIS despite its shortcomings.”

The statement added: “With the exit of Federal Tertiary Institutions from IPPIS, NAAT is curious to seek for clarification from the government on the way forward as nothing can exist out of nothing.

“Our Union advocates for the continuous use of a centralised payment platform to sustain the gains already achieved through IPPIS and reduce the incidence of over-bloated personnel cost and ghost workers being major reasons for creation of IPPIS.”

December 17, 2023
Kano: No deal with NNPP to compromise Supreme Court judgement, APC dispel rumour

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Sunday dispelled rumours of entering into a deal with the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to influence the Supreme Court to rule in favour of the Kano state governor, Abba Yusuf,

The party also denied insinuation that President Bola Tinubu held a meeting where he intervened in favour of the NNPP candidate to remain as governor, in anticipation of his (Yusuf) subsequent decamping to the APC.

The election of the NNPP candidate had been sacked by the Kano State Governorship Election Tribunal and declared the APC flag bearer, Dr Nasir Gawuna as the winner of the March 18 governorship election. The Court of Appeal also affirmed the judgement of the tribunal forcing Yusuf to approach the Supreme Court for a reversal of the judgement.

Kano state APC chairman, Abdullahi Abbas in a statement in Abuja dismissed the speculation of any agreement and reconciliation between the party and NNPP, describing it as “mere rumours,” insisting that no deal was struck with anybody on the matter before the apex court.

He noted that only desperate leaders of the NNPP have been spreading rumours.

Read Also: Ex-APC national chair, Adamu, announces retirement from politics

According to Abbas: “The rumours had it that the NNPP has reached out to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the matter in favour of the NNPP candidate to remain as governor and subsequently decamp to the APC.

“There is nowhere such meeting was held with either Mr President or any leader of the party. President Bola Tinubu is a Democrat and strongly believes in the rule of law and the right thing to be done therefore will not be part of any arrangement or reconciliation to subvert justice and support people who have stolen votes or breach the electoral act to emerge as leaders.”

Abbas further pointed out that APC as a party was not aware of such an arrangement and would instead intensify all efforts to pursue its case at the Supreme Court to a logical conclusion.

Assuring APC supporters and the people of Kano state, the chairman expressed confidence that the party standard bearer would emerge victorious at the Court, especially from the concrete and convincing evidence presented at both the Tribunal and the Appeal Court which ultimately led to the party’s success.

On the issue of the so-called anticipated crisis also sponsored by the NNPP, the APC said there was no tension in Kano, stressing that the people are happy with the recent developments emanating from the judgement of both the Tribunal and Appeal Court and therefore anxiously waiting for the Apex Court to endorse the two concurrent rulings.

He said Kano is very peaceful and the people are conducting their normal business despite all efforts by the NNPP to provoke and incite youth to create unnecessary political crisis in the state.

Abbas assured that the party will ensure harmonious and peaceful relationships with ethnic groups and nationalities in the state no matter the provocation by the NNPP.

He urged all the party members and Nigerians to ignore all the propaganda, and provocation and remain calm because Kano would always remain peaceful.

December 17, 2023
Insecurity: Interior Minister makes case for NHFSS Bill

Minister for Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged to join other well-meaning Nigerians including policy makers in the call for the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS)
Bill to be signed into law.

He said once it is achieved, the service would be quickly be integrated into the federal security apparatus.

He said this when he hosted the management of NHFSS in Abuja.

The NHFSS team was led by the Commander General of the Service, Dr Joshua Osatimehin and comprised of Deputy Commanders General, Assistant Commanders General and other ranks.

While receiving the NHFSS top officials, the Minister commended the selfless efforts of the service towards curbing crimes and criminalities, especially acts perpetrated within the forests.

He said that Nigerians and the federal government are aware of the exploits of officers and men of the NHFSS who he said are complimenting the efforts of the Police, the Military and other relevant stakeholders.

Tunji-Ojo commended NHFSS, mainly because they are not yet on government’s payroll, yet, using their resources to compliment the work of security and other agencies to safeguard the nation and its resources.

He pledged to join other well-meaning Nigerians including policy makers and traditional rulers in the call for the NHFSS Bill to be signed into law, saying that once that is achieved, the Service would be quickly be integrated into the Federal Security apparatus.

Earlier, the Commander General of the NHFSS, Osatimehin, told the Minister that they were in his office to commend him on the positive turnaround of the activities of the Ministry since he assumed office as Minister.

Osatimehin particularly mentioned the revolution going on in the application and processing of passports for Nigerians which is now completed in a matter of days rather than months that was the case in the past, as well as the release of over 200,000 backlog of passports that were inherited by the Minister.

The NHFSS Commander General also used the opportunity of the visit to intimate the Minister of the activities of the Service, especially in the area of sharing intelligence with security organisations towards the fight against terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities in the country.

He told the Minister that the NHFSS Bill has been passed by the two chambers of the National Assembly, waiting for the President’s assent and solicited the Minister’s intervention.

He stated that the signing of the Bill into law would embolden officers and men of the Service to discharge their duties with vigour in order to help actualise President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the area of security of lives and property of Nigerians and other nationals living in the country.

Reacting to the visit, the Deputy Commander General of NHFSS in charge of Technical Services, Amb. John Metchie, commended Dr. Osatimehin for his selfless efforts in seeing that the Service becomes a federal government agency.

Metchie,who is also the African Director, International Association of World Peace Advocates, IAWPA, stated this while reacting to questions from newsmen on the outcome of the visit of the Commander General to the Interior Minister.

He said Osatimehin, whom he described as a great leader, has committed so much of his personal resources and time for the wellbeing of officers and men of the Service and has continued to champion the mantra of best quality service to fatherland.

Metchie assured that the entire management, officers and men of the NHFSS are proud of the Commander General and are solidly behind him, in his quest to ensure that the Service becomes a federal government agency.

December 17, 2023
Renewable energy: Electric vehicle expert urges FG to support local players

Top Nigerian Electric vehicle promoter, Daniel Mbamala has urged the federal government to support local players in the renewable energy sector.

He warned that Nigeria may find itself in a distressful economic crisis in the near future if such support is not given.

Mbamala made the assertion while speaking to reporters in Abuja on his return from the Climate Change Conference in Dubai.

He noted that during the recently concluded COP28, it was agreed by nearly 200 countries that all nations should transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources to avert the worst effects of climate change.

He urged the federal government to initiate intervention grants to players in the sector for the industry to thrive.

The MD/CEO of Unique Marvel Nigeria Ltd and Regional Partner, Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), who attended the COP28 alongside the company’s founder, Prince Mustapha Mona Audu, posited that oil which is Nigerians mainstay may soon become an unattractive commodity globally.

He urged Nigerians to change their mentality by investing and patronizing renewable energy products.

He asked the federal government to liaise with the National and State Assemblies to pass the National renewable energy law which will enable local investors to have a sense of direction.

Mbamala said: “I will encourage the Government to as a matter of urgency liaise with the National Assembly to pass the National renewable energy law which will embody all the comprehensive programmes and most of the agreements reached at COP28.

“It is important that the Government develops this law to guide, protect and regulate people who are industry players in this sector.

“So many countries have gone beyond this stage but from where we are as a country and taking cognisance of the fact that we are a developing country it is considerably understandable that we have to start from somewhere.

Despite the challenges, Daniel however applauded the FG’s delegation for their level of participation at the climate change global gathering, according to him the Nation has the natural resources needed to prosper in the sector if the right policies and laws were put in place.

He said: “The Nigerian Government being part of the conference means that the first step to take is for them to pass a comprehensive National renewable energy law which will embody every component for this sector to thrive. The law should be passed and signed at both the National and State Assembly levels.

“It will give Nigerians and players in this industry a sense of direction. It is important for the Government to create a national intervention fund to be able to implement these programmes and encourage players who are in this sector.

“Most people who are players in this sector are really struggling to remain in the business. I’m talking about people who are into solar energy, electric vehicles, recycling and all fields that relate to the climate change initiative.

“It is important for the Government to provide incentives, financial grants in order to encourage people who are in this sector.

“Many of them have a very good sense of direction but they can’t make any significant progress because they have no support from the Government that is why the country is lagging behind in this regard.”

December 17, 2023