Wife of Anambra state governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, on Tuesday, August 6, said the state was committed to moving from its present second spot as the state with the lowest number of Under-5 mortality to the first position.
Soludo’s wife stated this in Awka during the launch of Nonye’s Healthy Living Pap held at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre.
She expressed confidence that the state would maintain the spot for as long as it takes.
She also pledged the readiness of her pet project, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo to ensure children of the state were saved from the threats of diseases aggravated by poor nutrition.
Acknowledging prevalent protein deficiency among Nigerian children caused by accessibility, availability, and affordability of food items, including protein sources, the governor’s wife assured closure of such gaps through the provision of all-round, effective intervention for homes and communities.
She described nutrition as life and remained top of the six pillars of her programme as every other pillar depended on it to exist.
She said: “The idea behind this journey is to rescue our children with special nutritional needs. Ours is only a complementary step that supports existing strategic government policies.
“In the medium term, we want to move from our present second spot as the state with the lowest number of Under-5 mortality to the first position and maintain the spot for as long as it takes. We are very close.
“In driving a commitment that thinks inclusiveness, we want to ensure that our children are saved from the threats of diseases aggravated by poor nutrition.
“Aware of the prevalent protein deficiency among children in Nigeria caused by accessibility, availability and affordability of food items, including protein sources, we want to close the gap by providing all-round, effective intervention for homes and communities.
“The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number three captures our idea most succinctly.
While insisting that the pap is not only free but strictly for children with special nutritional needs, Soludo revealed that local government areas with a high population of children with malnutrition would be major focal points.
“We have carefully created a seamless distribution pattern for this product across the twenty-one local government areas of Anambra State.
“Every local government will have a known referral centre where this meal can be accessed.
“Each referral centre will develop a database that feeds our central database with information about collection, monitoring, and progress.
“Every child who is on the meal will be consistently monitored to ascertain their recovery progress. Records must be kept up to date to help us evaluate cases and results.
“I, therefore, appeal to those in whose care we are leaving this product to understand its purpose and always stick to that.”
Businessman and philanthropist, Chief Emeka Agba, has urged Nigerians to shun any form of protest but rather engage the federal government through dialogue even as the August 1 planned protest gathers momentum.
Speaking at a press conference to address national issues, the founder, Chief Emeka Agba Foundation, said more Nigerians must become active in engaging the government through dialogue rather than protest.
He said: “I would like to say that the protest should be jettisoned entirely, it should not take place. If that is what is needed to stop the protest, I am totally not in support of any protest.
“Not because I am not affected as a Nigerian by the way the government is functioning, or with the high cost of things in Nigeria.
“In fact, I am mostly affected because every now and then, I know the effort I’m putting in order to have electricity in the house and buy water for my children and all that.
“However, when you talk about protest with the present situation of Nigeria, it’s like somebody whose house is on fire, instead of using water to quench the flame, you went and got a gallon of gasoline and started pouring in there.
“The protest, if it takes place, will double the suffering of Nigerians and Nigerians should stop looking at countries like Kenya, because they think Kenya had a protest. I am a very good friend of people in Kenya, including their President and the opposition party, in fact the president of Kenya is our in-law, as we speak.
“So protests of any kind right now will really destroy things and make people suffer more, because at the end of the day, if the protests take place, it’s still you and I who will pay for what seems to have been lost, or what seems to have been damaged.
“Even if they borrowed money to fix those things, it is still taxpayers’ money that the government will still come back to fix it and It is still going to add to our suffering.
“So what I think we should do, alternative to the protest, you know, neutral people as we have remained, should no longer remain too neutral, rather the government should expect us to come over to them, to continue to compel or pressure them with the demands of the masses, in a more civilized and more decent manner.
“The moment we talk about protest, there are so many hoodlums, jobless people, hunger is worsening in the country. They will take the advantage to begin to destroy people’s property, and start looting people’s, we’ve seen it here in this country.
Chief Agba also addressed the recent dialogue in the petroleum sector as regards petroleum products, scarcity and more importantly the Dangote Refinery which many Nigerians thought could answer the perpetual fuel problems when when it starts supplying fuel, prices could crash to pre subsidy removal levels among other expectations,seemed not to be the case.
He therefore urged the federal government to ensure a win win situation regardless of whoever is affronted in the interest of the masses to sort whatever is the accusation and counter accusation as regards the Dangote refinery, petrol supply and all other indices to ameliorate the suffering of the people.
“The interest is Nigeria first because if Nigeria doesn’t grow, we have limited capacity for growth.Chief Emeka Agba Foundation asserted that, it is crucial that we address these issues to move forward as a nation. According to him, we need to reclaim our dignity, support local industries, and ensure our leaders are working in the best interest of Nigeria. We must also scrutinize the role of foreign missions and religious leaders in shaping our national narrative. Together, we can build a stronger, more self-reliant Nigeria.
‘Our leaders should have pride in our nation’s capabilities. They should not be dependent on foreign validation, such as making speeches at Chatham House. True leadership means believing in our own potential and leading with confidence and self-respect’
“Well, for minimum wage, my take on it is that if the other states can follow the two states that have accepted to pay. To me, even the 70,000 as a minimum wage, is a welcome development. It’s better than the previous amount, so, it’s a good step in the right direction, but let’s see how far this can go and I hope other states comply.”
A group, National Rebirth Movement (NRM), has called on youths to shun the planned August 1 nationwide protests against hardship, saying the recently affirmed financial autonomy for local government areas will go long way to enhance grassroots development and ultimately end Bad governance.
A statement in Abuja on Monday by the Convener of NRM, Folusho Ojo Sylvanus, noted that as Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of governance and seeking enhanced political participation, a new opportunity has emerged for the country’s youth population to make meaningful impact through the newly granted financial autonomy for local government areas in the country.
“This recent opportunity for enhanced self-governance at the local level presents an unprecedented chance for young Nigerians to engage directly with their communities and effect real change, as they desire, from bottom up.
“Rather than forming phantom protest movements, which have historically lacked steam and always presenting negative results, now is the time for the youth to seize the moment and participate actively in local governance.
“Only recently did the President Bola Tinubu’s administration achieve a great feat following the historic victory at the Supreme Court for the Local Government autonomy. This autonomy has represent a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“By empowering local authorities to make decisions and manage resources independently, the framework aims to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of governance.
“And for Nigerian youths, this autonomy is not just a structural change; it’s an invitation to take control of their own destinies and influence the development of their communities.
“The central government’s inefficiencies and the perceived disconnect between national policies and local needs have long been sources of frustration. With local government autonomy regime, there is now a clearer pathway for addressing these issues directly at the community level.
“This present order allows local government to tailor solutions to local problems, manage budgets more effectively, and engage citizens in decision-making processes.
“While protests, like the End Bad Governance movement, have been instrumental in raising awareness and demanding accountability, their impact on systemic change has often been limited,” Sylvanus stated.
The BATN Foundation has announced the successful commissioning of a 20,000-liter solar-powered borehole in Ndeabor, Aninri local government area of Enugu state.
Access to clean water is a fundamental basic human need, yet many remote communities continue to struggle with securing this vital resource.
However, with the project launch, the BATN Foundation demonstrates its commitment to investing in solar-powered borehole infrastructure in a bid to provide clean potable water in these communities.
Harnessing the power of the sun, the project which reflects the power of collaboration between the Foundation, government bodies, and the community, aims not just to ensure a consistent supply of clean water but also to promote improved health, economic growth, community empowerment and sustainable development.
The facility is equipped with four solar panels, a robust 2.2Hp water pump, and two 10,000-liter storage tanks, demonstrating the Foundation’s dedication to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
This landmark initiative provides a reliable source of clean water, marking a significant milestone in the community’s journey towards sustainable development. More than just an infrastructure project, the borehole was described as a lifeline, promising improved health, empowerment, and economic growth for the community.
At the event’s flag-off, General Manager of the BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya announced that they stood at the brink of commissioning the life-changing borehole facility.
He emphasised the critical role that access to clean water plays in the overall well-being of a community, noting that it is not merely about quenching thirst but also about empowering individuals, promoting health, and fostering economic growth.
“This project stands as a testament to our dedication to sustainable initiatives that positively impact the lives of rural communities,” Odusanya stated.
The General Manager extended heartfelt thanks to the Honourable Commissioner of Water Resources and the Permanent Secretary for their unwavering support towards the initiative even as he largely attributed its success to the patience and cooperation exhibited by the community leaders and residents.
The project’s implementing partners, Eco-lead Imperial Engineering and Global Resources Limited, whose commitment and knowledge were crucial in the concept’s realisation were also commended for their unwavering efforts in ensuring its completion to the highest standards.
In fostering provision, access to clean water, and sustainable development, the Foundation also announced an upcoming water project in Gwadabawa, Sokoto.
With the solar-powered borehole project, the foundation reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the socio-economic and agricultural development of small-holder farmers and women in Enugu State, serving as a testament to its mission of creating sustainable and impactful solutions that address the needs of rural communities.
As Ndeabor embarks on this new journey, the BATN Foundation remains dedicated to making real and lasting difference in the lives of rural communities as the initiative is just one of many steps towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Ndeabor and its residents.
The leadership of the non-indigenes community in Delta State dissociated itself from the protest.
The non-indigenes comprising of Hausa/Fulani, Yoruba, Ibo, Idoma, Tiv, Edo, and others directed their members not to join the protest.
In a statement, its leadership said: “The Executive of the non-indigene community believes that the community should not be dragged into politics and should not be used by politicians to settle political scores.
“The executives of the non-indigene community in Delta State appealed and directed its members not to be involved in the upcoming national protests as it would worsen the already fragile security and economic situation in the country.
“The planned protest with the hashtag #endbadgovernanceinnigeria seems to be politically motivated and our members are advised to steer clear of a protest that is likely to be hijacked by hoodlums that can potentially lead to fatalities and injuries.
“We advise all our members to remain law-abiding, be vigilant and avoid any act that could lead to a breach of law and security of the state and country.”
In a communique read by Babatunde Ishmael, after a careful review, the non-indigene community executive agreed that while there is actual economic hardship in the country, it was a global issue which responsible governments have been addressing.
According to the communique, “the non-indigene community Executive also believes that another round of protests after the last #EndSars protests will actually worsen the precarious economic and security situation being witnessed in the country.
“The Delta State government has provided a conducive environment for the Non-Indigene community in Delta state to carry out their businesses without any form of discrimination or molestation.
“Also, as a government that has promised all-inclusiveness, the Oborevwori administration has appointed non-indigenes into his government.
“In order to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal by the Tinubu administration, the Delta State government has been giving palliatives to vulnerable groups in Delta state and also carrying the non-indigene community along in this.
“The Executive of the non-indigene community believes that the community should not be dragged into politics and should not be used by politicians to settle political scores”.
To this end, the non-indigene community, arising from a crucial meeting resolved that “the current economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians is a global issue and we should exercise restraint and should not be seen ruffling feathers in a matter that can be settled amicably.
“The Executives of Non-indigene community in Delta State appealed and directed its members not to be involved in the upcoming national protests as it would worsen the already fragile security and economic situation in the country.
“The Delta state government has been partnering with the non-indigene community in Delta State in the form of political appointments and empowerment schemes for some of its members and as such we should support the Oborevwori administration and desist from engaging in a needless protest that is not a panacea to our challenges.
“We have security information that some detractors are planning to penetrate the ranks of the non-indigene community in the State and we advise our members not to be used to destabilize the polity.
“The Delta State government has been giving palliatives in tranches to vulnerable groups, widows, the aged, and the disabled and this includes the non-indigene population of Delta state.
“The planned protest with the hashtag #endbadgovernanceinnigeria seems to be politically motivated and our members are advised to steer clear of a protest that is likely to be hijacked by hoodlums that can potentially lead to fatalities and injuries.
“We advise all our members to remain law-abiding, be vigilant and avoid any act that could lead to a breach of law and security of the state and country.”
Chief Pilot of Ibom Air, Captain Ruth Adebanjo, has challenged stereotypes and outdated beliefs suggesting certain professions are gender-specific.
Adebanjo shared this insight during her motivational talk at the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Africa Festival in Lagos.
Speaking to a diverse audience of young STEM enthusiasts and professionals, under the theme “Empowering Girls in STEM Careers: Strategies for Success, “Captain Adebanjo highlighted the importance of inclusivity and diversity in STEM.
She emphasised that everyone, regardless of gender, should pursue their passion without limitations.
She encouraged participants to strive for excellence in their chosen fields and stressed the importance of family support in nurturing young careers.
Adebanjo noted that a supportive environment plays a crucial role in both personal and professional growth.
The STEM Fest provided a platform for interactions, workshops, and exhibitions to foster innovation and creativity among young people interested in STEM disciplines.
Ibom Air proudly supported the event, aligning with its corporate social responsibility focus on education.
July 22nd is Gbenga Ashafa’s day. In celebrating his life’s journey, I find it to be an honour and a privilege to reflect on his contributions to society over three decades. For a man who has spent more than half of his eventful life in the service of people, state, and country, July 22nd has never been just another birthday anniversary. It is a day set aside for the celebration of his excellence, dedication, and commitment to public service. I am often reminded of his big shoes and the fact that he has distinguished himself as a public administrator, whose impact on Lagos State and the federal front remains indelible. His public service journey, when examined through the lens of his various roles, showcases a career marked by efficiency, change, and significant process improvements. As Executive Secretary, and later Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, he brought about policies that streamlined operations surrounding the issuance of title documents and enhanced service delivery in land administration.
His tenure as Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District (2011 – 2019) was an interesting period. During his two terms, he was not only a legislator but a forward-thinking leader. He sponsored bills and motions that addressed critical issues and worked to bring about positive change for his constituents. His role in sponsoring the first cohort of young energy professionals into the Lagos Energy Academy (in partnership with Siemens) is evidence of his devotion to youth empowerment and encouraging innovation. The weekly empowerment programmes at his constituency office on CMD Road in the Ikosi area were moments of bonding and sharing. I saw the genuineness of empathy as he gave artisans, technicians, widows, trade unions, orphans, and other vulnerable groups of people various tools of trade to either start businesses or boost their existing ones. I think that his devotion to MSMEs underscored his belief in the potential of every Nigerian to contribute to societal development, no matter how little their capacity in the present.
As MD / CEO of the Federal Housing Authority (2020 – 2024), his leadership was instrumental in revamping FHA’s estates, providing quality housing, and enhancing the living standards of Nigerians. He wasn’t all about brick and mortar development but about building communities and creating environments where families could thrive. His focus on sustainability and long-term planning ensured that these estates would benefit and serve generations to come.
Since stepping back from public service in 2024 to embrace his roles as a grandfather, loyal party man, and philanthropist, my father has continued to exemplify the spirit of service. His philanthropic endeavours have touched many lives and reaffirmed his dedication to creating a better society. Whether through educational scholarships, healthcare initiatives, or community development projects, his work and donations have continued to make a difference where it matters most. His involvement in various charitable causes showcases his longstanding belief in the power of giving back and supporting those in need.
As his son, I am immensely proud of his public service record and the enduring impact of his work. Senator Gbenga Ashafa is a man whose life’s work continues to inspire and uplift those around him. His journey is far from over, and I firmly believe that his wealth of experience and dedication to service will see him continue to contribute to Nigeria’s progress in even greater capacities. Happy Birthday, Dad. Your legacy is not just in the positions you have held but in the lives you have touched. Here’s to many more years of health, happiness, and continued service to our beloved nation. May your journey of impact and service continue to inspire us all to strive for excellence and to make meaningful contributions to our communities and country. Most important of all, as my father, you’ll always have my honour, profound respect, and admiration.
The Concerned Patriotic Citizens Forum (CPCF) has slammed Zamfara chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly attempting to shift blame for the state’s insecurity to Governor Dauda Lawal of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
According to the CPCF, the insecurity was created by the previous administration, stating it was unjust to mock the victims and blame Lawal.
In a statement, Comrade Moses Toro, President of CPCF, berated the recent statement by the Zamfara APC, accusing Governor Lawal of disregarding the state’s insecurity and “celebrating” at a PDP Governors’ Forum meeting in Enugu.
Toro stated that if anyone is to be blamed for the security situation, it should be the APC and not Governor Lawal.
He claimed the insecurity in Zamfara State began during the tenure of the previous administration and worsened during that time.
He added that Governor Lawal has taken more proactive measures to address the security issues in his short time in office than the previous administration did in eight years.
He stated: “The attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to lay the blame for the dire security situation in Zamfara State entirely at the feet of Governor Dauda Lawal is beyond preposterous,” the statement read.
“It’s on record that the insecurity in Zamfara State started during the tenure of the immediate past APC administration in the state. The then APC-led administration in the state sat on their hands and watched the insecurity worsen further.
“Contrary to the APC’s claims that Governor Lawal has done nothing but ‘celebrate in Enugu’ amid insecurity in Zamfara State, the Governor has done more in tackling insecurity in just one year in office than the past APC administration did in eight years.
“Under the immediate past APC administration, Zamfara went from being one of the most peaceful states of the federation to the most terrorized state in the North-West. A report by TheCable Index showed that 327 people were killed in Zamfara State in the first quarter of 2022 alone. This was during the APC administration in the state. During the same regime, two local governments in Zamfara State, Anka, and Bukkuyum, were shut down by the state government due to insecurity.
“Therefore, those who brought about the killings and the mess Governor Lawal is trying to clean cannot turn around to mock Zamfarans and the rest of Nigerians simply because they have been rejected by the electorates.
“We consider the statement by APC as an attempt to mock the dead and families of those who have lost their loved ones to the insecurity inflicted on the North West in general and Zamfara in particular.
“The Concerned Patriotic Citizens Forum (CPCF) expects the APC to be remorseful rather than play politics with the insecurity it created. The party is hereby advised to desist from politicizing the plights of the victims of the insecurity it created. But if they want to continue to play the blame game, they should heap the blame on themselves as they are the chief architects of the insecurity in the state.
“We also want to use this medium to commend Governor Dauda Lawal for the proactive measures he has put in place to combat insecurity in Zamfara State. The inauguration of a 21-member Board of Trustees of Zamfara State Security Trust Fund by the Governor to tackle insecurity is a pragmatic step. The Governor is urged to sustain his efforts for the peace and development of Zamfara State.”
Twenty years after his ordeal in the hands of the Nigerian Navy, friends, family and eminent Nigerians, yesterday, gathered to celebrate former Chief of Training and Operations at the Navy headquarters, Rear Admiral Francis Agbiti (Rtd.), in Abuja.
The event was not only the unveiling of a book titled, AGBITI: Admiral, Patriot and Gentleman, written by Fabian Owoicho but was also an opportunity to reminisce on the travails of the retired Naval Officer while in service, as many poured out encomiums on his innocence and patriotic service to the country.
Agbiti, a native of Adoka in Benue State, was in 2004 implicated in the missing popular vessel, known as M.T. African Pride, leading to his summary court martial and his eventual victory at the Supreme Court.
Foremost Constitutional Lawyer, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), said it took the grace of God and the strong judicial system in Nigeria at the time, for the retired Naval Officer to get justice at the Supreme Court.
“We are here today to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. They call it MT African Pride, that’s the name of the vessel. But the trial was African shame. It was a shame to even what we call the trials in the military, before the military tribunal. We saw it. We witnessed this, witnessed everything with our naked eyes.
“Inhumanity of man to man, injustice melted by fellow officers, to their superior or subordinates officers to their superior, and also his own colleagues, his peers within the military. They just wanted him out.
“The essence of this gathering today is also to plead with us in Nigeria or as Nigerians and also powers. That power is transient. They used power against this gentleman. I was there, I saw it all. The government of the day used power against him. They wanted to get rid of him by all means and at all cost.
“They were even threatening him, threatening him not to appeal to the Supreme Court, that they would get rid of him.
“But we thank God, for the eminence, for the superiority of justice. Had there been no law, had there been no institution of the judiciary? It would have been worse than animals. You have read that book, the animal farm would have been worse than what happened in the animal farm.
“But thank God for the institution of the judiciary. Thank God for the men, for the characters that empanelled the Supreme Court, or the men that constituted that panel of the Supreme Court that adjudicated on his matter. It didn’t take them minutes. They were asking even the prosecuting counsel, will you oppose this appeal? They were referring him to pages of the records. Are you sure even the panel was properly constituted? Are you sure this evidence should have come in? Are you convinced even about the arraignment? Are you convinced about the way and manner they stood on the constitution of Nigeria even under the military enactments?
“And at the end of the day, Supreme Court came to the unanimous conclusion that everything done to him was a nullity. The Supreme Court didn’t go further to consider even the evidence, which, you know, there was no evidence at all. There was nothing. Everything was concocted.
“But then legally, Supreme Court said and agreed. Constitutionally, the Supreme Court agreed with us. It was a nullity. So it might be you, it might be me”, he said.
Olanipekun tasked Nigerian lawyers to continue to uphold the tenet of selflessness and humanitarian, urging those in power to rule with the fear of God.
He said,: “The essence of what I said today is that we lawyers should be more appreciated by the society than what the society thinks about us. Lawyers are very sympathetic, they are very empathetic, they are humans. And also they appreciate the travails of their clients.
“But more often than not, people believe that lawyers are suckers, that they are always looking after money.
“The gentleman, the patriot, the officer mentioned it today that we did not appear for him because of money, but because we believed that he deserved justice.
“Now, the essence of it all is that in this country we should be reflective. We should look back at what we have, where we are coming from, where we are today, what we want our country to become tomorrow.
“I made reference to some lines in the national anthem – Oh God of all creation, grant this one request – that we will be a nation where no man is oppressed; that our flag shall be our symbol, should be a symbol of justice and truth, of honesty.
“Let us live to the wordings, to the content, to the tenor, to the spirit, to the aim, to the ambition, to the aspiration of the wordings of the national anthem.
“And I want to, as a senior citizen of this country, plead with all of us, those in power today, those of us who are there also today, we must not support evil.
“And to those of us in the legal profession, I want to plead that we must at all times be bold enough, particularly in criminal matters, to defend our clients. We should be polite to the courts, we should be humble in our presentation, but we must be firm”.
On his part, Retired Real Admiral Agbiti recounted how he was framed up by his subordinates and peers twenty years ago, during his military career and how Chief Olanipekun came through for him, thanking God for putting his enemies to shame.
He urged the judiciary to make justice available to all that deserves it, devoid of any considerations.
Agbiti said, “My suggestion is that, they should strive to become good, so that justice will be for all without partiality and without consideration of status of individuals. That’s what I would say.
“So justice by itself is very good. If it is not justice, he could not have defended me down to Supreme Court for us to win. And what I need to state here, is that the Justice at the Appeal Court, he told me that I had no ground of appeal, but God of justice, when he ran into trouble, he also sought for appeal, but he was told that he had no ground of appeal.
“So justice is from the throne of God. If you do injustice, God is angry with you. And if you do justice, God will be happy with you and he will bless you. So that is what it is about our justice system.
“I’m from Nigeria Navy. What I will tell you, as Flag Officer Commander, I think, more than anyone else, I arrested more illegal ships involved in crude oil theft and the refund.
“And some other officers, like you heard the testimony of Rear Admiral Apochi. There are very many good officers pursuing the interest of a national wellbeing.
“And corruption, it has to be fought headlong. But I dare say that the current approach will not do us much good because it is being politicized. Those that are involved, they are the rich people. They are the politicians, not the military. The military are there to protect the national interest, to defend the national interest. Not the military, but the rich and the politicians.
“And like I testified over there, it was the son of the power that be, that was involved in that M.T. African Pride. But the innocent had been persecuted. So corruption has to be stemmed from above and let it be sent to the classroom”.
A coalition of civil society organizations in Nigeria has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to address allegations of tax clearance certificate forgery and other charges against former majority leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Philip Shaibu.
The network of CSOs, led by national coordinator Comrade Victor Kalu and national secretary Alhaji Ali Abatcha, held a press conference in Abuja, calling on the ICPC to end its silence on the issue and ensure a thorough resolution.
The group highlighted that in 2014, Shaibu was arraigned before the Edo State High Court under Justice Esther Edigion on a six-count charge for allegedly violating the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
It said that the charges included making false statements to ICPC officers in July 2010, as well as fraudulently obtaining a tax clearance certificate from the Edo State Board of Internal Revenue in November 2006.
The group added that despite the seriousness of the allegations, the case has seen numerous adjournments without a definitive conclusion.
According to the group’s claim, the ICPC counsel, Godson Igbadume, had initially opposed bail for Shaibu, citing his evasion of service, adding that the case has since be stagnated, raising concerns among the civil society groups.
It said: “We demand the ICPC explain to Nigerians how this matter was concluded or revisit it to ensure a lawful resolution.”
The group emphasised that the Edo State High Court and the judiciary as a whole should remain focused and committed to upholding the rule of law and interpreting the laws adequately.
“As law abiding citizens, we shall not take laws in to our hands in this matter but we must make sure that our relevant enabling laws as a democratic nation are upheld, promoted and interpreted accordingly through legitimate means by compelling both the ICPC and the judiciary to do the needful in this matter of forgery involving a lawmaker that understands the implication of violating such laws.”
Kalu said that public commentators have claimed that the reason the case stalled was because of the immunity Shaibu enjoyed as deputy governor.
He stated: “However, with his recent impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly, that shield has been lifted, paving the way for possible prosecution by the ICPC.”
The CSO furthee expressed its readiness to take legitimate action if the ICPC and the judiciary fail to address the matter swiftly, underscoring the importance of ensuring that no one is above the law in a democratic society.
