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Tag: Ambode

  • Lagos Assembly urges Ambode to ‘properly’ present 2019 budget proposal

    The Lagos State House of Assembly has insisted that Governor Akinwunmi Ambode must appear before it to present this year’s budget, as required by the law.

    This followed the information read on the floor of the Assembly by the Clerk, Mr. Azeez Sanni, informing the lawmakers that his office received a message from the governor, dated December 17, but which he received on December 28 on the budget.

    Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who hailed the lawmakers for their reactions to the message, noted that this was not the time for resentment, acrimony and agitation.

    The Speaker said the stake before the lawmakers was beyond 2019.

    “We must do everything to sustain our government, party and the state. You have all shed light on the issue in a mature matter.

    “We went on break on December 18. The first call I received on the budget was on December 24, that the governor was willing to present the budget that day.

    “We normally go on break for six weeks, but we went on break for two weeks, as we were waiting for the budget.

    “Also, we received the budget on December 28 when we were waiting for the New Year break.

    “There is no reason to shift the blame on the Assembly, that we were not willing to receive the budget,” he said.

    Obasa added that the lawmakers were willing to receive the 2019 budget, saying this was one of the reasons they were elected into office.

    He added: “We are ready to receive the budget, if it is done properly. We have no resentment, we have no bad blood.”

    Also, Yinka Ogundimu (Agege II) said: “We normally close early, but we closed late to receive the budget. It came about three days to the New Year and there was nothing we could have done.

     

     

  • Ambode: Lagos deserves continuity

    Before a huge crowd, Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday urged residents to embrace a “government of continuity”.

    Presenting All Progressives Congress (APC) flag to its governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor said: “By this handing over, we believe we will all join hands to make him the next governor of Lagos State.”

    The governor and other speakers at the rally, including party Chairman Tunde Balogun, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, Senator Tony Adefuye and Chief Lanre Rasak, urged party members and supporters to prepare for the poll.

    But the well-attended rally was disrupted as party chieftains were concluding their remarks. Some hoodlums invaded the Skypower Grounds, venue of the campaign kick-off at the Government Reservation Area (GRA), Ikeja. They were said to belong to rival drivers’ unions. They shot guns and wielded other dangerous weapons.

    Two people, whose identities were not disclosed as at the time of filing this report, were feared killed. Three reporters were injured.

    Balogun condemned the disruption of the rally, which he described as “very successful”. He wondered why some groups who had scores to settle would use the occasion as their battle field.

    “We had a very successful outing but some people decided to use the venue of our rally to settle scores. We know nothing about the disruption,” the party chair said in a chat with this newspaper last night.

    He apologised to the media organisations whose reporters were injured.

    Party spokesman Joe Igbokwe, described the gathering as “unprecedented” in the history of Lagos politics.

    “We only have our teeming supporters and the leadership of the party in the state to thank for displaying absolute trust, loyalty, commitment and affection for the party they have cherished for years and still continue to cherish till date.

    “His Excellency and our own Governor Akinwunmi Ambode was on ground to boost the morale of the party and its candidates. We all witnessed an electrifying moment as the governor and the candidates drove in together to the venue.

    “Some 63 chairmen of other political parties in the state added beauty and glamour to the great event by coming out en masse to endorse the candidates of APC, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Obafemi Hamzat.

    “However, we regret that towards the end of the rally two factions of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) engaged themselves in a brawl that led to some people sustaining various injuries. We deeply regret this ugly and unacceptable rude behaviour with a firm promise that such an incident will not repeat itself again in the cause of the campaigns.”

    The party leaders took turns to address the crowd of supporters at the venue where no fewer than 63 political parties under the aegis of the Coalition of Progressive Parties in Lagos endorsed the Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat ticket.

    The crowd was massive. Brooms filled the air. On the band stand was ace musician Wasiu Ayinde, who thrilled the crowd with partisan songs. The party’s candidates were accompanied by their supporters.

    Conspicuous in their banners were the photographs of the various parliamentary flag bearers, including Senator Oluremi Tibubu, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, Alhaji Bayo Osinnowo (Lagos East), Yemi Alli (Mushin), Fatai Oluwa (Ajeromi Ifelodun), Abiodun Ganiyu (Osodi Isolo), Mosunmola Sangodare (Surulere), Sola Giwa (Island), Jide Jimoh (Mainland), Bisi Yusuf (Alimoso), Lukman Oluwa (Ajeromi Ifelodun II) and Lanre Okunlola (Surulere II).

    There were excited party elders and leaders, including Deputy Governor Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, members of the Governorship Advisory Council (GAC) – Third Republic House of Representatives member Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Chief M.A Taiwo, and Cardinal James Odunmbaku –  party Secretary Dr. Wale Ahmed,  Woman leader Jumoke Okoya-Thomas and Ekiti Central Senator Mrs. Raji Rasaki.

    Also there were:  Chief Michael Olawale-Cole, former Deputy Governor Sarah Sosan, Ambode’s wife, Bolanke, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Oyinlomo Danmole, Wahab Alawiye-King, Mrs. Fausat Gbadebo, Mrs. Kemi otitolaye, Bayo Osiyemi, Publicity Secretary Joe Igbokwe and his deputy, Abiodun Salami, who was the master of ceremony.

    The highlights of the rally, which started with an opening prayer by Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara, included the presentation of party flags by Balogun to Senator Tinubu (Lagos Central), Senator Adeola (Lagos West), James Faleke, House of Representatives candidate for Ikeja Constituency and the two House of Assembly candidates, Folajimi Mohammed (Ikeja I) and Adedamola Kasumu (Ikeja II).

    The leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Col. Folorunso Ibrahim (retd) and former Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deputy chairman, Ola Apena defected to the APC.

    Receiving the party flag from Balogun, Apena, who described himself as a foundation member of the PDP and deputy chairman for six years, lamented that he was in a wrong party. He said he defected to the ruling party to contribute his quota to the APC’s victory at the polls.

    The Accord leader, Otunba Fatukasi, who led the 63 opposition parties to the rally, said the opposition leaders resolved to work for Sanwo-Olu in the interest of Lagos.

    He said: “We members of the opposition are behind Sanwo-Olu. We will support him. We will use the powers given to us by God to work for Sanwo-Olu across the 57 councils. On November 8, last year, 45 political parties endorsed Sanwo-Olu. But, today, from 45, we have risen to 63.”

    Hailing the defectors for taking the right decision, Balogun said it was unprecedented.

    Ambode, who wished the party supporters a happy New Year, acknowledged the endorsement as a sign of good things to come during the election.

    Reflecting on the challenges ahead, the governor said: “The APC campaign is a united campaign in this state and we are going to do it together.”

    In his view, Lagos deserves a government of continuity that will build on the achievements of former Governors Bola Tinubu, Babatunde Fashola and the current administration.

    Ambode stressed: “Lagos State has witnessed progressive growth in the last 20 years, since 1999. Why have we been experiencing progressive growth? The answer is very simple: I have had predecessors who have actually delivered on their promises.

    Read also: Ambode arrests soldiers, others for driving against traffic

    “I have followed in the footsteps of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola under one party. We need a government of continuity. APC is a party to trust and rely on. The next government will be a government of continuity.”

    Adefuye urged party members, particularly from Lagos West, to learn from the 2015 experience when the opposition defeated the APC during the parliamentary polls.

    He said: “In the last elections, we lost in in the House of Representatives. That should not happen again. By this time in March, we will gather to rejoice over our victory.”

    Basorun called for unity and cohesion, urging aggrieved members to bury their grievances and differences. He enjoined them to return home and work for the success of the candidates at the polls.

    Rasak, Balogun of Epe, advised Lagosians to vote wisely, stressing that the return of the PDP to power will be a disaster.

    He said: “For 16 years, Atiku’s party, the PDP did nothing for Nigerians. Don’t vote for thieves.”

    Balogun added: “The progressives have turned Lagos around. Through solid financial engineering initiated by Asiwaju Tinubu, Lagos from a partly N600 million has moved to N36 billion monthly. Lagos has become a mega city. Asiwaju Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola have done well to Lagos.

    “On May 29, Sanwo-Olu will continue to deliver dividends of democracy. Sanwo-Olu is qualified. He has experience. There are many parties. Vote for APC after sighting the broom on the ballot paper, using the index finger. Vote for Osinnowo in the West, Oluremi Tinubu in the Central and Olamilekan Adeola in the West.”

     

  • Ambode arrests soldiers, others for driving against traffic

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode played the cop on Monday as he arrested some motorists, including a soldier for driving against traffic.

    The governor was on his way back from Abuja when he caught the motorists taking ‘one way’ to beat the traffic on the airport road in Ikeja.

    He came down hard on the soldier who drove a space bus marked JJJ 290 AC. The soldier, the governor said, should know better as a security personnel.

    Read also: Tinubu blasts PDP, Atiku

    Ambode, who alighted from his car, reprimanded the soldier for showing bad example.

    The governor also upbraided another motorist who drove a saloon car marked LSR 445ER, for breaking traffic law.

    Ambode ordered the vehicles impounded and offenders prosecuted.

    The governor was returning from Abuja where he attended the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council.

     

  • Lagos workers are happy to retire, says Ambode

    Despite the anxiety associated with retirement, Lagos State civil servants are happy to retire, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has said.

    He spoke at a retreat with theme “Planning for retirement” held for union leaders in Lagos State at Michael Imoudu Institute, Ilorin, the Kwara State capiatl.

    Ambode, represented by the Commissioner for Establishments, Training, and Pensions, Dr. Akintola, Benson, said the government has paid accrued pension of retirees.

    He stated that the government has continued to remit money into officers’accounts.

    He noted that the state remains perhaps the only one in the country that is up to date in its monthly remittances into employees’ Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs).

    He said: “The theme of this year’s retreat calls for a certain level of deliberate introspection and contemplation. When both employee and employer adequately plan for retirement, the transformation becomes far less stressful than it would otherwise have been. While we all can agree that human resources are rightly regarded as the bedrock of an organisation since organisations are overwhelmingly dependent on human capacity for the supply of physical labour, technical and professional skills, which are germane for effective and efficient planning and implementation of development policies, programmes, projects, and daily activities; it is indisputable that, at a certain point, the human elements, as represented in our case by the officers of the Lagos State Public Service, as well as the government, would need to prepare for retirement.

    “Retirement is another phase of life that brings fundamental change and while the change may bring daunting challenges, you, officers of the Lagos State Public Service really have nothing to be anxious about. The Lagos State Government had paid accrued pension rights of running into billions into the Retirement Savings Account of retirees. Furthermore, the Lagos State Government has continued to remit money into officers’ Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs). Indeed, everyone should be proud to note that Lagos State remains perhaps the only state in the federation that is up to date in its monthly remittances into serving employees’ Retirement Savings Accounts.’’

    The governor continued: ‘’While many employers and, indeed, many governments do not see the need to prepare their employees for a new life, the Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration, however, is people-oriented  and we have resolved that everyone who has worked diligently for the state has to be recognised, paid his or her dues and assisted to prepare for future challenges.

    ‘’Therefore, with the benefit of the knowledge of a responsive and responsible employer in the Lagos State Government, I urge officers to embrace the coming change with confidence. Without doubt, there are other challenges inherent in facing a period of retirement. Let me advise you not to be apprehensive about these. Change is built into the fabric of our lives.”

    He added that there were people who had profitable business in retirement, urging retirees to resolve plan for productive future.

    “As a retiree, you should envision a productive future. Everything starts with a vision. Do not give up on yourself. Envision a future where you can do things, no matter how little, for the benefit of the society and others. You need to try new things. It is not all over for you. You can still learn new skills, read new books, meet new friends, start new ventures.

    “With the wealth of experience that you have acquired over the years, you should make it your duty to inspire the younger generation and encourage and guide them with the benefit of your acquired wisdom and experience. You should also exercise. Discover light and non-strenuous exercises that you can regularly engage in. This will keep you in good health,’’ Ambode added.

     

  • Photos from APC campaign rally

     

  • Photos: Ambode apprehends soldier, other driving against traffic

    Some lawless motorists who drove against traffic along the Murtala Muhammed Airport Road, Ikeja got a raw deal from Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday as he came down hard on them for flagrant abuse of the state traffic laws.

    See Photos below:

  • Violence disrupts Lagos APC campaign rally

    The campaign flag-off of the All Progressives Congress ( APC ) in Lagos on Tuesday ended abruptly as violence broke out mid-way into the well-attended programme.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that hoodlums suspected to be members of the National Union Road Transport Workers (NURTW) invaded the Skypower Ground Ikeja venue with guns, daggers and other dangerous weapons, engaging one another in a bloody factional fight.

    The situation sent panic across the campaign ground as party members ran in different directions to avoid being hit by bullets being fired indiscriminately by the hoodlums.

    Security operatives had a hectic time controlling the situation.

    Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, who was making a speech, had to leave the stage immediately and was guarded out of the venue together with his deputy, Mrs Idiat Adebule, the APC governorship candidate, Mr Babajide Sanwoolu, and other prominent members of the party.

    Read Also: INEC to politicians: we don’t need your help on logistics

    Several people were injured in the violence, including two journalists who sustained minor bullet wounds.

    NAN correspondent who was at the venue could not ascertain if there was any loss of life at the time of filing this report.

    In the ensuing confusion, many people were dispossessed of their phones, money and other valuables by opportunistic pick-pockets and other criminals.

    NAN reports that a large number of party faithful were seen trekking to their various homes as there was a heavy vehicular traffic in the area because of the violence.

  • Ambode: I’ll complete ongoing projects

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday promised to complete ongoing projects before he leaves office in May.

    The governor said he would bequeathe a legacy to support the growth of tourism and environment in the state after his exit.

    He spoke at the 6th Annual One Lagos Fiesta, at Eko Atlantic City. The fiesta began on December 24 and ended in a countdown to 2019.

    Ambode said the sector was key to the growth of the state’s  gross domestic product (GDP).

    “We are committed to ensuring that developments in the entertainment, arts, culture and hospitality sector will continue to provide job opportunities for youths.

    “Development in this sector will also help provide a platform where naturally gifted individuals can display and celebrate their creative talents on a broader scale.

    “I want to thank all Lagosians for their support and cooperation and I promise that more development shall still occur in various parts of the state.

    “We will remain committed to the well-being of all Lagosians and also remain committed to completing ongoing projects before the end of May,” he said.

    The governor hailed the security agencies for keeping the state peaceful, thus creating an enabling environment for the development of key projects.

    He said: “The modest successes we have recorded would not have been possible without the efforts of the security agencies.

    “I give kudos to the security agencies for keeping Lagos State safe as we celebrate Lagos as the safest city in Africa right now.”

    Ambode urged the electorate to sign up for a better Nigeria and a greater Lagos by supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming elections.

    “It is in the best interest for all of us to solidly remain in support of President Muhammadu Buhari. I assure Mr. President that Lagos State votes shall be in his favour.

    “Lagos must continue in its good work; therefore, I also support the APC gubernatorial candidate, Mr. Jide Sanwo-Olu, as the next governor of Lagos State.

    “I wish you all a Happy New Year and God’s blessings,” he said.

    Fans of artistes echoed to the lyrics of their favourite musicians as they performed on stage.

    Burna Boy, Olamide, Humble Smith, Tiwa Savage, Simi, Seun Kuti, Teni, Slimcase, Sound Sultan, Style Plus among others, thrilled the crowd with their exhilarating performances.

  • Ambode swears in HoS Muri-Okunola, six perm secs

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday swore in Mr Hakeem Muri-Okunola as the state’s 21st Head of Service (HoS) as well as six new permanent secretaries.

    The governor urged the new HoS to inject fresh ideas, vibrancy and more energy to take the public service to greater heights.

    He said these make Lagos a globally recognised city-state with a commitment to efficiency, effectiveness, innovation and creativity in service delivery.

    The new permanent secretaries, who have been deployed to various ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), are: Dr. Titilayo Goncalves (Ministry of Health), Mr Adeyemi Kosoko (Education District IV), Dr Sherifat Balogun (Ministry of Youth and Social Development), Mr Segun Adeniji (Health Service Commission), Mrs Abosede Adelaja (Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture) and Dr Lateef Lawal (Primary Healthcare Board).

    Dignitaries at the ceremony included All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Deputy Governor Idiat Adebule, former Deputy Governor Femi Pedro, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, House of Representatives Majority Leader Femi Gbajabiamila, APC Southwest Women Leader, Chief Kemi Nelson and the Elegushi of Ikate land, Oba Saheed Elegushi.

    Describing the appointments as thoroughly deserving, Ambode said a new chapter had been opened in the state’s public service.

    The governor urged the appointees to justify their elevation by working harder to satisfy the expectations of the people.

    Expressing optimism in the ability of Muri-Okunola to perform well due of his capacity, knowledge, exposure, experience and youthful energy, Ambode said it was important for him to lead by example and encourage accountability and professionalism.

    He added: “Following the swearing in of the new Head of Service, a new chapter has just been opened in the history of the Lagos State public service. It is a new chapter with high expectations for the injection of new energy and vibrancy that will move our public service to new heights.”

    To Muri-Okunola, he said: “As the number one civil servant in Lagos State, you must demonstrate leadership and lead by example for others, including the Body of Permanent Secretaries, to follow. You have a responsibility to provide direction and encourage accountability, transparency, professionalism and a high sense of discipline. Your actions must be based on sound and objective judgment with consideration for merit and proven record of competence and loyalty.

    “I have no doubt in my mind that under your leadership, Lagos State public service will achieve great strides and record outstanding achievements as a role model for other public service institutions in Africa.”

    The governor, who underscored the strategic important role of the civil service, said the extent to which any government succeeds in the implementation of its policies and programmes largely depends on the quality and orientation of its civil service.

    He said there was a need for the new leadership to adopt necessary measures and initiatives to foster growth and development.

    Praising Asiwaju Tinubu for laying a solid foundation for the transformation of the civl service, the governor also hailed the immediate past HoS, Mrs Folashade Adesoye, for serving meritoriously and strengthening the public service.

  • Ambode mourns Whispering Palms founder

     

     

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday mourned the death of Prof. Ayodeji Femi-Pearse, the founder of the popular Badagry resort, Whispering Palms.

    Ambode described the death of the late professor of medicine as a great loss to the academic community as well as the hospitality industry.

    The Whispering Palms founder died on Dec. 28 at the age of 86 after a brief illness.

    Femi-Pearse was a former Provost, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Pro-Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU).

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Habib Aruna, Ambode said: “Prof. Femi-Pearse was a man of many parts; from the academic world to the hospitality industry, he wrote his name in gold.

    “His brilliance in the academia was well known as he contributed in no small way in enhancing research, especially in the medical profession.

    “His contributions in the hospitality industry cannot be underestimated.

    “Through the popular Whispering Palms resort, he founded with his late wife, he attracted visitors and tourists to the ancient town of Badagry and the state.

    “He also spearheaded some community projects which today, have greatly enhanced the standard of living in the town,” he said in the statement.

    The governor, while commiserating with the family, urged them to uphold the ideals he stood for and preserve the legacies which would continue to serve as an inspiration for generations to come.

    “His death is a sad loss especially coming a few months after the demise of his wife, Ibilola.

    “Indeed, a good man and a great man has gone home; the state and nation has lost a rare gem.

    “I want to urge the entire family to take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life and his sterling contributions will never be forgotten in a hurry.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I want to express our heartfelt condolence to the family of Prof. Femi-Pearse on this great and irreparable loss.

    “He came and made our world a better place; he will be sorely missed,’’ the statement quoted Ambode as saying. (NAN)