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Tag: Fashola

  • Fashola to Lagosians: eschew violence

    Fashola to Lagosians: eschew violence

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola at the weekend led the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign train to Badagry in company of the governorship candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode.

    He urged residents and party supporters to remain calm, focused and avoid violence despite the provocation by the opposition.

    The governor, who spoke at the Badagry Grammar School, said the opponents were looking for an opportunity to foment violence and get an excuse to postpone the elections.

    “Irrespective of all the seeming problems that you are beginning to see, remain calm and focused. It is provocation. They are looking for opportunity to foment trouble and excuse to postpone the elections.

    “They are already saying that if there is violence in the Northeast, the people would not vote. We are going to vote here, irrespective of what they do and whatever the provocation. Our answer is not violence; our answer would be by massive voting for the APC.

    The governor urged eligible voters, who have not collected their Permanent Voter Cards to colleect them at their ward offices.

    He told residents of Badagry and party faithful that the state recorded another first in the medical field with a successful Cochlear implant, which restores hearing to a person hitherto with impaired hearing.

    Fashola said the laws in Lagos State supporting the physically-challenged were not lip service but one born out of a deep commitment to ensure that they function well in the society.

    He said the state provided support to the School for the Blind at Oshodi through the building of dormitories, hostels and workshops, adding that the present government is not one to visit the electorate only at election periods.

    The governor said the present administration not only constructed the Igbo Elerin Road, which was a major request of the people of the area in 2007, it has gone on to build Joseph Dosu Road, Market Street, Cemetery Road just as it has worked in Iragan and Poka while work has started on Iya Afin Access Road all in Badagry.

    He advised the residents to beware of the inexperienced candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, who promised to cancel the toll on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

    The governor said the PDP candidate failed to realise was that somebody invested in the project and that the state signed a contract  guaranteed by the Federal Government.

    “What of people working there? What of the construction company? What of the banks that financed the project? An aspiring candidate talking of cancelling contracts and he is the same person talking of his embracing Public Private Partnership (PPP)?”

    Fashola said all the promises to the division he made during his campaigns in 2007 were fulfilled, noting that Ambode will do even more because he lived and worked in Badagry Local Government.

    He noted that the initiative behind the ongoing reclamation work in Badagry was part of the effort at making it a tourist centre because many people travel out of the country to spend huge amount of money on tourism.

  • What next for Fashola?

    What next for Fashola?

    On May 29, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) will bow out of office, after completing two terms of eight years. Unlike some of his colleagues who are eyeing the Senate, he has declined to contest. What future awaits the performing governor? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU asks.

    Seven and half years have passed like a flash of lightening since Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) became the governor of Lagos State. On May 29 will bow out of office after a meritorious service.

    What role will he play when he vacates office? Will he return to his chamber? Many had expected that the governor will vie for the Senate in the Lagos West District, which hosts the seat of government. But, he did not show interest during the primaries. During the search for a running mate to the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, his name came up. But, a Muslim/Muslim ticket is no more in vogue. If the party forms the next central government, would he make the cabinet list? Or will he set up a non-governmental agency (NGO) to pursue worthy causes in aid of humanity?

    For many years to come, Lagosians will recall the Fashola years with fondness. He will be remembered as an astute and hardworking administrator. In the governorship and presidential campaigns, references are made to his achievements in the Centre of Excellence. But, according to party chieftains, the governor will not be remembered as a strategic politician, powerful organiser and shrewd mobiliser.

    Two men, Akinwumi Ambode, the APC flag bearer, and Jimi Agbaje, the PDP candidate, are struggling to succeed him. Judging by the predictable disposition of Lagosians, the APC candidate will have an edge over his PDP rival at the general elections. Although many thought that Fashola did not support the former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance at the primaries, Fashola has started campaigning for the chartered accountant. Many said that after the primaries, he has despelled the rumour. The governor said that Ambode was his preferred choice from the beginning. Some believed him, other did not, reality dawned on Fashola that he will be succeeded by the chartered accountant has urged the people to vote for Ambode for sustainability.

    At the flag off of the governorship campaigns in Ikeja recently, the governor justified Ambode’s candidature, saying that he is better than Agbaje. He said the former Accountant-General has youthful vigour and zest, which are required for the job.  “It is a tough job. I took the job at the age of 44. Now, I am 52. When I took the job, I could count the number of grey hairs I had. Now, I can’t count them again. I thank Lagosians for giving me the job. I thank Lagosians for also taking care of me. Akinwumi Ambode is younger than me. You need youthfulness to do this job. That man (the PDP candidate) is already 60. An old man cannot do the job. If you call him at midnight, he will not pick your call, “ he added.

    When he bows out, Fashola will not be on the same pedestal with his indomitable leader and predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Since he may not deploy deft political skill and political sagacity, as the outcome of the governorship shadow poll has shown, the legal luminary may play nominal roles in party affairs at the state level in post-2015 period. It was believed that the governor was either backing the aspiration of Works Commissioner Dr. Obafemi Hamzat or Supo Sasore (SAN), his former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. But, both aspirants could not fly.

    Few brilliant minds are as lucky as Fashola. When he succeeded Alhaji Layiwola Mohammed as the Chief of Staff in 2003, eyes were not on him. The lawyer from Surulere was a quiet, easy-going, and cigarette-smoking lefty-commissioner in the cabinet office. Before he joined the government, he was a promising lawyer in Kafaru Tinubu Chamber. Although he occupied a powerful and influential position in the Tinubu Administration, he did not see himself as a politician.

    Fashola was expected to be the link or liaison officer between the government and the ruling party. But, according to sources, he was not keen about the role. Therefore, when his boss nominated him for governorship, many party members were surprised. Tinubu’s Special Adviser-designate on Political and Legislative Matters, Hon. Lateef Raji, who broke the news to reporters, said the former governor had seen what many people could not see. “Our leader, Governor Bola Tinubu, is backing a particular aspirant. He described him as the SAN with a sound mind. I tell you, he will become the next governor,” he said.

    When members of the State Executive Council got wind of Tinubu’s succession plan, there was a bitter opposition to it. The exception was Works Commissioner Rauf Aregbesola, who supported his boss.

    Other aspirants were envious. There was a sort of resentment. The aspirants-Otunba Olufemi Pedro, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, Dr. Tola Kasali, Mrs. Remi Adikwu-Bakare, Ganiyu Solomon, Hon. Oyinlomo Danmole-protested. When Fashola stormed the party secretariat on Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja to collect the nomination form, drummers accosted him at the gate. He was not prepared for funfair. He waved at the crowd, baring the two-finger victory. Tinubu became Fashola’s coach. At the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, aspirants were spending money for drummers and party women. Fashola was indifferent. The former governor said: “Tunde, as a politician, you need to spend money too.”

    Before the primaries, there was a live television debate involving the aspirants. Fashola and Pedro nearly clashed at the event. Apparently in a bid to disparage the office of the Chief of Staff, the former deputy governor likened it to an inconsequential portfolio. Fashola fired back, saying that he allocated official duties on behalf of Tinubu to the members of the executive council.

    After the primaries, there was a revolt, although it was short-lived. Some aspirants ran to the Afenifere leaders for refuge. But, they later returned to the Action Congress (AC) when they discovered that their future was bleak there. Tinubu embarked on reconciliation. A party insider said, although the position of running mate was offered Adikwu Bakare, she rejected it. The circumstances surrounding Tinubu’s inability to return to the Senate in 2007 were also not in the realm of conjecture. The coast was not clear. The experienced politician saw the handwriting on the wall. The power loaded President, Olusegun Obasanjo, was not disposed to Tinubu’s senatorial ambition. The former governor therefore, stepped down and gave the ticket to an aggrieved governorship aspirant, Solomon.

    After assuming the reins, Fashola began to build on his predecessor’s achievement in a grand style. He cleared Osodi, to the surprise of people who thought that it was impossible. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) was already in the pipeline. Fashola implemented it faithfully. He also embarked on road construction, school rehabilitation and housing projects. Lagos became a huge construction site. Those who grumbled when Tinubu insisted on Fashola as the candidate said that the former governor has been vindicated. Governors, ministers and other foreign officials visited Lagos to commend the governor. Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu described him as the best governor and a role model, urging other governors to emulate him.

    Despite his performance, it was relatively difficult for him to secure re-nomination in 2011. There were certain developments that made the second term race uneasy. Reality dawned on Fashola camp that the primaries was an exclusive party affair and certain things must be put right to secure re-nomination. A source said that the House of Assembly dangled the impeachment hammer. Although Fashola survived, the lessons were not lost on him and other apolitical figures in government. His former deputy, Sarah Sosan, was not that lucky. Her position was taken by another Awori, Mrs. Tawa Orelope-Adefulire, who was the Women Affairs Commissioner.

    In his second term, Fashola consolidated on the achievements of the first term. There has not been any lull in governance. Even, controversial steps and difficult decisions were taken in the interest of the state. An eloquent speaker, Fashola justified every action during the 100 days programme, where he rendered accounts.

    As preparations for the governorship gathered momentum, there was tension in the ruling party. Many chieftains, including Dr. Muiz Banire, the National Legal Adviser, raised an alarm that the party may be doomed because of its culture of imposition. Before then, Fashola had bared his mind on succession. At Tinubu’s birthday in Lagos, he publicly advised his leader not to be partial in political selection. An unruffled Tinubu, in his reply, reminded the governor of how he emerged. Stressing that he had no regret about his support for his candidature at the 2007 primaries, the former governor emphasised that, if he had not been partial, Fashola would not have become governor and Lagos would not have achieved the tremendous progress.

    Tinubu’s reply threw more light on the doctrine of party supremacy and the gerontocratic wisdom of elders as the guidance of the process. There are three characteristics of a political party-ideology, organisation and leadership. Although many will aspire, there is need for elders and leaders to brainstorm on what is suitable for the party and acceptable to the voting public.

    In fact, many politicians perceive political partiality as a loose concept. A legislator, Bisi Yusuf said: “When it does not favour them, it is imposition. When it favours them, they talk about party supremacy and party discipline.”

    Under normal circumstances, a governor will not be indifferent to the nature, tendency and sentiment of his successor. However, according to observers, the climate must be right. Thus, when Fashola attempted to assert personality, sources said he could not mobilise for the success of his preferred candidate at the primaries because he was not in control of the party machinery.

    In post-2015 period, Fashola may write his memoir. Many are of the view that the achievements of his administration should be documented. If he returns to his profession, he will not be the first lawyer-politician to do so. Shortly after his release from the prison and after serving as the Federal Commissioner for Finance, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo picked up his wigs. Other politicians-Chief Richard Akinjide, Chief Kehinde Sofola, Chief Theophilus Benson, Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya-resumed the practice of law after leaving government.

    Fashola will remain a factor in Lagos for a long time because of his achievements. Many also believe that he will be a reference point in good governance.

     

  • Nigeria is in one chance vehicle of PDP, says Fashola

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola has urged Nigerians to vote out the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and save the country from destruction.

    Addressing All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters at the Oworonsoki Playing Ground, Lagos, yesterday, Fashola said the PDP had embarked on campaigns of lies to mislead the people.

    He said the PDP was desperate in all its actions, comments, including the Greek gift of reduction in the fuel price.

    He said: “As I was coming here this morning, I saw the desperation of the PDP campaigns and the President. If you look on the Third Mainland Bridge, you will see  the President’s posters all over.

    “In the constitution, it is the local government that has statutory responsibilities for advertising. That is one of the sources of revenue and we have been working with the State Signage Agency (LASSA) not only to clean up Lagos, but also to put an institutionalised framework for advert management.

    “But, Mr. President and his supporters have taken over this advertising source. They tell us that the Federal Highway is theirs. But, that is not the point. If you build a highway, the advertising on it belongs to the local governments anywhere in Nigeria.

    “The advertising agencies have existing contracts with the people, private companies, who have paid to use that place. Without applying to LASSA, without respect for the existing contractual rights for businesses in this country, Mr. President has taken over the whole place with his posters.

    “Is that not lawlessness? Is that the kind of leader you want to re-elect? Now, Mr. President can say anything he likes, about how he does not want violent elections. Yes, we heard him, but leadership is not by words, it is by action.”

    The governor, who received thunderous ovation, said leaders who break the rules were bad examples.

    He said: “You break the rules of election and you keep telling us that you will play by the rules. He started campaigning even before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the period of campaigns. He has broken every rule that we have set and expect us to believe him. Can you trust such a leader? No. Can you trust such a party?

    “Over time I have told every person who cared to listen. That this is not about Mr. President or individual, it is about his job performance as our President. I am a citizen, so I feel the impact of insecurity.

    “It compounds my work as governor here because so many people have left their homes, and are relocating to Lagos because the country is not safe. So, it doubles the responsibilities that I have. Now, as commander-in-chief, the one in charge of police, how many vehicles have they provided for the police in Nigeria?

    “We fund the police and provide the vehicles for them. We provide the petrol, sometimes the taxes you pay are not enough. We have to borrow, to buy what they want. And their candidate, the inexperienced apprentice, is saying that Lagos is the most indebted state. Who does not know that Lagos is the most populated state?

    “He is inexperienced and you cannot trust him with this job. Now, this man here (Akinwunmi Ambode) is the one who helped us raise the finances for most of the projects, including the roads. In fact, Nigeria is in one chance vehicle of the PDP and we must get them out.

    “We cannot find our daughters in Chibok. You know what happened, when the Chibok girls were missing, instead of our President to go and commiserate with them, he said they should bring them to him.

    “Is it the person who is bereaved or the person who commiserates that goes to greet the other? Who is supposed to greet the other? That is the type of President you have in the country.

    “Do you want him there? I am sure if any of those children was his child, he will not be contesting. So, that is really how important your lives are in his hands. I don’t know anywhere in the world, that a sitting President will have moral comfort to be seeking re-election when over 200 children are missing,” he said.

    Fashola said the electorate should weigh the gravity of every statement made by the PDP candidates, knowing that the people have rejected them.

    “We are the only OPEC member importing fuel. The raw material for making petrol is here, by the time Nigeria was fighting its civil war, we were producing petrol in this country. Now, the country is facing insecurity.

    “Do you want that to continue? No. We want to get out of that one chance, our apprentice governorship candidate says we should come and enter one chance in Lagos. What has the Federal Government done for us?

    “They cannot look after their own responsibilities, I am the one funding the police. The immigration office where you collect passports the Lagos State government built, furnished and equipped it with your taxes.

    “Look at the Eko Bridge, the 33 expansions on it, nobody has touched them since it was built. That is why you hear heavy noise when you ply the bridge. It was Dr. Femi Hamzat, commissioner for Works, who replaced them.

    “All their federal roads which they have abandoned, we are the ones dealing with them. Today, they owe us N51 billion. So, we do their jobs bring the money they won’t bring, now they PDP candidate is saying you should come and enter one chance.

    “I have been on this job for eight years as governor, two and half years as chief of staff. That is the experience I have in government. Ambode was in government before me, at the local government level. He worked with me, for six years, as Accountant-General.

    “So, he knows what to do from day one. But, let me tell you what their candidate says they want to do. He calls them bold ideas, I call them bold inexperience. The first one, he said he will give you Internet hot spots. Tell him to go and tell his oga in Abuja to provide electricity first. You cannot have Internet without electricity. Whether it is solar power, diesel power, we need electricity first. He has no bold idea.

    “He said he will give you high speed ferries, now let me explain that to you. He does not understand ferry service. There is nothing like high speed ferry. Quote me, what you have are water taxis. Water taxis run between 22, 25 and maximum 30 naut.

    “The speed is measured in naut and if you translate it to kilometre, you are looking at 55 kilometre per hour. So he does not know what he is talking about. All the people who are teaching him and writing all those adverts for him are in the one chance PDP vehicle.

    “What he did not tell you is that today, we are running over 20 ferry routes in Lagos. Ebute-ero, Ikorodu, Ijegun, Badore, Epe and so on. Let him go and enter ferry so that he will learn. We did this job, today we have 131 licensed ferry operators.

    “He said we have not been developing Lagos. What was Oshodi like? What does it look like now? Obalende now has 24 hours street lights, it has a bus terminus. Who cleaned it up? Badia, we are building our rail terminus.

    “The Cardiac Centre here at the General Hospital, who built it? APC. The canal that used to flood, is it still flooding? Now Buhari has contested three times, but in all the elections they never for once said he does not have certificate. Now that they see that he is going to win, it today he no get certificate, tomorrow he don sick. Who is sick betweenthe two candidates?

    “Who is the only aspirant who sat down during the APC’s 24-hour presidential convention in Lagos. Buhari was the only candidate. Buhari was there from 7pm till 6pm the following day. He was the only candidate who did not leave his seat. Is that a man who is sick? No.

    “The man’s body is made of steel, he does not drink. We know those people when they go and represent us abroad, we will be waiting for them to come and speak but we will not see them. Who is sick of the two? So, Buhari strong, he dey kampe. They are running out of lies, everything you here from them is a lie.

    “ The game is up, it is over. They should begin to pack their load. We are marching on Aso Rock with your votes. Now, on that note, let me tell you, avoid violence, void confrontation, those who want to win, do not want violence.

    “We want to win, we are going to win. The torrent of change is blowing across Nigeria. Don’t fight, you will speak with only thing and that is your vote.

    “In order to make sure that you speak, you must have your Permanent Voter Card. So, by February 14, the President will be on his way back to Otuoke, they have not even delivered electricity in Otuoke. They have started distributing the PVC in your wards, as you leave here go and collect them.”

    Ambode took a swipe at the Federal Government over the reduction of fuel price from N97 to N87, saying that the PDP cannot deceive Nigerians with the reduction coming less than four weeks to the general election.

    The APC candidate also promised to do build more roads in Lagos State and make life more comfortable for the people.

    “They said they have reduced the fuel price; is that what we need in this country. What is N10 reduction to the people? They should tell us about the missing $20billion oil fund? What about the subsidy scam? “That scam is running to billions. If we are able to get our money back, we will be able to use it for road construction; we will be able to use it to alleviate poverty, solve unemployment.”

  • Fashola to Jonathan: Stop Indiscriminate pasting of posters

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), on Monday decried indiscriminate posting of President Goodluck Jonathan’s posters on major high ways in the state without paying for advert spaces to advertising firms.

    Fashola, who spoke while addressing thousands of supporters at a party campaign held at Oworoshoki axis of the state, said supporters of the President are allegedly removing adverts on Lagos roads and replacing them with the President’s campaign posters and banners.

    “Mr. President and his supporters have taken over those advertising spots. They will come and tell you that it is federal highways, but that is not the point. If you build the highway, the adverts on it belong to the local government anywhere in Nigeria. What has Mr. President done? Lagos State Signage and Advertising Agency already had existing contracts with people and private companies who have paid to use the space. But without applying to LASAA, without paying and respect for the existing contractual right of businesses in this country, Mr. President has taken over those places with his posters. Is that not lawlessness? Is that the kind of leaders you want to re-elect? Is that the kind of party you want in power?

    He described the development as a breach of electoral act, urging the President to demonstrate what he preaches on election guidelines.

    Fashola, who also took a swipe at President Jonathan and his supporters over alleged demonization of the All Progressive Congress presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, said after rigging the former head of state out in previous elections, the ruling party has come out with series of allegations and condemnations.

    He argued that Buhari was the APC only presidential candidate that stood at the convention venue for over 24hours, saying that would not have been possible if the man was not hale and hearty as rumoured by the PDP.

    The governor added: “They have rigged him out three times in the previous elections, but in all those elections they never said he had no certificates. Now that they see that he is going to win, they said he doesn’t have certificates. Tomorrow they will say he is sick. Who is sick among them?

    “Buhari’s body is made of steel, he doesn’t drink before he speaks, we know those people that when they represent us abroad they will not show up when they are called to make a speech. Who is sick among the two?

    Also, the APC governorship candidate in Lagos, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, took a swipe at the federal government over the reduction of fuel price from N97 to N87, saying that the Peoples Democratic Party cannot deceive Nigerians with the reduction coming less than four weeks to the general election.

     

  • Why Lagosians should reject PDP, by Fashola

    Why Lagosians should reject PDP, by Fashola

    • Ambode: I ‘ll build on Tinubu’s, Fashola’s legacies

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola said at the weekend that Lagosians will not vote for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) because the Federal Government has neglected the state in the last 16 years.

    The governor also faulted the candidature of Mr. Olujimi Agbaje, who is the PDP flag bearer, saying that he lacks the understanding of statecraft, budgeting and financial management. He said Lagos State is too strategic and critical to Nigeria, West Africa and the entire continent to be entrusted to “a beginner and an experimenter.”

    Fashola, who addressed party supporters at Ikorodu, said when Lagosians recall how the PDP-led Federal Government opposed the creation of additional five local governments in Ikorodu Division, they will reject Agbaje at the poll.

    The governor said while the former Accountant-General and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr. Akin Ambode, himself as the Chief of Staff and former Attorney-General and Justice Commissioner Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) played prominent roles in the establishment and survival of the councils under Tinubu Administration, Agbaje’s party hailed the seizure of local government allocations.

    Fashola said it was at that critical time that Ambode’s incisive wit and experience in financial re-engineering came to the fore, as he suggested a financial creativity formula that made the administration to tackle the challenge.

    He also chided President Goodluck Jonathan for maladministration, stressing that he has failed in all sectors and inflicted pains on the country through sheer ineptitude. Fashola alerted the nation to plans by the Federal Government to increase import duty, warning that transporters and other Nigerians will be further exposed to economic hardship.

    Exuding confidence, Ambode, who rode in an open Sport  Utility Vehicle (SUV) with the governor, said: “We have a tradition of excellence to continue to build on. Do we need trial and error in Lagos? No. That is why we must vote for the APC.”

    The governor and the flag bearer  got a rousing welcome at the Cherubim and Seraphim Church Primary School Ground, the venue of the mega rally. Brooms, the symbol of the party, filled the air. jubilating supporters were dancing and singing. On the stage to thrill them were ace musicians-Mrs. Abeni Salawa and Buga. There were other artistes – madam Surutu, Lawori, Iyabo Oko and Ojo Arowosafe (Fadeyi Oloro).  Party followers came from Kosofe, Somolu, Bariga, Ijede, Imota, Epe, Agbowa, Ikosi and other towns from Okorodu Division.

    The rally, which was presided over by the party chairman,  Otunba Oladele Ajomale, was hosted by the Ikorodu APC leaders, including former Deputy Governor Abiodun Ogunleye, former Secretary to the Government Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, Asipa Kaoli Olusanya, Mrs. Folake Shokunbi Kalokalo and Pa Olu Alogba.  Party flags were presented to Senator Gbenga Ashafa (Lagos East), House of Representatives candidate for Ikorodu Constituency Jimi Benson, House of Assembly flag bearer for Ikorodu Constituency 1 Mr Solaja and his Constituent 11 counterpart, Hon. Sunai Agbubiade, by the party chairman.

    Ashafa, who spoke on behalf of the candidates, promised a robust legislative agenda for Lagos, adding that  federal legislators from the state will press for special status for the former Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The massive rally was witnessed by Fashola’s wife, Abimbola, Ambode’s wife, Bolanle, the deputy governor, Hon. Joke Orelope-Adefulire, Secretary to the Government and Ambode’s running mate Dr. Oluranti Adebule, formers Deputy Governors Sarah Sosan and Olufemi Pedro, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Hon. Adeola Olamilekan, Mrs. Toun Ajomale, the campaign team leader, Cardinal James Odunmbaku, Chief Kayode Olowu, former House of Assembly Speaker Hon. Joko Pelumi, Primate Charles Odugbesi, Women Leader Chief Kemi Nelson, Hon. Fuad Oki, Mr. Denge Anifowose, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi and Alhaji Musbau Gafar, who rendered the opening prayer.

    Other party chieftains at the rally were Comrade Kayode Opeifa, Hon. Hakeem Sulaiman Oris, Comrade Joe Igbokwe, Chief Chris Ekwilo, Lateef Ibirogba, Abiodun Salam, Paul Kalejaye, Hon. Samuel Adejare, Mrs. Adenrele Ogunsanya, Iyaloja Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, Ademorin Kuye, and Jide Oshikoya.

    Ogunleye, who was the first leader to speak, enjoined the people to collect their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVC) from the electoral commission. He urged the people to vote and defend their votes. He said: “The shoddy distribution of the cards is suspicious. By now, only those attaining 18 should be collecting them. Adults should have collected before. I have a message for you. Vote and defend your votes. PDP has hatched a plot to buy the voter’s cards.

    “Lagos belongs to our party. We will win because our two governors-Tinubu and Fashola-have performed. In  2007, I said at a reception that Fashola will perform. He performed. Now, I am assuring you that Ambode will perform better than Fashola. Don’t be intimidated by the PDP. Be prepared and be vigilant.”

    Basorun, who spoke after Ogunleye, also advised the people to collect their cards, adding that it is their electoral weapon on the election day. He said: “Change Jonathan and Change Nigeria for better. We have been having rallies since the days of Awolowo. But, we have not seen a huge crowd like this. If you have not collected your voter’s cards, coming to rallies is in vain. There are over four million cards for Lagos. Only about two million has been collected in Lagos. That is 50 percent. Let’s go and collect our cards.”

    Former Agricultural Commissioner Olusanya predicted that the APC will win in Ikorodu. He said: “Lagos has always voted for the progressives. This year will not be different. Ikorodu will vote for progressives. We have seen the trend of development in Ikorodu Division. New roads are coming up. There are ferry terminals in our riverrine areas. There is the renovation of schools. We have mother and child hospitals. We want all these to continue.”

    The Yeyesewa of Lagos, Nelson, said: “Let the whole of Lagos rise on the election day and endorse continuity. We should vote for the continuity of progress. They said that we should not fight. We will not fight, if they don’t rig the elections.”

    Thanking the people for their resilience and dedication, Fashola implored them to collect their cards, which he described as their potent electoral power. He said: “Since 1999, we have been defeating the party with the umbrella. This year will not be different. Go and get your voter’s cards. It is the only power in your hands. The only power in your hand is not the power of violence.  It is the power of the ballot. When it is a ballot, you cannot stop it. When people see the power of the ballot, whether they like it or not, they will surrender.”

    Reflecting on the state of the nation, he declared that President Jonathan has failed, adding that he is unfit to continue in office beyond May.

    Fashola asked: “Do you want the virus in Abuja to spread to Lagos? Do you want a Commander-In Chief who is looking for 1985 gun to fight 2015 war? Do you want your security apparatus and RRS to continue in Lagos? How are you going to secure that? Who are you voting for?” The crowd chorused APC.

    The governor lamented the economic down turn, recalling that the interest rate has jumped from 10 percent from 24 per cent to the detriment of businessmen, transporters, and importers. He said the Federal Government has been promoting poverty, instead of providing jobs.

    He added: “We have a President who has a Ph.D. His deputy is an architect. But, he cannot build roads. What job is the Vice President doing? He was telling the President that people were moving away from Lagos. I ask: are the cars entering Lagos decreasing. They now say they are going to increase tariff by 70 percent on imported vehicle. They are waiting for the election to pass. They knew you were annoyed. So, they postponed it. Is that in the interest of transporter?”

    Fashola said why the Federal Government has not fought the infrastructure battle successfully as reflected in the Lagos/Ibadan and Benin/Ore Expressway, his administration has turned Lagos into a huge construction site. He also alluded to the housing project undertaken by his government, challenging the Federal Government to tender its score cards in these sectors.

    Listing his achievements in Ikorodu Division, he said people are now enjoying Ibese Road, Mile 12/Ikorodu Road, Awlowo Road, Igbogbo and Obese roads, Ipakodo Ferry Terminus, and the Alara’s palace.

    The governor said that Ambode is fit to succeed him because he has learned the ropes under him and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. He added: “Ambode  has worked with my predecessor. He has worked with me for six years as an accountant-general. Let me remind you. Which party and government frustrated the creation of new local governments in Lagos? It is the PDP. You had one local government in Ikorodu before. Now, you have six. Do you want to lose them? At the time their party and their government seized our money, this is the young man who was managing the finances and made those local governments to survive.

    “I was the Chief of Staff then. I was the one fighting the legal battle with Yemi Osinbajo. So, are you seeing the team? Ambode in Lagos and Osinbajo in Abuja. Your local government will be safe, if Buhari is elected. Your local government will be protected, if Ambode is elected. Those who wanted to spoil it yesterday cannot come and ask for your votes. Go and tell those who are not here that the election is about another fight for freedom. It is about the survival of the local government, state and the country.”

    Fashola drew attention to the handling of the security challenge by the President, pointing out that, under his charge, some parts of the component units had been taken over by terrorists. The governor said the Federal Government ferried huge cash abroad under the guise of weapon procurement, stressing that it smacked of corruption.

    He emphasised the need to vote out the President to pave the way for the APC candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, to restore security. Describing Buhari as a gallant and honest soldier, he said he will not be another Dr. Jonathan  who will send soldiers to war without ammunition. He said Buhari will also provide electricity, good roads and jobs for the unemployed youths.

    Urging Lagosians to reject Agbaje at the poll, Fashola said the PDP candidate is not conversant with the rudiments of budgeting and financial management.

    He stressed: “Don’t vote for inexperience. They say he sells drugs. But, we will not be sick. If we need drugs in hospitals, we will patronise him, if he has NAFDAC number. He is not fit to be governor. He displays his inexperience and ignorance when he speaks about Lagos. He said we were spending three percent of the budget on education. He doesn’t read budget. He doesn’t know about financing. If he listened to my budget speech, he will realise that we increase education budget from 15 per cent to 16.8 last year.

    “We do school meal programmes, but the budget is in the Ministry of Health. We do refuse collection across the schools. The budget is in the Ministry of Environment. We repair desks and maintain schools. The budget is in the Ministry of Works. We do school de-worming for children. The budget is in the Ministry of Health. We use experience. We have been long on this job. Asiwaju taught us. The leader taught us. If you add all these to 16 percent, it is more than that.

    “He cannot do this job. He should come and learn from us. This state is too strategic and too critical to the development of Nigeria, to the prosperity of the West Africa sub-region, to the prosperity and stability of the African continent to be entrusted to a beginner or an experimenter. We are voting continuity because we want to consolidate in what we have achieved.”

  • Chieftaincy tussle: Lagos family petitions Fashola over alleged imposition

    The Maja family, have petitioned the Lagos State Government demanding for an end to the unfolding drama over the purported installation of a Baale (local chief) in Baiyeku community, in Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of the state.

    They demanded that the man parading himself as the Baale be stopped, arrested and prosecuted for flagrant disobedience of the judicial process.

    Representatives of the aggrieved family – Chief Nojeem Muka Maja, Mr Olawale Maja, Alhaji Kamoru Oteju and Mr Muri Maja –  claimed that they also have equal right to the stool and asked the government to put a stop to the moves being made by a particular family to perpetuate itself as the sole lineage.

    Mr. Maja, who spoke on the development in Igbogbo, told reporters that the installation of one Saheed Tajudeen Aleje, (of the Ajibode family, which has turned the stool to personal property), as Baale was “illegal, null and void.”

    According to him, there was no authorisation from the government or the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs or the Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA, or Ikorodu Local Government.

    Maja, who is one of the claimants in the suit filed by the family on October 16, 2014, at the Ikorodu Division of the High Court of Lagos State, described as shocking that the Ajibode family, a party to the suit, could go ahead on December 30, last year, to install the Baale of Baiyeku without waiting for the disposition of the case in court.

    He listed the reliefs being sought by his family to include a declaration ; voiding the registered chieftaincy declaration of February 25, 1986, on the grounds that it does not represent the true law and custom regulating the selection and appointment of Bale of the village; that the Maja family is entitled to be selected and appointed as Bale; a declaration that it is the turn of the Maja family to present candidate to be installed as Bale and an order of perpetual injunction retraining the state governor and government agents from taking steps leading to the selection; the appointment and installation of anybody as Baale of Baiyeku and an order of injunction restraining the Ajibode family being defendants from appointed, installed, recognised and parading themselves or their agents, privies or any person whatsoever as Baale of Baiyeku in accordance with the registered chieftaincy declaration of February 25, 1986.

    Joined as defendants by the claimants are: Dr Tajudeen Aleje, Hakeem Sanni, Rahman Ajibode and Muraina Ona-Sule Ajibode, on behalf of the Ajibode family of Baiyeku.

    Others are; the Governor of Lagos State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lagos State and the Ikorodu Local Government Area.

    Maja said the Oba of Igbogbo, the supervising authority over Baiyeku, had equally stayed away from the illegality though the Ajibode family had gone to his palace for the installation.

    He said: “We are shocked and surprised at the level of impunity and unconcionable disregard of the laws perpetrated by the Ajibode family who went ahead to install one of their own as Baale despite the subsisting suit and without any legal backing whatsoever.

    “This is a state that cherished the rule of law. That is why tendencies that tend to rubbish our gains as a state should be stamped out. That is why we are calling on the state government to look into this matter and mete appropriate punishment to whosoever is standing against the rule of law.

    “The Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, the Oba supervising Baiyeku also did not give his “blessing to the illegal installation.

    “As peace-loving members of the society,” he continued, “we are therefore calling on the state government to step into this matter and put an end to this charade before we all exhaust our temperance and patience over the actions of these impostors.

    “As it is, Saheed is not known to law as the Baale of Baiyeku and he should be stopped on his tracks now and prosecuted before he begins to gain false confidence. People like him and his sponsors should earn prosecution as a reward of their futile actions.”

    On his part, the regent of Baiyeku, Pa Solomon Oduala, said “what the people needed now is not Baale but a genuine resolution of all grouses that led to the violence that erupted between the community and their neighbour, Ayetoro, two years ago.

    “Immediately after these people (the Ajibode family who all fled the community on the heels of the violence), returned, consequent on the death of the then Baale, they started the agitation for the selection, appointment and installation of a new Baale and would not listen to any contrary counsel.

    “They went ahead and installed someone from their family despite the pending suit and the agitation by the other two royal families to present candidate for the stool.”

    He said what the people want now is peace and urged government to do all in its powers to put a stop to all attempts to plunge the community into another orgy of violence.

    The 90-year-old regent said since the return of the Ajibode family,  Baiyeku has been living in fear as residents do not know what next to expect, adding that everything he and his committee has done in the past to engender peace in the community have been upturned.

    He said the two persons who were declared wanted and had gone underground following their alleged involvement in the death of two people two years ago, have since returned home in Baiyeku and going about as free men.

  • Fashola promises to rebuild burnt market

    Hopes were on Tuesday restored for traders who lost their valuables in the fire disaster that razed four buildings at the Balogun market in Lagos Island, Monday, following the state government’s promise to rebuild the structure.

    The state Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) who was at the scene on Tuesday to assess the situation, promised to build the affected building and help traders get back again to business.

    Fashola and his entourage arrived the market at about 12.30pm as thousands of traders approached and solicited his help to enable them recovered their losses.

    The governor described the incident as sad, but assured that government would stand by the traders and help them to get back on their businesses.

    He urged market leaders to help government identify those who owned wares in the market to enable government assist them.

    “We want to know what the estimate of losses is. You have to liaise with the market leaders. We will help you. This will also apply to all the plazas affected. It is impossible for us to count the number of people while we are here.

    “The Commissioner for Special Duties is here, he will liaise with all the people and the plazas affected to have a clear view of the type of businesses they do and the estimate and we assure you that we help you,” Fashola said.

    The governor said with what he had gathered so far, the fire might have resulted from an electrical surge, appealing to the people to beware of illegal connections, especially at this period of dry season and harmattan.

    “I know there is problem with electricity, but we must be careful how we use the alternatives available to us like generators and illegal connections in order to avoid risk. I appeal to Lagosians because of the dry season we are in as there is the risk of fire. You have to stop storing inflammable materials in your homes and plazas and switch of any appliances not in use.

    “Harmattan is here, just yesterday (Monday), we responded to 18 fire situations in Lagos. In November, we bought 32 fire engines, part of which were used here, we don’t want to be putting out fire, we want to prevent fire from happening. You have to be safety conscious,” he said.

  • No funeral arrangement yet for Fakeye

    No funeral arrangement yet for Fakeye

    •Jonathan, Fashola, church mourn

    Family and Church leaders are yet to agree on the funeral plans for the late general leader of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement (Ayo Ni o), who died on Sunday in Lagos.

    It was gloomy at the church headquarters in Surulere, Lagos, yesterday as church members reflected on the death of their leader, who died at 78.

    President Goodluck Jonathan has commiserated with the family. He prayed that God will grant his soul eternal rest.

    He also prayed that God will comfort members of the church, and place the mantle of the Church’s spiritual leadership on a worthy successor to the late Prophet Fakeye.

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola visited the church leader’s home in Agege yesterday to commiserate with the family.

    The governor was received at the Mangoro, Agege home of the Fakeyes’ by the widow, Mrs. Grace Fakeye, in company of some of the children- Olumide, Tosin and Imelda.

    In a condolence letter, Fashola described the late Fakeye as a person of manifest devotion to family and friends, a visionary leader with profound knowledge, grasp and appreciation of history..

    “Rest in Peace Baba, A very well done job, A superb race, sleep well and in the bosom of the Lord that you served so faithfully”, Fashola wrote in a condolence register.

    A church leader, Abel Alomo, told our reporters at the church premises yesterday that meetings to finalise the funeral arrangements were ongoing.

    He said: “We wanted to do it as quickly as possible before lent but I don’t think that will be possible because the children are all over and they say they want to be present so we cannot tell you anything, but by Sunday we should be able to tell you something. We are working with the family.”

    The church was quiet, sorrowful and scanty, when The Nation visited yesterday the Apapa Oshodi Expressway premises, sources said most members are at the deceased’s home in Agege.

    The Affairs and Relationship Management Coordinator, Special Apostle Abel Alomo, said a funeral date will be set to be announced on Sunday.

    Secretary of Corporate Affairs Unit Ade Balogun said the deceased was ill for over three months and died at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi Araba, Lagos.

    A statement from the general secretary, Special Apostle George Ogunleye, said: “He was a leader who led with zeal, passion and openness. He preferred to give rather than receive. Time cannot heal his demise in our hearts, only the consolation that he is in the bosom of Jesus Christ, who he loved, served and propagated.

    “Our dear Baba Fakeye, even as we mourn his demise, we are still bold to say: Ayo Ni O. The church, with the grace and mercy of God, will continue to build on the legacies he left behind.”

  • Fashola: Justice delivery now grassroot issue

    Fashola: Justice delivery now grassroot issue

    Governor, Babatunde  Fashola(SAN)   has commissioned the combined High and  Magistrate Courts in Epe, which he named in honour of the late Lagos State Chief Judge of Lagos State, Ligali Ayorinde.

    Fashola said the inauguration of the complex was  a fulfilment of  a process of bringing  access to justice closer to  the people.

    He said delivery of  justice in a most efficient and conducive manner is now a grassroots matter traveling out of the town has now been greatly reduced in addition to the cost and inconvenience.

    Fashola explained that the location of such facilities like the Courts Complex has a role to play in maintaining law and order in the society, adding that without access to justice through the courts, the breakdown of law and order becomes a real possibility.

    In naming the Court complex after  Hon. Ligali Ayorinde, Fashola said it has become the tradition of the present administration to honour those who have served conscientiously and whose labour of yesterday has made endeavours of today possible.

    Earlier, the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Funmilayo Atilade said the completion of the structure is another great step of the present administration to ensure greater access to, and speedy administration of justice.

    This, she said, would enhance  efficient justice delivery and assist  in prison decongestion.

    Attorney-General and   Commissioner for Justice  Mr. Ade Ipaiye  said with the growing pace of interpersonal, commercial and contractual relationships in Epe, it is  proper that matters of law and order be given priority consideration.

    He said with inauguration and handing over of the modern court house, the  challenges of quick dispensation of justice will be met, adding that Epe is ready to take on the task of ensuring that the orderliness, peace and tranquility for which this area is already well known, will remain, even as industrialisation and modernization arrives on a very large scale.

    Ipaye ponted out that  that the courthouse was conceived in 2008 as part of His Excellency’s Law and Order programme, addind that it has 6 fully air conditioned courtrooms for judges and magistrates, with Chambers and Secretary’s office attached to each, a reception and waiting area, all sizable and well furnished to a high standard, and It also has robing room and library for lawyers, registries, a total of six toilets and 4 shower rooms, a water treatment plant, furnished staff canteen, separate holding cells for male and female accused persons awaiting trial, two gate houses, a generator room, CCTV facilities for round the clock security and parking spaces for litigants and judges respectively.

    ”This provides us with a unique opportunity to accommodate judges and magistrates in this judicial division with very conducive facilities and amenities which will no doubt enhance justice delivery as well as the welfare of judges and magistrates. It also affords legal practitioners and litigants the best of facilities in which to do business and to resolve cases without having to travel long distances. I believe that this ultramodern courthouse will especially enhance the prestige of my colleagues who may now very rightly claim that they have one of the best working environments in the entire country”, he added.