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  • Lawyers set agenda for Buhari, Osinbajo

    Lawyers set agenda for Buhari, Osinbajo

    As Nigerians await the May 29 inauguration of the President-elect Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, lawyers have set agenda for the incoming administration. Among them are the overhaul of the judicial system, strengthening of anti-corruption agencies, building of collapsed infrastructure and respect for the rule of law. Legal Editor JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU reports

    SOME senior lawyers have urged the president-elect Gen Muhammadu Buhari and the vice-president-elect Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) to respect the rule of law, overhaul the judicial system and reorganise and strengthen the security agencies to make them effective.

    The lawyers spoke in separate interviews with The Nation. A former Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) president Mrs Boma Ozobia said incoming administration should keep its campaigning promises.

    “That necessarily implies justice for all, not just those who can pay for good legal representation. Our prisons and police cells are clogged with innocent citizens of this country. The criminal justice system needs a total overhaul to deal with this shameful state of affairs and with a Professor of law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria as the Vice President-elect, I sincerely hope the much needed surgery will be performed under his watch. The magistrate courts are in the frontline and require much support to function optimally.

    “Also, we must revisit the issue of community policing as an essential element of criminal justice reform. Sadly, this has been unduly politicised but we cannot shy away from it. As the saying goes, you cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs. Finally, in reforming the system, I would hope that the focus would be on restorative justice where possible.”

    A former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) First Vice-President Mrs. Funke Adekoya (SAN) said she expects a change of focus from the new administrations.

    She wants them to focus on ensuring that the people’s hopes of new beginnings are not dashed.

    Adekoya said: “The new government must ensure that capable and credible leadership is put in place at all levels with a focus on building processes and strengthening the institutions of government.The Buhari/Osinbajo ticket is a ticket based on integrity, personal credibility and a record of performance – this has to be replicated at all levels of government.

    “There is no point complaining if nothing happens. The Public Complaints Commission should be strengthened through effective leadership and its powers as a dispute resolver enhanced so that it can effectively provide an outlet to the many complaints about abuse of power, high handedness and sexual harassment resonating within the public service.

    “Allegations of corruption need to be speedily and impartiality investigated, and where a case is made, it needs to be speedily prosecuted. In-house capacity building in the Federal Ministry of Justice, the EFCC and all other prosecuting arms should be a major focus of the incoming administration.’’

    On judicial reform, she said: “Justice delayed is justice denied. The wheels of justice at every level, from the Magistrates Court to the Supreme Court, are turning too slowly. The government needs to change this. Not all cases should go to the Supreme Court; only cases that have constitutional, policy or change of law significance should have access. Constitutional cases should go by right; all other cases should be by leave of the Supreme Court. There should no oral hearing for the leave application. As a general rule, the Court of Appeal should be the last court for most matters. Having three levels of appeal allows for the appointment of less than competent Judges to the Court of Appeal, since there is still a further appeal from their decisions.”

    A former NBA General Secretary Deacon Dele Adesina (SAN) believes the new administration would be “a great time for Nigeria”.

    He said: “Hope is renewed for a better future socially, politically and economically both for individuals and also the country as a nation. This election and, more particularly, the post-election development represents a testimony of Nigeria’s greatness at least potentially. We can now begin not only to boast of practical democracy  in Nigeria, but also boast that our democracy is beginning to produce verifiable democrats.

    “In real democracy, sovereignty resides with the people from whom power flows. The election has demonstrated this in clear terms. Again, democrats must accept the will of the people as revealed by their choice. This also we have seen in real sence.The encomius that have been coming from the world leaders and international community attest to Nigeria’s greatness.

    “In the euphoria of the moment however, we must accept that there is work to be done by the incoming leaders. There is the  need to capitalise on this success to renew a real sense of patriotism and promote unity among Nigerians. Nation building is a continuous process. I recognise that there will be an understandable pressure on the new leaders to deliver on their promises. The expectation is indeed very high.

    “Luckily, both the President elect and the Vice President elect have  well-acknowledged pedigrees for performance, they can therefore not afford to fail.

    “With regards to justice sector, there is  a lot to be done both in our civil and criminal justice systems. Delay is still rampant. Congestion is  still noticeable.The judiciary must undergo a fundamental constitutional reform to address part of the challenges facing it. The truth is that most of the problems are inherently systemic. Nigeria must practice true federalism in the judiciary. For instance, the States must have their own Courts of Appeal and Supreme Court.

    “Again, with the Vice President, an accomplished legal practitioner, l expect the judiciary to improve, rule of law and social justice to enjoy  conspicuous patronage and position in the days ahead,”  Adesina said.

    A former Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Osinbajo’s successor, Olasupo Shasore (SAN), said the Buhari/Osinbajo team at national leadership is truly a blessing.

    “This is because I’m aware that Nigerians can expect strong committed vision, experience and fairness; uniting policies, reform and modernisation of the idea of Nigeria. The Vice President-elect being a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a former distinguished Attorney-General in no less a place than Lagos State, will commit the nation to strong adherence to rule of law.

    “Unknown to many, adherence to the rule of law is not a mere gimmick or political slogan; studies show that rule of law/governance is responsible for over 60 per cent of positive national economic performance. Therefore, the wealth of a nation is in its intangible capital – human resources and strong institutions – particularly the justice sector.

    “I expect and will encourage them and their team to focus on the constitutional, legislative and human obstacles to beneficial justice sector performance. To devolve prosecution, law enforcement and prison authority to concurrent jurisdiction with states in order to tackle awaiting trial and public confidence; for the first time to articulate a National Justice (including judicial) sector policy document; to remove the constitutional inordinate right of appeal; appoint quality appellate judges from the bar; regulate law reporting; introduce investigative/arrest powers to the office public prosecution.

    “We must actualise devolution of power in a way that allows Nigeria to operate optimally. Our dear Prof Osinbajo is well aware of those federal encroachments that must now be removed. Lagos State must be given its due attention not for parochial purposes but because high economic performance in Lagos is a national asset. We look forward to success,” Shasore said.

    Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN) said: “With the presence of Prof. Osinbajo as the Vice-President in the incoming administration, I expect the replication of Lagos Model with modifications in the justice administration of the incoming administration.

    “In addition, I expect the Government to tackle the following issues: Collaborating with the stakeholders in resolving the impasse between Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) and some governors on the issue of financial autonomy of state Judiciaries.  They should collaborate with heads of courts in finding solutions to the causes of delay in the administration of justice, particularly criminal matters.

    “The government should ensure   the swift passage of all Justice Sector Bills in the National Assembly particularly the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Bill, collaborate  with all heads of courts in the establishment of Anti-Corruption Units in Court premises to ensure that the fight against corruption in the judiciary is brought to the grassroots level.

    “I expect a comprehensive reorganisation of the anti-corruption agencies to ensure that their mandates are realised.

    “The administration should also collaborate with the  heads of courts in reforming the process of appointment of judicial officers and  their elevation to the appellate courts with the purpose of making the process transparent and bringing the right calibre of persons particularly from the private Bar to the  appellate Bench and the  resolution of the logjam in the Rivers State judiciary to ensure that an acceptable head of court emerges and the doors of the court thrown open for judicial administration.

    “Strengthening the National Human Rights Commission(NHRC) by giving it adequate funding and manpower  to execute its functions, reorganisation of Legal Aid Council to ensure that its objectives are fully realised, comprehensive reform of many of our laws to bring them up to date  and plug the various lacunae in them, amendments of some provisions  the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to reflect the yearnings  and aspirations of Nigerian people,  collaborating with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in comprehensively  reforming the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2010 to ensure that free and fair elections are conducted and that the mechanism for redress is fair and just to the litigants.

    “Finally, finding solutions to the nagging issue of unemployment among junior lawyers, resolving the issue of welfare package for our judicial officers and state Counsel at federal level and esolving the huge debt portfolio of Federal Ministry of Justice,” Ngige added.

    Dr. Dorn cklaimz Enamhe said: “The combination of Gen Buhari and Prof. Osinbajo is definitely a great one for two people who attained the heights of their respective careers and have been duly elected to now serve their country.

    “I really see the dawn of a new era. I see the hand of God. I see a balanced government. Above all, I see them learning from the outgoing government very quickly, knowing full well that they are holding the peoples’ mandate in trust, being that the people can make a whole world of difference anytime they get to the polls.

    “On judicial reforms, the  law will take centre stage because both men are men of strong character. I see electoral offenders getting speedy justice so that they can use them to set standard for others  to follow. The justice system should be strong, independent and assertive.”

  • Group urges Buhari, Osinbajo on campaign promises

    A GROUP Lawyers for Change (Lawyers4Change) has urged  President-elect, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari and his deputy, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to deliver on their campaign promises.

    In a statement titled: “Thank You Nigerians”, signed by its National Coordinator, Adesina Ogunalana and General Secretary, Gbenga Demola-Ojo in Lagos, the group urged Buhari and Osinbajo to fix the power supply, enhance national security, tackle Boko Haram, end mass unemployment, importation of fuel and tame corruption. among other vices.

    It said the task of re-building Nigeria must start immediately.

    Lawyers4Change recalled the general elections held on March 28, this year and the subsequent declaration of Buhari and Osinbajo as  winner of the elections by the  Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) three days after.

    It said the victory of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress was sweet and much expected by the majority of Nigerians, noting that despite the hitches in the exercise, the Nigerians comported themselves and did much to prevent outbreak of violence despite the stress, hassles and tensions that accompanied the voting exercise.

    “We remember that this victory never came easy or cheap giving the desperate and vicious campaign tactics and strategies of the government of the day and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ruling party which include blackmail, muck-racking,hate speeches,violence and voters’ intimidation.

    Our unpleasant experience in Ondo and Ekiti states in the course of our March4CHANGE campaigns are pointers.

    “Nonetheless, we are full of gratitude to the Almighty that despite all the tension, upheavals, disturbances and rumors of disturbances, the election was not disrupted and the process ended peacefully and regularly.

    “We join million others to congratulate General Muhammadu Buhari, his running mate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) and their party the All Progressives Congress at their victory at the polls. The victory was unprecedently historic as it would be the first ever time the opposition would, in Nigeria, defeat the party in power in an electoral contest at the federal level and for sure this is the first time that the progressive tendency in our dear country would be taking over the reins of power of the Federal Government,” it said.

    The group expressed appreciation to INEC and her leadership, for delivering a relatively free and fair elections to Nigerians.

    “We appreciate the industry and maturity of the INEC leadership as well as the grace exhibited under fire.

    “We also express our appreciation of President Goodluck Jonathan, the first runner up in the presidential elections for conceding defeat early enough and decently too. This singular action was a very powerful douse against any violent reaction to the result of the announcement, which could easily have led to mayhem at a national scale.

    “Our greatest appreciation however is to the masses of our people who made the election possible and gave it her character. Our people stood in the sun, defied the rain, most without food for several hours to ensure that they not only cast their votes but stayed back to ensure that their votes count,” the group added.

  • BUHARI’S VICTORY: Yemi Osinbajo

    BUHARI’S VICTORY: Yemi Osinbajo

    I am very happy, God has done an awesome thing,’’ was all the Vice-President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, could say when asked to react to the victory of the All Progressives Congress(APC) at last Saturday’s presidential poll.

    To those in the know, Osinbajo’s emergence was down to nothing but sheer divine providence. He was busy facing his private legal practice when the APC chose him as the running mate of the President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari. The choice, observers believe, was influenced by his impeccable character and competence.

    But most importantly, Osinbajo has made a name for himself as pastor of Olive Tree Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Banana Island, Lagos. As a pastor, he was nominated to run on the APC ticket to counteract the Islamic fundamentalist tag placed on Buhari.

    To political strategists, the ticket should easily attract the Christian community. But it hardly did. Many church leaders considered Osinbajo’s acceptance of the offer as a denunciation of his pastoral calling, which they argue was higher than the presidency.

    Many prominent church leaders and preachers frowned at his entrance to the race. At a meeting last January in a prominent church, Osinbajo was barred from addressing major church leaders brainstorming on the position to take on the presidential race. Forces loyal to President Goodluck Jonathan said Osinbajo should not address the gathering because it would appear like an expressed endorsement for his ambition.

    When a group of Christian clerics organised an interactive meeting with him in February, a top CAN official ordered that the session should be called off. The organisers balked but the stay-action order prevailed. However, despite such open rejections from those he felt should be comfortable with his presidential ambition, Osinbajo soldiered on. The former Attorney-General of Lagos State decided to take his fate in his own hands. He took to the streets to market the APC’s presidential ticket.

    His campaign, to observers, was novel and innovative. The Professor of Law boarded BRT buses in major terminals of Lagos much to the astonishment of co-passengers. He went on to meet them one after the other, explaining what the party intended to do, if elected. He also met with market women in their shops, selling the party’s manifesto to them. To the ordinary folks, it was unprecedented to have a high-profile political office seeker like him meet them. They felt important and gleefully posed for photographs with him. That sold the message to common folks that Osinbajo will not forget them when in power.

    But these approaches, some people, said were time-wasting and ineffectual. “How many votes can you win, meeting with such people?” one of them taunted. Many also dismissed his many town hall meetings as elitist and too low-profile. To the lily-livered, such snide remarks could be demoralising. But not to a brave, confident personality like the Senior Partner of Simmons Cooper Partners (Barristers and Solicitors).

    When our correspondent demanded to know if such talks affected him, he simply said: “We know what we are doing. We are doing the right thing and we do not seek the praises of men. We are motivated by the people and anything that will make us connect with them would be appropriate, regardless of how others see it.”

    What critics couldn’t take away from him, however, is brilliance. At different interactive sessions he attended, he shone brighter and brighter. He took the pains to explain how the much talked-about change will affect Nigerians and how things would be done. He ended most sessions with standing ovations with participants marvelling at his sharp brains and brilliant ideas.

    As the number two man, from May 29th, he is expected to bring to bear his vast experience as former Attorney-General in Lagos State for eight years. He also had a stint from 1988-1992 as an Adviser (Legal Advice and Litigation) to the then Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bola Ajibola.

    His brilliant mind and legal background, observers say, will assist the presidency in navigating the nation through the process of change for accelerated growth and development. His gentle disposition should also serve as a calming influence during the tough four years ahead. Statutorily, the vice president coordinates the economic team, a role Osinbajo will find very comfortable, having been an inner caucus of a team that saw a cosmopolitan state like Lagos through a period of financial reengineering. As a technocrat VP, he should find the role very familiar and easy to deal with.

    For sure, his place in history is secured for daring to accept an offer that appeared suicidal and braving the odds to add real value to the presidential ticket and wooing voters to choose the APC ahead of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

  • Osinbajo blames judiciary for corruption

    Osinbajo blames judiciary for corruption

    A book, For the love of their nation-Lawyers as agents of change in Nigeria, was presented in Lagos last week. It profiles some eminent lawyers and their contributions to national development, reports ADEBISI ONANUGA.

    Lawyers filed out last week to honour a judicial correspondent, Mustapha Ogun-sakin, at the presentation of his book, ‘For The Love of Their Nation: Lawyers as agent of Change”, which held last Friday at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja.

    The book features  collection of interviews on prominent judges such as the late Justices Kayode Eso, and Chukwudifu Oputa; and retired Justices of the Supreme Court such as Justice Odemwingie Uwaifo, and Justice Adesola Oguntade. Other judges such as Judge Bola Ajibola (SAN), Justice Yahya Jinadu, Justice Nkem Izuako, and Justice Samuel Ilori were also featured among others.

    Speaking at the occasion, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice Presidential Candidate, Professor Yemi Osinbajo said the nation’s judiciary system should be held responsible for the high rate of corruption in the country. He, therefore, urged lawyers to take the lead in stamping out the menace.

    Osinbajo, a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State said the administartion of justice in the country needs to be reformed to  successfully  prosecute corrupt individuals and move the country forward.

    According to him, the country has suffered a lot of set back as a result of corruption. “The  judical system as presently administered has failed to curb this bad trend, especially at the national level.                                                                                                                                   “There is a lot of impunity in the country. Many people are losing faith in the ability of administration of justice system and indeed, the government to observe the tenet of the rule of law. We must return to observance of the rule of law and to holding government and its officials accountable for what they do. That can only come from exemplary leadership.

    “ No one is in doubt that a nation can do little if the judiciary is not functioning. Our legal system has not been reformed at the national and state levels, but more importantly at the national level. The frustration to reform came from the Federal Government and when you fail to reform the system, corruption increases,” he noted.

    Osinbajo also decried the delay in the administration of justice system. “The masses have lost interest in the judiciary because delays in administering justice  are on the increase making people to lose faith in the system.  We must deal with law reforms and with a new government like All Progressives Congress(APC), at the centre, there will be change.”

    He also blamed the elite, and religious leaders for failing to take responsibility in ensuring that corruption is wiped out in the country. He urged lawyers to take the lead in stamping out corruption.

    “ Lawyers must regard themselves as agent of change. The Nigerian elite must hold themselves accountable for the present state of the nation. There is no privilege that does not come with responsibilities. We must hold ourselves accountable for the direction the country is going. If leaders of both Christians and Muslims show responsibilities in their various communities, we won’t have the level of corruption we have in the country today.

    “The way of leadership can only be taken seriously by challenging what is going on in the country. Our country is going sour and without solving the issue of corruption, we cannot move forward,” he said.

    Osinbajo said his nomination as Vice Presidential Candidate to General Muhammadu Buhari for the Presidential race  was part of God’s plan to salvage the country.                                                                                                                     Professor Osinbajo commended the author for writing the book, which he said came at the appropriate time.

    He continued: “For instance, our external reserves  has been depleted and this is caused by corruption and has resulted in the fall of our currency. Impunity is evident in governance, which is caused by the elites who have abandoned their responsibilities. We must all work together to stop corruption.”

    Mr Dele Adesina (SAN), who reviewed the book, said lawyers are supposed to be the vanguard for the fight against corruption and other vices militating against the country.

    “Lawyers are expected to wage unrelenting war against arbitrariness, high handedness, wickedness of man to man, corruption, injustice, mi-governance and social vices, which have become the order of the day.

    “They have a role to bring about the Change from tradition to modernity, from authoritarianism to democracy, from slavery and lawlessness to law and order and due process, thereby moving the society forward,” he said.

    He noted that the country has produced many lawyers, both dead and alive, who have fought for the survival of the country such as the late Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), the late G.O.K Ajayi (SAN), the late Alao-Aka-Bashorun (SAN), the late Chief Rotimi Williams (SAN), Chief Wole Olanipekun, Professor Yemi Osinbajo(SAN),Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), and many others.

    Adesina  described the book as a “literary work of great significance”. He pointed out that  the author’s knowledge of justice system made him an authority even though he is not a lawyer.   The duo of Hassan Fajimite, who represented Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) and a Lagos lawyer, Jiti Ogunye, who represented Femi Falana (SAN) at the book presentation noted that the author, Mustapha Ogunsakin, has used his profession to assist the law profession with the publication of the book. They said the author deserved accolades for his views of judges, erudite lawyers and other legal icons mentioned in the book.

    Ogunsakin described the book presentation as a day of fulfillment and gave glory and adoration to God for the day.

     

     

     

     

  • Support Buhari, Osinbajo for genuine transformation – Group

    Support Buhari, Osinbajo for genuine transformation – Group

    A support group for the All Progressives Congress(APC),Change Network Initiative(CNI) has urged the people of Ondo State to join the crusade for the victory of the party’s Presidential Candidate, Gen Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) and his running mate, Prof Yemi Osinbajo.

    CNI is a group of APC Aspirants who came together after losing party primaries in their various constituencies across the country.

    Their mission was to work for the victory of all Candidates that emerged after the primaries through aggressive mobilisation of the electorate.

    Speaking to reporters at the APC Secretariat, Akure Thursday, the CNI Chairman, Austin Ola Pelemo said as a forum for all APC Aspirants across the country, they were determined to put their resources together for the victory of all the candidates of the party.

    He said the group apart from embarking on aggressive one-on-one campaign round all the 18 local government areas, had provided bill boards, posters and other souvenirs for many of the Candidates.

    According to him, “the project is self-sponsored, we levied ourselves without minding the huge resources we spent before our primaries and we eventually lost out, but we still resolved to join the candidates to ensure victory for them.”

    Pelemo urged the people opposing the usage of Smart Card Readers and Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) particularly the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) to desist, stressing that this is the only way to prevent electoral fraud.

  • Court restrains NTA, AIT over anti-Osinbajo documentaries

    Court restrains NTA, AIT over anti-Osinbajo documentaries

    The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained Daar Communications Plc and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) from broadcasting any video documentaries against All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice-Presidential candidate Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN).

    Justice John Tsoho made the order Wednesday following an ex-parte application by Osinbajo.

    Daar Communications (owners of African Independent Television (AIT), NTA and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) are the respondents. The suit is numbered FHC/L/CS/277/2015.

    Justice Tsoho ordered that status quo be maintained pending the hearing and determination of the applicant’s motion on notice for interlocuctory injunction.

    The motion ex-parte, filed on March 10, was moved by Osinbajo’s counsel Mr. Femi Falana (SAN).

    The judge ordered: “That an order of interim injunction shall be considered with notice to the respondents. Generally, however, the status quo as at today shall be maintained pending hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”

    Justice Tsoho also granted the applicant leave to serve the Originating Summons and other accompanying court processes on the respondents in Abuja, which is outside the court’s jurisdiction.

    Osinbajo had prayed for “an order of interim injunction restraining the respondents, their agents, privies, representatives and other media entities under the control of the third respondent (NBC) from any interference with or violation of the applicant’s right to dignity of human person, right to privacy and right to life and/or livelihood whether by means of publication or dissemination of any video documentary or by any means whatsoever pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction.

    Justice Tsoho adjourned till tomorrow for hearing of the motion on notice.

    Osinbajo alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had been sponsoring defamatory documentaries against him.

    AIT and NTA had, for weeks, been broadcasting a documentary detailing the “atrocious” past of the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd.).

    The station also aired a similar documentary on APC national leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, chronicling his series of alleged financial misconduct.

    Osinbajo maintained that the documentaries, which allegedly contained untrue information and injurious falsehood, constitute a personal attack on his person.

    He argued that the videos were being aired in violation of his fundamental human right to dignity of human person, right to privacy and family virtue and right to life and/or livelihood as protected by Sections 33, 34 and 37 of the 1999 Constitution.

    “Unless the respondents are restrained in the manner requested in this application, damages will be grossly inadequate to compensate or redress the unquantifiable, unwarranted and malicious damage to the applicant’s right to dignity of human person, right to livelihood and privacy guaranteed and protected under Sections 33, 34 and 37 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    After listening to Falana’s submission, Justice Tsoho ordered that NTA and AIT and any other broadcast station should forthwith stop the broadcast of the damaging documentary which the applicant complained of until the determination of the substantive suit.

    Tinubu had threatened to sue the management of Daar Communications for the defamatory content of the documentary.

    His counsel Mr. Tunji Abayomi, through a letter delivered to Daar Communications, asked the organisation to apologise for the content and stop its airing.

    The letter reads in part: “…You aired an hour-long documentary focusing on our client (Bola Tinubu). Clearly pre-occupied with political resentment and hatred neither warranted, necessary, proper, or justified, you published several false allegations against our client… More disturbing is your misrepresentation that the said documentary was “sponsored” without disclosing the “sponsors”. You cannot under law hide under media freedom to maliciously injure a citizen’s reputation”.

    The letter also demanded N20 billion as cost of damage done to the reputation of Asiwaju Tinubu, failing which the client will sue the company.

    “To affirm the right of our client against your defamatory publication, we demand that you confirm to us within 24 hours of receipt of this letter, an apology and retraction of the said publication/documentary,” the letter added.

  • I want to serve, not dictate – Buhari

    I want to serve, not dictate – Buhari

    General Muhammadu Buhari, Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has said that as President, he was seeking to serve the Nigerian nation and not to dictate.

    General Buhari went on to ask Nigerians to be weary of those individuals who speak derogatory words about fellow human beings.

    Speaking through his Vice Presidential candidate, Professor Yemi Osinbajo at a town hall meeting with religious leaders in Kaduna, Buhari stressed that leadership was not a one man show.

    “We have to work together, we must come together putting religious sentiments aside and rise above the vicious lies the propagandists seeing those negative comments as nothing but a wicked mind trying to incite same wickedness in the generality of people,’ he said.

    According to him, the prospects of elections are heated in themselves all over the world ‘so we do a great injustice to ourselves if we begin to insult the things that we hold dear and believe in’.

    He said: “I greet you all with gladness and express my delight to be amongst you in this engagement. “There is no doubt in our heart that this gathering is a good one to help us re-establish the goodness in being in each others’ company.

    “It is also not a secret, especially due to the forthcoming elections that some groups are being tagged as religiously intolerant of the other. I hope that this gathering will help quell such unfair sentiments.

    “As our nation approaches perhaps the most crucial election on our history, all true patriots are called to deeper reflection of the basic ingredients that bonds the nation together – these being our common freedom, peace and unity.

    “This reflection is even more relevant in the face of the illegal postponement of the General elections, a feat achieved through various sinister ploys and with the sole aim of avoiding the will and verdict of the people.
    “In these, I feel the urge to communicate my personal vision and thoughts to the people of our great nation especially on the question of religion, a sensitive matter for many citizens that has become the most frequently used tool by the ruling party.
    “I must add that no one is exempted from over zealousness where faith is concerned.
    “Just as the Christians believe so much in their cause, so also do the Muslims as well as other religions in our country.

    “However, those who deliberately disseminate divisive disinformation and attempt to stoke primordial sentiments using religion or ethnicity and create fear in the minds of people fail the standard of patriotism that this nation demands of them and deserves from them.

    “There are talks today about the fear of Isamisation or Christianisation of the Nigeria states by my running mate and I or by our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) which is absolutely against elevating any religion to a state religion.

    “That said, our religion or faith is expected to guide us, such that the good that we do transcend into good living conditions and to make life more abundant in our communities, states and the country at large.

    “It seems though that the exact tenets of our beliefs have been abandoned, but often revisited only for self gratification.

    “I would like to solemnly declare that in spite of what our detractors say, I am not a religious fanatic of any sort and I have never been.

    “In all my life, I have never supported extremism of any kind and nowhere in my record of service to our nation can this false toga which political detractors have tried so hard to put on me be substantiated.

    “Indeed, it is very unfortunate and I feel extremely sad that I have to give this type of assurance at this time in our national life.

    “Let me reiterate that I Muhammadu Buhari have come as an individual to serve and not to dictate and as a President, if given the opportunity I nurture no ambition to Islamise the country, either is my running mate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo nursing any ulterior agenda to Christianise the country.

    “Please be clear that no member of our team puts one religion above the other or one interest above another.

    “My background is in the Army and there is no doubt that the military is one of the most integrated pan-Nigerian institutions in this country. And even today, the military is one of the few national institutions that represent the pride of our nation’s possibilities in unity.

    “Soldiers from every nook and cranny of this country come together, work and live together, entrust their lives to each other and integrate their families.

    “It is a military where many of my dearest friends, from all faiths and parts of the country lost their lives defending the unity of our nation. That was the military I served in. In the Nigeria military that I know and can speak of, it was impossible to be a bigot.

    “Just as it will be considered favoritism when someone is favored based on his affiliations even when he is less worthy of the favour, so also is the grievances of favoritism when religious sentiments is brought into a democracy or into a highly sensitive issue as choosing the leader of an entire country.

    “In our Qur’an and Bible, we were never told that leaders were chosen because they were Jewish or Israelites. But because they have what it takes to liberate the people of God because they have what it takes to make the people realise the intended good and potentials for the growth and benefits the society.
    “In most sincerity of heart, I urge you all to have a discerning mind, double check any individual who speaks about another person in ways derogatory to the dignity of a human being, surely, our faiths preach against back bitters and gossips.

    “I enjoin all of us to exhibit the virtue of tolerance because where your strength gives way is where the strength of the other Person begins- that strength is what you both need to forge ahead and it is the collective strength that we need as a people to build our nation.

    “Tolerance because the supporters of Sharia are protecting their customs as the Sharia law is synonymous with customary laws covering customs of marriage, divorce and inheritance which cannot be forced on people who do not subscribe to it, but expecting understanding from them in appreciation of their customs.

    “This tolerance should guide us because even in the south of Nigeria where there are no laws like Sharia, we still experience some level of lawlessness and jungle justice and inhuman treatment.

    “So, it is not about the law; it is simple that we have lost the sense of dignity that should accrue to the human person. We now only see religion, tribe, place of origin and so on when we look at our neighbours.

    “If we know the sacredness of the position of leadership, we would wish only those after our heart assume such positions; Those who have us at hearts because of the genuineness of their intentions and deeds; those who will be quick to rise to your defense rather than deny the attack or ask for proof of attack.

    “I expect leaders to treat this position like a religion; knowing that they have been put there in trust that they will manage affairs well and make sure that no member of any community is neglected.

    “Truth be told, any leader who continues to show signs of increased wealth while the people cried of hunger has not been true to his faith.

    “Nations around the world are envious of our diversity. They covet the strength in our diversity. We should focus on having a leader who stands as a rallying point around whom people can gather.

    “One who will mend fences and build bridges so that when called to give account of stewardship, he can boldly say ‘not one of the people you have given me have I lost in the course of our journey”.

    “Leadership is not a one man show. So, we have to work together, we must come together putting religious sentiments aside and rise above the vicious lies the propagandists seeing those negative comments as nothing but a wicked mind trying to incite same wickedness in the generality of people.

    “I dare say that the prospects of elections are heated in themselves all over the world so we do a great injustice to ourselves if we begin to insult the things that we hold dear and believe in.

    “I believe I am speaking the minds of most if I say that Nigeria and Nigerians are tired of the hopeless state and the hopelessness our country has been plunged into. We want to have faith in our leaders, as we do in our religions, a faith that will help us recognize the strength in our diversity and in the long run, unit us as a nation.

    God bless Nigeria as we struggle again to build a united Nigeria in faith, service and good works”.

    Some of those present at the town hall meeting with the Vice Presidential candidate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, National Chairman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun and former FCT Minister, Nasir el-Rufai, Deputy Governorship candidate of the APC in Kaduna state.

    Others include Arch. Barnabas Bala Bantex, Senator Tokumbo Afikuyomi, former INEC Secretary, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Gen. Mohammed Magoro and former Director General of National Orientation Agency, Alhaji Idi Farouk,

  • Osinbajo: only honest person can bail out Nigeria

    Osinbajo: only honest person can bail out Nigeria

    Vice presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has emphasized that only government led by a truthful and honest Nigerian like Gen. Muhammadu Buhari can lead the country out of its present challenges.

    Prof. Osinbajo, who spoke while on a visit to the palace of the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of Traditional Rulers, said Buhari as president would do everything possible to end the suffering of Nigerians by drastically reducing the level of the nation’s corruption.

    According to him, the nation was in serious need of change, stressing that to drive the needed change, the country needed a man of truth and honesty.

    He reminded the people that it was not just enough to shout change without a honest man driving such change, saying the suffering and poverty in the country was too much for Nigerians to bear owing to stealing.

    He told the royal father: “I come with special greetings from the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. He would have come himself because Abaji is a special place. All through the time, he has ever contested elections, he has always won here in Abaji.

    “So, there is a special love that the people of Abaji have for him and I am sure that the love has been transferred now to the APC. In fact, as we approach, we could see that the people were excited.

    “I have come here to just go round to speak to our people about the change that is coming. We cannot do so without first coming here has a mark of respect to the palace, first to let you know that we have come to greet you and to bring you special greetings from Gen. Buhari and to ask for your blessings upon our enterprise as we go out and meet our people.

    “I want to say that this country needs a change. The reason why the country needs a change is because the suffering of our people is too much. The poverty is too much, the pain is too much.

    “Everybody know that it is okay to say change change, change. If a true change must come, then it must be a righteous person, a truthful person and a man we can rely on to bring that change.

    “It is not enough to just change because it can change for the worst, change to more trouble. That is the reason why we believe, I believe and so many of us believe that the change must be led by a truthful man, a honest man like Gen. Buhari. That is why APC picked him as their presidential candidate and myself as his vice presidential candidate.

    “Both of us agreed very clearly that this country need a government of honest people who will fight for the common man, fight for education for the common man, fight for security for the common man and fight for so many other things. Even just going to the hospital alone, every Nigerian must be able to go to hospital and be attended to.

    “Education must be free because without education, you cannot move forward. In the primary schools, our children must have one free meal a day. Those are some of the things we intend to do when we get into office. Without stopping corruption, there will be nothing.

    “When the stealing is too much, there cannot be enough money and the man who can stop this corruption is Gen. Buhari.

    “All I want to say is that we need your blessings, we need your support and the support of the people of Abaji to change this country for good. If Gen. Buhari gets into office, you and I know that this country will never be the same again; this country will be a country that you will be proud of.

    “Look at insecurity all over the Northeast? Why should people be killed every day and  we say we have a president. When he takes over, we all know that he will deal with insecurity and all these issues. That is why we are so sure that March 28, we will go to the polls with our PVCs and cast our votes because we are completely convinced that this country will change”.

    The Ona of Abaji admonished politicians to play politics without rancour and avoid character assassination of opponents.

    He said: “My position as the Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs makes this palace home for all politicians, irrespective of their political party.

    “I want you to carry out your campaigns without rancour and character assassination of your opponent. I want you to place Nigeria first in all your dealings and think of how to enhance our economy. Make our elections hitch-free and credible. To my subjects, I want you to play the game according to the rules. You should not be violent or be intimidated by your opponent”.

    Prof. Osinbajo also visited Kwali and Kuje area councils, where he addressed party supporters on the need to use their PVCs to effect a change in government.

    Market women and other residents of the area councils made symbolic donation of N10, N20 and N50 to campaign team of the APC presidential candidate.

  • Our plans for physically-challenged, by Osinbajo

    Our plans for physically-challenged, by Osinbajo

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) will ensure that the physically-challenged achieve their fullest potentials if elected, its vice presidential candidate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, said yesterday.

    He said the party would formulate policies and programmes that would be friendly to the physically-challenged and enhance their contributions to national development.

    The former Attorney General of Lagos vowed that never again would disabled Nigerians with talents and skills end up on the streets should the APC wins the March 28 presidential election.

    Osinbajo spoke at a novelty basketball match to mark his 58th birthday by the Wheel Chair Sport Foundation in Lagos.

    He said: “The APC is committed to making sure that every skilled and talented physically-challenged Nigerian achieves their potentials.

    “We will make sure that no Nigerian with physical disabilities is useless and stranded in life.

    “We value every Nigerian, regardless of physical status, and moreso, those with disabilities. So, we will never allow anyone suffer for disabilities from May 29th by the grace of God.”

    He said he was celebrating his birthday with the disabled athletes to demonstrate the APC’s determination to better the lots of physically-challenged Nigerians.

    Osinbajo told the disabled not to despair, but to support the party to win the presidency for their conditions to change.

    “If you make the change happen, we will change your conditions and situations for the best in a way that you and the nation will be better for it,” he stressed.

    Coordinator of the foundation Tope Ogunyemi said the athletes decided to organise the surprise birthday bash for Osinbajo in appreciation of his support for them over the years.

    “He’s been like a father to us. He has been supporting us and we felt this is the least we can do in his honour.

    “We have nothing to give a man like him, but to express our gratitude to him for unalloyed support over the years,” he stressed.

     

  • Osinbajo promises good governance

    Dr. Yemi Osinbajo, the running mate to the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has promised Nigerians good governance if his party wins the general elections.

    He said under an APC administration, the citizens would be assured of the dividends of democracy, such as good roads, potable water, constant electricity, decent houses, qualitative education, employment and others.

    Osinbajo, who spoke yesterday at an interactive section at the Overcomers Pentecostal Church, Abule Egba, Lagos, said Nigerians had been patient over the years, adding that they would soon have cause to smile, as there was light at the end of the tunnel.

    His words: “The only thing our people need to do is to vote for APC candidates on March 28 and April 11. Once they do this, they are assured of good lives. People should obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). No matter the money offered them, they should not sell the card because it is their instrument to exercise their franchise by voting for APC candidates.”

    Osinbajo said his party was determined to tackle corruption, adding that Buhari’s opponents were afraid because they were corrupt.

    The National President of the All Christian Leaders and Ministers Forum (ACLMF), Dr. Sam Ogedengbe, said a vote for APC candidates would mean bye-bye to poverty.

    He said Prof. Osinbajo and Gen. Buhari are tested politicians, who can be trusted with public offices because they are men of integrity.

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State chapter, has urged Nigerians to embrace peace before, during and after the elections.

    The CAN Chairman, Apostle Alexander Bamgbola, who spoke yesterday in Lagos at a news conference to herald this year’s Inter-Denominational Divine Service (IDDS), which will be held on March 14 by the association, at The Apostolic Church Nigeria, International Convention Ground, Ketu, Lagos, said people should not take the polls as a do-or-die affair.

    The Chairman of the IDDS Planning Committee, Dr. Adefunmilayo Akitoye-Braimah, said the theme of the programme is: “Looking up for help”, adding that “IDDS is a solemn assembly of all Christians, which our beloved Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, although a Muslim, has attended yearly since he assumed office in 2007 “