The Nation Newspaper

Tag: tinubu

  • Tinubu, a bridge builder

    Tinubu, a bridge builder

    Former Chairman of ‘Conference of Executive’ Secretaries of Local Governments in Lagos State Hon. Kolade Alabi pays tribute to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who he describes as a bridge builder.

    Writing this tribute on Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the indefatigable and enigmatic leader seems so difficult. No word or phrase seems adequate to aptly describe him.

    Describing Asiwaju needs no colouration or embellishment. Say it as it is, he is a gold fish in a glass bowl.

    Perhaps, what makes it more difficult are the multifarious personalities embedded in just one man. Call him a born leader, you are right, call him a business guru, you are on course, call him a financial wizard, you are correct, call him a grassroots mobiliser, a great warrior, an exemplary mentor and teacher, a mighty pedagogue, an administrator par excellence, a scholar and a genius – you cannot be far from the truth.

    How do you begin to describe such a great politician, a colossus whose sagacity is unparalleled in this clime at this time, whose fame and popularity transcends the shores of Nigeria?

    What vocabulary could I possibly employ to describe this magnanimous, compassionate and ebullient person without being accused of exaggeration and embellishment?

    I, therefore, have resorted to the simplest of dictions devoid of sentimental attachment to avoid being tagged Asiwaju’s apologist, thus robbing a man of substance the accolades he rightly deserves.

    Yet, I find it repugnant and absurd to do injustice to myself by sacrificing objectivity on the altar of jealousy just to soothe the egos of envious adversaries. Nay, I must say it as it is careless about whose ox is gored.

    Asiwaju Tinubu is a courageous leader who could not be intimidated by any form of threat as he practically demonstrated in his stand-off with former President Olusegun Obasanjo when he created additional local government areas in Lagos State in 2003. While other governors backed out, Asiwaju remained unshaken and undaunted. He stood out and became outstanding. He is an untiring advocate of a just, progressive and equitable Nigeria. A course he pursued vigorously from NADECO days (1994) till the Progressives came to power in 2015.

    Asiwaju is a detribalised person who seeks power not for self aggrandisement but for the betterment of the people and development of Nigeria. Today, Asiwaju remains the most versatile, most reliable and most consistent political leader in Nigeria. He never deviates from what he believes in.

    Asiwaju is a man I greatly admired for his vision and tenacity, for his determination to doggedly purse a set goal, for  his generosity and compassion. Above all, for his intellectual capability coupled with his managerial ingenuity and his knack for discovering talents, grooming and mentoring them to become achievers.

    This statement by Lao Tzu, a Chinese author aptly describes Asiwaju, he wrote:

    “The best of all leaders is one who helps people so that eventually they don’t need him. He doesn’t say much but what he says carries weight. When he is finished with his work, the people say, ‘It is natural.’ That is Bola Tinubu for you.

    What more can I say, Asiwaju, your footprints are already indelible on the sands of time. Your name is already written in gold.

    I wish you the best of health, long life and more glorious service to the fatherland.

    Congratulations Sir.

     

    • Alabi is the immediate past Chairman, Conference of Executive Secretaries of LGs/LCDAs, Lagos State
  • Tinubu: Blade-edge walk for democracy

    Tinubu: Blade-edge walk for democracy

    Former House of Representatives members Hon. Bamidele Faparusi extols the virtues of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who recently celebrated his 65th birthday.

    It was in the 1990s that I first heard of the name Tinubu, this was apart from the legendary Madam Tinubu who once held the wealth and fortunes of Lagos in her hands in the last part of the 19th Century. We learnt all that in school. As a little kid, I took great delight, while on visits to Lagos, loitering around the Tinubu square in downtown Lagos, admiring its scintillating waterfalls. For an Ekiti man from the countryside, with her rolling hills, great valleys and the tropical greenery of the hinterland, Tinubu Square offered a perfect contrast.

    It was then with curiosity, to see another colossal with the name Tinubu entering the national stage in the 1990s. It is interesting to note that since his engagement with the frills and pomp of politics in the 1990s, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu has continued to dominate the space like a recurring decimal.

    My encounters with Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu left one milestone after the other. I have had cause to meet him to discuss the nation’s myriad of challenges. I met him in time of trouble. I met him in time of peace. I met him when hundreds hovered around to see him; I met him in the deepest recess of his inner being, when lurch and alone.

    On each occasion, I discovered a new sense of political logic, a keen intellect and a powerful, analytical mind. I found a good listener, a liberal democrat, a man of mathematical reasoning, blessed with clear thoughts and captivating oratory.

    Though Tinubu fought a courageous battle in the pitched and bloody encounters with the despots that ruined Nigeria in the 1990s, coming back into the country in a triumphant entry in 1998, some of his most outstanding battles were those fought in 2003 and 2015. These episodes continue to thrill my senses and provide a forceful lesson in courage and firmness.

    Against the draconian powers of the military, Tinubu and his group won. Against a vindictive and overbearing knights of vengeance, Tinubu came back home with the trophy. I must confess that in 2003, I was one of those who was worried about the invincibility of this General in civilian fatigue. At that time, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) was like a monstrous and hefty rapist who had either cajoled or bullied the bride into shameful submission. Have we forgotten history so easily? As a build up to the 2013 election, armed gangs took over the streets of Lagos.

    They intimidate and harassed the quietude of the city, they ripped open the bowels of the city and instilled fear and trembling right in the sub consciousness of an awed populace. Tinubu was almost like a giant bird all alone on the housetop, his feathers clipped and his wings burnt.

    The other Southwest states, shortly before the election, appeared to have been overtaken by the unstoppable whirlwind. But on the day of battle, when the whistle was blown for the contest, this overpowered bride suddenly found her strength, and at the end of the duel, the giant laid prostrate, mercilessly beaten and humiliated.

    Nothing can be more compelling of the superiority of his tactics than the overwhelming victory of our party in 2015 against the might of the Federal Government. Even though Asiwaju was no longer a sitting governor, his ghost hunted the PDP all over the country.

    Hallucinations: almost every travails of the crumbling PDP was traced to him. The traumatized foes saw his spirit in their dreams, like an incubus beast. Soldiers and armed gangs laid siege on him. His movement was trailed. His home was bugged. He was choked by the tormenting weapons of the state.

    The fearsome machine of the state was fashioned against him. Asiwaju took refuge in the people, as his shield and buckler. In his will, he was cast in iron.  By the time the dust of the battle settled, the people had won what became the first in the country’s troubled history, the opposition party throwing away the ruling hegemony in a decisive battle that left no one in doubt as to the victorious. It is to the glory of time and history, that President Muhammmadu Buhari won a sweet victory partly through the sweat recorded in this hemisphere. Nigerians were saved from calamity as evident in the remarkable performances of President Buhari since 2015.

    A million words are not enough to eke a legend. In recent times, I do not remember when last a leader was so celebrated and honoured by his own people as Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu marked his 65th anniversary.

    I say that Asiwaju deserves even more, for his sterling leadership, his glistening eyeballs of bravery and the watertight   strategies endowed in him which have combined to make his achievements a tall dream that remains but a fleeing illusion of his adversaries. He has walked the blade edges of politics without being scratched and subdued. Happy birthday our leader.

  • Tinubu ‘has no hand in negative report on any senator’

    Tinubu ‘has no hand in negative report on any senator’

    •ThisDay gets knocks for ‘selling its soul’

    All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Tinubu commented yesterday on a report in which he was accused of “conspiracy to destroy the Senate”.

    The report was published by ThisDay in its April 2 edition.

    He described the report as “political libel” and spurned it as “balant lie”.

    In a statement signed by Tunde Rahman for the Tinubu Media Office, the former Lagos State Governor, said:

    “After giving substantial time for ThisDay to correct the outright falsehood used as cover story for its Sunday, April 2 edition, we are constrained to correct the record. Those behind the report are practitioners of political libel. That blatant lie was reported as fact breached the minimum standards of journalism. It is sad that ThisDay allowed itself to become an instrument of errant mudslinging.

    “Hopefully, ThisDay was only a dupe in this deception. It would be painful to think the newspaper might have been wilfully complicit in this bald assault against truth. There is nothing wrong with publishing hot news; but hot news should never amount to a rotten lie.

    “The newspaper claimed in the report “PDP Caucus Accuses Tinubu, EFCC of Conspiracy to Destroy Senate” that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, in concert with the EFCC, has instigated media attacks against the PDP Senate Caucus.

    “The story is such an outright fabrication that it claims the PDP Senators held a special meeting to discuss Asiwaju Tinubu. However, PDP Senators claim no such meeting was ever held and that they hold no special animus toward Asiwaju Tinubu.

    “We are usually not in the position of agreement with PDP members. But on this rare occasion, we have no contention with them.  Asiwaju Tinubu is a former Senator. He has a special affection for the Senate as an institution. It is not within him to belittle the institution or members of that institution who happen to be in the opposing political party.

    “Moreover, his brand of politics does not lend itself to engaging in wanton character and personal attacks. There is significant policy difference between our progressive school of thought and the often reactionary ideas of the PDP.  There are more than enough serious issues over which to grapple the PDP.  Asiwaju TInubu’s politics are driven by his policy views. He will gladly wrestle against the PDP on substantive political differences. But engage in personal attacks, rumor-mongering and mudslinging, never.  We leave that for others. The gutter is no place to build a better nation. We seek higher ground.

    “So that there is no confusion on the core issue here, we categorically deny any hand in any negative personal report on any senator.

    “In that the PDP leadership disavows such a meeting, we must question the source of ThisDay’s fictional account. More importantly, we can only conclude that the impetus for this liar’s account can only be a malign one.”

    In TInubu’s view, “the false story is motivated by venal political objectives that dare not come out of the shadows”.

    “Those behind the report know they cannot show themselves for what they truly are. Their tactics are underhanded because their objectives are equally so.  They lie because the awful objective they seek cannot be gained by telling the truth.

    “Some malefactors want to use the name of Asiwaju Tinubu to stir opposition in the Senate to the confirmation of Magu as EFCC chairman. By trying to paint Magu as Tinubu’s partner in mudslinging, the false story seeks to induce senators to oppose Magu as a way of thwarting Asiwaju Tinubu.

    “The authors of this screed thus revealed their moral barrenness.  The fight against corruption is a cardinal battle this nation must win or forever forego its greater destiny.  Despite the importance of this matter, someone is trying to exalt his narrow personal interests above the long-term interests of the nation. Someone so brazen and self-absorbed is a dangerous instrumentality when placed in a position of power.

    “That person will undermine the very institutions of democracy to get his way. In this very story, they have tried to break down both the Senate and the press in one swoop. Sadly, they seem to have already conquered at least one important press organisation. ThisDay apparently has shunned the ethics and ways of responsible journalism.  One can only hope that the newspaper received enough in return for selling its journalistic soul.”

    The statement dismissed the report as a “fable”

    It said: “The anatomy of the report is that of a fable that never should have been told.  The report centered on a meeting that never held. The reporter neither stated who attended the meeting nor alluded to any formal statement issued after the meeting.”

    The PDP caucus had earlier denied ever meeting to discuss Tinubu and the EFCC.

    The Southeast Caucus Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who has been named the spokesman of the party’s caucus said: “It is far from the truth. We did not at any time discuss Senator Tinubu at any meeting and nobody accused the EFCC of anything.”

    Besides, when the party’s caucus and its leaders met, there was no mention of either Tinubu or the EFCC.

  • Council renames road for Tinubu

    Council renames road for Tinubu

    All Progressives Congress (APC) National leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trade mark cap and glasses were unveiled on Friday in Ojokoro, Lagos, as part of activities to mark 65th birthday. Tinubu was 65 last Wednesday.
    Some party stalwarts and top government officials gathered at the Ojokoro Lacal Council Development Area (LCDA) for the unveiling of what was referred to as his symbol.
    The council also renamed the Agbado Station Road Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road.
    The symbol was unveiled by Tinubu’s daughter and the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Chief Folashade Tinubu-Ojo.
    The council’s Sole Administrator, Dr Waleeh Ipaye, said the gesture was part of its council’s way of celebrating “our great leader.”
    Ipaye said: “Ojokoro LCDA is one of the 37 LCDAs created by our dynamic leader when he was Lagos State Governor in 2003.
    “In celebrating a good leader, we are doing justice to the present and coming generation as this will go a long way in inspiring the upcoming generation. You will agree with me that our Governor Emeritus is not only good at the management of materials and resources but equally in managing men and women. The samples of these are quite visible in all corners of Lagos State and Nigeria at large.”
    Mrs Tinubu-Ojo hailed Ipaye for his strides in the council, saying “he (Ipaye) is doing great. Does any of our council chairmen have a choice not to perform? They don’t. All of them have to work hard to complement what the governor is doing.”
    She urged members of the National Assembly to enlist the 37 LCDAs in the Constitution.

  • Celebrating Tinubu at 65

    Celebrating Tinubu at 65

    Ojo Ibukun Foundation has celebrated All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 65, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    It was a gathering of the high and the mighty at PAYM Event Centre in Naforija, Epe, Lagos on Friday. They dignitaries had gathered to honour the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 65.

    The programme was organised by Ojo Ibukun Foundation in collaboration with Hassmowun Foundation. Tinubu was represented by a member of the Editorial Board of The Nation, Mr Kunle Abimbola.

    A cultural dance group Oyo Egiri youth ladies, thrilled guests with their scintillating dance steps.

    The APC women decked in green ankara with orange head gear; sang the praises of dignitaries as they arrived at the venue.

    The event, the second of its kind had as its theme “Indigent Pupils Adoption Programme”. It was designed to identify with very indigent pupils in public primary schools in Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) by providing them with school items not covered by the free education policy of the Lagos State Government. 300 pupils received items such as books, school bags, uniforms, scandals, socks and writing materials.

    Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule said the gesture was one to complement the free education initiative of the state government, adding that it was also a way to give back to the society.

    “The event demonstrates commitment to philanthropy and love for the less-privileged families. It also shows the volume of dedication and passion for child development.

    “The hearts of these 300 pupils that have been selected to benefit in this year’s programme are delighted. The hearts of their parents are filled with joy that their wards will have a good start in life in acquiring quality basic education.”

    Adebule, represented by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary in the State Ministry of Education District III, Mrs Magret Solarin, noted that there was a limit to what government could do, given the limited resources available to the government to meet various contending needs of the education sector, while also providing enabling environment that is expected to provide quality and effective education for children irrespective of their backgrounds and most especially those who are indigent.

    She urged well-meaning individuals, corporate entities and other philanthropic organisations to emulate the initiative and come up with similar or more innovative ways to complement the efforts of the administration in the education sector.

    “We can come together to identify ways of helping those families and children who are indigent in order to give them better and quality education,” she said.

    She noted that quality education remains the bedrock of any society, adding that it also remains the tool for the eradication of poverty, hunger and disease.

    “Our administration will continue to be focused on the provision of quality, functional and effective education for all our children. We will continue to implement laudable projects and strengthen the free education programme and policies that will enhance the full development of our children irrespective of class, gender or social background,” she said.

    Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs Omobolanle Ambode said the foundation has imparted the lives of the less-privileged and shown commitment to the welfare of the indigent at this challenging time.

    Represented by the State’s former Commissioner for Education, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye Mrs. Ambode commended the foundation for giving back to the society and contributing its quota to the service of humanity.

    “Some less-privileged children within this community who never thought of seeing the four walls of the elementary school have been presented with a life-time opportunity to better their lives through the programme of the foundation,” she said.

    She noted that the items given to the children will embolden their desire to go to school; they will be able to concentrate, learn in class and do well.”

    The convener, Ojo Ibukun Foundation and a former Secretary of Eredo Local Council Development Area, Hon Adeniyi Adekunle Shamsideen said the gesture was not aimed at just helping children that are financially disadvantaged, but also to secure the future of our own children.

    “You cannot bring up a child in isolation. Most of the children of the affluent are getting inducted into deadly cults by the children who never had a chance to live decently due to their challenging background.

    “With this programme, each pupil will receive this benefit till he or she leaves the primary school.

    “This edition was designed to honour Asiwaju, a leader, mentor and philanthropist per excellence for creating Eredo LCDA. His boldness in creating Eredo LCDA gave me the opportunity to serve my people and opened my eyes to their challenges, one of which triggered the initiation of the programme. Many have, through his name, activities and benevolence, become prominent people,” he said.

    He said the foundation was set up to create a platform for joint philanthropy where individuals come together to contribute towards a good cause.

    Chairman, House Committee on Heath, Epe State Constituency II, Hon Olusegun Olulade described Asiwaju as a mentor, a leader that has produced leaders and a hero to the entire black race.

    “Asiwaju is different things to different people. He is a man that transformed Lagos; he made all his successors. He is a philanthropist, an organiser; a strategist-he knows who is fit for every position. He is a man that you can trust his judgment any day any time.

    “He is a mentor to many, even those that have not met him; many people are following him and they believe in his vision. He is a man of no race, religion and tribe, but he is a man of the world. “To some, he is Jagaban, to others he is of the different chieftaincy titles that he had received. He has received so many awards.

    “When he was born, he was not known, but when he started making impact and touching lives, he became known. He believes in everybody’s vision, he is a dogged fighter; he is committed and he is a success. Anybody that comes in contact with him will go back joyfully, because he will have something to give to you- it may be money or strategy,” he said.

    Chief Host and founder of Hassmowum Foundation, Hon Wasiu Odeyemi, described Asiwaju as a man that many people desire to be like.

    “He has gone through many challenges, but he is still standing firm. He has been knocked down, but he stands and keeps fighting. He is a man that believes in others,” he said.

    He noted that the gesture of the convener is a spirit that propels development and leads to nation-building, saying that life is worth living for others.

    “The items donated would ensure that future of the children will be better tomorrow. The gesture is to address some of the challenges that we experience in the educational system, which will give birth to education, liberation, freedom and security.

    “It is time to see the children as our responsibility and make a better life for them by taking them out of any situation that brings them sorrow,” he said.

    Chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), represented by Mrs Abosede Omobolanle Adelaja described the gesture of the convener as one that brings great joy to both the pupils, teachers and parents, adding that it had also supported the present administration’s aim in the educational sector.

    According to her, education is a big project that government cannot carry out alone.

    “We need people to collaborate with us to take education to higher levels. Today’s gesture will encourage students to study hard and take education seriously,” she said.

    She urged parents not to leave the entire responsibility of education to teachers. “Teachers cannot do it alone. Parents must support their children, play their role as parents and take care of them.

    She urged them to ensure that the items donated to the pupils are properly used and well kept.

    She called for more partnership to support the education sector.

  • Group prays for Tinubu

    Group prays for Tinubu

    The leadership of a socio- political group, Asiwaju Frontliners, has prayed for the National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the occasion of his 65 years birthday.
    It prayed for the politician’s good health, God’s protection, long life and prosperity.
    The Director General/ National Coordinator of the organisation, Doyin Johnson, described Tinubu as a freedom fighter, a goal getter, a true democrat, a true progressive, a patriot and a national hero.
    He prayed that God should blessed him “with all the good things of life.”
    “We pray that God should give Asiwaju Tinubu wisdom, knowledge and understanding to enable him lead his people to the Promised Land.
    “The special gift Asiwaju Frontliners has for Tinubu that money can not buy is prayer. As we are all aware that prayer is the key that open all doors.”
    The special guest of honour at the event, Babatunde Bank-Anthony, said Asiwaju Tinubu is a legend.

  • PDP senators ’didn’t accuse Tinubu, EFCC of conspiracy’

    PDP senators ’didn’t accuse Tinubu, EFCC of conspiracy’

    The Senate Caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday denied reports that it accused All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of colluding with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to harass its members in the upper chamber.

    A national daily, ThisDay, yesterday published as its lead story: “PDP Caucus Accuses Tinubu, EFCC of Conspiracy to Destroy Senate”. In the story, the newspaper claimed that the Senate Caucus of the opposition party alleged at a meeting convened by its leadership at the weekend that Tinubu was conniving with the EFCC to harass senators.

    But it was learnt last night that the Senate Caucus had not met in the last three weeks.

    Besides, a source said the caucus never discussed Tinubu at any of its previous meetings, the last of which was held to receive the report of the Governor Seriake Dickson-led PDP Reconciliation Committee.

    The source listed Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, Senate Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Minority Leader Leo Ogor and others as some of the PDP leaders in the National Assembly that attended the Caucus’ last meeting.

    It blamed the newspaper report as the handiwork of mischief makers, adding that the PDP should not be identified with it.

    Also yesterday, the caucus washed its hands of the report through its South East Caucus Leader in the Senate, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who said that the caucus did not at any time discuss Tinubu at any meeting.

    Abaribe said: “It is far from the truth. We did not at any time discuss Senator Tinubu (Bola) at our meeting and nobody accused the EFCC of anything.”

    The Abia South senator noted that the PDP Senate Caucus would not descend to the level of attacking individuals or institutions for the sake of vendetta.

    The report linking the PDP Senate caucus, he said, should be disregarded.

    The EFCC is probing a former Heritage Bank Executive Director, Mr. Robert Mbonu, three aides of Senate President Bukola Saraki and three others on how N3.5 billion believed to be part of the Paris Club loan refund was wired into some accounts.

    The cash is said to be part of the N19 billion allegedly diverted from the N522.74 billion initial refund to states.

    Others believed to be on the EFCC radar are: Melrose General Services Limited, the Relationship Manager to the Senate President, Kathleen Erhimu, Obiora Amobi, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Gbenga Peter Makanjuola, Mr. Kolawole Shittu and Oladapo Joseph Idowu.

    The probe, a source said last night, may have sparked anxiety in the Senate President’s camp – a development which the ThisDay report “is battling to divert attention from”.

  • Ambode’s birthday gifts to Tinubu

    Ambode’s birthday gifts to Tinubu

    •Hard times ahead for criminals in Lagos

    Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, aside hosting a state dinner to mark Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s 65th birthday, also honoured the former governor with brand new roads and bridge. Two days before, he also rebranded a project dear to Tinubu’s heart, the Neigbourhood Watch, writes WALE AJETUNMOBI

    Aboru and Abesan communities in Alimosho, popular as Tinubu’s Country, in Lagos came alive five days ago.  A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was there to inaugurate Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s projects to mark his 65th birthday.

    People trouped out in thousands to receive Tinubu and other eminent Nigerians, including Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Deputy Governor Idiat Adebule; former Deputy Governor Femi Pedro; Senator representing Lagos West, Solomon n Adeola; Senator Ibrahim Kazaure from Jigawa State; Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa; and members of the Lagos State Executive Council.

    Ambode described the event as a historic day in the life of the people of Alimosho and the state. He recalled his visit to the Aboru  in March 2016, saying that aside the state of the road, which was totally unacceptable, there were reports of series of deaths and fatal accidents caused by the presence of a valley, adding that he immediately directed that work should commence in the area.

    He said: “Exactly one year after, we are here to keep our promise to the good people of Aboru, Abesan and other communities and reaffirm our commitment that no community or area will be left behind. Every Lagosian counts. We are a government of inclusion.”

    He said the 480 metres bridge linking Aboru to Abesan, both in the Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council of Alimosho Local Government Area would significantly ease the burden of travel between the two communities by reducing travel time.

    The governor said aside the bridge, additional adjoining inner roads to create an efficient road network that will aid connectivity permanently were also constructed.

    Ambode listed the roads to include Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem, all totalling 5.5km with drainage, walkways and street lights, adding that the road network would ease the pressure on the Abeokuta Expressway and links residents with Iyana Ipaja, LASU-Iba Expressway.

    Night life is gradually returning to the area as the road and the Link Bridge have been connected to the ‘Light Up Lagos’ Project, an initiative of  the Ambode’s administration.

    The governor also flagged off the turning of sod for the construction of a network of roads within the boundaries of Lagos and Ogun States, saying that it was in honour of Tinubu, whom he described as the brain behind the 21st century Lagos.

    He expressed optimism that the roads which have been identified for immediate construction and rehabilitation would complete the new face of Alimosho constituency, saying that work would commence in one week.

    He listed the roads to include Ikola Road with Odo Obasanjo Bridge – 6.4km (from Ipaja/Command to Ilo River); Ogunseye Road – 1.75km (from Ajasa/Command to Ikola Road);Oko Filling Road – 1.5km (from AIT to Ilo River); Osenatu Ilo road – 620m (from Ibari Road to Ilo River); Amikanle road – 3.1km (from AIT to Ogunseye Road); Aina Aladi road – 1.9km (from AIT to Ilo River) and Aiyetoro Road with a bridge– 1.4km (from New Market/Ishefun Road intersection to Ilo River).

    He appealed to the residents of the communities to cooperate with the contractors so as to enable them deliver the network of roads not later than the scheduled completion date.

    Mosan Okunola Community Development Association (CDA) Chairman Pastor Gbenga Adanri used the opportunity of the occasion to debunk insinuation that the people of the area were not happy with the government and even protested, saying there was nothing of such.

    “I like to debunk the untrue impression that we are not happy with Governor Ambode. There is no truth in it. I don’t know where that is coming from and I must say here that we the people are very happy with him. We are happy because our roads have been put in proper shape and we now have a bridge to travel seamlessly within Aboru and Abesan.

    “Before now, if your wife is pregnant and wants to deliver, to cross to the other side was always a big issue and we always indulged in prayer that nothing untoward should happen but today, we can move freely,” Adanri said.

    Tinubu poured accolades on Ambode over his sterling performance in the last 22 months, saying that the Governor has made him proud. He said the achievements of Ambode were a reflection of a Governor who is not only a thinker but a doer, and expressed satisfaction that he was delivering on the promises to the people.

    Tinubu also inaugurated a primary healthcare centre named after him and donated to Aboru Community by the contractor who handled the projects.

    The former governor said: “Akinwunmi Ambode has reflected that he is clearly a thinker and doer. I want to say thank you because experience is a great teacher and I am experienced. I am on the spot and I have watched things in Lagos since my tenure ended.

    “I was worried hell when you (Ambode) took over, not about your credibility, character or capacity, but because however wise or smart a man is, if there is no resources to back the ideas, production would be zero, progress would be zero.

    “When you (Ambode) took over, I know you inherited a burden of debt. The debt profile of Lagos was high, I was wondering how you will re-engineer and face the challenges to make progress.

    “Today, I can see your report card, you have scored well, and you have shown prudency especially in the judicious use of resources of the State.

    “You didn’t disappoint us. Ambode is silently achieving, meticulously planning, religiously executing and brilliantly giving results for Lagos State,” the former Lagos governor said.

    Tinubu said all over Lagos, the results of good governance was being felt by the people, and wished Ambode sound health and wisdom to continue to lead the State.

    “All over Lagos, we are seeing the results. At Oshodi, on our way down here, you can see what is happening there, that place is a construction site. It used to be a den of robbers but what is going on here now is developmental activities for the benefit of the entire country. Ambode is very quiet, very peaceful, not a noise maker, but he is delivering on the job.

    “Today, you (Ambode) have given me a good birthday present. This is a great opportunity for me to be very proud again. Therefore, if we can continue in this direction of infrastructural development in the manner Governor Ambode is moving, Lagos will soon match international states or country anywhere in the world.”

    Nathaniel Ajayi, a resident of Abesan community, described succinctly Ambode’s interventions when he said: “I was born in 1993 here in Abesan, I had always dreamt that one day the kind of development I see in Victoria Island, Lekki and Ikeja will take place here. Today our governor has made my dream come true.”

    Aregbesola and Senator representing Lagos West at the Senate, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola said it was obvious that Ambode started well and is doing well, and solicited the cooperation of the people to engender further dividends of democracy and good governance.

    Two days earlier, Ambode launched the rebranded Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps. It is meant to ensure security of lives and property communities.  At the launch of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps held at Agege Stadium, 177 cars and vehicles equipped with communication gadgets, 377 motorcycles, 377 helmets, 4,000 bicycles and metal detectors were released to the Corp to ensure that illegal weapons are not smuggled into public places.

    Ambode said the move was another giant step towards enhancing security and a vital part of the ongoing efforts of his administration to reform the security and justice sector.

    The governor, who on August 15, 2016 assented to the law that created the Neighbourhood Safety Corps, said the Corps had been designed to provide a second layer of policing in order to ensure that the State and communities are more secure.

    He acknowledged the fact that the Nigerian Police had been very supportive to the State Government especially in fighting crime, but that the need for the Neighbourhood Corps arose from the identified security challenges confronting the State due to huge population, adding that the members of the Corps would complement police especially in areas of community policing.

    “Let me, however, make it abundantly clear that the Neighbourhood Safety Corps is not in any way in competition with the regular Police Force.

    “In actual fact, they are expected to assist and complement the Police by providing useful intelligence for crime prevention and to facilitate the arrest of perpetrators of criminal activities in our communities,” governor Ambode said.

    He added that in realization of the fact that nothing can be more important in law enforcement than educating the people in charge of enforcing the law, the rebranded Neighbourhood Corps have been trained and equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to complement the good work of the Nigerian Police.

    He said in addition to the induction on orthodox community policing techniques, the Corps were also trained on how to mediate disputes and the art of negotiating for peaceful resolution; balancing communal interest in resolving disputes and proactive policing engagement instead of reactive policing.

    “Special hotlines have also been created direct to the Executive Secretary and senior management of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency for easy communication with our communities in the event of any crime.

    “Any valuable information given to the Corps will attract handsome rewards from the state government. I therefore call on all Lagosians to join hands with us to say a final no to crime in our state.

    “All these equipment have been made possible through the judicious use of tax payers’ money and funds from the State Lottery Fund for good causes. Please continue to pay your taxes for a better Lagos.

    “I am very happy to state that through this Safety Corps initiative the State Government has created over 7,000 jobs for officers of the Corps, artisans and other support staff. Job creation is at the heart of economic prosperity and we remain fully committed to a more prosperous Lagos for our citizens,” the governor said.

    Ambode urged the Corps not to indulge in brutalizing citizens, but that they should exercise lot of restraint, patience, understanding and maturity while carrying out their duties.

    He added that to further strengthen security, a new executive bill to regulate employment of domestic workers and security guards would soon be forwarded to the State House of Assembly, explaining that the bill, among others, will prescribe regulations for the set of workers and other details to monitor their activities.

    Ambode said there was no longer any room for child abuse or under aged workers, adding that it had been discovered that domestic workers were largely undocumented and pose a grave security threat in the State.

    He also said the recruiting agencies, under the bill, would be licensed and regulated to ensure safety.

    Ambode also handed over four vans fitted with Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTVs) to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the State Police Command.

    The Corp’s rebranding and the roads and bridge inaugurated mean economic activities would witness a boom in the coming months, while motorists would have better stories to tell – with criminals singing dirge.

  • Group prays for Tinubu

    Group prays for Tinubu

    The leadership of a socio- political group, Asiwaju Frontliners, has prayed for the National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the occasion of his 65 years birthday.

    It prayed for the politician’s good health, God’s protection, long life and prosperity.

    The Director General/ National Coordinator of the organisation, Doyin Johnson, described Tinubu as a freedom fighter, a goal getter, a true democrat, a true progressive, a patriot and a national hero.

    He prayed that God should blessed him “with all the good things of life.”

    “We pray that God should give Asiwaju Tinubu wisdom, knowledge and understanding to enable him lead his people to the Promised Land.

    “The special gift Asiwaju Frontliners has for Tinubu that money can not buy is prayer. As we are all aware that prayer is the key that open all doors.”

    The special guest of honour at the event, Babatunde Bank-Anthony, said Asiwaju Tinubu is a legend.

  • Tinubu: Southwest behind Buhari

    Tinubu: Southwest behind Buhari

    •’Lagos is No 1 state’

    All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has assured President Muhammadu Buhari of Yoruba support, saying Southwest support for the President and APC government remains unshaken.

    Tinubu called on Nigerians to stay focused and support the President as he continues rebuilding the nation.

    Speaking at the weekend at the Southwest zonal meeting of National Committee of Buhari Support Groups (NCBSG) in Lagos, the national leader who was represented by the National Vice Chairman (Southwest), Chief Pius Akinyelure, said the Buhari administration would turn around the economy.

    “Southwest support for Buhari is unshaken, despite the various challenges in the country, which we believe the present government is addressing. There is no doubt that there is no party in Nigeria that can surpass APC’s achievement in office.

    “We are doing the best we can with the little resources we have to move the nation forward. We need support to turn things around in the country,” he said.

    Speaking further, the APC national leader said Lagos is No.1 performing state in the country.

    He spoke on the collaboration between Lagos and Kebbi to boost rice production in the country.

    In his response, President Buhari, who was represented by Senator Ajayi Boroffice, urged Nigerians to be positive, adding that the change message must be carried to all  nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

    Appreciating various groups and individuals working for his success, the President said he was optimistic Nigerians would laugh and celebrate at last.

    At the meeting, zonal and state coordinators of NCBSG were presented with appointment letters.

    The National Secretary, Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye, said the mission of NCBSG is to galvanise the public towards identifying with the Buhari administration.

    Senator Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi said he was in support of the Buhari administration, adding that the administration has done much to address some of the problems facing the country.