Friday, October 31, 2014

PHOTONEWS; AMBODE...DESTINY BECKONS.

FASHOLA DISSOLVES COUNCILS, CMs TAKE OVER

The Chairmen of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) chairmen in the state have vacated their offices and handed over to their respective Council Managers, Daily Independent reliably gathered on Tuesday.
This development is coming on the heels of a directive from the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, ordering all the 57 council chairmen to vacate their offices following the expiration of their mandatory three-year tenure.
Fashola had in a statement issued on Monday night directed the council chairmen to vacate their offices following the expiration of their three-year statutory tenure on Tuesday October 28, 2014.
According to the statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Aderemi Ibirogba, the three-year statutory tenure of all LG Chairmen and Councilors in Lagos State has expired, adding that they had to vacate their offices yesterday (Tuesday).

The statement read in part: “Consequently, all affected officials, including Supervisors, Council Secretaries and other political appointees are legally required to vacate their offices by close of business on the same day.
“Chairmen are hereby directed to co-ordinate the exercise and hand over to the Council Managers in their respective Local Governments who will take charge of the administration until further notice.
“It is expected that newly elected officials will resume office after the next local government elections to be scheduled and conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission upon completion of the continuous voter registration, ward re-delineation and polling booth re-distribution exercise embarked upon by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).”
In compliance with the directive, council chairmen in the state have started vacating their offices.
But reports have it that some chairmen who have only served a single term of three years, are lobbing to be remain in office to enhance their chances at the next local government election to be conducted by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) at a yet to be determined date."

JONATHAN, SANUSI FINALLY RECONCILE


After nearly a year of bitter relations, President Goodluck Jonathan and the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, met Thursday in Abuja and reconciled differences that once drove both men to the extremes of their offices.
After nearly a year of bitter relations, President Goodluck Jonathan and the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, met Thursday in Abuja and reconciled differences that once drove both men to the extremes of their offices. Pres. Goodluck Jonathan And Emir Sanusi in A handshake State House Photo
Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, was fired by the president in February after accusing the government of diverting $20 billion oil revenues.
The government denied the claim, and in turn, accused Mr. Sanusi of “financial recklessness”.
After leaving office, Mr. Sanusi was appointed the Emir of Kano in June, assuming one of the most powerful traditional stools in Nigeria.
His appointment by Kano State’s Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, a member opposition All Progressives Congress, was opposed by the presidency which ordered the emir’s office blockaded for days.
The emir reportedly initiated peace moves, and the two men met for the first time in July during the breaking of the Muslim fast, a yearly routine in which the president meets top government officials who are Muslims and other prominent Islamic leaders in the country.
Our sources say Thursday’s meeting was essentially for reconciliation between the two sides.
The emir was accompanied to the meeting by all senior members of the Kano Emirate council, while Vice President Namadi Sambo, the National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, Attorney General, Mohammed Adoke, and the Foreign Affairs Minister, Aminu Wali also attended the meeting.
Group photograph of Presidnt Jonathan, VP Sambo , Emir Sanusi and members of the Kano Emirate Council in Abuja today State House Photo
Officials at the meeting say the president urged peace, and announced that he had nothing against the emir and that he had forgotten everything that happened.
In return, Mr. Sanusi also preached peace saying he too had let go of the past.
The president and the emir later met privately for about 15 minutes, according to our sources.
Mr. Sanusi and his entourage left for Kano shortly after, and were on their way to the Abuja airport at the time of this report. Emir Mohammed Sanusi ii arriving the Aso Rock Villa for a reconciliation meeting with Pres. goodluck Jonathan State House

'THE IG LIED' - SPEAKER

Tambuwal blasts IGP, says police boss breached the law
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal Thursday told the acting Inspector General of Police, Sulaiman Abba that he breached the law by ordering that his security details be withdrawn from his residence.
In a statement issued and signed by his media aide, Malam Imam Imam Tambuwal said he received with shock and amazement the statement issued by the Nigerian Police Force Headquarters justifying the withdrawal of Police Security Personnel attached to the Hon Speaker, by the Acting Inspector General of Police.
In the said statement, the Force has stated to the effect that by his defection from the PDP to the APC, the Hon Speaker is in breach of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution and is consequently no longer entitled to police security. Nothing can be further from the truth.
The implication of the Inspector General of Police’s statement is that as sanction for this alleged constitutional breach, he has removed Rt Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal from office of Speaker House of Representatives.
For the avoidance of doubt the question of whether or not there is a division or faction in the PDP has been resolved by Lord Justice Faji of the Ilorin Division of Federal High Court in suit FHC/ABJ/CS/605/2013 in which the court held that indeed there were factions in the PDP.
Again in suit no FHC/ABJ/CS/ 605/2013, the Sokoto Division of the Federal High Court per Justice Aikawa, the judgment of the court was that there was not only Division but faction in the PDP which later merged with the APC.
As the number four citizen in the hierarchy of protocol in the country, the Speaker is entitled to security protection by the security agencies, therefore we see the action of the Acting Inspector General of Police as not only contempt of the courts but a ploy to bring harm to the person of Rt Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.
We are on authority that nothing in the 1999 Constitution nor the Police Act confers on the police force adjudicatory powers including the interpretation of the constitution.
In any case even Section 215 of the 1999 Constitution does not contemplate the issuing of or compliance with unlawful orders by the President and or the the Inspector General of Police respectively.
What the Acting Inspectorr General of Police has done therefore has no basis in law including the 1999 Constitution which he has cited. It is a brazen act of crass impunity, gross Constitutional breach and contempt of court, The Inspector General should desist from assuming or usurping the constitutional functions of the Judiciary.
For the avoidance of doubt the Speaker of the House is elected by members from among themselves under Section 50(1) (b) of the constitution and vacates office under Section 50 (2) (a) (b) &(c), in the case of (c) by two-thirds majority of members of the House.
The Section 68(1)(g) of the Constitution which refers to a member vacating his seat on grounds of defection, which the Inspector General of Police refers to,has a proviso which has been and still is a matter for judicial and not police interpretation.

' I WITHDREW THE SPEAKER'S SECURITY DETAIL BECAUSE - IGP

IGP-Suleiman-AbbaThe Acting Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba, has defended his withdrawal of police personnel attached to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal.
Abba, in a terse statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ojukwu, said Tambuwal’s security aides were withdrawn since he had defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.
While he did not expatiate on his interpretation of the constitutional provision he quoted, Abba said Section 68(1) of the 1999 Constitution was specific about defection by elected representatives.
The one-paragraph statement read: “In view of the recent defection by the Right Honourable Aminu Waziri Tanbuwal, CFR, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, from the People Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC), and having regard to the clear provision of section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has redeployed its personnel attached to his office.”
Tambuwal had on Tuesday announced his defection from the PDP to the APC.
He was formally admitted into the APC on Wednesday.
As at press time, the leadership of the other security operatives withdrawn from Tambuwal were yet to react officially.

JIMOH SHUTS DOWN DAILY NEWSWATCH

The  Publisher of Daily Newswatch, Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim, has shut the newspaper and opted for a new one independent of the old title.
This was sequel to the court ruling that gave victory to the company’s minority shareholders and ordered the stoppage of publication of Daily Newswatch.
In the bid to comply with the court ruling, the Ondo State-born politician opted to register and publish the newspaper under a new name.
Consequently, the Daily Newswatch has ceased to exist, while the staff of the company have been transferred to the new publication outfit, Newswatch Times.
As against the defunct Daily Newswatch, which was a 96-page newspaper, the Newswatch Times is a 72 page all-colour newspaper.
It has already hit the newsstand.

TINUBU RETURNS, READY FOR MORE


National Leader of the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Thursday morning returned to the country via Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja after a short trip to London.
The trip was rumored in many quarters to be in connection with the former Lagos State governor’s alleged failing health.
His party, APC has always denied that Tinubu is sick, but some pictures posted by Sunday Dare, Tinubu’s media aide, on his Facebook page suggest that the Jagaban Borgu is daily becoming very frail unlike his normal bubbly self.
Tinubu was received at the airport by former Lagos State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Professor Yemi Osibajo, and a few other loyalists.

JONATHAN AND PDP NOMINATION

- PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan Wednessday stormed the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to collect his expression of interest and nominations to enable him contest the February, 2015 Presidential election.
President Jonathan who promised to work with all Nigerians to move the country from its present level to where Nigeria should be, however boasted that he would have still picked the form if the party had refused him right of first refusal and did not give him the forms.
Speaking at the party’s National Executive Committee, NEC hall shortly after he received the two forms from the National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha, the elated President said, “First let me thank God for today, and thank Nigerians that were here today for this brief ceremony. Let me thank the leadership of our party and all member of our party for believing in me and for giving me the right of first refusal.
“I could have still picked the form if they did not give me. But giving the me the right of first refusal has attracted more people that ordinarily it would have had.

"ELECTION NOT DO OR DIE" - KWANKWANSO

Kwankwaso Picks Nomination Form, Says Election Not A Do-Or-Die Affair
Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano State on Thursday in Abuja picked the N27.5 million nomination and expression of interest forms of the All Progressives Congress, APC, to contest for the presidency in 2015 general elections.
He promised to regard his co-aspirants as a family and strive to play by the rules, to ensure a rancour-free primary.
”It is not a do-or-die affair. I assure you we will play the game according to the rules. Our participation is to add value to the party,” he told the party’s chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun.
The governor said many of his friends were still willing to defect to the APC.
”I assure you sir, that many more decampees are on the way after Tambuwal because they desire change and this party has all it takes to give Nigerians desired change,” Mr. Kwankwaso said.
He commended the National Working Committee of the APC for ”its determination to bring change and forming a formidable group for the success of the party”.
”I also want to thank those who contributed to purchase these forms. I have the capacity to buy the forms but they secretly paid and assured me there is enough money for the campaigns.”
Responding, the APC Chairman, Mr. Odigie-Oyegun, expressed happiness that more people planned to defect to the party.
”Part of the amendment to our electoral constitution makes it possible for any eligible son to join the party today and contest tomorrow; so tell them they’re welcome, we have more forms for them.
”I am also glad to hear you’re ready to play politics without rancour; your words show your love for the country and personal commitment,” Mr. Odigie-Oyegun said.
The chairman further expressed delight that APC ”is the number one newsmaker today”, adding that the party was popular both locally and internationally.
He prayed to God to give Nigeria a man ”that will give us tangible change we can see or touch”.
Mr. Kwankwaso had, on Tuesday at a rally in Abuja, declared his intention to contest the presidential election. (NAN)

Sunday, October 26, 2014

PIRATES KILLS FOUR, ABDUCTED SIX, IN BAYELSA

Pirates kill four policemen, abduct six in Bayelsa
Bayelsa State was on Saturday thrown into a state of confusion as gunmen said to be sea pirates allegedly killed four policemen and abducted six persons.
The killing of the policemen and the abduction of the six persons were said to have been carried out in two separate operations in the state.
While the killing of the policemen took place along the Santa Barbara waterways, the six were abducted along the Nembe waterways in Nembe Local Government Area of the state.
The gunmen also seized a gunboat belonging to the Nigeria Police in an incident that occurred about 1:30pm on Friday.
It was learnt the gunboat was escorting a barge owned by the Nigerian Agip Oil Company when the pirates attacked it.
It was further learnt that the pirates, who operated on a speedboat, laid ambush for the gunboat and opened fire on the policemen.
They were said to have killed the policemen, who were taken unawares. They subsequently took away the gunboat and their arms.
The incident was also said to have delayed the movement of prominent personalities travelling to Okpoama, Brass Local Government Area for the funeral of an uncle to former Bayelsa Governor Timipre Sylva.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Alex Akhigbe, said he was in Abuja for a programme.
Also, in response to an enquiry, the state Commissioner of Police, Valentine Ntomchukwu, sent a word that he is in a meeting.

COLLAPSED BUILDING: TB JOSUHA TO PAY N.75M COMPENSATION

Synag
In a bid to heal the wounded hearts, founder of Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prophet TB Joshua would be compensating victims’ families of the recent collapsed building in his church with a sum of N750,000.
According to the church’s spokesman, Kirsten Nematandani the church had traveled to all provinces in the past few weeks to visit, counsel and assess families’ financial needs and assist where possible.
He said in a statement, “We have done a full audit of each family’s financial needs and assisted with various household expenses as many of the deceased were breadwinners. Household expenses varied from rent money to school fees and groceries.
“The church has pleaded with the Nigerian government to expedite the repatriation process in order for families to bury the deceased with dignity”.

FAYOSE WEEPS, BEGS TEACHERS

The Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, wept profusely at the weekend as he prostrated for the teachers for not abandoning him since he was impeached in 2006 during his first time as the state’s Chief Executive.
While meeting with the principals of secondary schools at Adetiloye Hall in Ado Ekiti, Fayose applauded the teachers for their unwavering loyalty to him, describing their support as the magic that brought him back to government the second time after his inglorious exit.
In his admiration for the teachers, the governor prostrated and rolled on the floor for them, while he also wept, apparently overwhelmed by the kind of love the teachers had displayed towards him.
Fayose, who spoke about how his government was able to raise Ekiti to sixth and seventh positions in 2005 and 2006 through yhe cooperation of the teachers, promised to “re-enact the feat in my second coming, to rescue the education sector from collapse.
“I want to assure that your two months’ salaries and other benefits owed by the administration of immediate past governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, will be paid soon, while I promise that other benefits that would motivate you to deliver maximally to uplift the education sector will be provided”, he said.
However, a group under the auspices of Ekiti Movement for Good Governance has accused the APC lawmakers of still desirous of impeaching the Governor despite pleas by prominent Ekiti people, including traditional rulers and religious leaders, pleading with the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to leave Fayose alone.
The group alleged that the lawmakers with some of the party leaders again met in a hotel in Akure yesterday on how to frustrate the new government through the House of Assembly.
In a statement issued by its Secretary, Dr. AbiodunAina on Saturday, the group said Ekiti people would resist any attempt to prevent Fayose from governing the State for the four-years tenure that he was elected to govern.
Aina, who said the owner of the hotel where the clandestine meeting was held Friday night confirmed that the APC lawmakers slept in the hotel and left early yesterday, added that the lawmakers ran to Akure to hold the meeting because they knew that they were working against Ekiti people.
But Wole Olujobi, Special Adviser on Media to the Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Adewale Omirin, who berated the group for resorting to blackmail, said the Assembly never contemplated impeachment, saying it was just a figment of the group’s imagination.
Olujobi, who branded the group as faceless and stoking the fire of disunity in the State, said such step won’t help the governor and the PDP-led governmentThe Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, wept profusely at the weekend as he prostrated for the teachers for not abandoning him since he was impeached in 2006 during his first time as the state’s Chief Executive.
While meeting with the principals of secondary schools at Adetiloye Hall in Ado Ekiti, Fayose applauded the teachers for their unwavering loyalty to him, describing their support as the magic that brought him back to government the second time after his inglorious exit.
In his admiration for the teachers, the governor prostrated and rolled on the floor for them, while he also wept, apparently overwhelmed by the kind of love the teachers had displayed towards him.
Fayose, who spoke about how his government was able to raise Ekiti to sixth and seventh positions in 2005 and 2006 through yhe cooperation of the teachers, promised to “re-enact the feat in my second coming, to rescue the education sector from collapse.
“I want to assure that your two months’ salaries and other benefits owed by the administration of immediate past governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, will be paid soon, while I promise that other benefits that would motivate you to deliver maximally to uplift the education sector will be provided”, he said.
However, a group under the auspices of Ekiti Movement for Good Governance has accused the APC lawmakers of still desirous of impeaching the Governor despite pleas by prominent Ekiti people, including traditional rulers and religious leaders, pleading with the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to leave Fayose alone.
The group alleged that the lawmakers with some of the party leaders again met in a hotel in Akure yesterday on how to frustrate the new government through the House of Assembly.
In a statement issued by its Secretary, Dr. AbiodunAina on Saturday, the group said Ekiti people would resist any attempt to prevent Fayose from governing the State for the four-years tenure that he was elected to govern.
Aina, who said the owner of the hotel where the clandestine meeting was held Friday night confirmed that the APC lawmakers slept in the hotel and left early yesterday, added that the lawmakers ran to Akure to hold the meeting because they knew that they were working against Ekiti people.
But Wole Olujobi, Special Adviser on Media to the Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Adewale Omirin, who berated the group for resorting to blackmail, said the Assembly never contemplated impeachment, saying it was just a figment of the group’s imagination.
Olujobi, who branded the group as faceless and stoking the fire of disunity in the State, said such step won’t help the governor and the PDP-led government

"JONATHAN WILL LOSE IN 2015 BECAUSE..." - JUNAID MUHAMED


Convener of the Coalition of Northern Politicians, Academics, Professionals and Businessmen, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, who was a Kano State delegate to the recent National Conference, has explained his earlier submission that President Jonathan cannot win in 2015 if the presidential poll is credible, alleging that it is because he never won any election in the past. This is as he also accused the present administration of being irredeemably corrupt and incompetent.
Dr. Mohammed, who is widely believed to be a northern irredentist, made his position known in an interview with PUNCH, where he said, “if he is to be voted for without recourse to ethnicity and religious bias and people are to vote for him on the basis of performance, there is no reason why any part of this country should vote for him- apart from the mercenary Igbo and of course, the Ijaw who are opportunistic, they are the only people who will have occasion to vote for Jonathan. When I say Ijaw, I choose my words carefully because most of the people who got appointments in this government are Ijaw, not Kalabari, their cousins, not the people of Akwa Ibom whether they are Anang or Ibibio,”
He noted that the election which brought President Jonathan to power as number two to Umaru Yar’Adua was not a credible election, just as “the election he was alleged to have won in 2011 was not credible and I don’t believe he could win any election if anybody is to vote rationally.” He explained what he meant by ‘rationally’ to be that if people are to vote for a man on the basis of his performance which must tally with what he promised to do, there is no way Jonathan will win in 2015.
Dr Mohammed, who noted that he employed Jonathan as Assistant Director in OMPADEC when he was a Federal Commissioner in Port Harcourt, averred that the President has never denied me, neither has he ever denied circumstances surrounding how he got in OMPADEC. He explained his description of Jonathan as a bad president because he believes that every Nigerian has a right to be given a sense of belonging. “I believe one of the good aspects of a government is how inclusive it is so that every Nigerian should have a sense of belonging,” he said.
He further accused the Jonathan’s government of being “involved with Boko Haram directly and indirectly with some of the terrorists in the Niger Delta.
“Anybody who believes that there is a direct connection knows that this Boko Haram insurgency is not coming out of the blues; it is being financed indirectly or directly by the government.”
He warned that if government plans to encourage people to unleash violence prior to the election with the aim of abandoning them afterwards, such people will take up arms and unleash terror on the government.
Daily Post.

Saturday, October 25, 2014

" MY PLANS FOR LAGOS" - AMBODE

rMy Agenda For Lagos, By Ambode

Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, yesterday unfolded his agenda, saying that he would build on the foundation laid by Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, and his predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

He promised to preside over a government of continuity, which will promote accountability, quality leadership, good governance and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, if elected as the next governor.

Ambode said: “Lagos is my state and you are my people. I shall work to serve you. I shall never do less. Here and now, I dedicate myself to this task. I shall not flinch nor lose focus.”

The former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance declared his intention to run for the number one seat at a carnival-like rally at the Onikan Stadium, Onikan, Lagos.

“It was witnessed by notable traditional rulers from the five divisions of Lagos State, Muslim and Christian clerics, friends and associates, and party supporters from 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

At the rally were party chieftains, including Pa Abiodun Sunmola; Pa Alabi Macfoy;  the Chairman of ‘Conference 57, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon Pris; House of Representatives members-Alhaji Yakubu Balogun, Dr. Sanuel Adejare, Hon. Toyin Suarau, Hon. Morouf Akinderu-Fatai, and Hon. James Faleke; former Agriculture Commissioner Asipa Kaoli Olusanya; Hon. Paul Kalejaye; former members of House of Assembly Hon. Obafemi Durosimi and Babatunde Ogala; Hon. Bolaji Ariyoh; Chief adeola Oyedele; Primate Dare Akindele and Mr. Rotimi Martins.

Others include Mrs. Teju Phillips; Hon. Segun Adetola; Dr. Fola Fosudo, and a retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Onanuga.

The representatives of the Muslim Community was led by Imam Olubodun Gbajabiamila, who stood for the Chief Imam of Lagos, Imam Garuba Akinola. Other dignitaries include the three wives the Eleko of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu-Olori Fadeke, Olori Titilola and Olori Olanike.

Wide endorsement

Gbajabiamila, who rendered the opening prayer, reflected on the challenges of governance, saying that Ambode is competent to succeed Fashola. He said: “Ambode has been assessed by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu; the Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Akinola Garuba and the political leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. We pray that he will excel in the office.”

No fewer than 60 traditional rulers and chiefs were at the venue. They included Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja of Noforija Epe; the Alagege of Orile-Agege, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi; the Onitire of Itire, Oba Lateef Dauda; the Onitedo of Itedo, Oba tajudeen Elemoro;  the Olu of Ojokoro, Oba Oluwalambe Taiwo; Oba Ayinde Balogun of Isheri;  the Onibeju of Ibeju, Oba Rafiu Saliu; the Olorogun Ado of Lagos, Chief Waheed Yesufu; Chief Lateef Ajose; Chief Muideen Shobalu; Chief Tunde Temionu, and former Chairman of Kosofe Council, Hon. Tunde Braimoh, who was the master of ceremonies.

From sunrise, the stadium was aglow with festivities, with ace musicians, Wasiu Pasuma and Olamide, and popular comedians, Mr. Babatunde Omidina (Baba Suwe), Mr. Lamidi Opebe and Mr. Ojo Arowosafe (Fadeyi Oloro), thrilling the crowd.

“Banners of different shapes welcomed the party faithful to the venue. Itinerant drummers ushered in party leaders and other eminent persons to the high table.  The event, which lasted for five hours, was peaceful.

Enter the host

Around 10.40 am, the aspirant stormed the stadium with a large crowd that followed him from his residence. Decked in a white agbada with a blue cap to match, he waved the broom to the jubilating crowd, dancing and singing.

He was led to the podium by Pa Summola and presented to the people by Hon. Oris, who reiterated the support of the 57 council chairmen for his ambition.

Oris said: “Tinubu started the journey to modernity in Lagos. He was succeeded by Fashola, the actualiser. Today, we present Akinwumi Ambode. Lagos requires a financial wizard to continue from where Fashola will stop next year. He will do better.”

Excited at the huge crowd of supporters, Ambode exuded confidence, saying that it attested to his popularity and acceptance by Lagosians, following his state-wide consultations.

He said: “In recognition of this support, I, Akinwumi Ambode, in your presence and in the presence of God, formally put myself forward to run for the position of the governor of Lagos State.  I make this declaration with the highest sense of responsibility. I am putting nyself forward because I belive I have the qualities required to continue the giant strides which our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has achieved in Lagos in recent years.

 In his speech titled Continuing the Progress, Securing the Future, the Epe born politician said having witnessed 15 years of growth and development under Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola, Lagos State deserved a governor that would build on their achievements.

He said: “I stand before you today in the spirit of the continuity of excellence that Lagos is known for. My vision and mission is to create a clean, secure and prosperous Lagos State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice.

“I am resolved to offer you genuine leadership that will be accountable with all the principles of good governance, a government of inclusion that will not leave any race or gender behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe of any other status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos liveable for you.”

Ambode promised to implement the APC blueprint on wealth and job creation, in consonance with its agenda for change and prosperity for Nigerians.  He said stakeholders, including the aged, widows, artisans, students, children, the physically challenged and professionals, will be carried along by his administration.

He added: “For corporate Lagos, Lagos is open for business, even for greater business. We have the political will to move Lagos to the next level. We are going to face our challenges by ourselves. Nobody is going to do that for us. With our collective will, we will overcome them.”

Gazing at the party primaries and general elections, he said: “I call on Muslims, Christians and people of other religious persuasions to come out en mass and ensure we vote in a candidate that has the interest of Lagos and Lagosians at heart. A candidate that is passionate about Lagos. A candidate that truly understands the needs of the ordinary people. I am the candidate.”

Ambode also said that his administration will not discriminate against any tribe or ethnic group.

He said: “Lagos is the most cosmopolitan state in Nigeria and there is no room for discrimination. Whether you are Igbo, Efik, Ijaw, Hausa, Fulani, a foreigner, whoever you are, so far you live and work in Lagos, our government will work for you and you will be adequately represented.”

Urging Nigerians to also support the push for power shift at the centre, the politician advised Lagosians to mobilise their families and relations in and outside the state to vote the APC in next year’s election.

Firing salvos at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he added: “We are tired of transformation without motion. In their kind of transformation, the more they brag about, the less we see things transformed. And God will help us.”

Ambode paid tribute to patriots who have served Lagos meritoriously. He said Lagosians will not forget the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Gen. Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola. He urged them to also vote for a new governor who will lead the state to greater prosperity in next year’s election.

Ambode added: “I stand before you today as the bridge between the elderly and the youth. I hold before you a beacon that summons us all to building together a more prosperous Lagos. I have the competence, experience and determination to lead Lagos State to greater economic heights and prosperity. I ask for your support and your votes that will send me to Alausa to continue my tradition of selfless service to this great state.”

Testimonials

Ogala, Olusanya and Temionu, who spoke, shortly before the declaration, attested to Ambode’s competence, urging delegates to vote for him at the primaries.

Ogala said: “I was privileged to work with him as a legislator when I was a member of the House Committee on Finance. I found him to be very committed. A perfect gentleman. He has a good pedigree. He is educated. He went into the civil servie and became a permanent secretary.

“In tose days, when the local governments were starved of funds by the Federal Government, the councils survived the onslaught because of the financial wizardry of Ambode under the leadership of our able leader, Tinubu. For Lagos to continue to grow, we need Ambode.”

Olusanya said Ambode will get the highest number of votes at the primaries and the general election from the six local governments in Ikorodu Division. He described him as a “techno-politician”, who has garnered experience in grassroots politics as a civil servant in the local government and civil service.

The former commissioner added: “Ambode kicked off his career in Lagos as a waste disposal agent. He moved to the local government as a treasurer. He moved to the civil service and through creative financial engineering, the state survived when the Federal Government moved against the local governments.

“ On behalf of the six Ikorodu local governments, I tell you that Ambode will have the votes of delegates. He will get 85 per cent of the votes from Ikorodu.”

The Nation.
Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, yesterday unfolded his agenda, saying that he would build on the foundation laid by Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, and his predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
He promised to preside over a government of continuity, which will promote accountability, quality leadership, good governance and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, if elected as the next governor.
Ambode said: “Lagos is my state and you are my people. I shall work to serve you. I shall never do less. Here and now, I dedicate myself to this task. I shall not flinch nor lose focus.”
The former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance declared his intention to run for the number one seat at a carnival-like rally at the Onikan Stadium, Onikan, Lagos.
“It was witnessed by notable traditional rulers from the five divisions of Lagos State, Muslim and Christian clerics, friends and associates, and party supporters from 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
At the rally were party chieftains, including Pa Abiodun Sunmola; Pa Alabi Macfoy; the Chairman of ‘Conference 57, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon Pris; House of Representatives members-Alhaji Yakubu Balogun, Dr. Sanuel Adejare, Hon. Toyin Suarau, Hon. Morouf Akinderu-Fatai, and Hon. James Faleke; former Agriculture Commissioner Asipa Kaoli Olusanya; Hon. Paul Kalejaye; former members of House of Assembly Hon. Obafemi Durosimi and Babatunde Ogala; Hon. Bolaji Ariyoh; Chief adeola Oyedele; Primate Dare Akindele and Mr. Rotimi Martins.
Others include Mrs. Teju Phillips; Hon. Segun Adetola; Dr. Fola Fosudo, and a retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Onanuga.
The representatives of the Muslim Community was led by Imam Olubodun Gbajabiamila, who stood for the Chief Imam of Lagos, Imam Garuba Akinola. Other dignitaries include the three wives the Eleko of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu-Olori Fadeke, Olori Titilola and Olori Olanike.
Wide endorsement
Gbajabiamila, who rendered the opening prayer, reflected on the challenges of governance, saying that Ambode is competent to succeed Fashola. He said: “Ambode has been assessed by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu; the Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Akinola Garuba and the political leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. We pray that he will excel in the office.”
No fewer than 60 traditional rulers and chiefs were at the venue. They included Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja of Noforija Epe; the Alagege of Orile-Agege, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi; the Onitire of Itire, Oba Lateef Dauda; the Onitedo of Itedo, Oba tajudeen Elemoro; the Olu of Ojokoro, Oba Oluwalambe Taiwo; Oba Ayinde Balogun of Isheri; the Onibeju of Ibeju, Oba Rafiu Saliu; the Olorogun Ado of Lagos, Chief Waheed Yesufu; Chief Lateef Ajose; Chief Muideen Shobalu; Chief Tunde Temionu, and former Chairman of Kosofe Council, Hon. Tunde Braimoh, who was the master of ceremonies.
From sunrise, the stadium was aglow with festivities, with ace musicians, Wasiu Pasuma and Olamide, and popular comedians, Mr. Babatunde Omidina (Baba Suwe), Mr. Lamidi Opebe and Mr. Ojo Arowosafe (Fadeyi Oloro), thrilling the crowd.
“Banners of different shapes welcomed the party faithful to the venue. Itinerant drummers ushered in party leaders and other eminent persons to the high table. The event, which lasted for five hours, was peaceful.
Enter the host
Around 10.40 am, the aspirant stormed the stadium with a large crowd that followed him from his residence. Decked in a white agbada with a blue cap to match, he waved the broom to the jubilating crowd, dancing and singing.
He was led to the podium by Pa Summola and presented to the people by Hon. Oris, who reiterated the support of the 57 council chairmen for his ambition.
Oris said: “Tinubu started the journey to modernity in Lagos. He was succeeded by Fashola, the actualiser. Today, we present Akinwumi Ambode. Lagos requires a financial wizard to continue from where Fashola will stop next year. He will do better.”
Excited at the huge crowd of supporters, Ambode exuded confidence, saying that it attested to his popularity and acceptance by Lagosians, following his state-wide consultations.
He said: “In recognition of this support, I, Akinwumi Ambode, in your presence and in the presence of God, formally put myself forward to run for the position of the governor of Lagos State. I make this declaration with the highest sense of responsibility. I am putting nyself forward because I belive I have the qualities required to continue the giant strides which our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has achieved in Lagos in recent years.
In his speech titled Continuing the Progress, Securing the Future, the Epe born politician said having witnessed 15 years of growth and development under Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola, Lagos State deserved a governor that would build on their achievements.
He said: “I stand before you today in the spirit of the continuity of excellence that Lagos is known for. My vision and mission is to create a clean, secure and prosperous Lagos State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice.
“I am resolved to offer you genuine leadership that will be accountable with all the principles of good governance, a government of inclusion that will not leave any race or gender behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe of any other status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos liveable for you.”
Ambode promised to implement the APC blueprint on wealth and job creation, in consonance with its agenda for change and prosperity for Nigerians. He said stakeholders, including the aged, widows, artisans, students, children, the physically challenged and professionals, will be carried along by his administration.
He added: “For corporate Lagos, Lagos is open for business, even for greater business. We have the political will to move Lagos to the next level. We are going to face our challenges by ourselves. Nobody is going to do that for us. With our collective will, we will overcome them.”
Gazing at the party primaries and general elections, he said: “I call on Muslims, Christians and people of other religious persuasions to come out en mass and ensure we vote in a candidate that has the interest of Lagos and Lagosians at heart. A candidate that is passionate about Lagos. A candidate that truly understands the needs of the ordinary people. I am the candidate.”
Ambode also said that his administration will not discriminate against any tribe or ethnic group.
He said: “Lagos is the most cosmopolitan state in Nigeria and there is no room for discrimination. Whether you are Igbo, Efik, Ijaw, Hausa, Fulani, a foreigner, whoever you are, so far you live and work in Lagos, our government will work for you and you will be adequately represented.”
Urging Nigerians to also support the push for power shift at the centre, the politician advised Lagosians to mobilise their families and relations in and outside the state to vote the APC in next year’s election.
Firing salvos at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he added: “We are tired of transformation without motion. In their kind of transformation, the more they brag about, the less we see things transformed. And God will help us.”
Ambode paid tribute to patriots who have served Lagos meritoriously. He said Lagosians will not forget the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Gen. Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola. He urged them to also vote for a new governor who will lead the state to greater prosperity in next year’s election.
Ambode added: “I stand before you today as the bridge between the elderly and the youth. I hold before you a beacon that summons us all to building together a more prosperous Lagos. I have the competence, experience and determination to lead Lagos State to greater economic heights and prosperity. I ask for your support and your votes that will send me to Alausa to continue my tradition of selfless service to this great state.”
Testimonials
Ogala, Olusanya and Temionu, who spoke, shortly before the declaration, attested to Ambode’s competence, urging delegates to vote for him at the primaries.
Ogala said: “I was privileged to work with him as a legislator when I was a member of the House Committee on Finance. I found him to be very committed. A perfect gentleman. He has a good pedigree. He is educated. He went into the civil servie and became a permanent secretary.
“In tose days, when the local governments were starved of funds by the Federal Government, the councils survived the onslaught because of the financial wizardry of Ambode under the leadership of our able leader, Tinubu. For Lagos to continue to grow, we need Ambode.”
Olusanya said Ambode will get the highest number of votes at the primaries and the general election from the six local governments in Ikorodu Division. He described him as a “techno-politician”, who has garnered experience in grassroots politics as a civil servant in the local government and civil service.
The former commissioner added: “Ambode kicked off his career in Lagos as a waste disposal agent. He moved to the local government as a treasurer. He moved to the civil service and through creative financial engineering, the state survived when the Federal Government moved against the local governments.
“ On behalf of the six Ikorodu local governments, I tell you that Ambode will have the votes of delegates. He will get 85 per cent of the votes from Ikorodu.”

"ZONING IS UNDEMOCRATIC" -WIKE


The immediate past Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, has vowed not accept any attempt to impose any candidate or abide by any zoning or rotation of elective positions by the Peoples Democratic party in the state.
According to Wike “I will not accept any attempt to impose any governorship candidate on the party. Let all the governorship aspirants go to the primaries to test their popularity. These are critical times, so it is in the interest of our party to put the best candidate forward for the 2015 governorship election”.
He then questioned why the next governor of the state should not be Ikwerre. “Why are they clamouring for zoning? If the other aspirants truly believe that they are popular, why are they shying away from participating in an open contest? Who among them can match Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, at the polls in 2015? Who among the aspirants in the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, can defeat me at the primaries?”
Wike spoke in Port Harcourt, at a World Press Conference to unveil his campaign office.
He denied that he installed Felix Obuah through the court as the state chairman of the PDP, so that Obuah, in turn, would reciprocate by supporting his governorship ambition and jettison the principle of rotation and zoning in the party’s constitution.
“Yes, I supported Obuah because I don’t like injustice. I felt Amaechi unjustly denied him of his right to emerge as the state chairmen of the party. Obuah was unfairly treated by Amaechi. There is nothing wrong in fighting for your right. If you are unjustly treated, I will stand with you to fight. I cannot stand injustice”.
He dismissed the threat by some chieftains of the party from the riverine area that there will be protest votes against the PDP if he is presented as the candidate of the PDP. He challenged the other aspirants under the aegis of the PDP to be ready to meet him at the primary on 29 November, saying no amount of threat will dissuade him from running for the governorship ticket.
He claimed: “My involvement in the race is because of circumstances that were unforeseen before now.
“As for those who are talking of protest votes, I make bold to say that the Ogonis will vote for me; the Kalabaris will vote for me. I have done my home work very well. Even though I was a minster working in Abuja, there was no weekend that I was not in Rivers state. I am not an Abuja based politician. Governor Amaechi and the All Progressives Congress, APC, know that they cannot match me at the electoral field”.
Wike, who described the state as a “monument of abandoned projects”, promised to transform the state into a viable economic hub if elected governor. He assured that he will put an end to the culture of “indiscriminate borrowing”.

'GOVS HAVE WRECKED STATES' - UMAR


l2015: Governors Mortgaging States – Col Umar
It is either to fraudulently acquire funds for 2015 or retirement benefits

Ahead of the 2015 general elections, former military governor of Kaduna state, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd) has raised the alarm over the spate of financial borrowings from the financial institutions by state governors, warning that if not checked the states would be mortgaged.

Colonel Umar described these borrowings by the governors, which they claimed was ‘to finance projects of dubious viability’, as capable of mortgaging the future of these states.

Umar in a statement yesterday, a copy of which was obtained by Nigerian Pilot Saturday, said that the motive why the governors embarked on these acts was still unclear, noting however, that ‘it is either to fraudulently acquire funds as the 2015 elections approach or retirement benefits.’

Umar’s statement reads in part: ‘It has become necessary to alert the nation of a dangerous, indeed an explosive scheme by which some state governors are mortgaging the future of their states through excessive borrowing from commercial banks and other financial institutions to finance dubious viability.

‘The motive is entirely unclear. But one suspect is that it is either to fraudulently acquire campaign funds as the 2015 elections approach or retirement benefits.

‘Some of them are also desperately selling off states’ assets including shares and other long term investments.’

The fiery retired soldier also gave thumbs down to the various states’ legislatures and accused them of reducing themselves to an arm of the Executive, adding that, ‘it is unrealistic to expect them to check and stop this fraud.’

umarUmar, who is now into farming, however, appealed to the anti-corruption agencies to intervene.

He also warned the banks to desist from conniving with these governors and reminded them of their civic responsibilities and the banking ethics to protect the helpless public.

“They must be aware that most of these states have already lost the capacity to meet their financial obligations due to huge debt burden and diminishing source of revenue resulting from failing oil revenue,” he said.

“The bankers must not forget that in the past, collapse of oil prices in the world market have often led to wide spread collapse of Nigerian banks because they never learned to say ‘no’ to prodigal but cash-strapped state governments in such critical periods,” he added.

Most of the states are in debt running into billions of Naira. Only recently, the Rivers state legislators approved the release of the sum of N19 billion from its reserved funds for Governor Rotimi Amaechi. The state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said that the money was not for any developmental projects, but for the governor to bankroll the presidential campaign of one of the aspirants on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The governor of Ekiti state, Mr. Ayo Fayose had also accused his predecessor, Dr. Fayemi of leaving a debt totaling over N54 billion.

The Benue state government recently sold its shares in the Dangote cement. The Lagos state government is also in debt running into billions of Naira.

- See more at: http://nigerianpilot.com/2015-governors-mortgaging-states-col-umar/#sthash.KvUhOX4L.dpuf
Ahead of the 2015 general elections, former military governor of Kaduna state, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd) has raised the alarm over the spate of financial borrowings from the financial institutions by state governors, warning that if not checked the states would be mortgaged.
Colonel Umar described these borrowings by the governors, which they claimed was ‘to finance projects of dubious viability’, as capable of mortgaging the future of these states.
Umar in a statement yesterday, a copy of which was obtained by Nigerian Pilot Saturday, said that the motive why the governors embarked on these acts was still unclear, noting however, that ‘it is either to fraudulently acquire funds as the 2015 elections approach or retirement benefits.’
Umar’s statement reads in part: ‘It has become necessary to alert the nation of a dangerous, indeed an explosive scheme by which some state governors are mortgaging the future of their states through excessive borrowing from commercial banks and other financial institutions to finance dubious viability.
‘The motive is entirely unclear. But one suspect is that it is either to fraudulently acquire campaign funds as the 2015 elections approach or retirement benefits.
‘Some of them are also desperately selling off states’ assets including shares and other long term investments.’
The fiery retired soldier also gave thumbs down to the various states’ legislatures and accused them of reducing themselves to an arm of the Executive, adding that, ‘it is unrealistic to expect them to check and stop this fraud.’
umarUmar, who is now into farming, however, appealed to the anti-corruption agencies to intervene.
He also warned the banks to desist from conniving with these governors and reminded them of their civic responsibilities and the banking ethics to protect the helpless public.
“They must be aware that most of these states have already lost the capacity to meet their financial obligations due to huge debt burden and diminishing source of revenue resulting from failing oil revenue,” he said.
“The bankers must not forget that in the past, collapse of oil prices in the world market have often led to wide spread collapse of Nigerian banks because they never learned to say ‘no’ to prodigal but cash-strapped state governments in such critical periods,” he added.
Most of the states are in debt running into billions of Naira. Only recently, the Rivers state legislators approved the release of the sum of N19 billion from its reserved funds for Governor Rotimi Amaechi. The state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said that the money was not for any developmental projects, but for the governor to bankroll the presidential campaign of one of the aspirants on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The governor of Ekiti state, Mr. Ayo Fayose had also accused his predecessor, Dr. Fayemi of leaving a debt totaling over N54 billion.
The Benue state government recently sold its shares in the Dangote cement. The Lagos state government is also in debt running into billions of Naira

JONAH ARRIVES ISRAEL FOR RELIGIOUS TOURISM


President Goodluck Jonathan arrived in Jerusalem on Saturday for a two-day pilgrimage to Israel.
According to the president’s itinerary, he will observe the Sabbath Day on Saturday at the Wailing Wall, where he will pray privately before going to Mount Tabor and Mount Carmel.
Jonathan will also visit some other Christian holy sites during the pilgrimage.
During the pilgrimage, he will pray for Nigeria at an Interdenominational Church Service with the theme: ‘A day with Jesus for Nigeria in Israel’.
The progamme of events indicates that other Nigerian Pilgrims will join the president during the service to pray for the well being and progress of the country.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Israel Davi Obasa received the president on arrival at the David Ben Gurion International Airport, Tel Aviv.
Others that were at the airport included Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra, Mr John-Kennedy Opara, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission and Brig.- Gen. Jones Arogbofa, the Chief of Staff.
The president is accompanied to the pilgrimage by Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba, Chaplain of the Presidential Villa, Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church Worldwide and Sen. Smart Adeyemi, Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT.
Members of the Federal Government delegation in the pilgrimage include the Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, Primate Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, President, Christian Association of Nigeria.
Chief Olajumoke Akinjide, Minister of State for FCT, Prof. Chinedu Neboh, Minister of Power, Mrs Sarah Ochekpe, Minister of Water Resources, Sen. Philip Aduda and Rep. Ndudi Elumelu, are also part of the delegation.
Other delegates are Gov. Gabriel Suswam of Benue and Gov. Jonah Jang of Plateau.

SHARIA COURT ORDERS MAN TO REMARRY HIV+ WIFE


A middle-aged man has been ordered to re-marry the wife he divorced after infecting her with HIV/AIDs virus.
This was the verdict of an upper Sharia court sitting at Sabon Gari, after the case was brought before it by the aggrieved wife.
The husband by name, Abdullahi Ahmad was dragged to the court by his ex-wife, Umma Usman, who told the court that the defendant had divorced her and asked her to vacate his house after infecting her with the dreaded disease.
The victim informed the honourable court that both of them had been living together as a couple for about 13 years and that she had several children with him before she later found out that he is HIV/AIDs positive.
The court was also told that the defendant issued the hapless woman a divorce letter, knowing that he infected her with the disease.
Umma is praying the court to quash the divorce letter issued to her by her husband and compel him to re-marry her since he is the one that infected her.
In his verdict, the Judge, Malam Farouk Ahmad, granted the complainant’s plea, canceled the divorce letter issued to her by the husband and ordered him to immediately re-marry her.
Judge Ahmad said under Islamic Sharia Law, “it is binding on the husband to stay with the woman for the rest of his life being the one responsible for her getting an infection that has no known cure.”
He ordered him to take good care of the woman henceforth.
.

Friday, October 24, 2014

SPECIAL REPORT: HOW SEX WAS INVENTED



- Once upon a time there was a daddy placoderm and a mummy placoderm, and they liked each other a lot. So, one day, these two placoderms stood next to one another and had sex, and it was the first time sex as we (tangentially) know it had happened on planet Earth. 
Few similarities to human sex
This is what scientists announced this week following a detailed analysis of fossils discovered in as geographically unaffiliated destinations as Scotland, China and Estonia. The animals in questions lived not in the sea, but in lakes, and existed around 380 million years ago. Mankind earliest ancestor was believed to have lived only 1.8 million years ago.
The logistics of the coupling bore very few similarities to human sex. Firstly, the animals did not face each other or go approach "doggy style" from the read. Instead, the animals floated side by side "as if they were square dancing."As for genitals, they were to be found at the bottom end of the organism, where the feet would be on a human. The male had a pair of claspers, long, rigid, L-shaped appendages. The female had genital plates which formed a small area on her backside.
These genital plates were described in the paper as being like a cheese grater. This rough texture would cause the male claspers to get locked in place and allow the transfer of sperm to commence.
Strangely, over time fish seem to have lost the ability to have sex this way, with eggs being fertilised inside the body of the female. Modern fish release eggs and sperm into the water where they are then fertilised, outside of the body. Why this happened remains a mystery to scientists.

CANDIDATE TO EMERGE THROUGH BALLOTING- NDA ISIAH


Former Chairman of Leadership Newspaper Group, Sam Nda-Isaiah, has thrown his weight behind the position taken by All Progressives Congress (APC) governors that the party’s presidential candidate should emerge through balloting.
The APC governors had at a meeting in Ilorin Wednesday, held that the party would not impose candidates but would try and work out a consensus arrangement failing which it will have to go to primaries.
Nda-Isaiah, who is seeking the APC presidential ticket in a chat with Daily Trust yesterday, said though he is not averse to a consensus arrangement, he would prefer that the yardstick to be used in determining the party’s candidate should be through a comparative analysis of each of the aspirants based on their chances of defeating President Goodluck Jonathan at the general election.
He said this should involve a thorough analysis of the chances of each of the aspirants weighed against that of Jonathan and not a situation where few people would sit and decide on a candidate without using a known parameter.
Nda-Isaiah said if that is however not workable, then all the four aspirants including him, should be made to submit themselves to an election which process should be transparent.
He said it does not matter whether it was the direct or indirect primary that is used but that the process must be one which process is transparent.
“Whichever method they choose, I am neither for nor against any method of primary, but the party must ensure it protects the integrity of the process for it to be accepted.
“Let us prove that we are different from the PDP, we should give the people reasons to believe we are better otherwise why should we ask them to vote out Jonathan if we cannot offer them a better alternative?” he asked.

"I SUPPORT JIHAD, BUT".- AREGBESOLA


The Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, has said that there is nothing wrong with Jihad, which he described as an Islamic concept that seeks to promote the establishment of a personal relationship with Allah by Muslims.
The governor, who said this in Ile Ife on Thursday while delivering a lecture titled, “Muslims’ response to insurgency threat in Nigeria” at the 6th annual Femi Lateef Okunnu lecture series, however, flayed the Boko Haram sect for using Jihad as a justification for their violent attacks.
The lecture was organised by the Nigeria Association of Muslim Law Students of the Obafemi Awolowo Awolowo University, Ile Ife.
Aregbesola lamented the gross misunderstanding of Jihad to mean war or violence.
Aregbesola said, “Jihad should not be turned into a license to unleash terror on people, Muslims and Christians alike and as well as to destabilise the nation.
“Contrary to the claims by groups such as the Boko Haram sect, Jihad is neither a call to arms nor an ideological blueprint for destructive insurgency. Jihad in Islam is at its core about establishing a personal relationship with Allah. The meaning of Jihad in Islam is a total submission to the will and obedience to the laws of Allah.
“Submitting to Allah’s will is an act of conscious choice granted to mankind by God; obeying His laws is a demonstration and vindication of that submission.
“They abused notion of Jihad often used as justification for satanic atrocities of insurgent groups, such as the Boko Haram sect, is a gross misapplication of the concept.
“Jihad is far from being an open cheque for senseless violence, neither is it a Qur’anic endorsement of the pursuit of selfish political desires.
“The concept of Jihad in Islam simply means ‘struggle’ or ‘striving.’ It has two broad dimensions – external and internal striving.”
He argued that Boko Haram and other insurgent groups had no justification in Islam to back the violence they unleashed on the people.
He added, “If Islam thus forbids violence against innocents, how does Boko Haram justifies the senseless killings, maiming, kidnappings of innocent women, children, and girls?”

N100B EARMARKED TO SET UP RANCHES IN A BID TO STOP INDISCRIMINATE GRAZING

CBN To Provide N100bn To End Cattle Movement

The National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday demanded the intervention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to provide N100 billion seed funds for establishment of ranches in states of the federation.

Also, the Federal Government has resolved to gradually phase out the movement of cattles from one place to the other by pasturerists and restricting them to grazing reserves in states.

This formed the highpoint of recommendations of the Presidential Committee report on grazing reserves headed by Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, which presented its report to the NEC meeting presided yesterday by Vice President Namadi Sambo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The measures on establishment of ranches and grazing reserves were targeted at minimizing conflicts and security challenges associated with movement of cattles from one place to the other.

In a 15 point recommendations of the Committee, NEC adopted 14 of them which include regulation of pasturerists from neighbouring countries coming into Nigeria.

The report highlighted critical issues that must be considered among others: struggle for land and water resources by the herdsmen and farmers; uncontrolled influx of nomadic farmers into Nigeria; issues on grazing reserves in states.

Some key recommendations in the report are: “CBN to provide seed funding of N100bn to assist states establish mini modern ranches across the federation; all grazing reserves/cattle routes already gazette and encroached upon should be recovered and improved upon taking into consideration the present day realities; ranching and modern technologies of livestock production be established – meat processing and packaging e.g. Halal certified; sensitization/education workshops for herdsmen and farmers to build trust and confidence between the parties with National Orientation Agency (NOA) and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to handle the enlightenment campaigns.”

The NEC after consideration of the recommendations amended some of it and appointed the Hon. Minister of National Planning, Suleiman Abubakar Minister of Agriculture, Adesina Akinwunmi and Benue State governor to come up with the final framework for approval and implementation.

Further, Governor Suswam explained that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim made presentation on the draft regulations of the Land use Act, 2013.

The Presidential Technical Committee on Land Reform (PTCLR) which was reconstituted by the President in November 2011, outlined among others the following terms of reference including to “Provide technical assistance to States and local governments to undertake land cadastral nationwide; determine individual possessory rights using best practices and most appropriate technologies; Encourage and assist States and local governments to establish an arbitration mechanism for land ownership conflict resolution; make recommendation on mechanism for land valuation in both urban and rural areas in the Federation; and any other recommendation that will ensure effective, simplified, sustained and successful land administration in Nigeria.”

PTCLR observed among others that “There is critical and urgent need to address the obvious and critical weakness in legal framework for land governance in the country.”

NEC, however, directed state governors and other stakeholders to study the report, prepare inputs and present at the next meeting.

Daily Newswatch.The National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday demanded the intervention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to provide N100 billion seed funds for establishment of ranches in states of the federation.
Also, the Federal Government has resolved to gradually phase out the movement of cattles from one place to the other by pasturerists and restricting them to grazing reserves in states.
This formed the highpoint of recommendations of the Presidential Committee report on grazing reserves headed by Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, which presented its report to the NEC meeting presided yesterday by Vice President Namadi Sambo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The measures on establishment of ranches and grazing reserves were targeted at minimizing conflicts and security challenges associated with movement of cattles from one place to the other.
In a 15 point recommendations of the Committee, NEC adopted 14 of them which include regulation of pasturerists from neighbouring countries coming into Nigeria.
The report highlighted critical issues that must be considered among others: struggle for land and water resources by the herdsmen and farmers; uncontrolled influx of nomadic farmers into Nigeria; issues on grazing reserves in states.
Some key recommendations in the report are: “CBN to provide seed funding of N100bn to assist states establish mini modern ranches across the federation; all grazing reserves/cattle routes already gazette and encroached upon should be recovered and improved upon taking into consideration the present day realities; ranching and modern technologies of livestock production be established – meat processing and packaging e.g. Halal certified; sensitization/education workshops for herdsmen and farmers to build trust and confidence between the parties with National Orientation Agency (NOA) and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to handle the enlightenment campaigns.”
The NEC after consideration of the recommendations amended some of it and appointed the Hon. Minister of National Planning, Suleiman Abubakar Minister of Agriculture, Adesina Akinwunmi and Benue State governor to come up with the final framework for approval and implementation.
Further, Governor Suswam explained that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim made presentation on the draft regulations of the Land use Act, 2013.
The Presidential Technical Committee on Land Reform (PTCLR) which was reconstituted by the President in November 2011, outlined among others the following terms of reference including to “Provide technical assistance to States and local governments to undertake land cadastral nationwide; determine individual possessory rights using best practices and most appropriate technologies; Encourage and assist States and local governments to establish an arbitration mechanism for land ownership conflict resolution; make recommendation on mechanism for land valuation in both urban and rural areas in the Federation; and any other recommendation that will ensure effective, simplified, sustained and successful land administration in Nigeria.”
PTCLR observed among others that “There is critical and urgent need to address the obvious and critical weakness in legal framework for land governance in the country.”
NEC, however, directed state governors and other stakeholders to study the report, prepare inputs and present at the next meeting.
Daily Newswatch.

PATIENCE JONATHAN OPENLY ENDORSE WIKE FOR RIVERS GOVERNOR

Patience JonaPatience Jonathan Endorses Wike’s Governorship Ambition

The governorship ambition of the immediate past Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, received a major boost yesterday as the First Lady, Patience Jonathan endorsed his ambition, saying the former Minister is ripe to lead Rivers State.

Mrs. Jonathan, who paid a solidarity visit to Wike at his Abuja residence said she was giving him her blessing because the former Minister proved himself while in the federal cabinet.

According to the First Lady, who has always been suspected to be the pillar behind the former Minister, her visit was to give the governorship aspirant the blessing of a mother.

She said: “I am giving you the blessing of a mother. The blessing a mother gives to a beloved son. Go and you will conquer. He is a Minister that delivered while he served in the cabinet. Wike proved himself and is ready to serve in a higher capacity.”

She described Wike as a politician who listens and respects, adding that the former Minister obeyed her when she asked him to drop his senatorial ambition in 2011.

“You listened to me and dropped your senatorial aspiration. I pray God to protect you, lead you and please go on with your aspiration.

“I have handed you (Wike) over to our father, Dr. Peter Odili and the people of Rivers State. You are going to Rivers State for the betterment of all of us and to wipe our tears,” she stated.

The First Lady thereafter handed him over Dr. Peter Odilli who was with her on the visit.

Wike, in response, assured the First Lady that PDP will win the state in the 2015 elections and also commended her for playing the role of a mother to the people of Rivers State.

Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Austin Opara assured those who were present during the visit that the support of the First Lady was a major boost for the PDP in Rivers State.

Those present during the visit included, Senator Adewari Pepple, Evans Bipi, Chief Sergeant Awuse, former Deputy Speaker, Chibudom Nwuche, Chief Austin Opara, former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Executive Director, Finance, Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Ogiri, former Commissioner of Sports, Boma Iyayi and an Ogoni political chieftain, Chief Kenneth Kobani.

Daily Post.
The governorship ambition of the immediate past Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, received a major boost yesterday as the First Lady, Patience Jonathan endorsed his ambition, saying the former Minister is ripe to lead Rivers State.
Mrs. Jonathan, who paid a solidarity visit to Wike at his Abuja residence said she was giving him her blessing because the former Minister proved himself while in the federal cabinet.
According to the First Lady, who has always been suspected to be the pillar behind the former Minister, her visit was to give the governorship aspirant the blessing of a mother.
She said: “I am giving you the blessing of a mother. The blessing a mother gives to a beloved son. Go and you will conquer. He is a Minister that delivered while he served in the cabinet. Wike proved himself and is ready to serve in a higher capacity.”
She described Wike as a politician who listens and respects, adding that the former Minister obeyed her when she asked him to drop his senatorial ambition in 2011.
“You listened to me and dropped your senatorial aspiration. I pray God to protect you, lead you and please go on with your aspiration.
“I have handed you (Wike) over to our father, Dr. Peter Odili and the people of Rivers State. You are going to Rivers State for the betterment of all of us and to wipe our tears,” she stated.
The First Lady thereafter handed him over Dr. Peter Odilli who was with her on the visit.
Wike, in response, assured the First Lady that PDP will win the state in the 2015 elections and also commended her for playing the role of a mother to the people of Rivers State.
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Austin Opara assured those who were present during the visit that the support of the First Lady was a major boost for the PDP in Rivers State.
Those present during the visit included, Senator Adewari Pepple, Evans Bipi, Chief Sergeant Awuse, former Deputy Speaker, Chibudom Nwuche, Chief Austin Opara, former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Executive Director, Finance, Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Ogiri, former Commissioner of Sports, Boma Iyayi and an Ogoni political chieftain, Chief Kenneth Kobani.

CHIBOK GIRLS MAY BE RELEASED ON MONDAY

Self acclaimed secretary General of Boko Haram, Mallam Danladi Ahmadu have said that the group’s cases fire agreement with the Federal Government is very much on course. Ahmadu disclosed that the final meeting between the group and the Federal Government to finally seal the ceasefire agreement has been scheduled for Monday in Ndjamana, Chad and to be supervised by the Chadian leader, Idris Derby.
Danladi Ahmadu, who spoke in the Hausa service of the Voice of America VoA on Friday and monitored in Yola affirmed that the Chibok Girls would surely be released on Monday to the Chadian President, Idriss Derby for onward presentation to the Nigerian government.
He added that an enlarged meeting of the group has been fixed for the weekend to prepare ground for the Monday meeting with the Federal government, affirming that the final ceasefire and the release of the Chibok girls are promises that will surely be fulfilled by the group.
Ahmadu also disclosed to VoA that the group and the Federal government are in close consultations over arrangements for the Monday meeting in Chad.
Commenting on the latest kidnap of over 40 women and girls in the border villages between Adamawa and Borno states, the Secretary General maintained that as far as the Boko Haram is concern it is not aware of the latest kidnap and attacks.
He added that in as much as the group is investigating the latest kidnap and attacks to determine the involvement of its members, admitting that many anti-social groups have infiltrated the Boko Haram.
Danladi Ahmadu stated that political thugs, armed robbers, kidnappers, hired assassins and other anti social groups now parades themselves as members of the sect, but was quick to add that things been equal if the cease fire agreement is sealed all the groups would fizzle out.
It will be recalled that no fewer than 50 women and girls were abducted by unknown gunmen from Gartu in Michika, Adamawa state and Waga Mongoro, a border village between Madagali in Adamawa and Gwoza in Borno state as the cease fire between the Federal government and the Boko Haram insurgents is yet to be fully implemented.

Monday, October 20, 2014

JONATHAN WELCOMES WHO'S CLASSIFICATION OF EBOLA FREE STATUS

President Goodluck Jonathan has welcomed the declaration by the World Health Organisation, WHO, on Monday that Nigeria is now officially Ebola-free after 42 days without any incidence of the virus.
A statement by a presidential spokesman, Rueben Abati, said Mr. Jonathan dedicated the certification to the many “patriotic health workers, volunteers and ordinary Nigerians who worked tirelessly, some of them paying the ultimate price, to stop the deadly virus in its track after it entered the country in July this year”.
The president also praised the state governments and other bodies involved the fight against the dreaded virus.
The Ebola Virus Disease was imported into Nigeria in July by a Liberian-American man, Patrick Sawyer, who travelled from Monrovia through Lome, Togo, to Lagos.
The virus later spread to Rivers State. Nigeria recorded 19 Ebola cases, and seven deaths.
“The president seizes this opportunity to also reiterate his appreciation of the contributions of state governments, WHO and other international health organisations, relatives of infected persons and other Nigerians who either courageously underwent the rigours of being quarantined or complied with all directives issued by health authorities to defeat the virus.
Mr. Jonathan said Nigeria’s globally-acclaimed success against Ebola is a testimony to what Nigerians can achieve if they set aside their differences and work together.
“As the nation applauds the success of its collective effort to stop the transmission of the Ebola Virus within Nigeria however, the President warns that the entire country must remain fully alert and vigilant against the re-entry of the virus,” he was quoted as saying.
The statement said Mr. Jonathan agreed with WHO that while Nigeria has won a battle against Ebola, the war will only truly end when West Africa, Africa and the world are declared free of Ebola” the statement read in part.
“The President has consequently directs that all the anti-Ebola measures taken after the entry of the virus into the country should remain in place and that health officials should continue to actively screen persons entering the country through its air, land and sea borders for any sign of the virus,” the statement said.
“He also urges all Nigerians to continue to follow the anti-Ebola advisories on sanitation and personal hygiene issued by Federal and State Health authorities.”

EKITI GOVT HOUSE, A WHITE ELEPHANT PROJECT- FAYOSE

Ekiti Governor, Ayodele Fayose, on Monday branded the N3.3bn worth Governor’s Lodge built by the ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi as ill-conceived project and a misplaced priority.
The governor said the building was too expensive for the state to maintain considering the level of poverty in the state.
He spoke while administering oaths on the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government, Dr Mrs Modupe Alade and other Special Assistants in Ado Ekiti.
Fayose berated Fayemi for spending such amount of money on a building when the masses were facing serious hardship and challenge of abject poverty.
He said : “My heart nearly failed me when I got to the new Government lodge on Thursday . The mansion cost N3.3 billion . It was initially awarded for N2.3 billion and later increased to N2.7 billion, while a sum of N640 million was used to procure fittings and furniture.
“And this building will cost a sum of N150m maintenance annually. Ekiti cannot sustain this and we have to do something about it . How can a Governor be living in such house when the masses are living in abject poverty?, he asked .
The Governor also assured that his administration would ensure strict compliance to 35 percent Affirmative Action for women in government in consonance with the Beijing Declaration of 1993.
He said that the appointment of Alade underscored the enormous respect he had for the women, pledging that his government would protect them and allot more appointments and elective positions to them during the 2015 State and Federal Legislative polls.
He declared, “let me tell the men here who are politicians to know that some of them will be asked to step down for women in the election next year.
“I want to assure you that those that will step down have nothing to lose, we are going to reward you accordingly. But if you disobey us, we will still go ahead to do it, as long as what we are pursuing is in the interest of Ekiti people,” Fayose posited.
The governor promised that his government will reward loyalty and hardwork, particularly for politicians and those in the civil service to promote the culture of brotherliness in Ekiti.
Fayose said he was desirous of streamlining his government to a sizeable form, particularly the civil service to reduce cost, adding that he would pursue the restructuring with the fear of God.
“There is no point having 39 Permanent Secretaries, whose Running Grants we won’t be able to pay. I want to maintain a sizeable number of political and top government functionaries, I mean the one we can sustain. But whatever we are going to do we have human face,” he declared .
Fayose urged the political appointees to be patient with him in view of the parlous State of the Government’s finances, advising them to desist from embarrassing him with text messages to solicit for appointments.
“Some have started disturbing me with text messages telling me to appoint them this or that, you have to stop this. When the time comes, your own appointment will come.
“You don’t need to tell me the kind of appointment I will give you. I may even give you something better than what you are requesting for or you may not get appointment at all.”

EBOLA; A SURVIVOR'S STORY


One of 12 people treated for Ebola virus disease in Nigeria says surviving the disease has left her traumatised and stigmatised.
Chinyere Enemuo, a geology graduate from University of Jos, is the sister of the Port Harcourt doctor who died, after contracting Ebola from treating an ECOWAS diplomat who fled surveillance in Lagos.
She got her life back after surviving the virus, but she lost job opportunities, a wedding and her peace of mind, she told an audience of experts as World Health Organisation declared Nigeria free of the virus that killed her elder brother.
She said her family members have lost jobs and faced steep stigma because their name had been associated with the virus.
She’d been planning her wedding for September 27, but plans were “disorganised” after she was confirmed positive.”
“The whole incident is not a pleasant one, it is traumatic,” she said moments after World Health Organisation declared Nigeria free of the virus.
Speaking on behalf of 11 other survivors, Chinyere said rumours, both true and untrue, “affected me negatively, both me as an individual, members of my family, the family name as a whole, because once you bear that name, everyone tends to be scared of you.”
“Some of my family members were expelled from work, some were suspended, my younger brother was given warning not to leave school to Port Harcourt at anytime or they will stop him from the school. It really affected our family.”
She told a gathering at the WHO declaration how any talk of Ebola shot down her wedding plans, for which refunds could not be guaranteed.
“All that we invested in the wedding plan was gone. We have to start all over again in another venue because I am very sure assuming the wedding held as planned, I am very sure nobody will attend just because of the kind of information that was passed on.”
“We must not allow stigmatisation of individuals, communities or countries to take root,” said Onyebuchi Chukwu in his final moments as health minister.
He symbolically had a handshake with Chinyere before putting one arm around her shoulders.
“The safest person in this audience to have a handshake with is Chinyere,” he explained.
“I may catch another strain. But even if I have the strain she suffered from, she will not get it.”

NEW HOME, CAR OWNERS EMERGE AS COWLSO ENDS THREE DAY WOMEN'S CONFERENCE.

As the 23rd edition of the National Women's Conference organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), ends today...