The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has celebrated the Baba Adinni of Lagos State, Alhaji Abdulhafeez Abou, on his 100th birthday.
According to the Speaker, the attainment of 100 years on earth connotes special favour from the Almighty Allah, which most men pray to be blessed with in their lifetime.
Gbajabiamila noted that the Baba Adinni of Lagos deserves to be celebrated being an illustrious son of Lagos and a worthy community leader of Surulere, who has impacted lives positively all his life.
He said: “The attainment of this special age by Sheikh Abou can be linked to God’s grace that made it possible for him to live a life full of impact on humanity, imparting knowledge and worshiping Allah.
“These qualities alone, along with many others that define our Baba Adinni, make it essential to honour this admirable person whose life serves as an example for younger generations to follow.”
“My prayer is that may Allah continue to grant him sound health, more wisdom and many more years of service to humanity and worship of Allah,” Gbajabiamila said.
EFCC arrests 31 in Enugu, 29 in Ibadan, 18 in Lokoja, 8 in Port Harcourt, Arraigns Three for N44.5m Fraud in Sokoto, 3 at Ilorin International Airport, Secures Conviction of Eleven Cybercriminals in Ibadan, tasks NACCIMA on Business Ethics, Integrity
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has called on the Nigeria Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, to adhere to best practices in businesses and encourage its members to make integrity and ethical conduct their watchwords in their business engagements.
This charge was given in Abuja on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 by the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa while receiving a delegation of NACCIMA that paid a Courtesy Visit to the EFCC at its Corporate Headquarters. According to Bawa, who spoke through the Secretary to the Commission, George Ekpungu, the EFCC would always welcome business proposals that emphasize integrity and charged the leadership of NACCIMA to encourage its members to ply their businesses with eyes on best practices.
Earlier, the National President of NACCIMA, John Udeagbala, while explaining the rationale of his Association’s visit to the EFCC, sought exemption for its members from the rigorous processes of getting certificates of the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, SCUML.
“Our dear Association is aware of the suspension of the issuance of the Special Unit Against Money Laundering, SCUML certificates. Over time, our members have complained of their difficulty in obtaining this certificate, which actually affected the ease of doing business and compliance with contractual engagements. We therefore appeal to you to use your good offices to exempt NACCIMA members from passing through the rigorous application processes when the suspension is finally lifted” he said.
Responding, Ekpungu explained that the EFCC suspended the issuance of SCUML’s certificates in the aftermath of the enactment of the Money Laundering Act 2022 and the Terrorism Act 2022, which altered the regulatory framework of SCUML. He said the foundational work had been done and the certificates were now being issued, assuring NACCIMA that the SCUML registration processes are designed to keep their businesses safe.
Udeagbala was accompanied on the visit by other officials of the Association, including Eze Chukwuemneka, Tony Esinkonenye, Usamn Abbas, among others
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
31 Arrested for Alleged Internet Fraud in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, arrested 31 suspected internet fraudsters from their hide out at Meniru Agbani Road and Diamond Estate, Enugu State. .
The suspects are: Daniel Chukwuemeka, Okechukwu Chisom, John Chizoba, Benard Uguochukwu, Nwobodo Christian, Nwiba Chukwuemeka, Eze Ani Ifechukwu, Chikwe James, Emmanuel Chukwuebuka, Ezugwu Chidera, Friday Daniel, Destiny Ekene, Prosper Nnachetam, Justice Chinedu and Bright Chimezie.
Others include Ezugu Nkejika, Echi Ikechukwu, Udeh Emeka, Charles Kosisochukwu, Ojinaka Smith, Ekene Chukwuebuka, Efe Samuel, Goodness Ifeanyi, Victory Anointing, Uche Egbo, Onuigbo Kingsley, Okakpu Chukwuemeka, Nnamdi Odo, Mbah Emmanuel, Collins Nweke and Jason Obi.
Their arrest was facilitated by actionable intelligence on their cybercrime activities.
Items recovered from them include a Mercedes Benz C4000, one Toyota Corolla 2005 model, a Toyota Camry, several mobile phones and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is completed.
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Jail Term in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, today, August 9, 2022 secured the conviction and sentencing of an internet fraudster, Olamilekan Wasiu Durojaiye, before Justice Mojisola Dada of a Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Justice Dada sentenced the convict to one year imprisonment on a two-count charge bordering on possession of document containing false pretence brought against him by the EFCC.
Upon his arraignment today, he pleaded guilty to the offence.
One of the counts reads, “that you, Olamilekan Wasiu Durojaiye sometime in 2020 within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowingly had in your possession documents containing false pretence to wit: SCAM FORMAT titled Celebrity Billing Format and committed an offence contrary to section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015”.
The 2nd count reads, “that you,, Olamilekan Wasiu Durojaiye sometime in 2020 within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowingly had in your possession documents containing false pretence to wit: Chat format wherein you pretended to be a white woman which representation you knew were false and committed an offence contrary to section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos state, 2015”.
In view of his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, A.O Mohammed, reviewed the facts of the case and tendered documents to further prove the guilt of the defendant.
Justice Dada found him guilty of the offence and sentenced him to one year imprisonment on both counts of the charge. The Judge also granted him an option of fine in the sum of One Million Naira.
The convict was also ordered to pay a restitution of Seven Hundred Thousand Naira and forfeit his mobile device to the Federal Government.
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
EFCC Arraigns Three for N44.5m Fraud in Sokoto
The Sokoto Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Tuesday, 9th August, 2022 arraigned the duo of Yahaya Abdulrahman and Mohammad Iliyasu alongside their company, Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society, before Justice Mohammed Mohammed of the Sokoto State High Court on a three count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, issuance of a dud cheque in the sum of N4, 859,000.00 and obtaining by false pretence.
The duo are alleged to have fraudulently induced the petitioner to supply 1,651 bags of rice to their company at the cost of N27, 000.00 per bag totalling N44,577,000.00 (Forty-four Million Five Hundred and Seventy-seven Thousand Naira only) and jointly issued cheques of N14, 359,000.00 (Fourteen Million Three Hundred and Fifty-Nine Thousand Naira) in the name of the petitioner, which one returned unpaid due to insufficient funds standing to the credit of the drawer.
Count one reads: “That you, Yahaya Abdulrahman while being the Chairman of Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Mohammad Iliyasu while being a Director and Vice Chairman of Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society and Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society sometime in November, 2020 at Sokoto within the Judicial Division of the High Court of Justice, Sokoto State did conspire among yourselves to commit an illegal act to wit: Criminal Breach of Trust and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 59(a) of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law, 2019 and punishable under Section 60(2) of the same Law.”
Count two reads: “That you, Yahaya Abdulrahman while being the Chairman of Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Mohammad Iliyasu while being a Director and Vice Chairman of Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society and Azzumee Multipurpose Cooperative Society sometime in March, 2021 at Sokoto within the Judicial Division of the High Court of Justice, Sokoto State with knowledge that you have insufficient funds in your account issued to one IMUDAN Ventures a Stanbic IBTC Bank cheque number 00000061 dated 5th March, 2021 for the sum of N4,859,000.00 (Four Million Eight Hundred and Fifty-nine Thousand Naira) which said cheque when presented was dishonored due to insufficient funds in your account and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Dishonored Cheques ( Offences) Act, CAP D11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and punishable under Section 1(1) (b) of the same Act”.
They all pleaded not guilty to the three count charge. Prosecution counsel S.H Sa’ad then prayed the Court to allow the hearing to commence as two witnesses were in Court, ready to testify. But defence counsel, Y.Y Bazawa urged the court to grant his clients bail.
Justice Mohammed granted the defendants bail in the sum of N5, 000, 000, 00 and one surety each in like sum. The surety must be a resident of the Sokoto metropolis and own landed property in the city. The surety must also deposit a passport photograph with the registrar of the Court
The Judge adjourned the matter till 26th September, 2022 for trial
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
EFCC Arrests 8 Internet Fraud Suspect in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested eight suspected internet fraudsters. They were nabbed on Tuesday August 9, 2022, in a sting operation at Visa Karina Hotel, located at the New Government Reserved Area, GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The suspects: Mba Richard Oguge, Ogochukwu Ifeanyi Charles, Fredrick Mba, Gospel Uduak James, Charles Chukwuemeka, Daniel Ekanem Daniel, Andikan Udofot and Omolade Fortune, were arrested with incriminating items in their devices (mobile phones, laptop computers and apple wrist watches).
Cars were also among the items recovered from them.
They will soon be charged to court.
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
Again, EFCC Busts Yahoo Hideouts, Arrests 18 in Lokoja
As part of efforts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to curb the rising wave of internet related fraud otherwise known as ‘Yahoo-Yahoo’, the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Commission have again extended its dragnet to Kogi State leading to the arrest of 18 suspected ‘Yahoo-Yahoo Boys’ in Lokoja, the state capital.
This is the second such operation in the State within the last two months. Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC, had in June 2022 arrested 19 suspected fraudsters at different locations in Lokoja.
The latest arrest, which was made on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 followed actionable intelligence received by the Commission.
Among the suspects are two siblings – Bala Caleb Abdulkarim and Ayuba Bala. Others are Adebayo Olubunmi, Yusuf Salawu, Victor Yakubu, Victor Udeh, Abutu Francis, Moses Akeji, Aiyegbe ThankGod, Eniola Adeniji, Abraham Ayodele, Julius Omowale, Samuel Onojah, Saka Usman Ojo, Isaac Emmanuel, Yusuf Mohammed, Ibrahim Musa and Omaonu Ojochenemi Victor.
Preliminary investigations have shown that the suspects operate as a syndicate to scam unsuspecting victims.
The suspected ‘Yahoo-Yahoo Boys’, had incriminating items in their possession including five different brands of exotic cars, phones and laptops. They have volunteered statements to the Commission and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
29 Arrested for Alleged Internet Fraud in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 arrested twenty-nine (29) internet fraud suspects in a sting operation at Omi-Adio area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The suspects are Abdullahi Kehinde Tawab, Ayomide Alase Abiodun, Hassan Larla Olamilekan, Makinde Adebowale Saheed, Tofunmi Oyebade Segun, Rotimi Gbadamosi Ayomide, Igbamidun Joshua Olamiposi, Gbadamosi Samson Tobiloba, Qodir Ayoola Babalola, Frank Obi Ogechukwu, Olawale Abowaba Joshua, Dauda Kareem Oladayo, Hammed Dauda Akanji, Yusuf Akorede Abiodun and Haruna Adedoyin Kayode.
Others include Yusuf Lawale Raji, Adejare Ayuba Olamide, Owolabi Gbadamosi Moses, Victor Salami Gbenga, Abdullahi Teslim Taiwo, Oluwaseun Abowaba Samuel, Alase Ayodele Philip, Oduola Kunmi Ireola, Ajayi Olumide Olamilekan, Opeyemi Samuel Enitan, Yusuf Ayobami Qudus, Atanda Jamiu Olamide, Ibrahim Bashit Alade and Ilori Peter Oladapo.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones, laptops, two motor-bikes, one i-watch, video games and jewelry.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations are concluded
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Jail in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on August 8, 2022, secured the conviction of one Yusuf Adetokunbo, before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos for offence bordering on possession of documents containing false pretence.
Adetokunbo was arraigned on a one-count charge dated July 22, 2022, bordering on possession of documents containing false pretenses contrary to Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The count reads: “That you, Yusuf Olawale Adetokunbo on or about the 29th April, 2022 at Lagos, within the Ikeja jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with the intent to defraud had in your possession a bundle of fraudulent chats containing false pretence in your Google voice app and email with the name phamhoangcungnai30@gmail.com which pretence you knew or ought to know to be false.”
He pleaded “guilty” to the charge when it was read to him.
The prosecuting counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, thereafter gave a review of the facts.
He further tendered in evidence the fraudulent documents printed from his iPhone X and iPhone 6+, as well as a draft of N200,000 issued as restitution by the defendant.
There was no objection by the defence counsel, Kayode Oyedele, and they were admitted as Exhibit A and B.
“We urge the court to convict the defendant as charged and to forfeit to the Federal Government the items recovered from him,” Omewa said.
Thereafter, Justice Taiwo convicted him as charged and sentenced him to six months at a Custodial Centre, with an option of N150, 000 fine. Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the Federal Government
Media & Publicity
9 August, 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Eleven Cybercriminals in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on August 3 and 4, 2022 secured the conviction of eleven (11) cybercriminals on separate charges of fraudulent impersonation before Justices Olusola Adetujoye and Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan.
The offences are contrary to Section 419 and 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Law of Oyo State, 2000.
Justice Adetujoye convicted and sentenced Fatai Musbau Opeyemi, Ayodele Olumide Sunday, Oribolawa Idris Abiodun, Abdulahi Malek Olaniyi, Onigbinde Rasaq Oyindamola and Emmanuel Victor Mayowa to various jail terms; while Justice Taiwo convicted Moses Oyowevotu Oghenaire, Awwal Babatunde Arekemase, Adewale Ayomipo Owolabi, Yusuf David Olamide and Atitade Hassan Ajao.
The defendant pleaded “guilty” to the charges filed against them, leading to their conviction and sentencing.
Justice Adetujoye sentenced Oyindamola and Abiodun to six months community service each; Mayowa who was convicted on a two count charge bagged three months jail term while Opeyemi, Sunday and Olaniyi were sentenced to three months community service each.
Furthermore, Justice Taiwo sentenced Oghenaire, Arekemase, Owolabi, Olamide and Ajao to six months community service each.
Also, the court ordered that the convicts restitute their victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Media & Publicity
8 August, 2022
EFCC Arrests 3 Internet Fraud Suspects at Ilorin International Airport
As part of its renewed onslaught against corruption and illegal movement of cash through the nation’s airports, operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested three internet fraud suspects at the Ilorin International Airport.
They are Olawale Ipadeola, Opeyemi Badmus and Wasiu Babatunde.
The suspects were arrested on Monday, August 8, 2022 except for Wasiu who was arrested on Saturday, August 6, 2022 following actionable intelligence.
Two of the suspects (Olawale and Opeyemi), flew in from Lagos around 1156hours into the waiting hands of the operatives of the EFCC at the airport.
Preliminary investigations have shown that the suspects possessed several fraudulent documents on their devices.
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
Media & Publicity
8 August, 2022
SUSPENDED ACCOUNTANT GENERAL: JUSTICE AJAYI ADJOURNED TO OCTOBER 4, 5, 2022 FOR CONTINUATION OF TRIAL
The trial of the suspended Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, has been stalled following an application for adjournment by his legal team.
At the resumed trial before Justice Adeniyi Ajayi of the FCT High Court on Wednesday, counsel to Idris, Gordy Uche, told the court that he needed more time to interact with his client following the meeting his client had with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) the previous day based on the invitation of the anti-graft agency.
The defence team accused the EFCC of contempt, stating that the commission lacks the right to continue investigations since the matter is already in court but counsel for the commission, Rotimi Jacobs refuted Uche’s claims.
He said that the suspended accountant general of the federation is the one that approached the commission for settlement.
After listening to all the parties in the matter, Justice Ajayi adjourned to October 4 and 5, 2022 for the continuation of the trial.
The suspended accountant general and his co-defendants had pleaded not guilty to 14 counts bothering on stealing and criminal breach of trust to the tune of N109.5 billion against them.
VOTE OUT APC IN 2023, ABDULLAHI TELLS VOTERS
Former minister of Sports and Youth Development, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Wednesday urged Nigerians to vote out the All Progressive Congress in the 2023 elections, saying that the present ruling party has ruined the nation.
The ex-minister said the 2023 general elections offer Nigerians another historic opportunity to make Nigeria work again.
He stated that the dream of making Nigeria great could only be achieved if citizens, through the elections, chased away politicians in the fold of APC.
Abdullahi, Kwara central senatorial candidate of the PDP, in the forthcoming general election expressed this while featuring at the 33rd edition of the ‘Media Parliament’ of the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Ilorin.
He spoke on ‘Retooling Nigeria For the Task Ahead’.
Abdullahi said, “The APC government has brought this nation to its knees. All the things we thought could not happen had happened in the last seven years. There is no way we can exonerate APC from the problems of this country.
“APC has ruined this country. Nigerians should say no to any politician seeking elective office under APC 2023 presents historic opportunity to make Nigeria work again.
“Every Nigerian lives in fear today because of the problems of insecurity and poverty. The poorest of the poor are 90 million in Nigeria today. But we seem not to understand the magnitude of the problem facing us. We carry on as if all is well. We are treating cancer with wrapping bandage on it.”
He added, “After the civil war our leaders ought to realise that the Nigeria that the British gave us could not work. We should have restructured the country then.
“Another opportunity we missed to make Nigeria a real nation was the annulment of June 12. We diagnosed the issue as if it was a Yoruba problem and decided to make one of them a president in 1999. We had a lot of opportunities in June 12 debacle but we bungled them.”
Speaking on the lingering ASUU strike, the former Minister called for an urgent resolution to save the nation’s education sector from total collapse.
According to him the issue in contention should be resolved amicably to enable students resume academic activities.
He expressed worry over the security challenges in the country, adding that all hands must be on deck to bring a lasting solution to the problem.
Abdullahi also urged the youths to contribute their quota to ensure better development of the country.
Earlier in his address of welcome the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists Kwara state Council, Ahmed Abdulateef, called for the collaboration of all stakeholders to make the country better.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES CHIEF AKINTOLA WILLIAMS AT 103
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends of renowned accountant, Chief Akintola Williams, to celebrate his 103rd birthday, appreciating God for grace of long life, strength and impact, particularly in service to the country.
President Buhari felicitates with Chief Williams for scoring many firsts, which brought the spotlight to Nigeria and Africa, being the first Nigerian to qualify as a chartered accountant in England in 1949, and starting the first indigenous chartered accounting firm in Africa in 1952.
The President notes other historic achievements of the chartered accountant in establishing Association of Accountants in Nigeria in 1960 with the goal of training accountants, being a founding member and first President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and full involvement in setting up the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
On his 103rd birthday, President Buhari acknowledges the many recognitions and awards he has received, including appointment as Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 1997.
The President continues to rejoice with the chartered accountant, and prays for his wellbeing.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 10, 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
Akeredolu Clears Air On Arrest Of Kuje Prison Escapee, Idris Ojo
The attention of Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has been drawn to the announcement of Idris Ojo as one of the attackers of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, arrested by the security agencies.
Governor Akeredolu acknowledged the confusion the statement has created in the public space, considering that the ugly event of June 5 attack in Owo preceded the unfortunate incident on Kuje prison.
The Governor said there was a mix up in the announcement by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor.
Governor Akeredolu explained that Idris Ojo, who is number 14 on the wanted list of Kuje Prison Escapees was arrested in his brother’s house in Akure.
“The announcement of the arrest of Idris Ojo as one of the perpetrators of the June 5 attack on St Francis Catholic Church, Owo was a mix up from the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor.
“Idris Ojo, who is number 14 on the wanted list of the Kuje Prison Escapees was arrested in his brother’s house in Akure. His brother, Jimoh Rasheed Ibrahim, received and accommodated him after his escape from Kuje prison.
“He was thereafter moved and kept in the custody of the security operatives at the same time the attackers of Owo Catholic Church were arrested and brought into custody. Hence, the mix up.” The Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu urged members of the public to remain vigilant and give necessary supports to the security agencies in the State.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 10, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS JOHN CHIAHEMEN, VETERAN JOURNALIST
President Muhammadu Buhari is saddened to learn of the death of John Chiahemen, a former Reuters Bureau Chief for Nigeria, extending deep condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, including everyone in the various media organizations where he worked.
The President recalls that as a veteran newsman with the reputable international news agency and Editor of Reuters Africa, Chiahemen was respected for his brilliant contributions and editorial role of covering news about Africa from a business and development perspective, beyond the narrow stereotypes of disaster and poverty.
The President believes that the remarkable legacies left behind by one of Nigeria’s most accomplished journalists will continue to inspire current and upcoming members of the fourth estate of the realm.
President Buhari prays for the peaceful repose of the soul of the deceased and comfort for those who mourn.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 10, 2022
2023: WE CANNOT AFFORD TO BE DISTRACTED BY THE BUSINESS OF RELIGION- GOV AKEREDOLU
- Says Religion Is A Weapon Of Manipulation In The Society
- Insists Power Shift, Restructuring Must Gain More Currency Than Religious Agitations
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has condemned the incursion of religion into the political arena of the country, adding that it portends danger for the polity ahead of the 2023 general election.
Governor Akeredolu, who stressed that the solution to the challenges faced in the country will not be found in the faiths of individuals, noted that a person’s religious persuasion is based on personal conviction.
The Governor spoke on Wednesday at the 1st year Monograph of Memorial Lecture and Celebration of Life of Professor Bankole Olusiji Oke, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
Arakunrin Akeredolu delivered the Lecture titled “Nigeria: The Politics Of Religion In A Transitional Society.”
While pointing out that the public space must remain secular, the Governor noted that the current agitations for a faith-based political representation are anchored on certain misapprehension of the requirements for leadership in a multi-ethnic state such as Nigeria.
He stressed that the incursion of religious agitation is driven by mischief to set the people against themselves to attain political power, adding that any religious leader who ignores knowledge and competence as necessary criteria for measuring leadership capacity is an apostate.
The Governor, who warned that the earlier the people stop the dangerous and divisive faith-based campaign the better for country, added that any war fought to establish the supremacy of a faith over others can only end in tears.
“The manipulative skills of politicians as being currently put to use will aggravate an already bad situation.” He said.
Governor Akeredolu explained that the clamour for the restructuring of the polity and agitation for power shift must gain prominence over the debate on representation based on religion.
“The military handed over power, eventually, in 1999 and there has been civil rule since that time. Nigerians celebrate the fact that the democratic experience remains unbroken ever since. There appears to be an understanding that power must rotate between the North and the South.
“This understanding witnessed the contest of two candidates from the Southwest for the Presidency. It was part of the unwritten agreement that the power equation must be balanced to allay the fear of domination harboured by the people of the South.
“There is a conscious attempt not to disrupt the extant agreement. There has been a seamless transition from one civilian regime to another since 1999, the longest in the political history of the country.
“The current political permutations raise strong suspicions about an undeclared motive to thwart the arrangement that has been working for the country. The rotation of the office of the President has always been between the North and the South since the inception of the Fourth Republic.
“The attempt to disrupt the process of democratic transition using all manner of subterfuge heralds forebodings of unpleasant consequences.
“But beyond the agitation for power shift is the quest for economic independence of the states under the current political arrangement. The clamour for the restructuring of the polity should gain currency more than the unprofitable noises made for representation based on religion.
“Those who overheat the polity for personal aggrandizement should lend their voices to the issue of resource generation and control by the federating units.
“As the country prepares for another transition in 2023, it is only reasonable to expect that the arrangement, which has engendered peace for almost two decades, subsists for the benefit of all. Any attempt to change this design to assuage personal ambition can only worsen the already bad situation.
“Our people must reject any overweening cravings which may impact negatively on the polity. The current noises made on the need to have people occupy offices on the basis of religion is not only dangerous, but, annoyingly, does not portray politicians as those who are interested in public good.
“Religion has always been a weapon of manipulation in a transitional society. Religious leaders rely on the gullibility of their followers to participate, actively, in politics, while presenting a façade of spirituality. A country in the process of evolution cannot afford to be distracted by the business of religion.
“Granted that it is expected of political gladiators to magnify even the most irrelevant of issues to score cheap political points, it is profitable for the leaders of thought, especially religious leaders, to act decently. The contestation for a political office and fight for relevance must not be used as an excuse to mislead the people.
“Most reasonable people will question the economic logic which propels a country, purportedly practicing Federalism, to run a monolithic economy. Let all those who agitate for representation do so on the basis of economic participation first. This should be the fundamental consideration.
“The warped mentality which predisposes the elites, both the clergy and political, to always indulge in permutation on the expectation of largesse sharing is deplorable.”He said.
The Governor also described the controversy trailing the recent choice of the presidential candidate of the ruling APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a Muslim, to pick Senator Kashim Ibrahim Shettima, another Muslim, as his Vice-Presidential candidate, as most regrettable.
“This choice has generated needless controversies. Those who spearhead this apparent mischief either ignore or are oblivious of the fact that the position of the Vice President, as provided in the 1999 Constitution, as amended, is innocuous. The occupier of that office can only act as directed by the President who wields the real executive power.
“It appears that these protests are symptomatic of the level of distrust among the members of the political class who will do anything to grab power. The brazen incursion of religion into the political arena portends danger for the polity. Quality representation had absolutely nothing to do with the belief of a political office holder.
“The leadership of the two popular religions, Christianity and Islam, must avoid making inflammatory statements capable of causing chaos in the polity. This is the time all patriotic citizens must speak with one voice on the need for economic emancipation of the regions. We must begin to seek ways to remove the odious shackles of dependence which has almost run the whole country aground.
“We should all condemn and seek to end a system which promotes indolence. We must encourage all parts of the country to contribute to the economic development. We should all tap into our respective areas of comparative advantage as it was in the First Republic.
“And, consequently, we cannot afford to make the mistake of electing our leaders on mendacious and sentimental premises. Just as no reasonable person will choose to be driven by a driver on account of ethnicity and religion, only the competent aspirants with manifest capacity should be considered.
“A heterogenous society must have its affairs controlled by knowledgeable leaders with proven records of public service. Motivational speeches and copious quotes from the Holy writs can only inspire. The job of the President of a country in distress requires capacity, forthrightness and courage.” He concluded.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 10, 2022.
PRESIDENCY SEEKS MORE MEDIA PARTNERSHIP IN NATION BUILDING
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina has solicited for continued partnership with the media in order to help the government and citizens realise the Nigeria of their dream.
Mr Adesina said this Tuesday at State House, Abuja, when he received the Ace Leadership Award presented to him by the management of Love FM 104.5 Abuja as part of its Merit Awards 2022. The Award ceremony proper had earlier taken place in June.
While expressing his appreciation to the organisation for considering him worthy of the award, Adesina said:
“The media should partner with the government instead of being adversaries. What you find in the media at times is that they are so adversarial to government, which does not have to be. This is our country and we don’t have any other one.
“If they send the country into a tailspin through too much criticism, even the media won’t even be able to do its work. So, we should always bear in mind that it is our country and whatever we make of it is what we get.”
Presenting the award, the representative of Love FM, Ewuzie Anele Lilian, expressed the organisation’s pride in the work of Mr Adesina as a journalist, having got to the peak of his career through dint of hard work:
“We are happy to identify with you because we know how you started. You rose through the ladder and here you are, still doing the media work. We know it is not everybody that will accept what you are doing.”
She assured the spokesman of the support of Love FM despite some reports that suggest otherwise. “Sometimes we criticise you, we learnt that from you anyway. Before you got here, you were criticising others. We have come to say congratulations despite all that has happened. We are proud at the level you have reached and pray that God will sustain you and give you more wisdom to deal with the challenges associated with the job,” she added.
Abiodun Oladunjoye
Director (Information)
August 10, 2022
WE’II CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN PEACE IN ONDO-GOV AKEREDOLU
- Commends Security Agencies Over Arrest Of Owo Church Attackers
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has assured that his administration will continue to maintain peace in the State,stressing that it is the responsibility of government.
The Governor commended the security agencies over the arrest of terrorists involved in the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
Governor Akeredolu spoke in his office on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to his office by officers of the Federal Fire Service, led by the South West Zone L, Commander and Assistant Comptroller of Fire Service, James Olatunji.
The Zone comprises Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States.
While thanking the Almighty God for the arrest of the perpetrators, the Governor noted that the blood of the innocent worshipers spilled in a sacred place of worship and the fervent prayers of the people also contributed to their arrest.
Arakunrin Akeredolu, who reiterated his administration commitment to protecting the people and their property, reemphasised that the recent shooting in Owo had nothing to do with the June 5 attack.
He said:”We knew about this about a week ago. Arrest has been made over a week ago. I know there was ongoing investigation and because of that, there was no need for us to make it public so that the security agencies, especially DSS, who were majorly involved are not compromised.
“The arrest were made about last week, we were briefed, but we had a pact with them not to go public and as at this morning two other people were arrested.
“We know that now that it has been made public, the security work may be difficult. We must thank Almighty God that this arrest has been made. Where they attacked was a sacred place and the prayers of the people have been answered.
“The blood of the innocent people they killed are crying. What happened in Owo thereafter, the recent shooting, was not to maim or kill. By the grace of God, we will continue to find a way to maintain peace in this state. That is what we owe our people.”
The Governor while stressing the importance of the fire service, said if not for their timely interventions at different occasions, properties worth several billions of naira would have been lost to various fire incidents in different parts of the state
Earlier, the Zonal Commander, James Olatunji, appreciated Governor Akeredolu for the harmonious relationship among the State government, the Federal and State Fire Services as well as all the security agencies in the state, adding that Governor Akeredolu has consistently supported the Federal Fire Service in the state with logistics and other important needs to boost their activities.
He also applauded the Governor for making the state safe and habitable for the citizenry by improving on the security architecture across the state, just as he expressed the readiness of his team to key into the security architecture of the state to further secure the lives and property of the poeple.
Olatunji revealed that between January 1 and August 9, 2022, the Service saved five lives while one life was lost during fire incidents. He added that property worth N3.139bn were saved just as the state lost property worth N164.2m.
According to him, the properties included houses, shops, market, event centres, fuel tankers, trucks and others.
He said a total of 46 cases were recorded during the period under review.
He added that just last Friday afternoon, he personally led a crew of fire service to Sijuwade area where properties worth N50m were saved.
He also gave the Toll Free emergency number as 112 and Ondo State Federal Fire Service emergency number 08133006400, in case of fire outbreak.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 10, 2022.
LAGOS TASKFORCE CLAMPS DOWN ON OKADA OPERATORS PLYING BANNED ROUTES
… Says Okada Passengers Risk Three Months Jail Term
The Lagos State Taskforce has continued its enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada, that ply restricted highways, particularly in the six Local Governments Areas and nine Local Council Development Areas across the State.
Speaking on the exercise which took place in Agege/Fagba, Apapa and Ajah, the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye, described the activities of the recalcitrant okada operators as rebellious and vowed to ensure those who continue to disregard the ban would have their bikes confiscated and crushed by the State Government.
Jejeloye further stated that 322 bikes have been seized since the commencement of the week-long raid in the aforementioned areas of the State, assuring citizens that more will be done until the State’s vision of maintaining safety and sanity on Lagos roads is actualised.
“We intend to continue embarking on raids across the State towards ensuring a total clampdown on bike operators violating the ban on plying major highways in the six Local Governments Areas and nine Local Council Development Areas till total compliance is attained”, he stated.
While warning Lagosians who patronise recalcitrant okada operators to desist, CSP Jejeloye declared that passengers would henceforth be arrested and prosecuted with the okada operators.
His words: “Both passengers and riders are culpable if found operating on routes banned by the State Government and both will face a penalty of either three months jail term or N50,000 fine, or both as pronounced by the courts”.
The Chairman, therefore, enjoined Lagos residents to embrace alternative means of transportation which are safer and in line with the State’s inter-modal transportation vision.
Mr. Peter Obi, call your supporters to order, falsehood and disinformation will not win election
The Tinubu Campaign Organisation has appealed to the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi to call his supporters to order and to allow this election circle to be about issues that will advance the growth, progress and stability of Nigeria.
In a statement by its Director of Media and Communications, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the TCO admonished the Labour Party presidential candidate to get his supporters to desist from spreading lies, malice and denigrating other candidates, especially Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
TCO further states that Nigeria will be better for it and the electoral process will be enriched if the 2023 presidential campaign sticks to issues of good governance that will lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty rather than being dominated by the ravings of guttersnipes, who do not wish the country well.
Mr. Onanuga noted that the Tinubu Campaign Organisation saw the need to appeal to Mr. Obi to rein in his supporters after investigating the origin of the fake report claiming that the Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo wrote a letter to the All Progressives Congress Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking him to support Peter Obi and take care of his health.
President of Ghana via his official Twitter account has vehemently debunked the fake news as a product of deliberate mischief with the intent to deceive the public.
“I have written no such letter to the APC leader, and it will not occur to me to do so. Ghana and Nigeria boast of decades of cordial, strong and brotherly relations, and I am not going to be the one to interfere in the internal affairs and politics of Nigeria,” said President of Ghana via Twitter.
“We have found that the fake news about Akufo-Addo’s letter was first published on June 22 by a rogue platform, whose url reads as worlsnews.space (sic) and site identity as World of News.
“A content analysis of the site clearly showed that it is a Biafra news platform. The fake news was reposted on Facebook by Peter Obi Support Group, same day – a clear proof that Biafra campaigners and Peter Obi supporters are the same.
“Both the Facebook account and the website are replete with fake stories about Bola Tinubu, including a fake story credited to former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, alleging that Tinubu demanded N50billion monthly payment from him. The spuriousness of the statement is in the evidence that Lagos did not begin to clock N50billion revenue until after Ambode left office. Tinubu could not have demanded N50billion monthly payment from Ambode when the state government didn’t make such in a month throughout the tenure of Mr. Ambode.
“The pirate website, which the Facebook account feeds on also parades malicious fake news and headlines such as “ I am old, but my blood is young, please vote for me – Tinubu begs youth” .
“There is also the most wicked of all headlines: When I became president, I will Build more prison (sic) for Igbo’s and IPOB members – Tinubu”.
“The big surprise in all of these is that all the headlines have no supporting stories, and clicking them may bring virus to your computer.
“We have come to a point where it becomes imperative to tell Mr. Obi to show leadership and disavow his supporters who are employing fake news and disinformation as deliberate tools to deceive and poison the minds of unsuspecting Nigerians,” Mr. Onanuga reiterated.
Bayo Onanuga
Director, Media & Communications
Tinubu Campaign Organisation
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS’LL STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP WITH U.S. ON SECURITY, TECHNOLOGY, GOOD GOVERNANCE, SAYS SANWO-OLU
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday said the State Government will strengthen its partnership with the United States and work closely to deepen a mutually beneficial relationship on security, business, entertainment, technology and good governance, among others, to better the lives of the citizens.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement on Wednesday while receiving the new United States Consul General, Mr. Williams Stevens, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Marina.
The Governor said Lagos State Government is looking forward to using the opportunities and mutually beneficial partnerships between the State and the United States to better the lives of residents and create an atmosphere where businesses can thrive.
He said: “We know too well that you will do bigger and greater things with the government and the people of Lagos. The relationship that the government has with your office is great; it is phenomenal but beyond that, it is really about our people. It is about ensuring that we can use our opportunity to better the lives of our citizens and businesses both in institutions and the country.
“Over the last couple of months in Lagos State, we have seen direct investments from big American companies that have seen the need for them not to just verbalise that the future is in Africa but the future is actually in Lagos and we need to take those steps.
“We know that indeed this is where the huge number of youth population; the opportunity is here in tech, financial services, entertainment and tourism. This is where everything comes together. So, I am excited. We believe working closely with your office, we will be creating success on both sides and we will be building a mutually beneficial relationship.
“Security is paramount for you, myself and for our citizens. We will be taking that forward. I am sure over the period we will deepen the relationship further and build a visible clear vision for our cities.”
In his remarks, the United States Consul General, Williams Stevens said his country was poised to improve the economic relationships, bilateral trade and work together to combat crime while partnering to prioritise education, cultural engagement and entertainment, among other initiatives that would lead to investments in the state.
Stevens, who described the economic relationship as the foundation of any partnership as well as security, promised that the United States will partner with Lagos State and the Federal Government in combating trans-national crimes and ensure the security of lives and properties of residents, which according to him is key to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
He said: “We are focused on security. We are focused on ensuring that we are working together with Nigerian organisations and law enforcement to combat international crime and help the people here safer and more secure, which actually directly connects to trade investment.
“We are also focusing on the human concept on regulations, health, partnership, democracy, governance, preparation for the upcoming elections; everything we can do to ensure that people who are here in Lagos State and around Nigeria can have the opportunity to live healthy and safer.”
Stevens, who described Nigerian entertainers as global stars, said there is a partnership between Americans and Nigerians both in films and music in the classic entertainment industries.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
10 AUGUST 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU RECEIVES HOMECOMING TREATMENT, AS GOVERNOR INSPECTS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ON LAGOS ISLAND
…Residents hail Governor on the progress of 10-storey New Massey Hospital, Adeniji Adele Road projects
An exercise for an extensive inspection of the ongoing infrastructural upgrade in Lagos Island, on Wednesday, turned to a homecoming event for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as a tumultuous crowd of residents trooped out to welcome the Governor back to his home base.
Sanwo-Olu, who hails from Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area, was in the community to inspect the progress of the ongoing construction of Tapa-Okepopo streets, Adeniji Adele Road and construction of new 10-storey Massey Children Hospital.
The exercise literally turned into a rally when the residents, in showing their appreciation for the projects, joined the Governor on a walk from Adeniji Adele Road into adjoining streets.
Sanwo-Olu was in company of members of the State cabinet and top Government functionaries.
Inspecting the road projects, Sanwo-Olu expressed satisfaction on the pace of work, but urged the contractor to take the advantage of the good weather to scale up construction activities and deliver the projects at the end of the year.
Adeniji Adele Road, before its expansion and dualisation, used to be a single lane. The condition of the road deteriorated due to perennial flooding. The upgrade project, which is at 65 percent completion, now has interlocked bricks with lidded and channelised drainage to address water overflow.
At the new Massey Children Hospital, Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, conducted the Governor round the site, where the 547 piling caps required to fully raise hospital structure had been completed.
Sanwo-Olu also observed the civil work on the multi-level car park for the hospital.
He said: “Today, we are here for the on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing reconstruction of Tapa-Okepopo streets and Adeniji Adele Road on Lagos Island. Messrs Julius Berger, the contractor, had informed us that the entire project is at 65 per cent; it shows that we are on track and we can complete the project before the end of the year. Interlocking bricks have been laid; the drainages have been largely completed and the whole area looks new.
“We also inspected the construction of the new Massey Children Hospital, where we noticed the two buildings that are supposed to be coming up on the site. The nine-storey car park, which is currently at the third floor and the 10-storey children hospital. All the 547 piling caps required to fully raise structure on the hospital site have been completed. The contractor has been working double hard on the terms of the project.”
Sanwo-Olu led the team to Ilubirin where a flood protection channel is being built by the Office of Drainages in the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to address water back flow to low plain areas in the city.
The Governor said a temporary wall had been erected across the water pumping channel to prevent back flow of water from the Lagos lagoon to Lagos Island environ.
Without the barricade, Sanwo-Olu said water would naturally be flowing back from the lagoon whenever there are high tides.
He said: “Significant part of Lagos is below sea level. When water rises from the lagoon, it can flow back to the city. The main observation today is that we are constructing a new 1-kilometre diversion channel from Ilubirin Estate that will take water unto the Lagos lagoon. We are also expecting three high-capacity pumps that are arriving next month. When this is done, issues around flooding on Lagos Island could have been significantly solved.”
The flood prevention effort, the Governor said, would be shifted to Ojo-Giwa collector and Thomas collector on Lagos Island for permanent solution.
Sanwo-Olu’s final stop was at the Lagos Island General Hospital in Aidan, Marina, where the State Government has carried out extensive rehabilitation of outdated facilities in phases.
In the first phase of the work, the Sanwo-Olu fully redesigned and upgraded the hospital’s Accident and Emergency section, Surgical Emergency wards, and training rooms.
The second phase of the project had the Pharmacy department and catering section rehabilitated. Eye Clinic, Administrative Building, Ambulance Bay, Relative Waiting Area and Children’s Surgical Wards were fully renovated in the third phase of the work.
The final phase, Sanwo-Olu said, will ensure full upgrade of the Pathology Department and construction of new wards to accommodate more patients on referral.
“In the new hospitals we are building, we have included the construction of Doctors’ Quarters just as we have in Lagos Island General Hospital. We are currently building quarters for doctors in Gbagada General Hospital and another one on General Hospital, Isolo. This is to improve the condition of service for our doctors and other health professionals supporting them,” the Governor said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
10 AUGUST 2022
Osun State INEC and PDP Trying to Compromise Electoral Documents*
The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osun State Chapter, has received an authentic information about the activities of certain individuals in the Osun State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and some unscrupulous elements in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in attempts to compromise the contents of the electoral results of Forms EC8A and EC8B vis-à-vis the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) reports which contain the records of the actual number of persons accredited to vote in each polling unit.
Having read the Petition filed by our candidate, Alhaji Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola and our party, the APC, the PDP (PDP) and their collaborators in the INEC, Osogbo office, have entered the panic mode and have been making frantic efforts to manipulate the electoral results and other documents.
Everyone can recall that the Petition we presented to the Electoral Tribunal on Friday, the 5th day of August, 2022 made detailed and undeniable allegations of non-compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022 with established vagaries and inconsistencies between the numbers of persons accredited by BVAS and the actual numbers of persons that voted in each polling unit.
By the above, we were able to establish over-voting in 749 polling units across ten local government areas of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, Ejigbo, Ila, Ilesha West, Irepodun, Obokun, Olorunda and Osogbo Local Government Council Areas.
We got it from a reliable and an authoritative source that the INEC officials in Osogbo, working for PDP and its candidate, Ademola Adeleke, have embarked on an urgent process of manipulating the contents of the BVAS report in order to defeat the unassailable allegations and evidence at our disposal.
It is on record that the certified true copies of most documents are with us and any attempt to doctor, manipulate, tamper with or utter such documents in the custody of INEC shall be resisted strongly.
We use this medium to call on all lovers of democracy and electoral justice to prevail on INEC and PDP to allow a peaceful determination of the electoral dispute as submitted to the Electoral Tribunal sitting in Osogbo.
Furthermore, we consider it pertinent to warn all officials of INEC office, Osogbo and their PDP collaborators to desist from any criminal activity capable of compromising a fair determination of our Petition.
If the PDP and the INEC know that they won the election fair and square without any malpractice or corrupt practice, they should come and defend our allegations without deceiving the public or making electoral justice impossible.
We shall not hesitate to put in motion criminal prosecution against any attempt to defeat the ends of justice.
Thank you.
*Prince Gboyega Famoodun,*
Chairman, All Progressives Congress,
Osun State Chapter.
