Category: News

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

The Supreme Court has confirmed Pastor Umo Eno as the validly elected Governor of Akwa Ibom State in the March 18, 2023 Governorship Elections.

The apex court has accordingly struck out all three respective appeals filed by Governorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr Akanimo Udofia, the New Nigerian People’s Party, NNPP, Sen John Udoedehe and the Young Progressives Party, YPP, Sen Bassey Albert Akpan.

This follows the withdrawal of the appeals by the respective appellants when the matters were called up for hearing on Thursday in Abuja.

When the appeal filed by John James Udoedehe(NNPP)came up, Mr Liman Hassan, SAN, Counsel to Mr Akanimo Udofia of the APC, told the Court that the crux of their appeal was the eligibility of the 2nd respondent(Pastor Umo Eno) and the 4th respondent on the basis of their having been convicted prior to the elections.

Hassan said while Eno was convicted by the Magistrate Court, Abuja Division, Albert who came second, was also convicted by the Federal High Court and the upheld by the Appeal Court, hence his client APC should be granted victory at the polls.

“My lordships, the purported verdict upturning the conviction of Pastor Umo Eno by the same Magistrate Court, is not tenable.” He said.

But Hassan argued that the conviction ought to have been upturned at a higher court.

“If there is no appeal against the setting aside of the conviction of the 2nd respondent, then you have no reason to introduce it here. You are wasting our time because that is purely an academic issue. Without an appeal, there is no basis to challenge a judgement.” He said.

“It is not every matter you bring here to bother us. Since you couldn’t invite WAEC to disown the certificate you claimed was forged, then stop wasting our time. The tribunal did a good job, we read the judgement and it was a perfect judgement.“ the Supreme Court said.

Consequent upon this, Hassan Liman, SAN, counsel to APC & Akanimo Udofia applied to withdraw the appeal.

Following no objection from the other parties, the five man panel, presided over by Justice Uwani Musa Abba Aji struck out Mr Udofia’s appeal.

Surprisingly, when the second appeal, between Akpan and Eno came up, Counsel to Akpan, Ahmed Raji, SAN, who was in court, declined to make an appearance hence the appellant was represented in court by Barr Tunde Falola.

The apex court agreed to jointly handle the two cases including that of NNPP candidate Senator John Udoedehe.

“The decision we take on one will be binding on the other case. We have seen your petition and we read your processes. How is your case different from that of APC”, the Supreme Court asked Tunde Falola, appearing for Bassey Albert.

The Court frowned at Bassey Albert’s counsel for repeating the same argument presented by APC’s Akanimo Udofia on the arrangement of names on the WAEC certificate of Pastor Umo Eno and urged him against further waste of the court time.

At this point, Ahmed Raji the senior counsel the Appellants quickly rose to apologize to the Court and consequently announced the withdrawal of the appeal, with none of the parties objecting.

Senator Bassey Albert had filed his initial petition before the lower tribunal on two main grounds, the purported non qualification of the 2nd Respondent (Governor Umo Eno), to stand election based on alleged forgery of senior school certificates, as well as not scoring the highest number of lawful votes in the March 18 Governorship elections in Akwa Ibom State.

However, in their appeal Number SC/CV/1230/2023 before the Supreme Court, the YPP governorship candidate failed to appeal against the decision of the tribunal which upheld the overwhelming victory of Pastor Umo Eno in the 2023 governorship elections but focused only on the allegations of forgery and fake certificates.

The Supreme Court had last week, dismissed the appeal by the governorship candidate of the Accord Party, Engr. Emem Coffie and that of Akpan Abraham of the Action Alliance, after the parties withdrew the appeal.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

Following the harassment of some members of the National Assembly, who were part of the team that paid a courtesy visit on governor Yahaya Bello in Government House Lokoja, six persons have been arrested on the order of the governor.

The Governor has subsequently banned unauthorized persons from accessing the government House while calling for immediate prosecution of the culprits.

The lawmakers from Kogi State, in the Senate and House of Representatives, had visited Governor Bello on Tuesday evening to congratulate him on the peaceful and credible conduct of the November 11 Governorship election and to pledge their unalloyed loyalty to him and the incoming administration.

A statement from the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Muhammed Onogwu said, “Shortly after the fruitful discussion, the governor received with rude shock the news of the harassment of some of the lawmakers on their way out of the government house and swiftly ordered the arrest of the culprits.

“He charged security agencies to investigate the issue thoroughly and ensure the offenders face the full wrath of the law.

Onogwu quoted the governor to have said, “Information just got to me as I left the office to the residence that one man called Suleiman and others embarrassed Senator Jubrin Echocho in Government House. I’ve directed Chief Security Officer (CSO) to arrest all those involved in such stupid act and bring them to justice immediately. I will never condone act of hooliganism and indiscipline.”

The members who visited on Tuesday were Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho of Kogi East, Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West, Rt Hon Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims of Ankpa Federal Constituency, Hon Zachariah Idris of Idah Federal Constituency and Hon Sani Abdulrahim Egidi of Ajaokuta Federal Constituency.

Others were Hon. Abdulrahim Danga (PDP) of Okehi/Adavi Federal, Hon Gowon Haruna of Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, Hon Tijani Ozigi of Okene/Ogori Federal Constituency, Hon Danladi Aguye of Lokoja/Koto Federal Constituency and Hon Salman Idris (ADV) of Kabba/Ijumu Federal constituency respectfully.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR, Ogoja office on Wednesday donated a Six-Seater Toyota Land Cruiser to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA, as part of its efforts towards tackling Humanitarian Challenges.

Head of the organization, Irene Omondi, while making the donation at the BSEMA’s headquarters in Makurdi, said the gesture would go a long way to assist the agency to addressing the humanitarian challenges bedeviling the agency.

The Representative of UNHCR, commended the Benue State Government for ensuring that the welfare of the Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, is properly taking care of.

Responding, the Acting Executive Secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency BSEMA, Mr James Iorpuu, appreciated the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees over the donation of the operational vehicle.

Mr Iorpuu, disclosed that the occasion was not just a handover ceremony, but it was a testament to the power of collaboration and unwavering support of the development partners.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to the UNHCR for their continuous support to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA. Today’s donation of an operational vehicle signifies more than a means of transportation. It is a life line that connects us to those who depend on our swift response in times of crises.”

He lauded the UNHCR for recruiting staff to manage not only the Cameroonian Refugees at Ikyogen, but also the Internally Displaced Persons camps in Benue State, adding that this expansion of support is instrumental in ensuring that their response efforts are comprehensive.

In response to the escalating security challenges along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has taken decisive action to ensure the safety of travelers and residents. The move follows the recent abduction of more than 85 individuals in bandit attacks, prompting widespread concerns about the security of the region.

The IGP has issued a directive for the immediate deployment of additional police officers and enhanced security equipment along the expressway. This measure aims to not only address the immediate security threats but also act as a deterrent to criminal activities in the area. The deployment will be closely monitored by Deputy Inspector-General of Police for Operations, Ede Ayuba Ekpeji.

The decision to reinforce security infrastructure along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens and travelers. The IGP emphasized the need for a proactive approach to reassure the public and instill confidence in their security.

The deployment will leverage advanced technology and strategic resources to bolster overall security infrastructure along the route. It marks a significant step towards creating a secure and peaceful environment for commuters. The IGP stressed the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the public, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel during their duties.

As incidents of criminal activities, including abductions, have raised concerns, the Inspector-General of Police has reassured the public that these strengthened security measures are part of an ongoing commitment to maintaining a secure and peaceful environment. The deployment aligns with the collaborative effort required to address emerging security challenges effectively.

The IGP’s directive emphasizes the proactive stance of law enforcement agencies, indicating a commitment to robust security measures that go beyond reactive responses. As the situation unfolds, these measures are poised to contribute significantly to the overall safety and security of the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, providing a sense of reassurance to those who rely on this critical transportation route.

…Urges the public, media to desist from curating opinions and false hot takes on the Minister of Interior

A coalition of over 180 Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, identified as Civil Society Groups for Good Governance in solidarity, has refuted the incessant public opinion regarding the involvement of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in a N438 million contract with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

In a press briefing organised in Abuja on Wednesday, the group amid the recent media campaign, mudslinging seeking for the sack of the minister, stated that he Hon. Tunji-Ojo remains one of the best-performing cabinet ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the President Bola Ahmed government.

The statement which was read by the President of the Coalition, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, the coalition emphasized the need to clarify situations, maintain decorum, and discourage biased perceptions.

” Our attention has been drawn to the recent allegations of fraudulent activities besieging the ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and her minister, our concern however is the baton of judgement it has on other persons who are in no way connected to the allegations, hence the need for this press briefing with the above-mentioned subject matter.

“As watchdogs of the society, we are not partisan to social media judgement, court or condemnation, we do not buy into activities of keypad warriors casting aspersions; therefore, we condemn in all its entirety the discordant public opinion regarding the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’ involvement in the N438 million Humanitarian Ministry Contract and we aim to set the record straight for clarity and for the avoidance of public biased perceptions and judgement.

“It is a well-known fact that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has repeatedly exonerated himself, providing evidence, from any involvement in the controversial N438 million contract scandal related to the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu.

“Additionally, the Minister, Mr. Tunji-Ojo, presented a certified document from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), confirming his resignation from the company five years ago. He has no business with the said company—absolutely no business—because he’s not involved in the day-to-day running of the company.

“He also does not pursue jobs for the company, does not bid for the company, and is not a signatory to the company’s account. May we reiterate that “HE IS NOT INVOLVED AND SHOULDN’T BE ROPED IN, THOSE INVOLVED SHOULD BEAR THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR ACTIONS ALONE.” He added.

Ogakwu noted Tunji-Ojo’s commendable efforts within a short tenure in office, emphasising his commitment to the Interior Ministry’s mandate and national development.

“While social media platforms have been rife with criticism, the Minister has shown exceptional leadership by spearheading significant reforms, bringing about efficiency and progressive change across various agencies under his purview,” Dominic added.

He urged the public to recognize the Minister’s achievements, citing instances such as the swift clearance of a passport backlog at the Nigeria Immigration Service and efforts to secure funds for prison inmates’ fines, which eased congestion in correctional facilities nationwide.

The convener concluded by commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift response in suspending those directly involved in the sharp practices exposed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, according to him, the act goes to show that the recent administration, is committed to nipping corruption in the bud to afford Nigerians and Nigeria the giant strides it deserves as part of its strategy in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda.

A leading contender for the governorship position in Edo state under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. PDP, Earl Osaro Oniawu has berated those saying they have stepped down for other candidates in the party when the race is yet to kicked off.

Recall that only recently an aspirant, John Yakubu, a two￾time Esan North East local government area chairman was reported to have stepped down for another aspirant Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

Speaking with journalists Yakubu said he opted to step down in the interest of
the party as well as the positive activities displayed by Ighodalo.
He said, “After due consultation across our top party leadership spectrum, members of my Campaign Organisation and my teeming supporters, across the three
Senatorial Districts and beyond. i decided to step down to support Dr. Asue Ighodalo

Reacting on the development among others, Onaiwu said, nobody has stepped down for anybody since the PDP has not even started selling expression of interest form to determine who the candidates are, describing the news as cheap political gimmick designed to score cheap political point.

“To be considered an Aspirant of a political party like PDP you must have purchased the Sales of expression form at least. Then attend a screening of the aspirants for the governorship seat by the National Working Committee before purchasing the nomination form.
None of the people that have stepped down in PDP are aspirants. Such news must be disregarded. These are cheap political points by some people trying to force an unpopular person down our throats. Those that have rumoured to have stepped down where only consulting party members and were not real contenders. The Sales of expression form will be available for purchase soon, then we will know those who mean business” he said.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR, Ogoja office on Wednesday donated a Six-Seater Toyota Land Cruiser to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA, as part of its efforts towards tackling Humanitarian Challenges.

Head of the organization, Irene Omondi, while making the donation at the BSEMA’s headquarters in Makurdi, said the gesture would go a long way to assist the agency to addressing the humanitarian challenges bedeviling the agency.

The Representative of UNHCR, commended the Benue State Government for ensuring that the welfare of the Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, is properly taking care of.

Responding, the Acting Executive Secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency BSEMA, Mr James Iorpuu, appreciated the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees over the donation of the operational vehicle.

Mr Iorpuu, disclosed that the occasion was not just a handover ceremony, but it was a testament to the power of collaboration and unwavering support of the development partners.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to the UNHCR for their continuous support to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA. Today’s donation of an operational vehicle signifies more than a means of transportation. It is a life line that connects us to those who depend on our swift response in times of crises.”

He lauded the UNHCR for recruiting staff to manage not only the Cameroonian Refugees at Ikyogen, but also the Internally Displaced Persons camps in Benue State, adding that this expansion of support is instrumental in ensuring that their response efforts are comprehensive.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State expressed gratitude to philanthropist Femi Otedola for his generous donation of N1bn to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF). The donation, presented by Otedola’s daughter, Olawunmi, is the largest individual contribution to the LSSTF and aims to enhance the state’s security architecture. Sanwo-Olu praised Otedola’s commitment to creating a peaceful environment for residents and investors. He urged other Nigerians and corporate entities to follow suit, emphasizing the open invitation for additional donations to the LSSTF. The governor also announced the government’s plan to contribute 300 vehicles to support security efforts in the first quarter of the year. Olawunmi Otedola commended the government’s dedication to ensuring the safety of Lagos residents and encouraged transparency and judicious resource utilization by the LSSTF.

Shortly after dissolving the boards of Polaris, Union, and Keystone banks, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has swiftly appointed new executive directors to oversee these deposit money banks. According to the CBN’s statement, Yetunde Oni, the first female CEO of Standard Chartered Bank in Sierra Leone, takes the helm as the Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank, with Mannir Ubali Ringim as the Executive Director. For Keystone Bank, Hassan Imam is appointed as its Chief Executive Officer, and Chioma Mang assumes the role of Executive Director. Lawal Mudathir Omokayode Akintola is named the Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank, with Chris Ofikulu as Executive Director. The CBN emphasized that these appointments are effective immediately. This move follows the dissolution of the boards due to infractions such as regulatory non-compliance, corporate governance failure, and activities threatening financial stability. The action aligns with the provisions of the Financial Institutions Act, 2020, following a special investigation into CBN’s activities.

By Samuel Itsede

The leading contender under the platform of PDP for the Edo State Governorship election and Former Director General of the Nigerian Governors Forum and founding Director General of The PDP Governors Forum, Earl Osaro Onaiwu has asked The Minster of The Niger Delta to review the proposed budget allocation from the NDDC to Edo state.

He made the call recently, in an interactive section with stakeholders and business managers.

He observed that ” The Nigeria Bureau of statistics in their reports stated that 27 states in Nigeria in quarter 3 failed to attract any foreign investment, which Edo was amongst. This only indicates that there was slow rate of sustainable development in many of the states listed.

” It is not out of order to request a review from our Minster for a spread of the grants and allocations to the 3 senatorial zone, especially the oil producing zones”. He said.

Onaiwu also advised that elected and appointed public servants should consider using their positions to develop not just their zones but other zones.

Osaro Onaiwu is also the initiator of the North East Economic Summit. The 1st summit launch was organized in Bauchi to address political, socio-economic issues. Information and reports from the summit were used as advisory document to the federal and state government in its combat against insurgency.