The former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, faces allegations of operating 593 illegal accounts in the US, UK, and China, without approval. Investigator Jim Obaze found £543,482,213 in unauthorized fixed deposits in UK banks. Emefiele, currently in custody for procurement fraud, may also face charges related to the CBN naira redesign policy. The report suggests illegal issuance of currency and involvement of Tunde Sabiu and 12 CBN directors. Additionally, Emefiele is implicated in the misuse of CBN funds, including fraudulent use of N26.627tn in Ways and Means and questionable legal fees.
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Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries morn demise of Okwadike
By Mary Jane
The Council of Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries (CORFEPS) has join millions of Nigerians to morn the death of one of its founding Members, and member of the Board of Trustees, His Excellency Okwadike Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife CON, who died on 15th December, 2023.
A statement made available to the press by Amb. Bulus Zom Lolo the Acting Secretary General CORFEPS described Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife as “a thoroughbred public servant whose patriotism, energy and dedication and professionalism combined with courageous advocacy, left an enduring legacy in our nation building process”.
He noted that Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife was not only a retired Federal Permanent Secretary, but after his unblemished Civil Service career, he ventured into politics in the Third Republic and became the first elected Governor of Anambra State and also served as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum.
“The Council mourns the demise of its illustrious founding and will greatly miss his wise counsel”. The statement concluded
CS SUNN charges FG, Stakeholders’ to fulfil Nutrition commitments
..Says one in three Nigerians suffer malnutrition
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Civil Society for Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria, CS SUNN, has urged the Nigerian Government and other Stakeholders’ in the Nutrition sector to fulfil their commitments accelerating the progress of nutrition in Nigeria.
This is as one in three Nigerians suffer malnutrition,CS SUNN stated.
The Executive Secretary of CS SUNN, Sunday Okoronkwo said this on Thursday in Abuja at a Media Roundtable Meeting organized to push for the concert fulfillment of commitment at all government levels to advance nutrition and to tackle malnutrition in the country.
Okoronkwo who was represented by Lilian Okafor, CS SUNN Communication Officer said,”Though some commitments for health and nutrition are yet to be fulfilled, CS SUNN commends the government for some levels of progress made on nutrition.”
“The approval of the National Multisectional Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition, domesticated by some states with the support from CS SUNN and approval of the establishment of Nutrition departments in all nutrition line ministers.”
The Nutrition agency further called for a paradigm shift from verbal to institutional, operational commitments.“Such advocated shifts should include enabling legislation, policies, and plans for nutrition, improved coordination institutional framework, better data, monitoring, and accountability systems for nutrition, inclusive of Nigeria’s commitment at the Tokyo M4G Summit.”
Furthermore , CS SUNN called for more drive for community
nutrition commitments across the nation.Also speaking at the Media Roundtable Meeting, the M4G Nutrition Policy Analyst, Chidinma Ezenwa disclosed that earlier in 2021, the N4G made commitments to reduce stunting prevalence in children from the current 37% to 25% by 2025.
According to the Nutrition Analyst,to ensure that nutrition is grounded across the nation, the N4G is using a scorecard as a monitoring tool to track the fulfilment of commitment by governors in the areas of advocacy and accountability.
Daybreak reports that the CS SUNN Media Roundtable Meeting was aimed at Advancing Nigeria’s nutrition commitment from pledges to concrete actions for improved nutrition outcomes.
Remi Tinubu disburses N950,000,000 to lift 250 elderly citizens out of economic challenges
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
First lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja commenced the maiden edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, RHI, with the sum of N950,O000 , ( Nine hundred and fifty thousand Naira to support and empower 250 elderly citizens aged 65 years and above across the country out of economic hardship.
The First lady, represented by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, also the National Vice Chairman of the RHI, said that this is the first of its kind in the nation.
The RHI scheme programme which holds in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, is for the elderly and other selected beneficiaries, who
will each receive the sum of One hundred thousand naira, (N100,000), to cushion the effect of economic crunch and to alleviate the burden of the elderly during this festive period.Senator Tinubu said,” The total sum to be disbursed is Nine Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N950,000,000) as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state of the federation will receive the sum of Twenty-Five Million Naira (N25,000,000). We are committed to ensuring that each state receives this gesture, without discrimination.”
She noted that it is imperative to prioritize the elderly citizens particularly at this festive period not only to acknowledge their contributions but to acknowledge the encounters they face.
Sen. Tinubu further advised the Senior citizens to prioritize their health , nurture their minds and strengthen their bonds with
loved one and God.The FCT Minister of State .Dr. Mariya Mahmoud noted that the distribution of cash and items is also to show gratitude for their wealth of wisdom and experience.
Mahmoud said,”Today’s distribution is a small token of the First Lady’s appreciation, a gesture that reflects her commitment to ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who have paved the way for us.”
“As we hand out these items, let us also take a moment to engage with our elders, to listen to their stories, and to learn from their rich tapestry of life experiences.”
The Minister also urged other critical Stakeholders’to emulate the First lady’s gesture to show love and warmth to the elderly and the less privilege throughout the year.
The Mandate Secretary FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Hon. Adedayo Benjamin – Laniyi stated that the First lady Renewed Initiative is to reach out to the elderly people in the society to put a smile on their faces during this festive period.
Furthermore, the elderly citizens from the six a Area Councils of the FCT got humanitarian services like free medical check up , free drugs, free eye check up and glasses, free high blood pressure check up, counseling and free enlightenment in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
FCTA opens inclusive platform to tap experience of Retired Directors
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Federal Capital Territory Administration ,FCTA has inaugurated an inclusive platform to tap into the knowledge and experience of retired directors aimed at repositioning the Administration.
FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, at the inaugural meeting with the retired senior citizens in Abuja on Thursday, said that their contribution was critical to moving the capital city forward.
The meeting was organized by the FCTA Reforms Coordination and Service Improvement Department (RCSID).
Wike, who was represented by the acting Permanent Secretary, FCTA, Mr Udom Atang, stated that the retirees had contributed significant roles while in office and in different sectors.
According to the minister, the retired senior officers had also contributed immensely to the building of Abuja as Nigeria’s dream capital city from the scratch to its present status.
He expressed his delight over the creation of the platform, which he said would unite the retired directors to continue to contribute to the development of the capital city.
The minister said, “The forum would provide a platform for us to tap into your wealth of experience and knowledge.
“We have seen in many organizations, where the retired officers are invited as resource persons, because of their institutional knowledge and experience, to coach and mentor the young ones.”
“I think this forum will provide the platform for us to tap into your wealth of experience and knowledge.”
“At each of the training programmes, you can be rest assured that in all the professional fields, which are represented here, we will always contact you.”
“This is because nobody can do it better than those who have been here before,” he said.
He commended Dr Jummai Ahmadu, the acting Director, RCSID for the initiative, which he described as the “beginning of good things to happen in FCT.
He reiterated the commitment of the FCTA towards improving the welfare and the general wellbeing of workers in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
Earlier, Ahmadu told the retired directors that their contributions to the development of the Administration over the years were invaluable.
Ahmadu told the Retired Directors, “Your wealth of knowledge and experience is an invaluable asset to the FCT Administration, and we are eager to tap into your insights as we continue to work towards the development and progress of the territory.”
“Your guidance and wisdom will undoubtedly be instrumental in shaping the future of the FCT, and we are grateful for the opportunity to benefit from your expertise.”
“It is our hope that you will share your ideas and collaborate with the current leadership of the FCT Administration.”
“This is because your unique perspectives will undoubtedly enhance our understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and together, we can work towards innovative solutions that will benefit the FCT and its residents,” she affirmed.
Edo 2024: Obaseki is sponsoring Asue and Akpata
By Comrade John Imagbe
In the current discourse surrounding the “Esan Agenda,” Governor Godwin Obaseki’s motivations have become a subject of controversy, with skepticism emerging about whether his actions genuinely serve the well-being of the Esan people and Edos at large, or if they are driven by self-interest. The latter is truly the case with personalities like Obaseki, who play PDP during the day and Labour Party at night.
Critics point to a perceived lack of Esan representation in crucial government positions, such as the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Head of Service, and State Auditor General, all occupied by individuals from the Bini ethnic group. The recent selection of a Speaker from Edo North further intensifies concerns, as it seemingly excludes Esan people from significant positions of power-sharing in the state.
Calls for transparency have led some to challenge Obaseki to provide a comprehensive list of Esan individuals holding prominent roles within his administration. The inconsistency in the governor’s approach to ethnic representation is highlighted, especially in comparison to previous administrations led by individuals from different ethnic backgrounds. Little wonder that the two Vice-Chancellors Obaseki has appointed so far as interim head of the State-owned University in Ekpoma are Benin men, one of whom is his brother-in-law. Is this how to support Esan agenda?
Speculation surrounds Obaseki’s sudden advocacy for the Esan Agenda, with some suspecting that it might be linked to promoting his friend and business partner, Asue Ighodalo, as his successor. Despite lacking an official government position, Ighodalo’s influential role in managing Edo’s resources raises questions about the extent of his involvement in decision-making processes and the use of state funds, especially considering the close ties between his bank, Sterling Bank, and the Edo State government. Recently, it was widely reported that Sterling Bank received close to a billion naira as bank charges from the Obaseki-led government.
The perceived focus shift from the Esan Agenda to what some term an “Asue Agenda” raises concerns among Esan supporters who feel neglected and betrayed. The suspicion that Obaseki is backing Asue Ighodalo as a successor adds complexity to the situation, with questions about the electoral value and the potential elevation of Asue above the interests of the Esan people.
Governor Obaseki’s emphasis on the “Esan Agenda” appears to be influenced by Asue Ighodalo’s Esan background. Had Ighodalo hailed from Akoko Edo, Obaseki might have championed the “Akoko Edo Agenda.”
However, examining the past seven years reveals a notable disparity in the representation of Esan individuals in key roles. There are fewer than five Permanent Secretaries and Judges of Esan extraction in the Edo State Civil Service, contrasting starkly with Edo South’s dominance, claiming over 80% of such appointments under Obaseki’s tenure.
Despite this, the tangible development in terms of roads and infrastructure in Edo South seems disproportionately higher than in Esan. The absence of any road development in Edo Central during the Governor’s term raises questions about the equitable distribution of resources.
Critics argue that Obaseki’s focus on safeguarding his business interests with Asue Ighodalo may eclipse genuine concern for Esan’s welfare. The apparent disconnect between rhetoric and action prompts scrutiny of the Governor’s commitment to addressing the needs of Edo Central.
Governor Obaseki’s emphasis on ethnic politics, seen in his pitting of candidates from outside the Esan ethnic group against average Esan indigenes, has triggered worries about increased division and conflict within the state. The consequences of Obaseki’s ethnic political strategy remain uncertain, but observers caution against allowing his agenda to overshadow the broader interests of Edolites.
Additionally, reports of Obaseki sponsoring the Labour Party candidate, Barr. Akpata from Edo South through his SSG further contributed to the complexity of the political landscape, indicating potential maneuvering behind the scenes. In 2020 Obaseki sponsored Akpata to emerge as NBA President. It is a known fact that Akpata uses Edo State government house protocols during his political activities in the state. Recently, the Governor through his wife had a meeting with Akpata in far-away America where a huge amount of foreign currency was doled out to the former NBA President. Also, vehicles were made available to Akpata, which he in turn gave to the Labour Party in Edo State in a bid to secure the party’s ticket.
As time unfolds, it will become clearer how these dynamics impact Edo’s political landscape, and vigilance is urged to prevent the installation of what is perceived as a political “stooge” by Governor Obaseki.
Comrade John Imagbe writes from
Benin City
Federal Government Names Five Transporters and 28 Routes for 50% Christmas Fare Cut
By Daniel Edu
The Federal Government of Nigeria has designated five transport companies and identified 28 routes for the implementation of the 50% fare reduction during the Christmas festival. The decision, approved by President Bola Tinubu, aims to provide relief to ordinary Nigerians traveling between December 21 and January 4, 2024, allowing them to connect with their loved ones during the holiday season.
The five transport companies involved in the agreement are GIG (God is Good), Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata, and Area Motor. These companies, including some with mini-buses, will play a crucial role in offering discounted fares to commuters.
The 28 routes covered by the 50% fare subsidy include:
1. Lagos-Kano
2. Lagos-Abuja
3. Lagos-Kaduna-Zaria
4. Lagos-Jos
5. Lagos-Enugu
6. Lagos-Onitsha
7. Lagos-Owerri
8. Lagos-Aba
9. Lagos-Abakaliki
10. Lagos-Nsukka
11. Lagos-Uyo
12. Lagos-Port Harcourt
13. Onitsha-Kano
14. Onitsha-Lagos
15. Onitsha-Jos
16. Onitsha-Abuja
17. Onitsha-Sokoto
18. Onitsha-Gombe
19. Onitsha-Zakibiam
20. Port Harcourt-Owerri-Aba-Kano
21. Aba-Owerri-Abuja
22. Aba-Lagos
23. Abuja-Sokoto
24. Abuja-Lagos
25. Abuja-Onitsha-Owerri-Port Harcourt
26. Abuja-Enugu/Abakaliki
27. Abuja-Gombe
28. Abuja-KanoThe fare reduction initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on Christian faithful and make travel more affordable during the festive season.
Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Yet to Recover from Previous Fare Reduction, Says Managing Director
By Daniel Edu
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has revealed that it is still grappling with the impact of a previous reduction in transportation fares introduced by the government. Fidet Okhiria, the Managing Director of NRC, shared this information during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday.
The Federal Government had recently announced a 50% waiver on road transport fares and a 100% reduction in rail transportation fares as part of efforts to alleviate the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
While acknowledging the positive aspects of the intervention, Okhiria expressed concerns about the financial implications of the scheme. He mentioned that the NRC is yet to recover from a similar initiative implemented two years ago. However, he emphasized that the government’s role is to ensure the comfort of the people and provide necessary services.
Okhiria explained, “So it’s a good thing that the government considers we should do a free service, but they should also be willing to provide the resources to do it. We are hoping this time they are going to give us fuel, and those 15 days we are going to provide the free service. They are also willing to provide at least the money we pay to the cleaners and the security.”
He further highlighted that the NRC would need resources for purchasing diesel to power the trains and cover other associated expenses during the period of the fare reduction.
Tinubu Administration Celebrates as London Court Rejects P&ID’s Bid to Appeal $11 Billion Judgment
By Daniel Edu
A London court has dismissed Process & Industrial Development’s (P&ID) attempt to appeal the judgment that halted the enforcement of its $11 billion award against Nigeria.
In a ruling on Thursday, the presiding judge, Robin Knowles, decided to immediately reject the award against Nigeria. Knowles had previously, on October 23, stopped the enforcement of the award, supporting Nigeria’s claim that it was obtained through fraud and in violation of section 68 of the English Arbitration Act 1996.
The judge concluded that P&ID had engaged in bribery of Nigerian officials involved in drafting the gas supply and processing agreement (GSPA) in 2010. Additionally, he found that P&ID had unlawfully obtained Nigeria’s privileged legal documents during the arbitration hearings.
Despite his findings, Knowles faced three options for action, which included either remitting the award to the tribunal for reconsideration, setting it aside in whole or in part, or declaring it to be of no effect. Nigeria advocated for the complete setting aside of the award based on the common law principle that “fraud unravels all.”
On December 8, Knowles announced his decision not to send the award back to the arbitration tribunal, choosing to invalidate the award entirely.
P&ID, however, sought permission to appeal the October 2023 judgment. Their lawyers argued that the judge failed to apply a “causation” requirement, which would have determined whether the arbitration award would have been made without P&ID paying bribes to government officials. They also contended that the privileged documents in P&ID’s possession had no impact on their success in arbitration.
In the recent judgment on Thursday, the judge denied P&ID permission to appeal, effectively bringing the case to a close, as the company is unable to seek permission from the court of appeal.
Urges them to approach responsibilities with renew vigour, pragmatic
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The umbrella body of all Northern Youths, Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACOM), has urged the new national executive committee of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), to approach its responsibilities with renewed vigour and pragmatism.
JACOM gave the advise on Wednesday, in a statement signed by its Convener and Secretary, Murtala Abubakar and Israel Musa, and made available to newsmen in Kaduna.
“JACOM is pleased with the smooth transition and change of leadership baton by ACF; the apex Northern Nigeria socio-cultural organisation culminating to last week inauguration of the new national executive committee to pilot the affairs of the organisation for the next three years after the expiration of the tenure of the former minister of agriculture Elder Audu Ogbe.
“The smooth and peaceful transition following the painstaking efforts of the selection committee that produced the current executive team under the chairmanship of Mr. Mamman Mike Osman SAN, is a clear testimony to the commitment of ACF to approach its responsibilities with renewed vigour and pragmatism more than ever before.
“The Joint Action Committee of Northern youth Associations is convinced that going by the profiles of the people that constitute the newly inaugurated executive team, the idea behind the formation of the ACF among other things, to promote peace and unity and engender prosperity in the entire landscape of Arewa on a consultative basis, will be realised”, it stated.
It added that while they look forward to the current leadership vision for the north, the association assured ACF of its total commitment, and that of entire people of the north of our willingness to join hands with ACF’s new executive committee for closer synergy.
According to the association, its commitment would not only to ensure closer synergy that will bring about convergence of energy of the youth and wisdom of our fathers to face our challenges, but also to bring back security, peace, unity and prosperity to our region for hope and better tomorrow, especially in this trying times.
JAMCO therefore called on all Northerners irrespective of tongue, faith, political lineage to unite and give the ACF the needed supports it required to discharge its responsibilities.
