Category: News

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

President Bola Tinubu has commended the re-elected Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, and the Governor-elect of Kogi State, Usman Ododo for working hard to win the votes and hearts of the people of their states in the recently conducted off-season governorship elections.

He gave the commendation on Friday while receiving Uzodimma and Ododo in Abuja.

In a press release made available to Journalists in Lokoja, the duo, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and some stalwarts of the ruling All Progressives Congress were led by the National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, to meet the President.

Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the elections, which he described as free, fair, and peaceful.

Specifically addressing Uzodimma and Ododo, Tinubu said, “You worked hard for this victory. I am very proud of you.”

He advised Uzodimma and Ododo and other governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, to always put the interest of the people first and work for the good of their states.

The President said, “The real challenge has only started, and it will stare you (governors) in the face. That is the challenge of good governance. Make sure that everyone is carried along. You are now the servants of the people. To God be all the glory for the victories, and may God guide you.

“Once the people of Nigeria and their concerns are the focal point of your plans and actions, not only will governance be easier for you, but you will enhance the value of your states and the masses of the people will have new opportunities to grow and enjoy a new standard of living. This must be your driving focus as governors, but especially as governors elected on the platform of our great party.

“Two out of three is not a bad way to start. We will focus not on winning the elections alone but on delivering for the people. They are sovereign, and when we achieve what we promise, voters will respect us. We will work with you at the sub-national levels, and we will uphold the strength and superior excellence that is symbolized by the eagle on our coat of arms.”

In his remarks, APC National Chairman, Ganduje, said the party’s candidates conducted themselves with integrity as directed by the President during the elections, and that the party had conceded victory to the opposition in Bayelsa State.

“We lost the election in Bayelsa, and we have conceded in good faith. You directed that the elections should be free, fair, and peaceful, and it was so,” Ganduje said.

On behalf of those who contested the elections, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, thanked the President for providing strong and purposeful leadership at the center, which enabled and energized their campaigns.

“We won because of the leadership you demonstrated. The country was struggling, but the economy has been responding to the reforms and rapid-response strategy you have put in place,” he said.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

Acting Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, Benue State, Mr James Iorpuu, has disclosed that arrangements have been concluded by the United States of America’s Government Officials to visit the state next year to intervene in the Benue IDP’S Situation.

Mr Iorpuu who made this disclosure while fielding questions from Journalists in his office in Makurdi, explained that arrangements have reached an advanced stage for the USA’s Government Officials to formally visit Benue State in January next year for necessary action.

According to the SEMA Boss, Benue State has been launched in the global map through the on going biometric data exercise which is being carried out by International Organizations to ascertain the actual number of the IDPs in the camps.

“We’re happy that the International Communities are aware of the Benue State IDP situation through the biometric data exercise. We have been sending the figures online. Iam also happy to say that the United States of America’s Government is now interested in the Benue IDP’s situation.”

The Acting Executive Secretary maintained that, Benue State Government has accorded humanitarian crises in the state topmost priority, stressing that it was the reason government created the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management.

“The Governor is not jocking about the humanitarian crises we have in Benue State”, adding that Governor Alia is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that those in the IDPs return to their ancestral homes.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor and Chairperson of the State Gender Based Violence Management Committee, Mrs Patience Umo Eno has issued a stern warning to rapists, paedophiles and abusers warning that it would not be business as usual.

She has also called on all hands to be on deck in her quest to rid the State of all forms of gender based violence.

Eno who gave the warning in Uyo weekend during the flag-off of the 16 Days Activism Against Gender Based Violence in the State frowned against rape and molestation adding that anyone found to be a rapist or shielding rapists and paedophiles would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

“I am here today as the Chairperson of this Committee to flag-off this 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence in the State. Henceforth, it will not be business as usual.

“I am calling on our men to support this advocacy by saying no to rape and all forms of abuse against women and the girl-child. Let’s put a stop to this menace.”She said.

The First Lady charged parents not to cave in when being pressured, but rather to demand and stand for justice, averring that the state government through the GBV management committee has put in place measures to curb the ugly trend.

The Governor’s Wife speaking further noted that the ’16 Days Activism’ was an advocacy targeted at raising awareness on the alarming rate of rape and abuse in the society, saying, “no one should feign ignorance when the law catches up with him or her.”

Secretary of GBV Committee, Barr Emem Etteh stated that the flag-off walk for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence is a demonstration against GBV in the state and the world.

“Akwa Ibom State has always been in the front line against perpetuators of rape and will not relent to be a voice against GBV.” Etteh said.

On hand to lend their voices to the campaign were the State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Felicia Bassey, Wife of the SSG, Dr. Inemesit Uwah and a host of others.

Female youths, traditional leaders, religious leaders, women groups and civil society organisations were all in attendance.

Renowned Christian film producer and founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, Mike Bamiloye, shared his apprehensions regarding certain married women who, despite their pleasant demeanor in church, exhibit stubbornness, rudeness, and a lack of submission at home.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, Bamiloye emphasized the disparity between these women’s public and private behaviors, highlighting their unyielding nature, disrespect, and reluctance to be intimate with their husbands.

He wrote, “Some married women in the Lord are fond of having their ways all the time. They never submit to their husbands. They never follow their husband.

“They are beautiful to behold in beauty, they smile all the time, they stand beside their husband in the church, but they are not who they claim to be.

“They are the direct opposite at home. Stubborn, rude, unbroken, disrespectful, and very stingy with their body to their husband.

“They dictate their terms to give their husbands access to their body. They are hard at home, but soft in the church. Very unsubmissive and insensitive. May God Almighty deliver men from such ‘Sisters.’”

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Region 36, has inaugurated the first Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State. Named the ‘Enoch and Folu Adeboye Intensive Care Unit,’ the facility was unveiled by Mrs. Folu Adeboye at the Alimosho General Hospital in Igando.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Adeboye emphasized the significance of human life and health, drawing on biblical passages to underscore her points. She highlighted the importance of good health, stating, “Health is more important than prosperity.”

The project, inspired by the church’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, aligns with the church’s commitment to addressing the needs of its members and the host community. The initiative is part of RCCG Region 36’s culture of pursuing excellence in its CSR activities.

Pastor Dele Jaiyeoba, the pastor in charge of the region, explained that the absence of a single ICU in the entire Alimosho Local Government prompted the establishment of the facility. He credited Pastor Ola Olukoyede, Assistant Pastor in charge of the Province and head of CSR in the region, for leading the efforts to address this critical gap.

The ICU at Alimosho General Hospital is equipped with essential medical items, including electric beds, a multi-parameter monitor, an infusion pump, air mattresses, a suction machine, an AED machine, an oxygen concentrator, anti-DVT pump, ventilator, and more.

Ola Olukoyede emphasized that plans for maintaining the facility were in place to ensure its long-term impact. He highlighted that the ICU would contribute to promoting health and well-being in the area while aligning with the gospel’s propagation.

Dr. Ayodapo Soyinka, the Medical Director of Alimosho General Hospital, praised the ICU as a strategic and impactful intervention in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. He assured that efforts would be made to keep the facility affordable for the benefit of the community.

Among the distinguished guests present were Atinuke Onayiga, Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission; Olumuyiwa Solanke and Mobolaji Olukoya, Commissioners 1 and 2 of LSHSC; Tayo Abiodun, Partner/Director at LTBL Consulting, and staff from the general hospital.

While the notion that arranged marriages tend to last longer than love marriages is a common belief, it’s crucial to approach this topic with a nuanced perspective. The longevity of any marriage depends on various factors, and generalizations may not universally apply.

Here are some factors often associated with the perceived longevity of arranged marriages:

1. Family and Community Support:
Arranged marriages frequently benefit from the support and approval of both families and the broader community. This external backing establishes a robust foundation for the couple, fostering a sense of responsibility not only to each other but also to their families and community.

2. Shared Values and Backgrounds:
Arranged marriages, particularly in specific cultures, may involve matching individuals with similar backgrounds, values, and cultural expectations. This alignment can reduce the likelihood of conflicts arising from differences in fundamental beliefs.

3. Commitment to Making It Work:
Some arranged marriages exhibit a stronger commitment to making the relationship succeed. Socially, divorce may be less acceptable or carry more significant consequences, driving couples to invest more effort in overcoming challenges.

4. Lower Expectations:
Individuals in arranged marriages might, in some cases, have lower expectations regarding romantic love or idealized notions of marriage. This pragmatic and realistic approach to relationship challenges can contribute to longer-lasting marriages.

5. Parental Guidance:
Arranged marriages often involve parental or familial guidance, offering stability to the relationship. This guidance becomes particularly valuable during challenging times and can contribute to the enduring nature of the marriage.

It’s essential to note that these factors do not guarantee the success of arranged marriages universally. Successful love marriages exist, and societal attitudes toward arranged marriages are evolving. The key determinants of a marriage’s success lie in the commitment, communication, and compatibility of the individuals involved. Cultural, regional, and individual variations play a significant role, making each marriage a unique journey.

Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), announced plans to request Deposit Money Banks to bolster their capital base in preparation for the projected $1tn economy outlined by President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria’s 58th Annual Dinner, Cardoso stressed the need for sustainable and inclusive economic growth aligned with the administration’s ambitious economic agenda.

He emphasized the importance of evaluating the adequacy of the banking industry to serve the envisioned larger economy, citing the necessity for banks to have sufficient capital relative to the finance system needs of a $1tn economy. As part of this initiative, the CBN will direct banks to increase their capital.

Cardoso acknowledged the challenges in the banking sector, attributing negative perceptions to corporate governance failure, diminished independence, deviations from the core mandate, inefficient forex rules, and ventures into development financing. He highlighted the importance of prioritizing price stability and addressing fundamental flaws.

Addressing past quasi-fiscal activities, Cardoso revealed that his predecessor, Godwin Emefiele, injected over N10tn into the economy through intervention programs. He acknowledged the distractions caused by these activities and pledged to address institutional deficiencies, restore corporate governance, and implement prudent policies during his tenure.

The CBN Governor assured stakeholders of a concerted effort to restore macroeconomic stability, address institutional challenges, and promote economic growth. Despite challenges in the global and local economic environment, Cardoso emphasized the financial sector’s resilience in 2023, with plans to fortify the industry for future challenges.

In conclusion, Cardoso outlined corrective actions, strategic measures, and comprehensive policies aimed at achieving economic stability in the short-to-medium term. The speech touched upon issues related to the fluctuating exchange rate, forex policies, and the impact of various government measures on the economy.

President Bola Tinubu is currently engaged in discussions at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, with the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in an effort to address the ongoing leadership crisis in the state.

The meeting, which commenced at 9:45 p.m., swiftly transitioned into a closed-door session with the President insisting that only individuals from Ondo State should occupy the Banquet Hall.

Despite this directive, over 50 attendees, including lawmakers, aides of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, and those of the Deputy Governor, were observed in attendance. Prominent figures present included Babajide Akeredolu, Senators representing Ondo North (Jide Ipinsagba), South (Jimoh Ibrahim), and Central Districts (Adeniyi Adegbonmire).

House of Representatives members from Ondo state, state commissioners, party chieftains, and elders were also part of the gathering.

This late-night joint session followed a prior meeting where the President engaged with an earlier group of stakeholders from Ondo state, including Senators, lasting nearly four hours.

This development comes in the wake of a plea by Ondo State Elders and Leaders urging President Tinubu to urgently intervene in the constitutional crisis to prevent potential law and order breakdown. The elders also called for guidance from the state and national leaderships of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to maintain discipline within the party.

In a letter to the President, the elders emphasized the importance of allowing the three arms of government to collaboratively find a lasting solution to the current crisis. Concurrently, President Tinubu issued an order for the police to withdraw from the premises of the Ondo State House of Assembly in Akure.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has expressed satisfaction with the Court of Appeal’s decision affirming his victory in the March 18, 2023, governorship election. The verdict upheld the Independent National Electoral Commission’s declaration of Sani as the winner in the North-West state, despite challenges from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Isah Ashiru.

In the initial announcement, the APC candidate secured 730,002 votes, surpassing his closest rival, Ashiru of the PDP, who scored 719,196 votes. Following the Election Tribunal’s judgment, the PDP and its candidate appealed the decision.

The Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice Victor Oviawe, upheld the tribunal’s verdict, confirming Sani’s victory. Responding to the news, Governor Uba Sani expressed joy and gratitude, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration for the progress of Kaduna State under the #SUSTAINKaduna agenda.

In a statement released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mohammed Shehu, Sani extended a hand of fellowship to all opposing sides, urging them to accept the verdict and work together for the state’s advancement. He commended the diligence of the tribunal and the appellate court, reaffirming his confidence in the judicial process.

Sani emphasized the need to focus on the substantial tasks ahead for the betterment of Kaduna State and encouraged dialogue with all stakeholders through an open-door policy. The governor also appreciated the support of the All Progressives Congress family and the people of Kaduna during the legal process, calling for unity and collective effort to move the state forward.