I can’t run against Tinubu in 2027, Wike declares.

I can’t run against Tinubu in 2027, Wike declares.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculations that he could revive his presidential ambition in 2027, saying as a man who abhors disloyalty, he cannot contest against his boss, President Bola Tinubu.

Noting that he remained committed to the successes of the Tinubu administration, Wike recalled how his eternal quest for justice led him and five other Governors of the People’s Democratic Party PDP to form the G5 to canvass for power shift and support the presidential ambition of Tinubu.

Speaking in an interview on Friday in Abuja, the minister said good character should never be sacrificed on the altar of politics.

He said; “Tinubu made me the FCT minister and I won’t allow anybody to crumble our political structure. No!

“Tinubu made me minister, people don’t understand, I have character. What will happen in 2027? I stood and I said I am not going to support injustice. I was threatened that they would do me this and that. They tried many options including using Major Generals.”

On the reported face-off with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of his home state, Rivers, Wike said he did not want to dwell on the matter but later declared that the best test of a person’s character is to give him power and money.

He said; “Give a man power and money, and that is when you will know the person. If you have not given manpower and money don’t say you know the person.

“He may be your friend, he may be your son, sister mother or father. I don’t want to go into that.

“In three months, it is sad for someone to scatter a political structure that supported and brought you up.

You know what is painful? All these allegations, I smile. Who and who sat with him? In all your doings be grateful in your life no matter the circumstance. Nobody who is a gentleman and a politician will support this kind of thing.”

On his achievements as governor of Rivers State, wike said: “I was paying pensioner’s gratuity every month which were not paid by my predecessor. I took Rivers State to the level where you cannot discuss politics in Nigeria without Rivers State.

I was an ordinary minister when I became a governor. I challenged the sitting governor and I defeated his candidate. I worked hard.”

Speaking on the new requirements for acquisition of land in the Territory especially the introduction of National Identity Number NIN and Biometric Verification Number BVN to get a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), the minister said the new features were for security and revenue generation.

“There are a lot of discrepancies, a lot of cloning of C-of-Os, so we have come up with an idea that every allottee who seeks and applies for a C-of-O must supply his NIN; this is one of the features we are going to put in the new C-of-O.

“If a corporate body doesn’t have an NIN and they have a property, they must put their BVN. So many persons have not registered, and this will make them go and re-register”, he stated.

Addressing the issue of existing landlords with C-of-Os, Wike stated that they would only be required to pay a nominal fee for recertification.

“For everyone who has a C-of-O, they will come for a recertification, so that we can incorporate the NIN or BVN.

“Those who had a C-of-O before don’t need to pay money again; the highest they can pay is N50,000, and corporate bodies will pay N100,000. It helps in terms of security; it also helps to improve our revenue generation.

“There are people who own seven properties, so this will identify them so they can pay taxes”, he added.

Kyari confirms Port Harcourt refinery will start working in December.

Kyari confirms Port Harcourt refinery will start working in December.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari has confirmed that the Port Harcourt refinery will start working in December 2023.

Kyari made the confirmation on Thursday during his meeting with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

He also informed Abbas that the rehabilitation of the state-run refineries is in serious progress, saying it would put an end to the importation of petrol by December 2024.

“I can confirm to you that by the end of December this year, we will start the Port Harcourt refinery,” Kyari said.

“Early in the first quarter of 2024, we will start the Warri refinery and by the end of 2024, the Kaduna refinery will come into operation.

“This is the commitment we are giving today, and you can hold us accountable for this.”

Kyari added that in 2024, many of the initiatives including the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries and also the efforts of small-scale refineries as well as the upcoming Dangote refinery, will make the country a net exporter of petroleum products in 2024.

“We will no longer be talking about fuel importation by the end of 2024. I am very optimistic that this will crystallize,” the NNPCL CEO said.

I don’t like ingrates, Wike speaks on feud with Gov Fubara.

I don’t like ingrates, Wike speaks on feud with Gov Fubara.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has opened up on the feud between him and his predecessor, Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara.

Wike, referring to the crisis in the state, said money and power reveal the true identity of a person.

He made this known during a press briefing with journalists on Friday in Abuja.

“Let me tell you, I don’t like ingrates; I can’t stand it. What is happening now is what Odili said in his book: ‘Give a man power and money, then you will know the person.’

“If you haven’t given a man, power and money, then you don’t know the person. However, I’m not worried because I’m a politician. I know what other states are suffering because of debt, but go and check if I left liabilities; the records are there.

“I left projects for him to commission so he would showcase during his hundred days, then politics came in. We are just starting; God gave you something; you are now importing crisis.

“God gave this on the platter of gold; the Federal Government is not fighting you, no crisis, but you are the one now trying to create a crisis for yourself; only those who are natural ingrates will support what is happening there. I use the instrumentality of law to fight not thugs, time will come.”

Ondo lawmakers divided, push for Aiyedatiwa as acting Governor.

Ondo lawmakers divided, push for Aiyedatiwa as acting Governor.

The 26 lawmakers of the Ondo State House of Assembly have been polarised, following the lingering political crisis in the state, involving Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and his deputy, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Vanguard gathered that 11 of the members have reportedly crossed over to the side of the embattled deputy governor.

The 11 lawmakers, in support of Aiyedatiwa, are now pushing that he be declared the acting governor.

A source told Vanguard that “the state House of Assembly members have been divided. 11 have crossed over to the side of Aiyedatiwa. They’ve been wooed by some forces in Abuja.

“They’ve planned a sitting for today (Friday), with the intention to declare Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor. But the president’s invitation stopped the plan.

When contacted, the Speaker, Rt Hon. Oladiji, who confirmed the meeting with President Tinubu, said the outcome of the meeting would determine the next line of action.

Oladiji said that “the scheduled Friday’s plenary was to declare Aiyedatiwa as acting governor and not to declare Akeredolu as incapacitated.

He said the meeting with President Tinubu would continue today.

Meanwhile, Vanguard gathered that the lawmakers have planned to hold a plenary session today (Friday) to discuss the political situation in the state.

A lawmaker who spoke with Vanguard in confidence said that the planned sitting to discuss the political logjam in the state had the approval of the national secretariat of the party.

According to him, “The lawmakers are ready to meet today (Friday), and one of the items on the agenda of the sitting is the declaration of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor.

“Though some of us may not be at the plenary today because they are not in support of Aiyedatiwa becoming an acting governor, the national leadership of the APC knows about our decision. We may declare Aiyedatiwa acting governor today.”

Speaking on the development, the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr. Olatunji Oshati, confirmed the planned plenary but was evasive on the declaration of Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor.

Oshati said, “What I can tell you for now is that there is something like that—not to declare him (Aiyedatiwa) but the House is going to sit on the matter and review the political situation today as directed by our national leaders. 

He added that “the House is likely ( made the declaration), but not under must; I don’t want to preempt what the outcome of the meeting would be. If it is likely to happen, you are invited as well.”

This comes as President Bola Tinubu intervened in the political feud between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa.

Vanguard gathered that the President has invited the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Olamide Oladiji and members of the assembly to Abuja for a crucial meeting today (Friday).

Also invited to the meeting, according to a reliable source in Akure, are the state chairman of the party, Ade Adetimehin, and other state leaders of the party.

National Assembly members representing the state have been equally invited to the meeting.

Recall that the state assembly has served the deputy governor with an impeachment notice following alleged gross misconduct.

The deputy governor has subsequently challenged his impeachment in court.

Also, the continued absence of Governor Akeredolu in the state after his return from medical vacation abroad has further heightened the tension in the state.

Supporters of Aiyedatiwa threatened to protest last week if the governor failed to resume, and in the alternative, Aiyedatiwa be declared the acting governor.

Notable personalities, including the Pan Yoruba Socio-Political Group Afenifere, and traditional rulers, have appealed to the President to intervene in the political logjam.

The leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, had written a letter to the president during the week to urgently intervene to avoid a constitutional crisis.

President Tinubu Appoints Eight New Permanent Secretaries.

President Tinubu Appoints Eight New Permanent Secretaries.

In a significant move to strengthen the Federal Civil Service, President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the appointment of eight new Permanent Secretaries. These appointments follow a meticulous selection process conducted by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries are:

Ndakayo-Aishetu Gogo

Adeoye Adeleye Ayodeji

Rimi Nura Abba

Bako Deborah Odoh

Omachi Raymond Omenka

Ahmed Dunoma Umar

Watti Tinuke

Ella Nicholas Agbo

President Tinubu, in expressing his confidence in the new appointees, highlighted their emergence at the top of a pool of qualified candidates after a diligent assessment process. He expects these seasoned professionals to leverage their expertise and competence in executing the Renewed Hope mandate. The goal is to revitalize service delivery across all Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, prioritizing the overarching interests of the Nigerian people.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, announced these appointments on November 24, 2023. The President's emphasis on competence and merit in the selection process underscores the administration's commitment to fostering efficiency and excellence in public service.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries are anticipated to bring a wealth of experience and strategic thinking to their respective roles. Their responsibilities include spearheading initiatives that align with the Renewed Hope agenda, ultimately contributing to the betterment of the Nigerian populace.

As the nation charts a course towards progress and development, these appointments underscore President Tinubu's dedication to ensuring that the civil service is equipped with capable leaders. The expectations are high that the new Permanent Secretaries will play a crucial role in advancing the administration's vision for a renewed and responsive public service.

President Tinubu Appoints Two Board Members to Nigeria Customs Service.

President Tinubu Appoints Two Board Members to Nigeria Customs Service.

In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of two highly qualified Nigerians to serve as Members on the Board of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The appointments come with a term of four (4) years and are designated to represent the organized private sector in this crucial governmental body.

The newly appointed board members are:

Dr. Aba Ibrahim

Dr. Muda Yusuf

President Tinubu expressed his best wishes to the appointees as they take on their roles, highlighting the importance of ensuring that the perspectives and views of the private sector are effectively presented. The President expects a thorough articulation of these viewpoints to align with the objectives of the Renewed Hope agenda. This includes the active promotion and attraction of investments spanning various sectors of the economy.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, conveyed the announcement on November 24, 2023. The appointments signify a strategic move by the administration to strengthen the governance and operations of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). It is anticipated that these appointments will contribute to the efficient implementation of ongoing reforms within the NCS.

As Nigeria charts a course for economic rejuvenation and growth, the inclusion of qualified individuals from the private sector on the NCS Board underscores the commitment to fostering collaboration between the public and private spheres. This approach aligns with the broader vision of the Renewed Hope agenda, aiming for a more responsive and dynamic governance structure.

The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, promising to contribute significantly to the objectives set forth by the administration. Their mandate includes facilitating the attraction of investments and fostering positive reforms within the Nigeria Customs Service.

With these appointments, President Tinubu reiterates his commitment to inclusive governance and economic transformation, emphasizing the importance of synergy between the public and private sectors in driving national development. The expectations are high that the Board, under the leadership of these appointees, will play a pivotal role in realizing the economic objectives outlined in the Renewed Hope agenda.

President Tinubu To APC Governor's: Remain Servants Of The People.

President Tinubu To APC Governor's: Remain Servants Of The People.

President Bola Tinubu has advised governors elected on the platform of the governing All Progressives' Congress (APC) to always put the interest of the people first and work for the good of their states.

Speaking when he received the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, the returning Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, and the Governor-Elect of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in Abuja, on Friday, the President expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the elections, which he described as free, fair, and peaceful. 

“You worked hard for this victory. I am very proud of you, but the real challenge has only started, and it will stare you 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," the President concluded. 

The National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who led the Governors-Elect and APC stalwarts to meet with President Tinubu, 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," Dr. Ganduje said.

On behalf of the candidates who contested the elections, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, 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.