Orji Kalu lauds Tinubu’s approach to fighting insecurity.

Orji Kalu lauds Tinubu’s approach to fighting insecurity.

The immediate past Senate Chief Whip and lawmaker representing Abia North senatorial district, Orji Uzor Kalu, has commended the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in tackling insecurity in various parts of the country.

Addressing the gathering at his residence in Igbere, Bende local government area of Abia state, Kalu, the ex-governor of Abia state, emphasized the critical role of security.

He handed over four patrol vehicles to both the Abia State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Igbere Vigilante Service.

Kalu noted that without addressing the issue of insecurity, meaningful development at the local, state, and federal government levels would be challenging to achieve.

The Senator stated that, under President Tinubu, Nigeria has made progress in containing insurgent activities.

However, he emphasized that no matter how much money is allocated to security in the budget, addressing insecurity requires the collective efforts of all Nigerians.

He said: “President Tinubu is having sleepless nights in the fight against crime and seeking ways to lift the economy of the country. Nigerians are suffering, but it is not the cause of this administration. We should collectively come together to fight crime and insecurity in the country.

“We must support President Tinubu. People should bring out their hearts to work for the country. President Tinubu should put his feet on the ground to openly fight corruption, electricity and crime if Nigeria must work.

 “I want to thank the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the supplementary budget that he gave us to pass a few days ago and 90 percent of that budget was for security.

“I am pleading with our society, that they should shun crime so that we can use the money budgeted for security to put in electricity, roads and among others, for people to move around.

“The beauty of constitutional democracy is the time limit. President Buhari is no longer here today, President Tinubu has taken over. People who are damaging our infrastructure thinking that it is owned by President Tinubu should know that President Tinubu is just a trustee holding the country for all of us.”

Kalu clarified that the provision of security patrol vehicles was not part of a constituency project but rather a demonstration of his backing for the police and vigilantes in their endeavours to combat crime in the state.

He praised the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for assigning experienced police personnel to the state.

Kalu highlighted that, for the first time in the past eight years, the state experienced a peaceful Christmas and festive celebration in the previous December.

He noted: “This is purely from my heart because I felt that there was a need to support the local, state, and federal government in their fight against crime and criminality in the local government, the state and the nation at large. Crime is what nobody would want to be battling or faced with.

“I want to encourage the commissioner of Police and his team in their desire to ensure that Abia is safe for visitors and residents.

“I want to thank the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for posting the CP and his team to the state and for the effective posting that he has been doing since he took over as the IGP.

“This is the first time that Abia has a team of police officers that know the state very well, which is why we can say that the last Christmas was one of the best Christmas that we have had in the state in the last 8 years.

“Supporting the police is not because we have so much money to do it. It is because the mandate to give one vehicle to the DPO Igbere, Area Commander Ohafia and one to the Area Commander in Isuikwuato is to support them so that they can help in combating crime in the state.

“As long as we live and have more resources available, we will be able to support other commands in other parts of the state.

“The importance of a secure environment cannot be overemphasized. Our people should shun violence and see the need to be more resourceful for themselves, their families and the country at large.

“I will appreciate that other well-meaning Abians will join the state government in supporting the security agencies in the state because the resources being given to the security agencies is not enough and can never be enough; I am saying this because in the Senate and I sit in most committees that interact with several security agencies in the country.”

The Abia North senator, who expressed fears over the impending food scarcity in the land, called on the traditional rulers in the state to encourage their subjects to embrace farming as a tool to address food insecurity.

He added: “Our people should embrace farming because there is a need for our people to address the rising food insecurity in the land. Our youths should stop idling about, but rather think of how to become more resourceful.”

In his reaction, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Kenechukwu Onwuemelie who received the vehicles Kalu and presented same to the Igbere Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ohafia Area Command and Isuikwuato Command respectively promised that the vehicles would be put into good use.

According to CP Onwuemelie, the donation of the vehicles calls for more hard work from the respective beneficiaries within their Areas of Responsibility (AoR).

Governor Oyebanji Strengthens Fiscal Ties: Pays a Productive Visit to Accountant General's Office in Abuja.

Governor Oyebanji Strengthens Fiscal Ties: Pays a Productive Visit to Accountant General's Office in Abuja.

By Comr Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a proactive move aimed at bolstering fiscal cooperation, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State conducted a working visit to the office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. (Mrs) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, situated at Treasury House in Abuja FCT. Accompanying the governor on this significant visit was the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode.

The meeting, held in the heart of the nation's capital, signifies a commitment by the Ekiti State government to foster collaboration with key federal financial authorities. The presence of Governor Oyebanji and Commissioner Oyebode underscores the importance attached to maintaining strong fiscal ties between the state and the federal government.

Ekiti State has garnered commendation for its commendable fiscal discipline, a trait that positions it as a front-runner in responsible financial management. The governor's visit to the Accountant General's office is indicative of the state's dedication to upholding these high standards and ensuring transparency in financial dealings.

During the visit, discussions revolved around strategies to deepen growth and development in Ekiti State through collaborative efforts with various development agencies and institutions. Governor Oyebanji, known for his forward-thinking approach, emphasized the significance of partnerships in achieving shared prosperity for the people of the state.

The presence of Commissioner Akintunde Oyebode adds weight to the delegation, as he plays a pivotal role in steering the financial strategies of the state. The collaborative spirit demonstrated by both leaders is poised to yield positive outcomes in the state's economic landscape.

Ekiti State's commitment to engagement with federal financial authorities aligns with a broader vision for sustainable development. The governor's proactive approach and the state's high rating in fiscal discipline position Ekiti as a model for other regions aspiring to achieve economic stability and growth.

In essence, Governor Biodun Oyebanji's working visit to the office of the Accountant General of the Federation stands as a testament to Ekiti State's dedication to responsible governance, financial transparency, and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering growth and development for the ultimate benefit of its citizens.

Oyebanji Visits Former Governor Fayemi: A Gesture of Unity and Progress for Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Visits Former Governor Fayemi: A Gesture of Unity and Progress for Ekiti State.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a notable display of statesmanship, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji, the current governor, paid a visit earlier today to his predecessor, the esteemed His Excellency Dr. Kayode Fayemi, at his Abuja residence. The meeting was not only symbolic but underscored the significance of continuity in governance, transcending beyond projects and policies to foster a cordial relationship for the greater good of the state.

The beauty of continuity, as exemplified by this visit, lies not just in the seamless transition between impactful and landmark projects initiated by the former governor but also in the diplomatic ties forged between the two leaders. This visit serves as a testament to their commitment to the welfare and progress of Ekiti State.

The camaraderie between His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji and Dr. Kayode Fayemi stands as a valuable lesson in political collaboration, showcasing that beyond partisan lines, a united front can be forged for the collective benefit of the state and its citizens. Their ability to navigate the intricacies of political transitions and maintain a harmonious relationship reflects positively on the state's political landscape.

As the duo conversed within the confines of Dr. Fayemi's Abuja residence, it became evident that their commitment extends beyond personal relations to a shared vision for the development and prosperity of Ekiti State. The meeting was marked by discussions on ongoing projects, challenges faced, and prospects for future collaborations.

This diplomatic rendezvous not only solidifies the bond between the present and former governors but also sets an encouraging precedent for political leaders across the country. The commitment to a united and collaborative approach is a beacon for fostering stability and progress in the nation's political arena.

In essence, the visit of His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji to Dr. Kayode Fayemi's residence goes beyond a mere courtesy call; it symbolizes a commitment to continuity, unity, and the overall advancement of Ekiti State. As the two leaders continue to navigate the intricate landscape of governance, the echoes of their diplomatic engagement resonate as a positive example for political leaders nationwide.

S’Court upholds Alia’s victory as Benue governor.

 S’Court upholds Alia’s victory as Benue governor.

The Supreme Court yesterday dismissed two appeals by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Benue State, Titus Uba, seeking to void the victory of Governor Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

A five-member panel, presided over by Justice John Okoro, said issues raised in the appeals do not qualify as post-election matters.

Appellants’ lawyer, Sebastine Hon (SAN), attempted to explain the basis of the appeal.

He said the appellants challenged the sponsorship of Alia and his deputy, Samuel Ode.

According to him, while the APC failed to submit Ode’s name to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the election, Alia’s name was submitted out of time. 

Hon was still explaining his client’s case when a member of the court’s panel, Justice Emmanuel Agim, intervened.

Justice Agim said there were no post-election issues in the appeal, adding: “You are dealing with pre-election matters here.  

“It is not every issue about sponsorship that falls into post-election cases. This is clearly a pre-election matter.

“This case does not fall in the category of post-election matters. This case is a matter dealing with nomination and presentation of candidates’ names.”

Another member, Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, noted that there were no serious issues of law raised in the appeal requiring the court’s intervention.

Justice Okoro added: “This is not the kind of case that should come here. On a very serious note. We have a lot of work to do. We are unanimous on this matter.”

The Justices then prevailed on Hon to withdraw the first appeal, which he did, following which the court dismissed it in the absence of objection from the respondents’ lawyers.

Justice Okoro said as agreed by the parties, the order of dismissal on the first appeal, marked: SC/CV/1162/2023 shall apply to the second, marked: SC/CV/1164/2023.

The court session was witnessed by Alia, Ode and some other politicians from Benue.

Alia left the Supreme Court straight for Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF) George AKume’s residence to convene to him the good news of his triumph at the apex court.

He was warmly received by the political leader of the APC in the state, who embraced him for a few minutes after vigorously shaking hands with the governor.

Alia, who said the victory will ginger him to push on with his laudable programmes for Benue people, told reporters: “I resolve to remain focused until the fortunes of the state are turned around for good and to ensure that Benue realises its potential and takes its pride of place in the comity of developed states in Nigeria.”

He dedicated his victory to the ordinary Benue people on the street, farmers, teachers, market women, pensioners, IDPs, youths, and civil servants previously depressed and demotivated.

The governor vowed to prioritise their needs and interests and called on the people to continue to support the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

The PDP in Benue State said it had accepted the verdict of the Supreme Court in good faith.

It thanked its leaders and supporters for their backing and urged them to remain steadfast.

Judgment reserved in Ebonyi governorship dispute

Also yesterday, the apex court heard three appeals seeking to void the election of Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru of the APC.

One of the appeals, marked: SC/CV/1156/2023 was filed by Odoh Benard of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), while two, marked: SC/CV/1212/2023 and SC/CV/1218/2023 were by Chukwuma Odii Ifeanyi of the PDP.

With the agreement of all parties, the court heard the one marked SC/CV/1212/2023 and said the judgment on the one heard would be applied to the other two.

Appellants’ lawyer, Chris Uche (SAN), adopted his clients’ briefs, urged the court to allow the appeal, set aside the decision of the court below and grant the reliefs as prayed.

Uche explained that his clients’ main contention is that the Nwifuru was not a member of the APC when he contested the election; therefore, his nomination was invalid.

While he was still making his submissions, Justice Agim asked Uche about the implication of a judgment given by a Federal High Court in Abuja last year.

It was held that Nwifuru, who was then the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, should vacate his seat because he was no longer a member of the PDP on which platform he got into the House of Assembly.

Responding, Uche said: “We are saying that he…failed to obey and held on the seat for over five months.”

He noted that Nwifuru’s appeal against that judgment was listed for hearing on Monday by the Court of Appeal.

Lawyer to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Babandala Fika, prayed to the court to affirm the concurrent findings on the merit by both courts below.

Nwifuru’s lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the appeal.

He faulted Uche’s argument, noting that the judgment of the Federal High Court was on a case initiated by the PDP.

Ikpeazu, who also faulted Uche’s claim that his client forged his APC membership card, argued that the court having determined that Nwifuru had left the PDP, he was entitled to have a membership card of his new party.

Lawyer to the APC, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the appeal, affirm the decision of the court below and uphold the declaration and return of Nwifuru as the Governor of Ebonyi State.

Ogunwumiju argued that Section 177 on which the appellants hinged their case, is only meant to prevent an independent candidate from contesting an election.

The SAN said: “The question to be asked is whether the person, whose nomination is being challenged identified with a party or whether he was sponsored by the party.

“Was he voted for by the electorate because he is a candidate of a party? Did INEC publish his name as a candidate of a party?”

Ogunwumiju noted that the appellants, in their petition before the election tribunal, answered the questions themselves by listing the candidate and his party, and also tendering Form EC8A, showing his scores in the election.

He argued that the information in the appellants’ petition was sufficient to address their doubt that Nwifuru was a member of the APC.

Justice Okoro said judgment has been reserved.

APC pegs Edo guber nomination fee at N50m, holds primary Feb. 17.

APC pegs Edo guber nomination fee at N50m, holds primary Feb. 17.

Ahead of the Edo state governorship election on eptember 21, aspirants vying for the ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are to purchase the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for N50 million.

The party had also fixed its primary election for Saturday 17th February, 2024.

In a released Schedule of Activities and Timetable for the 2024 Edo state election on Monday in Abuja, the APC National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Sualiman Muhammadu Arugungu, specified that the nomination form carries a fee of N40 million, while aspirants are required to pay N10 million for the Expression of Interest form.

Female aspirants and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) are to pay for the expression of interest form while the nomination form is free.

Arugungu also stated that youth within the age bracket of 25 to 40 years are to pay 50 per cent of the nomination form fee along with the expression of interest form.

The party stated that its decision complied with the relevant sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act.

The Schedule showed that sales of nomination and expression of interest forms and sale of delegates forms are fixed for 10th to 29th January 2024, while submission of completed forms and accompanying documents is slated for Monday, February 5, 2024.

Screening of aspirants is to be held on Thursday 8th and Friday 9th February 2024.

The delegates’ congress is fixed for Saturday 10th February and the party primary for the emergence of the party flag bearer will be held on Saturday 17th February 2024.

The party has also fixed the 24th of April for the commencement of the campaign by its standard bearer.

Shameless politicians behind allegations of certificate forgery against Aiyedatiwa – Aide.

Shameless politicians behind allegations of certificate forgery against Aiyedatiwa – Aide.

The Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday debunked a report that he was involved in a certificate forgery scandal, saying the report was the handiwork of some of his political detractors.

Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the governor of the state on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, following the death of the former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away in Germany.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, said in a statement that the report was false and a ploy to distract the governor.

In the statement titled ‘Certificates: the blackmailers are at it again’, Adeniyan described the allegation as false and mischievous

He said, “Our attention has been drawn to the mischievous plans by some political actors to embark on fresh unsubstantiated allegations against the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

“After failing woefully with their attempts to paint the governor in bad light with the stories around the death of the former Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, these desperate elements have resorted to blackmail. The first of such is to use faceless groups and individuals to make allegations of certificate forgery against the governor.

“A governorship aspirant last night held a meeting with some individuals at a popular hotel in Akure where he gave the directive to those present to write stories alleging that the governor used forged certificates to contest election.”

Adeniyan added that the allegation was part of the plot allegedly aimed at discrediting the governor ahead of the governorship election in the state, saying the credentials of the governor were submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission during the last governorship election in the state.

“Mr. Governor contested on a joint ticket with his former principal in the 2020 governorship election and his credentials were duly submitted to the INEC and they are in public domain.

“Mr. Governor remains committed to delivering on his promises to develop Ondo State and will not be distracted by the shenanigans of shameless politicians and their cronies, “he submitted.

Aiyedatiwa, who became the governor of the state following the death of Akeredolu, recently promised to continue and complete all the projects embarked upon across the state by his former boss.

Before his death, Akeredolu transferred power to Aiyedatiwa via a letter to the state House of Assembly on December 13, 2023, when he was to proceed on medical leave in Germany.

Betta Edu: I’m not involved in N438m million contract – Interior minister.

Betta Edu: I’m not involved in N438m million contract – Interior minister.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has denied involvement in the N438.1 million consultancy contract between New Planet Project Limited and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

It was reported that President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, directed the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, to investigate all financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

Dr Betta Edu was the minister in charge of the ministry until the President suspended her on Monday.

It was reported that Edu came under criticism after a leaked memo on December 20, 2023, revealed that she directed the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer N585m to a private account owned by one Oniyelu Bridget, who the ministry claimed currently serves as the Project Accountant, Grants for Vulnerable Groups.

However, some sections of the media report that a company owned by the Minister of Interior was allegedly paid N438.1 million by Edu as consultancy services.

“The company, New Planet Project Limited was one of the numerous consultants awarded contracts from N3 billion given out by the suspended minister for the National Social Register contract,” it stated.

Reacting, Tunji-Ojo while appearing on Channels TV Politics Today, on Monday night revealed that he founded the company 10 years ago, but resigned from directorship in 2019 when he contested for House of Representatives.

The Minister of Interior, who described the report as shocking, said he is just a shareholder in the company and not involved in the day-to-day running of New Planet Project Limited.

He said “I have to say this, I saw it and I was shocked because the company in question was a company, where I was the director.

“About five years ago, I had resigned my directorship. Yes, I founded the company 10 years ago. In 2019 and when I got to the House of Representatives, when I won the election precisely, I resigned. I resigned 4th of February 2019 with a Certified True Copy of Corporate Affairs Commission as far back as 2019 to prove this.”

Tunji-Ojo, who said he came into public office knowing fully well that Nigerians would ask questions, charged relevant agencies to probe the contract processes.

He added, “I do not run the company. I don’t have any knowledge of the contract. I am not a signatory to any account. I am not a director of the company.

“The company is a limited liability company, which is a private entity. So if the company is a private entity, of course, I am still a shareholder, and to the best of my knowledge public service rule does not prohibit public officers from being shareholders.

“What public service rule says is that you cannot be a director, of which I had resigned about five years ago.

“I have no business with it, absolutely no business. Because I am not involved in the day-to-day running of the company. I do not pursue jobs for the company. I do not bid for the company. I am not a signatory to the company’s account. I am not involved.

“So the company is an entity on its own. If then, the question should be was the job given to the company? If the answer is yes. Then the question is did they follow due process? It is a yes. Did the company deliver on the job? If it’s a yes. Then number three is that they did deliver in line with the agreement of the contract? If it is a no, then they should be sanctioned by the book”.