EFCC releases suspended minister Betta Edu on bail.

 EFCC releases suspended minister Betta Edu on bail.

EFCC had on Monday summoned the humanitarian affairs minister, Betta Edu, to appear at its headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday for questioning over the controversial approval she gave for payment of about N585 million into a private account.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, on bail, after hours of grilling her in respect of the approval she gave for the payment of about N585 million of the ministry’s funds into the private account of a civil servant.

President Bola Tinubu on Monday suspended Mrs Edu from office and ordered EFCC to investigate the approval and other related scandalous revelations, following a public outrage expressed on the issue.

EFCC had immediately summoned her to appear at its headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

She honoured the invitation on Tuesday morning and was held in custody till night when she was granted bail.

EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed to our reporter on Wednesday that Mrs Edu was released on bail on Tuesday. Mr Oyewale, however, refrained from commenting on the terms and conditions.

“She was given a bail yesterday’s night. I want to tell you that the investigation still continues,” Mr Oyewale asked.

When pressed to comment on the bail conditions and some details of the outcome of the questioning sessions that took place on Tuesday, Mr Oyewale said, “I cannot speak further on the details.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the EFCC began questioning Mrs Edu Tuesday morning.

Citing a highly reliable source at the anti-graft agency, NAN reported that the suspended minister was at the commission’s headquarters on Tuesday morning.

“An official invitation by the commission was sent to her on Monday and she honoured the invitation on Tuesday.

“She is being interrogated by the commission and she is expected to give proper insight into the issue at hand,’’ the source said.

The source told NAN that Mrs Edu’s predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, the pioneer minister of the ministry then christened as the Ministry of Social Development, Disaster Management and Humanitarian Affairs, returned to the commission for questioning on Tuesday after she was released on bail on Monday.

Mrs Umar-Farouk is being investigated over a staggering N37.1 billion allegedly laundered by officials of the ministry during her tenure as minister.

The source also told NAN that Halima Shehu, the suspended National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, was still undergoing investigation at the EFCC.

Ms Shehu was responsible for overseeing the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme initiated by former President Muhammadu Buhari to give succour to vulnerable groups and individuals.

N585m scandal: Perm sec takes over at humanitarian affairs ministry.

N585m scandal: Perm sec takes over at humanitarian affairs ministry.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Olumuyiwa Enitan, has taken over the management of the ministry as directed by President Bola Tinubu after the suspension of Betta Edu as minister.

Edu was suspended by the President on Monday following widespread anger over the approval given by the former humanitarian affairs minister for the payment of N585m into a private account.

The President had directed the minister to hand over to the permanent secretary, who got the letter to take over the affairs of the ministry on Monday night.

The letter was handed over to Enitan by an official from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, according to workers at the humanitarian ministry on Wednesday.

“The permanent secretary has taken over the affairs of the ministry based on the directive of Mr President. He officially got the letter to assume duty on Monday night,” a senior official at the humanitarian ministry, who pleaded not to be named due to a lack of authorisation, stated.

The official added, “He (permanent secretary) needed to get the letter of authorisation from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation before assuming duties, despite the announcement in the media.”

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, had stated in a statement on Monday that Tinubu directed the suspended minister to “hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.”

The suspended minister was also directed by the President to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities as they conduct their investigation.

The panel, headed by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, was also charged with conducting a comprehensive diagnostic of the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programmes.

I feel betrayed by Obaseki – Shaibu.

I feel betrayed by Obaseki – Shaibu.

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has expressed his sense of betrayal by his principal, Godwin Obaseki, for not backing his candidature in the upcoming 2024 governorship election.

Shaibu, who claimed that he was persuaded to be the deputy governor to Obaseki, said he added value to his principal’s government in terms of political structure and his finances.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Wednesday, the Peoples Democratic Party governorship aspirant said he was hurt that Obaseki was supporting an outsider instead of him.

However, he didn’t name who the outsider is.

“Actually, I was persuaded and there was no protest. I actually didn’t want to be a deputy governor. I was very comfortable in the House of Representatives. It took almost one month to get me to accept to be the deputy governor of Edo State.

“I accepted to add value to the ticket of Obaseki because Obaseki was not known and he was not one of the politicians. They needed a young, vibrant politician that has won election before and that can add political value to the ticket,” he said.

Speaking on his perceived betrayal, he said, “I feel betrayed by the governor. I feel very betrayed. When we go to church, there are certain biblical verses that are becoming to make meaning to me. There is this particular verse that has been going through my mind: ‘The heart of man is desperately wicked.’ When I see what the governor is doing, the verse now makes meaning to me.

“I added value in terms of my political structure, my finances. All the vehicles that were used to campaign in 2016 are mine.

“I lost about 20% of my political capital in Edo North to support Godwin Obaseki, and in supporting him even as deputy governor.

“I supported the second term bid of the governor with my finances. Including how we got the ticket of the PDP, I contributed financially, both in naira and in dollars. If I say betrayal, it’s an understatement. I feel very hurt and betrayed.”

Shaibu is from Edo North Senatorial District, the same district as the ex-governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole.

The deputy governor has been having a running battle with his principal over his political ambitions.

Shaibu had earlier asked an Abuja High Court to stop Obaseki and members of the state House of Assembly from impeaching him at the peak of the dispute.

He later withdrew the case.

Tension heightened between the two when Shaibu was relocated to another office situated outside the Government House.

Shaibu was the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students between 2000 and 2001.

In 2015, he was declared the winner of the House of Representatives election held in the Etsako Federal Constituency.

Shaibu made a formal announcement expressing his desire to compete for the Peoples Democratic Party ticket in the party primaries in November 2023.

“As your deputy governor in the last seven years, I have had the privilege of working closely with our amiable governor, Godwin Obaseki, to lay a solid foundation for the progress in Edo State,” he stated during his announcement.

It was reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission announced that the Edo governorship election will be held on September 21, 2024.

Hon Ogungbemi Unveils Second Term with Pledge for Staff Welfare and Community Development.

Hon Ogungbemi Unveils Second Term with Pledge for Staff Welfare and Community Development.

In a momentous occasion marking the commencement of his second term as Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Prince (Amb.) Michael Ogungbemi radiates renewed energy and commitment as he promises unwavering support for staff welfare and community development.

The atmosphere at the Ajoni LCDA Secretariat is electric with joy and enthusiasm, reflecting the anticipation of a new era under Chairman Ogungbemi's leadership. The Chairman's return to office is met with contagious celebration, as staff members break into heartfelt songs, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared purpose.

Acknowledging the warm reception, Chairman Ogungbemi reciprocates the excitement, expressing gratitude for the dedication and contributions of the staff during his first term. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork, setting the tone for a future marked by shared achievements.

During his address, Chairman Ogungbemi underscores the significance of each staff member's role, committing to transparency, open communication, and a supportive work environment. The Chairman's words resonate with optimism, instilling a sense of motivation among the staff for the exciting journey ahead.

Expressing appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Chairman Ogungbemi pledges to continue driving development at the grassroots, aligning with the governor's 6-point developmental agenda and shared prosperity mantra. The promise to prioritize staff welfare and community development further solidifies the Chairman's commitment to holistic progress.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Mr. Ibukun Adebayo John from the Community Department, honored with a commendation letter and a cash donation of #25,000 as the Best Staff of the Year. This acknowledgment underscores the commitment to recognizing and rewarding exemplary service within the council.

As the staff leaves the gathering inspired and united, Chairman Ogungbemi's vision for the council is set in motion, promising a future marked by progress, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the welfare and development of both staff and community.

Zero Tolerance for Corruption Will Revive Nation's Economy: Omoluabi Group Begs Tinubu to Fight Perpetrators.

Zero Tolerance for Corruption Will Revive Nation's Economy: Omoluabi Group Begs Tinubu to Fight Perpetrators.

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio-cultural and Political Group(aka Egbe Omoluabi) has expressed disappointment in the cases of corruption reported in the last few days being perpetrated by political appointees under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Federal Government. These allegations ranges from misappropriation of public funds, diversion of funds, allocation of funds to unknown contractors with fake identities and many more. This is similar to other cases of corruption charges against key players and stakeholders who served under the immediate past president, Muhammud  Buhari led administration. 

The group observed that major culprits in corruption cases in recent times has been linked to the Ministry of Humanitarian Services and Disaster Management. First it was Mrs. Sadia Farouq, now it is the case of Betta Edu who were both saddled with the responsibility of Ministers to this important Ministry. 

This we condemn in totality and should not be treated with levity or swept under the carpet. Nigerians have tolerated enough and paid so much price by showing understanding and exercised patience  in the face of harsh economic situations. Benefits in the form of money, food and other empowerment/relieve materials meant for Nigerians are only being read on the pages of newspaper but don't really get to Nigerians who really need these benefits.

Omoluabi Group appreciate President Tinubu for his readiness and preparedness to show zero tolerance for corruption especially among political appointees he has appointed to work with him in achieving his renewed hope agenda promised. We have confidence in Mr. President that he will deal decisively with all perpetrators of this heinous act which is presently causing his administration a monumental embarrassment. The group gives kudos to the President for adopting the monthly performance assessment for all  ministers serving under his administration. This is appropriate to check and assess the performance status of the various Ministries.

We hereby appeal to Nigerians to continue to provide the required moral support for the President and  offer him their prayers as he provide leadership style that will serve as a standard  and template for other successive government to emulate.

This emerging group which is fast becoming  a strong voice from the southwest, however advise the President to hire private financial investigators    to also conduct independent investigations on all MDAs" under his watch as this will help a lot in checking the perpetration of financial scandals in public and government parastatals.

Corruption and financial crimes  is a crime against the people, God and States.

E-Signed

Jayeola, AO

National Convener

9/1/2024

Soludo suspends monarch for conferring chieftaincy title on Sen Ubah.

Soludo suspends monarch for conferring chieftaincy title on Sen Ubah.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has suspended the traditional ruler of Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state, Igwe Damian Ezeani, indefinitely for conferring a chieftaincy title on the senator representing Anambra South senatorial zone, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

It will be recalled that Senator Ubah, who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, is believed to be eyeing the governorship of Anambra State in 2025.

A letter addressed to the embattled monarch by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Town Union Matters, Collins Nwabunwanne, accused Igwe Ezeani of breaching the Code of Conduct for traditional rulers in Anambra State, which stipulates that no traditional ruler can confer chieftaincy title on anyone from outside his domain without obtaining the permission of the traditional ruler of the recipient’s community.

Ubah hails from Nnewi and it was gathered that Igwe Ezeani did not obtain permission from Igwe Kenneth Orizu of Nnewi before conferring the title on his subject.

Part of the suspension letter read: “We have received confirmed reports that you, as traditional ruler of Neni, conferred such a phantom chieftaincy title on one Senator Ubah in violation of the Code of Conduct and without clearance from the ministry.

“Whether or not your action was for pecuniary reasons as being insinuated in many quarters is irrelevant. What is important is that your action is an affront to order and good governance.

“In the light of the above, and for order and good governance, I am directed to inform you that Mr. Governor has in the exercise of his powers under Section 2 (C) of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers (Amendment) Law, 2020, suspended your recognition as traditional ruler of Neni untill further notice.

“You are also by this letter, required to show cause why your certificate of recognition should not be withdrawn in line with the Traditional Rulers Law.

“In the meantime, you are advised in your interest, to stop parading yourself forthwith, as the traditional ruler of Neni community.”

The commissioner regretted that while a vast majority of traditional rulers conduct their exalted office with dignity and integrity and stick to the Code of Conduct and directives of the ministry, a tiny few still act recklessly and in total disregard for the Code of Conduct of their office and directives of the supervising ministry.

Sanwo-Olu Urges Super Eagles to Bring AFCON Glory as a Source of Comfort to Nigerians.

Sanwo-Olu Urges Super Eagles to Bring AFCON Glory as a Source of Comfort to Nigerians.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged members of the Super Eagles to strive and win the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, as a succour to Nigerians from various economic challenges.

Sanwo-Olu, gave the charge while hosting the team to a special dinner at Lagos House, Marina, late Tuesday evening, before their final departure to Cote-de-Ivoire for the AFCON Competition, slated to commence on Saturday.

Addressing the players, Sanwo-Olu said, “You are our country’s unifier, as much as we will be putting the pressure on you during the matches, Nigerians expect you to do that (unifying spirit) for us. We believe we have the men who can do it for us.

“People might say we don’t have a team, it’s another thing to believe in yourself and once you believe in yourself and as a team, we are on that track already, no matter the obstacles, no matter the fuel price facing the country, but just to go out there and demonstrate your undying spirit as Nigerian with a total of two hundred and 20 million people in the country and the Diaspora are right behind you.

“And this is how you can write your names in gold forever. And I want to assure you that this number (220 million Nigerians) is behind you in support.

“We know you have a sense of patronage and patriotism, let that be your driving force. Let it encourage you that for our country at the moment we need this unifier. We need peace, we need sports as a healing tool for us, (Nigerians).

“We need that cup to be a succour, that would energise us and bring together all of the yearnings of this country. Andi pray God gives you the strength bro achieve this.

“You should qualify and make sure that you don’t give up. You could be in the first half is not what you want, to give up. It could get to 70 minutes, do t give up.

“You could see 80 minutes, don’t give up. You have to have that belief that until the whistle blows you still have an opportunity and that’s how life is.

“Because when we want to say that we will do it again is not by mouth alone, it’s about that team’s spirit and commitment. Just know that over 222 million Nigerians are behind you.”

Also in attendance were: the Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, as the Minister of Sports Development, Chairman, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, among others