Omotoso's Death Shocking, Devastating, Says Oyebanji.

Omotoso's Death Shocking, Devastating, Says Oyebanji. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed shock on the death of the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Paul Omotoso, who passed on Tuesday night. 

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said he was shocked and devastated by the news of the demise of the party chairman because he did not show any sign of illness during their last meeting. 

Governor Oyebanji who said he is yet to come to terms with the demise of the APC chairman, described Omotoso as a dependable brother and ally, who was a great and invaluable asset to the APC family as well as the government. 

According to him, Omotoso would be eternally remembered as the first party chairman in the state to achieve a back-to-back victory for a party in the political history of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji said the deceased's selflessness and sacrifices contributed to the internal cohesion which made the Ekiti APC an unstoppable election winning machine in local government, state and national elections conducted during his chairmanship.

This, he said, was made possible by Omotoso's administrative acumen, diligence, maturity, managerial and  diplomatic skills as well as conflict resolution ingenuity which he deployed in managing the affairs of the party and its teeming members.

The Governor noted that Omotoso was a man of impact endowed with wisdom which he brought to bear in party and state matters as he was always ready to offer his wise counsel at critical points when such was needed.

The state helmsman noted that Omotoso excelled in the previous public offices he held including Special Adviser on Legal Matters, Special Adviser on Political Matters, Commissioner for Environment and Commissioner for Special Duties.

Governor Oyebanji added that the deceased's stellar performance as the APC State Secretary contributed immensely to his emergence as the State Chairman for two terms noting that these speak volumes about his loyalty, commitment, integrity and competence.

“We have lost a dependable pillar in Ekiti development and partner in our development effort as a government. We have lost a great leader, a peacemaker, a humble servant of the people and an altruistic party Organiser. 

"On behalf of the Government and the good people of the state, I express condolences to the immediate family of our late Chaman and the people of Imesi Ekiti and the entire members of APC. 

“Our prayers and thoughts are with the family of the deceased. May God grant them and everyone of us the fortitude to bear this great loss.And may God grant our dear departed brother eternal rest”, the statement added.

Hon Fadugba Mourns Passing of Ekiti State APC Chairman, Extols His Legacy.

Hon Fadugba Mourns Passing of Ekiti State APC Chairman, Extols His Legacy.

In the wake of the passing of Chief Paul Omotosho, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Hon. Fadugba Bamidele Julius, Executive Chairman of Moba Local Government, has expressed profound sorrow, describing the late chairman as a committed and dedicated leader.

In a statement issued from his media office to newsmen, Hon. Fadugba emphasized the significant impact of Chief Omotosho's leadership within the APC family in Ekiti State. He lamented the sudden departure of the party chairman, noting that it has created a void that will be challenging to fill.

"Barr. Omotosho's dedication, commitment, and unwavering service to the APC and the people of Ekiti State leave an indelible mark on our hearts and the political landscape. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the party's vision and advancing its goals in the state," he stated.

Hon. Fadugba fondly remembered Chief Omotosho's legacy of selfless service and tireless advocacy for the people. He acknowledged the profound impact the late chairman had made during his lifetime and expressed confidence that his memory would continue to inspire them in their pursuit of a better Ekiti State.

While extending heartfelt sympathies to Chief Omotosho's family, Hon. Fadugba urged them to take solace in the remarkable contributions he made to the state and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

As the APC family mourns the loss of a respected leader, they also celebrate Chief Omotosho's life and the enduring impact he had on the political landscape of Ekiti State.

May the soul of the deceased rest in peace, and may God grant his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Fayemi mourns the passing of Ekiti State APC Chairman, says Party has lost a gem.

Fayemi mourns the passing of Ekiti State APC Chairman, says Party has lost a gem.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the former Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), has mourned the passing of the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Chief Paul Omotosho, describing him as a dedicated leader, unifier and one of the strong pillars of the party.

In a statement issued by his media office, Fayemi noted that the sudden departure of the Party Chairman has left a void difficult to fill within the APC family in Ekiti State and in all those who knew the departed Party leader. 

He described the late Omotosho as a tireless leader and steadfast supporter of the APC's principles and agenda in Ekiti State.

 “Under his stewardship, our party achieved significant victories in recent elections, gaining the trust of our people. This would not have been possible without his commitment to uniting our members and working selflessly for the greater good of our state and nation,’’ he said.  

Fayemi recalled that Omotosho was a long-standing progressive who had been an official of the Party since the Alliance for Democracy days and later was Secretary and Chairman of APC, after serving as Commissioner for Local Government and Environment between 2010 and 2014, during Fayemi’s first term as governor. 

The late party chairman, a close ally of Fayemi, was steadfast throughout the trials and tribulations of gubernatorial politics in Ekiti and the usual vicissitudes of political turncoats. He was a stout defender of the Party, maintaining the same level of support for the incumbent Government of Governor Biodun Oyebanji. 

Fayemi added: “Omotosho’s contributions and sacrifices for our party will never be forgotten. He was a man of integrity who led by example, inspiring the party faithful with his passion for service and dedication. His leadership kept us united and focused on our mission even in the face of challenges.

‘’Ekiti State and the APC have lost a pillar, a grassroots mobilizer, and a committed leader. We mourn this devastating loss, but we take solace in the lasting legacy and sterling example he leaves behind. 

‘’His ideals and examples will continue to guide us as we rededicate ourselves to the vision of a more prosperous Ekiti. In this moment of sorrow, I urge all members and supporters of our party to remain strong and united in honouring the memory of our late chairman.

‘’On behalf of my family, I extend my deep condolences to the Ekiti State chapter of the APC, the family and associates of the late Chairman and the people of Ekiti on this irreparable loss.

‘’May the soul of the deceased rest in peace, and may God grant his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this loss.”

Local Council Boss, Hon. Oluwatuyi Mourns the Painful Exit of Barr. Paul Omotosho.

Local Council Boss, Hon. Oluwatuyi Mourns the Painful Exit of Barr. Paul Omotosho.

The Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi, has expressed his heartfelt condolences over the passing of Barrister Paul Omotosho, the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State.

In his message of condolence, Hon. Oluwatuyi described the demise of Barrister Omotosho as a shocking and sardonic news that represents a significant loss to the party, the state, and indeed the entire nation. He highlighted Barrister Omotosho's invaluable contributions to the APC and governance in Ekiti State, noting his legacy of wisdom, knowledge, and integrity which continues to inspire.

Hon. Oluwatuyi extended his deepest condolences to Governor Biodun Oyebanji and all members of the APC in Ekiti State, emphasizing the patriotism and commitment displayed by Barrister Omotosho throughout his lifetime. He praised Barrister Omotosho's virtues, which he deemed worthy of emulation, and acknowledged his significant contributions to the development of Ekiti State and the APC.

During this challenging period of mourning, Hon. Oluwatuyi expressed his heartfelt sympathies and prayers for comfort and strength to Barrister Omotosho's family, the APC family, and all who were touched by his life. He concluded by praying for the repose of Barrister Omotosho's soul and hoped that his memory would serve as a beacon of inspiration to all.

The passing of Barrister Paul Omotosho has undoubtedly left a void in the political landscape of Ekiti State, but his legacy of service and dedication will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

Reps to probe cryptocurrency, digital transactions, others.

Reps to probe cryptocurrency, digital transactions, others.

The House of Representatives is set to investigate the status of cryptocurrency, and digital asset transactions in Nigeria to ascertain their possible threats to national security.

The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion on a matter of urgent public importance moved by a member representing Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Mr Isiaka Ibrahim on Tuesday.

Others who would also have their activities investigated include international money transfer operators, payment gateways and platforms and cloud computing systems.

They are also to investigate the current status of the e-Naira on the global cryptocurrency platform, the cost incurred, processes undertaken, and statutory compliance in creating the digital currency.

The House also resolved to engage all relevant stakeholders “To initiate necessary processes for establishing required legislation and regulations, while establishing the profile of operators in the sector such as legal status, parent company, and assess their compliance with our existing statutes or complicity in infractions against Nigeria including money laundering, illicit transactions, currency speculation and bad practices.”

The House also resolved to coordinate the engagement of the Office of the National Security Adviser, other relevant agencies, cryptocurrency exchanges, and stakeholders “In tracking, identifying, and recovering illicit and laundered funds or assets.”

The basic motivation behind the move is to ensure that equity transparency and adherence to international best practices are adhered to by the government in investigating cryptocurrency exchanges and others.

Recall that the House had in the past few months, beamed its searchlights on cryptocurrency operators following petitions brought against them by civil society organisations.

 

Moving the motion, he highlighted “The growing global concerns about the national security implications of cryptocurrency transactions through cryptocurrency exchanges including consumer and investor security as these exchanges are said to enable money laundering by criminals and terrorists for their illicit activities.”

He added that as part of its sweeping market-friendly reforms designed to attract substantial foreign direct investment into the countries’ struggling economy, “This administration reversed the ban on cryptocurrency transactions in Nigeria imposed by the previous administration.

He assured the international community that the current moves by the Federal Government to sanitise the system “Should not be perceived by the global community and international investors as a policy somersault so early in the life of the administration and the existence of a hostile business environment.”

Isiaka also highlighted the concerns expressed by the Central Bank of Nigeria over the possibility of illicit transactions and money laundering on the cryptocurrency exchanges and their seeming use as an alternative platform for determining local foreign exchange rates.

He further added that the United States of America Treasury 2022 National Money Laundering Risk Assessment indicated that “Fiat and traditional financial activities contributed substantially higher (over 200 per cent) than digital assets transactions to global money laundering activities.

He said the conflict with the government about whether or not the crypto exchanges are determining the local foreign exchange rate and usurping the functions of the national bank “Does not appear to arise in otherdeveloped climes where appropriate statutes and regulations have been enacted and enforced to superintend crypto and other digital asset transactions.”

Following the resolution, the House referred the motion to the Committee on National Security and Intelligence with a charge to “Engage all relevant stakeholders to initiate necessary processes for establishing required legislation and regulations,” among others.

The committee is to report back to the House within eight weeks.

Nigeria’s economy not distressed, says Tinubu.

Nigeria’s economy not distressed, says Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu has challenged the notion that the Nigerian economy is in distress, highlighting the unprecedented opportunities for growth and development in the country.

The President said this when he delivered a speech at the Leadership Conference and Awards 2023, held at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, on Tuesday.

“I should start by respectfully challenging the notion that the Nigerian economy is in distress. Distress suggests helplessness, being at the mercy of something we have no control over. But that is not the case here.

“We are in challenging times, no doubt, but these times have also been marked by unprecedented opportunities, to reset course and to build a new and sustainable economy, away from the rent-seeking and the waste that was once the order of the day,” Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said.

This was contained in a statement released by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Rabiu Ibrahim.

The President shared key initiatives and investment efforts by the administration to support Nigerian businesses, students, and vulnerable households, as well as to enhance food security and attract foreign direct investment.

Tinubu disclosed that intervention funds totaling N200 billion have been set aside to support Nigerian businesses; in addition to a new Federal Students’ Loan program and the Presidential Initiative on CNG.

The N200 Billion Naira, according to the President, will be disbursed through three (3) new special intervention funds established to support Nigerian businesses.

On the Presidential Initiative on CNG, the President noted the “imminent rollout of these CNG-powered buses which will bring down the cost of transportation by as much as 50 percent.”

The President also highlighted the substantial increase in revenues accruing to the three tiers of government since the removal of the petrol subsidy.

“This means more funds are available to directly impact the lives of Nigerians through investments in critical infrastructure, social security, and other areas,” he said.

Other efforts of the apex government, aimed at bringing economic relief to Nigerians, include the commencement of negotiations, between the Federal and State Governments and organised labour, for a new minimum wage for the country; and the scaling-up of the social investment programme.

“For the poorest and most vulnerable among us, the Social Investment Programme, currently under review to reposition it for maximum impact, will support millions of households with direct cash transfers that will enable them to meet their basic needs.”

The President reiterated the gains of his administration’s robust investment drive: “Since we assumed office in May 2023, we have attracted $30 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments into the real sectors of the economy, including Manufacturing, Telecoms, Healthcare, Oil & Gas, and others.

“Those investments have already started coming into the country. Just a few days ago, I was in Qatar on an official visit, where the Emir assured me that a senior government delegation would visit Nigeria after Ramadan, to begin taking action on some of the new investments they are looking at here. I have asked the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to directly interface with the Qatari authorities to ensure that speedy progress is made.”

Reps summon agric, blue economy ministers, allege fraudulent concessions.

Reps summon agric, blue economy ministers, allege fraudulent concessions.

The House of Representatives has summoned the Minister of Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, and his transportation counterpart, Saidu Alkali, over alleged fraudulent concession of some ports’ infrastructure.

Also invited for questioning are the Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority, Mohammed Koko, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprise, Mamman Ahmadu as well as the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, Micheal Ohiani, among others.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation, Ibrahim Hamisu (APC, Kaduna) issued the summons at a meeting with the seaport terminal operators in Abuja on Tuesday.

The lawmaker lamented the absence of the top government officials to explain their role in the concession of the seaport terminals.

The committee members expressed their displeasure at the shady manner the concessioning process was managed which had let the five companies operate for five years without renewal, thereby, leading to a huge loss of revenue to the Federal Government.

He said, “They (ministers) must appear before the committee on March 12. We also want to assure that this committee would work very hard to make sure that this issue is over and to do that, you are to furnish the Committee with all the relevant documents through the secretariat by Friday.”

He told the port stakeholders that they were invited to the meeting to “discuss how best to address this prolonged renewal process because of the need to attract investments into our critical port infrastructure which is one of the major focuses of this administration.

“From the brief we received from affected parties and the Ministries, Departments and Agencies involved in the process. We understand that as of today, what is outstanding in concluding the process that started over five years ago is the execution of the negotiated supplementary agreements for the respective terminals.

 Review Oronsaye, other reports before implementation, Reps urge Tinubu

“That is why we invited all stakeholders to see how we can work together to quickly address this concern in national interest,” Hamisu said.

Addressing journalists at the end of the meeting, Hamisu argued that there was a need to unravel why the companies listed were still operating without renewal of the concession agreement.

“Some seaport terminals were given out on concession and five of them have expired. Some are from Lagos and some are from Port Harcourt. They were trying to see that their approvals were renewed in 2021.

“Somehow, this renewal was not granted to them, but they have been operating since then. So we deemed it fit to cross-check and find out what the problem is.

“We decided to invite them, and all the stakeholders like the Ministry of Blue Economy, ICRC, BPP, and the Ministry of Transportation. After inviting them here today, unfortunately, only the seaport terminal operators are here. We have discussed with them and they have one week within which the Minister of Blue Economy, MD NPA, BPP and ICRC should appear before this committee.

“They are to appear on March 12 by 10 AM so that we can discuss with them, see where the problem is and take action so that we can bring a lasting solution to the problem.

“The names of the affected seaport terminals are Port and Cargo Terminal, ENL Consortium Terminal C, ENL Consortium Terminal D, Josepdam Terminal and AMS Terminal. There are the five terminals whose concession period has expired and they have been operating illegally from 2021 to date and we want to investigate and see what the problem is and whoever is in charge of this, we will deal with him,” he warned.

Earlier in his ruling, the chairman insisted that the Ministers of Blue Economy and Transport, others must appear before it next Tuesday.