Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Caroline Ameh

  • Labour Party Reacts As Kenneth Okonkwo Dumps Peter Obi

    Labour Party Reacts As Kenneth Okonkwo Dumps Peter Obi

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Labour Party (LP), has reacted to the decision of veteran actor and lawyer, Kenneth Okonkwo, to dissociate himself from the leadership of Peter Obi.

    Labour Party in a statement on Sunday while condemning the attack on Obi, said they are not surprised by Okonkwo’s decision.

     Okonkwo in announcing his decision on Sunday, said Obi lacks the capacity to rally the party and lead as expected.

    However, the party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said Okonkwo smuggled himself into the presidential campaign team of Obi during the 2023 elections, and they are not surprised by his decision.

    Ifoh added that Okonkwo is only seeking attention with his actions and Nigerians don’t need political jobbers like him.

    The LP statement further stated that the party is aware of the moles within its ranks who are sure to be exposed and fumigated.

    It also reaffirmed the Labour Party’s decision to stand with Peter Obi and present him as the party’s candidate for the 2027 elections.

    According to the statement, “If you recall, recently a former Director General of the party’s presidential campaign organisation resigned and rejoined the APC. Only last week, a former deputy Director General of the presidential campaign organisation also resigned and rejoined the APC.

    “Today, it is the turn of Mr. Okonkwo, a former member of APC, who smuggled himself into the presidential campaign, and his destination is already known to us.

    “Needless to say that Nigeria is not in want of political jesters and jobbers whose stomach are their gods. Labour Party is not perturbed by his decision to move on and in fact, we wish him well in his future endeavours, whether in acting, law practice, politics or otherwise.

    “We also wish to note here, that the party is aware of a few other persons who are planted as moles, who are presently instigating crisis within the party, and who have unsuccessfully attempted to hijack the party for the use of their paymasters. We urge them to act fast and do the needful before they are exposed and fumigated out of the party.

    “Labour Party is keeping to its decision to stand with Peter Obi as its leader and presidential hopefully come 2027 presidential election and we are not apologetical about that position.

    “Coordinated attacks from some quarters will not in anyway diminish the trust Nigerians, particularly, the Obidients and youths in Nigeria have in him. We know that with him, a new Nigeria will be possible. Nigerians spoke loudly in 2023 and they will speak even louder come 2027.”

  • Peter Obi Identifies ‘Sponsors’ Of August Protest

    Peter Obi Identifies ‘Sponsors’ Of August Protest

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has stated that protest is allowed within the Nigerian Constitution.

    Obi made this known amidst the proposed nationwide protest scheduled by some Nigerian youths to hold on August 1-10 over the current economic situation in the country.

    In an interview with Channels TV after a visit to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Sunday, the former Governor of Anambra State urged intending protesters to demonstrate in a civil manner.

    Peter Obi pointed out that ‘huger and hopelessness’ in the country are the sponsors of the August protest.

    He said, “Protest is allowed within the Nigerian Constitution. All I plead for all of those who are protesting to do so within the law and in a civil manner that allows us as a nation to show that we live within the law.

    “Everybody knows that things are difficult, when they talk about the sponsors of the protest, I say the sponsors are very simple, is hunger, and hopelessness among the youths. So we all have to listen to what Nigerians are going through.”

    Speaking further, Peter Obi urged security agencies to manage the situation within the law and avoid overbearing.

    He added, “On security agencies, I will tell them to ensure that they manage the situation within the law. We should not try to be overbearing. Protest oa allowed everywhere globally. Listen to the reason why people are protesting, engage and talk with them, that is what governance is all about.”

  • Why We Are Asking For Details Of Protest Leaders, Organizers And Schedules – Police

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Nigerian Police Force has set the record straight over the request for details of Nigerians planning to participate in the proposed nationwide protest slated for August 1-10, 2024.

    The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyi Adejobi, in a statement on Sunday, denied the accusation of trying to rewrite the constitution over the request for protest organisers’ details.

    Adejobi stated that the Police IGP, Olukayode Egbetokun, never denied citizens the right to freedom of association and expression but emphasised the need for peaceful assembly and expression.

    According to him, the request for details of protest organisers is a standard procedure to facilitate effective communication, ensure the safety of all participants, and prevent any unlawful activities.

    The Police boss added that allowing faceless groups to operate unchecked could jeopardize the peace and stability of the country and leave citizens with pains, sorrows and tears, as experienced in the 2020 violent EndSARS Protests

    The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force hereby addresses the recent accusations made by one activist, Deji Adeyanju, and others via various fora, alleging that the IGP is attempting to rewrite the Constitution by requesting the details of the organizers and leaders of the planned nationwide protests. It is vital to clarify that the IGP has never denied the constitutional right of every citizen to freedom of association and expression, but has rather, at every point, emphasized that the right is that to peaceful assembly and expression. Also, the Nigeria Police holds the responsibility to ensure that any activity, including protests, does not pose a threat to national security.

    “In this wise, requesting the details of protest organizers and their leaders and the schedules of their protests which include location, period, routes etc, is a standard procedure to facilitate effective communication, ensure the safety of all participants, and prevent any unlawful activities. It is also vital for Deji Adeyanju to note that in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; or for the purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons as enshrined in Section 45 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this request by the IGP is not out of place.

    “It is essential to know who is planning the assembly (protests) in each state as allowing faceless groups to operate unchecked could jeopardize the peace and stability of the country, and leave us with pains, sorrows and tears as experienced in the 2020 violent EndSARS Protests. If organized labour and other recognized bodies were involved, it would have provided a more structured and safer environment for such public protests.

    “While the Police urges Mr. Adeyanju and other organizers not to mislead Nigerians. We therefore call on them to join hands in working together to uphold the security and well-being of our nation.”

  • BREAKING: FG Tightens Security At Borders Ahead Of Planned Protests

    BREAKING: FG Tightens Security At Borders Ahead Of Planned Protests

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Federal Government has ramped up border security throughout the country in response to the upcoming protests against poor governance.

    The Comptroller General of the Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, issued orders to all Zonal Heads, State Command Comptrollers, and Divisional Immigration Officers (DIOS) across the country to implement these heightened security protocols.

    According to the Service’s spokesperson, DCI Kenneth Udo, the directive aims to prevent foreign individuals from entering the country to participate in the protests.

    The statement emphasized the importance of vigilance and increased surveillance due to the upcoming protests organized by various groups.

    Nandap also announced the temporary suspension of all leave applications and instructed officers to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and patriotism during and after the protests.

    The Comptroller General assured Nigerians of the Service’s readiness to secure the nation’s borders and contribute to national security, reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintaining order during the planned demonstrations.

    The statement read, “The Comptroller General noted that, in keeping with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s gateways placed on the shoulders of the Service, officers, especially Heads of Border Commands, are tasked to rise to the occasion by ensuring that no foreign element can take advantage of the protest to distabilize the country.

    “She directs temporary suspension of all leave applications and charges officers to exercise utmost professionalism and patriotism in the discharge of their duties. during and after the protest, explaining that Nigeria is the only country we have as our own.

    “The CGIS assures all Nigerians of the service’s preparedness to safeguard the nation’s borders towards enhancing national security.”

  • Bags Of Rice Donated By Tinubu Government Repackaged in Kogi, Sold to Residents

    Bags Of Rice Donated By Tinubu Government Repackaged in Kogi, Sold to Residents

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The bags of rice recently distributed by the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government have been seen in a video being re-bagged for commercial sale in Kogi State.

    The government had earlier said it gave 20 trucks of 25kg rice to each state of the federation for free distribution to vulnerable households. 

    Each truck is said to contain 1200 bags as one the interventionary measures of the FG in tackling the surging food inflation in the country. 

    In the video obtained by SaharaReporters, residents were seen stating that as against the directive that the rice should be distributed for free, some persons are repackaging them to be sold in open market.

    “The rice shared by the federal government is being repackaged for sale. As you can see on the body is written “not for sale”, however we accosted these persons trying to repackage it. They said they got the rice from the Agriculture ministry in the country” the incensed residents noted in the video. 

    They lamented the rising cost of living and how the intervention meant was also subjected to fraudulent practices.

    “It’s unfortunate, I bought a tin of Beans for N380 yesterday and see what they are doing to this rice now” another person said in the video.

    It would be recalled that the government said it is committed to tackling food inflation, rolling out interventional measures to tackle the food inflation.

    Distribution of palliatives has always come with corruption and corruption allegations in Nigeria.

    During the COVID-19 era, different palliatives meant to be shared to residents of different states were seen hoarded in stores, a development that led to anger among citizens.

  • Reps Receive ₦400 Miilion For Constituency Projects — Minority Whip

    Reps Receive ₦400 Miilion For Constituency Projects — Minority Whip

    The Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Isa Ali, disclosed on Friday that members receive about ₦400 million annually to execute constituency projects through Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs) and Special Intervention Projects (SIPs).

    The lawmaker, representing Billiri/Balanga Federal Constituency, made this revelation during a town hall meeting aimed at keeping his constituents informed of recent developments in the National Assembly and their impacts on the constituency.

    According to Hon. Ali, the funds are divided into two major categories:

    1. Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs): ₦179 million is allocated to these projects.

    2. Special Intervention Projects (SIPs): ₦40 million is designated for these projects.

    Constituency Allocation

    He further explained that an additional ₦200 million is specifically budgeted for the Billiri/Balanga constituency.

    He said, “If you look at part of the bills I’m sponsoring, it is on federal constituencies and senatorial districts fund development to enable every constituency and senatorial district to have major projects. When you move to most of these constituencies, you will not see Federal Government projects apart from the constituency projects done by members of the National Assembly.

    “Regarding the amount, particularly in the 10th House of Representatives, which Nigerians call the ‘people’s house,’ we are very open. The Zonal Intervention Project has been in existence for the past 20 years, and the money has not changed; it’s ₦179 million.

    “We have Special Intervention Projects; this year, it’s ₦40 million. In previous years, it was N30 million. The same applies to ZIPs; in previous years, the money remains the same. We have other interventions like the capital intervention for Balanga/Billiri, which is ₦200 million. In total, we are talking about a little above ₦400 million for each constituency.”

    Speaking further, the Minority Whip, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, lauded the Federal Government for previously releasing 100 per cent of the projects.

    “I’m part of the leadership and I’m working hard to ensure the implementation process commences. We will ensure 100 per cent implementation because, to be honest, from 2019 to 2023, the Federal Government tried by releasing almost 100 per cent of all ZIPs and SIPs,” he added.

    Ali assured his constituents of the quality of projects despite the economic situation, saying, “We are working hard. The finances of the country are under serious challenge, but as a leader, I’m working with my colleagues to ensure that this year’s intervention is also 100 per cent by the releases of the Federal Government.”

    The Minority Whip disclosed that he inaugurated a committee comprising professionals to ensure the quality of projects.

  • Obono-Obla Reveals How 80 Armoured-Plated Benz Was Found In A Federal Director’s House

    Obono-Obla Reveals How 80 Armoured-Plated Benz Was Found In A Federal Director’s House

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Chairman of the Special Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property under the administration of former President, Muhammadu Buhari, Barrister Okoi Obono-Obla, has revealed how he investigated multibillion-dollar fraud cases while in office.

    Obono-Obla, in an interview with Vanguard, noted that part of the cases he investigated that landed him in trouble was when they found 80 armoured-plated Mercedes Benz S Class in the premises of an Abuja-based federal director.

    He further stated that he made an effort to recover $7 billion CBN bailout, before he was eventually removed from office.

    Speaking on the cases he investigated, he said, “I can not pinpoint all the cases that landed me in trouble. But I can speculate on some of them, including the effort to recover $7 billion CBN bailout, the investigation of the failure of an oil company to pay the balance of $1.9 billion from an oil block it purchased in 2014 for $2.5 billion; investigation of the 80 armoured plated Mercedes Benz S Class found in the premises of an Abuja based federal director.

    “Investigation of some Directors in the defunct Petroleum Equalization Fund whom we found had over five billion and hundreds of thousands USD in their accounts, including properties abroad, investigation of $12.5 million contract awarded by the Nigerian Ports Authority to a company owned by a former Senator and present Governor to dredge the channel leading from the Atlantic Ocean into Calabar port which was not executed.

    “Investigation of oil companies that refused to remit over $3 billion as royalties to the federal government, investigation of the purchase of a House in Asokoro Abuja by a then serving federal permanent secretary in the name of her 8-year-old son, investigation of offshores assets of some members of the National Assembly, investigation of the failure of commercial banks to remit over N38 trillion collected by them as stamp duties as at 2019 to the federal government, and investigation of the take over illegally of the building belonging to National Board for Technical Education in Maitama, Abuja by a Nigerian billionaire from Katsina State to mention just but a few.”

  • Nigerian Govt Considers Restricting British Airways From Lagos Airport

    Nigerian Govt Considers Restricting British Airways From Lagos Airport

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    The Federal Government of Nigeria is contemplating restricting British Airways from operating at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos due to a dispute over airport slots in the United Kingdom.

    Currently, Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, is compelled to operate flights to Gatwick Airport instead of Heathrow, the UK’s primary airport.

    On Friday, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced that the ministry had reached out to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), requesting that Air Peace be allowed to operate at Heathrow Airport in accordance with the reciprocity principle outlined in the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

    Speaking at the 28th Annual Conference of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) in Lagos, Keyamo argued that it was unjust to allow British Airways unrestricted access to Nigeria’s busiest airport, MMIA, while Nigerian airlines were not granted the same privileges in the UK under the BASA agreement.

    Keyamo mentioned that the Nigerian ministry was still awaiting a response from their UK counterparts.

    He stressed that countries should adhere to the BASA arrangements Nigeria has with other governments and warned that failure to do so could result in retaliatory actions from the Nigerian Government.

    Keyamo highlighted the disparity in international flight operations, noting that many international airlines such as Air France, Lufthansa, Delta, and United Airlines operate multiple flights to Nigeria, while Nigerian airlines are not reciprocating these routes. 

    Even South African Airways operates flights to Nigeria without a Nigerian counterpart doing the same.

    Air Peace currently manages to operate flights to London, albeit to Gatwick, but efforts are underway to secure access to Heathrow. Keyamo criticized the notion of a “slot committee,” urging the UK to recognize and respect existing bilateral agreements.

    The Minister said, “We have already written to the United Kingdom to give Nigerian carriers, especially Air Peace Heathrow Airport, which is a tier one airport, just as we have British Airways, using our Lagos airport. We may as well give BA Ilorin to operate to. When we asked for Heathrow Airport, you’re telling us to go to a slot committee. Who does that? Air Peace I can tell you is on its way to Heathrow away from Gatwick.

    “The local operators are struggling to cover their routes locally, not to talk of our international routes; Air France is coming here 10 times a week, we are not going to Paris, Lufthansa is coming here, we are not going to Frankfurt, Delta and United from America are all coming here, but we are not reciprocating. Even, South African Airways is coming here, we are not going there.

    “We only managed to have Air Peace in London and to Gatwick, but we are pushing for them to take us to Heathrow. You can’t tell us you have a slot committee. Your airport operator should know that you have an existing relationship and they should respect it.

    “For connectivity, people prefer Heathrow. That is an airport you can have an airline to codeshare with so that there can be connectivity.”

  • There May Be Third World War If I Don’t Win – Trump

    There May Be Third World War If I Don’t Win – Trump

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    Former President, Donald Trump has issued a stark warning of a potential major war in the Middle East and a possible “third world war” if he does not win the upcoming November election.

    This assertion was made during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.

    “If we win, it’ll be very simple. It’s all going to work out and very quickly,” Trump stated. 

    “If we don’t, you’re going to end up with major wars in the Middle East and maybe a third world war. You are closer to a third world war right now than at any time since the Second World War.”

    Trump’s remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    He has frequently suggested that the current administration’s handling of international affairs is pushing the world closer to a global conflict.

  • Protest: Police Withdraw Personnel Assigned Private Duties

    Protest: Police Withdraw Personnel Assigned Private Duties

    By Doris Isreal Ijeoma

    As days of nationwide hunger protests, slated to take off in August, draw near; Nigeria Police have notified public officers that private security personnel assigned to them would be withdrawn.

    Nigeria Police said the withdrawal was necessary due to the urgent nature of the nationwide protest. 

    Police added that the personnel assigned would be needed to augment the capacity and capability of police personnel needed for the nationwide protest.

    The memo from the Commanding Officer – No2 Squadron, Police Mobile Force, Nigeria Police, Keffi Street, Lagos – was published by former chairman of Nationa Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkalu.

    Signed by CSP Okon Moses – Second in Command, No2 Squadron, Police Mobile Force, Keffi Street, Lagos; the memo titled “Notification of temporary withdrawal of personnel for national assignment” said sufficient officers are needed to dominate the public space ahead of and during the protest.

    It read: “In view of the planned nationwide protest, it becomes imperative to temporarily withdraw some of the personnel attached to you in order to muster sufficient officers to dominate the public space.

    “This is part of the proactive necessary measures to enhance the operational capacity and capability of the squadron and your understanding in the above regard is highly solicited.

    “Accept as usual the assurances of the esteemed regards of the Commanding Officer, Please.”