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Category: News

  • Ibadan Explosion: Atiku Reacts As Seyi Makinde Accuses Him Of Not Calling 

    Ibadan Explosion: Atiku Reacts As Seyi Makinde Accuses Him Of Not Calling 

    Former Vice President and 2023 Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has revealed that he commiserated with victims, people, and the Government of Oyo State following the Ibadan explosion.

     Atiku stated this in reply to a statement by Governor Seyi Makinde, who claimed that the former vice president failed to call him over the unfortunate incident.

    Recall that Makinde had berated Atiku over his failure to show concern regarding the explosion in Ibadan.

    Makinde stated this on Monday when he received the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, at his office in Ibadan.

    The governor said the former vice president has neither called nor sent a condolence message to commiserate with him and the people of his state over the explosion.

    He stated that President Bola Tinubu, who is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had called him over the incident, but Atiku, a member of the same political party as him, had not reached out to him.

    Reacting in a statement on Monday, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, stated that the former Vice President released a statement to commiserate with victims and the people of Oyo State.

    According to him, Makinde has been too busy to take track of media reports on the incident.

    The statement reads: “With due respect to Governor Seyi Makinde, we wish to correct his expression about the response of His Excellency Atiku Abubakar to the recent explosion in the city of Ibadan.

    “Atiku Abubakar made a condolence message about the Ibadan explosion, less than 24 hours of its occurrence, where he shared his commiseration and empathy with the good people and government of Oyo State over the incident.

    “Perhaps the Governor has been too busy to take track of media reports on the incident. But we wish to put on record that on the 17th of January, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar did make a widely available message on the Ibadan incident, which reads as follows:

    “‘I wish to express my condolences to the good people and government of Oyo State over the explosion that rocked the capital city of Ibadan late yesterday night.

    “‘While the government continues to provide humanitarian support to victims of the explosion, I commiserate with the families of those who might have lost their lives and property to the explosion. -AA’”

  • Tinubu Mourns As Ex Nigerian President Loses Sister

    Tinubu Mourns As Ex Nigerian President Loses Sister

    President Bola Tinubu has condoled with Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, over the death of his sister, Hajiya Salamatu Asabe.

    Tinubu’s message to the General on Monday on the passing of his younger sister was contained in a statement.

    According to the statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale: “It is with a heavy heart that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receives the news of the passing of Hajiya Salamatu Asabe, the younger sister of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd). 

    “President Tinubu condoles with General Abubakar, the family, and all those who mourn this painful loss.

    “The President prays that her family is comforted by her legacy and the beautiful memories she left behind.”

    Ngelale quoted President Tinubu as having said: “General, please accept my sympathy and condolences. 

    “My prayers are with you at this time of mourning. 

    “May Almighty Allah grant Hajiya Asabe Aljannah firdaus.”

  • President Tinubu’s Minister, Dele Alake Speaks On Contesting Governorship Election

    President Tinubu’s Minister, Dele Alake Speaks On Contesting Governorship Election

    Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, says he has no interest in contesting to become the governor of Ekiti state.

    In a statement on Monday, Segun Tomori, the minister’s media aide, said Alake has nothing to do with the campaign posters circulating on social media, describing them as fake.

    He said Alake is committed to his current national assignment as a minister.

    Tomori added that Alake supports the current administration of Biodun Oyebanji, the governor of Ekiti.

    The minister, an indigene of Ekiti, served as a commissioner of information and strategy in Lagos from 1999 to 2007.

    “The attention of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Oladele Alake has been drawn to a poster that is circulating on social media and across WhatsApp groups where he is positioned as a gubernatorial aspirant in Ekiti State with the inscription ‘Take it Back’,” the statement reads.

    “The general public is hereby informed that Dr Alake has no interest in running for the governorship election in Ekiti State, either now or in the future. 

    “The poster in circulation does not have his approval as he does not know the people behind it. It is fake and should be discarded.

    “It is unconscionable that the Honourable Minister who is busy with the onerous task of reforming and revamping the Solid Minerals sector in Nigeria, a responsibility committed to him by President Bola Tinubu will leave that to be plotting for an election in Ekiti State. 

    “The Honourable Minister is a busy man, working tirelessly on how to make the solid minerals sector a major revenue earner for the country and for the sector to create thousands of high-paying jobs for Nigerians.”

  • Off-cycle Elelctions: INEC Chairman Seeks Air Force Support and Collaboration

    Off-cycle Elelctions: INEC Chairman Seeks Air Force Support and Collaboration

    Further to preparations towards a successful conduct of forthcoming off-cycle electuons nationwide, the Chairman of Independent National Elec5oral Commission, Prof Mahmoud Yakubu has solicited support of the Nigeria Airforce.

    The INEC Chairman disclosed that the Commission is set to conduct bye-elections and re-run elections in 26 states, covering various levels of representation.

    Speaking during a visit to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar, Prof. Yakubu expressed gratitude for the warm reception and congratulated the Air Chief on his appointment. He also commended the Air Force for cooperating with election management body regarding election security and logistics, highlighting their professionalism and neutrality.

    With elections scheduled in nine states to fill vacancies in the national and state assemblies, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized the need for collaboration with national assets, including the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    Addressing the upcoming electoral tasks, the Chairman outlined the extensive scale of the elections, involving 80 local government areas, 575 registration areas/wards, and 8,934 polling units. A total of 4,904,627 registered voters are expected to participate, with 4,613,291 Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) already collected.

    Recognizing the enormity of the assignment, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu stressed that the Commission cannot accomplish it alone. Referring to Section 27(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, he highlighted the legal provision empowering the Commission to seek support from security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies for the efficient delivery of materials and protection of election officials.

    In preparation for the elections, the Chairman sought the support of the NAF in expeditiously delivering materials to specific locations in the North East, South East, and South West geopolitical zones. The Commission, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, is handling the evacuation of materials from focal airports to states where elections will occur.

    Prof. Mahmood Yakubu assured transparency in the inspection and movement of materials, involving all stakeholders, including political parties’ agents, observers, and the media.

    In conclusion, the Chairman expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for the audience and support, anticipating yet another seamless collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force.

    In his remarks, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, for fostering democracy and strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and INEC, emphasizing their shared commitment to good governance, stability, and the rule of law across Nigeria.

    He noted that there is an alternative aircraft for transporting sensitive materials, urging timely planning due to capacity limitations. Additionally, he reminded Prof. Yakubu of outstanding bills, emphasizing their settlement for enhanced service delivery.

    In closing, the CAS expressed gratitude for the visit, foreseeing increased cooperation and synergy between NAF and INEC as he anticipated positive impacts on Nigeria’s democratic processes, affirming their collective commitment to maintaining the country’s status as the giant of Africa.

  • Supreme Court Reserves Judgment On Binani’s Suit Challenging Fintiri’s Victory

    Supreme Court Reserves Judgment On Binani’s Suit Challenging Fintiri’s Victory

    The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeal by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Aisha Dahiru, popularly called Binani, against the governor of Adamawa state, Ahmadu Fintiri.

    The tribunal and Court of Appeal had dismissed Binani’s petition challenging the victory of Finitiri in the governorship election held last year.

    The five-member panel led by John Okoro adjourned the matter for judgment after listening to the arguments of the parties involved in the matter.

    The main contention of Binani, through her counsel, Akin Olujimi, at the day’s proceeding, is that the controversial declaration by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Hudu Ari, was lawful.

    Monday’s decision came months after the Court of Appeal affirmed the victory of Fintiri of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as Governor of Adamawa State and dismissed Binani’s challenge as lacking in merit.

    It also awarded the cost of N500,000 in favour of Fintiri and the PDP against Binani.

    That judgment aligned with the verdict of the tribunal on October 28, which dismissed Binani’s petition for failing to prove her allegations of over-voting by not tendering documents to prove her case faulting the outcome of the election.

    Before the legal tussle, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Fintiri as the winner of a dramatic governorship poll.

    Fintiri polled 9,337 votes besting Senator ‘Binani’ who scored 6,513 votes.

    But in a controversial move, Ari, while collation was going on, prematurely declared Binani as the winner of the election. This was contrary to the provisions of Section 25 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which gives only the returning officer the right to declare election results for governorship polls.

    Immediately after the announcement, INEC declared the pronouncement as of no effect. It thereafter suspended the collation of results of the supplementary election in Adamawa and invited the REC, Returning Officer, and all officials involved to report to the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja.

    Later on, police authorities arrested Ari, confirming that the INEC REC was in their custody. He is still in court facing charges.

  • CBN Boosts Forex Market with $500 Million Injection

    CBN Boosts Forex Market with $500 Million Injection

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has infused an additional $500 million into the foreign exchange market to tackle the persistent backlog of confirmed forex transactions.

    This revelation was made by Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director of the Corporate Communications Department at the CBN, during a press briefing held in Abuja on Monday, January 29.

    Mrs. Sidi Ali underscored the commitment of the central bank, stating, “The Management of the CBN is resolute in clearing all legitimate foreign exchange backlogs within a short time frame.”

    She assured the public that the CBN is executing a comprehensive strategy designed to enhance liquidity in the Nigerian foreign exchange markets across short, medium, and long-term horizons.

    The strategy, as explained by Sidi Ali, is laser-focused on addressing longstanding issues that have hindered the efficient operation of the Nigerian forex markets.

    Key components include streamlining and unifying multiple exchange rates, promoting transparency, and reducing arbitrage opportunities.

    The governor emphasized on resolving fundamental issues, Sidi Ali stated, “The CBN’s focus is squarely on addressing the underlying challenges that have impeded the effective operation of the Nigerian FX markets over the years.”

    She expressed confidence that achieving a stable exchange rate would not only boost investor confidence but also attract foreign investment.

    “We believe that a stable exchange rate will bolster investor confidence and attract foreign investment,” she remarked.

    Sidi Ali urged all participants in the forex market to abide by the rules, emphasizing that transparency would facilitate a fair determination of exchange rates, ensuring stability for businesses and individuals alike.

    This $500 million injection by the CBN is the latest in a series of measures implemented in recent months, underscoring the central bank’s ongoing commitment to addressing the forex backlog and maintaining stability in the forex market.

  • Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Exit ECOWAS

    Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Exit ECOWAS

    Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, nations that were recently brought under military dictatorships have unilaterally withdrawn their membership of the Economic commission of West african States (ECOWAS).

    The military regimes of these countries jointly released a statement on Sunday, characterizing their departure as a “sovereign decision” that will be promptly executed.

    The move follows a series of coups in the region, with Niger experiencing a coup in July 2023, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Mali in 2020.

    ECOWAS responded by suspending all three nations and imposing severe sanctions, intensifying the already strained relations. The military regimes argue that ECOWAS’ measures hinder their ability to address pressing issues, leading to this decisive withdrawal.

    The exit is seen as a bold assertion of sovereignty by these countries aiming to tackle their challenges independently.

    However, concerns arise about potential disruptions to regional cooperation and integration, given ECOWAS’ pivotal role in fostering economic collaboration, regional security, and political stability.

    The departure of these nations may undermine these efforts, causing fragmentation in regional initiatives.

    The Sahel region, grappling with persistent jihadist violence, faces heightened security risks due to the absence of a unified regional approach. Moreover, the withdrawal may impact the international standing of these countries, limiting their access to diplomatic relations and foreign investments facilitated by ECOWAS.

    This decision has garnered international attention, sparking debates among experts and analysts.

    The uncertainty surrounding its consequences will be closely monitored in the coming months, as the withdrawal signifies a pivotal moment in the region’s political dynamics. The potential impact on regional stability, security, and development remains a subject of intense scrutiny.

  • Kidnappers Release Abducted Lagos PDP Chairman 

    Kidnappers Release Abducted Lagos PDP Chairman 

    The chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Philip Aivoji, who some yet-to-be-identified gunmen abducted along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, has been released.

    The  Lagos State PDP Chairman had spent four days in captivity after he was abducted last Thursday.

    News of his release was disclosed by the State Publicity Secretary, Hakeem Amode, in a short statement issued around 1.15 am on Monday.

    Amode said, “Lagos State PDP Chairman released by the kidnappers.

    “Hon Philip Olabode Aivoji, the Lagos State PDP Chairman, is free at last after four days in the kidnappers’ den.

    “We use this opportunity to appreciate your prayers, most importantly because God’s mercies was visible all the way.

    “Thank you all for your concerns and prayers.”

    Recall that Aivoji and some other party chieftains were abducted at the Ogere area of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Thursday while returning from the party’s Stakeholders’ Zonal Caucus meeting convened by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and held in Ibadan, the state capital.

  • Fubara Appoints Ehie As Chief Of Staff, Names Special Advisers

    Fubara Appoints Ehie As Chief Of Staff, Names Special Advisers

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the appointments of a Chief of Staff and Special Advisers.

    Former factional Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Edison Ehie, has been appointed as Chief of Staff, Government House.

    During the political crisis in the state, Ehie resigned from his position as the member representing Ahoada East State Constituency 2 and as Speaker of a faction of the State House of Assembly.

    Meanwhile, the Special Advisers appointed include Solomon Abel Eke, Aminayanasam Fiberesima, Deeyah Bariene, Darlington Orji and Prince Obi Ohia.

    In a statement released on Monday and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, it was announced that: “The newly appointed Chief of Staff and Special Advisers, alongside one guest each, are expected to be seated at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House, Monday, 29th January, 2024 at 10:30 am, for the swearing-in ceremony by His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State at 11:00am.”

  • Senate President Dispels False Narratives, Emphasizes Time Management and Colleague Respect

    Senate President Dispels False Narratives, Emphasizes Time Management and Colleague Respect

    In a swift response to a recent information circulating on some media platforms about Senator Godswill Akpabio being a habitual late-comer, his Special Adviser, Media & Publicity Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, has countered the narative, saying it was not correct.

    According to him, contrary to media speculations, Akpabio places a premium on time, aligning with Benjamin Franklin’s philosophy that “Time is money.”

    He stated that Sen. Akpabio’s “accomplishments in both private and public life are attributable to his commitment to effective time management.”

    “As Senate President, Akpabio holds profound respect for his colleagues and the Nigerian public. Recognizing his role as one among equals, he avoids undermining the status of distinguished senators by ensuring punctuality in Plenary sessions”.

    The release clarifies that the disruptions or lateness to schedules are prioritized but not compromised. Emergency issues and motions of national importance often require urgent attention before Plenary, a responsibility Akpabio diligently fulfills, contributing to occasional delays.

    On the claims of habitual lateness dating back to his tenure as Akwa Ibom State governor, the release emphasizes Akpabio’s unwavering commitment to punctuality and dispels any suggestion that lateness impacts the Senate’s efficiency.

    The release finally urged the mischief makers to refrain from perpetuating falsehoods about Akpabio’s punctuality and allow him to focus on his dedication to serving the nation and humanity without unwarranted distractions.