MAY 17TH 2023

Oil pollution in Bayelsa State was on the international focus on Tuesday as the report of the state’s Oil and Environ-

mental Commission (BSOEC) was launched at the House of Lords in London.

The 211-page report titled: “An Environmental Genocide: Counting the Human Cost of Oil in Bayelsa, Nigeria,” is a detailed documentation of the over 60 years of oil

exploration and pollution in the state where oil was first discovered in commercial quantity in Nigeria by Shell.

The BSOEC was established in March 2019 by the immediate past Senator Seriake Dickson administration.

It had as chair a former Anglican Archbishop of York and member of the House of Lords, Dr. John Sentamu, alongside former president of Ghana, John Kufuor and another member of the House of Lords, Baroness Valerie Amos, as

honorary commissioners.

Baroness Amos, in her remarks, said the pollution of Bayelsa by oil multinationals was scandalous and shameful, calling on the international community to take action against polluters of the en-

Senate mulls independent candidacy in 2027 polls

…transmits bill for Buhari’s assent

general election.

Barring any brick wall at the Presidency, candidates without politics party platforms may run independently for elective offices from local government to presidential during the 2027

Emefiele: Arewa Youth Assembly cautions Tinubu against advice by Matawalle

TOSIN ADAMS

The Arewa Youth Assembly has cautioned President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu against hobnobbing with characters like the outgoing governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawale, insisting that the governor's recent statement calling on President Mu-

Assault: Court approves Seun Kuti’s detention for 48 hrs, lists conditions for bail

PETER FOWOYO

Yaba Magistrate Court, Lagos on Tuesday rejected a request from the police that the embattled Afrobeat musician, Seun Kuti, remain in their custody for 21 days to enable the security agency conclude its investigation after which the court will grant him bail. The court gave approval for only

This is as the Senate, on Tuesday, directed the Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA) to transmit a constitution alteration Bill No. 58 to President Muhammadu Buhari for assent in line with the provisions of the Authentication Act. The bill seeks to provide for

independent candidacy in presidential, governorship, national and state assemblies and local government councils elections.

Requirements for independent candidacy provides that; "For any Nigerian national to contest presidential election as independent candidate, he or she must ob -

tained the verified signatures of at least twenty per cent of registered voters from each State of the Federation provided that a registered voter shall not sign for more than one independent candidate in respect of the same office.

"For governorship, the independent candidate must obtained the

verified signatures of at least twenty per cent of registered voters from each of the local government areas of the state.

"The bill also states that anyone willing to contest National Assembly elections, he or she

lAsks court for order of mandamus against police

Acivil group, the Incorporated Trustees of Advocacy for Societal Rights Advancement and Development Initiative (ASRADI), has asked the Inspector General of Police to urgently investigate and prosecute the President-elect,

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu before the May 29 swearing-in over alleged perjury regarding his possession of a Guinean Passport.

The group on Tuesday approached the Federal High Court Abuja seeking an order of mandamus compelling

the IGP to investigate the fillings made by Bola Ahmed Tinubu in respect of his Guinean citizenship contained in INEC Form EC9 sworn to by him on June 14, 2022 .

The position of the group was contained in an 'Affidavit of Urgency' in support of a motion expar-

te filed before the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking the court's permission to apply for an order compelling the Inspector General (IG) of Police to investigate and recommend Tinubu for prosecution if found guilty of perjury regarding his Guinean citizenship.

President Muhammadu Buhari returning to Abuja from the United Kingdom...on Tuesday. Photo: State House.

ANDREW OROLUA, ABUJA

TUNDE OPALANA, ABUJA

Senate mulls independent candidacy in 2027 polls

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

must obtained the verified signatures of at least twenty per cent of registered voters from each of the local government areas in the respective senatorial district or federal constituency.

"The proposed legislation empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prescribe the payment of administrative fees by independent candidates for respective elections.

"It mandates the electoral body to waive fifty percent of the administrative fees for women candidates."

The bill and another constitution alteration Bill No. 46, which seeks to include the presiding officers of the National Assembly in the membership of the National Security Council are in addition to 35 constitution amendment bills by the 9th National Assembly already passed to President Buhari for assent.

The two proposals were part of the constitution alteration bills transmitted to State Houses of Assembly for concurrence last year but not part of the 35 that secured the required ap -

proval of 24 out of 36 state assemblies.

The parliament had earlier transmitted 35 constitution alteration bills to the president for assent out of which 19 were rejected and 16 signed into law.

Chairman of the Senate ad- hoc on Constitution Review and Deputy Senate President, Ovie OmoAgege, while presenting the motion at plenary on Tuesday said the passage of the additional two bills was possible after the Gombe State House of Assembly has approved the Constitution Alteration Bill Nos. 46 and 58 and forwarded its resolution to the National Assembly.

Omo-Agege said with the approval of the Gombe Assembly, the bills on the independent candidacy and inclusion of National Assembly presiding officers in the National Security Council membership have met the provisions of Section 9(2) of the Constitution for passage.

The Senate, after adopting the motion, directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to transmit the bills to the president for his assent.

Assault: Court approves Seun Kuti’s detention for 48 hrs, lists conditions for bail

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

48 hours.

The Police said a 21 day remand of the defendant is necessary pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions(DPP).

The prosecution team of the police was led by S. A Adebese and Morufu Animashaun.

Kuti’s lawyer Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika SAN however objected to the police application. He prayed the court to not remand his client, stating that they (the counsel) were not aware of the remand application.

However, the Magistrate, Adeola Olatunbosun refused the police application. Rather, she granted 48 hours for the Afrobeat musician to remain in custody for the police to conclude its investigations after which he would be granted bail.

When the court resumed

Pollution: British MP slams oil firms in Bayelsa, suggests $12bn on remediation

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

vironment.

She said: “The research and the evidence contained in the report tell the stories that are so important. The community impact of the pollution comes through so clearly and it is devastating.

als.

“I understand that there are a lot of people who might not even have heard about Bayelsa. But I hope what people would be able to connect to and see as a result of this report is the scale of the human impact.”

“This helped us to bring to light what the commission describes as environment genocide that plagues Bayelsa today.

and public health damage caused by oil and gas.”

sitting, the magistrate dismissed the police application and thereafter remanded the defendant for 48 hours in police custody.

She said: “Following the remand application presented before the court, I am advising that the case file be duplicated and sent to the Directorate of public prosecutions within 72 hours.

“The defendant is hereby remanded for 48 hours in police custody to allow the police to conclude their investigation.

“After 48 hours, the defendant will be granted bail in the sum of N1m with two responsible sureties, a three years tax payment receipt that is verifiable; one of the sureties must have a landed property within the court jurisdiction.”

She adjourned the case till May 23, 2023, for mention.

“This has been on for so long. It is an absolute scandal and we should all be ashamed that we have got to this point. Those responsible, including our international oil companies, should be ashamed of the roles they have played in their refusal to take responsibility.

“Talking about this being the fault of the local communities, who can see the result of this long-standing neglect and not be moved? And yet, that is what exactly happened. There has been no accountability on the part of the oil multination-

The MP stressed the need to take collective action now, saying the international community had to rally to save Bayelsa from the impact of what could be described as an environment genocide.

While presenting the report, chair of the commission’s Expert Working Group, Dr Kathryn Nwajiaku-Dahou, said the document was the product of four years of tireless work put in by researchers, scientists and professionals in different fields, who went round Bayelsa communities gathering samples.

“The Commission’s findings shine light on the pollution catastrophe engulfing the state and its underlying causes. Chief among them are the systemic failings of international oil company operators with the complicity of Nigeria’s political class and a dysfunctional Nigerian regulatory state.

“The report sets out a proposal to end decades-long cycles of contamination and neglect by the oil and gas industry.”

Nwajiaku-Dahou said among others, the Commission recommended concerted international action to generate and invest at $12billion over 12 years to “repair, remediate and restore the environmental

The Commission’s chair, Rt. Rev. Sentamu, presented the report to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri.

Governor Diri, in his response, commended the commissioners, researchers, non-governmental organisations and the Commission’s secretariat that painstakingly put the report together as well as the people of Bayelsa for “coming forward to make their voices heard.”

He also lauded his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson, for his foresight and vision in empaneling the commission.

Governor Diri pledged that his administration would act on the recommendations and seek partners to ensure that the report was implemented.

Guinean Passport: Group seeks Tinubu's investigation, prosecution before May 29

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ASRADI in the motion exparte with number FHC/ ABJ/CS/669/2023 and filed on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, is claiming that the president-elect lied on oath when he refused to give information regarding his Guinean citizenship in his Form EC9 submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in aide of his qualification for the 2023 presidential election.

It is the case of the plaintiff that applicant that, "The non-disclosure by Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the INEC Form EC9 of his dual citizenship of his voluntary acquisition of the citizenship of Guinea amounts to Perjury".

While stating that they "only became aware of the perjury committed by Bola Ahmed Tinubu on April 16,

2023" from an online publication, the group pointed out that its request on the police to investigate the matter has not yielded result hence, the resort for the court's intervention.

Amongst the exhibits attached in support of the application is the group's letter to the IG dated May 8 and signed by the Executive Director, Mr Adeolu Oyinlola.

The letter with the title: Demand for Investigation of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Suspected Perjury, read in part, "At page three (3) of the affidavit in support of personal particulars Form EC9 which Ahmed Tinubu filled and submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) preparatory to contesting for President on February 25, 2023, he declared on oath in answer to question eleven (11) that he has not volun-

tarily acquired citizenship of any other country.

"However, it has now come to light that subject has indeed voluntarily acquired citizenship of Guinea".

While stating that there is no other name for deliberate falsehood supply under oath in a sworn affidavit but forgery, Oyinlola therefore demanded that "a thorough investigation of this allegation, and subsequent prosecution of suspect within seven (7) days of the receipt of this correspondence.

"An image of the biodata page of the Guinean Passport in question, as well as certified true copy of INEC Form EC9 is attached to aid investigation", the letter added.

The Executive Director however stated that ASRADI has neither received a reply to its letter nor is aware that

the police has commenced investigation of Tinubu in respect of the alleged perjury committed with regards to his Form EC9 in respect of his Guinean citizenship.

"The respondent had willfully refused to investigate and / or prosecute Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the offence of perjury where he is found culpable", the applicant stated.

Adding that, "By the actions/inactions of the respondent in respect of the request for investigation made by the applicant to the respondent, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is walking free without answering to his past deeds.

"It is in the public interest that the respondent investigates the said claims contained in the INEC Form EC9 sworn to by Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 14, 2022 regarding his citizenship.

R-L: Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika SAN; Afrobeat musician, Femi Kuti; his son, Made and others, at the Magistrate Court in Yaba, Lagos on Tuesday over an alleged assault on a police officer by Seun Kuti.

Emefiele: Arewa Youth Assembly cautions Tinubu against advice by Matawalle

hammadu Buhari to cancel an alleged application for study leave by Emefiele was in bad taste.

The Assembly in a statement on Tuesday regretted that the Zamfara State governor could descend so low to castigate the CBN governor on the basis of a rumour when he (Matawalle) in a recent press statement was quoted as saying: "If the leave has been approved, as reported in the media, the President should cancel it in the interest of peaceful transfer of power, accountability, and good governance"

The Arewa Youth Assembly statement signed by its publicity secretary, Alhaji Aliyu Sani, reads: "We find it embarrassing that a sitting governor will allow himself to be swayed into believing and acting on a baseless rumour, concocted from the pit of hell, that Mr. Godwin Emefiele has been granted study leave to flee from the country before Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is sworn in. "The Office of the President, through one of its Spokespersons, Mallam Garba Shehu has denied the existence of the imaginary study leave. When he was asked to react to the trending news, he responded as follows: "If the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, has been granted study leave supposedly by President Muhammadu Buhari, this is unknown to us. It is also unknown to the president’s secretariat headed by the Chief of Staff"

The Arewa youth group regretted that despite this official position by the Presidency, Matawalle decided to believe in the lies released to the public by an online medium, noting that for the Zamfara State governor to swallow every content emanating from the media outfit, it shows that their publications on Zamfara alleging that the Matawalle-led government in Zamfara awarded multi Billion Naira Contracts in Zamfara without following due process was not far from the truth.

"Instead of him to be afraid of his fate when he leaves office, he is more concerned about the destiny of Mr. Emefiele who is serving Nigerians diligently.

"We wish to challenge Matawalle to make public the number of persons kidnapped in Zamfara State when the Naira was not in excessive circulation and the reintroduction of the Naira following his pyrrhic victory in Court that forced the CBN to recirculate Naira notes. If he can answer this in public, Nigerians will know who has the solution to the problem of insecurity in the country.

"The Governor that has failed his people and the North in terms of security,

education, economy and infrastructural development ought not to be heard discussing the national issue. We are in a country where shameless people are the leaders, they wouldn't mind exporting their show of shame to the global stage. otherwise, how can a man under whose watch.

"While you couldn't do anything about the situation of your people, Emefiele was busy working hard, feeding the nation, your people inclusive, boosting the economy by impacting all sectors through various programs Viza viz; Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme, CBN’s Intervention Programmes and Schemes for MSMEs, CBN’s Intervention Programmes and Schemes for Manufacturing, CBN’s Intervention Programmes and Schemes for Export.

"This has helped in increasing revenue generation outside crude oil, thus helping this administration to actualize its diversification agenda, creation of employment, alleviating poverty, and recreating Nigeria's image before the world.

"So yes, President Buhari has had an eventful tenure, and so does Dr. Godwin Emefiele. President Buhari's tenure is eventful because he has people like Emefiele.

"On the other hand, the only person seeking to damage the good work President Buhari has done is you, that's why your people voted for APC in the presidential election but never hesitated to vote you out, because you have failed them. This justifies why you were never voted in the first place, the statement added.

The Arewa youths advised Matawalle to lick his wounds and grief alone, adding: "Do not drag others into your world of shame. While you were busy spending Zamfara people's money on irrelevant things, Emefiele was busy on Naira redesign, a policy that had the power to stop insecurity, curtailed corruption, and drop the prices of commodity immediately. Conversely, the problems came back in full immediately after cash started flowing, people were no longer safe, and bandits hit Zamfara, Kaduna, Minna, and other parts of the country.

"For this alone, Emefiele should be given a gold medal and celebrated, for he helped President Buhari abide by the constitution that states the security and lives of citizens are paramount.

"All that Emefiele has done with the blessings of the commander in chief, his activities have been completely transparent and accountable, the records are there, the world is digital, every naira, every kobo is accounted for how it comes

in and how it is spent. "For the record, even if there were requests for study leave, it is legal. The Public Service Rules make ample provision for the training and development of Civil Servants, to enhance the officer’s performance, adding value to the Service, and encourage professionalism in the dispatch of their duties (PSR 100223,

PSR 100224, PSR 100225, PSR 100226).

"It is obvious Governor Matawalle is the one suffering from trauma and shock from the election he lost, instead of grieving in silence alone, he chose to take a last dance of shame by ranting under speculations of the media he has not confirmed to be true or otherwise.

"Lastly, we wish to call on Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to note that the North voted for him when the sound of gunshots from bandits went silent as a result of the Naira redesign Policy introduced by the CBN. Insecurity is the reason why our people rejected the PDP, we saw a workable solution to our number one problem. If he

chooses to rally obvious failures like Matawalle around him, we will sadly accept that he has failed before his inauguration and nothing good will be expected from his tenure.

"The North has many qualified and respectable persons that will fit into the Presidency of Tinubu, Bellow Matawalle is not part of them".

Alleged N10Bn fraud: Court adjourns Paul Ozigbu's trial to July 14

AFederal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday adjourned to July 14 for continuation of trial of Chief Paul Ozigbu who facing ten count charges for alleged forgery and N10 billion fraud.

Trial court judge, Donatus Okorowo adjourned the matter to enable the court attend to other matters after the defendant Paul Ozigbu testified for about three hours on Tuesday.

During the trial on Tuesday the court admitted the 'minutes of Eze Ala family meeting 'as exhibit in addition to three other exhibits that were admitted on Monday. Justice Okorowo while admitting the minutes as exhibit,ruled that it was for its relevance.He asked the prosecution counsel who vehemently opposed the photo copy of the minutes that was not a certified true copy of the document, to address the court in his final written address.

Paul Ozigbu further told the court that "Ozigbu Engineering Company limited does not own any moveable assets or fixed assets. The company does not own any money in bank. So it is absolutely untrue I took over assets worth N5bn", he stated.

He said that upon the death of his father Chief Hilary Ozigbu, he shared his late father assets and gave his siblings a good number of the assets.

The defendant had said on Monday that the Ozigbu Engineering Company limited Board' resolution that made his wife Ngozi Ozigbu and his son who are at large as directors were not registered at Cooperate Affairs Commission, CAC .

Paul is standing trial over allegations of forgery, criminal conspiracy and illegal conversion of family properties into personal use amongst others.

According to the charge, he was alleged to have forged landed property documents of their late father, Nze Ike Hilary Ozigbu, in order to takeover ownership of family properties and company.

He however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

At Monday's proceedings, Chief Ikata, led in evidence by defence counsel, Mr C. Menkiti the witness, Chief Akata had told the court that late Nze Ike Ozigbu whose property is in centre of the dispute between the defendant and his three other siblings, was his confidant.

He claimed that when the forgery case was reported at the police station, he was

not invited and did not make any statement in regards to the power of attorney late Ozigbu gave him.

He said that one of the properties listed in the power of attorney is number 16 Aba - Port Harcourt Express highway but, under cross examination by the prosecution counsel Dr.Joseph Nwadike, the witness said it is an address of a company.

Under further cross examination the witness said that late Ozigbu gave him the power of attorney on the property and he signed it, adding that the late chief Ozigbu invited him to his house where he signed the document after studying it.

But counsel doubted the signature and the document and applied under Section 101 sub sections (1) and (2) of the evidence Act for the witness' finger signature to be sent for forensic analysis. Although the prayer was refused but the finger signature was admitted and marked as exhibit E.

Still under cross examination the witness Chief Akata said that he hailed from same village with late Chief Ozigbu who had four children as follows in seniority: Paul Ozigbu, Peter Ozigbu, Mrs Stella Oga and Uche Ozigbu.

The defendant, Paul Ozigbu also yesterday began his

testimony as he claimed he did not forged Ozigbu Engineering Company documents nor the signature of Hon Dr Ifeyinwa.

He said that Ozigbu Engineering Company Board Resolution 2021 that made his wife Mrs Ngozi Ozigbu and son directors of the company was not registered with the CAC.

The trial continues on Tuesday, May 16.2023. Paul in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CR/239/2020, was alleged to have forged Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) documents, and Power of Attorney of his late father, Nze Hilary Ozigbu and obtained family property by falsehood.

He was also accused alongside one Ngozi Ozigbu and David Ozigbu, now at large to have at different times fraudulently obtained various sums of money amounting to N10.4;0 billion.

He was also accused of forging the signature of late Engineer Hillary Ozigbu and used same to effect the change of Directors of the company, known as Ozigbu Engineering Company Limited.

The charge stated that the defendant committed an offence contrary to section 1(2)(c) of Miscellaneous Offences Cap M17, Law of Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

L-R: Franklin Ali, Chief Human Resources Officer, Interswitch Nigeria; Ivie Temitayo-Ibitoye, Head of Employee Relations, Sahara Group and Akeem Lawal, Managing Director, Payment Processing and Switching (Interswitch Purepay) at the second edition of the Interswitch Career Fair in Lagos...on Tuesday.

NYSC at 50: Aisha

Buhari flags-off health initiative for rural dwellers in Abuja

UKPONO UKPONG

In her effort to ensure effective and efficient Health delivery Services for those in the rural areas of the country, the First Lady, Aisha Buhari has flagged off a medical outreach scheme Known as Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) in Abuja.

The launching of the HIRD scheme is part of the activities lined up to celebrate NYSC at 50 in the country.

Speaking at the occasion, Aisha Buhari urged the leadership of NYSC and the Corps members not to relent in promoting initiatives that will promote peace, unity, and development in the country.

Speaking further, the first lady informed that all corps members serving in Dauda, Katsina State are usually given prefrencial treatment to dine and wine freely during festive periods and holidays.

In his welcome address at the event, the Director General of NYSC, Brig. General Y.D. Ahmed thanked the First Lady for gracing the occasion.

He disclosed that the Special Medical outreach program was aimed at celebrating NYSC at 50 years of existence.

The DG also described NYSC Scheme as a catalyst that has propel growth,

peace and national development across the country.

NYSC boss also maintained that over 30 Million Nigerians now have access to medical treatment especially those in the rural communities across the country because of HIRD.

Consequently, DG NYSC equally urged for support among well-meaning Nigerians for the programm to succeed adding that meaningful and tangible contribution could help more Nigerian gain access to health care services.

In her Goodwill message, the Chairman NYSC governing Board, Ambassador Fatima Balla Abubakar expressed the hope that with the flagged off of the Scheme, more Nigerians especially those in the rural communities will now have unristricted access to health care services.

While Commending the special guest of honor, Aisha Buhari for coming in person to the programme, she disclosed that the pioneer HIRD Scheme was launched in 2014.

The Representatives of the FCT Minister Mallam Adamu Bello, Abubakar Tafida in his Goodwill message said the launching of the Scheme shows government commitment to improving health Care services to Nigerians.

Despite paucity of funds, FCDA scores self high on infrastructure delivery

UKPONO UKPONG

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engineer Shehu Ahmad has said that despite the prevailing financial challenge, significant progress has been made in the area of infrastructure development in the nation's capital, Abuja.

Ahmad, attributed the achievement to the decision of the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello's led FCT Administration to complete ongoing or abandoned infrastructural projects, have bolstered efforts at developing the nation's

Abba Kyari's drug trial: Court bars journalists, others, takes testimonies of undercover witnesses

ANDREW OROLUA, ABUJA

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court Abuja on Tuesday barred journalists , lawyers and public from ongoing trial of the suspended DCP Abba Kyari and four other police officers standing trial for alleged drug trafficking as under cover witnesses testified.

The court order barring public from the trial followed an application brought by Mr Sunday Joseph the prosecution counsel for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Joseph, a director of Legal and Prosecution Department of the NDLEA, had applied for the protection of the next witness listed to give evidence in the trial.

In his application, the counsel prayed the court not to allow lawyers not involved in the matter , litigants, visitors, including journalists in the courtroom

while the hearing lasted.

The judge granted the request and then stood down the matter to allow non-parties in the anti-narcotic suit against the suspended police officers move out.

However, when the judge came in for the matter, a lawyer, Emmanuel Oluwabiyi, whose case was on number 11 on the cause list, told the judge that he was in the court for another matter.

Oluwabiyi said he observed that before the judge rose, counsel for the NDLEA made an application.

“I understand that it was directed that everybody in the courtroom should step out because of the instant matter. The bar is also meant to be vacated.

“The feedback I am getting is that when this matter is going to be made, no lawyer should be in

“I am embarrassed by the application my lord,” he said.

Justice Nwite then pleaded with lawyers who were not in the Kyari’s matter to bear with the court in the interim.

He said their matters too would be heard as soon as hearing was over.

In te meantime sir, I want to know when to come back my lord,” Oluwabiyi asked.

“You can hang around. We are not going to take the matter through out the whole day. Please bear with, the court”the judge responded.

Another lawyer, Mr Ramiah Imhanaede, also aligned with Oluwabiyi’s submission but they complied with the court order.

When court rose after the secret testimony, NDLEA’s lawyer told journalists that he made the application to protect the witnesses, who are intelligent officers. He added that “there is a doctrine of state privilege in the interest of national security” in the application.

He said it had been observed that members of the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) who were loyal to Mr Kyari, were still coming to court

capital city, thereby changing the go-slow trend in the city.

While making this assertion yesterday, at a press conference on activities of the FCDA to ensure infrastructure delivery, the ES opined that paucity of funds for infrastructure development was not just a problem of the FCT alone, but rather a national issue, as the continued depleting Federal allocation has continued to affect infrastructure development in the Territory.

"Infrastructure development is not a bane of Abuja alone, but a national problem. As it is, funding for infrastructure in Nigeria currently runs into trillions of naira and Abuja, as we all know gets funding for infrastructure projects from national budget which is not enough.

"That is why the FCT Administration is the engaging private sector through the land for infrastructure swap like we have in Gwagwa District and we are looking at other Districts like Buru Shareti where we have received interest." He said

The Executive Secretary explained that through the goodwill of the FCT Minister, several efforts have started to changed the trend in the delivery of infrastructure to help realise the dreams of the funding fathers of the city, adding that with more political will, a lot can still be done towards the inclusive and rapid development of the city.

According to him, almost about 18 projects proposals are before the Federal Executive Council (FEC), out of which 9 are being processed as approvals have been given for award of contracts, which are going

to be delivered in the phase of sequence, in line with the policy of executing infrastructure of most impact on the city.

He disclosed that on Monday, it got FEC's approval for the revised estimated total cost of the contract for the construction and equipping of 220-Bed Gwarimpa District Hospital (Phase I) at Plot 79 Sector Centre E, Gwarimpa District, Abuja, awarded to Messrs Mabelt Construction Company Limited at the total cost of N5,652,680,046.09.

He added that approval for the revised estimated contract for the construction of three Solid Waste Transfer Stations at Mpape, Apo and Kubwa in the FCT, awarded to Messrs Goodness International Resources Limited, at the total cost of N6,230,103,458.37.

Similarly, he disclosed approval for the Award of contract for the provision of Electric Power and Water supply to Apo-Tafyi Federal Integrated Staff Housing site, awarded to Messrs Olivec Ventures Limited, at the total cost of

N3,578,679,582.19.

Furthermore, he said: "Approval for the award of contract for the construction of Access Road and Car Park for Abuja Light Rail at Stadium and Kukwaba Stations, awarded to Messrs Datum Construction Engineering Limited N4,600,479,947.25 at the cost.

"Approval for the award of contract for the construction of Access Road and Car Park for Abuja Light Rail at Stadium and Kukwaba Stations, awarded to Messrs Datum Construction Engineering Limited, at the total cost of N4,600,479,947.25.

"Approval for the Award of contract for the construction of 15km Road from A2 Junction(Abuja-Lokoja Road) to Pai in Kwali Area Council, FCT, awarded to Messrs COAN (West Africa) Limited, at the cost of N11,584,613,858,.61.

"Approval for the award of contract for the construction of Nanda-Pandagi-Dangara-Agyena Road, FCT Abuja, awarded to Messrs COAN (West Africa)Limited, at the cost of N9,133,302,039.00".

L-R: Taiye Tunkarimu, Head of Communications, LSETF, David Ayinde, Program Supervisor, Sahara Group Foundation, Shamsudeen Babatunde Odeleye, Council Manager, Igando-Ikotun LCDA, and Oluwole Ayodele, Wrex Manager, Wecyclers, at the Go-Recycling Hub Launch, held in Lagos...on Tuesday.

The relevance of truth in contemporary Nigeria

VICTOR ESEMUEDE

The expression, “let’s call a spade a spade,’’ is very common amongst Nigerians. But I find it very ironic considering the fact that Nigerians rarely call a spade a spade [both literally and figuratively]: they call it a shovel. Perhaps they do so because calling a spade a spade has never been beneficial to them and those who brazenly call it a shovel finds reward in doing so. Whatever their motive one thing is clear: Nigerians like lying to themselves and those around them, and this is one of the symptoms of a decaying and deteriorating society.

The Nigerian peoples are both fascinating and frustrating, and living in Nigeria is a tragicomedy wherein the people have to deal with bouts of subtle depression and wanton suffering and assuaged by heavy doses of comic relief. It is a country where reality is distorted by the oppressors and the oppressed, a society that has perfected Machiavellianism to the letter without even reading The Prince. In my twenty plus years of being Nigerian, I have noticed telling the truth is one of the worst things you can do, for it could land you in hot water or ostracize you.

Lying to oneself and others has become a ubiquitous activity; it is ingrained in the preacher who has convinced his congregation that the source of their problems is not bad governance but village sponsored witchcraft. The words of the government are pregnant with deceit when they say they have the best interest of the people at heart. The intellectuals are fraudsters who polish their lies with linguistic aesthetics and have no problems eating with the oppressors. The ordinary men and women have borrowed pages from the playbook of their oppressors. In fact, most Nigerians, no matter how bitterly they complain about their oppressors, would have no qualms eating with them if given the opportunity.

Events leading up to the just concluded elections and after are further evidence that the majority of Nigerians find the truth repulsive and would rather call a car an aeroplane. Recently the candidate of the Labour Party was being barraged online for tweeting that the poverty ravaged northern region of Nigeria is in dire need of a transformation. Those distorted souls criticized him not because Peter Obi’s tweet was factually incorrect [the Northern region is the poorest

in Nigeria], but because the truth stirs up chaos and discomfort in them. Thus, they revolt against truth tellers and those whom to perceive to be saintly for I believe it reminds them of their moral decadence and this is why they share kinship with morally bankrupt politicians.

The end result is a country where truth is a scarce commodity and those who engage in the business of truth telling are cast into the abyss, and a country where exploitation of one another regardless of social status is a grundnorm. A country populated by unprincipled fellows who paint themselves with different colours just to get to the top like their president-elect. Because truth has become an outcast people do unimaginable things to escape being the worst version of a Nigerian: a poor and unprivileged Nigerian. Nigerians specializes in the Orwellian art of “Doublethink,” they know the truth yet choose to lie for its benefits and to avoid the responsibilities that come with accepting the truth.

We live in a society that has reduced itself to its animalistic instincts of survival which in turn has engendered a consequentialist approach to life. For a country whose purported desire is progression,

we seem not to care about the first step required to attain this goal: justice. And what is justice without truth? A country that wishes to progress cannot be built on lies and a man who wishes to be better must not lie to himself.

Fyodor Dostoevsky warned when he wrote in The Brother’s Karamazov, “the man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to such a pass that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect he ceases to love, and in order to occupy and distract himself without love he gives way to passions and coarse pleasures, and sinks to bestiality in his vices, all from continual lying to other men and himself.”

Nigerians must rediscover themselves and begin the quest for development the right way by first telling ourselves the most glaring truths. We need to tell ourselves that our democracy is a monumental joke, that multidimensional poverty is one hundred percent engineered by the government either intentionally or otherwise. We need to sit ourselves down and examine our lives and tell ourselves that willingly voting for

corrupt men makes one an accomplice and not a victim. A further examination will also reveal that we are really no different from our oppressors; in fact Nigeria is this dysfunctional because the bulk of Nigerians have dysfunctional souls.

An assessment of political campaigns in Nigeria

AGBALAJOBI DAMI

Election campaigns are an important aspect of the democratic process in Nigeria. They give voters a chance to learn what a candidate or party stands for.

In Nigeria, according to the Electoral Act 2022, election campaigns start six months before the election. The country goes to the polls in February and March this year, so campaigning began on 28 September 2022.

The last day of campaigns for the presidential and national assembly elections is 23 February 2023 and the last day of campaigns for the governorship and state assembly elections is 9 March 2023.

Candidates vying for the office of the president have been advertising in the media, stating their plans on various platforms. There have also been rallies and marches. Colourful posters adorn Nigeria’s streets, showing candidates decked out in their various traditional attires.

As a political scientist who has studied election campaigns in Nigeria, I’ve got some personal likes and dislikes about them. This time, I’m glad to see citizens taking more interest in the elections than before. But I wish the campaigns were more informative.

Top of my list of dislikes is disinformation, misinformation and fake news. When you listen to most of the campaign managers of most of the political parties, you hear them propagating false information to discredit their opponent. This can influence public opinion

negatively. This is not good.

I also dislike the way campaigners turn each other into adversaries. Looking at the three major political parties contesting the presidential election, emphasis has been placed on the candidates and not the issues at stake or what they will do if elected. An example of the threatening way they speak is a state party chairman who said his party would win by “hook or crook”. Another said voters who failed to vote for his party would be dealt with.

Party politics with no benefit to the general populace is another “dislike.” Political office holders only return to the people when seeking office. Once they get into power, they forget the people who have voted for them. A House of Representatives member was stoned in Taraba State, north-east Nigeria, for abandoning his constituents, who vowed not to vote for him again.

Self centredness is now the order of the day. I’m talking about how political office holders use their offices to satisfy personal needs at the expense of those who voted them into office. Why should they wait till the election period before making basic social services available to the people? It is sad that we only see people getting welfare packages at election time.

Another unfortunate aspect of electoral campaigns in Nigeria is that people tend to look to politicians to solve all their problems. Politicians have consistently abused this dependency to cajole people for support. We see this in the distribution of food and clothing at cam -

paign rallies. Sometimes, votes are “bought” rather than based on beliefs about ideologies, as most of our political parties have no ideology to sell. The parties have made vague promises without concrete ideas on moving Nigeria forward.

Positive aspects of election campaigns in Nigeria

The media are doing a lot to educate the public and to set agendas. They have been organising debates and discussions in various forms.

Social media are useful and influential too – they make it cheaper to reach more people and create awareness. They also help construct communities, which is valuable for minorities.

The media serve to inform people about what the candidates and parties are planning. And they act as a watchdog. The media are doing their best to inform the populace and they are giving each candidate an opportunity to present themselves to the public.

Another positive aspect of election campaigns is that they are opportunities for politicians to reach out to remote areas they would not have reached ordinarily. This opens up opportunities for the poor to engage with politicians.

I also like the fact that election campaigns increase citizens’ awareness of the political system. People are more aware of the different choices available to them. In the current election season, people are queuing to obtain their voter’s cards, and engaging with campaigns. I haven’t seen this level of awareness before – it’s com

mendable.

Even in areas where some parties are not strong, they are campaigning. Politicians are not leaving anything to chance. This has increased awareness and given voters more options.

Another thing I like is that citizens have greater access to politicians. There have been debates, town hall meetings, rallies and roadshows allowing citizens to interact more with candidates.

I think a sense of cultural heritage ought to be reintegrated into our beliefs, values and political activities. The use of social media can be positive or negative. The idea of it becoming the voice of the people is good. But technology has also been used to create and circulate misinformation. I have seen many video clips being circulated that carry negative information. An example was a fake video of a presidential candidate whose speech was twisted. A BBC investigation has discovered that political parties are secretly paying social media influencers to spread disinformation about their opponents ahead of the elections.

It’s sometimes hard to know what the correct information is; and what is false. This can lead to poor decision making. Campaigning on social media can also be a ‘dirty game’ in which politicians deliberately make each other look bad.

Too much of the campaigning so far has been more like hate speech and irrelevant talk, devoid of real political issues. It should rather be constructive, sharing ideas about how to fix and improve the country.

“

It’s sometimes hard to know what the correct information is; and what is false. This can lead to poor decision making.

VICTOR ESEMUEDE

Digging Nigeria out of the debt hole

The Nigerian government deducted more than ₦78 billion from state allocations for external debt servicing. This was according to the National Bureau of Statistics’ Federation Account Allocation Committee Disbursement reports. The deductions were made in 2022 from the allocations given to state governments from the Federation Account. The state with the most deductions was Lagos, with about ₦23.61 billion deducted in 2022 for external debt servicing, followed by Kaduna (₦10.25 billion) and Cross River (₦7.56 billion). The least affected states were Borno (₦309.79 million), Delta (₦417.54 million) and Zamfara (₦417.96 million).

Over the past demi-decade, many Nigerian states have seen little to no foreign investment. Sometime ago, the NBS published a report that noted that foreign investors ignored 24 states as the value of capital importation crashed by 30.78 percent to $6.7 billion in 2021 from $9.68 billion in 2020. Of the 24, ten (Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Gombe, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara) have not seen any foreign investments in the last three years. Coincidentally, the FDI decline coincided with the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, as global movement restrictions saw Nigeria plunge into a recession.

Additionally, the IMF warning cannot be divorced from a retreat of Chinese infrastructural development and assistance on the continent. Western sanctions on Russia have simply meant that its peers have taken note and are seeking to survive the shocks that the war in Ukraine has brought to the global economy. It has also been almost quiet on the Western front instability in sub-Saharan Africa has jacked up operating costs for Western finance and sullied investment appetite. In its place has been security diplomacy, which is always gulped by the security industrial complex of many African states. In addition, for most sub-national external borrowings, the FG is required to provide debt guarantees. Hence it is not unusual that deductions for debt servicing are done at source. As the FG and states grapple with an ever-spiralling debt burden, the biggest concern on the minds of observers for the long term is the country and subnationals’ ability to service their commitments in a fiscally sustainable way. The big-ticket decisions to cut down expenditure and grow both federal and state-level government revenue from nonoil sources are still pending, and beyond even reining in the costs, this revenue raising will be the most crucial component of digging the country out of the debt hole its elites have worked it into. Analysts used to say that Nigeria has a revenue, not a debt problem. With recent disclosures by the World Bank that Nigeria spent 96.3 percent of revenue on debt servicing in 2022 from 83.2 percent the previous year, we can now state that Nigeria has significant revenue and debt problems. A big issue is that with hikes in interest rates domestically and internationally, borrowing costs are rising, and the appetite for Nigerian debt is slowing. All these signify a turbulent period ahead: many states with high debt profiles have little funds to address basic issues. The worrying thing about Nigerian debt is not its size but its utility. Lagos paid ₦23.61 billion in 2022 for external debt servicing but is still lumbering with 27% unemployment. The unemployment situation in Kaduna and Cross River is hardly encouraging. This fits a pattern across Nigeria’s states where loans are not channelled to projects that improve productivity and attract investment. Nigerian states are like their parent company, the federal government, stuck in a debt trap they may never get out of without some form of debt forgiveness. The conditions for debt forgiveness arose because the country achieved an annualised growth rate of 6.5% between

2003 and 2007, according to the Debt Management Office. The country was also transiting from the Abacha military era of sanctions into Western-style democracy. During the last decade of the 20th century, the DMO says Nigeria reached a debt overhang, meaning the country’s debt stock was beyond its future capacity to pay. It would be interesting to know what a similar model for the current low oil production and lagging non-oil sector environment would reveal. In the 2020 edition of the guidelines for states to borrow money from external sources, two prudent fiscal rules stand out: the debt servicing cost for the loan or loans to be borrowed must not surpass 40% of the Federal Accounts Allocation derived revenues, and the total loan portfolio of the state must also not exceed 250% of the preceding year’s revenue. While those rules are germane to ensure the country does not waltz into another debt overhang, the loans are also expected to tally with the central government’s agenda. This defeats the idea of a federal state. The 2020 guideline, an offshoot of the first version, published in 2008, gives the federal government absolute power to pick and choose what loans it decides to guarantee. A good illustration can be found with the ports. Two deep port projects with significant economic potential have been floated by All Progressives Congress governors under the current president’s term. Although an argument can be made that having multiple deep ports may mean that cargo demand may be too thin to sustain their long-term viability, the reality is that the outgoing government has demonstrated an unwillingness to diversify transportation. At least 80% of cargo entering Nigeria transits through (and spends an inordinate amount of time) in the Apapa or TinCan Island ports and, when out of port, is transported by road. A new port in Lekki has come on stream without rail linkage. The Buhari administration is yet to get cargo trains running on the Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor or utilise the country’s semi-extensive network of inland waterways. It is no surprise then that the $1.3 billion Olukola port floated by Ondo’s Rotimi Akeredolu awaits approval, seven months after the federal transport minister promised it would be ready before 29 May. Cross River Governor Ben Ayade said he left the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the ruling party to advocate for the Bakassi deep port. He said the state needs at least $350 million just to construct the port and he has been unable to secure Abuja’s backing. The entire project is valued at $2 billion. Away from the grind of fiscal policy, rising government borrowing has one major consequence: crowding out private sector access to much-needed credit. CBN data showed that credit to the private sector reached ₦43 trillion in Q1 2023, a rise of ₦1.3 trillion. Meanwhile, the Senate just okayed the President’s request to restructure ₦22.7 trillion in CBN Ways and Means advances to Aso Rock into 40-year bonds, practically increasing the national debt by a third. Since government bonds are inherently less risky than private credit, the near-term outlook for continued financial sector support for economic value creation will be constrained. The states, facing wilting revenue lines, rising debt deductions and populist pressure, will almost certainly fight back, and the Supreme Court will weigh in on the matter. The country’s fiscal situation will take up most of the next government’s attention and energies. The hope is that it is up to the task. Rather than securing loans to jumpstart the financial independence of states, the central government has secured at least $1.3 billion from the World Bank for a social safety net scheme whose return-on-investment profile is limited at best. In other words, when an item is not on Aso Rock’s agenda, do not expect much policy support.

Abdulrazaq thanks cabinet members for ‘good job’ at valedictory meeting

KEHINDE AKINPELU, ILORIN

Kwara State Executive Council on Tuesday held its valedictory meeting, with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq commending the cabinet members for their great contributions to the success of the administration in the last four years.

Speaking at the council meeting Tuesday morning, the Governor said the cabinet members were instrumental to the success of the administration as well as the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election.

“We have done so well together, and I thank you

all for your services to the state. This is the valedictory meeting of the cabinet but we are going to have some other (informal) meeting in the coming week to further show appreciation to one another,” the Governor said.

“I thank you for your contributions to our achievements and your roles during the election.”

Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development Aliyu Kora Sabi, who spoke for his colleagues, thanked the Governor and the people of the state for the opportunity given to them to serve at the cabinet level.

"We commend Your Excellency for your great leadership and forbearance. We really appreciate the opportunity to serve, and we are proud to have been part of the success stories of this administration," he said.

The valedictory meeting comes ahead of the May 29 inauguration of the Governor for another term following his impressive win at the March 18 election.

Oyo waste consultant says management system technology driven

NYSC Trust Fund will reduce burden on govt funding - DG

UKPONO UKPONG

The Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yusha'u Ahmed, has said that the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund will help to reduce the burden of funding on the government.

In his address yesterday at a media parley organised by the scheme, the Director-General said that considering the yearly rise in the population of Corps member, there is the need for commensurate increase in funding of scheme's programmes and activities.

"The Trust Fund will go a long way is addressing the problem of graduate unemployment through the reinvigoration of our Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme. Apart from ensuring the availability of the required logistics for training, it will provide the Corps

Members with start-up capital to set up their businesses. This will give rise to a larger number of Corps Entrepreneurs that will, in turn, provide jobs to millions of other Nigerian youths.

"It will equally address the infrastructural defi -

cit faced by the scheme through the provision and upgrade of the facilities at the orientation camps and other operational bases as well as support staff training for enhanced productivity."

Speaking further, he also appealed to state and local

governments not to neglect their statutory responsibilities in the sustenance of the NYSC. He lamented that over the years, attitudes to role expectations have become one of the major challenges faced by the scheme.

Bauchi Govt moves to Domesticate Freedom of Information Act

SAMUEL LUKA, BAUCHI

In an effort to focus on promotion of accountability, transparency and to involve citizens in the process of governance, Bauchi State Government has joined the global concept of Open Government Partnership (OGP), to domesticate Freedom of Information Act.

OGP is an international multi-stakeholder initiative that focuses on promoting accountability, transparency and involvement of citizens in the process of governance.

STEPHEN GBADAMOSI, IBADAN

Oyo State waste management consultant, Mottainai Recycling Limited has said that it is adopting an improved technology-based waste management system to enhance a safe and habitable environment in the state.

Speaking at a recent forum held in Ibadan, the state capital, to commemorate this year’s World Earth Day, the Chief Strategy Officer of Mottainai Recycling Limited, Ms. Uloma Airhienbuwa, said new technology had been deployed to tackle challenges in Oyo State’s refuse collection system.

Airhienbuwa added that the new method was deployed to seek quick solutions to environmental issues, adding that with the new technology, “which allows the company to track movement of its accredited franchisees' trucks, the

state will achieve a clean, green and sustainable environment, in line with the Governor Seyi Makinde led-administration's vision.”

While calling for attitudinal change to check incidences of environmental degradation, Ms. Airhienbuwa also appreciated the continued support of the state government to create enabling infrastructure to ensure effective waste management system.

While she drew the attention of residents of the state to “imminent threats caused by environmental wastes,” Airhienbuwa expressed optimism that the technology deployed into the waste management system would address the challenges posed by unwholesome waste disposal.

Speaking further, she encouraged residents in the state to take ownership of their environment by avoiding harmful environmental practices.

The concept of the OGP, according to the Bauchi commissioner for budget and planning, Aminu Hammayo, is a voluntary affair, but with far reaching implications such that member countries or governments at local level that have keyed into it are globally rated highly.

The commissioner said that the OGP has the latitude to attract collaboration, partnership and support from across the World or with the 75 countries that have so far keyed into the programme, adding that at state and Local Government levels, a number of 106 countries joined the OGP.

Alh. Aminu Hammayo who was answering questions from newsmen on the outcome of the recent State Executive Council (SEC) meeting said, "OGP operates on such a way that decisions are arrived at by the government and civil society organizations or groups, and the private sector.

According to him, the

OGP in Bauchi state has a steering committee made up of an equal number of members from the state and non state actors, saying "We have 24 members both from the government and civil society groups, hover MN ment has 12 and CSOs have 12".

"The essance of that is for every decision taken, there have to be a concensus, that means the government sticks to it's side and the civil societies/private sector sticks to their side and no decision is taken".

Commissioner Aminu Hammayo Said however that the ability of each of the sides to convince the other on what is going to be done for the best of Bauchi state

is what the OGP is all about.

Hammayo who recalled that Bauchi was admitted into the OGP in October 2022, stated "As a state, based on the reforms that we have carried out in budget process, revenue mobilization, and in terms of inclusiveness, one of the requirements is for the state to develop an action plan towards implementation".

"As a country, we joined the OGP and keyed into about 16 commitments. New members as a country or state are at liberty to choose the commitments they would pursue in the course of implementation of the action plan. Action plan is actually revolving, when it expires after two years,

another one is going to be developed".

The Bauchi budget and planning captain disclosed that the state keyed into four commitments namely, to promote access to information through domestication of making a law as Freedom of Information Act, based on the peculiarities of the state to make information easily accessible.

"The second commitment is the citizens engagement in the process of budgetting, and that means we could enhance processes that would ensure the participation of citizens, and even the process of monitoring, the extent to which the implementation of budgets and programmes are being carried out", Hammayo said.

He gave the third commitment as the enhancement of revenue generation, stressing "We have done significant keys in terms of reforms of reform to generate revenue. We have keyed and planned a number of things that we will do in the next two years to get to where we want to get".

Alh. Aminu Hammayo gave the last commitment Bauchi state keyed into under the OGP as promotion of inclusiveness in a way of attending to the needs of marginalised groups such as the women, childrren, disabled, aged, among others.

He further explained that, as part of the process, Bauchi state has concluded plan to develop a Social Protection Policy which, according to him, the State Executive Council considered and approved sometimes ago.

Police urged to meet dynamic security challenges in a democracy

TITUS AKHIGBE, BENIN

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated the need for Nigerians to shun bitterness and other societal divisions and work together, irrespective of their differences, to create and promote an enabling environment for growth and societal advancement.

The governor gave the charge in commemoration of the 2023 International Day of Living Together in Peace, with the theme, “United in differences and diversity.”

dev't

development.”

The governor added, “In Edo State, we have long understood the importance of embracing and harnessing our differences and have, as a government, implemented a series of policies and reforms to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, respected, and included. We recognize that it is through the integration of various perspectives that we can find innovative solutions to the challenges we face and unlock our true potential.”

CHIJIOKE NJOKU, ABAKALIKI

The Nigerian Police has been urged to confront the dynamic challenges of providing security in the modern-day democratic setting.

Prof. Theodore Maiyaki, the Chief Executive Officer of Colloquium Consults Investment Limited, gave the urge in Abakaliki during a five-day training for officers of the Ebonyi Police Command.

Maiyaki said that the training, which was supported by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, aims at deepening the knowledge of police officers to achieve their constitutional mandates.

"Policing has changed dimension since the turn of the present democratic dispensation with constitutionalism bringing forth freedom and privileges.

"Crime has also changed colour from the advent of technology, militancy, insurgency, kidnapping among others as a result of the democratic system of government.

"The police, therefore, should not remain in its old place but should respond appropriately or even step ahead of the sophistication of new forms of crimes. He noted that training and re-training then remains the best way to inculcate new policing strategies into the officers to face new realities.icipants would be trained in strategic reasoning, change in behaviour, attitudes and enhancing their capacities for maximum efficiency.

"The enthusiasm shown by the participants is a

pointer that their capacities would be raised to approach their constitutional roles more effectively."

Mohammed Lawal, a Representative of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, said the fund recognises the importance of training and re-training police officers for optimal service delivery.

"We have been training police officers across the country as the participants are expected to be better policemen after the training.

"They should show the difference between trained officers and those not trained as participation cuts across the junior and senior cadre of the force."

Dr Celestine Ukaoma, a Representative of the state commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) urged the organisers to extend such training to the corps.

"Security agencies need constant training of its officers because crime has assumed a sophisticated dimension and officers need to keep to its pace,"he said.

Chinelo Ofoegbunam, the Register and Secretary of the Colloquium Consults limited, noted that the training would help the participants improve on their performances especially in future elections.

The theme of the training is "Public order policing /crowd management (hard squad) and force management.

The participants were tutored by seasoned resource persons on role of the police in democracy and good governance, its role in public border act of Nigeria, crowd management, among others.

The event marked every May 16 aims to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to live together harmoniously and respect and appreciate the differences that exist among individuals and communities, as well as emphasises the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding in building peaceful and inclusive societies.

According to Obaseki, “This year’s celebration presents yet another opportunity to celebrate the beauty and richness of our differences and diversity as a nation and people. We

are blessed with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, traditions, and beliefs, and must recognise that it is in this diversity that our strength lies. Our collective differences must therefore be celebrated as a source of enlightenment and growth, rather than a cause for division.

“If we must therefore live together and address the myriad of challenges con-

fronting us a people, we must rise above prejudice, bitterness, discrimination, and all other forms of societal stereotypes, and work in unity to foster an inclusive and conducive environment that recognises the inherent worth and dignity of every person, regardless of their differences and backgrounds. It is only then that we can forge our paths to sustainable growth and

According to the United Nations, “Living together in peace is all about accepting differences and having the ability to listen to, recognise, respect and appreciate others, as well as living in a peaceful and united way.

“The Day invites countries to further promote reconciliation to help to ensure peace and sustainable development, including by working with communities, faith leaders and other relevant actors, through reconciliatory measures and acts of service and by encouraging forgiveness and compassion among individuals.”

50th anniversary: Diri rates NYSC high on contributions to host communities

AMOS OKIOMA, YENAGOA

The Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has rated high the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), on its 50th anniversary celebration, saying the years of contribution to grassroots development is commendable.

Governor Diri, gave the commendation in a speech on Tuesday at the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch "A" Stream II Orientation Course held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town,commended the founder and managers of the scheme for mobilising and deploying graduates to render selfless services across the nation in the last 50 years.

Gov. Diri, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government/ Chairman, NYSC State Governing Board, Alabo Gideon Ekeuwei, equally praised the 2023 Batch "A" Stream II corps members for being called up at a time the scheme is celebrating it's golden jubilee, noting that the story of the scheme will not be complete without the mention of corps members

contributions in their host communities.

While commending the camp management for a successful orientation exercise, the Governor urged the corps members to serve the nation faithfully and diligently.

He made it clear that the government will continue to prioritise the security and welfare of corps members deployed to the state, "as a government, we are committed to your welfare and security. This is clear by the quality of permanent orientation facility we have provided and the constant state allowance, transport back home after service year allowance and our reward system to corps members who distinguished themselves during the service year in their Community Development Service."

Governor Diri warned against truancy at their places of primary assignment and directed Heads of local government areas to assist the corps members to settle down to their duties.

In her remarks, the State Coordinator, Mrs Okpalifo Obiageli Charity disclosed that the corps members were exposed to various

trainings in the course of the three weeks exercise.

She urged them to be role models and exhibit the virtues of good citizenship, unity, cultural integration and religious tolerance.

Mrs Okpalifo commended the corps members for being deployed to serve at a time the NYSC is celebrating 50 years of contributions to national unity and development.

In her words, "you are indeed a lucky set to serve at a time the NYSC is celebrating Fifty years of mobilising and deploying Nigeria graduate youths to serve the nation. Several activities have been lined up to mark NYSC @ 50.

"The Service Corps has done well in all sectors of

the economy and national development. You have made history as the Golden Jubilee corps members."she declared.

The State Coordinator further urged the corps members to respect the tradition of their host communities as well as initiate projects that will add value to the people.

Mrs Okpalifo made it clear that corps members are not above the law and advised them to shun social vices such as drug abuse, cultism and cybercrime.

"As patriots on national assignment, live exemplary lifestyle that will show you are truly qualified in character and learning," she stressed.

Obaseki: We must embrace, harness our differences, diversity for sustainable growth,

IBBU Lapai to honour four eminent Nigerians at 4th combined convention

SAKA BOLAJI, MINNA

Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, in Niger State, is set to confer Doctorate Degrees on four eminent Nigerians at the forthcoming 4th Combined Convocation Ceremony slated for Saturday, 20th May, 2023, at the Abdulsalami Abubakar Convocation Arena, Main Campus, Lapai.

Those to be honoured are, His Excellency, Simon Bako Lalong, Executive Governor of Plateau State: Honorary Doctorate Degree of Administration (Honoris

TUC says Tinubu's spokesperson's views expression of ignorant mind

Causa); Colonel Sani Bello, Chairman, Mainstream Energy Solutions: Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humane Letters (Honoris Causa); Malam Ibrahim Aliyu, Chairman, Aliyu Trust Foundation: Honorary Doctorate Degree of Entrepreneurship Development (Honoris Causa), and Alhaji AbdulSamad Isyaka Rabiu, Chairman BUA Group: Honorary Doctorate Degree of Business Management (Honoris Causa).

A total of 6,145 graduates will be awards degrees, in two with first class, 2nd class upper, lower division and 3rd class as well passes.

FCTA trains 300 women on tomato paste processing, preservation

UKPONO UKPONG

The FCT Administration has trained no fewer than 300 women on FCTA trains 300 women on natural tomato paste processing and preservation.

The training is aimed at addressing post harvest wastage on which have negatively impacted on the lives of farmers in the territory.

Declaring the training open, the Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Abubakar Ibrahim disclosed that the training is designed for women across the six area councils with the flagoff in Abuja Municipal Area Council where 300 women drawn from Nyanya, Karu, Jikwoyi, Kurudu Karshi among others took part in the training.

Ibrahim said that there has been tremendous gains arising from the exercise since its initiation after he assumed office last year.

The Secretary who was represented by the Acting Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Haruna Umar explained that the training will equip the women with cost effective techniques borrowed from Japan to facilitate the attainment of food and nutrition security.

He added that the training which is a train the trainer structured programme will ensure that each of the participants is able to share her knowledge with at least ten residents in her neighbourhood. While demonstrating the process of tomato processing and preservation to the women, The lead trainer, Oladoja Margaret noted that the main target of the training is teach the women how to prevent economic waste.

According to her, it will enable them buy tomato in large quantities while it's cheap, process and store it against tomato off-season when it will become extremely expensive.

strategic steps to pre -

UKPONO UKPONG

The Trade Union Congress, TUC, yesterday fired back at the Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the spokesperson of the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, saying that his views are neither accusations nor insult, but an expression of his ignorant mind.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the TUC President and Secretary-general, Comrade (Engr) Festus Osifo, and Comrade Nuhu Toro, respectively.

vent such wastages in he future by training women in the territory on FCTA trains 300 women on natural tomato paste processing and preservation

Worried by the rate at which fresh tomatoes are left to waste during harvest seasons, the FCT Administration has taken strategic steps to prevent such wastages in he future by training women in the territory on how to process fresh tomatoes into paste for effective preservation.

The training, designed for women across the six area councils had a stop over at the Abuja Municipal Area Council on Tuesday where 300 women drawn from Nyanya, Karu, Jikwoyi, Kurudu Karshi among others were trained on tomato paste processing and preservation.

Declaring the training open, the Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Abubakar Ibrahim said there has been tremendous gains arising from the exercise since its initiation after he assumption of office last year.

The Secretary who was represented by the Acting Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Haruna Umar explained that the training will equip the women with cost effective techniques borrowed from Japan to facilitate the attainment of food and nutrition security.

He added that the training which is a train the trainer structured programme will ensure that each of the participants is able to share her knowledge with at least ten residents in her neighbourhood.

While demonstrating the process of tomato processing and preservation to the women, The lead trainer, Oladoja Margaret noted that the main target of the training is teach the women how to prevent economic waste.

Onanuga had in the ‘Punch Newspaper’ edition of Monday, May 15, 2023 claimed that: “The NLC and TUC are already heavily partisan and therefore have lost all moral rights to be a judge in the post-election legal fights.” He added that: “Looking at the future, I don’t even know how the NLC and TUC can now claim to represent all Nigerian workers having fully embraced the Labour Party.”

In the response, the TUC explained that Nigerian workers and their two labour centres, have a right to be politically partisan to safeguard their collective interests.

"This is our basic human right. So, we do not view this either as an accusation or in-

sult, rather it is the expression of an ignorant mind.

"Secondly, when Onanuga said the TUC and NLC “have lost all moral rights to be a judge in the post-election legal fights.” he spoke like a person with an unsound thought process because neither the TUC nor the NLC is a judge and the post-election legal fights he referred to are done in courts of competent jurisdiction.

"The issue is not about the TUC and NLC: “having fully embraced the Labour Party.” as Onuga cries. The

fact is that we created the Labour Party; in other words, the party is a child of the Labour Movement. This is nothing strange in democracies including Nigeria. In the United Kingdom for instance, the Labour Party is actually an alliance of trade unionists, socialists and social democrats. In fact, unions like those of Communications, Fire Brigades and Mineworkers are affiliates of the party. The German trade unions throw their weight behind political parties of their choice."

The Congress went on to

explain that, in Brazil, when the country was under military jackboots as was Nigeria, the trade unions created a political movement that led to the 1980 formation of the Workers Party.

"That party was the ruling party for 13 years from 2003, and is today, back in power with former labour leader, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as the country’s President.

"This fact that labour created the Labour Party does not mean the party must win all elections; in deed it has won some and lost some.

2023 Hajj: Oyo to immunise intending pilgrims May 17

STEPHEN GBADAMOSI, IBADAN

The Oyo State Pilgrim’s Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) has announced that it will conduct immunisation exercise for all intending pilgrims in the state on Wednesday, May 17.

This was revealed by the chairman of the board, Professor Sayed Malik, on Monday.

According to a statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatun-

bosun, on Tuesday, while noting that the programme would be on first-come-firstserve basis, Professor Malik called on all prospective pilgrims to converge on the venue of the programme, permanent site of the board, Hajj Camp, Olodo in Ibadan, as early as 8:00 a.m.

It will be recalled that the board, earlier this month, had conducted medical screening and orientation/ enlightenment exercise for most of the intending pilgrims across the state.

Professor Malik was also quoted as saying that the

inoculation exercise would be another opportunity for those who could not attend the screening exercise, as health officials would be available again to attend to them.

He urged those that missed the screening exercise to attend this and note that the exercise was one of the compulsory requirements and procedures which ought to be fulfilled by each of the intending pilgrims before embarking on the pilgrimage to the holy land of Mecca.

“Different inoculation

vaccines would be given to them, in order protect them against polio, yellow fever, meningitis and others contagious infections, in accordance with the International requirements for travel.

"This exercise is to ensure all of our intending pilgrims are adequately immunised and in good health condition before embarking on the trip to the holy land,” he said.

Malik advised all concerned intending pilgrims to come along with their original payment receipts and other necessary documents.

Concoction of false allegations surrounds Adamawa College of Nursing sex scandal- Police

TOM GARBA

An ongoing investigation by Adamawa State Police Command on the sex scandal involving Faisal, son of the Adamawa State College of Nursing and Midwifery provost, Dr. Lami Aminu, revealed there is a concoction of false allegations.

Police Public Relations Officer of the state, SP Suleiman Yahaya Ngoruje, ANPIR, confirmed the development

and said it is surrounded by so many fabricated lies.

He said the result of the preliminary investigation is contrary to what is trending on the social media and many news mediums.

According to him the result that said Faiza is pregnant as a result of rape by Faisal was concocted by someone who is not medically satisfied.

Suleiman said the command has taken over the case which is under investigation by the Criminal inves-

tigation department (CID).

Suleiman in a phone interview with our Yola correspondent said the commissioner of police has directed a discrete investigation into the matter to ascertain the truth about the whole story.

"The person who fabricated the liar is at hand and investigation by our men has since commenced to enable us to ascertain the true offence he has committed.

"The suspect who is being interrogated has confessed to having fabricated the

pregnancy report.

"We will charge whoever is found guilty of the offense to court as soon as we are done with the investigation,"

Suleiman said

You would recall that Faisal, a lecturer with the school nursing was taken to social media and many news platforms to have raped Faiza, a student in tation between Dr. Lami Aminu (Faisal mother) asking Faiza to withdraw the letter she has written to the police accusing her son of raping.

Real estate firm rewards celebrity chef, Hilda Baci with plot of land in A' Ibom

ISAAC JOB, UYO

The celebrity chef, Hilda Baci, has been awarded a plot of land in Uyo, AKwa Ibom State capital by the Managing Director of In-Motions Business Ltd, Mr Gideon Ekanem, as a reward for being a holder of longest marathon of 100 hours breaking record in history.

In a press statement signed by the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Gideon Ekanem and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday ,the company said it had awarded a plot of land worth over N3.5 million, located at one of their properties in a choice area in Uyo metropolis.

The company further stated that the award was made in pursuance of their core values to reward diligence and hard work

Bauchi Govt approves N3.4b for infrastructure provision across housing project sites

The statement reads in parts: "In-Motion's foundation rests upon the pillars of diligence and perseverance, as we consistently align ourselves with these virtues.

"Hilda Baci embodies the very essence of resilience within our society today, and we wholeheartedly join the entire nation and our fellow Akwa Ibomites in exuberantly celebrating her extraordinary achievement.

"In recognition of this remarkable feat, we are delighted to present Hilda with a free plot of land in Wana Court Estate , the first true Green and Smart Estate in Akwa Ibom State.

"May this well-deserved honour serve as a testament to your unwavering determination." he said.

Wana Court Green Estate is a chain of green real estate currently selling plots in Uyo, Port Harcourt and Lagos.

SAMUEL LUKA, BAUCHI

Bauchi State Government has approved the sum of N3.4 billion for the provision of infrastructural facilities in all the 2,500 housing project sites in the state.

The state Commissioner for Housing and Environment, Alhaji Hamisu Mohammed Shira, stated this while briefing newsmen on the memo he presented before the state executive council during a meeting last week.

"The memo was presented by me before the council for the award of contract to the tune of N3.4 billion for the provision of infrastructure in the construction site of the 2,500 housing scheme we have in the state", the Commissioner explained. He said that a loan of N12 billion was taken for the construction of the housing units, but only Bauchi site was carried along in the provision of infrastructure, living the other sites out.

"What I mean by infrastructure is that the roads within the estate, electrification, water reticulation and what have you", Shira explained.

The Commissioner said that the ministry was able to realise the need to provide the infrastructure even

though some of the houses have been completed and handed over to the ministry.

"There is no how we can commission and start allocation without securing the houses, first against vandals, second, for the safety and comfort of the occupants to be", he said.

The Commissioner went further to say, "So we applied for 5 billion and N3.4 billion was approved by the Family Homes Funds Limited".

According to Shira, after going through the necessary due process, the ministry invited 18 companies

to bid for the contract, six of which became successful and further their request to the due process office.

He said it took the due process office one week within which to go through the documents and come out with an acceptable rate for the contract before it was brought before the council and it was approved.

"So, this is a new contract and very soon you will notice the construction of fence for the whole sites," he added.

"There is what we call re-scoping that took place in the Bauchi site, initially,

Bauchi was awarded an infrastructure but somewhere along the line we realised that roads were provided even where there were no provision for houses, so we can not build roads where there are no houses", he said.

The Commissioner pointed out that instead of wasting the money, the ministry decided to re-scope the project and it realised the sum of 700 million out the initial sum of 2.9 billion.

He said, out of the 700 million, 313 million worth contract was awarded for the estate fencing of Bauchi site while 264 million was deployed to Ningi, Azare and Misau fencing which was done through direct labour by the ministry.

Shira further explained that the direct labour was used due to the inadequacy of the money for the project to be carried out by contractors.

According to him, by doing it directly, the ministry was able to save the government of tax of about 12 and half percent which should have gone to contractors as well as the profit margin.

The Commissioner said, in Ningi and Misau, the fencing project has been completed 100 percent, while in Azare's own has reached 80 percent completion.

UKPONO UKPONG

The Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mr Sunday

Dare, has commended the ingenuity of the leaders who bequeathed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Scheme, as well as Nigerians and the persons whose unwavering commitment has led to its sustenance for 50 years now.

The Minister, who made the commendation today at the opening ceremony of NYSC at 50 held in Abuja, stated that the scheme has made invaluable impacts in national development since its inception 50 years ago.

He noted that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme has kept faith with its objectives and sustained its relevance in the country’s development.

Dare who described NYSC as the leading youth organisation in Africa explained further that “the hindsight of past presidents and heads of state has nurtured this scheme despite the odds that have threatened its existence.

"The NYSC has made an

invaluable impact in various aspects of national development, including providing healthcare to rural communities, and also made legendary contributions to education and rural infrastructure.

"There have been acts of resourcefulness and benevolence, and the nation witnessed remarkable ingenuity from youth corps members during the COVID-19 pandemic and before then during the Ebola virus and HIV/AIDS pandemic.”

While applauding President Muhammadu Buhari’s contributions to the scheme in the past eight years, Dare also appreciated the president for the privilege to serve the country as minister for sports and youth development.

He therefore called on the leadership of the scheme to see the 50th anniversary as an opportunity to evolve strategies to strengthen the scheme, make it more sustainable, and broaden its scope of operations to enhance its contributions to further drive national development.

Boro Day celebration: Diri preaches peace to Ogbia communities feuding over Oloibiri Museum Project

AMOS OKIOMA, YENAGOA

Bayelsa State Government has directed the Commissioners of Justice, Lands and Housing and Urban Development, as well as Local Government and Community Development to immediately resolve the conflict among the three communities of Otuabagi, Otuogidi and Oloibiri, over the location of the Oloibiri National Oil Museum and Research Centre by the Federal Government.

The State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, gave the directive on Tuesday at this year's Boro Day celebration at the Ijaw Heroes Park in Yenagoa, the state capital.

He said the matter should not be left for the Ijaw National Congress (INC) alone to handle in order to enthrone enduring peace and stability among the three communities in the Ogbia Local Government Area of the state.

As he puts it, "It is sad to realise that we fight over the

crumbs that fall from the table because of some differences. As we speak, some persons have taken the federal and state governments as well as the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board to court over the location of the Oil Museum. That's a wrong signal."

He saluted the sacrifices and contributions made by Boro and his contemporaries for self-determination and self-actualisation, stressing that the present administration remains committed to celebrating Boro's ideals of resource control, justice and true federalism.

While urging the youths to espouse the ideals that the late Major Isaac Adaka Boro stood for, Senator Diri reminded them that the departed hero during the struggle to emancipate the ethnic minorities of the Niger Delta did not engage in acts such as cultism, kidnapping, militancy, armed robbery and other societal ills.

He therefore advised the youths to redirect their energies towards deploy-

ing intellectual means to advance the Niger Delta struggle against injustice, marginalisation and underdevelopment.

As he puts it, "the youths must recalibrate their energies positively towards ensuring that the struggle descends from criminality to intellectualism."

The governor, who also spoke on the forthcoming governorship election in the state, implored the youths to reject politicians who would use them to perpetrate electoral violence and thuggery.

He commended the youths for the relatively peaceful manner this year's Boro Day and urged them to rally round the Senator Diri-led administration to turn their fortunes around.

.In his remarks, President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof Benjamin Okaba said the this year's Boro Day celebration was the 55th anniversary to mark the demise of the departed hero.

According to Prof Okaba, the INC and similar bodies should reflect on the issues Boro fought against such as

oppression, marginalisation, environmental degradation and other ills bedeviling the ethnic minorities of the Niger Delta and other parts of the country.

He stressed that though the people of the Niger Delta were still being shortchanged, they must reman united and continue to fight for their rights through legal and intellectual means.

Chairman of the Bayelsa State Founding Fathers, Chief Benedict Gwembe, who represented the Pan Ijaw and Niger Delta Leader, Chief Edwin Clark, stressed that the era of using violence to actualize the struggle for resource control was over and advocated peaceful means to achieve justice, equity and fairness.

Also, Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon. Patrick Erasmus said Boro left a legacy of self-sacrifice and doggedness in the struggle for emancipation and applauded the Ijaw Youth Council for organizing a lecture in immortalalising the memory of the Ijaw legend.

Dare commends ingenuity of founding fathers of NYSC

Senate passes N876 bn NDDC 2023 budget

billion and Federal Government Intervention in the Niger Delta - N330 billion.

The revenue sources to finance the budget are Revenue brought forward - N5 billion, Federal government contribution - N119 billion, Federal government contribution (unpaid areas) - N430 Billion, Oil companies contributions - N297 billion, Ecological funds - N20 billion and other Internally realized income - N500 million.

Senator Bulus Amos in his capacity as Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs presented the report for consideration and approval of the NDDC budget by the upper chamber.

In his remarks after passage of the budget, Senate President, Ahmed Lawan said the exercise was very expedient in order not to let the people of the region suffer from further delays.

TUNDE OPALANA, ABUJA

The APC consensus candidate for the position of the President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio and his Deputy designate, Senator Jubrin Barau on Tuesday led over 40 Senators under the aegis of The Stability Group to consult with the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee at the party's national secretariat in Abuja.

The APC had nominated Akpabio as senate president and Barau as his deputy, a development that triggered debates with a few dissenting voices among the Senators.

Akpabio, Barau's Stability Group consults APC NWC

The Senate Tuesday passed N876 billion 2023 budget for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Out of the approved appropriated sum, N451million was approved as provisions for aides of 12 Board members of the commission.

In addition to the the provision for aides to 12 Board members of the commission, the sum of N576 million was earmarked for the running of the Office of the Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. Laurreta Onochie. Breakdown of allocation for the office of the Chairman showed that the personnel cost will gulp - N156 million, overhead - N312 million and Internal capital - N108 million.

For the Managing Director's Office , N546.597million was earmarked for personnel cost , N747.500 million for overhead cost, N163.504 million for Internal Capital.

Others are Executive Director Finance & Administration Office: Personnel cost N133.337bmillion , Overhead cost N457.465 million and N163.504million for Internal capital.

The Corporate Affairs Department of the Commission also got N1.061billion from the votes, out of which N431.076 million is for personnel cost, N845.566 million for overhead and N63.081 million for Internal Audit.

The entire budget of the Commission has personnel expenditure gulping N34.2 billion, overhead expenditure N17 billion, Internal Capital expenditure will gulp N3.7 billion, development projects will gulp N490

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday sought confirmation of appointment of three additional members for the governing board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

In an Executive Communication read at plenary by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, the President requested that the three persons be confirmed as members of NDDC governing board in accordance with the provision of Section 2(2)(a) of the NDDC (Establishment) Act,Cap N86, LFN, 2004.

The nominees are; Bernard Okumagba from Delta State, Patrick Aisowieren from Edo State and Kyrian Chidiebere Uchegbu from Imo State.

The request was subsequently forwarded to the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs to screen the nominees and report back at plenary within a week.

Flood Control: Bayelsa Govt urges FG to stop paying lip service

AMOS OKIOMA, YENAGOA

Bayelsa State Government has urged the Federal Government to stop paying lip service to the issue of flood mitigation and control in states that would be adversely affected by the menace this year as forecast by the Nigeria Hydrological Agency.

The State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, made the appeal on Monday when a joint delegation from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), United States Agencies for International Development (USAID) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Yenagoa.

In a press release issued on Tuesday by his media aide, Mr Doubara Atasi, the Deputy Governor expressed concern that the federal government and its agencies seem not to be bothered about the sufferings of the people living in flood prone states.

Describing the lackadaisical approach of the Federal Government as worrisome, he maintained that the country appears not to have learnt any lessons from the 2012 and 2022 devastating floods but only good at issuing flood alerts.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo said depending on international agencies for foreign aids at all times is not

only demeaning but also anti-development, and therefore, called on all relevant stakeholders to proffer sustainable homegrown solutions to the problem of flooding, which is fast assuming a perennial dimension.

The state number two man, used the opportunity to inform his visitors, that the state government is currently carrying out massive construction works particularly on roads that were badly damaged by last year’s flood.

He appealed to the Federal Government to quickly partner the Bayelsa State government in its mitigation efforts and take steps to avoid a recurrence of the 2022 flood experience.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo, however, thanked the United Nations partners for their show of concern towards the state during last year's flood.

His words "the response from the federal government as far as we are concerned has not risen to the level that will convince us that they took what happened in Bayelsa State seriously.

“We are aware that immediately after the flood, about N800bn was requested from the National Assembly for emergency maintenance of roads, infrastructure and other facilities that were badly affected.

“Until now, the Port Harcourt to Warri section of the East West road,

which I traveled on recently, is still very bad and the same federal government, as usual, is only predicting that this year’s flood would be worst than last year.

“We are not persuaded at all by the reaction of the federal government and I am directing this to NEMA; we do not think that your fire brigade approach has changed anything.

“We must make concerted effort. The President gave ninety days ultimatum to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to come out with plans to see how we can mitigate and avoid a repeat of what happened in 2012. But as far as I know, that issue is still in the pipeline.”

Earlier, the Field Coordination Officer of the International Organization for Migration, Mr Tsegaye Asrat, said they were in the state to monitor projects being embarked by their agency towards flood mitigation in the state.

Mr. Asrat, added that the IOM would be working closely with the State Emergency Management Agency (BYSEMA) to achieve maximum results before the 2023 floods.

The Field Coordination Officer was accompanied on the visit by a NEMA representative, Mr Chidiebere Ogundu and officials of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), including Jacqueline Straeme and Adesina Stella.

But as part of moves to address the situation, Senators Akpabio, Barau, and over forty other senators arrived at the Muhammadu Buhari House in Abuja on Tuesday to meet with the National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu Adamu and other members of the National Working Committee of the party.

The lawmakers stormed the APC national secretariat in two coaster buses for the meeting with the NWC presided over by the National Chairman Senator Abdullahi Adamu.

Addressing newsmen after the meeting held behind closed doors the Director General of the Akpabio-Barau

Campaign Organisation, Senator Ali Ndume disclosed that the Group was at the APC National Secretariat to thank the National Working Committee of the party for endorsing Senator Akpabio and Senator Barau to lead the 10th Senate.

Senator Ndume expressed optimism that the Group had the numbers to win the election following wide consultations with Senators across party lines.

Speaking in the same vein Senator Akpabio said he had reached out to his fellow Senators in the APC and other parties and said majority of the Senators have signed up under the Stability Group to give their support to himself and Senator Barau as his Deputy. He said further consultations would be held with more Senators and other critical stakeholders in the coming days.

INEC swears in Isah as REC

TUNDE OPALANA,

Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday in Abuja sworn in Dr Mahmuda Isah as Resident Electoral Commissioner . Dr. Isah took his oath for a second and final term. at the INEC Headquarters, during the Commission’s weekly meeting, which has the INEC Chair-

man, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, National Commissioners and the Secretary to the Commission in attendance.

Prof. Yakubu charged the REC to be loyal to the Nigerian people and always abide by the provisions of the law. Isah, a PhD in Petroleum Law, was first appointed in Jan 2018 and he served in both Jigawa and Kaduna States before his first term expired in Jan 2023. He has been deployed to the Federal Capital Territory.

HARUNA SALAMI, ABUJA

Senate wants NASS Presiding Officers in National Security Council

HARUNA SALAMI, ABUJA

The Senate Tuesday passed a motion to direct the Clerk to the National Assembly to transmit the Bills that will include presiding officers of the National Assembly in National Security Council and independent candidacy in elections to President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent in line with the provisions of the Acts Authentication Act.

This was sequel to Passage of (Fifth) Alteration Bill Nos. 46 (Membership of the National Security Council to include Presiding Officers of the National Assembly) and 58 (Independent Candidacy), 2023.

Sponsor of the motion, Ovie OmoAgege, Deputy Senate President and Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Amendment said Gombe State House of Assembly has given its nod for the bill to meet its constitutional requirement.

The Senate recalled that Gombe State House of Assembly, which was among the State Houses of Assembly that were yet to forward their resolution, has forwarded its resolution at last.

Other State Houses of Assembly that were yet to send their resolution are Jigawa, Kebbi, Kwara, Plateau, and Taraba States Houses of Assembly.

With the approval of Gombe State House of Assembly, the Constitution (Fifth Alteration) Bill Nos. 46 (Membership of the National Security Council to include Presiding Officers of the National Assembly), 2023 and 58 (In-

dependent Candidacy), 2023 have met the provisions of Section 9 (2) of the Constitution for passage.

The presiding officers are the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Speaker.

It will also be recalled that on Tues-

day, 2nd May, 2023; the Clerk to the National Assembly was directed to transmit Constitution Alteration Bill No. 20 (Uniform Retirement Age for Judicial Officers) after it met the requirement of Section 9(2) of the Constitution to Buhari for his assent.

10th Senate Presidency: Don't arrive late on inauguration day, Adamu warns Akpabio

TOM OKPE, ABUJA

National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has warned Godswill Akpabio, endorsed candidate for the party's President of the 10th Senate and his supporters not to be late on the day of inauguration.

Adamu's warning is to guard against the 2015 scenario when Ahmad Lawan, the then preferred candidate of the party for Senate President and his supporters came late to the chambers, giving room for the emergence of Bukola Saraki against the ruling party, APC's wish.

He gave the warning in Abuja on Monday, when Akpabio led Barau Jibrin who is endorsed for deputy president and other Senator's paid a consultative visit to the APC National Working Committee, (NWC) at the party's national secretariat, Buhari House.

The Chairman said following protests over the endorsement of candidates for the presiding officers of 10th National Assembly, the NWC has opened more consultations to have common grounds ahead of the proclamation coming up early June.

"Whatever we do, whatsoever signature we collect, the final decision will be on the floor of the Senate and also the House.

"All these efforts are very good and important but we are in a democracy and people are bound to have opinions and we have no right to stop them," Adamu said.

He reiterated that the party leadership has heeded the advice to make further consultations which were

ongoing and have so far been very fruitful.

"I want us to have a rancour free election on the floor, because, even if everybody says it is Akpabio or any other, the rules of the game say there must be election. Those who are in the Senate are aware of the rules.

"On the day of the proclamation by the president, the clerk makes the proclamation. So I do hope and pray that we will carry the day and be victorious. Let me warn, don't be late. I hope I am communicating. Don't be late. Once bitten twice shy," Adamu said.

Earlier, Akpabio who has been anointed for the number three position said they were at the APC National Secretariat to show solidarity and appreciation for the endorsement after wide consultation with stakeholders in Nigeria, adding that the elections were over and governance was about to begin.

While defending his choice for the next Senate President, the former Akwa-Ibom governor said:

"The South/South part of the country, last had a senate president in 1979 about 44 years ago when Joseph Wayas from NPN was Senate President in the Secound Republic.

"Our brothers from the South/East with very capable people have held the position since 1999 for about eight years and also producing the Deputy Senate president for twelve years till the current dispensation.

"The North Central produced David Mark for 12 years, and Bukola Saraki and Mantu, Deputy Senate President.

"Since the President is from the south and the vice from the north, it is right that the Senate President is

HARUNA SALAMI, ABUJA

Agroup under the aegis of Third Republic House of Representatives Forum has described the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a man committed to a united Nigeria in security, development and prosperity for everyone, irrespective of religious, ethnic, regional, gender or political affiliations.

In a congratulatory message to Tinubu signed by Hon. Adzer Abya, (National President) and Hon. Wasiu Logun, the Forum recalled with nostalgia when Tinubu was the Chairman of the Senate and House of Representatives Taskforce Committee for Determination of the Account of the National Assembly at inception in the Third Republic, adding “We recall your outstanding dedication to achieve that objective within the shortest period given for that task”.

“Your Excellency, we are eagerly looking forward to May 29, 2023 for your inauguration as His Excellency Asiwaju Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigeria Armed Forces.

“We believe that the epoch making event will usher in a new era of a transformed Nigeria that would secure, protect, and cater for the welfare of every Nigerian, a new Nigeria that will genuinely represent the hopes and aspirations of the African continent and the black race, a new Nigeria that will be a respected player in the global sphere.

The Forum expressed happiness that June 12 which took place during their era is now celebrated as Democracy Day in

Third

Nigeria.

“The emergence of our own Asiwaju Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, a member of the Third Republic as President-elect of Nigeria, raises hope that all other issues relating to that Republic will be settled with fairness and justice.

“We are happy that against all odds we now have a President elect from among our ranks.

They believe that Tinubu's victory at the polls attests to his “longstanding investment in the defence of democracy especially during its most turbulent years”, adding this has given meaning to “democracy as the government of the people, for the people, and by the people.

"You had previously displayed your capacity by providing abundant dividends of democracy to the people of Lagos State under a difficult situation."

The Forum also expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for making significant contributions to the entrenchment of the democratic process by recognizing Chief MKO Abiola, posthumously, as the winner of the June 12, 1993 election and restoring some of his entitlements and those of his running mate, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe.

The message was signed on behalf of 68 members of Third Republic House by the National President, Hon. Adzer Abya and National Secretary, Hon. Wasiu Logun.

coming from the south. Of course, the South/West is out, left with the South/ South hoping that their brothers from the east will support them.

"The wise men from the NWC graciously zoned the position to the South/South and a party man who served six years in the executive for eight years as governor, served as the Minority Leader of the Senate and Minister to lead the 10th senate."

He also said the 10th Senate will be totally different from all others as it will be senate of different political parties including the APC, PDP, YPP, Labour Party, NNPP and others.

"We also intend to visit chairmen of other political parties who 'make up the 10th Senate, believing that we will gain from their imputs and advice.

"Just to mention that we have Senator Hangar quietly seated there of the NNPP from Kano as an example who mentioned his name without adding his party. This is because when we walk into the Senate, we will be addressed as Senators' of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"We have former governor of Yobe, Senator Gaidam and Senator Gbenga Daniel all joining hands with us and Bola Ahmed Tinubu to move Nigeria forward.

"We are grateful to the leadership of the party that gave this opportunity to Senator Godswill Akpabio, the uncommon senator and his brother Senator Barau; we will definitely, bring growth to this country.

"And we are poised to bring change, remember, we still have serving governors, Dave Umahi and Governor Bello; we are seventy in all and growing," Akpabio said.

NOSA ÀKEÑZUA, ASABA

THE member representing Ndokwa West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Charles Emetulu has said that his victory at the polls was evident that those who believe in God cannot be disappointed.

Speaking on Monday at his residence in Asaba when members of Ndokwa Christian Women Intercessors Outreach (NCWIO), paid him a congratulatory visit, Emetulu disclosed that it was a surprise that he won with wide margin even in opposition strongholds.

"Nothing works like prayers; once you have God as your pillar, things will work like magic.

"Our victory at the polls was based on prayers and we thank God that the whole electoral exercise went well according to the will of God.

"Yes, we can only attribute our successes at the polls to God because, as an individual, I was even surprised that I defeated my opponents with wide margins in the area that we thought were their stronghold," Emetulu said.

On what he intends to do with his re-election, Emetulu stated that as a realist, he will not make promises that will be described in the future as "political" but, rather, will continue to ensure

effective representation for his people.

He said, "I believe and strongly rely on God for me to get it right always for our people; I cannot make promises about what I will do or what I will not do because, I am not God, so, I do not know what will happen tomorrow, I can only rely on Him for guidance.

"The joy is that our people are confident that relying on God, they will always get the best when it comes to legislative activities.

"I am grateful to our people for their prayers and support which came in several ways."

The General Co-ordinator of NCWIO which is also known as Favoured Daughters, Bishop Mrs Fidelia Oyemike, had on behalf of her group, congratulated Emetulu on his victory at the polls, assuring him of the continuous prayers of the Favoured Daughters.

"All night prayer is held every Thursday night for you, Hon. Emetulu and our incoming Deputy Governor, Chief Monday Onyeme; that is the support we are giving from the three local government areas of Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East and Ukwuani.

"In everything that you do, put God first because with such, God will always be with you and where men cannot stand, the Lord will stand and strengthen you," she said.

Republic House of Reps forum felicitates with Tinubu,

Our electoral victory made possible by God – Emetulu

Stock market extends bullish run by N102.4bn

CBN targets 100% financial inclusion, unveils e-learning platform, SabiMONI

TEMITOPE ADEBAYO

The equities market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) on Tuesday extended the bullish run for the second trading session this week, as the market capitalization gained N102.39 billion to close at N28.54 trillion, compared to N28.44 trillion recorded on Monday.

The Lagos bourse ended with the benchmark index up by 0.36 per cent to settle at 52,419.33 points.

Statistics from the NGX showed

that gains in Tier-1 banking names ZENITHBANK (+1.45%), GTCO (+4.15%) and ACCESSCORP (+1.50%) were the main drivers of the market's overall performance.

Consequently, the year-to-date (YTD) return rose to 2.28 per cent while analysis of yesterday's market activities, showed trade turnover settled higher relative to the previous session, with the value of transactions up by 21.25 per cent.

A total of 576.85m shares valued at N6.79billion were exchanged in

6,143 deals. UBA (+2.38%) led the volume chart with 94.31million units traded, while ZENITHBANK (+1.45%) led the value chart in deals worth N1.40 billion.

Market breadth closed positive at a 1.50-to-1 ratio with advancing issues outnumbering declining ones. NB (+9.97%) led twenty-three (23) others on the leader’s log while COURTVILLE (-6.52%) topped fifteen (15) others on the laggard’s table.

Aviation committee condemns high airfares, picketing

TEMITOPE ADEBAYO

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled an e-learning platform, SabiMONI, to promote financial literacy and deepen financial inclusion.

Speaking at the launch, Godwin Emefiele, governor of CBN, said the platform is a fully digital national e-learning platform that provides a knowledge base for financial literacy.

According to Emefiele, SabiMONI is aimed at providing individuals with the opportunity to be trained and to become Certified Financial Literacy Trainers (CFLT) through self-service.

“The platform is aimed at supporting our efforts toward ramping up the number of experts that can be used to drive financial education in the country and perhaps beyond,” the apex governor said.

“One of the key drivers of financial inclusion today is no doubt financial literacy.

“It is a prerequisite for greater financial inclusion, which would lead to the stability of the financial system and ultimately, economic growth and development.”

Emefiele said the absence of or low levels of financial literacy constituted an impediment to financial inclusion.

literacy and financial capability.

To address the financial inclusion gaps, the CBN governor said the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) 2022, identified increasing adoption and usage of financial services in priority demographics.

He such demographics comprises the most vulnerable segments such as women, youth, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and rural dwellers.

“Especially, the northern part of the country as well as expansion of digital financial services and platforms amongst its strategic priority areas,” Emefiele added.

“To enable us to achieve these, we must take deliberate steps to upscale financial capability through financial education programmes.

“The shortage of skilled and experienced persons to drive financial education remains a major hindrance.

“Interestingly, the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2022 places high priority on financial and digital learning.

“This will serve as a strategy that would enable the creation of a conducive environment for serving or ensuring the inclusion of the most excluded groups.”

CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO

The Chairperson, Senate Committee On Aviation, Senator Biodun Olujimi says there is need to reduce air fares in Nigeria to enable more Nigerians travel by air. Delivering her Goodwill Message at the FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) 2023, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, Senator Olujimi noted that high airfares constitute a challenge to Nigeria’s aviation industry, which she

said provided significant benefits to Nigeria’s economy and contributes four per cent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

She however, noted that the industry had not been able to reach its expectations because of inadequacy of infrastructure and other problems one of which she said was picketing by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).

Olujimi said there should be a better way of settling labour issues other than picketing, particularly in

the aviation industry, adding that “the time is ripe for the unions to know that there are certain industries where picketing cannot be allowed.”

She equally identified constant destructions and demolitions around the airports as another problem that had bedevilled the industry in recent times.

“The government should be up and doing and ensure the issue of encroachments is looked at,” she said.

Jaiz Bank reports N9.88bn gross earnings in Q1 2023

MOTOLANI OSENI

Jaiz Bank Plc, Nigeria’s pioneer non-interest bank, has increased its gross earnings to N9.88 billion in Q1 2023 compared to the N7.238 billion recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2022.

The non-interest lender in a statement on its financial performance in the quarter under review

declared the unaudited profit results showed that it posted a profit before Tax (PBT) of N1.59 billion, a year-on-year, representing an increase of 45.62 per cent over the N1.10 billion reported in Q1 2022.

In 2023, the bank initiated several measures to pursue greater efficiency and to realign our business and strategic priorities resulting in its balance sheet growth from

N379.82 billion by December 2022 to N452.82 billion by March 2023.

It would be recalled that the bank’s board and management had projected pre and post-tax profits of N1.40 billion and N1.26 billion respectively for the non-interest lender in Q1 2023, representing a pre-tax profit margin of 14.2 per cent and net profit margin of 12.9 per cent.

He explained that the pace of financial inclusion is directly related to the level of financial

On her part, Rashida Monguno, director of consumer protection, CBN, said financial literacy remained a key driver of financial inclusion globally.

No interference with foreign air tickets sold in Nigeria- IATA

The International Air Transport Association has said that they have no hand in the exchange rate applied to international flight tickets sold in Nigeria, insisting that and it is incorrect to describe them as the “IATA exchange rate”.

IATA in a statement said “the exchange rate applied to international flight tickets sold in Nigeria is not determined by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and it is incorrect to describe them as the “IATA exchange rate”.

According to the international aviation body “Air fares for international flights from Nigeria are

denominated in US Dollars and converted into Naira, the local currency, for sale in the Nigerian market. These conversions use the official prevailing exchange rate provided by the country financial system”.

IATA clarified that what they do is to simply apply the spot rate at which the Central Bank of Nigeria sells USD through banks to the market, at its fortnightly retail foreign exchange auctions.

“The rate is not static, i.e. if the rate at which the CBN sells USD goes up, the exchange rate applied to airfares will follow and vice versa”, IATA stated.

Aviation stakeholders advocate team work for sustainability

CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO

Stakeholders in the aviation industry in the country have been called for team work in order to sustain its growth.

Speaking at the second edition of FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC ’23) held at International Conference Centre, Abuja, stakeholders in the industry declared that when players, regulator, service providers and other stakeholders cooperate, collaborate and strategize among them and jettison fragmentation, which has kept the industry stagnated for a very long period, aviation industry in Nigeria would be sustainable resulting in high returns on their investments.

In his welcome address at this year’s edition of the annual event themed: “Sustainability of The Aviation Industry In Nigeria, the Chief host and Managing Director FAAN, Capt. Hamisu Rabiu Yadudu said the concept, “Sustainability” in this year’s theme connotes progress, endurance, stability, capacity and consistency.

Yadudu who identified three models of sustainability as economic viability, environmental protection and social equity, said: “It has been established that sustainability can only be achieved through collaboration, control, communication and commitment.”

Yadudu who identified enforcement as the topmost challenge in the industry however called for attitudinal change among industry players.

“the biggest challenge in the industry is enforcement of compliance. The regulations to achieve sustainability are already there but that there was need for attitudinal change and enforcement,” the Chief Executive Officer at FAAN said.

Making his contributions to the discussion on sustainability of the aviation industry in Nigeria, Director General, Civil Aviation, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu who identified social, environmental and economic as three pillars of sustainability, said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) was under review and when completed, would provide a strategic vision for the industry.

Nuhu added that NCAA had developed an ICT and Cyber security policy and which every aviation agen-

cy was required to emulate.

The Chief regulator, who debunked the general notion that NCAA is the police of the aviation industry in Nigeria, insisted that the agency is a partner in progress to every player in the industry.

In his submission at the Conference representative of Airline Operators in Nigeria (AON) and Chief Executive Officer, Top Brass Aviation, Roland Iyayi noted that the policy that requires all airlines to be licensed with the same criteria should be reviewed.

He suggested that if airline licensing are in three categories; airline in each category would be able to concentrate on their models and run their businesses sustainably.”

He, however, reiterated the call for review of taxes; fees and charges which

NPA MD wins Champion Newspapers Maritime Icon Award

he claimed are formidable threats to the sustainability of the sector.

Iyayi identified the third threat to the sustainability of the industry as political interference.

He noted that the manner with which government wants things done in the industry even when such things would not make positive contribution, should cease. The AON representative therefore insisted that every commercial issue should be left as commercial without being turned political.

Also speaking at the panel session the Acting Managing Director of Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mr Lawrence Matthew Pwajok said the agency’s investment navigational and surveillance equipment across Nigerian airspace is part of the effort to sustain the industry.

Pwajok noted that doing, this would not only enhance safety but reduce airlines’ cost of operations and results in sustainability.

In his opinion, President of Airports Council International (ACI), Africa, Emmanuel Chavez, who who submitted that for an airport to be sustainable it must hit one million passengers mark, however expressed his disapproval on how industry players in Africa embrace fragmentation instead of strategy to ensure sustainability. He equally expressed his disappointment that Nigeria, despite its huge resources has only one big airport when compared to what is obtained in South Africa.

NERC to revoke Kaduna DisCo licence over N51.93bn debt

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has notified Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KAEDCO) of its intention to “cancel its licence” after 60 days over a N51.93 billion debt.

In a notice published on Monday and signed by Dafe Akpeneye, the commissioner, legal, licencing, and compliance at NERC, the agency gave the DisCo 60 days to resolve the issue.

Cumulatively, NERC said the utility accrued a debt of N93.41 billion from 2015 to 2022 due the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and the market operator (MO).

Quoting section 74 of the electric power sector reform act (EPSRA) and the terms and conditions of electricity distribution licence number NERC/LC/023, the commission said it has “reasonable cause to believe that KAEDCO has breached the provisions of EPSRA and the terms and conditions of

the electricity distribution licence”.

“The commission considers KAEDCO’s actions to be manifest and flagrant breaches of EPSRA and the terms and conditions of its electricity distribution licence; and therefore, requires KAEDCO to show cause in writing within 60 days from the date of receipt of this notice as to why the electricity distribution licence should not be cancelled in accordance with section 74 of EPSRA,” the notice reads.

NERC said its performance review for 2022 showed that the disco only achieved a combined average of 13.85 percent of its minimum payment obligation to the NBET and the MO, and recorded an average monthly market shortfall of N4.33 billion.

According to the commission, the evaluated level of underperformance indicated that KAEDCO has been unable to recover the

additional liquidity required to optimally function as a utility as provided in its approved revenue requirement.

“Based on the commission’s approved revenue requirement for KAEDCO, the utility under-collected its revenues to the tune of N88.75 billion being the sum of its market shortfall, capital investment allowance (N25.33 billion) and allowed operating expense (N11.46 billion),” NERC said.

“KAEDCO is currently experiencing severe liquidity challenges and its commercial viability and continuation as a market participant is in doubt.

“KAEDCO’s management team has not been able to develop and present a clear pathway towards capital injection, operational efficiency, and sustainability despite the various regulatory initiatives of the commission and other financial interventions of the government.

“Over the period of 12

months covering January to December 2022, KAEDCO accrued a total liability to the tune of N51.93 billion to NBET and MO.

“This is exclusive of the sum of N41.49 billion historical outstanding debts for the 2015-2021 owed to the NBET and MO.

“The commission has afforded KAEDCO’s management team several opportunities to develop and present a clear pathway toward recapitalisation and improvement of operational efficiency, and sustainability of the utility, and they have been unable to present a credible plan that would yield the desired results.”

Last year, KAEDCO was among the five DisCos restructured by the federal government.

Earlier in the month, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) reconnected the DisCo after disconnecting it from the power grid over non-compliance with market rules.

TEMITOPE ADEBAYO

The managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello-Koko, has been awarded the 2022 maritime icon of the year by Champion Newspapers.

This is in recognition of his fast track of the approval processes leading to the operationalisation of Nigeria's first deep seaport, unprecedented revenue generation and remittances to consolidated revenue fund, port infrastructure renewal, milestone steps towards the deployment of the Port Community System (PCS) to lay the groundwork for the National Single Window that is necessary to tackle the challenge of duplicity of functions.

Others are the attendant delays in the Ports and facilitation of the renewed export orientation of the federal government and efforts towards increased utilisation of ports in the eastern region.

Bello-Koko bagged the award recently in Lagos for injecting fresh impetus into the authority and trajectory as an agency of first choice that contributed immensely to the economic and social development of the country through increased revenue generation.

According to the group managing director, Champion Newspapers, Dr Nwadiuto Iheakanwa, Bello-Koko's ingenuity has made the nation's seaports surmount some of the known challenges that have made the nation’s ports largely inefficient over the years.

"On all scores, our findings, largely corroborated by that of independent assessors, confirm that NPA under your management in the last four years has received fresh impetus due largely from your exemplary leadership skills, sustained its solid tradition of excellence and trajectory as an agency of first choice and agency that has made the country proud and contributed immensely to its economic and social development.

"Your ingenious, creative, pragmatic and resilient approach to leadership has brought a lot of transformation to the NPA which has continued to surmount some of the known challenges that have made the nation’s ports largely inefficient over the years.

"This includes infrastructure deficits, policy and regulatory inconsistencies, overlapping functions, and duplication of roles among ministries, departments and agencies operating at the ports and high incidence of infractions," he pointed out.

They described Bello-Koko as a pragmatic leader that has distinguished himself as a dynamic business administrator, innovative manager, and a technocrat.

"We note, with delight Sir that you are first among the leading Chief Executive Officers in Nigeria that have distinguished themselves not only as a dynamic business administrator, innovative manager, and technocrat but also shown a high degree of integrity and transparency in both private and public affairs.

Drones to be engaged in interregional flights soon –FAAN boss

STORIES BY CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Capt Hamisu Yadudu, says the era of aircraft as taxis is imminent and the capacity for drones to engage interregional flight is very much in sight.

Speaking at the just concluded 3rd Dronetecx conference and exhibition held at the NIGAV Centre at the Murtala Mohammad International Airport organised by Mr Fortune Idu, Yadudu noted that in the past ten-years, rapid research and development have been witnessed towards the advancement of mobility.

Yadudu, who was represented by Mr Noris Anozie director administration, said that developments in automation, efficiency in energy, advance communication, global position system and artificial intelligence (AI), have all jointly presented a very attractive option in lighter aircraft for transportation and more importantly autonomous piloted capabilities was redefining the way aviation will be viewed

in twenty years’ time.

"Nigeria with the foresight of the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika accepted to hold one of the foremost ICAO remotely piloted aircraft conference in Abuja Nigeria in 2015, and ever since then ICAO have reported that in the course of the past five years, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have received requests from Members to assist with the challenge of integrating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the aviation regulatory framework. In this context, ICAO has hosted global UAS symposia (DRONE ENABLED) to solicit up-to-date information on the studies and research of UAS traffic management (UTM)".

Yadudu noted further that Mr. Fortune Idu and his team in FCI International has seen the advent of drone as the future of aviation and has integrated drone technology conference, (DRONETECX) as part of their annual aviation development promotion programme to help keep Nigeria and Africa informed and actively plan towards the new aviation so we are not left behind.

He commended his contributions to aviation development in Nigeria, and also expressed profound appreciation to FCI for putting the conference together.

He explained that Advance Air Mobility (AAM) presented a future where it was possible to order an

aircraft for family ride to the next city and to the nearable country with cargo delivery to individual door steps.

"This form of transportation which is drone enabled is complex and is still being studied for interoperability, control, regulation for safety and security. It is believed

ValueJet bags Most Promising Airline award

ValueJet has been named the Most Promising Airline in Nigeria for its service delivery and prompts scheduled service.

The carrier was conferred with the award at the 2023 National Tourism Transportation Summit Awards held on May 9, 2023, in Abuja.

The airline was selected based on its achievements and demonstration of excellence and high standards in the tourism, transportation, travel, and hospitality industry.

Founded in 2018 as a virtual airline, brokering flights through other airlines,, ValueJet has been moving to establish itself as one of its Nigeria’s

newest low-cost carrier.

While the launch came at a ver difficult period for Nigeria’s aviation industry, the airline has established itself as one of the reliable carriers in Nigeria as it expands its route network to meet the demand of its guests.

ValueJet is a dream airline that is gradually being positioned to efficiently facilitate growth opportunities across geographies.

The carrier’s business model looks towards making aviation accessible to all Nigerian citizens through competitive pricing, firmly establishing itself alongside other local carriers.

The carrier’s vision is am-

bitious. It sees a world where everybody can fly. According to the Managing Director of the airline, Capt. Dapo Maje-

kodunmi said ValueJet, “Aims to add value from the very first flight once we set for business operations,”

that drone enabled transport will present a very cheap alternative way to fly and close existing transportation inclusion gaps.

“The future is here. Scientists around the world and aviation experts are way ahead and the production of such aircraft and testing

are ongoing" He said the emergence of drone was a challenge to the next roles of the traditional airports in future aviation operations and raised the awareness for preparation for integration of UNMANNED Aircraft into Manned Aircraft Traffic space.

Dana Air has announced its support for the Guinness World Record-breaking Chef Hilda Baci, with one year of free tickets for all her domestic travels.

Hilda surpassed the current world record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.

The 27-year-old started cooking on Thursday 11th May 2023 and surpassed India's Lata Tondon who set the record with 87 hours 45mins in 2019.

Speaking on the support for Hilda Baci, the Chief Operating Officer of Dana Air, Ememobong Ettete, Dana Air has and will always support the craft, creativity,

efforts, and innovations of young Nigerians who embody the true Nigerian spirit as a proudly Nigerian brand.

"We have always blazed the trail in terms of support for the arts and entertainment industry, health care, and culture and our corporate social responsibility has been all-encompassing."

"We will be supporting Hilda's local travels for one year and We are inspired by her strength and determination for greatness. We understand her mum is also a chef and she must have gotten this inspiration from her and in the light of this, we shall be supporting her mum with 3 months of local flights for free. We thank

“Currently, only about five per cent of Nigeria’s population can afford a flight ticket, according to available statis-

tics, and ValueJet is looking to increase this number significantly through creative fare pricing.”

Kenya Airways to pilot use of SAF during sustainable flight challenge

Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ), has announced participation in the second edition of the Sustainable Flight Challenge (TSFC), an initiative of SkyTeam. The initiative is a friendly competition between SkyTeam member airlines.

This year, TSFC has extended the invitation to ‘friends and family’ airlines close to SkyTeam as the alliance seeks to drive broader industry change. KQ will work with its subsidiary Jambojet to generate a number of varied solutions which can be implemented and scaled to improve sustainability.

As part of the initiative, KQ will pilot the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on the flights, which is expected to be the first pathway to testing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel within Africa.

The pilot flight will generate valuable data and insights that can inform policy decisions, regulatory frameworks, and industry best practices related to SAF. This will be a significant milestone for Kenya Airways and the broader African aviation industry.

Speaking on the development, Allan Kilavuka, Chief Executive Officer and Group Managing Director, Kenya Airways, said: “As an aviation industry, it is our responsibility to ensure that we are actively playing a critical role geared towards solutions and shared learning for sustainable solutions and practices in our industry.

This year as our red tail goes green again, we aim to support the industry in achieving net zero by 2050. We are committed to adopting better practices and creating partnerships with people of similar vi -

sion.”

From 2025, all aircraft departing from European airports will be required to incorporate a proportion of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). As a result, KQ is positioning itself to take advantage of sustainable aviation fuel momentum within the sector to unlock competitive advantages across the region and the wider African aviation industry.

For the Challenge, KQ will operate a Boeing 787800 (B787-8) Dreamliner for the return flight between Nairobi and Amsterdam on 25th May 2023.

Some of the areas KQ

will submit for consideration include:sustainable flight and ground operations initiatives, a sustainably curated in-flight menu and a carbon offsetting program for customers. Also to be considered include: e–mobility for guests, travel light policy and waste management initiatives, amongst others.

While the inaugural Sustainable Flight Challenge launched in May 2022 brought together 16 airlines, this year the Challenge features 22 airlines looking to execute the most sustainable flight possible.

HRH, Oba Niyi Ajakaiye of Ekiti, presenting award to chief executive of West Link Aviation Capt Ibrahim Mshelia at the launch of a book, 'The Unsung Heroes and Heroines at Providence Hotel Ikeja GRA

Dana air supports Guinness World record-breaking chef - Hilda Baci

DOOSUUR IWAMBE

The first problem confronting educational development in Nigeria has to do with spending too little money in the sector, just 1.2 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is spent on education, whereas the international benchmark is 4-6 percent, the United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF) has lamented.

According to the UN intervention agency, even the paltry 1.2 percent funding is not properly spent in areas where it will make an impact. It noted that more investments between the range of 45-50 percent of the nation’s education budget ought to be channeled to primary education if the Nigerian government is desirous of giving foundational literacy and numeracy a boost among children.

These were part of the submissions of the Chief Education Officer, UNICEF Nigeria, Saadhna Soobrayan at a seminar on foundational literacy and numeracy held in the UN House, Abuja recently.

“So the first problem on education in Nigeria is spending too little money on education, Nigeria is spending 1.2 percent of it GDP on education, the international benchmark is 4-6 percent and even the available fund is not being spent well.“

“Presently 28 percent of Nigeria’s education budget is been spent on higher education “When children in primary school cannot read write and count.

“We need to get the budget right and increase the volume of expenditure, the country needs to improve the efficiency of expenditure to primary education,“ Saadhna declared at the seminar on foundational literacy and numeracy.

According to the UNICEF Chief Education Officer, the UN agency has variously re-echoed the need to train the teaching personnel by making available instructional materials to fully scale up programs such as Reading and Numeracy Activity (RANA), Early grade read-

How infrastructural decay is affecting schools, learning in FCT

DOOSUUR IWAMBE

Infrastructural decay in the education sector is a huge burden to residents of Abuja and indeed Nigeria. The sad situation has grossly affected school attendance with current statistics showing that 9.1 percent of children of primary school age are not attending any schooling at all; according to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2021 report.

said it had rolled out a project called “Renovate 100 schools in 100 days” to address the infrastructure deficit in primary schools across the nation’s capital.

ing (the USAID model) and Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL).

She noted that stakeholders should deploy the next five years to scale up improvement in literacy and numeracy skills.

Saadhna said political will, human and financial resources, would be an indispensable tools especially when all of these challenges and prospects have been itemized, it requires just revisiting the drawing board.

Meanwhile, in a response to this observed shortcomings on the part of the government, the Director, Basic Education of the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr Folake Davies, said government steps were on to domesticate some of the laudable programs following the displayed evidence in the Northern part of the country.

Davies, claims the Federal government is developing a policy framework that would serve as blueprint for the practitioners, including support base for foundational literacy and numeracy practice across the country.

Already, the country is battling the challenge of out-of-school children which has increased from 10.5 million to 18.5 million in 2022.

Abuja the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, is not one of the 10 most educated states in Nigeria.

As the nation’s capital, Abuja should have the best of everything including education. But this is not the case as run-down dilapidated schools dot the landscape of the giant of Africa’s capital city.

According to the 2021 MICS reports released by the United Nations Education Fund (UNICEF) in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Abuja accounts for 11.4 percent of lower secondary school age out of school, and 20.3 percent of children of upper secondary school age out of school.

Nigeria has a twin crisis in education, with the first being a massive out-of-school problem and the second, being a massive learning crisis, UNICEF has said.

Acknowledging the scale of the problem, the FCTA Mandate Secretary (Education), Sani Elkatuzu

It was gathered that the project was funded by the MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, as part of advocacy for improved social services in indigenous communities of Abuja.

However, our investigations show how learning is still constrained in some public schools due to infrastructural decay and deficits despite donations.

On a visit to L.E.A Primary School, Lugbe along the airport road in Abuja, students were seen in overcrowded classrooms with some finding it difficult to write, hence not focusing on what was being taught. L.E.A. is a public school. It is 45 minutes away from the central area of the seat of power. Although not captured among the 100 schools mapped out by the FCTA to be renovated in 2022, the school is a sorry sight to behold.

Speaking, a primary six pupil of the school, Shamsiya Danjuma, who said she wants to be a lawyer, said that she wouldn’t like to be a teacher because she does not like anything in the school environment.

“We do not have essential materials such as textbooks or a library,” the 16-year-old pupil added.

On his part, the Head Teacher, LEA Primary School, Mr. Abanino Johnson, said: “The support we are getting

from the government is not enough. We do not have enough teachers and classrooms. In a class where you have 60 to 70 children and the class is manned by only one teacher, how will the teacher cope?

“Although the teachers are trying their best, the classes are overcrowded, so not every pupil will be given that personal attention required in a classroom setting. And lack of school furniture is another challenge.

A chair meant for three pupils is shared by five due to the inadequacy of the chairs and desks. It is impossible to write in a situation like this.

“The classrooms built over 15 years ago have not been renovated. This school has since been solely managed and supported by the parents. Even when the wind blows off the roofs, the school PTA will ensure the building is put in order. We have only four toilets for 600 pupils,” he added.

He said despite these challenges, parents who cannot cope with high school fees from private schools due to the hardship in the country were still bringing their children daily to this school. “Admittedly, this adds additional pressure to an already overstretched and decayed infrastructure.”

Also, the Assistant Headmistress, LEA Primary School, Mrs. Josephine Eziokwu lamented the poor condition of the school, saying the situation was not healthy for both the children and teachers. She said: “The pay is too poor; teachers are not well paid

even though we buy in the same market as those who are highly paid.

“Government should come up with accommodation packages for teachers and upgrade their payment to attract more people into the profession.

She added that “Out of the five blocks you are seeing, only three are functional. These two have collapsed behind, we have told the government. All they do is come and take pictures of the building but up till today nothing has been done. And we don’t have a borehole in the school, therefore, we don’t have water for the children to use”.

LEA Primary School is symptomatic of all primary schools in the FCT

When our reporter visited Gosa Junior Secondary School, also along the Airport Road in Abuja, classrooms were scanty even though one could blame this on the first day of resumption, but the story was different when it was told by a student from the school.

“Most of the students don’t come to school during the rainy season,” Emmanuel said, smiling.

“I am in school today because it did not rain but my classmates did not come because it rained last AHR gathered that the large schools with over 1000 students monitored in Abuja, apart from LEA Primary School and Gosa Junior Secondary School do not have more than two toilets, which are part of the infrastructural issues affecting learning children.

NYSC reiterates commitment to corps members’ security, welfare

DOOSUUR IWAMBE

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reiterated its commitment to the security and welfare of corps members posted to Borno State for the service year.

The NYSC Coordinator in the state, Mr Mohammed Adamu-Jiya, gave the assurance during the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch ‘A’ Stream ‘II’ orientation course on Tuesday in Katsina.

Recall reports that the corps members posted to Borno State are being camped in Katsina due to the security challenges in the state.

Adamu-Jiya noted that the scheme always collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure the safety of the corps members.

He appreciated the security operatives for rendering selfless services throughout the orientation exercise and urged them to maintain the tempo.

The NYSC coordinator

called on the corps members to respect the norms and values of their host communities throughout their one year in Borno.

He advised the corps members to use the social media wisely and desist from drug abuse and other criminal activities for a better future.

He also urged them to always be punctual at their respective Places of Primary Assignment (PPA), and focus on their Community Development Service (CDS).

Adamu-Jiya enjoined them to always seek permission before embarking on any journey, desist from

night travels, and be good ambassadors.

He called on the corps members to utilise the entrepreneurship skills acquired during the orientation to be self-reliant during and after the service.

According to him, the entrepreneurship pro -

gramme was to equip them with other skills apart from their university knowledge for a better future.

The coordinator commended the Borno and Katsina state governors for their support and cooperation to the scheme that ensured the successful orientation exercise.

UNICEF attribute poor funding of basic education to foundational learning, numeracy challenges

Gov. AbdulRazaq commends cabinet members as tenure ends

NOSA ÀKENZUA, ASABA

The Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Kingsley Emu, has rewarded 80 Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) faithfuls in Ward Five, Owa-Nta Community in Ika North East Local Government Area of the state.

Each of the beneficiaries got the sum of ₦80,000, as support and I'm appreciation for their contributions to the victory of PDP in the just concluded general elections.

Emu, represented by Chief Lawrence Oshiegbu, stated that he was proud of the people of Owa-Nta Community for ensuring that PDP won in all the polling units of the ward.

He assured of continuous dividends of democracy to the people of Owa-Nta Community.

to encourage you to continue to support our great party. Every development you see around came from PDP," he stated.

Also speaking, the Ward Chairman, Mr Solomon Edobor, appreciated Dr Emu for the gesture and prayed God to continue to replenish him.

Other leaders of the ward, in their separate remarks, commended the governor's chief economic adviser for being of great help to the people at the grassroots.

Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has commended the cabinet members for their contributions to the success of the administration in the last four years.

Abdulrazaq made the commendation during a valedictory meeting in Ilorin on Tuesday.

The governor said that the cabinet members were instrumental to the success of the administration as well as the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election.

“We have done so well together

and I thank you all for your services to the state.

“This is the valedictory meeting of the cabinet but we are going to have some other (informal) meeting in the coming week to further show appreciation to one another.

“I thank you for your contributions to our achievements and your roles during the election”, the governor said.

Aliyu Kora-Sabi, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, who spoke for his colleagues, thanked the

governor and the people of the state for the opportunity given to them to servz at the cabinet level.

“We commend Your Excellency for your great leadership and forbearance.

“We really appreciate the opportunity to serve and we are proud to have been part of the success stories of this administration,” he said.

He said that the valedictory meeting came ahead of the May 29 inauguration of the governor for another term following his impressive win at the March 18 election.

Kogi Assembly approves 65 years as retirement age for teachers

“I want to use this medium to thank them for their love and support for PDP over the years.

"The purpose of our coming here is to thank you all for and

They also urged the beneficiaries of the empowerments to remain faithful to PDP and make judicious use of the money given to them.

Asaba now Nigeria's business destination - Okowa

NOSA ÀKEÑZUA, ASABA

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta says Asaba, the state capital has become a hub for businesses in the last eight years.

Okowa made this known on Tuesday, during the inauguration of the Ultra-Modern Civil Service Commission Complex and Mechanic Village both in Asaba.

He said the partnership between the government and private investors was yielding results and called for further investments in different sectors of the state economy.

The Governor remarked that the Ultra-Modern Auto-mechanic village was constructed to bring some reasonable level of sanity into the Asaba capital territory and ensure that everything was well structured to make the town work for the people.

"This is one project that is borne out of partnership between the private sector and the Delta State government and the Oshimili South local government council Area.

Asaba capital territory and ensure that everything is well structured in such a manner that the town works for the people," Okowa stated.

The Governor lauded the partnership with the Nigerian Auto-mechanic Technician Association (NATA) and called for the maintenance of the facility.

On the Civil Service building, Okowa said his administration did its best in providing conducive working environment for Civil Servants in the state.

Commissioner for Transport Chief Mike Okah said the project was developed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) Model to build and and sell outrightly spare parts shops and mechanic workshops.

The Commissioner added that the cost of the project was estimated at N3billion including 900 units of spare parts shops, 82 units of mechanic workshops, fire service building, police post and security building, perimeter fence, internal drainage system, toilet facilities, potable water, asphalted roads, landscaping, Union House, Banking Hall Restaurant and Power generating set.

IDRIS AHMED, LOKOJA

The Kogi State government has approved 65 years as the retirement age for teachers in the state.

Following the passage of the bill by the Kogi State House of Assembly on the Retirement Age of Teachers in Kogi State and Related Matters Bill, 2022, last Thursday, the Governor,Allhaji Yahaya Bello, approved 65 years as retirement age for the Teachers

Speaker Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Matthew Kolawale stated that as a result of the bill’s passage, teachers in the state would be eligible to retire at 65 or 40 years of pensionable service, whichever comes first.

He stated, “From the date of

commencement of this law, teachers in Kogi shall not be subject to the Public Service Rule or any legislation that requires a person to retire from the public service at 60 years of age or after 35 years of service.”

Two additional bills were passed by lawmakers on Thursday, appearing to be part of the winding down of the seventh Assembly.

The following were among the bills that were taken into consideration clause by clause: A Bill for a Law to Establish the Kogi State Roads Fund Management and Administration Board and Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2022, as well as a Bill for a Law to Amend the Kogi State Utility Infrastructure Management and Compliance Agency and Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2018.”

The road bill, according to the speaker, aims to create the Kogi State Roads Fund Management and Administration Board (KOSRFMAB), which will operate and manage the SRF.

“The board is also expected to act as a repository for sources of revenue that are expected to accrue in order to finance the management, design, development, rehabilitation, maintenance, and other activities associated with the state’s provision of Class B, Class C, and Class D roads.

He added, “It is also to promote the state’s sustainable development and operation of Class B, Class C, and Class D roads.”

He stated that the three bills are likely to be the Assembly’s final set of bills before it ends in three weeks.

"I thank God that this partnership has worked because with about 900 units of spare parts shop and 82 units of mechanic workshop and other auxiliaries; there is definitely a lot in this place.

"I want to thank God too for the finishing, the outside environment which is welcoming. Many times you move into an auto-mechanic workshops and it looks like, why should I bring my car here?

"But when you drive in here, the environment is such that you are happy and it gives you the confidence that your car will be properly fixed.

"The reason behind this partnership is first, we are aware that it is going to create jobs; during the process of construction, a lot of jobs were created.

"But very importantly, is the fact that we want to bring some reasonable level of sanity into the

Chief Benard Okeke of Rehomes Property Development Company Limited said the project was anchored on the SMART Agenda of Governor Okowa in achieving a transformed state through comprehensive urban renewal.

"This project is a fulfilment of your campaign promise to create wealth and bring massive infrastructural development to Delta.

"Thousands of jobs are already being created in this project even as new businesses have been set up apart from its impact on hospitality in the capital city.

"Apart from the aesthetics, this signature project offers Deltans and Nigerians a befitting onestop auto market where they can purchase all auto parts as well as repair their automobiles with the latest state of the art technology and equipment in a most convenient, secured, serene and worldclass environment."

PDP faithfuls rewarded in Delta community

Malawi hippo in deadly attack on packed river boat

Five men convicted for audacious $123M jewels heist in Dresden

BENJAMIN OMOIKE WITH AGENCY REPORTS

Five men have been sentenced to several years in prison for their role in a $123 million heist that captured the world’s attention for its brazenness, public broadcaster MDR reported Tuesday.

Aone-year-old boy has died and 23 people are missing after a hippo hit their boat, capsizing it in Malawi's biggest river, police say.

Rescue teams are searching for survivors, but hopes of finding anyone alive are fading as the accident occurred on Monday.

The boat was packed with villagers who were crossing the Shire River to work in their fields, as they normally do.

For reasons that are still unclear, a hippo attacked their boat this time.

A total of 14 people managed to swim to safety or were rescued by other villagers who dived into the river to help.

But they failed to rescue the only child in the boat.

His body was recovered by the police maritime unit when it arrived to carry out rescue and search operations.

The accident occurred in the remote Nsanje district in southern Malawi, near the border with Mozambique.

"Officers have been on

the scene since yesterday [Monday] when the accident was reported, searching for missing persons," police spokeswoman for Nsanje district, Agnes Zalakoma, told the BBC.

Local MP Gladys Ganda has repeatedly called for a bridge to be built so that people do not have to risk their lives crossing the river in boats and canoes, but her appeal has so far fallen on deaf ears.

The Shire River is home to many hippos and crocodiles, and boats and canoes are often overcrowded or poorly maintained.

Vessels have capsized before, leading to villagers drowning. But it is rare to hear of a hippo charging at a boat in that part of Malawi.

Such attacks have taken place elsewhere in Malawi, including on fishermen.

Hippos tend to be territorial - and female hippos are known to be extremely aggressive, fiercely defending their young from any perceived threat.

They are the second largest land animal after el-

CIA urges Russians to get in touch, Moscow puts spies on alert

After the US Central Intelligence Agency published a video encouraging Russians to make contact via a secure internet channel, the Kremlin said on Tuesday that its agencies were tracking Western spy activity.

The CIA’s short video in Russian was accompanied by a text saying the agency wanted to hear from military officers, intelligence specialists, diplomats, scientists and people with information about Russia’s economy and its leadership.

“Contact us. Perhaps the people around you don’t want to hear the truth. We want to,” the text said.

Published nearly 15 months into Moscow’s war with Ukraine, the video invites Russians to take a colossal risk.

President Vladimir Putin has warned his compatriots to be on their guard against traitors, and parliament last month voted to increase

Four of the defendants received lighter sentences because they had partially confessed and some treasures were returned, Andreas Feron, a spokesperson at Dresden’s Regional Court, told CNN.

A sixth defendant was acquitted.

The gang broke into the historic Green Vault in Dresden on November 25, 2019. CCTV camera footage showed two masked thieves smashing the glass and grabbing 21 diamond-studded artifacts.

The vault featured an astounding collection of historical jewelry and precious ornaments – from shimmering bowls carved out of crystal and agate to jeweled figurines and goblets fashioned from gilded ostrich eggs.

One of the most famous pieces of the collection, a 41-carat green diamond known as the Dresden Green, was not in the museum at the time, being on loan to the Metropolitan Museum of Art

in New York City.

Footage released by Saxony Police showed two people wearing dark clothes, moving quickly though the gallery using flashlights. One of them then uses an ax to break the glass – the video shows it takes the perpetrator at least nine hits before the glass breaks. A nearby electrical fire knocked out street lights in the area at around the time of the robbery.

In just a few minutes, some of the world’s most valuable historic jewels had vanished. Only some of the loot has since been recovered.

The director of Dresden’s State Art Collection, Marion Ackermann, said their mate-

rial value doesn’t even begin to reflect their “incalculable” historical and cultural importance.

Nearly all the stolen artifacts were made during the rule of Frederick Augustus III, the last Elector of Saxony, who was later known as Frederick Augustus I, the first King of Saxony.

They included a 1780s hat clasp decorated with 15 large and more than 100 small diamonds, as well as a 96-centimeter (38-inch) sword and a scabbard, or sheath, which together contained more than 800 diamonds.

The judges of Dresden’s Regional Court imposed multi-year prison sentences

on the five defendants who were convicted.

The defendants are all part of the infamous Remmo clan, one of Germany’s most powerful crime families, which operates mostly in Berlin.

Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso fights for political survival as impeachment trial looms

the penalty for state treason from 20 years to life in prison.

In the video – published on the CIA’s official YouTube channel and the Telegram messaging app, popular in Russia – a male voice reflects on the meaning of heroism and endurance as lone individuals are seen weighing their decisions: a man trudging through snow, a woman staring through a window.

“We are easily swayed by lies. But we do know what our reality is. The reality we live in. And the reality we talk about in whispers,” the voice says.

At the end, a man and a woman are shown in separate scenes with their fingers hovering over mobile phone screens with a link saying “Contact CIA”.

“This is my Russia. This will always be my Russia. I will endure. My family will endure. We will live with dignity because of my actions,” the narrator concludes.

Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso appeared before lawmakers on Tuesday in a showdown with potentially dramatic consequences: The embattled president faces a looming impeachment vote – but could turn the tables on his political enemies through a constitutional clause known as “mutual death.”

The country’s opposition-led National Assembly is gearing up to vote on impeaching Lasso, who is accused of embezzlement and interfering in the negotiation of a shipping contract related to the export of oil products. Lasso has insisted he is innocent and says the allegations are politically motivated.

Lawmakers are expected to vote on Lasso’s impeachment over the weekend.

But he could pre-empt the vote by dissolving the assembly, a tactic known as muerte cruzada (mutual death). This would see Lasso resign, triggering snap elections for both the presidency and the National Assembly, according to a clause in the Ecuador’s constitution.

Both scenarios could es-

calate political turmoil in a country engulfed by criminal violence, say analysts. Ecuador has faced spiraling drug-related crime rates, prison riots, and a recent series of high-profile assassination attempts, causing many to fear leaving their homes.

Ordinary Ecuadorians worry about what comes ahead. Romulo Ricachon and Washington Zamora, who work together selling fruit and vegetables in a street market in the southern capital Quito, say they

normally agree – but that Lasso’s potential impeachment has divided their opinions.

While Ricachon believes Ecuador’s president Lasso should complete his mandate, Zamora thinks the president’s time is up and that the country’s problems require a new leader.

“I think the country is broken, in a way it never happened under previous governments like it happened with this one. Honestly, we are in pieces: business doesn’t move anything, you

Rabieh Remmo, one of the main perpetrators, will serve six years and two months in prison, the court spokesperson said. His accomplice, Wissam Remmo, received six years and three months while Bashir Remmo was sentenced to five years and 10 months. Another person was sentenced to four years and four months in prison under the Juvenile Criminal Code. can’t sell anything.” Zamora told CNNE.

“They push Lasso out, and who comes next? Who will take office? It’s a bit complicated, and that will mean more crime, no?” responded Ricachon. He believes crime and insecurity are the biggest challenges the country faces.

Lasso, a self-made millionaire, ran on a platform of liberal values before coming into power in 2021, promising more foreign direct investment and encouragement of entrepreneurship.

He was lauded for a successful Covid-19 vaccination drive at the start of his term, enjoying high approval ratings at the time.

It went downhill soon after.

Last year, amid weekslong protests over rising fuel and food prices, Lasso survived another impeachment attempt. But he has struggled to work with the National Assembly and implemented several states of emergencies to tamp the bloodletting in the country, which has seen hundreds killed in brutal prison riots between rival gangs, to very little success, say critics.

FG signs MOU with Delta State on hosting of National Youth Games

UKPONO UKPONG

The Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Delta State Government in respect of the Award of Hosting Rights for the four (4) Editions of the National Youth Games (NYG) covering the period, 2023 to 2026.

The Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mr Sunday Dare, while signing the MoU yesterday at the Government House, Asaba stated that Awarding the Hosting Rights to Delta State for the next four years is one of the enduring legacies of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Administration.

Dare stated further that with "the MoU signed today, the Ministry has secured the organisation of the youth fiesta for the next four years."

He informed that the document signed has been perused and certified okay for signing by both parties and thus, "signing the document by both parties is a critical step that would signpost the commencement of activities for the successful organisation of the first in the series of the Games in September, 2023."

Responding, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa stated that Delta State Government

agreed to sign the MoU with the Federal Government because it believes in the development of youth right from the grassroots in sports.

He assured that Delta State Government will ensure the successful organisation and hosting of the Games like other sports fiestas it had been oppor-

tuned to organize in the past.

Governor Okowa called on State Governments in the country to key into the development of the youth, especially in the area of grassroots sports.

Delta State "has been a leading champion in almost all the sporting competitions, we need States to challenge us, let them

Italian Open 2023 results: Djokovic criticises Norrie after body hit

Novak Djokovic criticised Cameron Norrie's behaviour after the Briton hit him with a smash while his back was turned in their Italian Open match.

Djokovic reached his 17th successive Rome quarter-final with a 6-3 6-4 win in a tetchy encounter on Tuesday.

He had already been irritated by the British number one's shouts of "Come on", before being hit in the ankle when he had already given up the point.

"Those are the things we players know are not fair play," Djokovic said.

"It's not how we treat each other, but it is allowed."

Having delayed the start of the match for a few minutes while he was in the treatment room, Djokovic wasted no time in racing into a 3-0 lead before Norrie slowed down his opponent's charge with a couple of holds.

The 27-year-old Briton saved three set points but could do nothing about the fourth as Djokovic wrapped up the opener.

gy, earning whistles from the crowd and a huge glare from a clearly riled Djokovic.

With conditions cool and the mood on court even frostier, Djokovic went on to break to love for 5-4.

Having been made to wait at the start of the match, it was then Norrie's turn to keep Djokovic waiting as he received treatment on court on his hip while the Serb prepared to serve for the match.

Djokovic went 0-30 down but resumed his focus as he sealed victory on his second match point to stay on course for a seventh Italian Open title, with the pair exchanging a tense handshake and no words at the net.

"I have got along very well with Cameron over the years that he's been on tour. He's a very nice guy off the court so I don't understand this kind of attitude on the court," said Djokovic, who faces Danish seventh seed Holger Rune in the last eight.

get prepared early enough to compete at least for second position because Delta will ever maintain its lead", he said.

Senator Okowa thanked the Federal Government for giving Delta State the Hosting Rights of the Youth Games for the next four years.

Webb says manager, player's behaviour towards referees not good enough

defeat at Manchester United in March that also saw striker Aleksandar Mitrovic banned for eight games for pushing referee Chris Kavanagh.

Brighton boss Di Zerbi has been sent off twice - including for a melee that also saw then interim Tottenham manager Cristian Stellini dismissed - and served one touchline ban.

Webb says there is a desire from all parties to tackle the problem and is hopeful changes implemented over the summer will have a positive impact.

Norrie, seeded 13th, went a break down early in the second and immediately broke backbut in controversial fashion.

Djokovic had already surrendered the point when he hit high to leave Norrie with an open court to put the ball into and was walking away when Norrie fired his smash into Djokovic's left ankle.

Norrie uttered a brief "sorry" and raised his hand in apolo-

"He brought the fire and I responded to that. I'm not going to allow someone behaving like this bending my head.

"That's all it is. What happens on the court, we leave on the court and move on."

Russian sixth seed Andrey Rublev was beaten 7-6 (7-5) 4-6 6-3 by German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann after home favourite and eighth seed Jannik Sinner fell 6-7 (3-7) 6-2 6-2 to Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina.

Magnus Cort wins stage 10 as Geraint Thomas retains overall lead

Magnus Cort claimed his maiden Giro d'Italia stage win as Geraint Thomas maintained a two-second overall lead.

Cort, 30, claimed victory on stage 10 after outpacing Canada's Derek Gee and Alessandro de Marchi of Italy in a sprint finish.

Denmark's Cort has previously won two Tour de France stages and six at the Vuelta a Espana.

Stage 11 on Wednesday is the longest of the Giro, a 219km ride from Camaiore to Tortona.

The behaviour of managers and players towards match officials this season "has not been good enough", says referees' chief Howard Webb.

A number of Premier League managers including Jurgen Klopp, Marco Silva and Roberto di Zerbi have served touchline bans after being sent off.

Webb says a "stronger" approach is needed to try and address the issue.

"We need everybody in the game supporting a movement towards a more respectful environment," he said.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5

Live, the chief refereeing officer of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited added:

"It's clear it has not been good enough. Everybody acknowledges we need to be stronger in dealing with behaviours not at the acceptable level.

"I think for a long time referees have taken a conciliatory approach, I did it as well. I didn't want to overreact and ruin the game in the moment.

"But that's not fared well in the bigger picture and we need to collectively look at ways we can change the trend - and it does need changing. We all accept that."

The issue of manager and player behaviour towards officials has been brought into focus this season after a number of high-profile incidents.

Liverpool boss Klopp was given a one-match ban after he was sent off against Manchester City in October for berating the referee's assistant. The German is also waiting for the result of a Football Association charge for comments he made about referee Paul Tierney after a game against Tottenham last month.

Fulham manager Silva has served two separate touchline bans, including for an incident during the Cottagers' FA Cup

"For quite some time now there's been a group of people from all aspects of the game coming together to look at participant behaviour and come up with some steps that we think will make a difference and those will be implemented during the close season," added Webb.

"We will be speaking to the clubs, the managers, the players, the media, everybody involved, to lay out what those look like.

"I get the sense there is a stronger desire now than before for this to happen. We have a great product and a great league and we don't need some of the behaviour we have seen to continue."

EF Education-EasyPost rider Cort now has stage wins in all three Grand Tours.

Britain's Thomas finished 51 seconds behind Cort, enough to retain his advantage over Primoz Roglic.

Event organisers announced on Tuesday that Friday's stage 13 will be shortened from 207km to 199km, because of snow and the risk of avalanches.

The 2,469-metre ascent of the Great St Bernard Pass has been deemed dangerous, and instead riders will pass through the tunnel.

FG inaugurates Board Members of Paralympic Committee

Moyes says talks about Rice's move not happening till end of season

West Ham will not discuss midfielder Declan Rice's future with other clubs until the season has finished.

Hammers boss David Moyes said on Friday that there was "a good chance" Rice would leave the club this summer.

Rice, 24, has rejected all efforts to get him to sign an extension amid interest from virtually all of England's top clubs.

If the option of an additional season on his current deal was triggered, his contract would run to 2025.

West Ham, who are not mathematically safe from relegation, are keen to avoid any distractions and so have placed discussions over the midfielder's future on hold.

Away from the Premier League, David Moyes' side are edging closer to securing the club's first silverware since 1980 in the Europa Conference League.

They lead AZ Alkmaar 2-1 after the first-leg of the semi-final, with the second leg to be played on Thursday.

UKPONO UKPONG

The Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mr Sunday Dare, has inaugurated the newly elected Board Members of the Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN) with a charge to ensure inclusiveness for the purpose of maintaining podium performances in all competitions across the globe.

During the inauguration ceremony which held yesterday at the Steven Keshi Stadium Asaba, Delta State; Dare expressed optimism that with the calibre of Members elected, Nigeria is sure to record more accolades through its paralympians.

According to him, Para-Sports is one of the games

that has lifted the nation's flag high in global events, and as such, the athletes need encouragement and support to enhance their performances

He therefore called on the new board to bring their wealth of experience and knowledge to bear in ensuring a proper administration of the sporting activities of Paralympians in the country

While congratulating the new Board Members on their election, he thanked the Delta State Government for agreeing to host the Congress.

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar assured the new Board Mem-

bers that the Ministry will continue to provide an enabling environment for the realisation of the present Administration's policy as it affects Paralympians

Represented by the Director, Federation, Elites and Athletes Development (FEAD), Dr Simon Ebhojaiye, the Permanent Secretary, therefore charged them to justify the confidence reposed on them by the electorate and members

Responding, the newly elected President, Paralympic Committee Nigeria (PCN), Mr. Odebode Sunday, assured that under their tenure, Nigeria is sure to witness more podium appearances from the athletes.

The newly elected board members of the Paralympic

Committee Nigeria (PCN) are as follows.

Odebode Sunday - President

Shodipo Ayinde - 1st Vice President

Ugwunwa Flora - 2nd VP & Female Athlete Representative

Isah Suleiman - Secretary General

Agbado Douglas - Asst. Secretary General

Ettington Rafiu OlawaleTreasurer

Asaba Pius Idowu - South West

North East - Suspended

Ezeikpe Chinedu - South East

Adisa Lukman Abefe - North Central

Bungon Dauda - North West

Francis Ngannou: Former UFC champion signs PFL contract

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has signed a deal with the Professional Fighters League.

Cameroon's Ngannou, 36, has been a free agent since leaving the UFC in January after the two parties failed to agree on a new contract.

The move represents a significant coup for the PFL, with Ngannou regarded as one of the world's best heavyweights.

Ngannou will compete in the PFL's new pay-per-view Super Fight division.

The Super Fight division differs from their regular seasonal format, with fighters competing in one-off events and earning 50% of the revenue from their fight.

Other fighters signed to the division include two-time lightweight champion Kayla Harrison and YouTube star Jake Paul.

Ngannou, who will also serve as chairman of PFL Africa as part of the deal, is set to make his debut in mid-2024, with an opponent yet to be selected.

"I am very excited for this game-changing partnership," said Ngannou.

"I believe in the PFL's "fighter first" culture and global vision including developing the sport in Africa."

Since becoming a free agent,

Folarin Balogun switches international allegiance from England to USA

Ngannou has been vocal about wanting to start a career in boxing, targeting bouts with WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former title holder Deontay Wilder.

His deal to fight "exclusively in MMA" with the promotion suggests he may still be able to pursue boxing fights outside the organisation. Fellow Su-

per Fight Division fighter Paul boxed in February, losing to Tommy Fury.

Ngannou spent seven years in the UFC, winning 12 of 14 fights, and left the promotion as a reigning champion.

He last fought in January 2022, defending his title in a unanimous decision win over Ciryl Gane, before a knee injury

kept him out for the remainder of his contract.

He was then stripped of the title upon his departure from the UFC.

Ngannou cited a "lack of freedom" as the reason for his departure, saying his requests for health insurance and tailored sponsorship deals for fighters had been rejected.

Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun's decision to switch international allegiance from England to the United States has been approved by FIFA.

The 21-year-old, who is currently on loan with French side Reims, was born in the US to Nigerian parents but raised in England.

Balogun has previously played for England Under-21s but withdrew from the squad in March because of injury.

He will not play in the upcoming European Under-21 Championship.

A FIFA spokesperson told BBC Sport: "The change of association of the player Folarin Jolaoluwa Balogun from England to the USA has been approved."

Balogun has scored 19 Ligue 1 goals in 34 appear-

ances for Reims this season.

Speaking to US Soccer's official website, Balogun said the decision was a "no-brainer" and he feels at "home".

Balogun said: "When I broke the news to my family they were all just over the moon, especially my mom. She said, 'What took you so long?'

"To represent the United States means a lot, more than people would know. I'm very proud and honoured to have this opportunity, and I want to give everything I have to make our team successful."

He has previously said he would be open to representing Nigeria but has decided to become available for the United States - a choice he was eligible to make having not won a senior England cap.

Tinubu’s Presidency: Wike and what S’East APC should anticipate

Ihave chosen to begin with Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State Governor. And for obvious reasons.

The previous week, the President-elect, Senator Bola Tinubu was in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He was there on the invitation of Wike. He was invited to commission projects. And he did. ln doing that, he was quoted to have said that, he owed Wike nothing. And some people began to celebrate that. Some people believed that. They took Tinubu's comment to the bank. They went home with it. And l hasten to say this: lf there's one Nigerian Tinubu owes a lot, that's Wike. Nyesom Wike. Aside keeping his party, PDP, and it's candidate, Atiku Abubakar on their toes all through, he delivered Rivers State to Tinubu and his APC. I am talking about the INEC-declared results for Rivers . INEC's own results.

Wike, a PDP governor, ensured that APC or Tinubu was declared winner in his State. ln Wike's Rivers, Tinubu got 231, 591 votes. His own party, PDP, got 88, 468 votes and the Labour Party, 175, 071 votes. lf there's one man who has a lot of claims to make in Tinubu's presidency, that man is Wike. There is nothing he wants in BAT's government that he would not get. Don't believe me. But mark my words. He destroyed PDP for Tinubu to navigate. So, paying Wike's Rivers, the money spent on federal projects in the State would be one of the easiest things Tinubu would do as President.

Unlike Wike , those who should be worried about the direction Tinubu's presidency will be going are the leaders of the APC in the South East. Already, Tinubu's body language isn't encouraging. I am not writing that they should believe me, but letting them know the fate that awaits them in BAT's Presidency. Like l said, they should not wait to be told that Tinubu and his Presidency won't have anything tangible for them.

For Tinubu, his Presidency and his close associates , all the leaders of APC in the South East are OBIDIENTS. This is the mindset of Tinubu and his own emerging cabal. lt's written all over them. And there seems to be nothing anybody can do to help the situation.

The only prayer point left for APC leaders in the South East is that, the election of Tinubu should be annulled or be nullified by the Tribunal. But if the Tribunal confirms or authenticates his election, then, there is every reason to worry by APC leaders in the South East. Some of them, going to the Defence House and taking photographs with him, won't change anything.

Tinubu didn't hide his disdain for the South East. He began early enough to show that. He first settled for a fellow Muslim as Vice- Presidential candidate, believing that Heaven wouldn't fall. And he was right. Heaven didn't fall. And he did it, knowing that the South East could be adjudged the " soul" of Christianity in Nigeria. l am painting a picture. But see the major issues.

At a time, the discussion or the debate in the APC was that, the South should produce the Presidential candidate of the Party and by extension , Muhammadu Buhari's successor, Ahmed Lawan came on board with a bang. And who were in the forefront of the Lawan's project? Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and His Excel-

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ly serious about it. They bought Lawan's nomination forms and displayed them for all and sundry to see, on the screens of national televisions. l do not know who drafted each other into the Lawan venture. Whether Kalu drafted the lmo Governor or vice versa.

lf there was a major threat to Tinubu's aspiration for the Presidential ticket of the APC, it was that Ahmed Lawan's entry. That man's case. And our own people were the pilots. The architects. On the TV screens, the Yobe State Governor, Mala Buni, Lawan's own governor was behind. At the back of Kalu and Governor Uzodinma. l am still painting a picture. They didn't support Tinubu. They didn't support Rochas Okorocha or Ogbonnaya Onu or Emeka Nwajiuba or David Umahi. But Lawan from the North. Continue reading my lips correctly.

Then, the consensus issue. Lawan was announced the consensus Presidential candidate of the party by the Abdullahi Adamu led NWC. lf that had worked out as planned, Tinubu's ambition would have been submerged or destroyed at that point. His group fought back. l want you to grab something here. Something "ominous". Something not palatable at all. Something "imirimious". Do you understand?

Then, the Presidential primary proper. The South East delegates voted for Lawan, from all indications. And not Tinubu. Not Okorocha. Not Nwajiuba. Not Onu or Umahi. They went for the Yobe man, Lawan. After Yobe, you get Borno State. l had been there. That was in 2004. l had gone for the Turbanning of Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi II lbn Umar El-kanemi. The rest became history.

Ahmed Lawan for Presidency project was the biggest threat Tinubu's ambition had, before the INEC conducted election. Buhari's cabal also led Nwajiuba to go to court, asking that Tinubu should be disqualified and announce him APC candidate. Buhari's deceitful cabal.

For the February 25, 2023 Presidential election, the leaders of APC in the South East were helpless. Nigerians, including the South East people, opted or settled for Peter Obi of the Labour Party. But Tinubu and his already existing cabal won't look at it from that perspective. They seem to have made up their minds. For them, APC leaders in the zone were all Obidients or "lPOB".

ln Anambra, for instance, APC ( Tinubu), had 5, 111 votes. PDP (Atiku), 9,036 votes. Labour party ( Obi), 584, 621 votes. ln Ebonyi, APC, 42, 402 votes. PDP, 13, 503 votes. Labour party, 259, 738 votes. ln Enugu State, APC, 4, 772

votes. PDP, 15, 749 votes. Labour Party, 428,640 votes. ln Abia, APC, 8, 914, PDP, 22, 676 and Labour Party, 327, 095. ln lmo , APC, 66, 406 votes, PDP, 30, 234 votes and the Labour party, 360, 495 votes. Don't forget. These're Mahmood Yakubu's INEC declared results.

Looking at these figures, one would be forced to agree or believe that the issue is not what anybody thinks should be Tinubu's right actions, but what will be the case with regard to South East APC leaders in Tinubu's presidency?

That is the problem with Orji Uzor Kalu and Osita lzunaso's aspirations for the position of Senate President. Otherwise, having denied the South East the position of President most patriotic Nigerians had believed should be their turn , and having also denied them the office of Vice president, the most appropriate thing to do now is to concede the office of Senate President to them. But for the reasons l had earlier mentioned, that has become a tall dream. They would never live to see that happen.

They have gone to South South. Akwa lbom State in particular. And their choice is Godswill Akpabio. At the primary, he withdrew for Tinubu. ln the election, APC had 160, 620 votes. More than what Tinubu got in the whole of South East. That's the politics behind their choice of Akpabio. They won't tell you this.

For the South East and APC leaders in the zone in particular, they should not expect much from Tinubu and his Presidency. No great expectations. Like I had intoned , the politics has begun. And only those with foresight or "four-sights" would understand better . Would be able to read the handwriting on the wall and interpret it. MENE, MENE, TEKEL, URPHARSIN.

There is already a gang up. While the lmo Governor was at "war" with Joe Ajaero of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in lmo , the kano State Governor of APC extraction, Alhaji Ganduje, was rolling out red carpets in Kano for the same Ajaero. The same period. And he gave him the chieftaincy Title of Sarkin Yakin, meaning, Workers' warrior.

Even when Tinubu might not remember some of these incidents, those who have his ears would always remind him of all these. And there is no difference between him and Buhari in terms of being easy prey in the hands of wicked cabal. Even, Tinubu's own cabal may be worse than Buhari's cabal. The signs are everywhere. l hope you're reading between the lines. There is "fire in the Soweto".

This whole thing is also a wake-up call for Governor Uzodinma, especially in his bid for second tenure . Yes, APC governor. The worst opposition to his second term bid may not come from

within, but from "without". Outside. Don't say l told you. Do not quote me. Do not quote Sam. Onwuemeodo. Caveat emptor. Disclaimer. l am only guessing. lmagining things. Which can't be located or situated. . On your "marks". Ready.... go!!!. The expected heat may be imported. External heat. Perhaps, from the Bar beach or Zuma rock. Do you understand?

The Lagos State Government had, on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, arraigned Eze Ndigbo in Ajao Estate Lagos, Fredrick Nwajagu, on terrorism charges. And he has been remanded in prison custody. The man was quoted to have said that, if the attacks on the lgbos and their properties in Lagos continue, he might invite IPOB. That was a conditional statement. He didn't invite IPOB. But he's already in prison. And those who attacked, killed and maimed lgbos during the elections in Lagos walked away free and still walking freely. l am still painting a picture. What to expect from BAT's Presidency.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya on Friday , May 5, 2023, had had reason or reasons to threaten to crack down on potential threats to Tinubu's inauguration on May 29.

ln doing that, Gen. Yahaya warned the "lndigenous People of Biafra , IPOB, Eastern Security Network, ESN and other fringe groups not to test the will of the military". He specifically mentioned IPOB and ESN and described similar groups in other parts of the country as " fringe groups". Are you following? What to expect.

Even when l have never read where IPOB had threatened to frustrate or prevent the inauguration of Tinubu as President on May 29. The man singled out IPOB and ESN, and left other related groups in other parts of the country.

That's the nature of the on-going blackmail against the South East and the people of the area. There is nothing to show or believe that Tinubu's presidency would be different from that of "Bubu", with regard to the fate of the South East.

With the prevailing circumstances and for Tinubu's presidency, APC leaders in the South East or the South East people in general, are all Obidients. Or IPOB. Depending on which of the words they would prefer to use at any given time. That's their mindset. That's their belief. Nobody should wait to be told all these. Orji Uzor Kalu had thought that, talking against Obi's Presidential bid or the corporate aspiration of the South East people to produce the President of the country this time, would make them to bring him in or take him into confidence or forget his role in the Lawan for President venture. But he has seen that, that's not the case. They are also holding him in contempt. He has seen that the sound of bitter kola in the mouth does not reflect the taste. At all. At all, at all.

The only consolation is that, if the South East people survived Buhari's eight years of negligence and gross disregard, they would also survive Tinubu and whatever he comes up with. Necessity has always remained the mother of invention. The earlier this situation is understood, the better.

Nevertheless, we shall continue to clap for Jesus. And there is nothing anybody can do about it.