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Herdsmen Provocative Killings a Threat to Nigeria's Corporate Existence EDITORIAL

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he Nigerian nation in its chequered history has witnessed spates of ignominious incidents and events right from birth which have all combined to give it the posture of a giant, latent with unique and exceptional qualities subservient to greatness, but timidly steeped in mediocrity.

The present administration played on the CHANGE mantra to woo the sympathy of Nigerians which swung the voting pendulum in its favor and subsequently opened the doors of Aso rock to its occupancy; with intense promise.

A change of government was believed to be the antidote to a persistent blistering cycle of corruption, insecurity, economic doldrums and a string of other mis-es which had submerged the country into murky waters. Alas, with almost a four-year tenure down the line, the hopes and expectations of Nigerians appear to be fast wilting as the economy continues to fester, corruption continues to permeate every specter of national endeavor, given the unmatched streaks of our xenophile politicians for chicanery, with most barbaric and unspeakable of all, being an unprepared- for and seemingly guarded burst of ethnic cleansing, behind the cloak of herdsmen.

Areas of vital importance such as education, job creation, health and transportation continue to witness lack of

By Manny Ita

good policy intervention with their consistent decline, while the country keeps calling for Foreign Direct Investments in the face of embarrassing power supply, a basic infrastructure upon which so many other positives could spring up on, with no visible improvement to justify huge amounts

sorts to a contentious religious issue heralding the wanton killing of innocent souls, deserves more scrutiny and earnestness than the body language and assertions of President Buhari infer.

The Middle Belt areas of the country have since the beginning of this year become

quite worrisome for a country that is not at war.

Right from the inception of these killings, the body language of the president has not reflected the kind of concern that should necessarily suggest a decisive solution to the problem, which also suggests as suspected in

Sokoto(hitherto considered a conservative and peaceful nothern state) killings by supposed herdsmen with sophisticated weapons, perhaps gives credence to the comments of General Theophilus Danjuma on the issue, in which he called on Nigerians to rise up and defend themselves in the obvi-

sunk into it annually.

Certainly Nigerians expected quite a few things to have urgently come with the wind of change but sadly, the model to get it right seems forever elusive.

Admittedly, years of misrule among other unpalatable things have divided the country along religious and tribal lines. This is a bit complex, but in a country where at the drop of a hat, any minor issue concerning the north and south quickly re-

a zone of bizarre slaughtering of Nigerians, mainly of the Christian stock. This began with the killing of 73 people in Benue State on New Year’s Day, with the most bizarre being the killing of 19 worshippers, including two priests, inside a Catholic Church building. According to statistic, about 901 people were killed as at April this year, with many more between the last two months in that part of the country, killings

many quarters that the president subtly takes sides with the terrorists who are mainly of the Fulani stock where he hails from.

The recent massacre of innocent defenseless citizens in 11 villages of Plateau State that claimed more than 100 lives (a figure given by the police, which may well exceed that figure, considering its reputation of coming up with false figures in situations that put them on the spot) as well as the

ous failure of the government to do so. T’is certainly a situation that calls for drastic action to pull the nation back from the abyss of permanent destruction.

There also perhaps has never been a time in the history of the nation that the security question has been more embarrassingly rife with ineptitude. The fact that the country’s borders are porous has been made manifest by the ease of influx of mercenaries, arms and ammunitions

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EDITORIAL

into the country, and the President himself has worsened matters with his unguarded comments on the contentious national issue.

Recently, during a visit to the United Kingdom, the president said these attackers came from Libya. How do they get into the country to carry out these elaborate attacks? Does it not make rubbish of the country’s security apparatus and undermine the nation's sovereignty? Apparently an ugly situation which puts a huge question

start enumerating the security risk of this blunder would certainly amount to belaboring the obvious.

It might not be wrong to say that Buhari’s presidency, in its parochial and clannish approach to government, augmented by its poor handling of the Fulani herdsmen terrorism has not only revealed its sectionalism and demeaned the Presidency, but also positioned it for failure at the polls come 2019.

Buhari’s erst-

fact. Excepting the VicePresident, Yemi Osinbajo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama and the Chief of Defence Staff, Olonisakin, Gabriel every other member of President Buhari’s Security Council is from the northern part of the country. This is in obvious spite of the federal character principle and portrays the president in the light of being more focused on carrying out a personal agenda in defiance to the essence of the oath of office he

cult time assuring the masses that all his administration is doing, insecure as they are rendered, is for their good.

He must be clairvoyant enough to appreciate the situation at hand and relieve the obviously clueless or biased service chiefs of their duties in order to avert aspersions being cast on his patriotism.

For Nigeria to launch back into the global map of peaceful, politically stable and economically vibrant

insecurity or festering crisis and nip them in the bud before eruption into full blown emergency cases.

It calls for a reinvention of the entire security apparatus of the country in order to excel and rank amongst the best in strategic thinking, intelligence and criminology. After the provocative stance of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria that their attack was in retaliation for the killing of 300 cows, saying, “Since these cows

mark on the suitability or effectiveness of the nation’s security chiefs, and absolutely unacceptable.

As it were, nationals from different countries troop into the country with impunity, settle down to different kinds of menial jobs including gatemen, roadside kiosks, trycicle and commercial motorbike riders to mention a few and even take up wives.

The last time I checked, you still needed a visa to enter South Africa. To

while numerous failure at the polls before he finally nicked it could well be attributed to his ethnic inclination, which is now made obvious to the horror of many Nigerians.

The president’s obvious lack luster attitude in reacting to the series of consistent unwarranted killings of people in the middle belt by suspected herdsmen point to this fact. The constitution of his cabinet amply buttresses this

swore when taking over as president of the most populous black nation on earth. Glaring as it is that the security chiefs have woefully failed, it is disappointing that the president has not deemed it fit to replace them.

Direly needed at this juncture are prevention strategies that seek to address the systemic institutional midwives of corruption and insecurity. The president must be having a diffi-

nations, its institutions have to be purged of their stench, cleansed of their debris and strengthened for optimal performance. Change presupposes a deviation from the old ways of doing things for that aimed to bring expected or better results.

Security agencies in the country need to be made more proactive.

The principal security organs must be equipped in all wise to anticipate situations of

were not found, nobody should expect peace in the areas,” they have not been deemed a security risk that needs being arrested. Theirs is simply a criminality that appears to have the subtle backing of powerful government forces in the north. This sinister agenda is threatening the country’s corporate existence and is surely an ill wind not likely to blow anyone any good.

A house divided against itself cannot stand.

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APC Saraki Impeachment: "We will Match Out Our Forces and Jam You"– Tambuwal

COVER STORY

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overnor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal has sworn that any illegal moves to impeach senate president Bukola Saraki will be resisted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

After decamping

who on Wednesday said it is “a matter of honour” for Saraki to “leave the crown (senate presidency) in the house that the crown belongs to.”

The PDP caucus in the house of representatives subsequently raised an alarm that some senators were plotting to im-

Saraki unconstitutionally will harm Nigeria’s democracy.

“When I hear that some people are trying to break into the chambers of the senate to steal the mace and install a pseudo president of the senate, I wonder whether they actually

the senate. And so be it with Mr. Speaker, Dogara.

“So, nobody should be afraid. There is a process. And we must respect due process and rule of law. And Nigeria is not a banana republic.

We will not take it from anybody. Let them hear

future of about 200 million people in this country.”

He also said if Saraki decided change his political party, there is nothing anybody can do about it.

“The constitution of this country is very clear that members of

from the ruling All Progressives Congress to opposition PDP, some lawmakers and APC chieftains have asked Saraki to step down as Senate President.

One of such is Adams Oshiomhole, APC national chairman,

peach Saraki through the backdoor.

But speaking at the PDP national executive council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Tambuwal, who just recently left the APC as well, said any attempt to impeach

know the rules of our democratic engagement.

It’s not a Gestapo, we are in democracy,” he said.

“If the senators have confidence in Bukola Saraki, they should continue to sustain him as president of

it very clear. If you try it, we will match out our forces in this country and jam you.

“Because we are talking about democracy. We cannot afford to allow anybody, no matter how highly placed, to toy with the

the senate and the house of representatives can choose from among themselves their own president of the senate or speaker without leaning to any political party,” Tambuwal posited.

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APC, Presidency Shameless,

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Despicable and Hypocritical - PDP

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n mockery of the presidency and the All Peoples Congress, APÇ for attempting to woo PDP members into its now discredited and famished fold, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the party and the Presidencyas shameless, despicable and hypocritical.

last survival stunt before facing the gallows, or more so, a mortally wounded snake furtively seeking for one last bite before its inevitable painful death.

The PDP has nothing but pity for the APC, who, in its blind desperation, cannot see that the train has since left the station and that no body, no

The PDP describes the move as a failed antic of an apprehended and deflated felon who, in his immoral proclivity, attempts futilely to pull off one

matter the lure, abandons a cruising liner, which the PDP now represents, to jump into a sinking ship with a disoriented captain which the APC has be-

media trials, trumped up corruption charges and raw violence, the APC is now seeking to ensnare them with promises of political opportunities it no longer has control over. The dilapidated APC, by now, ought to have known that no Nigerian will again fall for its gimmick of false promises and subject him or herself to the prison yard democracy, that it offers.

We therefore counsel the APC to leave our members alone and stop acting like that evil character who roams about seeking for whom to devour or drag along into the pit, knowing that his time is short. The APC should quit its antics and find an abandoned cave of history to lick its wounds, having squandered the goodwill given to it by Nigerians in 2015.

The eclipsing APC must know that Nigerians have had enough of its lies, deception, propaganda, contrivances, beguilements and are now resolute in their iron-cast determination to rally on the platform of the repositioned same persons it haunted as cor- PDP to rescue our nation from rupt and evil, seeing that it has the curse which the APC has come to represent in the last been overrun by the tides.

Having failed to cow three years. such persons through threats,

come. Indeed, no one, no matter the enticement, runs into a collapsing building from where terrified, wounded and traumatized people are already taking flight for their dear lives.

Nigerians can now see the shameless hypocrisy of the APC, which is now going about, cap in hand, to beg the

National Coordinator of Buhari/Osinbajo

Pressure Group Dumps APC for ADC

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he All Progressives Congress (APC) has suffered another blow with the resignation of Yahya Hammajulde, National Coordinator of the Buhari/Osinbajo Again (BOA), to become the Adamawa State Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Apart from political parties, the next visible po-

litical organisation with large following in Adamawa state is BOA, and it is understandably so due to the collection of political heavyweights active in the group.

BOA is a political pressure group whose mandate is to canvass support for the reelection of President Muhammadu Buhari.

It is sponsored by some aides and supporters of the President, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal and Senator Mohammed Abubakar MoAllahyidi.

At the state congress where Hamajulde dumped APC, the ADC also harvested thousands of APC members

belonging to former Governor Murtala Nyako's political structure. National Secretary of ADC, Saidu Baba Abdullahi, announced to a crowd of party stalwarts at the congress that former Governor Nyako had thrown his weight behind the party.

"We are gathered here with the blessings of the immediate past Gover-

nor of the state, Admiral Murtala Nyako,” he said. "As you can all see, this gathering consists largely of his political structure.”

Senator AbdulAziz Nyako (Nyako’s son), representing Adamawa Central, was one of the three senators who dumped the APC for ADC in the gale of defections that rocked

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the National Assembly last week.

Senator Nyako assured the

crowd that the ADC was poised to sack the APC in Adamawa State,

and also criticized the APC-led government, saying "all the signs of a failed

come a theatre of killings and we cannot sit to watch the mess continue".

Also some members of the state assembly, led by fiery Rufai Umar, member representing ConGombi stituency, and a host of other supporters, took front row at the ADC state congress.

At the last APC congresses, Nyako junior and others had accused Governor Jibirilla Bindow of hijacking the party strucstate are manifest in ture, and threatened this government". to dump party if He said their grievances "Nigeria has be-

the highest office holder in the party at the moment, Saraki will replace his deputy, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who held the position until the defection of Saraki and other top APC members to the PDP. The arrival

of Saraki was heralded by loud ovation as he was led into the venue of the meeting by PDP national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, and other top leaders of the party.

Saraki, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Sokoto State governor Aminu Tam-

buwal and Benue State governor Samuel Ortom were all present at the meeting.

The NEC meeting attended by the four former members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was in celebration mood as the politicians exchanged

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were not addressed.

It was hinted at the congress that many bigwigs in the state, including a popular female politician, Binani Dahiru Ahmed, may soon dump the APC for ADC. However, former SGF Lawal and his CPC bloc have debunked the claim, vowing to stay in APC and play the spoilers' game against Governor Bindow in 2019.

A total of 36 state exco members were elected and inaugurated.

PDP Appoints Saraki Its National Leader

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he Peoples Democratic P a r t y , (PDP) has appointed Senate President Bukola Saraki as it National Leader.

The appointment was made at the party’s NEC meeting on Thursday. Saraki being

banters.

Apart from the former APC chiefs, the meeting hall had key figures in the

PDP, including governors, lawmakers and some of the presidential aspirants.

Sen-Buruji Kashamu Defies Expulsion

Threat, Leads PDP loyalists in Rally to Abeokuta

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mbattled Senator Bur u j i Kashamu and his loyalists on thursday,stormed the ancient city of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, in defiance to his purported expulsion from the party

alongside three other chieftains, as the party met to unveil its aspirants for the 2019 general election.

The lawmaker representing Ogun East made a grand entry to the party secretariat located along the

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Presidential Boulevard, Abeokuta, where thousands of PDP members and supporters across the 20 local government areas of the state defied the rains to participate in the event, vowing to mobilize relentlessly for the

PDP to succeed in 2019.

In his remarks, Kashamu faulted the sanction meted out on him, saying any attempt to expel him amounts to "effort in futility."

The senator, who was accompa-

nied by the Ogun State PDP Chairman, Chief Adebayo Dayo; Secretary, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo and a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Segun Seriki, who were purportedly expelled, argued

that he enjoys the support of the people and court protection from expulsion.

He said, "How can somebody expel you when you are committed to the party? The party does not belong to an individual. I

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rants.

State PDP Chairman, Dayo, said the PDP remains loved by the generality of the people. He also took a swipe at the PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus, saying he was treading on the path of illegality by seeking to expel him and others.

Dayo said, "Today, a man that is expelled from the party by Uche Secondus is having so much followers. I did not come here to bring food for everybody but we have genuine followers in Ogun State. And today, we are celebrating our aspi-

"We never had so much crowd at this secretariat, but because people are very much annoyed about the pronouncement expelling Adebayo Dayo, the chairman of PDP in Ogun State and Prince Buruji Kashamu, the good senator representing Ogun East. You can see that we are accepted by the people, not because of money, not because of anything, but, because the people have genuine love for us.

"I can tell you that come 2019, we are going to win in Ogun

overnor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal has de-

conspiracy against Nigeria’s cohesion which he explained that the APC-led Federal

then ruling PDP, to join others to form the APC with the hope that it would usher in a better

scribed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as a conspiracy against the nation after dumping the party to the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP).

Tambuwal, while giving reasons for his defection, said he could no longer be a part to a

Government represents.

The governor mare his position known while speaking to thousands of his supporters in Sokoto, on Wednesday.

He said he earlier left his then comfort zone as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and member of the

society where peace and justice would reign.

Tambuwal however said, “Now, almost four years into what ought to be a new order as desired and elected by Nigerians, the nation is unfortunately going through the most difficult and precarious

want to authoritatively inform you that I, Senator Buruji Kashamu, remain a member of PDP. Aside from that, I have court order that protects me from being expelled by anybody.

"Any attempt to expel me is effort in futility. You know general election is coming, that is why all of you should go out to mobilize to succeed in 2019.

"Very soon, there will be official declaration. My struggle at the national is to liberate the masses from the oppressed."

On his part, the

State. This is the only I am the executive chairplace where we have man of the party until PDP. I am not the fac- April 2020." tional chairman of PDP,

APC is a Conspiracy Against Nigeria -Tambuwal

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times, since the civil war; with ethno-religious and regional distrust at its highest ebb.

“This development had often been blamed on political opponents.

Meanwhile, there are issues of brazen inequity and capacity and questionable distribution of appointments/projects.

This is in addition to lack of statesmanship in responding to national issues, among other things that are aggravating the anomaly.

“It is because I am convinced that no nation can thrive while there is inequity and bad governance; because I am saddened by the fact that lethargy, incompetence and sustained denial of obvious leadership missteps have become the major raw materials with which the Nigerian state is being run today; because I am unwilling to be part of a frightful conspiracy against the cohesion of the Nigerian

state, Nigerian youths and peoples; because I am unable to feel at ease in the face of a progressively divided nation and, above all, because I am totally unable to reconcile myself to a national leadership that offers no redeeming moral beacons that I am here with you today; to announce withdrawal of my membership of the All Progressives Congress and return to the Peoples Democratic Party.”

According to him, it is equally disappointing that the APC has been unable to manage whatever good it inherited from the previous administration but has instead taken the level of impunity to heights never before known in Nigeria.

While accusing the administration of failing to break new grounds, he said it had also turned itself into a sanctuary for the corrupt and a machine for rig-

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ging and for the rape of democracy.

He stressed that all attempts to discuss the electoral promises of the APC-led government, including the restructuring of the country as promised Nigerians and as contained in the APC proved manifesto, abortive.

Tambuwal also said the President Muhammadu Buhari administration failed the people of Sokoto State and its neighbouring Zamfara and other parts of Nigeria with its inability to protest the lives and property of its people from marauders.

He said, “Like most states of the North, and indeed the entire federation, elders and traditional institutions have come under measured disrespect.

“The recent attack in Tabinnii in Rabah LGA of Sokoto

State, the routine invasion of Zamfara State by bandits, the now-regular killing of policemen by unknown gunmen all over the country, the regular massacre of innocent people in the North-East and many similar daily incidents, do not attract much attention any more. gover“Good nance, viz-a-viz economic wellbeing of our people, remains the major reason for my action of today. Information from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that over nine million jobs have been lost in the last three years, since the APC government came into office.

“While youth unemployment rate was 11.70 per cent during the fourth quarter of 2014, it rose to 33.10 per cent in third quarter of 2017 under the APC

Government. The economy is not showing any real signs of improvement. Our educational and health institutions are in retreat. Poverty is on the rampage and still ravages the land. It is unacceptable that majority of those who voted for APC in 2015 should have nothing good to show for it.”

PDP, Atiku, Okowa, others welcome Tambuwal, Kano Deputy Gov Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar alongside the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has hailed Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, Governor of Sokoto State for his timely return th is former party as the defection fever that has engulfed the ruling party lately continues.

While welcoming Tambuwal and the Kano State Deputy Governor,

Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, on their return, Atiku and the party commended the two men for their display of courage and patriotism.

In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan in Abuja, on Wednesday, the party hailed Tambuwal for sticking to the principles with which he provided leadership for the House of Representatives as well as his office as governor of Sokoto State.

Ologbodinyan said the high calibre of political leaders of the APC who left the party to return to the PDP “reflects the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians across board, who are now resurging to the repositioned PDP as the only vehicle to rescue our nation from the mis-governance of the APC.” He added, “The PDP

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notes that the coming weeks will witness the influx of more APC governors, federal legislators, other elected and appointed officials at very high levels, into the repositioned PDP.” Speaking in a similar vein, Atiku urged the APC to embrace the true tenets of democracy or lose its soul.

Atiku urged all true lovers of Nigeria to join the PDP to help rebuild Nigeria and entrench true democracy.

Also, the Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, said their coming to the PDP would no doubt improve the fortunes of the party ahead of the 2019 general elections aimed at enthroning good governance in the country.

Wike Tags Tambuwal’s defection a victory for democracy

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ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, declared on Wednesday that Tambuwal’s defection to the APC was a victory for democracy. Wike, who also hailed the defection of Saraki to the PDP, explained that that every right thinking Nigerian should work in unity to salvage the country in 2019.

Wike, who spoke at the Government House in Port Harcourt, lauded Tambuwal for doing the right

thing.

He said, “There are some people who have said that we cannot continue to live in a world of intimidation. We cannot continue to live in a world of harassment. Every right thinking Nigerian should come together to see that something is done to salvage the country.”

Wike pointed out that things had degenerated to the level where all Nigerians must resist intimidation and work for the

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good of all.

“I am aware that with what he has done today, the next line of action; the APC Federal Government will unleash the EFCC on the Sokoto State governor and his government,” Wike said.

He urged Nigerians not to be swayed by claims that the APC leaders were not worried and added that Tambuwal as speaker of the House of Representatives led the formation of the coalition that

prompted the victory of the APC in 2015.

Earlier, the governor congratulated Saraki, and Ahmed, for their courage to defect to the PDP despite the intimidation and harassment of the APC Federal Government.

Ndume, Adamu, O m o Agege Oil-

ing Plans to impeach Saraki – PDP Reps

Representatives of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), have raised an alarm that the All Progessives Congress (APC), are putting together a plan of action to impeach Senate Leader, Bukola Saraki.

The lawmakers named Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Senator Ovie

Omo-Agege as the brains behind the alleged plot.

The members stated that the three senators were sighted on Wednesday afternoon at the Senate, allegedly attempting to break into the Senate chambers.

They were said to have been denied access into the chambers by Sergeant-at-arms, who locked the doors to chambers with chains.

The Minority Leader of the House, Mr Chukwuka Onyema, who

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spoke to reporters at the National Assembly, disclosed that members got wind of the development and quickly rushed to the Senate to safeguard democracy.

He stated, “We are on recess and some of us are here today to conclude our committee work.

“Information got to us that Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, attempted to break into the Senate chambers.

“Their aim was to force themselves into the chambers and carry out the evil plan of impeaching the Senate

President.

“Already, some riot policemen have arrived. They will tell us what they are here to do when the Senate is on recess.

“They want to repeat the Benue incident here, but we are ready to protect democracy.

“We also have it

on good authority that they (senators) are coming back tonight or tomorrow morning with the help of our security forces. We are telling Nigerians and the whole world that this is what is going on.

“We, the PDP caucus, we are staying awake and we are plead-

ing with Nigerians to stay awake with us to protect democracy.

The lawmakers also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene to stop the plot before embarking on his scheduled trip to London on Friday for a 10day vacation.”

Saraki Helped Lai Mohammed

Become Buhari’s Minister – R-APC

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who got appointments by deceit, hiding under the facade of being party men and women, should immediately resign such appointments or be fired.

“That the recent gale of defections has now put the APC in a position of true majority in the National Assembly, as those who remain are the ones who are truly committed to the

wondering his capacity to such statement.

Its spokesman, Kassim Afegbua told Vanguard that Mohammed should be the first to resign, claiming that Saraki cleared the way for his confirmation as Minister.

He said, “Even though we know that Alhaji Lai Mohammed is one of those Kwarans in the diaspora, without

dorsement to be recommended for Honourable Minister.

“He should be the first to quit the government as a beneficiary of Dr. Saraki’s political magnanimity.

“Tell him to be the first to resign from this government that has crippled the economy of Nigeria, a government that has consistently turned Nigerians to

hammed’s demand that held at the various levels ideals of our great the Balogun Fulani-led to constitute a new exec- Party”.

But R-APC lamKwara APC executive utive.

Mohammed, “That all those basted committee be dissolved.

any firm roots in the politics of Kwara, he banked on Senate President’s support and en-

mourners and writers of condolences because of blood-letting and avoidable killings.”

he Reformed All Progressives Congress (RAPC) made it know that Senate President, Bukola Saraki played a major role in ensuring that theInformation Minister, Lai Mohammed, made the list of President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministers.

R-APC said this while reacting to Mo-

This dissolution call was contained in a communique Mohammed issued in Oro, Kwara stated on Sunday.

It read in part: “That the Balogun Fulani-led Kwara APC executive committee be immediately dissolved and a fresh congress that will include all Kwara APC members and those who are just coming into the party be

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Orji Uzor Kalu Pledges

NEWS

Loyalty to APC

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ormer Abia platforms about planned The former Abia gover- Muhammadu Buhari’s been drawn to a news State, Orji Uzor defection as mischie- nor, while emphasising administration, the APC report in some online Kalu has de- vous, falsehood and the that he can never rejoin is waxing stronger in the media that I am set to dump the APC for the PDP. The malicious report is not only laughable but mischievous.

This is another attempt by enemies of progress to cause disaffection and confusion in the APC. I remain a solid and committed member of the APC. Those behind the falsehood should seek attention from legitimate pursuits. I am not bothered and will not lose sleep over the activities of political jobbers.

It is no longer news that I will be vying for a seat in the Senate (Abia North) under the APC in 2019. I will clared his loyalty to the handiwork of political the PDP, called on those South-East and other rather quit politics than All Progressives Con- jobbers and speculators. spreading fake news to parts of the country. The to return to the PDP beKalu said the look for other means of former governor said he cause the APC is the gress (APC), saying he has no plans to defect to APC of which he is not survival as against remained not only a only political party that to the Peoples Demo- only a member, but a cheap political black- prominent member of will take Nigeria to enstrong activist, “remains mail and character as- the APC, but a commit- viable heights,’’ he cratic Party (PDP).

His media aide, the only political party s a s s i n a t i o n . ted supporter of Mr stressed.

Kunle Oyewumi, on to salvage Nigeria from He maintained that in Buhari, with no apoloTuesday described the the atrocities of the pre- view of the achieve- gies to anyone.

“My attention has reports on some online vious administrations.’’ ments of the President

Dickson Calls for Protection of Democratic Institutions in Nigeria

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overnor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has led a high powered delegation to Makurdi to condole the government and people of the state over the unprecedented wanton killings in the state.

The governor who de-

cried the unfortunate situation called the government of the day to ensure that democratic institutions in the country were protected.

Dickson's trip to meet with the embattled governor was also a mark of solidarity with the governor, Samuel Ortom.

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NEWS

Yekini Nabena Appointed

APC Acting Nat'l Publicity Sec

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he appointment of Mr Yekini Nabena as the All Progressives Congress' Acting National Secretary has been approved by the National Working Committee of the party. The appointment was contained in a letter issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by the National Secretary of the party, Mr. Mai Mala Bunu.

It said the appointment followed the resignation of the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abudullahi, who defected to the Peoples’ Democratic Party earlier on Wednesday.

“I write to convey the resolution of the National Working Committee reached at its 34th regular meeting of August 1, 2018, mandating

you to resume duty as the Acting National Publicity Secretary with immediate effect.

“This development is sequel to the resignation of Malam Bolaji Abudullahi as the National Publicity Secretary,” the letter said.

It wished Nabena success in his services to the party and assured him of the highest regards of the leadership.

Buhari Embarks on Holiday to the UK President Muhammadu Buhari is set to depart the country on a ten-day working holiday to London, the United Kingdom.

The president's spokesman on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who made this known to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, disclosed the President is expected to commence the holiday Friday August 3.

He said the President has transmitted a letter to the Senate Pres-

ident, Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, notifying them of his vacation to London.

“In compliance with Section 145 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, a letter has been transmitted to the President of the Senate, and the Speaker, House of Representatives to that effect.

“President Buhari will be in London for the holiday”, He added.

Mr Adesina noted that while the President is away on vacation, the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, will be in acting capacity as the President. Yekini Nabena Appointed APC Acting Nat'l Publicity Sec The appointment of Mr Yekini Nabena as the All Progressives Congress' Acting National Secretary has been approved by the National Working Committee of the party. The appointment was contained in a letter issued

on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by the National Secretary of the party, Mr. Mai Mala Bunu.

It said the appointment followed the resignation of the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abudullahi, who defected to the Peoples’ Democratic Party earlier on Wednesday.

“I write to convey the resolution of the National Working Committee reached at its 34th regular meeting of August 1, 2018, mandating you to resume duty as the Acting National Publicity Secretary with immediate effect.

“This development is sequel to the resignation of Malam Bolaji Abudullahi as the National Publicity Secretary,” the letter said.

It wished Nabena success in his services to the party and assured him of the highest regards of the leadership.

ity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abudullahi, who defected to the Peoples’ Democratic Party earlier on Wednesday.

“I write to convey the resolution of the National Working Committee reached at its 34th regular meeting of Au-

gust 1, 2018, mandating you to resume duty as the Acting National Publicity Secretary with immediate effect.

“This development is sequel to the resignation of Malam Bolaji Abudullahi as the National Publicity Sec-

retary,” the letter said.

It wished Nabena success in his services to the party and assured him of the highest regards of the leadership.

Buhari Embarks on Holiday to the UK P r e s i d e n t Muhammadu Buhari is

Sultan of Sokoto Hails Tambuwal for Returning to the PDP

T

he appointment of Mr Yekini Nabena as the All Progressives Congress' Acting National Secretary has been approved by the National Working Committee of the party.

The appointment

was contained in a letter issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by the National Secretary of the party, Mr. Mai Mala Bunu.

It said the appointment followed the resignation of the party’s National Public-

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set to depart the country on a ten-day working holiday to London, the United Kingdom. The president's spokesman on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who made this known to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, disclosed

the President is expected to commence the holiday Friday August 3.

He said the President has transmitted a letter to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, notify-

ing them of his vacation to London.

“In compliance with Section 145 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, a letter has been transmitted to the President of the Senate, and the Speaker, House of Representatives to that ef-

fect.

“President Buhari will be in London for the holiday”, He added.

Mr Adesina noted that while the President is away on vacation, the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, will be in acting capacity as the President. Yekini Nabena Appointed APC Acting Nat'l Publicity Sec The appointment of Mr Yekini Nabena as the All Progressives Congress' Acting National Secretary has been approved by the National Working Committee of the party. The appointment was contained in a letter issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by the National Secretary of the party, Mr. Mai Mala Bunu.

It said the ap-

NEWS

pointment followed the resignation of the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abudullahi, who defected to the Peoples’ Democratic Party earlier on Wednesday.

“I write to convey the resolution of the National Working Committee reached at its 34th regular meeting of August 1, 2018, mandating you to resume duty as the Acting National Publicity Secretary with immediate effect.

“This development is sequel to the resignation of Malam Bolaji Abudullahi as the National Publicity Secretary,” the letter said.

It wished Nabena success in his services to the party and assured him of the highest regards of the leadership.

Ogun 2019: Obasanjo Pledges

Support for Credible Candidate from Ogun West for Governor

A

s Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State gradually gets to the end of his tenure as helmsman of the state speculations have been rife as to who will succeed him as governor.

With many having put forward their intention to gun for the seat, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has announced he will support any credible candidate produced by the Ogun West senatorial dis-

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trict for the governor of the state in 2019.

While saying this at the burial service for the former Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Pa Adepoju Adeyemi, held at Comprehensive

High School, Ayetoro in Yewa North Local Government Area of the state on Saturday, Obasanjo said he would support any credible candidate from the zone because the zone had not produced a governor since the creation of the state 42 years ago.

Arguing that for a sense of equity and fairness, it should be the turn of the Ogun West Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state, the former president said, “I am going to support a credi-

ble governorship candidate from Ogun West Senatorial District.

“So, I want to appeal to you to look inward and produce a credible candidate, who is tested and trusted and will deliver for the betterment of the state.”

Obasanjo who commended Senator Ibikunle Amosun for also thinking along the same line with him, having earlier stated that a candidate from the zone would take over from him when he completed his term, the Ota Chief

quipped, “I started the project of supporting governorship candidate from Ogun West to become the next Ogun State Governor, and I want to commend Governor Amosun in thinking in same line with me.

Having made his stance known, Chief Obasanjo however pointed out that it was of utmost importance for the zone to be able to produce a credible candidate who will come to continue with the good work of the present administration of the state by adding value.

Firstbank's Chatbanking on Whatsapp Set to Thrill Customers BUSINESS

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The launch which took place on Wednesday, August 1, 2018, is in its pilot phase and is available to a select group of customers, after which it will be made available to all customers. Additional details on the solution would be provided in the coming weeks as customers are encouraged to keep interacting with the Bank on its various social media channels for updates.

“Customers’ expectations are constantly changing and it’s our duty as a customer focused bank to ensure that our customers are provided with the means to carry out banking services through any channel they desire,” said Mr. Chuma Ezirim, Group Head, E-Business, First Bank of Nigeria Limited. “We are constantly seeking new ways and opportunities to meet customers

at their preferred touch points and we understand our customers are actively engaged on WhatsApp.”

sApp, Kennedy Uzoka, Group Managing Director, said: “Our customers are at the heart of our business and we as a bank, are never relenting in matching our words with equal action.

In today’s fast paced world with demands for quick responses, our aim is to make banking seamless and effortless for our millions of existing and potential customers.”

Also speaking on the launch of Leo on WhatsApp, Group Head of UBA’s Online Banking, Mr Austine Abolusoro, stated ‘United Bank for Africa is a technology-driven institution with vast knowledge in the business that we do and Leo, being a Speaking about the tested dependable and launch of Leo on What- intelligent personality,

will replicate on WhatsApp, the success it has experienced on the Facebook Messenger platform. It is a solution that is from the customer’s standpoint, easy to use by anyone regardless of your demography.’ ‘Leo is ready and

people in over 180 countries. The premium private chat platform has assured that there will be no spam messages as the development is to enable businesses serve their customers with useful and helpful information.

waiting to help with any form of banking services’ continued Abolusoro.

“WhatsApp has been in existence for over 9 years, reaching more than 1.5 billion

Leo who is already present in over 12 African subsidiaries, including Nigeria, and available in three languages, will be fully rolled out to customers on WhatsApp in Sep-

ustomers of FirstBank of Nigeria are in for another exciting banking experience as the bank hasannounced the launch of chat banking on WhatsApp. FirstBank customers can leverage the real-time messaging capabilities of the WhatsApp Business solution to check their account balances as well as perform simple banking queries.

ing connected with friends and loved ones, but also keeping in touch with your bank anytime and anywhere

With FirstBank chat- you are. banking on WhatsApp, it is not just about stay-

UBA’s Leo launched on WhatsApp

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an-African Financial Institution, United Bank for Africa (UBA) who recently clinched the Euromoney awards as the Best Digital Bank in Africa, is once again asserting itself as a pace setter, moving in leaps and bounds in unchartered territory. UBA’s chat banker, Leo has launched in pilot mode on WhatsApp and will be fully available to customers by September 1st, 2018 With Leo now on WhatsApp, customers who are lovers of the app will be able to open new accounts, check their balances on the go and carry out basic banking services.

tember 2018 with all its regular features and extended attributes for WhatsApp. UBA is one of Africa’s leading banks with operations in 20 African countries and in London and New York, with presence in Paris.

Adjudged to be at the forefront of innovation and convenient banking, UBA is one of the first financial services institutions on the continent to deploy Finacle 10x, a new information technology platform that boosts its services and electronic banking channels.

Today, UBA provides banking services to more than 15 million customers globally, through over a thousand touch points and other diverse channels.

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FASHION

Week London (AFWL) Begins August 10 Credits and appreciation: Shot and cut: Prettydata Producer: Anna Marie Benedict Designers - Mary Martin London & SOBOYE Stylist - Samson Soboye Models - Ajara & Andre Song - Ninola Maradona

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frican Fashion Week London AFWL, is set to take place on August 10 to13, this year in London. A global platform for Africa inspired designers, AFWL has hosted seven catwalk events since inception in 2011 and contributed expertise to more than 12 events produced by 3rd parties such as The Mayor of London’s Black History Month celebrations and the annual Africa Centre Summer Festival.

The largest annual African fashion event in Europe, Africa Fashion Week London is scheduled to hold at the prestigious Freemasons’ Hall, 60 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ For two full days of catwalk shows in the beautiful Grand Temple, there will be vibrant and colourful exhibitions by nosecurenigeri365.com

table designers which will be displayed for lovers of African fashion from all over the Continent. There will also be a rich variety of African food in the Foodhall.

The Africa Fashion Week London, AFWL has showcased over 900 emerging designers & exhibitors, from Africa, Europe and America, to almost 80,000 visitors including buyers, retailers, influential industry professionals, and the media. It promises to be the highlight of this year's summer events calendar with African -inspired designs dominating the international fashion scene like never before.

Exhibition and Marketplace entry is free.

Catwalk Show tickets available from www.africafashionweeklondon.com

7. Afrodite/ Congo & UK 8. Kiannara / UK 9. Fresh and Different / Somalia 1. Ganiyat / Nigeria 2. Erenti / Nigeria 3. Becca Apparels / Nigeria 4. Atelier Julieta Menassas / Angola 5. Beau Sapeur / Uganda & UK 6. Catherine Monique / Ivory Coast, Cameroon & UK 7. Nedim Designs / South Africa 8. Abby Lewis/ Tanzania & USA SHOW SCHED- 9. Jesu Segun London / Nigeria & UK ULE FRIDAY,10TH AUGUST, 2018 4PM SATURDAY, 11TH AUFRIDAY, 10TH AU- GUST, 2018 6.30PM GUST, 2018 6PM 1. Van Else / Netherlands 1. Shola Dada / 2. Mazelle for Moremi / NigeNigeria ria 2. Kachiblazers / 3. Mary Martin / UK Nigeria 4. Signature Secrets / Nigeria 3. Kuxy Creations / Zimbabwe 5. AdaChic Designs / USA & 4. Sista by Eyoro / Nigeria Nigeria 5. Mia London 6. Soboye / UK & Nigeria 6. Mercy Azupwah / Ghana 1. 7. Vatacase / Mozambique Pearl of Africa / Angola 8. Caeser Couture / Nigeria 2. Mavaro Bags / Italy 9. Onyx by Valentina / Nigeria 3. Michi Knitwear / USA Designers who want to present 4. O'Saunders / Sierra Leone a collection at the biggest 5. Queen Diambi / Congo African fashion event in Eu6. Moremi Collection / Nigeria rope can apply for shows tak7. TIKZN Fashion Council ing place 10-11 August 2018.

Applications will be reviewed SATURDAY, 11TH AU- and narrowed down to a set of GUST, 2018 1PM SATUR designers who will be selected DAY, 11TH AUGUST, 2018 to participate in the show, conducted by independent profes3.30PM 1. Rusevero (Kasora Veii) / sionals in the industry. The panel of professionals will help Namibia & UK make final selections for 2. Preline / Zimbabwe 3. House of Yaya / Sierra AFWL 2018. Designers who are chosen to participate will Leone & UK be notified as soon as possible.

4. WB Collection / Ghana 5. De Velasco Gallery / Mo- AFWL will make a public announcement of these designers rocco with a press release.

6. Aphia Sakyi / Ghana

TOURISIM

Ife Lights Up as Ooni Celebrates New Yam Festival in Renewed Splendor

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he Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II has been joined by multitudes of indigenes, tourists and invited guests to celebrate New Yam Festival which has not been so elaborately celebrated in the last 120 years, as he works to fulfil his Cultural Tourism Agenda.

Held at the Ile-Oodua palace, Ile-Ife, citizens

moth crowd at the festival narrated that a deity called "Oreluere" who was one of the 401 deities sent by God(Olodumare) to establish the world was the first hunter on the planet earth that planted yam before Oduduwa supported him to make on it a success.

The African foremost monarch acknowledged that God had

inality of yam production emanated from the cradle of Yoruba's, (IleIfe) emphasising that yam is one of the foods with high carbohydrate that gives energy to the generality.

He stated that Oduduwa collaborated with other deities on how yearly plantation would be guaranteed.

He added that "Owo" dynasty also value the

ulate the ancient city of Ile-Ife in making the event a continuous exercise."

"Our youths must go into hufe commercial farming as Yoruba communities are known as producers of yam for the entire world." Ooni charged "This belt is called yam belt and these yam belts produce 70% yam for national

Africa.

"Individual has his own capability and strength for production and Yorubas have mastered it and become the experts in yam production." Ooni explained.

The Co-Chairman of National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria added that the past heroes had suffered for the sustainability of human race, therefore,

from other Yoruba towns thronged the palace to celebrate with him the newly revived festival known as "Odun Isu" in Yorubaland, amid colourful display of culture and traditions.

Ooni Ogunwusi while addressing the mam-

provided all different necessary foods for sustainability of humanity and annual germination and growth of yam for human consumption.

The Spiritual father of Yoruba race worldwide observed that the process of orig-

celebration yearly maintaining Yam Festival is a very big event across yam belt in the world, saying Yoruba cultural heritage is very keen to this.

"I charge all other neighbouring towns especially Yorubas to em-

consumption, while others shared the remaining 30%.

"The plantation started from kingdom of Ife to middle belt of Nigeria straight to Central African Republic and other West African down to Southern

urged people to crown their efforts in appreciating them by embracing farming."

Earlier, the ViceChancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede, congratulated Ooni

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TOURISIM Ogunwusi on the 2018 yam festival, commending him for promoting culture and tradition of Yoruba race globally.

Ogunbodede said

nomic benefit of the nation as it will encourage farming and community development.

The Vice-Chancellor appealed to the

for smooth transportation of farm produce from farms to the cities for more patronage.

Ogunbodede lauded Ooni for putting all ef-

are enjoying him in Ife and Yoruba land at large, the entire nation are also enjoying him because of his "peace mantra."

that the school management would not dissapoint him."

Ogunbodede said The Oba Olopo of Ilode, Oba Oyedotun

that the festival has exposed all to international community, saying people prefers the celebration for it has attracted a lot of visitors not to IleIfe alone but to other Yoruba communities.

He added that

three tiers of government to ensure improvement of storage facilities of agricultural produce for adequate safety for human consumption.

He called on government to provide infrastructures such as

forts in maintaining peaceful coexistence on campus of Obafemi Awolowo University and Ile-Ife in general.

"The relative peace we are enjoying in Obafemi Awolowo University Community is the hand-

Baba Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi is always giving us a tremendous support" "He has severally organised for people from Brazil, Portugal, and Cuba to come to Obafemi Awolowo University,

Akintibubo, commended Ooni for the celebration of yam festival, first in the history of Ife Kingdom.

Oba Akintibubo said that during the past regimes, only his family used to celebrate the festival, before Ooni Ogunwusi elaborated it.

The Olopo of Ilode assured that the community, state and Nigeria at large will experience sulplus over the years, for the farm produce especially yam and corn will maximally grow extensively.

"With this year celebration, people will not experience hunger and hardship again, for the land will strongly produce seeds for the satisfaction of human race" he assured.

portable iwork of God who used Ile-Ife to learn African celebration of yam festi- electricity, val added values to eco- water and good roads Ooni Ogunwusi. As we languages. I here pledge securenigeri365.com

TOURISIM

Tour Nigeria: A Pictorial Journey of Nigeria's Rich Diversity

and fun seekers do visit several interesting landscapes of their choice to savor the exquisite historical and cultural doses they offer.

Given the vastness of the land, it may take many months to tour all or most of these places.

However Tour Nigeria has come up with a unique way this can be possible in one fell swoop, and at virtually no cost.

Tour Nigeria is the virtual retelling of Nigeria story, captured by a passionate and award winning photographer, whose desire to showcase the history, greatness and rich culture of Nigeria for a world beyond the lens.

This pictorial jouro i n g and experiencing its rating experience. ney stirs the mind a r o u n d rich landscapes can And indeed, yearly into appreciating N i g e r i a be a pretty exhila- scores of tourists the landscape, mon-

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uments and the history of the most populous Black Country on earth.

Much more compelling is the clarity of pictures, historical facts, creative design and presentation.

Copies of "Tour Nigeria" can be obtained at the outlets below with N12,500.00 only.

Safari Books Limited Ile Ori-Detu 1 Shell Close, Onireke Ibadan Oyo State Quintessence Parkview Estate Ikoyi Lagos

Terra Kulture 1376 Tiamiyu Savage St Victoria Island Lagos

NEWS

Buhari Awards N73bn Lagos Road Project to Dangote

N

72.9billion has been approved for the reconstruction of the road from Apapa to the toll gate on Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Lagos State by the Federal Ex-

vide a long term solution to the road, which had suffered a lot of gridlock in recent times.

“The Ministry of Power, Works and Housing secured approval for the recon-

Lagos without running through the spine of the city.

“The road is now in some state of disrepair and Council has approved its reconstruction at the

through the funding credit tax policy of government.

The minister further said when fully constructed, the road will have 10 lanes, with five on both sides, with

ecutive Council, FEC, on Wednesday.

Making this known to State house Correspondents in Abuja after the weekly cabinet meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, said the decision was taken to pro-

struction of the Creek Road Tincan IslandBeach Land right through to Oworoshoki to the toll gate end of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway for the full reconstruction of that road which was built around 1975 as part of our first port expansion undertaken then in the 70s.

“That road was intended to evacuate cargo out of

cost of N72.9 billion,” he said.

According to the minister, the work will be done using a PublicPrivate Partnership PPP model.

He named Dangote Group as the constructing firm for the road project, saying that the N72.9 billion for the execution of the project would be recovered

a total of 270.8 linear kilometres, including drainage, rehabilitation of some of the bridges and interchanges.

“First, it will be done through PPP model. The constructing company will be the Dangote group. It will be financing that construction to the tune of N72.9 billion as certified by PPP.

presidential ticket.

Atiku said the statement was not only false but malicious, fabricated by political opponents to dent the image of his boss.

According to him, such statement would never have come

from a true Democrat who has for a long time sacrifice for the betterment of the nation’s democratic culture.

Atiku was alleged to have boasted that the party has no option rather than giving him the mandate to be its

presidential flag bearer or there will be no peace in the party.

He reminded that in 2007 when all the Governors of the federation stood by Atiku against Obasanjo to contest the Presidential seat, he revoked such

“Another instructive thing to note is that this is the first full reconstruction of that road since it was constructed at about 1975.

“All previous efforts had been to repair damaged sections. So, it is going all the way to reconstruct the road.

“The third thing to note is that the entire construction is that it involves procurement of 27.8 kilometres made up of 10 lanes – five lanes on both sides – three on the main carriage way, two on service lanes.

“So, essentially, you are constructing about 79.8 linear kilometres and that also include drainage and use of extensive cement work and rehabilitation of bridges.

“We expect contractors to move to site.

This is our own long term solution to the problem contributed by the road congestion there. “This will provide enduring solution to what is currently being experienced by commuters,” he added.

Presidential Aspirant Atiku Refutes ‘do or die’ Statement.

F

ormer Vice President Atiku Abubakar and presidential aspirant under the platform of PDP has flatly denied allegations claiming he said there would be consequences should the PDP fail to issue him the

offer on account that his party, PDP had an arrangement for a Southern President.

“You should recall that Atiku Abubakar was having all the opportunities to became President but because of his respect for stipulated

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NEWS rules laid down, he rejected the offer”. He further made it clear that all Atiku Abubakar is after is stability in the polity and the salvation of the Nigerian State from the present economic and socio political turmoils.

“That is why you can see that Atiku is at the forefront welcoming all

those whom have joined the party in recent times regardless of where they come from” his aide, Shuga hinted that the candidature of Atiku is for all Nigerians because as soon as he asoffice as sumes President of the Nation, the Country would see a real change desired by

all Citizenry.

“Nigerians should believe in Atiku Abubakar he is a Man of tremendous values and sound character all aimed at making a better livelihood and a Country free of killings, maiming and destructions of human lives,” Shuga said.

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said in a statement on Tuesday that the Governor of the state, the Honorable Henry Seriake Dickson in company of his wife Dr. (Mrs). Rachael Dickson, will exploit the opportunity of the event to launch the Safe Motherhood Policy of the Government. he Bayelsa State first summit on Infant Iworiso-Markson Government is and maternal mortality said that the Former set to hold the in Yenagoa on Tuesday. President of Nigeria

Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President of Liberia, Her Excellency, Mrs. Jewel Howard Taylor would be the Chairman and Special Guest of Honour at the event respectively.

He said that the state government was expecting other very important personalities from outside the country including the former Speaker of the Gambian N a t i o n a l Assembly/Deputy Speaker, ECOWAS Par-

liament, Hon. Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay at the summit.

He stated further that the President of the National Council of Women Society, Mrs. Gloria Labaran Shoda, the Matron of African Women Leadership Organisation, Chief Mrs. Opral Benson, and the Special Adviser former Speaker of Liberia Dr. Jophia Nanker Gupar are expected to deliver goodwill message at the event.

Liberia VP, Obasanjo, Others to Grace Gov. Dickson's Launch of Safe Motherhood Initiative

T

Deputy Senate President Ekweremadu Released by EFCC

D

eputy Senate President Senator Ike Ekwerenmadu has been released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)after several hours of interrogation, according to a statement by his aide, Mr Ndubisi Nwaigwe.

Senator Ekwerenmdu who was granted adminstrative bail is being investigated on allegation of money laundry,among others.

His arrest had trig-

gered wide spread protest from the opposition and the critical public who see him as a casualty of political victimization orchestrated by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The leadership of the now opposition - controlled Senate has been having a running battle with security agencies,especially the Police,the Department State Security (DSS) and the EFCC. The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic

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Party (PDP) Senate Caucus and vocal opposition figure,Senator Enyi Abaribe was,weeks back, detained by the DSS (for four days) on allegation of sponsoring the outlawed Independent People of Biafra (IPOB).

Like Ekwerenmadu,the ranking Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District was granted administrative bail after public outrage.

EVENTS

Chairman TILT Group,

Habeeb Okunola Celebrates Birthday in Classic Fashion

T

he Nicon town lekki residence of Habeeb Okunola, Chairman TILT Group witnessed the presence of friends, family and well wishers of the business tycoon recently, who all thronged in to felicitate with him as he marked another year.

Special guests at the ocassion were Oba lateef adamson, Mr. Mustapha Daura, Mr. Owolabi Awosan, Alh. Musa Halilu and Mr musbau bello.

The TILT Group Chairman is founder of the Habeeb Olalekan Okunola Foundation.

The Foundation is dedicated to fostering socioeconomic empowerment of Africans belonging to different age groups via providing sustainable solutions that seek to bring an end to extreme poverty across Africa Living up to its motto ”empowerment is the proof of wealth” and bearing at its core; a mission to enhance the everyday lives of the less privileged.

Habeeb Okunola Foundation works with the poorest communities across Africa to improve basic health care, promote education achievement and attainment,

enhance rural livelihoods, food security and Increase access to clean water.

In commemoration of the World Hepatitis Day held annually on July 28 to raise awareness about Hepatitis. This year, Habeeb Okunola Foundation organised free medical screening (Hepatitis, HIV, Malaria, High blood pressure, Diabetes amongst others) and treatment for over 2000 residents of Iwaya Community in Lagos State. Additional programs organised in recent times includes: disbursement of soft loans up to the tune of 300,000 Naira to sixty traders in Lagos state, provision of scholarships for students in tertiary institution, as well as donations of three sewing machine to Lagos Division of the Nigeria Prison Service led by Mr Tunde Ladipo, as part of the organisation’s effort to promote skills acquisition for inmates of Nigeria prisons.

H a b e e b Okunola Foundation’s mission and principal goal is to empower the underprivileged, obliterate poverty and achieve social justice for undeserving communities across Africa.

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EVENTS

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EVENTS

Senator Adeola Adopted

Alimosho Federal Constituency:

for Re-election

S

enator Solomon Adeola also known as Yayi has been endorsed for reelection by Alimosho Federal Constituency in the Lagos

West Senatorial District Yayi was endorsed during the constituency meeting of the federal constituency consisting of

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one local government and 5 local council development areas.

Senator Adeola while addressing the mammoth crowd of APC faithful, prom-

ised to continue his effective representation adding that as their senator, he will never defect to another party or betrayed the leaders of the party as some

did in recent times.

The senator was there after endorsed with the raising of his hands by Alhaji Enilolobo and Honourable Bisi Yusuf.