President Muhammadu Buhari says his administration is on a mission to rescue the nation’s resources from being appropriated by “a privileged few in their never-ending quest to satisfy their greed”.

The President stated in his New Year message to Nigerians which was issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, in Abuja on Monday.

To this end, the president said the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government had resolved to build a country in which the resources were utilized for the benefit of citizens, irrespective of their socio-political affiliations.

He said: “That is the journey we have embarked on since we came on board in 2015, and we are not distracted as we move on.

“We are resolved to build a country in which the resources are utilized for the benefit of the largest number, and not appropriated by a privileged few in their never-ending quest to satisfy their greed.

“We are on this mission together, and I assure you of a firm commitment to the ideals of a safe, secure, fair, just and prosperous country.’’

According to him, Nigerians desire peace, security, prosperity, inclusiveness and infrastructure development, a nation they can be proud of, a country that can hold its own among the nations.

He, however, stated that those who continued to trumpet falsehood and negativity were on their own, fighting a losing battle.

He noted that “the greater number of Nigerians are trusting and believing that we shall deliver on our promises for a level playing field at the polls, and that is what we shall do’’.

He, therefore, reiterated his promises and declarations that the general elections would be free, fair and credible.

“Elections need not be done or die affair, and we should not approach that eventuality in a democracy with trepidation and mortal fear.

“Happily, a large number of presidential candidates have committed to peace, and peace we shall have,’’ he added.

President Buhari acknowledged that the country had its challenges; ranging from security, economic, political to social, but the government had resolved to combat and overcome them all.

He, therefore, expressed the hope that Nigerians would renew the mandate they overwhelmingly gave the APC in 2015, for another term.

“I appreciate your support and collaboration in previous years, and look forward to same in 2019, and beyond, as I hope you will renew the mandate you overwhelmingly gave us in 2015, for another term.

“We are motivated by nothing other than service to the motherland, and service without selfishness or personal interest.

“I can assure you all that we are making steady and sustainable progress in all areas of national life. Those who are unbiased can see and appreciate the progress the country has made since 2015.

“A New Year provides an opportunity for renewal of commitment, and I invite you to rededicate ourselves to the vision of a Nigeria that works for all.

“We are moving from potentials to actualization, and it’s a task to be accomplished by us all; man, woman, young, old, military, civilian, all Nigerians. Please come along, as we journey to the land of our dreams. Happy 2019,’’ he said.

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Borno Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Abdullahi Ibrahim, said one of the two female Boko Haram bombers nabbed by the command is the wife of Mamman Nur, a factional leader of the terrorist group.

The teenager, who was identified as Fatima Muhammed Kabir, was arrested recently along with another woman, Amina Salihu at Borno Express Motor Park.

Their mission, NSCDC said, was to carry out an Improvised Explosive Device attack in Maiduguri.

Ibrahim said an NSCDC official, who posed as a captured Boko Haram Amir, was the one who interviewed the women.

The commandant spoke at the commissioning of the newly donated equipment by the United States Department of State, in Maiduguri, capital of Borno State, yesterday.

Ibrahim said many Boko Haram members have surrendered their arms and renounced their campaign of terror through the command’s civil approach to issues.

“More than 40 Boko Haram members have surrendered through the command. We have handed them over to the military for rehabilitation under the Operation Safe Corridor.

“We are able to convince them to surrender their arms and accept meaningful de-radicalisation and reintegration opportunity offered them by the government.

“During their stay in the command, they said they now prayed five times a day, as against when they were fighting in the forest,” he said.

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Governor Kayode Fayemi has said that Ekiti State College of Technical and Commercial Agriculture, Isan Ekiti will commence academic activities next year.

Speaking at the 26th Isan Ekiti Unity Day in Ekiti, yesterday, the governor reiterated his commitment to the development of agriculture, which is one of the four developmental agenda of his administration.

Fayemi

The College, established in 2014 with focus on  mid- level man power development in the agric sector, had been neglected by the immediate past administration in the state.

Fayemi, who was named the Asiwaju Oluomo of Isan Kingdom and presented an award of excellence for his contribution to the infrastructure development of the town, said the agric sector, when fully developed, would provide job opportunities for the unemployed youth in addition to food suplus.

The governor stressed the readiness of his government to fight unemployment, stressing that Ekiti “youths are hardworking and can excel in any field if given the opportunity”.

Earlier in his speech, the Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Ayodele Adejuwon, described Fayemi’s return as governor as the turning “around of our captivities”.

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The national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, believes the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, is capable of securing the release of the remaining Chibok girls abducted by terrorist group, Boko Haram.

Terrorists invaded the premises of Government Secondary School in the town of Chibok, Borno State, and kidnapped 276 female students from the school hostel in April 2014.

Even though the girls were abducted during the administration of then-president, Goodluck Jonathan, President Muhammadu Buhari secured the release of 103 of them after he was inaugurated in 2015. Some of the other girls also escaped from the terrorist group and were found by military troops, but 112 remain unaccounted for.

According to a report published by the Wall Street Journal in December 2017, President Buhari approved the payment of €3 million to Boko Haram to facilitate the release of the girls. Five Boko Haram commanders were also released by the Nigerian Army as part of the deal.

While speaking during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday, December 11, 2018, Secondus said Buhari’s government has not been doing enough to engage the terrorist group despite the return of over 100 girls.

He said an Atiku administration would be more engaging and address issues more intentionally and effectively than the current administration.

He said, “Before they (APC) came on board, they said immediately they come in they would release the girls and all that. Yes, some girls have been released but not much has been had.

“We’ll engage those who are involved with the Chibok girls; not only deploying the people but technology as to locate them and how to get them out.

“I believe that this government is not doing enough in either deploying technology or otherwise engagement.

“We’ve learned from our experience and we’re going to do more and the president is going to do something totally different. This is one president that you can see and you can feel and he’s able to move around and engage people.

“This is most important because the president of a country must take responsibility, must be seen and address issues.”

Buhari recently renewed his commitment towards ensuring the return of the remaining girls during a bilateral meeting with Swiss president, Alain Berset, on the sidelines of the United Nations’ Climate Change Conference in Poland.

”We will continue to make the safe release of the remaining Chibok girls a priority and will welcome any kind of support from any quarters to make this happen,” he said.

Secondus expressed confidence that Nigerians will remove President Buhari at the polls in 2019 because the economy has collapsed and insecurity has spread to all corners of the country.

“Nigerians are ready for change the change. It’s not a question of PDP but a rescue mission to recreate the future of Nigeria,” he said.

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Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, believes that President Muhammadu Buhari is not genuinely committed to free and fair elections in 2019 despite signing a Peace Accord, an undertaking signed by presidential candidates.

Buhari was one of the candidates that signed the document in Abuja on Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at an event organized by the National Peace Committee headed by a former military Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar.

With the signing of the accord, the candidates committed to ensuring peaceful and rancour-free campaigns before, during and after the 2019 general elections.

Despite Buhari’s signing of the document, Fayose believes the president is desperate to remain in office and will fail to fulfill his obligations.

The former governor took to his Twitter account (@GovAyoFayose) on Wednesday, December 12 to accuse the president of turning the Nigeria Police Force and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into the attack dogs of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to harass the opposition.

He said the president’s failure to sign the electoral amendment bill is more indicative of his attitude towards the general elections than his signing of the peace accord.

He posted, “A man who refused to sign the Amended Electoral Bill 4 times after it was passed by NASS of 469 Nigerians cannot be said to be interested in any peaceful, free and fair election. Therefore, signing of Peace Accord won’t change his desperation to remain in office at all cost.

“A man who has turned all FG agencies, especially EFCC and Police to the attack dogs of APC cannot be said to be interested in any peaceful election just by mere signing of peace accord.”

The 2019 presidential election, scheduled for February 16, 2019, is expected to be keenly-contested between President Buhari and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Even though Atiku was absent from the signing on Tuesday, he’s expected to sign the Peace Accord today.

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Hello Nigerians,

You all will agree with me that Bad Leadership is Nigeria’s No. 1 / Major problem and until we get a better person for that seat, the Country might remain stagnant just as it has always been.

Over the past years, different Leaders have emerged with each promising us heaven and earth but what do we get in return from them, Corruption, Poverty, Bad roads etc

Since 1960 when Nigeria gained Independence, the country has not achieved anything significant even after 58 years  This is so sad I must say.

Bad leadership is the Country’s major problem at every level of Governance. No Politician is loyal to the people not even the Local Government Chairperson we are suppose to have good relationship with to relay our problems to.

The Governors, Senators and President only cares about their family and pockets, nothing more 

Well, someone here on Tewaconcpet has come out to offer a solution to our Leadership problem, and he said 

“Corruption will be a thing of the past if Nigeria should start using Ogun or Sango when Swearing in a New Leader instead of Bible or Quran”.

See what he shared on Tewaconcpet below:-

Guys, Do You Think This Will End Bad Leadership In Nigeria If Adopted?

Let’s hear from you all on this issue.

Thank you

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An Ekiti State House of Assembly member, Dr. Samuel Omotoso, has removed Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seal on a building alleged to belong to former governor Ayodele Fayose.

Omotoso, who claimed ownership of the property, which is a two-storey commercial building in Ado Ekiti, said the EFCC told him that the building was not sealed but only marked in order to identify the real owner.

The EFCC had marked on the building, located along Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, opposite Emmanuel Anglican Cathedral, ‘Under Investigation, Please keep off’.

It was among the property the EFCC linked to former Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, and had sealed off on November 22.

But in a statement entitled ‘Re: marked Ekiti Lawmaker’s property: Issues resolved with EFCC’ , the lawmaker said, “I have been given clearance to remove the markings on the property.

“All questions and expectations on our documentations on means of purchase and construction of the said property by me and my wife have been sufficiently demonstrated to the EFCC.

“This demonstration necessitated my unaccompanied personal visit to the EFCC Headquarters on 29th of November 2018, where the issue was resolved.

“The property in question at No 10 Odundun Street, Okesa, Ado- Ekiti, belongs to me and my wife without let or hindrance.”

“The EFCC also explained that contrary to perception, our property wasn’t sealed nor was I indicted for any infraction, but marked so as to identify the owner.

“We also agreed that based on logistics reasons, time constraints and on request, that I have been given clearance to remove the markings on the property so I can live my private life in peace.

“We also resolved that this country belongs to all of us and all hands must be on deck to strengthen our institutions and preserve personal liberties.”

Fayose had immediately after the property were marked, accused the EFCC of sealing people’s property and linking them to him.

Join the conversation

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced that its campaign for 2019 elections will kick off in Sokoto state on Monday.

Senate President Bukola Saraki, director-general of the party’s campaign council, said this at the inaugural press briefing of the council. The PDP inaugurated the council, made up of 153 members, on Thursday.

Saraki raised 10 questions, saying if Nigerians cannot give positive answers to them, they should vote out the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019.

The questions ranged across economy, security, employment and the rule of law.

He said:

“ISSUES: For Nigerians, in 2019, the issues that have to be addressed are:

“Is the economy better or worse? Are more people richer or poorer than they were in 2015? c) Are there more people suffering from hunger now than in 2015? Have there been more job losses now than in 2015? Are our people safer now than they were in 2015?

“Are our military and other security agencies better equipped or motivated to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency and other security challenges than in 2015? Is the country more united now than it was in 2015? Is the infrastructure in the country better than it was in 2015?

“Is there less corruption in the country than in 2015? Is the fight against been fair to all or a tool deployed against political opponents? Are people deriving the benefits of the Rule of Law and personal liberty as enshrined in the constitution now than in 2015?”

These are some of the issues that will determine the trend of the campaign and we believe they should guide Nigerians in making their decisions during the 2019 elections. An election is a referendum on the incumbent.

“If Nigerians are unable to answer any of these questions positively, they must vote out the incumbent.”

Do You Think The Senate President Has A Point??

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Whao!

It’s the last month of 2018 already and we are wishing all our readers at home and abroad a Happy New Month.

This month is naturally a month of merriment and celebration, by the power of the Almighty, the month will not turn to a month of sorrow for you and your family.

The good God will come through for you this month that all your you have been working and praying for since January 2018 will become easily achievable for you this month.

People always say bad things do happen in December, you and your family will not be a victim of any bad happening this month.

At the end of the month till we say Happy New Year in 2019, may you have every reason to celebrate and praise the living God.

Happy New Month To You All

Merry Christmas And Happy New Year In Advance!!

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has appealed to parents and students to be patient over its decision to reposition and save the country’s university system from total collapse.

ASUU National President, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday.

DAILY POST recalls that the university lecturers had, embarked on strike, demanding for the implementation of the 2009 agreement it entered into with the Federal Government.

Ogunyemi said that the strike was not to short-change neither the students nor the parents and other key stakeholders but to save the country’s university system from collapse.

He said,

“We want to call on our students and parents to show understanding with our struggle as we are in this together.

“The whole essence of this struggle is to ensure that our students get worthy and deserving certificates that they will be proud of anywhere they may find themselves in the world.

“The struggle is to ensure too that we save Nigerian universities from going the way our public primary and secondary schools have gone.

“Today, most parents are sending their children and wards to private primary and secondary schools around the country because of the perceived or alleged falling standards.

“We do not want our universities to go same way because a lot of our parents may not be able to afford the private university fees.

The National President also stated that there was an urgent need for both the Federal and State Governments to reconsider their approach towards the development of universities in the country, to avoid an outright collapse in the near future.

“The sad thing now is that the World Bank is giving funds to some private universities to thrive over public universities.

“Unless Nigerians rise to the occasion and join ASUU in putting pressure on both the Federal and State Governments to pay adequate attention to our universities, secondary and primary schools, we may be facing a total collapse of our educational sector.

However, he said that university students might be staying longer at home as no concrete resolution had been reached with the Federal Government so far.

‘’The representatives of the union met with the Federal Government on Monday, Nov. 26 but that the meeting ended in a deadlock.

“We met on Monday in order to reach an agreement on the key issues we are agitating for but nothing tangible came out of the meeting.

“Rather than come out with firm commitment on what to do about these demands, they were appealing to us to go back to the classrooms while they tackle the issues; and to us they have missed the point.

“We were told that the negotiation will continue on Friday, Nov. 30 but up till now, as we speak, I have not received any notice of meeting to that effect,’’ he said.

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The national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on Nigerians not to allow People’s Democratic Party (PDP) back to rule.

Tinubu said Nigerians could not afford to go back to the “scavengers, who personalized governance because of their greed”.

During his remark at the inauguration ceremony of Gboyega Oyetola as Osun state governor, the former Lagos governor stressed that the PDP has nothing to show for its 16 years in power.

He said, “Nigeria must never be allowed to go back to the corruption, greed, and selfishness that have held back our progress. No shaking and no going back to the old foxes, old scavengers and old greed of this country. Look back at their years in government and find out if they laid any good foundation. They didn’t, except for the personalization theory of greed.

“There is no going back in the resolve to return President Muhammadu Buhari for another term in office.”

He congratulated the former governor of Osun, Rauf Aregbesola, for handing over power to a progressive administration. Tinubu assured the new governor that his administration would be supported by progressives in all parts of the country.

He urged the new governor and his deputy to tread on the path that will engender progressive development, put smiles on people’s faces and take the country to higher heights.

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Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan joined some Peoples Democratic Party governors to visit the palace of Lamido of Adamawa in Yola on Sunday.

Those present at the meeting said Mr Obasanjo showered praises on Atiku Abubakar, his previously estranged vice president with whom he had reconciled since becoming the candidate of Nigeria’s main opposition party for the 2019 presidential election.

Mr Obasanjo, president between 1999 and 2007, reportedly recounted his ordeal at the Yola Prisons following his incarceration by the military junta of Sani Abacha in the 1990s.

Mr Obasanjo said Yola Prisons and the Lamido’s palace were only separated by a wall. It was a remarkable moment, said Paul Ibe, a spokesperson for Mr Abubakar who was present at the event.

Chief Obasanjo assured the Lamido of Adamawa that Mr Atiku Abubakar would not disappoint “when he becomes president” in 2019.

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Lagos socialite, Pretty Mike who a few days ago showed off his sex doll he named Amaka, has disclosed that he is yet to have sex with ‘her’.

Pretty Mike who noted that calling Amaka a sex doll was offensive to him, stated that he saw her as his companion.

“I get offended when people refer to her as a sex doll. I uploaded that video because we just had a nice time together that weekend. Other people post their romantic gestures with their partners on social media, so I decided to post mine too. It’s all fun, (we’re) not harming anybody.

“We are not rushing to the sex part, we are taking our time; she is new to the country and environment. I am trying to make sure she is comfortable. At the appointed time, it will happen.

I have a couple of nicknames for her but that’s personal, I have feelings towards her. A lot of people might have their various opinions about her but to me, she is what I want her to be, she is a special person,” he said.

Pretty Mike who was asked if he could have emotional feelings for an inanimate object by social media users told Saturday Beats Correspondent that the most important thing was for them to understand each other.

“My response to people who say she can’t speak or move is that even people that can talk are not perfect in relationships, they all have their own issues here and there. The bottom line is that I understand her and she understands me. I have been in relationships with ladies that can communicate but they still don’t understand the angle I am coming from.

“One of my ex-girlfriend’s still wish we could get back together, but I am in a new era of my life, just taking it one step at a time. Some people are in a relationship with people that cannot speak or hear anything and they still have a successful relationship. It all depends on what I am looking for; I can tell you that it is working.

“On a regular day, my direct message box on Instagram is always active; however, since Amaka came into my life, I have got close to 200 nude videos and pictures of young ladies, saying some nasty things to me. I handle them maturely.

I am sensitive to people’s feelings, and most times, I just try to ignore them. The problem with our society is that they think the relationship is all about sex, and that is one of the major issues we have in this country. The relationship is bigger than sex,” he told Saturday Beats.

Pretty Mike who further disclosed that he is searching for a wife yet said;

“I have a family that believes in people doing what makes them happy. They have been supportive in most of the things I have been doing over the years.

“They look at me as a successful young man, and they tell me I need to have a wife in the house. I have been looking and searching but I feel God’s time is the appointed time. I think for some reasons, he just put Amaka on my plate, so, for now, I am sticking with her. I don’t see me and her breaking up anytime soon,” he said.

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President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

• Life Is Vanity, Osinbajo Cautions Nigerian Elites
The Diocesan Bishop of Ekiti, Most Reverend, Christopher Omotunde yesterday urged Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to speak on behalf of Ekiti to President Muhammadu Buhari that the state is in dire need of help, saying the state can only be transformed if helps come from the right source.

This is just as the Vice President urged Nigerians, particularly the ruling class to perceive materials acquisition as a vanity and rebrand their characters for them to be remembered for long after death.

The Bishop made the call in his homily at Iyin Ekiti during the burial ceremony of Pa Stephen Ogunjuyigbe Bamidele, father of an All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Candidate in Ekiti State, Hon Opeyemi Bamidele, who died April 19 at the age of 86.

The ceremony was held at Babamuboni Anglican Church, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State.

Omotunde said, “I charge Vice President Osinbajo to speak well of Ekiti and let the President realise that Ekiti needs help. We know that this state is financially challenged and with help from the federal government, this land will be better off,” he added.

The Bishop urged Nigerians to stop procrastinating and redirect
themselves to the service of God, saying this remains the most profitable step to take to make the nation great.

“Nigerians can only be good if all of us play our roles the best way we are to play it. Most importantly, we must have the fear of God and stop delaying in doing the right thing, because nobody knows when death will come.

“Every day of our life, we are living and unconsciously writing our history, if we do good or bad, we shall be judged accordingly.”

In his address, Osinbajo urged Nigerians to live their lives for Christ and in the service of mankind, rather than placing high premium on wealth acquisition that could make them lose their integrity and eternal rest after death.

The Vice President said those who were great thinkers must know that nothing profits a man who lived his life acquiring wealth but end up losing his reputation and the kingdom of God.

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Ex-Ugandan Vice President, Dr. Gilbert Bukenya, has waded into Nigeria’s 2019 elections and according to him he would have voted for Atiku Abubakar if he was a Nigerian.

Dr. Gilbert Bukenya who served as the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Makrere, said he was left with so much to contemplate, during his encounter with Abubakar, that he never stopped thinking of how Nigerians are so lucky having the person of Atiku Abubakar as a Nigerian.

He further disclosed that when he heard Abubakar had joined the presidential race, he immediately thought, “what an extraordinary opportunity Nigerians have.”

Read the statement from Dr. Gilbert Bukenya, who was Former Vice President of Uganda from 2003-2011, below;

“I have rubbed shoulders with several African Presidents and Vice-Presidents. I have participated in many conversations with these men – both formally and informally. Some of these conversations have attracted attention and many have been amusing – but very few have included intellectual and analytical discussions of substantive issues. Seldom in these conversations does one hear about the conditions and needs of the country’s poor.

In 2005, I met a man at his residence in Abuja, Nigeria, who surprised me. He welcomed me with a guarded smile and went straight to business. He was smart, eloquent and very knowledgeable. I was struck by his consistent reference to “my people.” He was so concerned about the poor. He discussed impacts of educational injustices and weakened agricultural practices in Nigeria. Our conversation ended and we parted.

While I left him with some traditional Ugandan gifts, he left me with much to contemplate. This Nigerian “big man” had sounded so earnest and completely devoted to “his people”. Surely, I was surprised and he has left a lasting impression. We have remained friends over the years and I have observed his business and political dealings over time. I have noted the tremendous value that this man, Atiku Abubakar, has contributed to Nigeria’s development.

He has been a philanthropic leader and a determined and passionate advocate for improving the national educational system. I heard recently with great pleasure that he is running for the Presidency in the upcoming Presidential elections. I immediately thought, “what an extraordinary opportunity Nigerians have to elect Atiku as president of Nigeria.” If I were Nigerian, I would vote for Atiku Abubakar without hesitation or reservation. On an individual basis, he is unequivocally the best candidate.”

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Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has described President Muhammadu Buhari’s alleged refusal to obey court orders, as a national embarrassment.

The iconic writer spoke at the ‘Handshake Across Nigeria’ summit titled, “Nigeria beyond oil,” organized by Nzuko Umunna and The Core Federalists, which took place in Lagos yesterday.

The summit witnessed the presence of many prominent Nigerians including the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo; former Foreign Affairs Minister, Maj-Gen Ike Nwachukwu (retd); Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Prof. Anya O. Anya, Young Progressive Party, YPP, presidential candidate, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu and many others.

Soyinka lampooned President Buhari for refusing to obey court orders particularly on the cases involving Shi’ite leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzakky and former National Security Adviser, NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki, retd.

Soyinka said, “Forgiveness is a virtue. Although, I have the same temperament with my late friend, Tai Solarin, but it is a national embarrassment that our President has refused to obey laws. Citizens should not be the one to choose the laws to obey.

“We want the government to understand that they are part of the community and have been given a mission of carrying out the will of the people.

“When we talk about governance, we are talking about an instrument for the execution of people’s policy. Insecurity has reached a certain level that even when we bring experts in they wonder what exactly they have come to do.

“They are given a certain problem to solve, and when they arrived here they meet another problem.

“One way of stopping the bloodbath is to reconfigure the nation. States must be given maximum control over their resources.

“There are some, who prefer to grow rice, there are others who prefer to grow religion and we know where religion has taken us today.

“Some people will like to say, it is not really religion that has gotten us to where we are, I agree with you; but some people have manipulated religion to suit their purpose.

“The effect of those who manipulated it is disastrous. If some people prefer to grow rice, and others to grow Sharia, then, both sides should be given the means to develop.

“Those insisting on restructuring do so because they know that there is something wrong with the state of Nigeria.

“Many times, Nigerians have come together to proffer solutions and the way forward for the country, but after spending so much time and effort, nothing ever comes out of it.

“The recommendations are left to gather dust. How much longer shall we continue like this?”

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Suspected kidnap kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, aka Evans, has recalled how the Police treated him when rights activist, Mr Femi Falana, SAN, stormed the office he was kept after his arrest in 2017.

Evans told Justice Adedayo Akintoye a Lagos High Court in Igbosere that the police hid him in the toilet of office of the Lagos Coordinator of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Response Team, Mr Phillip, a Chief Superintendent (CSP).

He alleged that the lawyer was contacted by his wife, (Uchenna Precious Onwuamadike) shortly after his arrest.

Evans made the claims on Friday while testifying in a trial within trial to determine whether his confessional statement to the police should be admitted by the court.

Lagos State Government which is prosecuting Evans on kidnapping, murder and attempted murder charges before the judge, insists the
suspect’s statement was voluntarily made.

Haruna, a member of the IGP Response Team which arrested Evans, said he never requested for a lawyer and none of his family members was present when the confessional statement was made.

“The statement was recorded in an open office. He (Evans) was cautioned in English and he narrated the story of his involvement in the kidnapping of victims”, Nation quoted him as saying.

CSP Phillip said: “The defendant was brought to my office after his statement was taken. I read the statement to him and asked him if he was forced to make the statement. He (Evans) said no.”

“Evans was in a good mood when he was brought before me by Inspector Idowu. He was very okay, he looked healthy, hence I asked him questions about the confessional statement.”

But, led in evidence by his counsel, Olanrewaju Ajanaku, Evans disputed their version of events.

He accused the police of assaulting him, and, after allegedly murdering several suspects in his presence in a “Saddam Hussein” style execution, he was terrorised into signing an already prepared confessional statement he never made.

Explaining Falana’s knowledge of his arrest, Evans said: “Immediately after my arrest, my wife called Femi Falana SAN, he came to SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad).”

He claimed that CSP Phillip told two armed policemen to hide him inside his office toilet and to tell the SAN that he (Evans) was not around.
Evans said: “I heard Phillip greet him, ‘Good afternoon sir.’ Falana said he wanted to see me.”

According to him, Phillip told the lawyer that he had been taken out for investigation, but the SAN warned the police against summarily executing him.

Evans, in tears, said: “Falana warned him that he did not want to hear that I had been taken for investigation only to be shot dead.

“He said he didn’t want to hear that I was trying to escape and then I was shot dead. He told them that if I had committed any offence, I should be charged to court.”

The defendant repeated his claims under cross-examination by prosecuting counsel, Mr Y. G. Oshoala.

Justice Akintoye adjourned till December 10 for continuation of trial.

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According to a report by Punch Metro, Olusegun Obasanjo has sued an online journalist and radio presenter, Mr. Akanda Oro, popularly known as Awikonko, for N1bn.

Obasanjo described as untrue claims by the reporter that he had a hand in the assassination of the late Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Bola Ige (SAN), and the slain National Vice-Chairman of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party, Marshall Harry.

The journalist was quoted as saying on live radio that Obasanjo killed Ige and that President Muhammadu Buhari had even claimed at the burial of the late Harry that the Obasanjo-led government sponsored the killing of the ANPP chieftain.

Awikonko was quoted as saying, “Obasanjo’s murder of Bola Ige, if not for the shortage of time, I would have listed the names of those murdered by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo during his regime.

“Bloodshed during Obasanjo Aremu’s regime was too much (foolish old man).

“There are repercussions for every evil deed done… In case you hear of my death, do not be sad. Perhaps this is the only mission I have been sent by God to accomplish.

“The fellow that killed a whole minister of justice and attorney general of the federation went scot-free.

“So, what will it cost him to kill me, a commoner? Let him go and commit suicide or take himself before Ogun shrine to swear that he does not know anything about the murder of Bola Ige and Marshall Harry or that all his children die in his lifetime.”

In the suit filed by his lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), Obasanjo said the claims by the journalist, which were also posted on social media, were malicious and false.

In the suit filed before Justice O.A. Adenyi of Apo Federal Capital Territory High Court with number FCT/HC/CV/2920/18, the former President asked that Awikonko retract the publication.

It read in part, “A declaration that the publication complained of are false, malicious, unjustified, injurious, scornful, distasteful, unsavoury and have exposed the claimant to public odium, ridicule and disdain both nationally and internationally.

“A declaration that the words complained of do not constitute a valid exercise by the defendant of his freedom of speech.

“The sum of one billion naira only against the defendant as general damages for the defamation of the claimant’s hard earned reputation.”

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The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 20th November 2018 as public holiday to mark the Eid-El Maulud celebration.

This was announced by the Minister of Interior, Lt Gen (rtd) Abdulrahman Dambazau, on Tuesday in a statement signed by the permanent secretary, Dr. M.B Umar.

He urged all Muslim faithful to align themselves with the prophet’s teachings which border on piety, charity, tolerance and peaceful co-existence, among others.

Dambazau also called on all Nigerians to uphold these virtues, with a view to overcoming the current national challenges facing the country.

He assured that “the Federal Government remains committed to the unity of the country and as such, will put adequate structures on ground towards ensuring that the forthcoming general elections are credible, free and fair.”

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibadan Office has arrested thirty-four suspected internet fraudsters at 21, Sawmill Road Awa-Ijebu, Ogun State.

The suspected cyber criminals who are between 19 and 37 years of age include: twenty-three students of Olabisi Onabanjo University, out of which nine were ladies who allegedly claimed to be girlfriends and or neighbours of some of the suspects; one from the National Open University of Nigeria and twelve others are non-students.

The Commission got wind of their activities through series of intelligence alleging that the suspected fraudsters engaged in fraudulent activities of obtaining money by false pretences through sending emails to unsuspecting victims mostly in the United States of America while others were engaged in romance scam on several dating sites.

At the point of arrest, EFCC operatives recovered over three hundred SIM cards from them.

Other items recovered from the suspects include: different models and brands of exotic cars, 18 laptops (nine being of Apple brand), 50 telephones (21 iphones) and two bags of fetish objects (juju) from them.

Several documents containing false pretences were also recovered from the suspects.

Suspects would be charged to court accordingly as soon as investigation is concluded.

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Former Governor of Ekiti state, Mr. Peter Ayodele Fayose turned 58 on Thursday, November 15th (yesterday). The outspoken politician marked his special day in style and in a low-key manner with family and friends.

Other politicians including ex-Aviation Minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, praised the ex-governor on his birthday for his courage, intelligence, dogged spirit, and resoluteness in pointing out the errors of the All Progressives Congress-led federal government over the last three years.

Fani-kayode, in his “Happy Birthday” homily, saluted Fayose for refusing to surrender to intimidation, harassment, mental torture, and blackmail by agents of the President Muhammadu Buhari government.

He also likened the former Ekiti governor’s spirit and courage to that of Papa Obafemi Awolowo.

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The Department of State Services (DSS) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to prosecute Adams Oshiomhole, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for allegedly receiving at least $55million in bribes before and after the party primaries all over the country.

In October, SaharaReporters had reported how Oshiomhole and his cronies received up to N50million in bribes to award last-minute tickets to undeserving members of the party. The DSS subsequently grilled Oshiomhole last week, with reports emerging that the former labour leader had been asked to quit the office.

Oshiomhole responded by saying the DSS did not hire him, hence couldn’t demand his resignation from office. But SaharaReporters can now confirm that not only is the DSS asking for Oshiomhole’s removal from office, the agency is asking the presidency to prosecute him.

SaharaReporters can also confirm that the figures mentioned earlier are nothing compared to what the DSS documented in a report it forwarded to the presidency and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) some days ago.

“Total $55 million is what Adams is alleged to have received. Some party chieftains claim it is $80 million,” a source aware of the contents of the report told SaharaReporters.

According to report, $17 million is what Oshiomhole allegedly received as bribe from Zamfara: $10 million for him, $7 million shared between Farouk Adamu, former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives; Niyi Adebayo, former Governor of Ekiti State. He received from other party chieftains, too.

“Adamu was the collection coordinator,” said the source.

“Hope Uzodinma, the APC governorship candidate in Imo State, gave $3 million; Rochas Okorocha, Governor of the state, offered $500,000 but it was rejected; Dapo Abiodun, the APC candidate in Ogun State, paid $5 million. The DSS also said some of the money was paid into Oshiomhole’s niece’s account.”

It is unclear if Buhari will follow the recommendation of the DSS for Oshiomhole’s prosecution, as SaharaReporters understands there is pressure from Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the APC, and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to give the former Edo State Governor a soft landing.

“Their thought is that with the 2019 election so close, such upheaval will not be in the interest of the party’s aspiration for victory,” the source said.

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The National Examinations Council (NECO), has shifted the commencement date of the November/ December, 2018 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) to Nov.19.

Abubakar Gana, the Acting Registrar of NECO, in a statement issued on Wednesday, recalls that the examination was earlier scheduled to commence on Nov.15.

Gana called on candidates sitting for the examination to download the new examination time table on NECO’s website: www.mynecoexams.com.

“Please note that this information supersedes the earlier media publication on the commencement date for the examination.’’

The acting registrar expressed regrets over the inconveniences the change of date would cause the candidates.

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A circular by Lagos State government which was shared by the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), the state Government has approved use of hijab (head and body covering for females) in public schools in the state.

“Since the case of the use of Hijab in Lagos State is still pending in the Supreme court of Nigeria, status quo be maintained, to avoid contempt of the court, that is students be allowed to wear Hijabs on school uniforms but same must be short, smart, neat and in the same colour of the uniform (skirt),” the Lagos government was quoted as saying in the circular.

“Furthermore, schools management are advised to downplay comments and disciplinary actions on the use of smart Hijabs until the final determination of the case by Supreme Court.

“No student should be discriminated against in any form on the basis of religion. All principals and teachers must be sensitized to comply accordingly. You are enjoined to adhere strictly to these recommendations.”

In its statement, the MSSN which had championed the use of hijabs and celebrated the decision, said it was satisfied with the decision which comes a day after the international school of the University of Ibadan in neighbouring Oyo State was shut after some female students were stopped for wearing hijabs.

A press statement by the Amir (president) of the MSSN Lagos, Saheed Ashafa, to reacted to a circular recently issued by the Lagos State Government granting the use of hijab in schools.

It reads; “The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit, has commended the Lagos State Government for upholding the rule of law through its approval of the use of hijab in public schools.

“We extol this gesture and the resoluteness of the state government in ensuring that an avoidable strife do not find ways into the peaceful atmosphere being enjoyed in Lagos State.

“We are pleased with this development because the embarrassing way and manner that our members are being victimised, harassed, punished and denied entrance into their classrooms for wearing hijab would stop.

“We have constantly told the state government that while a case on the hijab is awaiting final verdict at the Supreme Court, no teacher has the right to punish female pupils for wearing hijab.

“The Appeal Court in the case clearly states that wearing hijab by students, whether within or outside the school premises was a fundamental Human Right entrenched in the constitution.

“It is important to notify you that we will not allow further lawlessness and flagrant disregard for rule of law to stay after this circular. The circular would also help to stop the abuse of rights which could have degenerated into crisis or violence that may lead to the disruption of activities in schools in our dear state.

“We commend this intervention aimed at calling teachers, principals and tutor general to order. This circular approving wearing of hijab by students on their school uniform within and outside school premises, will ensure peace and order in our schools and stability in the state’s education system.”

Ashafa subsequently encouraged female Muslim students to be confident, smart and neat while putting on the hijab.

“We hereby call on female muslim students to enjoy their rights without fear of molestation. While exhibiting their rights, they should remain law abiding and be good ambassadors of the religion of peace,” he added.

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A little boy suffered an extreme brutality from his dad, yesterday, in Okigwe, Imo State, for allegedly being too stubborn.

According to Izuogu Rowland, an eyewitness, the boy had left home without informing anyone of his whereabouts, prompting a frantic search for him.

When he was eventually found, his dad flogged him, mercilessly, before using a razor blade to cut one of his ears. He was, however, later rescued and take to a hospital for treatment.

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The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose on Thursday admonished President Muhammadu Buhari to face governance and stop complaining because his time was almost up.

Fayose said Buhari has spent three and half years blaming his predecessors and inflicted both security and economic crises on the country.

He made the remark in reaction to Buhari’s claim that he inherited a mind-boggling mismanaged economy from the previous administration.

In a statement by his Media Aide, Lere Olayinka, Fayose said, “When he was seeking votes of Nigerians, he never said he was coming to complain. Rather, he promised to fix what he claimed to have identified as the problems.

“It is no longer funny that a president who assumed office three and half years ago is still complaining about how he met the country instead of Nigerians having feelings of how well he has solved the problems he claimed that he had the capacity to solve.

“He should stop singing the same song of lamentation that he has been singing since 2015 and learn from his colleague in Ghana, who hit the ground running immediately he assumed office.”

Fayose, who said the President should face the reality of a failed tenure and be prepared to leave office next year, added that, “only a leader who lacks competence and is challenged by knowledge and exposure will blame his predecessors for over three years.

“Nigerians of mostly below forty years who voted for the President in 2015 did so because they never experienced him as a Military Head of State. Now that they have seen that he does not have the required capacity to govern a country like Nigeria, they are eager to vote him out.”

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FORMER Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Ayodele Fayose, has said his tenure immensely benefitted the people of the State just as he advised  the Anglican Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Rt Reverend Christopher Omotunde to remove the cassock and mount the soapbox so that the whole world would know that he has joined politics.

Fayose, who stated this through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Idowu Adelusi, was reacting to a statement by the Anglican Bishop describing Fayose’s tenure as a waste and non-beneficial to Ekiti people.

Adelusi said only a cleric trying to justify the blatant rigging of the last Ekiti governorship election by the All Progressives Congress(APC) would describe the physical transformation of Ekiti by the Fayose administration as a waste.

“Even the blind feel the good works of Fayose and perhaps Bishop Omotunde and the likes need to change their eyeglasses to see well.

“Our fathers have a saying that it is disheartening when one hears a statement of gullibility from a place where one expects to hear the words of wisdom.

“The records of the Fayose administration are there for all to see. It organised an Education Summit that led to great improvement in education in the state. Ekiti came first back-to-back in NECO exams and we also did well in WAEC. These are public institutions and the records are there for Omotunde to peruse.

“The Fayose administration built the first flyover in the state and it passes beside Omotunde’s church. One wonders if the bishop closes his eyes whenever he drives or passes through that place. If he does not, we pray that God opens his spiritual eyes.

“The Fayose government built a new high court complex, a new Governor’s Office, a new Oja’ba Market; dualised roads in Ise, Emure, Ikole, Omuo, Ijero, Efon, among others. It also dualized the Ado-Ikere road, built many roads in Ado itself such as Petim- Afao Road and Dehead- Police Headquarters Road. Maybe the bishop does not pass through these roads!

“Accreditation for various courses in EKSU, School of Nursing, and College of Health Technology was pursued and achieved by the administration. We can go on and list many other achievements in agriculture, health, social welfare and other sectors.

 “Yearly, the Fayose administration recognised hard-working teachers and civil servants with car prizes and other gifts. Within four years, it was promotion galore for civil servants. Civil servants and teachers will not agree with the untenable and jaundiced position of Omotunde.

“The Ekiti people who Fayose served for almost eight years know that his time was a great blessing to them, which is why they call him the architect of modern Ekiti. Bishop Omotunde should remove his priest’s garment and mount the soapbox if he is minded to be this politically partisan.”

“He said Fayose’s opposition to Buhari administration did not allow Ekiti to benefit anything from the centre.

“Assuming that was the case, it only confirmed President Muhammadu Buhari as an autocrat who must not be criticised, and not a Democrat who should take criticisms in his stride.

“We make bold to say that Ekiti under Fayose and PDP has witnessed more economic and physical development in the last four years when compared to neighbouring APC-controlled states which have openly venerated President Buhari as their godfather.

“What has Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Ogun benefitted from the Federal Government? What has even Lagos, where the APC national leader comes from, benefitted?

“In terms of peace and security, Ekiti under Fayose was peaceful; it was secured from herdsmen attacks, assassinations, and armed robbery operations. These and politically-motivated killings have returned in full swing under Fayemi/APC.”

Adelusi said that Bishop Omotunde ought to have listed what Ekiti benefited from Fayemi as Minister for Solid Minerals. While Ekiti was number 34 in public exams during Fayemi’s first tenure, Fayose changed the narrative back-to-back; he added.

Adelusi then said Fayose does not owe the cleric any apology for criticizing the obnoxious policies and indecisions of the president, which have brought untold suffering on Nigerians.

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The Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Rt. Rev. Christopher Omotunde, has stated that Ekiti State witnessed regression under the administration of former Governor Ayo Fayose.

Omotunde described the tenure of Fayose as “four wasted years in which life became unbearable for the people and in which hunger ravaged the land without any concrete effort to alleviate people’s poverty.”

According to him, “the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had a golden chance to make a difference in the lives of Ekiti residents but abused the opportunity to the extent that the people became slaves under them.”

The clergyman warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration to learn from the mistakes of the immediate past government and never disappoint the teeming masses looking up to it for good governance and redemption.

Omotunde stated this in his sermon on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held in honour of the new Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, at the Emmanuel Anglican Cathedral, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti.

The bishop said Fayose’s unrelenting criticisms and opposition to President Muhammadu Buhari denied Ekiti of many benefits while other PDP governors succeeded in attracting projects to their states and got financial support from the Federal Government because of their good relationship with the President.

Omotunde, who described himself as “a father of all politicians” because all members of his church are in all political parties, said he was duty bound to speak the truth when the need arises.

He said God has given Governor Kayode Fayemi another chance to make the difference in the lives of Ekiti people and must not fail to do that because “the expectations are very high.”

The bishop advised Fayemi to choose people who will be faithful in translating his dreams for the development of the state into reality and not those who will be advancing their personal and selfish interests.
While likening Fayemi to the biblical Nehemiah, Omotunde said the President had so much trust in the governor (Fayemi) by releasing him from the federal cabinet to come and repair Ekiti allegedly damaged by bad governance.

Omotunde said now that Fayemi’s party, APC, is in power at the federal level unlike what obtained during his first tenure, the Federal Government must grant all the requests of the governor to repair Ekiti and assist the state financially for its people to be relieved.

The service was attended by the wife of the governor, Mrs. Bisi Fayemi; wife of the deputy governor, Mrs. Margaret Egbeyemi; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Mr. Adeniran Alagbada; his wife, Mrs. Kike Alagbada; former deputy governor, Prof. Dupe Adelabu; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji; Chief of Staff, Mr. Biodun Omoleye; Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe and other traditional rulers.

Omotunde said: “This our God is a God of another chance, he gave PDP another chance also but unfortunately they abused the chance to the extent that people became slaves under them, they rendered everybody
hopeless under them.

“They bewitched everybody that our eyes were closed, they bewitched us that we called evil good and the few that their power of bewitchment had no effect upon prayed and God looked down from heaven and visited this state again opening another door for fayemi’s government.

“Your party (APC) is in power now, let them know that I said, it’s a government of another chance and God will try you again and see whether you will be faithful or not. It is left for you to prove yourself.

“Tell me of one youth that the immediate past government empowered even though they called it a government of okada riders; how many okadas did he buy for the youths?

“I was watching the television recently and Ebonyi State governor was listing his achievements in agriculture, he gave the Federal Government credits for his success and my (former) governor was also a
PDP governor.

“In many states, Buhari had many achievements and successes to show but the only achievement here was the repair of Ado-Itawure Road but
our (former) governor would not give him room to work.

“The whole four years (under Fayose) was wasted; we were retrogressing, going backward. Many states were given opportunities in agriculture, nothing was given to Ekiti and all we needed was for the governor to give them land and banks were ready to finance the projects.

“With hunger ravaging the land, the former governor was collecting N1,000 from each pupil. What did he use the money to do? We did not see what they did with the money.

“Our people are hungry and they are suffering financial difficulties. They have been thrown into poverty so that they will become slaves to the ‘rock’ but God brought somebody who knows how to break the ‘rock’ into pieces.”

Addressing the congregation, Egbeyemi called for the prayers and support of Ekiti people for the new government, saying: “the welfare of the people remains the focal point of this administration.”

According to him, the Fayemi administration will put the people first and carry them along in the execution of its policies which he said are meant to improve their standard of living.

The deputy governor promised that more people in Ekiti will be employed and empowered to reduce the rate of unemployment, hunger, political thuggery and other vices.

Egbeyemi further assured that the Fayemi administration would execute more projects in the grassroots to reduce rural-urban migration.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti state, Prof. Olusola Kolapo, has urged the state election petition tribunal to declare him as the duly elected governor of the state.

Prof-Kolapo-OlusolaKolapo, who is the immediate past deputy governor of the state, stated this on Thursday while testifying before the tribunal sitting at the FCT High Court, Apo, Abuja. 
He, however, stated that the tribunal should in the alternative declare the election inconclusive or nullify it and order for a fresh election.

Led in evidence by the lead counsel for the petitioners, Malam Yusuf Alli (SAN), the PDP candidate adopted his written statement on oath as his testimony before the tribunal.

He also adopted his three responses to the defence of the three respondents before the tribunal.
“Having scored the highest vote, I should be declared validly elected or returned as the elected governor of Ekiti state,” he said.

He, however, added a caveat that, “the election held on July 14 be declared inconclusive and an order be made for the conduct of a fresh election (supplementary election).
“That the election held on July 14 be nullified and in its place enter an order for a fresh election to be conducted or held throughout the state.”

The witness, who testified as the 31st witness for the petitioners (PW31), stated in the statement that Gov. Kayode Fayemi was not qualified to contest the election after been indicted for fraud by the Justice Oyewole Panel of Inquiry.

However, while being cross examined by the counsel for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Chief Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan (SAN), Kolapo stated that he
was not aware that the indictment had been quashed by a court.
According to him, “what is available to me is exactly what I stated in my written statement on oath. I am not aware of any other thing.”

He stated that his claim about voided ballot papers during the election was based on information supplied by his agents in polling units across the state.
The various polling units, wards, Local Government Areas (LGAs) and state agents, according to him, were his representatives and those of the first petitioner, the PDP.

When asked what he wanted, Kolapo declared, “I want to be declared governor of Ekiti state pursuant to the election.”
Reminded that he sought for either declaration of the said election as inconclusive or even outright nullification of the election and in view of these if he could be declared governor, the PDP candidate said, “I cannot be made governor through an inconclusive election. I cannot be made governor through a nullified election.”

Answering a question under cross examination by a member of the second respondent’s legal team, Kazeem Gbadamosi, Kolapo said he voted on the election day in Ikere.
The PDP candidate stated that according to what his agents informed him, improper counting and voiding of votes during the contentious election cut across all the LGAs of the state.

“If there are malpractices, the electoral law is clear: the voided votes should be cancelled. But if there is none, the voided votes belonging to me should added to my results,” he told the tribunal.

While answering questions from Dr Muiz Banire (SAN), for the third respondent, Kolapo said though he voted in the election, there was initial problem as the card reader machine could not recognise his Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC).

He declared that he did not see all the voided votes meant for him physically, saying that they were recorded on the Form EC 8 series brought to him by his agents.
According to him, the calculation he did which gave him the highest number of votes in the election included the voided votes meant for him.
He stated that, to the best of his knowledge, none of his agents died even though they were intimidated, harassed and threatened during the election.(NAN)

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A retelling of the political intrigues that eventually led to the founding of Efon Alaaye in Ekiti State has opened up yet another deception in history. It is the widespread belief that many historic personalities deified, as gods in Yoruba cosmology because of extraordinary feats they performed in their lifetime, did not die but transformed into objects being worshipped as idols.

In many instances of Yoruba history, there are stories of powerful individuals such as Ogun, Osun, Oya, Obalufon and Sango, believed to have possessed some extraordinary powers with which they carried out great exploits that convinced people of their time that they were super humans capable of doing supernatural things.

For example, Ogun was believed to have disappeared in Ire-Ekiti, now southern part of Ekiti State. Osun was believed to have turned into a river, after losing her temper. Her husband, Sango also allegedly disappeared into some heavenly kingdom through the earth and leaving his insignia, known as Ose, in Yoruba, at the spot of his supposed disappearance for his followers to use as point of contact.

The story of the marital crisis among Osun, Oya and Sango revealed Oya and Osun as powerful goddesses who married the thunder king, Sango; one who emits fire from his mouth whenever he was angry. This was also captured through the famous Ikogosi Warm Spring where both hot and cold water meet in Ekiti West Local Government.

However, a historian, Prince Adelegan Adegbola, from a royal family in Efon Alaaye, dispelled such belief that some of these extraordinary humans didn’t die but turned into eternal objects of traditional worship. He spoke on this elaborately in his book: “Ooni Obalufon Alayemore, The Founder of Efon Alaaye Kingdom.”

He argued that many great and popular Yoruba kings and distinguished personalities now deified as idols, had merely succeeded in deceiving the people of their time that they didn’t die but turned into objects of religious worship. He explained how Efon-Alaaye was founded by Ooni of Ife:

“The first installation of authority and power of the head of government of Yoruba people as the Ooni of Ife, after the demise of the progenitor, Oduduwa, was the Ooni Obalufon Ogbogbodirin.  According to traditional history, he reigned and ruled for a long period of time. Some people believed he did not die, instead, he transformed into a stone. Many ancient Ifes as a people were privileged to live to a very great age, and by this privilege, they made many people believe that they never died at all.

“Ooni Ogbogbodirin himself was one of the typical example. In order, therefore, that they might be able to bring their tendentious purposes into actual operation, they used to make some carved stones in their own effigies and kept them in some secret places which would be known to only a few of their trusted people under them.

“Any important aged person who has done this would tell his most trusted, few people why he would like his corpse to be secretly buried, and where his cenotaph would be placed to show to the world how powerful he was in life. This practice is called ‘didota’ meaning becoming a stone. At that time, people who could so deceive others in this way were highly esteemed as men of great honour and respect. The honour and respect so accorded them consequently induced many other people to follow their way of life.”

The Alaaye of Efon, Oba Emmanuel Adesanya Aladejare Agunsoye 11, told Daily Sun at his 25th year coronation ceremony: “This town was founded by Obalufon, who was one of the royal sons of Oduduwa, progenitor of Yoruba race. According to our history as documented by many historians of Yoruba people, Obalufon occupies a premier position among the sons of Oduduwa, he was the latest surviving son of Oduduwa.

“He succeeded the throne of Ife after the demise of their father, Oduduwa. As a successor to the throne, the Ooni represents the ‘tree’ while other princes who went away and founded new kingdoms such as Oyo, Benin, Owu, Aramoko, and Ijero represent the branches.
“Obalufon Ogbogbodirin succeeded his father, Oduduwa, after the latter’s death. When he, Obalufon, died, his own son, Obalufon Alayemore, succeeded him, while Oranmiyan, Oduduwa’s youngest son, was on a sojourn in Oyo.

“When Oranmiyan heard that his elder, Obalufon Ogbogbodirin, had passed on, and his son, Obalufon Alayemore, had been installed as third Ooni of Ife, he quickly returned home in Ile-Ife, from Oyo, a kingdom he had founded, and over which he was a paramount ruler.

“On Oranmiyan’s return to Ile-Ife, the elders, chiefs and kingmakers persuaded Obalufon Alayemore, to vacate the throne for his uncle, Oranmiyan, in accordance with the Yoruba tradition that the elderly reigns first before his younger.

“This was why Obalufon Alayemore left the Ife throne for Oranmiyan, and came down to found Efon Alaaye in Ekiti. I am a great-great descendant of Oba Obalufon Alayemore. That is why all of us in that royal family who becomes a monarch in Efon Alaaye carries the title Obalufon Alayemore.”

Story by 

Wole Balogun, Ado Ekiti

Reposted by

 tewaconcpet.blogspot.com

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The Lagos division of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi has granted a N50 million bail bond to former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose. Fayose is facing an 11-count charge bothering on receiving money illegally to fund his 2014 governorship campaign, among other allegations of benefitting from proceeds of money laundering. When he was first arraigned before the court on Monday, October 22, 2018, the outspoken former governor pleaded not guilty to all the charges and pressed for bail. In his second appearance before the court on Wednesday, October 25, the presiding judge, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, granted him bail while directing him to submit his international passport with the court. 

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Cancer can occur due to various factors such as drinking, smoking, poor lifestyle, genetics, personal hygiene, etc. But the main cause of cancer is an unhealthy lifestyle. However, there are certain things in your bedroom which can also cause cancer.

2/5

We all love the pleasant smell of air fresheners. But we should also know about the harmful effects of those air fresheners. Thus, you should always avoid using them. Try to prepare your own natural spray using water and essential oils.

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The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has approved the immediate retirement of the Permanent Secretary, Office of Establishments and Training in the state’s civil service, Olusesan Alabi.
This was contained in a statement on Monday by Fayemi’s Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode.
The statement directed Alabi to hand over to the most senior officer in the office.
Sources told The Eagle Online that Alabi was sacked over the release of employment letters to those the immediate past Administration of former Governor Ayo Fayose directed should be employed.
The Eagle Online gathered that as at Monday (today), Alabi still issued letters of employment to some of the candidates interviewed for employment in the closing days of the Fayose Administration.
Fayemi had after his inauguration on Tuesday met with the leadership of the Ekiti State Civil Service on Wednesday, where he warned against further recruitment.
A source told The Eagle Online: “It was as if all the Governor told the top civil servants fell on Alabi’s deaf ears as he went on issuing letters of employment.
“Even today, he still issued letters, leading to his immediate sack.”
Fayemi had before his inauguration warned against the hiring of workers by the Fayose Administration.
The outgone Administration was owing salaries as at when it left office, with workers at the local government on strike as it exited.
The workers only called off their strike on Sunday.
Fayose had in response to Fayemi’s directive that workers should not be engaged, accused the incumbent of having done the same shortly before handing over to him four years ago.

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The Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi has lamented that he can’t make the challenges facing the state to disappear in one day.

Speaking at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital on Sunday, Fayemi said he was not a magician who would make the challenges facing the state to disappear.

The former Minister of Solid Minerals said, “Yes, we know there is a huge expectation from width and breadth of the state and we won’t disappoint them.

“I am not a magician but a child of the Almighty God because some people believe all the challenges facing Ekiti state will disappear within a day. Yes, By Almighty God’s grace, it will surely disappear.”

Commending the Catholic church for their “unwavering support, ”Fayemi said, “Our emergence is to make a difference in the life of Ekiti state and the lives of our people, to serve and not be served and to show that the power of the people is greater than that of those in power.

“We have a lot of work to do and this is a collective rescue mission, to reclaim our land and restore our values, so we seek Ekiti people’s cooperation

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If you’ve been throwing a banana peel straight in the trash, you may want to stop as you have been failing to take advantage of a number of home and health benefits it provides.

They Will Clean Your Plants
Just like any home accessory, indoor plants can get an unattractive layer of dust on them. Sliding the inside of a banana peel over the leaves will lift the dust so your plants look healthier. Unlike a spritz of water, the peel will actually remove the dirt instead of just pushing it around.

They Can Ease Your Pain
A study in the Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand found that banana peel extracts contain anti-inflammatory properties. That could be why some say pressing the peel against a bug bite, poison ivy rash, or sunburn can provide some relief.

When the itch or pain is killing you, this cheap health hack is definitely worth a try.

They Are Edible
You’d probably never think to take a bite out of a thick, bitter peel, but people in other parts of the world actually do use them in cooking. Banana peels may seem inedible, they are actually very nutritious. It contains high amounts of vitamin B6 and B12, as well as magnesium and potassium. It also contains some fiber and protein.

To get all these benefits, wash the skins—the riper, the thinner and tastier—then boil them for at least ten minutes to soften up the texture. You can also blend raw peels to make healthy smoothies.

They Can Help Keep Meat Tender
If you can’t eat the banana peels itself, when you roast skinless chicken breasts, throw a banana peel into the pan before putting the meat on top. The peel will keep your meat from drying out so your poultry is tender when you chomp on them.

Use Them To Polish Your Shoes
Bananas might be famous for their potassium, and the mineral also happens to be a key ingredient in shoe polish, which some say is why the peels make for a cheap cleaning hack.

Simply get rid of any extra strings from the inside of the peel, then use the inside to rub your shoes. Once the leather is up to snuff, buff your shoes with a paper towel. You will get shoes that are good as new without the smelly chemicals.

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The prompt past Governor of Ekiti, Ayodele Fayose on Monday appeared under the watchful eye of a Federal High Court in Lagos over assumed misappropriation of N30.8 billion. The disturbed past governor appeared in court in a despairing look with a broad number of supporters close by. He contended not obligated to the 11-check charge. Conflict on his safeguard application is advancing.

EFCC is indicting Fayose close by his organization – Spotless Investment Ltd. After the arraignment of the charged, the bail counsel, Mr Kanu Agabi (SAN), who is a previous Attorney General of the Federation, educated the court of a movement on notice for the bail of the blamed. He told the court that an equivalent had been served on the arraignment. Accordingly, the EFCC Prosecutor, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, affirmed administration of the bail application yet told the court that he expected time to answer.Judge Mojisola Olatoregun, subsequently, suspended the case until October 24th for the knowing about the bail application.

Meanwhile, following a supplication by assurance coordinate on the short lived remand of Fayose, the court asked for that he be remanded in consideration of the EFCC pending protection. Ayodele Fayose, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, has missed out in his offer for a safeguard concede from the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos express this morning. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, summoned him on a 11-check charge, verging on maltreatment of office and corruption. He was accused of abusing N30.8 billion while in office, however the ex-Governor argued not liable when the charges were read to him.

Therefore, Kanu Agabi, Fayose’s insight, documented a safeguard application in the interest of his client, however CMA Olatoregun, the Presiding Judge, dismissed the application, and requested that Fayose ought to stay in the EFCC authority, till Wednesday. Fayose is being indicted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) close by his organization, Spotless Investment Ltd on a 11-count charge of N30.8 billion misrepresentation. He, however, argued not guilty of the offenses.

The barrier guide, Mr Kanu Agabi (SAN), who is a previous Attorney General of the Federation, educated the court of a movement on notice for the safeguard of the blamed. He told the court that equivalent had been served on the prosecution. In reaction, the EFCC Prosecutor, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, affirmed administration of the safeguard application, yet told the court that he expected time to answer.

Judge Mojisola Olatoregun, consequently, dismissed the case until October 24th for the becoming aware of the safeguard application. Meanwhile, the court had requested the brief remand of Fayose in the guardianship of the EFCC pending bail. According to the charge, on June 17th, 2014, Fayose and Agbele were said to have claimed the entirety of N1.2 billion for reasons for subsidizing his gubernatorial race in Ekiti State which total they reasonably ought to have known framed piece of wrongdoing continues.

Fayose was alleged to have gotten a money installment of the entirety of five million dollars, (about N18 billion) from the then Minister of State for Defense, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, without experiencing any money related establishment and which total surpassed the sum permitted by law. He was additionally affirmed to have held the whole of N300 million in his Zenith Bank account and took control of the aggregate sums of about N622 million which entirety he should have known shaped piece of wrongdoing continues.

Fayose was alleged to have acquired De Privateer Ltd and Still Earth Ltd, to retain in their Zenith Bank and the FCMB accounts, the aggregate sums of N851 million which they reasonably ought to have known framed piece of wrongdoing proceeds. The offenses, as per the EFCC, contradict the arrangements of areas 15(1), 15 (2), 15 (3), 16(2)(b), 16 (d), and 18 (c) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011.

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