Tourism: FEC adopts MHR Sesi's recommendation during the Minister's visit to Badagry

By Dansu Peter 

One of Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, Member, House of Representatives for Badagry Federal Constituency recommendations made during a recent working visit of the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, to Badagry has been adopted by the Federal Executive Council on Monday, May 13, 2024. During her visit, facilitated by Hon. Sesi, the Minister committed to nurturing and enhancing Badagry's tourism potential. 

At the minister's stakeholders' engagement during the visit, the MHR Sesi-appointed technical committee of tourism professionals and stakeholders, led by Mr. Babatunde Ajose, delivered a position paper on tourist development in Badagry. One of the demands mentioned in the document was a policy modification for visa-on-arrival at land and port, as it is available at airports, as well as a visa waiver for any West African visa holder entering Nigeria. This request is one of the twenty-one significant choices made and authorized by the Federal Executive Council.

At the FEC meeting, the Council set a four-week timetable for reviewing visa policies to allow tourists, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to visit Nigeria. The council concluded that the convenience of doing business cannot be realized if prospective visitors have a difficult time obtaining a visa for our country. As part of the review, visa applicants will be able to apply for their visas online and receive them within 48 hours. Additionally, visas may be waived for holders of visas from certain countries.

With this achievement, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan's efforts have succeeded in influencing a decision that would serve as a significant fulcrum of tourism development, benefiting not only Badagry but the entire Nigeria. 

During his 2023 campaign, the MHR for Badagry pledged, among other things, to promote and enhance Badagry's tourism potential for economic growth and prosperity. The ratification of one of the primary demands during the minister's visit is a step closer to fulfilling one of his pledges to Badagry residents.

Kaduna Meets Havana: The Day Governor Uba Sani And Ambassador Mariam Re-ignited A Powerful Partnership

By Wasila Abubakar Ijaba

In a landmark meeting that promises to revolutionize the landscape of Kaduna State, Governor Uba Sani and Cuban Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero came together to forge a powerful partnership that will ignite a new era of cooperation in education and economic development. This historic encounter, which took place in Abuja, marked a significant turning point in the relations between Kaduna State and Cuba, as both leaders shared a vision for a brighter future built on mutual cooperation and benefit.

Governor Uba Sani, known for his progressive leadership and commitment to the development of Kaduna State, hailed the partnership as a "game-changer" that will transform the state's education sector and unlock new economic opportunities. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the state, saying, "We cannot do it alone, and that's why we're excited to partner with Cuba, a nation renowned for its expertise in education and sustainable development."

Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero, a seasoned diplomat and champion of international cooperation, expressed Cuba's enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the island nation's expertise in education, healthcare, and sustainable development. She noted, "Cuba is committed to sharing its knowledge and experience with Kaduna State, and we're confident that this partnership will yield fruitful results for both parties."

The partnership is expected to yield fruitful results in the areas of:

- Education: Cuba's renowned education system will be leveraged to enhance Kaduna State's education sector, with a focus on teacher training, curriculum development, and infrastructure upgrade. This will enable the state to improve its educational outcomes and produce skilled graduates who can drive economic growth.

- Economic Cooperation: Both parties will explore opportunities for trade, investment, and industrial development, leveraging Cuba's expertise in agriculture, healthcare, and tourism. This will create new economic opportunities for the people of Kaduna State and promote sustainable development.

- Cultural Exchange: The partnership will facilitate cultural exchange programs, enabling the people of Kaduna State to experience Cuba's rich cultural heritage and vice versa. This will foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

As Governor Uba Sani and Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero shook hands, they symbolized a new era of cooperation that will propel Kaduna State towards a brighter future. This powerful partnership is a testament to the power of international collaboration and the boundless potential that arises when nations come together in the spirit of progress and development.

The implications of this partnership are far-reaching, with the potential to transform the lives of millions of people in Kaduna State. As the two leaders embark on this new journey together, they do so with a shared vision of a brighter future, built on the principles of cooperation, mutual respect, and a commitment to the well-being of their people.

Tinubu's Endorsement: A Rocket Fuel For Uba Sani’s Transformation Agenda

By Sadiya Sani Wakili

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has thrown his weight behind Governor Uba Sani's transformation agenda for Kaduna State, and this endorsement is a game-changer! It's a seal of approval that will propel the state into a new orbit of growth and development, leaving all other states in its wake.

Governor Uba Sani, a visionary leader with a passion for progress, has been working tirelessly to revamp Kaduna State's infrastructure, economy, and social services. His administration's achievements in security, education, and healthcare have been nothing short of remarkable, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of the state's citizens. And now, with President Tinubu's backing, the state is poised to become a model for development and progress in Nigeria.

This endorsement is a testament to Governor Uba Sani's unwavering commitment to the people of Kaduna State. It's a recognition of his administration's hard work and dedication to delivering results and a clear signal to investors, stakeholders, and citizens that Kaduna State is open for business and ready for takeoff. With President Tinubu's support, Governor Uba Sani's transformation agenda will gain even more momentum, driving progress and development in every sector.

Critical projects like the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road, the Eastern Bypass, and the Mando-Birnin Gwari Road will be fast-tracked, connecting communities and boosting economic growth. Human capital development initiatives will receive a significant boost, empowering youth and fostering innovation. Healthcare and education will receive increased attention, ensuring that every citizen has access to quality services. Security will continue to be a top priority, ensuring that the state remains a safe haven for residents and investors alike.

This partnership between Governor Uba Sani and President Tinubu is a powerful alliance that will drive progress, create opportunities, and improve lives. It's a rocket fuel that will propel Kaduna State into a brighter future, and we must seize this moment with both hands. Let's join hands with Governor Uba Sani and President Tinubu to build a better Kaduna State for all!

With this endorsement, Kaduna State is poised to become a hub for investment, innovation, and progress. The state's potential will be unleashed, and its citizens will enjoy a better quality of life. This is a momentous occasion, and we must make the most of it. Let us rise to the challenge and build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. The time for transformation is now!

The Trials Of Brother Bello - "The Untouchable"

The search may not end anytime soon as the invisibility of the man is made very possible by the noise the whole drama keeps generating. Anytime the noise reduces, then, it's time or almost time to the end and the beginning of another drama again - it's not a one off show, it's going to be long, you can call it a series. And, the longer it is, the uninteresting it becomes to the Nigerian people who will eventually decide to forget about the drama and face their struggles for daily survival and then, the goal would have been achieved as it would pass again as yet one of those usual dramas in the country. And, when this happens, the man's fading lion's nature may resurface again, powerfully this time even at national level - you don't believe me, right? 

Cast your mind back and see how far he has come, "conquering" even what many thought were laws but eventually got changed as soon as he appeared on the scene and then, what would have been a code name in his security architecture while he ruled supreme became a name he openly adopted and true to the name, the state, in his time, was truly a lion's den.

How UBEC Is Reactivating 'Alternate School' In Nigeria

By Abubakar Yusuf 

Even with concerted efforts by various stakeholders locally and internationally,  powered by the Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC in the country to streamline Basic Education, particularly at Primary 1-6 and Junior Secondary School (JSS 1-3),  that encompasses it's operation, the scourge of out of school OOSC remained insurmountable, hence the need for further collaboration and introduction of more programs and policies that will address the downward trend in the country.

As policy makers , drivers and implementers, the need to drive the reintroduced and rejigged 'alternate school' to fruition became sancrosanct in view of the prevailing circumstances by UBEC.

Through alternative Education and 'alternate school' , students of Basic Education are exposed to the provision of unique programs, non- official hours of learning, including hybrid experiences for the students.

Most of the beneficiaries in these category, are those who had defied both academic,  social , including emotional, or behavioral needs and cannot cope with the normal way of learning.

But the defiance and non- responsive nature of students cannot be a corrolary for apathy to learning, hence the step forward and the introduction of 'alternate school' of education to further justify the veracity or otherwise of the normal program, and the abnormality of the introduction and/ or the need to inculcate the 'alternate school' of education and learning.

The recent outing of the program coordinator, the Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC lend more credence to the rejigged efforts of the government at the federal level trickled down to states and local government areas level, with a focus on the speciality and uniqueness of the program, but geared towards achieving it's stated objectives and learning outcomes.

UBEC had played a leading role of been at the forefront of series and several programs and policies that will galvanize the inculcation and subsistence of Basic Education programs across the country, in collaboration with the sub- national and local government areas.

The focus on 'alternate school' and the concerted efforts of the national government to reactivate the program cannot be overlooked, particularly in the present situation were third world countries are yearning to achieve the SDGs goals 4 of quality education between now and 2030.

For UBEC, the combination of multiple programs which included 'alternate school' of education will reduce to the barest minimum the global scourge of out of school children that is put at variously 20M , with 10.2M at primary School level, while over 8.8M at JSS level, not minding the aggressive programs and policies of government, with potential of growth beyond the official declaration.

But with the reactivation and reintroduction of 'alternate school' and alternative Education, there is no doubt that the figures been bandied as out of school children OOSC will gradually be reducing in line with the implementation of the stakeholders.

The willingness of the government to pilot the affairs to sub national and local government level will be an impetus that will reduce and ensure down ward growth of OOSC scourge, inline with the needed attention and prevailing policy framework powered by UBEC.

All hands must be on deck to support the 'alternate school ' beyond mere rhetorics and policy formulation, as the Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC will tackle headlong to ensure its direct impact on students at Basic Education level and learners is achieved.

ABUBAKAR YUSUF Writes from Abuja on [email protected].

Wike's Signatures In FCT

By Abubakar Yusuf 

Soon after his announcement and appointment as cabinet Minister in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nzenwo Nyesom Wike, it was quickly dawn on the ordinary Nigerians of the return of the good old days back to the nations capital, that was yearning for all round development.

Wike who was a Minister of State Education in the previous dispensation, became the governor of River state between 2015-2023.

During his tenure for consecutive eight years, he was known for numerous developmental projects including building of bridges and flyovers that had turned the previous Rivers state into a new abode.

The new FCT Minister who was nicknamed as "Mr project" or "Mr Flyover", did alot to change the narration of the state particularly the revitalisation of iconic projects and facilities abandoned by the previous administrations.

Aside quality and result oriented leadership, Nyesom Wike known for haywire politics contested for the PDP presidential election and came second build up to the 2023 general elections.

He was known to have sponsored many governors , lawmakers both at the state and federal level and had contributed in quantum to the main opposition PDP, while currently serving in the ruling All Progressives Congress APC, because of his political dexterity.

Soon after his appointment in the current administration that was sworn in May , 2023 , Wike had turned the entire FCT including the six area councils into project area of all sorts.

The hitherto known FCT and it's area councils known for abandoned projects including yearly face lift yearning for attention suddenly became a busy area in the area of massive roads construction, renovation and building of schools, equipping and remodeling of hospitals, security as well as rebuilding the administrative, socal and political structure of the nation's capital, that was bastardized and abused by the previous administration.

He had embarked on massive renovation and reconstruction of roads in all the zones, districts, area councils to give a befitting facelift to the FCT in accordance with the new order.

Wike's massive remodelling and renovation saw to the painting of roads and roads kebs across the nation's city that was abandoned over the years away from the yearly intervention by the territory.

He reintroduced project supervision and rejigged the civil service with a view to deliver on the mandate of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

His efforts had been the gauge and parameter used in measuring the success of the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that will be one year in office by May 29th, 2024 even when the Minister had not spent one year in office.

His ascension to the leadership of FCT as cabinet Minister has changed the narration of opposition politics having served as PDP governor for consecutive eight years, contested for the President under the PDP , yet joined the ruling All Progressives Congress APC cabinet im the current dispensation.

For Wike, the narratives of the FCT interms of Infrastructural development and social upliftment had transformed to the betterment of the nation's city and it's large occupants.

No doubt, the security architecture put in place has doused the perennial security problems of kidnapping, banditry, farmers and herders crises across the FCT, that had returned the well-being of residents.

For Nzenwo Nyesom Wike is the best thing that's happening to the nation's city, owing to his political and developmental wisdom that had resulted largely to all round emancipation of the FCT and the country at large.

Yusuf, Writes from Abuja on [email protected]

National Productivity Centre To Introduce Productivity Link Wage System To Curb Labour Unrest

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The National Productivity Centre NPC is poised to introduce a robust system known as " Productivity link wage system" to address frequent agitations of workers/ salaries, and to also determine payment mode for workers in line with individual's productivity and performance.

The National Productivity Centre NPC Director General, Dr Nasir Olaitan Raji Mustapha said the centre is also determined to grow the country's Gross Domestic Product GDP from the current level to an appreciable level of 1 trillion dollar.

Raji who made this statement during the maiden media parley with journalists in the corporate headquarters in Abuja on Monday stated that in the last one year, the centre has prioritized staff welfare and development.

"In line with the mission and vision of the agency, he promised a total commitment in line with the mandate guiding it's operations." Raji maintained. 

Raji reiterated the commitment to capacity building for staff and provides productivity solutions to the private sector as part of it's cutting edge productivity tools.

"We have trained over 1000 senior productivity staff and officers to galvanize our training and training facilities."

"As part of our scorecard, we have also trained 3793 workers across Ministries, Departments and Agencies, along with series of collaboration and partnership with both private, local and international agencies like Glo and Aig Imokhuede foundation."

"We are already preparing for this year's National Productivity order of Merit Award that will recognize Nigerians in their various endeavors."

"We have also improved on training and retraining both in the private and public sector across the country, geared towards enhancing capacity building."

The NPC is promoting advocacy, training of youths, members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as international organizations like International Labour organization, ILO among others.

Group Pass Vote Of Confidence On GMD NNPCL Mele Kyari Against Eyesan's Antics

...hails President's Wife, Remi Tinubu.

...Says Failed Pipelines Surveillance Contractors backing Eyesan to  unseat Kyari.

The Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) has hailed the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for snubbing the moves to recruit her into the sinister plot to unseat the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari.

NDSF fingered the  Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPCL, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, as the brain-behind the moves to unseat her boss.

NDSF said Eyesan had mustered contacts to recruit the Wife of the President  into the unpatriotic agenda.

Stating that its findings revealed that the First Lady declined to give support to the nefarious mission, the group said the plan was to get the First Lady on board to persuade her husband to sack the NNPCL's GCEO.

The emissaries to the First Lady were mandated to persuade her on the need to convince  the President to appoint Eyesan to replace Kyari in the prevailing circumstances.

The NDSF, in a statement signed by its Leader, Chief Julius Daukoru, on Tuesday, said Eyesan appointed known Itsekiri allies of the First Lady, especially those resident in Lagos into the lobby group in the plot perfected to ensure her emergence as the new GCEO of the oil conglomerate.

The Niger Delta group, however, praised the First Lady for demonstrating an uncommon patriotic zeal by declining to be "used to execute the sinister agenda."

"The reports available to us (NDSF) revealed that the EVP, Upstream, NNPCL (Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan) mobilised notable heavy-weights, especially the Itsekiri kinsmen of the First Lady in Lagos to meet with the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to persuade her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to fire the GCEO of NNPCL, Engineer Mele Kyari and get Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan appointed as his successor."

"We learnt that the promoters of Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan painted a fascinating picture of the advantages inherent in the appointment of her Itsekiri sister into the highly prestigious office, to the First Lady, especially the benefits and opportunities accruable and beneficial to her Itsekiri brothers and sisters in Itsekiri homeland in Delta State."

"The First Lady reportedly listened to the emissaries, led by a prominent Itsekiri chief with rapt attention before she angrily turned down their request. We learnt that she also tongue-lashed and lampooned the delegation. We gathered that the First Lady told them that her husband enjoyed a pan-Nigeria mandate following her election by majority of Nigerians accross ethnic divides."

"Our reliable sources hinted NDSF that the First Lady said  having secured the mandate of all Nigerians, that it would be inappropriate for her husband to turn around to play ethnic cards by supporting the narrow interests being canvassed by some parochial interests groups."

"The First Lady was quoted to have told them that Nigeria at the present stage of its development cannot survive if  appointments into strategic position of authorities are not made on merit. She refused to be part of the ethnic agenda of her Itsekiri kinsmen."

" She said her husband would continue to retain Mele Kyari on the job since he's doing very well.  She warned the delegation not to come to her office to propagate such  such unpatriotic agenda in the future.*

 "The emissaries left her office, dejected and traumatised."

Meanwhile, NDSF has accused failed pipelines surveillance contractors as sponsors of the moves to replace Kyari with Eyesan.

NDSF in the statement further said  contractors, who lost out in the recent award and renewal of pipelines surveillance contracts, especially the Pipelines Infrastructures Nigeria Limited (IPNL), operated by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, are behind the plot to remove the NNPCL's GCEO.

Daukoru, in the statement, said, "The surveillance contract for the Trans-forcados pipelines hitherto handled by the Olu of Warri's company was terminated lately by the Kyari-led management."

"Frantic and desperate  efforts by Eyesan to ensure that his Itsekiri monarch retained the job was rebuffed by the management of NNPCL."

"This has attracted protests by the the Olu and some of his sympathising gullible subjects, who could not differentiate private) business pursuit by their monarch from issues of general interests affecting the Itsekiri ethnic nationality."

 "To the extent one group hurriedly assembled by the Olu of Warri, Itsekiri Pipelines Surveillance Stakeholders was quoted at a recent media briefing in Warri, as demanding explanation from the NNPCL board for the termination of the Trans-forcados pipelines surveillance contracts."

"Those who want Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as GCEO of NNPCL want the job for her primarily to protect the Olu and other parochial interests in NNPCL."

To this end, Daukoru urged Kyari to remain steadfast and undaunted in the midst of the protests by the aggrieved failed pipeline surveillance contractors.

 

He urged Kyari not to succumb to blackmail and intimidation by the angry contractors, saying the "antics of the failed  contractors against Mele Kyari will fail like packs of cards because Mr. President is conscious of the fact that the NNPCL under the management of Engineer Mele Kyari, is delivering on its mandate."

Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima Declares The 5th National Productivity Summit Open

The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, officially opened the 5th National Productivity Summit on Tuesday, May 14th. The summit, themed "Achieving Higher Productivity and National Development by Leveraging on Science, Technology, and Innovation," is aimed at fostering discussions and strategies to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the country.

Organized by the National Productivity Centre, the annual summit serves as a vital platform for engaging stakeholders, experts, and policymakers in productive dialogue. The two-day event held at the NAF Conference Centre and Suites in Kado, Abuja, has participants drawn from diverse sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Distinguished guests in attendance at the opening ceremony included the Minister for Labour & Employment, Rt. Hon. Barr. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, the Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, Senator Diket Plang, the Senate Committee Chairman on Labour and Productivity, Ms. Vannesa Phala, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country representative, and Dr. Nasir Raji O. Mustapha, Director General of the National Productivity Centre. The event's lead speaker, Engr Umar Buba Bindir, Chairman of Bindir Knowledge Centre, also graced the occasion.

During the two-day summit, discussions will revolve around three key thematic areas: Water, Agriculture, and Food Security; Manufacturing and Industrial sector; and, Renewable Energy and Climate Change. In addition to insightful discussions, the event will feature exhibitions showcasing innovative solutions and technologies in various sectors.

The gathering underscores Nigeria's commitment to enhancing productivity through innovation, science, and technology to foster sustainable national development. As the summit progresses, participants are expected to engage in robust discussions, share best practices, and explore opportunities for collaboration to drive progress and transformation across key sectors.

Leadership: A Reflection Of Society, By Richard Odusanya

By Richard Odusanya 

Let's begin with the golden words of Awdhesh Singh, an Indian author, and educator with a passion for writing. Dr Singh, posited: "Leaders are usually a reflection of the people they lead. How can a leader be moral if his people are immoral?" Conversely, what Singh is saying is simple: you cannot give what you don't have. Let me at this point align with the position of the Indian author; for me, life is like a mirror reflecting your feelings, your actions and your thoughts. The idea is that everything you experience in life is a reflection of yourself.

Specifically, zero-ing in, on Nigeria and other developing polities of Africa, with concrete examples, let me stress here that, blaming leaders alone overlooks a fundamental truth - the root cause lies within society’s values and aspirations. Leadership, akin to a contest, crowns those who best epitomize prevailing societal ideals. Just as beauty standards vary across cultures, so too do the traits revered in leaders. Whether it be a beauty pageant or a political race, the victor mirrors the collective ethos of their constituency.

From a historical and evolutionary perspective, leaders are typically entrusted with the responsibility of making decisions that benefit the greater good of their constituents. As such, they are often held accountable for the consequences of their actions or inactions. Leaders have the power to shape policies, allocate resources, and set the tone for the society they lead. When leaders make poor decisions, act in a corrupt manner, or fail to address pressing issues, they can contribute to problems within their society.

On the other hand, the people within a society also play a role in shaping the environment in which they live. Citizens have the power to hold their leaders accountable through mechanisms such as elections, protests, and advocacy. Active citizen engagement and participation are essential for ensuring that leaders are responsive to the needs of the population and that policies reflect the interests of the people. Let me, therefore, continue with an interesting narrative of an emperor from the ancient China:

In ancient China, the emperor was growing old but did not have a successor. He wanted to choose one of the many children in his kingdom so that he could start training them to take the throne when he passed away. So, he sent out an announcement to all the families to send their most capable child to the palace. On the morning he specified on the invitation, the palace walls contained over a thousand children and their parents, eager to earn the favor of the emperor. He came in front of them and spoke loudly and clearly:

“I will now give each of you a single seed. It is your job to take care of the seed as though your life depends upon it. Come back to the palace precisely 8 months from now, and the one with the best and most beautiful plant, as judged by myself, will become the successor to the throne.”

The children eagerly lined up and received a single seed from the emperor, all of varying sizes, shapes, and even colors. The last in line was one little boy, who clutched the precious seed in his fist and ran all the way home to bury it deep in a pot with soft soil.

As the months went on, each child carefully watered their seeds and watched them grow. Saplings sprouted leaves, flowers, and even branches. Some grew even taller than the child it belonged to but the little boy, try as he might, could not get his seed to sprout. He changed the soil, added all kinds of fertilizers, and even tried watering it with milk instead. But all to no avail. When the 8-month mark came, he was the only one in line with a barren pot, and no plant at all.

When the emperor finally came to him, he looked down in shame. “I couldn’t sprout the seed,” he whispered. But the emperor only smiled thinly and moved on.

When all the plants had been inspected, the emperor stood in front of the crowd and spread his arms. “I have a confession to make,” he said. “The seeds I gave all of you were burnt and covered up to make them look healthy. They were not meant to grow at all.”

The emperor smiled at the little boy while all the other children gasped in shock. “Because you were the only one who did not buy a plant instead of following my instructions exactly,” he said, “you are the only one with enough integrity to succeed on my throne.” Undoubtedly, what happened in the case of the children underscores the essence of integrity. How can a leader be morally upright if his people are immoral?

In conclusion, permit me to drive home the point that leadership is a reflection of society with the various actions of the following: 

a) Dominique Strauss-Kahn resigned as head of the International Monetary Fund amid allegations that he sexually assaulted a maid in a luxury Manhattan hotel. 

b) James McDermott Jr, former chief executive and chairman of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, spent five months in prison and barred from the securities industry in 2000 after leaking stock tips to a porn star girlfriend Kathryn Gannon. 

c) Former US President Bill Clinton apologized to the country for his conduct in the Monica Lewinsky sex scandal. 

d) Victor Emmanuel, who is the son of Italy's last king, was stripped of his title in 2006 after his arrest involving a sex scandal with prostitutes. 

The above actions and taking responsibility are the difference between a decent society and a profoundly sick society. Imagine if Africa, particularly Nigeria society in the same situation and circumstances of the actions of the personalities mentioned above saddled with decisions for taking responsibility.

Finally, permit me to concur with the position that ethics are the actions that we take based on what is deemed proper behavior within society. Morals guide our decisions in society as well as in the workplace. Responsibility is someone's duty to perform in some way. Morality is someone's measure of understanding of what is right and wrong. Etiquette is socially expected behavior in terms of manners.

Richard Odusanya

[email protected]

Rivers Assembly Crisis: Blame Wike For Your Woes, PDP Youths Tell Martins, Ex-Members

By Dansu Peter

Th People’s Democratic Party (PDP) National Solidarity Vanguard has blamed former Governor Nyesom Wike for the 'monumental loss' of about 25 Rivers State Assembly seats.

The PDP group accused the FCT Minister of using Hon. Amaewhule Martins and other ex-PDP lawmakers as cannon fodder in his ill-advised fight with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

In December, the assembly members loyal to the immediate past governor defected to the All Progressives Congress in the wake of the political impasse involving him and Governor Fubara.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, Hon. Usman Saidu Calculus, the Executive Director of the PDP National Solidarity Vanguard described Wike as a saboteur working against the party.

Calculus said the former governor is blinded by his financial muscle and doesn't understand the true essence of leadership

"Wike, once a prominent member of our party played a pivotal role in this monumental loss. His actions have cost us dearly, and we cannot remain silent," the statement said.

"To the extent that he has weakened the party for the APC, we can no longer consider him a member of our party. He is already enjoying the 30 pieces of silver he sold the PDP for.

"We must express our anger, disappointment, and resolve to protect the integrity of the PDP. But why did this happen? Why did lawmakers who were elected on our platform abandon their mandates, and throw away twenty-five parliamentary seats in one day?

"The answer lies in the unchecked ambition of one man—Nyesom Wike. His financial muscle, while impressive, blinded him to the true essence of leadership. Money alone cannot sustain a political movement; it takes wisdom, humility, and a genuine commitment to the people. Only such arrogance that makes him continue to parade himself as a chieftain of the PDP even when his habitual treachery is glaring for all to see.

"Femi Falana (SAN), the legal luminary whose insights we respect, has rightly pointed out that political parties are not mere vehicles for personal gain. They are institutions that serve the collective interest of the citizens. Wike’s actions, driven by hubris and a disregard for due process, have undermined our party’s cohesion and unity. "

The PDP group, therefore, called on the party leadership to take decisive action and expel Wike from the party.

"Let this be a stern message to all who would put their ambitions above the party’s well-being and future. We cannot afford to lose more lawmakers or members in other states, especially when the stakes are now so high ahead of the next general elections," the statement added.

"Our solidarity vanguard stands firm. We will not waver in our

 commitment to the PDP’s principles. Let us rally together, rebuild our ranks, and emerge stronger. Our party deserves leaders who uphold its values, not those who undermine them."

Na'Allah; Living A Legacy Of Service, Results And Standard In UniAbuja

By Abubakar Yusuf 

Beyond Nigeria's administrative decisions, the outgoing Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na'Allah would have stayed beyond the statutory tenure of five years, not for its sake, but having grappled with over 8 months nationwide ASUU strike and world ravaged COVID pandemic that occasioned lock downs , post COVID era and Delta variant that ate into his tenure between June 2019 -2024.

If it were in other advance climes, Professor Na'Allah would have gotten an automatic extension of twelve months or a year to mitigate the months lost to the two major national and international activities that crippled the university system across the country, not minding his administrative wisdom.

This had brought us to the argument that school administrators in the rank of Rectors, Provost and Vice Chancellors of academic institutions in Nigeria's tenure should be excluded from the period of emergencies and strikes, so as to get the best of administration and leadership from appointees.

The development had putting a lot of pressure on the outgoing Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na'Allah into completing many laudable projects he initiated in the last five years , but time bound on his exit date of June , 30th, 2024.

Undaunted by the Nigeria's factor of tenured appointments, Na'Allah has pursued his pet project of land reclamation and remodelling of the university from the temporary site in Gwagwalada to the permanent site along the airport road,  that had become a rallying point to others security agencies particularly the Army , Navy and Air Force who have taken cue from the institution to avoid further encroachment from communities and residents.

With the land reclamation and ongoing perimeter fencing , the threat of security to lives of students, workers and staff of the university had become a thing of the past , with students now feeling more secured staying on the campus unlike in the previous years.

He is living a robust academic and administrative system were students and lecturers , workers of the institution interacts at that level in line with the new code of conduct.

Professor  Na'Allah expanded the Infrastructural and academic sphere through building of several structures across departments, units , centres , established more departments and faculties as well embarked vigorously on massive construction, renovation and completion of abandoned projects in the institution.

He laid a solid foundation for community relations between the students, staff and the community to synergise and inculcate the norms of players , hence the establishment of Centre for community development.

To ensure the parlance of character and learning is beyond mere rhetorics, Na'Allah in collaboration with CAC, and other government agencies established Centre for Enterpreneurial Development to enable students attain not only academic certification, but enterpreneurship before graduation.

Aside all these initiatives, Na'Allah initiated a Board of Advisers, Trustees to ensure the laudable program he embarked upon during his tenure did not end with him, but a lasting legacies to be reckoned with by subsequent students of the institution.

His tenure witnessed multiple local and foreign grants to the academic staff ,along with adequate attention from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund TETFUND and other foreign agencies to academic staff both old and newly recruited ones to service the new departments and faculities.

Staff promotions, advancement and employment were given adequate attention, to ensure seamless inculcation of academic activities on the students.

Gone were the days when certificates of graduating students were been delayed for years, the new university under Professor Na'Allah ensured results and certificates of students are ready as matriculation and convocation in the institution was no longer delayed or grouped together like the previous order.

Professor Na'Allah did not compromise academic and administrative programs and also introduced series of transportation system within the institution including the movement of bicycles within the campus, to reduce the burden of movement of students from one department to other within the campus after the removal of subsidy.

Na'Allah has introduced series of welfare packages for staff both at ASUU, NASU and other unions of the university including self development, advancement that attracted benefits to the institution and individuals involved.

As the university bids Na'Allah farewell come June, 30th, 2024 and his resolve to continue to remain active till the last day in office , with a clear vision on sacrifice and hardwork, no doubt he will be bidding farewell from the ivory tower , but not tired from the public service, as his unparalleled achievements will attract him to the government desire to continue to deploy good hands to the betterment of the Nigeria's education

system, as demonstrated by the outgoing Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na'Allah during his term both at the University of Abuja and the Kwara State University, KWASU, Malete.

NECO; Deputy House Leader Canvass For Measures To Reduce Examination Malpractices

The Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and Member Representing Ankpa, Omala and Olamaboro Federal Constituency of Kogi State, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims has canvassed for efforts that will reduce examination malpractices in the conduct of the National Examination Council, (NECO).

He stated this at a retreat organized by the body on Wednesday in Abuja.

He described examination malpractices as a cancer worm that has eaten deep into the fabrics of ordinary Nigerians.

While calling on the examination body to seek for further collaboration with the National Assembly, the federal lawmaker reminded them of the need to refocus the activities of the body, with a view to delivering on its mandate.

He stated that the National Assembly through its oversight functions will ensured that the basic requirements needed for its activities to meeting the needed programs will be tackled.

Garlands At 70 For Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi, Pragmatic Leadership At National Assembly Service Commission

By Abubakar Yusuf 

Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE is the current Executive Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission NASC, appointed along with his commissioners in 2020, unlike other Nigerians clocked 70 years on 9th, May , 2024, yet in active public service.

This was a fall out of his determination to continue to serve his fatherland, so as to ensure continuous service delivery in line with the best practices.

Engr Kadi who left the services of Yobe state government as a permanent secretary after attaining the mandatory age of 60 years, is replicating his success story at the state level soon after the ratification of his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2020.

Before then , Amshi worked with the former Senate President in the 9th Senate, Distinguished Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan as Chief of Staff during his days as Senate leader in the 8th Senate between 2015-2019.

The National Assembly Service Commission Chairman piloted the affairs of the Senate leader which prompted his appointment purely on merit as the Executive Chairman of the commission.

On appointment, Kadi four years down the line with versed experiences in legislative assignments has revolutionised performance, through his trajectory of his achievements along with his commissioners that had turned the commission into enviable heights.

He ensured the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and by extension the National Assembly performed its statutory functions optimally, to deliver on the expected transformation agenda embarked by his commission.

Away from a demoralized staffers inundated with demands and agitations, lack of promotions, stagnated on the job growth and development, Kadi prioritised constant promotions as at when due, training and retraining, capacity building, payment of all arears and instill both discipline and reward system at both the commission and the National Assembly.

Kadi along with commissioners organized a two decades award ceremony for workers of the commission were both retired and serving workers were honored for their meritorious service, a process put in place by his leadership.

He break the jinx of accomodation problems of the commission as he embarked on the gigantic and multi billion naira project of the National Assembly Service Commission NASC office complex, located at the three arms after two decades due for commissioning soon.

During his three years anniversary under his leadership along with his commissioners , Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE held his head high to present the 'Report Card' read under a serene atmosphere to the impression of the members of the 9th Senate due to his unique performance.

He ended protracted and frequent strikes at the commission and the National Assembly by ensuring not only a synergy between the legislatures and staff of the National Assembly Service and the National Assembly, but payment of all entitlements as at when due.

He also resolved labour related matters that had to do with employment of new staff by the previous administration at NASC, and a converted the locum and temporary staff to full employment, that doused the frequent agitations from those affected.

Through his synergy, he ensured the passage of January to December circle of yearly budget for consecutive four years, through massive mobilisation of staffers of the Assembly towards improving the socioeconomic and political development of the country.

With adequate training and retraining , staff are well equipped to confront any unforeseen situations particularly the current 10th Assembly, were most of the federal lawmakers are new and deserves more attention to enable them acclamatize/ acquaint both with the environment and workings of the National Assembly.

The commission had embarked on training of both the federal lawmakers and their legislative aides that will address dearth of knowledge and wealth of experience to assist them on their primary assignments at the plenary, oversights, committees, adhocs among many others.

Born in Jakusko local government area of Yobe state, Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE is a Fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers FNSE, he was the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Society of Engineers NSE, between 2009-2014.

Kadi who rose through the cadre of the Yobe state civil service was a Director in the state Ministry of Works, General Manager, Rural Electrification Board and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Transport all in Yobe state.

He became a Permanent Secretary, the top echelon of the civil service in Yobe state and served variously in the Ministry of Water Resources, were he supervised the 3.6Billion Damaturu rural water scheme among other World Bank projects, and later Permanent Secretary, Manpower Development charged with the development and capacity building of the entire workforce of Yobe state, between 2004-2007 and 2007-2008 before his retirement from the state civil service.

Kadi who is not privy to awards and recognitions has won many both in the private and public service, national and international level.

As you mark your septuagenarian year of 70 years and still active in the public service, it is an indicator of your passion to continue to serve your father land at any given capacity and assignments going forward.

Congratulations and Happy Birthday on this unique feat. Wishing you many more years in the services of your father land.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF, A Public Commentator and can be reached on [email protected].

E- Auction: Adeniyi's Magic Wand Against Translucence In Nigeria Custom Service

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Leadership of Adewale Adeniyi as Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service NCS is laced with transparency and accountability, particularly in his quest to bequeath a lasting legacies in the service .

This resulted in matching words with actions from the recently declared first quarter revenue generated by the service that overshot the expected income of each quarter, to meet the 5 trillion target in the current year, 2024.

The accountable activities of the NCS does not stop at revenue generation alone, which is the core mandate of the agency, but had proved it's mettle in one of the core programs , the E-Auction , a process that was hitherto shrouded in mystery and sharp practices.

This year's exercise under the leadership of Adeniyi was laced with decorum, particularly from point to point that led to the generation of huge revenue amounting to half a billion.

With the crystal enumeration of both seized items, goods and overtime cargoes abandoned at the ports, hitherto been fraudulently manipulated, Adeniyi adopted a sane measure that became a rallying point to the stakeholders and not feasible in the previous years in the NCS.

Gone where those days when both the officers and men through proxy and stooges re-circled e-auction activities through hijacking of the process,  that does not go down well with the public and stakeholders.

For Adeniyi, to sustain the laudable platform meant to sanitize the system, transparency and accountability must be a watch word to the public, particularly at this crucial time when the image of the service have been subject to public scrutiny and debates.

With the new leadership in the Nigerian Customs NCS , efforts must be put in place to restore it's lost glory and relive true confidence of Nigerians in the service.

With a committee in place appointed by the CG NCS, which screened publicly applicants from over 13, 000 subscribers, with 476 vehicles uploaded on the portal , which 462 won.

With the workable format of auctioning goods to the public along with payment of statutory duties on the vehicles, the service is returning to the part of glory that will earn the prestige and confidence of ordinary Nigerians.

This is against the backdrop of public outcry, insinuations and allegations of manipulation by officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service NCS, appointed by the CG NCS who were men of proven integrity and service delivery.

The decision of the NCS DG to relive e- auction as a platform to dispose vehicles and goods will discourage corruption and smuggling at the ports.

With the establishment of guidelines and procedures, ordinary Nigerians can apply through the process online to own a car or goods of his/her choice provided it is guided by the rules of the game.

With the new format and positive development, no doubt the previous erosion of confidence of the general public in the NCS would have become a thing of the past.

All hands must however be on deck to continue to support not only the transformation agenda of Adewale Adeniyi in the new NCS, but support to transparency and accountability as well as the rule of law backed the operations of it's act.

For Adewale Adeniyi, the process of rebuilding the NCS away from its traditional and analogue form of rendering its service to the general public is on course, with digitisation as the other of the day, both nationally and internationally.

The E- Auction platform has come to stay, having been tested and trusted with less human activities that will attract public outcry, rather than commendation from the current exercise.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on [email protected].

Commissioners, Staff Celebrates National Assembly Service Commission Chairman At 70

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Executive Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission NASC, Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE said the current leadership has prioritised staff welfare and development and will continue to sustain the tempo.

He made this remark on Thursday during the celebration of his 70th birthday organised by staff of his office at the headquarters in Utako, Abuja.

Kadi who revealed his plans to continue to render selfless service for the rest of his term in office commended his staff, staff of the commission and the commissioners for ensuring the success of the present leadership.

"We may disagree, but at most times we agreed to move the commission to greater heights, which we have collectively achieved." The Executive Chairman maintained.

Kadi who solicited for more cooperation stated that there is no perfection in human activity, stating that he may have done wrong in his official disposition, but not personal against any of the staff of the commission.

While speaking on behalf of the commissioners of the commission, the commissioner representing North Central, Elder Auwalu Ohindase congratulated the Executive Chairman for joining the club of 70 years old.

He said the commission is celebrating him today for his humane and non- discriminatory leadership in the last four years.

 

"On behalf of my colleagues , the commissioners, it was resolved to pass a vote of confidence on your leadership , as you operated with human face in all ramifications ."

"We pray to Almighty God to continue to grant you more years in the services of humanity and your fatherland."

In her remarks , the acting secretary of the commission, Mrs Omobolanle Lipede thanked the chairman for carrying along all staff of the commission with fairness, justice and sincerity of purpose, while congratulating him on his birthday.

Comrade Shaibu Baba Mohammed, the Parliamentary Staff Association PASAN chairman, National Assembly Service Commission NASC  branch on behalf of the staff of the commission appreciated the chairman for a result oriented tenure, stating that the entire members of PASAN, NASC branch extended their heartfelt solidarity on his new age.

He said the body has never had it so good, since the inception of the commission, particularly with the quality of leadership Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE has displayed over the last four years.

Highlights of the occasion included the cutting of the cake, toast, among many others with the commissioners, top management staff of the commission and invited guests.

Agojeju Odo Massacre; House Deputy Leader, Halims Calls For Citing Of Military Base In Omala

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Deputy House Leader, House of Representatives, Rt Honorable Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims has requested for citing of a military presence in Omala local government area of Kogi state in view of frequent attacks from herders on residents of the area.

Halims while moving a motion of urgent national importance on the floor of the house on Thursday also called for the immediate reinforcement of police and the military through the inspector general of police and the Chief of defence staff.

The federal lawmaker who expressed worry on the safety of lives and properties of the people of the area said the devastated residents of Agojeju Odo village deserved urgent attention from the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA and other relevant agencies for immediate attention.

He said the community who were purely agrarian have been displaced after the killings of over 40 people by the bandits, and are scattered all round the local government headquarters at Abejukolo, while others are taken refuge in the neighborhood local government of Ankpa, Dekina and Nassarrawa state.

He expressed regrets on the continuous attacks on communities in Omala , stating that the recent one at Bagana left a sour experience on the psyche of the people.

The Deputy House Leader called for proactiveness on the part of security agencies and local vigilantees, so as to nip in the bud in future such unfortunate occurrences.

Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum Replies Olu Of Warri, Says NNPCL Owes No Explanations

... Accuses Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan of giving Olu of Warri backing effontery

... Decribes claims by Itsekiri Pipelines Surveillance Stakeholders as spurious, irritating 

The controversy over the termination of the $3.9M monthly contract of the company owned by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Pipelines Infrastructures Nigeria Limited (PINL) has continued to linger as Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) once again accused the Itsekiri  monarch and the  management of PINL of being dishonest.

According to the group, for the Itsekiri monarch and PINL to be honest, they have to lay bare the circumstances, which led to the termination of their non-performing Trans-forcados pipeline contract in the public domain 

NDSF, in a statement issued on Friday, lambasted a group fronting for the Itsekiri monarch and his company, Itsekiri Pipelines Surveillance Stakeholders (IPSS),  of being ingrorant of the facts of the matter "they were hired and paid by the Olu and his company to defend."

The NDSF in the statement signed by its leader, Chief Julius Daukoru, also described as "laughable" the call by the Itsekiri fictitious group asking NNPCL's management to provide explanations for the termination of the surveillance job of the Trans-forcados pipelines hitherto handled by the Itsekiri monarch.

The NDSF insisted that the management of NNPCL neither owed the Olu and his company nor the "renegade group" any explanation over the termination of the non-performing contract.

NDSF, which promised to issue another detailed statement soon, said the group led by "one Collins Oritsemeyin Edema,  merely demonstrated arrant ignorance and gullibility at the media briefing over the controversy generated by the termination of the Olu of Warri contract recently in Warri."

The NDSF said "those handpicked as members of the hurriedly formed and non-existent fictitious group were either paid for the hatchet job or merely showing gratitude to the Olu of Warri for previous help and favours  rendered to them by the Itsekiri monarch, such as in the case of Collins Edema, who was appointed as self-serving Olu of Warri liason to NNPCL."

Daukoru said the task expected  of the Olu of Warri and his company was simple, which "is to come up with facts and figures of their performances in the handling of the Trans-forcados pipeline surveillance job."

"But instead of doing what is right, they decided to hire idle hands and surrogates for naming calling and giving of spurious excuses. "

"Otherwise, how do you explain the attempts by the imaginary  Itsekiri Pipelines Surveillance Stakeholders to blackmail the NNPCL that the  Trans-forcados pipelines are located on Omadino Land, under the overlordship of the Olu of Warri?"

  "By implication, they are saying that the  overlordship of the Olu has made it compelling for the NNPCL to sustain a non-performing contract to the Olu of Warri and his company?"

"The Itsekiri Stakeholders also need to answer another question to which, does the Olu of Warri have overlordship over the various  communities in Rivers, Imo, Abia and part of Bayelsa where his PINL is currently handling pipeline surveillance jobs for NNPCL? Are there no monarchs, with overlordship authorities in those areas?"

"Why is the Olu of Warri operating outside his domains when it becomes an issue when  Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and other companies are awarded jobs in Omadino? Even the claims of ownershipby the Itsekiri to these areas are spurious and at variance with historical facts."

"We expect the Olu and some of his subjects, sympathetic to him to come out clean  by admitting that the PINL failed to do the right thing in the handling of the $3.9M monthly job awarded to it instead of blackmailing and intimidating the management of NNPCL."

"Let the management of  PINL come out openly with facts and figures to defend the company. Was the Trans-forcados pipeline being incessantly damaged or not under the watch of the company, the developmmey which made it compelling for the contract to be terminated?

 "Is it justifiable for the NNPCL to sustain the award of the  contract to PINL in the circumstances of continuous wreckage of the Trans-forcados pipelines by oil thieves as PINL appeared helpless and pocketing $3.9M monthly for doing nothing?

"Our Itsekiri brothers and sisters should not be brainwashed to see the decision of the NNPCL to terminate this non-performance contract as an affront against the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. Was the contact awarded to Itsekiri ethnic nationality in the first place or PINL by NNPCL? 

It's not a war against the Itsekiri nation but purely a business transaction in which someone has to justify why he should continue to pocket a whooping sum of $3.9M monthly for doing nothing."

"So anyone trying to defend this failure should be abreast with the issues and not come to the public space as ethnic bigots."

"How many Itsekiri even knew about the existence of $3.9M monthly contract awarded to PINL in over 2 years, talkless of feeling the impact of the award of such heavy contract?"

"Our Itsekiri brothers and sisters should borrow a leaf from the patriotic zeal and fervour demonstrated by a prominent Itsekiri leader, Mr. Godwin Ebosa, who came out boldly to state that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has been doing a fantastic job and warned that no Itsekiri man should lose sleep over the fate of the Olu of Warri because it was a case of business transaction turned sour."

"So, why would any sane person demand an explanation from the NNPCL for the termination of a non-performing contract? Are they saying that NNPCL cannot hire and fire? Does the NNPCL requires the approval of anyone before terminating a non-performing contract?

"We know from the reliable authorities from NNPCL that the Trans-forcados contract of PINL would have been terminated long time ago if not for the intervention of the Vice President, Upstream, NNPCL, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, who is  playing ethnic cards with her job, by supporting PINL to retain the job for wrong reasons."

"Even the Olu and management of PINL derive their effontery to challenge the NNPCL to provide explanations over the termination of the contracts from the encouragement being received from Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan. She is using her office to give backing to the Itsekiri monarch in sustaining  non-performing contracts."

"It's high time that Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan is made to be conscious of the fact that she was not appointed into the NNPCL board to serve the narrow ethnic interests of her Itsekiri kits and kins. She is in the NNPCL's board to serve the general national interest."

"If she falls to realise this and continue to exhibit parochial ethnic interest, we will not hesitate to demand for her removal," the statement by Daukoru added.

Attah Igala Pays Courtesy Visit to the Honourable Minister Of Steel Development To Discuss Issues Of National Interest

The Attah of Igala and President, Kogi State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa CFR on Friday, May 10, 2024, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu in his office to discuss issues of national interest and progress of the Igala Kingdom.

The Attah Igala lauded Prince Audu for the strides he has achieved in moving the steel industry forward within a short period since he assumed duty as Minister of Steel Development, expressing confidence in him that the steel revival plans of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR will materialise.

The royal father also commended the minister for the role he has been playing in uniting the people of Igala Kingdom, the entire people of Kogi State, and pushing for their best interests at the federal level. 

The Attah Igala also thanked the Honourable Minister for his recent visit to Omala local government area to visit the community in which many people were brutally attacked and murdered by the bandits and for his kind donation to the victims.

Receiving the Attah Igala, the Minister thanked him for the honour of paying him a visit in his office and to discuss issues concerning Igala Land and Kogi State, which the Royal Father is very passionate about. 

The Honourable Minister described the Attah’s visit as a blessing and a great privilege of his life, assuring him of using his position judiciously for the positive development of Igala Land, Kogi State and Nigeria at large. 

The Royal Majesty gave the Honourable Minister his royal blessings after the meeting.

Lizzy Okoji

Special Assistant Media to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development,

Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu

May 10, 2024

Yahaya Bello: Lawyers drag EFCC Chairman to UN, UK, threatens Visa ban

By Dansu Peter 

Some legal practitioners in the country have dragged the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede to the United Nations, United Kingdom and other international nations.

At a press conference on Friday in Abuja, the lawyers accused the EFCC boss of flagrantly disregarding valid court orders and breaching the constitutional rights of Nigerians. 

In his address, Barr. Emmanuel Agada said the team have already began measures to institute visa ban on Olukoyede should he continue to trample on the rights of Nigerian citizens, the way he did to former Governor Yahaya Bello.

Agada said that the lawyers are also considering blocking international funding and support to the EFCC should Olukoyede continue on this path.  

The statement reads: “As young lawyers, we envisage a judiciary where justice is not only done but manifestly seen to be done. It is in our patriotic quest to always pursue ventures that guarantee an independent judiciary that dispenses justice without fear nor Favour that we formed this civil society of lawyers. 

“It is in the pursuit of this mandate that we have written to the United Nations High Commission For Human Rights, the United States of America, through its embassy in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, through its Nigerian embassy and the European Union as bastions of democracy and Human Rights to investigate the flagrant disregard of a valid Court Order and breach of constitutional rights of Nigerian citizens by the EFCC chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede and caution him. 

“As you know, we have already written to Mr. President who has started on a good trajectory and began to enjoy the massive support of overwhelming majority of Nigerians, to call the EFCC chairman in order not to allow his desperation to use the institution to pursue political objectives to bring this administration to public odium and opprobrium. 

“In our petition to the above mentioned bodies, we were strong in our call for the EFCC chairman to be cautioned and should he continue to disregard Court Orders and Injunctions, and trample on the rights of Nigerian citizens, the way he did against former Governor Yahaya Bello, a comprehensive and total Visa Ban must be implemented and international organizations who support the commission via funding must be enjoined to stop forthwith until the commission purges itself of every unconstitutional approach in exercising their constitutional mandate. 

“We are aware that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) provides expertise, guidance and support to UN human rights teams. These teams have recorded huge success in many countries through coordinated human rights sustainability initiatives. It is why we have called for their intervention to help strengthen our institutions and safeguard human rights and dignity of Nigerian citizens.

“Nigerians must begin to take hard decisions to shape our country and its institutions for the better. We must not allow individuals to corrupt the very institutions that brought so much reprieve when corruption ate deep into the very fabrics of our existence. 

“Our main objective as lawyers is to push for the respect of the judiciary and stronger institutions whose mandate will never be dictated by political or social affiliations. “