JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede not qualified for Honours Award , says TADI

By Dansu Peter 

The Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative, TADI has said the Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, Ishaq Oloyede is not qualified for the proposed national merit award about to be conferred on  him by President Muhammadu Buhari. 

TADI said this is due to the various corruption allegations levelled against the JAMB boss which he is yet to clear his name.

TADI led by its legal Adviser Edward Omaga in a protest march to the Presidential Villa this morning said Oloyede should be immediately removed from the list of credible Nigerians to be awarded. 

Omaga said there is no doubt that the culture of impunity flourishes at the helm of affairs of JAMB unabatedly since Professor Is-haq Oloyede assumed office as Registrar. 

He said in a bid to remain afloat despite his atrocities Professor Is-haq Oloyede decided to enter into some form of unholy romance with the ICPC under the leadership of Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, SAN. Unfortunately, this unholy romance between JAMB and the ICPC is supported by the  Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu who opted to remain mute in the face of glaring fraud and official corruption being perpetrated by Prof. Is-haq Oloyede. 

"Mr. President, it is appalling to see the extent of damage caused by corruption and nepotism to our corporate existence as a nation 62 years after independence. We are saddened to let you know that JAMB and ICPC have connived to sabotage the vigorous efforts of the Federal Government to kill corruption before corruption kills Nigeria.

"It should be recalled that on 26th July 2022 a Ministerial Investigation into the illegal activities of Prof. Is-haq Oloyede led JAMB was requested through a letter by our sister organization, Integrity & Transparency Watchdog (ITW), after it has painstakingly unraveled massive corruption and gross abuse of office by the Registrar and Director of Finance & Accounts (DFA) Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello, respectively. Though this letter was delivered to the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu he refused to act most probably because Prof. Is-haq Oloyede is his long-standing friend right from the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) where they both work together. Acknowledgement page of the letter is attached herewith as ANNEXURE A.

"On Monday, 21st August 2022 a follow up letter on the same subject matter was sent to the Minister of Education by our own Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative (TADI) with the aim of further intimating the Honourable Minister on the need to salvage the ugly situation at JAMB. Our letter suffered the same fate as the first one sent by ITW. Acknowledgement copy of the letter is attached herewith as ANNEXURE B. We did not stop at that but wrote to about 15 Government Functionaries, including the Federal Ministry of Education, on 19th September, 2022 to protest against the proposed collaboration between JAMB and ICPC to hold the 4TH NATIONAL SUMMIT ON DIMINISHING CORRUPTION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR which is ongoing now at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. Acknowledgement pages of the letter are attached as ANNEXURE C. It was because our advice that the collaboration be stopped was neglected that we are embarking on this street protest today. 

"As the wise saying goes, “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil” and evil prevails when the righteous keep quiet. We submit that the deliberate silence of the Office of the Minister of Education connotes that there exists an aiding and abetting symbiotic corrupt relationship between JAMB and the Ministry of Education which could be said to have become pronounced since Prof. Is-haq Oloyede was appointed for the second term. Mallam Adamu Adamu has shown himself to be like a father who has failed to check the excesses and wrong-doings of his child - Prof. Is-haq Oloyede. The naked truth is that the action of the Honourable Minister of Education by attempting to cover up the atrocities of Prof. Is-haq Oloyede and shield him from reprimand will end up destroying JAMB unless Mr. President intervenes.

"What is the credibility of the ongoing Summit on Diminishing Corruption in the Public Sector when the JAMB Registrar Prof. Is-haq Oloyede has refused to absolve himself of all the allegations leveled against him and the DFA?

"Why has ICPC failed to act on the dictate of its statutory mandate as an anti-graft agency?

:Mr. President, what LEGACY will you leave behind for Nigeria concerning the fight against anti-corruption and impunity when leaving office on 29th May, 2022 if Prof. Is-haq Oloyede is left to continue as Registrar of JAMB?

 In conclusion, we join millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to applaud the huge gains recorded by your administration in the fight against corruption and all forms of economic crimes in our country. Even the blind can see and the deaf can hear that as President of Nigeria for eight years, you have remained resilient and committed to sanitizing the country for the benefit of our unborn generations. The level of integrity, patriotism and doggedness you have exhibited as a leader is unparalleled in the history of Nigeria. It is our humble DEMAND that you hear our cry and urgently save the soul of JAMB by doing the following: 

"That you DIRECT the ICPC to investigate and prosecute the duo of Professor Is-haq Oloyede and Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello on the basis of the allegations contained in ANNEXURES A and B attached to this letter. 

"That you REMOVE the name of Professor Is-haq Oloyede from the list of persons penciled down for conferment of National Honours Awards at the State House, Abuja on 11th October, 2022 as he lacks integrity and credibility.

Meanwhile,TADI has also denounced an Abuja based activist,Kabir Mutazu due to his unholy romance with the JAMB Leadership without the consent of TADI.

TADI said the organisation does not have anything whatsoever to do with the said activist as ihe cannot speak on behalf of the organisation 

BREAKING: ASUU splinter union, CONUA gets FG's certificate to run

By  Dansu Peter 

Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA), a breakaway faction of Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU has been granted approval to run as a rival academic union of University lectures. 

According to The Nation, the FG in an attempt to clip the wings of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, the Federal Government will on Tuesday present a certificate of registration to the .

Minister of Labour and Employment Dr Chris Ngige will do the presentation.

This was contained in an invitation sent to reporters on Tuesday by the Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Oshundun Olajide.

Yellow Page mobile

CONUA, a breakaway faction of ASUU with a presence in a few federal universities, is led by its National Coordinator, ‘Niyi Sunmonu, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

The message by the Ministry of Labour read: “The Honorable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige cordially invites you to the recognition and presentation of Certificate of Registration to the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA).

2023 Lagos Assembly Aspirants Vow To Mobilize 3million Votes for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu

By Dansu Peter 

A group under the auspices of Lagos State House of Assembly  2023, (LAHAA) has vowed to mobilize nothing less than 3 million votes for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the reelection seeking Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and other elective candidates in the state. 

The group disclosed this earlier today, 26th September  2022 at a press briefing today in Lagos. 

According to a statement delivered by the group's coordinator, Hon. Adeyinka Odukoya, Lagos State House of Assembly Aspirants Forum 2023 is the umbrella body of all committed Members of our great party, All Progressives Congress, who contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly tickets in the Party's primaries held earlier in the year.

The group said it's committed to the APC victories in all elective positions; the presidential, senate and the state house of assembly election. 

To achieve this, Hon. Odukoya said the group has designed a grassroots based campaign mechanism to mobilze market men and women throughout the state. 

The Full Text of the Press Statement. 

SPEECH DELIVERED BY THE COORDINATOR OF THE LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ASPIRANTS- FORUM 2023* by  Hon.ADEYINKA ODUKOYA DURING A MEDIA BRIEFING HELD IN LAGOS ON SEPTEMBER 26TH, 2023.

LAHA 2023.. FOR THE LOVE OF OUR PARTY.

All Protocols duly observed

Distinguished Ladies & Gentlemen, Gentlemen of the Press,I feel highly honoured and  delighted on behalf of Lagos State House of Assembly Aspirants 2023 to address this wonderful gathering which marks our commitment and desire for the development and success of our dear party, All Progressives Congress in the forthcoming 2023 General Elections.

I am pleased to introduce to you, the Lagos State House of Assembly Aspirants Forum 2023 which is the umbrella body of all committed Members of our great party, All Progressives Congress, who contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly tickets in the Party's primaries held earlier in the year.

It is commonplace that Nigeria Political Party Governance is replete with situations where party Members who lost out during primaries always tend to work against their parties in general elections. What such people fail to realise is that Politics is all  about Who gets what, When and How and not a do or die.

We are proud of our dear party APC for  having distinguished itself as a responsible  party with members who are not only disciplined but committed to the ideals of the party and the virtues of the founding fathers  as against personal ambitions.

This we have come to prove today through this media briefing.

Ladies and gentlemen we're pleased to inform you that despite missing out on the tickets after primaries,  our members are indeed committed to accepting and submitting themselves to the supremacy of the party hence our irrevocable commitment to deliver our party at all levels.

Our Party candidates led by our Paramount Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,our amiable and hardworking Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu,our Senatorial,House of Representatives and House of Assembly Candidates can be rest assured that victory will surely come their ways.

Our commitment to ensuring total victory for our party is unquestionable. Our group slogan...FOR THE LOVE OF OUR PARTY is a clear testimony of our  standing firm with our party.We are not alone in this but with our teeming members who are loyal and faithful to us with our respective structures and networks in all our various constituencies.

Going forward LAHAA 2023 has conceptualised and ready to roll our campaign strategy with a grand vision to deliver a minimum of 3 (three) MILLION votes for our Presidential and Governorship candidates in the next election.

Our target is to reach out to many Nigerians,party and  non-party members who possess Permanent Voters Card with a determination to convert and convince them to cast their votes for all our candidates in the elections for the interest of our Country and Lagos State.

Consequently, we have developed templates for workable strategies that may include MARKET STORMING. By this we shall be committing our members and their supporters to reach out to market men and women across Lagos State with a view to engaging them in a one-on-one conversation that will lead them to casting their votes for our candidates. 

Furthermore,we have identified the various markets in each Local Government and  Local Council Development Areas within the state with a well-mapped out strategy and plans to ensure that we reach these potential voters in their comfort zones especially those who are not card-carrying members of our great party.

We know that all hands must be on deck to deliver the results for APC and help deepen the development and dividend of democracy which is being dished out by our great party at all levels, especially in our dear state.

For this reason, our members are going to re-invigorate their networks and influence within their constituencies to galvanise votes for all the candidates of the parties at all levels in line with the vision of our leaders.

While looking forward to meeting and discussing  the details of our plans  with Mr Governor and other critical stakeholders so as to get their buy-in and support, may we express our profound gratitude to HE: Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu for his focus and commitment to the development of the state through the  ‘Greater Lagos’ Mantra. 

His  Excellency's administrative prowess, uncommon, visionary and pragmatic leadership have indeed contributed to the huge infratructural and human capital development of our dear state.

May we seize this opportunity to pass a big vote of confidence on Mr. Governor and enjoin all Lagosians to support him for the  continuation of his good  work for another four years.

Ladies and gentlemen,on behalf of my colleagues LAHAA 2023,I wish to profoundly thank you all for your cooperation and support not only for our party but for our governments at all levels.

*LAHAA 2023,FOR THE LOVE OF OUR PARTY.*

God bless All Progressives Congress!

God bless Lagos State!!

God bless  Nigeria.!!!

Hon.ADEYINKA ODUKOYA

Coordinator.

EXCLUSIVE: Aregbesola in, Osinbajo out: See full list of 422-man 2023 APC Presidential Campaign Council

The embattled minister of interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has made a surprised inclusion in the Presidential Campaign Council of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. 

According to Punch Newspapers, following weeks of anxiety and serial postponements, the presidential campaign council list of the flagbearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was released with several notable names of party chieftains missing.

The 422-man list has names of political heavyweights including APC governors, ministers, lawmakers, ambassadors as well as serving and past public office holders.

In the latest list released by the Presidential Campaign Council Secretary, James Faleke, in Abuja on Friday night, Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, retained his position as Director-General just as Deputy Director-General (Operations), Adams Oshiomhole, and Director of Media and Publicity, Bayo Onanuga.

However, there are shocking omission of party stalwarts, many of whom have been at loggerheads or engaged in cold war with Tinubu over his preference for the contentious Muslim-Muslim ticket.

They include Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal; former Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba and one of Tinubu’s sweat merchant, Adebayo Shittu, who heads one of his biggest support groups — Asiwaju Tinubu-Shettima Coalition for Good Governance.

While the camp of Osinbajo had distanced itself from the former Lagos governor after his emergence as winner of the APC presidential ticket, the duo of Dogara and Lawal had remained a perennial thorn in Tinubu’s flesh for selecting ex-Borno Governor Senator Kashim Shettima, a fellow Muslim, as running mate.

Dogara had predicted on Tuesday that the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket was a fruitless political effort that was “doomed to end in spectacular failure.”

The ex-speaker made the statement while delivering his keynote address at a summit tagged ‘Meet The Church,’ organised by the Nigeria National Christian Coalition.

Lawal, on the other hand, vowed that the introduction of a same-faith ticket by the APC was a deliberate plan to further create divisions in the north.

The disgruntled former SGF, who spoke during an interview on Arise Television, declared that he was working with about 40 Christian leaders in the north to ensure that the contentious APC ticket failed.

Despite defending his principal stoutly on all fronts including live political television programmes, Shittu’s sin remained largely unknown.

However, The PUNCH gathered that loyalists of the APC national leader have always seen the former Minister of Communications as an outsider because he “found his way into the party” through Congress for Progressive Change, one of the few political platforms that merged to form the current All Progressives Congress.

Shittu had told our correspondent in a recent interview that, “Why I think people often regard me as an outsider was probably because I was never a member of Alliance for Democracy, Action Congress or Action Congress of Nigeria. Besides, it has not been on record that I have a fight with Tinubu, even though critics who are jealous of my current achievements in the struggle to ensure success for him, out of pettiness and rivalry, have been trying to paint me black and blackmail me with the same slogan of ‘I am one of Tinubu’s enemies.’

“But I am happy and proud to say that Tinubu, as an experienced politician who knows his onions, has always maintained that Shittu is not an enemy. The fact that we never worked together in the past does not translate to being an enemy. In any case, he is also somebody who appreciates what I have been doing.”

The inclusion of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who have been indicted of alleged anti-party activities in the last month has come as a surprise.

While Amaechi had subtly accused Tinubu of financially inducing delegates for votes at the last Convention, Aregbesola was believed to have worked for the victory of the governor-elect of Osun State , Ademola Adeleke, at the expense of the incumbent and fellow party member, Adegboyega Oyetola.

Faleke’s statement on Friday read, “We are pleased to announce the nominees of the leadership of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, as per enclosed. All nominees are kindly advised to pick their appointment letters from the undersigned on Monday, 26th September, 2022 at 12noon.

“The venue is Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council on Plot 781, Herbert Macaulay Way, Central Area Abuja. All other members will be contacted by the leaders of their respective directorates.”

See full list 

Text Source : Punch Newspapers 

BREAKING: Pentecostal Bishop Forum Visits Tinubu - Photos

By Dansu Peter 

The leadership of the 19 northern states Pentecostal Bishop Forum led by it's Chairman, Archbishop John Praise Daniel today paid a courtesy visit to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the 2023 presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC. 

Also in attendance during the meeting was the Vice chairman of the bishop forum, Bishop Jonas Katung

Governor Ortom remains the best thing that has happened to Jemgbagh Nation, says Group

By Dansu Peter 

The Jemgbagh Concerned Youths Forum, JCYF has said Governor Samuel Ortom Of Benue State remains the best thing that has happened to the Jemgbagh Nation.

The group in a statement signed by its President, Philip Hundu and Secretary, Simon Ger said it read with utter disappointment, a communiqué purported to have emanated from a meeting of an obscure group within the body

The group said  Governor Ortom is the person who sold the idea of national chairmanship to Dr Iyorchia Ayu. 

He also mobilised Benue sons to fight and install the Jemgbagh son in that position. 

Ayu himself confessed this openly to Benue people at the Benue Governor's Lodge in Abuja and in Makurdi Government House when he was hosted to a reception.

The group said In the said Communiqué, the Association made false allegations in a bid to paint Governor Samuel Ortom in bad light and in a manner that portrays Tiv people, nay  Jemgbagh as an ungrateful lots.

"If not for the maturity of Governor Samuel Ortom and his commitment to the relationship he has with Governor Wike, what Senator Ayu is doing would have strained the friendship of our Governor and Governor Wike.  Even at that, what Ayu is doing has already begun to paint the Tiv people as ungrateful lots who never appreciates what is done to them. 

"It is therefore unthinkable how the Association openly accused Governor Samuel Ortom as one behind the clamour for the resignation of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. 

"Ironically, this emergency Jemgbagh Group never said anything when Ayu personally told the whole world that "Governor Ortom fought every obstacle to make sure the National Chairmanship came to Benue" even when the PDP Governors decided that the national championship should not cone from a State with a sitting PDP Governor for obvious reasons.

"That the group sees Governor Ortom as being in the forefront of the battle to compel Senator Ayu to resign is false and without basis. Moreover, it is Senator Ayu who promised to vacate the position of the PDP National Chairman if someone from the north emerges as the Presidential candidate of the party. 

"The Association has to be reminded that Governor Ortom and Senator Ayu went into national politics and have been there based on their competencies and capacities to render service to the people and not because they are from MINDA or Jemgbagh and their invaluable contribution to national politics is glaring.

"So it is unthinkable for any group to gather under any name to attempt to disparage Governor Ortom over a situation Senator Ayu is facing over the choices he (Ayu) makes? To what extent can any sane individual or group say Ortom is responsible for what is about to befall Ayu? Did Ortom tell Ayu to renege on a promise he made before he (Ayu) was made the National Chairman of the PDP with the concerted efforts of Governors Ortom and Nyesom Wike?

"It is equally outrageous that this jobless set of people now claiming to be the voice of Jemgbagh are blaming Governor Ortom on the commitment that Dr Iyorchia Ayu personally made to the northern leadership of the PDP. Let this Group know that it is Senator Ayu who has refused to respect the terms of an agreement he voluntarily made before northern leaders of the PDP in the Bauchi State Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja shortly before former Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State and Senator Abdul Ningi stepped down for him. So between Governor Ortom and Senator Ayu, who is undermining the chances of the PDP in the 2023 elections. And who is the enemy of PDP between the two?

"That the group painted Governor Ortom as being anti-Jemgbagh is even more laughable. Governor Ortom has done for the Jemgbagh people what even their own son, Senator George Akume could not do for them when he was Governor of Benue state from 1999 and 2003.

"This Jemgbagh Group are not aware the personal commitment Senator Ayu made to Governor Nyesom Wike when Governor Ortom took him to meet the Rivers State Governor. We are not sure if this Group is aware of the resources spent on behalf of Ayu who had no money when the campaign for the national chairmanship commenced.

"Gboko, the hub of Jemgbagh now wears a new look due to Governor Ortom's massive transformation of the city. From well constructed township roads to other infrastructure, the governor has given Gboko a facelift.

"The governor has done all that in addition to the appointment of Jemgbagh sons and daughters into some key positions in his administration. It therefore has to be pointed out to the said Jemgbagh group that their invectives against Governor Ortom rather exposes to their inability to recognise the good done to them or they are simply living in denial.

"Also unfortunate is the fact that all these treatment is meted on Governor Ortom despite his unrelenting efforts to reposition the Tiv nation in national politics and protect the interest and lives of Benue people even at the expense of his life and political future.

"Equally worrisome is the fact that those acclaimed members of Jemgbagh Development Association deliberately feigned ignorance of the risks Governor Ortom has taken and still takes to safeguard the lives, property, future of the Benue people.

"The Jemgbagh Concerned Youths Forum frowns at the emotional blackmail by the group wherein they posit that Governor Ortom who wants to go to the Senate to represent Zone B is out to destroy a Jemgbagh son when of a truth, the Governor has all along been supportive to the people.

"It is however, heartwarming that the Governor has kept his cool and usual calm mien in the face of these provocative attacks on his person by individuals and groups sponsored by politicians and other enemies of the state.

"The governor has also maintained his respect and regard for his elder brother, Senator Iyorchia Ayu who he has always supported to succeed.

"We therefore urge those who have embarked on a journey to unlikely political relevance by putting governor Ortom on the spot wrongly, to desist from acts capable of giving the Jemgbagh people a bad name as we are not known for biting the fingers that feed us.

"As for the Jemgbagh Concerned Youth Forum, we are totally with Governor Samuel Ortom who has been instrumental to the accelerated development of Gboko and other towns in Jemgbagh and the consideration of Jemgbagh people into key positions in his government.

"The Forum pledges its support for the Ortom-led administration as usual and expects the people of Jemgbagh to shun those fifth-columnists out for mischief and show the governor the appreciation he deserves for giving them the pride of place in the scheme of things in Benue state" the group said

Anti- Corruption: Group wants JAMB Registrar to halt collaboration in proposed Summit

By Dansu Peter 

The  Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative, TADI has urged Professor Is-haq Oloyede the Registrar of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB to halt collaboration in the proposed Summit on ending Corruption in the Public Sector forthwith until he clears all allegations of corruption levelled against him. TADI in a letter to the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, Professor Bolaji Owasanoye said it will not hesitate to proceed with a street protest if the Commission does not cancel its planned collaboration with JAMB for the Summit. 

TADI Director of Compliance,  Ibrahim Muhammad Auwal, Esq. in the letter dated 19th September, 2022 said his group took time to highlight the corrupt activities of Professor Is-haq Oloyede and Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello who presently serve as Registrar and Director of Finance & Accounts (DFA) of JAMB in an earlier letter submitted to ICPC on 24th August, 2022. However, the anti-graft seems to have refused to perform its statutory duty by conducting the necessary investigation.

It would be recalled that another organisation, the Integrity & Transparency Watchdog had on 24th July, 2022 written a similar letter to ICPC calling for the investigation of Professor Is-haq Oloyede and Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello for the atrocities they have committed. 

The group said rather than inviting Professor Is-haq Oloyede and Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello for thorough questioning based on the avalanche of indicting facts and documents submitted against them, the ICPC had opted to collaborate with the same JAMB under the leadership of Professor Is-haq Oloyede for purpose of organizing the 4th National Summit on Diminishing Corruption in the Public Sector themed “Corruption and the Education Sector”. 

TADI said the invitation letter which was  sent out reveals that it was signed by Prof. Musa Usman Abubakar (Secretary to the Commission) and the Summit is fixed for Tuesday, 4th October, 2022 at the State House Conference Center by 10.00am. 

Auwal said, "Whilst we applaud the Summit for being timely, unique and supportive of the anti-corruption stance of President Muhammadu Buhari, we haste to submit that collaborating with JAMB as you have sought to do will end up discrediting the ICPC. 

"We expect that the allegations pending against Professor Is-haq Oloyede and Mr. Mufutau Alabi Bello would have been duly investigated by your office before any form of collaboration with JAMB. 

"It will be ridiculous for you as a highly respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to be seen sitting on the same table and discussing corruption issues with persons whom you are supposed to investigate and possibly prosecute.

"In view of the foregoing, we hereby advise that you STOP the collaboration with JAMB as planned and notify us in writing WITHIN 5 (FIVE) WORKING DAYS from the date of this letter.

"As an organization made up of law-abiding citizens, we do not believe that a foremost anti-corruption agency like ICPC should be harassed or compelled before performing its statutory duties.

TADI wants the ICPC to investigate Professor Ishaq Oloyede and his best friend, Mr. Mufutau Bello the self acclaimed DFA in connection with violation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) guidelines which clearly prohibit the routing of any third party official payments through the personal accounts of individuals, amongst several other infractions.

" However, if our advice as given herein is taken for granted, we shall mobilize our members in large number to OCCUPY your office as well as the State House Conference Center on or before Tuesday, 4th October, 2022. This is to ensure that the attention of President Muhammadu Buhari who is expected to declare the Summit open is drawn to the efforts we have made to rid JAMB of acute corruption and how you are trying to frustrate us. Meanwhile, we have duplicated this letter to the following government functionaries for their information and necessary intervention: -

1. Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption;

2. Chairman, House Committee on Anti-Corruption;

3. Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria; 

4. Secretary to the Government of the Federation;

5. Honourable Minister of Education;

6. Honourable Minister of State for Education;

7. Chairman, Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB);

8. Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC);

9. Inspector-General of Police (IGP);

10. Honourable Commissioners of ICPC;

11. Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS);

12. Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA);

13. Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education; and

14. Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACA)" TADI said.

BREAKING: Court orders ASUU back to class

By News Proofs 

The National industrial court has ordered university lectures to return to classroom pending the determination of the suit filed against the Academic Staff union of universities.

Justice polycap Hamman, delivering ruling on the interlocutory injunction filed by the federal government ,restrained ASUU for continuing with the industrial action pending the determination of the suit.

2023: Full list of Presidential Candidates and their qualifications according to INEC

By Dansu Peter 

Tinubu: Group Welcomes Yahaya Bello’s Appointment, To Mobilize 25 Million Youths For APC

By Dansu Peter .

The All Progressives Congress APC Youth and Solidarity Forum has thrown its weight behind the nomination of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi as the National youth coordinator of the party's campaign council ahead of the 2023 Presidential polls.

The group also vowed to mobilize 25 million youths for the party ahead of the election. 

The Group's National Coordinator,  Joseph Ukpoju who addressed the media in Abuja said Yahaya Bello's nomination is indeed a strategic move by the leadership of the APC in identifying the political dexterity and followership of the Governor across the country to serve as the National Youth Coordinator. 

Ukpoju said Yahaya Bello remains a man whose actions resonate with the teeming youthful population in the country. He represents a paradigm shift in youth inclusiveness in governance in the country. 

"The strategic import of the appointment of the young and energetic Yahaya Bello cannot be overemphasized. Over the years, he has demonstrated capacity and a commitment to bring the teeming youthful population in Nigeria to the mainstream of governance in the country. 

"The APC Youth Solidarity and Development Forum is elated that the leadership of the APC has delivered a masterstroke that would translate to the active buy-in of the youths in the country into the Tinubu-Shettima 2023 Project" he said

He said that Governor Yahaya Bello is well deserving of the appointment due to his leadership style as a time-tested youth mobilizer in the country. 

"This much he has demonstrated in several capacities over the years, and the results have been outstanding. 

"We wish to use this medium to pledge our continued support to the Tinubu-Shettima 2023 Project by mobilizing at least 25 million youths across the country to vote massively for the APC during the presidential elections. 

"We are also buoyed by the fact that we have, as the National Youth Coordinator, a man the teeming youthful population in the country looks up to as a role model. We also do not doubt the ability of Governor Yahaya Bello to galvanize the votes of the country's youths for the APC in the 2023 presidential elections.  

"Our special commendation goes to the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for identifying with the youths in the choice of Governor Yahaya Bello as the National Youth Coordinator of the Presidential Campaign Council. 

"It is our considered opinion that with Governor Yahaya Bello, the APC should rest assured that the youths of the country would rally behind the APC towards delivering electoral victory at the polls. 

"The appointment of Governor Yahaya Bello could not have come at a better time than now. He is a tested, accepted and patriotic youth of the country who has mentored and continued to mentor millions of youths across the country. 

"The APC indeed got it right and would do well to be ready to receive the support of millions of youths across the country as we begin preparations for the 2023 presidential and general elections. 

"The APC Youth Solidarity and Development Forum leadership wishes to use this medium to encourage Governor Yahaya Bello to hit the ground running in his characteristics manner. As a matter of urgency, he should reactivate his wide networks across the country to bring the teeming youthful population into the APC family. 

"We also charge him to see to the coming together of all APC Youth Groups to collectively champion the Tinubu-Shettima 2023 Project towards a resounding victory at the polls. 

"The leadership of the APC Youth Solidarity and Development Forum congratulates Governor Yahaya Bello for this worthy appointment and assures him that he has our support to deliver on this critical national assignment. 

Thank you for your time and attention" he added 

Dr. Obafemi Hamzat: A pragmatic leader with proven integrity - TSSG hails Lagos Deputy Gov. @ 58

By Dansu Peter 

The Lagos State chapter of one of the the foremost 2023 campaign group of Senator Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kassim Shettima, the Tinubu Shettima Support Group, TSSG, has described the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat as a distinguished and pragmatic Nigerian leader of proven integrity, who deserves all the accolades befitting a national hero.

The forum made the pronouncement today 19th September 2022, in a birthday goodwill message to celebrate the Deputy Governor on his 58th birthday. 

"KOH is a man of many paths, who, early in his life has devoted his time, training, and talents to the service of God, nation, and humanity." 

“He is not only an accomplished Nigerian, he is a statesman par excellence and a leader who is truly committed to the unity and prosperity of our dear country.

“We can only wish him many more years of uncommon grace and honour as he continues to contribute to nation-building.

“The entire Tinubu Shetimma Support Group hereby celebrate our dear Deputy Governor on his birthday and rejoice with him and his family. We pray that may God’s grace continues to abide with him in his endeavors and selfless efforts nation-building. "

E-Signed

TSSG LAGOS SECRETARIAT

MATAN launches Integrated Market-Traders Revenue Management System, IRMS in 774 LG

By Dansu Peter 

The Market Traders Association of Nigeria, MATAN is set to launch the much awaited Integrated Market-traders Revenue Management System, IRMS in all the 774 local Governments in Nigeria. 

According to the Chairman of the MATAN-project, Ambassador Olakunle Johnson, the new unified consolidated revenue system is designed to put an end to multiple taxation and extortion of traders nationwide. He said that the idea was conceived though Market-trader's stakeholders' resolutions against multiple taxation and extortion of traders in seven hundred and seventy-four Local Governments in Nigeria. 

Ambassador Johnson, who also doubles as the Southwest leader of MATAN, disclosed that the new revenue regime, which will be formally launched in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria, on the 22nd September 2022, is predicated on the need to harmonize members revenue to governments remittance system, such as Personal Income Tax, (PIT), and harness inherent opportunities of the market places. 

Mr. Kunle said the unified revenue system, Integrated Market-traders Revenue Management System is for all retail markets across the nation,  and approved by the Federal Government through the Joint Tax Board, JTB in collaboration with the Market Traders Association of Nigeria, MATAN and other stakeholders. 

"The project, when fully become operational will benefits both government at all level, Stakeholders and all traders" , he said. 

The benefits of the scheme includes; a more secured market places for traders and their goods, none-interest loans for small and medium sized enterprises, digitization of data of traders, insurance and many more. 

Prominent Nigerians who are expected at the coronation and the launch includes; Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, Mr. Peter Obi and other presidential candidates of all political parties in Nigeria'S 2023 election. 

2023: APC National Women Leader, Storms Borno State; Empowers 3000 Indigent less privileged and Vulnerable Women

“No National Women Leader in history has ever come to the NorthEast to carry out such interventions, its not the numbers but the intentions; Borno state appreciates your humanitarian gestures" - Governor Zulum

 

By Jumoke Owoola 

The National Women Leader of the all Progressive Congress APC, Dr Betta Edu and her team Stormed Borno  to provide empowerment for over 3000 Indigent less privileged  and Vulnerable women.  

 In a statement by the Special Adviser on political matters to The National Women Leader, Seun Bosede Osamaye, Dr Edu while speaking at the event reiterated that the empowerment program which  took place in Maiduguri of  Borno State is an  impactful intervention that takes care of the immediate needs of these indigent less privileged  and vulnerable women 

Dr Edu in her address  remarked that  "We want the lives of people  to change for real , and that's why we are doing what we are doing , that's why we are deploying  all the passion, that's why we are deploying all the resources to support small scale startups ,   we want our people to be healthy , we want your children to be healthy thats why we are giving out free health care.

She further appreciates the Governor Prof Zulum and the wife of the Executive Governor of Borno State, Her Excellency, Dr Falmata  Zulum for providing logistics support to make the program successful and to also mobilize Borno Women in their numbers to benefit from the programs of The APC National Women's Wing. 

She is confident that there's no other party in Borno but APC and that she has assurance  Borno State will deliver 100 percent   massively for APC and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President come 2023.  

The Deputy Governor of Borno in his speech said the Government of Prof. Zulum has done a lot to restore peace and security in Borno while building back the state to greater development and prosperity. He noted that the Government appreciates the effort of the National Women Leader which has added value to the great humanitarian work that the Governor has been doing to resettle the internally displaced persons back to their homes and economic lives. He noted that over 3 million lives have been reached in the project of the Government and more will be done to elevate the living standards of all.

While responding, Borno State First Lady, Dr Mrs Falmata Banbagana Zulum appreciated the APC National Women Leader, Dr Betta Edu  for her unprecedented efforts to touch lives throughout Nigeria, in her  Words "Words  have spread out about your  humanitarian gestures and we are happy Borno is benefitting today. Our Women are happy for these interventions given to them. Borno is APC and APC is Borno, your coming has further confirmed the return of peace and security to Borno and the return of normal  lives to some hitherto Local Government that was seized by bandits. 

Other Speakers at the event were the Borno Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hon Zuwaira Gambo, Women Development Center  DG, Hon  Villita Asabe which they all further  reiterated the appreciation of the Borno  State women for the intervention.   

Dignitaries at the event were Hon Zainab Ibrahim, DNWL, National President of  Nigerian Women Council, Former Commissioner of health, hon Mrs Juliana Bulius,   Former North central Zonal women Leader, Hon Hassana Abdullahi , Federal Character Commissioner Hon Ginika Tor,  National President, Progressive Young Women Forum, Seun Bosede Osamaye,Hon Delu James and  Dr Precious Ogboru among others.

Benue Youths Berates Aloo says Ortom Outstanding In Repositioning Benue

By Dansu Peter 

The Benue Youth Forum  BYF has vehemently condemned series of unguarded statements targeted against Governor Samuel Ortom by faceless persons in the state.

The BYF in a statement by its President,  Terrence Kuanum said it has read with utter disappointment, a careless and baseless comment credited to one faceless character called Aloo Tordue against Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state.

He said the  unguarded individual claimed in the unfortunate outing that Governor Ortom has not done anything good for the state and deserves to be in jail.

Kuanum said the Benue Youth Forum considers the statement as uncharitable and grossly unfortunate considering the giant strides that the governor has made and is still making towards the wholistic development of the state.

"The BYF even doubt if the said Aloo ever existed since nobody who claims to be in touch with developments in Benue state could be so blind to the reality on ground.

"The unruly Aloo needs to be aware that Governor Ortom has changed the face of the state through massive infrastructural development ranging from construction of roads across the state to renovation/rehabilitation of thousands of schools at all levels.

"He must also know that Governor Ortom has established the Benue Health Insurance Scheme and has domesticated the Pencon law to solve the issue of challenges associated with payment of pension to retirees.

"Governor Ortom's administration equally blazed the trail by being the first to graduate medical students at the state University in addition to settling the issue of accreditation of the schools of nursing in Makurdi and Agasha.

"It is on record that Governor Ortom executed so many projects some of which were commissioned at different times by the governors of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule and Oyo State, Seyi Makinde. This is in addition to a plethora of other projects under construction which are likely to be commissioned very soon.

"So where on earth had the said Aloo Tordue being that he is totally oblivious of the massive transformation of the state by Governor aortic in the last seven and half years? He was probably not briefed enough by his paymasters or they simply didn't have the arsenals to send him to war with since the Ortom-led administration in Benue state has been without blemish despite the desperation by political enemies to pull it down.

"Governor Ortom's refusal to trade his conscience and people for political gains has set him up against those who don't wish the state well, but his resistant and resilient has paid off greatly as shown in his tremendous feat.

"The faceless and misguided Aloo who is obviously working as a hireling of some failed politicians has to bow his head in shame as his attempt to diminish the sterling performance of Governor Ortom has failed.

"The Governor is reputed to be at the forefront of ensuring the security of lives and property of Benue people even in the face of destractions from enemies of the state.

"The penchant of the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC in Benue coming in different shades and colours to punctuate the laudable achievements of Governor Ortom would never succeed.

"The Benue Youth Forum wishes to tell Aloo that he is terribly misinformed to the extent of giving false and horrible figures to represent the months the government is owing workers and retirees. 

"The BYF however notes that it is rather disheartening that it is the Federal Government led by the APC that is bent on frustrating Governor Ortom's efforts to protect the welfare and wellbeing of the people.

"Clear examples are the federal government's refusal to grant the request to procure weapons for the Benue state Volunteer guards and the decision to deny the state the move to obtain loans and settle its financial obligations.

"The Benue Youth group therefore feels that it is Aloo Tordue that deserves to be in jail for deliberate mischief and desperation to misinform the people for peanuts from some characters whose political future is in jeopardy.

"The Forum calls on Benue people and other people of goodwill to discountenace the unfortunate and reckless comments credited to the faceless merchant of mischief" he said 

ORTOM: APC HAS TAKEN NIGERIA BENEATH THE BOTTOM

By Nathaniel Ikyur

Irrespective of the present challenges of the opposition Peoples' Democratic Party, (PDP), the party will reinvent itself in good time to defeat the All Progressives Congress, (APC), in the 2023 elections. Discussions are going on at different levels away from the public eye, to ensure unity and oneness of purpose in the PDP, with eyes on 2023. Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom made this assertion on the eve of his holiday trip to the United States of America, (USA), with his family. He admitted that there were substantive issues to be thrashed out within the party, but expressed confidence that the PDP will cross the rubicon. 

According to him: "I will not say that all is well with our party. The good thing is that we recognise the issues and we've generated dialogue in various ways. Engagement is what I've always encouraged. Everybody cannot be winning all the time. There are certain internal mechanisms that should apply to conflict resolution within the party. Some of these instruments should have been deployed long ago." Speaking further, Ortom noted: "I'm very interested in ensuring that we discuss. I want us to have a win-win situation so that people will feel they have been carried along." 

The Benue State helmsman noted: "Nigerians should have a viable alternative to the APC, especially after the dismal and abysmal performance of the party over the past seven years. They've kept their promise to take Nigeria from top to bottom. They have in fact taken our country beneath the bottom. It's a big shame. For us in the PDP, the onus rests on us to mend the cracks in our party. No external influence will do that for us. By the grace of God, we will reach a successful end so that we can move on." 

Ortom is confident that the APC has minimised the hurdles on the path of the PDP, towards the reclamation of the country's leadership next year. "So long as the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) is as professional and neutral as it was in Osun and Ekiti states, I don't see the APC winning the elections. Their numbers are being depleted by the day. Two weeks ago, two APC members of the Benue State House of Assembly, decamped to PDP. I received them. We have reduced the APC numbers in the House of Assembly to three, in a parliament of 30 members. APC is a non-issue in Benue State." 

Developing his argument further, the Benue State governor said: "With the kind of political traffic we are witnessing across the country from the APC to PDP, there is general disenchantment with the APC. It's all over, Cross River, Rivers, everywhere. The APC government has unwittingly precipitated a huge lacuna, a very big gap, complete disconnect, with the people." Ortom said further: "Having been in politics from the grassroots, the the state and national levels for over 40 years now, there's no magic the APC can conjure to win in 2023." 

Said Ortom: "Some of their leaders who think they are powerful, have indirectly visited wickedness on the generality of our people, in the name of being close to Aso Rock. We applied for a bailout of N42 Billion from the federal government to enable us offset longstanding arrears of salaries, pensions and gratuities. Some of these people scrambled to the State House to tell the President not to release the funds even after approval, so that we will not take the credit for solving the age-long problem. This is the kind of mean-spirited attitude APC is inflicting on our people." 

Speaking further, Ortom noted that it is the very same people who have ensured his inaccessibility to the President: "I said it before. It is now almost two years since I last saw the President. If I had access to him, I will prefer a one-on-one exchange with him. Since that is not possible, I go to the press. I must talk, I must express myself, I'm holding this office in trust for several million people of Benue State, I'm not here on my own volition. Unfortunately, those who are expected to burnish the image of their party and the President, have chosen to be antagonists of their own people. We will see how things evolve." 

Ortom assured that the PDP shares the pains, the agonies and anguish of Nigerians and will not disappoint them on the home stretch of the race to 2023. Deploying a medical allusion, he said: "The moment the doctor has been able to ascertain the crux of an ailment afflicting his patient by physical and laboratory investigations, the problem is substantially resolved. The patient is on the path to convalescence after necessary treatment and guidance. We will sort ourselves out in PDP, to the shame of our detractors."

Ikyur is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State

2023: APC National Women Leader, Storms Borno With Free Medical Care For Women And Children

... Bags Borno Ambassador of Peace Award

By Jumoke Owoola 

National Women Leader of the all Progressive Congress APC, Dr Betta Edu and her medical team Stormed  Borno to provide free medical care to Indigent and Vulnerable women.  

 In a statement by the Special Adviser on political matters to The National Women Leader, Seun Bosede Osamaye, Dr Edu while speaking at the event reiterated that the Borno Free Medical Outreach which took place in Konduga Local Government of the State earlier today is an unprecedented intervention and a way to further explore more innovative strategies to massively mobilize women and give them adequate care for their health, wellbeing and their children across the country which is a necessity. 

 In her words, this Free Medical Outreach in Borno is a continuation of  activities that started in Zamfara state and is fast spreading like wild fire across the country. Over 10,000 Women trooped out for medical care while drugs and other interventions were given for ailments such as malaria, dysentery,  hypertension, diabetes, general body aches  and pedearatics cases. The events which had over 50 medical staffs includes Consultants  Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists and registration officers. 

 The free medical outreach is an  impactful intervention that takes care of the immediate needs of these indigent and vulnerable women 

Dr Edu in her speech further remarked that her love for humanity is a driving force that motivates her to reach every one including the downtrodden to give them medical care and that she is confident that with what she has seen here today in Borno, the Nigerian Women and Borno State will deliver  massively for APC and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President come 2023.  She stated that the outreach was done in honour of their son, the  APC Vice Presidential Candidate, his Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima in celebration of his birthday. 

In Her Opening remarks, Borno State First Lady, Dr Mrs Falmata Banbagana Zulum ably represented by hon. Hajia Zuwaira Gambo (Commissioner for women affairs), appreciated the APC National Women Leader, Dr Betta Edu  for her unprecedented efforts to touch lives throughout Nigeria, in her  Words "Words  have spread out about your  humanitarian gestures and we are happy Borno is benefitting today. Our Women are happy for these free medical care given to them. Borno is APC and APC is Borno, your coming has further confirmed the return of peace and security to Borno and the return of normal  lives to some hitherto Local Government that was seized by bandits. 

 Today, she witnessed on first hands basis, the transformational efforts of the Governor to ensure all lives are secured in Borno. From now on, Dr Betta has become our Ambassador of Peace in Borno. She has acted like a daughter of the soil and with these, everyone will know Borno is safe and sound. Konduga LG Chairman, Hon Abba Saje also welcomed the APC Women Leader and her team as he emphasized that Borno is completely for APC.  

 Other Speakers at the event were the  DG, Women Development Center Hon  Villita Asabe, former  Borno State Commissioner for health, Hon Juliana Bitrus also reiterated the appreciation of the Borno women for the intervention.   

On the entourage of the APC National Women Leader apart from the Medical team are Former North central Zonal women Leader, Hon Hassana ABDULLAHI, Federal Character Commissioner Hon Ginika Toor,  National President, Progressive Young Women Forum, Seun Bosede Osamaye, Hon Delu James, Dr Precious Ogboru, Dr Nurat Yussuff, Mr Smart Agbor .

Queen Elizabeth II dies: Photos of mourners live from the Buckingham Palace

By Dansu Peter 

The Queen died peaceful a moment ago. 

According to BBC, Queen Elizabeth II, the UK's longest-serving monarch, has died at Balmoral aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.

Her family gathered at her Scottish estate after concerns grew about her health earlier on Thursday.

The Queen came to the throne in 1952 and witnessed enormous social change.

With her death, her eldest son Charles, the former Prince of Wales, will lead the country in mourning as the new King and head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: "The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.

"The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."

All the Queen's children travelled to Balmoral, near Aberdeen, after doctors placed the Queen under medical supervision.

Her grandson, Prince William, is also there, with his brother, Prince Harry, on his way.

NNPC’s Strategy on Oil Security and My One Cent, By Philip Agbese

By Philip Agbese 

I think we have a way of mixing up issues in the country. This has been a common attribute. I wasn't surprised when reactions poured in concerning the contract awarded to a firm to secure critical oil infrastructures in the country. 

The fact that the government thought of ways to reduce oil theft should be commended, even on the heels that the country loses hundreds of billions of dollars yearly to oil theft. Instead, the rumour mills went agog for the wrong reasons, giving it a religious and ethnic colouration.  

Let me start with these scary facts: Nigeria loses about $1.9 billion monthly to the activities of oil vandals, with its attendant effect on environmental degradation. Of the 141 million barrels produced in the first quarter of 2022, only about 132 million barrels of oil were received at export terminals. Crude oil theft has increased to a daily average of 108,000 barrels in the first quarter of 2022 from 103,000 barrels in 2021. 

The theft resulted in the declaration of force majeure at Bonny Oil & Gas Terminal, a pipeline transporting crude from the Niger Delta to export vessels, creating a hostile environment and disincentive to investors. 

If these facts do not call for concern, I wonder what else would do. Hence it could suffice to say that the government's contract to secure critical oil infrastructures is a step in the right direction. But those benefitting from the theft are neck-deep in spreading falsehood about the government's intention. 

Their spin doctors have raised the propaganda to a very high level. But they forgot that the contract was not awarded to an individual but to a firm that has demonstrated capacity in times past. Obviously, the focus is Mr Government Ekpemupolo, better known as Tompolo. And I dare say, and so what? 

Is Tompolo not a Nigerian? Does his company have the capacity to deliver? Was the process that led to the award of the contract transparent? Did the government act in the right direction? If the answers to the above questions are yes, then there is no justification for the reactions that greeted the contract. 

I believe there are terms of reference for the execution of the contract and not a bazaar or jamboree, as some would want unsuspecting members of the general public to believe. Let's not forget that the bulk of these critical oil assets is in the Niger Delta region, and the possible solution should be inwards and to someone that understands the dynamics of the Niger Delta region. 

The award of the contract, in my opinion, is a masterstroke. It goes a long way in expressing the government's seriousness in addressing the threat posed by oil theft to our economy. We need to reflect on some of our actions as Nigerians. Everything should not be about politics. This stance has led us nowhere and would not now. It is about practical and indigenous solutions to our challenges. 

It is also about ensuring that government oil earnings improve. One of the ways to go about that is ensuring that our oil infrastructures are secured. The production capacity of our country can increase, and the country would be better for it. In tackling this kind of security challenge that oil installations face anywhere in the world, the paramount consideration is usually what and how it can be done and not who is doing it. 

Some might what to argue about the role of the Nigerian Navy, and the question I would like to ask is why the problem has persisted despite the presence of the Navy. There are apparent lapses because of the terrain and other complexities, which is the gap the private contractors would fill. Let me also state that the Navy has not been completely taken out of the equation, but rather the coming onboard of private contractors is to assist and complement because the overarching objective is to secure the country's oil assets. 

And I beg to ask, what is the role of religion or ethnicity in protecting oil infrastructures? Sometimes I feel we are not serious in this country. I also wonder if we think through some of our public outbursts. Why would any individual or group think a contract of such magnitude and complexity would be awarded without due process and terms of reference? 

This is indeed a sad tale. It goes a long way in stating that those vested interests that have milked the country dry through oil theft are angry and would go any length to jeopardize the government's efforts in this regard. But I think they failed and woefully. The truth remains that we cannot afford oil theft of such magnitude at this critical point of our existence, with various sectors of the economy demanding attention. 

The era of monies meant for the country being diverted to private pockets must stop. And these thieves can go to hell for all we care. What matters to us is the country's interest, which has happened. I must commend the leadership of the NNPC for taking the bull by the horns. I, therefore, beg to disagree with anyone insinuating that the contract should be cancelled simply because Tompolo is from a particular part of the country. That would be a joke of the century, potentially making Nigeria a laughing stock. 

I think we should concentrate our energies on measuring results rather than calling for the cancellation of the contract. This is rational. But as they say, common sense is not common. I think the NNPC has acted in good faith, and it behoves well-meaning Nigerians to ensure that the effort at securing the country's critical oil assets succeeds. My one cent.

Agbese is a human rights activist based in Abuja.

The Aborted Jacksons' Family Motherland Project: The Facts, Fictions and the Blackmail Against Tinubu; An Account of An Insider, By Babatunde Ajose

By Babatunde Ajose 

The 2023 General Election is just few months away and I understand a lot are being dug out about the Principal Actors in the forthcoming election. While I believe and share the sentiments that aspiring Public Officials should be called to account for their stewardship but I am compelled to put the record straight once again about the aborted Badagry Motherland Group Project in response to the malicious fabrication and falsehood by one Kunle Eshinlokun against the person of Mr Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the link below:

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160303620727841&id=595332840

Ordinarily, I would have ignored this falsehood and junk-up write because it is not in my character to respond to blackmailers and I don't associate my personality with argument against such baseless claims but there has been several questions and inquiries  from family and friends who knew my involvement in this aborted FRAUD called investment.

It is the truth that a group called Motherland LLC  from the United States of America showed interest and as a matter of fact visited Nigeria several times in respect of a proposed investment worth US$2.5Billion. They were introduced to the Lagos State Government by a Tourism and Hospitality mogul who is now operating a facility along Lekki-Epe Expressway and everything looked very promising when they arrived. The Lagos State Government quickly constituted a team to make their proposal an hitct-free one. All the concerned Ministries and Agencies were given a matching order by the then Governor Fashola to make sure everything is done seamlessly. I was made a part of the team as the State Tourists Guide because I am from Badagry with a lot of experience in the Badagry Slave Route and robust family historical background and involvement in the Transatlantic Slave Trade to be with them all through their stay; Mr Disu the present Head of Nigerian Police IRT Team was the head of the Security Team that led the convoy of SUVs provided Lagos State Government to take them round.

We toured Badagry Slave Route and visited Oba Akran of Badagry to seek his blessings for the project. News filtered into the media that the Jackson Family were in town and my phone number became an essential information; hundreds of journalists including the foreign journalists from BBC, CNN, VOA etc were calling my phone because I was the only one allow around them as their guide anywhere they go; what still baffles me till date is they were all able to get my number within 72hrs. Our first visit to the Point of No Return in Gberefu Peninsula, Badagry was very remarkable, they couldn't control their emotions as I shared the Badagry experience of the Slave Trade with them and the purpose of the ancient Attenuation Well along the Slave Route.

Everyday we were visiting different parts of Badagry and in the evening we would return to the Executive Governor's Three(3) Bedroom Suite (Exclusively reserved for the Executive Governor of Lagos State ONLY) within the Lagos State VIP Chalets. They were so impressed and they were even joking that they've never seen such a lavishly furnished bedroom before. The three(3) of them were Marlon Jackson (Michael Jackson Brother), Garry Lobster (Retired Commissioner of Police) and Alfred Dickson ( an Ex- City Mayor).

Every evening we would seat together after dinner and review our day and at times the four(4) of us would be in the Master Bedroom where we all slept on same bed on two(2) occasions. The only people that were allowed around them were Peter Mesewaku my immediate Boss then, Emmanuel Hunkanlin (Ijinla) and my Older Cousin Prince Yomi Ajose who happened to be an Old friend of Gemane and Tito Jackson way back during his days in the US and we were all shocked how Marlon screamed his name the day he first came to see us. I remember one evening, we discussed the idea of giving them especially the Jackson Family Badagry names and they really loved it; several names were suggested for the Jacksons until Prince Yomi Ajose suggested AJANESON, he said the name sounds like Jackson and Marlon said he loved the name.

One evening, Oprah was briefed about their experience and Michael Jackson was called they told him about the name and he laughed so hard. The following day, we visited the Suntan Beach in the afternoon and Marlon told some people that came to greet us that his new name was AJANESON. They requested for group photographs which he obliged and we returned to the chalet only for Mr Disu(The Head of the Security Team) to come to my room the following morning around 8am that some men were around claiming they are Michael Jackson Family members. I couldn't believe my ears as I rushed out of the bed to meet them outside; after listening to them, I explained to them that the AJANESON story was just a joke and my Cousin Prince Yomi Ajose just came up with it without any link to their family, I also promised that I will include a visit to their family Compound in our itinerary if they insist on meeting them and not that morning but they didn't believe me and I left them with an instruction to the security men that they shouldn't allow them in.

That evening, Mr Fadipe the then Director of Tourism (Later Permanent Secretary) Ministry of Tourism came to have a meeting with them and he warned me to be careful about the AJANESON story because there had been series of calls that we denied them access to their lost but found relations. He also told me that he wasn't happy with what the trio were saying because that wasn't what they told the Governor before he bought the idea and I should pay more attention to their activities.

From that moment, I became very attentive and observant to every details about them, here are some of the facts I discovered :

(a) The trio were only in Lagos to shop for opportunities and go back to the US to look for investors.

(b) There was no US$2.5Billion anywhere as they have told the Governor, though they were reporting their activities to people who were showing interest. I can confirm that of Oprah and Michael Jackson whom they put on speaker and they asked me to say "Hello" on behalf of Badagry.

(c) They didn't have any clear Agenda or projects in mind, the idea of Jackson Family Memorabilia Project was an offshoot of the conversation with Michael the day they called him and there wasn't any concrete plan or steps taken on it before Michael the initiator of the idea who promised to visit Badagry died just two months before his visit.

(d) While they were in Lagos and Badagry and enjoying the luxury of the Lagos State hospitality, they were talking to Officials of Delta State Government and Cross Rivers State Government about the same Projects and they were promising exactly what they were promising us in Lagos State. They even muted the idea of me taken them to the two States and I bluntly turned them down that what they are requesting for wasn't part of the instructions given to me by the government.

(e) I also discovered that the man that introduced them to the Lagos State Government has been dumped the moment they gained access to the Government and the whole ideas of what they actually wanted to do in Badagry came from the man.

We reported back to Governor Fashola through the Ministry but he seems not to be convinced about our findings; he wanted investment and was ready to do anything legally to get it. The trio later met the Governor and they requested for 2000 Hecters of Land, they wanted C of O for 2000Hecters which they will take back to the US to convince potential investors that they've already secure a land for the Motherland Africa Project; the Governor said no problem he will grant them on one condition: They should given him Proof of Funds and he will issue C of O for 10 Hecters and the day they start any development work on that 10Hecters he will grant them the remaining 1990 Hecters.

That was the the sledge hammer that broke the lies, the land speculations that would have befell my Badagry like what used to happen in the past, Government will be deceived and Hecters of people's land will be acquired for some few individuals which will be sold later. Two weeks after they told us that they were going to the USA to get proof of funds to access Governor Fashola's offer, I saw them on Television addressing the Delta State Governor and giving the same narrative they presented in Lagos. A journalist friend who felt that I wasn't providing enough information about their mission in Nigeria even at the time that it wasn't clear to me too and was on their trail later told me that he went with them to Calabar and they presented the same demand to the Government there; they wanted thousands of Hecters of Land. 

I was very shocked and embarrassed when I started reading a lot of stories and different versions like this one with the link above and also the link below:

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=7668996059808550&id=100000946956778

I am not one of the several Tinubu "Spin Doctors" as someone might want to suggest but I feel stories that I played key roles  in should not be used as blackmail materials. I am very sure other people that were involved in the whole events will definitely condemn this falsehood that the Jackson Family left because of Tinubu's greed. Such thing NEVER happened and I don't know why somebody will go this far just because a man is contesting an election. May God continue to protect and bless our country. Attached herewith is my Photograph with Marlon Jackson and other key actors during the Motherland Project Proposal.

Babatunde Ajose DCOB is a Sustainable Development Strategist from Badagry, a former staff of Nigeria Embassy, London and Consultant on Foreign Direct Investment.