115 Ogun indigent students get Dangote’s N25m scholarship

By Mod - 3 hours ago - [ Update Vanguard ]

By Daud Olatunji

ABEOKUTA—NO fewer than 115 indigent students in Ogun State have benefited from N25 million scholarship from Dangote Cement PLC.

The 115 students were drawn from host communities of the Dangote Ibese plant in Ewekoro and Yewa North Local Government areas of the state.

The Plant Manager of the Ibese Plant, Amando Martinez while speaking with newsmen, said the gesture was part of the efforts to contribute to the educational development of the state.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote

Martinez explained that the beneficiaries were 100 students from tertiary institutions from across the country and 15 secondary school students in the 15 host communities.

He said: “We cherish education and one of the ways through which we can impact our society is to give unfettered access to education which is why we are giving them scholarship.

“This is an opportunity that every beneficiary should make use of.   We have decided to award scholarships to a total of 115   students from 15 host communities. They include 100 tertiary institution students and 15 secondary school pupils.

General Manager, Human Asset Management and Admin of Dangote, Abdulmalik Shehu admonished the recipients of the scholarship to desist from all societal vices.

He said: “Don’t do drugs. Don’t give your parents sleepless nights. Be a pride to your parents. Work hard and be good ambassadors of Dangote Cement, these host communities and your families.”

“When you graduate, think out of the box, opportunities may arrive for you everyday. Employment is no more readily available for people anymore.”

“How you use what you’ve learnt as students is what matters. The application of what you have learnt should be your focus,” Shehu added.

The Olu of Imasayi, Oba Gbadebo Oni said, “this scholarship cuts across the whole country, this is a one of its kind humanitarian works. Dangote is putting programmes and projects on the ground for the young ones to tap into.

“The technical colleges also create opportunities for our youths to be trained and employed. This is building up the Nigeria of tomorrow.”

Also speaking at the event, the Olu Aga of Aga Orile, Oba Kayode Kushoro said the gesture by Dangote is worth bequeathing to the coming generation.

One of the recipients, Aminat Akinsanya, a post-graduate student of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta said the scholarship award will help her put more attention on her studies.

“We promise to make you proud. We will be consistent in our studies. Most of us have been struggling to make ends meet. This gesture will help and allow us to concentrate more on our studies.

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/115-ogun-indigent-students-get-dangotes-n25m-scholarship/

Oil marketers, companies to be arraigned in court over alleged $8.4 million fraud

Two oil marketers, Yusuf Kwande and Osahon Asemota as well five companies have been charged before Justice Mojisola Dada of an Ikeja Special Offences Court over alleged $8.4 million fraud.

Charged along the two oil tycoon are five companies, namely Trafigura Beheer BV, Trafigura PTE Ltd, Mettle Energy and Gas Ltd, Renbrandt Ltd and Jil Engineering and Oil Services Ltd. They are to be arraigned on a three-count charge of conspiracy to commit a felony, stealing and receiving stolen property. 

The prosecuting counsel, Mr. E.A. Jackson of Special Fraud Unit (SFU), an arm in the Nigerian Police Force, alleges that the defendants committed the offences in 2008 in Lagos. 

According to the charge sheet, the two defendants: Kwande and Asemota, alongside Trafigura PTE Ltd, Mettle Energy and Gas Ltd and Renbrandt Ltd committed the offence of stealing between October 22 and December 15, 2008.

The SFU alleged that at the office of Trafigura Beheer BV located at 20A Sinaro Daranijo St., off Ligali Ayorinde St., Victoria Island, Lagos, they fraudulently converted 6.4million metric tonnes of Automated Gas Oil (AGO). The allegedly stolen AGO is worth $8.4 million belonging to Nadabo Energy Ltd. 

The SFU is also alleging that another company – Jil Engineering and Oil Services Ltd fraudulently received the stolen AGO, which had been under the legal custody of Spring Bank, Victoria Island, Lagos. The offences contravene Sections  383(1), 427 and 516 of the Criminal Code 2004.Justice Dada, however, is yet to fix a date to hear the case, which was assigned to her court during the annual vacation, which ended on September 11.

Source:

https://guardian.ng/news/oil-marketers-companies-to-be-arraigned-in-court-over-alleged-8-4-million-fraud/

ADC will oust APC, shock PDP, says Nwosu

All Progressive Congress (APC) rally in Iwo… yesterday

• Akinbade tasks INEC, observers on credible poll

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has promised to oust the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and also shock the major opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming election.

At its convention themed “Building a Model Disciplined Political Party” which drew 5,600 delegates to Osogbo at the weekend, the party boasted that its candidate, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, would defeat the APC and PDP candidates to emerge winner if the election will be free and fair.National Chairman of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, said the programme was held in the state to boost the efforts of the party’s campaign team by telling Osun people that there could be no better candidate to govern the state in the next four years than Akinbade and his running mate, Justice Folahanmi Oloyede (rtd).

“On September 22, I assure you that the good people of Osun State, who have been yearning for good, inclusive and responsible governance, will shun money politics, no matter the billions being put aside for vote buying by the ruling government and others. They will vote their conscience. “Some people have said ‘take their money, it is your right, but vote your conscience and don’t mortgage your future.’ Whatever the case may be, I know, from what we have seen here, the turnout at our different rallies, the different letters by support groups, that the ruling party will be shocked at the outcome of the election.

“The people know who has represented them well, those who have not stolen government money and are here to serve the people and take them out of poverty. Akinbade has demonstrated all through his years in service that his priority is Osun people and nothing else. His deputy has even sacrificed her career, defending workers’ rights. They have not forgotten this, and are waiting for September 22 to right the wrongs with their votes,” Nwosu said.Meanwhile, Akinbade has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), observers and other stakeholders to ensure that the election slated for September 22 is free, fair and credible.

Akinbade particularly implored INEC to make good its pledge to make the election credible by checkmating vote buying and other shenanigans identified during the governorship poll held two months ago in Ekiti State.

The ADC candidate spoke while playing host to a group of international election observers from South Africa under the aegis of Pan African Women Project headed by Dr. Eno Udensi.He said the charge had become expedient in view of the alleged growing apprehension by the people that the coming election might be rigged in favour of the ruling party.

In a statement by his media office, Akinbade said: “Though INEC has been assuring us that it would conduct a free and fair election, by, especially, checking vote buying and other related electoral crimes, we want them to actualise this by matching words with action. We don’t want the commission’s assurances to be a smokescreen at the end of the day.”

The former secretary to the state government noted that of late, rumour had been rife of plans to by the commission to compromise the election in favour of a particular party.“I am appealling to you observers and other related stakeholders that will be involved in our election, to ensure the natural votes of the people was not fractured under any guise.”

Akinbade said the ADC, as a party, was prepared not only to participate in the election, but to come out victorious “having been adjudged by the people as the best” among the contending parties angling for the coveted governorship seat.He promised that the ADC would not be involved in any untoward electoral activity, advising all those that would pilot the affairs before and after the election to be unbiased umpires. The candidate warned that any form of underhand dealing in the contest could brew contempt and crisisEarlier, Udensi said they were working round the clock to ensure the election is hitch-free, adding that vote buying and other related electoral crimes would be closely monitored.

Source:

https://guardian.ng/politics/adc-will-oust-apc-shock-pdp-says-nwosu/

Benin monarch tasks Saraki on peace between legislature, executive

By Gabriel Enogholase

BENIN—OBA of Benin, Omo N’Oba Ewuare II, has called on the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, to use his office to ensure that peace and order reign between the National Assembly and the executive arm of government.

The Benin monarch said traditional rulers in the country were uncomfortable and worried about the crisis involving the National Assembly and the executive.

The Oba, who gave the advice while receiving the Senate President in his palace in continuation of his (Saraki) visit to Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, delegates ahead of the party’s October national convention, said Nigerians expected much from the legislators and urged them to work towards realising that objective.

Earlier, Saraki told the Oba that he was in Benin City to meet with members of PDP in pursuant of his presidential ambition.

He added that he considered it very important to visit the Oba’s palace to inform him of his ambition and seek his blessings.

Oba of Benin also called on political leaders to ensure that 2019 elections are free, fair and peaceful, pointing out that whoever losses should regard it as victory for democracy, instead of promoting violence in the polity.

On the call for restructuring of the country, he said that the issue should not be allowed to heat up the system.

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/benin-monarch-tasks-saraki-on-peace-between-legislature-executive/

Don’t leave APC after primaries, El-Rufai begs aspirants

Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai

• Chieftain, supporters defect to PRP
Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State has appealed to aspirants in the state not to leave the party after the primaries.However, some of the party members, who felt that only direct primaries could throw up credible candidates for the 2019 general elections, have registered their protest.

El-Rufai, while speaking at the Kaduna APC Emerging Youth Summit at the weekend, craved the indulgence of all aspirants to support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, for it to win the general election.

The governor said instead of leaving the party, it would be better for them to rally behind whoever wins the primary elections, while they bid their time.By supporting the party to win, he said, those who lose APC primaries are also paving way for getting appointments.

Said he: “We have many people aspiring for different positions under APC in the state, and among them, only one person will emerge in the primary. If you lose out from the primary, try to support whoever emerges and wait for your time.”

Meanwhile, former director-general of the Buhari Campaign Organisation in Kagarko Council of Kaduna, Shunom Adinga, has defected to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), citing lack of democracy dividends in the state.

The APC chieftain and his supporters joined PRP during a rally in the council at the weekend. Adinga also alleged that “the current mandate of the Kagarko council chairman on the platform of the APC is a stolen one.”

While advising the council chairman to better the lives of the people in the area, Adinga said he should use the opportunity to do justice to all and sundry regardless of party affiliation.Disclosing his ambition to represent Kagarko in the House Assembly in the 2019, he added: “Regardless of the party affiliation, I am offering myself for effective and qualitative representation.”Chairman of PRP in Kagarko, John Abubakar, welcomed Adinga, stating that such act would attract development to the area.

Source:

https://guardian.ng/politics/dont-leave-apc-after-primaries-el-rufai-begs-aspirants/

When Leonardo Da Vinci, Machiavelli and Cesare Borgia met

…the artist, the philosopher and the warrior

By Osa Mbonu

Philip of Macedonia, father of Alexander the Great, as many of us know, was also a great conqueror. Alexander grew up crying that his father, Philip, had conquered the whole world, leaving none for him to conquer. Nevertheless, the young Alexander later found enough unconquered lands and people to overrun and subdue.

Philip did something strange during his lifetime when he was moving from one tent to another in the battlefields. He employed a young man and assigned to him a weird duty: to wake him up every morning and say to him: “Philip of Macedonia, remember that one day you will die.”

The horrified servant protested to his master, saying it was not a pleasant way for anyone to wake up in the morning. But it was for Phillip, and he compelled the servant to carry out his assigned duty. So, every morning, the servant entered into the general’s tent and woke him up and said to him: “Philip of Macedonia, remember that one day you will die.”

Philip was a wise man, for when men have become great, or made some level of transient achievements (for all human achievements are ephemeral) they tend to forget that one day they will die.

If these four protagonists – Leonardo Da Vinci, Niccolo Machiavelli, Cesare Borgia and especially, Rodrigo Borgia who later became Pope Alexander VI – had constantly had it mind that one day they will die, or even fall before their dying day, they probably would have acted differently.   They need little or no introduction for those who are abreast with history. Their intersecting lives and the world they tried to shape are documented by Paul Strathern in his great book titled “The artist, the philosopher, and the warrior”.

The scene is Florence, a city-state of Italy, and the story begins with the birth of Leonardo Da Vinci and the beginning of his career as an artist and military engineer. Then enters Machiavelli, who was born on May 3, 1469 to an impoverished lawyer, Bernardo. Through his observation of the political events of his days, Machiavelli became convinced that events are determined by the character of the leader, but that even the most inspirational of leaders was nothing, unless he had a means to combat his enemies and retain power, of which only the power of arms could do.

Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI)

It may sound blasphemous to say that a Pope is evil, a rogue, treacherous and a murderer. But these are even not enough venomous words to describe the father of Cesare Borgia, Rodrigo Borgia who later became Pope Alexander VI.

The Borgias were originally Spanish and therefore regarded as outsiders in Italy, the real owners of the papacy. In September 1475, Cesare was born to Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia by one of his numerous mistresses, Vannozza de’ Cattanei. The Cardinal had other sons and daughters from other mistresses but Vannozza was a strong-willed woman and she made sure that the children she bore for the Cardinal were more loved by their father and his chief beneficiaries than his other children. Cesare was educated for entry into the Church. He was taught Latin, and at age 6 Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia prevailed on Pope Sixtus IV to grant Cesare a “dispensation” from his illegitimacy which would qualify him for ecclesiatical offices. Besides other strings of lucrative benefices obtained for Cesare, who had not even taken any holy order, by his father, at age 15, Cesare was made the Bishop-elect of Pamplona, the capital of the Spanish kingdom of Navarre which resulted in a serious uprising by the angry citizens of Pamplona who saw the appointment of a 15 year old boy to be their Bishop as insult to them and their kingdom.

By hook, crook and fraud, Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia continued to advance his own career in the Church. He wangled his way to become the vice-chancellor, a position that enabled him to amass great wealth and became one of the most powerful figures in Rome.

“Although Cardinal Borgia may have lived a louche life,” Strathern writes, “he made sure he always attended the consistory, when the cardinals met to discuss the business of the Church. A man of intelligence and cunning, he quickly gained an expert knowledge of the financial dealings of the Church and of the power politics involved in its operations.”

There are testimonies to the wittiness of Cesare’s mind both in school and ordinary life, but he had no inclination whatsoever for the priesthood.

In July 1492, the reigning Pope Innocent VIII died and on August 5, the cardinals embarked on their secret conclave to elect his successor. Just as it is in the worldly politics, possibly more, horse-trading, briberies, and treacheries attended the papal election, and Cardinal Borgia proved to be a master in such evil maneuverings. At the previous election in 1484, he had been out-maneuvered by some cabals and had lost to Innocent VIII. Once again, the cardinal found himself being blocked by the same forces. At 61, Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia realized that it was his last chance of becoming the pope.

For five days, the intense discussion continued, with no sign of resolving the deadlock. Eventually it emerged that the balance was held by Cardinal Ascanio Sforza.

“On the night of August 10,” the contemporary diarist Stefano Infessura recorded, “four mules laden with treasure were observed leaving Cardinal Borgia’s palazzo for that of Cardinal Sforza…during those days, the withdrawals from the Spannocchi Bank in Rome, where Cardinal Borgia deposited his money, were so massive that the bank itself almost went under. On the morning of August 11…it emerged – to widespread astonishment – that Cardinal Ascanio Sforza had decided to cast his vote (and those of his faction) for Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, who was consequently elected as the new pope and took the name Alexander VI…the pope’s annual income around this time was around 300,000 ducats, and the selling of rich benefices could amount to even more than this sum. Previous conclaves had been known to be corrupt, with money used to influence voting, but this occasion was generally reckoned to have been the first time in history when the papacy was simply bought outright.

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/when-leonardo-da-vinci-machiavelli-and-cesare-borgia-met/

Sanwo-Olu promises to build on Tinubu, Fashola’s legacies

Former Minister of State for Defence, Demola Seriki (left); All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his wife, Ibijoke, and party chieftain, James Odunmbaku, during Sanwo-Olu’s formal declaration in Lagos…yesterday.

All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant for Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has promised to build his vision of taking the state to greater heights on the foundation laid by former governors, Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, if he wins the party’s ticket and eventually elected in 2019.

Speaking during his official declaration to contest the APC ticket with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, at the City Hall yesterday, the former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry said he would restore the environment that has become the source of worry to Lagosians.

The aspirant, who is believed to be enjoying the backing of APC national leader, Tinubu, said he would work according to the party manifesto, which promised welfare package to the people.His words: “These values are the things that I believe and ready to defend. I will ensure their propagation. And they drive my present desire.

“If elected governor of Lagos next year, I will immediately embark on full restoration of the glory of the state by making the people the cornerstone of government.”
He said his administration would address the persistent gridlocks that make life nasty on the roads.

“My focal point shall be to provide the greatest good for the greatest number of the people of Lagos. I have invited you all here to join me in this journey, to take Lagos to new dimension by transforming the manifesto of our party to the programme of action.“I am making a clarion call to all our members that there is a lot to be done to achieve a Lagos of our dream. I present myself as a capable, competent and tested hand to make Lagos greater.”

“I promise to be a true party man in the real definition of the words and in running an inclusive government according to the ideology of APC and long term benefit of citizens.“Loyalty, in my view, is the currency of politics. I shall be loyal to the people of the state and leadership of the party,” he promised.

Source:

https://guardian.ng/politics/sanwo-olu-promises-to-build-on-tinubu-fasholas-legacies/

Outcome of Osun governorship election ’ll shock APC- Says ADC

.Holds National convention, adopts new construction

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The African Democratic Congress has said that the ruling All Progressives Congress will be shocked at the outcome of the September 22, 2018 in Osun State governorship elections, as its candidates will emerge victorious.

The National Chairman of the party, Chief Ralphs Nwosu said this, at the weekend, during the ADC National Convention, with the theme, “Building a Model Disciplined Political Party,” which drew 5,600 delegates to Osogbo, Osun State.

He said, “We brought our National Convention to Osun, to boost the efforts of our 90-man campaign team, and tell Osun people that they have no better candidate for the governorship seat other than our tested and trusted candidate, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade and his Deputy, Rtd. Justice Folahanmi Oloyede.

“On September 22, I assure you that the good people of Osun State, who have been yearning for good, inclusive and responsible governance, will shun money politics, no matter the billions being put aside for vote buying by the ruling government and others. They will vote their conscience. Some people have said, ‘take their money, it is your right, but vote your conscience and don’t mortgage your future.’ Whatever the case may be, I know – from what we have seen here, the turnout at our different rallies, the different letters by support groups – that the ruling party will be shocked at the outcome of the election.

“The people know who has represented them well, those who have not stolen government money and are here to serve the people and take them out of poverty. Akinbade has demonstrated all through his years in service that his priority is Osun people and nothing else. Needless to say that his deputy has even sacrificed her career, defending workers’ rights. They have not forgotten this, and are waiting for September 22 to right the wrongs with their votes.”

The new consitution of the party was affirmed and adopted by all delegates at the convention just as the national Organising Secretary of ADC, Dr. Mani Ibrahim, reminded members that the unique selling point of the party was that “it is the fastest growing political party in Nigeria today, which is absolutely members-driven and members-funded.”

“There is no single money bag; we are all financiers. So, this is your party, own it, and decide. We will not go the way of other parties. We will stick to our guiding principles, ethics, which centre around the greatness of Nigeria through purposeful leadership,” he stressed.

The national chairman reiterated that the party’s Coalition for Electoral Integrity was a vehicle to sensitise Nigerians against vote buying and electoral corruption and detoxify the electoral environment.

He commended former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his invaluable guidance, which had seen the party growing stronger.

Nwosu said, “We need to appreciate the wise guidance of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He has chosen to guide us and to advise us, so that we will not go the way of other political parties. Baba is a highly influential former President and he is on first name basis with most other leaders and former presidents. It is a good thing to have such personality guiding us.

“We went to a gathering of leaders recently, and there were over 12 African presidents on queue, waiting to discuss with him. We are lucky to have him. Our party is specially blessed with people of impeccable character. We want to build an inclusive country, where nomination forms would cease to be out of the reach of the common man who wants to really serve his people.”

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/outcome-of-osun-governorship-election-ll-shock-apc-says-adc/

IBB assures Saraki on his presidential ambition

By Wole Mosadomi

Minna—Senate  President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has boasted that he can never be impeached, saying All Progressives Congress, APC, championing the cause is in minority and does not have the powers to carry out the threat.

President of the Senate and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and his team during a courtesy call on former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida ahead of the party’s National Convention to elect its 2019 presidential flagbearer, in Minna, Niger State, yesterday.

He also made it clear that he would never step down as Senate president as demanded by the APC.

According to him, succumbing to such calls will only amount to sacrificing the national interest of the country for personal interest.

Saraki, who spoke in an interview with newsmen in Minna, Niger State, as part of his presidential campaign, yesterday, said:  “The APC members know that we are in the majority and whatever they want to do they know that they don’t have the number.

“The other kite they are trying to fly is asking me to step down from my seat but I can tell you that this cannot be possible as I will not step down.

“One thing is very clear and that is to say that I will not sacrifice the interest of the country for my personal interest and in the last three years as a Senate president, I have demonstrated that my interest is second to that of the nation.”

He condemned the calls from various quarters on the Senate to suspend its recess and resume, adding that it was a collective decision by all members to adjourn and that the recess was under the ambit of law.

He said the National Assembly has, therefore, not contravened any section of the procedures in embarking on the recess and  reconvene when it was time to resume from break.

IBB assures Saraki on his presidential ambition

Meanwhile, former Nigeria Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd), has assured Saraki on his presidential ambition saying: “It is my turn to do what your father did to me.”

Babangida, who made this known when Saraki visited him as part of his campaign tour for the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, convention, said he would treat the Senate presidential aspirant as his own son.

IBB said:  “I remember when I was still in office, I spoke with your father, Oloye Saraki, who was always providing advice on a number of things attached to this country.

“He always made himself available to me, to give advice and encouragement, which will move the country forward. Your visit today is historical, now it is your time and turn to come to me and I will do just that.”

“You mentioned three things that are very dear to us as military, and we fought to get them to preserve them. They are unity of the country, the security of lives and economic development.

“The security of the people and the well being of the ordinary man are the right objectives for campaign and leadership for this country.”

Earlier, Saraki had told Babangida that Nigeria was now at a crossroad, adding that what the country needed now was a leader that could unite everybody.

He vowed to fight poverty and secure the life and property of all Nigerians, if voted as the President of the country next year.

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/ibb-assures-saraki-on-his-presidential-ambition/

Bonfrere Jo leads world legends to anti-corruption charity match in December

Lagos starts conversion of Teslim Balogun Stadium turf to grass pitch

50 mins ago  Sport

Some of the best footballers that have graced the global arena will soon gather in Nigeria to trade tackles with the country’s former internationals and entertainment stars in an awareness game organized as part of the war against corruption.

The match, slated for December 8 in Abuja, is being organised by Klick Konnect Networks Limited and Oz Consulting firm.Tagged, “Match Against Corruption,” it will hold at the Abuja National Stadium with former Super Eagles’ Coach, Bonfrere Jo managing the Nigerian side.

According to a release by Alex Ajipe of Klick Konnect Networks Limited and Abi Goodman of OZ Consulting, the match is expected to highlight the negative effects of corruption on the society and the need to fight it head long.

Goodman, who is also the chief executive officer of Canada-based OZ Consulting, a non-governmental organisation, said the organisers want to use the match to elicit total commitment to eradicate the scourge from the country.He added the campaign was based on the organisation’s belief in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) position that fighting corruption is a global concern because it is found in both rich and poor countries, though poor people suffer the most.

“Fighting corruption is one of the three cardinal agenda of the Federal Government of Nigeria. The others are the economy and security.“However, the government cannot succeed in its effort to secure the country and reposition the economy without a successful fight against corruption, de-legitimise it and make it unpopular among Nigerians.

“It is part of activities to commemorate the International Anti-Corruption Day which will fall on December 9, 2018,” Abi said.The Charity match, according to her, will also “mobilise the populace to act against corruption by saying no and refusing to participate in activities that are not legal and transparent and support efforts to eradicate it. Rooting out corruption allows social and economic development.”

Source:

https://guardian.ng/sport/bonfrere-jo-leads-world-legends-to-anti-corruption-charity-match-in-december/

Again, Saraki insists APC cannot impeach him

Senate President Bukola Saraki

•Plot to stop Adamu’s third term thickens

Senate President and presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Bukola Saraki, has said that calls for his impeachment when the senate resumes for plenary are feeble, stressing that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) lacks the required numbers to carry out that threat. Saraki, who made the assertions during an interactive session with journalists at the PDP secretariat in Minna, explained that the decision of the upper chamber of the National Assembly to go on recess was unanimously agreed on accordance with the rule of law.

The Senate President declared: “Everybody was there, and we all took a decision to adjourn in our normal annual recess. Check the dates we resumed last year, and the year before. There was nothing abnormal about it.“Those who are accusing us of undue process in the adjournment are unaware that we are in the majority. They know they don’t have the locus standi. The people that are speaking now against it are speaking out of emotions, because everyone was there when the decision was taken. It was not that a few of us met somewhere and took a decision.

“It is important to note that when we adjourned, it is with the total support of everyone, not that we stayed in a corner or in the dark because there is a due procedure where at the end of the session they will vote for that. It was proposed and seconded. We took minutes and we also even waited and went through the rules and proceedings of the Senate. It was not anything done out of mischief.”

While insisting that he does not regard the imputation by his detractors as an issue, Saraki stressed: “The most important thing is that, at anytime I will never sacrifice the interest of this country for my own personal interest. In the last three years, my interest is always secondary to the interest of the country.

“Those people, who are talking against it are just playing politics with it, when it is time for us to resume, we will resume. And all we just want to do now is to see that this country is runned properly according to the rule of law and due process.“I have always aligned myself to what the constitution says and the tenets of the three arms of government to ensure that we allow the rule of law, the respect the democratic process.”

However, the senatorial ambition of one of the arrowheads of opposition to Saraki, Senator Abdullahi Adamu for a third term, might hit a brickwall following latest move by Governor Tanko Al-Makura to draft one of his loyal commissioners into the senatorial race from Nassarawa south western zone.Governor Almakura, who had enjoyed a long time support of senator Abdullahi Adamu, was said to have lost confidence in the senator for acts of betrayal by senator Adamu.

Consequently, the governor, who had been restraining his lieutenants from showing interest in Adamu’s seat, has directed one of his aides, the commissioner of Education, Ahmed Tijani, to join the race. Tijani, who is from the same senatorial zone as Adamu, has already picked the expression of interest and nomination forms to run against the incumbent. The Guardian learnt that the decision to encourage Ahmed Tijani to run came shortly after the governor advised the present Secretary to State Government (SSG), Mr. Abdullahi Musa, to step down for the incumbent Senator for the seat.
 
But the sudden decision to sponsor one of his commissioners to join the race against Senator Adamu at next month’s APC primary is a clear manifestation of the simmering supremacy battles between the governor and Senator Adamu.A source confided in The Guardian that the APC leader in the state also advised the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Bala Sani, to join the governorship race to contend with his deputy, Silas Ali Agara.
 
Agara has shown both overt and covert loyalty to Almakura and APC since inception in the hope that he would be rewarded with support for the governorship of the state. All that seems to be over, as he seems to have been dumped by Almakura. Investigation further revealed that the Nassarawa State chapter of the  ruling  APC  may likely suffer mass defection shortly after the guber primary going by hints from some of the aspirants.

Source:

https://guardian.ng/politics/again-saraki-insists-apc-cannot-impeach-him/

2019: Atiku petitions Buhari over alleged threat to Life

…Demand Urgent Probe

By Dirisu Yakubu
ABUJA- Erstwhile Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari over alleged threats to his life and those of his family members following his decision to contest the 2019 Presidential election.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, candidate in the forthcoming primaries of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

Atiku, who is one of the aspirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) revealed this in a petition, he addressed to President Buhari, dated September 7, 2018.

The petition, enitled “Petition Over Criminal Intimidation And Threat To My Life, That Of Members Of My Family, And Cyber Stalking Using Mobile Phone Number 08148228704,” was copied to the PDP national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus.

In the Petition, Atiku requested additional police protection for his family and himself from the President stressing that his wife and daughters have received separate Short Message Service (SMS) from the mobile line warning that unless he backs out of the race, they would be raped and murdered.

Atiku said the author of the threat text message said his family was being closely monitored.

He called on President Buhari to order an urgent investigation into the matter pointing out that it could lead to serious breaches and may constitute real danger to national security, if not addressed.

He said “I present my highest compliments to the compliments to the president and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and have the honour to request Your Excellency kind review/investigation and urgent consideration of extra protection for my family and I against some criminal intimidation and threat to my life, that of my family, and the cyber stalking against my family and I, using telephone mobile number +2348148228704.”

Atiku in the petition, said the author threatened that if he doesn’t withdraw from the contest, “we will kill, rape your wife and daughters”, whom they identified as Mariam who worked at CBN and Fatima, the former commissioner in Adamawa State.

According to Atiku, the writer of the SMS also threatened: “We will blow your plane off the sky and we will poison you and your family. You are going to see what we will do with your family. We know where and where your children travel to.”

The petition further revealed that the author of the message also threatened to blow up all his property and those of his wives, saying, “We control the aviation towers in Nigeria and South Africa. We are in government and Buhari will win again. Your party members will never select you and if they do, we will assassinate you. We will kill you by blowing up your plane.”

In the separate text messages to the wife and daughter, the author, according to Atiku, asked them to ask him to shelve his Presidential intent.

The former Vice President however said “from the foregoing, Mr President can see that if adequate and urgent steps are not taken to identify and deal with these threats, it could lead to serious breaches and may constitute real danger to national security.

“Considering that this threats border on the right of my family and I to life as well as my freedom to aspire for and contest for the Presidency in Nigeria, I urge you to commence urgent investigation with a view to identifying the person (s) behind the threat, expose and prosecute the culprit (s) in accordance with the laws.

“I request that you ensure the continued protection of my rights to life, that of my family, my property and my rights and freedoms to associate and aspire to any political office as guaranteed under the 1999 Nigerian constitution (as amended),” he said.

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/2019-atiku-petitions-buhari-over-alleged-threat-to-life/

APC derailing from original principles, policies — Presidential aspirant

By Perez Brisibe

UGHELLI — A presidential aspirant on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Mumakai Unagha, has expressed worry that the party was fast derailing from its original principles and policies.

From left: Chairman of All Progressives Governors Forum, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Muhammadu Buhari, Chairman of APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and others, during the APC National Executive Committee meeting at the party’s Secretariat in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.
The presidential hopeful also faulted the N45 million for the party’s presidential form, stressing that the amount was simply placing governance in the hands of the rich.
Alhaji Unagha, in a statement, yesterday, by his media aide, Issah Ahmed, noted that there was no justification for the increment, adding that it was a ploy to deny those with genuine interest to redeem downtrodden Nigerians from what they are passing through.

He also accused the National Working Committee, NWC, of the party of playing to the gallery and the presidency to undermine other aspirants, stressing that the position of the party has further confirmed speculations that President Muhammadu Buhari shall be the sole candidate of the party.

He said: “The NWC has contravened the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, and 2011 Electoral Act as amended by unilaterally increasing the forms from its previous price during the 2015 general election to its current amount.

“It is based on this that we are calling for the urgent redress of the situation to avoid a collision course because we will not give up until justice is done as the APC is gradually derailing from its original principles and policies of a social political alignment and re alignment of the nation’s economy for which the party was formed.

“We believe that those who can now afford the forms are those who have been in the corridor of power in affluent with much worth to obtain the form.”

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/apc-derailing-from-original-principles-policies-presidential-aspirant/

BREAKING News: Court Dismisses Application Seeking To Stop Saraki's Removal As Senate President

 

File photo

According to Vanguard, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, on Thursday, struck out a suit asking it to stop any attempt to reconvene the Senate for the purpose of removing Dr. Bukola Saraki as the Senate President.

Justice Nnamdi Dimgba terminated further hearing on the suit which was filed by two former All Progressive Congress, APC, Senators, Rafiu Adebayo and Isa Misau, following an application by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN.

At the resumed hearing of the case marked FHC/ABJ/CS/843/2018, no lawyer appeared on behalf of the plaintiffs.

Consequently, the AGF who was represented by Mr. T. D. Agbe, urged the court to strike out the case for want of deligent prosecution.

The AGF further prayed the court to award a cost of N10million against the plaintiffs who he accused of filing a frivolous suit.

He noted that the plaintiffs who were previously represented by a consortium of Senior Advocates of Nigeria led by Mr. Mahmud Magaji and Emeka Etiaba, were aware that the matter was slated for hearing.

“We apply for a substantial cost to be awarded against the plaintiffs to teach them a lesson. This court is not a play ground, it is a place for serious business”, the AGF submitted.

Counsel to both the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kola Oluwole and that of the Department of State Service, Mr. Shimana Azeh, adopted the position of the AGF and requested that the case should be struck out.

In a short ruling, Justice Dimgba acceded to request of the Defendants and struck out the case for want of deligent prosecution.

The plaintiffs who are representing Kwara South and Bauchi Central, respectively, had alleged that some chieftains of their former party, APC, led by its National Chairman, Adams Oshiomohole and the AGF, had perfected plans to use security agencies to force Saraki to vacate his position as the Senate President.

They applied for an order of interlocutory injunction stopping any impeachment proceeding against Saraki, pending the determination of legal issues they posed before the court.

In a 13 paragraphed affidavit that was personally deposed to by Senator Misau, he told the court that the APC was collaborating with key security agencies and the AGF to ensure Saraki’s removal, notwithstanding the number of Senators in his support.

According to him, “Unless the Defendants and their agents are restrained by this Honourable Court from taking the law into their hands, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would not only be breached and violated by the Defendants but would also plunge the entire Country into a constitutional and social crisis of immense magnitude”.

The plaintiffs urged the court to among other things, determine whether, “In view of the combined reading of sections 50(1) (a), 53(1) (a) and 60 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Rules 12 (2) of the Senate Standing Orders 2015 (as amended), the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has the powers to regulate its proceedings including the power to adjourned its sitting to a date certain?

“Having regards to sections 50(1) (a), 53(1) (a) and 60 of the ‘ Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) read in coniunction with Rules 12 (2) of the Senate Standing Orders 2015 (as amended), whether any member of the Senate other than the President and Deputy President of the Senate can re-assemble the sitting of the Senate to an earlier or later date other than the adiourned date?

“Whether by virtue of the provision of the Rules 12(1), (2) and (3) of the Senate Standing Orders 2015 (as amended), it is the Senate President or in his absence the Deputy President of Senate that is vested with the exclusive powers to convene and give notice of the meeting of the Senate at any earlier date before or during the period of recess/break of the Senate, ending on the 25th September, 2018.

“Whether on a proper interpretation of Rule 12 paragraph 2 of the Senate Standing Order 2015 (as amended), the leaders of a single political party can validly direct the Senate President to reconvene the Senate sitting on an earlier date other than the date fixed for resumption of Plenary/ Sitting by the President of the Senate.

As well as, “Whether by virtue of the provisions of sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria I999 (as amended), the Defendants other than the 2nd and 3rd (Saraki and Ike Ekweremadu) are statutorily empowered to issue directives to the lst, 2nd and 3rd Defendants to reconvene the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria after same was properly adiourned in accordance with the extant laws of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Aside praying the court to declare that only Saraki or in his absence, Ekweremadu that has the powers to give any notice for the purpose of reconvening the Senate before September 25, the Plaintiffs urged the court to abort any move by any other authority, to recall the Senate.

Cited as Defendants in the suit were the Senate, Saraki, Ekweremadu, Senator Ahmed Lawal (Senate Leader), Senator Bala Ibn Nallah (Deputy Senate Leader), Senator Emma Buacha (Deputy Minority Leader), Clerk of the Senate and Deputy Clerk of the Senate.

Others were the AGF, the IGP and the DSS.

The AGF had earlier challenged the jurisdiction of the high court to entertain the suit, even as he discribed the two lawmakers who recently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as “mischief makers”.

The AGF maintained that the plaintiffs failed to show how Saraki’s removal would affect their personal rights.

He further contended that the fact that Police summoned Saraki for interrogation with respect to the Offa robbery incident, was not sufficient ground for either the plaintiffs or Saraki himself to file action to consolidate his position in the Senate.

“My lord, I do not think this court is so free to allow itself to be used by mischief makers like the plaintiffs in this matter. The present suit as constituted has not shown any wrong done to the plaintiffs.

“We submit that the directives of the invitation of Dr Bukola Saraki to appear before the IGP for further investigation in line with paragraph 5(f) of the DPPF’s advice cannot create a cause of action in favour of either Saraki himself or the Applicants herein.

“It is pertinent to state that if there is a threat to powers of the Senate President as conferred on him by the constitution and the Standing Rules of the Senate, the first person to complain should be the Senate President and not the plaintiffs herein”, the AGF stated in his preliminary objection dated August 27.

Source:

https://www.tori.ng/news/106133/breaking-news-court-dismisses-application-seeking.html

Breaking: Buhari appoints Bichi as new DSS DG

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA – PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has approved with effect from the 14th of September, the appointment of Yusuf Magaji Bichi (fwc), as new Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS).

Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari
A statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and publicity, Garba Shehu, said that the appointee is a core Secret Service operative.

He attended Danbatta Secondary School, the Kano State College of Advanced Studies and the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where he graduated with a degree in Political Science.

The new Director-General began his career in the security division of the Cabinet Office in Kano, from where he joined the defunct Nigerian Security Organization (NSO), the precursor of the present DSS.

Mr. Bichi has undergone training in intelligence processing analysis, agent handling recruitment and intelligence processing in the UK, as well as strategic training at the National Defence College.

It added “The new DSS boss comes to the job with skills in intelligence gathering, research analysis, conflict management, general investigation, risk and vulnerability operations, counter intelligence and protective operation and human resources management.

“In the course of his career, Mr. Bichi has worked as the State Director of Security in Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto and Abia States.

“He was at various times the Director, National Assembly Liaison, (National War College), Director at National Headquarters in the Directorate of Security Enforcement, Directorate of Operations, Directorate of Intelligence, Directorate of Inspection and Directorate of Administration and Finance.” it stated

The new appointee also served as Director at State Service Academy.

“Mr Bichi is married and with children.” the statement said

Source:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/09/breaking-buhari-appoints-bichi-as-new-dss-dg/

Fayose’s aide claims Ambode’s fight with Tinubu could be political gimmick

Lere Olayinka, the Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has claimed that the purported rift between Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode and the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, could be a “political marketing strategy”.

Olayinka wrote on his verified Twitter handle: “What if this Ambode/Tinubu matter is a Political Marketing Strategy?

“Just using my brain ni o. #Hissssssssh.”

Ambode’s quest to be re-elected for a second term may have run into troubled waters as 50 council chairmen loyal to Tinubu, his estranged godfather, have met and pledged their support for Jide Sanyaolu Sanwonolu, who is believed to be Tinubu’s preferred choice.

The council chairmen are the most influential grassroots mobilisers under the direct primary system adopted by APC, to pick governorship candidates.

In a video obtained by DAILY POST, all 57 local government chairmen signed up to support Sanwonolu. 

Source:

http://dailypost.ng/2018/09/13/fayoses-aide-claims-ambodes-fight-tinubu-political-gimmick/

Saraki meets Obasanjo, Abulsalami Abubakar [PHOTOS]

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki on Thursday met with former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Saraki, a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential aspirant met with Obasanjo in Ghana, during the burial ceremony of deceased former United Nations Secretary General, Koffi Annan.

The Senate President also met with former Military Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Disclosing this in a tweet, Saraki’s spokesperson, Olu Enemola wrote:
“PHOTO NEWS: Senate President, Dr. Abubakar @BukolaSaraki and his wife, H.E. @ToyinSaraki, pay their last respects to the former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan. Today in Ghana.”

Real Madrid president not happy with Zidane’s intention to manage Manchester United

Zinedine Zidane’s ambition of returning to management with Manchester United, is not going down well with Real Madrid president Florentio Perez.

Spanish newspaper, El Confidencial, reports that Perez is “disturbed” by reports that the Zidane, who guided the club to three successive Champions League trophies, has set his sights on succeeding Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.

Mourinho eased the pressure on himself with a 2-0 win at Burnley before the international break, but it is believed he is walking a tightrope.

Zidane is said to be “preparing himself” to take charge at Old Trafford and is said to be “expecting the call” from the club.

The Frenchman cited exhaustion as his reason for leaving the Bernabeu, despite Perez’s wishes that he stay on.

Source:

http://dailypost.ng/2018/09/13/real-madrid-president-not-happy-zidanes-intention-manage-manchester-united/

Cloud over PDP's offer to Otedola

There is a cloud of uncertainty over the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Lagos State.

Reports had indicated, yesterday that the PDP had offered the ticket to oil magnate, Femi Otedola, and that he had accepted to be the PDP flag-bearer in next year’s governorship poll in Lagos.

Otedola is son of a former governor of the state and is from the same Epe axis as the incumbent, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

The billionaire businessman has, however, dismissed the offer.

His media aide, who declined to be named, told Daily Sun, yesterday evening that “although an offer was made, he has not accepted it. He’s still consulting…”

Regardless, social media was awash with news that Otedola, had ‘accepted’ to run for governorship on PDP’s ticket.

Foremost journalist, Chief Dele Momodu, had also tweeted earlier yesterday that Otedola, who is on vacation abroad, would be running for the Lagos governorship ticket on PDP platform.

He wrote: “Breaking news: Lagos 2019 promises to be interesting. PDP offers Femi Otedola governorship ticket. He’s accepted and personally confirmed to The Boss newspaper.”

On his Instagram page, same day, Otedola shared a video of himself enjoying a ride in a miniature vehicle. He captioned the video: “Never too old to catch some fun … F.Ote.”

On Monday, Ambode declared his intention to seek re-election in 2019 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. The governor told party faithful in Alausa, the seat of power in the state,after he picked his nomination form in Abuja, to join him to build a prosperous state driven by a vibrant economy, equity and justice.

But, the PDP has washed its hands of any offer of a governorship ticket to Otedola.

PDP National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan told Daily Sun, in a telephone interview, that the party does not have the tradition of offering a governorship to anyone.

Ologbondiyan explained that PDP aspirants for various positions are expected to obtain nomination forms after which they will participate in a credible primary; to produce the party’s candidate, in any election.

He, however, said if Otedola is interested in the PDP governorship ticket in Lagos, he should buy the nomination forms to enable him participate in the primary election.

“Does the PDP offer ticket? If he wants to contest, he should come and collect a nomination form. PDP does not offer tickets. Aspirants on the platform of the PDP buy forms, go through credible primary election. There are people in Lagos who have bought forms for the primaries. We don’t offer tickets. We offer forms; if you interested, you come and buy and contest,” the PDP spokesman stated.

Reacting to the development, Lagos state chapter of the party, said it was unaware of the ticket being offered to Otedola or his acceptance of such.The state chapter, however, said it would be happy to see him aspire for the exalted position on the party’s platform.

A leader of the party and former Works minister, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, who spoke on the development said he was unaware of the latest development.

“I cannot confirm to you, yet whether he (Otedola) would be running on PDP ticket or not. I can assure you things will be clearer by tomorrow (today),” he said.

Source:

https://www.tori.ng/news/105976/cloud-over-pdps-offer-to-otedola.html