SENATE PASSES VOTE OF CONFIDENCE ON AKPABIO
Dons Eze
- October 17, 2024
CONCERN OVER TINUBU’S EXTENDED ABSENCE FROM NIGERIA
CONCERN OVER TINUBU’S EXTENDED ABSENCE FROM NIGERIA President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s extended absence from Nigeria since attending the World Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia has sparked speculation. Despite credible sources confirming his presence in London, the Presidency remains silent. Questions arise about his whereabouts and the purpose of his private visit amid public concern Six days have elapsed since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu participated in the World Economic Forum’s Riyadh summit in Saudi Arabia. Despite the forum’s conclusion on April 29, Tinubu’s return to Nigeria remains uncertain, sparking widespread speculation about his whereabouts and intentions. The two-day summit, focused on global collaboration, growth, and energy for development, convened leaders from the public and private sectors to address pressing global challenges. Tinubu’s attendance underscored Nigeria’s engagement with international initiatives and efforts to foster cooperation on critical issues. However, the prolonged absence of the president has raised eyebrows, particularly in light of the presidency’s silence on the matter. While initial conjecture suggested a potential detour to Paris for medical reasons – a city Tinubu has visited for healthcare in the past – credible sources have revealed a different trajectory. According to reliable sources, including high-ranking officials within the Presidency, Tinubu is said to have traveled to London following his participation in the Riyadh summit. Although the purpose of his visit remains undisclosed, assurances from insiders suggest that it is a private endeavor. Despite the lack of official confirmation, key figures within the Presidential Villa maintain that Tinubu’s absence poses no cause for alarm. They affirm his imminent return to Nigeria, reassuring the public that he will be back “this weekend.” Tinubu’s recent diplomatic engagements, including his official visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, underscore Nigeria’s commitment to fostering bilateral relations and exploring economic opportunities abroad. His participation in the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum aimed to strengthen ties and explore avenues for collaboration, particularly in agriculture and water management.As speculation mounts and questions linger over Tinubu’s extended stay abroad, Nigerians await official clarity on the president’s whereabouts and the nature of his visit to London.
COURT ORDERS ARREST OF EX-NAVAL CHIEF OVER N1.5B FRAUD
COURT ORDERS ARREST OF EX-NAVAL CHIEF OVER N1.5B FRAUD A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the arrest of a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin and two other officers over N1.5 billion money laundering charges. The charges were instituted against them by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). At the hearing on Friday, the presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo approved the warrant of arrest following an exparte motion filed by counsel to the ICPC, Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha. Akponimisingha stated that Jibrin, Adam Imam Yusuf and Brigadier General Ishaya Gangum Bauka (first to third defendants), were being investigated over allegations of money laundering and making false statement regarding diversion of funds in their respective military and paramilitary institutions, into companies they alleged had a stake in. According to him, at the commencement of the investigation into the allegations, the defendants were released on administrative bail on self-recognizance because of their status as serving and former public figures and has since refused to show up for possible arraignment in court. “This Honourable Court in an ex-parte application by the Complainant/Applicant granted an order of substituted service of the charge on the Defendants/Respondents through O.J. ONOJA, SAN & ASSOCIATES,” Akponimisingha said. ”Sequel to the said order of substituted service, the Complainant/Applicant has since served the charge on the Defendants/Respondents through their Counsel, O.J. ONOJA, SAN & ASSOCIATES. ”Despite the service of the criminal charge on the Defendants/Respondents through their Counsel, O.J, ONOJA, SAN & ASSOCIATES, they have falled or neglected to come to court for their arraignment. “This Honorable court has the statutory as well as the inherent powers to grant this application pursuant to the provisions of sections 184 of ACJA as well as section 6 (6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” he added. Akponimisingha prayed the court for a bench warrant against the respondents (Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin Oyibe, Adam Imam Yusuf, and Brigadier General Ishaya Gamgum Bauka) in charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/158/2023 is pending before the court for the purpose of arresting and bringing them to court for their arraignment and trial. Listed as first to sixth defendants in the 17-count charge are Usman Jibrin Oyibe, Adam Imam Yusuf, Brigadier General Ishaya Gangum Bauka, Lahab integrated & Multi Services Limited, Gate Coast Properties International Limited and Ummays Hummayd Energy Ltd. Two of the counts read: “That you VICE Admiral Usman Jibrin Oyibe (M) sometime in March, 2015 ог thereabout in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, while being the Chief of Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy did take possession of the sum of N22,000,000.00 (Twenty-Two Million Naira) deposited by Sand Prop Ltd into the Zenith Bank account number: 1013913028 of Gate Coast Properties International Limited, a company account which bears your signature against the name and passport photograph of one Lami Idum as the sole signatory, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: fraud and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. “That you Adam Imam Yusuf (M) sometime in January, 2020 or thereabout in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, while being a staff of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) did take possession of the sum of N410,000,000.00 (Four Hundred and Ten Million Naira) deposited into your Zenith Bank account number 2219799630 by Gate Coast Properties International Limited, which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: fraud and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering…
YAHAYA BELLO LASHES OUT AT EFCC, SAYS IT’S “LAWLESS”, “DISHONOURABLE”
YAHAYA BELLO LASHES OUT AT EFCC, SAYS IT’S “LAWLESS”, “DISHONOURABLE” Former Governor Yahaya Bello has launched scathing criticism against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), branding the agency as “lawless” and “dishonorable.” Bello vehemently denied being a fugitive and refuted claims that the EFCC had invited him for questioning regarding alleged financial misconduct after his tenure ended on January 27, 2024. In a strongly-worded two-page statement titled ‘Re: Yahaya Bello: EFCC Never Disobeyed Court Order,’ issued on Wednesday, Bello accused the EFCC of peddling lies and twisting facts. He lambasted the anti-corruption agency for labeling him as “still at large,” challenging them to produce evidence of any invitation sent to him. Bello cited media reports suggesting that the EFCC had threatened to arrest and prosecute him immediately after he handed over power to his successor, Usman Ododo, for alleged crimes committed during his tenure as governor. The statement referenced an ongoing trial in which Bello was implicated, emphasizing that he was described as “still at large” despite never being formally invited for questioning.Bello concluded by urging the EFCC to provide clarity on the alleged invitation and to uphold transparency and accountability in its operations.
NORTHERN LEADERS WARN TINUBU AGAINST RELOCATION OF US, FRENCH MILITARY BASES TO NIGERIA
NORTHERN LEADERS WARN TINUBU AGAINST RELOCATION OF US, FRENCH MILITARY BASES TO NIGERIA Prominent northern leaders have warned against the relocation of US and French military bases from the Sahel to Nigeria. In a letter dated May 3, 2024, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu and National Assembly leaders, the northern elders urged the government to resist such pressures. The letter stated that the US and France are lobbying Nigeria and other Gulf of Guinea nations for defence agreements to station troops previously in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The northern leaders worry that Nigeria might agree to this defence pact, jeopardising its defence and security. They noted that the removal of French and American forces from Niger questions the benefit of foreign military bases. The letter highlighted that US operations in Sahel have not curbed terrorism, which has grown since the military base was established. “The American operations in Niger Republic, for example, were ostensibly to pre-empt and uproot terrorists from the Sahel region. The result has so far been quite unimpressive, if not a complete failure. “It is apparent that the presence of American troops and other intelligence personnel in Niger Republic is not serving any useful purpose. This is for the simple reason that terrorism, far from abating, has risen dramatically since the US began its operations in the region,” they said. It warned against Nigeria sacrificing sovereignty and independence for alliances that could have negative future impacts. The northern leaders pointed out that Nigeria has been consistently opposed to defence pact with foreign countries since the 1960s. “It is important to remember that Nigerians have consistently opposed defense agreement with foreign countries since the 1960s when the Balewa administration was forced to abrogate the Anglo-Nigerian Defense Agreement, because the agreement contained a clause which allowed the Royal Air force to overfly and test its aircrafts in Nigeria. The Agreement also allowed the Royal Air Force to station maintenance staff in Nigeria. The Balewa administration was pressured to abrogate the Agreement because public opinion perceived it as an impairment of Nigeria’s freedom of action which might draw the country into hostilities against it wishes. This remains true,” the letter stated. Adding that, “In 2001, in his bid to ostensibly re-professionalize the Nigerian army, President Obasanjo almost unilaterally signed the “Military Cooperation Agreement Between the US and Nigeria.” To its credit, the Ministry of Defense responded appropriately by opposing the agreement arguing that, the ministry was not involved in the negotiations between Nigeria and the US, neither were the service chiefs, who could have provided input relating to the syllabus and doctrinal content of the programme.” The presence of foreign troops can inflate local prices and living costs, impacting low-income residents, the elders argued. Military base construction and operation can harm the environment, including deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and biodiversity loss, affecting agriculture and indigenous communities. This environmental damage could limit economic and sustainable development opportunities, they noted. “Moreover, hosting foreign troops often leads to increased prices and living costs locally, disproportionately affecting the lower-income population. Environmentally, the construction and operation of military bases can lead to significant degradation of the local environment. “This includes deforestation, soil erosion, water contamination, and loss of biodiversity, which are detrimental to agricultural communities and indigenous populations. The long-term environmental damage could further hinder economic opportunities and sustainable development,” the letter stated.Signatories include Abubakar Siddique Mohammed of the Centre for Democratic Development, Research and Training (CEDDERT); Kabiru Sulaiman Chafe, former minister of State for Petroleum Resources; Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, former INEC chairman; Jibrin Ibrahim of the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD); Auwal Musa of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CCISLAC); and Y. Z. Ya’u of the Centre for Information Technology and Development…
PETER OBI’S NAME MISSING IN EFCC LIST REVEALING 58 FORMER GOVERNORS WHO EMBEZZLED N2.87 TRN
PETER OBI’S NAME MISSING IN EFCC LIST REVEALING 58 EX-GOVERNOR’S WHO EMBEZZLED N2.87 TRN In a startling revelation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed that 58 former governors are implicated in the embezzlement of a staggering sum of 2.87 trillion naira, funds that rightfully belong to the Nigerian people. But one person whose name is conspicuously missing from the EFCC list, is a former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi. The report further reveals that the National Bureau of Statistics has identified a trend where mostly governors affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) failed to attract foreign investment in their respective states. Notably, Governor Dave Umahi’s administration in Ebonyi State finds itself under scrutiny, as it emerges as one of the leading names on the list. Umahi, who has previously spoken out against Peter Obi, now faces allegations of mismanagement that have hindered his state’s contribution to the nation’s progress. Contrasting this narrative is the assertion that during Peter Obi’s tenure, Anambra State experienced significant economic growth, with its GDP reportedly increasing by 40% in 2014. This achievement underscores Obi’s reputation as a productive leader, a stark contrast to the alleged misconduct of his counterparts. Amidst these revelations, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, finds himself absent from the Nigerian political landscape, currently on a visit to Canada. Invited to speak at a special occasion, Obi’s passionate address highlights his commitment to seeing Nigeria flourish. He critiques the prevailing system, attributing Nigeria’s stagnation to incompetence, corruption, and a lack of visionary leadership. Obi’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among Nigerians disillusioned with the status quo. He emphasizes the need to dismantle entrenched criminality and tribal politics that hinder progress. Despite being touted as a potential presidential candidate, Obi stresses that his ambition is not driven by personal gain but by a genuine desire to see Nigeria thrive.As discussions on Nigeria’s future intensify, Obi’s absence from the local political scene raises questions about his role in shaping the country’s destiny. Whether he emerges as a presidential contender or continues to advocate for change from the sidelines, his message resonates with those seeking a brighter future for Nigeria.
- Spirituality
- May 4, 2024
- 65 views
AT LAST, AHIARA CATHOLIC DIOCESE GETS SUBSTANTIVE BISHOP
AT LAST, AHIARA CATHOLIC DIOCESE GETS SUBSTANTIVE BISHOP The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has appointed Bishop Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, as the substantive Bishop for the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara, Imo State. This was contained in a statement from the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) released in Abuja, on Friday. Ahiara Diocese was created in 1987, with Monsignor Victor Adibe Chikwe as its first bishop. Bishop Chikwe died in 1910, and the now Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, appointed as his replacement. This was however reisted by the people of the diocese, who insisted on having a son of the soil as their bishop. That situation put the diocese on collision course with the Vatican, who appointed the former Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onayikan as its administrator. For more than five years, Ahiara Diocese had no substantive Bishop. Bishop Nwobi, until this elevation, was on the 14th October, 2023, appointed Titular Bishop of Rusgunie and Auxiliary Bishop of the Apostolic Administrator sede vacante of Ahiara (Nigeria), and received his episcopal consecration on the 19th of December, 2023. Bishop Simeon Nwobi, was born on 25th March, 1960, in Eziama Oparanadim Ekwereazu, in the Diocese of Ahiara. After joining the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Claretians), he undertook studies in Philosophy at the Claretian Institute of Philosophy Maryland, Nedeke, and later in Theology at Bigard Memorial Seminary in Enugu. He made his Perpetual Profession on 11th September, 1988, and was ordained a Priest on 21st July, 1990, for his congregation. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) in Enugu, a Licentiate in Missiology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). He has held the following positions: Parish Priest at St. Anthony’s in Igbo-Ora (1990-1992); Bursar at Claretian Theology in Enugu (1992-1997); Director of the Spirituality Department at Claretian Institute of Philosophy Maryland, Nedeke (1999-2000); Professor at Bigard Memorial Seminary in Enugu (2000-2009);He was also Prefect of Apostolate at the Claretian Provincial Curia in New Owerri (2005-2010); Parish Priest at St. Paul’s in Nekede (2006-2010); and Pastor at St. Paul’s in Enugu (2006-2010). Paul in Nekede (2006-2010); Provincial of the Eastern Province of Nigeria of the Missionaries Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (2010-2022).
UNIZIK FIRST CLASS GRADUATE RETOOK JAMB, SCORES 324 AGGREGATE, PEOPLE REACT
UNIZIK FIRST CLASS GRADUATE RETOOK JAMB, SCORES 324 AGGREGATE, PEOPLE REACT A first class graduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, left many people stunned with her score as she rewrote the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. The lady known as Uka Juliet Chidiebube graduated with a first class degree in Chemistry from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, where she emerged the overall best graduating student from the department of Chemistry. She retook the JAMB exam and when the results were released on the 29th of April, the lady amongst others checked her score. In an exclusive report, Uka Julie Chidiebube scored 324 in aggregate. She took the JAMB exam in 2024 because she was determined to become a doctor despite receiving first class honors from UNIZIK. According to a breakdown of her JAMB results, physics was the subject where she received the highest score—92. Juliet also received 68 in English usage, 82 in biology, and 82 in chemistry. Juliet’s older brother, Uka Obiora Kingsley, stated in an interview that his sister has determined she will pursue a career in medicine and surgery no matter what. The family, according to Obiora, is from Anambra state, and they sincerely hope Juliet is able to fulfill her lifelong ambition of becoming a doctor. “She has demonstrated resilience through outstanding performance. She has maintained that her ambition is to become a doctor. This led her to write Jamb again this year 2024 and scored an aggregate of 324,” he said. Check out reactions below … Caleb David said: “Good luck to her but I think she is wasting her resources. She did not need to sit for JAMB but take a direct entry. By so doing, she will save one academic year and the costs associated with JAMB.” Clement Osunde remarked: “She has no responsibility, just want to finish her parents” Ozonuwe C Ambrose stated: “She has no responsibility.” Victor Ba-ssey commented: “She should have apply for direct entry. Or better apply for master degree/scholarship.” Alam Enoch said: “She is truly a first class graduate. 👍🏿”Ken Ikeobasi Oduka wrote: “The jamb was baseless aaacus she is suppose to get into medical school as a 200 level student directly cus her GP is over 4.5. Why writing the jamb again. Or even change her course wen she was around 200 to 300 level in the course of studying chemistry that was the practice in my time. Why going to start afresh again. Well reasons known to her. Good luck.”
YAHAYA BELLO: APPEAL COURT OVERTURNS LOKOJA HIGH COURT ORDER, OKAYS EFCC’S REQUEST AGAINST EX-GOV
YAHAYA BELLO: APPEAL COURT OVERTURNS LOKOJA HIGH COURT ORDER, OKAYS EFCC’S REQUEST AGAINST EX-GOV The Court of Appeal has overturned the Lokoja High Court’s order against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, in a contempt case that was initiated by the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. The Court of Appeal, led by Justice Joseph O.K. Oyewole, approved the EFCC’s request for a stay of execution and proceedings in the contempt case, which was ongoing at the Kogi State High Court. The court determined that the motion ex parte had merit and scheduled the hearing for the motion on notice on May 20, 2024. Additionally, the court ordered that all legal documents related to the case be served to Yahaya Bello’s last known address in Abuja through substituted service.The appellate court’s ruling has stopped the contempt proceedings against the EFCC and its chairman, permitting the appeal filed by the anti-corruption agency against the Lokoja High Court’s decision to continue.
COURT STOPS IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW ELECTRICITY TARIFF
COURT STOPS IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW ELECTRICITY TARIFF A Federal High Court in Kano has issued an order restraining the National Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Kano Electricity Distribution Company from implementing the new electricity tariff for Band A consumers. The suit marked FHC/KN/CS/144/2024 was filed by Super Sack Company Limited and BBY Sacks Limited. Others are Mama Sannu Industries Limited, Dala Foods Nigeria Limited, Tofa Textile Limited, and Manufacturers Association Of Nigeria Limited. However, ruling on an ex-parte motion by Abubakar Mahmoud, counsel to the plaintiffs, the presiding judge, Abdullahi Liman, ordered NERC and KEDCO from going ahead with the impending tariff pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed before it. The order also restrained the defendant from intimidating and threatening to disconnect the applicants’ electricity supply for non-acceptance of the new increased tariff. In April, NERC approved an increase in electricity tariff for customers under the Band A classification. With the new tariff, customers under the category, who receive 20 hours of electricity supply daily, would begin to pay N225 per kilowatt, starting from April 3 — up from N66.The sudden hike has since been criticized by the House of Representatives and other stakeholders who have asked NERC to suspend the implementation of the new tariff.
OUR DOORS OPEN FOR IHEDIOHA, SUPPORTERS – IMO LP, DECRIES FAKE NEWS
OUR DOORS OPEN FOR IHEDIOHA, SUPPORTERS – IMO LP, DECRIES FAKE NEWS The Labour Party hierarchy in Imo State led by the State Chairman, Bar Callistus Ihejiagwa has denied the news making the rounds that the party has closed its doors to a former Governor of Imo State, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha and his numerous members from joining the party. In an official release jointly signed by the State Chairman, Bar Callistus Ihejiagwa and Secretary, Engr Paulinus Udechukwu, the party said that Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha is an asset to any political party, and therefore is free to join Labour Party with his followers. The Party warned mischief makers and fake news peddlers, pointing out that no other person has the authority to determine how the party is to be run but the State Executive members. The party said that presently, new registrations and revalidation of new members are going on across the State, and emplored those who want to join the Party to go to the Wards and register now, as that is from where all members join the Party.Imo Labour Party urged the general public to disregard the story as it was the handwork of opposition parties and their Agents.