#PHOTOSPEAKS: Labour Party Stakeholders, Obidatti Meeting In Oyo Town

It should be noted that the meeting was called on the instance of the transition committee of the party.

Breaking: Labour Party Stakeholders, Obidatti to meet Transition Committee in Oyo Town

Concerned Stakeholders of Labour Party and Obidatti are billed to meet  the transition committee of the NLC/TUC in Oyo Town, Oyo State.

According to a statement signed by Comrade Dele Abiola on behalf of the concerned Stakeholders, the meeting will hold at Plaza de Arun Hotel,  Alaka, Oyo Town. This contrary to the peddling and false narrative that the Party's Congress was slated for the venue.

This is the authentic information about the meeting while any other one differing should be jettisoned.

Full Statement :

ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

Concerned LP Stakeholders/Obidatti meeting with Transition Committee Holds in Oyo Town 

Date: Thursday 25th July, 2024.

Time: 9 am prompt.

Venue: 

Plaza de Arun Hotel,  Alaka, Oyo Town 

PLEASE FOR MORE INFORMATION YOU CAN CONTACT THIS NUMBER .             09079999460 ,     0708 446 3719

09157294858

09077439927

E—Signed

Comrade Dele Abiola

For the Concerned Stakeholders

PRESS STATEMENT: KUNLE AJAYI, ONDO AAC GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE, COMMENDS THE SUPREME COURT ON THE AFFIRMATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTONOMY

KUNLE AJAYI 

The Gubernatorial Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the November 16th Ondo State Elections, Kunle 'Wizeman' Ajayi commends the Supreme Court for it's affirmation of Local Government Autonomy. 

 In it's lead judgement read by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the apex court observed that the refusal of state government on financial autonomy for local governments has gone on for over two decades.

The Supreme Court also said Local governments has since stopped receiving the money meant for them from the state governors who act in their stead. The supreme court therefore ordered that the 774 local government councils in the country should manage their funds themselves.

This is also a great victory for the National Association of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and workers generally in Nigeria as their long fights has now come to success.

The AAC candidate believes that Local Government is the closest to the people and should be the centre point of development. Sadly, governors have been usurping this for primitive accumulation of wealth and power. So, the position of the Supreme Court will engender democracy and help more Nigerians to hold their Leaders accountable. 

This judgement is also a great loss to Lucky Aiyedatiwa and other governors who had gone to court to battle against Local Government Autonomy. We warned them that the truth will prevail. These governors hate democracy and believe that Nigerians must be exploited more in order to satisfy their greed. Now, they have lost woefully!

We call on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to dissolve Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) immediately. The agency is more or less a section of the ruling party and it's quite anti-democratic!

We remember with nostalgia how our party, the African Action Congress (AAC) was robbed in the last Ondo State Local Government Elections in 2020. And we are happy that we protested this in a long and well detailed petition, but sadly, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu never constituted the Elections Tribunal to look into our grievances. Such is the tyrannical methods governors use in hoodwinking democracy from below. 

Finally, the African Action Congress (AAC) urge INEC to immediately meet with all Local Government stakeholders and draw a timetable for a uniform Local Government Elections nationwide. We will continue to push for real democracy even when rogue forces are so reluctant to give up!

Signed,

Abiodun Lijofi,

Spokesperson,

Ajayi/Dada IrapadaOndo Gubernatorial Campaign Committee.

11th July, 2024.

Still Loyal to Wike, Fubara sacks Rivers traditional council chairman over omission of Governor, deputy's pictures on State traditional council's 2024 calendar

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has removed the Chairman of the State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers Eze Sergeant Awuse.

The removal of Awuse was announced during a special meeting between the Governor and traditional rulers at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The removal was attributed to Awuse's publication of a 2024 calendar that omitted photographs of the Governor and his deputy. 

Announcing Awuse's removal, Fubara said: "I will like to draw your attention to a special insult that was melted to this government. The council produced a calendar for the year 2024, and the governor's picture, the deputy governor's picture was not in the calender. I want to ask you, does it show any sign that that leadership is working with this government?. 

"So I've decided today that we have to move forward. By the special grace of God, the administrative lifespan of the chairman is one year. 

"So at this particular hour, I have to say that 'with the power vested on me, the tenure of Sergeant Awuse is terminated."

Source: X | Symnfoni

IPOB Leader Nnamdi Kanu seeks negotiation with Nigerian Govt

Accept reconciliation window – Ohanaeze begs FG

T

KANU 

he leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu on Wednesday, expressed willingness to seek negotiations with the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Nnamdi Kanu anchored his move for a negotiation with the Federal Government under section 17 of the Federal High Court Act

The IPOB leader has been detained by the Department of State Services, DSS, since 2021 when he was re-arrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has urged the Federal Government to explore the negotiation window opened by the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.


When the matter was called on Wednesday, his lead lawyer, Mr Ejimakor Aloy, urged the court to on its own invoke Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, which he said, provides for “reconciliation” and facilitation of amicable settlement in criminal or civil matters.

Source: Nairaland 

The God who rules in the affairs of Wike and Fubara

By Bolaji O. Akinyemi.

Pride they say goes before destruction. Pride is a difficult trait to recognise particularly by those who are proud! Many who are proud are living at the mercy of time for an inevitable destruction that must happen; this of course includes me! May mercy preserve me and you till the day our eyes would be opened to see the seeds of destruction in us, no matter how small and where they are harboured!

 To rid oneself of pride is to accept the humble pie of humility. It is never an easy route but grace can make it easier for a Carmel to pass through the eye of the needle while rich ones proudly stroll in comfort and opulence to hell!

"Whom the gods would destroy they first make mad", goes the saying. I am yet to see the manifestation of madness that is worse than pride! Like a mad man, the proud lives in the realm of puffy spiritual clout and status far above the understanding of those around them. Of course, they are deaf to words and immuned to counsel until what should happen happens! Who is more proud than the other between the duo, only time can reveal!

Politics has been generous to Wike since 1999 when he came on the stage as the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. He was re-elected into the same office in 2003 and completed his 2nd term in 2007!

A very well deserved appointment came his way, having stood with His Exellency Rotimi Amaechi during his political travails. Wike became the Chief of Staff to the Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, a position he held from 2007 to 2011. From here he was nominated by his Principal for the position of a Minister. Perhaps this was Amaechi's greatest political mistake!

 Wike was appointed the minister of State for Education in 2011, a position he held till 2014, though he later served as the substantive Minister in the same ministry. He returned to Rivers State to contest election into the office of the Executive Governor of the state on the platform of PDP, an election he won in 2015!

His working relationship with the Jonathans deepened while he served as the minister of education but when Amaechi decamped to APC and would bring the PDP house in Rivers State down, Wike knew when to re-define political loyalty and re-align political allegiance. The fallout between Amaechi and Jonathan was the opportunity which Wike grabbed with both hands!

The 2023 game rewarded him with the position of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory!

His Exellency Nyesome Wike is not just a political juggernaut; he is an icon in politics by all standards! His rise in the terrain of politics in Rivers State attests to this, from where he took the national landscape by storm!

The idol in him saw to the humiliation of PDP and the rise of APC in the last general election. If Obi's exit from PDP saw to the death of PDP, the game of Wike buried the party for APC!

Prior to the election, the refusal of PDP to zone presidency to the South was the issue. On this, Wike had the support of some governors from the region and other regions; so when he failed to clinch the ticket, he upped his game, stayed in the party, held his alliance to governors and members of the party who were sympathetic to his course till the damage was done to Atiku Abubakar's ambition!

Mr Project, had enough for foes, friends and fans to come to Rivers State to Commission! From President Obasanjo, Buhari, Oshiomhole, etc all made it to Rivers State to commission one project or the other.  His approach to the 2023 game was loud but subtle. Hardly could anyone tell where Wike was ending. We thought his joker was Peter Obi, among the endless of dignitaries that honoured his invitation to commission a project in Rivers State while Wike held sway. Wike was so sublime that Peter Obi was grateful to him for inviting him to commission Nkpolu-Oroworukwo bridge in a community that was traditionally an Igbo, it was a good way to measure the influence of Peter Obi in the state. The crowd was an attestation to Obi's growing political clout as Wike had issues controlling the crowd who were chanting Obi, Obi, Obi. A platform for strategic communication and Wike didn't miss it, he referred to Obi as colleague of traders who came out in several thousands to welcome him. He reassured the crowd in the presence of Obi that he had no plan to dislodge the Igbo and that the bridge project was the reason he was misunderstood. He didn't forget to tell Obi he was invited to witness his good work so that he can tell his party to forget about Rivers State Governorship election 2023, without making any commitment to Peter Obi who attended the occasion in company of his Vice Presidential Candidate, Dr Yusuf Datti. His bait to the Labour party crowd was effective when he sympathized with Obi on why he has to leave PDP, but he promised to stay back in PDP to see what he saw to! Afterwards, speculations of his support for Obi rent the air among the Obidients across the country. Wike's leg on the ball right or left was not known until the election day!

 When he dropped the ACE, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was his candidate! He worked for him within and outside the book to ensure victory in Rivers State!

Soon after the election, it was the turn of incoming President to come over to Rivers  State to commission a project. Tinubu and Wike both threw the public into frenzy with Wike's request and Tinubu's refusal. Wike's appointment put paid to public impression of a disagreement between the duo!

Wike was the best at the game, playing on the side of Amaechi to outsmart Peter Odili. His hard tackle ended not just the game for Celestine Omehia but his entire political career! Erazing his record and achievements Wike further targeted.  Wike was not just a Governor, he could easily pass for  Monarch with power and influence, marching what was witnessed under ancestral homeland empires! But Wike was a Governor whose terms and tenure were fixated by the constitution. After 8 years in office he must leave power. Our Wike left Office though without leaving Power and the complication of that has engulfed the state in crisis!

The silence and side taking of Abuja on the Rivers crisis is understandable. Those whose portraits are up in less than a year of coming to power for a four year term are already on the road for the 2027 race! Wike of course is not just a necessary evil in the Rivers game. He is a needed one for 2027 in Rivers State!

Goals setting is the way of mortals who should be in gratitude of grace for the day; mortals who are like petals that may not see tomorrow are often found of planning appointments for the day after tomorrow. Inevitably playing God. Wike did, with Sim Fubara, his anointed son in PDP for an election many believed was won by the Labour Party!

 All institutions involved in the election were not just at the call and beckon of Wike, They were at his altar. All indeed of financial oxygen were breathing. Wike is generous to a fault and this worked well for him! 

Wike was very powerful! There was no end to his influence in sight so soon. Or so we thought like mere mortals!

According to Daniel 4:17, But there is a God! I will choose the  EasyEnglish version of the verse; "The angels who watch human people have said this. And this is what they have chosen. So now everyone will know that God rules in the kingdoms of men. He can give kingdoms to anyone that he wants to. And he can cause men who are not important to become kings.”

On whose side the God who rules in the Kingdom of men is; will determine in whose favour the swinging pendulum will hang at the end of the day. 

Has Fubara been silent without any move? no! Though Wike has been loud but Fubara has been deft. The grasses in Rivers State have been the ones suffering in the fight of the Elephant and the its calf!

Structure control is at the heart of this battle while Wike's legs are in and out. Out in APC and in, in PDP, leaving Fubara to grasp for political oxygen in hope of 2027! Fubara shows his master's skills when he reached out to His Exellency Alex Chioma Otti to come over to commission a project in Rivers State. Two things stuck out for me in this move. First, is the performance of LP "without structures" in the last election and the results it produced! Second, is the super performance of the Action Governor that its not just Abians but Nigerians have seen in Otti's handling of Abia State!

Fubara didn't just stop at that, he went further. Obviously attempts at loosening Wike's grip on the state are daily progressing.

A recent dramatic turn of events has shown Governor Fubara's assertion of his authority over the state, dismantling Wike's political stronghold in the process in Rivers State. In the Executive arm this has consumed commissioners and appointees who in the bid to prove their loyalty to Wike had resigned granting Fubara the opportunity to have them replaced by Fubara's loyalists! This, for me is a flawed political move. Politics is local. If Wike had to remain in PDP to damage it from within. Remaining with Fubara would have meant danger from within. The exit for Fubara to fill is minus for the Wike side. Though Wike is in a position to fix them up, that would be in the FCT and the battle is local!

The Legislature is not spared. 25 House of Assembly members who defected are now "homeless politicians," as someone put it. They are at the mercy of the Judiciary seeking its intervention!

The Judiciary to which homeless house of assembly members are looking have seen Wike's ally in the system demoted, forcing resignation, paving the way for Fubara's appointment of his loyalist. If Rivers State was a Yoruba state, I would have requested Fubara to invite King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, KWAM1, to come and commission the foundation laying of the demolished House of Assembly, singing the song from one of his best sellers titled; CONSOLIDATION!

A stormy tide of power is blowing in Rivers State. Which will it uproot? The established Araba tree or the tender Igi Nla? only God who rules over the affairs of men can tell!

The antics and counter are permitted, propaganda is part of the game. Media war is welcome. After all said and done, the God who supervises the destruction of the proud is the same God who gives grace to the humble. "Eni Olorun ba gba fun in the game of power at the end of the day is the champion!

Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi is an Apostle and Nation Builder. He’s also President Voice of His Word Ministries and Convener Apostolic Round Table. BoT Chairman, Project Victory Call Initiative, AKA PVC Naija. He is a strategic Communicator and the C.E.O, Masterbuilder Communications.




Email:[email protected]

Facebook: Bolaji Akinyemi.

X: Bolaji O Akinyemi

Instagram: bolajioakinyemi

Phone: +2348033041236

PRESS RELEASE: PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL LIST OF CANDIDATES FOR THE ONDO STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION

The Commission is pleased to announce the publication of the final list of candidates for the Ondo State Governorship Election. Following the initial primaries, the Commission published the personal particulars of the Governorship candidates and their running mates in the State and Local Government offices.

In line with the provision of Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, two (2) political parties conducted fresh primaries to replace their earlier nominated candidates and their running mates by the deadline of 10th June 2024. The parties are the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) while five (5) parties replaced their running mates only. They are the African Action Congress (AAC), the Action Democratic Party (ADP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

Overall, seventeen (17) political parties are fielding candidates for the election. No political party has nominated a female candidate while one (1) candidate nominated by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is a person with disability (a paraplegic). The final list also gives the breakdown of the candidates by age and academic qualifications.

The list has been published at our office in Akure and also uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information. 

COMMENCEMENT OF CAMPAIGN BY POLITICAL PARTIES IN PUBLIC 

With the publication of the final list of candidates, the next activity is electionering campaign. 

As provided by Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, campaign by Political Parties in public shall commence not earlier than 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day. 

Therefore, Political Parties are now permitted to start campaign in public from Wednesday 19th June 2024 and end at midnight on Thursday 14th November 2024 as indicated in items 8 and 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election.

As parties commence this critical phase of the election, the Commission once again reminds candidates, agents and their supporters of the provision of the law and the Commission's guidelines governing such activity. For emphasis, parties shall conduct their campaigns with civility and decorum devoid of inciting language, violence, voter inducement and other infractions in accordance with the provisions of Section 92-97 of the Electoral Act 2022. 

The Ondo State Governorship Election is scheduled to hold on Saturday 16th November 2024.

Sam Olumekun mni 

National Commissioner & Chairman, 

Information and Voter Education Committee

Thursday 13th June 2024

IPOB Leader Simon Ekpa must be prosecuted, Finnish government giving him support says Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff

Ekoa

Nigeria's chief of defence staff (CDS),  Christopher Musa has said Simon Ekpa, a self-acclaimed disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), must be arrested and prosecuted.

Musa, on Wednesday during a Channels Television special broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 2024 Democracy Day said Ekpa is based in Finland and has continued to issue the sit-at-home order in IPOB’s and Kanu’s names.

The Nigerian Army General accused the government of Finland of shielding Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed prime minister of the IPOB.

It should be noted that Nnamdi Kanu has not been convicted of any crime yet despite his incarceration since his abduction by Buhari led APC government.

NIGERIAN ARMY SAYS ALLEGATION OF MASS KILLING BY TROOPS IN SOUTH EAST IS DESPICABLY FALSE

The Nigerian Army (NA) has noted with dismay, a mischievous and systematic campaign of calumny by Simon Ekpa, a self acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafran terrorists' group. The self acclaimed leader through spurious and unfounded claims raised alarm on a viral video alleging that troops of the NA are carrying out mass killing of innocent Igbos at a river and dumping them in the water. The report also contained some unimaginable and not well couched falsehood targeted at whipping-up negative sentiments against troops and inciting anarchy in the South East region. 

According to a statement signed by the Major General Onyema Neachukwu  who is the Director, Army Public Relations said contrary to the falsehood being spread from the devious propaganda machinery of the desperate and self-serving terrorists' leader, the NA wishes to state that it has conducted a comprehensive investigation on the allegations made by Simon Ekpa and his associates. 

"Accordingly,  we wish to categorically refute these baseless claims by throwing more light on the occurrence. In the first  instance, the troops in the video footage are not personnel of the Nigerian Army, as the insignia visible on their berets clearly identifies them as personnel of the Nigerian Navy, who were engaged in a routine test firing of a weapon system mounted on a vehicle and in order to ensure the safety of other road users and commuters, the troops took precautionary measures by temporarily halting vehicular movement along the route, until the test firing was safely concluded."

The statement added that observers were also kept at a safe distance, maintaining transparency and prioritizing the safety of all involved.

"Additionally, preliminary findings also indicate that the occurrence took place in the Southwest region of the country and  not the Southeast as advertently portrayed by the false alarmist and propagandists. Furthermore, it was observed that there was no evidence to support the assertion that individuals were being shot at, in the river, nor have there been any report from local communities regarding the discovery of corpses in the area."

"Consequently,  the NA wishes to enjoin the public to disregard the unfounded claims and irredeemable falsehood being propagated by Simon Ekpa and his associates, whose apparent objective is to disseminate misinformation and incite unrest."

"The NA and indeed sister services and other security agencies remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining peace and order, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the country. The Nigerian Army is vigilant and prepared to counter any attempt to destabilize the Southeast region."

'We reaffirm our dedication to protecting the lives and livelihoods of all Nigerians, and will continue to work tirelessly to uphold peace and order. We encourage the public to seek verified information and not be misled by those who aim to incite violence and disorder."

"We salute the courage and patriotism of well-meaning and law-abiding ndigbo, domiciled in the South East and across the nation, who despite the brazen atrocities and threats being perpetrated by Simon Ekpa and his terrorists group, have  continued to build bridges of peace and harmony across the country and promoting our national ideal of a united Nigeria."

"The Nigerian Army remains a pillar of stability and security, committed to the well-being of the nation and her people." The statement concluded  .

WE WILL SMOKE OUT GUNMEN WHO KILLED SOLDIERS - GOV OTTI VOWS, THANKS ARMY FOR REDUCING TENSION

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has assured that the State Government will work with the security agencies to fish out the criminal elements, who ambushed an army post at Obikabia in Obingwa Local Government Area on Thursday, May 30, and killed five soldiers.

Governor Otti thanked the Nigeria Army high command for reducing the tension that had enveloped the State, following the initial panic and apprehension that seized residents as a result of the barbaric killings, by not allowing aggrieved soldiers tow the part of reprisal.

According to the statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Kazie Uko, the Governor, who was at the headquarters of the 144 Infantry Battalion of the Nigeria Army in Asa, Ukwa West Local Government Area, on Saturday, on a condolence visit to the wives of the slain soldiers, commiserated with the army and announced a package to take care of the families the fallen soldiers left behind.

"Let me start by sending out words of sympathy to the Nigeria Army, the Brigade Commander (Brigadier General O. O. Diya) himself, and most importantly the families of the five fallen heroes.

"We, as a government, will continue to condemn this dastardly act, a very irresponsible act committed by criminals, who do not want any good for society.

"It's very sad, but then, it has happened and because it has happened, we will need to move on, but we cannot move on without identifying those who are responsible.

"It's as if General Diya was with me at the last place that we went to, where I had promised that we will smoke out whoever is remotely connected to this killing, whoever they are, wherever they are, wherever they run to.

"We are going to work like we have always done, closely with security agencies, particularly the intelligence unit of the security agencies, to ensure that we leave no stone unturned.

"So, I want to reassure the military high command and the leadership of the military in Abia that we are working together to ensure that we bring those people to book.

"The reason I came here (144 Battalion) today is to sympathise with you; to let you know that I feel your pain and I can understand what you're going through at this time. 

"On behalf of the government and people of Abia State, I want to assure you that we are behind you. We know that the military high command will also look after you, but because your husband's died here in Abia, we have adopted you as daughters of Abia and your children as children of Abia. 

"We have also put a plan in place to ensure that your children would get automatic scholarship until they finish university. From today, until they graduate, they have become the responsibility of the Abia State Government and we're going to make it a law so that even when I leave somebody else will not stop it," Governor Otti declared.

He thanked General Diya for helping to de-escalate the tension that had built up in and around Obikabia after the killings, especially Aba, which had come under lock down, by ensuring free movement of innocent residents and not embarking on a reprisal as an army statement had been credited. 

"I heard when the army talked about revenge, I think the right expression should have been that we will smoke out the criminals and deal with them. 

"It is not even possible for the good Abia people that I lead to be involved in this. We suspect, even though that I don't have proof that they are people that came from outside to destabilise the good things happening in Abia and we will not let them go scot free.

"I'm happy that you listened to my call that we de-escalate the tension and I really want to thank you. Aba was on lockdown, but as soon as we had our meeting and we spoke, you reduced the tension and de-accelerated the tension. I really want to thank you," the Governor said.

Earlier, the Brigade Commander, Brig-General Diya said the army were not relenting in their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous act, disclosing that they have been gathering intelligence to bring whoever that is directly or remotely connected to the killing to book.

He recalled that two operational vehicles belonging to the army were burnt, weapons carted away, while five personnel lost their lives during the unfortunate attack.

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; Senator Darlington Nwokocha, the Chief of staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; among other government functionaries, accompanied the Governor on the visit.

KUNLE AJAYI — ON THE DISTRESSING YEARS OF OCEAN SURGE AT AYETORO, OUR LEGENDARY ILAJE LONDON, TIME TO RESCUE A NATIONAL MONUMENT!

(Press statement of the Kunle Ajayi, African Action Congress (AAC) Gubernatorial Candidate in Ondo2024)

Just about two days after I tweeted on X about the issues of ocean surge and the systemic destruction of Ayetoro in Ilaje due to Oil Explorations and Climate Change, the whole Ayetoro community, in Ilaje local government Area of Ondo state have staged a protest and called on the federal and the state government to save their souls and rescue the community. This protest was yesterday, May 29th. 

 Ayetoro Community protested over the long neglect by both the Federal and State government for the past two decades. This is despite the “6.5billion shoreline project award by NDDC" which is yet executed after 16 years!

Over 700 houses destroyed. Students can no longer go to school, while the enviable Community-owned factories are washed off. There is no shoreline protection neither is there a Marine plan by former Governments.

Many do no understand the significance of Ayetoro as a Communalist Town self-built by the people. It is a special experimented town of how best to build on the ocean. Ayetoro used to be proudly called the London of Ilaje, with it's spectacular Egalitarian self-government. But sadly today, Ayetoro is getting extinct.

What is happening to Ayetoro is a parable to the whole of the Riverine Areas of Ondo state. This is why our party has adapted the great Amsterdam Plans to build a great chain of cities and towns all across Ilaje to Apoi to Arogbo with a well-mapped out rail/road Marine Transport way that will help to pave way for specially built Smart towns and cities that would be climate-fortified. 

Our party's approach to rebuilding Ayetoro and indeed the whole of Ondo Riverside will be proactive and explorative of great foresights over astonishments. Amsterdam is a city on water, yet, is one of the smartest and most artfully built globally with special use of Green Economy. 

To our Ayetoro people, I commend us for taking mass actions, and we must be consistent with this. These rulers will only come out to make fake promises like they have always been doing, just for the press and votes. Sadly, two former Deputy Governors under the Late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu did nothing to help the plights of Ayetoro and the whole Ondo South. Even in electricity, they have been grossly irresponsible. In fact, Agboola Ajayi's hometown, our beloved Kiribo, has never experienced electricity before. And Lucky Aiyedatiwa is a part and parcel of the old Akeredolu/NDDC fruitless promises to save Ayetoro. It's sad that nothing good can come from the Jerusalem of these anti-developmental elements anymore.

But Ayetoro, succour is coming. #IrapadaOndo has promised a concise and emergent action once we win the race to Alagbaka. Before this, we will keep standing in solidarity with not only Ayetoro, but all of the Ondo State people in pains and penuries.

I therefore use this opportunity on the Ondo State government and the Federal Ministry of Environment, Marine Economy and other agencies like NDDC and OSOPADEC to rise to their duties and declare a state of emergency on Ayetoro and other Niger Delta towns and villages currently ravaged by climate change as a result of the indiscriminate oil explorations. We will mobilize our party members, and supporters to join in active solidarity the Protests by the great Ayetoro community, as we urge the whole of the people of Ilaje, Ikale, Arogbo, and Apoi to unite and defend the rights of the Ayetoro people to good and comfortable living. While we are doing this, we are also helping our own collective future!

Signed,

Kunle Ajayi (Wizeman,)

Governorship Candidate,

The African Action Congress (AAC.)

30th, May, 2024.

Killers of the Army personnel in Abia State Apprehended (PHOTOS)

There has been a report that the attackers and killers of the army personnel in Abia State has been Apprehended.

According to the military source, these were the elements of the Eastern Security Network who carried out an Attack against the military personnel at a checkpoint near Aba in Abia State.

... developing story...

Source: Social media 

Killing of Soldiers in Aba: Abia State Government Places a N25 Million Bounty on Perpetrators

5 personnel killed in action — Nigerian Army 

The Abia State Government has noted with great regret the ugly incident that occurred on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at around 7:45 am at Obikabia Junction, in the Ogbor Hill area, Obingwa LGA, near Aba, where suspected criminal elements operating with several SUVs opened fire on men of the Nigerian Army on security duty leading to the killing of five soldiers. 

In a statement signed by Prince Okey Kanu who is the Hon. Commissioner for Information & Culture, the Abia State Government commiserates with the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed A. Lagbaja, and the Military High Command in the country for the unfortunate incident and pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the gallant soldiers who died in active duty. 

The statement further reads:

"As a Government committed to security, safety and peace within its territory at all times, the Abia State Government considers the event of Thursday, May 30, 2024 a serious affront to its resolve by criminal elements who are hell-bent on returning Abia to the dark days of insecurity and fear amongst citizens, especially in Aba, the economic heartbeat of the State. This is more regrettable in the light of the fact that unprecedented investments have been made in the last one year to restore the city’s public infrastructure and reposition it as an attractive investment destination for local and foreign businesses."

"The Government will therefore respond appropriately to reassure citizens, investors and friends of Abia across the world that it would be relentless in bringing the full wrath of the law to bear on anyone or group who constitutes the slightest threat to the peace and security of the land, whatever be their motivation. "

"To underscore its resolve, the State Government is offering a N25 million (Twenty-five Million Naira) reward to anyone with useful information that could lead to the location and arrest of any of the criminals connected to the unfortunate killings, and the subsequent state of apprehension across the city of Aba and environs. The security formations in the State have been directed to treat informants with all the confidentiality required to guarantee their full cooperation and assistance until the criminals are fully apprehended and brought to book. "

"Furthermore, the Abia State Government will, in line with its commitment to the welfare of the security operatives working within its territory, take up the responsibility of supporting the families of the slain soldiers, including payment of regular stipends to their spouses, and the education of their children to university level. It is the least the State can do for the soldiers who died in brave service to their fatherland."

"The Government will also like to specially appreciate the officers and men of the Nigerian Army in the State for maintaining a high sense of professionalism in their response to the very distressing event. The State will also encourage our military and security personnel to continue to show restraint, whether at the checkpoints, on patrol, or while engaged in other security duties, even as the Government continues to work with all relevant stakeholders, including the security high commands, traditional and community leaders to gather and process all intelligence information which will ultimately lead to the capture of the perpetrators of the heinous crime at Obikabia Junction, and anyone directly or remotely connected to it in any form. "

"The Government wishes to use this medium to encourage citizens to go about their legitimate duties without fear as necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of residents, and businesses in all parts of Abia. Individuals with useful information on the activities and movement of criminals in their neighbourhood are also advised to share such information with the security agencies as quickly as possible for necessary action. "

"Traditional and community leaders in all parts of the State are by this communication advised to set up suitable local intelligence gathering mechanisms in their localities and share whatever new information they get with the security agencies regularly. The State Government shall not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law to bear on any traditional or community leader found to be harbouring criminal elements in their domains."

"Lastly, the Abia State Government will continue to give all necessary support to the security agencies in the State for the purpose of protecting lives and property. Very importantly, the earlier warning to criminal elements to consider all parts of Abia as a no-go area is still in force. Any attempt to test the will of the Government, as happened on Thursday, May 30, 2024, shall be resisted with every resource at the disposal of the State. Abia shall remain very hospitable and accommodating to all law-abiding citizens and those who engage only in legitimate businesses as defined by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria while it shall continue to be a very hostile space for anyone whose actions or inactions, are capable of disrupting the peace and security of our communities." 

The NIGERIAN ARMY had in a press release confirmed the attack against its troops at a checkpoint near Aba.

PRESS RELEASE ON ATTACK ON TROOPS OF OPERATION UDO KA AT CHECKPOINT IN ABIA STATE ON 30 MAY 2024

Troops of OP UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State were attacked and sadly killed by terrorist of IPOB/ ESN. The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were massed attacked by the terrorist. The terrorist in 3 tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from builtup areas surrounding the checkpoint, sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint. 

The attack sadly took the lifes of 5 personnel of the armed forces killed in action. The armed forces mourns the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Meanwhile, investigation are ongoing concerning the attack. 

Overall, it must be reinterated that the lifeline of the terrorist is the people and this situation is no exemption. Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired. 

Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat.

EDWARD BUBA

Major General

Director Defence Media Operations

Court Jails Woman Six Months For Currency Racketeering In Lagos

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, convicted and sentenced one Adeyinka Bilikis  Gbadamosi  to six months imprisonment for currency racketeering.

Gbadamosi  was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a one-count charge bordering on currency  Racketeering.

The count reads: “That you, Adeyinka Bilikis Gbadamosi, on the 27th of April, 2024 in  Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, engaged in hawking the total sum of N897,900 (Eight Hundred and Ninety Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira) in N200 Naira note denomination, with serial numbers 688101 and N500 Naira note denomination, with serial numbers 315501 issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 21(4) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2007.”

She pleaded “guilty” to the charge when it was read to her

Following her guilty plea, prosecution counsel, C.C. Okezie called on Olagunju Abdul Malik, an operative of the EFCC, to  review the facts of the case .

Abdulmalik told the court that the defendant was arrested  on April 27, 2024 while hawking Naira notes at 10 Degree Event Centre, Billings Way, Ikeja, Lagos, following  credible intelligence received by the Commission.

According to him, the sum of N897,900 was recovered from her at the point of arrest.

"Upon her arrest by operatives, she was duly cautioned and she volunteered her statements.

“In her statement, she confessed she was into currency racketeering and hawking of Naira notes,” he said.

Okezie, thereafter, sought to tender, in evidence, the defendant’s extrajudicial statements and the money recovered from her.

Justice Aneke  admitted and marked them as exhibits and convicted the defendant.

Counsel to the convict A.A. Olawipo, prayed the court for a non-custodial sentence or option of fine .

Justice Aneke  sentenced the convict to six months imprisonment, with an option of fine of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira) only.

The Judge also ordered that the N897,900 recovered from her be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

 

Source: EFCC 

EFCC Arraigns One for Alleged Currency Racketeering in Enugu

The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 arraigned one Nwachukwu Ifeanyi, before Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court sitting in Independence Layout, Enugu State.

Ifeanyi was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on currency racketeering and operating a bureau de change business without an appropriate licence.

Count two of the charge reads: “That you, Nwachukwu Ifeanyi, sometime in February 2024, at Douglas Road, Owerri, imo State, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, hawked the total sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000. 00) mints in Five Hundred Naira (500) denominations, issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 21 (4) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and punishable under Section 21 (1) of the same Act”.

He pleaded “not guilty” when the charges were read to him. In view of his plea, Christiana Chioma Igwe, counsel to the EFCC prayed the court for a trial date and for the defendant to be remanded at Enugu State Correctional facility.

However, defence counsel, U. E. Ibekwe informed the court about a pending bail application before it. He  attempted to move the said application but was vehemently opposed by Igwe on the grounds that “the prosecution was just served this morning and we need time to respond my Lord. It is not ripe for hearing my Lord"

After listening to both sides,  Justice  Umar adjourned the matter to June 4, 2024 for hearing of bail application while the defendant was remanded at Enugu State Correctional facility.

Ifeanyi was arrested  on February 9, 2024  by members of the Special Task Force of the Commission following credible intelligence linking him to currency racketeering.

Investigations revealed that Ifeanyi  used his shop, located at 98 Douglas Road, Owerri, Imo State to hawk new Naira notes. He was arrested at his shop with Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,0. 00) mints in Five Hundred Naira (500) denomination.

 

Source: EFCC 

(VIDEO) PDP, APC Renew Animosity in Osun State

 

The narration in the video is by and for APC

The PDP point of view;

Those are APC members. 

Currently, they are on the trail.

Two days ago the Former commissioner brought a grader to grade a road having done it successfully in his Irewole Local government, Isokan LG repelled and asked them to leave with immediate effect. 

A few hours later, the chairman received information that they had started the grading with the support of Kabiesi of Apomu.

The chairman later sent the LG party chairman and one person to verify the rumor, on getting there they met multiple APCs with the motive that no one could stop them from grading. 

The part chairman was asking them about the rights they have to continue the grading after the Chairman's order, and that's how they started throwing stones.

They reported the case to the chairman on the phone and police were sent to halt the situation. From there the grader was taken back.

Today Saturday 25th May, 2025, the leaders of the PDP in Isokan Local Government, Apomu, Osun State paid a courtesy visit to the scene of the event where there was crisis between our party and the opposition party in the grading of Oke Alfa roads in Apomu.

At the meeting, we listened to the elders, youths, women and the generality of the people at the affected areas. They narrated how the event unfolded and decried the way by which the opposition party was trying to use the advantage to soil the image of the party in power.

The people appealed to our party to continue the grading of the affected roads if the normalcy will be restored. They raised concerns on the dilapidated roads and other social amenities catering for the needs of the people.

In the party's response, the party Chairman, Hon Akeem Yusuff appreciated the community leaders present and their tenacity in the face of tyrant government that PDP sacked. He highlighted the party's achievements in the little time we have spent in office as a party.

I, on behalf of the leaders of the party, the local government Chairman, Alhaji Azeez Lateef MAO appreciate the community leaders present and assured them that the grader which will be facilitated by the PDP will be provided on Wednesday to finish the grading of the affected roads. I seized the opportunity to itemize what we have done ranging from grading of rural roads from Ayepe to Egbeda village, Apomu - Awala - Egbeda road, the current taring of Lagbaja to Ikoyi road, Abiri to Total market, St Barnabas to Agbowo road which will be constructed in no distant time in Isokan Local Government.

The party noted the ordeals of the people affected by the crisis and assured them of more dividends of democracy without further delay.

Similarly, I paid a visit to the road which was recently approved by the state government in Apomu under the leadership of Sen Ademola Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State. I lauded the Governor for this dividend of democracy provided for the good people of our local government and assured him of full support of the people towards his administration.

Lagbaja junction to Magistrate Court in Ikoyi is a very sensitive road in Isokan Local Government which when completed would improve the lives of the people and the economic development of the communities that the road links together. I join the myriad of leaders in Isokan Local Government to appreciate the Governor for a job well done and his love for our local government for this great gestures extended with the aim of improving the welfare of the people.

*Signed:*

*Hon Lanre Oladebo MHR,*

*Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency,*

*Osun State.*

How EFCC Arraigns Forex Broker for Alleged N112m Fraud in Enugu

The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has arraigned one Daniel Chukwuka Koussou, a forex broker before Justice C. O. Ajah of the State High Court sitting in Independence Layout, Enugu State.

 

He was arraigned  on a one-count charge bordering on criminal conversion and stealing to the tune of N112, 800, 800. 00 (One Hundred and Twelve Million, Eight Hundred Thousand, Eight Hundred Naira).

 

The lone count charge reads; “That you, Daniel Chuwuka Koussou sometime in July 2022, in Enugu, Enugu State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit a felony to wit: stealing by fraudulently converting to your own use the sum of N112, 800, 800. 00 (One Hundred and Twelve Million, Eight Hundred Thousand, Eight Hundred Naira), property of Chinedu Igbokwe and thereby committed an offence”.

 

The offence is contrary to Section 342 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30 of the Laws of Enugu State and punishable under Section 353 (1) of the same Law.

 

The defendant pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him.

 

In view of his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Ahmad Yusuf Abdullahi prayed the court for a trial date and for the defendant to be remanded at Enugu State Correctional facility.

 

However, the defence counsel, Ogechukwu Agbo informed the court about a motion on notice for bail for her client.  Abdullahi vehemently opposed the said application on the grounds that “the defendant might jump bail considering the weight of the allegation my lord”.

 

After listening to both sides, Justice Ajah granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N50, 000, 000. 00 (Fifty Million Naira) and two sureties in like sum. The sureties must be resident within jurisdiction. They must swear an affidavit of means, show evidence of tax payment for the past three years, deposit two full size photographs, be public servants of not less than Grade Level 16 and they must be verified in writing by the prosecution.

 

The defendant was thereafter remanded at the Enugu State Correctional facility pending the fulfilment of the bail conditions.

 

 Koussou was arrested following claims of a petitioner who alleged that he sent $276, 000 to the defendant, a supposed agent for Providus Bank, to convert into Naira and return same.

 

According to the petitioner, on July 6, 2022, Providus Bank paid Koussou the full money in Naira but the defendant sent part-payment of N21, 759, 771 to him (the petitioner) and diverted the rest for his personal use.  All efforts made to get him to pay up proved abortive.

 

Source: EFCC 

Rivers State Crisis: Appoint Youth Commissioners — High Chief Joe Umezulike writes Sim

 Subject: Recommendation to Appoint Youth Commissioners

Dear Governor of Rivers state,

Sim

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you regarding the recent resignations of several commissioners from your cabinet. It is indeed concerning to see such a significant number of key officials stepping down from their positions.

Upon reflection, I believe this presents a unique opportunity for you to enact positive change within the governance structure of Rivers State. Rather than viewing these resignations solely as a setback, I urge you to seize this moment as a chance to empower the youth of your state.

As evidenced by the resignations, there may be a perception among some individuals that political connections or allegiance to former governors or leaders are prerequisites for success in government roles. However, I firmly believe that talent, dedication, and fresh perspectives are equally, if not more, valuable attributes in public service.

Therefore, I recommend that you consider appointing capable and driven young individuals to fill the vacant commissioner positions. By doing so, you can demonstrate your commitment to fostering a new generation of leaders and ensure that the voices and aspirations of our youth are represented at the highest levels of decision-making.

Moreover, appointing youth commissioners would not only inject new energy and innovation into your administration but also inspire confidence and hope among the younger population of Rivers State. It would send a powerful message that meritocracy and inclusivity are core principles of your governance system.

I stand ready to support and assist you in identifying suitable candidates who possess the requisite skills, integrity, and passion to serve your state with distinction. Together, we can work towards building a brighter future for Rivers State by harnessing the potential of the youth.

Thank you for considering my recommendation. I remain optimistic about the positive impact that your leadership can have on your beloved state.

Yours sincerely,

High Chief Joe Daniels Umezulike

New Nigerian Mandate

Osun Assembly Appoints Three Deputy Clerks Following Amended Service Commission Law

The Osun State House of Assembly has approved the appointment of three Directors to the position of Deputy Clerks. 

A statement Signed by Olamide Tiamiyu who is the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly said the  decision followed the fourth amendment of the House of Assembly Service Commission Law, which was recently passed by the 8th House of Assembly and assented to by Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke. 

The newly amended law includes provisions for the appointment of Deputy Clerks, among other changes.

The appointed Deputy Clerks, who were chosen from among the serving Directors in various departments of the Assembly, were presented with their appointment letters by the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun. 

The Speaker charged the new Deputy Clerks to continue delivering exceptional service to enhance the Assembly's efficiency, effectiveness, and overall performance. 

The newly appointed Deputy Clerks are Mr Olaide Jubril Lawal (Deputy Clerk Information and Public Relations), Mr Raheen Kolapo Sanusi (Deputy Clerk, Legislative Management), and Mr Muyiwa Ayeni (Deputy Clerk, Publications).

In his remark, the Clerk of the House, Mr Simeon Amusan, commended Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke for signing the Law that authorised the appointment of Deputy Clerks.

Amusan also congratulated the Honourable Speaker and the entire 8th Osun House of Assembly, as well as the Members of the House of Assembly Service Commission, for displaying fairness, justice, and equity throughout the appointment process. 

Meanwhile, the new Deputy Clerks are expected to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and service delivery of the Assembly in their respective roles.

RIVERS STATE CRISIS: 5 Pro Wike Commissioners Resign

1. Environment, Austen Ben-Chioma

2. Social Welfare & Rehab... Inime Chinwewo Aguba

3. Transport, Hon. Nbima.

4. Education, Prince Chinedu

5. Housing, Hon. Gift Worlu

Source: social media