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Supreme Court affirms Fintiri’s election as Adamawa Governor

The All Progressives Congress, APC, and its candidate in the March 18, 2023 governorship election in Adamawa State, Senator Aisha Dahiru Binani on Wednesday failed in their bid to unseat Governor Ahmadu Fintiri at the Supreme Court.

The apex court, in its final judgment on the Adamawa gubernatorial legal battle, dismissed Binani’s petition in its entirety for lacking evidence and substance.

In a unanimous judgment delivered by Justice John Inyang Okoro, the Supreme Court held that the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, who pronounced Binani winner of the governorship election, engaged in a serious act of criminality and irresponsibility.

Justice Okoro said that Binani engaged in self deceit by hanging to the unlawful and unconstitutional acts of the REC to hold herself out as winner of the governorship poll.

The apex court emphatically held that the REC had no power under any known law to declare election results as he did in the Adamawa governorship election.

Justice Okoro maintained that the only person vested with the powers to make declaration on elections is the Returning Officer.

He warned public officers to always act within the law in the discharge of responsibilities and not get carried away by greed.

Justice Okoro subsequently dismissed Binani’s petition and upheld the concurrent findings of the Adamawa State Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal which had earlier dismissed the petition by Binani and the APC

Why We’re Demanding N400,000 As New Minimum Wage – LABOUR

The labour union has proposed a minimum wage of $300 (N436,500) for Nigerian workers ahead of negotiations on the new national minimum wage. Chairman, Trade Union Side, Joint Meeting of the National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), Comrade Benjamin Anthony, made this proposal at the 2023 meetings of the Separate and Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council held in Goshen City, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday. The union argued that the current minimum wage of N30,000 has since been eroded by the high exchange rate coupled with the abrupt removal of fuel subsidy which has translated into the high cost of living in the country, hence the demand for a new wage.

Anthony, who was represented by the Secretary of the Union, Comrade Boma Mohammed, also frowned at the recent delays in the payment of salaries by the Federal Government to workers, saying the trend must be stopped and avert the repeat of such things as the suffering in the land, which is already unbearable.

He said, “In light of the above, Labour has proposed a Living Wage of $300 (N436,500) for Nigerian Workers. This is due to the fall in the value of our currency, today if you carry N100,000 to the market you will come back with a leather bag of items.

“We call on Government to immediately pay the arrears of the N35,000 wage award along with the current and expedited action on the process of getting a new living wage to bring succour to the working class people,” he added.

Meanwhile, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, said most governors of the 37-member Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage are not complying with the proposed base pay structure.

Ajaero stated this in an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday.

Recall that Vice President KashimShettima inaugurated the committee in Abuja earlier on Tuesday, saying the decision was aimed at ensuring a decent living wage and in compliance with the existing National Minimum Wage Act of 2019, which will expire in a few months.

He said, ”Most of the governors in the minimum wage committee are those who are not paying minimum wage or paying them in breaches.”

”The governors who are in full compliance with the minimum wage are not adequately represented, so whatever made the Federal Government bring in those who are not compliant or compliant in breaches to form the bulk of the membership of the minimum wage committee from the state government that will unfold with time,” he added.

Kidnappers strike again In Kubwa Abuja, Abduct Two Sisters, Demand N30million Ransom

This is coming barely eight days after the Chikakore community protested to the office of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over the terrible state of the major road linking their community which they described as one of the causes of serial kidnapping in the area.

Two teenage sisters have been kidnapped by gunmen suspected to be bandits at Guita community, Chikakore in Kubwa, Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

This is coming barely eight days after the Chikakore community protested to the office of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over the terrible state of the major road linking their community which they described as one of the causes of serial kidnapping in the area.

SaharaReporters gathered on Wednesday that the kidnappers returned last Sunday around 11:25pm despite the patrol of military men and policemen in the area.

It was learnt that the gunmen numbering six, made away the girls, who were said to be 16 and 14 years old through the forests and hills in the area.

A police source in the area, who confirmed their kidnap to SaharaReporters on Wednesday, said the attackers took three of a man’s children, two girls and one boy, but they went away with two girls and sent back one (the boy) from the bush.

He was sent to go and tell their father to prepare N30million as the ransom.

The source said, “The gunmen have changed their approach, when they came; they didn’t shoot like before, but forced themselves inside. While they were forcing themselves inside, the owner of the house (a Calabar man) ran to the vigilante’s office, then, he ran to the commander’s house before the commander could call another person, and rush to his house, the gunmen were already gone.

“It was when they were going, they started shooting, unlike before that they would shoot before the operation and till the end.

“They took three of his children, two girls and one boy, but they went away with two and sent back one (the boy) from the bush that he should go and tell their father to prepare 30million naira for their ransom.

“When they were taken, the two girls (16 and 14 years) one of the girls was wearing night gown, the mother tried to plead with the gunmen to let her wear something for the cold, but instead they beat up the mother. She had no option than to just let the girls go the way they were under the cold.

“Before the police came to the scene, they were already gone. Some of the vigilante later traced them to the railway line, to the rocks but there was no trace anymore.

“The man that his daughters were kidnapped is a front liner security payment and he has made some several donations to the community.”

However, Josephine Adeh, FCT police spokesperson, when contacted by SaharaReporters, promised to get the details and to revert.

EFCC uncovers religious body laundering money for terrorists, traces N7bn to another

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, said the agency has uncovered a religious sect laundering money for terrorists.

Olukoyede, who made the revelation at a one-day dialogue on “Youth, Religion, and the Fight against Corruption.” yesterday in Abuja, also said N7 billion fraud proceeds was traced to another religious organisation.

He further said the EFCC had found religious organisations, institutions, sects and bodies culpable of money laundering in the country.

Olukoyede said one of such religious bodies dragged the commission to court to protect its leader after laundered money was traced to its bank account.

The EFCC boss said the religious body got a court injunction restraining the commission from inviting, arresting or prosecuting its leader.

“We will not give up on recovering the stolen funds,” Olukoyede said.

“It is so sad that as I stand before the eminent audience today, that our experience in fighting corruption has to do with the religious leaders and even traditional rulers.

“As I stand before you there is a matter we are handling of over 30 billion fleeced from Nigeria, and we were able to trace N7 billion to a particular religious body.

“As we wrote a letter to the leader, the next thing we saw was a restraining order, stopping us from inviting them, stopping us from recovering the money.”

He said that the EFCC had appealed the judgment.

“Of course, we have appealed. Sometimes ago, we investigated the issue of money laundering, somewhere in this country, there is a particular religious sect that launders money for terrorists, these are the problems we are battling with,” Olukoyede added.

He also revealed that since he assumed office about three months ago, the anti-graft commission has secured 747 convictions, but said over 60 per cent of the convictions were cybercrime cases.

“To our faith leaders, my appeal is that those who lead our society from churches and mosques should develop messages that glorify industry, hard work, probity and contentment over riches, irrespective of how it was made.

“We all must stand up and be counted in the efforts to reset the mentality of our youths that the fast lane to affluence is fraud.

“Aside from our commitment to using faith to tackle corruption in various levels of society, we have also developed a remarkable tool which we intend to deploy to prevent corruption in our Ministries, Department and Agencies,” he said.

According to him, this tool, a Fraud Risk Assessment Project, is meant to assist government agencies to address systemic vulnerabilities at the personal, institutional and environmental levels.

“When fully deployed, it will save the nation billions of  Naira in stolen wealth, time and resources spent in investigating grand corruption cases.

“The project is intended to commence, in the first instance, with 20 extremely vulnerable agencies of government.

“We believe that with the support of the government and the cooperation of the leadership of the selected agencies, we will be able to drastically close the space for brazen graft in the public sector,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the one-day event was aimed at addressing the challenges of youth involvement in cybercrimes and how religion could be used for their reorientation.

“Youth, Religion and the Fight Against Corruption,” featured the launch of the Interfaith Preaching and Teaching Manual developed by the Interfaith Anti-Corruption Advisory Committee of the Commission to instigate abhorrence for corruption among adherents of Islam and Christianity.

The EFCC’s Fraud Risk Assessment Prevention and Control Project for Ministries, Departments and Agencies was also inaugurated at the event.(NAN)

He said the service had taken measures that would significantly improve the efficiency of supply chains and ease conducting meticulous post-clearance audits.

(NAN)

Abia govt rolls out Master Plan to make Aba a Mega City …Says investigation ongoing in Ajatakiri contaminated stream

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

 Abia State Government said it has concluded plans to develop a new master plan that will guide the development of Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the state as a mega city for the next 30 years or more.

Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu disclosed this while briefing the press alongside his colleagues on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting presided over by the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.

According to him, with the plans, Aba is going to metamorphose into a mega city and a major business hub East of the Niger.

The Commissioner while emphasizing the importance of the plan towards the expansion project of Aba, said that details of the master plan will be made public at the appropriate time.

The information Commissioner also said that a special committee has been approved by the Executive Council to spare head the development of a new commercial core for Aba.

According to the Commissioner, the initiative aims at facilitating the establishment of new markets in Aba and rebuilding the Ngwa road market (Ahia Ohuru ) recently gutted by fire.

He also disclosed plans by the State Government to rebuild the Enyimba International Stadium into a modern stadium that is befitting.

He observed that the market around the Enyimba International Stadium creates traffic congestion, adding that the special committee has been mandated to decongest the Ngwa road market axis leading to the Enyimba International Stadium .

The Information boss said that  the  payment  of compensation  for the second phase of the  demolition of Houses on Ossah road has commenced. Those   affected have started receiving their compensation.

On the allegation that some people that were allocated lands by ABSEDA under the past administration were being denied access to the land, the general management Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Mr Kingsley Agomuo said those affected do not have any document covering the land and advised anyone who desire to get allocation from the State to first visit the Ministry of Lands to be guided appropriately.

Regarding the Ajatakiri Contaminated stream in Ajata-na-Igu Autonomous Community in Ikwuano Local Government, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Ogbonna said that investigation is ongoing to unravel the source of the contamination,even as he made public that a team of environmentalists have visited the area.

He cautioned members of the community to stay clear from the stream until investigations are concluded, assuring that those affected would be well taken care of by the State Government.

He added that those behind the contamination will be punished according to the law

Imo Police bust kidnappers hideout, arrest five suspects

By Jude Onyenedogha

 Imo State Police Command said its operatives have busted kidnappers’ den in a forest between Avu and Ihiagwa, in the Owerri West Local Government Area and arrested five suspected deadly kidnappers.

According to a press statement endorsed on behalf of Imo State Commissioner of Police, AbokiDanjuma, by the command’s spokesman, Henry Okoye, on combing the forest, in conjunction with some local hunters, decomposing unidentified dead bodies were recovered

The statement read: “Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Imo State Police Command Special Tactical Unit, led by the Commissioner of Police, CP AbokiDanjuma, in synergy with some local hunters stormed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in a forest between Avu and Ihiagwa, on 29/01/2024 and arrested five suspected kidnappers namely; MuazuAwuta, 30 ‘m’ yrs, AbdullahiAbubakar, ‘m’ 32yrs, Ozeru Sabo ‘m’ 25yrs, Saddam Suleiman, ‘m’ 27yrs, Bashir Yahaya, ‘m’, 28yrs, all of Jau LGA of Jigawa State.

“The suspects are currently undergoing investigation and have provided useful information to the Police that will lead to the arrest of other syndicates at large.

“On combing the forest, two decomposing unidentified corpses suspected to be kidnapped victims and other items like telephones, wristwatches, shoes, and slippers were recovered”.

According to the statement, the command intends to carry out further DNA confirmatory test to ascertain the identity of the deceased, adding that five operational motorcycles of the suspected kidnappers were also recovered.

It said intense operation was still ongoing in the forest and other identified black spots, with the aim of stamping out all forms of crime and criminality in the State.

 

 

Imo Assembly urges Uzodimma to dissolve Boards of parastatals, agencies, Development Center Coordinators

By Senator Onyekwere

The Imo State House of Assembly yesterday, resolved to urge the state governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, to dissolve all Boards of Parastatals, Agencies, Extra Ministerial Departments, Commissions, including Development Center Coordinators.

The resolution, which is currently before the governor, was conveyed by the Clerk of the House, Lady Chinelo Emeghara, on the Order of the Speaker, Rt Hon Chike Olemgbe, after impactful contributions of the lawmakers present at the plenary seasion yesterday.

The House took the resolution, following a motion presented by the Deputy Speaker and member representing Nwangele State Constituency, Hon Amara Iwuanyanwu and seconded by the member representing Oru West State Constituency, Hon Dominic Ezerioha.

Presenting the motion, Hon Iwuanyanwu noted that the state governor had hit the ground running, by dissolving the former expanded Exco, former SOLADS and Strategic appointees.

According to him, the public service delivery needs to be improved and enhanced by increasing productivity in areas like, wealth creation, Agriculture, Education, etc.

The House also resolved to condemn the illegal conversion of the House of Assembly Quarters and urged the governor to use the relevant government machinery to recover the said premises from the operators of “Heroes Apartment,” so that the property can be put to its original purpose and use.

This was as a result of the motion moved by the member representing Orlu State Constituency, Hon Ikenna Ihezuo, and seconded by the member representing Ehime Mbano, Hon Bernard Ozoemelam.

Moving the motion, Hon Ihezuo said from the original plan, the Imo State House of Assembly Staff Quarters, currently called Heroes Apartment, is part and parcel of Imo State House of Assembly premises.

He noted that from the records of the House, there was no House Resolution or Agreement, whereby, the House resolved to cede the said property.

A Bill for a law to provide for Skills Acquisition and Craftsmanship, as a mandatory Course in all Primary Schools and Secondary Schools also scaled through into second reading but it was referred to the House Committee on Education for further action.

Presenting the Bill, the Chief sponsor and member representing Oguta State Constituency, Engr Gilbert Nwosu, said that the Bill will help tackle unemployment issue in the state.

Engr Nwosu stated that the Bill would reduce the rate of importation of goods, and boost the economy of the state.

Meanwhile, the Imo State House of Assembly has sworn in, Hon Kingsley Ozurumba, as the replacement for Hon Modestus Osakwe of Isu State Constituency, who was sacked by the Court of Appeal.

Speaking to journalists, Hon Ozurumba promised his Constituency effective representation.

Police nab banker for staging own kidnap

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a staff of a microfinance bank, Olumide Openaike, for allegedly staging his own kidnap over N1.7 million debt in Abeokuta.

Openaike was reportedly missing but was later found in Mokwa, Niger State, last week.

The wife of the banker, Temitope, had told journalists how his husband, Olumide, went missing on January 17 on his way to work.

But last Thursday, Mrs Openaike hinted journalists that his husband had been found on Tuesday.

But the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Omolola Odutola, said the banker had orchestrated his own abduction in his attempt to escape from refunding one of the bank’s customers. Speaking over the phone, Odutola said, “Yes, the police have found out that the banker, Olumide Openaike, faked his abduction over N1.7m debt

The money actually belongs to the bank where he works.

He (Openaike) said he then got depressed and decided to fake his abduction. He is already detained by the police.”

Insecurity: Senate Summons Service Chiefs, Adjourns For By-election campaigns

The Senate has invited the service chiefs in the country for an interaction concerning the rising spate of insecurity in the country.

The service chiefs are: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-General Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is expected to be part of the meeting amongst others.

The service chiefs are expected to brief the lawmakers on their efforts and areas they need support.

The service chiefs are expected at the National Assembly next week since the lawmakers have adjourned for one week in order to participate in the by-elections campaigns. The elections take place on Saturday.

The Senate had in December 2023, invited the service chiefs but the invitation was not honoured because the lawmakers went on recess.

Put reading a motion on the spate of insecurity in Nigeria sponsored by the entire 109 senators and presented by the Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate noted with sadness the rising spate of killings, kidnappings, banditry, and other criminal activities in the nation.

“Senate further noted the recent killings in Agatu local government area of Benue State, which led to loss of lives, including security personnel and wanting destruction of properties as well as the brutal killings of eleven residents of Logo local government area of Benue State.

“Senate equally noted the various kidnappings in the Federal Capital Territory where victims have been killed after collecting ransom.

“The Senate is also aware of several cases of kidnappings all over the country where huge ransom had been paid and several of the victims still got killed.

“The Senate is also aware that the recent killings of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State and the abduction of primary school pupils in Ekiti had further aggravated the level of insecurity in the country.

“Senate notes the unfortunate bomb explosion at Bodija in Ibadan Oyo State where no less than five lives were lost and several residential houses, schools, hotels, and religious centres were destroyed.“The Senate equally notes the killing of several residents of Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi communities in Plateau State,” Bamidele said, praying that the lawmakers should invoke its earlier resolution and invite the security chiefs.”That the Senate do invoke its earlier resolutions to invite the security chiefs for an interactive session with the Senate with a view to resolving the insecurity that is plaguing the country,” Bamidele said before the prayers were approved by the lawmakers who also observe a minute silence in honour of the departed.

Speaking, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said after the interactive session with the security chiefs, which has been agreed for next week, they will also have a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“After our interaction with the service chiefs which should be next week, we would also fix a time to discuss the outcome with Mr President.

“We have a responsibility to collaborate with the executive and contribute our ideas to ensure that our constituents and ourselves, including our children can sleep with their two eyes closed.

“Security is everybody’s business, and without security, we can not make progress. We are very determined to make laws and pass resolutions aimed at ensuring rapid progress of the country and the immediate improvement of the Nigerian economy.

“This will not be possible without a secured nation. We will take this up with Mr. President after the interaction with security chiefs,” Akpabio said while announcing a one week recess for the Senate and the House of Representatives in order to participate in the office season campaigns.

“In view of the elections taking place on Saturday, we are taking part in the campaign and will resume on the six days of February, 2023,” Akpabio said.

While welcoming the lawmakers back from the new year recess Akpabio said their performance last year has raised the expectations of Nigerians, describing it as commendable.

“When a task is executed with excellence, expectations naturally soar. Thus, the recess provided us with an opportunity to reconnect with our loved ones, reignite our commitment to the public good, and return to this esteemed chamber with renewed vigour and determination.

“Our constituents have bestowed upon us the weighty responsibility to serve, lead, and make decisions that shape our nation’s course and the welfare of our people. We must never forget the gravity of this responsibility or the faith our constituents have placed in us. “Allow me to recount a story from American history captured in the publication “A Message to Garcia” by Elbert Hubbard. During the Spanish-American war, the United States needed to contact the Cuban rebel leader, Gen Calixto Garcia, for a joint military strategy. However, Garcia was a wanted man, and his whereabouts were unknown. The American president, William MacKinley, entrusted a man named Andrew Rowan with a letter to deliver to Garcia, without giving him any directions. Rowan did not ask “Where do I find him?” He strapped the letter to his chest, journeyed to Cuba, found Garcia, delivered the letter, and returned with a great reply.

“Just like Rowan, each Senator has been entrusted with a mandate, akin to Rowan’s letter. Our constituents believe that we can navigate the corridors of power, do what is right, make them proud, and return with tangible results. We must carry this mandate close to our hearts, act upon it, and make our constituents proud. Like Rowan, we must traverse uncharted territory, break new ground, and find the building blocks needed to create a great and united country. These blocks are courage, unity, integrity, and strategy. We are trusted, just as Rowan was trusted, we must take results home, just like Rowan did.

Distinguished colleagues, it is our duty to justify the trust vested in us by diligently addressing the challenges facing our nation and striving for the betterment of society. As Distinguished Senators, we have a unique platform to effect change and advocate for our constituents’ interests. History and future generations will not forgive us if we squander this opportunity or fail to leave our mark on the annals of time,” Akpabio said, urging the lawmakers to use their time in the revered chamber to delve into pressing issues, engage in passionate and respectful debates, and craft legislation that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people they represent.

“In the coming months, we will face a multitude of challenges, from economic recovery and healthcare reform to national security and social justice. It is imperative that we approach these issues with a spirit of collaboration and a commitment to finding common ground. Let us rise above partisan divides and work together, transcending party lines, for the greater good of our nation. Our patriotism demands that we heed no other call except Nigeria’s call—the call echoed in our National Anthem. Let us continue to work and collaborate with the Executive Arm under His Excellency President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, without compromising our independence as enshrined in our constitution.

“I urge each and every one of us to embrace the power of dialogue and the importance of compromise. Let us listen to one another with open hearts and open minds, guided by reason and evidence in our decision-making. Let us be champions for the marginalised and the voiceless, advocates of justice and equality. Our purpose should be twofold: to do as much good as we can to all the people we can, and to prevent any injustices from befalling anyone in our great nation, for injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

As we embark on this new legislative session, let us be inspired by the limitless potential of what we can achieve together. Let us remember that the work we do here has the power to transform lives, uplift communities, and shape the destiny of our great nation and the fortunes of our continent. We must be bold in our vision, unwavering in our commitment, and steadfast in our dedication to the principles of democracy and good governance,” Akpabio added.

School children kidnapped in Ekiti, gov vows to rescue pupils

Some school children have been kidnapped in Ekiti by unknown gunmen.

The gunmen reportedly abducted six pupils and three teachers of a private school and their bus driver while they were returning from Eporo-Ekiti on Monday night.

According to a post by Ekititrends on its X account on Tuesday, the incident involved students from Apostolic Faith School, Ekiti.

But hours after the incident, the Ekiti State Government called on residents of the state not to despair as security has been stepped up to rescue them.

“The Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji urged the citizens of the state not to despair over Monday’s kidnapping of some school pupils and their teachers in Emure- Ekiti.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Governor assured that efforts are on to rescue the children and their teachers.”

Oyebanji also described the kidnap as callous and unacceptable, saying nothing would be spared in the efforts to rescue them.

The Ekiti Government said “security agencies in the state are already on the trail of the abductors with a mandate to bring the pupils and their teachers back safely.

“Governor Oyebanji said security is being stepped up across the state with a view to flushing out criminal elements from their hideouts,” it added.“While calling on the citizens to remain calm and vigilant, he urged them to cooperate with security agencies, by making available relevant information to the authorities,” he said.

Governor Oyebanji pledged a swift and comprehensive rescue operation to ensure the safe return of the abducted children.

As of the time of filing this report, law enforcement agencies, including the police and relevant security forces, have reportedly been mobilised to address the situation promptly.

Meanwhile, earlier reportsaid gunmen suspected to be kidnappers on Monday killed two Ekiti State monarchs on the Ipao-Oke Ako Road.

The gunmen killed the Onimojo of Imojo in the Oye Local Government Area, Oba Olatunde Olusola, and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti in the Ikole Local Government Area, Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, while the Alara of Ara Ekiti, Oba Adebayo Fatoba in the Ikole Local Government Area, escaped.

Sources said the traditional rulers were returning from a function in Kogi State when their vehicles ran into the suspected kidnappers, who had laid an ambush on the road.

According to sources, while the bandits chased the Alara in a bid to kidnap him, the two other monarchs also attempted to escape but were shot by the gunmen.

The Chairman of the Ajoni Local Council Development Area, Micheal Ogungbemi, in whose domain the incident took place, said that the dead bodies of the two obas had been recovered from the scene and taken to a mortuary.

The council boss explained that information indicated that the traditional rulers, who were coming from Kogi State, were attacked in the Oke Ako area. Gunmen have reportedly abducted an undisclosed number of schoolchildren in Emure Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

IPAC tasks INEC on credible rerun election in Enugu

The Enugu State chapter of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), has tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that Saturday’s rerun election in Enugu is credible.

IPAC stated this in a communique signed by its Chairman, Mr Godwin Alor after its extraordinary meeting in Enugu on Tuesday.

Alor urged INEC to accredit credible observers to monitor the election.

He charged security agencies to provide adequate security before, during and after the election.

‘’The meeting noted with delight the improved security in the state, courtesy of Gov. Peter Mbah.

‘’It commended the governor in this regard and urged him to continue in the same direction.

‘’The meeting further set up a three-man committee of elders to reconcile the various interests in the state chapter of IPAC before the rerun election,’’ he said.

CBN departments from Abuja to Lagos

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is set to move five departments from Abuja to Lagos as part of efforts to ‘decongest’ its head office.

It was recalled that the apex bank had revealed plans to move some staff from Abuja to Lagos in order to align with building safety standards and enhance office space efficiency.

This was contained in a circular dated 12th January from the director of the human resources department to all staff of the apex bank.

The move has generated mixed reactions, with some stakeholders, particularly from the north, opposing the move, while some other stakeholders support the development.

However, the CBN has not shown any sign of backtracking on its earlier announcement.

According to the report, the departments set to be moved from Lagos to Abuja are:

  1. Banking supervision
  2. Other financial institutions supervision
  3. Consumer protection department
  4. Payment system management department
  5. Financial policy regulations department.

Meanwhile, about 1,500 CBN staff are reportedly set to resume in Lagos State on Friday due to the relocation of some departments of the apex bank.

Sources in the bank told our reporter that though the move was heavily criticised, it was still in motion and affected staffers would be resuming on Friday, 2nd February.

“Yes, the plan is still on and they will resume work by February 2, which is the first week of next month,” an official said.

Another source who spoke to the publication said that some of the affected staffers had started relocating to Lagos.

“Some have already gone ahead. Over 80 per cent of the Banking Supervision Department staff have been redeployed and the same for the Payment System Department,” the source hinted.

N136m unpaid loan: Court orders seizure of Senator Umeh’s assets

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has ordered the seizure of assets belonging to the Senator representing Anambra Central, Chief Victor Umeh, over his failure to pay off about N136million debt that accrued from a loan he got from the defunct Skye Bank Plc, in 2008.

The court, in the judgement that was delivered by Justice InyangEkwo, held that evidence that was adduced before it by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, showed that the lawmaker took a loan of N23,250,000.00 from the defunct bank to invest in shares.

AMCON told the court that it later acquired the unpaid debt when Skye Bank Plc became unsuccessful in making Umeh to pay back the loan which it said stood at N135,722,303.40k as of April 2011.

It, therefore, prayed the court to compel the defendant to pay his loan debt.

Delivering judgement in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/AMC/12/2022, Justice Ekwo, stressed that Senator Umeh failed to file any defence before the court, even though he was duly served with the processes.

“It is to be noted at this point that the defendant, upon being served, failed to enter a defence in this case.

“It is trite law that the net effect of the failure of a defendant to file pleadings is that the assertions of the claimant in his pleadings stands unchallenged and are deemed admitted and established

“It is also true that the effect of a defendant’s failure to call evidence in defense of the claims against him at the trial is that he is presumed to have admitted the case made against him by the claimant,” the judge held.

He added that despite Umeh’s failure to file a defence, AMCON was able to prove its case through the proof of evidence it adduced before the court.

“I find that the plaintiff has established its case by preponderance of evidence as required by law.” According to the court, “the tenor of the credit facility granted to the defendant was specifically fixed for 356 days.”

It noted that the offer letter that was issued to the defendant by the bank, contained various other explicit terms and conditions, which he agree to by duly executing the memorandum of acceptance.

“The defendant utilised the funds granted to him as credit facilities by the bank. However, at the expiration of the tenor of the facility, the defendant failed and neglected to liquidate the credit facility as per the contract.”

Aside from ordering the forfeiture of Umeh’s 5,000,000 units of Skye Bank shares in the records of the Central Securities & Clearing System, to AMCON, Justice Ekwo further awarded a cost of N2m against the defendant.

Specifically, the court, held thus: “A declaration is hereby made that the defendant is indebted to the plaintiff, in the sum of N135,722,303.40 representing the principal debt sum plus all the accrued interest and charges, at the rate of 15 percent per annum drawn up to January 25, 2021, being the sum due and outstanding from the defendant to the plaintiff.

“A declaration is hereby made mandating the defendant to pay to the plaintiff the sum of N135,722,303.40 representing the principal debt sum, plus all the accrued interest and charges, at the rate of 15 percent per annum drawn up to January 25, 2021, in settlement of the debt due and outstanding from the defendant to the plaintiff.

“An order is hereby made mandating the defendant to pay the plaintiff a sum representing 15 percent of the principal sum as interest on the judgement sum from January 26, 2021, until the date of delivery of the judgement.

“An order is hereby made mandating the defendant to pay the plaintiff a sum representing 15 percent of the judgement sum as interest on the judgement sum, from the date of delivery of the judgement till the date of full and final liquidation of same.

“A declaration is hereby made that the defendant is liable to a total forfeiture and divestment of all his title, rights, interests, benefits, and claims in respect of the 5,000,000 shares of Skye Bank shares in the record of the Central Secures& Cleaning System while the plaintiff is entitied to take over, as beneficial owner, all the title, rights, interests, benefits and claims in respect of same.

“An order of final foreclosure and final forfeiture is hereby made foreclosing and divesting the defendant of his title, rights and interests, in respect of the 5,000,000 units of Skye Bank shares in the records of the Central Securities & Clearing System and vesting same in the plaintiff in furtherance of part liquidation and satisfaction of the outstanding debt obligation of the defendants due to the plaintiff.

“An order is hereby made mandating the defendant to pay to the plaintiff the sum of N2,000,000 00 as costs for filing and pursuing this claim.” the court added.

UK suspends British-Nigerian Minister Kate Osamor for condemning Israel’s actions inGaza as ‘genocide’

British-Nigerian Minister, Kate Osamor

UK has suspended British-Nigerian Minister, Kate Osamor for condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza as ‘genocide’. A British-Nigerian Minister, MP Kate Osamor, has been suspended by the United Kingdom’s Labour Party after she accused Israel of genocide on the eve of Holocaust Memorial Day.

Osamor, however, has apologised for “any offence caused” over the message distributed to local party members on Friday.

It was reported that the chief whip suspended her from the parliamentary party while an investigation was instituted into the matter, as Jewish groups have criticised the remarks.Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) marks the six million Jews and other groups murdered during the Holocaust, alongside recent genocides.

Osamor, the MP for Edmonton had shared a photograph of herself at a Holocaust Educational Trust event.

She wrote, “Tomorrow is Holocaust Memorial Day, an international day to remember the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, the millions of other people murdered under Nazi persecution of other groups and more recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and now Gaza.”

She later tweeted an apology “for any offence caused by my reference to the ongoing humanitarian disaster in Gaza as part of that period of remembrance”.

Meanwhile, the Holocaust Educational Trust described her remarks as a “painful insult to survivors of the Holocaust”.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews called her comment “disgraceful”, while the Jewish Leadership Council accused her of abusing HMD to attack the Jewish state.

Shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds said it was not acceptable to equate the Holocaust to the situation in Gaza.

“What is happening in Gaza is clearly a humanitarian catastrophe that is recognised. But there are specific reasons why the Holocaust is considered as it is,” he said.

More than 26,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel started its campaign after the 7 October attacks

Momentum, the pressure group on the left of Labour, called the suspension an “outrageous decision” following a ruling by the UN’s top court.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to take all measures to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of telling it to halt the war.

A verdict on the central allegation of genocide is expected to take much longer, possibly years. The 7 October attacks killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel. More than 100 of the 240 hostages who were snatched and taken to Gaza remain in captivity.

Meanwhile, Israel’s air and ground assaults in the Palestinian territory have killed more than 25,000 people, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says.

Labour has urged Israel to comply with the ICJ’s ruling on the war, but leader Sir KeirStarmer’s position on Israel – supporting its right to defend itself, and later calling for a sustainable ceasefire over the “intolerable” situation – has caused tensions within the party.

Osamor, who served as shadow international development secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, is the second Labour MP to apologise for remarks about the war in Gaza in a week. During Prime Minister’s Questions, Tahir Ali accused Rishi Sunak of having “the blood of thousands of innocent people on his hands” due to his response to the conflict.

The Birmingham Hall Green MP later tweeted an apology “for the way in which I described the prime minister in my question”.

A Labour spokesman called his remark “clearly inappropriate”.

It Is Constitutional’ – Ndume Reacts AsTinubu Directs NNPCL To Pay Crude Oil Sales Money To CBN

ALI NDUME

The Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Ali Ndume, has commended President Bola Tinubu over his directive for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take over the responsibility for crude oil sales from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Based on President Tinubu’s directive, the NNPCL is now to pay all crude oil proceeds into the Consolidated Revenue Fund domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The Senate Chief Whip said the move by the President is constitutional, and a welcome development that should be supported by everybody.

It was earlier reported that the move by the President was to show transparency and accountability as NNPCL over the years has maintained sole control over crude oil sales, and only rendered accounts to the Federal Government.

Under the new arrangement, NNPC will submit receipts for crude oil sales to CBN for vetting and documentation. Reacting to the development, Ndume, while speaking with reporters in Abuja, commended the move and also asked President Tinubu to sign an Executive Order on Unexplained Wealth to empower anti-corruption and security agencies to go after Nigerians with questionable riches.

The Senator further charged the President to extend his directive to NNPCL to all revenue-generating agencies of the Federal Government. Ndume said: “The President has now ordered that all crude oil sales money should be paid into the CBN. That is a very welcome and positive thing that he has done and he should not stop there. “All agencies of government that are revenue generating should pay their money into the consolidated revenue account and as they present their budget, whatever expenditure they are going to incur, let them bring it before the National Assembly. That’s what the Constitution says. “So, what they now want is to make a political issue again out of it. This decision that Mr. President took is the right decision “It is constitutional and it should be supported by everybody. That way, it should also apply to other agencies of government that are driving revenue. They cannot keep it “NIMASA should pay directly like NNPCL into the CRF.

The Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) should do the same. The Nigeria Customs Service and all other revenue-generating agencies should pay revenues into the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation, and their accounts should remain with CBN because they can do banking “So, if they want to withdraw money, they should withdraw through the CBN. They were doing this before. Don’t go and keep people’s money in commercial banks and do transactions with it. That is it. “I reiterate my call commending him for asking NNPCL to pay all oil revenue into the Consolidated Revenue account.”

On the call for President Tinubu to sign an Executive Order on unexplained wealth, Ndume said if done, it would go a long way in fighting corruption. “The next thing now, if President Tinubu wants to fight corruption, would be to sign an Executive Order on Unexplained Wealth in this country. “Let all these people explain where they got their money, including myself. People should stop talking about trivialities or personal issues; they should talk about national issues,” Ndume submitted.

Insecurity: Resign if you can’t cope, Atiku tells Tinubu

ATIKU AND TINUBU

FORMER Vice President AtikuAbubakar has advised President Bola Tinubu to resign if he could not handle insecurity challenges currently bedevilling Nigeria.

Atiku, who contested the last president election against Tinubu on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said this in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, January 30.

He decried the numerous incidents of kidnapping and other attacks that had occurred across Nigeria in the past months whereby he accused the President of being a fiddler when the nation was insecure.

“If the shoes are too big for Emilokan, he should step aside. Nigeria does not need another Tourist-in-Chief,” Atiku stated.

He added: “The country needs 24/7 leadership to confront the pervasive insecurity and collapsing economy,” recalling the various kidnapping episodes in several parts of Nigeria since Tinubu became president on May 29, 2023..

He listed the kidnapping and killing of a nursing mother and grandmother in Abuja for failing to pay N90 million ransom and the killing of two monarchs in Ekiti, among other security issues that needed the President’s intervention.

He added that it’s worrying “to imagine that the Commander-in-Chief is on a so-called private visit while kidnappers kill a nursing mother and grandmother in Abuja for failing to pay N90 million ransom and two monarchs in Ekiti, among other regular tragedies besetting Nigerians.”

President Tinubu came to office with the vow to tackle Nigeria’s insecurity among other agenda, insecurity, which takes the forms of armed robbery, kidnapping, and banditry attacks, among others, has been rampant since Tinubu assumed office.

On Monday, January 29, civil society organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria appealed to Tinubu to declare a state of emergency due to the nation’s insecurity.

FG Inaugurates New Minimum Wage Committee

FG

The federal government of Nigeria on yesterday, inaugurated a 37-man Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage with a mandate to recommend a new National Minimum Wage for the country.

The committee was inaugurated by Vice President, Kashim Shettima at the council chamber of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.

While inaugurating the committee, Shettima charged the members to consider the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidy and work to alleviate the suffering of the people.

As earlier reported, the thirty-seven-member Committee is chaired by a former Head of Service of the Federation, Bukar Goni Aji. The Vice President urged collective bargaining in good faith, emphasizing contract adherence and encouraging consultations outside the committee.

He further urged committee members to promptly reach a resolution and submit their reports.

Bye-Election: APGA alleges intimidation of Senatorial Candidate.

Ebonyi

The Progressives Grand Alliance
(APGA), Ebonyi state chapter has alleged intimidation of the senatorial candidate of
the party, Chief Ifeanyi Eleje for next month’s Ebonyi south senatorial bye-election by the ruling party.

APGA through the 2023 governorship candidate Prof Bernard Odoh, disclosed this in a statement signed by the Director-General of his campaign organization, Samuel AgwuOkporie, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki, the state capital.

According to Odoh, Eleje and his supporters have been facing intimidation since the commencement of the campaign for the bye- election as declared by the Independent National EIectoral Comnmission (NEC).

Odoh noted that the intimidation was very high in Afikpo local government where Eleje hails from and warned against it.

“It is already in the public domain that Eight candidates of Eight political Parties cleared and published by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC for the February 3rd, 2024 Senatorial bye-
election in Ebonyi South district had been ordered to kick off their campaigns
which would only last for about two weeks. of course, it can be recalled that the development followed a judgment of the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos which in November last year ordered the conduct of a bye-election to be conducted within 90 days.

“The All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA
Senatorial candidate in the last election, Sir
Ifeanyi Eleje will undoubtedly be vying for the same position he had stunned political analysts and pessimists during the
February 25th, 2023 poll by polling over 12,000 actual votes and winning his Afikpo North Local Government Area very convincingly.

“It was on the premise of the above-stated fact that the candidate decided to run again and Ebonyi APGA stakeholders also took a bold decision to maximally support his second bid to the Red Chambers.

“Eleje who has been a successful entrepreneur, ESTABLISHED businessman should have seized the opportunity afforded by the rerun to approach the Ebonyi APC-led government for either an appointmnent or à settlemnent. Being an urbane and perfect gentleman to the core.

“Eleje is very focused on throwing his hat into the ring once again because he believes in his ambition and his clear chances of winning the election. He had added that already, as the said politician may be aware, the EssaEhugbo Ruling Council (UloUbi) which he had recently visited had not only given him their elderly blessings as they had done during the
last election which of course, contributed
immensely to his outright victory in the LGA but charged him to go ahead and canvass for votes even beyond the Afikpo North.

“That on Sunday, January 19th, the Chairman of Afikpo North Local Government Area, Mr. Uchennalbiam, popularly known as Uchman also rang one of Chief Eleje’s disciples.

“His instruction was clear and that is a warning that APGA should not hold any political rally within the LGA without first and foremost obtaining ‘clearance from him. The call was dreadfully suggestive that an impending danger awaited the Party if it continued with the INEC directive that candidates of all the eight contesting
political Parties were atiberty to proceed with their political campaigns for the bye-election.

Otti inspects roads in Aba expresses satisfaction at level of work

From Henrietta Ashikodi /Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of work on Port Harcourt Road and other road projects currently going on in Aba, assuring that some of the roads will be commissioned soon.

The governor made this known while addressing a mammoth crowd of enthusiastic residents who trooped out to receive him during the road inspection visit to ascertain the progress of work on the projects.

Addressing the crowd who chanted solidarity songs in his support, the Governor assured that Omuma Road, which he said will be dualised, will link the Old Express Road, Cemetery and Osusu roads, adding that once the relocation of the electricity line is completed, work on the road will progress.

He urged Aba people to cooperate with the contractors to enable them complete the job on record time as well as to imbibe good sanitary habits.

“We will like to assure you that very very soon all these roads will be commissioned for use. The contractor has also told me that you people have been very kind to them, giving them water, giving them drinks and some of you are cooking and bringing to them. This is the way it should be. If you cooperate with government, government will cooperate with you.

“So, one more thing I will like to plead with our people, because this road has been in disuse for a long time, people have been used to littering everywhere. So I want to appeal to you in advance because as we complete these roads, we are not going to tolerate litter. So we are providing bins for households so you will have somewhere to drop your litter and then we will come twice in a day to cart them away.”

At Ndoki Road, the Governor promised that the road will be completed before the end of this year.

According to him, there will be a marked difference on the road before this year’s rainy season sets in.

Dr. Otti said the road will be done right to good morning market and connect the old court and other adjourning streets.
He disclosed that Ndoki Road in addition to a number of other roads in Aba is being handled through direct labour by the Abia State Ministry of Works and enjoined investors to make haste to invest in Aba, to enhance their economic fortunes.

The Governor who also inspected the Port Harcourt Road, Aba, old Court by Ngwa road, was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Otumchere Otti and conducted round the sites by contractors handling the various road projects.

Abia FL calls for speedy judicial processes, to decongest Correctional Centres

From Henrietta Ashikodi /Umuahia
The first lady of Abia state Mrs. Priscilla Otti in her visit to Aba Correctional Centre has called for speedy and quick dispensation of proceedings by the judiciary, to facilitate the decongestion of inmates in the Nigeria Correctional Service.

The Governor’s wife made the call when she visited the inmates of the Correctional Service in Aba while she used the occasion to donate food items, sanitary packs and other essential items, she also made a cash donation.

Addressing the inmates, MrsOtti made them to understand that what they are undergoing in the facility is corrections, not punishment, to rectify actions inconsistent with the laws of the land.

”I am pleased to announce that the government of Dr. Alex Otti is committed to assisting in enhancing the correctional facility’s workshop, such as skill acquisition and promoting educational advancement among inmates.

“As the wife of the Governor, I will prioritize skills acquisition, because I believe in human capacity development”. she said.

Mrs. Otticommended the management of the facility on the good work they are doing and encouraged the inmates to reflect on their life as they distance themselves from past mistakes, and strive to improve as they transition out of the correctional center.

She said, she was aware that FIDA has been providing legal aid to female inmates, “and as the Governor’s wife, I’ll continue to collaborate with them to assist those without legal aid.

However, for those who are interested in skills like tailoring, carpentry, barbing, and hairdressing, we are assuring you that we will enhance these skills to nurture development and we will also encourage academic pursuits”.

Speaking earlier, the state comptroller in charge of Nigeria Correctional Service Aba, Mrs. Julie Anyanwu, expressed joy at the first lady visit noting that this is the first time that somebody in the calibre of her position is visiting the facility.

Anyanwu explained that the correctional facility is no longer punitive to the inmates but to correct, train and guide the inmates through skills acquisition, so as they leave the facility, they are reintegrated back to the society with good conduct and empowerment to live a normal life.

Speaking also, the state President, FIDA, Barrister Akudo Amanamba noted that FIDA has been over the years doing pro bono services to indigent people and assured that there will be a change of attitude towards speedy judicial proceedings of cases of those awaiting trial.

In their goodwill messages, the mayor of Aba South LGA, Mr. Uche Nwogu, the commissioner for women affairs and poverty alleviation, Mrs. Ngozi Felix admonished the inmates, reminding them that no condition is permanent.
They added that the state government under Governor Otti will not forget them and assured that he will look into their welfare.

The highlight of the occasion was cutting of cake and presentation of songs by the inmates.

Onyeneke hopeful of Uzodimma embarking on more aggressive development projects

Former Special Adviser to the Governor on Imo Orientation Agency, Chief Dr Fidel Onyeneke has expressed strong optimism that Governor Hope Uzodimma will embark on more aggressive rural development projects that would impact positively on the lives of the Imo masses in his second tenure.

Chief Onyeneke stated this on Saturday when he accompanied the Majority Leader of the Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi to inspect the ongoing reconstruction of the Avu-Oforola road, in Owerri West Local Government Area.

He said that the Governor placed great priority to the opening of rural roads as a deliberate effort to improve effective communication amongst the various Communities in the State.

Chief Onyeneke stressed that such roads would enhance the evacuation of agricultural products from the producers to the selling points, thereby boosting the economic base of the rural dwellers.

Chief Onyeneke commended the Majority Leader who represents Owerri West in the House of Assembly, for facilitating the reconstruction of the road, adding that the people would ever appreciate the gesture.

Chief Onyeneke urged Imo people not to relent in supporting the current government in Imo state, assuring that Governor Hope Uzodimma was determined to provide the necessary dividends of democracy to the masses.

In his speech, the Majority Leader, Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi assured that he would continue to provide qualitative amenities that would uplift the living standard of the electorate.

He emphasised that the road would be completed on record time, considering its importance to the socio-economic growth of the rural dwellers.
The former Sole Administrator of Owerri West, Hon Victor Osigwe was present during the road inspection.

EFCC set to pick up Yahaya Bello as immunity expires

As the tenure of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello ended on January 27, 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is reportedly preparing to invite him for questioning.

With Bello no longer protected by the immunity afforded to governors, the EFCC and other security agencies are expected to launch an investigation into his eight-year administration.

The move comes after an earlier suit seeking the forfeiture of properties and funds linked to Bello was struck out, citing his immunity from prosecution.

Recall that the EFCC filed an appeal, challenging the Wednesday, April 26, 2023 ruling of Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, that struck out its suit seeking the forfeiture of 14 properties as well as the sum of N400m linked to the Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, citing his immunity from prosecution under the 1999 constitution.

In the notice of appeal filed by the commission, it averred that Justice Oweibo erred in law when he struck out the suit as the immunity conferred on the Respondent against any civil or criminal proceedings during his incumbency as a governor of Kogi State does not extend to properties reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime traced to him.

Also, it stated that the court erred and occasioned a miscarriage of justice when it refused to bind itself with the decision of the Court of Appeal in EFCC V Fayose (2018) LPELR 44131 CA and the decision of the Supreme Court in Fawehinmi V IGP (2002)7 NWLR (PT767)606, on the proper interpretation of Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution.

The EFCC also stated that the learned trial court erred in law when it struck out a preservation order of properties reasonably suspected to have been derived from proceeds of unlawful activities, notwithstanding its findings that the Respondent failed to show the genuine origin of funds used to acquire the properties under the preservation order.

Fubara makes fresh appointments amid fight with lawmakers

Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has made four new appointments amid the State House Assembly voting to override him to pass four new bills into law.

The governor on Friday appointed Goodlife Ben as the Acting Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Tonte Davies as the Acting Administrator of New Cities Development Authority, (NCDA), and Ine Briggs as the Acting Director General, Bureau of Public Procurement, (BPP).

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, the governor said the appointments take immediate effect.

On Friday, the Martins Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly voted to override Governor Siminalayi Fubara and pass four new bills into law.

The bills include the Rivers Local Government Amendment Law, the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Amendment Law, the Rivers State Advertisement and Use of State-Owned Property Prohibition repeal law, and the Rivers State Funds Management and Financial Autonomy Law.

The House decided on Friday during plenary after Amaewhule read four letters addressed to him by the governor, wherein he declined his assent to the four new bills which had been sent to him for assent.

According to the House, its decision relies on Section 100 subsection 5 of the constitution, which said the assent of the governor is not required for the passage of the bills into law.

The house stated that where the governor withholds assent and the bill is again passed by two-thirds majority of the House, the bill shall become a law and the assent of the governor shall not be required.

Amaewhule further accused the governor of having no plans of conducting local government elections in the state.

Fubara

This is coming 24 hours after the Supreme Court upheld the election of Governor Fubara.

The assembly, led by Amaewhule comprises 27 members who are loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Four members of the State Assembly, formerly led by Edison Ehie, who has now resigned as Speaker and member representing Ahoada East Constituency 2, are loyal to the governor.

President Bola Tinubu had waded into the political crisis in the state, which is predicated on the rift between Fubara and Wike.

The intervention of the President had led the concerned parties in the crisis to sign an eight-point resolution (peace accord) to end the crisis.

Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso pull out of ECOWAS as tensions deepen

Three West African nations of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have quit the regional economic bloc known as ECOWAS. Their respective juntas said in a joint statement on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024 that he bloc has imposed “inhumane” sanctions to reverse the coups in their nations and has also “moved away from the ideals of its founding fathers and Pan-Africanism” after nearly 50 years of its establishment.

“Furthermore, ECOWAS, under the influence of foreign powers, betraying its founding principles, has become a threat to its member states and its populations whose happiness it is supposed to ensure,” their statements read.

Widely seen as West Africa’s top political and regional authority, the 15-nation bloc of ECOWAS – formed in 1975 to “promote economic integration” in member states – has struggled in recent years to reverse rampant coups in the region, where citizens have complained of not benefitting from rich natural resources.

In parts of West Africa, ECOWAS is fast losing its effectiveness and support among citizens, who see it as representing only the interests of the leaders and not that of the masses, said Oge Onubogu, director of the Africa Program at the Washington-based Wilson Center think tank.

It’s not immediately clear how the process of the countries’ withdrawal from the bloc would be carried out. ECOWAS didn’t immediately respond to an Associated Press inquiry, though the bloc has said it only recognizes democratic governments.

The bloc’s regional court also ruled last year that juntas lack the power to act in place of elected governments on behalf of their nations.

Sunday’s announcement is the latest twist in a series of events that have deepened political tension in West Africa since it experienced its latest of a string of coups — in Niger — last year. It also comes as the three nations have formed a security alliance after severing military ties with France and other European nations and turning to Russia for support.

The defense chiefs from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries excluding Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea and Niger, gather for their extraordinary meeting in Accra, Ghana, Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, to discuss the situation in Niger

The joint statement accused ECOWAS of failing to assist those three countries in fighting “existential” threats like terrorism — the common reason cited by their militaries for deposing their democratically elected governments.

“When these States decided to take their destiny into their own hands, it (ECOWAS) adopted an irrational and unacceptable posture in imposing illegal, illegitimate, inhumane and irresponsible sanctions in violation of its own texts,” the statement noted.

Rather than improve their situations, the juntas said the ECOWAS sanctions have “further weakened populations already bruised by years of violence.”

Last week’s botched meeting between Niger and ECOWAS – which said its delegation couldn’t visit Niger because of a flight problem – was seen by Niger‘s junta as an opportunity to blame the bloc for how it has responded to the coup there, according to Cheta Nwanze, an analyst at Lagos-based SBM Intelligence geopolitical research firm.

“This withdrawal looks like an even more diminishing influence of the two traditional superpowers in West Africa – France and Nigeria,” Nwanze said.

Umahi orders arrest of traders on Enugu-PH expressway

Umahi

Traders on the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, which is still undergoing rehabilitation risk jail terms as the Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi on Saturday, ordered the arrest of persons trading on the completed section of the Aba axis of the road.

Expressing his disappointment over the activities of the traders, the minister who was inspecting the project, ordered his security details to arrest the erring traders with a strong assurance that the offenders would be charged to court according to the extant laws of the land.

He said, “While Mr President is passing through sleepless nights on how to solve the problems of a very bad inherited economy, Nigerians should support him and also support themselves. We wouldn’t like a situation where after the Federal Government had spent so much here, we see people building and trading on the road.

“It appears the people here like to inflict injuries on themselves. They can’t even allow the contractor to work. They drive against traffic and use the completed road as car parks, trading, and dumping of refuse. The whole of refuse generated in Aba is being dumped on this road. It is not encouraging at all.

“The only way out for this work to be completed is for the governor to set up a task force and clear the road and I will advise the governor to set up a task force here. The citizens of this country will need to do their best, while leadership also does its own. That is the only way it will work.”

Umahi

Fielding questions from newsmen, the minister, however, expressed his satisfaction with the job done by the contractor stating that the project, which was first awarded about 10 years ago, had yet to be completed because of the high cost of construction materials.

“When I came on board in August 2023, bitumen was N500,000 per ton, but today it’s about N1.3 million per ton and that is why we are asking, can we go for concrete that is almost 95 percent sourced locally?” he added.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Abia, Tony Onwubiko, said that the project covered about 57km from Abia Tower in Umuahia to the Railway Crossing at Alaoji in Osisioma Local Government Area.

The minister also inspected the NNPC Mega Filling Station at Nkwoegwu in the Umuahia section of the Enugu-PH Expressway, near Abia Tower of Peace where he expressed his happiness with the work done by Setraco Nigeria Limited, and urged the company to correct some errors he detected.

Recall that the minister had revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved funds for the construction of the Second Niger Bridge bypasses, the Lagos-Ibadan highway, and the Lafia bypass.

Umahi said during the inspection of the Lafia bypass road and dualisation of the 9th Mile, Enugu-Otukpo-Makurdi Road Project.

NDLEA arrests Brazil returnee with cocaine, declares ex-beauty queen wanted

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have apprehended Udechukwu Ekene Theophilus, a Brazil returnee, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

Udechukwu ingested 60 wraps of cocaine, totaling 1.279 kilograms, on a flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

This was made known in a statement signed by the Director, Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, and posted on the agency website on Sunday.

The statement said, “Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have arrested a Brazil returnee, Udechukwu Ekene Theophilus at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos for ingesting 60 big wraps of cocaine.

“The suspect who was arrested during inward clearance of passengers on Ethiopian Airlines flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia at the D-Arrival Hall of the Lagos airport on Sunday 21st January 2024, initially refused to undergo body scan, raising health concerns in a desperate bid to evade arrest.

“When he was however offered other options, he accepted to be placed on excretion observation and shortly after he was ushered into NDLEA observatory, he excreted the first set of cocaine pellets, after which he expelled a total of 60 wraps of the class A drug weighing 1.279 kilogrammes in five excretions.”

NDLEA said Udechukwu claimed in his statement that he ingested the consignment in Brazil and was to discharge everything at the airport in Addis Ababa but could only excrete 15 pellets which he handed over to another member of his syndicate before his connecting flight to Nigeria was called.

Suspects

Additionally, NDLEA operatives recovered 12 cartons of tramadol weighing 385.40kg from an overstayed cargo at the SAHCO import shed at Lagos airport.

The tramadol arrived in two batches on KLM Royal Dutch Airline flights from Karachi, Pakistan, between July 27 and August 1, 2023.

The agency also declared ex-beauty queen Ms. Aderinoye Queen Christmas wanted after she escaped during a raid on her Lekki residence, where cannabis and drug-related items were found.

The statement said, “Meanwhile, an ex-beauty queen, Ms. Aderinoye Queen Christmas also known as Ms. Queen Oluwadamilola Aderinoye has been declared wanted by the Agency after she escaped from her Lekki, Lagos residence when NDLEA operatives raided her apartment at Oral estate, Lekki on Wednesday 24th January following credible intelligence she deals in illicit substances.

“The suspect was Miss Commonwealth Nigeria Culture 2015/2016 and the founder of Queen Christmas Foundation.

“Recovered from her home during the search witnessed by the estate officials include 606 grams of Canadian Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis, an electronic weighing scale, large quantities of drugs packing plastics, a black RAV 4 SUV marked Lagos KSF 872 GQ, and her picture frame among others.”

Members of an international drug trafficking syndicate, Sunday Michael Owoborode and Valentine Anene, were also arrested in Ogun state, while Sunday Adediran was apprehended in Lagos with 20kg of cannabis sativa.

Imported medical syringes killing local industry, NAFDAC raises alarm

Prof Adeyeye

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised the alarm over the disappointing demand for locally produced medical syringes in the country, following the discovery of over 1.5 billion unsold units of the product in one local factory alone.

The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, lamented that the situation is even more concerning given that the quality of facilities in Nigeria’s local pharmaceutical companies is on par with those in the United States or any European country.

Adeyeye has, however, tasked the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) with the job of curbing the trend of importation of syringes as part of their responsibilities.

In a statement by the agency’s resident media consultant, Sayo Akintola, Adeyeye emphasised the necessity for ANLCA to prioritize the nation’s interests over personal gains in their roles as clearing agents at the nation’s ports.

The DG expressed her concern in Lagos on Thursday during a familiarization visit by the newly inaugurated executives of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), led by its National President, Mr. Emenike Nwokochi, to the NAFDAC Lagos corporate office.

The statement reads in part: “She said that the standard of the facilities she met on ground was comparable to whatever facility that could be found in the US or any country in Europe, adding that after the facility tour and being led into the warehouse, she was highly disturbed at the sight of huge unsold products.

“The NAFDAC DG told her guests that over 1.5 billion units of the product were lying untouched in the warehouse due to low sales, exacerbated by the influx of imported syringes into the country, despite the high import duty slammed on the product to protect the local market.

“Prof. Adeyeye however, noted with regrets that intelligence reports reaching her indicated that some compromises are being made at the port of entry in allowing illegal importation of unregistered containers of syringes into the country.

Prof Adeyeye

“She revealed that a publication by USFDA stated that some syringes that come from Southeast Asia are of bad quality, adding that those products didn’t fly by night and land in different warehouses in Nigeria: rather, they entered the country through individuals.”

While expressing empathy towards manufacturers, Adeyeye said: “I understand the challenges of not making sales, especially after investing a significant amount of money. That’s why I am particularly meticulous when it comes to overseeing our export processes.”

Speaking in the same vein, the National President of ANLCA, Emenike Nwokochi said: ‘’It’s shameful that when you buy yam abroad they tell you it is from Ghana, or any other country in West Africa when Nigeria is the highest producer of yam.

“As the Naira continues to fall to the dollar, we can’t do anything to help the Naira other than to increase the level of exports in the country to provide alternative source of raising foreign exchange.’’

He, however, pledged his association’s resolve to work in collaboration with the Agency to achieve the common goal of developing the nation’s economy.

We’ve returned to Buhari era – CUPP kicks over Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips

Tinubu

The Coalition of United Political Parties, (CUPP), has disagreed with President Bola Tinubu over his recent private trip to France.

The group wonders why the president would be embarking on such a trip while, according to it, Nigeria is in dire need of leadership.

CUPP said it is disturbed and not happy by the frequency of Tinubu’s so-called private trips to France, adding that the country may have just returned to the Buhari era.

It recommends that, while choosing a leader, a comprehensive health and fitness test be made compulsory so that Nigerians will avoid this situation in the future.

“It is our hope and belief that these private trips do not involve something untoward that is hidden from Nigerians who voted for him to salvage the country, which has been in a downward spiral,” the coalition said in a statement signed by its national publicity secretary, Peter Ameh.

“Tongues have begun to wag, and speculations are beginning to abound about the real reasons for these private trips.

Tinubu

“We hope that Nigeria is not about to witness another Buhari 2.0 presidency where, from time to time, without any form of announcement, the President would sneak out of the country to a foreign country for medical treatment in the name of private visit.

“President Tinubu should realise that Nigeria is beset on all sides by insecurity, galloping inflation, hunger and starvation, unemployment that is running wild and out of control, etcetera. The value of the naira is speeding southward, with our currency exchanging at almost a thousand five hundred naira to the United States dollar.”

CUPP said it feels and recommends “that the country needs a hands-on-deck president, and whatever the reason for these private visits can be conveniently handled in Nigeria or in the absence of such facilities being available, provision should be urgently made to have them brought to Nigeria.

“Nigeria needs the physical presence of their president to have that assurance that the job of Mr. President has not been outsourced to those who have no business exercising it.”

Abia joins Lagos, bans use of plastics, Styrofoam foils

Governor Alex Otti‘s led government of Abia State has issued a ban on the use of Styrofoam foils, popularly known as ‘Take Away’.

The development was announced during the weekend by the state Ministry of Environment.

In the statement signed and issued by the State Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Ogbonna, the government enforced the ban on the use of ‘Take Away’ as food containers in the state, emphasizing that the product had already been prohibited in other states, such as Lagos, and urged the public to immediately stop using the foils until a thorough investigation is conducted to assess the potential risks to public health.

During the January 2024 Clean-Up exercise in Umuahia, several individuals who violated the government’s previous directives were apprehended and penalized.

These offenders, found in various areas of the State capital during the designated environmental sanitation hours, were engaged in either trading or loitering, which goes against the government’s regulations.

Nevertheless, the cleanup effort demonstrated a commendable level of adherence as numerous residents diligently cleared their gutters, while trucks allocated by the State government efficiently removed the accumulated waste.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s led government of Lagos State has declared a further three-week extension to implementing the prohibition on styrofoam and other disposable plastics.

The latest development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.

In the statement released through his official X handle last week, the commissioner emphasized that the state’s priority lies in the welfare of its inhabitants rather than the financial gains obtained from styrofoam production.

“As a responsible government, the lives of the residents are far more important than the profit producers set to make from the continuous production of styrofoam,” he stated.

The Lagos state government initially announced the immediate ban on styrofoam and other single-use plastics on January 21, citing concerns for the environment and public health.

Wahab emphasized that these products pose a significant threat to the ecosystem, especially during the rainy season.

Styrofoam, made from styrene, a petroleum-based material, is commonly used in the production of food containers.

Foil

In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified styrene as a probable carcinogen, indicating an increased risk of cancer associated with its usage.

Despite previous restrictions on styrofoam usage in Lagos, Wahab confirmed the state’s determination to enforce the ban.

He highlighted the extensive damage caused by single-use plastics to public infrastructure, particularly during and after the rainy season.

The commissioner also acknowledged the detrimental effects of styrofoam on human lives, the ecosystem, aquatic life, and the overall environmental nuisance.

Outrage as Gov, Ododo pick Yahaya Bello’s Nephew indicted For N3 billion fraud as Chief of staff

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has come under heavy criticism following the appointment of Ali Bello, a nephew to former Governor, Yahaya Bello, as the Chief of Staff.

The new CoS to the Kogi governor is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on 18 counts bordering on money laundering and misappropriation of about N3 billion.

The other defendants in the case are Abba Adauda, Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, Iyada Sadat and the Kogi First Lady, Rashida Bello.

The EFCC is prosecuting them in suit No ABJ/CR/573/2022 and they are facing charges of misappropriation and money laundering.

According to a statement by EFCC in 2022, Bello and Sulaiman were remanded in prison pending the fulfilment of their bail conditions granted. The judge granted them bail in the sum of N1 billion each.

The defendants are accused of fraudulently withdrawing over N10 billion from the Kogi State treasury, which they allegedly delivered to a bureau de change operator, Rabiu Tafada, in Abuja, to keep or change to foreign currencies for personal gains.

Fresh crisis looms in APC

In a dramatic turn of events within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Comrade Daniel Onjeh, the APC senatorial candidate for Benue South in the 2023 elections, has filed a petition against the state party chairman, Austin Agada, alleging anti-party activities.

The petition, submitted at the party’s secretariat, calls for the immediate suspension and investigation of Agada.

Contained in a 13-page document dated January 22, 2024, and titled “Petition against anti-party activities by the Benue State APC Chairman and others, targeted at my candidature,” Onjeh accuses Agada of sabotaging the APC’s chances in the senatorial election.

He claims that the state chairman’s actions favoured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Senator Patrick Abba Moro, who is also the current Senate Minority Leader.

Onjeh alleged a deliberate manipulation of the electoral process by Agada and his associates, leading to the APC losing the senatorial and presidential elections in Benue South, despite winning three out of four House of Representatives seats in the region.

This, according to Onjeh, is an unprecedented scenario in Nigeria’s election history.

The petition also accused Agada of using party funds to support opposition parties and candidates.

Onjeh claims that Agada held meetings with APC structures across the nine local governments in Benue South, directing them to work for the PDP’s Moro and allegedly withholding logistics on election day to impede APC agents.

These allegations, if proven true, could have serious implications for the APC in Benue State.

The petition has been forwarded to the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) through the National Chairman for further action.

The APC at both the state and national levels will have to address these allegations promptly to resolve the internal discord and restore confidence among its members.

2023 social activities: Uzodimma scores 34 Brigade Army high, urges them to redouble efforts

By Jude Onyenedogha…

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has rated the performance of Officers and Soldiers of the 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, in 2023 excellent, while calling on them to redouble their efforts in 2024.

Uzodimma made this commendation in his address, as the special guest of honour during the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the Brigade held at the parade ground, Obinze Barracks.

The Governor said Officers and Soldier of the 34 Artillery Brigade performed excellently well in 2023, contributing greatly to the relative peace which the state enjoyed all year long.

Governor Uzodimma who was represented by the state Head of Service, Barr Raymond Ucheoma, said the dedication to duty and professionalism employed by the brigade  contributed to social economic gains recorded in the state, such as increase in crude oil production, as well as drastic reduction in oil theft.

He however urged them to redouble their efforts towards more drastic reduction in crimes and criminalities in whatever guise in the state in the year 2024.

According to the Governor, the display of various cultural heritage at the occasion is a pointer to the fact that Nigeria can thrive in its diversity as a nation.

“As for families of our troops, I sincerely appreciate your efforts in keeping the home front while your husbands operate in the field, which has no doubt contributed to the successes of our troops and the Nigerian Army at large”.

Earlier in his address, the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Brigadier General Usman Lawal had made bold to say that the Brigade performed excellently in 2023, resulting to drastic reduction in crimes and criminalities within its areas of jurisdiction.

He described the WASA as a programme organized to celebrate the successful end of training and operational activities in military formations of the Nigerian Army, which also herald the New Year.

“The 2023 Imo State off circle gubernatorial election which seemed impossible became one of the most peaceful and successful election in the annals of the state and even Nigeria in general. This was largely do to our effort in providing security, in collaboration with sister security agencies.

“You also witnessed how peacefully the Christmas and New Year were celebrated in the state

“We have trained and operated successfully in 2023, we are now in 2024. We have recorded a lot of achievements and that is what we are celebrating today.

He described the relationship between the military and civilians in the state as cordial, describing the large turnout of civilian guests to the WASA ceremony as an eloquent testimony to the cordial relationship.

He used the opportunity to advise renegades in the state to come out from the bushes, lay down their arms and embrace peace, saying, “otherwise, we have the capacity to make them drop their arms by force”.

Activities which featured during the event included; Inspection inspection of various local/traditional delicacies of different tribes, display of cultural dances by different cultural troupes from various tribes such as; Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Tic, Igala,  Fulani, IdomaAkwa /Cross, as well as selected children of 34 Brigade officers, among others.

The event attracted the presence of the chairman, Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Emmanuel Okeke, and other traditional rulers, especially traditional rulers of 34 Brigade host community, heads of other security agencies in the state, heads of some tertiary institutions in the state, among others.

Abia Community crowns PWD as traditional ruler

A hearing and speech-impaired person, HRH Eze Anthony Anyiam Ohaeri, 64, was Saturday, coronated the traditional ruler of Umuawa Alaocha Autonomous Community in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

The coronation which attracted dignitaries from across the state, marked the first time, a Person With Disability (PWD), would be crowned monarch in the state.

He is the eldest son from a polygamous royal family with 14 male siblings and sisters.

The new monarch, according to multiple community sources, was unanimously endorsed to succeed his late father, HRH Eze G. U Ohaeri, being the eldest son.

The United States, US-trained Computer Specialist and father of four, intermittently shed tears of joy as the glamourous coronation which took place at Umuawa Alaocha community school lasted.

Speaking through an interpreter, the monarch said he was overwhelmed with joy over the honour done him by his people, and promised not to fail them.

“I have always looked forward to this moment with anticipation and enthusiasm because it has set the stage for a transformative era in the community’s history and indeed the state and the nation at large.

“I am awed and humbled by the trust and confidence placed in me by my people, and I assure the good people of Umuawa Alaocha Autonomous Community that I would faithfully and diligently discharge my duties.”

“This is the first time in the history of this community, state and nation that a hearing impaired (deaf) person has been made a traditional ruler. Also, I would like to add that even in the bible, no hearing impaired person became king, this is a first of its kind.”

He promised to embark on community development programme that would help improve the living standard of the agrarian community.

“As traditional ruler, I will adopt an inclusive leadership style to give everyone a sense of belonging and foster the socioeconomic development of the community.”

“I am an enthusiast of building progressive communities and systems that would stimulate rural economy, this is because I believe when there is prosperity in the rural communities it positively impacts on the socioeconomic growth of the state and makes the job of the state government easier.

“As l take up the mantle of leadership entrusted upon me by the people of Umuawa Alaocha Autonomous Community I am conscious of the enormous responsibility that comes with it and I assure you that I will live up to expectation.

He thanked Gov. Alex Otti for his supports, and appealed to him to reconstruct the Umuawa Alaocha road and other internal roads in the community to boost economic activities in the area and improve the welfare of the people.

In a remark, the Special Assistant to the Governor on PWDs, Hon. David Anyaele, thanked the people of Umuawa Alaocha community for not denying the monarch his traditional right of succeeding his late father on the throne because of his hearing and speech impairment.

Hon. Anyaele who said that “there is special ability in disability”, expressed confidence in the ability of the Eze Ohaeri to deliver.

He solicited the continued support of the people for their new monarch, and the State Government, assuring that Gov. Otti has beautiful intentions for PWDs in his administration.

In a remark, the Chairman of Umuahia North Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Eze Innocent Nwaigwe, said that the new monarch “is competent and mentally sound to deliver”, assuring him the full support and cooperation of other royal fathers in the Council.

 

Holistic health insurance coverage in Imo: Health Insurance Agency interfaces with Organized Labour, Market Unions

By Jennifer John...

The Management of Imo State Health Insurance Agency, ably led by the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Uche Ewelike recently held a meeting with the Organized Labour in Imo State comprising the NLC, TUC and NULGE, to fashion out modalities towards a holistic health insurance coverage for the formal sector in the state.

The meeting centralized on deliberations and strategies to be implored in achieving a holistic insurance coverage for all dependants of the principal beneficiaries of the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Programme (FSSHIP) which was approved and paid for by Imo State Government, under the able leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Addressing the leadership of the Organized Labour, Dr. Ewelike disclosed that the rule of the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance provides health insurance coverage for the principals, whom the governor has already paid and their dependents who are their spouses and four (4) children, under the age of 18.

He noted that this will enable the agency ensure comprehensive and holistic healthcare coverage for Imo Workers and their families.

The Organized Labour while attesting to the active and ongoing access to care for the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Programme, thanked the Governor for his kind gesture for the civil servants in Imo by approving and paying the health insurance premium for all Imo State civil servants, and therefore pledged their unalloyed support, through sensitization, to ensure that the coverage is extended to dependants.

In a similar vain, the Imo State Health Insurance Agency was hosted by the Executives of the Imo State Amalgamated Markets and Traders Association (ISAMATA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, at their boardroom located at the Imo State Secretariat.

The meeting focused on deliberations in integrating the Marketers and Traders in Imo State into the ImoCare Informal Sector Health Insurance System of the Imo State Health Insurance Agency, towards actualizing financial risk protection for over 80% of the population of the state.

While addressing the ISAMATA leadership, Dr. Ewelike who explained the benefits, protocols and premiums of the ImoCare programme, noted that the agency has hospitals across the 27 LGAs of the State.

He stated that provision of access to care for ISAMATA members and their dependents, through the agency (ImoCare Program) will reduce the financial hardships on members as a result of the high cost of health care services.

The President of ISAMATA, Hon. Emmanuel Ezeanochie, on behalf of the association welcomed the IMSHIA team ably led by the Executive Secretary/Chief Executuve Officer, Dr. Uche Ewelike and expressed and readiness to partner the agency in getting members of the ISAMATA in all zones of the state on-board for the health insurance scheme, as he noted that they have been awaiting the visit.

In his words, “it is only a healthy marketer or trader that will go to market and sell, and therefore there’s every need for one to insure his/her health, because nobody knows when sickness will strike.

“He also seized the opportunity to congratulate and appreciate the strong political will of the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, towards the health welfare of Imolites through the health insurance programme.

Inauguration: Nwaneri commends Uzodimma …Pledges support of Imo Widows

The President, National Widows Association of Nígeria, Imo State Chapter and Southeast; Hon. Mrs. Chioma Nwaneri, has commended the Imo Governor, Distinguished Sen. Hope Uzodimma, on his second term victory and inauguration ceremonies, saying that Sen. Uzodimma deserves to be re-elected.

She said this in Owerri, the Imo State capital, Wednesday, while addressing Journalists about the re-election of Governor Uzodimma and her Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru.

Nwaneri, expressed joy that the governor had carried Imo Widows along in the scheme of things, testifying that the governor treated them well for them through the immediate-past Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu.

“We are aware the governor is doing well for us but we want him to do more. We know that God is by their side. Let the governor continue to take Imo to greater heights. We are appreciative of his benevolence towards us, the widows”, she said.

She also pleaded with Governor Uzodimma to come to their aid by Commissioning and institutionalizing the association in order to ensure that Widows are not subjected to harsh practices by their late husbands’ family members.

The National Widows’ President therefore promised that their association would continue to support the governor in his second missionary journey, advising Imo people to commend the governor and his wife, Her Excellency, Barr. Chioma Uzodimmna for their laudable achievements.

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