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Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Wednesday, 10 January 2018
Wednesday, 14 September 2016
Patience Jonathan And The Million Dollars Saga
The group asked Mr Malami to “take this step within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter, failing which SERAP will institute legal proceedings to compel the discharge of constitutional duty in this matter.”
The letter dated 13 September 2016 and signed by SERAP executive director Adetokunbo Mumuni argued that, “Mrs Jonathan is a politically exposed person under anticorruption standards. She is also covered under the definition of ‘public officials’ contained in the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party. Under article 2 of the convention, public officials include Mrs Jonathan or any other family members of the former President Goodluck Jonathan who exercised official duties while he was president.”
The letter reads in part: “According to article 2 “for the purpose of some specific measures contained in chapter II of this Convention, “public official” may mean any person who performs a public function or provides a public service.
“Thus, article 2 makes it very clear that any person, such as Mrs Jonathan performing a public function, entrusted with a public task or to whom public functions have been assigned are public officials, regardless of whether they have been elected or appointed, paid or unpaid.
“In this context, it is the character of the duties performed by Mrs Jonathan while her husband was president that is the overriding consideration as she held a position of trust by virtue of performing public functions or services. In addition, such public duties or services by her are expected to be performed in good faith.
“Under article 20 of the convention, this government has an obligation to prosecute intentional illicit enrichment, that is, a significant increase in the assets of a public official that he or she cannot reasonably explain in relation to his or her lawful income.
“The fact that the $15m found in the four accounts belong to Mrs Jonathan raises serious suspicion or at the very least a prima-facie case of unexplained wealth/illicit enrichment, and imposes an obligation on Mrs Jonathan to explain and justify the source(s) of the $15m.
“In the event that she is not able to justify, explain or put forth evidence demonstrating the legitimate origin of the $15m, SERAP urges you to take immediate steps to forfeit the asset under appropriate legal proceedings, and to institute criminal prosecution for unexplained wealth in the matter.
“Similarly, section 44 of the Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act criminalises unexplained or illicit wealth and allows criminal penalties and forfeiture if in the course of an investigation there are reasonable grounds to believe that a corruption offence has been committed, that is, the failure to explain the origin of the $15m given present or past emoluments, and other relevant circumstances.
“SERAP notes that Mrs Jonathan has admitted that the four accounts belong to her and that she is the sole signatory to these accounts. The four accounts in which Mrs Jonathan’s $15m was lodged are said to belong to the following companies: Pluto Property and Investment Company Limited, Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Limited, Trans Ocean Property and Investment Company Limited and Globus Integrated Service Limited. Mrs Jonathan was given a platinum card and exclusive access to the accounts.
“According to reports, a houseboy, a driver and other domestic workers of a former Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Waripamowei Dudafa, were named as directors.
“Pursuing prosecution in this case would help to provide adequate reparation, which may take the form of restitution, compensation, satisfaction or guarantees of non-repetition to victims of corruption who continue to be denied their right to an effective remedy. It would also send a clear message that cases of unexplained wealth or illicit enrichment involving politically exposed persons would not go unpunished.
“The use of the offence of illicit enrichment is necessary to any anti-corruption movement, and accepted instrument in the global fight against corruption. It would also enhance the government’s powers to monitor wealth and improve transparency and accountability within the public sector. SERAP considers this as a proportionate and measured response to the pernicious problem of corruption in the country. By combating an official’s unexplained material gains, illicit enrichment offenses make it clear to public officials that if they engage in corrupt conduct they would forfeit illegally acquired wealth and go to prison.”
Sunday, 19 June 2016
Buhari Returns To Nigeria After 10 Days Vacation
President Muhammadu Buhari returned to Nigeria on Sunday after 10 days official vacation in London.
He arrived in Abuja, the nation’s capital, at about 5:30 p.m. local time.
The President had travelled to the UK on June 6 to rest and also see an E.N.T. specialist for ear infection evaluation.
A spokesman for the President, Mr Femi Adesina, had in a statement said President Buhari’s Personal Physician and an E.N.T. Specialist had recommended further evaluation of the ear after they had examined him.
On June 16, the acting President of Nigeria and the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, said President Buhari would return to Nigeria on Sunday.
Vice President Yemi Osibajo hinted State House correspondents of the President’s return date before the National Executive Council meeting held in the council chambers.
The Vice President said that he spoke with the President and confirmed that he was in good health.
Professor Osinbajo said that there was no need for the President to start rushing back to the country but should spend the weekend there and get back home on Sunday.
He arrived in Abuja, the nation’s capital, at about 5:30 p.m. local time.
The President had travelled to the UK on June 6 to rest and also see an E.N.T. specialist for ear infection evaluation.
A spokesman for the President, Mr Femi Adesina, had in a statement said President Buhari’s Personal Physician and an E.N.T. Specialist had recommended further evaluation of the ear after they had examined him.
On June 16, the acting President of Nigeria and the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, said President Buhari would return to Nigeria on Sunday.
Vice President Yemi Osibajo hinted State House correspondents of the President’s return date before the National Executive Council meeting held in the council chambers.
The Vice President said that he spoke with the President and confirmed that he was in good health.
Professor Osinbajo said that there was no need for the President to start rushing back to the country but should spend the weekend there and get back home on Sunday.
Thursday, 16 June 2016
President Buhari returns to Nigeria today
Buhari had two weeks ago embarked on a 10-day trip for medical treatment.
The Presidency had, in a statement, said the President would during the visit to the United Kingdom, see an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist for a persistent ear infection.
The 10-day holiday ended on Wednesday.
An insider hinted Punch that arrangements had been put in place to receive the President, who is due back in the country on Thursday.
“He is expected back on Thursday (today). We are in touch with him. As of today (Wednesday), we have not been told that there is any change in arrangement,” the source said.
Recall that the presidency had on Monday, released photographs of the visit of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Revd, Justin Welby, to Buhari in London.
Friday, 10 June 2016
Updated List Of Ambassador Nominees - Names and State of Origin
SaharaReporters has exclusively obtained an updated list of all the Ambassadorial nominees including their State of origin. This follows an earlier report which contained only the names of the nominees.
List Of Ambassadorial Nominees1. Obinna Chukwuemeka Agbugba (Abia)
2. Salisu Umaru (Adamawa)
3. Inyan Udo-Inyang (Akwa Ibom)
4. Okeke Vivian Nwunaku (Anambra)
5. Liman Munir (Bauchi)
6. Ndem Jane Ada (Benue)
7. Mohammed Hassan Hassan (Borno)
8. Martin Nyong Cobham (Cross River)
9. Janet Omoleegho Olisa (Delta)
10. Itegboje S. Sunday (Edo)
11. Olatunde Adesesan (Ekiti)
12. Lilian Ijeukwu Onoh (Enugu)
13. Manaja Tula Isah (Gombe)
14. Ngozi Ukaeje (Imo)
15. Bello Kazaure Huessini (Jigawa)
16. Enoch Pear Duchi (Kaduna)
17. Garba Baba (Kano)
18. Usman Bakori Aliyu (Katsina)
19. Umar Zainab Salisu (Kebbi)
20. Momoh Sheidu Omeiza (Kogi)
21. Kadiri Ayinla Audu (Kwara)
22. Balogun Hakeem (Lagos)
23. Inusa Ahmed (Nasarawa)
24. Ibrahim Isah (Niger)
25. Bankole Adegboyega Adeoye (Ogun)
26. Ibidapo-Obe Oluwasegun (Osun)
27. Ogundero Sakirat (Oyo)
28. Eric A. Bell-Gam (Rivers)
29. Attahiru Halliru (Sokoto)
30. Rahmatu A. Dunama (Taraba)
31. Musa Saban Mamman (Yobe)
32. Kabiru Bala (Zamfara)
33. Adamu Onoze Shuaibu (FCT)
34. Demenongu A. Agev (Benue)
35. Toko Ali Gongulong (Borno)
36. Ibrahim Hamza (Katsina)
37. Kenneth C. Nwachukwu (Imo)
38. Queen I. Worlu (Edo)
39. Emmanuel Kayode Oguntause (Ekiti)
40. Paragalda Ilyasu Audu (Adamawa)
41. Lawan Abba Gashagar (Borno)
42. Olufemi Abikoye (Kwara)
43. Habu Abubakar Gwani Ibrahim (Gombe)
44. Rabiu Akawu (Kano)
45. Nonye Udo (Anambra)
46. Odeka Janet Bisong (Cross River)
47. Sonaike Adekunbi Abibat (Ogun)
Credit: SaharaReporters
Wednesday, 8 June 2016
President Buhari Has Cancer of the Brain - Source: London Doctors
According to online media outfit,The Trent. Buhari has brain cancer after been examined by London doctors.
According to the media house, an inside source said, “President Buhari went for check-up hours after he arrived in London. The hospital has discovered the cause of Mr President’s illness to be cancer of the ear and brain. Let us start praying.”
The source, who is well connected in government circles, gave the name of the hospital as Royal Hospital London. He said he was given the information by medical sources at the hospital who have been his longtime friends.
According to the media house, an inside source said, “President Buhari went for check-up hours after he arrived in London. The hospital has discovered the cause of Mr President’s illness to be cancer of the ear and brain. Let us start praying.”
The source, who is well connected in government circles, gave the name of the hospital as Royal Hospital London. He said he was given the information by medical sources at the hospital who have been his longtime friends.
Lagos State House Of Assembly, 8th Assembly Celebrates First Year
The 8th assembly of the Lagos state house of assembly celebrated their one year of existence today.
Members of the assembly and officials were present at the event.
See photos below
Members of the assembly and officials were present at the event.
See photos below
Igbo Trader Killed In Niger State By Angry Muslim Youths- Photo
Another Igbo trader with three others were mobbed to death by an angry mob at Pandogari in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State
Reports reaching our newsroom revealed that it was in reaction to a blasphemous statement he made them to butcher him. The victim in question reportedly posted a blasphemous statement on a social media thus sparking off an angry reaction and a pandemonium ensued.
Two churches, three houses, and many shops were reportedly looted and set on fire.
The name of the victim has been given as Methodus Emmanuel Chimaijie, aged 24 by the Niger State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Bala.
The reports revealed that the young man was trailed to his house in the above-named town where he was swooped on and beaten to death along with other 4 personnel of the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps.
Meanwhile, no fewer than 32 suspects, the police spokesperson said, have been arrested in connection with the violence that claimed lives in the restive town who will arraigned soon in court.
Sunday, 15 May 2016
We Are Taking Over South-Easy in 2019 - APC
State Chairmen of All Progressives Congress in the South-East has vowed that the party would take over power in the region in 2019.
The chairmen said after a meeting in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi capital, that they would work hard to ensure APC’s total victory in the zone in the next general elections, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
Imo State Chairman of the party, Dr. Hilary Eke, said the chairmen were touring states in the zone to strengthen the party machinery ahead of future elections.
“We are going round the south-east states to ensure that the APC is intact, and I want to assure you in case many of you don’t know that in 2019, APC will take over all the states in this zone. Peoples Democratic Party is still in Ebonyi State not because people like them and voted for them. It is because they have opportunity to rig,” Eke said.
He therefore advised the state chapter of the party to hold meetings periodically to bring members together to ensure growth of the APC.
“Politics is all about meeting. It is like a farmer, if you have a land and you want to plant cassava, you first of all till the land before you begin to plant. After planting, you weed; after weeding, you apply fertilizer. After one year, you harvest. You don’t just jump into it. In Imo State, we meet regularly even though we are in power. Political party is not a heavenly race,” the Imo APC chair stated.
On his part, the Abia Chairman of APC, Mr. Donatus Nwamba, said the APC must strategise to win the region in 2019.
“We don’t want one-party system and our President has said it severally and we will not be part of it, but we will win south-east in 2019. Because when PDP was in power, we were regarded as visitors. We were regarded as renegades, but now we are in charge. So, come May 29, 2019 we must win the south-east states,” Nwamba said.
Also, the Enugu State Chairman of the party, Ben Nwonye, called on the members to remain focused, consistent and resolute to ensure victory.
Earlier, the Ebonyi State Chairman of the party, Ben Nwobasi, had commended the party chieftains for attending the meeting saying, “the meeting has strengthened the party in the state.”
National Coordinator, Buhari/Osinbajo Initiative for Change, Chinedu Ogah, described the APC as an organised party with good programmes and policies that would benefit the masses.
PUNCH.
Monday, 8 February 2016
Senators Clash Over Supreme Court Ruling On Saraki
The verdict of the Supreme Court which validated the trial of Senate President, Bukola Saraki, at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, has triggered a showdown between Saraki loyalists and the Senate Unity Forum ahead of the resumption of plenary next Tuesday.
Investigations revealed that trouble started when some senators who are loyal to Saraki, held a meeting on Sunday evening and decided to issue a statement declaring their full support for the embattled Senate President.
But the senators incurred the wrath of their colleagues
in the Senate Unity Forum following their statement declaring the support of the entire Senate for Saraki. The statement signed by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, indicated that it was the position of the Senate to support Saraki and judged him innocent of charges levelled against him by the Code of Conduct Bureau.
The statement partly read, “That from the beginning of the trial last September, we have declared that this case is not about any fight against corruption; it is simply a case of political vendetta.
“Our position remains the same. We still believe that the case is politically-motivated.
“We also noted that the decision of the Supreme Court given last Friday was on preliminary matters arising from the commencement of the trial. The trial proper has yet to begin..."
But the spokesperson for the Senate Unity Forum, Senator Kabir Marafa, expressed shock at the contents of the statement, saying it was the position of a few senators.
He said, “In as much as I want the whole world to know that members of the SUF do not have any personal problem with the Senate President, we believe that as lawmakers, we should respect the law. I am not aware of any meeting of senators where that decision was taken and we are not part of it.”
The statement partly read, “That from the beginning of the trial last September, we have declared that this case is not about any fight against corruption; it is simply a case of political vendetta.
“Our position remains the same. We still believe that the case is politically-motivated.
“We also noted that the decision of the Supreme Court given last Friday was on preliminary matters arising from the commencement of the trial. The trial proper has yet to begin..."
But the spokesperson for the Senate Unity Forum, Senator Kabir Marafa, expressed shock at the contents of the statement, saying it was the position of a few senators.
He said, “In as much as I want the whole world to know that members of the SUF do not have any personal problem with the Senate President, we believe that as lawmakers, we should respect the law. I am not aware of any meeting of senators where that decision was taken and we are not part of it.”
Also, a ranking senator from the South-West, told Punch that the "statement is obviously a gross abuse of office on the part of the Senate spokesperson. How can you meet with a handful of senators in a private home and issue a statement on behalf of the entire 109 senators?"
Monday, 18 January 2016
Buhari's Corruption Drive Lays: Bare Nigeria's Political Tensions
When Muhammadu Buhari took over as Nigeria’s president less than a year ago, he vowed to wipe out the corruption he said threatened the very existence of Africa’s largest economy.
But as he investigates former ministers and high-ranking officials, members of the opposition People’s Democratic Party accuse him of carrying out a vendetta against them. Buhari ousted the PDP following March elections, ending the party’s monopoly on power that it held since the end of military rule in 1999.
The PDP called for Buhari to be impeached last week for “various constitutional” breaches, including the arrest this month of its national spokesman, Olisa Metuh. He was detained as part a probe into whether the previous government stole as much as $5.5 billion meant for fighting an Islamist insurgency in the north. Sambo Dasuki, the national security adviser under the administration of Goodluck Jonathan, was also arrested as part of the same investigation.
“Yes, there is a witch-hunt, because there are witches all over the place,” said Folarin Gbadebo-Smith, head of the Lagos-based Center for Public Policy Alternatives and a former council leader in the commercial capital. “There are guilty parties out there.”
Some southern and most southeastern states voted overwhelmingly for the PDP’s candidate, then President Jonathan, a Christian who hails from the oil-producing Niger River delta region.
“It’s not rocket science for anybody to assume it is a targeted approach,” Annkio Briggs, a human-rights activist focused on the Niger delta, said in an interview in the southern oil industry hub of Port Harcourt. “It is being done as if only members of the PDP are corrupt.”
Corruption has blighted Nigeria since independence from the U.K. in 1960. Africa’s largest oil producer came 136th out of 175 countries in Transparency International’s latest global ranking, the same level as Russia. Buhari has blamed graft for keeping most Nigerians in poverty and for the dire state of the country’s roads, schools and hospitals.
Buhari’s spokesman, Garba Shehu, said it was logical for authorities to go after those who handled Nigeria’s finances in previous years.
“The APC was outside the government, it was not invited to share the money,” Shehu said by phone on Sunday. “The APC had no access to crude oil money or defense money. The PDP handled the money. They should account for it.”
While last year’s elections dealt a blow to the PDP, it still has almost half the seats in the Senate and over a third in the House of Representatives, which it can exploit to stall Buhari’s plans. The party showed its clout last year when it backed rivals to Buhari’s preferred candidates for leaders of each of the chambers. Both the rivals prevailed, thanks to the PDP’s support.
“The APC, having realized that it lacked what it takes to deliver its numerous bogus campaign promises to Nigerians, has ignobly resorted to intimidation and harassment of the opposition through its set-out witch-hunt policy,” the PDP said in an e-mailed statement on Sunday.
Buhari’s spokesman Shehu said that the APC dismisses those claims and that “absolutely zero will come of” the impeachment threats.
“The natural thing to do, for the drive to be seen to be more fair, would be to empower investigators to go after people close to Buhari, people who sponsored his campaign, even people in his own cabinet,” said Manji Cheto, an analyst at London-based Teneo Intelligence. “Do I think he’s going to do it? No. The moment he goes down that path, he begins to threaten the unity of his own party.”
Source: YahooNews
But as he investigates former ministers and high-ranking officials, members of the opposition People’s Democratic Party accuse him of carrying out a vendetta against them. Buhari ousted the PDP following March elections, ending the party’s monopoly on power that it held since the end of military rule in 1999.
The PDP called for Buhari to be impeached last week for “various constitutional” breaches, including the arrest this month of its national spokesman, Olisa Metuh. He was detained as part a probe into whether the previous government stole as much as $5.5 billion meant for fighting an Islamist insurgency in the north. Sambo Dasuki, the national security adviser under the administration of Goodluck Jonathan, was also arrested as part of the same investigation.
“Yes, there is a witch-hunt, because there are witches all over the place,” said Folarin Gbadebo-Smith, head of the Lagos-based Center for Public Policy Alternatives and a former council leader in the commercial capital. “There are guilty parties out there.”
‘Rocket Science’
The arrests have heightened regional and ethnic tensions in Nigeria, a country of 170 million split between a mostly Muslim north and a predominantly Christian south. Buhari, a 73-year-old northerner and former general, got the bulk of his votes from his home region and the religiously mixed southwest through his All Progressives Congress coalition, formed in 2013 by a merger of smaller opposition parties and disgruntled PDP politicians.Some southern and most southeastern states voted overwhelmingly for the PDP’s candidate, then President Jonathan, a Christian who hails from the oil-producing Niger River delta region.
“It’s not rocket science for anybody to assume it is a targeted approach,” Annkio Briggs, a human-rights activist focused on the Niger delta, said in an interview in the southern oil industry hub of Port Harcourt. “It is being done as if only members of the PDP are corrupt.”
Corruption has blighted Nigeria since independence from the U.K. in 1960. Africa’s largest oil producer came 136th out of 175 countries in Transparency International’s latest global ranking, the same level as Russia. Buhari has blamed graft for keeping most Nigerians in poverty and for the dire state of the country’s roads, schools and hospitals.
Billions Looted
While Buhari promised his government would be impartial in its investigations, he has accused the previous administration of looting billions of dollars and said that he inherited a “virtually empty treasury”.Buhari’s spokesman, Garba Shehu, said it was logical for authorities to go after those who handled Nigeria’s finances in previous years.
“The APC was outside the government, it was not invited to share the money,” Shehu said by phone on Sunday. “The APC had no access to crude oil money or defense money. The PDP handled the money. They should account for it.”
Economic Slowdown
Rising political tensions could threaten Buhari’s ability to carry out the widespread reforms he promised. Those include boosting Nigeria’s poor electricity supply and improving its dilapidated infrastructure, at a time when the economy, which depends on oil for two-thirds of government revenue, is reeling from falling crude prices and growing at its slowest pace this century.While last year’s elections dealt a blow to the PDP, it still has almost half the seats in the Senate and over a third in the House of Representatives, which it can exploit to stall Buhari’s plans. The party showed its clout last year when it backed rivals to Buhari’s preferred candidates for leaders of each of the chambers. Both the rivals prevailed, thanks to the PDP’s support.
Party Unity
The PDP’s grievances have grown as the anti-corruption campaign gathers momentum.“The APC, having realized that it lacked what it takes to deliver its numerous bogus campaign promises to Nigerians, has ignobly resorted to intimidation and harassment of the opposition through its set-out witch-hunt policy,” the PDP said in an e-mailed statement on Sunday.
Buhari’s spokesman Shehu said that the APC dismisses those claims and that “absolutely zero will come of” the impeachment threats.
“The natural thing to do, for the drive to be seen to be more fair, would be to empower investigators to go after people close to Buhari, people who sponsored his campaign, even people in his own cabinet,” said Manji Cheto, an analyst at London-based Teneo Intelligence. “Do I think he’s going to do it? No. The moment he goes down that path, he begins to threaten the unity of his own party.”
Source: YahooNews
Monday, 7 December 2015
Kogi Election: Yahaya Bello Emerged Winner in Kogi State Governorship Election
Mr Bello, who is substitute to late Mr Abubakar Audu, defeated the incumbent Governor, Captain Idris Wada, of the Peoples Democratic Party who was seeking a second term in office.
Declaring the results of the historic election, which was concluded, with a supplementary election held on December 5, the Returning Officer of the electoral body, Professor Emmanuel Kucha, said the APC’s candidate polled 247,752 to defeat Captain Wada who got 204,877 votes.
Collation of the supplementary election results started late Saturday night, with the official of the electoral body giving a breakdown of results from the earlier election held on November 21.
After that election, the electoral body declared the election inconclusive and fixed a supplementary election for December 5. After election results from the 21 local government areas were collated on Sunday, November 22, the candidate of the APC, late Audu, was leading while the incumbent Governor, Captain Idris Wada of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trailed by a margin less than the number of cancelled votes. The candidate of the APC had 240,867 votes while that of the PDP polled 199,514 votes. But the election was declared inconclusive by the INEC, which said canceled 49,953 votes were higher than the margin between the leading candidate and the runner-up.
After the supplementary election of December 5, the APC’s candidate got additional 6,885 while the PDP candidate polled 5,363. The substitution of the late candidate of the APC had triggered divergent views, as to what the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act proscribe, when the death of a candidate occurs during an electoral process. Most arguments have focused on section 33 of the Electoral Act. It reads: “No political party shall be allowed to change or substitute its candidate whose name has been submitted pursuant to section 31 of the Act, except in the case of death or withdrawal by the candidate”.
Aggrieved by the statement of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami’s, that was legal for the APC to substitute the late candidate, Captain Wada approached a court, questioning the substitution and the power of the INEC to hold the supplementary election. He also requested that he should be declared the winner of the election, since the leading candidate had died. But the court dismissed the case, saying it lacked jurisdiction.
The Federal High Court Abuja further stressed that issues relating to election could only be adjudicated by the Election Petition Tribunal. The Kogi election is considered historic, as it is the first election that a party will substitute their candidate in the middle of the process.
Collation of the supplementary election results started late Saturday night, with the official of the electoral body giving a breakdown of results from the earlier election held on November 21.
After that election, the electoral body declared the election inconclusive and fixed a supplementary election for December 5. After election results from the 21 local government areas were collated on Sunday, November 22, the candidate of the APC, late Audu, was leading while the incumbent Governor, Captain Idris Wada of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trailed by a margin less than the number of cancelled votes. The candidate of the APC had 240,867 votes while that of the PDP polled 199,514 votes. But the election was declared inconclusive by the INEC, which said canceled 49,953 votes were higher than the margin between the leading candidate and the runner-up.
After the supplementary election of December 5, the APC’s candidate got additional 6,885 while the PDP candidate polled 5,363. The substitution of the late candidate of the APC had triggered divergent views, as to what the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act proscribe, when the death of a candidate occurs during an electoral process. Most arguments have focused on section 33 of the Electoral Act. It reads: “No political party shall be allowed to change or substitute its candidate whose name has been submitted pursuant to section 31 of the Act, except in the case of death or withdrawal by the candidate”.
Aggrieved by the statement of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami’s, that was legal for the APC to substitute the late candidate, Captain Wada approached a court, questioning the substitution and the power of the INEC to hold the supplementary election. He also requested that he should be declared the winner of the election, since the leading candidate had died. But the court dismissed the case, saying it lacked jurisdiction.
The Federal High Court Abuja further stressed that issues relating to election could only be adjudicated by the Election Petition Tribunal. The Kogi election is considered historic, as it is the first election that a party will substitute their candidate in the middle of the process.
Wednesday, 25 November 2015
APC To Conduct Fresh Primary In Kogi - INEC
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that a fresh primary election will be conducted in Kogi state to pick a replacement for Abubakar Audu. Audu, who passed away on Sunday, was the party’s candidate in the November 21 governorship election.
Speaking with reporters at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja on Tuesday, John Oyegun, chairman of the party, said the decision to hold a fresh primary was taken after the APC received a letter from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) asking it to replace Audu.“It’s in the public space already, that the chief law officer of the republic has made his views know on how things should develop from this stage on,” he said.
“He has made a pronouncement to the effect that all that is required is for the APC to go through the processes of providing a substitute to our late candidate with the implication being that thereafter the supplementary elections to conclude the process of electing a new governor of Kogi state will began to be put in place so as a party we going to proceed with process organising primary to provide a substitute candidate, Abubakar Audu.
“We are going to go into executive session now, to know the nature of the primary.”
Audu’s death had sparked debate among lawyers and public commentators, with some suggesting that Abidoun Faleke, the deceased’s running mate, should be given the ticket of the party.
“Kogi situation fits more into section 181(1) of the 1999 constitution (as amended) and as such James Abiodun Faleke automatically becomes the governorship candidate of the APC. As a result the joint ticket of Audu/Faleke has acquired some votes already ames Abiodun Faleke is as much entitled to those votes already counted as much as the late Abubakar Audu. He has a right to cling to those votes going into the supplementary election,” Festus Keyamo, a notable Nigerian lawyer, had argued.
But with the new development all the controversies have been put to rest.
Though Oyegun did not disclose the date for the exercise, it is expected to be this week since INEC has scheduled the supplementary election for December 5.
INEC declared Saturday’s election inconclusive because the number of cancelled votes was higher than the margin between the two leading candidates.
Audu, who was leading the election, secured 240,867 votes, ahead of Idris Wada, incumbent governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 199,514 votes.
The difference between them was 41,353 votes, while a total of 49,953 votes were voided in the election as a result of irregularities.
Speaking with reporters at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja on Tuesday, John Oyegun, chairman of the party, said the decision to hold a fresh primary was taken after the APC received a letter from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) asking it to replace Audu.“It’s in the public space already, that the chief law officer of the republic has made his views know on how things should develop from this stage on,” he said.
“He has made a pronouncement to the effect that all that is required is for the APC to go through the processes of providing a substitute to our late candidate with the implication being that thereafter the supplementary elections to conclude the process of electing a new governor of Kogi state will began to be put in place so as a party we going to proceed with process organising primary to provide a substitute candidate, Abubakar Audu.
“We are going to go into executive session now, to know the nature of the primary.”
Audu’s death had sparked debate among lawyers and public commentators, with some suggesting that Abidoun Faleke, the deceased’s running mate, should be given the ticket of the party.
“Kogi situation fits more into section 181(1) of the 1999 constitution (as amended) and as such James Abiodun Faleke automatically becomes the governorship candidate of the APC. As a result the joint ticket of Audu/Faleke has acquired some votes already ames Abiodun Faleke is as much entitled to those votes already counted as much as the late Abubakar Audu. He has a right to cling to those votes going into the supplementary election,” Festus Keyamo, a notable Nigerian lawyer, had argued.
But with the new development all the controversies have been put to rest.
Though Oyegun did not disclose the date for the exercise, it is expected to be this week since INEC has scheduled the supplementary election for December 5.
INEC declared Saturday’s election inconclusive because the number of cancelled votes was higher than the margin between the two leading candidates.
Audu, who was leading the election, secured 240,867 votes, ahead of Idris Wada, incumbent governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 199,514 votes.
The difference between them was 41,353 votes, while a total of 49,953 votes were voided in the election as a result of irregularities.
Tuesday, 24 November 2015
DPR Gives Out FREE Fuel To Motorists In Kwara
A petrol station, Alkad and Sons Nigeria Limited, situated along Olorunsogo, Ilorin, Kwara state capital suffered heavy loss yesterday, November 23 as the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) gave out their fuel to motorists and motorcyclists free of charge.
Daily Trust reports that the surveillance team of the DPR caught the station hoarding a total of 2300 litres of petrol, following a tip off.
The station had allegedly told buyers that it had exhausted its stock but when the team led by Salvation Philip, the operation controller of DPR got there, they discovered the station had 2300 litres of fuel.
Another station, Nasmut Nigeria Limited, located in Otte, Asa local government area of the state was found hoarding a large volume of petrol also.
Philip ordered that the commodity be given to members of the public free, saying he was acting in accordance with the directive of Minister of State for Petroleum.
He said: “ We are out for surveillance because of the situation on ground and we want to make sure that the fuel that comes in is distributed to commuters. When we got to this place (Alkad), we dug and discovered that they (management of the station) were hoarding 2300 litres of fuel. So, we are simply enforcing the ministerial directive. We are giving the fuel free to fellow Nigerians that need it. It is a critical time we have to utilize what is available. This is the second station so far we caught hoarding .”
According to him, it would serve a warning to others hoarding or intending to hoard petroleum product.
Philip added that anybody caught hoarding, diverting or flouting petroleum laws and regulations would be made to face the law.
In past weeks, Nigerians have been groaning over the increasing scarcity of fuel across the country, with petrol stations hoarding the product and black marketers selling at exorbitant prices.
Last week, Ibe Kachikwu, the minister of state for petroleum resources ordered the DPR to seal off fuel stations found to be hoarding petroleum products and give out the petroleum free to the public.
Sunday, 15 November 2015
PMB Condemns Terrorist Attack in Paris
A statement issued in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina said the president received the news of the attack with great shock and profound sadness.
The statement said Buhari condemned the "dastardly and heinous terrorist attacks on innocent civilians in Paris."
Terror group, Islamic State had issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attacks.
"On behalf of the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Buhari conveys his heartfelt sympathy to President Francois Hollande and the people France.
"The president also extends sincere condolences to the families, relatives and friends of the unfortunate victims of the callous attacks," the statement said.
Adesina said Buhari totally condemned the barbaric attacks which he said constituted an unacceptable affront to all human values and civilized norms.
"As a country which has borne the terrible human cost of terrorist attacks, Nigeria stands in full solidarity with the government and people of France as they mourn those who have sadly lost their lives in the attack on Paris," the statement said.
Buhari called on all peace-loving nations of the world to intensify ongoing multilateral cooperation and collaborative actions aimed at bringing the scourge of international terrorism to a speedy end for the benefit of all nations.
Saturday, 14 November 2015
KnockOut HIV 2015 Nigeria Guinness World Book of Records -Eunice Ortom
The Wife of the Governor of Benue State, Mrs. Eunice Ortom Yesterday being 13th November 215 presented a keynote address at the occasion of free HIV Testing of 1,000 persons in one day in Benue State.
The event was organised by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) in collaboration with Benue State AIDS Control Agency (BENSACA), and was carried out concurrently at different spots within the state.
Mrs. Ortom stated inter alia, "Our focus over the years has been "Getting to Zero", which implies, Zero Infections; Zero HIV related deaths to Zero Discrimination against persons with HIV. Let me inform you that Benue had the highest prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, but due to dedicated concerted collaborative efforts by BENSACA and other partners, today, Benue is listed 9th among states in Nigeria. This indicates that something positive is happening in Benue State and it is our hope that with interventions from partners like the AHF Federation, we shall achieve the ideals and vision of "Getting to Zero".
It is worthy of note, to restate the fact that despite the global adoption of "Getting to Zero", more than 7000 people, according to WHO Report, are newly infected with HIV every day, therefore, a revolution in prevention politics, policies and practices is critically needed. This can be achieved by fostering political incentives for commitment and catalysing transformative social movements regarding sexuality, drug use and HIV education for all, led by people living with HIV and affected communities, women and young people. It is also critical to target epidemic hot spots, particularly in megacities, and to ensure equitable access to high-quality, cost-effective HIV prevention programmes that include rapid adoption of scientific breakthroughs."
The Executive Secretary, BENSACA, Mrs. Grace Ashiwende Wende informed the gathering that with the presence of the Wife of the Governor and her physical participation in the HIV Testing has giving the desired moral booster to engender the needed vigor in winning the war against HIV/AIDS.
Her Excellency, Mrs. Ortom is the Chairman of Board of Governors, BENSACA.
Mrs. Ortom stated inter alia, "Our focus over the years has been "Getting to Zero", which implies, Zero Infections; Zero HIV related deaths to Zero Discrimination against persons with HIV. Let me inform you that Benue had the highest prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, but due to dedicated concerted collaborative efforts by BENSACA and other partners, today, Benue is listed 9th among states in Nigeria. This indicates that something positive is happening in Benue State and it is our hope that with interventions from partners like the AHF Federation, we shall achieve the ideals and vision of "Getting to Zero".
It is worthy of note, to restate the fact that despite the global adoption of "Getting to Zero", more than 7000 people, according to WHO Report, are newly infected with HIV every day, therefore, a revolution in prevention politics, policies and practices is critically needed. This can be achieved by fostering political incentives for commitment and catalysing transformative social movements regarding sexuality, drug use and HIV education for all, led by people living with HIV and affected communities, women and young people. It is also critical to target epidemic hot spots, particularly in megacities, and to ensure equitable access to high-quality, cost-effective HIV prevention programmes that include rapid adoption of scientific breakthroughs."
The Executive Secretary, BENSACA, Mrs. Grace Ashiwende Wende informed the gathering that with the presence of the Wife of the Governor and her physical participation in the HIV Testing has giving the desired moral booster to engender the needed vigor in winning the war against HIV/AIDS.
Her Excellency, Mrs. Ortom is the Chairman of Board of Governors, BENSACA.
Friday, 13 November 2015
Stop Pro-Biafra Protests, IGP Tells Ohaneze
The Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase has called on the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze N’digbo to halt the ongoing protests in some states by the Movement for the Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra and the Indigenous People of Biafra.
The IG asked Ohanaeze to save law-abiding and innocent citizens in the affected states from the hardship being meted to them by MASSOB and IPOB.
Arase, who said this in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olabisi Kolawole on Thursday in Abuja, reminded the protesters, particularly those embarking on violent street protests that, “such actions are criminalised by law, and anybody arrested will be treated as such under the appropriate legislations.”
The statement said, ”The IG, while calling on the leadership of Ohanaeze to wade into these superfluous protests, to save the law-abiding and innocent citizens in the affected states from the hardship being meted by the groups, reminded those embarking on violent protests/assemblies that such actions are criminalised by law, and anybody arrested will be treated as such under the appropriate legislations.”
The IG denied speculations in the social media that the police had killed some MASSOB and IPOB members during their protests, stressing that despite provocation, police officers had managed the situation with a high sense of responsibility and professionalism.
He called on the citizens to disregard the allegation by the two groups, describing it as false and a calculated attempt to attract undue attention and sympathy.
-Punch
Arase, who said this in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olabisi Kolawole on Thursday in Abuja, reminded the protesters, particularly those embarking on violent street protests that, “such actions are criminalised by law, and anybody arrested will be treated as such under the appropriate legislations.”
The statement said, ”The IG, while calling on the leadership of Ohanaeze to wade into these superfluous protests, to save the law-abiding and innocent citizens in the affected states from the hardship being meted by the groups, reminded those embarking on violent protests/assemblies that such actions are criminalised by law, and anybody arrested will be treated as such under the appropriate legislations.”
The IG denied speculations in the social media that the police had killed some MASSOB and IPOB members during their protests, stressing that despite provocation, police officers had managed the situation with a high sense of responsibility and professionalism.
He called on the citizens to disregard the allegation by the two groups, describing it as false and a calculated attempt to attract undue attention and sympathy.
-Punch
Tuesday, 3 November 2015
Teacher Flogs Student To Death In Ibadan
An eye witnesses who claimed anonymity said “trouble started when the student arrived school after classes had commenced for the day, he reportedly told the teacher he came late due to illness.” “At that point,” the eye witness added, “the principal, who was passing by asked the teacher the cause of the discussion.” The principal allegedly ordered the teacher to flog the student for coming late and in the process of the flogging, the student slumped.
“All our efforts to save the student proved abortive,’’ the eyewitness added. No fewer than 10 fully armed policemen were seen on surveillance at the premises of the school with three of their vehicles parked near the school gates.
Thursday, 15 October 2015
Court Adjourns Impeachment Appeal Case Of Olanusi - Former Ondo State Governor
The Ondo State High Court in Akure adjourned an impeachment case initiated by the ousted Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, for a substantive hearing on November 3rd, 2015.
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Mr. Alhaji Olanusi is seeking the nullification of his impeachment by the State House of Assembly on the grounds that the process did not follow constitutional law.
Mr. Olansui's Counsel, Jide Ajana told journalists that the procedure used to impeach the former Deputy Governor was against the intent of the 1999 Constitution as amended.
Mr. Ajana also claimed that the Lead Prosecutor of the impeachment, Olatunji Stanley Adeniyan, did not provide Mr. Olanusi a fair hearing prior to the commencement of the impeachment proceedings.
An investigation panel was organized to examine the various allegations of misconduct leveled against Mr. Olanusi. Mr. Ajana noted that this panel did not provide Mr. Olanusi with sufficient time to appear before it.
Zeril Akinsola, the Counsel to the defendants, raised an objection against Mr. Ajana representing Mr. Olanusi. Mr. Ajana was the former Attorney General of Ondo State, and therefore Mr. Akinsola argued, his representation of Mr. Olanusi was a conflict of interest.
However, Justice Olamide ruled that the counsel of Mr. Olanusi was fit to represent the complainant, and added that the objection lacked merit.
In an interview with reporters, Mr. Ajana noted that the Constitution is clear on the process of the impeachment adding that the impeachment process of his client did not follow the law.
"They [the Impeachment Panel] didn't even attempt to follow the letter and spirit of the Constitution in this so called ‘impeachment’. When this is done, where there is such failure to abide by the constitutional process, the court has jurisdiction to intervene and to restore order. By restore order, I mean the court has the jurisdiction to restore the purportedly impeached person back to his seat. And that is the situation in this case.”
Mr. Ajana continued, “The constitution spells out a time frame within which this process should be completed. When this particular impeachment was conducted the Deputy Governor [Mr. Olanusi] was not available, and was not even served personally.Even during a summons for impeachment you are provided eight days to respond. My client [Mr. Olanusi] was not even provided this time. Therefore the panel failed to follow the law.”
Source: Sahara Reporters
Monday, 12 October 2015
Why Power Supply Improved Under Buhari Administration - Former Power Minister Prof. Chinedu Nebo
Former Power Minister Prof. Chinedu Nebo has attributed the nation’s improved power supply to efforts of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
He argued that it would be wrong for Nigerians to attribute the improvement in power supply to President Muhammadu Buhari’s body language and his anti-corruption stance.
The former minister, who served as the pioneer vice chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) before he was appointed minister, said Jonathan did his best to transform the power sector, but was frustrated by saboteurs.
Nebo spoke in Ikole Ekiti on Saturday, where he was conferred with an honorary chieftaincy title of the Atayese of Egbeoba kingdom by the Elekole, Oba Ajibade Adewumi Fasiku.
The traditional ruler also honoured the ex-minister’s wife, Felicia, with the title of Yeye Atayese of Egbeoba kingdom.
They were honoured for their contributions to the establishment of the FUOYE’s Faculty of Engineering in Ikole town during Nebo’s tenure.
Nebo said: “Some said it was Buhari’s body language that brought the improvement, but I didn’t know what they meant.
You can see that these saboteurs have stopped regular bursting of the gas pipes that powered the electricity since President Buhari came on board. Some people did not want Jonathan to succeed.
“Some of these people were doing this great disservice because they did not like President Jonathan. The regular supply is Jonathan’s
labour. The present administration has not added any value to the sector and Nigerians must appreciate this.
“President Buhari will do wonders if he strengthens embedded generation and built more infrastructure for transmission of power.
“He should also change the threshold for licensing from one megawatt to five megawatts because the former has no incentive for investors and I believe Nigeria will leapfrog from 4,000 megawatts to something more appreciable, if this is done.”
On the perceived marginalisation of the Southeast from key appointments made so far, Nebo appealed to the people of the zone to be patient with the President.
He noted that the lopsidedness would be corrected in the next appointments.
The Elekole said the conferment of the titles on Nebo and his wife was in acknowledgement of their contributions to the university and the town’s development.
Source: TheNation
The former minister, who served as the pioneer vice chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) before he was appointed minister, said Jonathan did his best to transform the power sector, but was frustrated by saboteurs.
Nebo spoke in Ikole Ekiti on Saturday, where he was conferred with an honorary chieftaincy title of the Atayese of Egbeoba kingdom by the Elekole, Oba Ajibade Adewumi Fasiku.
The traditional ruler also honoured the ex-minister’s wife, Felicia, with the title of Yeye Atayese of Egbeoba kingdom.
They were honoured for their contributions to the establishment of the FUOYE’s Faculty of Engineering in Ikole town during Nebo’s tenure.
Nebo said: “Some said it was Buhari’s body language that brought the improvement, but I didn’t know what they meant.
You can see that these saboteurs have stopped regular bursting of the gas pipes that powered the electricity since President Buhari came on board. Some people did not want Jonathan to succeed.
“Some of these people were doing this great disservice because they did not like President Jonathan. The regular supply is Jonathan’s
labour. The present administration has not added any value to the sector and Nigerians must appreciate this.
“President Buhari will do wonders if he strengthens embedded generation and built more infrastructure for transmission of power.
“He should also change the threshold for licensing from one megawatt to five megawatts because the former has no incentive for investors and I believe Nigeria will leapfrog from 4,000 megawatts to something more appreciable, if this is done.”
On the perceived marginalisation of the Southeast from key appointments made so far, Nebo appealed to the people of the zone to be patient with the President.
He noted that the lopsidedness would be corrected in the next appointments.
The Elekole said the conferment of the titles on Nebo and his wife was in acknowledgement of their contributions to the university and the town’s development.
Source: TheNation
