EFCC Graduates 331 Operatives

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on January 13, 2017 graduated 331 cadets of the Detective Assistant Grade, trained alongside 1498 officers of the Nigerian Air Force at the Ground Training School, Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna.

The colourful passing out parade climaxed 6 months of rigorous training to equip the officers with the relevant skills of law enforcement.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall S. B. Abubakar, who doubles as the Reviewing Officer, congratulated the operatives of the EFCC for their gallantry and brilliance.

“I want to congratulate the operatives, I am sure you will find the training useful in your career", he said.

Abubakar, while listing the qualities exhibited by the new operatives of the EFCC said, “I have been briefed that you demonstrated commitment, hard work and courage during training. These attributes are essential in your career progression”.

He expressed delight over the collaboration among law enforcement agencies which made NAF to train EFCC operatives alongside NAF recruits adding that, “this cooperation remains a practical step towards enhancing inter-agency partnership, necessary to effectively respond to the national security imperative”.

Abubakar admonished all the graduands to be loyal to the federal government by being patriotic, vigilant and be of good conduct. He also charged them to always remember that their duty is to protect all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic or religious inclinations.

In his remark, the Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Ibrahim Mustapha Magu, who was visibly excited, expressed his satisfaction with the training hoping that the synergy between the two organizations would be sustained.
The newly graduated operatives comprise of individuals who were picked from across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT through a rigorous screening process that featured aptitude test, fitness test and oral interview.

The operatives include 51 females and 280 males.

Three individuals: Mustapha Suleiman, Ogbuefi Wisdom and Ogbaji Paul were recognized for exceptional performance in all written examinations and practical tests and for high degree of discipline, physical fitness and demonstrable leadership.

Highlights of the event include the silent drill, quick match and different military demonstrations.

As a demonstration of the bond between the EFCC and Nigerian Air Force, the acronym of both organizations was displayed in the silent drill.

BREAKING: MMM Is Back; To Start By Paying The ‘Poor’

Movrodi Mundial Movement, otherwise known as MMM is back, Grennnews.ng can authoritatively report.

The scheme announced its return in a statement on Friday, 13th January, 2017 – few hours before the promised date of 14th January, 2016.

Read statement released by the Ponzi scheme’s administration below:

Dear members,

The holidays are over, and we”re now open. Just as promised. (You might have already noticed that we always stick to our promises. :-)) Actually, we promised to be open on January 14, but we”re open now, January 13, as you can see, which is a day earlier. (Well, I hope, the members of the System will forgive us for that. :-))

It”s related to the hysteria raised by the authorities and the mass media around MMM. By joining forces, they”ve managed to nearly give the members of the System a heart attack and have frightened them out of their wits. Poor souls don”t know what to expect. Will we open again or not? :-))

This is why we”ve decided, considering the situation, to reach out to the members, reassure and cheer them up by opening a little earlier. After all, Together We Can Change The World! :-))

Here we go.

1. As of this notice, MMM resumes its usual operation. You can now create your GH-requests.

2. However, it”s obvious that panic will reign in the first few days after the re-opening of the System. We’re likely to be deluged by GH-requests. Therefore, we”re going to make gradual paybacks by setting internal output limits. In other words, we will only pay a certain amount per day. Please, be prepared to wait for a couple of days. We are certain things will then calm down, and the System operation will return to normal.

We”re the ones setting the limits, so it”s completely under our control, and we are not expecting any emergencies in principle. Have no fear and go on about your business as usual. :-))

As the System is socially oriented, we will make paybacks to the poor and the economically disadvantaged in the first place: it means to the members with small PH amounts. The richer can wait. Moreover, we”ve warned you repeatedly to only provide help with amounts that are not critical for you. Therefore, if these large amounts are not critical for them (the richer), they can wait a few days. No need to be tragic about it. :-))

This is the way it”s going to be.

Hoping for your kind understanding, Sergey Mavrodi. We Change The World!

P. S. I”d like again to call on the authorities and the mass media: Please, leave us alone! Have mercy on people.
@greennewsng

Meet The Indimi Twins Who Have Beef With President Buhari's Wife Aisha.... Call her Tokyo Toni

The events that played out before, during and after the wedding of a daughter of the President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, Zahra to Ahmed Indimi, a son of Mohammed Indimi, billionaire owner of Oriental Energy Resources, in December have led to other developments as the twin sisters of Ahmed are now on the war path with the First Lady, Aisha Buhari, who they are now said to be dis-respecting and calling names.

Sources recently gave us tales of how the Indimi Twins, Zahra aka Ya Gumsu and Ameena aka Ya Kaka took to their Istagram pages and 'insulted the First Lady and her daughter, Zahra.'

In a veil attack, they described the First Lady as Tokyo Toni, mother of Angela Renée White, professionally known as Blac Chyna, a popular American model and entrepreneur.
She is often referred to as a "video vixen" due to her frequent appearances in hip hop music videos and married to Robert Kardashian.

The twins were said to have made the comparison because Toni allegedly accused the family of Robert Kardashian of hijacking the preparations of her daughter's wedding from her.

The Indimi twins were said to have accused the First Lady of hijacking the preparations for her daughter's wedding to their brother and called her names for personally handling everything that is related to the wedding.

They were said to have wondered why the First Lady personally handled all the arrangements for the wedding.

Reacting to this, sources close to the First Lady said that she had to personally supervise all the activities for the wedding because of her integrity and due to her knack for perfection and excellence in all she does.

Concerned individuals, who spoke to us recently concluded that with the insults, "the twins are bad representatives of the family" and many people still wonder how they could be sisters of Ahmed Indimi, who was recently joined in holy wedlock with a daughter of the President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, Zahra.

The ladies were said to have taken to their Instagram pages on December 30th, 2016, and passed innuendos on Aisha and Zahra gold diggers, and one of the twins reportedly referred to Aisha a witch.

Sources revealed that this did not go down well with some friends of the Indimis, who came across the material and they were said to have pointedly told their parents to call them to order.

Some observers however, wondered if the Indimis actually have any gold, which the likes of the First Lady and her daughter could dig.

They added that the First Lady, Aisha did the best by banning them from her daughter's wedding 'so that they would not pollute a ceremony that was ordained by God to herald a new beginning for the couple.'

A reliable source, speaking further on the allegations that Aisha and Zahra were gold diggers, alleged that all the boxes the twins said on their Instagram pages that the Indimi Family bought for Zahra were mere propaganda and a bunch of lies.

The source said: "All together, I can confirm to you they are 11 boxes and two vanity round box. Whereas these social media rats said 60 boxes and stuff worth billions of naira. But, what I saw is not up to N100 million.

"Even the oil block that is the source of their wealth is grossly exaggerated as it one of the smallest blocks in Nigeria. All is just mere talking. What their father is getting is not up to 0.1 percent of what a female oil magnate, Folorunsho Alakija is earning per month.

"The parents did not go to school and suddenly, when the oil wealth came courtesy of a former president, they took their children to the United States of America and the United Kingdom for their education.

"So, from the family's abject poverty to oil well, no break in-between middle and lower classes. So, they now see all Nigerians walking naked as per what their brain is telling them."

We were informed that even what the children are getting from the oil business now is not enough to share among them not to talk of sharing with outsiders "they are always fighting among themselves over sharing of money from the oil business and are busy posting any bag, lingers and slippers they bought on the social media.

Various sources agreed that the children, particularly the twins; dubbed 'satanic twins' lack proper up- bringing and good moral standard.

Ironically however, one of the twins, Ya Gumsu is said to be married to a Malian fruit seller.

According to the grapevine, the Malian guy came to milk the family, not knowing that what they have is not even enough for them.

We learned from sources that the Malian abandoned a pregnant wife to marry Ya Gumsu and that it was her second marriage.

She is said to have had too much trouble in the first marriage before the man reportedly left her.

On the other hand, her twin sister, Ya Kaka reportedly lost her husband in a road accident mysteriously and suspiciously, and we were informed that members of the man's family are still battling with her over his wealth.

Sources stated that with all these scandals and some others that could be so dirty to reveal and that are enough proof that the twins are indeed satanic, they are the black sheep of the Indimi Family.

Gambia: Nigeria Army Insists It Is Not Planning To Attack Any Country

NIGERIAN ARMY IS NOT PLANNING TO ATTACK ANY COUNTRY

The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a publication by Premium Times online news medium titled "EXCLUSIVE: Nigeria raises troops for Gambia, ready to remove Yahya Jammeh".
This is not true.

Consequently, Nigerian Army wishes to disassociate itself from such false information that exists only in the figment of the imagination of the medium. There was no time or place Nigerian Army disclosed such information to the medium. If there is any, we challenge them to name the officer or soldier that gave them such information and when.

For the avoidance of doubt, Nigerian Army is not planning to attack any country.

It should be noted that such reckless and unprofessional conduct is not expected of any reputable and responsible news medium as it is inimical to national security.

The publication apart from being false in its entirety, it is unethical and capable of endangering the lives of Nigerians in diaspora.

The medium is please requested to always clarify such matters affecting national security and diplomatic issues that may endanger the safety and security of Nigerians abroad to avoid such misleading and embarrassing publication.

Obasa Resttates Assembly's Commitment To Promoting Yoruba Culture; Ooni Commends Lawmakers For Initiative

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has restated the commitment of the Assembly to the promotion of Yoruba language and the culture of the Yoruba people.
Rt. Hon. Obasa spoke on Thursday at the plenary session of the Assembly where the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja 2 was a special guest.
At the sitting, Obasa assured the foremost Yoruba monarch that he and his colleagues in the Assembly will continue to work to promote the Yoruba language and culture.
"We've started conducting our Thursday plenary sesions in Yoruba. We've gone ahead to organise the Yoruba Stakeholders' Summit and we will ensure that the teaching of Yoruba language becomes compulsory in Lagos State. We will not relent and we will continue to do more so that our dear language will not go into extinction," he said.
The Lagos Assembly Speaker urged Yoruba wherever they are to make the language the tool of communication with their children at home. "The era of using other people"a language as tool of communication with our children should be rejected and should be done away with," he said.
Ooni Ogunwusi commended the Lagos lawmakers for being in the forefront of the struggle to promote the Yoruba language and culture. "I'm very happy to be here and I want to commend the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly for being in the forefront of the struggle for he promotion of Yoruba language and culture," Oba Ogunwusi said.
The monarch stated further that he was particularly pleased with the Yoruba plenary sitting.of the House saying that he had to push forward his visit to the House by 24 hours because he wanted to witness the Yoruba plenary session of the lawmakers.
:I'm highly impressed and indeed with what you have done, the Lagos State House of Assembly has become role model for others in the country in the area of culture promotion,: Ooni Ogunwusi said.
The programme was concluded with exchange of gifts between the Speaker and.his visitor.

Army, Premium Times Engages in War of Words As Nigerian Army Slams PT Law Suit

NIGERIAN ARMY TAKES PREMIUM TIMES TO COURT
The Nigerian Army has instituted a legal action against an online publication, the Premium Times over its failure to retract and apologize over false, subversive and malicious publications against the person of the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai and the Nigerian Army.

All efforts to make the medium make amend proved abortive.

Consequently, the Nigerian Army sent a letter to the management of the of the online publishers to retract and apologize before 31st December 2016.

The medium however remained adamant and recalcitrant.

Consequently, the Nigerian Army has briefed it's lawyers to institute legal action against the medium.

PREMIUM TIMES replies Nigerian Army, demands apology from Buratai, others

PREMIUM TIMES has replied a letter sent by the Nigerian Army, threatening legal action against the newspaper for publications about the army and its chief, Tukur Buratai, a Lieutenant General.

On Wednesday, the newspaper published a letter dated December 22, written on behalf of Mr. Buratai, by I.M Alkali, a Major General, accusing PREMIUM TIMES of “unwarranted serial provocative, unauthorised, libelous and defamatory publications”.

The letter also claimed the paper published reports without reference to the army, saying the stories exposed a “deep hatred for the leadership of the Nigerian Army”.

The letter expressed displeasure with three stories published by the medium between October and December last year. The army described the stories as “false, unsubstantiated, and unprofessional” but provided no evidence to back its claim.

The letter demanded PREMIUM TIMES retract the reports and apologise to the army and Mr. Buratai.

PREMIUM TIMES, on Tuesday, through its lawyers, delivered a detailed response to the Army, affirming its stories, and unequivocally rejecting the demand for retractions and apology.

The paper, instead, asked the army to write a letter within seven days of receiving its reply, withdrawing the allegations and threats against it and its staff, or risk being sued.

Jiti Ogunye, the newspaper’s principal counsel, who signed the response, took the army to task on the “grave implications” of its letter, and describing the army’s letter as a threat to the well-being and life of PREMIUM TIMES’ staff.

“By your letter you have threatened the lives of our clients, and our clients are thus obliged to put the public on notice that should any harm come to them, you, the Chief of Army Staff and the Nigerian Army should be held accountable,” he wrote.

Mr. Ogunye said the “chilling threats” contained in the army’s letter was an affront on the constitutional guarantee of civilian control of the army and the freedom of the press.

“It is our view that all working journalists and news outlets are entitled to some protection from public officers, especially of the military and security agencies who are charged with the duty to secure and protect Nigeria and Nigerians, their lives and property, and maintain law and order, but who often, because of the uniqueness of that duty and for reason of the exclusive bearing of arms and control of our commonly owned ordinance, assume very erroneously that they are above the law,” he said.

He rebuked the army for describing PREMIUM TIMES’ stories as “unprofessional” saying military and other public officials were not in a position to question the paper's professionalism.

“The penchant of public officers to flippantly, arrogantly and ignorantly label media reports and stories and journalists ‘unprofessional’ once they are affected by media reports and stories must be deprecated with decorous pungency. Sir, you are not in any position at all to teach our Clients media professionalism, ethics and standards,” the paper said.

“It really can be exasperating and disconcerting to see public officers condescendingly castigate journalists, many of whom are not only internationally acclaimed and celebrated but who also have up to forty years of practice as journalists under their belt,” the letter stated.

Mr. Ogunye also criticised the army’s penchant for claiming exclusivity of patriotism and national sacrifice.

“We must also rebuke the false assumption that our military men, exclusively, are an epitome of patriotism and national sacrifice, and that they love Nigeria more than civilians do.

“Sir, the Nigerian Army of which you spoke so glowingly is an heir to a military that unpatriotically subverted, many times, constitutional governance in Nigeria, plunged Nigeria into a three-year internecine civil war, committed unspeakable rights violations against the Nigerian people and thwarted the efforts of Nigerians to restore democratic governance to Nigeria.

“The Nigerian Media, if you must be reminded, played a frontline role and suffered gross human rights violation, perpetrated by the military, in the struggle to rid Nigeria of military dictatorship. Our clients, therefore, totally reject your claim that they hate Nigeria, their country.

"The Nigerian Army does not love Nigeria more than Nigerians love themselves. An armed force of less than three hundred thousand officers and men cannot claim to love Nigeria, a country of over one hundred and eighty million people, more than the Nigerian civil population.

“Even under the current civil government, the officers and men of the Nigerian Army continue to carry out acts that threaten the survival of democratic governance. The roles played by officers and men of the Nigerian Army in the Ekiti State Governorship Election in 2014; the insertion of the Nigerian Army in the partisan allegation that the WASC School Certificate of our President, Muhammadu Buhari, then a candidate, could not be found in the Nigerian Army's records during the 2015 electioneering campaigns; the seizure and confiscation of newspapers nationwide during the Presidency of Goodluck Jonathan by men and officers of the Nigerian Army under the guise of looking for terrorist elements; and the recent killings that attended the insistence on right of way by the Nigerian Army against the adherents of the Shiite Islamic Sect in Zaria, in which hundreds of civilians lost their lives, are cases in point.

“A Nigerian Army that carries out such acts that not only violate the human rights of the citizens, but also subvert democracy and the rule of law cannot lay a claim to patriotism superior to the patriotism of the Nigerian media,” he wrote.

He added that the role of the media, as that of the military, is entrenched in the constitution and one is not superior to the other. Mr. Ogunye said by the threats contained in the army’s letter, and by tagging it an enabler of terrorism, PREMIUM TIMES’ constitutionally-given right to practice journalism had been breached or was about to be breached.

“You should know that your wild allegations against our clients implicate the invocation, against our clients, of Section 4 of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, No. 10,2011, which prescribes a maximum prison term of 20 years for any person convicted of knowingly, in any manner, solicits or renders support for an act of terrorism or a proscribed terrorist organization, and the death penalty where death results from such solicitation or rendering of support. And you should also have realized that your allegations imputed, on the part of our clients, the commission of treasonable offences and aiding the enemy under our criminal law.”

PREMIUM TIMES asked the army to write a letter, addressed to its Publisher, Dapo Olorunyomi, withdrawing the threats and allegations within seven days. The paper warned of legal action to enforce its fundamental rights.

“In the circumstances, we hereby demand that you write a letter of withdrawal of these threats and allegations, to our clients, wherein you are to assure them of their safety and protection by the security and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, in particular, the Nigerian Army. The letter, to be addressed to Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, Managing Director of Premium Services Ltd/ Editor in Chief of Premium Times must be received within seven (7) working days of delivery of this letter to you.
“That should you fail, refuse or neglect to write and deliver the above letter as demanded, our clients will not hesitate to institute a legal action against you, your principals, the Nigerian Army and the Federal Government of Nigeria, to enforce their fundamental rights under the Constitution,” the letter stated.

Musikilu Mojeed
Editor-in-Chief/Chief Operating Officer
PREMIUM TIMES

Fraud Alert! FRSC Is Not Recruiting, Agency Boss Not on Facebook/Twitter

The attention of the FRSC management has been drawn to the activities of some fraudsters asking those intending to be recruited into the corps to make payments of some money to certain bank accounts.

The management wishes to restate that the corps marshal - Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi does not have a Facebook or Twitter account and that the corps is not presently engaged in any staff recruitment exercise

Members of the public should also note that the corps has not directed anybody to recruit on its behalf and will not direct any applicants to pay any money into any individuals account.
We have reported the activities of the fraudsters to the security agencies and they are on the trail of the criminals .

Dr Kayode Olagunju
Asst Corps Marshal Policy Research and Statistics

Ilesa Prison Prepares 30 Inmates for Varsity Education

No fewer than 30 inmates of the Ilesa Prison in Osun State are rounding off their secondary school studies in readiness for tertiary education later in 2017.

Controller of Prisons, Osun State Command, Mr. Segun Oluwasemire, gave this hint on tuesday at a ceremony to receive a refurbished and stocked library for the school funded by the Alms Committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Osogbo branch.

He said that the command was being proactive in achieving total reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders in its custody by preparing them for a world of opportunities outside the prison walls.

"The 30 inmates are the pioneer students of our Ilesa Prison Secondary School. We hope that sooner than later, the National Open University will grant us a Special Study Centre in the state command for a seamless transition of the products of the secondary school to the university," the Controller said.

He ascribed the success of the education initiative of the prison authorities in Osun State to the support from the Controller General of Prisons, Mr. Ja'afaru Ahmed, and the intervention by public spirited individuals and organisations that have provided support to the inmates to advance their studies.

"I particularly want to recognise the support from the Alms Project Committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Osogbo branch for the upgraded library and to Princess Hope Foundation which is responsible for the provision of additional teachers." he said.

The CBN's Alms Project Committee provided books, furniture and other educational materials for the school library.

Branch Controller, CBN, Osogbo branch, Alhaji Bashiru Ibrahim, in his remarks, lauded the prison authorities for their dedication and commitment in carrying out the prison's reformation mandate. He described the committee's gesture as service to humanity.

In his welcoming address, the officer-in-charge, Ilesa Prison, Mr Ope Fatinikun, a Deputy Controller of Prisons, thanked the Committee for its support. He said, "Education is critical to the success of the mandate of the prison service, and the place of library in providing sound education and creating an enabling environment for learning cannot be overemphasised."

He expressed appreciation to the Committee and charged other corporate bodies in the public and private sectors to join in the task of reforming and reintegrating offenders.

The Senior Prefect of the school, Waliu Olasunkanmi, thanked the Committee members and the prison authorities for giving him and other inmates the opportunity of taking another shot at education and promised to make good use of the library for a new life away from crime and other societal ills.

The ceremony was attended by Chairman Alms Committee, CBN Ososgbo branch, Mr Olukayode Oluwole and co-ordinator, Princess Hope Foundation, Mr Olabode Opeseyitan.

Gbenga Daniel Mourns Kure

The immediate past governor of Ogun State, Otunba (Engr.) Gbenga Daniel has expressed shock on the news of the death of formergovernor of Niger State, Engineer Abdulkadir Abdullahi Kure which he said left a big vacuum in the political landscape of Nigeria.

In his condolence message to the wife of the deceased, Senator Zainab Kure, he described late Governor Kure as a peace-loving, courageous, progressive politician and one of the influential leaders in Niger politics who, during his life time, served and played his roles outstandingly in various capacities.

According to the former governor, late Engr. Kure was one accomplished politician whose legacies will remain relevant for a long time to come.

Otunba Daniel then offered his heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the family, the people of Nupe Kingdom, Niger State Government and those who share in the grief of the loss of the great politician and ask Almighty Allah to grant him a peaceful rest and patience for the bereaved family to bear the loss.

POLICE ARREST SOCIALITE PUTTING CHAIN ON GIRLS IN LAGOS

…As LASG Warns Against Anti-Social Behaviour

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a socialite, Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu popularly known as ‘Pretty Mike’ for dehumanizing young girls by turning them into human puppies with chains round their necks.

Nwogu, a 30-year-old club owner in Ikeja area of the State, was arrested on Wednesday by the police on the orders of the Lagos State Government after news emerged on social media of the development.

The suspect, in pictures which had since gone viral on the internet, was seen putting leash on young girls and leading them to a wedding in Lagos.

The development caused outrage from many quarters with people calling on government to act fast to put a rein on such type of bizarre anti-social behavior.

Nwogu was said to be cooperating with investigation and had given useful statement to the police and was released after given an undertaking to desist from putting any woman or man on a leash to dehumanize them.

According to the undertaking, Nwogu admitted knowing his action was against the law, but pledged not to further indulge in such behaviour.

The undertaking read in part: “I, Mike Eze Nwalie, A.K.A Pretty Mike of 21A Magodo GRA, Luma Street, do hereby undertake to stop whatever act of putting girls on a leash or any other degrading treatment to ladies and guys.

“I am aware that such act offends the law of the State of Lagos and if I repeat it again, there will be legal act towards me.

“I undertake to issue a letter of apology to the public effective from tomorrow on all my social media platforms.”

Speaking on the matter, the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem said the State Government will not tolerate any anti-social behavior that attempt to dehumanize any citizen in the State.

Kazeem restated the government’s determination to prosecute any individual or group of persons who violate any law of the State under any guise.

“The Lagos State Government is committed to the protection of the rights of all citizens including children, women and all the vulnerable persons in the State,” Kazeem said.

Read Ali Baba's Blessing To 3 Childless Couples After A Successful Jan 1 Comedy Event

#Repost @alibabagcfr with @repostapp
・・・
So I was thinking... after a successful #january1stconcert and #january1stAwards... beyond the car gift and support for fashion... what if we support 3 couples who have decided to do the IVF but can not afford it? And with God's blessings, they could just be proud parents on or before the next #january1stconcert 2018... so I got talking with @olori_ranti_ajayi and @nordicalagos. They agree it's doable. I will fund 3 of such couples but if anyone is moved we could add couples to the #FirstFruit project for the #january1stconcert phenomenon.

God Bless Ali Baba More!

OPC Issues Communique

COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE MARATHON MEETING OF OODUA PEOPLE’S CONGRESS LED BY OTUNBA (DR) GANI ADAMS HELD ON THE 10TH & 11TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2017 AT WHITE HOUSE, SOBA TOWN, ABULE ADO, FESTAC, PHASE 2, LAGOS

1. Pursuant to the meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC), which is the highest decision making organ of the congress, held on the 8th of January 2017 at the congress office in Lagos, Lagos State, the Congress unanimously resolved that there shall be a quarterly meeting of the NEC and that the meeting shall be held during the first week of every quarter and/or during emergency situations.

2. The National Executive Council unanimously agreed that Barrister Yinka Oguntimehin be appointed and was subsequently duly appointed as the Publicity Secretary of the Congress, while Comrade Akeem Ologunro was appointed as the Deputy Director of Programme of the congress. These appointments were conveyed to the National Coordinating Council at the Marathon Meeting.

3. The Congress gave awards of excellence to three (3) most outstanding states vis a vis Lagos, Ogun and Oyo and ten (10) local governments in Lagos State vis a vis Amuwo Odofin L.G, Apapa-Iganmu L.G, Eti-Osa L.G, Ibeju L.G, Igbogbo Baiyeku L.G, Ikorodu Central L.G, Ikorodu North, Ikosi-Isheri and Oriade L.G for excellent performance and financial commitment to the growth and development of the organization in the year 2016.

4. The Organization re-affirms its commitment to true restructuring of the federation for growth, development and actualization of the potential of the federating units in consonance with the report of 2014 National Confab report which is yet to be implemented by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

5. Mobilization of more members and ensuring that all members of the organization are encouraged to obtain their current identity cards.

6. The Secretary, Finance and Treasurer Committees are to participate in the quarterly National Coordinating Council meetings and every yearly marathon meetings of the congress for effective dissemination of information to grass root members.

7. The Organization resolved to continue supporting its sister organization; Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) which is in the Diaspora in furtherance of promoting Yoruba unity and culture globally.

8. Congress also condemns the wanton killing of unarmed and innocent Nigerian citizens in southern Kaduna, in Kaduna State by alleged Fulani Militia.

9. Congress applauds the meeting initiated by Governors of the states in the south west of Nigeria, held in Ibadan, Oyo State on the 22nd day of November, 2016, where it was agreed that the meeting shall be a continuous one, to be held every four months on rotational basis among the south west Governors. We urge them to take urgent steps towards regional integration of the south west and Yoruba unity.

10.We appeal to our Royal fathers who are the custodian of Yoruba Culture and heritage to urgently take steps towards the preservation of our common heritage, Yoruba language and foster unity amongst all Yoruba both within Nigeria and in the Diaspora.

Otunba (Dr.) Gani Adams....National Coordinator, Oodua People's Congress

Bar. Tanimowo Babajide
National General Secretary, Oodua People's Congress.

Breaking! Sahara Reporters Publisher Arrested!

This is what was posted on the Facebook wall of the man who engineered his arrest.

"BREAKING! I just got Sowore Omoyele of Saharareporters arrested for criminal defamation and blackmail and threat to my life and career. I'm sure you guys will remember how Sowore lied against me that I was used as a front to receive 1.7 billion naira of the National Security funds. My refusal to agree to Sowore's criminal demands and cut from the fictitious money made him to viciously attack my personality on his website. And imagine this is someone I've known and I've been assisting for almost 20 years. We are still at the police station, and hopefully we be going to the court tomm. More details later.
-Lekan Fatodu

BOY, 14, FLEES JOS, RESCUES IN LAGOS

A-14 year old boy, Israel Solomon, who fled his parent’s home in Jos was yesterday evening intercepted and rescued by operatives of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Lagos Police Command at Ojota, Lagos.

Solomon, a Birom by tribe, was seen wandering Ojota Bus Stop, when the operatives decided to call him for questioning.
He said that his parents live in Mango Junction, Opposite Gada Biyu, Jos.

He could not give reasons why he ran away from home. All entreaties to make him give reasons for his actions proved abortive.

Solomon said the bus conveying from Jos got to Lagos late at Sunday evening, adding that he passed the night sleeping under the foot bridge at the Ojodu Berger Bus Stop.

He explained that he was trekking from Ojodu Berger to Ojota when the officer cited him wandering, emphasizing that he knew no relatives in Lagos before embarking on the journey.

Source said checks on his body did not betray any evidence of physical abuse. He also couldn’t give the phone contact of his parents or any of his relatives based in Jos, Plateau.

Solomon has been taken to Olusosun Police Station, behind Phillip, Ojota by the RRS Team.

The source disclosed that he would be taken from there to a station where radio signal would be raised to the closest police station to his house in Jos.

DSS Arrests Boko Haram Men in Lagos, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi States

In its determined counter-terrorism efforts to consolidate on the gains it has made in the sustenance of offensive against identified criminal gangs, kidnap syndicates and terrorist elements across the country, the Department of State Services (DSS) has recorded major successes which have further degraded the capability of these elements to operate in the county.

On 1st January, 2017, at Mutum Biyu in Gassol LGA, Taraba State, Bale Kolomi GREMA and Kolomi ADBA-AJI were arrested in a mosque after they had fled Marte, Borno State, where they were involved in boko haram terrorist activities. Also on the same 1st January, 2017, a kidnap suspect, Amadu BELLO, was apprehended at Hotoron Arewa, Nasarawa LGA of Kano State for his involvement in a kidnap operation at Zomo village, Ningi LGA of Bauchi State from which he got a share of N3m from the ransom.

In a related development, on 6th January, 2017, one Paul ALI (aka Simplee), a high profile leader of a kidnap syndicate was arrested at Hill Flower Hotel, Asaga Ohafia, Abia State. ALI, who operates camps at Ikot Abasi and Mbo LGAs of Akwa Ibom State, is responsible for notable kidnap incidents across the Niger Delta. He is also a member of the Bakassi Strike Force (BSF) which has carried out attacks against oil installations in the area. At the time of his arrest, ALI, with his associate, Chidiebere KANU was planning the kidnap of a Federal Lawmaker and an expatriate. KANU is presently at large.

In another incident, two (2) suspected Boko Haram insurgents, Ibrahim MALA and Abdallah MODU were arrested on 6th January 2017 at Amba and Gudi villages of Kokona LGA of Nasarawa State. The suspects who are indigenes of Maiduguri, Borno State, had fled the military action in Borno State and were regrouping in the State under different trade covers. While MODU sells children’s wears, MALA, who trades in perfumes, confessed to his membership of the sect and disclosed that he (Mala) joined the Yusufiyya faction in 2007. Similarly, Abdulkarim DAHIRU, a key terrorist commander and an indigene of Okengwa, Okene LGA of Kogi State, was arrested at the Specialist Hospital, Lokoja. Suspect was identified as the main coordinator of several kidnappings as well as other robbery activities in Kogi and Edo States.

Furthermore, security operations conducted from 3rd to 7th January, 2017, across some flashpoints in Lagos State led to the arrest of seven (7) kidnap suspects, six of whom, namely; Gilbert Koku NELSON, John NELSON, Adekoya KAZEEM, Muhammad LAWAL, Abu YAHRO and Kelvin NWANAJI; were arrested in connection with the kidnap of a management staff of Dangote Company. The two (2) other suspects, Abdullahi BELLO, a Custom Officer and Bello GUMEL, were apprehended at Navy Town, Ojo LGA, and Naval Base, Alakija, respectively, in connection with the kidnap of another Custom Officer, on 20th December, 2016. Members of the above gang specialized in spying on senior company executives and laying ambush for kidnap and robbery operations for huge ransoms.
On 7th January, 2017, one Muhammad AUWAL was arrested at Andaza village, Kiyawa LGA of Bauchi State in conncetion with boko haram terrorist activities. AUWAL who was arrested with the sum of three hundred thousand Naira (N300,000.00) on him, is believed to be a drug supplier to the boko haram sect in Sambisa Forest.

Also on 7th January, 2017, the Service also arrested the trio of Elijah AWUA, Joseph EJAKA and Hope NATHAN, at Kanshio, Otukpo road, Makurdi, Benue State. The suspects are members of a notorious kidnap syndicate that has been responsible for several kidnap operations in Nasarawa, Benue and Plateau States. Their most recent venture was the gang’s abduction of a staff of Radio Benue, Makurdi on 2nd December, 2016. Suspects were arrested with a silver coloured Toyota RAV4 vehicle marked ABJ AQ 720 KUJ. Two (2) other members of the syndicate identified as Gabriel JOSHUA and TIMOTHY (FNU) are currently on the run and being trailed.
On 8th January, 2017, one Bello MOHAMMED (aka Awilo), the leader of a syndicate that specialized in car theft and burglary in Gombe State was arrested at Jekadafari area of Gombe metropolis of the State. MOHAMMED confessed to being the kingpin of the syndicate in the State. His confession led to the arrest of an associate, Abdullahi IBRAHIM (alias DIBAL) who is seen at the arrowhead of the gang in the North East. IBRAHIM also disclosed that he has stolen ten (10) cars in Gombe. Based on his confession two (2) buyers of the stolen cars identified as Surajo Ali GOMBE, and Danjuma BAKA, have been arrested.

On 8th January, 2017 about 1500 hours, one Elijah OYEBODE, aged twenty-two (22) years, was arrested in connection with the disappearance of one Damilola Rofiat ADEBISI (F), a 400 level student of the Department of Chemistry Education, Osun State University, Ipetu-Ijesa campus, Oriade LGA. The incident occurred on 22nd December, 2016. OYEBADE confessed to picking the victim along with two (2) other men on 22nd October, 2016 and claimed to have dropped them off at a house in Ikirun. Investigation is ongoing.

The Service also arrested four (4) suspected fleeing members of the boko haram; Fanayi Bukar HASSAN, Butame HASSAN, Kologoni BUKAR, and Amina ABUBAKAR on 10th January, 2017 at Oko-Oba, Ifako-Ijaiye LGA of Lagos State. They are suspected to have fled to the State to evade arrest in the ongoing military offensive in the North East. Same day (10th January, 2017), at Okene town, Adavi LGA, Kogi State, the leader of the boko haram sect in Okene, Abdullahi MOHAMMED aka Huja, was arrested. Subject had been responsible for the coordination of boko haram activities in Okene axis of Kogi State.

It is important to state that these successes were recorded as a result of proactive and credible intelligence offered by patriotic citizens, and the effective cooperation of sister agencies and other relevant stakeholders. This Service wishes to restate its determination to sustain the tempo within the provisions of the law as part of its drive towards ensuring the security of lives and property of all law-abiding residents and citizens in the country.

Police, Ali-Kwara Hunt for Kidnappers in Bauchi, Arrest 19 Suspects

Bauchi Police Provide Updates on Operation
In order to stem the tide of rampant cases of kidnappings, cattle rustling and armed banditry along Toro, Gumau and Ningi Axis, The Bauchi State Police Command in collaboration with a re-known hunter Ali Kwara organized a well coordinated operation relying on actionable intelligence and stormed Yuga forest, a notorious hideout for kidnappers in Toro LGA of Bauchi State between 5/1/2017 to date in order to apprehend the hoodlums and rescue several hostages who were held captives and awaiting ransom payment by their families.

On sighting the police/hunters, suspects opened fire which triggered a fierce gun battle. After incurring heavy casualties, hoodlums abandoned their rifles and escaped into the Bush with bullet wounds.

In a related development, following intelligence report, the command also arrested 19 suspected kidnappers in various locations as follows; 3 suspects in Yuga Forest, Toro LGA, 1 suspect in Jimi village of Darazo LGA, 1 suspect in Tama District of Toro LGA, 2 suspects in Ningi LGA, 3 suspects in Kundum of Bauchi LGA, 3 in Giwa hamlet of Toro, 3 suspects in Ganjuwa LGA, 1 suspect in Tashan Durumi in Toro LGA and 2 suspects from Alkaleri LGA of Bauchi State respectively. The command further arrested a suspected informer and negotiator of the kidnappers in Gilliri Village of Bauchi LGA.

Exhibits recovered include:
Eight AK 47 Rifles
One AK 49 Rifle
One G3 Rifle
Two Automatic Pump Action
One double barrel gun
One Single Barrel gun
One Sub Machine gun
One Locally made Pistol
Six Machetes
Eleven Magazines
Forty Nine (49) Cartridges
Nineteen (19) ammunition of LAR rifle
Three Hundred and Thirty (330) assorted Ammunition
Sum of Three hundred and Eighty Eight Thousand One Hundred and Ninety Naira (#388,190.00)
One charm
One padlock and chain
Two blue magazine bags
Two Expanded ammunition of 7.62mm
One Jincheng Motorcycle
Three GSM Phones
Thirty Seven Cows (37)
Twelve Sheep (12)
Meanwhile, Forty Eight hostages were rescued in good condition of health. And efforts are being intensified to apprehend fleeing suspects. Members of the public are urged to assist the police with useful information by reporting suspicious persons, especially those with bullet wounds to the nearest police station for prompt action. The Command further warned members of the public to desist from screening suspected kidnappers under false pretence that they have repented without proper consultation with the police, please.

N510 BILLION BUDGET SUPPORT FACILITY:FG commences independent monitoring of State finances

The Federal Government has commenced independent review of State financial management by appointing eight reputable accounting firms including KPMG, Ernst & Young and PWC to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the 22-point Fiscal Sustainability Plan (FSP) which specified the conditions under which 35 State Governments in June 2016 started accessing the N510 billion Budget Support Facility (BSF).

It could be recalled that monitoring by the Federal Ministry of Finance has been ongoing since June 2016 however, independent monitoring and verification of the States against agreed milestones under the FSP will now commence by the eight accounting firms.

The Budget Support Facility, a 12-month standby loan facility, was designed to bring immediate financial relief to State Governments and enable them meet their financial obligations; with a monthly amount of N50 Billion in the first three months and N40 Billion available for the remaining nine months to the 35 States.

The Fiscal Sustainability Plan is a 22-point reform programme which commenced in June, 2016 with requirements including increasing internally generated revenues, introduction of biometric payroll, publication of audited annual financial statements, and reduction of wastages by establishing efficiency units.

S/N ACCOUNTING FIRMS
1 PWC
2 KPMG
3 Ernst & Young
4 PKF
5 Muhtari Dangana & Co/S.S. Afemikhe & Co
6 Ahmed Zakari & Co/Ijewere & Co

While announcing their appointment, the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, said that the firms were “expected to vigorously monitor, evaluate and verify the performance of the States against the agreed milestones set by each State Government under the Fiscal Sustainability Plan.” State Governments that fail to implement the action plans, as stated, would be taken off the facility with immediate effect.

It could be recalled that the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun introduced the FSP for Sub-National Governments in 2016 to which State Governments acceded, with the view to enhancing fiscal prudence and transparency in public expenditure. The Plan is part of the nationwide Public Financial Management Reform which is being implemented by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari through the Federal Ministry of Finance.

Fatgbems unveil brand identity, commissions service station

Fatgbems Petroleum, a leading independent oil marketing company today unveiled a new brand identity. The company also commissioned its new state-of-the-art pilot fuel service station at the occasion.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Chairman of the Company, Mr. Ajibola Gbemisola said that the new brand identity is not a change of direction. He stated that the change of brand identity is a restatement of the company’s value and strong commitment to its customers for which the company has been known over the years.

“l will like to emphasise that our new brand identity is not a change of direction rather it is a restatement of our values and our strong commitment to our customers as drivers of our business”.

Mr. Gbemisola who paid glowing tributes to the resilience of the company over the years, disclosed that from a humble beginning when the company started business with just one fuel station at Ejigbo in Lagos, “we now have a tank farm and several stations across Lagos and other south west states including plans to expand to the Federal Capital Territory”. He added that the company has also become known for its distinct identity of its integrity and quality service in the market.

Fatgbems, Mr. Gbemisola further disclosed,decided on the idea to redesign and rebuild its numerous stations into state-of-the-art service stations with the Berger station being the pilot, to meet with the increasing changes in the market

“With total deregulation of the downstream sector of the oil industry, customers’tastes have become sophisticated and are asking for innovative services beyond just fueling their vehicles.

“Apart from aligning with the thoughts of Lagos State government in transforming Lagos into a mega city status, we also feel that customers should buy fuel in an environment that is very conducive to create really satisfying fueling experiences” he concluded.

Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Wale Olowu, commended the company for aligning its thoughts to the State's vision of a mega city.

He commended the Fatgbems for for its resilience, noting that very few family businesses survive after the exit of its originator

"For the company to have transformed into such a stable and fast growing business rapidly expanding into what it is today is really exemplary"

He assured that the Lagos state government will continue to create the necessary conducive environment for investment and for businesses to grow in the state
Fatgbems petroleum is an independent petroleum marketing company incorporated in 1986 and has since grown to own a Tank Farm and retail outlets spread on a number of states in the country.

Metuh’s Absence Stalls Trial

The trial of embattled former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Olisa Metuh was stalled as he was not in court today due to ill-health.

Metuh is standing trial alongside his company, Destra Investment Limited, on a 7-count charge of fraud to the tune of N400 million pressed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, before Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja

After counsel on both sides entered their appearances, Metuh’s counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, informed the court that his client could not make it to court because he was indisposed.

His words: “My Lord, due to health complications, the first defendant (Metuh) was rushed to National Hospital on Sunday, January 8, 2017. I pleaded with the Consultants to give us a medical report to show to the court but this was not possible due to the fact that the report is to be a summation of the reports of five different Consultants. I called him (the doctor) ten minutes ago, but he became thoroughly ‘abusive’.”

In view of this, Ikpeazu requested that the matter be adjourned to January 11, 2017, promising that the report would be made available at that time.

Counsel to Destra Investment Limited, Tochukwu Onwugbufor, SAN, supported Ikpeazu’s application for adjournment.

However, counsel to EFCC, Sylvanus Tahir, strongly opposed the application describing the explanation given by the defence as unreasonable.

Tahir argued that, the date of today’s proceedings ought to have given the defence sufficient time to avail the court with, at least, a sick certificate.

“Explanation given cannot be taken as substitute for the certificate which is the preserve of a medical doctor. The explanation, therefore, does not constitute a reasonable explanation as envisaged by Section 352(4) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act”, Tahir argued.

He urged the court to ‘take with a pinch of salt’ the explanation given by the defence and to see the absence of the first defendant (Metuh) as a disregard of the bail conditions, so that trial could continue ‘in absentia’.

After hearing the arguments of counsel, Justice Abang held that, adjournments were at the discretion of the court.

He said, “It is not automatic that the court must grant adjournment. It depends on materials submitted to the court.”

Thereafter, Justice Abang adjourned to January 11, 2017 and ordered the defence to make necessary reports available.

EFCC Faults Witness’ Attempt to Distort Facts in Badeh’s Trial

Attempt by a prosecution witness to distort facts in the ongoing trial of a former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex S. Badeh (rtd) was on January 10, 2017 exposed by counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN.

Badeh is being prosecuted by the EFCC before Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja. He is standing trial alongside a firm, Iyalikam Nigeria Limited, on a 10-count charge bordering on money laundering, criminal breach of trust and corruption to the tune of N3.97billion.

He allegedly abused his office as CDS by using the dollar equivalent of the sum of N1.4billion removed from the accounts of the Nigerian Air Force to purchase properties in choice areas of Abuja between January and December, 2013.

The offence contravenes Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

The witness, Joseph Okpetu, who testified as PW13, told the court that he received hundreds of millions of naira from Badeh for various construction projects.

Okpetu, a builder and managing director of Habco Nigeria Limited, Kunychun Drilling Services and Dilplast Nigeria Limited, narrated how he was contracted to build a 3-bedroom duplex in Yola valued at N150million for Badeh; renovate Badeh’s country home at Mubi, Bintin in Gwoza local government area of Adamawa State at the cost of N50million; paint one of Badeh’s homes in Zone B, Abuja amongst other renovations, and purchase plants and equipment for a farm belonging to the former defence chief.

He said: “Yushau (former Director of Finance and Accounts of the Nigeria Air Force during Badeh’s tenure) had called me to his official residence and showed me a drawing of a building to be constructed in Yola for his boss, Badeh. Initially, the quote was N200million but after scaling down some of the features of the house, the price came down to N150million.

“At the meeting, Yushau gave me the dollar equivalent of N50million as mobilization. The other payments were done later in two installments. During construction, Badeh visited the house on two occasions (with Yushau) and there were no complaints.”

The drawing in respect for the Yola duplex was tendered and marked as Exhibit T88.
Confusion however started when the witness began to contradict the statement he had earlier volunteered to the EFCC.

Sensing a foul play, counsel to EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs swiftly drew Okpetu’s attention to the contradictions, asking the witness if he still stood by what he had said in his earlier statements.

“I do not stand by my statement to the EFCC”, Okpetu replied.

Upon further examination by Jacobs, Okpetu admitted that the counsel to the second defendant (Iyalikam), Samuel Zibiri, SAN, who was holding brief for S. T. Ologoorisha, was in fact, his close family friend.

“On the first day that I was arrested by the EFCC, Zibiri, came to bail me. Like me, he is from Edo State. We are family friends”, he confessed.

At this point, Justice Abang adjourned to Thursday, January 12, 2017 for continuation of trial.

Shema challenges N11billion charge, Arraignment now Feb 7, 2017

The arraignment of a former Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Shehu Shema and three others could not go on today as planned following a motion by the defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court and the competency of the charge.

Shema is being charged alongside three others, Sani Hamisu Makana, Lawal Ahmad Safana and Ibrahim Lawal Dankaba before Justice Maikaita Bako of the Katsina State High Court for the alleged offences of criminal breach of trust, abuse of office and conversion of public funds to the tune of over Eleven Billion Naira during his tenure as governor.

When the case was called today, counsel for the accused persons, J.B Daudu SAN brought a motion challenging the jurisdiction of the court and the competency of the charge. However, the prosecution Counsel J.S Okutepa SAN filed a counter affidavit in reply to the motion.

The prosecution also asked that the accused persons be remanded in prison custody until the next adjourned date. Okutepa told the court that the first accused person violated the terms of the administrative bail granted him by the EFCC. But Daudu argued that since the court is yet to assume jurisdiction to hear the matter, such application should not have come up at this stage.

Justice Bako refused the prosecution application for remand and adjourned the matter to February 7, 2017 for hearing of the motions on notice after which the issue of arraignment would be determined.

One of the charge read that “You Ibrahim Shehu Shema whilst being the Governor of Katsina, Sani Hamisu Makana whilst being Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Katsina State, Lawal Ahmad Safana whilst being the Permanent Secretary for Local government and Chieftaincy Affairs of Katsina State and Ibrahim Lawal Dankaba whilst being the Chairman Association of Local Government of Nigeria, Katsina State Chapter, between September 2012 and May 2015 at Katsina, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court were entrusted with certain property to wit; an aggregate sum of N4,463,600,000 (Four Billion, Four Hundred and Sixty Three Million, Six Hundred Thousand Nairn Only) committed a criminal breach of trust in respect of the said sum by transferring it from Katsina State Joint Local Government Account domiciled at Access Bank , Katsina Branch to the account of ALGON domiciled at Union Bank, Katsina Branch and subsequently withdrew same and dishonesty convert it to your personal use (under various guises including funding security intervention fund to all the 34 local governments in Katsina State and falsely described in several payment vouchers and memos) and thereby committed and offence contrary to section 311 and punishable under section 312 of Penal Code Cape 96 Laws of Katsina State, 1991.

FG APPROVES FUNDS WORKS ON 2ND NIGER BRIDGE AND EMERGENCY REPAIRS OF TAMBURAWA BRIDGE

The Federal Government has awarded the contract for additional early works on the Second Niger Bridge linking Delta and Anambra States in the South- South and South- East zones respectively.

The Contractor handling the project is Messrs Julius (Nig.) Ltd. at total cost of #14,446,010,416.16K (Fourteen billion, four hundred and forty-six million, ten thousand, four hundred and sixteen naira, sixteen kobo)

The existing Niger Bridge which was commissioned on January 4, 1966 is severely overstressed and its continued serviceability cannot be assured. The idea of a Second Niger Bridge started way back in the late 1970s but its realization has been delayed by several challenges. The Administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is resolutely committed to the completion of this important project.

In a related development, the Federal Government has also awarded a contract for emergency repairs of Tamburawa Bridge along Kano- Kaduna Dual Carriageway in Kano State to Messrs. Borini Prono & Co. (Nig.) Ltd. The cost of the project is #1, 898,456,175.00K (One billion, eight hundred and ninety-eight million, four hundred and fifty-six thousand, and one hundred and seventy-five naira) with a twelve-month completion period.

The scope of works for the Emergency Repairs involves the use of rock-filled gabion protection with reno mattresses, fitters and embankment protection to the abutments. This intervention is premised on the public outcry and concern earlier expressed by the Executive Governor of Kano State over the scouring around the piles and exposure of substructures of the said bridge and subsequent integrity test carried out by Engineers from the Ministry.

DHQ REASSURES PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE ON NORTH EAST OF ITS SUPPORT

The Nigerian Armed Forces has reassured the Presidential Committee on the North-East Initiative (PCNI), of its unflinching support and collaboration in line with the Committee’s action plan of ensuring a coordinated frame work for lasting peace and stability in the North East.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin made this known when the Security and Peace building sub-committee of the PCNI paid him a courtesy call at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

Represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Saidu, the CDS expressed the readiness of the Military to collaborate with the PCNI in every area that would obliterate the suffering of the displaced persons and the speedy rebuilding of the damaged infrastructure.

Elated by the quality of the committee’s membership, the CDS said “all that is needed is a close collaboration between the military on one side and the committee on the other side until the war against insurgency is brought to a successful conclusion”.

He added that the military is ready to assist the peace building process urging the Chairman to remain in close contact with the military for continuous synergy.

Earlier, the Vice Chairman of the Committee and leader of the delegation, Alhaji Tumsa while applauding the military on behalf of the Chairman of PCNI, Gen TY Danjuma (rtd) for routing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorist in Sambisa forest. He expressed delight in the capabilities and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces at bringing peace back to the North East.

He said the visit was to acquaint the CDS on the PCNI’s mandate and its operational plans. Alhaji Tumsa briefed the CDS about the committee’s new initiative of a working plan by all stakeholders in the peace building process and the rebuilding of the North East region.

Malabu Oil Deal Wasnt Done Under My Administration- Goodluck Jonathan Insists

Our attention has been drawn to news reports published mostly by online media which suggested through innuendo, rather than factual evidence, that former President Goodluck Jonathan received kickbacks in the $1.3bn OPL 245 oil block deal involving oil giants ENI and Royal Dutch Shell.

With regards to the publication, we wish to make it clear that former President Jonathan was not accused, indicted or charged for corruptly collecting any monies as kickbacks or bribes from ENI by the Italian authorities or any other law enforcement body the world over.

In the first place, we have to categorically state that the negotiations and transactions for the oil block deal predate the Presidency of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan which began on 6th May 2010 and ended on 29th May 2015.

It may interest those promoting this false narrative to know that all the documents relating to the transactions, issues and decisions of the Federal Government on the Malabo issue, during the Jonathan administration, are in the office of the Attorney General of the Federation/Minister of Justice.

As President of Nigeria, there is no doubt that Dr. Goodluck Jonathan met with executives of all the oil majors operating in Nigeria and urged them to, amongst other things, support the growth of the Nigerian oil industry by ramping up their investments and comply with the Local Content Act that he promoted and signed into law.

We however wish to state, for emphasis, that at no time did the former President hold private meetings with representatives of ENI to discuss pecuniary issues. All the meetings and discussions former President

Jonathan had with ENI, other IOCs and some indigenous operators were conducted officially, and in the presence of relevant Nigerian Government officials and were done in the best interest of the country.

We make bold to point out that the former President never sent any Abubakar Aliyu, as the innuendoes in the false report suggest, to ENI, the IOCs or any indigenous operator to seek favour or collect any gratification on his behalf.

We will like to point out for the umpteenth time that whether in office or out of office, former President Jonathan does not own any bank account, aircraft or real estate outside Nigeria. Anyone with contrary information is challenged to publicly publish same.
As the President who signed the Freedom of Information Act into law, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan lifted the veil on governance and encouraged transparency knowing that evil breeds in secrecy. It is the opinion of the former President that journalists and media houses should take advantage of this law in their investigative journalism, rather than rely on hearsay.

We hope that these clarifications will help guide future reports which should be factual.

Ikechukwu Eze
Media Adviser to Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
(President 2010-2015)

Faces @ Folake Sola Fajobi's 40th Birthday Party

Wife of Digital Interactive Media Boss, Sola Fajobi, Folake clocked 40 on planet earth. "Solar" as roundly called by friends had his friends around to celebrate the unique occasion, here are pictures from the event.