No Going Back On December 31 Deadline- TRCN Warns Unqualified Teachers

The Registrar, Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Professor Segun Ajiboye on Wednesday says the council is not backing down on the December 31, 2019 deadline to flush out unqualified teachers from Nigerian classrooms.

Ajiboye who disclosed this while speaking with newsmen in Ibadan stated that the National Council of Education has set the deadline for all teachers in Nigerian classrooms to get registered, qualified and licensed by the TRCN.

The Federal Ministry of Education had on June 7, 2019 sent a Circular to all Principals on the December 31, deadline for unqualified teachers to leave Nigerians classrooms.

According to Ajiboye, Nigeria needs quality teachers to deliver quality education and not those he called ‘cheaters’.

The TRCN boss hinted that the ultimate goal is to remove quackery from the teaching profession in order to ensure that only those with required competencies give Nigerian children quality education.

He urged those yet to be registered to take the opportunity of the qualifying tests and get registered by the council before the deadline.

“You need quality teachers to deliver quality education. The Teachers Registration council of Nigeria’s mandate is to determine those who are teachers in terms of their qualifications and registration with the agency. Globally teacher professionalism has become very imperative through appropriate regulatory standards as prescribed by the teaching regulatory authority in the country. There is still time to be registered. The window opportunity is still open. Yes we are not backing down on the December 31,2019 deadline given by the National Council on Education for all teachers in Nigeria to get qualified, registered and licensed by the TRCN. The FME is supporting TRCN in every way possible to achieve this target. ”

Re: "Nigeria On The Verge of Bankruptcy", Emir of Kano Meant Well for Nigeria- AGF

The office of the Accountant General of the Federation has reacted to what its described as a 'misrepresentation of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi 11 at the 3rd National Treasury Workshop in Kano.

In a press statement made available to journalists, Henshaw Ogubike, Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation said the report being circulated on some media platforms, where Emir Sanusi was quoted to have said that, Nigeria is on the verge bankruptcy doesn't represent what the highly respected Northern monarch meant.

The Nation and other Newspapers online reports on Tuesday, 25th June 2019, published this story on their online media, claiming that the Emir declared that Nigeria is on the threshold of bankruptcy, following unfavorable economic policies, such as subsidizing Petroleum products and Electricity tar riffs.

"The attention of the office of the Accountant General of the Federation has been drawn to a statement credited to the Emir of Kano, HRM MUHAMMADU SANUSI II, saying, " Nigeria on the verge of bankruptcy," 

‘’This is not TRUE, as the respected Emir was only advising Government to consider gradual withdrawal of subsidy on Petroleum products and Electricity tariffs to enable the Government  have resources for infrastructure, Education and Health care. The Royal father was quoted out of context. We therefore hasten to call on the general public to disregard these on-line misrepresentations of facts.’’

In addition, the Emir suggested the way forward to Government by advising the present administration to take a second look at the issue of subsidy, that Nigerians deserve and expect transparency and accountability in the management of the nation's Treasury.

The Emir further advised that Government should look at the components of petroleum products and do the needful," the statement reads.

IBHS Class of 94 To Honour Bode Amoo, Others at 25th Anniversary Reunion

The 1994 set of the Ibadan Boys’ High School Old Boys Association has fixed 28th and 29th June for its 25th anniversary reunion. As part of the activities lined up for the event, the National President of Ibadan Boys High School Old Boys Association, Chief Bode Amoo will be honoured with an award of excellence in recognition of his immense contributions to the development of the school.

In a chat with The Anchor Online, the set’s interim President, Taofik Olatunji disclosed that the plan to hold a reunion was hatched by the set’s executive committee with support from members scattered across the different continents of the world.

“We feel after 25 years of passing out from the school, we should at least be able to give something back to the school that helped shape our lives in one way or the other”, he said.

Olatunji also pointed out that “some of us are coming together for the first time since we left the school, so it provides ample opportunity for us to interact and I am sure new bonds will be formed. We will also look at how we can make things better and give back to the school from time to time”.

As part of the efforts to give back to Ibadan Boys’ High School, the Class of 94 has scheduled free medical check-up for students, teachers and the host community at the T.L Oyesina Memorial Hall by 10 am on Friday 28th June. A career talk, distribution of books to students and the unveiling of the set’s anniversary projects will follow.

Awards, fundraising and luncheon are events slated for 12 noon on Saturday, 29th June. Other distinguished old boys listed for honours include Ibadan based lawyer and businessman, Otunba Reuben Famuyibo, Professor Kunle Olowu, the Dean Post Graduate School, Afe Babalola University, Dr. Ademola Ojeleye, the Chairman, Governing Board, Ibadan Boys’ High School, legal icon, Malam Yusuf Ali, SAN, Alhaji Ganiyu Ahmed, the CEO of Solat Telecoms, Mr. Dolapo Adewunmi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Ogun State, Sunny Andre Ideh, aUK based motivational speaker as well as Late Mr. Simeon Omowon, who was the Principal that nurtured the Set of 94 from their first day in the school till they passed out in 1994. Also on the awardees list are Elder Seni Peters, Architect Akin Ogunbiyi and Rear Admiral Lateef Akintola.

Credit: theanchoronline

Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial Election: Akpabio Laments INEC's Grievous Manipulation

Senator Godswill Akpabio Tuesday lamented the monumental manipulations that characterised the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district election in the February 23 presidential and National Assembly Election, saying the election that produced Chris Ekpenyong of the People's Democratic Party as the winer of the election was highly skewed against him by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Akpabio made the allegation when speaking as evidence in chief in a petition he filed at the National Assembly Election Petitions sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, challenging the declaration of Ekpenyong as winner of the election.

Akpabio said he contested against the PDP and INEC.

Led in evidence by his counsel, Sunday Ameh, Akpabio said: "If  this is (election) how INEC is going to conduct election in Nigeria, it is a pity."

He said in his testimony that INEC showed a great deal of bias against him by mutilating result from many units and wards in the senatorial district to make sure votes to him were either reduced or invalidated to make them insignificant in overrall result in the district.

Akpabio, who was visibly agitated in the witness box, told the court he felt so bad that the election which he got majority of votes cast was mutilated to favour his opponent.

Akpabio accused INEC of hooding election materials when he requested them to prepare his case.

"It was what INEC gave me that I relied on to prepare my case. Out of 169 units in the senatorial district, only in 166 polling units INEC gave us true certified copy of the result sheet."

When told by the first respondent (Ekpenyong's) counsel, U. U Njoku, that his claims to winning the election was based on invalidated votes, Akpabio said: "Majority of votes cast for me were lawful while those for my opponent were unlawful."

In response to Solomon Umoh's claims, counsel to the second respondent, the PDP,  that he (Akpabio) did not vote during the election,  because there was no election in his polling unit, Akpabio said it was a great desservice by INEC to say that  the result from his polling unit 9, Ward 11 in Ukana West 2 were not recorded in final result sheet for the local government.

Also, answering question from INEC's  counsel, Robert Emukpoeru, that he (Akpabio) did not apply for smart card reader and voters' register because they will not support his case, Akpabio said he knew that they were sensitive materials which were exclusive to INEC.

Earlier, the three-man tribunal had over ruled  the second respondent' counsel, Umoh , who objected to the admissibility of police report which confirmed that election was peaceful in the petitioner's polling unit as against INEC's claims that the result from the polling unit was cancelled due to violence.

But the tribunal in a ruling dismissed the objection raised by Umoh, that a witness cannot give evidence on an exhibit that he had not been listed in his deposition and affidavit on oath, insisting that it was not listed among the evidence in his deposition.

In a ruling, Chairman of the panel, Justice W. Akanbi, said the exhibits were conveniently covered by many paragraphs of the petitioner's statement on oath and reply to respondents' response to the petitioner's petition.

"We are of the view it is the duty of the petitioner to tender evidence in open court. The court cannot sit in the confines of its home to sort out exhibits to be identified.

"We hold the view that the exhibits are conveniently covered. They respondents cannot say they were taken by surprise.They were lifted from evidence in court. Objection over ruled," the court held.

Earlier, a  witness,  Anitie Ekong, who was subpoena by the tribunal said he would be surprised that there was no result in Unit 9, Ward 11 in Essien Udim Local Government Area, where Akpabio voted in the February 23 presidential and National Assembly elections.

Ekong, told the court that to say Akpabio did not vote during the February 23 election will be "ridiculous."

He spoke under cross examination, after he was lead to present a video clip in the open court by Ameh which showed Akpabio and wife going through accreditation and voting during the election.

He said he was surprised that INEC is saying there was no election, and that Akpabio didn't go through accreditation and voting in his polling unit.

Re: "Amosun Surrender 1,000 AK-47 Rifles, 4Million Bullets Acquired Before 2019 Election"- Setting The Records Straight

-By Rotimi Durojaye

1. The above story by Premium Times, an online News portal, represented everything but the true and factual accounts regarding a routine exercise that took place at the Ogun State Governors Office, Abeokuta in the morning of Tuesday, 28 May, 2019 as part of Handing Over processes and formalities from the then out-going to the in-coming Administration. It is rather interesting and ironic that a  routine, bona fide and patriotic disposition of the Senator Ibikunle Amosun, CON, FCA has been so savagely twisted in a premeditated effort by Premium Times and its sponsors to stand logic on its head. It is important to clarify that NOT A SINGLE AK 47 RIFLE was handed  over at the event.  

2. Senator Ibikunle Amosun would have loved to ignore this report for the simple reason that it is a matter for the remit of the Police and Security agencies. But, that course of action will appear disrespectful to well-meaning Stakeholders and inquirers on the matter. Secondly, the good people of Ogun State and Nigerians at large deserve to know the exact circumstances of the Handing -Over of these security items.

3. It is important to stress that this was not the first time that Senator Amosun, whilst in office as Governor and former Chief Security of Ogun State would be handing over security assets to the Police. The particular exercise of 28 May, 2019 was done openly in the full glare of the public and the media to ensure accountability, guarantee transparency and judicious use of the assets.

4. In May 2011 when Senator Amosun assumed office, the biggest challenge that confronted Ogun State was insecurity. Political assassinations, unnatural and unexplained deaths were prevalent. In Ogun East for instance, which comprised of 9 of the 20 LGAs at the time, the entire business and financial institutions architecture had become comatose as no bank or such institutions could open for business in the entire Senatorial district. Cultism, Kidnapping for ransom, violent crime and tertiary institutions related criminality stank to high heavens. Ogun West was totally ravaged by cross border banditry, unbridled smuggling and economic sabotage. Ogun Central, though relatively calmer, had its fair share of the very low security index that our State had sunk at the time. No resident, in good conscience, could sleep at night with two eyes closed. In the World Bank Ease of Doing Business, 2010, Ogun State was ranked as Number 35 out of 36 as industries and corporations fled the State in droves. Senator Ibikunle Amosun took the firm view that nothing would thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity. He therefore decided, that early, to confront the myriad security challenges headlong and thereby open up Ogun State to private investment under a secured environment.

5. The SIA administration convened a security Parley amongst all stakeholders. The Parley gave rise to the Ogun State Security Trust Fund (STF) under the leadership of a former Nigerian National Security Adviser. The deliberations and recommendations of the STF and the far-reaching initiatives of Government have delivered consistent peace of mind, economic prosperity and social progress for all within the borders of Ogun State and even beyond since 2012. We note with immense pride that the same Ogun State, generally regarded as a back-water State in terms of security rallied round strongly to emerge as one of the most peaceful and the best place to work and live in Nigeria.

6. The SIA administration sought help from the then President Goodluck Jonathan led Federal Government. First, we sought and got approval to set up “OP MESA” for Ogun State. We followed this up with the specialized QRS unit. We committed substantial funds into procurement of hard and soft ware, and, myriad security assets to decisively combat our security challenges. We got all necessary approvals from the Office of the National Security Adviser to procure the 13 units of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), the 1000 units of AK 47 rifles, 2 Million rounds of ammunition,1000 units of Bullet proof vests and 500 bullet proof helmets and other security communication gadgets. Ogun State not only got approval to import these essential assets, the Federal administration under President Goodluck Jonathan, gave all requisite approvals to assist the State. The Federal Government through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) issued the State the End User Certificate Serial Number 000001123 dated 5th of March, 2012. The Federal Ministry of Finance also granted Import Duty Exemption Certificate through a letter from the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy with  Reference Number BO/R.10260/S.4/T.4/22 dated 10th April, 2012. Indeed the supplier was an accredited agent of the Nigeria Police Force nominated for the job by the Force who also monitored and supervised the transaction. The security materials were cleared through the Murtala Muhammed Airport and confirmed through Nigeria Customs Memo NCS/MMAC/012/S.1. The materials were publicly handed over to the Inspector General of Police MD Abubakar on 22nd April, 2012 wherein he acknowledged that “I have served in all six geographical zones of this country. I have never seen the kind of equipment you are donating to security agents today. This is the first of such maximum donation I have ever seen since I have been serving as a police officer”.   

7. We would like to educate Premium Times that there are strict procedures for the purchase, handling, storage and documentation of security merchandise. We are satisfied that extant approvals, regulations and protocols were observed and complied with in this instance. Without going into the details and thereby breaching conventions, suffice to say categorically that the AK47 rifles were supplied directly to the Nigeria Police, Ogun State Command. The rest of the merchandise were  securely kept in the approved designated armoury within the Government House precincts under police surveillance as it obtains in most Government Lodges, to guarantee exclusive use of the materials in Ogun state. These are not matters for the public. Premium Times is advised to approach other States where such  conventions and protocols exit. The suggestion that the security assets were quickly handed over to the Police in order that the new administration will not know about it is laughable because the current Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR was the main supplier of some of the assets in question, notably, the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).

8. We say with pride that our substantial investment and commitment to security paid off. Ogun State won several international and local security awards. Companies returned to our shores in even higher numbers. Thankfully, under Senator Amosun’s watch, Ogun State did not record any unexplained death or political assassination throughout. Notably, Ogun State holds the record as one of the most peaceful States during the 2019 general elections and is now the investors destination of choice and industrial capital of Nigeria. 

9. As a Governor who understood and took the responsibilities of his office seriously, Senator Amosun was mindful to account for and properly hand over the remainder of the security items to the Police and the new Administration. On 28 May, 2019, the last of the APCs, and all other security assets under the custody of Ogun State Government were passed over to the Police in full glare of the media and general public. We believed that was the surest way to prevent these assets getting into the wrong hands.

10. We assure our well wishers, Stakeholders and residents of Ogun State that we did what was best in their interest as the Chief Security Officer of the State. All contrary insinuations, twisting of facts and deliberate misinformation should be discarded. We encourage Premium Times and all genuine inquirers to approach the Police , Regulatory and Enforcement agencies for any other details they may want.

11. It is interesting to note that a public outing held on 28th May 2019 is generating so much interest three weeks after the event.

-Rotimi Durojaiye

Media Aide to Senator Ibikunle Amosun

Mike Igini, RO Begged Me to Accept Manipulated Result for Obot Akara LGA - Witness Tells Tribunal

The National Assembly Election Petitions, sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, was Monday told how an Electoral Officer for Obot Akara Local Government Area, Prof. Abag Elkana and the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), for the state, Mike Igini, influenced the declaration of the candidate of the People's Democratic Party,  Chris Ekpenyong as the winner of the February 23 Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District to the disadvantage of the All Progressives Congress' candidate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

A former Governor of the state, Akpabio is challenging the declaration of Ekpenyong by INEC as the winner of the declaration of Ekpenyong at the tribunal.

Tiebat Joshua, the petitioner's witness who said he is a farmer and politician, told the tribunal that immediately after the election of the senatorial district of February 23, as agent of the Akpabio in Obot Akara Local Government Area, Prof Elkana invited him to the Independent National Electoral Commission's office in Uyo to meet with Igini, where they begged him to accept the result from the local government.

Responding to how he knew the result was manipulated under cross examination by U. U. Njoku, counsel to the first respondent, Ekpenyong, Joshua said: that he knew through the Returning officer for the local government, Prof. Abang Elkana, who persuaded him to accept the result figure as declared in favour of the PDP candidate, Senator Ekpenyong,  after the election had earlier been cancelled by the Returning Officer due to over voting.

Joshua said:  " My Lords, after the cancellation of Obot-Akara election results due to over voting, I was taken to the office of the REC, Mike Igini, in Uyo by the Electoral Officer of Obot-Akara.

“When we got there, Igini begged me to support the cancellation of the election results from Obot-Akara Local Government to enable the PDP candidate to be declared winner and I said No. But they went ahead to revalidate the results in Igini’s office and Ekpenyong was declared winner in Uyo instead of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District office of INEC”.

He said the figure on the result sheet was changed from 19,632 to 20,117 in favour of the PDP, saying if the figures from the 11 wards in the local government were calculated, the overrall figure of 20,117 on the INEC result sheet  would be wrong.

Joshua said he had protested the result immediately after it was declared at the local government level because of the discrepancies in the result sheet.

He said  based on his protestation, he was invited to INEC where both Elkana, and Igini begged him to accept the result, which he rejected.

He expressed surprise of the several cancellations on the result sheet presented by INEC, adding it was only one cancellation on the result as the time he signed the sheet and he protested before appending his signature.

He accused Prof. Elkana of being a card carrying member of the PDP. "He is a full PDP member. When he contested for local government chairman onthe platform of the PDP I was his agent," he alleged.

Meanwhile, Joshua before his testimony, told the tribunal that he got a call from Ekpenyong two days before Monday, warning him not to come to the tribunal to give evidence in favour of the petitioner.

"Two days ago, I received a call from Ekpenyong who is a leader of PDP, he threatened to kill me if I come to give testify today," he told the court.

The Chairman of the three-man panel, Justice W.O Akanbi, ruled him out on the ground that his counsel knows what to do.

"When a witness is threatened, a counsel knows what to do," he said.

Also, testifying before the tribunal, Akpabio's agent for the senatorial district, Ibanga Ime Akpabio, said he was surprised that the election was declared in favour of the PDP and its candidate, Ekpenyong after obvious manipulation by the electoral umpire.

Gov. Makinde Presents C of O To NNPC For New Retail Outlet

The Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Monday, presented the certificate of Occupancy(C of O) for the construction of a new retail outlet of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) within two days of application.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa informed that the conglomerate’s application for the new outlet was stalled by bureaucratic bottlenecks under the immediate past administration in the state led by Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

According to the statement, the NNPC team led by the Chief Operating Officer, (COO), Downstream, Engineer Adeyemi Adetunji had visited the Governor on Friday June 21, to request for an approval for the new outlet following the failure of a previous effort.

Governor Makinde immediately approved the request and assured the NNPC team that he would personally sign the C of O for the new outlet on Monday, June 24.

At a brief event in the Governor’s office on Monday, Governor Makinde handed over the C of O to Oyo State Sales Representative, Mrs. Toluwase Adesanya.

Governor Makinde said that his decision was in line with his desire to up the ante of ease of doing business, adding that his government would stick to the 60-day window for issuance of C of Os in the state.

According to the Governor, his decision to issue the certificate of Occupancy within two days was a practical demonstration of his government’s commitment towards expanding the economy of the state via the ease of doing business window.

The Governor stated that the NNPC had applied for a parcel of land to build a new retail outlet in Ibadan in order to boost the state’s economy and create more job opportunities for the teeming youths in the state.

Governor Makinde stated that his government would do everything necessary to boost the state’s economy by making the environment conducive for investors.

Stop Defending Illegality-PDP Tells Ajimobi Over LGs, Missing Cars

The Oyo state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Abiola Ajimobi to stop playing to the gallery with his defence of elements in his government who took away cars and other items belonging to the state.

The party in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Engineer Akeem Olatunji, said that it was shameful to see Ajimobi describe the monumental theft of government property by some persons as a "mundane issue."

"We read with serious consternation, comments credited to the former Governor of Oyo state, Senator Ajimobi, especially in respect of the dissolved local governments and the missing cars belonging to the state government.

"While we are very much aware that the state government is dealing with the twin issues with all the seriousness, we are, however, appalled by the statement credited to the former Governor, which amounts to a father attempting to pamper a thieving child. 

"We know that it is not in the character of statesmen to pander towards the axis of evil and pamper wrongdoing by whoever and that is why we are saddened at this attempt by Ajimobi to a man of give justification to allegation of theft.

"We believe that having served the two constitutionally guaranteed terms of office as Governor of Oyo state, Senator Ajimobi should remain grateful to the people of Oyo state.

There cannot be any ambiguity in the statement credited to the new Government on the issue of cars taken away by operatives of the last administration. 

Some officials of the government led by Ajimobi refused to return cars and other items belonging to the state after their tour of duty. That cannot be a matter to be celebrated or described as “mundane” by anyone.

“Should we classify theft as mundane because it was perpetrated by some political "demi god's" who happened to serve a previous government?

“What is expected of Ajimobi is to prevail on his loyalists to return any property belonging to the state they might have illegally kept aside.

Besides his defence of the missing vehicles, Senator Ajimobi has also been gallivanting round the city of Ibadan in recent times as if in some victory laps. He has made statements to the effect that he turned around the state and has also been offering words of advice to Governor Seyi Makinde. We congratulate him for the alleged feat. 

“We, however, make bold to state that the said achievements he claimed to have recorded fall way below the pacesetter status of Oyo state. At best, Ajimobi's laps amount to a celebration of failure; what with the uncompleted projects all around.

“With the funds his government claimed to have committed to capital projects, we should not be talking of poorly executed contracts and abandoned roads everywhere even after a government has spent eight years in office. 

Let us, however, reassure the people of Oyo state that Governor Seyi Makinde will return the lost glory of this state and take that state to a higher realm of development anyone can imagine.

 “On the dissolved local governments, we are convinced that Ajimobi is merely playing to the gallery of partisan politics here.

“We do not wish to say much on this because the matter is before the court of law. We will, however, place on record that all efforts aimed at pulling the administration of Governor Makinde down, even before it took off are already falling by the wayside. 

“Our people are not unaware of the series of landmines positioned on the path of the new government by the administration of Ajimobi . We are all witnesses to the series of last-minute spending and the refusal to cooperate with the transition committee. Those are not the antics of statesmen. 

“We will also state it loud and clear that the PDP is not in doubt that the new driver in Oyo state is competent and ready to remove all cobwebs and cogs in the wheels of progress. We will all be witnesses to the success story," the statement reads.

Drama At Tribunal As INEC's Document Confirms Akpabio Won

There was a mild drama at the National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal in Akwa Ibom State when Counsel to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mr. Solomon Umoh, SAN tried unsuccessfully to prevent a witness, Mr Godwin Afangideh from reading the result from a document presented by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC.) 

The document was an exhibit presented by INEC in a petition filed by Senator Godswill Akpabio of the All Progressives Congress (APC) challenging the declaration of Engr Christopher Ekpenyong (PDP) as the Senator for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District.

Reading from the document given to him by Counsel to PDP, the Witness, Mr Afangide said "My Lord  even from this document APC scored a total votes 61,329 and PDP scored 9,050 in Essien Udim Local Government Area and it is recorded here." Mr Umoh, SAN had attempted to shout down the Witness from reading that part of the document.

Mr Afangide had earlier tendered results collated from Wards across the Local Government Area as given to him by the party agents which clearly showed that Senator  Akpabio had won the election in his own Local  Government Area with a wide margin. 

The Witness expressed surprise at the voters' register tendered in court and said it was different from the one that was used on election day. He confirmed that he had voted along with his family members.  

According to Mr Afangide the elections in Essien Udim Local Government Area were very peaceful as attested to by security agencies, local and foreign observers. 

Two Police Officers, the Area Commander, Ikot Ekpene Area Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police,  Mr Naziru Bello Kankarofi and the Divisional Police Officer, Essien Udim Local Government, Superintendent of Police, Mr Samuel Isiek, on subpoena tendered situation  reports on the conduct of the National Assembly elections. 

The reports were duly admitted as exhibits despite the initial objections of Counseld to the PDP, Mr Umoh, SAN, Counsel to the Respondents, Chief Kanu Agabi and Counsel to INEC, MrRobert Emukpoeruo . They reserved their objections till final addresses. 

Another Witness, Dr Chris Akpan who was a Ward Collation Agent told the Tribunal that the results that were declared by INEC in Uyo did not reflect collated results from the Units and Wards of the Local Government Area. 

Reacting to suggestions by the Counsel to INEC that results from the Local Government Area of Senator Akpabio were cancelled because of violence, the Witnesses expressed surprise and said they were hearing of violence for the first time in the Tribunal.  

Senator Akpabio had so far called 14 Witnesses mostly Ward Agents who have tendered duly collated results. Results so far tendered showed he had led his opponent with a wide margin before INEC cancelled the results in Uyo. 

Michael Alonge Unveils New Motivational Book, 'Hidden Substance'

Alonge Michael, a journalist and an online news service provider at Mike Angelo News has perfected all acts for the public presentation of the maiden edition of his intellectual compilation, The Hidden Substance, slated for Thursday 27th, June, 2019 at Imperial Hall, Muhammed Jobifele Way, Behind MKO Abiola Gardens, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos from 12 noon.

The Hidden Substance is a ‘mini-autobiography’, embellished with some motivational and inspirational nuggets for the emerging generation and for those entrepreneurs who are yet to, or still struggling to realise their potential.

According to the latest author on the bloc, Alonge Michael, “The Hidden Substance is a needed formula for those aspiring for success and greatness despite stumbling blocks. It is a tool that is no doubt needed in the engineering factory of success. It’s a model in book format that is enriched with necessary tools that will help reshape, mold and change the mentality of our youths who believe that cutting corners or engaging in  shady deals like ‘yahooyahoo’ will launch them into the fantasy life of their dreams."

Alonge continues, "a book I once read changed my perception to life, and I believe this too will definitely change someone’s life. Whatever you want to become in life, you need necessary tools, this book contains all the nourishments needed to be on top of your game. ” 

The book which will be reviewed by Mr. Babatunde Olowu has Apostle Aderemi Awode, the man behind the global brand, Finecoat paint, as the writer of the Foreword. 

Activities for the launch include Book Reading from three industry persons, a Nollywood thespian, a lawyer and a columnist.

Expected to grace the event are distinguished personalities from all strata of society cutting across captains of industries, entertainment czars, media personalities from all walks of life. 

Red Carpet starts exactly 12 noon.  

Attendance is strictly by invitation with maximum security in place.

             

      

Election Tribunal: Witnesses Reveal How INEC Cancelled Akpabio's Results

More revealing facts, evidences and testimonies have continued to trail the on-going hearing session on the petition filed by Senator Godswill Akpabio seeking for nullification of the declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Dr.  Christopher Ekpenyong, as the Senator elect. 

National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo, on Friday admitted more witnesses to give testimonies on the National Assembly election conducted  in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District on February 23, 2019.

"Wonders they say shall never end", this has been the experience of witnesses at the on-going National Assembly Elections Petition tribunal. Witnesses have informed the tribunal  that INEC surprised them with shocking news of cancellation on collated results compiled from their Units and Wards and also alleged that INEC has reproduced new voters register, which they said were not used on election day. 

Seven witnesses that testified on Senator Akpabio's petition told the three-man panel of the tribunal that they were so amazed to hear that collated election results obtained from their units and wards were cancelled by INEC after they were announced at respective polling  units and wards. 

They added that the petitioner, Senator Godswill Akpabio won convincingly from all the units and wards that results  were collated and announced. 

According to the Ward Agent in Okon Ward 8 Essien Udim Local Government Area,  he was shocked to hear that the results he signed at his ward collation centre were cancelled by INEC in Uyo, and insisted that he only heard about the cancellation in the court room. 

Responding, the lead counsel to the third respondent (INEC),  Mr. Ifeoluwa Otediran, Esq. said that the reason why INEC cancelled election results in 17 out of 20 pulling units in Okon Ward 8 was because voters resister used for accreditation were not ticked, and that INEC believed that there was no accreditation of voters. 

"My Lord,  it is not true. There was accreditation and our names were ticked in my Ward before we were allowed to cast our votes and the same thing was done in other polling units which our Party agents informed me about. There was no cancellation in my presence. I was a Ward collation officer for my Party", the stunned Witness replied Otediran.

Testifying on INEC form EC8B1 for code 06 (Odoro Ikot Ward 6) of 05 registration area, a  Witness told the tribunal that he was suprised to hear  for the first time inside the tribunal that results in the entire 10 polling units in his Ward were cancelled by INEC in Uyo. He further testified that voters register presented to him in the tribunal was far different from the one INEC brought to the area on election day.

"My Lord, these documents tendered here are  different from the one INEC gave to us in all the polling units in Ward 8 in Odoro Ikot, Essien Udim Local Government Area on election day.  

"It is a surprise that INEC gave us photocopied documents. I am surprise that there were original documents. Our names were tick on the voters register they gave to us but this one brought here at the tribunal as evidence by INEC; it is shocking  that our names on the box are not ticked". Witness testified.

The same sad scenario was also experienced in Ukana West Ward 10 and Ukana East Ward 9, both agents discovered at the tribunal that all collated results in 7 and 10 polling units in the two Wards were cancelled by INEC without their knowledge.

They also lamented that certified true copy of voters register presented at the tribunal by INEC; their passport and accreditation marked tick on the register at the polling units were not found on the register .

The witnesses also testified that voters register that were used for accreditation on election day were  rough, and according to them, was as a result that 

 ad-hoc staff were opening them consistently for accreditation of voters but they were surprised that what was presented by INEC were new documents.

The testimonies by witnesses according to legal analysts was revealing of how some officials of INEC conspired to cancelled the results of Senator Akpabio to reduce his votes and declare his opponent as the winner of the election. More revelations are expected as the Petitioner calls more witnesses.

The lead counsel to the petitioner, Mr.  S. I. Ameh, SAN was granted June 19 and 20 by the tribunal  to present all his witnesses to continue their testimonies.

June 12: Soji Akanbi Lauds Buhari for Honouring MKO

The immediate past senator who represented Oyo South Senatorial district in the Upper Chamber, Senator Soji Akanbi on Wedneseday lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for his recent declaration of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and signing into law the public holiday (amendment) bill.

The former Senator, who represented Oyo South senatorial district between 2015 and 2019, in his message, “It is indeed a great move and very welcome development,” adding that “In every corner of our country, this special day, in honour of Late Chief M.K.O Abiola, marks the turning point in our history. 

Nigerians as a nation and as a people defied all odds and expectations, and chose to rebuild our motherland on the principles adhered to by many nations before us: that the people of a country can stand sovereign over their elected leaders, by exercising their right to choose at the ballot box. It reminds us of the valour, vision and dream of passionate Nigerians from all parts of the country, even our heroes past, who came together in unity of purpose to ensure a well deserved democratic rule after a long and tough military rule regime.”

The June 12, 1993 presidential election which had produced late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was annulled by the then military head of state, Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida.

Senator Akanbi message further reads, “today, we celebrate the momentous rebirth of our nation’s democracy, marking the continuation of a leadership that is inclusive and represents the interest of every Nigerian.

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In every corner of our country, this special day,in honour of Late Chief M.K.O Abiola , marks the turning point in our history. Nigerians as a nation and as a people defied all odds and expectations, and chose to rebuild our motherland on the principles adhered to by many nations before us: that the people of a country can stand sovereign over their elected leaders, by exercising their right to choose at the ballot box. It reminds us of the valour, vision and dream of passionate Nigerians from all parts of the country, even our heroes past, who came together in unity of purpose to ensure a well deserved democratic rule after a long and tough military rule regime.

And I sincerely commend His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the Public Holiday (Amendment) Bill, which legalizes June 12 as Nigeria’s democracy day. It is indeed a great move and very welcome development.

In retrospect, the last three decades have been filled with many challenges; our nation has been faced with tough times yet our history shows these are not insurmountable, we only need to draw on the perseverance of those before us.

We must bear in mind that our organised strength lies in the common experiences we share with our fellow Nigerians, and our everyday successes as a nation are rooted in the foundations of our citizen-centered democracy.

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Nevertheless, we must also never forget that just as our strength lies in our commonalities and shared experiences, our most potent power emanates from our over 150 million-strong voice. When our minds are bind together as one, we are strong. When we speak out as one, we are formidable. When we demand as one, we are insurmountable.

We must therefore continue to uphold the bond of citizenship that has kept us together as one indivisible people.

It behooves on us all to be diligent and firm in the belief that we shall harvest the dividends of the sacrifices given by many to obtain and sustain our democracy.

We must unequivocally understand, that this democracy of ours is not just a gift, but a responsibility to be harnessed and developed for the benefit of generations of Nigerians that are yet to come.

I celebrate every Nigerian at home and in diaspora, human right activists, our service men and women, religious leaders, military men and even lawmakers that may have been “witch-hunted especially those of 3rd Republic which Senator Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi happened to be for standing for the truth among others, who have definitely played important roles in attaining and maintaining our democratic system. Remembering these heroes goes beyond a holiday in our homes, but ensuring that the will of Nigerians of all social status, tribes, ages and religions to embrace the true spirit of a statesman, understand our differences, join hands in unity beyond words and shoulder the responsibility of re-building Nigeria knowing that no one can build this nation except we do come together and remain as one.

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In this regard, as we reflect and celebrate JUNE 12 as our democracy day, I urge us all to march into the future with the knowledge that in the spirit of togetherness, we can achieve a lot more for our common prosperity.

Police Nabs Man Who Forged Oyo Governor's CPS' Letterhead to Secure Employment

A middle-aged man, Fakorede Olabisi Johnson was on Tuesday nabbed by the Police for forging the letterhead of the office of the  Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Oyo State in a bid to secure employment as Coordinating Secretary of the State’s Local Government Service Commission.

The arrested impostor was picked up at the Local Government Service Commission and taken to the office of the Head of Service, while he was trying to secure office accommodation.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, Taiwo Adisa, stated that Fakorede had earlier approached the Commission with a letter purportedly signed by the Chief Press Secretary, which he claimed appointed him as the Acting Coordinating Secretary (Local Government Service).

In the forged letter, Fakorede claimed that his appointment was pursuant to section 42(2&3) of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

He had on Monday presented the forged letter to the Service Commission and demanded to be allocated an office and an official car.

The staff of the Commission had, however, told him to report on Tuesday when the office would have been put together.

Checks by the Staff of the Commission at the Office of the Head of Service and the Chief Press Secretary confirmed the letter was forged.

Officials then set a dragnet for the impostor, leading to his arrest on Tuesday.

Following his arrest, Fakorede claimed he committed the crime in order to survive and that he was ignorant of the implications.

When asked how he came about the letter, Fakorede said he forged the letter when he heard the name of the CPS on radio, adding that he had always longed to get a political appointment.

Fakorede said during interrogation:  “I am a native of Oyo town but I live in Lagos. I listened to the news and heard of the name of the Press Secretary on Radio. I like political appointment that is why I designed the appointment in the form of a political appointment.

“I forged the letter by myself, nobody told me to do it. I was pushed to do it by ignorance.”

Fakorede has been handed over to the Police for further investigation and trial.

While addressing journalists in his office, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, told indigenes of the State to be wary of fraudsters who might want to take advantage of the change in government to commit fraud.

June 12: Makinde Grants Amnesty to 35 Prisoners

The Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has granted amnesty to 35 convicted prisoners in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day, June 12.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the Governor took the decision pursuant to Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.  

The statement further confirmed that the Governor has approved a low-key June 12 celebration while enjoining residents and citizens of the state to take time off to reflect on the ways by which they can contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s democracy.

He also urged them all to go about the celebration peacefully.

“Today, we have decided to set free 35 prisoners, who have been found worthy of that amnesty,” the Governor said, adding that the state would, however, only observe a low- key celebration.

According to the Governor, in subsequent years, the state would collaborate with the family of the hero of June 12, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola to celebrate the day in grand style.

The statement further read: “The Government and people of Oyo State today join millions of Nigerians to remember a man who devoted his life to the service of his community and eventually died, seeking to offer more service, Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR.

“We recall 26 years ago, how Nigerians of all walks of life spoke in unison and trooped out to participate in the freest and fairest presidential election Nigeria has ever seen.

“It was a sad day as the election was annulled by the military and the man, Abiola, eventually died in detention. We take solace, however, in the fact that his determination and dogged fight watered the flowers of democracy. It is a good thing that today, the nation is recognising his contributions by setting aside June 12 as a National Day for the celebration of democracy.

“As a people and a government, we can only urge ourselves to jealously guard and guide the legacy of democracy bequeathed to us through the struggles of MKO, while doing all we could to leave a more enduring democratic system for our children and the unborn generation.

“We salute the family of the heroes and heroines of June 12, who have had to suffer the grief and indignity of losing their beloved ones untimely. We salute the courage of the pro-democracy fighters and activists, the leaders of defunct National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and many silent contributors, who kept the flag of June 12 flying even when it was a dangerous venture to do say.

“We salute the many heroes and heroines, especially the late Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane among others, who paid with their blood in the struggle to give June 12 its deserved recognition. May the souls of those that departed in the course of the June 12 struggles continue to rest in peace.

“We wish all happy Democracy Day.”

Late Eruwa-born Billionaire's Son Debo Ogundoyin Emerges Oyo Assembly Speaker

The son of late Eruwa-born billionaire, Chief Adeseun Ogunsola, Debo has emerged Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly.

Ogundoyin emergence came today at the first sitting of the state's 9th assembly, shortly after their induction.

The 32-year-old, Debo Ogundoyin is one of the 32 honourables who won their various constituencies in the March 9 election in the state, making him a returnee member of the House, under APC.

Debo, you would recall, made his way into Oyo State House of Assembly when he won the Ibarapa East by-election after the death of the former Speaker of the state's Assembly, Hon. Michael Alake Adeyemo, last year, under Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He defeated APC's candidate, Mr. Olukunle Adeyemo in the poll.

He is an Agronomy graduate of Babcock University.

100 Days In Office: UCH CMD, Otegbayo Launches 'Cash and Carry' Pharmacy

As part of activities marking his 100 days in office, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, Prof Jesee Otegbayo has commissioned a new pharmacy called 'Cash and Carry'.

The new pharmacy outlet, which is said to be an innovation to improve patient ease of getting drugs and medical consumables alike, is located opposite engineering/works department within the premises of the hospital.

Igini is Unfit To Hold Public Office- Akpabio

Godswill Akpabio, the senator who represented Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial district in the 8th assembly, has described the state's electoral commissioner, Mr Mike Igini as the most compromised electoral officer in Nigeria. That he  should not be allowed to hold public office.

Akpabio stated this at Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government area of the state while empowering some of his constituents. he accused Mike Igini, resident electoral commissioner of the state, of denying him of the mandate freely given to him.

Saying, "God will soon expose those who fraudulently orchestrated' his loss in the last national assembly election.

He insisted that he did not lose the election, and urged his people not to be dismayed by the temporary setback.

“Please nobody should have any headache, nobody should cry because there is no need. You know your senator cannot lose election because we were all there,” he said.

“But many of them thought they can go and write whatever they like and even cancel what you won. I have never in my life experienced a resident electoral commissioner like Mike Igini and my message to him is that his hypocrisy will be exposed.

“There is no way you can come into Akwa Ibom and commit that kind of electoral fraud you committed then you go back to Channels Television and sit down and talk as if you are a pope.

“Very soon the world will know… All the materials we are recovering everyday will expose you.

“Just yesterday, the police arrested people carrying materials from where they voted and were trying to sneak into INEC. The other day, they arrested someone with card readers. He was frantically calling and trying to say that they were used for training three months after election so that they will continue to manipulate," he said.

Akpabio also said that he intends to join President Muhammadu Buhari to sanitise the nation’s electoral system.

”For me, it is important as a former governor and elder statesman to join the President to sanitize the electoral process so that we will ensure that votes count in future elections."

”There is no need for Nigeria to continue taking one step forward and five steps backward," Akpabio posited.

Online Publishers Congratulate Oyo First Lady on Her Birthday

The Forum of Oyo Online Publishers (FOOP) has felicitated with the wife of the Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunominni Makinde as she celebrates her birthday. 

In a statement jointly signed by the Forum's Chairman, Wọlé Adejumo and the Public Relations Officer, Ayodele Ìdòwú, the  Governor's wife was described as a modest, caring and trustworthy mother who has remained a pillar of strength to her husband.

The Forum commended the Governor’s wife for her steadfastness and heroic contributions to  the victory recorded by her husband in the last governorship election.

While extolling Mrs Makinde's virtue, especially for being a strong pillar of support to her husband, the Forum also noted that her display of loyalty is worthy of emulation.

The FOOP leadership averred that as a  compassionate mother who combines decency and commitment to excellence, she has been able to worm her way into the hearts of the people through her charitable gestures.

"Her love for the downtrodden, the deprived across the state is widely acknowledged. Her unwavering support for Governor Makinde has assured many that with her as First Lady, the Governor's efforts will be well complemented".

The Forum prayed God Almighty to grant her sound health, wisdom and  strength to  continue to provide mentoring  for the betterment of Oyo State.