Eid-el-Kabir: Akande-Sadipe Preaches Hope & Trust

Member Representing Oluyole Federal Constituency and Chairperson, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe has urged Nigerians to emulate Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), by imbibing the spirit of love, peace, kindness, and sacrifice during Sallah and afterwards.

Akande-Sadipe further called on Muslims to pray for peace, unity, prosperity, and economy recovery of the country, Nigeria. This was contained in her message to Muslims signed by her Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Olamilekan Olusada.  

She noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the pace of development in the country, but reminded them that Allah puts us in hard times so that we can appreciate his blessings afterward. “Let's put our trust on him and pray for courage and solutions”.

“Only Allah knows what is best for us. So, don't lose hope in our troubled times, instead, let us remind ourselves that Allah always has the best plan for all of us”.

Quoting the Holy Quran, she said, “Allah’s promise in the Qur’an {Indeed with the difficulty there is an ease. Indeed with the difficulty there is an ease.} (Al-Inshirah 5-6)”

“Difficult times are decisive and differentiating. They show those who are truthful and those who are not.  May the year ahead be fruitful for you and your home or family”, she concluded.

Eid-el-Kabir: Makinde Congratulates Muslims, Preaches Love, Sacrifice

Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has felicitated the Muslim  Ummah in the State and across the world on the occasion of the Eid-il-Kabir celebration, admonishing them to continue to keep adhering to the teachings of love, sacrifice and perseverance, which the  festival exemplifies.

Governor Makinde, in a Sallah Message made public and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, noted that the “Festival of Sacrifice" known as Eid-el-Kabir, presents an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on the faith with which Prophet Ibrahiûm (Abraham) willingly agreed to sacrifice his son, in obedience to the command of the Almighty Allah.

The governor maintained the all-important Eid Adha was worth celebrating despite the restrictions brought upon the world by the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging the Muslim Ummah to use the opportunity to pray for the peace of the world and to show love and selflessness in line with the examples shown by Prophet Ibrahim.

The governor equally urged all Muslims in the state and especially the clerics and leaders to ensure strict compliance with the COVID-19 protocols, noting that the times demand that they celebrate with moderation and in adherence to preventive guidelines on COVID-19.

"I congratulate the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and across the world on the opportunity given to us by Allah SWT to witness the 2020 Eid-el-Kabir. 

"Despite the restrictions brought upon the world by the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe that the Eid Adha presents all Muslims the opportunity to pray, make sacrifices and demonstrate the key teachings of the Holy Prophet such as love, sacrifice and selflessness.

"This was why I gave the directive that Eid Prayer Grounds should be opened to worshippers. However, in line with the Own Your Action initiative of the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force, which emphasises the roles individuals have to play to contain the COVID-19, the times demand that we all take responsibility and take heed in order to curtail the spread of the virus, especially during this festive season.

"As already directed, Eid Prayer Sessions must not have more than 25 per cent capacity at any instance, while clerics must ensure that all worshippers use face masks and are ready to wash hands with soap and water at designated points before accessing the Eid Grounds.

"I celebrate with my Muslim brothers and sisters on this occasion and encourage them to continue to pray for the state and its leadership, while also urging them to continue to live in harmony and love.

"I am grateful to the Muslim Ummah and all residents of the state for their prayers, love and support so far and I make bold to say that with an ever-supportive followership like the one we enjoy in Oyo State, success is almost guaranteed for any leadership.

"As an administration, we also make the commitment not to take the support and love for granted, as we march on in the task of repositioning our state from poverty to prosperity. 

"Eid Mubarak to you all and may Allah accept our sacrifices and prayers." 

World Day Against Trafficking: Lawmaker Akande-Sadipe Seeks Partnership with Governors' Wives, Stakeholders

Federal House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs, says effective partnership of all tiers of governments, especially Wives of State Governors and other relevant stakeholders will enhance Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking in the country.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. (Mrs) Tolulope Akande-Sadipe K, made this known today in an interview with newsmen, as part of activities marking the 2020 World Day Against Trafficking Persons.

Akande Sadipe, expressed worry over the high-level of trafficking, inviting, Wives of Governors in the country to rise against this and other vices against females.

"This is another form of violence against women", she said. “The best way to eradicate this evil among us is to work in unity. Wives of Governors should use their offices to advocate against this act”. 

"The traficking agents and their collaborators are not more powerful than those who mean well for the people of this Nation". 

Hon. Akande-Sadipe revealed that her recent meeting with the Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, which yielded positive enthusiasm by the Governor’s wife shows that there could be fruitful collaborations with wives of Governors to bring this embarrassing scourge to an end.

“This action will ensure that we build awareness in our various states. We need to educate parents and our girls on the risk of foreign domestic servitude and the lies of agents who end up trafficking them into dangerous situations”.

“We would ensure that the collaboration focuses on rehabilitation, engaging effective sensitisation, workshops and seminars across communities, schools, churches, mosques markets, and other public places”, to the remotest parts of our nation, she added.

Mrs. Sadipe also thanked the Nigerian Ambassador to Lebanon, Ambassador Goni Modu Zanna Bura, who recently came to the aid of thirty Nigerian girls in Lebanon, who were forcefully ejected by their landlord.

“I spoke to the Nigerian Ambassador in Lebanon yesterday and his response was inspiring as he had put in place some emergency palliatives for the girls in Lebanon”, she said. 

“We also want to encourage Fed. Min of Women Affairs, Ministries of Women Affairs in each State, Local government authorities, relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to partner with us, so that this trafficking menace would be a thing of the past”, she said.

Hon. Akande-Sadipe reiterated her commitment to ensuring legislation to discourage Human Traficking. She is working auspiciously with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). 

World Day against Trafficking in Persons is held annually on July 30. People trafficking and modern day slavery is recognized by the UN as a massive worldwide problem with very few countries immune to human trafficking.

Reports revealed about eighty thousand Nigerians are currently held as sex slaves and in forced labour across the world, in countries like Lebanon, Mali and the Middle East.

Why We Are Taking Loans To Reposition Oyo For Economic Growth--Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, explained that his administration's determination to fix the huge infrastructure deficit in the state and get the state on the right track for economic growth was behind the move to secure loans that target key infrastructure.

He added that the problem with loans is not in taking them, but in the way they are utilised, noting that with the extant economic reality in the state, it would be difficult for the state to get out of its infrastructure crisis and be well-placed to attract investments, without taking loans targeted at developing key infrastructure. 

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor stated these during the signing of the reviewed 2020 Budget from N213 Billion to N174 Billion into law.

The governor explained that in the revised 2020 budget, N65.2 Billion has been earmarked for capital projects while N108.9 Billion is for recurrent expenditure, stating that the state plans to pay a huge chunk of its recurrent expenditure through allocations from the federation account and the state's internally generated revenue.

The governor appreciated members of the Oyo State House of Assembly for reviewing the revised budget proposal in a timely manner and for approving the downward review, saying "it is heartening that the three arms of government have continued to work harmoniously for the good of the people of Oyo State."

The budget signing ceremony, which took place at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, other top government functionaries and some lawmakers.

Speaking shortly after signing the reviewed budget, Governor Makinde maintained that the reason for the  review was due to economic meltdown, crash in oil prices and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the economy of the state. 

The governor reiterated his administration's commitment to ensure an optimum performance of the budget, noting that the state will ensure that the 2020 revised budget is adequately funded by aiming at 70 per cent  performance.

He said: "The reason for this latest revision is apparent to all. The economic meltdown we are experiencing, occasioned by the crash in oil prices, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, has greatly affected our state's ability to stick with the original budget.

"So, after the review, which we submitted to the Oyo State House of Assembly, it was agreed that we should effect an 18.3 per cent downward review of the budget, from N213 Billion to N174 Billion.

"It is this revised budget that I am signing today. As I sign this revised budget, it is a good time to reflect on one issue that has plagued our budget implementation over the years - the issue of poor budget performance.

"We make robust presentations of plans that mostly end on paper, because the funds are not available to implement them.

"When you have an annual budget performance of about 30 per cent, you will understand why we keep having stagnation in economic growth. Or how else will you explain an IGR average of about N1.8 billion in the past four years?"

Governor Makinde maintained that the reason Oyo State continued to be referred to as a civil service state is because it failed, over the years, to take the needed action to boost its economy, stating that his administration is ready to make daring and ambitious efforts to reposition the state economically.

"So, we have taken some steps to ensure that the 2020 revised budget is adequately funded. As I said at the signing of the initial budget, we are aiming for a minimum of 70 per cent performance," Governor Makinde said, adding that the steps taken by the government is to ensure that loans taken are used to fund priority capital projects.

He said: "One of the steps we have taken is to ensure that loans taken are used to fund priority capital projects.

"Another thing we are doing is using an Alternative Project Funding Approach to carry out key priority projects. This will be used for the twenty-one-kilometres Airport – Ajia – New Ife Express Road with a spur to Amuloko in Ibadan and few other projects.

"What the alternative approach entails is that the contractor will fund the project and the Oyo State Government will pay for the project over thirty months. "I have seen some comments about the cost of the Airport Road. There is no basis for the comparison between the Airport Road and the Moniya-Iseyin road. Unlike the Moniya-Iseyin road, the Airport road will contain hydraulic structures."

The governor also used the occasion to clear the air on the planned Oyo State Prosperity Bond, noting that though the government is aware that floating the bond is an ambitious move, it is a bold step that has to be taken for the development of the state.

"Let me use this opportunity to talk about the N100 Billion bond, also known as the Oyo Prosperity Bond, which was recently proposed and approved by the Oyo State Executive Council. There is no arguing that floating this bond is an ambitious move. But I want to believe that we were voted into office to take bold steps in developing our economy. 

"The facts before us are clear. Our state has huge infrastructural deficits. If those deficits are not addressed, it means we will be maintaining the status quo. Any person with sound financial knowledge will tell you that the only way to get out of this cycle of poverty is through massive investment in infrastructure.

"As I have always said, the problem with loans is not in taking them, but in the way loans are utilised. Oyo State cannot get out of its infrastructural deficit without taking loans targeted at developing key infrastructure.

"For example, we are targeting economically strategic roads such as the fifty-kilometres Iseyin-Ogbomoso road and the Ibadan Circular Road. We are also giving attention to the health sector by either constructing or upgrading one public hospital in each of the three senatorial districts of the state. In the transport sector, we are focused on building the Ibadan Dry Port and rail corridor and upgrading the Ibadan Airport.

"Oyo State cannot attract investments into our economy without showing that we are worthy of these investments. Investors will go to Lagos and even our neighbouring Ogun State if we continue running our economy with the same level of unseriousness that the state has come to be known for. 

"Tell me, what excuse do we have for not making it into the list of top ten economies in Nigeria? How can we, despite being in these dire conditions, not recognize the urgency of growing our economy?

"I took an oath to lift Oyo State from poverty to prosperity using our Roadmap to Accelerated Development of Oyo State 2019-2023. I am determined to keep my word. Every step we have taken as an administration since our being sworn in on May 29, 2019, till date is geared towards ensuring that every promise made will translate to promises kept.

I pledge to continue carrying you along as we make the best decisions for the overall good of the people of Oyo State."

Awotan Dumpsite: Consultant Applauds Makinde's Plan To Tap Into Renewable Energy

Environmental Consultant and CEO, Macpresse West Africa Limited, Mr. Idowu Salawu has commended plans by the Oyo State Government to tap into renewable energy sources, such that it will come from utilization of land fill gas from Awotan dumpsite.

Mr. Idowu Salawu stated this while speaking with newsmen on the potentials embedded in the 12.5 Hectare of land where the dumpsite is located in Ibadan.

He added that revitalisation, rebuilding and reforming processes at the dumpsite, after completion, would develop Oyo State’s electricity supply chain, if the State partners with a Solar Energy company.

Salawu further said tapping into the renewable energy potentials of the dumpsite would be a good support for the Federal Government’s off-grid power supply in the State. He added that this will bring in more electricity supply to Oyo State.

He added that, "the decision to tap into the solar and landfill gas, as the end use of the dumpsite is the best decision, because the government does not have to worry itself on the Federal Government’s off grid supply of electricity, once we partner with a solar energy company”.

He affirmed that the end use of the dumpsite is for it to generate electricity of One Megawatt per hectare, adding that landfill gas on the dumpsite can conveniently generate energy for electricity.

He stressed that the rehabilitation of the dumpsite is one of the prerequisites for the clean and green initiative of the State Government.

According to him, the move has converted the brown environment into a green economy, which in turn has affected the host community.

The Environmental Consultant said the government has established a value chain of employment with not less than 200 skilled and semi-skilled staff on the dumpsite, which is one of the benefits of the rehabilitation process to the host community.

"Today, we have employed skilled and unskilled men on this project. This is one of the many advantages of this rehabilitation process to Awotan, the host community”, he said.

Speaking further, Salawu said it was obvious that the rehabilitation process has affected the socio-economic activities of the host community.

On the stage at which the project is on, Salawu added that the process has reached 80% state of completion.

“The dumpsite, after completion, would be the last place where waste would come from PSPs. The dumpsite now has a 1Km access road, which makes it easy for heavy duty waste compactors to come in and it has reached 80% completion”, he said.

Salawu however called for attitudinal change among residents of the State. He also said commercialization of the sector in line with best international practices may be the best option for Oyo State Government.

Nigerian Are Hungry, Angry With Buhari – Dr Olapade Agoro

                                                                         

The founder and former presidential candidate of the defunct National Action Council (NAC), Dr Olapade Agoro has declared that Nigerians are hungry and angry with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government in the country.

This, according to him is because of the present economic situation and the increasing spate of insecurity, less than effective handling of the anti-corruption fight and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The elder statesman, church leader, who also holds the traditional title of Owatapa of Itapa-Ijesa expressed these views while featuring on Space FM Ibadan’s programme, Parrot Xtra Hour On Radio anchored by Olayinka Agboola on Tuesday.

According to Agoro, those clamoring for the restructuring of the country are getting it wrong adding that true restructuring can only be done when Nigerians’ hunger and anger disappear and not the other way round.

The elder statesman was of the opinion that everything must be addressed in their proper perspectives and context, saying that true leaders and representatives of the people must be conversant with their people’s problems and needs.

He said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) saga involving the erstwhile Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu who is now under investigation has exposed President Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ridicule, adding that if he were to have a face-to-face meeting with the President, he would tell him that his government has not done well at all.

He wondered why Buhari was adamant in retaining Magu despite numerous unfavorable reports about him by relevant agencies, adding that “with the spate of revelations also coming from the National Assembly that some lawmakers took contracts from the Niger Delta Development Corporation as indicated by the supervising Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio, it is only God can save Nigeria.”

Regarding security, Dr Agoro, in an unsparing manner averred that the heads of security agencies and forces appear not to have any feasible solution to the problem of insurgency, kidnappings, killings and other sundry violent acts.

He lamented the cheekiness of the rampaging bandits in taking their evil act right to the home front of President Buhari in Katsina State saying “it seems they no longer want Buhari to return home.”

Agoro went further to observe that if the number one citizen of the nation can be subjected to this sort of treatment, ordinary Nigerian would be needing more than the grace of God to survive in the country. He said the issue of insecurity must be attended to as a matter of urgency.

However, he offered that although many prominent people in the country have called on Buhari to change the security chiefs, this may not necessarily be the solution because, according to him “they will be replaced by their brothers meaning that the status quo will still be maintained.”

On the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that the Federal Government has not been properly handling the situation. “It is nonsense handling”, he submitted.

When asked to comment on Senator Bola Tinubu’s perceived presidential ambition, his response: “I will implore all to support him. He has really worked to earn it. He really tried for this democracy. Almost all the major political parties in the country were floated by Tinubu. 

“Unfortunately, he is presently trusting and working with foxes. I know he is intelligent. I know he will find a way of surviving and keeping these foxes in check.”

Agoro also expressed support for the South West governors’ quest to ensure that a new security architecture is set up with the help of the Amotekun Corps in the region.

N100bn Bond: Adelabu Out To Play Cheap Politics- Makinde's Aide

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, has asked the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2019 election, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, to rise above cheap politics in his criticisms of the state’s Prosperity Bond unveiled last Wednesday.

Adisa, in a statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan, declared that the former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has a duty to the people of Oyo State and Nigerians in general to make sound inputs into economic debates and justify that he truly merited a seat at the apogee of the Nigerian Financial sector, where he once sat as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The media aide to the governor also maintained that the terms that will be agreed to by the state, whenever discussions on the Bond issuance begin, will protect the interest of Oyo State people, as Governor Makinde has continued to show that the protecting the interest of Oyo State and lifting it from poverty to prosperity have remained his greatest goals.

The statement read: “The announcement by the Oyo State government on the issuance of a N100 Billion Bond tagged Prosperity Bond, has generated several reactions especially from the opposition. While one would not expect some members of the APC in Oyo State to see anything good with the development, it has become imperative to react to some of the inane ideas being passed off as sound economic commentaries. This becomes particularly important, seeing how the governorship candidate of the APC in the 2019 election, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, ran amok with imbalanced economic analyses on the matter in order to score cheap political points.

"We will like to state clearly to the right-thinking members of the society that in coming to terms with the need to opt for the Prosperity Bond, Governor Makinde is being guided by sound logic and scientific analyses that originate from unbiased quarters.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the 21 km Ajia-New Ife Express Road project with spur at Amuloko being constructed under the Alternative Project Funding Approach (APFA), a Design, Build, Finance project, at a total cost of N8.5 bn cannot be equated to the moribund and revoked Moniya-Iseyin road project awarded under the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

“The Ajia-Airport project is a Public, Private, Partnership (PPP) project which will benefit from private funds. Rather, the investor has taken the risk of tying his funds to that project because of his firm belief in the economic recovery efforts of Governor Makinde.

“It would be recalled that the failed N7 billion road contract awarded under the immediate past administration in Oyo State was never meant to be executed (as it was merely a job for the boys) targeted at raising funds for the 2019 electiion. It unsurprisingly failed to really take off and Governor Makinde was left with no other option than to revoke the contract, review, upgrade and eventually re-award it to a more competent contractor who is presently on site.

“The Ajia-Airport Road project is not only a well-thought out  project but one that will signpost the determination of the administration in institutionalising the culture of Public, Private Partnership as  exemplified in the establishment of the high-riding Oyo State Investment and Public, Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPPPA), which is already recording huge successes in its pioneering deals.  

 

“It is also to be noted that the decision to turn around the corridors of Ibadan Dry Port, upgrade the Ibadan Airport and construct Iseyin/Ogbomoso road, which form the components of the Bond are clear measures targeted at expanding the economy of the state in line with the administration’s four point service agenda.

“Only a forward-looking government in Oyo State will take proactive steps to guarantee that the state’s economy takes full advantage of the benefits of the upcoming Ibadan Dry Port project, while also seeking to expand its economy via an improved Ibadan Airport.

“With improved facilities at the Ibadan Airport, Oyo State would certainly stand to benefit from the traffic and congestion challenges that are already the permanent feature of Lagos travels. Air travellers around the Western states would easily land in Ibadan, while international conferences can hold without the conferees struggling through the sea of traffic from Lagos Airport.

“We envisaged no fears of a possibility of debt overhang in this case, because the projects are bound to bring unquantifiable returns beyond mere arithmetic projections.

“The people of Oyo State are, however, reassured that their interests will never be circumvented in negotiating the terms of this Bond. They are equally free to monitor every inch of the execution process in line with the policy of transparency and accountability of the Makinde-led administration.”

Adisa, who called on residents of the state to discountenance warped analyses being put out by APC members, especially its governorship candidate, said: “It is clearly preposterous for Adelebu, who prides himself as an economist, to jump into questions of tenor of the Bond, when the process is only just kickstarting.

“It is, indeed, an insult on the integrity of the Nigerian apex bank for any of its former top officials to be seen as speaking like a layman in monetary terms, rather than an expert whose opinions should stand the test of national and international financial debates.

“It is instructive that Mr. Adelabu criticised the key components of the Prosperity Bond including the decision to expend a portion of the proposed bond on the expansion of the Ibadan Airport, the Construction of the light rail corridor and the Ibadan Circular road project.

“However, the criticisms coming from Adelebu did not come as a surprise, because he has shown over time that he lacks ideas that are capable of engineering shared prosperity even in a state like Oyo.

“Whereas the concern of Engineer Seyi Makinde as an aspirant, a candidate and governor has been the desire for general good and welfare of all, the same cannot be said of his opponent in the 2019 election, whose mindless capitalist tendencies have completely blindfolded him towards public good.

“Let us place on record that Governor Seyi Makinde is unmoved by the pedestrian analyses contained in the statement credited to Mr. Adelabu, since such base comments do not resonate with national and international economic realities.

“Whereas, the Federal Government of Nigeria has made the issuance of Bonds an integral part of the economic rejuvenation agenda in the past years, a self-styled economist in the mould of Adelabu is sitting across the table to raise hell against Oyo State’s decision to utilise that same instrument.

“His efforts in this regard are easy to discern; they are based on half-baked theories, deceptive and unconscionable. If Bonds are toxic, why did Adelabu not advise Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari? Why would he hide under unknown banners to make postulations that don’t edify the fact that he once sat at the boardrooms of the Central Bank of Nigeria? Certainly, the nation expects much more than this letdown from Adelabu."

NDDC Fraud: Akpabio Releases Names of Lawmakers Involved

Responding to the 48 hours ultimatum given him by Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila-led House of Representatives, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has released the list of lawmakers involved in the alleged fraud in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). 

 

This is sequel to the letter Akpabio had earlier sent to the National Assembly that, he did not accuse the lawmakers of receiving 60 percent of the contracts at NDDC.

However, the part where the minister stated the names were not read on the floor of the house but were in the letter forwarded by the minister to the National Assembly.

The National Youth Council of Nigeria who released the document to the public in Abuja on Sunday expressed disappointment that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, refused to disclose the list of federal lawmakers who benefitted from the contracts awarded by the (NDDC).

According to the document, Akpabio listed Nwaoboshi’s name against 53 projects which included, Emergency Repairs of Asue Street, Owa Phase 2, Emergency Repairs of ldumuogbe Road via Ojemaye, Emergency Repairs of Otolokpo College Road, Otololkpo, and Emergency Repairs of Police lshu Ani Ukwu Road, Issele Uku.

“They also included Emergency Repairs of old Sapele Agbor Road, Obiaruku, Emergency Repairs of Ehwerhe Obada Road Agbarho Road, Emergency Repairs of Hon. Ifeanyi Eboigbe Street Boji Boji Owa/Goodwill Street, Owa Alero, and Emergency Repairs of Ahiama Okwu to Obuocha Okwu among others.”

“Also the Minister listed Mutu’s name against 74 projects which included various emergency road projects in Delta, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.”

“Other lawmakers that Akpabio listed projects against are, Senator Mathew Urhoghide (6), James Manager (6), Sam Anyanwu (19), and others simply identified as Ondo and Edo reps.”

The President of the council, Solomon Adodo, while speaking with newsmen on Sunday said, “Mr Speaker did not do us justice when he did not disclose to the National Assembly that the list of the beneficiaries he demanded had been disclosed and attached to the letter sent to him.”

“Gbajabiamila’s decision to cover up his colleagues is unfair to the fight against corruption, quest for transparency, and to the commonwealth of our nation.”

“We, therefore, urge Mr Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, to resign for covering up for a set of people who had erred and breached the rules of the contract.”

“All the National Assembly members who benefitted from the contracts without executing them should be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to those who may want to follow a similar path.”

“It is a clear case of organised crime to have individuals who benefitted from illegality now rising to probe the fact that their illegality is being exposed.”

We call on all the anti-graft agencies and security agencies to, in line with the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari, immediately proceed and go ahead with their investigation of the matter.”

The group noted that they are in full support of the forensic audit instituted by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs because it had exposed those who had benefitted in the corruption that had festered in the NDDC.

In the document displayed by the Youths Council, Akpabio was quoted as having said that his letter became necessary because “the investigating Committee on NDDC refused and/or neglected to give me the opportunity to explain that reference to most NDDC contracts yearly being awarded since 2001 from the records allegedly to members of the National Assembly in both Chambers were done without the knowledge of the alleged beneficiaries.”

“However, the two chairmen of the Committees in both Chambers had adequate knowledge,” Akpabio reportedly stated.

Akpabio’s letter as released by the Youth Council further read: “To show you some typical examples, herewith attached are documents showing nature of contracts amount of such contracts (in some cases), date of awards and beneficiaries some were awarded to the two chairmen of both committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively, serving at the period of the awards (Annexures ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’).”

The council condemned the Minister for sending the letter to the National Assembly and not making the document forwarded to the house public.

The contracts were mainly for road construction, reconstruction rehabilitation within the nine Niger Delta States.

Akpabio letter which was also copied to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, read in part: “May I extend to Mr Speaker the compliments of my office and those of the staff of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.”

“I refer to the resolution of the House passed on the 21st July 2020 and forwarded to me on the same day Ref.NASS/HR/LEG/3/36/VOL.ll/O8 directing me to respond to the contents therein within 48″

“The investigating Committee on NDDC refused and/or neglected to give me the opportunity to explain that reference to most NDDC contracts yearly being awarded since 2001 from the records allegedly to members of the National Assembly in both Chambers were done without the knowledge of the alleged beneficiaries. However, the two chairmen of the Committees in both Chambers had adequate knowledge.”

“I never referred to members of the 9th National Assembly as beneficiaries of NDDC contracts as NDDC is yet to fully implement any NDDC budget since the commencement of the 9th National Assembly. In fact. the 2019 budget passed in February and harmonised between the 4th and 5th of March 2020 was received by the Commission in the middle of April, 2020, when same was designated to expire on the 31st of May, 2020.”

However, it is pertinent to point out that the Clerk of the National Assembly forwarded a letter Ref. NASS/CNA/115/VOL.38/1175, dated 20th March 2020, without attaching the budget details indicating that the 2020 budget of the NDDC passed into Law was being forwarded (copy of the letter is attached as Annexure ‘A’). This anomaly was brought to the attention of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee investigating a purported financial recklessness by the management of the commission in July 2020, though the first outcry was on allegation of missing N40bn which was totally untrue.”

“It has always been known that the two chairmen of the committees on NDDC in both chambers yearly exhibit unusual influence to the exclusion of committee members and even the management of the NDDC in appropriating funds to details embellished in the budget after the passage of line items at the plenaries. In the 2019 budget, the Executive Director Projects forwarded to me the attached list of 19 Nos. old contracts amounting to almost N9bn after tax, that the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on NDDC, Honourable Tunji-Ojo, insisted the IMC of NDDC must pay before 2019 budget details could be released to the commission (see Annexure ‘A1’).”

“To show you some typical examples, herewith attached are documents showing nature of contracts amount of such contracts (in some cases), date of awards and beneficiaries some were awarded to the two chairmen of both committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively, serving at the period of the awards (Annexures ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’). However, due to the 48 hours notice, the forensic auditors could not sift through the thousands of files in their possession to provide more.”

“The above explanation would have been made if the investigating committee did not shut me out from responding to the abuses on me by the lady representative called Boma.”

“May I assure Mr Speaker that as a former Minority Leader of the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I shall forever promote the ideals of the. National Assembly as an institution. Hence. I would not make the attached documents public since I obtained the documents from the lead forensic auditors in confidence (find attached Annexures ‘E’ and ‘F’ is my request to the lead forensic auditors and their response).”

“Permit me to explain that any reference to 50 per cent or 60 per cent during the investigative hearing was in answer to a question by an honourable member of the committee as to whether or not, a medical doctor could act as Executive Director Projects within the confines of the NDDC Act 2000. I answered in the affirmative, pointing out that the greatest project in the world today is COVlD-19 pandemic, which is medical in nature.

Furthermore, I am made to understand that 50 to 60 per cent of NDDC yearly budgets are medical in nature. Therefore, it is fitting for a medical doctor to act as Executive Director Projects in these trying times.”

“Please accept, sir, the assurances of my esteemed regards and do pass my explanation to my colleagues in the 9th Assembly who probably misunderstood my assertion.

Credit: Mouthpiece NGR

House of Reps Raises Alarm Over 80,000 Stranded Nigerians Abroad

The Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Diaspora, Hon. Tolu Akande-Sadipe K on Thursday said about eighty thousand Nigerians are currently held as sex slaves and in forced labour across the world, in countries like Lebanon, Mali and across the Middle East.

Akande Sadipe who said this during plenary in Abuja, condemned the complacency of Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Employment, which has subjected young Nigerian girls to modern-day slavery, sexual exploitation and organ harvesting among other ills.

Mrs. Sadipe also noted that the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under the guise of diplomacy is working towards the release a Lebanese trafficker, Wafic Mohammed Hamze, apprehended by National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons who is complicit in the trafficking of sixteen girls to Lebanon.

She said, “Records show that Wafic Hamza was complicit in the trafficking of 16 girls, 10 of which have been repatriated back to Nigeria whilst 6 remain stranded in Lebanon. Hamze is currently in custody in Ilorin, Kwara State awaiting trial for trafficking but it appears that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the guise of diplomacy is working for the release of the said trafficker, without any regard for our citizens losses, their repatriation back home and compensation”.

In addition, Hon. Sadipe decried the unprecedented rise in the abuse and dehumanization of Nigerians abroad, especially in nations with long history of cordial relationship with Nigeria. 

“The current and ongoing sordid dehumanizing treatments foisted on Nigerians abroad particularly trafficked girls under the cover of foreign domestic staff has become very disturbing. According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), in the past one year, there has been an alarming number of daily distress calls from Nigerian women crying to be rescued due to the inhumane conditions they face in various parts of the Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Oman and Lebanon and Mali (with Lebanon, Oman and Mali being top on the list)”, she said.

In the motion she raised as a matter of Urgent Public importance, Hon. Tolu Akande-Sadipe opined that there is a pressing need for Parliamentary intervention in the eradication of trafficking in Persons, the resultant dehumanizing treatment of Nigerians abroad and the repatriation of our stranded citizens.

Hon. Tolulope Akande, also noted that there are some Nigerian students in Turkey, who want to return home but cannot afford the cost of the evacuation flight, and as a result are stuck in Turkey experiencing undue hardship.

She therefore urged the House to compel the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate affordable evacuation flights for Nigerians in the diaspora

She further prayed that the House mandates the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Nigerian Immigration Service and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to initiate the process of preparing a Bilateral Labour Agreement and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for recruitment of Nigerians for unskilled labour employment in foreign lands.

In addition Akande-Sadipe implored President Muhammed Buhari to ensure that necessary disciplinary measure is meted on the Hon. Minister and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment for violating its suspension on the issuance of International Recruiters Licenses and issuance of licenses to non compliant Companies.

She stressed that despite that these companies were in violation of the federal government procurement and service provision procedures and standard requirements, they were excused from the mandatory annual reporting requirements on location and conditions of service of each recruited Nigerian taken abroad.

Akande-Sadipe noted that the Ministry obstructed the House's Committee on Diaspora in its attempt to carry out its official mandate by its refusal to submit documentation and lying under oath.

Details Of Late Ibadan Businessman, Bode Akindele's Burial Ceremony

The family of the late Ibadan-born business tycoon, Sir (Chief) Bode Akindele has released how their patriarch will be buried.

As expected, the grand and befitting burial ceremony is going to be 4-day events.

According to the outlined programs by the family, the funeral proceedings will commence in Lagos State on Tuesday 28 July, 2020, with a Commendation Service, at Hoaros Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Yana, Lagos.

By Wednesday 29 July, 2020, there is going to be Evening of Songs/Evening of Tributes, at the deceased's Ibadan residence, Ibiyemi Villa, Old Standard Breweries, Alomaja, Ibadan.

On Thursday 30 July, 2020, Lining in State and Christian Wake will hold between 12noon-3pm and 4pm-6pm, respectively.

The Funeral Service however comes up on Friday 31st July, 2020, at the historic Methodist Cathedral, Agbeni, Ibadan, between 10am-11am. After which the remains of the deceased will be committed to mother earth.

All the programs, according to Akindele family, are strictly by invitation and will be held in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines. Those who may want to participate are therefore advised to do so by joining online, as there will be live streaming of all the programs.

Sir (Chief) Bode Akindele, it would be recalled, died on Monday 29th June, 2020, at the ripe age of 87.

Akindele, a well know business tycoon of international repute, was the Chairman, Mondandola Group and the Baba Ijo, Methodist Church, Agbeni, Ibadan. He was also the Parakoyi of Ibadanland.

He was not only a successful businessman, but also a philanthropist of note and a community builder.

Prof. Akintoye Is Not The Leader of Yorubas- Yinka Odumakin

A frontline human rights activist and Publicity Secretary of pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin has dismissed the claims that Prof. Banji Akintoye is the leader of Yorubas. Saying that he is rather the leader of Yoruba World Congress. That Yorubas have no leader presently.

Odumakin made the clarifications while featuring on Space FM Ibadan’s programme, Parrot Xtra Hour on Radio, anchored by Olayinka Agboola, on Tuesday. 

“Professor Akintoye is not the leader of the Yorubas. He is the leader of Yoruba World Congress. Yorubas do not have any leader for now,"he said.

Speaking on President Muhammadu Buhari's anti-graft war, he declared that it has collapsed and failed.

The frontline activist said that the five-year anti-corruption war of Buhari ‘wombled and fumbled’ until recently when everything came to the open on how corrupt the system has been.

Said Odumakin “those inside know that there is no anti-corruption war. Those in the circle, on the corridors of power know that there is no war against graft. All sorts of embarrassing moments are being witnessed today to confirm this assertion.”

Since he was at a time very close to President Buhari, Odumakin was asked what he would tell the President on this issue of corruption if he should meet with him.

His response: “I will only tell him to go and retool. The corruption war he has been fighting has collapsed. The people of Nigeria do not understand again.”

He also addressed the issue raised by some observers that the President is no more in control of things in Aso Rock, the seat of power.

“Yes, Presidency has responded to those observers by saying that it is not true and that those who made the observation do not know what they are talking about. No. Those observers have their facts. Things have collapsed in Aso Rock. I quite agree with them. President Buhari must retool immediately.”

He later revealed that while he worked as spokesperson for President Buhari’s former party, CPC, he was not being paid.

“I was not getting paid while I worked as the spokesperson for CPC. So, when he lost, he said he was not contesting again in 2011. That was how our working relationship frizzled out.”

On his relationship with ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Odumakin submitted “I got to meet Dr Jonathan through a vibrant young man, late Oronto Douglas. Then, we were made to understand that he, (Jonathan) would hold a National Conference and implement the report and outcome. That was why we related with him at Afenifere.

“You see, at Afenifere, we are passionate about restructuring. Anybody that is ready to do this will be supported by us”. 

He also took time to speak about the leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

“There was a time we had issues. People from his camp threw jabs at me and I responded appropriately. Many leaders from Yorubaland intervened and the matter was settled.”

On the issue of whether Afenifere will support the perceived presidential ambition of the APC leader, Odumakin responded “It is true our leader at Afenifere addressed the topic. He did not emphatically confirm that Afenifere would support Tinubu. He said, since the APC leader is a Yorubaman, Afenifere may support him. Especially if he will pursue restructuring.”

The former journalist also addressed the issue of Amotekun saying “it is a welcome development. Initially, Afenifere opposed the idea because we felt it would have been more reasonable to agitate for the establishment of state police. 

“But when those people said we could not put Amotekun in place in Yorubaland, that was when we got up in support. It is our right. The north has its own version of Amotekun. My only desire, prayer is that the Amotekun project should be well organized and maintained.”

Odumakin equally used the opportunity to endorse the activities of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission).

“DAWN Commission is a worthy project being carried out by the governors of the Yoruba states. Afenifere is in full support and I believe the commission can do so much to hasten the development of Yorubaland.”

While speaking on the probability of running for an elective position. Dr Joe Odumakin’s husband said “I am not a politician. I am a political activist. But I will contest if and when our political terrain becomes transformed and politics of real progressivism is being practiced. I do not want to just join the bandwagon.”

"You Are Aiding Human Trafficking"-Diaspora Committee Chair, Akande-Sadipe Accuses Ministry of Labour

Chairman, House of Representative Committee on Diaspora, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe has decried the incompetence and complicity within the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, which has worsened the trafficking and dehumanizing conditions of Nigerians abroad.

She said this recently during the Committee’s meeting, noting that the Minister for Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige has turned down the Committee’s invite for the umpteenth time.

The release signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Olamilekan Olusada reads that, “It appears that there is a clear incompetence or complicity within the ministry that has led to this compromise in the trafficking and abuse of Nigeria citizens”.

“We have invited him five (5) times and he was again represented by a Permanent Secretary, who claims he is new and does not understand the workings and what transpired prior to his engagement, in spite of having signed a recruiters licence earlier this year, at a time when a moratorium had already been placed on such licenses, since 2017."

The release, made available to Journalists, stated further that the Committee has invited Ngige for five consecutively times.

"The House Committee on Diaspora in a bid to find workable solutions to tackle the menace of trafficking and the dehumanizing condition of Nigerians abroad by some local and international syndicates have been holding a series of interagency meetings with stakeholders, but regrettably the Minister of Labour whose portfolio is at the centre of the whole controversy has refused to honour the committees invitation for five consecutive meetings”.

The release further asserted that investigation shows that licences were issued by the Ministry of Labour after the moratorium, that has allowed agents to traffic girls out of Nigeria, adding that Agents were allowed by the Labour ministry to take Nigerians to Lebanon, a country that does not have a labour pact with Nigeria. 

He further wrote that Licences were issued to companies who have not complied with CAC / FIRS /NSITF requirements, noting that citizens were allowed to be taken out by Agents without the mandatory counselling and orientation. 

The release also stated that Agents were allowed to operate without complying with the annual reporting requirement on the domestic staff sent abroad, while the Ministry of Labour has refused to submit documentation requested, in spite of several requests sent to the Ministry.

However, the Press release disclosed that where documentation was provided by the Labour Ministry, investigations revealed that there were inconsistencies in the report from Labour in comparison with FIRS / CAC / NAPTIP/ Justice and NSITF’s documents.

The Committee had earlier requested for Ministry of Labour’s criteria for prequalification of International Recruiters and evidence of compliance with the Ministry’s pre-qualification criteria which must include copies of National Identification Number or Voter’s Card and data page of International Passport.

Akande-Sadipe led Committee also requested for number of licence awards for International Recruiters from 2014 to 2020 and number of renewals for each licence since the same period;

The Committee also wrote the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, demanding evidence of each company’s compliance with statutory registration for doing business with government of Nigeria – indigenous and foreign companies – attach proof of Form C02, C07 and other evidences.

Copies of memorandum of understanding and articles of association licenced international recruiters from 2014 to 2020; and copies of memorandum of understanding and articles of association licenced international recruiters from 2014 -2020 were also called for by the Committee.

Olusada noted that the Akande-Sadipe Committee has sadly not be adequately equipped with this necessary information, saying, “it is sad that Nigeria has to witness such a great disregard for the life of Nigerian citizens by a MDA of the Nigerian Government through their acts which is encouraging human trafficking”.

The committee has threatened to escalate the matter and bring it up at the plenary, noting that the disdain for the lives of Nigerians in very dire circumstances abroad must stop.

Good Healthcare Delivery: Makinde Calls For Stakeholders' Collaboration

Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has described collaboration as the key to a successful healthcare delivery in the state.

The governor therefore called on all the relevant stakeholders to collaborate with government, to ensure a world class healthcare delivery.

He made this call while speaking at the official commissioning of a temporary Isolation Centre in Aawe.

As part of efforts of the Governor Makinde-ledadministration to revamp the health sector in the state, the administration keeps opening new front in affordable and sustainable health care delivery. 

One of these efforts is the opening of another temporary isolation centre in Aawe to cater for the well being of the citizens and residents of all the four Local government areas in Oyo town. 

The governor who spoke through his Deputy, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, said the isolation centre is a testament to the government's commitment to mitigating the impact of COVID 19.

He further reiterated that, the isolation centre was modelled to the standard of a cottage primary health centre and will be made to serve the purpose once the virus is defeated. Saying that it is part of the effort to revamp the dilapidated healthcare machinery in the state.

The state helmsman maintained that the isolation centre is necessary to curb the virus as other apparatus to reduce community spread and transmission, do contact tracing and active case searching have been set in motion. 

The governor however encouraged citizens to take responsibility and necessary precautions while adhering to the COVID 19 safety protocols, insisting that government will keep working to improve physical access to health facilities with affordable packages. 

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello said plans are ongoing to site isolation centres in all parts of the state especially Ogbomosho, Saki and other parts of Oke-ogun. 

It will be recalled that since the first confirmed case of the virus in the state, the Olodo infectious Disease Centre and the Agbami Isolation Centre have both been commissioned to stop the spread of the virus. 

The member representing Afijio constitutency in the Oyo state House of Assembly, Hon. Seyi Adisa appreciated the efforts of the Seyi Makinde administration for not leaving the place to lay waste because it has been deserted for years since it was first built in 2004.

The lawmaker said successive governments have since then made efforts to revamp the place but could not follow through till the end. 

During the tour of the facility, the head of the Technical Working Team, Prof Temitope Alonge said, "the hospital has Oxygen concentrator and Nebulizers alongside all the basic amenities like uninterrupted power supply, running water and Personal protective kits for workers."

Appeal Court Judgement: Adelabu Calls For Unity As ALGON Heads To Supreme Court

The Oyo State APC guber candidate in the 2019 general elections, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has sounded a clarion call for Oyo APC to remain united and resolute over the unfavorable Appeal Court judgement on ALGON matter.

The Court of Appeal in Ibadan, on Wednesday, approved the sack of elected council chairpersons by Governor Seyi Makinde.

Adelabu has however appealed to all APC members not to feel deppressed or discouraged by the unfavourable court judgement, but rather should rally support for ALGON towards ensuring superior hearing at the highest court in the land and guarantee victory for the party. 

He made this call through a press release signed by his media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro on Wednesday in Ibadan 

Adelabu expressed shock over the outcome of the case at the Appeal Court despite all the facts presented to the court and precedents cited by the council's during the hearing. He said that nothing but victory was expected.

He however expressed hope that the Supreme Court will correct the injustice.

 

"It is true that the judgement was dissappointing and unexpected, we should not be depressed by this, rather we should unite as a party more than ever before and rally support, morally and financially, for ALGON to ensure we have sound representation at the Supreme Court to guarantee victory for our party.

This case should not be seen as that of ALGON alone but a case to be taken up by every constitutional democracy loving member of our party and the general public to ensure that the rule of law prevails.

I'm excited at developments and reactions within our party following this judgement as critical stakeholders within the party are now showing unwavering interest in pushing this case forward. I'm appealing to all and sundry to let us use this platform to unite all members and fight this case with unity of purpose and as a common cause to the end. I see light at the end of the tunnel," he stated.

Adelabu also used the opportunity to appeal to party leadership to immediately summon a stakeholders meeting on the next step as soon as the lawyers review and interpretation of the judgement is concluded.

He said that evil can only prevail when the righteous are quiet. He therefore promised to reach out to other critical stakeholders to rally support for ALGON.

The Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye-led sacked chairmen, it would be recalled, had approached the court to clear what they described as 'illegal removal'.

Banks: Oyo NUJ Issues Fresh Disclaimer On Faniran, Put Information Minister, Police, FRCN On Red Alert

The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday warned members of the public to stop dealing with the immediate past Chairman of the union in the state, Adewunmi Faniran who is still parading himself as the chairman of the union in the state.

NUJ said there is need to sensitise the public on the development in the union because the radio station where the former Chairman works, FRCN (Radio Nigeria), has been fouling the air, misrepresenting and peddling lies with fake news to mislead members of the public about the status of Faniran who was voted out of office, seven months ago.

The NUJ calls on the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), the Director General of the FRCN, Mr. Mansur Liman, the Zonal Director of the station, Mr. Mohammed Bello, the President of the NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, the Minister of the Ministry of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, to rein in, on the station before they cause further damage to the integrity of FRCN nationwide.

The Oyo NUJ threatened that should the station continues to parade Faniran as Chairman of NUJ against the constitution of the body, it would be left with no other option than to publish a disclaimer in three natio national dailies to expose the personality of the erstwhile chairman with his photograph, for unsuspecting members of the public to be weary of him. 

This development, according to the NUJ, becomes imperative because Faniran has refused to release the properties of the union in his care which include but not limited to cheque books of the financial transactions of the union domiciled in three banks namely; UBA, Access and FCMB. 

The Union in a statement issued by the secretary of the Union in the state, Sola Oladapo on Tuesday commended the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that the items were retrieved from Faniran but became helpless because of the uncompromising stance of the erstwhile Chairman.

The NUJ further said anyone who engages in any deal with Faniran in the name of the NUJ, does so at his or her risk as the man has been voted out of office since December 18th 2019 when members from across the nine of 10 Chapels that make up Oyo NUJ overwhelming elected a new Chairman, Ademola Babalola and his crop of executives.

It would be recalled that the immediate past secretary of the council, Bola Ogunlayi reportedly handed over the union properties in his care, including vehicle number plate for his office to the newly elected secretary of the union, Sola Oladapo while Faniran and Busola Adetunji, the former Treasurer, held on to bank books, fuelling suspicion that nefarious activities might be going on, on the aforementioned bank accounts.

The NUJ has therefore put the union account officials and members of the public on red alert, as it warned them against further dealing with past union officials. 

Efforts by the police to retrieve the bank details from them on Monday, were rebuffed as the law enforcement agents advised the NUJ to issue disclaimer in national dailies against the recalcitrant officers.

The police also admonished the NUJ to freeze the bank accounts to ward off shady deals by the defiant erstwhile NUJ Chairman.

Our correspondent gathered that despite several warnings and reminders by the national secretariat of the union and the new executive led by Babalola, Faniran refused to corperate with the union leadership.

Reports say the issue became messier recently when some veterans of the union who are lecturers at the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) approached the current chairman that they could not get their salaries in the last seven months because the outgone chairman refused to handover the union properties which also include signing off, as signatory to the bank account of the school. 

The letter signed by the duo of Mr. Ganiyu Waheed (for and on behalf of lecturers) and Mrs. Olawumi Adenubi, the Administrative Officer  said, "seven months ago, the NUJ elected Mr. Ademola Babalola Ismail as the new Chairman to run the NUJ affairs for another three years. 

"Unfortunately, his predecessor, Mr. Adewumi Faniran has since then, refused to sign off as a signatory to the IIJ, Ibadan account, to pave way for the new Chairman, Ademola Babalola Ismail to sign the IIJ cheque.

"We are elderly retired journalists serving as lecturers to keep our bodies and souls together and impacting knowledge to upcoming journalists.

"Since the beginning of this year, we are faced with the agony of hunger and starvation. We shall therefore be grateful if you can use your good offices to appeal to Mr. Faniran to sign off for the new Chairman so that we can be paid. We pray we will not starve to death," they appealed.