Former Governor Of Kaduna, El-Rufai Admits Leaving $577.32million, N64.54billion Debts For Successor

 

Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-rufai, has admitted that his administration left behind financial liabilities to the tune of $577.32million foreign debt, N64.54billion domestic debt and other contingent liabilities of N16.06billion for the new governor, Senator Uba Sani.

He disclosed this in his farewell speech at the swearing in ceremony of the new governor in Kaduna State on Monday.

He said his administration spent N818.9 billion as capital expenditure between 2015 and 2022 in the prosecution of first and second State Development Plans which attracted nearly US$5 billion in foreign and domestic investments.

He said he was leaving a net cash balance of about N5 billion in the Treasury Single Account after deductions for the payment of salaries, pensions, and dues to the local government councils in the state.

“We governed under very difficult fiscal circumstances, surviving two recessions, collapses of crude oil prices, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war.

“We, therefore, had to borrow extensively to spend our way out of the recession and pursue our ambition to make Kaduna great again.”

Update : Court Sentence Adedoyin, And Two Others To Death By Hanging Over The Death Of Timothy Adegoke

 

The Osun State High Court sitting in Osogbo has sentenced Dr Raheem Adedoyin to death by hanging for the murder of Timothy Adegoke.

Delivering judgment on the matter on Tuesday, the Chief Judge of Osun State, Justice Adepele Ojo, also sentenced to death two staff of Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, Adeniyi Aderogba and Kazeem Oyetunde.

DAILY POST recalled that Timothy Adegoke was a postgraduate student of the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, who died in November, 2021 at Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Three staff of Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, Magdalene Chiefuna, Lawrence Oluwole and Adedeji Adesola were discharged and acquitted by the court while the sentencing for the seventh defendant is to be passed on Wednesday.

The reason the court revealed is due to pleas by both the prosecution and defence counsels.

Adedoyin, who is the Chairman of Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, was charged along with staff of the hotel Magdalene Chiefuna, Adeniyi Aderogba, Oluwole Lawrence, Oyetunde Kazeem Adebayo Kunle and Adedeji Adesola.

The defendants were charged on an 18-count charge of murder, conspiracy, oath of secrecy among others.

My Family Don’t Need Nigeria’s Wealth To Survive — Remi Tinubu Boast

 

The wife of the President-elect, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has said that her family doesn’t need the wealth of Nigeria to survive.

According to Mrs. Tinubu, God has already blessed the family with what is needed to survive.

 She made the remarks on Sunday during a speech at the presidential inauguration interdenominational church service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.

The wife of the President-elect went on to say that the country’s path would be restored with the help of God and Nigerians.

She said, “God has blessed my family, we don’t need the wealth of Nigeria to survive but to do the right thing. And I promise you on this altar that with your help, with the help of God, we will set this nation on the right path.

“We need your prayers. I can tell you, I for one, am a silent maker. I am not the noise maker but I listen and I hear.”

 

Breaking: Owner Of Daar Communication, Dr Raymond Dokpsesi Is Reported Dead

Report making the rounds has it that the Owner, Chairman of Daar Communication, Chief Doctor Raymond Dokpses is dead.

Mr Dokpses is the founder of Africa Independent Television, AIT.

Although, the cause of his death is yet unknown as at time of filing in this report.

More details soon!

Outrage As North Korean Government Jails Two-Year-Old For Life After Parents Were Caught With Bible

 

A 2years old baby has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the North Korea authorities after his parents were found with a Bible in their home.

The shocking tale was revealed by the US State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report.

According to the report, the two-year-old and his entire family were locked up for their religious beliefs.

Several other cases of North Koreans being killed for being Christian were also included in the report, including the firing squad execution of a woman and her grandchild in 2011.

Other believers faced “pigeon torture”, where they were suspended with their hands tied behind their backs, unable to sit or stand for days on end.

One victim said: “It was the most painful of all tortures. It was so painful I felt it was better to die.”

Some were tortured with sleep deprivation including one woman in solitary confinement who was driven to suicide in 2020 after prison guards refused to let her sleep.

As many as 70,000 Christians have been imprisoned for their faith under the Kim Jong-un regime, of a possible population of 400,000.

The new publication said several North Korean Christians hid their faith from their children.

It cited the finding of one NGO, Open Doors USA (ODUSA), which said: “A Christian is never safe. Children are encouraged to tell their teachers about any sign of faith in their parents’ home.”

Another NGO, Korea Future, said children were taught in school about the “evil deeds” of Christian missionaries, including “rape, blood-sucking, organ harvesting, murder, and espionage.”

The report said: “One defector told Korea Future the government published graphic novels in which Christians coerced children into churches and took them to the basement to draw their blood.”

And while most of the cases of religious persecution documented by Korea Future targeted those practising shamanism, it was Christians who typically received the harshest punishments.

It’s because they’re perceived as a “hostile class” and a “serious threat to loyalty to the state” the report said.

Officially, North Korea guarantees its people religious freedom in its constitution and the regime highlights the churches it has built in Pyongyang as proof.

But the publication said these churches operated only as “showpieces for foreigners”.

It cited the testimony of one defector, who said people could be arrested for lingering too long outside the churches and listening to music from within, or even consistently driving past them.

He told Pen News: “I came away wondering just how real this is.

“Are the services regular? The church seems maintained but is it a regular event? You see no evidence of religious activity in the society – except for Buddhism.

“It feels real but like many things indeed it may be somewhat of a show for tourists. In this case, it might be a mixture of showmanship and a few elderly Christians in the area.”

He also noted something highlighted in the report – no children attend the services.

He added, “The congregation was made up of older men – all seemingly over 65 – and women over 40.”

Why I Rejected N5m To Perform At Tinubu’s Concert – Controversial Singer Portable

 

Nigerian street singer, Portable has revealed he rejected N5 million to perform at the ‘Renewed Hope’ concert held in celebration of the forthcoming inauguration of President-elect, Bola Tinubu.

Recall the concert was held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Thursday with a display of performances from top artistes including Buju, Brymo, Fireboy, Asake, Naira Marley, Tony Tetuila, Seyi Vibes among a host of others.

Reacting to being excluded from the list of artistes at the concert, the controversial singer, in a video on his Instagram page on Friday, explained how he was offered N5 million out of the N10 million he claimed was budgeted for his performance.

According to him, such a deal was unacceptable, and for that reason, he didn’t get to perform at the concert.

The ‘Zazuu crooner’ then went on to call out the organisers for ripping him as he claimed to have campaigned vigorously for Tinubu prior to his election.

As a caption to the videos, he wrote, “ZAzuu Them Dõn Rip Me oooh Na Me Sing Akoi TINUBU Eja Loni Ibu Give What Belongs To ZAZUU To ZAZUU.”

Meanwhile, in the videos, he said, “Na me sing Akoi Tinubu o. No be Obi una dey vote for? Tinubu enter now those useless people una go dey perform there, no be me promote Tinubu?

“Na so them call my manager o. Say them want make I come perform for Abuja. Na 10 million them drop o, but na five million go reach Portable hand. Na so I no gree, I tear the paper. I delete the number, you dey whine Jesus? Na hin no make me perform for Abuja o.”

First Ladies Deserve Some Privilege After Leaving Office – Aisha Buhari Lament

Outgoing First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has said that privileges such as the provision of vehicles, sponsored medical treatments and provision of some stipends, among others that are due to former Presidents, should also be extended to the wives of former Presidents.

Mrs Buhari made the call when she spoke at the launching of a book in Abuja authored by the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Vickie Anwuli Irabor.

Explaining why the privileges should be extended to first ladies, Mrs Buhari said,

“I married my husband as the wife of a former president. I am going in a few days as a wife of a former president a second time. They should consider us as former first ladies. They should incorporate the first ladies, give us some privileges that we deserve as first ladies, not just the former presidents”.

Court Dissolves Parallel EXCOs of Rivers PDP, Questions Legitimacy of Governor-Elect Fubara's Candidacy

 

In a landmark ruling, the Abuja High Court has dissolved the parallel executive committees (EXCOs) of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State. The court declared that the EXCOs responsible for nominating Siminialayi Fubara as the party's governorship candidate, in the primary were not the authentic EXCOs recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The case, with suit number W/6084, was brought before the court by Hon. Chimbiko Akarolo and Chief Abiye Davies, who represented the genuine state executive committee members of the Rivers PDP. The defendants named in the case were the PDP, along with Amb. Desmond Akawor and Dr. Benibo George, who were part of the parallel EXCOs falsely presenting themselves as the legitimate representatives, and INEC.

The court's decision has now raised doubts about the legitimacy of Siminialayi Fubara's candidacy and his subsequent victory in the March 18 governorship election. The entire process that led to his assumption of office as the Governor of Rivers State has been called into question.

The ruling of the Abuja High Court discrediting the parallel EXCOs has significant implications for the political landscape of Rivers State. Governor Nyesom Wike, who was believed to have been spurring and supporting the parallel EXCOs, may now face challenges regarding the validity of his actions and decisions.

Political analysts and legal experts have voiced concerns over the potential consequences of this judgment. They believe that if the EXCOs responsible for Fubara's nomination were indeed not the authentic representatives recognized by INEC, his candidacy could be considered illegitimate. This situation could potentially lead to legal disputes and a reevaluation of the governor-elect's tenure.

As the news of the court ruling spreads, stakeholders within the PDP and the wider political community are closely monitoring the developments. Many are eagerly awaiting further clarification on the implications for the Rivers State government.

The judgment of the Abuja High Court serves as a reminder of the critical role played by INEC in the electoral process and underscores the importance of adhering to due process and established guidelines in selecting candidates for public office. It remains to be seen how this ruling will impact the political landscape of Rivers State and what steps will be taken to address the concerns raised regarding the legitimacy of Governor-Elect Siminialayi Fubara's candidacy.

I Knew Nothing About Education Sector When Buhari Appointed Me — Nigeria Minister Of Education, Adamu

 

Mallam Adamu Adamu, Nigerians Minister Of Education said he knew nothing about the education sector when he was appointed in 2015 by the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd).

He disclosed this at a valedictory session with officials and heads of parastatals of the Ministry.

Adamu, upon his appointment, shared his idea with those he called on to help him with a policy document on education.

“I didn’t know anything about the education sector when I was appointed Minister except superficially. But when Buhari decided to make me Minister of Education, I called some people to assist me work on a policy document on education because I was a novice in the sector. I shared my idea with them and they assisted me greatly, and I remain grateful to them for these years,” the minister said.

He, however, commended President Buhari for counting him worthy of such a task.

“I was busy making recommendations and suggestions to the President on who to appoint into his cabinet in 2015. All of a sudden, he announced my name to my surprise and that was it. We worked together till 2019.

“In 2019, I approached the President and suggested that he reshuffle his cabinet because, in the eyes of many, it was unusual in our society for a President to work with the same Ministers for four years. Buhari had graciously allowed his Ministers to stay in office for four years. Ordinarily, Ministers stay in office for two years before they are reshuffled.

“But I know him very well and I knew it will be difficult for him to do that. But I decided to make it easy for him by promising to bring people that would do the job better for me and others who served as Ministers in the first tenure.”

SENATOR ABBA MORO CONFERRED WITH INTERNATIONAL FELLOW MEMBERSHIP OF LEADING SAFETY, SECURITY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPO

 

The senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Comrade Abba Moro, was, a few days ago, conferred with the International Fellow Membership of Leading Safety, Security, Health & Environmental Expo.

The event, which held at the Networking Forum Excel Exhibition And Conference Centre, London, United Kingdom, brought together tens of thousands of health and safety professionals from across the globe, with 1000 Exhibitors, to experience the latest products and 

expertise in the Health, Safety, Security and Environment industry. 

The 2023 EXPO offered thousands of public and private sector organisations the latest solutions and exciting new opportunities from best brands in the fields of Health, Safety, Security and Environment. It was an opportunity for participants to connect with investors, learn and develop new safety strategies, and meet international manufacturers and experts from over 120 countries.

The conferment of the International Fellow Membership on Senator Moro, according to the organizers of the event, is in recognition of his impacts in the security and safety sector, both as a former Minister of Interior and performing Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The senator, in his acceptance speech, thanked the organizers for the recognition. He dedicated the honour to God and the good people of Benue South, and pledged to continue to contribute his quota to the health, security and safety of his constituents and Nigerians at large in whatever position he finds himself.

Tribunal Strike Out PDP Application To Challenge Senator Yayi Adeola’s Mandate

 

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State application to amend it’s petition against the election of Senator Solomon Adeola YAYI of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has suffered a huge blow on Friday.

The National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Isabo Abeokuta this morning threw the application out, dismissing it as an action that is status barred.

The Tribunal held that the Application is status barred, and likened the PDP’s measures to an attempt to cure leprosy with cough mixture.

The Tribunal which has Justice K. Dabo as its chairman hereby dismissed it.

You Requested $2 million Bribe From Me – Zamfara State Governor, Matawalle Accused EFCC Boss, Bawa

 

Zamfara State governor Bello Matawalle has claimed that the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, allegedly requesting $2 million bribe from him.

 

 Matawalle made the claims in an interview on BBC Hausa.

The latest allegation comes amid the growing rift between Matawalle and the EFCC boss.

The Zamfara governor, in a statement on Wednesday, called for Bawa’s resignation, saying he had questions to answer on corruption.

But the EFCC Chairman replied that he had nothing to hide and asked Matawalle to petition appropriate authorities if he had any evidence against him.

“It is not just to always blame governors. It is not only governors who have treasury, the federal government also has,” Matawalle said in the interview.

“What does the EFCC boss do to them? As he is claiming he has evidence on governors, let him show to the world evidence of those at the federal level.

“If he exits office, people will surely know he is not an honest person. I have evidence against him. Let him vacate office, I am telling you within 10 seconds probably more than 200 people will bring evidences of bribe he collected from them. He knows what he requested from me but I declined.

“He requested a bribe of $2 million from me and I have evidence of this. He knows the house we met, he invited me and told me the conditions. He told me governors were going to his office but I did not. If I don’t have evidence, I won’t say this.”

 

Seun Kuti Bags New Title In Prison As Inmates Crowns Him General Overseer

 

Embattled Afrobeat singer and son of Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Seun Kuti, who is currently being remanded at the State Criminal, Investigations and Intelligence Department, SCIID, Panti, Yaba, Lagos on the orders of Yaba Chief Magistrate Court for assaulting a police officer, has been crowned the ‘General Overseer’ of his cell by the inmates.

It was reported that a copy of the Holy Bible was said to have been handed over to him as an instrument of his office. His appointment as the GO was however not without some drama after the inmates initially rejected him.

According to the report, after Seun was taken to the cell to join other suspected criminals, his first shocker was the hoarse, deep baritone voice of the leader of the inmates who directed him to keep standing. A few minutes later, a crisis erupted inside the cell as the inmates were said to have rejected him. The inmates were banging on their metal protective door, asking that Seun should be taken out of the cell.

The publication quoted sources as saying that as the uproar by the inmates escalated, Seun started negotiating for peace to reign. That was when he noticed that the commotion his presence caused and his rejection by the inmates attracted little or no attention from the police guards. At that stage, he reportedly promised to dole out N25,000 to them and he was directed to produce it without delay. He had to beg for a phone to call his wife who quickly brought the money which was handed over to their leader. The inmates subsequently accepted him (Seun) and provided a space for him to sit down.

Seun was reportedly infuriated by the ugly development that played out that he refused to eat the food provided for him including the food brought by his wife. The hunger strike continued for almost a day and a half until he finally started eating. The climax of the drama was that the inmates later crowned him the General Overseer of the cell and a bible was handed over to him. That means that he is presently leading the inmates in prayer sessions whenever the need arises after which they would all chorus: GO, GO.

Men Are Programmed To Cheat On Their Partners – 2Baba Boast

 

Nigerian singer, Innocent Idibia, also known as 2Baba said men are genetically programmed to cheat on their partners.

2Baba said this during season 2 of a reality TV show, ‘Young, Famous and African’, which premiered on Friday.

The singer said, “Men are wired like that. A man will love a woman to hell. Maybe he is somewhere, his dick would just decide to do something else.

“He will fuck, but he won’t even give a fuck about that person. He just wants to sort out that shit.“

His wife, Annie, who is also a cast on the show, asked him if what he said was on a general basis or based on what he believed in.

The singer, however, stated that his opinion was based on his beliefs.

Uproar As Pastor Opens Beauty Spa For Godly Women In Lagos

 

Pastor Ruth Iwunze, wife of the General Overseer of LoveBase Assembly has launched a beauty spa for Christians especially wives of ministers who need to take care of their well-being.

According to Pastor Ruth Iwunze, Ethical PP Beauty Spa was established to help people, especially women, live healthy lifestyles.

“We want a place where people can come, relax and take care of themselves. I have a lot of general overseers around me. I have seen most of them depressed, with their work, and the burden of the church. Many of them don’t take care of their health. They abandon their well-being while carrying the church on their head.”

“This place for me is not just about making money, it is about living right. We have different sessions which are well-equipped to take care of the various needs of our clients. We have a gym, a VIP Lounge, and a sauna that helps you relax. It takes the stress off you.”

Speaking at the official opening of Ethical PP Beauty Spa in Lagos, which was graced by top dignitaries in the society, the former First Lady Imo state, Nneoma Okorocha, urged women to take their health seriously.

Nneoma said our women need to take their health and well-being seriously. Especially when you look at the kind of responsibility that is on our shoulders in taking care of ourselves because the only way we can do better and play that role of motherhood or even a role of a wife effectively. You need to, first of all, take care of yourself so that you can function better.”

“I am really excited, looking at Ethical PP, it is highly situated in a very nice place and this facility is going to add value to this community in terms of the services it will provide. I can tell you that everyone who walks in will get the value”, she added.

The highlight of the event was the official opening which was done by Bishop Peace Okonkwo is the Resident Pastor of the Headquarters Church of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) who prayed that the centre will thrive and flourish to the glory of God.

However, social media users has taken to various platform to react to this development.

Some believe it’s ‘ungodly’ why some sees it as a way of life for everyone

Saint Obi’s Family Debunks Allegations Against His Wife, Says It’s ‘Malicious’

The family of the late prominent Nollywood actor, Obinna Nwafor, also known as Saint Obi, has responded to rumours surrounding the actor’s demise.

 

 In a statement written on behalf of the family, the actor’s two older sisters debunked the ‘malicious’ statement allegedly written by filmmaker Zik Zulu Okafor, following their brother’s death.

The family also added that the funeral services would be made public in due course, asking that their privacy be respected as it was a sad moment for them.

The press statement was titled, “RE: DEMISE OF SAINT OBI (MR. OBINNA NWAFOR).”

It read, “Our attention has been drawn to the publication by one Mr. Zik Zulu Okafor concerning the death of our son, Mr. Obinna Nwafor, popularly known as Saint Obi, and the accompanying negative commentary in social and other media portraying his widow in an unfair and most defamatory manner.

“This is in no way, shape or form an accurate portrayal of the Lynda that we know and relate with.

“The Nwafor family also views the said article by Mr. Okafor as sad and most unfortunate. It was neither written in consultation with any member of the family nor authored with our consent or authority. We totally disassociate ourselves from it.

“The views and allegations contained therein are entirely the opinion of the writer. They are false, malicious and insensitive to the wife, children and entire family he left behind.

“This is a mourning period for the family, and while we appreciate the condolences of friends, fans, and well-wishers, we ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.

“The funeral rites will be communicated to the public in due course. May the soul of our dearly beloved brother, son, father and husband, rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

The statement was signed by Ugoeze Edith Chinyere Obichuku and Freda Nwachukwu, for the family.

Why Islam Forbids Praying For Late Yoruba Actor, Murphy Afolabi – Muslim Cleric

 

An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yelma’e said Islam forbids him from praying for the late popular actor, Murphy Afolabi because he mostly used his roles in movies to promote actions that are contrary to the values of Islam.

The cleric stated this in a video clip posted on YouTube on Thursday.

He said he would never pray for Afolabi because he usually acted as herbalist, among other roles forbidden in Islam.

The cleric noted that there was a need for religious teachers and students to start reflecting on the portrayal of actions against Islamic teachings.

According to him, praying for Afolabi’s departed soul especially when most of his roles in films contravened Islamic practice would amount to hypocrisy.

He said, “What we posted yesterday was that we cannot pray for (late) Murphy Afolabi because in the movies he usually acts, and particularly Yoruba movies, it has a lot of forbidden things including traditional sacrifices and it is rare for the actors not to be involved in such traditional sacrifices.

“They might be acting that way with the thinking that they are joking but anything that has to do with Almighty Allah should not be joked with. Acting like herbalist, witch, or wizard, is against Islamic teachings and Islam is against such actions.

“What will make a Muslim start using what nonbelievers do to make people laugh? It is common in Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo films, but mostly in Yoruba films. I feel it is time for religious teachers and students to start looking into these issues.

“When any of these actors with a Muslim name acts like herbalist in Yoruba movies and later dies, it becomes hypocritical for people to expect us to pray for them. As for Murphy Afolabi, I won’t pray for him, and neither will I curse him because he might not know.”

Meanwhile, a lecturer in Film and Media Arts, Department of Theatre Arts and Music, Lagos State University, Dr Femi Olugboji, said scholars have argued that Islam forbids the portrayal of images of human beings whether through television, photography or the creation of statues.

He said they also argued about the importance of information whether through entertainment or news stories or other means.

He said, “They (scholars) said Islam does not forbid education through the portrayal of human images but what Islam forbids is the way human beings, especially women, are portrayed through their mode of dressing, and as well as the content that misleads the public.

“What is the intent of Murphy Afolabi’s acting roles in line with what the cleric mentioned? Is it to correct society? Were his actions in those films to correct the ills in society or was it to mislead the society? We need to be very objective by taking a deep look at his works to see what he was trying to achieve or achieved through the actions he displayed in his films.

“The cleric to some extent may be wrong; if for example I assume a role of an herbalist and through that role I used it to correct something wrong in society, does it mean I have committed a sin? What exactly does the cleric know about the media and media content? He is looking at the issue from his personal belief and not Islamic religion.”

Olugboji said there was a need for movie practitioners to understand the audience and what they want from the media, adding that entertainers and performers would want to satisfy the needs of the audience.

He said, “If the audience felt that Murphy Afolabi’s works during his lifetime were misleading, he wouldn’t have been as popular as he was when he was alive. This means that to a large extent, he achieved a goal in society through his works.

We should understand that every individual in the society evolves from a socio-cultural and religious background and based on the background that we evolve from; we have enough that can build media literacy that can help us to judge or decide between what is good or bad in the media.”

Customer Cries Out After Polaris Bank Claims He’s Dead, Freezes Millions Of Naira In His Account

Polaris Bank Claims Customer is Dead, Freeze Millions of Naira In His Account.

A Customer, Olasele Anthony, has raised an alarm about  how a commercial bank, Polaris a Post No Debit( PND) on it in an attempt to allegedly steal million of Naira from him.

Narrating his ordeal to SaharaReporters, Anthony said he suspected foul play after his account with the bank became inactive and he was unable to carry out any transaction.

He said he contacted the bank and was told the bank was acting on a court order informing the bank that he was dead.

“On February 3, I saw my account was inactive/dormant. I contacted Polaris Bank, filled out every form required and been in weekly communication with agents/staff since then.

“Last week, when they ran out of excuses, they said I am legally a dead person. Polaris Bank is saying they have a court order from an Abuja court since March saying I am dead and a PND was placed on my account,” Anthony said.

He further said that all efforts to get a copy of the court order from the bank had not been successful.

According to him, the bank has refused to furnish him with the legal document.

Anthony added, “My requests here are simple: Polaris Bank should send me a copy of the court order from Abuja saying I am dead and a hold (PND) should be placed on my account so I can go to the same court and show proof of life or lift the inactive status on my account.

 “I want to see my own death certificate that was used to obtain the court order but Polaris Bank staff are not availing me of any of these.”

He questioned the refusal of the bank to give him the court document saying, “How do I know which court to approach with Proof of Life without knowing where I was legally declared dead?”

Anthony confirmed to SaharaReporters that a legal complaint had been written and submitted to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Polaris Bank to demand full details of what happened and for the PND placed on his account to be lifted.

An email that was sent to the bank for a reaction to the claim made by the customer had yet to be replied to at the time of filing this report.

SENATOR ABBA MORO'S INDEPENDENT CANDIDACY BILL TRANSMITTED TO PRESIDENT BUHARI FOR ASSENT

The Senate, on Tuesday, transmitted the Independent Candidacy Bill to the President, Mohammadu Buhari, for presidential assent.

The bill, being sponsored by the Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Comrade Abba Moro, seeks to, among other things;

1. Alter the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to make provisions for Independent Candidacy in the electoral process in Nigeria. 

2. Create a platform for credible and eligible Candidates desirous to participate in the electoral process in Nigeria to so do without sponsorship of a political party. 

3. Make provisions that allow anyone who's eligible to stand for election to any political office as an Independent Candidate. 

The bill is No. 58 in the Constitution Alteration Bill, and one of the bills sponsored by the Senator in the alteration bill, one of which was the Local Government Administrative and Financial Autonomy Bill that could not get through the State Houses of Assembly as required by law.

The proposal was part of the constitution alteration bills transmitted to State Houses of Assembly for concurrence in 2022 but not part of the 35 that secured the required approval of 24 out of 36 state assemblies until now that Gombe State House of Assembly approved it. 

Senator Moro, while reacting to the development, said he was happy that the proposal finally scaled through. He commended the State Houses of Assembly that approved the bill and expressed optimism that it will get presidential assent to address the grouse and worry of eligible aspirants for political offices who have no platform to run or unjustly denied party tickets. 

Emmanuel Eche-Ofun John,

SA (New Media) to the Senator

17/05/2023

Breaking: Popular Yoruba Actor, Murphy Afolabi Is Dead

According to report making the rounds, popular Nigerian film maker and actor, Murphy Afolabi is dead.

Report says he died from injuries sustained from fallimg down in the bathroom.

Details later

Breaking: Veteran Nollywood Actor, Saint Obi Is Dead

 

Veteran Nollywood actor, Obinna Nwafor, better known by his stage name Saint Obi, has died

It is reported that the incident occurred on Monday, May 7, 2023.

He reportedly passed away after spending several months travelling to the hospital for treatment of an unspecified illness.

According to source, the actor died on Sunday his body was taken to the morgue at JUTH. This was after a visit his sister’s residence in Jos.

Saint Obi is said to have recently relocated to his sister’s home in Jos, the capital of the Plateau State, and has frequently been spotted being transported to the hospital. The fact that Mr. Obi was frequently spotted in the hospital was also confirmed by a source at JUTH.

The Imo-born thespian before his demise had featured in over 100 movies.

Breaking: Assault On Police, IGP Order Immediate Arrest Of Seun Kuti

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, CFR has ordered the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command to arrest Afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti, who was captured on video assaulting a police officer in uniform.

The IGP has equally ordered a speedy and full investigation into the remote and immediate cause(s) of the assault and prosecution of the suspect accordingly.

IGP Usman Alkali Baba assures Nigerians that acts of contempt/disdain for symbols of authority will not be tolerated while offenders of such hideous crimes will be surely brought to book.

CSP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra,

Force Public Relations Officer,
Force Headquarters,
Abuja.

13th May, 2023.

SENATOR ABBA MORO CONGRATULATES OCH'IDOMA ON APPOINTMENT AS CHANCELLOR, FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, OTUOKE

 

The senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Comrade Abba Moro, on behalf of his constituents, congratulates the Och'Idoma, HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John on his appointment as Chancellor of the Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State.

The Och'Idoma's appointment was transmitted through a congratulatory letter sent to the palace on Wednesday by the Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Arch. Sonny Echono, as approved by the President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Senator Moro says the appointment of His Royal Majesty is well-deserved and a round peg in a round hole. 

He appreciates President Buhari for the appointment and prays God to give the Paramount Ruler the wisdom to perform optimally in his office as Chancellor for the good of Federal University, Otuoke, and Nigerian educational system in general.

Ameh Comrade Godwin-Azikiwe,

SA (P & E) to the Senator

11/05/2023

I Was Ill, Became Well After Bishop Oyedepo Prayed For Me – COZA Pastor, Fatoyinbo

The lead pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, has said that he was ill but after the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, prayed for him, he became well against all medical sciences.

The COZA lead cleric who disclosed that he was a drummer in the Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, said this while giving testimony at a church programme.

Fatoyinbo further revealed that in the last three years when he and his church started following everything the Winners Chapel was doing, he had established 11 branches.

He added that his church had been buying properties including 10 hectares of land that three branches of his church bought at Mararaba, Lugbe and Gwarinpa.

The cleric said, “We have been doing well before. We have been following Papa (Oyedepo) from afar. I was a drummer here before, in Winners Chapel. The Lord called us and we were doing well, we had branches which we call campuses now.

“But the last three years when we met Papa and came here has been phenomenon. We have had 11 branches in the last three years. Not just any branch, everywhere looks like the headquarters because we operate like a franchise. Everything is well done.

“God spoke to us that we should come here and be a part of everything happening here. I met Papa and Papa spoke to me about something and life has not remained the same, the members have not remained the same, the church has not remained the same.

“We had three campuses at the time, the three of them bought 10 hectares (of land) in Mararaba, Lugbe and Gwarinpa. They bought their properties and every single thing since we began to follow this church, we began to buy properties for all our branches.

“The thing about Papa is that when he speaks, it comes to pass instantly. Many times, we have been in a circumstance and he will say never again and instantly we see the result. I want to thank God for everything that has happened.

“Last year, I was a little bit ill and Papa spoke, and against everything, the medical sciences, I’m here today and I want to give God the glory.”

Police Lawyer Heading Abba Kyari’s Legal Unit Suspended For 5 Years For Taking Proceeds From Hotel Owned By Kidnap Kingpin

 

The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has suspended the police lawyer heading the legal unit of the disgraced ‘Super Cop’, Abba Kyari‘s Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Barrister Nosa Watson Uhumwangho.

 

 Uhumwangbo had said Kyari made him pay the proceeds from a hotel owned by an alleged kidnap kingpin into his account.

The Disciplinary Committee in a directive delivered on Monday suspended Uhumwangho, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) from legal practice for a period of five years, starting from the day the suspension direction was delivered in accordance with the provisions of Section 22(b) of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee Rules, 2020 and all other enabling provisions.

The LPDC also directed Uhumwangho to immediately transfer all the monies deposited in his personal account to an identifiable official account of the police authority.

Also, the committee directed the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court to “effect the order (direction) against Uhumwangho and make a notation of the direction against the name of Nosa Watson Uhumwangho on the Roll of Legal Practitioners”.

It also directed, “Bring Notice the direction to Barr Nosa by publishing same in Punch Newspaper and in the Federal Gazette as required by law.

“Serve the direction on the President of the Nigerian Bar Association who will take steps to notify the General Council of the Bar, National Executive Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, and other organs of the NBA.

“That the entire judgment encompassing the direction shall be brought to the attention of their Lordships, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, President of the Court of Appeal, the Honourable Chief Judge of the High Court of FCT, Federal High Court, and the High Courts of all other States of the federation, Grand Khadis and President of Customary Courts of all other States of the Federation and the heads of all courts wherein a legal practitioner is entitled to audience by virtue of his office as a legal practitioner in Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation and the entire Attorneys General of the 36 States of the Federation.

“That the order shall also be served on the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police, Imo State and other Commissioner of Police in the respective States of the Federation.”

It was learnt that the direction was the final judgment of the Disciplinary Committee’s hearing of a petition brought against the police lawyer by the counsel for the family of the late Collins Ezenwa Okoronkwo, Justus Uche Ijeoma, Esq.

The petitioner had accused the police lawyer of taking the proceeds from his client’s property and appropriating the same for his personal use, saying the act constitutes conduct unbecoming of a legal practitioner.

It was also reported that while responding to the allegation at the hearing of the petition, Uhumwangho explained how Kyari made him pay the proceeds from a hotel owned by an alleged kidnap kingpin into his account.

Uhumwangho had said that Kyari told him to pay the sum of N3,075,300 (N3.07 million), which was generated from De-English Hotel, Enugu and another property at 21, Edinburgh Street, owned by the late Collins Ezenwa also known as E-Money, an alleged kidnapper, into his (Uhumwangho’s) bank.

However, Uhumwangho’s counsel, Olukayode Enitan (SAN) challenged the jurisdiction of the LPDC to hear the case, arguing that Uhumwangho’s act complained against was carried out as part of his police duties.

But the Committee chaired by Justice Ishaq Bello trashed Enitan’s argument and directed Uhumwangho’s five-year suspension.

 

Buhari, Aisha Relocate To The Glass House Ahead Of May 29 Handover

 

The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) and his family have moved into the Glass House at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, ahead of the inauguration of the president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This was disclosed by the First Lady, Aisha Buhari, in a video shared on her official Instagram page after taking the incoming First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu around the State House.

During the tour of the Villa, Aisha introduced Oluremi to the various areas of the house.

While stating that she and her husband have moved into the iconic residence, Aisha urged succeeding governments to maintain the practice of having the outgoing president and his spouse to reside in the glass house till transitions are over.

She said “I have taken the incoming First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, around. She has seen the main house; we are now at the popular glass house. Glass house is a transitional home for the outgoing president.

“I’m advising that the Glass House should maintain its tradition of being a transition for the outgoing president. As I am talking to you now, I am residing here with my husband. Only two of us here, I think it should remain so as a norm of the institution and of the house.”

In her reaction having completed the tour, Oluremi was appreciative of the opportunity availed her and the magnanimity of her host the president’s wife.

She said “I have gone around. She has magnanimously shown me around the house. And graciously explained a lot of things to me which is quite a short time and overwhelming for me to grasp.

“But, I believe God will help me to be able to make an impactful contribution to the nation.”

I Will End Russia-Ukraine War In 24 Hours As US President – Embattled Donald Trump Boasts

Former President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, has said that if he were the current president, he would end the protracted war between Russia and Ukraine in 24 hours, despite their strengths.

To achieve this, Trump said he would have a negotiation with Russian and Ukrainian Presidents, Vladimirovich Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, respectively.

Trump said this on Wednesday in a CNN town hall before a live audience in the state of New Hampshire.

“I’ll meet with Putin. I’ll meet with Zelensky. They both have weaknesses and they both have strengths. And within 24 hours, that war will be settled. It’ll be over,” Trump said.

On 24 February 2022, Russia invaded and occupied parts of Ukraine in a major escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War, which had begun in 2014. The invasion has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths on both sides and instigated Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II.

He, however, added that Putin made a mistake by invading Ukraine.

He said Putin would not have done such if he was the President of the US.

“Putin made a mistake by invading Ukraine. His mistake was going in. He would have never gone in if I was president,” Trump said.

The 45th US President who served from 2017 to 2021 has announced his interest to contest for the US presidency in 2024. He is a frontrunner to be the Republican Party’s nominee.

He further said, “I want everybody to stop dying. They’re dying. Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I’ll have that done. “I’ll have that done in 24 hours. I’ll have it done. You need the power of the presidency to do it.”

EFCC Arrests, Detains Ex-Minister Of Power, Mamman For N22billion Fraud

 

Former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman has been arrested and detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an alleged N22 billion fraud.

Mamman, who was minister under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 to 2021, was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday and is being detained at the headquarters of the anti-graft agency in Abuja, sources revealed.

The arrest is connected to investigations into alleged corruption in the execution of some power projects.

Mamman is accused of conspiring with staff of the ministry in charge of the accounts of the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects to divert N22 billion and share among themselves.

The investigations uncovered properties in Nigeria and overseas allegedly linked to the suspects, while millions of naira and dollars have reportedly been recovered.

SaharaReporters had reported in September 2021 that Mamman was relieved of his ministerial job by President Buhari.

Mamman was said to have been living at Transcorp Hilton in Abuja for more than three weeks on the bills of some powerful interests in the power sector, who were hoping he would still be in the office to be able to award lucrative contracts to them.

“He has been living permanently at Transcorp Hilton since early August. His bills were being covered by elements in the power sector who were looking forward to more lucrative contracts before the bad news of his dismissal struck yesterday,” the source was quoted to have added.

Governor Ganduje Presently Selling Government Properties To Family Members Before May 29 – Governor-Elect, Kabir Yusuf Cries Out

 

The Transition Committee set up by the incoming Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf has claimed that the state government properties were being sold by the outgoing Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to his family members and cronies.

This was stated by Dr Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, chairman of the committee, who led the Recovery of Public Assets Subcommittee, during a visit the Kano State Public Procurement Bureau (Due Process Office) on Wednesday.

The committee’s chairman claimed that the committee had received solid information that the Due Process Office had been sold to Abba Ganduje, the governor’s son.

“The office which was until this afternoon being actively utilized by staff of the office was sold to the son of the exiting governor of the state and we are deeply worried by the manner at which the outgoing governor is mortgaging the common franchise of the good people of Kano state leaves much to be desired,” he said.

He said the act of the government was akin “to vandalism; they are uprooting every structure of governance.”

Bichi said that the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) had genuine evidence that the property had been “sold for less than N10 million.”

He described the government’s actions as “a drama,” with the actual game beginning on May 29. This is the final chapter of the drama, and we will collect and return to the people whatever was stolen, misused, or vandalised by the outgoing government.”

He also advised property developers to be cautious, noting that anyone involved in the conduct would face prosecution when the NNPP government of Abba Kabir Yusuf takes over on May 29.

Muhammad Garba, the government’s commissioner of information and internal affairs, could not be reached for comment at the time of reporting this story.

However, Garba had previously made a statement instructing the NNPP to wait until it was sworn in before making policy declarations.

Ganduje had also urged his soon-to-be successor not to create a scenario that implied the state had two governors.

Senator Solomon Yayi Felicitate With Oba Adeyemi On His 5th Coronation Anniversary

Nigerian Senator, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi has extended a hearty felicitations to the Olota of Ota Awori Kingdom on his 5th coronation.

Yayi who is the senator-elect for Ogun West Senatorial District through his Special Adviser on Media, Omooba Damilare Oloyede, described Oba AbdulKabir as a unifier.

The statement reads:

 "I, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI, CON FCA FCIT, FFPI, Senator-Elect, Ogun West Senatorial District, heartily felicitates with His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi AbdulKabir Obalanlege, Arole Oodua, The Olota of Ota Awori Kingdom on the 5th year coronation anniversary. 

Your Royal Majesty, your ascension of the throne of Olota of Ota on 10th May, 2018 has brought unprecedented development, peace, an111q1111md tranquillity to the whole of Ota land. You have, without any doubt, demonstrated progressive intellectualism and outstanding worldview in your rulership of Ota Kingdom. Your pet project of an E-library for your domain exemplifies your knowledge based approach to development, which is unique and commendable. 

As you clock 5 years today on the throne on your forebears, I pray for more years of peaceful and blissful reign on the throne. 

Congratulations, Kabiyesi. 

Senator (Aremo) Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI CON, FCA FCTI FFPI.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance &

Senator-Elect, Ogun West Senatorial District.

Nani Boi Production Builds the First EPIC Film Village In Enugu Community for the Making of the movie "King Mabutu"

 

Enugu born film maker and writer, Mr. Nnaemeka Eze, popularly known as  Nani Boi has through his Nani Boi  Production established a record breaking epic film village in Enugu community for the Making of his latest African Epic Cultural genre movie, KING MABUTU hosting over one hundred (100) casts, including a Nollywood Veteran Actor, Pete Edochie and a host of others.

The must watch legendary and archetypal epic movie; KING MABUTU, written and produced by Nani Boi is set to wow all lovers of history and African Stories dated back to pre-colonial era. KING MABUTU is ambivalent in it's interpretation of the past, presenting a source of African cultural richness and a nightmare of a tyrannical kingdom.

The movie KING MABUTU which was directed by Edward Uka and sponsored by Brewstarz Films. To watch it on your phone, simply download SHIEN TV app from playstore or apple store. Search for KING MABUTU in the app and watch easily without subscription. Thanks to Nani Boi Production for always putting Enugu state on the world map.

PDP Chieftains Lock Horns As Battle For Osun Speakership Heightens

Ahead of the inauguration of the 8th House of Assembly in Osun State next month, intense politicking has continued to take centre stage in the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) controlled state.

There is a scramble within the party for the office of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly.  While some are routing for newly elected members of the House to bid for the office, other chieftains of the party are insisting on ranking legislators in the House to be the next Speaker.

Those backing the latter contend that leadership of a state House of Assembly demands experience and understanding of the rules and practices of the House which will only be taught to new members at inauguration. Hence, ranking members who have the required experience should be considered for the position.

There are only four ranking members in the about-to-be-inaugurated Assembly. At the moment, sources say the battle for the Speakership in the state is locked between Prince Tajudeen Adeyemi, a lawyer and Wale Egbedun. The duo are the front runners for the plum job in the 26-member assembly. While the latter is said to be a first-timer, with no experience, the former is a ranking member in the state’s House of Assembly

Though the Standing Order of the House of Assembly allows only ranking members to lead the parliament, Section 92(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) says: ” There shall be a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of a House of Assembly who shall be elected by the members of the House from among themselves.” This means either a first-timer or a ranking member can be Speaker.

Recently, some lawmakers-elect in the Osun State House of Assembly, challenged the rule of the Assembly allowing only ranking members to vie for the speakership of the House.

The lawmakers-elect, including Lawal Rasheed, representing Osogbo Constituency, and Oyewusi Akinyode of Ife-North Constituency, have dragged the House of Assembly, the Speaker, Timothy Owoeye, and the Clerk of the House before a State High Court.

The two lawmakers, in an originating summon want the court to declare Rule 4(a) of the Osun State House of Assembly Legislative Standing Rule null and void for being contrary to the provision of section 92(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

It reads: “Whether the provision of Rule 4 (a) of the Osun State House of Assembly Legislative Standing Rule to the effect that the Speaker of the House Assembly shall be from among the ranking members-elect of the House of Assembly is not contrary to the provision of section 92(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), therefore unconstitutional, null and void. And upon the determination of the question, the plaintiffs shall be seeking the following reliefs at the hearing:

“A declaration that the provision of Rule 4(a) of the Osun State House of Assembly Legislative Standing Rules is inconsistent with the provision of section 92(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), thereby unconstitutional null and void.

“An order of injunction restraining the defendants from enforcing or applying the provision of Rule 4(a) of the Osun State House of Assembly Legislative Standing Rules same being inconsistent with the provision of 92(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”

The bone of contention is that a first-timer cannot lead the 8th Assembly based on the Standing Order of the House. But the provisions of the 1999 Constitution suggest otherwise.  There are speculations that one of the candidates, Egbedun has the backing of Governor Ademola Adeleke despite being a first-timer and allegedly without the requisite experience. It is also believed that the state wants to set a precedence by having the youngest Assembly speaker in the country.

In an interview, Special Assistant to Osun Governor on Media and Monitoring, Akintunde Bello Sheriff, maintained that regardless of ranking, all elected House members are qualified to vie for the seat of the Speaker. According to him, being a first-timer doesn’t affect the capacity to lead the House.

He said the governor has no favourite,  adding that he met the 25 PDP members-elect and is ready to work with anyone who becomes the Speaker.

“I believe the issue of ranking is to suit a parochial narrative. The best experience is when you go through the rigour of primary contests and general elections. In 1999, when democracy returned, how did leadership emerge in the House? Were there ranking members then? When you are elected and returned by INEC, you are qualified. Since the matter is in court, let’s wait for the outcome. All the PDP 25 members are eligible if they desire,” he said.

Nevertheless, a Civil Rights Activist and Political analyst, Oluwole Oladapo, believes a premium should be placed on competence irrespective of ranking or being a first-timer.

“Most important is getting the job done. Being a Speaker is about being primus inter pares. We must start thinking of competence. The best men should be allowed to do the job. Experience cannot be thrown away, though. The legislature should be a check on the government,” he said.

Meanwhile, stakeholders believe Egbedun does not have a known record as an administrator or public office holder and is not popular among the people. Therefore, he should be allowed to learn the ropes and understand the business of the legislature.

A stakeholder who craved anonymity said: “Osun State at this time deserves a Speaker that can actually speak and administer legislative duties competently. We cannot at this time because of some parochial interest or undefined loyalty install someone without a verifiable past or means of survival. In the coming days, opinion moulders would come to the fore to x-ray the antecedent of whoever wishes to rule the state and ensure such person is of clean and verifiable records.”

Source: The Nation

Tinubu, Shettima, Governors-Elect, Others Won’t Be Sworn In On May 29 Without Declaring Their Assets – Code Of Conduct

 

Ahead of May 29th swearing in, the Code of Conduct Bureau has warned that without asset declaration no elected public official would be sworn in.

Veronica Kato, the spokesperson for the CCB, Mrs Veronica Kato, told The PUNCH in an interview that the ‘President-elect’, Bola Tinubu; the Vice President-elect, Kashim Shettima, 28 incoming governors-elect and elected members of the national and state assemblies must declare their assets before their inaugurations as stipulated by the law.

Although several elected officials had started picking their assets declaration forms at the state offices of CCB, Kato maintained that under the 1999 Constitution, as amended, they are expected to submit the filled copies to the bureau before the inauguration day.

The constitution stipulates that all public officers shall declare their assets and liabilities on assumption of office and at the end of their tenure of office.

The affected officials are required to provide detailed information including but not limited to the number, types, address, and value of properties so declared and the date of acquisition as well as income derivable from the properties where appropriate.

Under the provisions of paragraph 11 of the 5th Schedule of the Federal Constitution, failure to declare assets as required by the law attracts on conviction removal from office, disqualification from holding any public office and forfeiture to the state of any property acquired in abuse of office or dishonesty.

Regarding the number of officials who had obtained their asset declaration forms, Kato said, “We have earlier revealed that the assets declaration is an ongoing process. Currently, they are already obtaining their forms as they are coming in.

“However, I can’t specifically state the total number of elected officials that have collected their assets declaration forms or their names because they are getting the forms from our various offices nationwide.

“The development is going on in the 36 other offices as we are doing it at the head office here in the Federal Capital Territory. Hence, until we are done receiving their filled forms, and have collated the figures, we cannot specifically tell the total number of persons that have picked up or submitted their forms.”

While warning that defaulting officials would not be sworn in, the CCB spokesperson, “No public official will be sworn into office without filling their assets declaration form. That is what is contained in our law. Before the oath of office would be conferred on any elected public officials, they must submit their assets declaration forms. It is part of the requirements for the swearing-in ceremony.”

In compliance with the law, the outgoing public officials, she disclosed, had begun to pick the assets declaration forms as part of the requirements for exiting the office.

Kato added, “The outgoing public officials have also started picking up their assets declaration forms. Many of them have started picking up the forms this week because officials are required to fill the forms and declare their assets both at the beginning and at the end of their tenure.”

Breaking: Supreme Court Affirms Adeleke As Osun Governor

 

The Supreme Court has affirmed Senator Ademola Adeleke as the validly elected governor of Osun, putting to rest months-long legal battle between him and ex-Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

In the lead judgment prepared and delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, a member of the five-man panel that presided over the case, the court held that the appellants, Mr Oyetola and the All Progressives Congress (APC), did not produce a concrete evidence to support their claims of over voting and improper accreditation of voters.

Mr Agim held that the evidence submitted by the appellant which did not include the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines of the 744 poling units in dispute, could not be relied upon as the primary source of records for the accredited voters in the polling units.

Failing to provide the authentic voter accreditation records from the BVAS implied that the appellants relied on a secondary, insufficient and inadmissible means to prove their allegations.

The court also ruled that the expert analysis presented by the APC and Mr Oyetola was not independent as the expert in question was a member of the APC and an associate of Mr Oyetola who had a vested interest in his analysis, affirming that the appellant failed to prove grounds of their petition.

“The appellant case clearly collapsed at the conclusion of evidence,” Mr Agim said.

Mr Oyetola had sought relief at the apex court following the Appeal Court’s upturning of his victory at the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which affirmed Mr Adeleke as the validly elected governor.