The leadership of the House of Representatives on Monday intervened in the ongoing dispute between Nigeria and foreign airlines over the controversial “trapped funds” belonging to the airlines.
After a meeting chaired by the Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, in Abuja and attended by representatives of the airlines, International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON), travel agencies and other aviation industry stakeholders, some understanding was reached to find quick solutions to release the huge sums owed the airlines.
More importantly, AON, at the session, made a strong case for the protection of the interests of Nigerian airlines in foreign countries, especially the issue of reciprocity in the number of flight slots allocated to Nigerian operators in other countries, compared to the high number foreign airlines enjoy in Nigeria.
The meeting also discussed the disparity in ticket prices charged by the foreign airlines in Nigeria and other countries, with Nigerians paying higher even when the distance between Nigeria and the foreign country of destination is shorter when compared to the distance from other African countries.
The meeting, which also looked into the difficulty Nigerians face in accessing the portals of foreign airlines for flight bookings, later adjourned till Thursday, October 20 to get the input of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on how to fast-track the release of the trapped funds.
The Speaker, however, emphasised the need for all the parties involved to make a commitment to end the crisis by addressing the various issues raised by different stakeholders and restoring peace to the industry, especially with regard to international flight operations.
The meeting will reconvene on Thursday.
GOV AKEREDOLU HONOURED AT YORUBA CULTURAL EXCHANGE FESTIVAL IN CHICAGO
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence at the Yoruba Cultural Exchange Festival and Awards held in September, 2022 in Chicago, United States of America.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Adewale Akinlosotu, received the award on behalf of the Governor.
The Commissioner presented the award to the Governor at the State Executive Council meeting on Monday.
According to him, the award was in recognition of Governor Akeredolu’s stand on Amotekun and the protection of the people of Yoruba land.
“This award was presented to you in recognition of your stand on Amotekun and the protection of our people. It was presented to you by the Yoruba Culture Exchange in Chicago, September 2022.
Congratulations
Sir.
“Mr. Governor, I think it is noteworthy to say that you have been described as a beacon of hope for Ondo State and Nigeria,” the commissioner said.
In his remarks, Governor Akeredolu thanked the Yoruba group for the honour, pledging to carry on the struggle for the good of the people.
The Governor said: ”It should be noted that the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism was in Chicago physically where he collected the award. So, I want to thank you for the representation and I believe again that this is for Ondo State.
“I want to thank the Yoruba cultural group for this honour and by the grace of Almighty, we will not disappoint them. We will carry on with the struggle. The struggle continues.”
RIchard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 17, 2022.
PDP SHOULD APOLOGISE IF ATIKU’S COMMENTS ON NORTHERNISING PRESIDENCY IS TRUE-WIKE
*Insists Ayu Didn’t Inform NWC, Govs, About N1.1B He Received
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has expressed mixed feelings over comments credited to the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar that what the north needs is a northerner, not an Igbo or a Yoruba person as next president of Nigeria.
Such statement, if true, Governor Wike said, is a threat to the unity of Nigeria at a time when efforts should be concerted in giving every Nigerian a sense of belonging.
Governor Wike spoke on Monday at the international wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa in Ikwerre Local Government Area, shortly on arrival from Spain. Governor Wike, was accompanied by the governors, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Samuel Ortom (Benue).
“I don’t believe that my candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could make such statement. But assuming he did make that statement, and this is one of the things we have been saying, this country needs to be united and part of the way you unite it is to include everybody.”
Governor Wike expressed his stances against anything that relegates any section of Nigeria and treat them as second fiddles.
The Rivers State governor is of the thinking that the handlers of Alhaji Atiku should also share in the blame for allowing their principal to make such comment in public which is capable of heightening tension and deepening the feeling of alienation among Nigerians.
“That has now confirmed to me one of the reasons why those of them in their camp, do not want Ayu to resign because they do not want inclusivity.
“I don’t know how those who are packaging the presidential candidate will allow him to make such statement. I was reading where somebody was saying that it was a direct response to a question he was asked.”
Given that the statement is now in the public domain, Governor Wike advised the leadership of PDP to tender apology to Nigerians while explaining the circumstances in which the statement was made.
“Be that as it may, I don’t think that it was necessary at this time, as people who are going in for election, as people who want Nigerians to trust them to have allowed such a statement to be made. “If it (statement) was made, as they said, I think, as a party, we need to apologize to Nigerians, assuming the (statement) was made.
“People are denying that it was made but if you watch the video, it appears true but people are saying with recent technology, anything can be done.
“This requires further explanation by our party, because Nigerians, as it is today, we can’t go this way if we want this country to remain as the way our finding father’s struggled, laboured, and toiled all the night to see that there is a country called Nigeria.”
Speaking further, Governor Wike took a swipe at the PDP national chairman, Senator Iyorciha Ayu, saying going by his responses to the allegations levelled against him, he stands indicted except proven otherwise.
“Luckily for me, he (Ayu) has now mentioned that he went to the presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Waziri of Adamawa where they discussed on the issues of borrowing.
“Now, the question is, when you talk about borrowing, who approves borrowing? You must go to the National Working Committee (NWC) to say you want to borrow money.
“I challenge him to bring the records where NWC approved that the party should go and borrow N1billion. What is the collateral?”
Governor Wike explained that in matters of funding the party, the governors had been up to that responsibility dutifully. According to him, it was therefore unthinkable that the national chairman would, in the guise of seeking funding for the party, opt to collect loan on behalf of the party without notifying the NWC and governors.
“Be sincere, how can you talk of N1 billion loan without the NWC mooting the idea, without the governors knowing. Then you talk about the N100million (One Hundred Million Naira) he said he told the Board of Trustees (BOT).
“If any governor gives you One Hundred Million Naira in order to rebuild one of the structures of the party, the Democratic Institute, let him show the minutes of the NWC where he said a governor has contributed N100million. Let him show the account to reflect this N100million.
“Let him also say that the N100m was in Naira or in Dollars. He said he gave it to the treasurer. I thought he would have told the world that NWC was aware.
Governor Wike stated for emphasis that his allegations against Ayu were categorical and it was expected that his responses should address each of the issues separately.
“In fact, the normal thing is that when once any governor or any party person has donated money to the party, you will go and tell NWC that so and so person has donated money. Let him (Ayu) show us the account where this money was paid into.
“Coming out to do a general denial is not denial. You (Ayu) must deny specifically to the allegations that were made.”
Governor Wike also wants Ayu to mention names of those he has contacted to handle the rehabilitation works going on at the PDP Democratic Institute and at the National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone in Abuja.
“Ask him, the contracts that are going on in this Democratic Institute and that of Wadata, who is doing that contract, is it not one of his sons?
“As a party, we believe that Nigerians must trust us. We must show leadership and part of that leadership is integrity. You don’t just come and deceive Nigerians that you did not collect one billion naira.
“So, let Ayu come out and tell us, tell the PDP people and tell the public that this matter was discussed in NWC.”
Governor Wike also described as out of order the PDP Board of Trustees resolution that mandated Ayu to make commitment that he would resign after the 2023 elections.
The governor wondered why the BOT could not make Ayu to fulfil his initial commitment that he would resign if a northerner emerges as presidential candidate from the PDP convention.
“To say he should make another commitment that he will resign after the elections, for me, BOT resolution is ridiculous.”
WITH HIGH-IMPACT PROJECTS ACROSS NIGERIA, WE HAVE MET THE YEARNING OF NIGERIANS, PRESIDENT BUHARI DECLARES AT LAST MINISTERIAL RETREAT
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Abuja declared open the last Ministerial Performance Review Retreat of this administration, saying high-impact projects have been implemented across the country meeting the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.
Addressing the Retreat organised to evaluate the level of progress made in the implementation of the Nine Priority Agenda of his Administration, the President highlighted remarkable progress made in the areas of agriculture, economy, infrastructure, security, health, anti-corruption among others.
The President told participants and guests at the retreat including the Keynote Speaker and immediate past President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, that over 3,800 KM of roads have been constructed across the country, while 38 new aircraft were acquired for the Nigerian Air Force to boost the fight against insurgency.
He also added that 38.7 million Nigerians have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, representing 35 per cent of the total eligible population target for vaccination.
On infrastructure, the President said:
”In recognition of the importance of critical infrastructure in economic development and the quest of this Administration to leave a lasting legacy, we have implemented high-impact projects across the length and breadth of the country that meet the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.
”Some of the notable achievements include the completion of 326km Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri rail line and railway ancillary facilities; the completion of over 156.5km Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge railway modernization project with extension to Lagos Port, Apapa.
”On road projects, this Administration has constructed 408Km of roads; 2,499Km of SUKUK roads and maintenance of 15,961Km of roads across the Country.
”Key among these projects are the construction of 1.9km 2nd Niger Bridge linking Anambra and Delta States with 10.30km approach road; rehabilitation, construction and expansion of Lagos-Shagamu-Ibadan dual carriageway; the ongoing rehabilitation of Abuja-Kaduna – Zaria – Kano Road, among others.”
Stressing that the Federal Government under his watch has sustained commitment to infrastructural development for the past 7 years, President Buhari said over 941km of completed SUKUK road projects nationwide have been handed over.
Furthermore, he said the Federal Government has embarked on the reconstruction of 21 selected Federal Roads totaling 1,804.6km, under the Road Infrastructure Development & Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Policy.
He explained that the roads, which are funded by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, are in addition to similar existing collaboration with Messrs Dangote Industries Limited and other corporate organisations to improve the stock of the country’s road infrastructure.
On aviation, the President assured that the establishment of a National Carrier for Nigeria is at 91 percent completion, and is expected to commence flight operations before the end of this year.
He said the feat is being boosted with the certification of Lagos and Abuja International Airports by the International Civil Aviation Organization, while Kano and Port Harcourt Airports are undergoing similar certification processes.
On the economy, the President restated that the country had witnessed seven consecutive quarters of growth, after negative growth rates recorded in the 2nd and 3rd Quarters of 2020.
”The GDP grew by 3.54% (year-on-year) in real terms in the 2nd Quarter of 2022. This growth rate represents a sustained positive economic performance, especially for the Non-Oil GDP which fell by 4.77% in Q2 2022 against Oil GDP that grew by -11.77%.
”Most sectors of the economy recorded positive growth which reflects the effective implementation of the economic sustainability measures introduced by this Administration,” he said.
On the Communications & Digital Economy Sector, the President noted that giant strides have been made through broadband coverage which currently stands at 44.32%, reinforced by 77.52% 4G coverage with the establishment of 36,751 4G base stations nationwide.
Similarly, the President declared that the Power Sector has remained a critical priority for the Administration, adding that the implementation of a ‘Willing Buyer-Willing Seller’ policy introduced by the Federal Government has opened up opportunities for increased delivery of electricity to underserved homes and industries.
”We are also executing a number of critical projects through the Transmission Rehabilitation and Expansion Programme, which will result in achieving the national goal of improved power supply by 2025.
”It is important to state that the partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and German Siemens AG through the Presidential Power Initiative to increase electricity generation to 25,000 Megawatts (MW) in six years is on course, as the first batch of the transformers has arrived Nigeria already.”
On the oil and gas sector, the President recalled that on 16th August 2021, he signed the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) into law, providing a legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian Petroleum Industry, as well as the development of host communities and related matters.
He noted that to achieve the objectives of the PIA, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation was unbundled while the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority were established.
On efforts towards strengthening national security, the President said his administration has substantially invested in arms, weapons and other critical military hardware as well as continuous training for the Armed Forces.
”The Nigerian Air Force has acquired 38 brand-new aircraft and is expecting another batch of 36 new ones, while the Nigerian Navy has been equipped with new platforms, sophisticated riverine, Rigid-Hull Inflatable, Seaward Defence, Whaler & Fast Attack Boats as well as Helicopters and Capital Ships.
”To boost the number of our Police personnel, 20,000 policemen have been recruited, trained, fully integrated and deployed in 2020 and 2021. This exercise has strengthened our community policing strategy which is enshrined in the Police Act, 2020.’’
On the fight against corruption, the President promised that the administration would continue to review and prosecute high-profile corruption cases and ensure speedy completion.
Concerning Social Investment Programmes, the President said 9,990,862 pupils are being fed through the School Feeding Programme, which employs 128,531 cooks in local communities.
”Following the passage of the National Health Act in 2014, this Administration began the inclusion of the 1% minimum portion of the Consolidated Revenue Fund to cater for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
”Consequently, 988,652 poor and indigent Nigerians have been enrolled in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
”We should also note that a total of 7,373 primary health facilities have been accredited and capitated under the National Health Insurance Scheme pathway, while 7,242 Primary Health Care facilities are receiving Decentralized Facility Financing under the National Primary Health Care Development Agency – Basic Health Care Provision Fund gateway,” the President said on milestones in the health sector.
President Buhari also lauded Nigeria’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, noting that the country’s achievement has been commended by the World Health Organisation.
He said at the end of September 2022, 51,713,575 eligible people had received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, representing 46.3% of the eligible population.
”Out of this number, 38,765,510 people have been fully vaccinated, and this represents 34.7% of the eligible population.
The President urged all eligible Nigerians to ensure that they are fully vaccinated as Nigeria’s vaccine stock balance stands at about 27 million doses.
On agriculture, the President expressed delight that as a direct result of investment, the sector has experienced significant growth.
”The shortfall in food production and food importation bills have both been reduced significantly. Along with the production of other staple crops, we have reached our goal of self-sufficiency in rice production.
”We are exerting a lot of effort to solve the problem of the rising cost of food that is related to inflation, being a global crisis.”
President Buhari directed Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and all Heads of Agencies to reinvigorate their efforts in ramping-up delivery of flagship programmes and projects contained in their Ministerial Mandates.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and his team in sustaining the Annual Performance Review Retreats, adding that this has enabled the cabinet to maintain focus on the nine-point Agenda and more importantly, providing solid evidence that supports the achievements.
”I am also proud to see that our Administration is staying true to our commitment to the Open Government Partnership initiative which I signed up in 2017. In this regard, the Presidential Delivery Tracker was launched on 30th August 2022, which is a clear testament to this Administration’s commitment to participatory governance.
”As part of efforts to strengthen performance management culture, the Central Delivery Coordination Unit is being institutionalised.
”As an initiative of this Administration, I am delighted to bequeath this legacy to my successor as part of the mechanisms that will assist the next Administration in delivering on its promises to the Nigerian people,” he said.
Setting the context for the two-day meeting, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the retreat has been structured into three main focus areas.
”First is an overview of ministerial performance within the last three years of the administration, presenting key achievements and identifying opportunities for improvement.
”Second will reflect on lessons and good practices from the Kenyan presidential delivery unit while the third is ways to accelerate the delivery of flagship projects and programmes of the Buhari administration before the end of the tenure in May 2023.”
Mustapha announced that President Buhari would sign an Executive Order on Improving Performance Management, Coordination and Implementation of Presidential Priorities of the Federal Government of Nigeria at the end of the 3rd Ministerial Performance Review Retreat.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, Speaker of the House Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Senate President Ahmed Lawan delivered goodwill messages at the Retreat.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 17, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS FORMER DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF BAUCHI STATE, NUHU GIDADO AT 64
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Nuhu Gidado, on his 64th birthday, joining family and friends to celebrate with the public servant, who has served the nation and his state in many capacities.
President Buhari notes the zeal, courage and vision that Gidado has brought to the various positions and responsibilities held over many years, including Commissioner of Education, where he initiated and implemented reforms that saw increase in enrolment, improvement in output of teachers and better performances in WAEC/NECO.
The President extols the former Deputy Governor for contributions to the development of the country, while in the private sector, supervising projects at state and national levels, like the Headquarters of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) in Abuja, and infrastructural projects in Bauchi State.
As Gidado turns 64, President Buhari commends his humility, diligence and discipline, especially in delivering remarkable and built-to-last projects, with a clear sense of detail.
The President prays for long life and more prosperity for the former Deputy Governor.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 17. 2022
October 17, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Condemns APC’s Attack on Its Kaduna Presidential Campaign Rally
…Insists It is Undeterred
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns in the strongest terms possible the violent attack on its Presidential Campaign Rally in Kaduna, Kaduna State capital today, Monday, October 17, 2022 by heavily armed hoodlums sponsored by the liquidating All Progressives Congress (APC).
This unprovoked attack is not only reprehensible but also exposes the desperation of the APC which is overwhelmed by the continuing popularity of the PDP and our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar for which they have now resorted to violence.
The aim of the APC for this attack is to frustrate the PDP Presidential Rally, trigger tension, violence and cause bloodletting in Kaduna State. This is contrary to the undertaking in the Peace Accord signed by political parties on September 28, 2022 in which the Presidential Candidate of the APC was conspicuously absent.
The attack today by the APC must give well-meaning Nigerians concern as some report allege that the vicious assault on the PDP Presidential Campaign was spearheaded by the APC governorship candidate in Kaduna State.
The frustrated APC having realized that it cannot legally and legitimately sponsor candidates for the 2023 general elections has now resorted to violence and attacking our party members and innocent citizens with the aim of derailing the entire democratic process.
The APC is intimidated by Atiku Abubakar’s popularity and acceptance among majority of Nigerians following their confidence in Atiku Abubakar’s practical experience, record, capacity, broad-mindedness, Pan-Nigerianism and willpower to unite our nation, revamp our devastated economy and guarantee security of lives and property in our country.
In any case, our Party is undeterred by such cowardly attack as Nigerians are already connected with our issue-based campaign and Atiku Abubakar’s message of hope which is already resonating throughout the nooks and crannies of our country.
The PDP salutes the courage displayed by the people of Kaduna State in coming out enmasse to resist and overwhelm the APC and its agents, ensure the success of the PDP Rally, reinforce their support for Atiku Abubakar and re-emphasize the fact that Kaduna State is home to PDP, which gave Atiku Abubakar the highest votes in the 2019 Presidential election.
These desperate elements should be reminded that from history, the people of Kaduna State have never been cowed or subjugated and cannot now especially in their present resolve to vote in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of Nigeria.
The PDP acknowledges the massive inflow of new members into our Party, especially from the fizzling APC in Kaduna State and throughout the country because of APC’s failures in governance.
Kaduna State is a Melting Pot State and such inflow into the PDP denotes the confidence and trust Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion and political affiliation, repose in Atiku Abubakar as the next President of the country.
It should be recalled that the PDP, on Sunday, October 16, 2022 alerted on the plot to disrupt our scheduled Presidential Campaign in Kaduna State today. Our Party therefore charges security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this attack are brought to book.
The PDP calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to call his partymen to order and ensure adequate security for a free, fair and credible electoral process in our country.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
Labour Party Call Out Ebonyi Governor, Umahi To Release Its Kidnapped Senatorial Candidate By His Vigilante Outfit
THE National Chairman of the Labour Party (AP) Comrade Barrister Julius Abure has directed Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi to secure the release of its Senatorial Candidate who was allegedly kidnapped on Saturday night by the South East Vigilante outfit called Ebubeagu.
But the Police Command in Ebonyi State described as ‘fake’ the alleged abduction of Linus Okorie, Labour Party Senatorial candidate for Ebonyi South in the state.
SP Chris Anyanwu, Spokesman of the Command said, in a statement, he issued to newsmen in Abakaliki on Monday, that Okorie was only arrested and not abducted.
He said that Okorie, an ex-House of Representatives Member, was arrested over drug related matters and several other offences.
Anyanwu urged the public to desist from painting pictures of insecurity in the state by propagating unfounded rumours.
“Sequel to initial viral rumours renting the air, cum a Press Release accredited to one Dr David Ogbonna of Linus Okorie Caring Heart Foundation, purporting that the former member of House of Representatives, was abducted on Sunday.
“The State Police Command swung into action and later traced the said Okorie, who had evaded many Police arrests/invitations, to the head office of the Ebubeagu Security Outfit at the Old Government House.
“Police detectives were briefed on why he was arrested which includes his activities and utterances that incited and provoked the violence that engulfed Onicha Community which led to suspected gunmen to unleash mayhem in the area in 2021.
“Hence, the case has now been taken over by the Police Command for a scrupulous investigation.
“Secondly, Okorie was severally invited by the Security and Intelligence Bureau of the Command over a petition dated, March 23, authored by the State’s Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, alleging that he was spreading fake news against Gov Dave Umahi.
“When invited by the SIB over the false allegations/petition, Okorie, in his characteristic pompous manner, refused vehemently to report. Rather, he chose to file fallacious suits against the Police Command.
“It is also pertinent to mention that Okorie also have a pending case in which he is implicated in a drug-related offence where the suspects purported to be his agents were arrested for Hard drug sales and use at his City Hub Inn, Mile 50, Abakaliki,” the spokesman stated.
Okorie is contesting the same senate seat with Governor Umahi.
A statement from Okorie’s organisation, Caring Heart Foundation and signed by one Dr David Ogbonna, alleged that the senatorial candidate was abducted on Sunday morning on his way to Abakaliki by gunmen.
According to the statement, we implore our supporters, CaringHeart Foundation members and friends of Hon Linus, not to give into unlawful acts but allow the security agencies do their professional jobs.
Calling out the security agencies and the State Governor to assumed their constitutional duties in a press statement, Barrister Abure said the incessant attacks on the Labour Party and its candidates across board is a threat to democracy and freedom of association.
“It has come to my notice that our senatorial candidate in Ebonyi South, Hon Linus Okorie has been kidnapped on his way to his house, in Ebonyi state this evening (Sunday October 16) allegedly by the personnel of the South East Vigilante outfit, Ebubeagu.
“It is no longer news that some political actors in some South Eastern states particularly, Ebonyi and Enugu have vowed that Labour Party and its candidates will not be allowed to campaign freely in the zone. This is evident with incessant attacks on members and supporters of the Labour Party and that of our candidates, particularly, our presidential candidate.
“This night attack is viewed by the party as a furtherance of the determination of these political hirelings to frustrate the progressive incursion of the party across the nation and particularly in the South East.
“I therefore call on the Ebonyi state governor, His Excellency, Dave Umahi and the hierarchy of the security agencies particularly, the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State to immediately effect the release of our senatorial prospect, Hon Linus Okorie.
“The frequent attack and kidnapping of innocent Nigerians, particularly the political class could have a major consequences in the coming general election. This is quite unfortunate and it is not good for democracy. We see it as a threat to our democracy and it should not be allowed to progress or institutionalised.
“I want to recall what happened to our party in Anambra State last year when our governorship candidate, Hon. Obiography Agbasimalo was kidnapped and as I speak, nothing has been heard about him. Sadly, this is happening again.
“We therefore call on Inspector General of Police and other agencies responsible for the protection of life and property to rise to the occasion and ensure that Hon Linus Okorie is released.
“As alleged, the Ebubeagu Vigilante security in Ebonyi State is under the strict over lordship of the state authority and is known to carry out orders of the state government, deploying brute force on the people and residents of the state. We therefore demand that His Excellency, Governor Dave Umahi must rein in on this Vigilante or any other of the government agents to ensure that intimidation of perceived political opponents ceases, and that political rights of every Nigerian as enshrined in the constitution is respected.
“Finally, we urge the government to give directive for Hon Linus Okorie’s unconditional release from these criminal elements”, Abure said.
Fans celebrate as BigC wins GreenCamp Rap Battle in Lagos
Rising Rapper, BigC Sunday evening won the second GreenCamp Rap Battle held in Lagos. The second runner-up was Etwildheat.
The announcement of the battle results threw the crowd of enthusiasts into a frenzy of celebration with chants of Big C everywhere.
Organised by the renowned Green Camp group, the annual event is designed to identify, encourage and support young musical entertainers, especially Rappers. In a rap battle, the rapper with the best delivery, lyrics, and crowd response usually wins.
By writing his own rap songs, freestyling as often as possible, staying relaxed, and feeling the energy of the crowd, the Rapper is expected to not only survive these battles, but also thrive, rising to the top of the challenges. Oftentimes, the Rapper either improvises lyrics or have written lyrics to insult the other Rapper.
In a congratulatory message on its twitter handle, the organisers, @GreenCampNG stated, Thanks for an amazing Rap battle yesterday and congratulations to the winner BIG C @OfficialBigC_ for coming correct with the bars and second runner up @etwitdheat for making the battle a show.
Special recognition to our judges @tosanwilts @thepdstrn and @whoistawati
Reacting to the big win, BigC, son of top journalist and Public Relations expert, Emmanuel Isibor, thanked the organisers for the “real Battle of Rappers.” He had kind words for his supporters and the crowd at the event, saying, “ without you, there will not be me. Thank you for always being there for me.”
Messages from thousands of his followers and fans on social media platforms continue to stream in at press time.
CHINESE PRESIDENT COMMISERATES WITH PRESIDENT BUHARI ON ANAMBRA BOAT MISHAP
President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China has commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari on the recent boat mishap in Anambra State.
Over 40 people were reported to have died in the accident which happened Friday, October 7, at Umunankwo in Ogbaru local government area of Anambra State.
In a letter to President Buhari, the Chinese leader wrote:
“Distressed to learn of the boat mishap in Anambra State, Nigeria, which has caused heavy casualties, I’d like to, in the name of the Chinese government and people, extend deepest condolences to the victims and sincere sympathy to their families.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 14, 2022
APPRECIATION
It is with a warm heart, that my adorable Betty and I express deep appreciation, to all those who showed love and rejoiced with us, over the National Honours Award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, conferred on me by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
Your outpouring of love, wrapped in congratulatory messages, kind words and phone calls, are heart-warming. We consider these gestures as uncommon privilege. We do not take them for granted.
Our profound gratitude goes to everyone, who made the day colourful and remarkable. Your show of love was inspiring, and heart-lifting. They are potent enhancers for us to deepen our service to humanity and reinforce our unshaken belief in our nation.
We specially appreciate President
Muhammadu Buhari, for recognizing our efforts, and contributions to the betterment of our dear country. Thank you, Mr President.
Also, our special thanks goes to the Honorable Minister of State for Transport, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, and our Senatorial candidate in Ondo South, Dr Jimoh Ibrahim, for the reception organised in our honour. You both added glamour to the day. We are indeed grateful.
We thank all those who spared time to join us in Abuja all the way from Akure, Lagos, Ibadan and other parts of the country.
We express great appreciation to the deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; members of the National Assembly; members of Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun; members of the Ondo State Executive Council; Royal Fathers; Chairmen of the Local Government Councils; Chairmen of Statutory Boards and Corporations; Members of the Forum of Permanent Secretaries; Aspirants under the platform of the APC; Members of Staff of Olujimi & Akeredolu Chamber led by my partner and friend, Chief Akin Olujimi.
I equally thank my children, and my siblings, as well as others too numerous to mention. We acknowledge and appreciate in no small measure, your goodwill messages, which came in form of direct calls or otherwise, from my brother governors, members of the Federal Executive Council, members of the Bench and the Inner Bar as well as other legal practitioners, captains of industry, friends and acquittances, extended family members, etc.
We cherish your kindness and affection. For us, there can never be a better way to strengthen this array of varied relationships than gratitude, through this means, to reciprocate your priceless and inestimable love.
Above all, the greatest of thanks and praise goes to God Almighty, for His immense protection over all those who travelled from far and wide, to celebrate us in Abuja. May His Mercy and limitless Favour continue to abide in us.
Sincerely yours,
Signed:
Arabinrin & Arakunrin
Betty & Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN, CON
Governor, Ondo State
