Dino Melaye’s Certificates Scandal Deepens

The qualification scandal  that has enveloped the senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District at the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Dino Melaye, has deepened.

Documents obtained exclusively by Saturday PUNCH through painstaking and thorough investigations showed that the embattled senator has a Bachelor of Arts certificate in Geography from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State.

The senator, apart from bagging a third class, also  possesses a diploma certificate from the University of Jos.

However, the senator only has a statement of results from ABU. And not only that, checks at the university revealed that it only offers B.Sc. Geography and not B.A. Geography as reflected on Melaye’s statement of results.

Melaye’s trouble began on Monday, March 20, 2017 when an online news medium, Sahara Reporters, in a tweet alleged that the senator did not graduate from ABU for his first degree, against his claim that he studied Geography in the prestigious institution.

The news medium also alleged that Melaye, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory, bribed his Head of Department, who assisted him to forge his transcript.

In a series of tweets via its Twitter handle, @SaharaReporters, the online news medium said some lecturers in the Geography Department insisted that Melaye did not graduate from the department and that his name was not on the graduation list because he failed five compulsory courses.

Following the report, which gained traction speedily, Melaye dismissed the allegations, daring the news medium to sue him if it had authentic evidence to back its claims.

He took to his twitter handle and wrote, “Sahara Reporters, please sue me and ABU if it is true that I did not graduate from Zaria. Tell Magu (EFCC Chairman) to arrest and prosecute me.”

Melaye also boasted that he was currently a student in ABU pursuing his seventh degree, adding, “Go round all the UNIS (universities) I attended in digging more.”

Dino Melaye certificate

A day after the news broke, Melaye, while speaking on the floor of the Senate, also addressed himself as an “authentic graduate” of ABU.

Meanwhile, when The PUNCH contacted ABU to verify the conflicting information, the institution’s Information Officer, Adamu Mohammed, promised that the institution would come out with its position on Wednesday, which it failed to do as of the time of filing this report.

Amid the controversy, documents obtained by Saturday PUNCH revealed that the senator had a statement of results with the logo of ABU.

The statement of results read, “This is to certify that Daniel Jonah Melaye having completed an approved course of study and passed the prescribed examinations as, under the authority of the Senate been awarded the Bachelor of Arts (Geography) with Third Class honours.”

The statement, issued by the Office of the Registrar, Academic Office and dated February 3, 2000, was signed by B.B. Mshelthlila.

There are, however, certain discrepancies that beg for more clarifications. For instance, in the statement of results, his name was given as “Daniel Jonah MELAYE.” However, checks by one of our correspondents on https://abu.edu.ng/ revealed that Geography is in the Faculty of Science and not the Faculty of Arts as reflected in the statement of results.

Also, in the senator’s NYSC discharge certificate, which was issued on July 8, 2001, his name read “Melaye Daniel” and not Daniel Jonah as shown in the statement of results.

Also, in the diploma certificate issued to him by the University of Jos on August 3, 2006, his name read “Daniel Dino Melaye.”

He was issued an Advanced Diploma certificate in Law, Security and Conflict Resolution. He finished with ‘Lower Credit’ on August 3, 2006.

However, in his Senior School Certificate in 1992, his name read ‘Melaiye Daniel Jonah O.’ with Melaye being wrongly spelt.

In the result, he had P8 in English Language, P8 in Mathematics, P8 in Geography, P8 in Chemistry, C5 in Christian Religious Knowledge, P7 in Economics, C6 in Biology and B3 in Agric Science.

When contacted again by one of our correspondents on his mobile telephone on Friday evening, the Information Officer, ABU, Mr. Adamu Mohammed, sounded hostile.

“Please, this is not official time; call me tomorrow, thank you, goodnight,” he said and hung up.

It will be recalled that in furtherance to his defence, Melaye had reportedly claimed that he obtained degrees from the prestigious Harvard University, London School of Economics and Political Science and a post-graduate degree from the University of Jos.

But in a swift response to an enquiry, Harvard University, in a statement from the Registrar’s office, on Thursday noted that Melaye was not a graduate of the institution as he only completed a week-long leadership seminar in November 2016.

The London School of Economics equally responded on Thursday, saying there was no proof on the institution’s database that Melaye obtained any degree from the school.

But on Thursday, he filed a N5bn libel suit against Sahara Reporters at a FCT High Court. Meanwhile, given the Senate’s decision to investigate the allegation and the uproar the report had generated, Melaye had since taken to the social media to exonerate himself of all the allegations.

Moments after he filed the suit, he took to the social media to post pictures of the cover and certification pages of his Master’s project, and a group picture of his days as a corps member, even though he was the only one not in uniform.

He wore a white T-shirt and blue shorts, adding that he served in Kaduna State in 1999. The caption on the picture read, “ABU 99 set at NYSC camp in KD. Me in blue shorts.”

Also, on Friday, Wikipedia, had edited Melaye’s profile to include ‘Certificate Scandal’, which briefly chronicled the issues surrounding the ongoing certificate brouhaha.

Source:Punch

2,351 Whistleblowers Tip Finance Ministry About Corruption

The Ministry of Finance, says it has so far received 2,351 tips from whistleblowers bordering on cases of embezzlement of government funds, looting of assets and contract inflation, among others.

In a statement signed by Mr Festus Akanbi, the Special Adviser, Media to the Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun said the tips came via text messages, calls, email and forms filled on the ministry’s website.

“We have received 95 feedbacks through our website, www.whistle.finance.gov.ng, 1,550 tips came through calls on 09098067946 and SMS, 412.

“Also, 194 people sent us emails on whistle@finance.gov.ng)

He said that out of the 2,351 tips, the office was currently following up on 154,  it deemed actionable.

“Some of the tip  include: contract inflation and conversion of government assets to personal use, ghost workers, payment of unapproved funds and embezzlement of salaries of terminated personnel.

“Also, improper reduction of financial penalties, diversion of funds meant for distribution to a particular group of people, especially farmers and diversion of funds to personal commercial bank accounts to earn interest.

“Further more, we are following up on cases of non-Remittance of pension and NHIS deductions, failure to Implement projects for which funds have been provided, embezzelment of funds received from Donor agencies and violation of TSA regulations by keeping funds in Commercial banks.

” We are also looking into violations of FIRS (VAT) regulation by adjusting Value Added Tax payment, non-procurement of equipment required for Aviation Safety, money laundering and diversion of funds meant for approved projects,” he said.

Akanbi said that top on the Minister’s agenda, as the Chairman of the Whistleblower programme was to investigate illegal sale of government assets, diversion of revenue (IGR), concealed bailout funds, Illegal recruitment and violation of procurement Act.

It will be recalled that late last year, the Federal Government set up the Whistleblower programme to make it easy for the public to give information bordering on violation of financial regulations, mismanagement of public funds and assets and other financial malpractice.

The Federal Government promised any whistleblower whose information leads to the recovery of up to N1 billion Naira, five per cent of the amount.

While for any amount between N1 billion and  N5 billion, the whistleblower stands to get 4 per cent commission. Any amount over N5 billion, will attract 2.5 per cent reward.

Source: Uhuru Times

The Journey To Okemosan 2019: Paseda Factor

Today in Ogun state agitation and permutations has commence earnestly towards the race of the next occupier of the governorship seat. The journey to Okemosan of late has been gathering momentum among political actors, which have seen different aspirants springing up on a daily basis from various political parties, for the journey alignment thereby, holding series of meetings to actualise this dream.

It is pertinent to note that Ogun people who have seen what the true definition of 'change' is in the last six years in the hands of current handler are now wise in other not be hoodwink again come 2019. Experience they say is the best teacher of life and once bitten is twice shy.

As far as the gateway state is concern, we need someone who truly understand the yearnings and needs of the people across all the geopolitical zones that constitute the state. Amongst the contenders and pretenders who are jostling for Okemosan job, stand tall Otunba Rotimi Paseda.

Otunba Paseda is a true son of the soil who understand the people, landscape and the  politics of gateway state. The man Paseda is well known in the nooks and crannies of Ogun state which gives him an edge over his rivals having run the race in the 2015 elections.

Paseda's determination for a better society where state resources will be share base on  equity, fairness and justice without whose ox is gored. Here is a man who doesn't believe in godfatherism rather God the father. Is a man who is bent at making sure development comes to the state without prioritising a section of the state at the expense of others, propel his desire to run again in 2019.

Otunba is a a friend of the masses, no wonder he establishes one of the visible and working foundation in  Paseda Legacy Foundation whose office is in the state capital to cater for the needy and give back to the society. This fact is verifiable with numerous Ogun indigenes who are benefiting from this philanthropic gesture.

ORP's tenet of politics is model after the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo that's the reason why many refer to him as (Arole Awolowo) heir apparent to the sage.

For gateway state to experience all round development we need a man who has excel in business world  in four continent of the world. This factor will facilitate unprecedented development in the history of Ogun state. Hence,making the state sufficient with internally generated revenue without over taxing the citizenry.

Ogun state people 2019 is another avenue to rewrite the change mistake we made in 2015. Let us support Paseda. His capable and dependable for good governance. By Onthegoinformation.

For your views and comment, contact onthegoinformation@yahoo.com

Senate Confirm Ambassadorial Nominee, Reject Two

The 82-year-old retired judicial officer, Justice Sylvanus Nsofor,  who told a Senate panel that Information Technology was not meant for people of his age and failed to recite the National Anthem, yesterday, had his nomination to be an ambassador rejected by the Senate.

Justice Nsofor, who retired from the judiciary in 2005 and came in frail and feeble for the Senate screening, had also dismissed questions about his capacity to work when he directed the senators to “go and ask Robert Mugabe who is still working.” He was one of the two of the 47 nominees presented by President Muhammadu Buhari that were rejected.

The other nominee was Mr. Jacob Daodu from Ondo State, who was rejected upon the security report on him by the Department of State Services, DSS. The 45 others including Justice Adesola Oguntade from Lagos State were approved to represent the country abroad.

The 51-page report on the screening of the 47 nominees presented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, nevertheless, affirmed that Nsofor was not rejected because of his age but rather because of his satirical responses to questions and failure to answer many other questions.

Presenting her report on Justice Nsofor, Senator Sunmonu said: “His responses to the issues raised were either not answered or devoid of details and mostly satirical. For instance, we asked him to recite the National Anthem and he said we should have sent him a syllabus. A member of the committee asked him, if he knew about IT (and) he asked what is IT? And I told him Information Technology and he said, “it’s for your age, not mine. “Also when asked if he was not too old, he said we should go and ask Mugabe who is still working. He has shown his temperament.”

On Daodu from Ondo State, Senator Sunmonu noted that the DSS report described him in unfavourable terms especially while he was Chairman of Ondo State Road Maintenance Agency. “Although the nominee has acquired experience from his previous work places, his responses during the screening exercise did not have direct bearing on the issues raised and were not satisfactory to the committee’s expectation.”

In his remarks, Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, who congratulated the confirmed nominees, however, urged the Presidency to take note of comments on the performances of the nominees, just as he called on the government to settle all outstanding liabilities accrued to Nigeria’s foreign missions  to pave way for the smooth transition of the new ambassadors to wherever they are posted to.

Those confirmed yesterday as non-career ambassadors were Uzoma Emenike (Abia), Aminu Iyawa (Adamawa), Godwin Umo (Akwa Ibom), Christopher Okeke (Anambra), Yusuf Tuggar (Bauchi), Baba Magudu (Bauchi), Stanley Diriyai (Bayelsa), Stephen Ugba (Benue), Baba Ahmed Jidda (Borno), Etubom Asuquo (Cross River), Frank Ofeduma (Delta), Jonah Odo (Ebonyi) and Uyagwe Igbe (Edo). Others were Eniola Ajayi (Ekiti), Chris Eze (Enugu), Sulieman Hassan (Gombe), Aminu Dalhatu (Jigawa), Ahmed Bamalli (Kaduna), Deborah Iliya (Kaduna), D. Abdulkadir (Kano), Haruna Ungogo (Kano),  Isa Dodo (Katsina), Mohammed Rimi (Katsina), Tijani Bande (Kebbi), Y. O. Aliu (Kogi), Nurudeen Mohammed (Kwara), Mohammed Yisa (Kwara), Adesola Oguntade (Lagos), Modupe Irele (Lagos), Musa Mohammed (Nasarawa), Ahmed Ibeto (Niger), Susanne Folarin (Ogun), Afolahan Adeyemi (Osun), Ashimiyu Olaniyi (Oyo), James Dimka (Plateau).

Also confirmed were Haruna Abdullahi (Plateau), Orji Ngofa (Rivers), Sahabi Gada (Sokoto), Kabir Umar (Sokoto), Hassan  Ardo (Taraba), Goni  Bura (Yobe), Garba Gajam (Zamfara), Bala Mairiga (Zamfara), Habiss Ibrahim Ugbada (FCT) and Adeyinka Asekun (Ogun).

Source Vanguard.

Saraki Promise To Bring Sownw Buhari's Government if...

Saraki, who spoke through the Senate Spokesman, Sabi Abdullahi, stated that Lawal’s letter stating that he would not appear before the Senate Committee, because he had gone to court to challenge his invitation, implied that the Legislature can equally go to court to stop the entire government headed by President Muhamamdu Buhari, from working.

Recall, that the refusal of the SGF to appear before the Senate, came barely a few hours when the Customs Comptroller-General, Hammed Ali, had also declined to appear before the Senate, claiming that it would be subjudice for him to return to the Senate in uniform, since a Legal Practitioner had asked the Federal High Court, Abuja, to restrain the National Assembly from compelling him to wear uniform in the performance of his duties.

According to the Senate Spokesman, Nigeria’s democracy was heading towards total destruction, because of the refusal of the cabals in Aso Rock to honour Legislative summons.

Saraki said: “We are performing our constitutional mandate, and if anybody is going to court to stop us, then what it means is that we should all go to court and stop the entire government from working.

“That is exactly what we are saying; that if this (refusal to honour Legislative summons) continues to happen, then goodbye to democracy. It means I can even go to court to stop you from doing your work.

“We will see how that will continue to play out, and I think this is the end of democracy in Nigeria, if that continues to play out.”

Nnamani Must Quit As Electoral Reform Committee Chairman - Fayose

Ekiti State Governor and Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Mr Ayodele Fayose has called for the immediate resignation of former Senate President, Ken Nnamani as chairman of the Electoral Reform Committee and allow a non-partisan person to take over, saying “if the federal government is serious about electoral reform, Senator Nnamani, a card carrying member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won’t head the Electoral Reform Committee.”

The governor, who also said there was nothing wrong with the country’s electoral system, said; “It was the same electoral system that produced the present APC government of President Muhammadu Buhari, in an election adjudged as relatively free, fair and credible. So what happened to the system after May 29, 2015 that this present government took over? How did we get to this level of inconclusive and questionable elections in which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies appear to have become part of the ruling party?”

In his presentation at the public hearing on constitution and electoral reform held at Ogun State Cultural Centre, Abeokuta today, Governor Fayose said; “Even when it inherited a working system that conducted elections adjudged as free and fair by local and international communities, INEC has failed consistently to replicate the inherited working system due to overzealousness and rabid passion to work as appendage of the federal government.

“Imagine an election that is ongoing, only for INEC to postpone counting of votes by midnight, with the party agents driven away. Any result announced in the morning has lost any credibility and legitimacy and cannot represent the will of the people.”

The governor, who was represented by the Chairman, Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Dr Samuel Omotoso pointed out that “The only time this country made an attempt at a reliable electoral reform was during the tenure of President Umaru Yar’Adua who appointed retired Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Uwais as the chairman. This singular move gave the panel credibility, widespread acceptability and massive supports from all over the country and across political divides.

“Such cannot be said of this panel that is overshadowed with massive moral burdens and conflict of interest as a result of the chairman being a card carrying member of a political party called APC.”

He said; “Senator (Dr) Ken Nnamani, being the South-East regional leader of APC is incapable of rising above primordial and party sentiments to give Nigerians anything different from electoral inconclusiveness that we have at the moment.

“Any reform from such encapsulation can as well be said to be dead on arrival.”

Speaking further, Governor Fayose described INEC under the present APC government as the champion of electoral malpractices, saying “INEC and security agencies need to purge themselves of all these putrid behaviours and face the reality of modern day democracy.

“As Governor of Ekiti State, I have no reservation about reviewing and reforming our electoral process but I am reluctant about the sincerity of purpose deploy each time we display such political hallucinations under the guise of reforms, this has amounted severally to playing to the gallery and this committee just like others that have embarked on several wild goose chases in the past is not likely to be different.

“When those who are to supervise an election take over the process and turn themselves to interested parties rather than rise above board, then we breed nothing other than chaos, pandemonium, mayhem, confusion and disorganisation of the whole process.

“We all know those who commit crimes during the elections but this same people are protected using the police, who is supposed to ensure orderliness and legal consequences for electoral infractions. The police would rather arrest and prosecute the victims of electoral malpractices and violence while releasing the actual aggressors due to the relationship of these offenders to the government in power.

“The penchant for disorder by the umpire has got to a state of obsessive compulsive disorder, in the sense that rather than ensure sincerity of purpose within the system, what we have is deceit, flippancy and double standards.

“Therefore, there is no gainsaying that this electoral review body is not needed until the panel is equitable, non-partisan and devoid of influence from the powers that be. He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.”

'Lere Olayinka.

Senator Dino Melaye In Messy Certificate Scandal, As ABU Claim He Never Graduate The Institution

Bigger troubles await Dino Melaye, the senator representing Kogi West at the National Assembly following a revelation that he never graduated from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria as is being claimed.

Melaye, who is known for his controversial stand on national issues as well as a lasting political battle with his former friend and governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello, recently alerted Nigerians that there were plans to carry fictitious allegations against him.

Melaye thinks this move was being planned to get him to face the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) because he was a major factor that stood against the confirmation of Ibrahim Magu as chairman of the anti-corruption organisation.

Sahara Reporters is confirming that Melaye never graduated from the department of geography from ABU.

The report also claims that the DSS was alerted over this but that the security agency covered it up and allowed the man blossom.

“At least three exam officers at ABU, Zaria insists that @dino_melaye never graduated from geography department, DG DSS alerted but covered it up,” the report said.

On Alleged Suspension of Paseda: Oginni, The Game Is Over!

Nigerians, particularly the people of Ogun State, were on Sunday evening troubled by the news of alleged suspension of Otunba Rotimi Paseda led by one Funmilayo Irede Oginni, the impeached, erstwhile acting  Unity Party of Nigeria Chairman, that the Governorship candidate of (UPN) in Ogun State in the last general elections, Otunba Rotimi Paseda has been suspended.

It is apparent that this is not true as there were no crisis in the party and as such there couldn't have been abyss reason for suspending any member of the party, howbeit the leader of the party in the state and at national level. 

According to the mischievous letter signed by the impeached chairman of U.P.N, Mrs. Irede Oginni, the suspended members and officers put their personal interest above the party by frolicking with APC and governor Amosun to destabilize the party contravening a section of the party constitution.

Let me to put it to record that, Mrs. Oginni has no moral right or constitutional backing to impeach any officer of the party as an impeached chairman.

There is no iota  of truth to the purported meeting organised by Oginni on the 16th of March, 2017 , the only meeting that took place on the said date was  the Disciplinary Committee sitting which resolved to impeached Oginni for gross misconduct, anti-party activities and financial misappropriation of over one million naira being the payment of tax clearance of 28 councillorship candidates of the party in the last local government election.

It is also record that, Oginni's relationship with an opposing group called De Democrat's was uncovered where Oginni mistakenly sent a massage to U.P.N  whatsapp loops,  supporting a candidate of the opposing group against the party's choice. 

Also, members frowned at how Oginni failed to remit the tax clearance payment of over over one million naira for twenty eight councillors in the local government election in the state, an allegation she pleaded guilty while being questioned by the committee. 

The  seven man Disciplinary Committee sitting on the 16th March, 2017 at the party secretariat in Onikolobo, Abeokuta found Oginni's frivolities contravening page 29, Article B and Article C of U.P.N constitution under Bad Behavior and Punishment resolved as follows;

1. In accordance to the provision of UPN constitution page.29 article B under bad behaviour and page.29 article C under punishment, we recommended for her removal from office with immediate effect and acting within our senatorial district be put in  place, pending the forthcoming congress. NB such acting should not contest for the office 

2. To make refund the tax money by her or by the party to protect the name and integrity of the party 

3. She should not be allowed to hold any post for the next one year.

A cursory look at at Oginni's new show of shame, wasn't shocking to members and supporters of the party who are aware of the predicament she is currently undergoing in her new party.

It is commonplace for some politicians to defect from their former parties to any other of their choice for reasons best known to them.

UPN is not a slave camp where people are tied down against their will, but a freedom-oriented political party where every member is seen as being equal and free to express their opinions on whatever issue concerning the party. 

Consequently, some members of the party defected to some parties which they believed currently has what it takes to meet their needs.

It is unfortunate that the Oginni leaped before she looked and it's too late for her to return to UPN. On her arrival, it dawned on her and her supporters that all the juicy promises made to them weren't forthcoming. 

Only a few privileged among old members of the party are getting patronage from the leadership of the party.

Being food-is-ready politicians, they couldn't see or probably are suffering from memory loss that they could not reason why there is division in the party they defected to in the last general elections in the state.

When received by the leadership of her new party into the fold, she was weighed and discovered she was a sheer loafer in UPN who didn't contribute anything to the great performances put up by UPN in the last general elections and the last local government elections in the state.

Besides, her new party leadership are also aware that her pull him down syndrome on other progressive in UPN initiated her defection for their party for pecuniary reasons as there were no internal crises in UPN that could genuinely lead to their defection.

On this premise, Oginni and Co. became desperate to convince their hosts that there is cold war between some leaders of the party, an allegation which they claimed lead to their decision to bow out. 

However, from outside the party, they are pronouncing members and leaders of a party they no longer belong suspended ostensibly to give the personalities that hold their destiny the impression that truly UPN is in trouble.

It's pertinent to ask some salient questions in respect of how members of a particular party could be suspended or expelled. Was there any formal lodging of complaints or allegations against Otunba Paseda by any member or group of members? Which party are these faces behind the phoney suspension currently lying?

In response to these questions, there's no allegations neither verbal nor written leveled against Otunba Paseda.

Some sources close to her revealed that the stranded defectors are weights two options. First, they are thinking of flying the suspension kite to convince their new hosts that internal crisis was the reason they dumped UPN and not for the goodies they could scoop in the new party.

Another option is causing crisis in the party to stage a comeback to the party.

Meanwhile, let it be known that, no individual or party executives can impeach or suspend any other member except the Disciplinary Committee which is the highest organ of the party. 

For instance, in football world, when former  FIFA President, Joseph Sepp Blatter was impeached, it was the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee that removed the football chief having found him guilty of financial misappropriation and bribery scandal, and heaven was not loose. Blatter did not blame any individual or executive member for his travails because he knows the Committee are above board. 

Why is Oginni then crying foul for her ordeal? Is she claiming to be powerful than the Disciplinary Committee of the party? If she is actually still in control as the interim chairman as claimed by her, why did she have to organize press conference at NUJ secretariat instead of the party secretariat? 

I monitored with dismay, how Irede Oginni confidently denied the alleged embezzlement of N1. 2 million Naira being payment of tax clearance for about 28 councillorship candidates that participated in the last local government election in the state. 

But Oginni has forgotten that, she had earlier pleaded guilty of the allegation during her interrogation by the Disciplinary Committee. Well, I only pray the victims overlook her fraudulent act and disregard any court charges against her.  

Oginni should stop playing on the sensibility of the civilized people of Ogun State. Oginni the Game is over! 

I wish her and Co accomplices success in their new adventure.

Ismail Olamilekan,

UPN, Abeokuta North.

Nigeria Senate Declares Customs Boss Unfit

The senate has called for the resignation of Hameed Ali, comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The senate also declared Ali unfit to hold public office and condemned a letter written by Abubakar Malami, attorney-general of the federation (AGF).

Malami in the letter told the lawmakers that the comptroller-general could not appear the lawmakers because the matter of his uniform was in court.

The resolutions of the upper legislative chamber was sequel to prayers moved by Enyinnaya Abaribe, senator representing Abia south.

FG Charges Peace Corps To Court Over Recruitment Scam

The Federal Government, yesterday, slammed 90-count criminal charge against Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, Mr. Dickson Akor, over alleged recruitment scam and extortion of applicants to the tune of N1.4 billion.

The Incorporated Trustees of the Corps was equally cited as a defendant in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/45/2017, which was filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Peace-Corps The defendants were further charged for wearing of uniforms and other identification marks contrary to section 24 (1) of the Private Guard Companies Act Cap P30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and punishable under section 32 (1) of the Act.

The charge signed by an Assistant Chief State Counsel, Aminu Alilu, also accused the defendants of laundering of funds obtained through unlawful activity contrary to section 7(1)(b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other fraud related Offences Act, Cap A6 laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

They were accused of obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other fraud related Offences Act, Cap A6 laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

Meantime, no date has been fixed for the defendants to be arraigned before trial Justice Gabriel Kolawole.

Source: Vanguard

Magu Rejection, All Eyes On DCP Abdulrahaman

Following the recent rejection of Ibrahim Magu confirmation as the substantive Chairman of Economic and Financial Crime Commission, (EFCC), by the Nigeria Senate on Wednesday the rumors mills has it that all eyes are now on a Deputy Commissioner of Police, (DCP),expected to take over Magu’s office.

Investigation revealed that DCP Ahmed Abdurahaman who is presently the Deputy Commissioner in-charge of Operations at the Kaduna State Police Command, is favored by the Presidency and other stakeholders because of his track records when he was the Deputy Director (Investigation), at the Headquarters of EFCC.

It was also gathered that most of the cases currently being handled by the EFCC are brain works of DCP Abdulrahaman who is being described as a fearless and upright officer.

Most people who come in contact with him describe him as a gentleman to the core but a man who can never mortgage integrity and call of duty for anything. These characteristics are what have given him upper hand above the other three nominees.

A source closed to the EFCC Kaduna office disclosed to this reporter that when DCP Abdulrahaman was Deputy Director with EFCC, it was a general saying then that; ‘The fear of Abdulrahaman is the beginning all wisdom for all staff and corrupt minded people’

Credit: Tribute

Magu can no longer continue in office as EFCC boss – Senate

The Senate on Wednesday disclosed that its rejection of the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ibrahim Magu, means the anti-graft boss has lost his capacity to act in that office.

This was disclosed by the Senate spokesman, Abdulahi Sabi, after plenary on Wednesday.

Sabi said some senators who were backing Magu’s confirmation backed out because of his poor performance during plenary.

He insisted that the report of the Department of State Services nailed the anti-graft boss because he failed the integrity test.

According to him: “The rejection of Magu by the Senate signifies that he cannot continue in acting capacity.‎”

Nigeria Senate Rejects Magu's Confirmation As EFCC Boss

Nigeria Senate today refused to confirm the nomination of Mr Ibrahim Magu as the chairman of Economic and Financial Crime Commission EFCC.

The Senate however disclosed that the move became imperative as a result of corruption indictment and human rights abuses levelled against him in a report submitted by the directorate of state security.

It should be noted that this is the second time his nomination was been rejected as the head of the anti graft agency by the Senate.

EFCC Intercepts N49 Million Cash At Kaduna Airport

In what can be described as another huge success for the agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intercepted five sacks containing N49m at the Kaduna International Airport following a tip off.

Disclosing this to newsmen on Tuesday at the agency’s Kaduna Zonal office, Ibrahim Bappa said that the notes recovered were wrapped in Nigerian Security and Minting Plc (NSPM) labels.

“The report which was made at about 8pm stated that during the routine baggage screening of supposed check in baggage, five sacks were sighted unattended to and without tags containing fresh bulk items suspected to be money from the aroma
perceived from the sacks. The owner of the money later showed up but couldn’t  state the exact money in the sacks or present document authenticating the
genesis of the monies,” he said.

Speaking further, he said that the individual who failed to give concrete explanation, disappeared before the arrival of EFCC operatives.

Bappa said that the sacks were found to contain 200 bundles of N200 notes totaling N40m and 180 bundles of N50 notes totaling N9m.

The recovered money was handed over to officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for custody in EFCC’s recovery account.

Source: omojuwa.

Ogun Assembly Condemn Alleged Incessant Killing By Customs

The Ogun State House of Assembly has condemned the incessant killing of innocent citizens of the State by men of the Nigerian Customs Service describing it as a dastard act.

The lawmakers in their various submissions during today’s plenary lamented the alleged killing of a commercial driver Saubana Koleoso, whose vehicle being pursued and allegedly shot at by customs men swerved to cause another accident having collided with an on-coming car causing the death of two others at Kobape area along Sagamu-Siun Expressway last week.

Members including the Majority Leader, Adeyinka Mafe, Honourables Ganiyu Oyedeji, Akinpelu Aina, Idowu Olowofuja and Bowale Solaja called on the Federal Government to step up measures at checking the excesses of the Nigerian Customs Services which had in recent time resulted to loss of innocent lives and properties in the State.

Other Honourable members like Adebiyi Adeleye, Olusola Sonuga, Adeyemi Harrison, Oludare Kadiri and Tunde Sanusi called on the agency to  restrict their operations to border areas, saying there was a need for them to carry out their operation with utmost professionalism and discretion to avoid loss of life.

According to the assembly men, nobody supported economic sabotage but the officers and men of the Nigerian customs must ensure more sanity at boarder communities in line with their statutory duties described the incident as an extra-judicial killing by the customs which must be investigated.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon Suraju Ishola Adekunbi commiserated with the families of the victims and described the action of the men of the Nigeria customs as unacceptable, assuring that government especially the Assembly as part of its quasi-judicial functions would engage the agency towards ensuring more professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

He said that the agency needed to put human face and adopt discretionary power in carrying out its operation, warning that government would not watch its citizens to be killed all in the name of pursuing smugglers.

He therefore directed that another invitation be forwarded to the State Comptroller of Customs to appear before the House of Assembly so as to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the unfortunate events resulting in deaths of innocent citizens.

President Buhari in a closed door meeting with Saraki, Dogara

President Buhari is about now in a closed door meeting with Senate President Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. The meeting is holding at the presidential office in Aso Rock Abuja. Senate President this morning read a letter from President Buhari notifying the senators of his return to office.

More datails later.

It's Poisonous for Fanta & Sprite to be taken with Vitamin C - Court orders NAFDAC to inform consumers

A Lagos High Court has ordered the National Agency For Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to immediately direct the manufacturers of soft drinks; Fanta and Sprite (Nigeria Bottling Company PLC) to include a written warning that the content of the bottles cannot be taken with Vitamin C.

This was the result from a suit filed against the NBC and NAFDAC by Lagos businessman, Dr Emmanuel Fijabi Adebo and his company, Fijabi Adebo Holdings Limited.

His lawyer alleged that sometime in March, 2007, his client's company purchased large quantities of Coca-Cola, Fanta Orange, Sprite, Fanta Lemon, Fanta Pineapple and Soda Water from NBC for export to the UK for retail purposes and supply to their customers. When the packages arrived there, fundamental health related matters were raised on the contents and composition of the Fanta and Sprite products by the UK Health Authorities, specifically the Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council’s Trading Standard Department of Environment and Economy Directorate.

The findings from the United Kingdom were corroborated by the Coca-Cola European Union and products were found to have excessive levels of “Sunset Yellow and Benzoic Acid “which are unsafe for human consumption. Due to the irregularities and harmful content of the soft drinks which can cause cancer to the consumer, the claimants could not sell the Fanta and Sprite products resulting in appreciable losses, as they were certified unsuitable for consumption and were seized and destroyed by the United Kingdom health authorities

Adebo's Lawyer urged the court to declare that the Nigeria Bottling Company was negligent and breached the duty of care owed to their valued customers and consumers in the production of contaminated Fanta and Sprite soft drinks with excessive “benzoic acid and sunset” addictive. They also urged the court to direct NAFDAC to conduct and carry out routine laboratory tests of all the soft drinks and allied products of the company to ensure and guarantee the safety of the consumable products, produced from the Nigeria Bottling Company factory.

Although the Nigeria Bottling Company contended that the claimants claims are speculative, frivolous and vexatious and should be dismissed with substantial costs, NAFDAC did not file any defence.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Adedayo Oyebanji declared that NAFDAC has failed Nigerians by its certification as satisfactory for human consumption, products which in the UK failed sample test for human consumption and which became poisonous in the presence of  Vitamin C. He therefore ordered:

”That NAFDAC shall forthwith mandate Nigeria Bottling Company to, within 90 dayshereof, include on all the bottles of Fanta and Sprite soft drinks manufactured by the company, a written warning that the content of the said bottles of Fanta and Sprite soft drinks cannot be taken with Vitamin C as same becomes poisonous if taken with Vitamin C.

”In consideration of the fact that this case was filed in 2008 and that it has been in court for 9 years, costs of N2 million is awarded against NAFDAC. Interest shall be paid on the costs awarded at the rate of 10% per annum until liquidation of the said sum.”

 

Source: pmnewsnigeria

Building Collapse: Mother of Three Killed In Ogun

A 51 year old mother of three, Modupe Bankole, died after the balcony of a one story building which she resides in with her husband, collapsed at Olomore area of
Abeokuta, Ogun State capital on Monday.

Narrating how his wife died, her husband, Mr Bankole, said she was at their balcony relaxing on a mat when the balcony caved in. She was shouting that her back was
aching but died as soon as she was rushed to the hospital.

“I just heard the collapse of the balcony on my head and I noticed it had a minor effect on me. I thought since my wife was not directly under the collapse balcony, she would be safe. Then I ran to the other side of the building shouting thank you Jesus. I wanted to come back when I heard our neighbors calling my wife to get up from the mat she was sleeping but she could not. We did not know if some of the debris hit her on her back because she was just shouting ‘my back’. She died shortly after getting to the hospital” he said

Amosun Signs Bills to Upgrade MAPOLY to University, Re-establish OGUNPOLY

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has signed into Law the Bill upgrading the state-owned Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, to Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology, Abeokuta.

The governor, who assented to the Bill, earlier passed by the state House of Assembly, during the Executive Council meeting yesterday, also signed into Law, the Bill for the re-establishment of the Ogun State Polytechnic, which will be sited in Ipokia-Yewa-Awori axis of the state.

Amosun revealed that the institutions will be multi-campus, as government would engage professionals and people of high knowledge to provide the technical guide, adding that this great step will enhance the prospect of education in the state.

Commending the efforts of the state House of Assembly for the timely and successful passage of the Bill into Law, the governor assured that necessary documents have been prepared and sent to the appropriate quarters.

Answering questions from news men, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Suraj Ishola Adekunbi said the House swung into action and accelerated the passage, because of the priority the state government is giving to the education sector in the state.

He noted that the step will create employment for the people, open access to tertiary education in Ipokia as well as encourage the people to embrace education.

Rwandan: Emerging Economy In Africa

This is the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame listening attentively. This Photograph along with others was posted by his Media Team on his Official Facebook Page so it wasn't merely Camera Pose.
He answered my Questions gently with facts and precision.

A performing President who left his Country to come and engage with about 60 Students in our Class on the MICROECONOMICS OF COMPETITIVENESS: FIRMS, CLUSTERS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT last Friday.
Our Professor had asked us to read the Case on Rwanda's Economic Transformation before hand and his Team including my Friend and Sister, Clare Akamanzi CEO of the Rwanda Development Board were with him to document our Class Analysis as feedback. In fact, Professor Alfaro requested us to grade the President's Performance in Economic Development. He scored between 90-100% and we're quite a Tough Class.
This is how to know a progressive Leader.

Rwanda's Economy has become the model for other Countries around the World.

You can register a Business there within 6hrs, their Economy is the 3rd fastest growing on the Continent, the President has surrounded himself with the smartest people, they're using Science, Technology and Innovation to drive Economic Growth and Social Cohesion, almost 100% of their Children have full access to Primary Education, Carnegie Mellon University has established a Masters in Engineering Campus in Rwanda and the Country has the highest number of Women Parliamentarians in Africa.
I can go on and on.

This is the kind of Authentic and Result Oriented Leadership Nigeria desperately needs.

By the way, it snowed heavily that day but Mr President held his Umbrella himself and walked to Class.

Fellow Nigerians, What about Us?

Source: Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji

Channels TV anchor, Suleiman Aledeh, Quits; Gives Reasons

Sulaiman Aledeh, a Channels Television anchor and producer, has left the Lagos-based broadcaster for AriseTV.

Mr. Aledeh, 43, made his debut on AriseTV, owned by newspaper publisher, Nduka Obaigbena, on Saturday evening, reading the station’s 4:00 p.m. bulletin.

“My babies and their mother, parents and family are so fine with my decision to move on,” Mr. Aledeh said.

Mr. Aledeh spent eight years with Channels Television, and was well known as a co-anchor of the breakfast programme, ‘Sunrise Daily.’

His departure from the station was effective March 2.

He said he had mulled the move for some time, especially amongst his immediate family members, because his routine at the station was becoming boring.

“It was time to move,” Mr. Aledeh said. “Almost eight years, I needed greater challenges and not routine that was getting boring for me.”

Mr. Aledeh said his friendship with his former employers and colleagues remains cordial.

“I have no quarrel with anyone,” he said.

Mr. Aledeh said he would use his tenure under his new employers to do broadcasting in “a more friendly and professional way across diverse cultures and people with special attention on the African people.”

Source: Premium Times

Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi Urges Customs Boss To Resign If...

The Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd)  has been urged to resigned his appointment if he cannot wear the uniform and rank of his position when he appears before the Senate.

Senator Solomon Adeola of Lagos West stated this in a statement on Sunaday in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Chief Kayode Odunaro.

Adeola said it is regrettable that as a retired army colonel who should know the importance of uniforms, the Custom boss wants to demean and undermine the symbolic importance of uniforms, discipline as well as the authority it confers on the agency in its operation as a lawful body.

He said that the Senate Resolution summoning Ali to appear in Custom Service uniform and rank to explain his refusal to suspend the policy on duty on vehicles and other recent acts of the Customs was to protect the organizational integrity and discipline in the institution of the Customs Service as well as protect the interest of the people.

“We have had a Major General Haladu Hanniya as head of FRSC wearing the agency’s uniform as well as a Major Danjuma Maigari wearing even the KAI uniform in Lagos State all in a bid to promote agencies they lead. This is not the Abacha military era when a Sole Administrator was appointed to head the Nigerian Customs.” Senator Adeola stated.
According to Adeola, military and paramilitary uniforms inclusive of ranks are part of the symbol of legitimate authority conferred on the wearer to carry out certain duties on behalf of the government.

” Except in covert operations, an officer in these organizations operating without uniform could be taken to be performing illegal duty or worse, be taken as not representing the institution at all. And as stated on the floor of the Senate in plenary, the Comptroller General is rank that can only be worm on uniform and not on mufti” the senator stated.

Senator Adeola said there is concern among officers and men of the Customs Service on the appointment of ‘outsider’ to head the agency as it is a morale killer, career progression inhibitor as well as damaging to the organizational growth of the service stressing that there may be need to amend the Nigerian Customs Act to restrict appointment of CG to career officers as is done in the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Immigrations and the Nigerian Prisons Service.

Source: The Nation

Tension In Presidency: As Buhari Set To Shakeup Cabinet Members

President Muhammadu Buhari has concluded plans for a major overhaul of his administration, reliable sources in government told SUNDAY PUNCH over the weekend.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the subject, said the changes were going to be ‘earth-shattering’ because a few of the President’s powerful aides and prominent members of the administration would be affected. SUNDAY PUNCH’s findings also revealed that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, is likely to be affected by the changes.

A senior government official, who preferred anonymity said, “In the next few weeks, we are entering the second half of this administration. I can tell you that a major cabinet reshuffle is on the way. Ministerial vacancies for Kogi and Gombe states would be filled, while there would also be an exchange of portfolios.

“Some junior ministers, whose relationships with their senior counterparts are not smooth would also be redeployed.”

A source within the administration, who is privy to the details of the planned changes, said the country would soon witness greater synergy between the President and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo. The source added that under the new scheme of things, the President intended to assign more important national duties to Osinbajo.

Buhari, who will resume duty on Monday after a 49-day medical vacation in London, is said to have been very impressed by what a source in government described as the ‘performance, competence and loyalty’ of the Vice President, who served as Acting President while he was away.

When asked why it took the President two years to synergise fully with his deputy, the source replied that both men had always been closer than the public knew.

“The President and the Vice President have always been on the same page. They are close. He likes to delegate tasks to the VP. However, not much could be done in the past because of the interference of some people close to the President. The President is determined to remove those who interfere so that his administration can build on its recent strides,” the source, who is a senior government official, said.

SUNDAY PUNCH learnt on Saturday that besides filling vacancies in his cabinet, the President would redistribute some ministerial portfolios. He may also divest the former Governor of Lagos State and current Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, of one of his portfolios.

The senior government officials who spoke to SUNDAY PUNCH were however not forthcoming with the names of those likely to be affected by the changes. They said the President liked to keep such things close to his chest. However, independent findings by one of our correspondents revealed that those to be removed may include the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal; and some ministers who have been adjudged as under-performing. A former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, is expected to join the cabinet.

The source explained the criteria the President would use in reshuffling his cabinet.

He said besides measuring the performance of each cabinet member, the President would also examine the relationship between senior and junior ministers.

Currently, two states, Kogi and Gombe, have no representatives in the Federal Executive Council.

Kogi State’s position became vacant following the death of a former Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Mr. James Ocholi (SAN), in a road accident on March 6, 2016.

The Minister of Environment, Amina Mohammed, who hails from Gombe, left the Federal Executive Council last month when she assumed duty as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

There has been speculation since late last year that the President would carry out a major cabinet reshuffle.

In Kogi State, it was learnt that already, there was intense rivalry among various groups to fill the vacant slot for the state

According to a report, the Kogi East zone, where Ocholi hailed from, had expressed concern about the delay in picking one of them to replace the late minister.

Also, the All Progressives Congress in Kogi West was reported to be interested in filling the vacant slot of the state.

The President, after his return on Friday, promised to rededicate himself to serve Nigerians.

He said he returned on Friday deliberately so that he could continue his rest while the Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo continued working.

“I deliberately came back towards the weekend so that the Vice-President will continue and I will continue to rest,” the President said.

He also took a retrospective look at his about-two-month medical sojourn in London, and declared that he had never been this sick.

His statement contrasted sharply with that of top government officials who had insisted that he was hale and hearty.

“I couldn’t recall being so sick since I was a young man, including in the military with its ups and downs,” he said.

Buhari added that He said he remained grateful to all Nigerians who had been praying for his good health.

He said the support he had received was a testimony that in spite of the hardship being experienced, Nigerians were behind the government in its efforts to tackle the country’s challenges.

Buhari’s spokesmen, Garba Shehu and Femi Adesina denied knowledge of the impending reshuffle.

Source: The Punch

EFCC Set To Prosecute Former Governors Accused Of Corruption

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has said it still has plans to prosecute former Governors who embezzled funds.

This was disclosed by the EFCC Zonal Head, South-South, Ishaq Salihu, in an interview on Saturday.

Salihu insisted that they would not bow to external pressure in its anti-corruption war.

“The searchlight of the EFCC is not only on former governors; its (searchlight) is also on other Nigerians who think they can take funds belonging to the country and put them in their private pockets.

“The EFCC, under Mr. Ibrahim Magu’s leadership, will never succumb to any pressure. Like we have always said, there will be no sacred cow,” he said.

Salihu also hailed the Judiciary over the jail term handed to former governor of Adamawa State, Bala Ngilari.

“The EFCC is trying its best to fight corruption but kudos should be given to the judiciary in the handling of Adamawa’s ex governor’s case.

“The fight against corruption is noble and the results can be seen. The judgment secured against the former Governor of Adamawa State is a victory for Nigeria. It shows that the judiciary is independent and courageous,” he added.

Source: Dailypost

President Buhari Set To Resume Office On Monday

Following his 51-day medical vacation in the United Kingdom, President Muhammadu Buhari is set to resume work tomorrow, March 13

According to The Guardian, a source in the presidency has dismissed the rumour of the president’s incapacitation on account of his declaration that Vice President Yemi Osinbajo will continue to function for more weeks, saying President Buhari was as fit as a fiddle.

President Buhari on his return to the Presidential Villa on Friday morning said in remarks to members of the Federal Executive Council and military chiefs, at the First Lady’s Conference Room at the Presidential Villa that“I am feeling much better now. There may however be need for further follow up within some weeks. I deliberately came back towards the weekend, so that the Vice President will continue and I will continue to rest".

That understanding was later reversed towards evening of Friday, March 10, when Presidential sources hinted the President will resume tomorrow. That generated reactions, with some Nigerians expressing doubt whether the president has fully recovered to commence rigorous state duties.

Special Adviser to the President on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, in a tweet on his handle at noon last Friday, ‎said the President would transmit a letter to the National Assembly to make his return to work formal, and constitutional.

Meanwhile, Buhari has appealed to Nigerians not to bother visiting the villa to welcome him. He said, “rather than sending delegations to Abuja to welcome me, may I appeal to our people to continue to pray for the country’s unity, progress and prosperity.”

Source: Naij

Abike Dabiri-Erewa Blamed Xenophobic Attacks In South Africa On Inciting Statements Made By South African Political Leaders

Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has accused South African politicians of telling their people that foreigners, including Nigerians are taking their women, and jobs and this led to the attacks.

Dabiri-Erewa made this statement on a television programme while admitting that foreigners who commit crimes in South Africa can be dealt with without the citizens attacking Nigerian citizens.

Punch reports that Dabiri-Erewa said xenophobic attacks in South Africa was driven by hate speech and misinformation.

If South Africa is fighting crime; let it fight crime, not fight brothers and sisters - Dabiri-Erewa

She said: “There are people who commit crime in South Africa, such people are in any country. If South Africa is fighting crime; let it fight crime, not fight brothers and sisters, who are legitimately working in South Africa,

“Don’t forget that these attacks happened in the past. This is the seventh attack. The last one was in 2015… the king of Zulu made some remarks that were inciting, that led to the last attack.

“This particular one, let’s look at the circumstances. Fine, there are economic issues everywhere in the world. Politicians are campaigning and telling their people, ‘you know what, drive these criminals away, they are taking your jobs, and they are taking your women too'."

Dabiri said MTN, DStv and other South African companies should initiate a campaign against xenophobia by educating citizens in the former apartheid enclave.

She said: “Imagine MTN sending text messages to everyone in South Africa, saying Xenophobia is bad, don’t do this and that.

“They should embark on some corporate social responsibility. Those multinationals should get up and do something. DStv should be doing various jingles on why xenophobia is bad, they should take over the awareness campaign.”

Meanwhile, eminent Nigerian lawyer Femi Falana has written to South African President Jacob Zuma and urged him to urgently identify and prosecute persons and groups behind the xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in that country.

Falana also wants the victims of the attacks to be compensated by the South African government.

Source: Naij

Sport: Sergio Aguero's Goal Sends Manchester City To FA Cup Semi-finals

Premier League club Manchester City have qualified for the semi-finals of the 2017 FA Cup championship after beating Middlesbrough 2-0 in their explosive quarter-final clash on Saturday, March 11, 2017.

The hosts fluffed numerous chances in the game and were made to pay for their profligacy in front of their faithfuls at the Riverside stadium.

David Silva scored the opener for Manchester City in the 3rd minute after a defensive gaffe by the home side.
Middlesbrough tried all they could to restore parity before the break, but the Citizens would thank Ivorian star Yaya Toure who blocked a straight shot that would have resulted to a goal.

The visitors continued to press hard in the
second half before Sergio Aguero eventually netted the second and winning goal for Manchester City in the 67th minute. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will now hope to take his wards to the final and probably win the title.

Minister Relocates To Kaduna Over Abuja Airport Closure

The minister of state for aviation Hadi Sirika has relocated to Kaduna state, Daily Trust reports.

The minister's relocation comes after federal government's closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The Nigeria government also diverted all flights both local and international to Kaduna airport to hasten the repair of the Abuja airport within
six weeks.

However speaking on his relocation, Sirika said his office need to operate from Kaduna to ensure smooth flight operations in and out of the town. He said the federal government has also put in place necessary requirements needed for ease of the inconvenience caused by flight diversion.

Also commending air passengers for their
understanding, Sirika said the measure was a temporary one in the interest of every air traveler.

Meanwhile, the construction company, Julius Berger which was billed to work on the Abuja Airport runway commenced work on Wednesday, March 8. Also, activities at the airport has commenced
with Acting President Yemi Osinbajo making the first presidential landing at the Kaduna airport on Thursday, March 9.

Source: Daily Trust

Sport: Chelsea Mock Man Utd Ahead Of FA Cup Clash

The Blues are creating a lot of buzz on social media not because they play Manchester United next Monday but because of a small detail in their preview of the clash.

United’s utter inability to move out of sixth
place in the Premier League has seen them become the jokes on Twitter.
Manchester United have suffered from fans on social media this season
Since the end of October, United have not
posted another position other than sixth, despite a 17-match unbeaten run in the Premier League, including nine wins.

And in their quarter-final preview, Chelsea’s official website enjoyed bringing up the fact.

On Monday March 13th Chelsea and Manchester United will lock horns for there FA Cup quarter-final. 

From London to Abuja in 50 days: Buhari’s return -Reuben Abati

The cities of Daura -President Muhammadu Buhari’s home town, Kano - his political base, and Kaduna -where he has a home, and where the aircraft that brought him from London landed early Friday, March 10, as well as other parts of the North saw the people trooping out to jubilate and thank God for his safe return. 

I noticed that there was no such jubilation in the entire South West, the East, the Middle Belt and the South South. This is understandable.

Too many cynics and mischief-makers in these other parts of the country had expected the worst and they had been busy promoting the Acting President Yemi Osinbajo as a better man in the President’s seat. 

The manner in which President Buhari’s absence from the country seemed to have divided the country emotionally is perhaps one of the saddest outcomes of that experience. It was the longest period any sitting President in Nigeria would stay away from office. But the really sad news is that it again projected the ethnic differences within the country.

The fact that Buhari’s absence was due to illness raised anxieties on all fronts about the economy and the country’s political prospects. Whereas President Buhari had dutifully and lawfully excused himself and delegated power to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who became Acting President, this created fresh and troubling problems on the political front. Mischief-makers began to promote Osinbajo: comments appeared in the social and traditional media, praising every step he took while his boss was away.

Meanwhile, his boss received more bashing than was the case at any other time since he assumed office. Whoever managed or instigated that mischievous media messaging process did Osinbajo a bad turn. One of the golden rules of power is this: Never outshine the master! It is in fact the first law of power.

While Buhari was away, Osinbajo did, wittingly or unwittingly, and how serious that was became obvious when a Buhari aide had to inform Nigerians that there is a single Presidency and that Osinbajo, as Acting President took instructions from his boss in London. It was a sorry moment, with the President’s men trying to pull back the Acting President’s men, and struggling so hard to preserve the President’s image and hold on to power.

This is why Sai Baba’s return is a game changer, and it probably explains why his kinsmen trooped onto the streets in joy.  I wouldn’t know if he has returned against doctor’s advice, but we all know that he may still have to go to back to London for further tests as he himself has announced in a statement, but coming back at this time is a deft political move. 

Things were beginning to get so bad, power was beginning to slip out of Buhari’s hands. As the Osinbajo persona gained traction, Buhari’s ratings further nosedived.  When Buhari arrived this morning, he changed the narrative. And watch every step that he took: he met with the Executive Council of the Federation: a smart way of re-asserting control. He shook hands with some Governors.

He also issued a statement, which he personally signed. Within a few hours of his return, he took steps that left no one in doubt that he intends to remain in charge. I have seen power-game upfront at the highest level. Nobody should be deceived. 

If there is any cabal in that Aso Villa at this time, its members must be walking with a special bounce. There was even a smiling competition among Buhari’s men in the Villa today. Look at the photos. Some people smiled so much if their teeth had fallen off in the process, they would have gladly attributed it to occupational hazard.

One of the laws of power is that you don’t take power and then allow other people to seize the advantages. Buhari’s return has served one strong purpose: to hold power and keep it where it belongs. But in another strategic move, the man of power has made it clear that his Vice President will continue to act while he recuperates. That is brilliant: Looks like these guys in the Villa are beginning to learn how to play chess. 

With Buhari inside the Villa, even for just two weeks, before he returns to London if he does, he would have enough time to change the calculus of power, including the traffic that may have built up in another direction in his absence.

But Sai Baba don spoil business for prayer warriors oh! I am actually wondering why I did not listen to those friends who advised that we should also organize a get-well prayer session for Buhari. You know-you get-you-understand what I mean…that kind of prayer session that is an investment, with a well-thought-out proposal. You get sponsors, make some money on God’s behalf, publicise the prayer programme so well every important Government official will notice.

 I thought this was thoroughly opportunistic, making money and enjoying privileges off another man’s illness! But may be when Baba goes back to London, I will weigh the options differently. More so as I can see with my own eyes that those prayers may have worked. 

Buhari’s return, in this heavily spiritual country, is probably clear evidence that God answers prayers! And let us not blame those who think so, because there are indeed people in this same country who wanted Sai Baba to remain in medical exile. But at least, now that the President is back, the prayer investors and their notice-me sponsors and those whose political careers depended on the-President-phoned-me-from-London moments will get off our back.  

President Buhari has told everyone who may be planning a trip to Aso Villa on a welcome-back visit to please stay off. Hi-an! Thank you, sir. Let people stay where they are, I beg, and do their work instead of trooping to Aso Villa to do eye service. And nobody should send gifts: in our tradition, when a man is recuperating, it is normal to send packs of tea (and Baba likes his tea!), cartons of milk and fruit juice and biscuits, to ease the recuperation process. I beg make una keep una tea, and other Greek gifts, Baba no want. And I think people should be told not to place any adverts in the newspapers welcoming President Buhari back to Nigeria.

The man I sympathise with is Professor Yemi Osinbajo. He will now have to tone down, roll back and generally stay in the shadows, even with his boss saying he can carry on while he is still recuperating. How can he carry on when the boss is back and on his feet? Can he possibly bear the title of Acting President when the President is back in the Villa? He and his team would have to do a quick re-set, both inside the Villa and in the media. Right now, I do not envy them…as they manage the banana peels of power.

And now that President Buhari is back, it would be most appropriate to draw his attention to many things that happened in his absence. Baba, while you were away…some Ministers were busy making noise, some Nigerians were busy wailing, some of them said you…you… the recession got worse, the Naira effectively became a yo-yo, one actress left her husband and started grumbling about STD, one house-boy in Big Brother Naija tried to get fresh with TBoss and got booted out, there was two- fighting in the PDP…

No, I think I should let you enjoy your first day back home in 50 days. Here is a Yoruba song, which the wailers of the South West refused to sing to welcome you back. Enjoy it:    

Kabo o o,  kaa-aa-bo.

Kaaabo ooo, kaabo

Sai baba to t’ajo de o,

Kaa bo o

Baba wa to t’ajo de o, kaabo

I conclude: The fire next time…  

Source: rubenabati.com

South Africa Ban Nine African Countries As Zuma Adopt Trump Style

South African president, Jacob Zuma has pulled a massive shocker after announcing an immediate ban to all citizens from Southern Africa. Effective immediately, citizens from these countries will no longer be allowed in South Africa in what Zuma called a temporary freeze : Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The news was met with resistance from various stakeholders and diplomats from the affected countries are said to have called an emergency meeting. Speaking form the parliament, Jacob Zuma said the countries in Southern Africa are responsible for the rampant job loss among local South Africans.

“I want South Africans to have jobs before others but it’s the other way round. Why should my child suffer while my neighbor’s child eats in my field?”, Zuma said.

Another reason that Zuma highlighted was the alarming crime rates. He said foreigners from neighboring countries commit crimes and run away from their countries, mostly illegals.

“All foreigners currently in South Africa from the affected countries will be vetted and if found to have contravened, they will be sent home immediately”, Zuma announced.

There was no word on how the affected countries would respond to Zuma’s shock announcement.

Source : LiveMonitor

Excerpts Of Olusegun Obasanjo's Assessment Of Nasir El-Rufai In His Book Share By Reno Omokri

This is an exact quote of former President Olusegun Obasanjo assessment of Nasir El-Rufai from page 412-413 of his book, My Watch Volume 2:

“A leader must know the character and ability of his subordinates. Character wise, Nasir has not much going for him. But he is a talented young man who can always deliver under close supervision. So, when Osita Chijoka approached, among others, propping Nasir as my possible successor, believing that whoever I supported would make it, which was a false belief; I did not hesitate to point to Nasir’s naivety and immaturity, talk less of his inability to give honour to whom honour is due.

My vivid recollection of him is penchant for lying, for unfair embellishment of stories and his inability to sustain loyalty
for long. Two years after I had left office, Osita came to me to confirm how right I was on my assessment and judgement of Nasir. I knew what I could make him to
achieve and he achieved it for my administration and for the country. I believe that he can still be used in public service but under guidance and sufficient oversight, making allowance for the psychology of “his petit size and his
elephantine brain.”

He was described as a malicious liar. He
was more than that; he is a pathological purveyor of untruths and half-truths with little or no regard for integrity. In all of this, he unwittingly does more harm than good to himself”

Who can know a man more than his boss of eight years?

I Was Not Appointed To Wear Uniform- Hameed Ali Customs Boss

Comptroller General of Customs, Hameed Ali, has replied members of the senate who ordered him to appear before the house on March 15th in his official uniform as a customs officer. Hameed in an interview with TVC on Friday, says he was not appointed to wear uniform but to do his work effectively:
"No! I was not appointed Comptroller General of Customs to wear uniform. Does Uniform work or the person behind the uniform?

If we suspect that smuggled items are taken into your house, we have the right to cordon that house and go in to search. Am I doing my job or not? I think that should be what should worry the National Assembly" he said.

Members of the senate unanimously agreed to order Ali to appear before the house to explain the controversial new policy of Customs Service asking car owners to report to their offices to verify if the import duties for their cars were fully paid for. According to Customs, defaulters would have their cars impounded.

The senate is also angry with Customs officials over the recent trend of storming shops and storage houses to seize items
believed to have been smuggled into the country.

Ali has never worn the Customs uniform since assuming office in 2015.

Nigerian Customs Handover Seized 661 Pump Action To Dss

The Nigeria Customs Service has handed over the 661 pump action rifles seized on Sunday 22rd January 2017 by the Roving Team of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A Ikeja to the Department of State Security for further investigation.

2. You will recall that the rifles were laden in a Mack truck with registration number BDG 265 XG conveying a 1x40ft
Container with Number: PONU/825914/3 before it was intercepted along Mile 2 Apapa road, Lagos.

3.The truck was immediately taken to the premises of FOU Zone A, Ikeja where Physical examination revealed 49 boxes
containing a total number of 661 pieces of pump action rifles concealed with steal doors and other merchandize goods

4. The interception of these arms is a clear indication of how committed and dedicated the Service is to the economy, security and wellbeing of the Country. The three
suspects who were arrested in connection with this illegal importation are:
Mr. Oscan Okafor (Importer) age 51
Mr. Mahmud Hassan (Clearing Agent) age 56 Mr. Sadique Mustapha (accompanying the consignment to its destination) age 28.

5. While handing over the 661 pump action rifles and the two suspects (Mr. Oscan Okafor (Importer) and Mr. Mahmud Hassan (Clearing Agent) to the Director-General,
Department of State Security, Mr. Lawal Daura represented by the Director, DSS, Lagos State Command, Ms Betty
Adoki, Deputy Comptroller General of Customs in charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation, DCG Dan Ugo on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd), calls on all well meaning Nigerians to
support the service with necessary information that could assist the Service perform their statutory responsibilities
better.

Source: Politicsngr.