Former APC Official Raises Concerns Over Kaduna Governor's Debt Outburst

 Former APC Official Raises Concerns Over Kaduna Governor's Debt Outburst

In a recent development covered by Rald News Media, Dr. Salihu Lukman, a former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing the North West, has weighed in on the recent statements made by Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State. Governor Sani attributed the state's financial woes, particularly its struggles in meeting salary obligations, to the substantial debt inherited from his predecessor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

Lukman, in his analysis, expressed apprehension over the public disagreement between Sani and El-Rufai, suggesting it signifies a deepening divide in their relationship. He stressed the importance of handling the situation with care, urging APC members in Kaduna to hold Governor Sani accountable and to conduct a thorough examination of the state's debts and their management.

Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Lukman called for a comprehensive audit to ascertain if there were any instances of financial mismanagement, advocating for the swift recovery of any diverted funds.

Governor Sani, during a recent Town Hall meeting in Kaduna on March 30, 2024, disclosed that he inherited a significant debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual obligations from the previous administration. This fiscal challenge, according to him, resulted in substantial deductions from federal allocations, hampering the state's ability to fulfill its salary obligations.

While acknowledging the complexities of the situation, Lukman cautioned against reducing the matter to mere political rhetoric and urged for a constructive approach to addressing Kaduna's financial difficulties. He underscored the importance of supporting the initiatives of the Kaduna State government, suggesting that the Town Hall meeting could serve as a platform to garner backing for the state's developmental projects.

Lukman also acknowledged the strained relationship between El-Rufai and Sani, although he refrained from intervening due to his distance from both individuals since his resignation from the APC leadership role in July 2023.

In conclusion, Lukman stressed the necessity of a collaborative effort to address the debt issue responsibly, urging stakeholders to avoid exacerbating tensions among key figures in Kaduna's political landscape.

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New Kogi gov appoints SSG, retains Yahaya Bello’s commissioners

New Kogi gov appoints SSG, retains Yahaya Bello’s commissioners

In a recent report by Rald News Media, it has been disclosed that Dr. Folashade Ayoade has officially assumed the role of Secretary to the State Government in the state of Kogi, as declared by Governor Usman Ododo. Dr. Ayoade, who hails from the Kogi West Senatorial constituency, brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously served as the Secretary to the State Government during the final eight years of Yayaha Bello's tenure as the governor.

Governor Ododo did not stop there in announcing key appointments; he also unveiled the nomination of Ali Bello as the Chief of Staff. Interestingly, our correspondent's investigation has brought to light that Ali Bello is not only a key figure in the political landscape but also happens to be a relative of the former governor, belonging to the Kogi Central Senatorial District. Prior to this significant appointment, Bello had an impressive stint working under Yakubu Adabenege, who currently holds the position of Auditor-General of Local Government.

Speaking of Adabenege, it's noteworthy that the outgoing governor made a strategic move two weeks ago by appointing him to the aforementioned position. Additionally, Suleman Ibrahim was named the Director-General of Protocol, further shaping the administrative landscape of Kogi State.

The announcement also included the appointment of a notable figure, Oladele Nihi, as the Chief Press Secretary. Nihi's role will undoubtedly be crucial in managing the communication channels between the government and the public, ensuring transparency and dissemination of accurate information.

Delving further into the gubernatorial appointments, it was revealed that a significant number of commissioner-designates were drawn from the pool of former commissioners who served under the previous governor. This strategic move emphasizes continuity and experience in governance.

The roster of commissioner-designates includes Salami Deedat, who previously held the portfolio of commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs. Wemi Jones, formerly the commissioner for education, Bashir Gegu, and Idris Ashiru, who served as commissioners for solid minerals and information, respectively, during the previous administration, are also part of the newly announced team. Kingsley Fanwo, who held the position of commissioner for information, rounds up this group of experienced individuals set to contribute to the governance and development of Kogi State.

In essence, these appointments signify a strategic blend of continuity, experience, and fresh perspectives in the administrative machinery of Kogi State, as Governor Usman Ododo begins to shape his team for the coming years.

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IMO APC SET TO EMBARK ON GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA'S SECOND TERM INAUGURATION

IMMERSIVE COVERAGE: IMO APC SET TO EMBARK ON GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA'S SECOND TERM INAUGURATION

Imo State, January 14, 2024

In a groundbreaking announcement, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, under the leadership of Hon. MacDonald Ebere, PhD, enthusiastically extends a warm welcome to dignitaries, party enthusiasts, and well-wishers ahead of the highly anticipated second-term swearing-in ceremony of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, scheduled for Monday, January 15, 2024. This event not only signifies the continuity of democratic ideals but also stands as a testament to the people's recognition of Senator Hope Uzodimma's steadfast commitment to Imo State's progress and prosperity.

The forthcoming ceremony is set to host distinguished figures, including President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, GCFR, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR, and the entire National Working Committee. Other notable attendees will include Senate President Senator Godswil Akpabio, National Assembly members, state governors, industry leaders, traditional rulers, and clergy, emphasizing the significance of Governor Hope Uzodimma's leadership on the national stage.

As we approach this momentous occasion, we reflect on the transformative governance, infrastructure development, and social welfare initiatives that characterized Governor Hope Uzodimma's first term. The APC, Imo State, extends gratitude to the people for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared commitment in achieving sustained progress and development.

This event symbolizes a significant opportunity for the APC to reiterate its dedication to transparency, accountability, and service to the people. The party encourages active citizen participation in the democratic process, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the growth and prosperity of Imo State.

In conclusion, the APC, Imo State, renews best wishes to His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma and his Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, on the commencement of their second term. As the state embarks on this renewed chapter, prayers are extended for even greater achievements, unity among the people, and a shared vision for a prosperous Imo State.

APC.....A Governor Chosen by Providence!

Signed

CAJETAN DUKE, JP

State Publicity Secretary

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Edo 2024: The Entrance Of Michael Osaghae Ehigiade, MOE.

Few or no opportunities are left for youths in Nigeria to emerge as candidates for elective offices because they have limited experience and resources.

The perception across the political space is that the only narrow way perhaps, is when they are hugely backed by political heavyweights.

Those without such backgrounds, seldom make headway except miraculously.

This, according to a sentiment shared by most citizens has grossly affected the ambitions of the majority of youths who are desirous to test the water.

However, a 2008 Political Science graduate of Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma, Michael Osaghae Ehigiade, MOE, is convinced that he can muscle his way to the seat of power in the 2024 governorship election in the state.

MOE who hails from Ebelle Community in Igueben Local Government Council and preparing to contest the available seat after Governor Godwin Obaseki's tenure would have expired in 2024, under the All Progressive Congress, APC, believes that youths have significant roles to play in governance and building a better Edo State.

He noted that with the few consultations he has made with his party, and leaders in the Edo Central zone, there is hope to align his aims to express his world to be people's friendly policies

The Federal government of Nigeria last May ratified a constitutional amendment that reduced the age limit for governors and senators from 35 to 30 and for the president from 40 to 35, as well as the state legislators and those in the federal House of Representatives from 30 years to 25 years.

MOE knowing the implication of the amendment said, Young people can no longer be spectators, cheerleaders, and campaign merchants in the democratic process

He argued that the 2024 Governorship election no doubt will spring up surprises and upsets just like what was witnessed during the just concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections in the country.

Preparations may be gradually taking shape ahead of the Edo state Governorship election, but with many rooting for the Esan Speaking Area for fairness and equity, hopes are high for Ehigiade to emerge as the standard bearer of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in the forthcoming gubernatorial election given the huge speculations

MOE like the strongest of the big cats, the jaguar takes on a mighty beatsor its next meal.

With his eyes set on a crocodile, a fight for survival begins between the numerous apex predators. 

Ehigiade like other aspirants, a cheetah must hunt to feed her cheetah cubs first, but vowed to dislodge political inequality which is an uphill task in a country like Nigeria.

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Edo 2024: The Entrance Of Michael Osaghae Ehigiade, MOE.

 

Few or no opportunities are left for youths in Nigeria to emerge as candidates for elective offices because they have limited experience and resources.

The perception across the political space is that the only narrow way perhaps, is when they are hugely backed by political heavyweights.

Those without such backgrounds, seldom make headway except miraculously.

This, according to a sentiment shared by most citizens has grossly affected the ambitions of the majority of youths who are desirous to test the water.

However, a 2008 Political Science graduate of Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma, Michael Osaghae Ehigiade, MOE, is convinced that he can muscle his way to the seat of power in the 2024 governorship election in the state.

MOE who hails from Ebelle Community in Igueben Local Government Council and preparing to contest the available seat after Governor Godwin Obaseki's tenure would have expired in 2024, under the All Progressive Congress, APC, believes that youths have significant roles to play in governance and building a better Edo State.

He noted that with the few consultations he has made with his party, and leaders in the Edo Central zone, there is hope to align his aims to express his world to be people's friendly policies

The Federal government of Nigeria last May ratified a constitutional amendment that reduced the age limit for governors and senators from 35 to 30 and for the president from 40 to 35, as well as the state legislators and those in the federal House of Representatives from 30 years to 25 years.

MOE knowing the implication of the amendment said, Young people can no longer be spectators, cheerleaders, and campaign merchants in the democratic process

He argued that the 2024 Governorship election no doubt will spring up surprises and upsets just like what was witnessed during the just concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections in the country.

Preparations may be gradually taking shape ahead of the Edo state Governorship election, but with many rooting for the Esan Speaking Area for fairness and equity, hopes are high for Ehigiade to emerge as the standard bearer of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in the forthcoming gubernatorial election given the huge speculations

MOE like the strongest of the big cats, the jaguar takes on a mighty beatsor its next meal.

With his eyes set on a crocodile, a fight for survival begins between the numerous apex predators. 

Ehigiade like other aspirants, a cheetah must hunt to feed her cheetah cubs first, but vowed to dislodge political inequality which is an uphill task in a country like Nigeria.

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MOE GOVERNMENT FOR ALL" Gains Momentum in Edo State

In a transformative move for Edo State, Michael Osaghae Ehijiade, popularly known as MOE, is emerging as the beacon of change in the political landscape. The campaign, aptly titled "MOE GOVERNMENT FOR ALL," envisions a system that transcends individual interests, focusing on the collective well-being of the people and the true essence of democracy.

The core philosophy behind MOE's candidacy is the belief that revitalizing Edo State does not require magic or rocket science but the strategic placement of competent sons and daughters of Edo extraction in key positions to contribute to the state's development. MOE aims to turn the theoretical definition of democracy into a practical reality, promising good governance that reflects the aspirations of the people.

Under the rallying cries of #supportgoodRepresentation, #Identifywithagoodproject, and #MOEistheway, the campaign seeks to unite Edo people in support of a shared vision for a better government.

A New Face in Edo's Political History: MOE's Impact

Michael Osaghae Ehijiade MOE

MOE represents a new chapter in Edo's political history, aiming to make a significant impact in the lives of the people. Positioned as the progressive youth leader, MOE symbolizes a collective effort by the Edo people to take control of their future. With the mandate to defend and uphold the state's glory, MOE is poised to implement a beautiful agenda that resonates with the aspirations of the youth.

The campaign, expressed through #MOEOURMANDATE and #RESTORATION2024, emphasizes the urgency to fix Edo State. It highlights the need for collective strength from all Edolites to transform the state into a modern city through MOE's restoration agenda.

Edo's Pacesetter for Quality Leadership: MOE for Governor 2024

In the spirit of #Edo2024, #Restoration2024, and #Edocapacity2024, the campaign stresses that the time to fix Edo is now. MOE, as the embodiment of the restoration agenda, holds the capacity to position the state as a pacesetter for quality leadership.

The call to action is clear: support and nominate Michael Osaghae Ehijiade, aka the son of man, for Edo State Governor in 2024. The people of Edo are encouraged to unite under the banner of #MOEistheway, working together towards the restoration of Edo State to its rightful place of prominence.

The better hour to fix Edo is now, and with MOE's leadership, the promise of a restored and revitalized Edo State becomes an achievable reality.

#Edo2024 #Restoration2024 #Edocapacity2024 #MOEistheway

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Emir of Zazzau Commends The Alternative Bank's Non-Interest Approach for Economic Growth

Emir of Zazzau Commends The Alternative Bank's Non-Interest Approach for Economic Growth

RALD NEWS MEDIA Reports: Emir of Zazzau Commends The Alternative Bank's Non-Interest Approach for Economic Growth

Zaria, Kaduna State - Emir Ahmed Nuhu Bamali of Zazzau, Kaduna, lauded The Alternative Bank (TAB) during the inauguration of its inaugural branch in Zaria, emphasizing the institution's role in fostering economic growth through sustainable practices and responsible financial decisions.

In his keynote address themed 'Non-Interest Banking: Opportunities and Benefits for the Nigerian Economy,' the traditional ruler highlighted the manifold advantages of TAB, including economic inclusivity, risk-sharing, and commitment to principles of equality and cooperation.

Ambassador Bamali expressed optimism about TAB's potential contributions to GDP growth and support for MSMEs, urging the bank to establish a strong connection with the people of Zazzau Emirate.

Umar Umar, Regional Head of North-Central Sales, Products, and Propositions, emphasized TAB's rapid emergence as a leading non-interest banking entity in Nigeria, commencing with a modest portfolio and now boasting over N50 billion in capital.

Acknowledging the enduring partnership with Zaria's community, Umar expressed confidence in catalyzing the bank's business and benefiting customers in the region through the new branch. Describing Zaria's diverse customer base as "Musharrata," he underscored TAB's global reach as a fully digital bank, serving customers across Nigeria and beyond through digital channels.

Reflecting on TAB's decade-long journey from a window in Sterling Bank Limited to a standalone non-interest bank, Umar highlighted the institution's growth from an initial capital of N500 million to over N50 billion, showcasing unique products in the non-banking sector.

As the ethical banking subsidiary of Sterling Financial Services Holdings Company Plc (Sterling Holdco), TAB aims to make a lasting impact in the North-Central region, encompassing Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory, with the opening of its Zaria branch.

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Anambra Governor, Soludo Says Tinubu Inherited ‘Dead Economy’

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has said that President Bola Tinubu inherited a “dead economy” from his predecessor, despite he (Soludo) being a member of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s Economic Advisory Council.

RALD MEDIA reported that Governor Soludo, who said this while featuring in Channels Television’s Politics Today Programme, said that the Nigerian economy under former President Buhari was like a dead horse which though dead but was still standing and people did not know it was dead.

Recall that after Buhari replaced his Economic Management Team with an Economic Advisory Council in September 2019, Governor Soludo who is a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) chief, amongst others, was named as a member of the council.

Other members of the Council were Dr. Mohammed Sagagi (Vice-Chairman); Prof Ode Ojowu; Dr Shehu Yahaya; Dr Iyabo Masha; Mr Bismark Rewane and  Dr Mohammed Adaya Salisu (Secretary).

However, speaking during the programme on Thursday night, Governor Soludo blamed Nigeria’s worsening economy on past violations of the CBN’s establishment law, which according to him, bars deficit financing above five percent of prior year revenues.

Soludo accused the past management of the CBN of illegally granting trillions in unbacked financing despite legal restrictions, contributing to current challenges the country is facing.

The Governor said, “We explicitly put into the law that you can’t grant the Federal Government more than five per cent of the previous year’s actual revenue. And that so granted must be retired by the end of the year in which it was granted.

“And when the Federal Government fails to retire, the Central Bank is forbidden by that law from further advancing ways and means. That was the law, 2007 Act of the Central Bank.

“But we sat all of us Nigerians watching the CBN illegally and brazenly violating that Act year on year and kept on printing money. That is when advance money is backed by nothing; you just credit the Federal Government with trillions N 4 trillion, N10 trillion, N15 trillion and we kept going.

“I did say it before, that this particular government inherited a dead economy, from a micro economic point of view.

“This government inherited a dead economy standing almost like a dead horse but was still standing. But people didn’t know it was dead.

“You cannot pour a drum of water on a rock and expect that the rock will not be wet. There is humongous challenges and it is important that Nigerians understand this and that it is not a tea party.

“When I spoke with the minister of finance and some of them I spoke with, I told them, you have my congratulations and also my commensurations because I know what faces them. They need our support in whatever way we can.”

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Liberian President, George Weah Concedes Election Defeat To Joseph Boakai

Liberia President George Weah on Friday conceded election defeat to opposition leader Joseph Boakai after a tight race, ending a presidency marred by graft allegations but helping to ensure a smooth transition of power in the once volatile African nation.
 

RaldNews Media reports that Boakai, 78, a former vice president who lost to Weah in the 2017 election, led with 50.9% of the vote over Weah’s 49.1%, with nearly all the votes counted, the country’s elections commission said on Friday.

The result marks a stark turnaround from 2017, when global soccer legend Weah, buoyed by a wave of hope, trounced Boakai with 62 percent of the vote. Many have since grown disillusioned with the lack of progress: Poverty, unemployment, food insecurity and poor electricity supply persist.

“A few moments ago, I spoke with president elect Joseph Boakai to congratulate him on his victory,” Weah said on national radio. “I urge you to follow my example and accept the results of the elections.”

Weah’s concession paves the way for Liberia’s second democratic transfer of power in over seven decades – the first was when Weah swept to power six years ago.

His comments stood out in West and Central Africa where there have been eight military coups in three years, eroding faith in democratic elections. When elections do go ahead in the region, accusations of fraud abound and results are frequently contested in court.

Instead, Boakai supporters in the capital Monrovia danced, shouted and honked car horns in the rain after the near-final results were announced.

“We have a job ahead of us to do and I’m excited that the citizens have given us approval,” Boakai told Reuters shortly after the results were announced. “First and foremost, we want to have a message of peace and reconciliation.”

Boakai, a softly spoken career politician, emerged neck-and-neck with Weah in the first round of voting in October but below the 50% needed to secure an outright victory, leading to Tuesday’s run-off.

wars that killed more than 250,000 people between 1989 and 2003, and from a 2013-16 Ebola epidemic that killed thousands.

Many felt that Weah did not follow through on promises to alleviate poverty and improve the country’s crumbling infrastructure.

Arkoi Sarkor, 43, told Reuters she supported Boakai because she was not able to get a job during Weah’s term.

“I am very hopeful because I know Boakai is… a man of principles and I know when he gets in here, he is going to bring changes,” she said. “Some things that were not done, that were not correct, he will put it in place, I am hopeful of that.”

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POLITICAL TURMOIL UNFOLDS IN ONDO STATE AS PDP LAMBASTS AKEREDOLU'S ADMINISTRATION, APC FIRES BACK

 POLITICAL TURMOIL UNFOLDS IN ONDO STATE AS PDP LAMBASTS AKEREDOLU'S ADMINISTRATION, APC FIRES BACK

In a recent development, the Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticized Governor Rotimi Akeredolu's administration, asserting that the state is adrift under his leadership. According to The Punch, 33 out of 35 State Executive Council members expressed confidence in the governor, but the PDP dismissed this as a mockery.

The PDP, through its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kennedy Peretei, released a statement titled ‘Akeredolu’s cabinet dances naked in the market square,’ highlighting concerns about the state's political situation. The party questioned the legitimacy of the vote of confidence, especially given the governor's prolonged absence.

Despite the PDP's criticism, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended Akeredolu. The APC's Director of Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, labeled the PDP's statement as a baseless attack. Otaloro emphasized that the vote of confidence reflected Akeredolu's accomplishments and leadership qualities. The APC particularly praised the governor's commitment to good governance, integrity, and project implementation monitoring.

The political tension in Ondo State seems to be escalating as both major parties exchange accusations and defend their positions on the state's governance.

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BREAKING:Court Sends Former CBN Governor Emefiele To Kuje Prison

 Former CBN Governor Emefiele has been remanded in Kuje Prison by a court.

Rald News reports that a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, has ordered the remand of former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele in Kuje correctional facility pending ruling on his bail application.

This news platform understands that Justice Hamza Muazu, the presiding judge, gave the order on Friday and adjourned the ruling on the bail application filed by the former CBN boss.

The former bank chief will remain in prison custody until November 22, 2023, when the court will deliver a ruling on his bail motion.

Emefiele’s lead counsel, Mathew Burkaa SAN, moved the application for bail which Rotimi Oyedepo vehemently opposed on behalf of the Federal Government.

After taking arguments for and against the application, Rald News Media reports that Justice Muazu held that a bench ruling could not be delivered in view of the plethora of authorities cited by the two parties.

Justice Muazu said he needed a little time to study the authorities and peruse through the exhibits supplied by Emefiele to support his request for bail.

At the time of this report, officials of the Kuje prison authority have been contacted to bring a vehicle to convey him to prison.

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Supreme Court Ruling: Government Of The Day Creating Monster Very Difficult To Tame In Years – Labour Party.

Supreme Court Ruling: Government Of The Day Creating Monster Very Difficult To Tame In Years – Labour Party.

The Lagos State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has reacted to the final judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria concerning the outcome of the February 25th Presidential election where they affirmed the election of President Tinubu as the duly elected president of Nigeria.

The Lagos State Chairman of Labour Party  Pastor Dr. Dayo Ekong, in a press conference on Tuesday, 31st October 2023, said that the government of the day is creating a monster that will be difficult to tame in years to come.

She stated that the Supreme Court ruling is a miscarriage of justice that will directly affect the nation.

In her own words during a press conference at the Party’s secretariat in Lagos, Ikeja GRA:

“It is not just Labour Party or our Principal, HE Peter Obi who are directly affected by the ruling who suffers, but the entire nation.

“The ruling of the election tribunal has cast a shadow of doubt on the integrity of our Justice system and eroded the trust that citizens place in it.

“The ripple effects of this great injustice has not only robbed every single Nigerian that braved the odds to come out and cast their votes of their rights and dignity but also sends a chilling message to all citizens that the system can fail them.

“This injustice has created in our youths a sense of disillusionment and injustice.

“Young people who are supposed to be a nation’s most valuable asset have been left questioning the very principles upon which our legal system is built.

“A nation where our youths have lost faith in the fairness of the courts will result in them less likely to report crimes, cooperate with authorities, or even engage in peaceful and lawful activities, out of fear that the system will fail them.

“The government of the day is creating a monster that may be difficult to tame in the years to come; the have laid a blueprint for the younger generation to learn from and replicate.

“It sends a message to that some individuals are less valuable or less deserving of Justice, simply because of their race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other factors. This, in turn, fosters resentment, mistrust and division within our society.

“Our economy is in a terrible state yet our so called leaders are busy spending and wasting the little we have.

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Seyi Tinubu, others banned from attending FEC Meeting (FULL LIST)

 Seyi Tinubu, others banned from attending FEC Meeting (FULL LIST)

Speaking before the commencement of the FEC meeting on Monday at the presidential villa, the president said he noticed that some people were sneaking in and out of the council chamber.

Seyi Tinubu among other unauthorised persons has been banned from attending FEC Meeting.

The media reports that President Bola Tinubu has warned unauthorised persons against attending the weekly federal executive council (FEC) meeting

The president said some persons who were not authorised — including his son Seyi Tinubu — had access to the council chamber of the State House.

Speaking before the commencement of the FEC meeting on Monday at the presidential villa, the president said he noticed that some people were sneaking in and out of the council chamber.

“Last week I noticed the undue access of people sneaking in and out of this council, including… I saw the photograph of my son, Seyi, sitting behind… That is not acceptable,” Tinubu said.

“I will announce to you those people who are supposed to be here.

“Hadiza Usman, special adviser on policy coordination, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, principal private secretary and Damilotun Aderemi, private secretary.

“These are the people who are granted the exception to be here when we are conducting the business of the nation. Unless I send for you, don’t come.”

The president asked George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), and Folashade Yemi-Esan, head of service of the federation, to ensure that the directive is complied with.

The weekly FEC meeting which is presided over by the president is attended by cabinet members and his top aides.

The high-level meeting, previously held every Wednesday, now takes place on Mondays.

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Faction Of Rivers Assembly Elects Suspended Majority Leader, Ehie New Speaker

Faction Of Rivers Assembly Elects Suspended Majority Leader, Ehie New Speaker

The confusion in Rivers State is heightening by the minutes as a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly has announced Edison Ehie, the suspended majority Leader of the assembly, as the new speaker of the house.

Ehie, a member representing Ahoada East constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, was earlier on Monday suspended by 24 out of the 32 members of the state assembly led by its Speaker, Martins Amaewhule.

But a statement by the Special Adviser to Governor Fubara, Boniface Onyedi Monday afternoon stated that another 26 members of the assembly “elected the new speaker of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly”.

According to the statement, Ehie’s “emergence as the new Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker came after 26 members of the Assembly elected him during plenary following the suspension of some key officers of the assembly”.

The statement, however did not state where the 26 members sat to hold their plenary or when, following the explosion attack of the assembly and the sealing off of the assembly complex by security agencies.

The statement has it that the new speaker promised: “to discharge his duty without fear or favour but be fair and just to all and sundry, and give to his colleagues their constitutional entitlements”.

“My commitment to Rivers people is that I will be just and fair to all and sundry, I will ensure that the rule of law takes its course, I will not betray my colleagues, I will not betray, Rivers people, I will not betray my constituency. 

“I will ensure the independence of the Rivers State House of Assembly is adhered to, with mutual respect for the judiciary and the executive arms of government.”

The new speaker also stated that he would give fair hearing to suspended members of the Assembly through the Committee on Petition.

 

Rt Hon Ehie also announced that the House has adjourned sine dine following a circular served by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, ( PASAN) to commence an indefinite nationwide strike.

 

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Tinubu has appointed APC member as INEC REC, says prominent journalist

 

Fisayo Soyombo, a prominent Nigerian journalist, has accused President Bola Tinubu of appointing a member of his party – the All Progressives Congress (APC), as a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The president, this week announced the appointment of ten new RECs.

Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, said the president has started positioning his people in INEC.

His words:

“Etekamba Umoren, the first name on the list of his newly-appointed RECs, is an APC member, Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s ally and henchman, and was the subject of a petition for joining Akpabio in withdrawing N22bn from Akwa Ibom State government’s account and diverting it to sundry personal use and unjustifiable expenditures.

“Appointing Umoren as INEC’s REC in Akwa Ibom for an initial five years, asking him to oversee elections in a state he helped loot, a state where he was Permanent Secretary in the Government House, Chief of Staff to the governor and latterly Secretary to the State Government, and where he helped APC win votes, surely isn’t accidental.

”What’s more? The Senate that will confirm or reject Umoren is chaired by Umoren’s mentor and principal, Akpabio.

”The backdoor manipulation of voter choices in 2027 has kicked off four years ahead of schedule!”

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