Coalition Calls On Pres. Buhari To Sack All Current Serving Ministers

…………. Says none of the heads of security including the Inspector General of Police and other military heads are the cause of insecurity bedeviling Nigeria.

A coalition of 92 Youth Based Groups and Non Governmental Organizations under the auspices of Centre for Credible Leadership & Citizens Awareness has called on President Buhari to immediately sack all the current serving Ministers and replace them with his choice of younger, patriotic and competent citizens who are desirous to patriotically contribute their quota to nation building.

While addressing the media in Abuja on Tuesday 29th December, 2020, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel who spoke on behalf of the coalition said that Ministers are relaxing in Abuja dwelling on lofty ideas without being in touch with their constituents or at least create an avenue for regular engagement like periodic town hall meetings with their constituents where the genuine efforts of Pres. Buhari would be made known to Nigerians on a one-on-one grass roots level.

The coalition also called on the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan to immediately change the Principal Officers of the 9th Senate for a more result oriented legislations that would in turn impact positively on the yearnings and aspirations of all if not majority of Nigerians.

“The same call goes to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila. We urge him to immediately relieve the current serving principal officers/leaders of the House and appoint more competent, God fearing representatives for effective, more impactful and result oriented legislations for peace, security and development of our country in line with the desire and tangible efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel said.

Excerpt is the full text of the press briefing:

We the above named Organization in collaboration with 92 youth based groups and Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), having concluded a One Day Summit titled “Origin and Root Causes of Insecurity In Nigeria; The Way Forward”, resolves as follows to be solutions and panacea to mitigating and solving the myriad of insecurity situation in Nigeria.

The Boko Haram sect emanated from the sponsorship and funding of Nigerian Politicians from the North East region of the country for their own selfish ambition. This sect is now hydra- headed and has given birth to prolong local and international terrorism, banditry, marauders, rapists, killer headsmen, cattle rustling, kidnapping, etc., with its attendant heinous crimes such as gruesome murder, rape, and the general atmosphere of insecurity in Nigeria.

In the same vein, the Niger Delta militancy which has also bedeviled the nation with serious security challenges and the attendant availability of small and light arms within the region with its attendant consequences was also originally formed by politicians within the region for their own selfish political and economic interests.

Therefore, it is clearly evident that Politicians in Nigeria are the founders, root causes, financiers and pre- cursors of insecurity in Nigeria.

Accordingly, the Dishonourable Ministers are here in Abuja dwelling on lofty ideas without being in touch with their constituents or at least create an avenue for regular engagement like periodic town- hall meetings with their constituents where the genuine efforts of President Mohammadu Buhari would be made known to Nigerians on a one-on-one grass roots level. No doubt, President Buhari has done a lot in the areas of fighting corruption, agricultural transformation, railways, road networks and fighting terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria. However, Ministers essentially are to act as deputies to the President and Commander- in- Chief by projecting the efforts of Mr President. But in Nigeria today, it is ironical that either most Ministers of the Federal Republic lack clear understanding of their functions or are completely ignorant of what to do while in office. We discovered that there is a lacuna. This gap is caused by the ineptitude and look- worm of the said so called honourable Ministers. While Mr. President is busy toiling day and night without the commensurate support from almost all the Ministers and other political appointees including the SGF. The inability of the NSA to effectively coordinate the security architecture of the country exposes a major weakness signifying the need for an urgent replacement of the sensitive position..

Some of these politicians and ex- Governors have now found the Senate of the Federal Republic as a shelter and resting place where they sit with practically nothing to contribute during plenary but rather indulge in unnecessary selfish political scheming, maneuvers and trading blames, heaping accusations on Mr President, and his security heads including the IGP and military chiefs.

Consequent to the above, for the peace, security and development of our country, we, as Nigerians and as a coalition, hereby, with utmost respect to President Buhari, urge the President and Commander- In- Chief to immediately sack all the current serving Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and replace them with his choice of younger, patriotic and competent citizens who are desirous to patriotically contribute their quota to nation building.

Again, we have also discovered the huge disconnect between members of the National Assembly and their so-called constituents. In the Senate, most of the principal officers dwell more on diversionary issues rather than embark on result oriented legislations targeting job creation for the youths and for peace, security and prosperity for Nigeria. If we may ask; how many times do some of these so called principal officers visit their constituents? Some only visit their constituents during elections times.

We, therefore, hereby, call on the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan to immediately change the principal officers of the 9th Senate for a more result oriented legislations that would in turn impact positively on the yearnings and aspirations of all if not majority of Nigerians.

The same call goes to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila. We urge him to immediately relieve the current serving principal officers/leaders of the House and appoint more competent, God fearing representatives for effective, more impactful and result oriented legislations for peace, security and development of our country in line with the desire and tangible efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari.

We also state categorically that none of the heads of security including the Inspector General of Police and other military heads are the cause of insecurity bedeviling Nigeria. The security, economic and political problems of our country are clearly caused by the so called political leaders which are the politicians especially those that have looted their states and now find a safe haven in the senate.

Let it be on record that in all fair minded judgement and assessment, Nigeria as a Nation, is very fortunate to have the current security chiefs at this trying moment of our country’s existence. With their experience, patriotism and commitment to duty, the nation is indeed lucky to have these officers at the helm of affairs irrespective of whatever anybody says.

Consequently, on the basis of our country’s corporate existence, peace and security, we, as a coalition, hereby soundly pass a vote of Confidence on the Heads of Security in Nigeria particularly the IGP and all the military chiefs for performing creditably well so far in the discharge of the onerous tasks of containing the myriad of security challenges confronting Nigeria.

Thank You.

Signed: Dr. Nwambu Gabriel,

For the Coalition

Federal High Court Issues Warrant Of Arrest Against A Lebanese National Mr. Rafic Saab

A Federal High Court Sitting in Lagos on Thursday 10th December, 2020 has issued a warrant of Arrest against a Lebanese National Mr. Rafic Saab, a businessman that deals in Daikin Cooling System in Nigeria.

The Order for the arrest warrant was made by Hon. Justice I.N. Oweibo of Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos following the application of the prosecuting Counsel MA. Animashaun Esq.

The prosecuting Counsel’s application for arrest warrant to be issued against the Defendant Rafic Saab was consequent upon the failure of the Defendant who was bound by recognizance to appear before the Court on 10th of December, 2020 but failed to appear on three previous occasions and forcing adjournment of proceedings on 06-10-2020 and 26-11-2020.

Mr. Rafic Saab is facing a 4 count charge of Conspiracy to defraud contrary to Section 8 (a) of Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006, false pretense and with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of $5,000,000USD and diverted same to Lebanon contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of Advance Fee Fraud Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1 (1) of same Act 2006, fraudulent diversion of monies outside Nigeria with intention to deprive the owners of the money permanently and knowingly making false statements with intention to defraud, concealed transaction information contrary to and punishable under Section 436 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C38 LFN 2004.

NIPOST Host Courier Stakeholders Forum

There is need for stakeholders in the Nigerian Postal Industry to come together and brainstorm on how to enhance efficiency in the industry in line with global best practices.

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami made this known at the Courier Services Forum organized by Nigerian Postal Service, NIPOST, where he engaged stakeholders aimed at moving the industry forward for effective and efficient services to Nigerians.

The Minister emphasized Rule Making Process as the first step in stakeholders’ engagement which is lacking in most government agencies

Making reference to the just concluded United States of America general election, the Honorable Minister challenged NIPOST to brace up for the similar role the United States Postal Service (USPS) played in processing of mail-in- ballot in future, as part of efforts to enhance Nigerian Postal industry in line with Nigeria Digital Economy Policy and Strategy.

Dr. Pantami advocates reversing the zero budget status for NIPOST which has been the practice for so many years. This situation has hampered the growth of NIPOST and the postal industry. The Minister said his role is to promote NIPOST and make it work for the country and the citizens.

In his own remark, the Postmaster General of the Federation, Dr Ismail Adebayo Adewusi praised the Honorable Minister of Communications & Digital Economy for his intervention during the uproar generated with the release of the new regulation of Courier and Logistics business in Nigeria. 

Dr Ismail Adebayo Adewusi said that the challenges and grey areas between stakeholders have been ironed out through positive engagement. He commended Association of Nigeria Courier Operators (ANCO), Nigeria International Air Courier Association (NIACA), and MSMEs for their cooperation. 

Speaking on behalf of the Courier Operators, Okey Uba, President ANCO, commended the Minister and the Postmaster General for giving them audience during the issues concerning the licenses fees and creating an enabling environment for them to operate. 

He seeks the Minister’s support for development of the Postal sector and improvement of the industry, while he solicited for proper enforcement of the new regulations and to empower NIPOST to carry out Policy guidelines for the industry to thrive.

The stakeholders resolved to work harmoniously with the Ministry and NIPOST for social and digital growth of the sub sector of the economy.  

Bridging The Digital Divide Through Telecoms: Postal Service Role

By Ayo Alanamu

COVID -19 placed the world in crises, it rampaged across countries, and made our globalised world feel vulnerable, and at times, almost defenceless. Post and their partners in other economies had all faced impossible impacts with the declaration of a global pandemic; the business world took a new dimension.

The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) established on the 7th December 1977, celebrates every year its founding day to reflect and demonstrate the key role Information and Communications Technology (ICT) plays in the social and economic developments of Africa.

This year’s theme ‘’POST COVID 19: Role of Telecoms/ICT in the Resumption of socio-Economic Activities’’ is imperative because of the reality of the new normal.

Taking the whole gamut of communications including the postal service into consideration, it will be apt to conclude that telecommunication/digital advancement goes a long way to help situate and observe the social distancing protocols as the pandemic raged. The Post has played a critical role in uniting the people, providing essential services not only mails but also delivering other important services. This helped the citizens of the world to possibly curb the transmission of the virus.

Telecommunications has completely transformed how people communicate and navigate their personal and professional lives. With an ever- present need for humans to connect and communicate, this industry is slated to continue its upward growth.

Surfing the internet, placing phone calls, e-mailing and text messaging, plus ordering goods online,  and the delivery to the last man via courier services, either of private courier or government owned courier companies, are all added as part of the complete communication chain.

As a result of this, Telecommunication becomes one of the most crucial infrastructures for protection. From natural disasters to military needs, there is a wide spectrum of institutions that depend on telecoms to provide safety.

Postal Service has continued to evolve and with steady expansion of products and services, has found its place in the socio- economy space of communication. In later years after its creation, the Post has stepped into many frontiers that keep adding up its relevance to the mechanism of National and Economic development.

Communication is key to national development and it is largely premised on citizens fundamental right, economic buoyancy, rise in per capita income, rule of law, and above all, conflict resolution and security. By these templates and several other parameters, the Postal Service role has been noble.

When the scrupulous element took to the Post in the 90s to perpetuate Advance Fee Fraud, otherwise known as ‘’419’’, using it as conduit to send tonnes of documents aimed at defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians, it raised alarm, intercepted a large portion of such documents to the  credit of the country.

Telecommunications plays a critical role in communities, particularly remote regions where modern banking has not been able to reach. A recent study undertaken by Universal Postal Union, the specialised agency of the United Nations, revealed that despite the financial inclusion and deepening of teledensity efforts of various governments in integrating their citizens into the global financial networking, there are still well over half a million locations in Africa that should offer financial services using telecommunication to the teeming world population, no matter how remotely located. This is where the postal service comes in offering its vast spaces at the Post Offices to accommodate this service.

In the projection of any developing postal service, it ought to rely so much on telecommunication and information technology to make a Post Office modern, becoming a one stop- shop, where it can reintroduce mini banking services, e-government services, where citizen can access a number government services such as applying and collection of drivers’ licences, international passports, national ID cards etc. This will no doubt boost the economy.

Information Technology and the ability to connect and communicate is a fundamental part of how a society operates today’s digital ecosystem, to transform the business world, and foster operational efficiency that stimulates steady growth.

In today’s business world, many organisations employ cross functional teams to tackle new products, corporate initiatives, marketing campaigns etc. With telecom service, these teams are equipped with the technology necessary to collaborate from any location, allowing for optimal productivity, enhanced connectivity and increased teamwork.

Driven by competition and customers demand, postal operators use advanced technology for different purposes, above all to improve operational efficiency and to offer new products and services. In particular, consumer demand for faster handling of orders and more convenient delivery is driving change in the post and technological innovations are enabling e-retailers and postal operators to respond to these requirements.

In the parcel and other e-commerce item delivery business, Last-mile delivery has improved with technology such as Parcel Dimensional Scanner for signatures scanning, which have added additional security for consumers.

Educational institutions now leverage telecommunication to deliver long distance or remote education. Equally certificates are being requested online, are centre quest by West African Examination Council (WAEC) on Nigerian Postal Service to help it deliver certificates to recipients who would have requested for their certificates without having to travel long distances.

Telecommunication has become the foundation for businesses, government communities and families to seamlessly connect and share information. Therefore technology has played an overall positive role for postal services and acts as an enabler and a drive for better services for consumers. Looking ahead, technology has become and more important for postal services, and further positive benefits are expected.  

Written by Ayo Alanamu of the Corporate Communication, NIPOST Headquarters Abuja 

Your Judicial Commission Of Inquiry Is A Kangaroo One; Coalition Tells Lagos State Governor

……… Says Commission is a mockery

The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, a coalition with over sixty-two Civil Society and Non Governmental, Nonprofit Organizations has said that the Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by the Governor of Lagos State; Babajide Sanwo Olu is a kangaroo one.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, 3^rd November, 2020, the convener of the coalition, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel said that Gov Babajide Sanwo Olu who by media reports initially said there was no deaths in Lagos, later claimed to have visited several hospitals with a few injured and 2 deaths is seen as someone who speaks from both sides of his mouth. He lacks the public confidence as far as this matter is concerned.

In a press briefing tagged “Reading between the Lines; Truth, Facts and Fantasies,” Dr. Nwambu Gabriel appealled to the very articulate and hard working Nigerian youths to dissuade all attempts by some clandestine groups to make them return to the streets a second time while urging them to embrace dialogue with Government for a long lasting peace in Nigeria.

Excerpt is the full text of the press briefing:

The ENDSARS Protest; Reading between the Lines. Truth, Facts and Fantasies.

Welcome gentlemen of the fourth realm, heads of various Civil Society Organizations here present, Ladies and gentlemen.

The Centre for Credible Leadership & Citizens Awareness in coalition with over sixty-two (62) Civil Society and Non Governmental, Nonprofit Organizations, as Nigerian Citizens have decided to conduct an inquest on the ENDSARS demonstration and the climax of the protest in Lekki Toll Gate, Lagos state on Tuesday, October 20, 2020. This incidence in Lekki no doubt is still dominating the media space for which some media outfits and bloggers classify as “Lekki Massacre”. There has been a heated debate on the role of the Nigerian Army in the enforcement of the curfew as announced by the Governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo Olu, the number of those injured and the number of deaths if any with substantial evidence to proof beyond reasonable doubts.

We would want to reemphasize that our coalition believes in the sanctity of the human life and the fact that every life is equal before our creator. But for the purpose of this fact finding and reality, we have chosen to be as objective and as practical as possible.

Now, the word Lekki “MASSACRE” according to the dictionary is synonymous with holocaust, carnage, bloodbath, death, slaughter, butchery. It also refers to large scale cold blooded murder of human beings. Several reports on both foreign and local media says that this was the case in Lekki Toll Gate on Tuesday, October 20, 2020.

The protest was seemingly well organized, disciplined and focused in their pursuit of the disbandment of the police Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS). In a twinkle of an eye, the Governor of Lagos state, Mr. Babajide Sanwo Olu joined the protesters, addressed them and ran the Aso Rock Villa to see Mr. President and presenting a five point demand. The President acceded to their request in principle. SARS was disbanded and modalities put in place to implement other demands. But the protesters were defiant; they remained on the streets and introduced other new demands.

Some questions readily come to mind; why was Mr. Babajide Sanwo Olu so quick to join the protesters? How did he come to identify their leaders as to be so certain on what their demands were? And why did he run to the President to submit their demand?

The protesters continued. The longer the protesters stayed on the street, the more extraneous forces come in as protesters and systematically hijacked on alarming scale. Police stations were burnt, policemen murdered in most gruesome manner, armories looted as criminals made away with arms and ammunitions and there was general brake down of law and order tending towards an anarchy situation. The Governor at this time introduced the curfew and requested the help of the military in enforcing the curfew.

Why then did the protesters not disperse in line with their peaceful and law abiding stance knowing that the red line between legality and illegality had been crossed?

A national newspaper claimed 49 persons were murdered. Amnesty International claimed that 12 persons died. There were purported eyewitnesses who gave account on how soldiers short directly on the protesters with unprecedented casualties with AK47. The video that went viral showed men in military uniform, corking AK47 riffles from the left hand side and firing into the air. In this social media age and with the sophistication that captured the men in military uniform firing, we expected to see at least someone who captured the killings, the dead bodies as evidenced. Or at least, we expect some families to come forward laying claims of their loved ones who participated in the protest but still missing. No family has done this as at the time of this briefing. Again, a lady protester who gave a narrative about the different types of bullets for the police and the military also claimed she with the aid of some persons carried at least 17 dead bodies into the military truck. We believe she must have been invisible to achieve that narrative since according to her; it was a heavy and continuous firing. How come the alleged soldiers spared her life?

There is this claim that the CCTV camera was removed. Our quest is that the camera which captured men in military uniform firing into the air ought to have also captured the alleged direct shooting of protesters at close range and the evacuation of dead bodies as claimed by some reports.

The PRNigeria is a forensic expert company with Mamood Abdulsalam as the assistant editor has collected over 100 samples of footages showing dead bodies and those wounded. According to him, “when we subjected them to our reverse imagery testing tools, it indicated they were not recent while others are manipulated images and doctored videos. We also observed circulation of old pictures of victims injured and killed during violent skirmishes, unrelated to the ENDSARS demonstration across the country”.

Four major deaths were either refuted but the acclaimed deceased persons or discovered by several independent fact finders as false and unrealistic. The PRNigeria also discovered that a Nollywood movie star, Eniola Badmus, who was allegedly shot in the stomach and died at the Lekki Toll Gate, had denied the social media reports. This was evident on her Instagram page where she wrote that “Against all speculations about me being shot dead at the unspeakable event that happened at the Toll Gate a few hours ago, I would like to inform you guys that I Eniola Badmus is hale and hearty. I couldn’t make it there today to lend my voice on the ENDSARS Movement”.

Secondly, one Iraoye Godwin, a native of Otu- Auchi in Edo State was also posted by the ENDSARS narrative as one of the persons allegedly killed by the soldiers. On twitter, Godwin posted via a video denying this report, saying that he was hail and hearty.

The photo of a man carrying a dead lady wrapped in the Nigerian flag as posted by Yemi Alade was an image from a Nigerian movie acted with the theme “Heal Our Land, OH LORD”.

Lucia Adu was the lady with an open skull posted in the social media while dancing and was said to have been allegedly struck on the head by the bullets of the Nigerian Army an hour later. Her martyrdom was being celebrated all over the Social media as one the deaths in Lekki Toll Gate. Investigations shows that Luci Adu died from an accident with a stationary truck on the 20th of October, 2020. This is also confirmed by a new fact checking twitter handle on endsarshttp:/twitter.com/endSARSfctchek”

The fiction and lies perpetrated by Amnesty International was unprecedented. Osai Ojigho claimed 12 deaths were recorded but relied on circumstantial evidences in her reports. She also claimed she needed the permission of the deceased families to make the names public. What an irony! 

Nigerians, how did we get here?

From the above over whelming facts, it becomes evident that the ENDSARS protest was politically motivated and funded both Internationally and locally with the sole aim of presenting the Nigerian Military as murderous and by so doing, spur sentiments from citizen and the International community against the Military and Government with the ultimate goal of destabilizing the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The Governor of Lagos state, Mr. Babajide Sanwo Olu who by media reports initially said there was no deaths in Lagos, later claimed to have visited several hospitals with a few injured and 2 deaths is seen as someone who speaks from both sides of his mouth. He lacks the public confidence as far as this matter is concerned.

Therefore, the setting up of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry by the Governor of Lagos state is a kangaroo one. It is only a mockery.

Finally, by this medium, we want to appeal to the very articulate and hard working Nigerian youths to dissuade all attempts by some clandestine groups to make them return to the streets a second time. We urge them to embrace dialogue with Government for a long lasting peace in Nigeria.

Thank you

Signed: Dr. Nwambu Gabriel,

For the coalition.

Nigeria Civil Society Desk Commend Pres. Buhari For Re-Appointing Prof. Yakubu As INEC Chairman

 

The Nigeria Civil Society Desk, a coalition of 30 Independent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) across the Six geo-political Zones of Nigeria has applauded President Buhari for his listening ears and attaining to the yeaning of Nigerians even at this challenging and critical periods in the history of Nigeria.

In a press release jointly signed by Nigeria Civil Society Desk National Coordinator, Engr. M. A. E. Hashidu and National Secretary, Dr. Isaac E.O. Iduma, they said that Technology played the critical role of a third force, especially, the electronic transmission of results from polling units to collation Centres which had significantly enhanced transparency should be allowed to take root and the effective domestication of these technologies can only become part and parcel of our electoral system if the man who has set the machinery on motion but has demonstrated a very high standards, with clear determination and desire to leave a legacy of free , fair and credible elections in Nigeria be reconsidered for a seconds term in office.

Excerpt is the text of the press briefing:

"Our shared vision and mission is gear towards deepening democracy and good governance within the frame work of the rule of law while articulating norms ethics that can help further strengthening the democratic values and practices in our beloved country Nigeria.

"Arising from our Press Briefing a couple of weeks ago, we called on the Federal Government stating the need and reasons for the re-appointment of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the second term. Our calls did not fall on deaf ears as the president and commander – in – chief of the Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, his Excellency, President Muhammad Buhari GCFR in his wisdom approved the re- appointment of the incumbent Chairman last week to oversee (once more) the electoral umpire for another 5- years tenure, so as to continue with the good job he has started 5 years ago.

"As Independent, and nonprofit Organizations Internationally and Locally known as Domestic Election Observer Groups that have been observing and monitoring elections processes in Nigeria since inception of the 4th Republic which ushered in new Democratic Order since 1999 to date, want to emphatically state here without fear or favour that we have been working and monitoring the Commission very closely right from that time till this present dispensation, but had never recommended or moved to advocate for Re-appointment of any INEC Chairman. But haven reviewed and analyzed the past and the present Commission, essentially, with the conceptual ideologies, technological innovations, and the professionalism of the present Commission lead by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, we discovered that there is absolute need for continuity to enable him consolidate and accomplish the novel and robust innovations, particularly with the newly introduced Technologies into our electoral system, would no doubt deepens electioneering process and build more confidence between the electorate, other relevant stakeholders and electoral architecture in particular.

"Importantly, we noticed with joy a paradigm shift during the just concluded Edo and Ondo State Governorship Elections. Undoubtedly, Technology played the critical role of a third force, especially, the electronic transmission of results from polling units to collation Centres which had significantly enhanced transparency should be allowed to take root and the effective domestication of these technologies can only become part and parcel of our electoral system if the man who has set the machinery on motion but has demonstrated a very high standards, with clear determination and desire to leave a legacy of free , fair and credible elections in Nigeria be reconsidered for a seconds term in office.

"However, one major factor that stands out is the technology that was deployed in the electioneering process in Edo and Ondo Governorship elections by the Commission was the Zpad, and we are aware that there are more innovations in INEC Blue Prints under his leadership that may further advanced the course of democracy and good governance in the country which will gradually lead to electronic voting as many Nigerians are already yenning for it to reduce the burdens of voters standing on the queue for a whole day.

"Therefore, we want to use this medium to make this passionate appeal to the two Arms of National Assembly to support and confirm Mr. President Re-appointment of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu by asking him to simply give a bow.

Finally, we wish to once more use this opportunity to make a Clarian call on all our teaming youths across the Country, especially the EndSARS Protesters to sheath their swords and approach the culture of peace, dialogue and give the Federal Government chance to look into their grievances with a view to addressing the issues raised. Also we are appealing to those who have hijacked the process to stop taken the laws their hands by vandalizing and destruction of lives and public properties.

"Once more, we wish to thank our able an" amiable President Muhammadu Buhari for taken the Bull by the horns to re-nominate Professor Mahmood Yakubu as the substantive Chairman of INEC for another 5 years term.

We also want to seize this opportunity to congratulate Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for a well-deserved re-appointment, and we want to urge him not to relent on his Oars but redouble his efforts and ensure that the card reader technology as well as z pad electronic transmission of results, to which he has demonstrated absolute resolve, is made part and parcel of electoral system .

"We wish to reassure him as a coalition and partners in the quest for true and fundamental reforms. We shall continue to support his well-intended innovations and do wish him and his team a very best in his onerous tasks of taking our electoral efforts to a higher pedestal.

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria.

LIST OF THE ORGANIZATIONS AND THEIR SIGNATURE

S/N NAME OF ORGANIZATION Names

1. National Committee of Patriots

Engr. M. A. E. Hashidu

2. Centre For Strategic Conflict Management

Dr. Isaac E.O. Iduma

3. Centre Foe Sustenance of Civil Rule In Africa. Chief Gilbert Oloksusi

4. Global Development Centre For Rescue Mission In Nigeria. Emeh Friday Eleojo

5. Citizens Rights & Leadership Awakes Initiative. Peter Nwokolo

Niger Delta Group Cautions Purported APC Ex-Agitators Against Blackmailing Buhari, PAP

The Niger Delta Agitators for Good Governance has cautioned a group which called itself Coalition of APC Youth Leaders and Beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme against blackmailing the President and the leadership of the Amnesty Office for selfish motives.

The National Coordinator of the Group, Chief Moses Bebenimibo said in a statement on Thursday that the Niger Delta agitators who embraced amnesty are not divided along party lines.

He cautioned against using the platform of agitators to blackmail authorities with intent to score needless political goals and targeted pecuniary benefits.

He described statement credited to the amorphous group as a brazen and unconscionable attempt to cause avoidable division in the rank of Niger Delta people involved in the agitation for fairness in resource allocation and good governance in the country.

Bebenimibo said that true agitators who are motivated by patriotism and the genuine interest of the Niger Delta would not draw a line between APC Niger Deltans and PDP Niger Deltans.

He also called on the Federal Government to discountenance the call by some ‘merchants of mischief’ to sack the Amnesty Boss for allegedly engaging non APC members in the office.

He said that the crude sentiments expressed by the group of self styled Coalition òf APC ex-agitators, which called on the Federal Government to make APC membership as a condition for engagement in the Amnesty Office, is condemnable and indeed a recipe for division and avoidable unrest.

Bebenimibo commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment of an Ijaw son as the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The activist who also thanked the National Security Adviser, Major Gen Babagana Monguno, for recommending Col Dikio, urged the President to give him the free hand to take the requisite steps to reposition the PAP.

According to him, the culture of impunity and diversion of the objectives of the PAP would continue unless Dikio embarks on tough, deliberate and decisive steps to enthrone sanity in the agency.

Bebenimibo advised the Amnesty Boss to be focused and strong to be able to ward off the traditional blackmail responsible largely for the sorry story of impunity, waste, corruption in the Amnesty Offuce.

He advised ex agitators and stakeholders to exhibit maturity and patience with the new Amnesty Boss as he embarks in the calculated steps to reposition the office to make it effectively responsive to the beneficiaries, the region and the country.

 

Evah Tells President Buhari To Ignore Mischief Makers Attempting To Politicize Amnesty Office

........Commends President for Appointing a Competent Ijaw son to oversee Programme

Foremost Ijaw activist and Coordinator,  Ijaw Monitoring Group, Comrade Joseph Evah, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to discountenance   calls by mischief makers to politicize the Presidential Amnesty Office.

Evah a former National Publicity Secretary òf the Ijaw National Congress  stressed that any society that is keen on making progress would give priority attention to available first class brains with superlative record of performance and competence to occupy sensitive offices in the interest of the society.

He stated that President Buhari retained the services of the Governor òf Central Bank, Mr Godwin Emefiele, and backed Dr Akinwunmi Adesina for the leadership òf the Africa Development Bank, and recently Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, for the position of the Director General òf the World Trade Organization even though they served under former President Goodluck Jonathan, in appreciation of the pertinence òf engaging first class brains for national development irrespective of party affiliation.

 He also called on the Interim Administrator of the PAP to take a cue from President Buhari by making it a policy to go for first class brains with proven capacity to do the job in the interest of the region and Nigeria.

The former Publicity Secretary òf the Ijaw National Congress said that those who call for the engagement of only APC members do not mean well for the region and the country.

He commended President Muhammadu Buhari, for the appointment of Col Milland Dikio, (retd), as the Interim Administrator òf the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The prominent activist also thanked the National Security Adviser, Maj Gen Babagana Monguno, for recommending Col Dikio to the President for the sensitive Amnesty job.

Comrade Evah advised the President to ignore those he described as mischief makers and political jobbers who are desperately struggling to taint the image of the new Amnesty boss with unacceptable political sentiments inimical to peace in the region.

He said that it was a good development the President and the NSA who appointed Col Dikio are aware of the systemic rot in the Amnesty Office and the web of corruption existing between operatives of the office and some persons outside the office over the years.

Evah noted that the President was right to have appointed Dikio, a disciplined retired military officer, reputed for his integrity and high level of competence and attention for details.

He urged the President and the Office òf the NSA to give free hand to the new Amnesty Boss to select his team of competent and trusted Nigerians with the right contact to assist him in wresting the office from the talons òf greed and corruption.

He explained that a reformer no matter how gifted, dedicated and strong will not be able to achieve much if he does have the freedom to do the right thing.

The IMG President therefore urged the President to ensure that Dikio is allowed to engage the services of all competent Ijaw sons, Niger Deltans and Nigerians to fit into appropriate roles irrespective of political leanings in the Amnesty Office.

He also called on Col Dikio be focused and be prepared to take the tough decision in the mission to rewrite the story of rot in the Amnesty Office in the interest of peace and stability in the Niger Delta.

He said, “I must commend President Muhammadu Buhari and the NSA, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno for appointing Col Milland Dikio, a Niger Delta don, as the Head of the Amnesty Office.

“While I will urge the President and the Office of the NSA which oversees the Amnesty Office to give him the freehand to change the sad story of Office, I advise Col Dikio to be wary of political jobbers and their mischievous antics.

“The Amnesty Office is not a party office; it is a Federal Government office where any competent Niger Delta person whose services are needed should work.

“I urge him to make the Ijaw nation proud by doing the right things in accordance with expectations no matter what happens.  We are watching.” He said

Group Tells DCP Kolo Yusuf To Remain Focus

The Integrity Youth Alliance has called on Nigerians to ignore the video on BBC Africa Eye been re-circulated accusing one DCP Kolo Yusuf of murder of one Hassan Alfa in 2014.

In a press release on Wednesday, 21^st October, 2020 signed by the National Coordinator of the Alliance, Kelvin Adegbenga reitraited that for the fact that the Courts said Hassan died as a result of the beating he received in police detention doesn’t mean DCP Kolo Yusuf torture him.

"From our investigation, DCP Kolo Yusuf is a gentle officer with outstanding records of arresting many high profile criminals, kidnappers and armed robbers across Nigeria. He ensured that members of his team were well trained in modern techniques of handling crimes. Adegbenga said.

He reiterated that his clean records are in the Nigeria media and many honours has comes his ways due to nipping in the bud activities of criminals especially along Abuja-Kaduna Road; Niger; Kogi, Rivers and Katsina State just to mention a few.

"To set the record straight, DCP Kolo has never head SARS office at the national headquarters in Abuja as documented by BBC Africa Eye. We advise those re-circulating the biased video to stop it as BBC did not hear the other side of the story which is unprofessional of any media credible organisation.

We called on DCP Kolo Yusuf not to be distracted but remained focus in bursting the activities of criminals, kidnappers and fraudsters across the country as we know that he will face criticism from criminals elements, the statement concluded.

It will be recalled that BBC Africa Eye did an unprofessional report on the death of Hassan Alfa who died in 2014 in Kano State.

Ondo Guber Election; Election Observer Coalition Hail INEC For A Credible Election

 

The coalition of INEC accredited Observer Groups for the Ondo Governorship Election has commended INEC for conducting a transparent, free, fair and credible.

In a joint press release on Sunday, 11^th October 2020 signed by the Coalition’s Convener, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel of Centre for Credible Leadership & Citizens Awareness and Coalition Secretary, Amb. Manukwem Chinyere of Centre for Positive Change & Civic Responsibility, they encouraged the PDP and the ZLP candidates to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship by congratulating the winner and APC candidate as politics is not a do or die affair and again shun the idea of challenging his victory in tribunal or any court of law.

Excerpt is the full text of the press release:

“All over the world, it is necessary to ensure that elections comply with International Best Practice and Globally Accepted Standard in line with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as Amended, the Electoral Act of 2010 as Amended and the INEC regulations and guide lines. Hence, the essence of accrediting reputable Civil Society Organizations to observe any election is to assess the degree of compliance of the electoral management body (INEC), the Political Parties as well as their supporters, the law enforcement agencies to the relevant electoral laws as provided by the constitution, Federal Republic of Nigeria and the rule of engagement. This essentially is to serve as a parameter for measurement and a term of reference for improvement in future elections. Thus, election observation increases the level of credibility of a well ordered process of power transition in any defined democratic state of the world.

Consequently, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as an electoral body saddled with the constitutional responsibility of conducting credible elections across Nigeria, after a thorough scrutiny accredited 53 reputable Civil Society/Non Governmental Organizations to serve as domestic and 6 International Organizations to serve as foreign election observers for the Ondo State Governorship Election held on the 10th of October, 2020.

OBSERVATIONS.

We hereby state our observations as follows:

1. That the Ondo State Governorship Election scheduled by INEC for 10th of October, 2020 actually held across the 3009 polling units of Ondo state.

2. That the election commenced in good time contrary to our observation in Edo state where election commenced relatively late due to the delays in the distribution of election materials.

3. That we observed pockets of violence in Oke Ijebi Ward 4, unit 11, Ijomu Junction area, very close to St. Stephen’s Anglican Primary School Ijomu. But the swift response of the Nigerian police who intervened and took full control of the area restored public confidence on the electorates who were determined to exercise their franchise.

4. The introduction of the Zee Park by INEC has increased the credibility and transparency of the process of election since results from the unit level (Form EC8A) is uploaded for all Nigerians to see. Thus, it becomes difficult to alter, change or mutilate results as previously observed.

5. The Card Reader performed optimally. However, we observed some cases of malfunctioned Card Readers but the backup and support serviced as provided by INEC were quick to restore normalcy by providing alternative machines.

6. The issue of vote buying continues to resurface and has remained malignant in our electoral system. This largely could be attributed to the myopic understanding (Psych) of the average electorate, poverty, etc. In Ondo state, all the participating political parties are equally guilty. It boils down to the case of which party bought more than the other. This reoccurring decimal requires our collective effort as Nigerians the right the wrong.

7. That the increase number of the brail ballot guard increased the participation of the visually impaired voter. This is significant in the Ondo state Governorship election.

From the ongoing, it becomes evident that the Ondo state Governorship election which held on the 10th of October, 2020 complied significantly with the provisions of the relevant electoral laws of Nigeria.

We, as INEC Accredited Observer Organizations hereby state categorically clear that this election was transparent, free, fair and credible.

By this medium we would like to encourage the PDP and the ZLP candidates to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship by congratulating the winner and APC candidate as politics is not a do or die affair and again shun the idea of challenging his victory in tribunal or any court of law. Every election should not end in the tribunal. They should therefore emulate Prince Ize Iyamu of Edo state.

Bayelsa West & Bayelsa Central Senatorial District Bye Elections; Coalition To Set Up Situation Room

...Warns against violence

The Centre For Credible Leadership & Citizens Awareness will be setting up a situation room for the  Bayelsa West & Bayelsa Central Senatorial District Bye Elections, where perpetrators and their sponsors would be noted and reported to world embassies for Visa sanction for them and their respective families. 

Addressing the media on Monday in Abuja, the Director General of Centre For Credible Leadership & Citizens Awareness, Dr.  Nwambu Gabriel, also warned against violence in the forthcoming Senatorial District Bye Elections slated 31st of October, 2020

Excerpt is the full text of the press statement:

MITIGATING ELECTORAL RELATED VIOLENCE,INTIMIDATION AND BALLOT BOX SNATCHING IN THE FORTH COMING BAYELSA CENTRAL AND BAYELSA WEST SENATORIAL DISTRICT BYE ELECTIONS.

Gentlemen of the Press, the Edo State Governorship Election has come and gone. But for a majority of persons, the 19th September Governorship election in Edo state was the best major election ever conducted by the Professor Mamood Yakubu INEC. Some other school of thought have argued that the election is an off season election, so INEC had no excuse not to have performed optimally. But the fact still remains that for some of us who are consistent with election observation in Nigeria, we would rather differ, because we have had several off season elections that were below standard. From the INEC ad-hoc staff to the Nigerian police who in some instances were seen clearly shooting to scare electorates and eventually, cart away the ballot boxes, result sheets, and other electoral sensitive materials including the Form EC8A series. These obnoxious trends were seen in the November, 2019 Governorship elections in both Bayelsa and Kogi states respectively.

On the 31st of October, 2020, the Bayelsa West and Bayelsa Central Senatorial district bye elections would hold. This is another litmus test to access the sustainability of notable improvements recorded in Edo state with performance index on the Nigerian Police, all other law enforcement agencies and indeed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

For intending perpetrators of electoral related violence, we wish to sound a note of warning that our coalition is setting up a situation room where perpetrators and their sponsors would be noted and reported to world embassies for VISA sanction for them and their respective families. We would also ensure that persons face the full wrath of the Law.

Lastly, we wish to commend the Independent National Electoral Commission who has demonstrated by the Edo example and the online posting of the Unit results (Form EC8A), the resolute determination to remain unbiased in the conduct of transparent, free fair and credible elections as this would help Nigerians monitor the election results online and real time.

Akeredolu And Plight Of Ijaw Community In Ondo

By Fidelis Soriwei 

In 2017, when Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu was elected governor of Ondo State, the people of Arogbo heaved a huge sigh of relief. His emergence inspired so much hope in the minority Ijaw Arogbo community of Ese-Odo Local Government Area of the state. First, the people believed that Akeredolu, a former president of the prestigious Nigeria Bar Association, was the desperately required solution to years of mindless marginalization of the minority Ijaw of Ondo State. The expectations were also anchored on the fact that, as a lawyer, Akeredolu would most likely deal with compassion on the issue of the protection of minority rights in the predominantly Yoruba state. He was expected to respect the morality and compassion in the letters of justice, equity and fairness, which are the pillars of the legal profession.

This glimmer of hope was further strengthened by Akeredolu’s biogenic links to the Ijaw communities who make up the Ese Odo Local Government Area. The people were wild with optimism that Akeredolu, whose mother hails from the Ijaw Apoi community of Igbotu, would treat them differently from previous administrations, which excluded their areas from the developmental agenda of the state government. For 44 years, they have existed outside of government priority. They are a suffering people.

However, after almost four years of hot imploring pleas and blistering expectations, the minority Ijaw have been left with lamentations and violated hopes. The Akeredolu government has completely abandoned the Ijaw of Ondo State.

It is a statement of fact that Akeredolu excluded the Ijaw from all critical committees in Ondo State and stripped them of their sense of belonging in their own state. He ignored repeated entreaties from the disadvantaged minority to get his attention. To their chagrin, he appointed non-indigenes into such positions to their exclusion. When the lawmaker representing the Ese-Local Government Area in the House of Assembly cried out against the worsening marginalization of the Ijaw minority under Akeredolu’s watch, Akeredolu’s men threatened him with expulsion from the APC and suspension from the Assembly. The lawmaker was further punished when Akeredolu gave cars to Assembly members, to his exclusion.

Between 2017 and 2020, Akeredolu has executed four budgetary figures of over N734 billion out of which N320 billion was expended on capital projects. In the heat of his preparation for the October 10, 2020, gubernatorial election in the state, Akeredolu presented what his government described as the Ondo State Government Map of Roads, to the exclusion of the Arogbo Ijaw. It is the sad reality that, after almost four years of his administration, his supporters cannot point to any project as small as N50 million in the whole of the Arogbo Ijaw community. The only road on display from Ese-Odo is the road linking Sabome, a community in Akeredolu’s maternal home, to Ajagba, in Irele Local Government Area of the state.

Akeredolu’s neglect of the Arogbo Ijaw has become an albatross to his supporters ahead of the gubernatorial election. His few die-hard supporters have scavenged unsuccessfully to point to at least a project initiated and executed by Akeredolu’s government, to their chagrin. They embrace the pitiable argument that we should reward a failed child with medals of honour.

When confronted by concerned members of the community, they are quick to hold unto a bizzare and incredible tale that Akeredolu entrusted the development of the Arogbo Ijaw to his Deputy, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, who, according to them, ‘betrayed’ him. But Nigerians are knowledgable enough to know that the Deputy Governor of a state lacks the capacity to stop the developmental intentions of a governor. The same Ajayi could not stop Akeredolu from giving the leper’s treatment to Owi, Akeredolu’s own town. In my endangered community of oppressed people, Akeredolu is simply indefensible!

Ondo State has 18 LGAs and Ese-Odo, the only Ijaw LGA, happens to be one of the two oil-producing councils in the state. Ordinarily, it should have attracted attention under a compassionate leader but our sorry state tells it all.

In a glaring show of ethnicity and minority emasculation, Akeredolu is set to inaugurate a N4.1 billion water project in the sister Ilaje Local Government Area. The Akeredolu government signed a memorandum of understanding with the Niger Delta a Development Commission to build the N19.2 billion, 50 kilometres Araromi-Akodo/Ibeju-Lekki Road designed to connect Ondo with Lagos.

The incontrovertible fact here is that the Ilaje, who have the longest coastal bridge running into billions of naira are Yoruba, while the Arogbo Ijaw are deliberately excluded from the developmental plans of the government. This display of nepotism by Akeredolu at this age is shocking.

It is rather queer and sad that, out of two oil-producing local government areas in Ondo State, Ilaje (Yoruba) and Ese-Odo (Ijaw), only the Ilaje are favoured with the appointment of the chairman of the Ondo State Oil-Producing Areas Development Commission and the commissioner representing Ondo State in the Niger Delta Development Commission.

Aware of this vicious nepotistic acts against the minority Ijaw, Akeredolu hurriedly sent a seven-man temporary team of medics to the hospital at Arogbo to herald his visit to the community. (The hospital was upgraded by the former Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Henry Seriake Dickson, in response to the disturbing avoidable deaths in Ijaw communities in Ondo State). Temporary medical staff got to Arogbo on September 7, while Akeredolu visited the palace of the King on the September 9.  It is interesting to note that this  is the first time in 44 years that a medical doctor employed by the Ondo State government would ever set foot in an Arogbo Ijaw community of hundreds of thousand of people.

This piece is not a chronicle of the failures or otherwise of the Akeredolu government. It is a passionate appeal to the Ondo State government to treat us like citizens and not rejects of the state. Ondo State government, which cannot build a bridge of one kilometre to link the headquarters of the Ijaw community, Arogbo, with the upland, has built the long Irele-Okitipupa bridge under Chief Olusegun Agagu, while Akeredolu is constructing a N19.2 billion 50-kilometre bridge from Ilaje to Epe in Lagos. Today, I have to park my car in a nearby village called Agadagbaobon to take a canoe to Arogbo because of a deliberate policy to deprive my people of development. Did God put us under Ondo State map to be victims of such discriminatory and nepotistic oppression?

Soriwei, coordinator of the Arogbo Ijaw Patriots, wrote from Abuja

Group Commends NIWA MD For His Development Strides

 

By Goodhead Middle-Belt

A group known as Nigeria Christian/Islamic Movement for Peace, Development and Unity has greatly Commends the leadership qualities of His Excellency Chief Dr. George Moghalu for his high spade of development at National Inland Water Ways Authority (NIWA) Headquarters Lokoja, Kogi State and as well across all the Liaison and Area offices of NIWA in Nigeria.

A statement by Comrade Olugbenga Awoniyi and supported by Mallam Abdulsad Abubakar which was presented to group of Journalist during their visit to the NIWA boss in Lokoja, describes Dr. George Moghalu as a true Nigerian with immeasurable Leadership qualities that if properly harness will no doubt better the lots of every Nigerians devoid of ethnicity, tribes, religions, political affiliations and parental background.

They in particular commended him for given the headquarters of the National Inland Water Ways Authority in Lokoja to a global standard, as well as given top priority to staff welfare, instilling love and discipline among the staffs which no doubt has greatly increase punctuality and high productivity in the various departments within the organization.

They thanked President Muhammad Buhari and the APC led Government for giving George Moghalu opportunity to be in-charge of NIWA and as well call on them to consider him for a future assignments in view of his tremendous achievements in NIWA within his few months of piloting the affairs of NIWA.

Democratic Watchdog Calls For Prosecution Of Ehiogie West Idahosa

 

The Democratic Watchdog of Nigeria has called for prosecution of Ehiogie West Idahosa for misleading the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation.

According to a press release by Director General of Democratic Watchdog of Nigeria, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, he said that Ehiogie West Idahosa is found of leading litigation as counsel for and against the same client, on the same subject matter and before the same court.

Except is the full text of the press release:

The Democratic Watchdog of Nigeria has observed with keen interest the manner

with which a supposed senior lawyer Mr. Ehiogie West Idahosa has been serially disobeying fundamental legal rules contrary to the norms of the legal profession.

Firstly, Mr. Ehiogie West Idahosa via a petition addressed to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, where he mislead the AGF to issue instructions to the IGP and intervene on a matter bothering on the Edo state House of Assembly which is already in court. This is a clear case of sub judice. It is our firm belief that the Abubakar Malami (SAN) as the chief law officer of the country ought not to let West Idahosa mislead him being acquainted with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Again, Mr. Ehiogie West Idahosa is found of leading litigation as counsel for and against the same client, on the same subject matter and before the same court (the Federal High Court). Refer to the case of Bishop Osadolor Ochei v. EFCC and Oshiomhole (Suit No.FHC/ABJ/CS/2018), wherein Mr. West Idahosa was counsel for a party suing against Adams Oshiomhole as respondent in respect of a fraud case bothering on contract inflation on the cost of Edo Specialist (Central) Hospital project. Another contradiction to the rules of the profession.

From the aforementioned facts, we hereby call on the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Disciplinary Committee to met out stiff sanctions against Mr. Ehiogie West Idahosa as a serial violator of fundamental legal rules.

Call Osinbajo To Order; Frank Tells Buhari

Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Saturday, called on the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, to call the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, to order over his penchant for using state forces to suppress the media and free speech.

Frank in a statement in Abuja, described the antics of Osinbajo in using the judiciary and security agencies to intimidate, harass and coerce journalists and media houses, as not only unbecoming but an act of cowardice.

He said it has become necessary for Buhari to remind Osinbajo of his oath of office and equally prevail on him to refrain from intimidating journalists who are doing their legitimate duties by availing the Nigerian public of information on the activities of their elected representatives being paid and maintained with tax payers’ money.

He wondered why Prof. Osinbajo would hide under the immunity conferred on him by reason of his office to use government resources to influence judicial officers to do his bidding against helpless media houses.

The Bayelsa-born political activist however urged the Vice President to be courageous enough to resign his office and head to court to prove his innocence concerning allegations against him instead of using his position as VP to unduly intimidate, harass and vilify the media.

Frank said: “Buhari need to remind Osinbajo that Nigeria is currently under a democratic dispensation and not a military or autocratic rule, where brute force, coercion, threats and impunity reigns.

“Osinbajo is known for using operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Police and the Courts to threaten journalists whenever stories concerning allegations of abuse of office are published.

 "This is the height of impunity and a flagrant abuse of office by the Vice President, which is impeachable.

"He needs to come clean and resign from the office of VP so the world know who he truly is.”

He reminded Osinbajo that Nigerians have every right to call out their leaders whenever they perceive that such leaders have derailed from his oath of office “and the Vice President is no exception to that rule.”

He added: “Nigerians have a constitutional right to query or call out their elected representatives when the need arises and as such, Osinbajo must know that, as a democratically elected government, this administration is not different from others whose officials were subjected to similar criticisms.

"Or is there anything the Vice President trying hide by resorting to state apparatchik and intimidatory stunts to cover his tracks?”

The former APC’s deputy spokesman therefore   urged to the President to caution the VP to desist from his intimidatory stunts capable of further exposing his activities.

Federal High Court Chief Judge, Tsoho Not Isolated In An Isolation Center With Family

 The Online Reporters Association of Nigeria has debunked the claim by one Kayode Lawal that the Federal High Court Chief Judge, Justice John Tsoho and family were isolated in an Isolated Center.

It will be recalled that Federal High Court acting Information Officer of the court, Mrs Catherine Oby Nwandu issued a press statement saying one of the aide of the Chief Judge tested Positive to the dreaded Coronavirus and Justice John Tsoho and members of his immediate family went on self isolation for preventive rather than curative.

She also confirmed in her last statement that the first test was done at the beginning of the 14-day self isolation, while the confirmatory test came thereafter. Both tests were conducted by the NCDC.

Online Reporters Association of Nigeria therefore called on Journalists to report news as sent to them and seek clarification where necessary, before also going to press.

AMAC Giving Out 50% Tax Incentives To Cushion Effect Of COVID-19 On Businesses

AMAC Chairman,  Hon. Abdullahi Candido making his opening remarks

The Abuja Municipal Area Council is giving 50% incentives and up to three months to tax payers in the Area Councils as part of its Palliative to business owners.

This was made known by Mr. Awoje Danlami; AMAC Head of Revenue Division during a Virtual Dialogue on Taxation and Post COVID Challenges  for Businesses held on Tuesday, 4th August, 2020.

Speaking during the dialogue, the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council Hon. Abdullahi Candido also reiterated his administration concerted effort to mitigate the doen economic impact of COVID-19 especially to ease the burdens on businesses within the Area Council.

"As a result of our sensitivity to this plight being faced by everyone., the council amongst strategies has opened up a citizens'engagement and feedback mechanism through an e-governance system to enable us navigate through the pandemic, Candido said.

The webinar moderated by Hon Abiodun Shoyemi-Essiet, SA to the Chairman on ICT, Donor Agencies and Civil Society Organisations and Mrs. Patience Olaloye  - Head of Information Unit - AMAC had four presentations.

AMAC Officials making their presentations

The first presentation was done by Mr. Awoje Danlami; Head of Revenue Division who spoke on "Taxation and IGR". He said that the Council has given Tax payers 50% incentives and up to three months to pay their taxes as a Palliative to business owners. Also speaking in the same direction, the Divisional Head, Tenement Rate, Ann Ibrahim who spoke on "All you need to know about Tenement rate" said that Tenement rates are paid by the tenants and not the landlord  where the occupiers such building is not the owner of the building. She also reiterated that Ground rent is different from Tenement rates  as most people mixed  them up. 

She reiterated that Government building, buildings owned by Embassies and Diplomatic missions are exempted from Tenement rates.

Mr. Victor Aletor from Remita who spoke on "Payment Platform For Taxes, Post COVID-19 Challenges To Businesses" said that AMAC has adopted the Remita online payment platform to streamline all its tax collections via multiple channels to make payment of taxes much easier  for the payers.

"To facilitate the effective and efficient  processing of transactions, Remita makes use of Remita Retrieval Reference, a unique code that is generated for each transaction after the payer has completed the appropriate online payment forms, Mr. Aletor said.

He also emphasized that payment can be made online, through AMAC offices, POS, Digital Wallets, Cash Agents and NIBOX terminals which is able to accept cash payment.

In her presentation, Executive Director, Digizens Collaborative, Ms. Jayne Abuo who spoke on "AMAC’s Future Digital Trajectory" reiterated that  both AMAC and businesses should embrace new opportunities open by COVID-19 by considering Digitization for organizational and services efficiency which will save expensive cash; support new tech ventures targeting existing under performing industries, education, health, transportation and Agriculture among others.

AMAC Supervisory Councillor on Finance the Hon. Gabriel Oluohu

The last speaker, Mrs. Niles Pyelshak; CEO, Cyber Alliance, USA who spoke on "Building Transparency and Accountabilities through Digital Innovations" said her organisation is directing its focus on Africa, especially Nigeria so as to attract foreign investment and business relationships; address misnomers about Nigeria and build global confidence; identify cyber risks that could prohibit global attractiveness; reduce cyber attack occurrences that will negatively impact the economic brands across industries spanning the entire country and position Nigeria as a leader in connecting cyber policy, corporate governance and human behaviour. 

In his closing remarks, the AMAC Supervisory Councillor on Finance the Hon. Gabriel Oluohu, thanked all the partners that made the Virtual Dialogue a huge success. 

He reiterated that all revenues generated by the Area Council will be judiciously put to use while calling on Tax payers to pay their tax on time.

The Webinar powered by Cisco Webex was organised by the Abuja Municipal Area Council in collaboration with Swift Reporters and Digizens Collaborative Platform.