2023: Fusion774 call Amb. Buratai to join presidential race

 2023: Fusion774 call Amb. Buratai to join presidential race


 

Former Chief of Army Staff and Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Amb. Tukur Buratai, has been asked to run for President in 2023 by Fusion774, a political support and economic advocacy group.

Mr Sediq Jikta, the National Coordinator of Fussion774, made the call at a news conference in Abuja on Friday.

Jikta said the call came as a result of the country's security issues, and that the threats to the country's national security had been a source of great concern.

He stated that in the 23 years of Nigeria's democratic experiment, it had faced several dangers to its survival, such as civil unrest, which necessitated the use of experienced hands to steer the country's affairs.

According to him, Nigeria is going through a difficult period, and it is critical to choose the proper leadership, one that has the skills and aptitude to deliver and make the country operate.

Buratai's accomplishments as a service chief in the battle against insurgency, according to the coordinator, demonstrate his outstanding qualities and qualification to run for the highest position in the country.

He said that the height of Boko-haram activity occurred during Buratai's tenure as chief of army staff, and that his competent leadership resulted in the recovery of overrun territories from the militants.

Jikta also based the appeal by Fusion774 on Buratai's several accomplishments, including repositioning the Nigerian army for increased efficiency.

According to him, experts feel that the future security problem will be internal security rather than external aggression, as countries will have to deal with both.

In his words, “During his time as COAS, he brought to an end the rampant spate of bombing in the country, hence, Nigerians could enjoy peaceful atmosphere to carry out their daily businesses.

“Gen. Buratai also exhibited an open door policy of good governance, where private citizens with something to offer in terms of security are given listening ear and action taken.

“With these achievements we can see that Buratai is one courageous leader who can step in to bring the much needed solution to the security challenges and the desired development for the country.

“We are using this opportunity to call on Buratai to come out and declare interest and contest for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“By this announcement, we are prepared to purchase the APC nomination form for him in the event that he declares his acceptance and readiness to contest.”

Fusion774 is essentially the union of the political strength of Nigeria's 774 Local Government Areas into a virile, strong, and formidable political force, according to Jikta.

He claimed that the group was primarily driven by people from all walks of life working for the common benefit of the country.


 2023: Fusion774 call Amb. Buratai to join presidential race


 
https://ournigerianews.com/2023-fusion774-call-amb-buratai-to-join-presidential-race/

Petroleum Engineers Excited Over Dangote Refinery’s World-class Tech Application

Petroleum Engineers Excited Over Dangote Refinery’s World-class Tech Application

By Lilian Onumah

The Society of Petroleum Engineers, SPE, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, have applauded Dangote Petroleum Refinery for its application of world-class technology in the construction of the 650,000 barrels per day refinery project.

The leaders of the two associations, on a recent tour of the petroleum refinery project, expressed the belief that the refining facility was capable of redefining Nigeria’s domestic fuels production.

They also said that completion of the gigantic project would secure the future of young engineers in Nigeria and put them at par with their counterparts in the global oil and gas industry.

Speaking after the tour of the refinery and petrochemical projects, National Chairman of SPE, Prof. Olalekan Olafuyi, disclosed that the visit was necessitated by the need for members to see the reality of the massive project.

He said: “Much has been heard and written regarding the refinery. Coming here has given us the opportunity to see the level of construction works, application of world-class technology, and massive equipment which is new to the Nigerian downstream oil and gas industry.

“We have heard before about Dangote Petroleum Refinery and have also seen that the project is for real. After touring the refinery, we are amazed by the level of work that has already been done and we are eagerly waiting for its completion.

‘’We are happy with what we have seen. Dangote is doing a great job with the construction of a world-class petroleum refinery. It is remarkable that a Nigerian company is building a world-class project.”

Speaking also at the event, Director of planning Research & Statistics, Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board, Patrick Obah, stated that the Dangote refinery, which is Africa’s biggest oil refinery and the world’s largest single-train facility, was contributing to the implementation of the Nigerian Content Policy through its engagement of Nigerian engineers.

Obah said: “It is awesome that this kind of project is happening here in Nigeria. For the first time, I saw a tank that could hold 120 million liters of liquid at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery plant. We are indeed happy that we have this kind of facility here in Nigeria. The visit is very enriching for members of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the Nigerian Content Board.

“There is no doubt that the project gives inspiration to all visitors who come on a tour of the refinery. The refinery plant gives a lot of hope to Nigerians. It is important for us to grow local capacity that will be able to fit into the energy demand of tomorrow.”

The Managing Director, Dangote Industries Free Zone Development Company, DIFZDC, Yinka Akande, said the refinery had continued to provide employment for Nigerians.

Akande said Dangote would continue to promote the development of Nigerian Downstream oil and gas industry.
https://ournigerianews.com/petroleum-engineers-excited-over-dangote-refinerys-world-class-tech-application/

Bane of Fake News in Nigeria: How Sowore Got It Wrong With Ned Nwoko

 Bane of Fake News in Nigeria: How Sowore Got It Wrong With Ned Nwoko


By: Sadiq Jikta

The general understanding of ‘Fake News is that it is a false narrative that is published and promoted as if it were true.

The term ‘News’ in its ideal form, stands for Verifiable Information in the public interest. This is why any information that measures below the ideal standard does not deserve to be labelled as news.

Fake news is usually propaganda put out sometimes by those in power or mostly unpatriotic elements to create certain beliefs or support certain positions, even if it was completely false.

Today, the Nigerian media space is awash with what is termed as ‘Fake News. Social media created an environment where anyone with ulterior agenda can publish falsehoods as if there were true.

The Nigerian online media space is saturated with a lot of fake news narratives to discredit their targeted victims, or pull-down who they perceived is not in their good books.

The dangers fake news can cause are numerous. While some are just an attempt at fun, a lot of it can be malicious and even dangerous.

Fake news is created to change people’s beliefs, attitudes or perceptions to ultimately change their behaviours. This mean, if you fall into the trap of believing fake news, your beliefs or your decisions are been driven by someone else agenda. Also, this can come with legal consequences for publishing fake news.

Information has for ages become part and parcel of every society and culture; it has also occupied a very crucial space in the life of the societies. The rate by which technology has advanced today has created easy access to the collection, processing and distribution of information.

This trend has left media houses with the burden of competing for presence in the online space. Sadly, numbers of online media practitioners today abuse the privileges in their responsibility to disseminate accurate information. And subsequently, the rate of disseminating false information continues to grow.

We can see that if something is not done, and done urgently too, Nigeria is gradually becoming a haven for fake news, misinformation and hate speeches, all in the guise of the news item. Indeed, this trend has reached an alarming state.

The act of manipulating information has assumed an active space in Nigeria’s news media. One notorious of these online media platforms is the Omoleye Sowore’s Sahara reporters.

A Closer look at recent development is how Sowore is using his online media platform, "Sahara reporters", to take on former legislator and billionaire businessman, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko. Prince Nwoko is a lawyer, Politician, Philanthropist and former member, of the House of Representatives (1999–2003).

Omoyele Sowore has been using his Sahara reporters’ online news platform to smear malicious campaigns, blackmail, defamation, and libellous accusations against the person of Ned Nwoko in a bid to tarnish his reputation.

In one of their publications, Sahara reporters accused Ned Nwoko of “defrauding some African Monarchs and leaders through fictitious giant projects” that he lured them to invest in. In another report, Sahara reporters accused Ned of subjecting his people in Delta state to destitution, by forcibly taking their land, amongst other accusations.

If we give a close look at these accusations and dig deep into the issues, one would realize that the allegations are unfounded and far from the truth.

Ned Nwoko has been carrying out humanitarian works, being the Chairman, of Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation (PNNF). It has been one of his lifelong ambitions to see malaria is eradicated in Nigeria and the continent of Africa.

Ned Nwoko has demonstrated a strong will to see that the scourge is totally eradicated, rather than concentrating on treatment and control. African region accounts for 94 per cent of all malaria cases and death worldwide. Recent statistics from World Health Organisation (WHO) shows that six African Countries account for approximately half of the death cases caused by malaria.

The world malaria report 2019, rates Nigeria as the country with the highest annual global malaria death worldwide. With the understanding of this ugly trend, Ned Nwoko decided to do something to reverse the trend. He took a personal decision to work toward the eradication of Malaria in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

Ned Nwoko swung into action by establishing the Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation – Malaria Eradication in Africa Project (PNNF - MEAP). The aim is to work in collaboration with partners and stakeholders in the public and private sector, locally and internationally to free Nigeria of malaria.

As part of its mandate, PNNF carried out a wide range of consultations and advocacy, reaching out and obtaining approval from the Federal Ministry of Health to support and coordinate a national response toward Malaria eradication.

This effort engaged strategic partners for the deployment of the premier Malaria vaccine RTSS, in Nigeria. The PNNF delivery plans are to support investment in the development of an anti-malaria vaccine, environmental sanitation, waste management, indoor residual spray and fumigation.

The PNNF Malaria eradication project received a lift with the approval of the RTSS Malaria vaccine implementation in endemic countries, by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The Minister of Health also approved the implementation of the vaccine in Nigeria based on the framework submitted by the PNNF’s Malaria eradication project.

In July 2021 the Minister of health through a letter to PNNF approved the PNNF proposal to lead in the rollout of the RTSS vaccine in Nigeria, based on the framework submitted by the PNNF’s malaria eradication project.

Between March 18-19, 2021, the PNNF invited the RTSS vaccine experts and other malaria specialists to a 2-day workshop on developing a concept note and proposal to the Federal Ministry of Health for the foundation to lead in the deployment of RTSS in Nigeria.

In September 2021, PNNF co-hosted a virtual sideline event tagged; Global Action for a Malaria Free Africa (GAMFA2021) during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The PNNF National Coordinator, Chukwuebuka Anyaduba, moderated the panel discussion from New York.

The PNNF sponsored a bill for malaria eradication at the National Assembly. This followed a series of meetings between members of the PNNF and the leadership of the National Assembly.

Prince Ned Nwoko is passionate about advancing the cause of humanity, with the determination to eradicate Malaria through the PNNF. He has committed huge resources to the Malaria eradication programme.

All these efforts put in place by Ned Nwoko’s PNNF testify to the fact of what Hon. Ned Nwoko has been doing to see that malaria is eradicated not only in Nigeria but in the continent of Africa. And yet Omoyele Sowore sees no good in this selfless service to humanity, but to blackmail and rubbish the good work.

This is the misleading interpretation of what Omoyele Sowore’s Sahara reporters means by “defrauding some African Monarchs and leaders through fictitious giant projects”.

Let’s assume that Omoyele Sowore succeeded in his blackmail to jeopardize the effort and progress made by this son of Africa, what would have become of such a remarkable endeavour by PNNF? This reminds us of the case of Benjamin Burombo when he made the statement “Each time I want to fight for African right, I use only one hand because the other hand is busy trying to keep away Africans who are fighting me”

It is high time we stood up against fake news peddlers before they ravage our country. This is so important a project to be left to the enemies of the state to destroy.
https://ournigerianews.com/bane-of-fake-news-in-nigeria-how-sowore-got-it-wrong-with-ned-nwoko/

2023: Saraki Set to Rescue Nigeria - Prof. Hagher

2023: Saraki Set to Rescue Nigeria - Prof. Hagher


 

Former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, is set to join the presidential race for 2023 to rescue Nigeria from total collapse.

Saraki said the country is on the precipice of a failed state and blamed the ineptitude of the President and the ruling All Progressive Congress Party (APC).

He said this when his Presidential Campaign Council visited stakeholders and party delegates of the Peoples Democratic Party for consultation at the party secretariat in Gombe.

Saraki, who was represented by the chairman of his 2023 presidential campaign council, Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher, informed the gathering that despite failing to fulfil the promises it made to Nigerians in 2015, over seven years down the line, the APC is still clueless and blaming everyone in sight (except themselves of course) for their failure in governance.

Saraki applauded states like Bauchi, Benue and Edo that quickly saw the handwriting on the wall that the APC, since 2015, has been a government of deceit and quickly returned back to the PDP.

The Chairman of the Campaign Council, Prof. Hagher, told party members that Saraki has concluded all arrangements to declare his intention formally to the Nigerian people as soon as the Campaign Council concludes its current consultation tour across the 36 states of the country.

And obviously elated by the reception accorded the team in Gombe, Hagher charged stakeholders to be steadfast and loyal to the party. He boasted that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) is the most organised of all the existing political parties today, and therefore ready to lead Nigeria out of the prevailing predicament engendered by poor policy decisions of the ruling APC.

He told our Reporter that as a former Governor and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bukola Saraki is much qualified to contest for the exalted office of the President in view of his enormous experience in politics and governance.

Saraki said never in our history that Nigeria is this unsecured and chaotic. So the PDP must be prepared to take over power in 2023. He enjoined all stakeholders to join hands to get him the party ticket to building a nation that works for all. The country needs somebody with the requisite qualification, capacity and experience to make Nigeria great again, and he is the man to rescue Nigeria.
https://ournigerianews.com/2023-saraki-set-to-rescue-nigeria-prof-hagher/

Divorce: Court orders DNA test to determine paternity of children

Divorce: Court orders DNA test to determine paternity of children


A Grade A Customary Court sitting at Mapo in Ibadan, Oyo, has ordered DNA tests on the three children between a divorce-seeking couple, Alhaji Lukman Shittu, and embittered wife, Fisayo Shittu.

The court gave the order so as to unravel the mystery surrounding the paternity of the children.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Shittu, who was the respondent in the suit, had in his counter-argument told the court that his wife was an adulterer and had raised the three children in question through her concubine.

Immediately after making the claim, the court’s President, Mrs. S.M Akintayo ordered the duo to go to a well-established medical center and carry out DNA tests of the three children to know whether Shittu was their father or not.

“The DNA tests shall be jointly funded by Shittu and Fisayo and the sealed result shall be sent directly by the medical center to the registrar of this court,” Akintayo said.

She adjourned the suit until May 2 for the presentation of the DNA test and further hearing.

In his testimony, Shittu submitted that his wife was riding a beautiful car soon after she packed out from his home in 2021.

“Meanwhile, Fisayo had been boasting that her relative gave her the car.

“My investigation revealed that the same man, who had all along been sleeping with her, bought her the car.

“My lord, Fisayo started misbehaving when I was unable to give her money to rent a shop.

“Then, she began to return home very late and I told her that I will lock her out if she ever tried it again.

“However, Fisayo decided to pack up with the three children from my house.

“Worst still, she has changed the school of the last child without my knowledge and the other two have vowed not to recognize me as their father anymore.

“During the last Ramadan, I invited the second one to come and stay with me, but he declined.

“The first also refused to come to my house when he had his school holiday.

“Could you believe that Fisayo’s concubine worship in the same mosque where I am the cleric? Shittu lamented.

Earlier, Fisayo, the petitioner who lived at the Odo Ona Elewe area of Ibadan contended that her husband was irresponsible and a threat to her.

“Shittu lured me into getting a loan from a microfinance bank under the agreement that I would use it to establish my business without refunding.

“So as to facilitate his adulterous intention, Shittu threatened to stab me one day if I don’t leave his home.

“As if that was not enough, he frequently brought various types of women into our matrimonial home.

“In addition, Shittu demolished the shop which I furnished with my money in order to deny me any business opportunity.

“He called me all sorts of bad names and even rejected being responsible for the children.

“Though, relatives from both families intervened, but I just had to pack up for survival,” Fisayo said.
https://ournigerianews.com/divorce-court-orders-dna-test-to-determine-paternity-of-children/

APC, Beware the Ides of March

APC, Beware the Ides of March


By Hassan Gimba

“When there is no enemy within, the enemy outside can do you no harm.”

– Ancient proverb.

“The Ides of March”, made popular by William Shakespeare in his book, Julius Caesar, is the 74th day in the Roman calendar, corresponding to 15th March. Marked by several religious observances, it was notable for the Romans as a deadline for settling debts.

The Ides of March is best known to us as the date Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC after a seer had warned him to “beware the Ides of March”. In a story of betrayals, about 60 conspirators led by Brutus and Cassius stabbed Caesar to death at a meeting of the Senate. The pain and knowledge of imminent death did not stop Caesar from exclaiming, in shock, disbelief and sadness, “Et Tu Brutes?”, meaning “And you, too, Brutus?” If anyone would betray him, surely not Brutus, he believed.

The story of what is happening currently in the All Progressives Congress (APC) is akin to the story of Julius Caesar in many respects, especially the betrayal of trust. This is a story for another day.

Again, the internal wrangling can also be likened to the case of a man who gave someone an assignment to go to the pond and get him water in an earthen pot. When the messenger was about to enter the house after the long and tortuous trek from the pond, the sender started wrestling with him, claiming he was slow. Just imagine the fate of the pot and water!

When the APC was in tatters some 19 months ago and its death knell was sounding ominously, affecting governance at the centre, it was to Honourable Mai Mala Buni, the Yobe State governor, that the party turned to. He was able to save it from the jaws of death, resuscitate it from its self-inflicted wounds and nurse it back to life. As a result, he swelled the ranks of the party by bringing in three more governors to its fold and more members of the legislature, making the party have a comfortable majority in both the Red and Green Chambers, stabilising the government.

Yet, this is the man that ambitious and desperate politicians drew their daggers and long swords at! Because of interests and egos, some people will prefer that all these gains are lost. And worst of all, they chose a time when he was at a most vulnerable period – when he was on a sickbed. One of such people once told the world that all those he fought with died or were disgraced in life; such people can switch off the life support of a sick man.

But beyond all these, such inordinate behaviour by political actors is the bane of our political parties and cause of poor governance. The Pull him Down syndrome being exhibited by some of our politicians has made them sabotage others instead of allowing them to contribute to the development of society.

Some among them just hate to see others succeeding and so must pull such people down. Others have a psyche of entitlement, believing God created the world for them due to where they come from. They look at family background or even where one comes from and conclude that all those not sharing similar pedigree or coming from the same area are serfs. Others think they have super intellect and that everyone else is an intellectual Lilliput, and so they turn themselves into the president’s mouthpiece, thinking they will befuddle all.

But God, in His infinite Wisdom, gives whatever to whoever He wants, irrespective of wherever that person comes from. Today He has deemed it fit to make Buni whatever he is. And despite his elevation by God, he has remained level-headed, giving credence to what the ancient Chinese philosopher, writer and founder of philosophical Taoism, Lao Tzu, said: “I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.”

Those who want Buni removed, through an illegal process, may not mean well for the party. Though they are bandy about the president’s name, reasonable people will doubt them. Even though it is said that they met the president and “showed him pieces of evidence”, it will be difficult to accept that President Muhammadu Buhari will put one to the guillotine without giving him the opportunity for self-defence. Surely Mr President is aware of Article 21 D (vi) of the APC Constitution, which stipulates that an officer or officers of the party must be given the right to a fair hearing before any organ of the party can remove them.’

Politics is politics, and politics, especially the one being practised here, is dominated by unprincipled people who see nobility in their acts of betrayal. But betrayal may be so devastating, especially if it is by people you trust, people you root for, those who you think will always have your back. The only solace is that everything happens for good, as long as the victim has a good heart. God will sieve the chaff from the grain and remove from him those that may, in reality, seek for his life given the opportunity. But no betrayer has ever escaped the avenging spirit of karma. Eventually, but surely, karma makes them feel the pain of betrayal. Yet, some people never give up in their bid to sabotage others because they want it to always be that no one else is good enough if not them.

Coming back to the practitioners of illegality, they ought to know that just as Caesar’s death triggered a civil war in the Roman Republic leading to the execution of 300 senators and equities by Octavian to avenge Caesar’s death, so will any illegal removal of Buni cause a “civil war” within the APC that will be the final nail on its coffin.

But the death of the APC, or that of any political party in power, would not augur well for any country. The upheaval, chaos and disruption to the system such would cause may lead to a nation’s dismemberment. But maybe the interests of the plotters outweigh those of the country on their scales of preference.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “It’s your reaction to adversity, not adversity itself, that determines how your life’s story will develop.” Those who know Buni know him as a gentleman who won’t use illegality to fight illegality. He is a man who hates rancour and does his best to avoid it. However, being a politician’s politician who has been in the business of politics longer than most of his ignoble traducers, he must have a lot of admirers and supporters across the country who will not mind deploying all the arsenal at their disposal to fight for him. He will not wish for so, but then, he may not be able to control them.

And do not forget that it is such an interest-laden crisis that caused the Peoples Democratic Party to lose power and shape that it is still finding it difficult to steady its ship.

With just a year to elections, the APC can ill afford to fall prey to the desperate ambitions of selfish politicians who see their presidential or vice-presidential hopes fading away in the face of the positive paradigm shift Buni represents. Therefore, their endgame may be to cause serious crises that would destroy the party, and then they can have ample excuses to perch their greedy selves on some other platforms they are conspiring with. The attempted “coup” against Buni is just a ploy to achieve that.

However, one good thing, though, is that APC now knows who and where to point the finger at should anything negative happen to its convention slated for the 26th of this month.

APC, Beware the Ides of March

 
https://ournigerianews.com/apc-beware-the-ides-of-march/

Man in court for allegedly assaulting FERMA official

Man in court for allegedly assaulting FERMA official

 The defendant, whose residential address was not given, is charged with a three-count charge bothering on conspiracy, assault, and intent to steal.

 He told the court that the defendant, who also threatened other staff of the agency, allegedly attempted to steal N1.5million from them during the attack.

 The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges while his lawyer, Mr. Jimmy Jones, prayed the court to grant his client bail in the most liberal terms.http://nannews.com

https://ournigerianews.com/man-in-court-for-allegedly-assaulting-ferma-official/

Child found with dispatch rider not stolen – Police

Child found with dispatch rider not stolen – Police


 

The Police Command in Lagos said that the 10-month-old child found with the dispatch rider was not stolen nor was he kept in the courier box as alleged by the mob.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos Command, CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

He said the command’s attention was drawn to a video going viral on social media alleging that a yet-to-be-identified dispatch rider stole a child found and recovered in a dispatch box.

“On 11th March 2022, a video of a dispatch rider accused of concealing a suspected stolen child in a courier box went viral on the social media, causing apprehension.

“Although the incident was not reported at any police station, however, the Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alabi, directed that the incident should be investigated immediately.

“In compliance with the directive, the investigation was initiated which led to the discovery of the scene.”

Ajisebutu said that when the mother of the child, Mrs Lovina Biturs, was contacted, she said that the dispatch rider, Mr Williams Tadule, did not steal his child.

“The child was actually taken away and put on the dispatch motorbike by the rider with the consent of his mother.

“She said that her baby is fond of the rider who is a relative and a neighbour.

“The baby was crying uncontrollably when Tadule wanted to go pick up something in the neighbourhood, to pacify the baby, his mother allowed him to go with the rider.

“Passersby who saw the child with the rider along Sangotedo area, Ajah on the said day, became suspicious and concluded that the child might have been stolen.”

The PPRO said that the people raised the alarm which attracted a mob, they pounced on him.

“The mob descended on him through beating without finding out the truth.

“He was eventually rescued by the Chairman of the Sunview Estate, Sangotedo.”

Ajisebutu said that the Commissioner of Police, warns members of the public against any form of jungle justice as such uncivilized action has grave consequences.

 
https://ournigerianews.com/child-found-with-dispatch-rider-not-stolen-police/

Tinubu seeks Ooni, Owa Obokun’s royal blessings for his presidential ambition

Tinubu seeks Ooni, Owa Obokun’s royal blessings for his presidential ambition


A Presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, on Thursday visited the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, seeking royal blessings for his 2023 presidential ambition.

Tinubu, whose first point of call was the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, said he was in Ile-Ife for Ooni’s prayers over his 2023 presidential ambition.

The presidential aspirant said it was time for people to support him to become the president of the country in 2023.

He claimed to have supported President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 to become the president and was re-elected in 2019.

Tinubu said he would need the support and cooperation of the traditional rulers to achieve his dream, urging them to work for his success during the 2023 general elections.

“President Buhari will soon finish his tenure and I am saying he should not just leave the post, he should hand it over to me.

“I want to be President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and I want you to pray for me,” he said.

Tinubu said he has the ability to diversify the nation’s economy for prosperity, peace and stability, urging Nigerians to play politics of tolerance.

In his remarks, Ooni described Tinubu as a leader that God had bestowed his grace on.

“You have helped much destiny, you have raised many leaders, one can judge this by the massive crowd that followed you here.

“You have come to the throne of Oduduwa for prayers and blessings.

“You need to be grateful to God who created you to be a special breed. God caused your popularity to be spreading across the country.

“We are grateful that you come here today, we are proud of you, you are our star.

“God will grant your aspiration; all the ancestors of Yoruba land will aid your dream. Your steps shall be guided by the spirit of our forefathers.

“God has given you a good name and he will stay by you, you shall continue to be relevant. Your creator shall guide your steps to the seat you are aspiring for.”

At the palace of Owa Obokun in Ilesa, Tinubu said he was at the palace to seek royal blessings over his aspiration.

“I am a new hope for Nigeria, capable and competent enough of ruling this nation as a president.

“That is why I come for your blessings, prayers, encouragement and support to get to my Promise Land.

“I want to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in APC and step into his shoes,” he said.

Aromolaran, who offered prayers for Tinubu, said God would grant him his heart desires.


Tinubu seeks Ooni, Owa Obokun’s royal blessings for his presidential ambition
https://ournigerianews.com/tinubu-seeks-ooni-owa-obokuns-royal-blessings-for-his-presidential-ambition/

Omoyele Sowore Arrested in Abuja

Omoyele Sowore Arrested in Abuja 

By: Collins Mbakwe

Former Presidential Candidate and Publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore has been arrested in Abuja.

According to a statement released by his aide, Femi Adeyeye, Sowore is currently being detained at the dreaded ‘Abbatoir’ SARS station in Abuja.

“As at the time of releasing this statement that he is currently at the dreaded SARS unit called ‘Abattoir’ and men from that station were the ones who carried out the arrest.”

“We are monitoring these events and we can assure all members that these re-occurring illegalities and attacks won’t be allowed to stand. The specific reason(s) for his arrest remain sketchy at this time.”

Our Nigeria News Magazine learned that the fiery activist was picked up after stepping out of the court where the chairman and members of the party had converged to witness a case. Sowore had filed an appeal against the ruling of the Federal High Court that declared Leonard Nzenwa as the acting Chairman of the AAC.
https://ournigerianews.com/omoyele-sowore-arrested-in-abuja/

Police arrest Abba Kyari, 4 other Police Officers

Police arrest Abba Kyari, 4 other Police Officers 


The Nigeria  police have arrested a suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Abba Kyari, and four other police officers over his involvement in drug trafficking.

Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who confirmed their arrest in a statement in Abuja, revealed that they have been handed over to authorities of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)

"Others arrested alongside Kyari include ACP Sunday Ubuah, ASP Bawa James, Inspector Simon Agrigba, and Inspector John Nuhu, while the fifth suspect, ASP John Umoru, is still at large.

"They were arrested on Monday for their involvement in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy, discreditable, unethical and unprofessional conduct, official corruption, and tampering with exhibits in a case of illicit drug trafficking involving a perpetual transnational drug cartel, the police said.

The arrest of the officers was sequel to pieces of information received from the leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on 10th February 2022,” said Adejobi who is a Chief Superintendent of Police. “In line with standard administrative procedure of the Force, the Inspector General of Police ordered a high-level, discreet, and in-house investigation into the allegations.

“The interim investigations report revealed that two international drug couriers identified as Chibunna Patrick Umeibe and Emeka Alphonsus, both males, were arrested at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu on the 19th of January 2022 upon their arrival from Addis Ababa aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight ET917.

“The arrest led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of powdery substance suspected to be cocaine from the two narcotic couriers. The operation which was intelligence-driven was undertaken by a unit of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT).”

While the case and the two suspects were transferred to the NDLEA on January 25, Adejobi explained that the findings of the in-house investigation ordered by the police chief established “reasonable grounds for strong suspicion” that the IRT officers involved in the operation could have been involved in some underhand and unprofessional dealings, as well as official corruption which compromised ethical standards in their dealings with the suspects and exhibits recovered.

He added that beyond this, the police investigation also established that the international narcotics cartel involved in the case had “strong ties” with some officers of the NDLEA at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu who were said to be on their payroll.

The two arrested drug couriers, according to the police spokesman, confirmed that the modus is for the transnational drug barons to conspire with the NDLEA officers on duty and send them their pre-boarding photographs for identification, seamless clearance, and unhindered passage out of the airport with the narcotics being trafficked.

The two arrested drug couriers also confirmed that they have been enjoying this relationship with the NDLEA officers at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport since 2021 and had in this instant case of 19th January 2022, been identified and cleared by the NDLEA officers as customary, having received their pre-departure photographs and other details prior to their arrival in Enugu, and were on their way out with the narcotics when they were apprehended by the police,” Adejobi recounted.

“The police investigations report also indicted DCP Abba Kyari, who has been on suspension for his alleged involvement in a different fraud case being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), for complicity in the allegation of official corruption, tampering with narcotics exhibit and sundry unprofessional conducts that negate the standard administrative and investigative protocols of the force, as well as extant criminal laws.

“It is to be emphasised that DCP Abba Kyari’s involvement in these allegations occurred while his suspension from service was subsisting. On the strength of the findings of the in-house Police Investigation Panel, the Inspector-General of Police ordered the immediate arrest and transfer of all the indicted police officers to the NDLEA authorities for conclusive investigation, while appropriate disciplinary actions are also being initiated against them by the Force leadership.

The concerned officers include DCP Abba Kyari, ACP Sunday Ubuah, ASP Bawa James, ASP John Umoru (at large), Inspr. Simon Agrigba and John Nuhu. They have all been, accordingly, handed over today 14th February 2022 to the NDLEA authorities.”

In addition, the police spokesman said the IGP has formally requested the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer to ensure the identification, arrest, and investigation of the anti-drug agency’s officers found to be colluding with the international drug cartel involved in the case.

The police chief assured Nigerians of the force’s commitment to upholding the tenets and values of policing, in line with the agenda of ethical regeneration, restoration of professional standard, enhancement of the anti-corruption drive, and respect for the rule of law and inter-agency collaboration in the drive to stabilised the internal security order of the country.
https://ournigerianews.com/police-arrest-abba-kyari-4-other-police-officers/

INEC to deploy new technology for Plateau by-election –official

INEC to deploy new technology for Plateau by-election  –official

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it had deployed the INEC Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) for the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency and Pankshin South state Constituency by-election slated for February 26.

Plateau INEC Head of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Registry Mr Tol Wakili said at a stakeholder meeting on Friday in Jos, that the machine uses software known as Bimodal  Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

Wakili said that the machine was a massive improvement from the card reader machine that was deployed in previous elections.

The HOD said that, unlike the card reader, the BVAS would identify fingerprints and faces of registered voters.

“Wakili said that machine was used for the dual purpose of identification and authentication.

“In case the fingerprint fails, the machine would capture the face of the voter.

“Both of them cannot fail at the same time, if that happens it means the person with the Permanent Voters Card is not the owner,” he said.

According to him, the card reader had loopholes that desperate politicians explored and used to undermine INEC’s efforts at credible and transparent elections.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Plateau,  Mallam Halilu Payi, said that the stakeholders meeting was part of the activities to have a fair, credible and transparent by-election in Jos North/Bassa and Pankshin.

Payi stated that the stakeholders meeting was one of the critical platforms that INEC used to carry all stakeholders along.

Election activities hold around political parties and they need to be aware of their roles, adding that if they failed to understand their roles, the election may not be successful.

“We are here to brief the stakeholders, including security agencies, on the things we need to do before that actual day of the election.”

He further said that a total  of 652,581 registered voters were expected to participate in the elections, made up of Bassa Local Government with  145,904 registered voters, Jos North, 453, 556, while  Pankshin South had 53, 121.

He stated that the ongoing continuous voter registration was preparatory to the 2023 election and not for the by-election.

He said that those who just registered and were yet to get the  PVC would participate in the by-election.

The state Commissioner of Police, Bathlomew Onyeka, assured the stakeholders that the security agencies were fully prepared for the by-election.

Onyeka, who was represented by ACP Yusuf Ishak, advised the stakeholders to step down the information concerning the elections.

He warned that security agencies would not condone lawlessness during the elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that traditional, religious and civil society organisations, as well as other stakeholders, attended the meeting.
https://ournigerianews.com/inec-to-deploy-new-technology-for-plateau-by-election-official/

INEC to deploy new technology for Plateau by-election –official

INEC to deploy new technology for Plateau by-election  –official

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it had deployed the INEC Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) for the Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency and Pankshin South state Constituency by-election slated for February 26.

Plateau INEC Head of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Registry Mr Tol Wakili said at a stakeholder meeting on Friday in Jos, that the machine uses software known as Bimodal  Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

Wakili said that the machine was a massive improvement from the card reader machine that was deployed in previous elections.

The HOD said that, unlike the card reader, the BVAS would identify fingerprints and faces of registered voters.

“Wakili said that machine was used for the dual purpose of identification and authentication.

“In case the fingerprint fails, the machine would capture the face of the voter.

“Both of them cannot fail at the same time, if that happens it means the person with the Permanent Voters Card is not the owner,” he said.

According to him, the card reader had loopholes that desperate politicians explored and used to undermine INEC’s efforts at credible and transparent elections.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Plateau,  Mallam Halilu Payi, said that the stakeholders meeting was part of the activities to have a fair, credible and transparent by-election in Jos North/Bassa and Pankshin.

Payi stated that the stakeholders meeting was one of the critical platforms that INEC used to carry all stakeholders along.

Election activities hold around political parties and they need to be aware of their roles, adding that if they failed to understand their roles, the election may not be successful.

“We are here to brief the stakeholders, including security agencies, on the things we need to do before that actual day of the election.”

He further said that a total  of 652,581 registered voters were expected to participate in the elections, made up of Bassa Local Government with  145,904 registered voters, Jos North, 453, 556, while  Pankshin South had 53, 121.

He stated that the ongoing continuous voter registration was preparatory to the 2023 election and not for the by-election.

He said that those who just registered and were yet to get the  PVC would participate in the by-election.

The state Commissioner of Police, Bathlomew Onyeka, assured the stakeholders that the security agencies were fully prepared for the by-election.

Onyeka, who was represented by ACP Yusuf Ishak, advised the stakeholders to step down the information concerning the elections.

He warned that security agencies would not condone lawlessness during the elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that traditional, religious and civil society organisations, as well as other stakeholders, attended the meeting.
https://ournigerianews.com/inec-to-deploy-new-technology-for-plateau-by-election-official/

NIGERIA IS OUR NIGERIA: WE MUST join HANDS TOGETHER TO MAKE IT WORK OR W...

Insecurity: Military train 98 youths on intelligence gathering

Insecurity: Military train 98 youths on intelligence gathering

The Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), maintaining peace in Plateau and parts of Kaduna State and Bauchi State, says it has trained 98 youths on intelligence gathering and surveillance in southern Kaduna.

Maj. Ishaku Takwa, the Media Officer of the task force, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Jos.

According to Takwa, the gesture aimed at addressing the incessant activities of bandits and other insecurity in the southern parts of the state.

The media officer said that the youths were selected from various communities and across ethnic and religious groups in the area.

He said, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, the Commander of the task force, charged the beneficiaries to put the knowledge gained into good use.

“In a bid to curb the incessant banditry activities in southern Kaduna, OPSH trained 98 youths on surveillance and information gathering.

“The youths selected from all the communities and ethnic groups in southern Kaduna passed out in a colourful graduation ceremony.

“Addressing the youths during graduation on Wednesday, the commander of OPSH, charged them to distance themselves from sentiment and discharge their duty without fear or favour.

“He stresses that the essence of the training is to ensure that the communities are protected against enemies of peace,” the statement.

Takwa said Ali warned them to desist from thuggery and focus on the assignment given them.

He said that the commander called on residents of the communities to cooperate and support the beneficiaries toward ensuring a crime-free society.

Insecurity: Military train 98 youths on intelligence gathering
https://ournigerianews.com/insecurity-military-train-98-youths-on-intelligence-gathering/

Amina Dikwa Foundation intervention in Borno State.

LG boss urges community associations to execute people-oriented projects

LG boss urges community associations to execute people-oriented projects

Mr Yunana Barde, the Chairman of Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has urged Community Development Associations in the area to execute people oriented-projects to augment government efforts.

Barde made the call in Kafanchan on Wednesday when he received the leadership of Kafanchan (Fantswam) Development Association (KDA) in his office.

“I want to call on Community Development Associations to mobilize their people on community self-help projects.

“This will help fast track the pace of development in their respective areas as against depending on government for everything,” he added

Represented by the Vice-Chairman, Christie Usman, the chairman said that for any society to grow, a multi-dimensional approach for development had to be adequately adopted.

He stated that the council was always open to work with public-spirited individuals and organizations to execute meaningful projects that have a direct bearing on the populace.

The Council boss described Development Associations as partners in progress and veritable tools for rapid social transformation and peacebuilding.

He lamented the continued activities of bandits and kidnappers in the area and called on traditional and religious leaders to work with the government in its bid to end the menace.

Earlier in his address, the National President of KDA, Bonat Tagwai, said the group were in the chairman’s office to pledge their support to the council in its determination to provide purposeful leadership.

Tagwai appealed to the chairman to help in hastening the completion of the Kafanchan modern market, popularly called Yakowa market.

According to him, the market, when completed, has enormous potential to increase the revenue base of the council to enable it to embark on meaningful projects for the people.

He also decried the alarming rate of school dropouts, drug abuse and unemployment among the youths in the area.

He advised the chairman to initiate empowerment programs that would equip the youths with skills to make them self reliant. (NAN)

https://ournigerianews.com/lg-boss-urges-community-associations-to-execute-people-oriented-projects/

Zamfara warns politicians against hasty accusations against Gov. Matawalle

Zamfara warns politicians against hasty accusations against Gov. Matawalle

The Zamfara Government has warned politicians and organisations against hasty accusations against Gov. Bello Matawalle.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications, Mr Zailani Bappa, gave the warning in a statement in Gusau on Wednesday.

“We have noticed an increasing trend of reckless accusations against the person of Governor Bello Matawalle from disgruntled quarters across the state.’’

He said such accusations came from “disadvantaged politicians seeking for relevance and some so-called professional organisations seeking for recognition by all means.

Bappa said those politicians and organisations had cash in on the open-door policy of the governor to bring his name to disrepute.

“It must be stated here that democracy and freedom of speech are sacrosanct but in no way a ticket to abuse the institution of authority with slander and libel.’’

Bappa said that anybody or organisation with complaints against any misdeed must follow due process in seeking redress.

According to him, they should do this by reporting any matter to the security operatives and approaching the court for redress based on the outcome of the investigation.

He warned that henceforth, no person or group should publicly accuse the state governor or his administration with “baseless innuendos’’.

“We hereby draw the attention of all persons and organisations to be cautious as the law will take its course on any further slander or libel against the governor.’’

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on Tuesday, an online medium had accused the governor of sponsoring thugs to attack its office in Gusau. (NAN)
https://ournigerianews.com/zamfara-warns-politicians-against-hasty-accusations-against-gov-matawalle/

Enugu schools to resume Jan. 10, says Commissioner

Enugu schools to resume Jan. 10, says Commissioner

The Enugu State Ministry of Education says all schools in the state will resume for the new academic session on Jan. 10.

The Commissioner for Education,  Prof. Uchenna Eze, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Wednesday that the state was operating a uniform timetable for all schools, both public and private.

”The ministry has informed all schools to observe all existing COVID-19 prevention protocols. The ministry will also work relentlessly to ensure that schools in the state still remained COVID-19 free.

”We are going to do that by active cooperation and collaboration of schools’ management. As schools resume on Monday, the ministry supervisors will  move from school to school to ensure all necessary COVID-19 prevention protocols are observed or put in place,” he said.

The commissioner urged schools to get their temperature thermometers ready, make provision for running water and soap or alternatively alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

”They must also ensure good spacing of the pupils as well as functional sick bay and first aid box to ensure quick medical attention and isolation of any pupil suspected to fall sick during school hours.

“Pupils must come to school wearing their face masks,” he noted. (NAN)
https://ournigerianews.com/enugu-schools-to-resume-jan-10-says-commissioner/

COVID-19: Nigeria records 428 new infections, 8 deaths

COVID-19: Nigeria records 428 new infections, 8 deaths

Nigeria recorded 428 new COVID-19 infections with eight deaths on Tuesday in 13 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Nigeria Centre For Disease Control (NCDC) made this known on Wednesday.

The centre said Nigeria now has 244,548 confirmed cases in the 36 states and the FCT.

The NCDC said Rivers led with 188 cases followed by Ondo with (54), the FCT (42), Imo (25), Nasarawa (24), Oyo (23), Edo (18), Akwa Ibom (16), Ogun (14), Osun (10), Kano (7), Ekiti (3), Borno and Plateau (2) each.

It added that Bauchi and Sokoto states reported that they recorded no cases on Tuesday.

The NCDC also disclosed that 634 persons were discharged on Tuesday.

It added that 216,814 Nigerians have been successfully treated and discharged nationwide while over 24,681 people were still down with the virus.

It said that with the eight confirmed deaths from the COVID-19 complications on Tuesday, the country’s death toll rose to 3,053.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Public Health agency noted that 3,863,081 people have been tested for the virus.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency said as at Dec. 8, 2021, 3.5 million eligible Nigerians have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The agency also said that 6.6 million Nigerians had taken the first dose while 3.5 million had been fully vaccinated against the virus.

The Federal Government also assured Nigerians of adequate doses of vaccines in-store to cover a large percentage of the population, adding that the country was awaiting about 57 million doses of the vaccine.
https://ournigerianews.com/covid-19-nigeria-records-428-new-infections-8-deaths/