SDP Flag bearer, Adewale In Washington, Confers With Guru Ravi Shankar.

Nigeria's SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole ADEBAYO visited the Art of Living Centre in Washington DC where he met with his good friend the world acclaimed Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The Nigerian political leader and the world spiritual leader spoke conferred extensively in private. 

Briefing the public thereafter, both leaders expressed admiration for each other's work and commitment to public happiness and global peace. Adebayo commended Gurudev for his lifetime of work towards the advancement of the spiritual growth of the human race, global peace through universal happiness and commitment to one humanity for all. He invited Gurudev to pray for Nigeria and to focus on peace and happiness of Nigeria and her leaders and people.

Prince Adebayo laid out his vision for Nigeria for a country that is a paradise  for her own people, a pride of the Black people globally and a blessing to the world. The presidential candidate noted that Nigeria will not only prosper materially having been blessed with all it takes to overcome want and deprivations but to thrive and attain the peak of material success. Nigeria will also, under his leadership attain spiritual peace and happiness and contentment so that Nigerians may regain their long held status as the happiest people in the world. 

In response, Guredev expressed gratitude for the visit of the presidential candidate and admired his commitment to the peace, happiness and prosperity of Nigeria and remarked that the friendship and visit are not a coincidence but divinely ordained, noting that just like Adebayo, it was from his childhood days he dreamed of his Leadership role and global place in the world today. The Guru dressed and honoured Adebayo and his team in a brief ceremony. Gurudev, prayed for Nigeria and directly addressed the Nigerian people in a short message. The Guru announced a decision to visit Nigeria in August 2022. 

In the entourage of the Nigerian presidential candidate are his campaign strategist, Washington's legendary Ms Jan DuPlain, Dr Ralph Bello-Fadile, Special Advisor, Dr KY Dele, Senior Special Assistant, presidential photo-historian Patrician McDougall and Special Assistant Mr Salewa Ladipo. 

At the conclusion of the visit, members of the close family of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar the Guru had a private session with Prince Adebayo and wished him success in his quests to lead Nigeria. Adebayo thanked the family, expressing that he was deeply touched in the soul and spirit and said he would always consider himself as part of the Gurudev's family.

Anglo Abdullahi Should Stop Distracting Nigerians, He Has Only One Vote - Diwong

  

Former Special Assistant to a former Governor of Kaduna State, Hon. Zachariah Diwong, has advised the chairman of the Northern Elders Forum, Professor Ango Abdullahi to stop distracting Nigerians from the imperative of bringing about a much-needed change in the country.

 

Reacting to Ango's latest attack on the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, Hon. Diwong said denigrating leaders he doesn't like has become Ango's pastime. 

 

"We understand Ango's unhealthy obsession with publicity and his tendency to arrogate to himself the right to appoint leaders for Nigerians, but he should understand that he was only speaking for himself as an armchair critic", Hon. Diwong said.

 

According to him, "the suggestion by Ango that Atiku cannot fix Nigeria is not only utterly ridiculous, but it is a reflection of detachment from our reality."

 

The former Special Assistant to the Governor of Kaduna State explained that “Atiku's track record of experience and understanding of Nigeria's economy and its ethnic and religious diversity is indisputable, and no amount of smear campaigns by Ango can change that reality.”

 

He stressed that Ango's agenda is not to move Nigeria forward, but to throw a spanner into the works of any competent candidate because of his narcissistic arrogation to decide who should contest for the country’s highest political office.

 

He further explained that “only the people of Nigeria have the right to decide who they should vote for and not a lame voice like Ango who is primarily interested in causing confusion for the sake of his desire for publicity.”

 

According to him, “running Nigeria is not a child's play because it demands adequate preparation and great experience, and Atiku has no rival in this regard.

 

“If truly Ango cares about Nigerians, he cannot disregard experience and track record as the main qualifications for public office, especially the leadership of a country as large and diverse as Nigeria.

 

“Nigerians don't need a lecture from Ango Abdullahi because their current miserable experience of life is enough to motivate them to vote for change, and Atiku is their safest bet in terms of tackling our challenges.”

Return To Ruling Party, No Future In NNPP, APC Tells Kwankwaso

*says Peter Obi enjoying social media frenzy only

Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been asked to return to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) where he built and has great future to become president.

The Presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has also been told that he does not have hope of becoming a president on his current political platform.

Speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Abuja, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the ruling APC, Hon. Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, said it is not too late for Kwankwaso to retrace his step.

According to the APC spokesman, Kwankwaso knew about the formation of APC, he contributed immensely to its success in 2015 and our leaders hope to repay him at the appropriate time but he cannot be outside to be a beneficiary in the nearest future.

"So, that is why I said it's not too late for him to return to the APC. That's where he naturally belongs and have an assurance of becoming a President one day, and not his current sectional NNPP.

"Although, some people might be deceiving him by calling him Mr. President already but just one or two states in the North-west can not make him a president. Kwankwaso needs a national party like APC to achieve his presidential ambition. So, I plead to him to do the needful before its too late," Ajaka said.

When asked to comment on Peter Obi and his Labour Party, the APC deputy spokesperson said when the real campaign starts Nigerians will differentiate between boys and men in politics of 2023 general elections.

"Just like Kwankwaso, Peter Obi is only enjoying sectional sympathy but a real presidential candidate needs to enjoy acceptability from all parts of the country. 

"So, we believe that Peter Obi should enjoy his social media frenzy for now before the real campaign starts very soon."

On whether Atiku Abubakar and his PDP will be a serious challenger for the APC in 2023, Ajaka reminded Nigerians that "PDP and Atiku are good customers to APC who cannot go beyond coming second at any election, even that second position has been threatened with the recent result Ekiti governorship election recently."

He said the opposition party will make all the noises without facts, enjoy its propaganda for awhile but Nigerian voters will eventually distinguish between PDP lies and APC record of achievements. At the end of the story our presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will certainly emerge victorious in 2023."

Tinubu, Obi, Others Can't Substitute Running Mates Under New Electoral Act - Advocacy group

 

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Center for Reforms and Public Advocacy (CRPA) has said that under the new Electoral Act 2022, running mates nominated by Presidential, Governorship candidates of various political parties are not Subject to withdrawal, substitution.

Both presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Labour Party (LP) Peter Obi, submitted placeholder with the hope to substitute their running mate late.

But in a statement released Saturday in Abuja by the Executive Director of the centre, Ifeanyi Okechukwu, said the Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 make clear provisions on the yardstick for withdrawal and substitution of candidates, adding that provision, as contained Sections 28 and 84 of the amended Electoral Act 2022, relate to only the candidate – presidential and gubernatorial – and not their running mates.

According to the statement, substitution of candidates by political parties becomes possible in cases of withdrawal or death of candidates and these are president, gubernatorial, Senate, House of Representatives and State Assemblies who were nominated by political parties through valid primaries in accordance with Section 29 and 84. 

"Section 33 of the Electoral Act says "A political party shall not be allowed to change or substitute its candidate whose name has been submitted under section 29 of this Act, except in the case of death or withdrawal by the candidate: 'Provided that in the case of such withdrawal or death of a candidate, the political party affected shall, within 14 days of the occurrence of the event, hold a fresh primary election to produce and submit a fresh candidate to the Commission for the election concerned'; and to conform with section 33, section 29 must be adhered to, to ascertain categories of candidates captured.

 

"Section 29 in subsection (1) says 'every political party shall, not later than 180 days before the date appointed for a general election under this Act, submit to the Commission, in the prescribed Forms, the list of the candidates the party proposes to sponsor at the elections, who must have emerged from valid primaries conducted by the political party.'

 

"So, it is no more business as usual, the current electoral law is very stringent in many areas especially methods of political parties' primaries, who are delegates, how withdrawal is done, how substitution is done and transmission of results, among others.

 

"The current and subsisting electoral law does not capture a scenario that makes possible a substitution of associate candidates or running mates either by account of voluntary withdrawal or death. Subsequently, any substitution of running mates nominated by presidential and gubernatorial candidates comes flat in the face of the law. 

 

"While this might not have been a deliberate oversight, it must be accepted that the law is sacrosanct and nothing can be added or removed from it unless through amendment of sections 31 and 33 to make provision for that in the future. 

 

"Until then, in accordance with section 31 which says "A candidate may withdraw his or her candidature by notice in writing signed by him and delivered personally by the candidate to the political party that nominated him for the election and the political party shall convey such withdrawal to the Commission not later than 90 days to the election" and section 33, only candidates who were nominated through valid primaries by political parties and whose names were submitted in accordance with section 29 can withdraw and be substituted under the law, not running mates that were not nominated through any primaries but by presidential and gubernatorial candidates."

While commending the electoral umpire for the latest of the activity by the commission in ensuring that the 2023 elections meet with the requirements of the law as established by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act 2022, as amended, the group, however expressed "concern about the likelihood of infractions that are already being cooked by some political parties as it relates to the issue of replacement of their associate candidates or running mates in the presidential election.

 

"Many lawyers, legislative experts and even INEC have made it clear that what we are having are presidential running mates, which the Constitution and Electoral Act refer to as "associate candidate" and "running mate" and not placeholders."

The statement urged cautioned the INEC on "the catch-word of placeholders as being bandied by some political parties is not known to the law and that the law does not give a room for a substitution of running mates in the 2023 election guidelines. 

 

"We also wish to impress upon political parties that they must familiarize themselves with the relevant aspects of the new electoral law and avoid actions that are capable of causing infractions."

Agric group accuses Water Resources Minister of covering up corruption allegations in lower Niger River Basin

A popular group, Agricwatch Alliance has frowned at the Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Hussein Adamu of covering up for the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin, ilorin Dr Aremu Saheed who has been accused of corruption and misappropriation of funds.

This is contained in statement issued signed by the coordinator of Agricwatch Alliance, Alhassan T. Mohammed and  the scribe, Bode Seun and made available to Newsmen yesterday. 

 The group claimed a display of nonchalant attitude of the minister towards the allegations against Dr. Saheed.

In the letter the group claimed the minister sent a team headed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry to the organisation, to either intimidate or financially induce the staff union -Nigeria Union of Agric and Allied Employees, to drop their stance and allegations against their managing director.

It called for the removal of Saheed over allegations bordering on corruption, misappropriation of funds and budgetary allocations and maladministration.

The letter reads in part, "Our organisation saw the several publications of the Agriculture Union on several media forum on the call for the removal of the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Ilorin , one Dr Saheed Aremu over allegations bordering on corruption, misappropriation of funds and budgetary allocations and maladministration.

"We decided to set up a team of private investigators to proceed to Kwara state to investigate the allegations by visiting the project sites and even to the Auditor General's office to enquire about the authenticity of the Auditors report that damningly indicts the Managing Director

 "This your action is regrettably inimical to the anti-corruption stance of this administration and federal constitution which you swore to uphold. These your action is giving credence to insinuations that Dr Aremu Saheed, the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin has been sharing the proceeds of his corruption with you.

"We are likewise disappointed in the Staff Union for falling for your inducement and harassment wherein they dropped their noble cause of embarking on the threat of Labour action to press home her demands for justice.

"Honourable Minister sir, by our investigation we have therefore concluded to advise as follows:

"We demand a thorough investigation of the activities of the entire River Basins Developments across Nigeria, to see if funds provided over the period of this administration are spent justifiably in consonance with the administration’s policy of transparency.

“That Dr Saheed Aremu lacks the moral right to continue in office based on the said Auditors report and other allegations.

"That Dr Saheed Aremu must be excused from executing this year’s budgetary allocation.

"That the appropriate anti-corruption agencies should be invited for further investigation be prosecuted and monies recovered and plunged back to the sector.”

"Honourable Minister sir, our organisation which is made up of professionals and stakeholders in the Agric sector, including Agro media advocates across Nigeria saddled with the mandate of ensuring transparency and justice in the Agricultural sector and reputed for tracking Budgetary allocations has its searchlight specifically on the ministries of Agriculture and that of Water Resources.

"Having observed the efforts of President Mohammadu Buhari, GCFR, in pumping funds to the sector but with minimal effect due to various corrupt practices of the ministry officers and the Chief Executives of the Agencies and Parastatals, we are poised to ensure justice by exposing the culprits and bringing them to book through all legal means and the Anti-corruption agencies.

"Honourable Ministers sir, we are displeased with your nonchalant attitude towards the allegations and the character of the Managing Director, rather, you sent your high-powered ministerial team headed by the Permanent Secretary to the organisation, to either intimidate and financially induce the Staff Union -Nigeria Union of Agric and Allied Employees, to drop their stance and claims against their Managing Director.

"That the ministry should overhaul the activities of River Basins Development Authorities in Nigeria for effective service, according to its mandate.

"Honourable Minister sir, If necessary action is not taken as advised above, we shall be compelled to approach the court as taxpayers and law-abiding patriotic citizens of Nigeria," 

The group also threatened to seek redress in the court should the minister fails to take appropriate action providing remedy to the lingering problem in the sector.

Obidient' movement 'll turn to disobedients, obituary in 2023 - Nabena

'

...Says PDP banking on Dubai connection, Hushipuppy strategies to hack INEC server 

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon. Yekini Nabena, has said that a perceived "Obedient movement" supporting the presidential ambition of former governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi, on social media will soon turn to disobedient and vamoose.

Peter Obi is the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election.

The APC chieftain also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to step up its game and make adequate protection for its server, alleging that the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) only banking on hackers to manipulate INEC server and change results in 2023.

Speaking with newsmen Wednesday in Abuja, Nabena said the APC will secure nothing less than 2.1 millions votes from Escravos to Forcados to Brass and Bonny, in Niger Delta during the coming presidential election, saying "this is because our people are massively coming out to get their PVC and they know the right party and candidate to vote for when the time comes."

On Peter Obi, the Bayelsa born politician said: "I can tell you that the so called 'Obedient movement' only exist on social media and after the coming elections they will naturally turn to disobedient movement, and later obituary because the movement will naturally vamoose."

When asked whether the PDP could be a major challenger in 2023 general elections, Nabena said: "PDP is nothing to talk about as far as the 2023 general election is concerned, although we are watching them keenly based on their past records because we already know their plans and what they are banking on are their Dubai connections and Hushpuppy strategies.

"The only hope for the PDP is to hack INEC server, not the votes of Nigerians to win election. You can see practically that even the recent governorship election in Ekiti state PDP lost its usual second place and I doubt if it can regain that second position anymore in the coming 2023 general elections."

The former APC spokesman, however, called on the electoral umpire to put measures in places that will forestall local or foreign attacks on its servers.

"I will plead with INEC to properly secure its server because PDP hackers are at work, they are not sleeping, they are test running their system now. I also call on Nigerians and real voters to be watchful and ensure that their votes are protected in 2023."

APC Deputy Spokesperson, Ajaka Celebrates Yahaya Bello At 47

Deputy national publicity secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon. Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, has celebrated the governor of Kogi state Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello on his 47th years anniversary.

Ajaka, in a statement released Saturday in Abuja, joined family and friends of governor Bello, both in Nigeria and abroad, especially the Kogi state indigenes to rejoice with a man he described as "young, Vibrant and Energetic political leader whose antecedents continue to inspire hope in a new generation of leaders."

The APC spokesman said since governor Bello clinched the seat of power in Kogi state in his 40s he has provided a visionary and focused style of leadership that showcased the potentials in Nigerian youths. 

While describing Yahaya Bello as a shining light, Ajaka said the energy and leadership skills Yahaya Bello displayed in the recently conducted APC presidential primary has further built Hope in Nigerians youths that they have all it take to lead Nigeria.

The statement reads: "I joined family and friends to rejoice with the young, Vibrant and Energetic political leader whose antecedents continue to inspire hope in a new generation of leaders.

"Since you clinched power as governor of Kogi State in your 40s you have provided a visionary and focused style of leadership that showcased the potentials in Nigerian youths. 

"You have added value to our Democratic journey in building young leaders in Kogi State and across Nigeria 

"The Energy and your leadership skills displayed in the last Presidential Primary in our great party the All Progressive Congress has build Hope in Nigerians youths that they have all it take to lead Nigeria.

"I am proud of your active services to our party at all times and your laudable and remarkable Achievement in transforming kogi into a Modern state."

HM & S Global Showcase handcrafted Handbags, Laptops, Caps others

In line with the desire of Nigeria to achieve self-sufficiency in all productive sectors of the country,  

HM & S Nigeria, a kaduna based company  has revealed how it is using  locally sourced materials to produced pots, vase, laptop bags, caps , bags and shoes 

Sadiq Aliyu the marketing managing took journalists on a tour of the company and explained how  clay is used to make flower vast Furthermore, journalists were also shows caps popularly called fulas, hand made travelling bags and other beautiful items 

In the same vein, some of the workers of the company spoke to media men on how their 

Isiyaku Said Mohammed, a shoemaker explains his he makes shoes .

"In order to make sure a shoe, I will buy skin of cow,buy clotings called stamps and sole .

"I will follow it by designing it and cobbling them into beautiful shoes .It takes me only 3 hours to produce shoes 

"I want to thank HM& S for giving me the opportunity to learn this skill 

 For Sani Musa, one of those making caps, 

."this is cow skin and tabarma is called mat.

 I cut the materials and use gum to stitch the materials together and then use different colours to make beautify bags 

The CEO of HM & S, Hajia Halima Ibrahim Garba  explain that the aim of the company is create employment opportunity for Nigerians and  to use local materials as raw materials and make beautifully designed Nigerians products and export them to other parts of the world .

She also explained that as part of its co-operate responsibilty, the company has trained over 79 orphans, homeless children and other unemployed youths while empowering those in search of jobs .

Northern Group Praises Atiku For Picking Okowa

Coalition of Arewa Forum for Good Governance Governor ( CAFGG)  has commended the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for picking Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa as running mate .

According to the group, the choice of Okowa not only strikes a balance of religion,it also douses tension on the quest for Igbo Presidency, knowing fully well that he's  a Delta Igbo.

Atiku,during the unveiling of Okowa as his running mate  said  he was never afraid of taking difficult decisions .

Speaking at Press Conference held at Asa Pyramid Hotel , Kaduna on Saturday,CAFGG Coordinator, Malam Garba Yunusa,who expressed worry over what he described as," Unnecessary Delays" in presidential candidates picking running mates, said,"Atiku has proved to be more prepared for race ahead than others."

"We were worried and conscious about issues of equity,  justice and fairness  in choices of running mates for presidential candidates ,but with the main opposition party ,PDP  setting the tone with an  Okowa ,who is a Christian ,a minority Anioma in Delta State and above all from the extraction of South-South geo-political zones,  we have laid to rest all that  fears .

"Our greatest joy now is that the tension stirred up by Muslim -Muslim ticked rumours  in some quarters  can now be doused with the balanced alternative provided by  the PDP Presidential Candidate who is from  North and his  running from the South.

"However, we strongly believe  that  Governor Okowa ,who is a former lawmaker and current Delta Governor became the Beautiful Bride because of overt  requisite leadership qualities that endeared Atiku to pick him as running mate.

"Apparently ,his performance and ability to accommodate all residents regardless of ethnic or religious differences  must have been parts of the reasons that favoured his choice ."

While urging the electorate to weigh the pros and cons of Atiku/Okowa as a  united force in the interest of unity and progress of our dear country, he however appealed to all aggrieved persons, especially in the PDP  to sheath their swords and work with party to ensure victory at the polls.Adding  "Afterall, Atiku chose  Okowa after a wide consultations with various stakeholders and party stalwarts."

Why Gov Udom Emmanuel will make an Outstanding Vice-President

 

Governor Udom Emmanuel's footprints in Akwa Ibom State in the past seven years of his administration, are glaringly ground-breaking. The story of the state under his administration is an interesting story of good governance. Governor Emmanuel is performer, who has convincingly displayed selflessness in transforming the 'Land of Promise' from a civil service state to an industrialized one.

In his inaugural speech in May 29, 2015, Governor Udom Emmanuel declared: "I stand before you today not as a master but as a servant and not as a boss but as a co-labourer. I accept, with great humility and sense of responsibility, the mandate you have freely given to me to hold power in trust for you are your Governor. You have kept your part of the covenant and I intend to keep my part by executing the programmes I enunciated to you during my official declaration to run for the office of Governor" Emmanuel fondly called 'the people's governor' has kept his promise to Akwa Ibom people.

The crux of the matter is that the time for the selection of a presidential running-mate to former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar - 2023 presidential candidate of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party - is upon us. Which is why the electorate and strong stakeholders in the party are agog and have identified Governor Udom Emmanuel as a formidable choice of running-mate to PDP's Presidential flag bearer, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.  

Given Emmanuel's track record as governor of Akwa Ibom state, in the last seven years, one can say without fear of contraction that he possesses the know how and acumen to serve as a result-oriented vice-president. This assertion has become absolutely necessary because political observers maintain that he would go to any length to assist the president in articulating his cardinal focus of economic revival, provision of welfare, security for the people and what have you, should the PDP emerge victorious.  An Emmanuel Udom as vice president, will surely complement Atiku Abubakar in the quest for peace, unity, overall development and progress in Nigeria.

The decision for the choice of a running-mate could be tasking; with deadline pressure from the electoral umpire on all the 2023 elections contesting political parties. The National Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in streamlining the election timetable recently declared that names of presidential candidates and selected running mates should be submitted on or before Friday June 17. 

As the PDP's presidential candidate along with party leaders zero in on the preferred choice for the running-mate, the gargantuan achievements of Governor Udom Emmanuel enumerated below, stands him out as a potential formidable and resourceful choice.

First, is Ibom Air - which currently has a fleet of seven bombardiers CRJ 900 aircraft, and  covers 6 destinations of Uyo, Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Port Harcourt and Enugu; and makes 22 flights daily. The airline is considering domestic expansion in its travel routes. It may soon add the newly inaugurated Bayelsa International Airport to its domestic route network after the Bayelsa state government approached the Government of Akwa Ibom over partnership possibilities. Furthermore, the airline will soon expand its operations into Gambia. In addition to this feat, he created an aircraft maintenance workshop in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital for the much needed maintenance of the fleet and others.

As is a technocrat with experience in human and resource management, he didn't hesitate to kickstart the industrialization of the state which has continued to attract foreign investors - complemented by a conducive atmosphere for investment in the state; the goal being to make Akwa Ibom the industrial hub of Nigeria.

In line with his industrialization's drive, some of the ongoing and already completed job providing projects include the following: Coconut Plantation and Refinery, Quality Ceramics, Eket International Market, Eket, Phase 1, Ibom Airlines, Uyo International Market, Oron International Market, Tropicana Shoprite Mall, Ibom Deep Sea Port, Ibom Industrial Park/Jetty, Plywood Manufacturing Factory, Power plant, Jetty, Refinery, Gas processing plant, Waste to Wealth Plant and many more.

Furthermore , the silent revolution in the education sector is a strong pointer to the governor's developmental focus. This revolution, best described as war in the education sector, comes with a physical revamp of infrastructure, retraining of teachers, employment of new ones and security of facilities.

In the health sector, Governor Emmanuel is on top of his game to revamp the sector for effective healthcare delivery for Akwa Ibomites. While the state government has intensified efforts to establish new hospitals across the state, the already existing ones are receiving a facelift. For example, General Hospital, Etinan, has been reconstructed and equipped with cutting edge medical equipment. 

What is more, his administration has done so much to ensure a peaceful and secure state. It has attained the status of the most peaceful state in Nigeria. Nigeria Police Force ranked Akwa Ibom as the lowest in crime index in Nigeria for the year 2017. In 2020, Governor Emmanuel donated 30 new patrol trucks to security agencies. 

Furthermore, his administration has carried out sensitization Campaign against Child Abuse, Child Trafficking, Child Abandonment and Baby Factory in the State. It has also granted amnesty to numerous militants in the state who are undergoing rehabilitation. The superb manner in which the administration handled the security challenges arising from the #EndSARS# protest is noteworthy. Aware of the fact that no meaningful development can take place in an unsafe atmosphere, Governor Emmanuel has galvanized the people to embrace his campaign for peace and security in the state.

Equally commendable is the high premium placed on Sports by Governor Emmanuel. No wonder he bagged the National Sports Award in 2017 for his relentless contributions to sports in the country. In the same year, the Akwa Ibom State was voted best in Sports infrastructure, best in grass root sports development and best in fans supporter ship.

From the inception of the administration in 2015, it has been from one story of success to the other in sports. Within few months of his administration, Akwa United won the FA Cup in 2015, a record in the 53 year old history of the prestigious tournament. The same feat was repeated in 2017. In that same year during the National Youth Sport Festival held in Kwara State, Akwa Ibom emerged first runner-up. 

In  the last seven years of his administration, he has consistently delivered dividends of democracy to the electorate. His love to serve his people knows no bounds. He believes in laying good footprints on the sands of time. That was why he desired to obey the clarion call of his people and resigned as Secretary to the State Government to contest the Governorship election of 2015, which he won overwhelmingly on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party. He launched a moral rebirth and self-motivation initiative, the dakkada campaign, urging Akwa Ibomites to rise to the occasion and make Akwa Ibom a great state. 

In view of the mandate of the Governor Emmanuel consolidate on the gains of uncommon transformation witnessed across Akwa Ibom State today  and his commitments to industrialize the state, keen watchers believe he can help replicate same in the center as vice-president.

Finally, in the field of agriculture, some notable achievements of Governor Emmanuel would suffice. This includes the establishment of a large hybrid rubber nursery at Ebighi Anwa, Okobo L.G.A in partnership with Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, for distribution to rubber farmers at highly subsidised rates; the refurbishing of Cassava Processing Factories at Ikot Okudom, Eket L.G.A; Nung Udoe, Ibesikpo/Austin LGA and Ikot Ekang in Abak L.G.A and leasing to private operators for the production of high-quality garri, odourless fufu, and cassava flour; Procurement and distribution of 30,000 Hybrid Plantain Suckers to 700 farmers as well as Installation of Maize Preservation/Shelling Machine at Nung Udoe.

The establishment of demonstration plots on various agricultural technologies for the transfer of improved technologies to farmers through Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Programme (AKADEP); planting of 500 citrus seedlings, 600 hybrid plantain suckers, and 1,000 pineapple suckers at the Horticulture Garden in Uyo places the state stands the state in good stead to be a leading player in agricultural productivity in the country.

The governor has demonstrated across the length and breadth of the country that he is a detribalized Nigerian. His tenure, so far is one of the most peaceful in the history of the state. He is a bridge builder, a quality that will go a long way in complementing the president. Emmanuel is widely loved by the Christian evangelicals in Nigeria, and has the capacity to attract an estimated 40 - 50 million votes of the Christian evangelicals, not to mention votes from the orthodox  Christian groups. Udom Emmanuel possesses the wherewithal to be an outstanding vice-president.

2023 Presidency:Muslim-Muslim Ticket'll Create Crisis, Urges Tinubu to Pick Governor Lalong

Group under umbrella of Coalition of Arewa  Forum  For Good Governance (CAFGG) has said any attempt by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to consider a Muslim-Muslim ticket for its Flagbearer and running mate will create crisis across the country.

According to group, ahead of the forthcoming 2023 presidential elections, the current tension stirred up by the rumours of possible Muslim-Muslim is uncalled for and should be jettisoned in the interest of  equity , justice and fairness .

It stressed: "To douse the tension ,we are calling on the winner of APC  primaries and Flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pick the only Northern Christian Governor in the party , Mr. Simon Bako Lalong as his running mate".

The group which stated this in a press statement signed by the Coordinator, Mal. Garba Yunusa, posited that picking Governor Simon Lalong will not only be a perfect match for the party's  election victory ,but also to strike  balance and douse the existing tension already overheating the polity.

The statement further reads :"Nigerians are not unaware that Tinubu is a Muslim from the South-West geo-political zone,thus we feel it would  be rational for a northern Christian, especially  from the marginalized North-Central geo-political zone to be a running mate, who can also take care of interest of the Minorities.

"We strongly believe that once a Christian is picked , the warning and threats by  Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) would have taking care of too."

The group, which insisted that a Muslim-Muslim ticket will apparently divide Nigeria, especially If APC eventually wins the general elections, noted, "It is not about Political Party now  ,but the country as a whole "

It emphasised : "This is part of reasons we are calling on Tinubu to shun those rooting for a Muslim -Muslim ticked under guise of "merit and competence " and pick Governor Lalong,who  can draw votes considering his track records of performance and  his position as the current  Chairman of Northern States  Governors Forum with 19 states within his reach. 

"We are  sure the  south will also be comfortable with him, considering his detribalised disposition and how he has handled the problems of insecurity in Plateau State as the Governor."

"The interest of few and selfish politicians rooting for Muslim-Muslim ticket  should not be allowed to override the interest most Nigerians , who desire a united one nation".

NGO organises Interactive Forum Communities In Kaduna State

By Gambo Abubakar 

A  non government organization the  CLEEN FOUNDATION has organised a two day interaction workshop on community accountability forum for  Kujama, Kasuwar Magani and Maraba Rido communities in Chiku local government areas of Kaduna state.

While briefing the newsmen's recently in Kaduna, the program officer of CLEEN foundation, Mr Ebere Mbaegbu said, 

"the essence of this gathering is to promote the community accountability forum in the state, this idea was born by the early warning response project in Kaduna."

"With aims is to establish the early warning respondent structures members, so as to bring all the key stakeholders to move together for margin insecurity issues; banditry, kidnapping, religion Violence's and conflicts, it also a form for dialogue between community and the police".

Mr Ebere also noted that, the composition of the CAF meeting it helps to have a better solution to the communities. Adding that CAF is design to facilitate inter action among the security stakeholders and security agencies in order to have an effective environment."

He further note,the key principles of the program is to respect human right,including the right of women and the children, imbibing the democratic values, receiving and given feedback of complaints,  jointly discussing and deciding the best way to solve the problems.and recognising that neither the police nor the informal policing group alone can solve the communities problems."

One of the participants; Antoney Samari also the district head of Kujama, taxes the residents for being conscious and alerts for any  movement that don't understand and reported to the relevant authorities for further necessary action.

The other women participant, Juliana Emmanuel, a women leader Maraba Rico, also called on the government to equipped the security agencies with sophisticated weapons in order to compromise the bad eggs in be dwelling the our communities".

However, the Youth leader Kasuwar Magani, Auwal Mohd, commended the CLEEN foundation of organising this gathering, which he described as credible for reducing the menace of insecurity and other communities challenges.

The various stakeholders attended the program; women leaders, members of the Nigerian police, vigilante's, traditional rulers, youth leaders, members of CAN,JNI among others.

2023: Consider NIgeria's Diversity When Choosing Running Mates, Northern Christian Elders Tell Atiku,Tinubu, Obi, Others

*condemn Owo Church killings

While congratulating candidates that emerged flag bearers of their respective parties ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Northern Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has once again, sounded a note of warning that the country's diversity should be taken into consideration while choosing their running mates.

NOSCEF expressed this in its Democracy Day message to the nation, signed by its President, Engineer Ejoga Oyinehi Inalegwu, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Friday June 10, 2022, warning that Muslim-Muslim, Christian-Christian tickets would be insensitive.

"We therefore appeal to all patriotic Presidential Candidates to avoid manipulative but dangerous and insensitive  Muslim/ Muslim ticket or Christian/Christian ticket that will further polarize the nation along religious lines when Nigerians are looking forward, with great expectations for a new dawn, come 2023. 

"A new era and government devoid of politics of exclusion, discrimination and injustice," NOSCEF said. 

NOSCEF said that they have watched with keen interest, particularly the emergence of various Presidential candidates on the platform of various parties for the 2023 general elections in Nigeria. We congratulate all the parties.

"As the parties therefore, make efforts to meet the deadline for the submission of their presidential and vice-presidential candidates, NOSCEF wants to again appeal to political parties to be sensitive to the mood of the nation, the religious diversity of our people and show patriotism by avoiding any action that will throw up our lines of divide, merely to win elections rather than steps that will unite our nation.

"We want to believe that anyone with the credentials to rule this nation from 2023, should be sensitive enough and not be a candidate that would take us back to our religious divides, through the instrument of Christian/Christian ticket or Muslim/Muslim ticket. We do not expect any patriot to, by so doing, again open the wounds for  our past bitter religious divides. 

"We need, as a nation, a united front to forge a new Nigeria, that will bring people together across religious divides because we do not lack quality across the religious and regional divides," it insisted. 

The frontline group said that  politicians should make deliberate efforts at avoiding playing the religious cards through such tickets and not turn around to accuse those who condemn their unpatriotic action as the culprits.

According to the statement, the Sunday church killings in Owo is barbaric and stands highly condemned.

"NOSCEF joinsled all Nigerians of conscience to condemn yet another barbaric invasion of a place of worship to commit mass murder as witnessed in St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. 

"We appeal to the security apparatus of state to collaborate with the regional security outfit, Amotekun to fish out the perpetrators and bring them to face the consequences of their heinous crime against humanity," the group said.

NOSCEF therefore, wished Nigerians a  happy Democracy Day.

Tinubu's victory a deserved reward for years of investment - Ajaka

The National Deputy Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon. Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, has described the recent victory of the party's presidential candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a deserved reward of his many years of Investment put into building men and raising leaders across Nigeria.

Hon. Ajaka expressed confidence that millions of Nigerians who appreciate Tinubu's enormous contribution to nation-building, and believe in his ability to transforming Nigeria into a more prosperous nation, will rally round him during the electioneering campaign and eventually vote for him ennass.

The former Lagos state governor emerged victorious at the just concluded special convention of APC to elect its presidential candidate.

In a congratulatory message released Thursday in Abuja, the APC deputy spokesperson said Tinubu's emergence "is a testament to your sagacity as a person, your astuteness as a politician and your doggedness in pursuing your ideals."

According to Ajaka, Nigerians can't wait to show Tinubu massive support during campaign.

"I join the multitude of your supporters to celebrate with you and congratulate you on the no-mean feat you achieved, emerging as the standard bearer of our great Party, the All Progressives Congress  (APC)to the 2023 presidential elections.

"Your victory is a deserved reward for the many years of investment you have put into building men and raising leaders across Nigeria.

"As we look forward with excitement to the commencement of campaigns, I have no doubt that the millions of Nigerians who appreciate your enormous contribution to nation-building, and believe in your ability to transforming Nigeria into a more prosperous nation, will rally round you to massively support you and our Party to victory in February’s election."

APC Primaries: Door To Door NWZ Felicitates with Tinubu

The North West Zonal Coordinator for Tinubu Door to Door Ambassadors Dr. Nasir Saidu Musa has congratulated His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu  on his emergence as the APC Presidential Flagbearer in next year elections.

In a congratulatory message, Dr. Nasir Saidu Musa said the voices of Nigerians were heard loud and clear in all over the country.

Dr. Nasir  Saidu Musa who is also  a strong supporter of Tinubu emphasized that the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Presidential Candidate of APC is the best thing that ever happened to the party an

d Nigeria.

He assured Nigerians that voting Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a symbol of unity of Nigeria as a nation.

The North West Zonal Coordinator for Tinubu Door to Door Ambassadors Dr. Nasir Saidu Musa described Tunibu as peace builder, unifier for national purpose and a founding father of the great party APC.

KEPA Embarks On Massive Roadwalk On World Environment Day,

The Kaduna Environmental protection Agency under the leadership of Maimuna Zakari  organised  two days activities to mark the internationally recognised World Environment Day .

The first lap of the activity commenced on June 4th with a sensitization road walk from Ahmadu  Bello Stadium to the heart of the Kaduna metropolis - Leventist Roundabout and then ended up at the Kaduna State Secretariat .

Amongst the participants were critical stakeholders committed to fighting environmental malaise such as air pollution, water pollution, burning of charcoal and cutting down of trees .

During the sensitization trek ,leaflets and posters were distributed to passersby, market men and women also enlightened about practices harmful to the environment

Speaking to media after at the State Secretariat complete  Corp Marshal of Kaduna State Transport Regulation Agency ( KASTELEA ) Garba Yahaya  highlighted the significance the event 

"Today is celebrated all over the as the World Environment Day, and it is a day we set aside to make sure that we keep our environment clean .

"As you can see,KEPA and other sister bodies have embarked on an enlightenment walk to  tell residents about the need to keep the environment clean and so far so good, we recording good measure of success,he said .

For Royal Yakubu Peter of National Environmental Standard Regulation Enforcement  Agency  ( NESRA), "the environment has been abused because of money"

Howevr, she said that the

"NESRA alongside KEPA are making slow but meaningful impact by enlightening people about the negative impact of polluting the environment" .

She further explained,

"So far, we are talking to women not to use coal in cooking, we are collaborating with the NYSC and KEPA in that regard and we have made  a lot of   progress , she added 

According to the GM of KEPA, Maimuna Zakari said 

" kEPA  here by calling on the public to join hands with the Government at all levels  and keep Kaduna state clean through regular cleaning of The Environment, 

She further appealed to citizens of the state to 

avoid dumping of waste on water ways, regular planting of trees and abolish open burning, also people to desist from deforestation and to embrace the habit of aforestation.

How Shehu Sani Predicted Lawson's Emergence As APC's Csndidate

The announcement of the Senate President , Senator Ahmed Lawn by the National Chairman of All Progressives Congress ,(APC) , Senator Abdullahi Adamu as the party's  consensus candidate for position of the president has confirmed the prediction of  Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani . 

Shehu Sani  today posted a  comment on his verified Twitter handle ," Don't believe anything until you see Lawan withdraw".

When called via telephone to verify the post and reasons behind such conclusion,Sani said,  "I knew the plan was to have someone from the North to battle the People's Democratic Party's  candidate,  former Vice  Atiku.

According to him, it is obvious that there is no APC candidate from the South that can contest and defeat Atiku in the forthcoming general election. 

 "This was the same manner ,I predicted how Atiku will emerge victorious and it came to  pass.He added .

He emphasized, "I can authoritatively tell you again  that the main opposition party , People's Democratic Party (PDP) will win the 2023 general elections and return to power.

" I posted the comment because I have studied the political atmosphere and discovered APC is confused and wouldn't want to lose power now ,hence decision by the party Chairman to announce Lawan as his  consensus candidate for president.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullah Adamu had earlier  announced Senate President Ahmad Lawan as APC consensus presidential candidate.

The announcement by Adamu at the meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) Monday in Abuja was contrary to the position of most Northern Governors on power shift to the South.

This comes amid preparations for the party’s convention to elect its presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections.

Though information gathered revealed that  such position was not adopted by the NWC.

According to a member of NWC who pleaded anonymity, it’s true chairman announced it ,but it was not discussed or adopted by the NWC. He just announced it as his personal opinion. Such can not stand.

2023: Obasanjo Has Given Assurances Of Backing Atiku, PDP - Northern Youth Leaders Forum

*says group has not withdrawn  support for former VP

While admitting that initially, former President Olusegun Obasanjo was of the view that the 2023 Presidency should be from the South East, a coalition comprising over 40 groups, Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF) has said that he has given assurances of backing the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and it's candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

NYLF expressed this at a press conference at the NIgeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Yola on Friday May 3, 2022, with the text of the statement read by its President, Comrade Eliot Afiyo.

"We want to unequivocally state that former President Olusegun Obasanjo  has assured us of his strong and unflinching support for the PDP and its  presidential candidate, Alh. Atiku Abubakar.

"It is true that Chief Obasanjo was initially of the opinion that the 

next president in 2023 should come from the south especially the 

South-East. 

"But he equally observed that what and who Nigeria  needs as the president in 2023 is somebody that has the political  will, knows the intrigues and intricacies of the Nigerian politics in  general and the Northern political scheming, political  manipulations and the emerging dynamic political trends and  above all, the boldness and courage needed to face the national  issues, take tough decisions, change the status and challenging  the powers that be to ensuring justice, equality, equity and sense  of belonging. This for sure, Chief Obasanjo is not unmindful of," the group said.

They submitted that from all indications, and available political indices, only Atiku Abubakar possesses these qualities. 

"It is in this direction thereof, Chief Obasanjo clearly stated that he 

and other members of the Circuit, had decided to unanimously 

endorsed and supported the emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the  presidential candidate of the PDP.

"Even political insolents and shenanigans know for sure that the Labour  Party will never form a national government where PDP and APC exist no  matter how best their candidate is. 

"Peter Obi is not even known amongst  the rural North where 70% of votes come from, not to talk of being elected  by them," the group said.. 

They explained that   elections are not and will never be won  through online or public opinion in Nigeria because those that determine the winners are not in the urban areas.

"It is therefore, unimaginable to say for a least, that Chief Obasanjo will  think of supporting Peter Obi. 

"Chief Obasanjo and his Circuit have said it time without number,

that 2023 will be the best season for them to correct whatever 

errors or mistakes committed by the founding fathers and their

generation. It is the best time to right the wrongs.

"We want to advice that Chief Obasanjo is a noble voice that erects, exerts and attracts respect especially in the entire North and as such should not  be used for propaganda," they submitted.

On the purpoted Ohaneze Ndi Igbo leaders and youth pronouncements, NYLF said that in spite of the perceived injustice in the South East, provocative pronouncements should be avoided.

"We strongly observed with great dismay, the pronouncements made by the  Ohaneze Ndi Igbo president which was followed by the pronouncement of  the president of the youth wing.

"While acknowledging the fact that there is a great injustice in the nation  especially to the South – East region, nevertheless, we want to say that  this is not the time for hard-line, provocative and offensive  pronouncements. 

"We are of the opinion that these pronouncements are  insensitive and unexpected of genuine patriots of Nigeria more so that it is  now time to unite and form a common front to confront the demons and  idols in human forms that are bent in destroying our nation," Comrade Afiyo said.

Speaking further, he said that Atiku Abubakar may not be the Joshua that will take NIgeria  to the 

promised land, but definitely, he is the Moses that will free the nation  from  the wicked grip of slave masters and taskmasters and  subsequently take it out of Egypt to crossing the red sea.

" A word is enough for our wise men from the East,"  he added.

Commenting on Atiku’s running mate For 2023, the group expressed optimism that errors made in 2019 would not be repeated.

"It is our firm belief that the mistakes and errors made or committed by the PDP and Atiku Abubakar in 2019 should be avoided at all cost. 

"We  observed strongly that the choice of both running mate and the Director-General of Atiku Campaign Organization, led to the lukewarm attitude of  the stakeholders and the masses especially the elites who despite the fact  that Atiku won the election, yet, they decided not to stop the APC’s  massive rigging, defend the votes or oppose the results declared by INEC change the narrative and restructure Nigeria," they said.

Reacting to the much publicised deleted Atiku’s Tweet on Atiku's Tweet on Deborah Samuel's murder, the group said that it was out of love for humanity.

"Of a truth, we would like to commend Atiku Abubakar for his courage,  wisdom and love for humanity, peaceful co-existence and religious  tolerance instead of condemning him for deleting the said tweet. we dare  to say that Atiku should be commended because God has used him to  avert a serious impending religious war in the country.

"Deleting the tweet by Atiku and sacking his Media Aide was 

timely and the best option considering the intelligence reports at our disposal as at the time the tweet was deleted because it does 

not only stop the altercations and vituperations which may lead to 

serious and more blasphemies which will eventually generate

riotous violence, it also averted the planned escalation of religious 

violence and massive killings of Christians in Sokoto, Kano, 

Katsina, Kaduna, Adamawa, Zamfara, Kebbi and Plateau States.

"We want to put it on records that Atiku was not aware of the 

Tweet until I drew his attention through one of his aides and 

appealed to him to delete it immediately based on the intelligence  reports I received from our Coordinators in Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Adamawa, Kebbi and Zamfara. 

"Even with that decision by Atiku,  the planned destruction of worship centres and business places  was minimally carried out thanks to our State Coordinators and  the Islamic Clerics like Gumi and others who immediately passed  the decision of Atiku down the line as a result of which the the  killings were averted. 

"To this end, we want to express our profound gratitude to Alh. Atiku 

Abubakar for taking such decision in the interest of the nation.

"We also want to thank him who despite being a comfortable, settled and  accomplished individual, still offered himself to serve the country so as to 

correct the injustices, address the fantastic corruption and stop the 

unwarranted and senseless shedding of blood all over the country. 

"We make bold to say that Atiku Abubakar is someone who believes in the unity  of Nigeria and sees Nigeria in every Nigerian.

We sincerely thank our patrons and elders who stood firmly to ensure the  victory of Atiku Abubakar and also to all members of Teecom under the leadership of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi who paid and made sacrifices  for a successful awareness and primaries," the group explained.

It is a great privilege and my humbled respect to address you today on some national issues and the political decision and direction of the  Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF).

You may recall that the NYLF shifted her political allegiance and support  from Governor Bala Mohammed to Alh. Atiku Abubakar on 26th March,  2022 when the entire National officers paid a courtesy call on Atiku and 

consequently decorated him and High Chief Dokpesi with the golden and  silver swords respectively, thereby surrendering and pledging totally, our  allegiance and loyalty to Atiku Abubakar whether for good or bad. 

They therefore, debunked publications that they withdrew support for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ahead the 2023 polls.

"It is therefore, not true that the NYLF has withdrawn its support for Atiku  Abubakar as being peddled by a section of the press especially the  southern online bloggers that NYLF endorses Peter Obi. 

"It is our strong belief and conviction that Peter Obi has the 

intellect and economic know - how but lacks the political will to 

take though decisions and popular appeal especially in the rural 

North.

"We want to state clearly that the NYLF is hundred per cent behind Atiku Abubakar," they affirmed.

The group extended  appreciation to all former and present members   of the NYLF who served as delegates and gatekeepers to ensuring Atiku  Abubakar’s victory.

"In conclusion, we want to reiterate our total support and commitment towards ensuring the victory of Atiku Abubakar in  the forthcoming presidential election by giving him the rural  North’s votes, stopping rigging by all means, protecting the votes  and ensuring the proper recording and announcement of the  results," they vowed.

River Basin gives Buhari 14days ultimatum to remove ilorin MD, Dr. Aremu over corruption allegations

In an attempt to resolve the lingering corruption allegations at Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority (LNRBDA) Ilorin, kwara state capital, the All River Basin Trade Group has given 14 days ultimatum to President Mohammadu Buhari to remove the Managing Director of LNRBDA ilorin, Dr. Saheed Aremu.

This is contained in a Communique duly signed by the National Chairman of the Forum, Comr. Mudi Raji and made available to Nigerian NewsDirect in Abuja on Wednesday.

The statement reads " we bring greetings from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources/River Basin Authority  (FMWR/RBDAs) Trade group wish to assure you of our unending support for your Administration.

" The forum inline with our earlier resolutions sent to your office after our meeting dated 30th March, 2022 the 14 days ultimatum for the removal of Dr. Aremu over his high corrupt practices and incompetence in running the affairs of Government agency like LNRBDA ilorin.

" The forum has decided to issue another 14 days and final ultimatum as required by the labour laws for the said issue too be resolved through the removal of Dr. Aremu as the MD of LNRBDA who has constituted himself as an embarrassment and to frustrate the good intention of this Administration by practically jettison the core mandate of the Authority for personal gains. 

" This ultimatum starts from 31st May, 2022 and after which an industrial action will commence if nothing is done ass regards the union's request.

The Communique stressed ' we hereby appeal that the necessary action should be taken as soon as possible to avert every intending industrial action which may result to an embrassement for this Administration.

"Note that the action is necessary to protect the integrity of this government on zero tolerance for corrupt practices and also to salvage lower Niger Basin from state of derailment and destruction.