Experts Reject Moves To Amend NBMA Act 2015

By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON

A cross section of experts who participated in the public hearing organized by the National Assembly Senate Committee on Environment on Wednesday in Abuja, urged the Senate to outrightly reject any attempt to amend the act, saying the move is unprogressive and obstructive to the progress of Nigeria.

Prof. Abdulahil Mustapha, Director General, NABDA in his submission, said the amendment is not necessary as it will limit the practice of science in Nigeria. 

“Nigeria has enacted deliberate policies that positioned science and technology as the engine to drive the economic, so turning around to set up unnecessary roadblocks will limit science from taking us to our destination.”

He urged the Senate to jettison the proposed amendment because it anti people and development.

In a submission, Prof. Mohammed Ishiyaku, Executive Directive, IAR said that the NBMA act 2015 remained the best protection for the proactive modern biotechnology in Nigeria. 

“Amending the bill now will amount to reversing the gains made since the coming of the law in 2015.

“The amendment seeks to tight the hands of the scientists and make the practice of science impossible in the country. The amendment will not add value to the practice of science in Nigeria” he said.

Also speaking, Dr Rufus Ebegba, Director General, NBMA said the amendment is planned to kill the desire of our scientists to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country but open the country up for dumping of unauthorized GMOs.

Prof. Celestine Aguoro of tge University of Agriculture Makurdi said the amendment is targeted at driving indigenous Nigerian scientists away from the country as it will end up limiting their scope while frustrating their efforts.

Explaining further, Prof Chiedozie Egesi, who represented IITA said that the proposal to amend the Biosafety Bill is retrogressive as it will further reverse the progress made in Biotechnology in Nigeria so far.

Dr Andrew Iloh, the representative of the DG/CEO SHESTCO further reiterated the need to terminate any further move towards amending the Biosafety Act 2015.

Lending his voice, the President of the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Arc Kabir Ibrahim emphasized that all the farmers in Nigeria are in support of Biotechnology and any attempt that is targeted at limiting the scope of Biotechnology operation in Nigeria should not be welcome. 

The AFAN President said that Nigerian farmers needs technology that will lift them out of poverty and that biotechnology is the only solution. 

The farmer also went further to share his experience with the farming of the biotech beans in Nigeria, PBR Cowpea.

 “I have been farming PBR Cowpea since its inception, and I can categorically tell you that the PBR Cowpea is giving me a wonderful experience, I get more than 3 times the yield of the local beans” Kabir concluded.

Also addressing members of the public and Senators present at the public hearing, former President of the Genetic Society of Nigeria (GSN) advised that the proposal to amend the Biosafety Bill 2015 should be thrown into the bin with immediate effect. 

He said that Nigeria as a Nation has moved pass this stage in science and any individual trying to drag the Nation backward should not be given any considerations.

African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Project Manager, Mr Vitumbiko Chinoko also shared more light on why the amendment of the 2015 Biosafety Acts should not be given any consideration. 

Mr Vitumbiko emphasized that Nigeria who has already established herself as the leading Biosafety drivers in Africa would lose her position if her Biosafety Act is amended to limit the scope of researchers in the country.

Abuja residents lament illegal structures erected in estate, accuses govt agencies of compromise

Tension has continue to mount as landowners and tenets in Expansion Layout in Gwagwalada area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja are decrying against illegal structures erected on their access roads.

The landlords and tenets have accused the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Development Control, among other relevant agencies of negligent in curbing the activities of these miscreants despite the fact that several petitions have been written to them since 2014.

In a reminder letter open letter Signed by the Community leader Mr. Onoja Sylvester to the Minister and made available to Nigerian NewsDirect reads "Closure of our access road due to erection of buildings and illegal sales of residential plots on access road to the Minister of FCT and the Director, Department of Urban & Regional Planning  Federal Capital Development Agency dated July 5th, 2021 made available to this medium reads;  We humbly call your attention on the above subject matter. 

"We have been cut off from our access road as stipulated by the master plan of expansion layout Gwagwalada. We are now finding it difficult to go out of our residences as road networks has deliberately been sold off to unsuspecting buyers by land agents while the relevant authorities who should be watch dogs turn deaf ear to our cries.

"This has been on since 2014 when these activities started. We have written several letters while these illegal developments are still going on even after the development control has marked 'stop work'.

" The owner of an alternative compound used by the Community a access way out have fenced their compound . Apart from series of estate and buildings we have two major schools using this road network.

" During this raining season, it's a major problem maneuvering these roads but it has totally been blocked by these illicit structures.

" We are appealing to you to kindly find a lasting solution to this problem to open the existing roads network as designed in the master plan. 

When our reporter contacted the Special Assistant on Media to FCT Minister, Abubakar Sani simply said he will get back on the issue at the time of filing this report.

SDP PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE, PRINCE ADEWOLE ADEBAYO COMMISSIONS THE PARTY’S CAMPAIGN SECRETARIAT IN WARRI, DELTA STATE

 

Monday 29th August, 2022

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo on Monday 29th August, 2022 commissioned the SDP presidential campaign secretariat in Warri, Delta State. 

While commissioning the building, Prince Adebayo stated that the people should see the secretariat as a sign of hope for them, and that it brings an end to deceit, while ushering in truth in governance.

He noted that the office has been opened for the people, and that the restoration of their destiny lies in their hands, adding that the party will solve the problem of unemployment amongst Nigerians. 

“We open this office in the name of the Father, the son, the Holy Spirit and in the name of all the good things and all the good people of Nigeria”, he added.

Among those present at the commissioning were the former minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, Sen Ugochukwu Uba and Chief Godwin Osigbeme. 

Also present was the Delta State gubernatorial candidate, Barr Kenneth Gbagi, accompanied by his deputy, Chief Mrs Oshilim Ishioma Rosemary, the state chairman of the party, Ambassador Oke Idawene JP, Rev. Philip Bilotu, LGA, Ward Chairmen, Senate, House of Representatives and House of Assembly, Osiki Amos, Chairman of the party in Ughelli South LGA, Felix Wologhor, Chairman, Jeremi Ward II, Edward Office, President General, Oginibo Community, Kelly Obi, Welfare Officer, Jeremi Ward II, Chief Samuel Otoh, Unit Ward Chairmen and Mrs. Helen Diajiyeren, candidates under the platform of the Social Democratic Party.

       

OLU OF WARRI, OGIAME ATUWASE III RECEIVES PRINCE ADEWOLE ADEBAYO AT HIS RESIDENCE*

Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo was received by the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwase III at his private residence in Warri, Delta state on Tuesday 30th August, 2022.

Accompanied by chief Godwin Osigbeme , Prince Adewole Adebayo drove in a Rolls Royce and was led to see the monarch by Prince Yemi Emiko, a member of the royal family.

The SDP Presidential candidate went into a closed-door meeting with Atuwatse III shortly after an exchange of pleasantries and photo sessions with the traditional ruler.

His Royal Highness, Ogiame Atuwatse III, recently celebrated his one year coronation anniversary.

SDP Presidential Candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo Attends Service at Word of Life Bible Church Warri, Delta State

*

Word of Life Bible Church, International Gospel Center, Ajamimogha, Warri, Delta state on Sunday August 28, 2022 was all agog as distinguished identities which include the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo alongside SDP’s gubernatorial candidate for Delta state, Barr. Kenneth Gbagi attended the 2022 edition of “Let God Arise” programme.

The General overseer of Word of Life Bible Church and International Gospel Center, Ajamimogha, Warri, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, a former Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), welcomed and acknowledged the presence of Prince Adewole Adebayo and his entourage. Amongst Prince Adebayo’s entourage were, the former minister of Youth and Sports Development, Barr. Solomon Dalung, Sen Ugochukwu Uba and Chief Godwin Osigbeme.

The SDP Delta State gubernatorial candidate, Barr. Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, was also in the company of the party’s deputy gubernatorial candidate the state, chief Mrs. Oshilim Ishioma Rosemary, the state chairman of the party, Ambassador Oke Idawene JP, Rev. Philip Bilotu, LGA, Ward Chairman amongst others.

The programme “Let God Arise” is slated for Monday 1st August to Wednesday 31st August 2022.

As the church auditorium of the Word of Life Bible Church was filled with true worshippers expecting the touch of God, alongside proponents of candidates of the Social Democratic Party(SDP),the preacher, Sam Osietutu, intrigued worshippers with glorious and heart-lifting exhortation coupled with prayers, healing and deliverance.

2023 :Moves To Pacify Sani Shaaban Underway

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

Sensing imminent defeat of Kaduna State in the forthcoming 2023 Governorship election, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in collaboration with the party's chieftains close to President Muhammadu Buhari is making frantic moves to pacify, Alhaji Sani Mahmud Shaaban, one of the notable politician who took the party to court over non compliance with INEC provisions during the conduct of 2023 primaries in the state.

Reliable source who craved anonymity, confided to us that the moves is being spearheaded by allies with alleged support of the president who were not comfortable with the manner in which Governor Nasir El-Rufai and the party's governorship candidate, Uba Sani is running the affairs of the party.

"We are really miffed at the manner Shaaban was treated by the party he laboured to build. Shaaban is among the first that laid the foundation upon which APC is built. He is a prominent ally of President Buhari. He has never been opposed to the ideals of the president. These and many more qualities he possess, but look at the way some opportunists through jump from the window, reaping what didn't sow, turn our great party in Kaduna."

Our source added that, even though there is a case before the court, the time for the election is past approaching, the elders of the party is mulling over multiple options to avoid what happened in Zamfara to befall APC in Kaduna State.

When contacted, Shaaban, who holds the title of Dan Buran Zazzau and Barden Keffi said since the case is before the court, he would not comment, but that he is a committed member of APC and he will continue to assist the party in every way possible.

Efforts to reach the party's governorship candidate, Uba Sani, proved abortive as all his phones are not going through and text messages sent to him have not been replied.

Sani Shaaban instituted a legal action against the state's chapter of the APC over non compliance with the INEC statutory laws guiding the conduct of the party's 2023 primaries in Kaduna State.

 

He opined that APC has  not conducted any primaries in all the elective positions and that some people concocted the results and this may spell doom for the party in the state.

Investigation Reveals Civil Defence Staff Owed For Months, Not Promoted

Some staff of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with Higher National Diploma (HND) have cried out, lamenting that they are being owed 26 months salary arrears and left without having promotion since joining the service in the year 2012.

The affected officers appealed to the Minister of interior, His Excellency Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to mandate the Corps to pay them the arrears, and look into the promotion stagnation affected by the personal of the corps, explaining that when HND/BSC dichotomy was removed and they were placed on GL8, some of them were paid GL8 salaries while others did not receive theirs for 26 months.

further more, the problem of stagnation in the service, almost affected officers from 2005, 2010, 2012 intake of the corps some of them are not in their proper position as prescribed by civil service rule, which stated that personal should enjoy promotion after every 3 years of service. 

On 26th August 2022, list of promotion released by CDCFIB has clearly shows that some states are been favoured while some states are left behind.

The future carrier progression of such officers are being played with, some officers spends 10 to 15 years in service without being promoted to the next rank.

however, the affected personnel of 2012 HND in take across the country, whose leaders’ identities are being withheld for fear of victimisation, also lamented that after being advanced to level 8 in 2016, due to the removal of the dichotomy between HND and BSC none of them has received further promotion while their colleagues with Bachelor's degree have been promoted twice, keeping the B,Sc holders in level 10, two levels above their HND colleagues.

However, since 2016 that 2012 HND intake got advancement to GL8, they have not been promoted till date and B,Sc. holders of 2012 intake have been writing promotion exams to the extent they are ahead of HND 2012 Personnel with two levels, that is level 10 rank of DSC,

Presently the newly recruited 2019 officer will soon write their COMPRO exams and subsequently promoted to the next rank. In the last promotion list released by the CDICF

The affected NSCDC staff therefore urged the Minister of Interior to look into their plea to enable them work at their optimal

Adamawa APC stalwart advises Tinubu Presidential campaign team to engage Amb Kevin

....says his political prowess to pull votes for APC is unprecedented

Nigerian Envoy to the Czech Republic, His Excellency Ambassador Kevin Peter was described as one of the spine back bone of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Adamawa state that his penchant love and loyalty for the party has no bound.

A stalwart of APC in Adamawa state Abdulrahaman Maina Yaji has advised the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential campaign council to involve Kevin Peter in the team.

He said engaging into the mega Presidential campaign team will lead to many successes of the party for many obvious reasons.

Maina who is also Mutawallin Michika said the Nigerian Ambassador to the Czech Republic is a personality widely admired for his courage, charisma, sound character,  friendliness, intelligence, and a politician with pulling crowd syndrome.

He said Kevin is like Tinubu who is extremely into the business of molding destinies, especially the youths as future leaders and agents of positive change in all areas of human endeavors.

Maina granted an interview to our correspondent in Yola and revealed that the Tinubu/Shettima campaign team will find him a worthy instrument as a grassroots politician who can use his political prowess to galvanize votes for APC from the North East axis.

"His Excellency Ambassador Kevin Peter is a pillar of APC in Northern Adamawa and Adamawa state; he is the initiator, founder, and sponsor of APC project 2023 in Northern Adamawa,  which has members across the Five Local governments in Northern Adamawa, the social platform have created tremendous awareness to the people of the zone and that consolidate the APC as a party, stronger in the zone.

"Ambassador Kevin is very optimistic that APC, will maintain her 2015 and 2019 victories, more come 2023 by the grace of God, considering unprecedented  achievements recorded by President Buhari and the caliber of the candidates at all levels for 2023 elections," Maina said

The Mutawallin Michika continued to say that Peter is another Jagaban, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the North to have mentored so many youths into political leadership at the grassroots, empowered youths who are today independent.

"Political stardom of Ambassador. Kevin has no match, he carries everybody alone, and he has no sentiment, Kevin is for everybody and everybody is for Kevin.

How I pray, is that the Tinubu/Shettima Campaigns Council will draft Ambassador Kevin into the mainstream of the presidential National Campaign council.

"Kevin is a key factor and actor in Adamawa politics, is not an exaggeration, looking at his preponderance in the Political Development of Adamawa state, he has a passion for the party in both the Young and the old, and he is an enormous political Magnet.

He is a foundation member and one of the many actors who worked tirelessly in Adamawa State toward the success of APC in the state. He is a  master strategist.

"Northern Adamawa and indeed Adamawa state is fortunate to be blessed with Kevin Peter. We in Northern Adamawa owe Amb. Kevin has an enormous debt of gratitude knowing that history will always remember him for his sacrifices, which have enormously consolidated the high percentage of the membership of APC, in Adamawa State. To crown it all, the youths of Northern Adamawa are praying for more leadership positions for Amb. Kevin. 

" Kevin has raised high the integrity of Nigerians is his country of assignment;  also anchored Agricultural and sporting development and partnership, between  Nigeria and the Czech Republic. 

"Ambassador Kevin Peter has no enemy, he is a friend to all in Adamawa state and beyond," Abdulrahaman added

He is confident that his political prowess in Peter if involved in the campaign team will give the party a resounding victory.

LoveWorld’s Rhapsody of Realities Now Most Translated Publication in the World

The Rhapsody of Realities, a publication of LoveWorld Publishing Ltd, a daily devotional authored by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome of The Christ Embassy is now the most translated book in the world. 

The Director of Operations, LoveWorld Publishing, Pastor (Mrs.) Lola Aisida who made this known said the publication has now been translated into 7,000 worldwide with 520 of these languages from Nigeria alone.

“Never in the history of the world, and in all the record books of Guinness Book of World Records, has any literary material – be it document, film, writing, book, or any piece of historical or modern parchment - been translated into 7,000 languages.

“The meteoric rise of the Rhapsody of Realities devotional to the most-coveted spot as the world’s No 1 daily devotional and now Most Translated Book in the world began with first edition published in the English Language by LoveWorld Publishing.”

She said that 22 years after, LoveWorld Publishing has grown into a vast network of publishers spread across several countries, adding that the work of translation is deployed by a massive army of translators who applied due diligence processes in delivering Rhapsody of Realities to all the 7,000 languages.

“By any standard, the work of translation is not an easy one. If it were, the world’s popularly literary pieces would have long been made available in all languages. On the contrary, authenticated records show that the most translated short film documentary is in eleven translations; the most translated short film has 22 translations; the most translated document, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, produced by United Nations in 1948 has been translated into only 370 languages as of 2019.

“And, even the acclaimed Most Professionally Translated Author in the World, Agatha Christie has her books in only 100+ languages!”

“There are over 7,000 languages spoken today, but a report says 42 percent of these languages are endangered. These statistics posed a global challenge fit only for a global publishing house that transcends the inadequacies of the publishing space.”

She concluded that LoveWorld Publishing will ensure that no language goes extinct as Rhapsody of Realities will remain widely distributed month after month in over 7,000 languages of the world.

Speaking, the Abuja Zonal Pastor, Christ Embassy, Dipo Fisho, appreciated Pastor Oyakhilome "for bringing men into the reality of the original purpose for which they were created," through the book.

He said the Ministry would ensure the book continues to reach all communities in nations of the world.

According to him, the purpose of the book is "to bring men back to their creator for their purpose to be fulfilled," mentioning that testimonies abound of people in hopeless situations who have got the reason again to live again by reading the book.

A user, Dr. Chris Iyama, said the Rhapsody of Realities has been transforming lives, mentioning that as users, there has been the creation of study groups meeting daily to study the book.

He said the book is mind enlightening and the testimonies of its users have shown productive contributions in their various endeavors, including legislators in the National Assembly and public offices. 

According to him, the 7000 languages translation feat is "worth celebrating and shouting about.

I would like to commend this awesome book which has become one of the best testimonies out of Nigeria to the rest of the world. I pray for greater unction on the Man of God Pastor Chris Oyakhilome to write this life transforming book, said Mr. Yinka Aderibigbe, Publisher, Sunrise News Online.

Nimrod Demands Top Spot As NIgeria's U-19 Volleyball Teams Depart For Abuja, Morroco

By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON

Ahead of Africa Volleyball U-19 Championship billed for NIgeria and Morocco simultaneously, President of the NIgeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) Engineer Musa Nimrod Musa has charged the country's male and female teams to go for the top spot.

Engineer Nimrod gave the charge, while addressing both teams ahead of their departure on Monday at the Media Centre, Ahmadu Bello Stadium (ABS), Kaduna.

According to him,  "this is to unveil our U-19 Boys and Girls teams ahead of African championship. U-19 Boys would be heading for   Morocco tomorrow (Tuesday August 30) and the girls to Abuja today (Monday August 29).

He explained that the female have to be in Abuja  on 29 ahead of   full arrival billed for  August 30.

"After rigorous training from coaches, they are set to go. Over 30 players were invited to camp for each team, the boys will go with 12 players, but the girls will go with 14 players because we are hosting.

"It's our desire that they will come first. Our major goal is to see that we get ticket for world championship," he said.

According to him, NIgeria's Technical Crew  have been assisting them to ensure they excel at their respective competitions. 

"We are pleased with their performance. Our U-19 Boys are defending their ticket. We are challenging them that they have to finish tops.

"I want to appeal to all the players, though it has been challenging, but God has been faithful.

"It's unfortunate that our U-21 girls could not make it to Tunisia because of flight tickets. We are glad that Morocco is even cheaper than Tunisia and they are being sponsored by the federation," he said.

Speaking further, he said that the game of volleyball is now sought after game at the grassroots and keeps getting huge followership as the days go by. 

"Those days in the 1980s, football and volleyball were competing even with the crowd. We pray God helps us to get back and surpass that feat. The league is still going to take place, we pray it is successful.

"We want to thank the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Zonal Coordinator for accommodating us for the past one and half month.

"I see greater things coming ahead for our coaches and players. Your performance determines whether coaches will invite you to the national camp. You have to play as a team, not as individuals. Please work together, move together, talk together, eat together. May God be with you and grant you success," he charged.

According to him, NIgeria would be hosting six countries in the Africa Female U-21 Volleyball Championship and arrangements have been concluded to host the six Confederation of Africa Volleyball (CAVB) officials expected in the country.

Metropolitan Choir Preaches Love, Peace, Unity Through Music

The Kaduna Metropolitan Choir, on Saturday held a concert to preach love, peace, and unity through songs in view of the prevailing security and other challenges affecting the people of the state.

The Supervisory Leader of the choir, Mr Samuel Yatai, said during the concert, at ECWA Gospel, Green Roof, Barnawa, Kaduna, that the concert was to encourage people to love one another through singing.

Yatai said that the concert, with the theme, “Obstacles Removed in the Body of Christ”, reflects the prevailing insecurity, hunger, poverty, and other circumstances affecting the people of Kaduna state and Nigeria.

He said that the concert, which is the second edition, brought different choir groups from different churches to sing about peace, love, and unity, as a way out of the current undesirable predicament.

He identified the choir groups as Barnawa Catholic Deanary Choir, ECWA Kaduna Zone DCC Choir, COCIN RCC Choir, ANCA Choir, 1DIV. Garrison Choir and Kaduna Baptist Conference Choir. 

Others, he added were Kaduna North Metropolitan Choir, Kaduna Central Metropolitan Choir, Kaduna South Metropolitan Choir and Choir ECWA Gospel Barnawa Choir.

“This is because we are convinced that despite our prevailing conditions, we should still come together and sing to the glory of God, spread His words of love for peace and unity to prevail.

“Some of our relatives have been kidnapped, killed, injured, or displaced and we are currently traumatized.

“By the time we come together and sing together, God will heal our troubled hearts and give us reasons to smile again and extend a hand of love to one another,” he said.

He urged residents of the state with Permanent Voter Cards to come out en masse and vote during the forthcoming General Election. 

“I also want to call on us to be careful of the happenings around us and the country in general during and after the elections.

“Let us continue to pray for peace in Kaduna State and the nation as a whole,” he said.

He described it a “privilege” for people from different backgrounds and orientations to congregate and share God’s love through music. 

He said that choristers within the three Kaduna metropolitan areas, namely Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan constitute the membership of the metropolitan choir. 

“The choir has shaped us into becoming one indivisible group that enshrined fellowshipping and doing things together as a family, promoting peace and unity amongst us despite our denominational differences,” he said.

The Deputy Governor of the state, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, who was a special guest at the occasion commended the group for promoting love, tolerance, and peace through songs.

Balarabe, who was represented by Mrs Stella Amako, Special Adviser to Gov. Nasir El-Rufai on Community Relations, commended the Metropolitan Choir for the demonstration of love and peace and harmonious relationship.   

She said: “There is no better thing to do at this critical time considering the security and other challenges affecting us than to preach love and peace.

“This is commendable, and it will go a long way in entrenching the needed peace and harmonious relationship among the different people living in Kaduna state.

“The state government will continue to support all endeavours geared toward promoting peace, love and tolerance among residents for development to thrive.”

Earlier, the pastor of the church, Rev. Ezekiel Bulus, described the metropolitan choir as a “platform” for the creation of peace and unity through singing.

According to him, singing is a stronger tool in creating joy, peace and uniting not only the church, but all the people of the state.

Rev. Joseph Hayab, State Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), said that the association would continue to encourage Christian groups to preach love and tolerance needed to build a united Nigeria.

Hayab noted the current security challenges, stressing that spreading the word of love, understanding and peace through songs, would melt a troubled heart and promote unity.

He also encouraged residents of the state to participate fully in the 2023 General Election to elect good leaders that would unite the country and drive progress and development of the people.

Kwara Senior Civil servants frown invasion of Secreatarait by miscreants

By Matthew Denis

The Kwara State Chapter Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has condemned in strong term the recent invasion of our National Secretariat in Lagos last week.

The association alleged that expelled members including the Former President of the Association, Bola Audu Innocent alongside some hired thugs were behind the unwholesome incident.

This is contained in a Communique duely signed by the Kwara State Chairman of the association, Comr. Folashade Idowu, the Chapter Chairman, comr. Niyi Adedokun and the state Secretary, Comr. Tunde Joseph and made available to Newsmen on Thursday.

The Communique reads " it may interest you to know that the Association is made up of experienced technocrats in the public service of the Federal Government and the (36) states of the Federation.  

"Thus it is a composition of Civil Servants that cherish due process and decorum in the running of the affairs of the Association.

"Recalled that Audu was made to step aside in March last year by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Association after he was arrested in Abuja by the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for alleged trafficking in persons and exploitation of vulnerable persons.

"while the Association was exploring formal channels to see how he could be given soft landing by the authorities, Audu invaded the National Headquarter Annex of the Union in Abuja and indulged in all manner of Constitutional breaches thereby forcing the Association to expel him from the Union after an Emergency National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting held at Lagos in August 2021.

"In view of the above Kwara State Branch of the Association therefore warns Audu and his misguided cohorts that, they would be held solely responsible if any staff of the Union at Lagos and Abuja is harmed in anyway.

"furthermore Audu and his gang should steer clear of the National Secretariat of the Association in Lagos and Abuja so that the Association can continue to pursuing its statutory responsibility of protecting and safeguarding the interest of its teeming members throughout the Federation as it has been doing over the decades."

The Communique noted that the entire leadership and teeming members of the Association in the state hereby pass a vote of confidence on the National President of the Association Comrade (Dr) Tommy Etim Okon and the Secretary-General Comrade Alade Bashir Lawal, and urge them to remain steadfast and continue with their services to the Association in general.

KASU Prof, MD Dogara set to launch a book on the Fundamentals of Geoscience

By Tom Garba, Yola

An academic book which is a Masterwork for Chief Executives, Undergraduate and postgraduate students on the Fundamentals of Geoscience is ready to be launched at a sooner date.

The book, a classic and cream of the crop for increasing knowledge is about to set in for those seeking knowledge in the meta and geophysics world.

The author, Professor Matoh Dogara Dary of the Kaduna State University (KASU) in the book coined up and researched resource materials on Solid Earth, Hydrogeology, potential field methods, an electrical and electromagnetic method, remote sensing and geographic information systems, and seisomology for mind development and knowledge base for nation building.

Matoh, an Applied Geophysics professor have over a decade lectured in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria in the department of Physics before venturing into politics said the book has touched on radiometric, environmental geophysics, and geochemical prospecting.

Dogara in his journey to becoming a Professor of Geophysics in KASU had a bridge political stop over life and spent about a decade where he became a Local Government administrator, a cabinet member, and a presiding legislator (deputy speaker) in Luggard Hall, Kaduna State House of Assembly.

Dary told our correspondent he has fully resumed back to a lecturing work and the book will certainly be suitable for those hungry for knowledge in Geophysics, Geography and it will greatly enhance multidisciplinary studies and research.

While discussing the launching of the Book with our reporter, the Chairman of the contact and mobilization committee, Prof. HO Aboh said preparations are on top gear to announce the arrival of a new idea to the world.

According to Aboh some committee members to have included Dr. Attahiru Abdullahi, Adamu Nuhu Bargo, and himself have started consultations and created much awareness of the unveiling of the masterwork of Professor Matoh.

He said yesterday the members visited the Kaduna Polytechnic Rector, Dr. Umar Suleiman where he accepted to serve as a member of the Book Launching/Presentation Committee. 

He revealed that Rector Umar promised to support in any capacity for the success and the task of launching the book.

Professor Aboh said the book it's indeed not only a good research work for the academics but a Magnus Apus for nation building through learning

SDP PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE PRINCE ADEBAYO EMERGES AS 2022 POLITICIAN OF THE YEAR

 

On Thursday, 25th August, 2022, Prince Adewole Adebayo, Presidential flag bearer of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was bestowed an award in recognition of his leadership as the most outstanding politician of the year 2022 by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Abuja. 

The award was delivered on the sidelines of the 40th anniversary of NANS held at the National Univeristies Commission (NUC) Hall in Abuja. The focal point of dioscussions was ‘Public Education System on the brink of collapse: Rescue it now or prepare for the alternative’ and emboided the frustrations and aspirations of Nigerian students. 

NANS had recently been accused of non-chalarnce towards the resolution of the rift between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Univeristies (ASUU) that resulted in a prolonged strike. The leadership of the student body, through the NANS President, Sunday Ashefon, expressed that the education system in Nigeria was on the brink of total collapse and that NANS had received more than it could handle from the unfolding events. 

“Perhaps the tertiary sector in Nigeria is faced with one of the strongest tests in our history in the last few years. We have witnesses the total collapse of the sector as a result of the incessant strike. This challenge alone is bigger than what any NAN administration could resolve,” he remarked.  NANS Life Patron and politician, Hon. Shina Abiola Peller on behalf of the student body presented the award to Price Adebayo, eulogizing the politician who showed up recently on the political scene but has gained noteriety for pushing critical thinking and resolve in any conversation about today’s polity. 

In accepting this award, Prince Adebayo was in company of the former Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon. Solomon Dalung, Senator Ugochukwu Uba, Pastor Ade Alabi, and Chief Godwin Osigbeme. Prince Adebayo in his good will message to NANS, congratulated the student body for surviving the socio-economic brutalities of the 80s, 90s and 2000s. He said that NANS is a serious recruitment body that will produce all kinds of leadership, and thus, NANS must be taken seriously when discussing issues of national interest in Nigeria.

He further charged that for NANS to be taken seriously, NANS must take itself seriously. “NANS must maintain a coordinated position on every national issue, else this recruitment body will incur three problems that cannot be cured. The youth must go back to the days of involvement with both foreign and national affairs,” he said.

 

The 3 problems he cautioned about were; 

1. NANS not having a common position on national issues. This projects the decisions of the student body as contradictory.

2. The Nigerian youth who don't have a NANS-like organization to protect their interests will further suffer as a result of unarticulated interests.

3. The perception that a government is full of people thinking about the welfare of youths being false - because today’s leaders are not thinking about welfare at all.

Now a Presidential Candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo comes for an entrepreneurial background as legal luminary and media mogul. He founded media enterprise KAFTAN TV that employs and empowers the Nigerian youth demographic, and has established his law practice in Nigeria and overseas where he is a known employer of labor.

“We should not have a country where the leaders who are there now have no solution, and the leaders who are coming tomorrow are not thinking” said Adebayo. He therefore advised that the entire student body should be more reflective, adding that this is not the time for any form of celebration or recognition to anybody. He pinpointed that a leadership that cannot open a university has no member capable of receiving any award from students. 

“You cannot be awarding strike, broken curriculum, underfunded universities and stolen money. If we are giving politicians awards now that the economy is down, what are we going to give them when universities have computers, when they design curriculums correctly, and build universities where everyone has a decent hostel?"

In his parting remarks Prince Adebayo thanked the student body for the gesture, and said that NANS should go back to its radical days. 

“The most important segment of a country is the youth that must be radical. The youth must be visionary and the youth must be idealistic. They must not take excuses because Nigeria needs an angry NANS that ask questions, that challenges authority because nobody else is doing it. If you don't do it, the country is gone.” He noted. 

The presidential candidate implored NANS to be more international because although problems abound, but solutions are also there.

NDDC Director Not Arrested - Management

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has described as untrue, a report published by some national dailies and online platform, insinuating that a director with of the commission was arrested.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday August 25, 2022.

"The attention of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has been drawn to a story published by the Vanguard, The Nation, Punch, Premium Times and few other news journals, alleging that the Director, Finance and Accounts of the Commission, Mr. Eno Ubi Otu, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), “in relation to a case of alleged diversion of over N25 billion tax remittances.”

"Management wishes to categorically, and without equivocation, state that Mr. Eno Ubi Otu was only invited by the EFCC as part of a routine procedural investigation into non remittance VAT over a 15-year period, raised by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), ostensibly orchestrated by persons seeking to be named in the forthcoming Board of the Commission.

" It is important to state that this period covers when the Director was not even a member of the Commission’s Management Committee. EFCC has therefore only invited him to provide more clarity to their investigations. Mr. Eno Ubi Otu was not arrested," the statement said.

It decried publications that went ahead to allege that N25 billion was looted within the commission.

" Indeed, Management views with grave concern the report that there is an attempt to uncover “how N25 billion was looted and how it was shared.” It is also to be noted that this is mere conjecture by the reporters, since such information has not been attributed to any individual, neither did the EFCC’s spokesman, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, provide such information, neither did he confirm it. To imply therefore a criminal liability is most reckless and distasteful, even to the least standards of ethical journalism.

"As an agency of the Federal Government, the commission, has reached out to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), another agency of the same government, to ascertain the actual inter-agency claims, to enable the office of the Accountant General of the Federation to effect a direct debit transfer to FIRS , taking into consideration huge income  due to NDDC from unpaid Ecological Funds and shortfalls on monthly statutory remittances, as provided for under section 14(2) of the NDDC Establishment Act.

"The alleged issue of diversion of VAT  by our Finance Director, as reported by the  media is most unfortunate. The distorted and distractive news item is viewed in line with a contrived media campaign orchestrated by some unproductive persons who are bent on getting appointed into another interim management in NDDC. The ulterior motives of these individuals are already known; which is to grab an opportunity from the government and use same as ATM for the upcoming 2023 general elections! Nothing about service or value addition," it said.

The commission therefore, advised members of the public to disregard the twisted online news.

7,000 languages, hosts #ReachOutWorldLive with Pastor Chris

Rhapsody of Realities hits 

At a global programme dubbed REACHOUT WORLD LIVE WITH PASTOR CHRIS, Christ Embassy will celebrate a historic milestone as the Rhapsody of Realities devotional is now in 7,000 languages of the world.

No platform or publication in the world has ever been translated into 7,000 distinct languages.

LoveWorld Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy, has therefore set aside September 2 and 3, 2022, as key dates to mark the huge influence and growth of the devotional Rhapsody of Realities in a global gathering themed REACHOUT WORLD LIVE WITH PASTOR CHRIS.

The event, according to a statement from the media department, will be streamed live over all LoveWorld satellite networks, major terrestrial television and radio stations, websites, and social media platforms.

“On those two days – September 2 and 3—billions of participants will be led by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, author of the devotional Rhapsody of Realities, President of the LoveWorld Nation, and a global icon of the Christian faith, to list, explain, and laud the incredible impact that this one book has had on the lives of billions of people from every country in the world,” the statement read.

Rhapsody of Realities, popularly known as “The Messenger Angel,” has shown itself to be more than a book.

The devotional has had tangible results and supernatural transformations in the lives of billions of people who live under its daily influence. It provides daily spiritual guidance with its fresh interpretations of God’s Word.

Impact reports abound, all attesting to the fact that, ever since the book’s publication, a vast number of testimonies from readers all over the world and from everyone who has encountered the Rhapsody of Realities has poured in. These testimonies cover many facets of life, including spirituality, finances, and physical health.

For instance, Mr. Raj Mallick from India was destitute and suicidal before receiving the devotional. But shortly after receiving and consuming Rhapsody of Realities on a daily basis, he declared he converted to Christianity, that he is no longer suicidal, and that as a result of the devotional’s application of God’s Word.

Mallick is now a prosperous businessman with outlets spread throughout the city in which he resides.

Another eyewitness described how intruders broke into his family’s home, and with the aid of as many copies of the devotionals covering him, the bullets the robbers discharged could not harm him.

One of the countless and various remarkable testimonies of healing brought about by this devotional is Mariam’s story.

According to her, her brother was pronounced dead at the hospital, but she laid the Rhapsody of Realities on his lifeless body. He started coughing again all of a sudden!

For adults, youth, kids, and in Braille, Rhapsody of Realities’ “Messenger Angel” is offered in print and electronic formats.

It has now been published for 22 years, and with 7,000 translations so far, Rhapsody of Realities has attained and become the most widely read and translated daily devotional in the entire world!

The LoveWorld Nation has shown great faith and audacity in their unwavering consistency and excellence in supporting such a feat from the heart of Africa to the rest of the world.

A Civil Society demands the immediate Sack of FIRS Boss

....says corruption is contributing to the downfall of the Naira value 

A Civil Society has asked President Muhammadu Buhari as a matter of urgency to immediately sack the executive chairman of Federal inland revenue services (FIRS), Mr. Mohammed Mamman Nami.

The group, Justice for all in Zaria during their swearing-in ceremony of it is new leadership observed with dismay the downfall of the naira and its value has depreciated.

The new Chairman of the association, Dr. Nurudeen Alkali worried over the state of the nation said Nigerians are no longer at ease, given FIRS as examples of the many that are helping in the skyrocketing lifestyle to the people who are now leaving a dollar per day.

H said it is compelled to join other patriotic Nigerians in calling on President Buhari to act fast and relieve the executive chairman, Nami of his duties owing to the near-total collapse of the country's economy.

Corruption has infiltrated the entire system of the agencies that will stabilize the Naira value and FIRS as one of the economic backbones under Mamman's watch has failed in rescuing the naira value.

He revealed that from January this year it is a steady decline in the Nigerian currency from bad to worst an incidence that the place can not be well managed by Nami.

"It's better to relieve him of his duties and brings a competent person to rescue us all because the naira devaluation has turned Nigerians miserably human beings and life is becoming unbearable with excruciating pains.

" For God's sake this is our country and nothing seems to work? Does nobody seem to take reasonable of what is going on? I stand here to speak out, speak up for our organization's efforts in rescuing the Nation, and told truth to power.

"By now we thought agencies like FIRS, CBN, NNPC, and our corruption fighting agencies like EFCC, ICPC will braze up in pinning down the loopholes and elements who are untold hardship to Nigerians.

" One of the weaknesses of President Muhammadu Buhari is failure and inability to sack these people called enemies of the nation, under his watch they are bringing the life of penury to the people whose mandate and trust are betrayed, destroyed in the interest of a few Nigerians," Alkali said

He continued to say that Mamman over the years on resuming on board as the new Executive Chairman promised to mob up revenue that will increase the internally generated revenue of the country, but the area is being bedeviled with corruption as the best way to manage it.

He however said Muhammad Nami may be facing a force bigger than him that FIRS is not working the way it should but employ him to honorable resign if forces are using him as a cover to mortgage Nigerians.

He said because of corruption in places like FIRS today's security networks, particularly the unprecedented level of kidnapping and killing of Nigerians in the Northwest and other parts of the country are at an alarming rate.

Nurudeen while reading his statement to work in the interest of all Nigerians as the new leader of Justice of all said the group will join with coalitions to fight against the ineptitude of heads of organizations in the country.

in his statement made available to newsmen said the continued stay of Mohammed Nami as the Executive Chairman of FIRS despite the failures of his office in stabilizing the Naira against the dollar has continued to undermine Nigerians' standard of living.

The ripple and the nexus of all these are the continued security threats, arch poverty, and poor standard of living being experienced by Nigerians and the result can be devastating if not well managed.

The group insisted, that if President Buhari refuses to do something urgently, the progress being made by the armed forces, stands to be negatively affected, and is bound to be eroded by Nami's and others heads of agencies 'gross incompetence.

The group noted that to avert a further collapse of the nation's security, patriotic citizens of this country are asking President Buhari to without further delay, sack Nami and immediately replace him with someone with the needed intellectual capacity, competence, and courage to put the nation’s economy in check

The group reminded the President of his pledge to tackle the problem of naira to be equal to a dollar during his 2015 campaign days, and it is, therefore a travesty that the continued stay of people like Namu in office, as the executive chairman of FIRS.

Alkali pointed accusing fingers at Buhari to have greatly failed Nigerians over his promises, and the commitment of his administration, to ending insecurity, stabilizing the economy, and improving the lifestyles of the people of Nigeria.

This is even as the group further accused Nami, of failing in his responsibility to cobble together all other parastatals under his agency in Buhari's administration in a manner that guarantees good life to all Nigerians.

Prince Adewole Celebrates The Olu of Warri on his one year Anniversary

PRINCE ADEWOLE ADEBAYO, the presidential candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP) has felicitated with his friend and in-law Tsola Emiko the Olu of Warri on the occasion of his one year Anniversary.

In this occasion, Prince Adewole Adebayo prayed for his longlife and prosperity and thanked him for his good leadership style.

He used the medium to thank the Royal house, Warri and Deltans at large for their strong supports and promised to implement the dividends of democracy after taking over from president Mohammed Buhari.

SOKAPU Advocates For Powership To Southern Kaduna

The umbrella body Uniting over 54 ethnicity nationalities in the Southern part of Kaduna, the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union, SOKAPU has come out strongly in favour of  a Governor of Kaduna state from the Southern Kaduna .

In a press released on  August 20, 2022 and signed by its National President Awemi Maisamari, the body noted though no Southern Kaduna indigene was able to get the governorship slot of the two major parties , Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressive Congress, it would nonetheless canvass for a Governor of Southern Kaduna extraction 

The body therefore  commended the courage of its four governorship candidates and members for redeeming the image of  southern Kaduna by securing the tickets of their political parties to contest the forthcoming general election in the state.

In a statement signed by the Acting President, Awemi Dio Maisamari, on Saturday, SOKAPU further assured of its commitment to ensuring a level playing field to all candidates and ensure that the interest of the people is achieved and safeguarded at all times.

” It has become necessary for SOKAPU to state its position on the increased interest of distinguished sons of Southern Kaduna to contest for the governorship of Kaduna State come 2023. The increased interest is evidenced by the fact that four indigenes of the area have already emerged.

” The Candidates are:   1. Mr Timothy Adamu of the Action Alliance (AA)

2. Rev Andrew Duya of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)

4. Sen. Caleb Zagi of African Democratic Congress (ADC) and,

4. Hon. Jonathan Asake of the Labour Party (LP) 

” SOKAPU wishes to congratulate these courageous individuals who secured the nominations of their parties after no candidate of Southern Kaduna extraction was able to secure the nomination of any of the two major parties in the country, i.e. the APC and the PDP.

” We believe that Southern Kaduna under SOKAPU should be unanimous now and going forward in making a very strong case for gubernatorial power shift or rotation in Kaduna State. 

According to the statement ” Every gubernatorial candidate is exercising his constitutional rights to vote and be voted for. SOKAPU respects these rights and maintains a position of neutrality between all of them. Therefore we will give a level playing ground to all (including non-Southern Kaduna) candidates. However, a SOKAPU Political Committee was set up in April this year and is saddled with the responsibility of making recommendations on the best political direction for Southern Kaduna come 2023.

” This is part of the SOKAPU and Southern Kaduna internal mechanism for monitoring, analysing and addressing political issues. This will ensure that the concerns and interests of Southern Kaduna are properly taken care of as well as to promote the equitable overall development of Kaduna state.

”  Consequently, the 2023 elections in general and the Kaduna State gubernatorial elections in particular are being monitored closely. In view of this, SOKAPU members in particular and Southern Kaduna people in general are advised to remain calm as everything is being done to safeguard the genuine interests and aspirations of our people.

Adding that ” The emergence of four gubernatorial candidates from Southern Kaduna should not be viewed only negatively talk less of generating panic. This is the logical outcome of the loud outcries for better leadership in general  and the horrifying fallout from the Elrufai mal’administration in Kaduna State. It is also an expression of the yearnings for more political space, choice and opportunities as voter confidence in mainstream parties is badly shaken. Southern Kaduna must keep abreast of evolving political trends while plotting its way forward.

”  Southern Kaduna will not be intimidated by subsisting unfair political arrangements. In spite if all odds, we must do everything necessary to fully utilize the obvious demographic advantages we have. Let us overcome  scare mongers spreading fear among us to weaken our progressive resolve to pursue justice and equity at all times. Most especially, let us muster the courage and the will to take risks, eschew selfish or micro interests and do the needful in the face of uncertainties. He who waits for certainty will wait forever. 

”  The stakes in the 2023 elections are particularly high. The competition is also fierce. But we must keep the contest open, fair, decent and brotherly.  By all means, we must not allow the  ”Phd” (pull him down) syndrome to rear its ugly head. That is what SOKAPU demands from all political players and commentators.  

” ln conclusion, we thank all  individual and group stakeholders in Southern Kaduna who have restrained themselves from making public comments so far. We also commend all those who have bought into the principle of rotation with or power shift to Southern Kaduna. We urge our egg heads to articulate seminal ideas and strategies to extricate Southern Kaduna from its disadvantaged position. And we call on our people not to despair but keep faith and be committed to the struggle for a better tomorrow. 

” Southern Kaduna must not disappoint itself, its friends and well wishers at critical times like this.” the statement added

Ginger Association of Nigeria Gets New Exco

By Gambo Abubakar

The National Ginger association of Nigeria have elected Mr Gagarin Madaki as their newly national President. Mr Madaki was anonymously announced as winner for this year  2022 union election held at Asaa Pyramid's hostel recently in Kaduna.

While declared the the election results and inauguration of new executive,the chairman electoral committee for 2022 national Ginger association national election, Mr Nuhu J B Zamani.

Declared Mr Madaki and co as the winners for this year election, after they all passed  the electoral procedures and anonymously duly agreed and voted run's the affairs of commodity Union with non contendants.

In his acceptance speech on behave of the other newly elected executives, immediately after swearing in the national president Ginger association of Nigeria,Mr Gagarin Madaki, promised to transforms the Ginger farming system from conventional farming to organic farming for the Ginger commodity added value in Nigeria.

He however promised to collaborates with various agricultural developmental prpgrammes in promoting Ginger commodity farming, processing, packaging to meet with hygienic international standards, so that it' would affected commodities value change.

"We are ambitious to see that Ginger were measure by the uses of kilo in Nigeria unlike meat and in the other foreign countries."

The national president however, charged the Union members for being integrity and dedication in our membership, "saying that, non renewals payments of the Union dues are drastically the discouraged the successful movement of the association, members encourage to renewed their membership".

In his remarks, the Director agricultural services ministry of agriculture Kaduna state, representing the commissioner of the ministry, assured the state government supports in promoting Ginger farming,also revealed that the Ginger commodity is part of the commodity that the state government will present at international trade fair in Saudi Arabia."

The other newly elected executives inaugurated include; Isaec Kure,deputy national president.Emmanuel Nahemiah, National secretary general.while national vice president north east, Mrs Elizabeth Jibji Bukar.Mr Amaechi Ikerinyinba serves as national vice president south east. And Mr Jekaa Luga serves as national vice president north central.

Mr Richard Isokari serves as national vice president south South.Alhaji Adamu Makarfi  serves as vice president north west.the national legal adviser goes to Barrister Stephen Sekar, Mrs Juliana Dzeyel S Tanko will serves as the national treasurer. While Mr Moses A Ronat also serves as national organising secretary.the national financial secretary goes to Mr Kenneth Suwa. The national auditor goes to Mr Peter Umaru Wariri.however the national publicity secretary/ PRO goes to Mr Kuzayat Baba. Mr Joshua Kwasau serves as assistance national publicity secretary/PRO and assistance national secretary general goes to Mr Ishaya Nok Markus respectively.

You're representing us poorly, your trad'l titles, and awards are not constituency projects -Hussaini Chides Hon Nyampa

.....says no one is feeling his impact as an HoR member representing Michika/Madagali

Irked with what he said was poor representation by the federal lawmaker representing Michika/Madagali, Comrade Hussaini Shuwa said the stewardship of over three years of the House of Representatives (HoR) lawmaker, Hon Zakaria Dauda Nyampa is nothing to write home about.

According to him, Dauda has succeeded in buying traditional titles of Dallaje Adamawa, Maliki Michika and others in Gombe State has earned him a passive member whose traditional titles are not been translated to constituency projects or any human, or community development.

Hussaini also said that the USA Mayor-President award is another slap on him and the people of the area who needed massive presents of government facilitated by the lawmaker but shamelessly celebrating awards and titles at the expense of the people.

He said the Mayor-President endorsement award by Sharon Weston Broome, in the City of Baton Rouge, Parish of East Baton Rouge, Louisiana State of America is not more than the Mai Anguwa (Hermalet title) that in Nigeria will never be valued, but paid handsomely for cheap recognition to brag around of having International award.

Shuwa chided the lawmaker to have failed in many ways, especially in the aspect of good representation where bills from him in the interest of the zone need to be enacted or sponsored.

He also said Dauda has woefully failed to facilitate many things like the schools being established by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in many parts of Northeast states.

"This is where I felt bad on our lawmaker capacity to force up things for our people, our zone is the worst hit of Boko Haram insurgents that need urgent government attention the NEDC was primarily established to take care of the areas Boko Haram insurgents bartered, an initiative that was born out of a genuine concerned of critical stakeholders and used our senator to effect bill to its establishment.

" You however see how incapacitation can stunt growth and development, to just push things for the betterment of our people, the young man can not be able because he lacks the capacity," Hussaini said

He enjoined all voters to vote for Dauda's replacement and search for a better alternative among the candidates hoping to represent the zone in other political parties.

"Dauda has failed to a stupor, he is performing less than expected and below average. This not the kind of leader we want for representation, we want a highly competent person who can deliver in the mandate of our people." He said

SDP Standard Bearer Gets Invitation To Speak At Prestigious NBA Conference

The Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo has been invited to speak in this year’s edition of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) annual conference.

According to the letter addressed to the Presidential hopeful as obtained by the National Pathfinder Newspaper it revealed that the NBA Conference is the leading event of the NBA and a main feature of the annual calendar of the Nigerian legal profession. It presents legal practitioners in  Nigeria with a unique opportunity to interrogate issues affecting the profession and  society and to continue to seek innovative ways of advancing justice delivery and 

providing value-adding legal solutions to their clients and the environment within which members of the Association operate.

“The NBA Conference is the largest gathering of business, political and thought Leaders on the African continent and will congregate thought leaders in the areas 

of justice delivery, technology, the economy, politics, judicial reforms, and the rule of law. 

This year’s Conference is anticipated to have approximately 13,000 

delegates from the Bar and Bench in attendance. Also expected are business 

persons from different sectors, technocrats as well as political leaders from within and  outside Nigeria, the letter further read.

The theme for this year’s Conference is “Bold Transitions” and the core objective of 

the 2022 NBA Conference will be to host a world class conference, with in-depth discourse on critical issues affecting the legal profession and the country in general, facilitated by the most eminently qualified resource persons. Discussions 

at the Conference will focus on the need for the legal profession to engage boldly with global evolutionary trends and will comprise over 30 technical sessions where 

experts will lead conversations primarily aimed at envisioning the future of the legal 

profession within the context of a rapidly transiting world and business 

The conference which is the 62nd in it’s series is scheduled between 18th-26th August, 2022 to be held in Lagos State.

0ver hundred Birnin Gwari Communities Sacked

The Chairman Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Comrade Isiyaku Usman Kasai, has revealed that a more than one hundred (100) communities had been sacked from their original settlements by notorious arm bandits in many parts of Birnin Gwari local government of Kaduna state.

The Union chairman made this to known in an interview with media practitioners at Nigerian Union of journalist secretariat recently in Kaduna.

According to the Kasai, bandits recently entered Birnin Gwari town in Masses and conducted the attack instantly at First bank and also a Union bank destroyed stolen millions of Naira,the remaining Unify bank operating after the incident and later on left the area ordered by the management.

He however revealed that bandits recently conducted the attacks severally in Damari and Dawaki and enberous located at eastern parts of Birnin Gwari areas they also killed many people's. Added that as a results of those attack conducted our preminary report shown that;over fifty thousands (50000) IDPs emerged within Birnin Gwari and envirous.

Comrade Isiyaku Usman also noted that "there are a bandits leader who terrorising the area called Yellow Jambrose, had enforced over one hundred and forty (140) people's from various communities to farm his farmlands freely in order to allowed them to farm their farmlands.

The activist, however confirmed the activities of Ansaru whose were allegiances to Alqaedah settled in eastern parts of Birnin Gwari areas especially in; Damari, Dogon Dawa,Buruku, Kasagi and Old Kuyello.

" Ansaru were propagating their own Islamic view's and many local village communities actually accepted and joined them."they also recruiting the local in their jihadist army, "they also confirmed the inter married relationship between Ansaru and the communities which was because for they had been shielded them from the bandits attacks.

NRM Not In Merger Talk With Any Political Party:

The  National Rescue Movement (NRM has) has debunked the notion that it is in talk with certain  political party with the view of merging  .

In a statement made available to journalists and signed its National Publicity Security, Sola Afuye, the party asked the standard bearers of other political parties not to entertain any merger talk with any one under the banner of the NRM and it is not in way considering merging with any party 

Afuye's statement read:

The National Rescue Movement is using every available opportunity to inform the public and other political parties that NRM is not in any merger discussion or any alliance talk with any political party ahead of 2023 general election.

The party is advising Presidential Candidates and parties to shun any secret alliance talk with anyone in the name of NRM.

Ahead of 2023 general elections, we remain committed and faithful to the objectives of our party  and never shall we drift away  from our  yawning precipice.

Our concern at the moment is to galvanise, strategise and be positive on winning elections comes 2023 by the grace of God.

Moving forward, our party, National Rescue Movement will no longer tolerate any form of distraction from any political jobber. 

NRM  is still very much in the Presidential race and other constituencies positions to be contested in 2023 general elections. 

Our membership drive is on going, we have not closed shop. We are calling on the good people of our dear nation, Nigeria at home and the diaspora to join the rescue team, National Rescue Movement (NRM) to salvage the situation we found ourselves in the country. God help us.

NRM warns officials against unconstitutional conducts

... Insist that its NEC on 5th Sept stands

The National Rescue Movement 

has cautioned its members against indulging in anti-party activities just as it also cautioned against being misled by its former chairman, Senator Saidu Dansadau .

A press release signed by the party National Publicity Secretary, Sola Afuye reads,

The leadership of our great party is so much aware of the illegal activities of some elements in our party under the supervision of Senator Saidu Mohammed Dansadau,the former National Chairman of the party. 

We equally have decided not to join issues with them or promote their obnoxious intentions carried out during their night vigil on Friday12th August,rather we hold our faithful members and the general public the true position of the party on such matter. 

For everyone that is much  conversant with handling of political parties affairs on who has the rights to call for party meetings and signing every communication of the party knows that it was an illegal action and can be likened to a Nollywood poorly edited  film. 

We shall equally let them know that this can only happened in the imagination of mischief makers. 

We are happy that our genuine members across the country are knowledgeable on matters of our party constitution,more reasons they refused to participate in such schinanigan.

We appreciate all our genuine NEC members all over the world for standing by the party. 

The record also had it that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officers with pedigree were not present at such illegal gathering. 

It is obvious that the perpetrators don't have any place under the law to hide their obnoxious actions than to  use Senator Saidu Mohammed Dansadau's living room. 

We are using this medium to let everyone knows  that there is no course for alarm. Amb.Isaac Chigozie Udeh-led NWC of our party is intact and in charge of the party's affairs. 

Also the preparation ahead of our NEC meeting on 5th September 2022 NEC is on course, Nothing shall discourage us.

ADC Holds Maiden Summit In Kaduna

By Gambo Abubakar, Kaduna 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has conducted it's west zone maiden summit  title "Unity, peace and progress in Nigeria".

The summit which was attended by all the ADCs aspirant's for the next 2023 election in the zone, organised by   office of the director general ADC campaign council in Nigeria, held at Arewa house Kaduna.

The national chairman ADC Chief Dr Ralph Okey Nwosu, expressed that, the party primary mission is to change the current Nigerian political culture from one that serves only the leader's, to one which creates leaders that serves the people.

" Nigeria is the Nigeria of Muslims and the Christian of the largest and the tiniest ethnic groups, of the weak and the Strongths, its God creation planned by His to, big,beautiful and compassionate. "

In his address the Director General ADC campgn council Abdul'azeez Suleiman, said, the north west summit is the first edition that have conducted and recently going to other political zones in Nigeria. It's an ADC pilots project outreach to covered all The country.

"The ADC as a political party, revolves around a passion, a passion of great united Nigeria with clear visions and share the value, a country where justice, equity, true brotherhood and love reigns,empowered our youthful population."

While media interaction the Zamfara state ADC chairman Comrade Kabiru Garba Uban Dawakin Tudun Wada, urged the people's of Zamfara state to vote for the ADC as the alternative, and also the party that would led them to promised land by initiative a developmentl project.

" we are confident in winning the election in 2023 general election in the state through our youthful initiating competing with the present government despite the shortest of our resources "

Also the Zamfara central ADC senatorial aspirant Alh Garba Nuhu Tunau, has stressed his satisfaction over the way people especially youth and women joined and show their support to the party in the state.

He however warned the other political party senatorial aspirant's; Kabir Garba Marafa of APC and Ikra Aliyu Bolbis of PDP, that it's his time and it's time for the youth to represent and also to reconstructs the bad they had done".

Timi Frank Congratulates Kenya’s President-elect, William Ruto

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has congratulated the President-elect of Kenya, Mr William Ruto.

Frank in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, lauded the people of Kenya for their peaceful disposition during the presidential election and for voting for change in the East African country.

He called on them to stand with Ruto who represents a complete break from the established system of political succession in the country which had appeared to be restricted to the offsprings of former leaders who fought for the independence of the country. 

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also called on the outgoing President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, to urgently initiate a peace and reconciliation process among the key actors during the election in order to curb the pockets of restiveness in some parts of the country. 

He urged him to follow the precedent laid by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 by officially congratulating Ruto. 

He said: “The people of Kenya have decided that the ‘Hustler-In-Chief-of-Kenya’ should be their next President through the ballot. Therefore, let the will of the people prevail. 

“Kenya needs peace to move forward and President Kenyatta has a great role to play in bringing parties in the electoral conflict to the discussion table just like he did during the last election whose results were highly disputed. 

“Kenya is a peaceful country therefore, the political actors must eschew any action that can plunge the nation into a needless political crisis following the emergence of Ruto as President. 

“The election of Ruto marks a new political dawn for Kenya, therefore, let the votes count.

“On his part, the President-elect, must be magnanimous in victory by immediately reaching out to his opponents with assurances of his readiness to work with them in the overall interest of peace and development of the country.

“We equally call on the presidential candidate of the opposition political party, Raila Odinga, to as a matter of necessity call his supporters to order in the interest of peace for the generality of Kenyans. 

“Let him approach the appropriate court to challenge the results of the poll if he feels there were irregularities during the electoral process that may have denied him victory.”

Frank also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria to borrow a leaf from its Kenyan counterpart that never considered the existing power blocks in the country but courageous declared Ruto as the President-elect after he scored the highest number of votes during the election.

Bayelsa, NDDC To Partner On Nembe-Brass Road, Bridges

By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON

The Bayelsa State Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), will partner to construct the important Nembe to Brass roads and bridges project, which will open up the oil and gas rich area and boost the regional economy.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri disclosed this when he hosted the Interim Administrator of the interventioist agency, Dr. Efiong Akwa, and the Commission’s directors at Creek Haven, Government House, Yenagoa.

Governor Diri stated that the partnership will cover many other key infrastructure projects for the benefit of the people of the state, adding: "Today marks the beginning of a new relationship between the NDDC and the Bayelsa State Government. We are prepared to work with the NDDC. I accept your offer to partner with the Bayelsa State Government on key, strategic projects in the State."

He stressed the need "to ensure synergy and avoid duplication of projects. This can be achieved by activating the powers of the governors as members of the Advisory Board, in line with Section 2 of the Act establishing the NDDC."

While acknowledging that NDDC had embarked on many projects in Bayelsa State, Governor Diri underlined the need to focus more on regional projects that would cut across the various states.

He expressed appreciation to the NDDC for intervening to boost education in the universities, "especially for assisting the Niger Delta University and donating a 1000KVA generator and a Coaster bus."

Speaking earlier, the NDDC Interim Administrator, Dr. Efiong Akwa commended Governor Duoye Diri for his immense contributions to the overall development of the Niger Delta region, especially Bayelsa State.

The  NDDC boss stated: "It is on record that your excellency was a part of many Niger Delta technocrats, agitators and visioners who developed an agenda for a better deal for the Niger Delta region, in the emerging democracy of 1998 and 1999. Your Excellency, this commitment towards building a new Niger Delta, as well as improving the living conditions of Bayelsans, has earned you the enviable title of the Miracle Governor."

Akwa stated that NDDC was in Bayelsa State as part of an ongoing engagement with stakeholders in the region, to build partnerships vital to Niger Delta development. He stated: “This is important, because partnership is key to development."

Dr. Akwa added: "Our visit is both to acknowledge your strategic importance to Niger Delta development, as well as to seek ways in which we can forge a stronger alliance with the government and people of Bayelsa State. We offer both our hands and seek embrace, so that, together, we can build a region of which we can be eminently proud."