Thursday, September 21, 2023

Strike: NLC ultimatum ends today, FG allays fear
Hours to the end of the 21-day ultimatum issued by the organised labour, the Federal Government, on Wednesday, said it has no fears about a potential economic shutdown.

This is despite last Monday’s parley being deadlocked as both parties failed to see eye-to-eye on the labour unions’ demands over the removal of petrol subsidy.

“I don’t think there is any problem. We don’t have any fears about some of the things they (labour) put on the table and also the suggestions and the package of the Federal Government,” the Minister of Labour, Simon Lalong, told State House Correspondents after a private meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, Wednesday evening.

Days earlier, Lalong met the organised labour in Abuja. However, both parties failed to reach a consensus as the Nigerian Labour Congress insisted that the FG must meet its demands ahead of the 21-day ultimatum it issued on September 1.

The union had handed down the 21-day ultimatum over the delay in sharing palliatives, saying it might be compelled to declare an indefinite labour action if its demands were not met.

It said all is set for a total shutdown of the economy, which would start at the expiration of the ultimatum on Friday.

Arising from his meeting with Shettima, the labour minister responded to questions about the deadline for an indefinite strike by the organised labour, saying, “As for me, I don’t think there is any problem. We have fully spent time with the Nigerian labour and the posture of the President too is towards the welfare and prosperity for workers.

“We have no doubt and that’s why, in many of our meetings with them, we did not end up boxing ourselves. We hope that the best is going to come.”

On the strike threats, he said, “Don’t worry about that. That’s why I said it’s a friendly engagement we are having with them.”

Pressed for definite remarks on whether or not the strike kicks off on Thursday, the former Plateau State Governor sidestepped, saying “I don’t want to say that; I’m not the NLC’s President.”

Efforts by our correspondents to get the  National President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, to react were unsuccessful.

Another official of the Labour centre, Hakeem Ambali, also did not reply to inquiries by The PUNCH on the matter.

Among other demands, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress are asking for wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers and a review of the minimum wage.

Though the FG committed to restructuring the framework for engagement with organised Labour on palliatives, the eight-week timeframe set for the conclusion of the process expired in August with no action.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/strike-nlc-ultimatum-ends-today-fg-allays-fear/
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the kingdom is getting closer to reaching a normalisation deal with Israel, denying reports that negotiations were halted.

Mohammed said that “good negotiations” are on going, local media reported.

“Every day we get closer,” he said.

“For us, the Palestinian issue is very important, we need to solve that part,” the Saudi de-facto leader said.

“We hope that it would reach a place that will ease the lives of Palestinians and get Israel as a player in the Middle East.”

For months, there has been speculation as to whether Saudi Arabia could be the next country in the Arab world to normalise its relations with Israel.

In September 2020, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain were the first two Gulf countries to establish diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 under U.S. mediation.

Officially, Riyadh has no relations with Israel, but covertly the two countries have been working together on security issues for some time.

Reports suggested that a deal would be linked to security guarantees by the U.S. for Saudi Arabia and help in developing its civilian nuclear programme.

Negotiations also come at a time as Saudi Arabia resumes its diplomatic relations with Iran, an arch foe of Israel.

While Iran and Saudi Arabia have a long history as bitter regional rivals, the China-brokered rapprochement had “a good start,” Mohammed said.

“What we see from the Iranians is that they are taking it very seriously and they are doing their best,” he added.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/saudi-arabia-closer-to-deal-with-israel-says-crown-prince/
Fans hold candlelight procession for Mohbad in London (VIDEO)
Some fans in London, United Kingdom, on Wednesday night, held a candlelight procession for late Nigerian rapper, Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, aka Mohbad.

The procession was held at Peckham Square, in Peckham, South London where Mohbad’s erstwhile record label boss, Naira Marley was brought up.

The fans were seen singing the late rapper’s songs in a video trending on the internet.

DAILY POST recalls that Mohbad died in a controversial manner on September 12, 2023.

His death gained international attention after fans have taken to social media demanding a thorough investigation of his sudden demise.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/fans-hold-candlelight-procession-for-mohbad-in-london-video/
Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo has disclosed that the nurse who treated late Nigerian rapper, Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, aka Mohbad before his passing has been arrested.

She revealed this in a video message shared via her Instagram page on Wednesday night while briefing fans about her visit to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and the progress on the police investigation of Mohbad’s death.

She said other arrests have also been made by the police.

Ojo said, “The police have made some arrests . The nurse has been arrested. That I know. That’s the only information I can give you right now.

“They have arrested some people. They are asking some people to turn themselves in.”

DAILY POST recalls that Mohbad died in a controversial manner on September 12, 2023.

His father, James Aloba had said in an interview that he suspects the auxiliary nurse who injected Mohbad before he died, stressing that the injection might have complicated his son’s health.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/nurse-who-treated-mohbad-has-been-arrested-says-iyabo-ojo/
Shots were fired outside the heavily guarded Embassy of the United States in Lebanon, though there were no casualties, an embassy spokesman said on Thursday.

“At 10:37 PM local time (Wednesday), small arms fire was reported in the vicinity of the entrance to the U.S. Embassy.

“There were no injuries, and our facility is safe. We are in close contact with host country law enforcement authorities,” Embassy spokesperson Jake Nelson, said in a statement.

The U.S. embassy is located in Awkar, a suburb north of the capital Beirut.

Local media reported that an unknown gunman carrying a machine gun fired at the embassy entrance.

The U.S. embassy in April marked the 40th anniversary of the 1983 bombing of the embassy in Beirut, in which a suicide bomber attacked the embassy, killing 63, including 52 Lebanese and American employees. (NAN)
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/shots-fired-outside-us-embassy-in-lebanon-spokesman/
Things you need to know this Thursday morning
1. The Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has sacked Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, declaring the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the March 18 election. Yusuf, who contested on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), was declared winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

2. The Bauchi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has dismissed the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its governorship candidate, Sadique Abubakar. The tribunal affirmed the victory of Governor Bala Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

3. Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf has appealed to residents to maintain peace while vowing to use all legal means to reclaim his mandate. Addressing the media a few minutes before midnight, Gov Yusuf said the tribunal judgment that sacked him was error-ridden and that he is optimistic that the errors would be corrected at the appellate court.

4. Dangote Group President, Aliko Dangote rose yesterday to defend the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on the purported denial of crude oil supply to his 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) capacity refinery by the national oil company. In a brief response to the claim, Dangote said the Mele Kyari-led NNPCL is ready and willing to feed the refinery with crude oil in a few weeks’ time to enable the commencement of refining operations at the facility.

5. Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday debunked rumour of an alleged attack on its National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, in Ibadan. The party described purveyors of the fake news as fifth columnists spreading unfounded rumour of attacks and harassment on Ganduje.

6. The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the death of four suspected kidnappers who had engaged operatives in a fierce exchange of gun battle within the Jesse axis in Ethiope West Local Government Area of the State. In a statement on Wednesday, the Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Bright Edafe, said operatives were on a joint patrol on September 18, along Jesse-Igueleba road in Edo State, when they encountered a gang of bandits.

7. Unlike those before it, Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day observance will not feature a ceremony at the Eagle Square, Abuja, but will be held “low-key,” the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said Wednesday. He said October 1 would be “a time for reflections…to think very deeply as a people and the journey forward.”⁣

8. A U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, on Tuesday, ordered the Chicago State University (CST) to release the academic records of President Bola Tinubu. This is following a request made by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar.

9. The Ondo State House of Assembly has launched impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor of the State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The initiation of the impeachment process reportedly took place on Wednesday during an emergency plenary session convened by the House.

10. A man, identified simply as James, narrowly escaped being lynched on Wednesday for allegedly stealing another man’s manhood in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. It was gathered that a similar incident occurred last week when a bus driver was arrested in Abaji Area Council for “stealing a manhood” after he was said to have shook hands with the “victim”.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/things-you-need-to-know-this-thursday-morning/

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Determined to nullify the election of President Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday, lodged 35 grounds of appeal before the Supreme Court.

Atiku, through his team of lawyers led by Chief Chris Uche, SAN, is praying the Apex court to set aside the judgement the Court of Appeal delivered on September 6, which affirmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, as the valid winner of the presidential election that held on February 25.

He told the apex court that the verdict of the Justice Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel of the President Election Petition Court, PEPC, which dismissed his petition against the outcome of the presidential contest, was not only perverse, but occasioned a grave miscarriage of justice against him.

The PDP candidate, who is a former Vice President, maintained that the PEPC panel erred in law, when it failed to nullify the presidential election on the grounds of non-compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022, even when evidence that was adduced before it, showed that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, acted in breach of extant laws and regulations guiding the conduct of elections.

He accused the PEPC of reaching its unanimous decision based on gross misconstruction and misrepresentation of provisions of both the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and the Electoral Act, 2022.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/atiku-lodges-35-grounds-of-appeal-against-tinubu-at-supreme-court/
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has insisted that Manchester United are finished and are out of the Premier League title race this season.

According to Merson, only Liverpool and Arsenal are the two teams to challenge Man City for the Premier League title this season.

Man City, who won the Premier League title last season, are currently at the top of the English top-flight league.

Pep Guardiola’s side are ahead of Tottenham (second), Liverpool (third), Arsenal (fourth), and Man United (thirteenth).

In his column for Sky Sports, Merson said: “Man Utd out of the title race already. Liverpool and Arsenal are the only contenders for Manchester City this season. For example, Manchester United are already nine points behind. They are finished. Done. They can’t win the league – because it’s Man City. If it’s any other team, you can go, ‘Oh, if you put a run together, you never know.’ But City are not losing four or five games.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/epl-man-utd-out-of-title-race-merson/
Hundreds of youths took to the streets of Abeokuta on Tuesday in a peaceful protest to demand justice over the mysterious death of singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

Mohbad, a signee of Marlian Records Company, died on Sept. 12 in Lagos at the age of 27 years.

Clad in black tee-shirts, the youths began the rally at the Panseke area of the Ogun capital city hoisting placards with inscriptions such as: “Justice for Mohbad’’, “Government must arrest `Naira Marley‘’ and `Sam Larry’’ among others.

The cause of Mohbad’s death has been a subject of controversy since the tragic incident.

Some of the protesters told newsmen that police must investigate the cause of the singer’s death and bring the culprits to book.

One of the protesters, Ayo Michael said: “we are in pain!! Mohbad must not die in vain. We want the government to arrest anyone culpable.’’

Another mourner, a visibly angry Mustura Abiola, said: “that boy had a promising future, but his life was cut short.’’

A colleague of the deceased singer, Boye Best, urged the government to be thorough and transparent in the investigation and ensure that justice is served.

Police in Lagos State already set up a 13-man special investigation team to probe the death of Mohbad. (NAN)
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/protest-erupts-in-ogun-over-singer-mohbads-death/
The Commander, 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, has ordered troops to deal decisively troublemakers in Zamfara State.

The order followed reports of possible disturbances in Gusau, the state capital, over the judgement of theGovernorship Election Petition Tribunal.

Brigadier General Ahmed warned that those who intend to foment trouble over the tribunal’s judgement should leave the state or face the consequences of their actions.

This was contained in a press statement issued to newsmen in Gusau, the State capital by the Acting Assistant Director, Captain Yahaya Ibrahim.

“The Commander calls on the good people of the state to go about their legitimate endeavours as adequate security measures have been provided in all flash points, bad spots and strategic places in Gusau.

“He urged the people to immediately report any suspicious gathering and act of violence in their respective places to the security agencies.

“He assured the people that troops of 1 Brigade, Nigerian Air force, the Police, Department State Services and all other security agencies within the Area of responsibility taking part in the show of force are ready to protect lives and properties in the state, adding that the forces would protect everywhere including Gusau, the State capital,” the statement said.

The Commander disclosed that similar shows of force would be carried out simultaneously in all the local government areas in the state to build the confidence of the populace and make the environment safe and secure before, during and after the tribunal’s judgement.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/brigade-commander-orders-troops-to-deal-with-troublemakers-in-zamfara/

Favour Williams, a 12-year-old JSS 2 student of Junior Secondary School, Kurmin Tagwaye ll, in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, has reportedly hanged herself.

DAILY POST gathered that the student’s body was found hanging from a tree in her father’s farm in Kurmin Tagwaye II, along Wamba road, last week Monday.

Sources in the community alleged that the girl was defiled by her father, Williams Ma’aji.

Thomas Vincent, the youth leader of Kurmin Tagwaye, while confirming the incident, said the girl was seen around the village on the day she died.

But he noted that the circumstances surrounding her death are not clear.

According to him, “The father told us that late Favour was working on the other side of the farm with the mother and after a while, he saw her coming and she greeted him and proceeded to another side of the farm, that she wanted to go and eat groundnuts.”

He added that Ma’aji further explained that on his way home from the farm, “he discovered that his daughter had hanged herself and before he could run and cut the rope she used to hang herself, he discovered she was dead”.

Vincent said the the youths of the community, who were angry at the development, wanted to lynch the girl’s parents.

According to him, the police were invited and the parents were arrested.

While the mother was questioned and let off the hook, the father is still in detention.

He further explained that the girl’s corpse was taken to the General Hospital in Akwanga for autopsy and it was established there was no sign of injury on her body.

The girl has since been buried, Vincent said.

However, the spokesman of the Nasarawa State Police Command, Nansel Ramhan, who confirmed the development, disclosed that the matter is under investigation.

END
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/182406/
NDLEA to host heads of antinarcotic bodies in Abuja
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, says delegates from 54 African countries and 15 observer nations will converge in Abuja next week for the 31st meeting of Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa, (HONLAF) to discuss new trends and partnerships to curb the global drug scourge.

A statement by the NDLEA Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, announced this on Tuesday at a joint press briefing by the Secretary to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna and the Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, Oliver Stolpe.

According to the statement, the agenda will feature discussions and collaborations on alternative development to cannabis cultivation, assets forfeiture, cryptocurrency and money laundering by drug cartels, among others.

Haruna represented the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) of the NDLEA at the briefing.

He said the 31st meeting was to enable heads of drug law enforcement agencies in Africa, discuss and develop strategies to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the region.

“The HONLAF meeting is an annual event. The last one was held in Nairobi, Kenya, where Nigeria was unanimously elected as the host of the 31st edition, which will take place from Tuesday, September 26 to Friday, September 29, 2023, in Abuja.

“This annual HONLAF meeting features a line-up of activities that include technical meetings, paper presentations, deliberations on reports and trends, workshops, and bilateral talks among member nations. It is a platform for brokering collaborations in the areas of shared intelligence, joint training, and joint operations against international drug cartels in the African region.

“This year, Nigeria has the honour of being the chair and host of the meeting. So, it means delegates from 53 other African countries will converge on the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on Monday, and for the rest of the week, they will be guests of NDLEA and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“Aside from delegates from African countries, there will be representatives from observer bodies and other non-African countries who will be attending to watch the proceedings”, he said.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver the keynote address and also declare the conference open as the special guest of honour while the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and some invited ministers as well as heads of relevant parastatals and agencies will be at the opening ceremony.

In his remarks, Stolpe said the HONLAF meeting will also focus on “regional and national cooperation to reduce illicit production and cultivation of illicit drugs and manufacturing of other drugs like methamphetamine.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/ndlea-to-host-heads-of-antinarcotic-bodies-in-abuja/

Monday, September 18, 2023

National Olympic Committee pays tribute to late accounting guru, Akintola Williams
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) on Monday condoled the family of the late Akintola Williams, the doyen of the accounting profession.

A statement by Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer, NOC, in Lagos, said NOC was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Chief Akintola Williams, a true icon in the world of accounting.

Williams was the founder and Senior Partner in Akintola Williams & Co., which later merged with Deloitte & Touche.

Habu Gumel, NOC president, noted in the statement that Williams, aged 104, was not only a visionary leader but also a selfless individual, as evidenced by his company’s pro bono work for the NOC.

“His remarkable journey has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian business landscape and beyond.

“Akintola Williams & Deloitte’s auditing of NOC accounts for more than two decades has helped the committee strengthen its accounting reporting.

“His dedication and commitment to serving the community have been truly admirable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” said Gumel.

He added that NOC acknowledged the invaluable services rendered by Akintola Williams & Deloitte Accounting firm, which had undoubtedly shaped the accounting profession in Nigeria.

“His unwavering integrity has set new standards, impacting the country’s economic growth.

“As we reflect on Williams’ extraordinary achievements and contributions, let us also remember the profound loss felt by his family.

“We hope that the memories shared and the admiration shown by so many can bring some solace during this time of bereavement.

“May his gentle soul find eternal peace and his remarkable legacy endure through all those who have been touched by his work,” said Gumel.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/national-olympic-committee-pays-tribute-to-late-accounting-guru-akintola-williams/
Calls for compassion for migrants suffering in North Africa and those attempting to reach Europe or die trying will be at the heart of Pope Francis’s visit to Marseille this week.

The pontiff is making a two-day trip to France’s second-largest city, a historic gateway for immigrants, where he is expected to insist on the causes of migration, from poverty to climate change, and urge greater tolerance.

He is also likely to address the horrors many migrants face in North Africa, from internment in brutal camps to being left by traffickers to die in the desert.

The visit comes as a surge in the number of migrant arrivals in Italy revives a bitter debate over how European countries manage asylum seekers.

“It represents a challenge that is not easy, as we also see from the news in recent days, but which must be faced together,” Francis said after his Angelus prayer on Sunday in Rome.

“It is essential for the future of all, which will be prosperous only if it is built on fraternity, putting human dignity and real people, especially those most in need, in first place,” he said.

The Marseille trip comes as Francis, 86, is in increasingly fragile health, saying on his return from Mongolia this month that papal voyages were not as easy as they used to be.

But he continues to travel widely, focusing on the smaller Catholic communities the Vatican calls the peripheries.

He is visiting Marseille first and foremost to take part in a meeting of Mediterranean-area Catholic bishops and young people.

“I will go to Marseille, but not to France,” Francis said in August, despite the risk of offending French Catholics, in particular those on the conservative fringe, who think he goes too far with his messages of compassion for migrants.

The port city is a key destination for migrants from North Africa — and is also home to some of the poorest neighbourhoods in Europe, many of which are plagued by drug trafficking.

“The problem that concerns me is the Mediterranean problem… The exploitation of migrants is criminal,” Francis said in August.

More than 2,300 migrants have died so far this year attempting the Mediterranean crossing from North Africa, according to the UN.

– Mediterranean ‘cemetery’ –

The Marseille event, “Mediterranean Meetings”, will look at themes including economic inequality, migration and climate change.

The pope is expected to speak to bishops active in North Africa in particular about the challenges there.

“The Mediterranean is a cemetery. But it’s not the biggest: the biggest cemetery is in North Africa,” Francis told reporters in August. “It’s terrible. That’s why I’m going to Marseille.”

The pope will start at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, a symbolic monument overlooking the city, for a prayer with the clergy on Friday afternoon.

That will be followed by a moment of meditation with representatives of other religions in front of a memorial dedicated to sailors and migrants lost at sea.

On Saturday morning, he will take part in the closing “Mediterranean Meetings” session at the Palais du Pharo overlooking the port, before leading a mass in the Velodrome stadium for about 57,000 participants.

– ‘All the misery’ –

French President Emmanuel Macron will be at the final mass, a decision that sparked controversy among left-wing politicians in the strictly secular country.

Some also accuse Macron of having postponed the presentation of a bill on end-of-life care, a debate likely to include discussion over extending euthanasia laws — a red flag to the Catholic Church — so as not to interfere with the visit.

The Jesuit pope has a cordial relationship with Macron, who was himself Jesuit-educated, and the leaders have already seen each other three times.

“There is a real familiarity, a real complicity between Macron and the pope,” Vatican journalist Bernard Locomote told AFP.

Crowd-loving Francis, the first pope to visit France since Benedict XVI in 2008, will ride in his “pope mobile” up the city’s Avenue du Prado after the mass.

Throughout his visit, he will be accompanied by the archbishop of Marseille, Jean-Marc Aveline, a close friend who was made cardinal in 2022.

Around 5,000 police and other security forces will be mobilized for the trip, one welcomed by some residents — though others have questioned whether Francis understands the challenges large numbers of migrants pose to the city.

“I don’t entirely agree with the pope when he says ‘we must welcome all migrants’,” said Yvette Devallois, 69, who is active in her local parish.

“We welcome migrants, but still, we can’t take in all the misery in the world.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/pope-to-defend-migrants-in-marseille-trip/
We have lost our livelihood, ancestral lands – Akwa Ibom oil rich community cries out
For the people of Ibeno, an oil rich local government area in Akwa Ibom State, the original purpose of being endowed with crude oil has been defeated due to the explorative and exploitative activities of oil companies operating in their communities.

The primary occupation of Ibeno people- farming and fishing are on the verge of extinction following the perennial oil spills in the communities.

Findings show that farmers are experiencing extremely poor yields, amid scarcity of fishes and other aquatic animals in the ocean.

Our Correspondent gathered that before the coming of the oil companies decades ago, Ibeno, though remote, could be described as a land flowing with ‘milk and honey’ since their land produced in abundance and their body of waters was safe for fishes.

Giving an insight on the state of Ibeno community before oil exploration, the Chairman of Okoro-Utip village council, Chief Thomas Atanwa, who spoke at a community prospection meeting with the Health Of Mother Earth Foundation over the weekend, recounted that though most of them were living in mud and thatched houses, they had clean water to drink, food to eat, fish to eat and sell, regretting that such things are now far fetched.

The 84-year-old village chairman explained that the coming of the oil companies to Ibeno was just a poisoned chalice as many of them in those days were very happy that Ibeno would experience all round development as the prospecting companies had promised.

According to him, “The present condition of people of Okoro Utip and other communities in Ibeno Local government of Akwa Ibom is nothing to write home about. Our lands have been totally washed out by oil spills, which have rendered our soil infertile and our rivers too toxic for the fish to live. We were known for fishing and farming in those days.

“As at then, you would just go to your backyard and get fish from the river, yes, it was as easy as that, not to talk of going to the sea with your net, you would catch a lot of fishes. Women had a bountiful harvest from their farms and we had a lot to eat and sell. Everyone was just living happily.

“We had clean water to drink from our streams, we were living a healthy life unlike nowadays where we don’t have clean water anymore, even the borehole here, the water that comes out looks like blood and it’s salty.

“If you want to use the water to wash clothes, no matter the quantity of detergent or soap you use, it can never foam.

“We were happy when we were told that a multinational company was coming to our community thinking that we would get basic amenities like good roads, constant electricity, quality education for our children and all-round development, but we are all disappointed.

“The electricity you saw in Okoro-Utip is from NDDC through our son; even the bridge was from the government and not the oil company.”

Similarly, the Women Leader of Opolum Community, Ibeno, Mrs Elizabeth Ifum recalled that when she was younger, she used to buy only salt and seasoning cubes in the market as every other soup condiments could be gotten from her farm and the river, regretting that “even if you go to market nowadays to buy fish and garri you would hardly see those things to buy.”

Ifum lamented that without applying fertilisers, which most times are not good enough to the soil, you would not have any yield at all in your farm, adding that the effect of the fertilisers and gas flaring had put most of them in different health challenges.

She said, “God blessed us with oil but it is bringing us pains. Ordinary ‘foo foo’ we eat, is now sourced from Delta and Cross River States. When you fetch our water and keep it for some minutes it will turn to crude oil.

“Everything is contaminated due to the activities of these oil companies. Look around our communities, do they look like where the wealth of the nation is coming from?

“When I was a little girl my father was a fisherman and he would use only one-yard of net to catch sizable fishes in large quantities but currently, fishermen are now using 24-yards of net without seeing any fish to catch in the sea.

“We are dying, we want the whole world to hear and know what we are going through. Our government has failed us, they work with these oil companies.

“They only remember us when they want votes during the election and after, they are gone. If I were a man, I would block them from getting even a single vote from us,” she lamented.

A fisherman, Elijah Abraham, who said that he had since stopped fishing, explained that he spends up to N60,000 to fuel his boat and would drive a far distance on the sea in search of fish but would only get a few that would not even cover the expenses he made before the adventure.

Also, a missionary and farmer in the community, Pastor AbasiUbong John described farming in the community as an effort in futility, recalling that the cassava he planted for over one year has not even yielded a tuber due to the presence of oil spills in the farm.

Apart from losing their means of livelihood in farming and fishing, the people lamented that they have lost their ancestral lands through land grabbing by the government, saying that a good number of their lands taken by the government have been used for abandoned projects in the community.

They cited some of the projects abandoned in their lands to include: Amakpe Refinery in Upenekang, skill acquisition centre, Iwocham, Upenekang Primary school, Secondary school at Iwocham, among others.

The people hinted that the previous administration collected a large portion of land under the guise of building an industry for them, saying that the government failed to live up to its promise thereafter.

“We’ve lost our land at Upenekang, opposite the council secretariat. We were using that place for our palm plantation. A lot of us went there to cut the palm fruits, make palm oil and sell but the government came in and said they wanted to use the whole land for a refinery.

“They destroyed the whole palm fruits. Since that time, nothing has been done, they just abandoned the refinery and we can’t access the land again,” another resident lamented.

The Youth President of Okoro-Utip, Mr. Nsoh Nsoh said the youths had embarked on peaceful protests to see if the company and the government would come to their rescue but there was no positive response.

He urged the government not to look away from the community.

Speaking with Stephen Oduware, Project Lead, HOMEF on the environmental challenges facing the Ibeno community and how the NGO could help, he said, “Ibeno is a host to Exxon Mobil which is an oil producing company and you can also recall that there is frequent oil spills in Ibeno. This has affected the livelihood of the people, their environment.

“Part of why we are here is to talk about the nexus between ‘Extractivism and Land grabbing’.

“You also know that the Land Use Act places the land in the hands of the government, they hold the land in trust of the community people. This has been appropriated wrongly, for instance, where you have a vast expanse of land taken from the community without due consultation and their full consent.

“So, we are here to talk about those things and chart a way forward so that at the end of the day we have justice for the people.

“You know in Ibeno, particularly in Okoro-Utip here, the people are basically farmers and fishers; they feed thousands, if not millions of people out there; that recognition and support is what we are canvassing for.

“As an environmental think-tank group, what we do is to bridge the gap between the actual needs of the people at the grassroot and the policies put in place by the government.

“We’ve been involved in several advocacy to policy makers, to government agencies and we have several policy documents, for instance, from this meeting now, we could carve recommendations and demand and then put it together for advocacy visit.

“We have been doing that but you will also agree with me that most of the policies our government churn out are anti-people and a lot of times when you come out, they feel that you are sent by someone.

“So, we think that the relationship between the government and the people at the grassroot needed to be strengthened because the government was made for people and not people for the government.

“If what they are doing is not affecting the people positively, then it is as good as doing nothing.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/we-have-lost-our-livelihood-ancestral-lands-akwa-ibom-oil-rich-community-cries-out/
Rangers General Manager Ameobi Ezeaku has expressed delight with the calibre of players recruited by the club.

Ezeaku said the players have all it takes to restore the Flying Antelopes’ past glory.

He revealed that the club is working together with the coaching staff to achieve their collective goal.

“The recruitment process has been excellent and We have a very young team. Coach Fidelis knows what he is doing,” the young lawyer stated.

“We have young players, and when you look at them, you know that the future is bright for the club.

“The players have all it takes to bring back Rangers glory days.

“The club and the technical crew led by Fidelis Ilechukwu are working together in achieving our collective goal.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/rangers-chief-ezeaku-elated-with-quality-of-new-signings/
CALABAR—MALE private part thieves, weekend, extended their shameful activities, which have been rampant in Calabar, Cross River State, for three weeks running to the Nigerian Navy Barracks, Akim where they allegedly snatched the genital of a naval officer.

The naval officer, whose name was not given was said to be manning the entry point into the barracks when a young man, who gave his name as Samuel walked into the barracks and was directed to the sentry point for security scrutiny.

“When he got to the sentry point, he was asked whom he was looking for and his mission in the barracks but while he was talking with the sentry officer, the man felt “an electric jolt around his genitals and behold, when he touched the area, his private had gone,” Azeez, a naval personnel toldVanguard.

Following the alarm raised by the naval officer, the young man was accosted and beaten up with instructions to return the missing genital immediately.

The alleged genital thief did not say if he was going to return the missing organ and did not deny being responsible for the disappearance of the genital.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/naval-officers-genital-allegedly-missing-in-calabar/
10 things you need to know this Monday morning
Good morning! Here is today’s summary from Nigerian Newspapers:

1. President Bola Tinubu has appointed Kingsley Stanley Nkwocha as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Media and Communications in the Presidency. Nkwocha was appointed alongside several others who will work in the Office of the Vice President.

2. Minister of Works, Engineer Dave Umahi, has said the current administration inherited at least N14 trillion worth of 2,604 road projects covering 18,000 kilometers from the Muhammadu Buhari-led government. He stated this at the weekend after his first briefing session with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

3. Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Imo State on patrol along Aba-Owerri Expressway, have rescued five pregnant teenage girls suspected to be victims of child trafficking. They were picked up while being relocated from their hideout in the Naze area of Owerri to Ikenegbu area of the state capital, the spokesperson for the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, revealed in a statement on Sunday.

4. Olubunmi Osadahun, Ondo State Woman Affairs Commissioner, was at the weekend, attacked in the Arigidi Akoko Area of the State during the distribution of palliatives. She was allegedly attacked by some members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the council area following the allegation that the exercise was shrouded in secrecy.

5. The Federal Government on Sunday sent an invitation to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its counterpart in the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for a fresh meeting in order to avert looming indefinite strike occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy. The union had given a 3-week ultimatum to embark on an indefinite strike over fuel subsidy removal.

6. Former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged plans by the President Bola Tinubu administration to unleash a regime of propaganda on the country in the days ahead. Atiku, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, yesterday, said the “fake news” about the lifting of the visa ban by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was just a “tip of the iceberg.”

7. The corpse of a Political Science student of the Nasarawa State University, Lafia, Yusuf Mubaraq (27), who was declared missing on Saturday last week, has been found in Kwara State. The late Mubaraq, an indigene of Kwara State, was last seen around 10 pm on Wednesday after he went to a friend in GRA, Ilorin.

8. Weeks after failing to defend her World title after finishing 6th in the final of World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan is back on winning streak. With a 12:33 seconds record, the Nigerian athlete won her third consecutive Diamond League title in the Women’s 100 metres hurdle.

9. Tragedy struck in Okanla community, Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State on Sunday as some men bearing arms stormed the palace of Olokonla of Okanla, killing an admission seeker, Ibrahim Qudus, before setting the building ablaze. Eyewitness said the assailants were led by a man identified simply as Naim, who was the only one among the attackers that did not cover his face.

10. A building with over 500 rooms has collapsed in the Ketu area of Lagos State. According to findings, at least two persons are currently battling for their lives at a private hospital after the school-turned-residential building partially collapsed on Saturday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/10-things-you-need-to-know-this-monday-morning/

Thursday, September 14, 2023

He’s workaholic – Parker tells Ten Hag to start ahead of Garnacho against Brighton
Former Manchester United defender, Paul Parker has urged manager Erik ten Hag to start Facundo Pellistri ahead of Alejandro Garnacho in their side’s upcoming Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

Parker said Pellistri is a workaholic, who makes something out of nothing.

Ten Hag is currently in the midst of a selection headache ahead of Man United’s home clash with Brighton at Old Trafford, with both Jadon Sancho and Antony not in his plans at the moment.

“I would go with Pellistri over Garnacho on the right wing. I think Garnacho has done well when coming off the bench but at this moment, I look at him as an impact player,” Parker told MyBettingSites.

“Pellistri got something about him. He has this willingness and desire to do really well.

“He makes something out of nothing and he is a workaholic.”

He added, “If he plays on the right wing in front of Wan Bissaka, I think Manchester United have a right-hand side of hard-working players who will do very well when they don’t have the ball.”

Pellistri joined Man United from Penarol for close to £9 million in 2020.

The 21-year-old winger made his senior-team debut for Man United last season, providing one assist in 232 minutes of action across 12 appearances for the Red Devils
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/hes-workaholic-parker-tells-ten-hag-to-start-ahead-of-garnacho-against-brighton/
I dreamt about my son two days before his demise – Mohbad’s father reveals
Mr Joseph Aloba, father of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, aka Mohbad, has revealed that he had a dreadful dream about his son two days before his demise.

The ‘feel good’ crooner, who passed away on Tuesday, was buried in the Ikorodu area of Lagos on Wednesday amidst tears from family, friends, and fans.

In an interview with an online blogger named OG Baba1 on Facebook, Joseph said he had a terrible dream about his son two days before his demise.

He said, “I had a dream about him two days before the incident. In the dream, I saw someone trying to shoot me. I thought I escaped the bullet, not knowing something like this would happen to me.”

He also said he shared more than a father-son relationship with his son and visited him the weekend before his death.

His words: “Mohbad is my friend. I called him Oladimeji (meaning my second) because I’m the only son of my parents. We were close.

“The last day we met, which was last Saturday, I went there (Mohbad’s house) and we dined together. When I was leaving, he also gave me some money like he always did.”

While reacting to different rumours circulating across social media about what led to the death of the singer, Joseph said he was unsure of the news.

He said, “According to what I heard from people, though I don’t believe was that an auxiliary nurse administered him an injection, and that could have led to anything.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/i-dreamt-about-my-son-two-days-before-his-demise-mohbads-father-reveals/
Mohbad: Employ lawyer to avoid irreparable loss – Effiong advises upcoming artists
A public interest and human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, has urged upcoming artists to have and retain a lawyer as an integral part of their career.

Effiong opined that those into entertainment or any business that do not have a lawyer were taking a huge risk that may cost them irreparable loss.

He stated this in a post on his verified social media platform X, on Thursday.

The statement is coming on the heels of the death of Nigerian singer and rapper, Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad,

Mohbad has been laid to rest in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.

Apart from the controversy as per the cause of his death, videos have emerged of distant relatives of the deceased trying to seize the late singer’s properties from his wife, Omowunmi.

In a video making the rounds on social media, an elderly man, who is supposedly a family member, was captured saying the singer’s wife should not be trusted.

However, Effiong is of the view that upcoming artist should have and retain a lawyer as an integral part of their career.

According to him, the advice has saved lives.

He wrote, “As an upcoming artist, you should have and retain a lawyer as an integral part of your career.

“If you’re into entertainment or any business for that matter, and you do not have a lawyer, you’re taking a huge risk that may cost you irreparable loss.

“This advice has saved lives.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/mohbad-employ-lawyer-to-avoid-irreparable-loss-effiong-advises-upcoming-artists/
A young man in Adamawa State has confessed to a prison amnesty committee how he stole a dog, sold it at N3,500 and ended up in prison.

The man, Sani Shuaibu, currently on awaiting trial and held at Yolde Pate Medium Security Custodial Center in Yola, told visiting Adamawa State Jail Delivery Committee how he stole the dog, obtained N3,500 from a buyer, bought shoes with the money, but got arrested.

Sani, who is from Jimeta in Yola North Local Government Area, said he picked up the dog around their community and sold it to a man.

The accused, who has spent some months in prison, was however lucky as he became one of 223 awaiting-trial inmates freed by the committee after he confessed to the crime.

The committee headed by the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Hapsat Abdulrahaman, discharged the accused when his case came up for review late on Wednesday.

The Adamawa State Jail Delivery Committee, a body set up to decongest the several prisons across the State, has disposed of hundreds of awaiting trial cases since it started visiting the prisons on Monday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/how-n3500-dog-got-me-into-prison-man-confesses/
I don’t want my daughter to live the life I lived – Adekunle Gold
Nigerian singer, Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko, popularly known as Adekunle Gold, has stated that he is working so hard because he doesn’t want his daughter, Adejare to live the life he lived while growing up.

AG Baby, as he is fondly called, said he is releasing multiple singles and projects to make enough money to cater for his child’s education and other needs.

He disclosed this in a recent chat with famous Youtuber, Tayo Aina.

He said his family is the “center” of his life.

Adekunle Gold said, “Being a father is a huge responsibility that I love by the way. Knowing that I have a huge responsibility to raise a queen. You know, my family is my center. Anywhere they are is my happy place.

“That is one of the reasons I’m hustling hard. Because this girl, the life that I lived growing up, she can’t do the same. That’s why I’m dropping school fees’ music for you people.”

He said being married to someone who is also an artiste has made his life easier because he doesn’t have to do a lot of explanations about his busy schedule.

DAILY POST recalls that Adekunle Gold and singer, Simi got married in January, 2019, after dating for five years.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Adejare, aka Dej in May 2020.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/i-dont-want-my-daughter-to-live-the-life-i-lived-adekunle-gold/
10 things you need to know this Thursday morning
Good morning! Here is today’s summary from Nigerian Newspapers:

1. The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, has commenced the process of registering its over 40 million members electronically to consolidate its membership strength ahead of the 2027 general elections. The National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje said this at the party’s secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday.

2. The federal government has moved the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to the Ministry of Interior as part of efforts to resolve issues around passport processing in the country. The National Identity Number (NIN), domiciled in NIMC, is one of the major conditions for obtaining International Passports.

3. Thousands of Muslim faithful converged on an open space in Hong, administrative headquarters of Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Tuesday, to offer special prayers for rain. The special prayer, known as “Salatul Istisqa’a”, was held to seek divine intervention for rainfall so as not to affect bumper harvest.

4. The proposed strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) will be counter-productive if it goes ahead, private employers of labour cautioned on Wednesday. According to them, the NLC should seek better opportunities for its members to cushion subsidy removal pain through dialogue with the government.

5. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged the new commissioners to cooperate with members of the House of Assembly in the discharge of their duties. He spoke yesterday at the swearing-in of the 37 commissioners and special advisers at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.The Governor advised the commissioners and SAs to build on the successes recorded in the administration’s first term.

6. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has said 13 states and 50 communities, mostly in the North, are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding between September 13 and 17. NEMA’s Lagos Territorial Coordinator, Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye announced this in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.

7. The House of Representatives has dismissed a statement that each member of the National Assembly collected N100 million as palliative. A statement credited to the National Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Christopher Onyeka had claimed that the executive arm gave federal lawmakers the sum as palliatives.

8. There is palpable tension in Ewu community of Delta State over the death of one August Joseph Obiuwevwi in the violence that broke out over who becomes the Ovie of Ewu kingdom.

9. Vice president Kashim Shettima on Wednesday departed Nigeria to represent President Bola Tinubu at the G77 Leaders’ Summit in Havana, Cuba, holding from Sept. 15 to 17. The Director of Information, Office of the Vice President, Mr Olusola Abiola, in a statement, said Shettima would join other world leaders, including the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Gutteres, at the Summit.

10. One person was feared dead as flood wreaked havoc at Gate House, Gold Crescent, Lagos State Development and Property Corporation Bungalow Scheme, Oke Afa, Isolo, Lagos. The residents expressed fear over flooding that continually threatened the safety of lives and property within the estate.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/10-things-you-need-to-know-this-thursday-morning-2/

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Subsidy removal: CSOs query Soludo over whereabouts of palliatives
A coalition of civil society groups in Anambra State, under the aegis of Anambra Civil Society Network (ACSONET), has demanded explanation from the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, over his promise to distribute rice to 530,000 households.

The group also queried the governor over Anambra’s share of the fuel subsidy removal palliative announced by the Federal Government for states.

The coalition asked Soludo to, without further delay, start distributing the rice and other palliatives as residents of the state are facing hardship over the removal of fuel subsidy.

In a statement signed by coordinator of the group, Prince Chris Azor, the CSOs said the palliatives were meant to address the sufferings of citizens in the face of current challenges.

The statement said: “We had expressed serious concerns about the plight of the suffering masses in the face of humongous hike in prices of commodities, transportation and general livelihoods.

“We also noted that the palliative packages by Federal and State governments would not be enough to mitigate the hardship faced by Nigerians.

“We also commended the state government for rolling out comprehensive intervention strategies as made public by the governor in a statewide broadcast.“We observed that there are some level of implementation in the health sector, through Antenatal and Postnatal free services. However, we expect the major interventions to commence immediately. The masses are really suffering.

“We will be happy to partner the state government and other stakeholders in monitoring the implementation process in order to ensure inclusivity, transparency and accountability.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/subsidy-removal-csos-query-soludo-over-whereabouts-of-palliatives/
Oyo Rep denies inflating road project contract from N9bn to N54bn
The member representing Oluyole Federal Constituency of Oyo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, has denied reports that she inflated the contract sum of a road rehabilitation project in her constituency.

The lawmaker was reacting to reports in the media that she connived with officials of the Federal Ministry of Works to inflate a 45 kilometre road project from N9 billion to N54 billion.

The contractor handling the project, DC Engineering Limited, was quoted to have made the allegation at a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives in Abuja.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, Akande-Sadipe explained that the Olojuoro, Ijebu-Igbo, Ita Egba, Owonomwen road project in her constituency in Oyo State was awarded in 2018 with a two-year completion period, but after five years, one kilometer of the road has not been completed despite the contractor being mobilized substantially.

According to her, several petitions have been written by her constituents, prompting her to sponsor a motion calling for investigation as the road got deplorable with serious human casualties on daily basis due to accidents.

Her intervention, she said, was within the mandate of her office as a lawmaker in protecting the interest of her constituents, hence, she raised a motion expressing concerns over the deplorable state of the road and calling on the lower legislative chamber to investigate with documentary evidence of payments made to the contractor.

Her motion urged “the House to establish an Ad-Hoc Committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the consistent failure of the contractors to fulfill their contractual obligations”.

“The investigation should specifically focus on the construction and rehabilitation of the Olomi Olojuoro road, referred to as the Ijebu-Igbo Ita Egba-Owonowen Ibadan road, with the following contracts and budget allocations,” the motion added.

The lawmaker expressed disappointment that she was being blackmailed by the company, which she said failed to meet up with the terms of the contractual agreement to the benefit of the people of the Oluyole area.

A paper she presented at the public hearing on the road project partly read, “My attention has been drawn to a letter dated 29th August, 2023 written by the solicitors to DC Engineering Limited Co and Oba (King) Adesegun Alowonle, the Emure of Ijebu, the person believed to be the owner of the company.

“This letter accused me of total falsehood in an attempt to steer this hallowed committee away from, the true situation on ground with regards to Olojuoro, Ijebu-Igbo, Ita Egba, Owonowen road in Oluyole Federal Constituency.

“The letter did not address the substance of the several petitions and motions in anyway, including the most recent of 13th July, 2023, rather what they went into was to disparage my person and smear my name and engage in scandalous defamation of my character by alleging that my objective in intervening on behalf of Oluyole is to promote a particular contractor – Aereatech Nigeria Limited, to the Federal Ministry of Works.”

The lawmaker denied having any “direct or indirect relationship with the said contractor, and I am not in any way related to the said contractor. I have never introduced any such contractor and have never inflated any contract”.

She alleged that the competence of DC Engineering calls for investigation given that some parts of the road project were sub-let to other minor construction firms in contravention of the contractual terms.

Akande-Sadipe further recalled how she initiated an inspection visit to the site in 2021 with representatives of the Federal Ministry of Works, the Commissioner of Public Complaints Commission and representatives of DC Engineering Limited, only to discover that the company was accused of collecting money from communities to fix feeder road culverts which were removed in the course of the rehabilitation work.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/oyo-rep-denies-inflating-road-project-contract-from-n9bn-to-n54bn/
Group urges Tinubu to prioritize economy, citizens welfare
A non-governmental organisation, Save The Poor And Needy Charity Initiative (SPANCI), has urged President Bola Tinubu to, without wasting more time, focus on policies that will boost the nation’s economy.

The group made the call on Tuesday.

DAILY POST recalls that the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal had last week dismissed petitions filed against Tinubu’s election by the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, respectively.

SPANCI in its reaction to the affirmation of Tinubu’s election by the tribunal, advised the President to henceforth focus on improving the wellbeing of the citizens.

The group, in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Yemi Ezekiel Bello, said, “We want Mr President to now focus on developmental projects that will boost the economy of the nation in a way that will make life easy for Nigerians.

“We also want concentration on the security of lives and properties of people and to also charge the law enforcement agents to respect the right to the dignity of the people as enshrined in Section 14 (1) (2) (a) (b) (c) and Section 34 (1) (a) (b) and (c) of our 1999 Constitution as amended in the spirit of true democracy and social justice.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/group-urges-tinubu-to-prioritize-economy-citizens-welfare/
Manchester United take decision on Anwar El Ghazi
Manchester United are not interested in signing former Aston Villa winger Anwar El Ghazi.

On Monday, reports claimed Man United were looking at an emergency move for El Ghazi.

This comes after Jadon Sancho’s relationship with Man United manager Erik ten Hag broke down following a public spat before the international break.

Added to that, Antony is currently on a leave of absence after rape allegations against the Brazilian in his native country Brazil and there are doubts over Sancho’s future at Old Trafford.

Man United presently have Alejandro Garnacho and Fecundo Pellestri in the wings and both Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount can play on the flank.

However, as reported by Metro UK, Man United have rejected the chance to sign El Ghazi on an emergency short-term contract as Ten Hag is happy with his current options in the squad.

El Ghazi is currently a free agent after he left PSV Eindhoven at the end of last season.

The Dutch star was present at the Emirates for Man United’s 3-1 defeat against Arsenal before the international break.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/manchester-united-take-decision-on-anwar-el-ghazi/
Tinubu orders investigation into recurring boat accidents in Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu has directed relevant agencies in the maritime sector to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation into recurring fatal boat accidents across the nation, including the recent mishaps in Mokwa, Niger State and Gurin, Adamawa State.

The President gave the directive in a statement issued by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, on Tuesday.

He also directed concerned government agencies, including law enforcement, maritime and transportation safety authorities, to collaborate closely in identifying the root causes of the disasters.

Tinubu equally extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives in the recent boat mishaps which claimed many lives, mostly women and children.

While expressing solidarity with the governments and people of Niger and Adamawa states, Tinubu said the swift mobilization of emergency response teams and volunteers to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the incidents was quite commendable.

He also wished those who sustained injuries in the incidents a speedy recovery.

The statement added, “President Tinubu underscored his commitment to holding government agencies accountable for any regulatory or safety lapses and further instructs a comprehensive review of safety measures and a strict enforcement of existing laws on boating activities in the country.

“He assured the affected families and communities of government’s continued support and his commitment to the prevention of such tragic incidents from occurring in the future.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/tinubu-orders-investigation-into-recurring-boat-accidents-in-nigeria/
The Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, in Cross River State has given Governor Bassey Otu a three-month ultimatum to conduct the suspended Local Government Elections in the state.

In May 2022, the state government commenced the process of conducting local council polls but the exercise was postponed because of the general elections held in February and March 2023.

The last date announced for the local government elections in the state was October 21, 2023.

But in a statement signed by the state chairman and secretary, Comrade Anthony Attah and Pastor Ntami Esege, respectively, IPAC expressed concerns that the governor refused to talk about the scheduled local council elections in a recent public address to mark his 100 days in office.

“We had declared a deserved honeymoon for the new administration but were however shocked that in his Press Conference last week to mark his 100 days in office, nothing was said about the administrative lacuna in our Local Government Councils.

“This clearly shows that the governor is yet to prioritize Local Government administration,” the statement said.

The Cross River State IPAC noted that the governor being a former federal legislator at both the upper and lower chambers, he ought to lead by example.

The organisation declared that the people of the state can no longer tolerate imposition of illegal heads of local government administration.

According to the Cross River IPAC chapter, some other states in the country have already concluded local council elections while others are getting set to conduct theirs.

“Moreover, Taraba State with a new governor just like us has scheduled her Local Government election to hold on the 18th of November, 2023.

“These are states that commenced the process about the same time with Cross River State. The reason these states are conducting elections hitherto postponed is because government is a continuum.

“It is against the background of the foregoing that we have elected to call on the governor to mandate the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission, CROSIEC to immediately return to work as Cross Riverians can no longer tolerate the illegal and unconstitutional imposition of Heads of Local Government Administration, HOLGA.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/ipac-gives-governor-otu-90-days-to-conduct-lg-polls-in-cross-river/

Monday, September 11, 2023

Yemi Oke: Datkem Plaza: Saving lives is not politics
Because Nigeria is a clime where almost everything is given a political coloration, the partial demolition of Datkem Plaza, Ijebu Ode, a structure owned by Mrs Olufunke Daniel, the wife of an ex-governor of the state and the senator representing Ogun Central in the National Assembly, Gbenga Daniel, was always going to be seen by many through the lens of politics. They have been conditioned by experience to see things through that lens. However, it is crucially important to go beyond politics in unraveling the present development. This is because a careful consideration of the facts of the case will show that the demolition is about law and order and public safety, and nothing more. There is no way a partial demolition that took place after more than 12 months of unheeded warnings can be seen as playing politics simply because those contravening the law are highly placed political persons. Indeed, it is absurd to see ordinary citizens who have suffered such fate as fully deserving of it and politically exposed persons as not. The idea of citizens potentially suffering as a result of the actions of highly placed individuals in the society organizing pity parties for them (highly placed people) after they have serially broken the law is not only absurd; it in fact amounts to self-abnegation.

It is an open secret that the collapse of buildings has claimed thousands of lives and caused incalculable damage over the years. In April this year, a seven-storey building collapsed in the Banana Island area of Lagos, with workers trapped under the rubble. There is no way Nigerians are going to forget the November 1, 2021 tragic episode in which a 21-storey building being developed by Fourscore Homes collapsed in the Ikoyi axis of the state. The gory incident claimed 46 lives, including that of Femi Osibona, the owner of Fourscore Homes, while 15 others were rescued. In February 2022, a three-storey building collapsed in the Onike area of Yaba, leading to several casualties. In May of the same year, the collapse of a three-storey building in the Ebute-Meta axis of the state claimed at least eight lives, while in September 2022, a seven-storey uncompleted building collapsed at Oba Idowu Oniru street, Lekki. There have been many such incidents across the country.

Indeed, in January this year, the Building Collapse Prevention Guild indicated that over 271 buildings collapsed in the last 10 years, while at least 531 persons have died as the menace of crumbling structures continues to plague Nigeria’s building industry. The incidents were linked with professional ineptitude. The houses collapsed because of excessive loading, the use of substandard materials, faulty design, poor workmanship and weak foundation. The most tragic of the incidents was the collapse of a part of a multiple-storey building inside the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), which left more than 80 worshipers dead, while several others were critically injured. One can go on and on, but the point is that the collapse of buildings is a potent threat to life and property that no reasonable government can afford to ignore because of personal friendship/relationship with people.

What are the facts of the present case? As revealed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Engr. Olayiwola Abiodun, Datkem Plaza, located in Ijebu Ode, is an illegal structure whose developers ignored all the efforts made by the state government to halt further development on the site. A commercial building of Datkem’s status must have a parking space to accommodate vehicular traffic within and outside the facility for workers and visitors. It must have stage certification, which is usually issued at every stage of construction. But the building did not, and the owners were served abatement, contravention, stop work and demolition notices between May and October 2022, which they ignored with relish.

Datkem Enterprises Limited submitted an application for an office building, located along Ibadan Road, Ijebu Ode in 2009 with registration number CB/05/299/2009, with a proposal was for five floors with airspace of 3 metres at the right, 5m at the left, 5metres at the rear and a setback of 32.5516 metres to the middle of Ijebu Ode/Ibadan road, Ijebu-Ode. However, the construction on site did not conform with the plan granted as there was a deviation from the airspaces and setback. That was not all: the building was enlarged with an additional storey building at the back, leading to over density. The government gave a contravention notice with serial no. 0106983 on May 24, 2022, and a stop work order with serial no. 000623 on May 24, 2022. Both were ignored, and so the government issued another stop work order with serial no. 001065 on July 22, 2022.

If the government stopped here, it would have been enough, but it actually went ahead to issue yet another demolition notice with serial no. 0007549 on October 11, 2022, while a notice to seal with serial no. 000815 was issued on October 4, 2022. Worst still, the re-sealing of the site on August, 1 this year did not stop work on the site. The developer wrote an appeal for unsealing, which was considered in order to evacuate the belongings on the premises and thereafter, quit notice with serial no. 0030750 was served on 31st august, 2023. Just where did the Ogun State government, which went over backwards to treat the developers with courtesy, go wrong in this matter?

In this country, developers routinely circumvent the law in erecting buildings and the cost of contravention is huge. If, on completion, Datkem plaza had collapsed and claimed many precious lives, the same people complaining now would have taken the Ogun State Government to the cleaners, blaming it for failing to act to save lives because of the status of its owners. The time has come for us to determine what we really want in this country. It is a fact that over the years, many buildings have collapsed because some people believed that they knew the people in government and could circumvent due process. A government cannot afford to play politics with the lives of the people. A structure such as Datkem must have structural integrity, escape routes and safety nets. Surely, Senator Daniel, an engineer himself, knows that. The owners of Datkem cannot produce any evidence of government approval in their possession simply because there is none. The Ogun State government merely acted to save lives.

Yemi Oke wrote this through yemioke@gmail.com
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/yemi-oke-datkem-plaza-saving-lives-is-not-politics/
Vice President Kashim Shettima has flagged off the Sokoto State Government’s distribution of palliatives worth N5.1 billion to residents of the state.

The palliative distribution is in fulfilment of the fuel subsidy removal policy by the Federal Government, which approved over N180 billion as palliatives to the 36 state governments to procure grains and other agricultural inputs for residents.

Flagging off the exercise on Monday, Shettima restated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians in his programmes and policies.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a compassionate leader who sleeps and wakes up each day with thoughts of how to alleviate the plight of Nigerians, especially the vulnerable among us.

“He is committed to promoting the welfare of citizens of this country, which is why he will soon introduce robust programmes that will help improve the living conditions of citizens,” the Vice President said.

Commenting on the distribution of palliatives by the Sokoto State government, Shettima said: “This is a very laudable initiative by the governor worthy of emulation by other State governments.”

On the donation of operational vehicles to security agencies by the state government, the VP said: “The Federal Government is very appreciative of the support the state government gives security agencies operating in the state. The vehicles you have purchased for them will help a lot in maintaining peace and order in Sokoto because there can be no development without peace.”

Shettima also praised the BUA Group for donating 10 patrol vehicles to security agencies, calling on “other private organisations in the state to emulate the BUA Group and support our security agencies.”

The Vice President equally commissioned the Rijiyar Doruwa flyover, constructed by the state government at the cost of N5.3 billion.

Earlier in his remarks, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the distribution of palliatives was “to address the plight of our people, especially the poor among us.”

Governor Aliyu, who disclosed that N5.1 billion was spent on the procurement of grains, said it will be distributed “free of charge, to our people, no matter their religion or party affiliation.”

The event also featured the unveiling of a transportation scheme by the state government, comprising the provision of 20 Toyota Camry cars, exclusively for use by women, as well as 50 mass transit buses for inter-city transportation service at affordable rates.

Present at the occasion were former governor of Sokoto, Senator Aliyu Wamakko; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; and Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Goronyo, among others.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/shettima-flags-off-distribution-of-n5bn-palliatives-in-sokoto/
42 inmates of Adamawa correctional centre gain freedom
At least 42 inmates of the correctional centre in Yola have gained freedom courtesy of the Adamawa State Jail Delivery Committee, a body established to decongest prisons.

On Monday, the committee discharged the 42 inmates awaiting trial at the Yolde Pate Correctional Centre, one of three such centres located within the Yola South/Yola North metropolis.

The committee equally granted bail to 27 inmates and summarily convicted two inmates to five years imprisonment each after they confessed to the alleged offences for which they were remanded.

The Jail Delivery Committee is headed by the Adamawa Chief Judge, Justice Hapsat Abdulrahaman, who led its members to the Yolde Pate Correctional Centre, a medium-security custodial centre currently housing 865 inmates.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/42-inmates-of-adamawa-correctional-centre-gain-freedom/
Plateau PDP commends tribunal for dismissing NNPP’s petition against Gov Mutfwang
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State has commended the Governorship Election Tribunal for dismissing the petition of the candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) against Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

This was contained in a statement on Monday by John Akans, PDP Publicity Secretary in Plateau State.

DAILY POST recalls that Alfred Dabwan and NNPP had approached the tribunal, challenging the victory of Mutfwang in the March 18 gubernatorial polls.

Akans said that the decision of the tribunal had validated the victory of Mutfwang at the polls, adding that it further proved that the governor was the popular choice of the Plateau people.

“The party commends the judgement of the tribunal as sound and a validation of the decision of the majority of Plateau citizens, who voted for the governor overwhelmingly. We believe that it is on account of the governor’s sterling competence and capacity that he was elected by the people,” he said.

Noting that the victory has further strengthened the governor’s vision for the state, Akan affirmed: “It will also boost his motivation to perform his functions as vested in him by the people of Plateau and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He promised that the party would continue to support the governor in his bid to provide dividends of democracy to the people of the state at all levels.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/plateau-pdp-commends-tribunal-for-dismissing-nnpps-petition-against-gov-mutfwang/
BBNaija All Stars: Biggie makes me blush – Mercy
Big Brother Naija All Stars housemates Cynthia Nwadiora, aka CeeC, and Mercy Eke have expressed their admiration for the person behind the voice of the “invisible” coordinator of the reality show, known as Biggie.

The duo had the conversation on Monday afternoon.

CeeC said: “You just know he smells so nice. Do you know what gets me? His intellectual capacity. You can feel that he’s tall.”

Responding, Mercy said: “He has solution to everything. Even when he keeps quiet, it’s tempting. You can just feel it. You can feel his strength. And when he now does ‘hmmm’, you will just be blushing anyhow.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/bbnaija-all-stars-biggie-makes-me-blush-mercy/
UAE lifts visa ban on Nigerian travellers after Tinubu’s intervention
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi, have finalised a historic agreement that has resulted in the immediate cessation of the visa ban placed on Nigerian travellers.

Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

As part of the agreement between both governments, Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines are to immediately resume flight schedules into and out of Nigeria without further delay.

“As negotiated between the two heads of state, this immediate restoration of flight activity through these two airlines and between the two countries does not involve any immediate payment by the Nigerian government.

“In recognition of President Tinubu’s economic development diplomacy drive and the proposals today presented by President Tinubu to his counterpart, an agreed framework has been established, which will involve several billions of U.S. dollars worth of new investments into the Nigerian economy across multiple sectors, including defence, agriculture, and others, by the investment arms of the Government of the United Arab Emirates.

“Additionally, President Tinubu is pleased to have successfully negotiated a joint, new foreign exchange liquidity programme between the two governments, which will be announced in detail in the coming weeks.

“In conclusion, the President wishes to commend the UAE President, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his unalloyed friendship and his determined effort to join hands with him to fully normalise and reset the standard of relations between the two important countries to excellence,” the statement reads.

DAILY POST recalls that Tinubu made a technical stoppage in the UAE after attending the G-20 Summit in India.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/uae-lifts-visa-ban-on-nigerian-travellers-after-tinubus-intervention/

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Prof. Okereke organises IVLP, funds tree planting exercise in Enugu State
International climate expert and leading advocate for climate action in Nigeria, Professor Chukwumerije Okereke has organized a climate education and tree planting exercise in Enugu State.

The state tree planting exercise is one of the programmes mapped out for the implementation of the International Visitors’ Leadership Programme (IVLP) impact award given to Prof.l Chukwumerije Okereke by the United States Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The exercise involved the planting of 35 ornamental trees along the road from P&T Bus Stop towards Ziks Avenue in a bid to raise awareness about the dangers of climate change and urban air pollution and the positive role of urban greening in combating both challenges.

The state tree planting exercise was flagged off by the Hon. Commissioner for Environment Enugu state who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of State Ministry of Environment Mr. Albert Obiora Ekete.

The flag-off was witnessed by 24 young leaders present, staff of the state ministry of Environment, CEO of Eco-cyclers, Ms Oge Nwonye, a Member of the State Government Palliative Team, Mr. Basil Ojengwa, and many other volunteers who joined the exercise.

The young leaders had been selected from over 4,000 applications to be trained on the fundamentals of climate change science, urban air pollution, and climate advocacy to equip them to become more active citizens and more effective in spreading the message of climate action.

A total of 35 ornamental trees (Green Ficus) were planted by the participants with help and support from the staff of the State Ministry of Environment that came with the Permanent Secretary.

Each of the participants present planted a tree after the flag-off was done by the Permanent Secretary. The campaign also involved an arrangement with the State Ministry of Environment to water and care for the trees to ensure they survive and flourish.

He said that trees symbolize a profound commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of air pollution and climate change that have been plaguing the state.

He said that trees stand as silent sentinels, poised to purify the air, mitigate the effects of climate change, and restore the balance of the local ecosystem.

Professor Okereke thanked the Hon Commissioner for Environment, Prof Sam Ugwu, the Permanent Secretary Albert Obiora Ekete, and the entire staff of the State Ministry of Environment for supporting the exercise.

He thanked the United States Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and their implementing partner Meridian International for giving him the opportunity, to contribute to climate awareness, leadership training, and the sustainable development of Enugu State through the IVLP impact program.

He assured them that he is committed to working with them to empower more young leaders in the state and beyond to become active citizens in promoting stronger climate and environmental action in the state.

The young leaders were informed that the next activity will be the school visit to educate the students on Urban greening and tree planting.

For the organization and implementation of the programme, Professor Okereke was actively supported by Eco-cyclers, the Center for Climate Change and Development, and the Society for Planet and Prosperity.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/prof-okereke-organises-ivlp-funds-tree-planting-exercise-in-enugu-state/
Anglican Primate, foundation dedicate church in Anambra
The Chairman, Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation, Engr. Emeka Okwuosa, on Tuesday called on Nigerians to dedicate their lives to God to surmount the challenges experience d in the nation.

Okwuosa made the call at the dedication of the Christ Church, Irefi-Oraifite and the memorial thanksgiving of Late Pa, Godfrey Egbuniwe and Late Dame Irene Mmachukwu of Irefi-Oraifite in Ekwusigo LGA, Anambra.

The church was built by Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation.

In his address, Okwuosa identified hardwork and diligience as key to ensure development in any society.

"Let us do whatever we are doing to the glory of God and humanity, as we lend ourselves to God, He will use us as a means of blessings to people around us.

“For me, the goal is to render service to God and humanity, which entails giving the best to God because He is deserving of it.

"It is high time we left all negativity. The rulers and the ruled should return back and dedicate their lives to God so that we can surmount our national challenges and have a better society that we dream of," he said.

Okwuosa hinted that his foundation would commence the construction of a skill acquisition centre to empower the people with skills that would make then self-reliant.

He urged Nigeria youths especially those from the South East geo-political zone to adopt legitimate means of livelihood instead of indulging in fetish activities to make money.

Speaking earlier, the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Abuja, Most Rev Henry Ndukuba, also urged Nigerians to embrace the principles of being relevant to God for His blessings.

Ndukuba, who is equally the Archbishop, Metropolitan, Abuja, said no matter how big or small what we are doing may be, let it be to the glory of God.

"Let us do whatever we are doing to the glory of God and humanity, as we lend ourselves to God, He will use us as a means of blessings to people around us.

"As God has used the Okwuosa family to bless the church, we are also trusting that God through our prayers, study of the word of God, Nigeria will be blessed", he said.

Chief Arthur Eze, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, Dame Virgy Etiaba, former Aviation Minister, Osita Chidioka, Mr Valentine Ozigbo, governorship candidate of PDP in Anambra in 2021 were some of the dignitaries at the event.

Others were Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma of Archdiocese of Enugu and Archbishop Alex Ibezim of the Province of the Niger.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/anglican-primate-foundation-dedicate-church-in-anambra/
Actress Nneoma Ukpabi to become a Prophetess?
Nollywood actress Nneoma Ukpabi has spiritual gifts and is destined to become a prophetess, according to Prophet Livingsoul aka Onyokometer.

Prophet Livingsoul made the revelation on Sunday, while the actress was attending a church service at Divine Holy Ministry in Mbieri in Imo State.

He said that Nneoma is born with powers to connect and hear from the spirits, adding that when well channeled in house of God will make her a great Prophetess.

Nneoma Ukpabi who spoke to OtownGist after the church service admitted that she has always had the gift but have been on the other side of the world.

“I have always been a very spiritual person. People say it and I also know it”

“Sometimes what you see or hear can be scary, but you can never change the gifts you are born with”, she said.

Admitting that she has not attended any church service in a while, Nneoma said that the words of the prophet hit her deeply, but at the moment, she cannot say what will happen.

“I don’t know if gifts are different from callings, but I think the best thing to do is take everything home and take time to know what is best for me”

“We all serve God in our unique was and as long as we keep asking Him for more, He will demand same from us”

“I’ve already imagined the sound of ‘Prophetess Nneoma Ukpabi’ in my head, it sounds funny, serious and scary at the same time because whatever decision I make eventually, will involve genuine sacrifices and I need to ask myself how ready I am for all of that”, she said.

WATCH HER DANCING IN CHURCH
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/actress-nneoma-ukpabi-to-become-a-prophetess/

Friday, September 8, 2023

Kingmakers install Ghandi Laoye as new Soun of Ogbomoso
A former pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Prince Afolabi Ghandi Laoye, on Friday, was installed as the new Soun of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State.

The had reported that Laoye, who was based in the United States of America, arrived in Ogbomoso early in the morning in a private chopper, which landed at Ogbomoso Grammar School, before moving to the palace.

It will be also be recalled that the Soun of Ogbomoso stool became vacant after Oba Jimoh Oyewumi transited to the great beyond, on December 12, 2021.

However, some members of the family opposed the approval, thereby heading to court, arguing that he was not part of the process right from the beginning and that he shouldn’t be crowned against their wish.

The family members instituted the suit, marked HOG/27/2022, in July 2022, against the nomination of Ghandi Olaoye by the kingmakers, citing various irregularities in the procedures that produced him thereby praying the court to, among other reliefs, set aside the nomination and to order a fresh process.

The judge, A.K. Adedokun, fixed the judgement day after Olaoye’s counsel, Oladapo Atanda, and Kolawole Fatoye, who represented Ghandi and the kingmakers adopted their processes and presented their arguments for and against the suit.

The defendants in the case include the Oyo State Governor, Oyo State Attorney General, Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ogbomoso North Local Government, Ogbomoso North Traditional Council, and Prince Amos Olawole Olaoye (Mogaji Olaoye Ruling House) who are 1st to 6th defendants respectively.

The 7th to 11th defendants are the kingmakers: Chief S.O. Otolorin (Areago of Ogbomoso and Chairman), Chief Salawu Ajadi (Jagun), Chief Tijani Abioye (Bara), Cheif David Adeniran Ojo (Ikolaba) and Chief Yusuf Oladipupo (Abese) while Prince Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun nominee, is the 12th defendant.

The plaintiff, while claiming that the regulations guiding the nomination to fill the vacant stool of Soun Chieftaincy Ogbomoso which include the Soun Chieftaincy Declaration (1958), Ogbomoso District Native Authority Resolution (1953) and Oyo State Chiefs Law (2000) were grossly violated, sought relief that the procedure for Ghandi’s nomination was inconclusive in that a minority committee performed the task instead of the whole members of the family.

“A declaration that the procedure adopted for the nomination of candidate or candidates to fill the vacant stool of Soun of Ogbomoso Chieftaincy by the members of Laoye Ruling House through the purported 11-member screening committee was inconclusive.

“The member of the Olaoye ruling house as a family was denied their legal right of having a final say in voting and/or ratifying the aforesaid report at the time the kingmakers acted upon it, not strictly the method envisaged under the native law and custom, the Laoye ruling house as a body entitled to nominate a candidate for appointment to the stool of Soun and not by the minority of the members of the larger body.”

He wanted the court to declare that the active participation of the 4th defendant (Ogbomoso North Local Government) in the process leading to the emergence of Ghandi Olaoye rather than being a mere observer invalidates the process.

In addition, the 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, and 12th defendants represented by Kolawole Fatoye, Olalekan Oguntoye and O.E. Igene filed counter-claims to which the claimant also filed defence.

The legal team of 7th to 10th defendants which also represented Ghandi, urged the court to “dismiss the claim and grant the counterclaim” noting that “all the procedure as itemized above clearly showed that the 12th defendant was duly nominated by the Laoye ruling house and selected by the kingmakers.”

It asserted that the plaintiff filed “this action because the selection did not favour him having participated along with others in the nomination and selection exercise.”

The judge, Adedokun, therefore, fixed October 3 for the judgement.

On Saturday, September 2, however, the state Governor, Seyi Makinde, had in a statement by his Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olusegun Olayiwola, approved the selection of Olaoye as the next Soun.

Again, on Thursday, the state High Court in Ogbomoso restrained the governor, the Attorney General of the State and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters either by themselves, agents, or officials from presenting any instrument of office in any form of ceremony or issuance of the certificate of installation to Olaoye until the final determination of the mandatory injunction already filed before the court.

However, the new monarch was at the palace, on Friday, for an official installation which was performed at Abata by the kingmakers led by the Areago High Chief Sobalaje Otolorin.

The kingmakers said they did not receive any court injunction restraining them from installing Ghandi as the new Soun of Ogbomoso.

He is billed to commence the traditional rites soon.

The new Oba is proclaimed His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/09/kingmakers-install-ghandi-laoye-as-new-soun-of-ogbomoso/