IMPERSONATION: JESSE JOSHUA KASSAH, (ALIAS DEVAUN SMITH WAYNE) GETS TWO YEARS IMPRISONMENT
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, November 20, 2023 secured the conviction and sentencing of Jesse Joshua Kassah, (alias Devaun Smith Wayne) to two years imprisonment.
He was jailed by Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court, Kaduna, after pleading guilty to one-count charge bordering on impersonation upon being arraigned by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The lone count charge reads: “That you, Jesse Joshua Kassah (a.k.a Devaun Smith Wayne), (M) between January to October, 2023 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, committed an offence, to wit; falsely presented yourself as Devaun Smith Wayne; a USA military personnel and ticket salesman on Facebook (an online social media application) to one Caitlin Morgan and which pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017”.
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel M. Arumemi urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Khobo thereafter convicted and sentenced Kassah to two years imprisonment with an option of N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
The Judge also ordered the forfeiture of Samsung Galaxy A02 phone which was used to commit the offence to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Kassah’s journey to the Correctional Centre started when he was arrested at Karji area of Kaduna for internet-related offences. Investigations showed that he impersonated an American soldier, Devaun Smith Wayne and used his identity to defraud his victims in the process.
Media & Publicity
November 20, 2023
EFCC TO NIGERIAN AIR FORCE, NAF, PERSONNEL: NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW
The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, personnel released on administrative bail by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, November 17, 2023 will be charged to court at the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
The officers were released to their Service in strict adherence to the bail procedures of the Commission.
The Commission reiterates the fact that no one is above the law and the due process will be followed in bringing the case to a conclusion.
Media & Publicity
November 18, 2023
VP Shettima to Creative Industry: Expect More Inclusive, Prosperous Future Under Our Watch
*Says President Tinubu, architect of Nigeria’s entertainment hub
*Apologises for past administrations’ neglect of creative economy
A glimmer of hope came for Nigeria’s creative industry as Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday restated the resolve of the Tinubu administration to ensure a more inclusive and prosperous future for the country’s creative economy.
According to him, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is poised to increase the voices of Nigeria’s creative minds, empower the nation’s best talents, and harness the unconstrained potential within the country’s ” diverse cultural tapestry”.
The Vice President gave the assurance while addressing key players and stakeholders in the nation’s creative and entertainment industry during the Art, Culture, and Creative Economy Roundtable – A Creative Industry Intervention – organized by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Hinging his speech on ‘Nigeria’s Creative Roadmap to the Future’, Sen. Shettima said, “Ladies and gentlemen, this roundtable is an avenue for us to deliberate and recommit ourselves to fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, innovation, and inclusivity. More than ever, we see the need to amplify the voices of our creative minds, empower our best talents, and harness the unbridled potential that lies within the folds of Nigeria’s diverse cultural tapestry.
“This round-table discussion isn’t just for us to chart a course that celebrates our past achievements. It’s for us to pave the way for an even brighter, more inclusive, and prosperous future for Nigeria’s creative economy. For it is through such synergy that we shall continue to ascend to greater heights and cement Nigeria’s rightful place as the unrivalled creative powerhouse of Africa”.
The VP told the industry’s stakeholders and key players that the Tinubu administration is set to make real its promise to turn the Nigerian creative industry into a critical segment of the global economy.
Describing Tinubu as the architect of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, Vice President Shettima said it is for this reason they refer to the President as ‘City Boy’.
He stated: “Thankfully, your President is the architect of the nation’s entertainment hub, and there’s a reason your industry refers to him as “City Boy.” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not only cosmopolitan, a man of arts and culture in tune with the realities of your industry, but he has also acknowledged your industry as a critical segment of the global economy.
“So, we are here to make true our promise to you and let you know that the time has come for your industry to be at the negotiation table in Abuja.”
VP Shettima also tendered a passionate apology to members of the creative and entertainment sector over neglect by past administrations, which he said left them with no option but to build the industry with minimal support from the government.
Accordingly, he reiterated the firm resolve of the Tinubu administration to maximize the potential of the nation’s creative economy.
His words: “The gathering of stars in this room today, each unique in its stardom, is a testament to why Nigeria stands as the envy of the creative universe. Our citizens haven’t merely entered the stage of arts, entertainment, and creativity; their brilliance has become a beacon of inspiration and admiration worldwide.
“I want to express our gratitude for the illumination they have cast upon the world, the delight they have infused into it, and, undoubtedly, the economic prosperity and employment they have brought to the thriving galaxy of their profession.
“The industries that have produced the stars in this room are products of sustained sacrifices. Young and old, the ferocity with which our talents have shone within and outside the shores of the country is a template for each sector in the country, and I confess to being utterly impressed.
“What is even more astonishing is that they built their collections of empires with minimal support from the government. This is why we are here. We are here to apologise to you and to form a synergy to maximize the potential of the fast-evolving creative economy, of which you are our shiniest pillars.”
Regretting that despite the creativity shown by Nigerian artists the country’s image had been tainted by the criminal activities of those he described as “misguided few”, the Vice President however thanked members of the creative industry for remaining a beacon of light and hope for Nigeria.
He continued: “I don’t know what would’ve become of Nigeria’s image without you. You are the reason we walk with our shoulders still high from Atlanta to Zurich. Your dedication, your innovation, and your tireless commitment to shaping a narrative rooted in truth, integrity, and artistic brilliance have been the bedrock upon which our creative industries stand tall.
“It is through your talents that we refute the caricatured image and unveil the true essence of Nigeria’s creative might. So, on behalf of the Nigerian government, allow me to extend our profound gratitude.”
Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia said the initiative by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, was part of the Tinubu administration’s efforts to build and nurture a viable working relationship between the public and private sectors in the creative industry.
He noted that the whole idea was to strengthen Nigeria’s position as the global centre for arts, culture and creativity, leveraging available resources within and outside the country to achieve set objectives.
On her part, the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hajiya Hannatu Musawa, gave an overview of the Ministry’s vision and agenda for the creative sector, which is partly encapsulated in the ‘Destination 2023, Nigeria Everywhere’ initiative – a soft power programme to showcase Nigeria’s abundant talents in the creative sector.
According to the minister, the plan is to firmly establish Nigeria as the leading global hub for arts, culture and creativity, noting that “with this initiative, we are going to change the narrative about Nigeria globally.”
She added that by leveraging legislative, regulatory and intellectual property reforms, the country can witness a significant increase in the creative sector’s contributions to the GDP within a short period.
On private sector engagements, the Minister said in recognition of the importance of the private sector, “we are shifting our programme from focusing on just financing to comprehensive ecosystem support.”
On his part, the Managing Director of Providus Bank, Mr Walter Akpani, congratulated the Vice President for supporting the birthing of the initiative and other planned interventions in the creative sector, noting that it would positively impact the economy and image of Nigeria globally.
Dignitaries at the event included the Ministers of Labour and Employment, Mr Simon Lalong and Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu. The Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii and representatives of partners in the project comprising, the CEO of Prembly, Mr Lanre Ogunbe and Managing Director of Leadway Pensure, Mr Lanre Idris, among others.
Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
21st November, 2023
𝐀’𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓 𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒 𝐀𝐈𝐑 𝐎𝐍 𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐎 𝐉𝐔𝐃𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐘, 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐎 𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐑
The Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Umar Bangari, has the cleared air on the controversies surrounding the judgement delivered by the court on the Kano Governorship Election dispute.
In a reaction, Bangari said that what happened in the judgement body was a typo error that did not in any way invalidate or change the findings and conclusion of the court.
The chief registrar assured Nigerians that the error would be rectified once parties in the matter file formal application to that effect.
He cited Order 23 Rule 4 of the Court of Appeal HandBook which empowered the court to correct any clerical error once detected by the court or any of the parties in the matter.
He insisted that contrary to insinuations, the judgement of the court remained valid.
There had been an uproar and series’ of interpretations into the judgement which upheld the judgment of Kano State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal that invalidated the election of Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), as winner of the March 18 Governorship Election.
–
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES LIBERIANS AND COMMENDS PRESIDENT WEAH’S LEADERSHIP FOLLOWING PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
President Bola Tinubu congratulates the government and people of Liberia on the successful conduct of the Liberian Presidential Election.
The President also congratulates President-elect Joseph Boakai, who won the mandate of the people, enjoining him to unite the country and build on the popular support expressed through the ballot box to deliver good governance to the people of Liberia.
President Tinubu commends President George Weah for demonstrating uncommon leadership by conceding the election and averting any form of socio-political crisis.
The President says President Weah’s great act of democratic sportsmanship is exemplary, particularly at this time in West Africa, when democracy is under attack by malign actors who are bent on subverting the will of the people.
“I commend President George Weah for his sterling example, undiluted patriotism, and statesmanship. He has defied the stereotype that peaceful transitions of power are untenable in West Africa. He has demonstrated that the outcome of elections in the sub-region need not become the propellant of violence and unrest and that the will of the people must always be respected,” the President states.
President Tinubu thanks the people of Liberia for peacefully exercising their rights and implores them to remain steadfast in the furtherance of peace and democracy.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
November 18, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES ICON OF DEMOCRACY, DR. GOODLUCK JONATHAN, AT 66
On behalf of the people and government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu celebrates former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, on his 66th birthday, for his unique demonstration of statesmanship and for his distinguishing achievement as a leader, who gave Nigeria and Africa, a pride of place in democratic lore by upending the vitiating paradigm of those who seek to hold onto power by all means.
President Tinubu shares the joyous occasion with one of our icons of democracy, whose humility continues to inspire hope for good governance in the country and on the continent.
The President believes the former President possesses a distinguished profile on leadership, rising up the ladder as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice-President and President, and now championing the cause of peace in Africa by bringing together and counselling leaders on harmonious co-existence for the benefit of the people they serve.
The President commends former President Jonathan for committing himself to the service of humanity and to strengthening democratic institutions, exemplified by his relentless peace missions and advocacy of non-violence in the peaceful transition of power across the African continent.
As the former President clocks 66, President Tinubu affirms that his wisdom, foresight, and patriotism will continue to set an example for leaders aspiring to make a difference in Nigeria and beyond.
The President prays that God Almighty will continually sustain the former President and his wife, Patience, in good health and strength.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 19, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS FORMER CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF MAJOR-GENERAL CHRIS ALLI
President Bola Tinubu sympathizes with the Alli family and the Nigerian Army over the passing of Major-General Chris Alli (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, who died on Sunday.
Major-General Alli was Chief of Army Staff from 1993 to 1994 when he retired from service.
President Tinubu describes the passing of the former Chief of Army Staff as a painful loss, saying he served his country faithfully.
“I condole with the Alli family and the Nigerian Army over the sad loss of the former Chief of Army Staff. He served his country with honour and retired meritoriously. May the Almighty God rest his soul and grant his family the fortitude to bear the huge void,” the President says.
Major-General Alli held other important positions in the Nigerian Army, such as Director of Military Intelligence (DMI), before his elevation to Chief of Army Staff. He was a respected officer.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
November 20, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU TO INVESTORS: NIGERIANS ARE THE GREATEST ASSET AND ADVANTAGE WE HAVE OVER OTHER NATIONS
President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, in Berlin, Germany, told international investors that beyond Nigeria’s natural resources, the people of Nigeria, who are highly educated, highly skilled, and naturally industrious, are the primary asset and advantage the country wields over other nations in the global race for new investments.
The President spoke at a panel discussion titled, “Fostering local value chains and investments in Africa – The role of the German private sector” at the G20 Compact with Africa Economic Conference, hosted by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
The President noted that while promoting the rule of law is crucial for attracting foreign investments, Nigeria’s energetic youth population and well-educated populace represent the greatest incentive provided to investors toward the mutually-beneficial replication of China’s economic resurgence.
“We are dogged in our pursuit of natural gas development today, in tandem with hydrogen production for tomorrow. The world knows Nigeria as a leader in the energy sector. Our vast gas deposits and business-friendly environment make us an attractive investment destination. But we are going a step further now. We are creating fiscal responsibility and tax reforms as we reform our financial institutions to expeditiously accommodate foreign investments.
”We are eager and ready to partner with you. We have the youngest, largest, and most vibrant youth population in Africa. Equally, we have every ingredient required in the making of a modern economy: a well-educated population, a massive market, and the political will to bring it all together under my leadership.
“Africa has moved beyond the false past notions of business disincentivization and poor adherence to the rule of law. We now fully recognize the nexus between the inflow of investor money and the sanctity of contracts. We want to partner on the basis of who we are and what we do, rather than on the basis of long-held misconception,” the President stated.
President Tinubu apprised the summit of the country’s intentional move toward developing labour-intensive sectors of the Nigerian economy for massive job creation as well as a new emphasis on technological progress and new opportunities in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding information and communications technology space.
The President assured potential investors that Nigeria has moved beyond restrictive policies, and today, capital can be moved in and out of the country freely, providing flexibility for investors.
“Nigeria has consolidated on its democracy with several consecutive handovers of power. There is stability and predictability in the socio-political development of our country, which provides a conducive atmosphere for business operations and investment. Your money is safe. Since I assumed office in May 2023, we have embarked on transformative changes, removing all obstacles hindering businesses. We are reforming the economy based on the principle and philosophy of good governance,” the President confidently affirmed.
While persuading German automobile firms to establish manufacturing plants in Nigeria, he invited German businesses to take advantage of investment opportunities in multiple sectors following the successful visit of the German Chancellor to Nigeria in October.
Speaking earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz noted the dynamic and evolving nature of economic relations between the developed and developing nations of the world as he positions Germany to enhance partnership with Nigeria and Africa on a mutually-beneficial basis.
“To be clear, this is not about traditional development aid with donor-recipient schemes. Instead, we now focus on investments that yield benefits for both parties. In Germany, as we strive for climate neutrality by 2045, we anticipate a substantial demand for green hydrogen, a considerable portion of which we plan to import, including from Africa.
“Many African countries possess larger potentials for renewable energy and competitive hydrogen production than we do. I am convinced that there are fantastic opportunities for expanding cooperation between German and African companies in this context.
“I highlighted this during my visit to Nigeria, where we already operate a hydrogen office and aspire to be a partner in the ambitious expansion of renewable energies,” the Chancellor stated.
Other panelists at the discussion were the German Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz; President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire; Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch of Morocco; President Macky Sall of Senegal; Sabine Dall’Omo, Chairperson of Afrika-Verein (German-African Business Association); and CEO of Sub-Saharan Africa, Siemens AG.
President Bola Tinubu hosts notable German Business Chief Executives at a Nigeria-Germany Business Roundtable in Berlin, Germany, on Tuesday.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 20, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU MEETS GERMAN CHANCELLOR SCHOLZ; ADVANCES NEGOTIATION ON GERMAN INVESTMENT IN POWER AND RAIL TRANSPORTATION SECTORS
President Bola Tinubu, on the sidelines of the G20 Compact with Africa Economic Conference on Monday, met with German Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, where he noted that Nigeria’s determined pursuit of German investment in targeted sectors of the Nigerian economy was focused on critical growth-enabling industries in energy, transportation, and electric power production, transmission, and distribution.
Recognizing the success of Siemens AG in positively transforming the quantity and quality of Egyptian electric power supply, the President noted that under his leadership, the staggered and unsteady implementation of the Siemens-supported Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) would take on new urgency with a more deliberate process of project execution, even as he recognized the need to embrace Siemens technology in all aspects of the project for project sustainability.
“For me, I am very much committed to pursuing all aspects of the Siemens Power project and the skill development opportunities that will emerge from that project for our talented youths who can participate in sustaining the industry,” the President affirmed.
Aware of the new 2,000km ultra high-speed rail network which Siemens is presently constructing across 60 cities in Egypt at the speed of 230km/hour, the President further expressed his keen interest in the role Siemens can play in modernizing and expanding Nigeria’s rail network with the provision of ultra-modern trains and railways which can more than double the speed of existing 100km/hour standard-gauge systems presently operating in Nigeria.
To this, the German Chancellor expressed readiness but with an acknowledgment of the need to resolve administrative and financial hurdles brought about by governance problems emanating from prior administration in the sector.
“I know that there is a lot of work that has been done. There is already a big production of electricity in Nigeria, but it is not getting to the population. Of course, this has to do with the need for a provision of stations and infrastructure on the grid. Siemens has developed the plan and is ready to deepen implementation, but it is now up to your new government to take the follow-up action that you are now committed to taking. On the railway plans, Siemens will be very happy to do this when more progress is made on the power project which has been started already,” the German Chancellor said.
President Tinubu drew the attention of the German leader to the need for his business community to focus their attention on value-additive processing in Nigerian solid minerals, agricultural goods, automobile production, and other job-creating sub-sectors of the economy.
“Everything the world requires in terms of business environment reforms are underway in Nigeria. Perhaps our foreign investors are still a bit paranoid that those old Nigerian issues are intractable. But my track record speaks for itself. I have transformed an entity before now. I am here to do it again, and I will,” the President stated.
The German Chancellor nodded in agreement and said, “There is nothing too unique on the growth of China. It came down to a lot of investment from overseas that leveraged on cheap and skilled labour with adequate internal infrastructure and shipping infrastructure for imports and exports to flow easily. These things are possible in Nigeria. You even have abundant natural resources. Step by step, it is achievable, Mr. President.”
The two leaders of the largest economies in Africa and Europe, respectively, agreed to deepen collaboration on the utilization of advanced biometric systems and border control technology to check irregular migration, even as the two leaders agreed that investments in labour-intensive industries will go a long way toward resolving the root causes of the problem.
President Tinubu later exchanged views with the German Head of State and Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, before attending the Compact with Africa Summit of Heads of State and Government.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 20, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
NIGERIA-GERMANY PARTNERSHIP EXPANDS AS PRESIDENT TINUBU WITNESSES SIGNING OF $500M RENEWABLE ENERGY PACT AND GAS EXPORT AGREEMENT
The burgeoning economic partnership between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Federal Republic of Germany witnessed further expansion and strengthening as two important agreements were signed between Nigerian and German businesses on Tuesday.
Speaking in Berlin, Germany, at the 10th German-Nigerian Business Forum, President Bola Tinubu said that with a resilient democracy, Nigeria is well primed to attract foreign direct investments.
The President witnessed the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU): one on the supply of gas from Nigeria to Germany and another for $500 million worth of renewable energy projects in Nigeria.
The signing of MoUs was between Riverside LNG of Nigeria and Johannes Schuetze Energy Import AG of Germany on the gas export partnership, while the other signed pact brought together Union Bank of Nigeria and DWS Group on cooperation in renewable energy.
CEO of GasInvest, Mr. David Ige, who signed the MoU on gas supply, said the Riverside LNG project aims to supply energy from Nigeria to Germany, extinguishing about 50 million cubic feet per day of flared gas in Nigeria.
”The project will supply energy from Nigeria to Germany at 850,000 tonnes per annum, expanding to 1.2 million tonnes per annum.
”The first gas will leave Nigeria for Germany in 2026, and there will be further expansion. This will extinguish about 50 million cubic feet per day of flared gas in Nigeria and open alleyways of new and greater exports of gas to Germany,’’ he said.
The German partners expressed confidence in investing in Nigeria’s gas sector.
Chief Operating Officer of Johannes Schuetze Energy Import AG, Mr. Frank Otto described the partnership as a “big deal” for the German market.
Chairman of Union Bank, Mr. Farouk Gumel disclosed the commitment of $500 million for e-energy projects in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of rural inclusion and bringing more people into the formal economy.
”We believe this would bring rural inclusion and capture more people into the formal economy. Without inclusion, there is no growth. Thank you, Mr. President,” Mr. Gumel said.
Welcoming the new deals, President Bola Tinubu assured German businesses that with Nigeria’s stable political landscape, foreign investments into the country are secure.
”Since 1999, we have witnessed changes in democratic governance, with peaceful transfers of power within and between parties. Democracy in Nigeria has proven to be flexible and resilient. Shake off any remnants of the military era syndrome; we have moved beyond that. Despite challenges faced by other African nations, Nigeria stands firm, and we are your partners,” the President declared.
Outlining some of the achievements of his administration, which include his globally-acclaimed economic reforms, the President emphasized his commitment to sustaining the reforms and building stronger Nigerian-German relations.
”For those who feared various obstacles; look at me—I come from the private sector, trained by Deloitte. I served as the treasurer in Exxon Mobil. Define corporate governance in any way, and I am in it. I governed Lagos for eight consecutive years. Today, I can proudly beat my chest that Lagos state is on the horizon and the fifth-largest economy in Africa, rising from ground zero. This is the track record that led me to the presidency.
”Nigerians voted for me for reforms, and from day one of my inauguration, I implemented the reforms. My inaugural speech did not disclose what I would do. I removed the fuel subsidy that is a great burden to Nigerians from the moment I stepped into office.
”The arbitrage regime is gone forever. Now, you can bring your money in and out as you wish. If you encounter any problems, rest assured that I have built one of the most reliable teams Nigeria has seen to address them. I appeal to you to forget the past and focus on building a relationship that removes obstacles, fostering progress and prosperity in Nigerian-German relations.
”You can rely on us; we can rely on you; both of us can chorus Hallelujah at the same time,” the President concluded.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2023
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS ELDER STATESMAN, CHIEF (OWELLE) GEORGE UWECHUE, SAN
President Bola Tinubu sympathizes with the Uwechue family and the Nigerian legal community over the passing of Chief George Uwechue, Owelle of Ogwashi-Ukwu, Delta State.
The late Uwechue was a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Chairman of Nigeria’s Body of Benchers. He died at the age of 85.
President Tinubu describes the death of the elder statesman as a sad loss, extolling his contributions to the legal profession as well as to Nigeria.
“Chief Uwechue was an outstanding lawyer. He was also a leader through and through. He will be sorely missed for his deep insights and legal acumen, in addition to the incredible contributions he made to his community, state, Nigeria, and beyond. May God Almighty grant him rest and his family the strength to bear this painful loss,” the President says.
The late Chief Uwechue was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1993. He remained a member of the Inner Bar for three decades. In 1990, he was appointed a member of the Body of Benchers; a position he held until he was appointed Chairman of the Body of Benchers in 2010.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
November 21, 2023
PRESS STATEMENT
Re: Akeredolu Spent N7.3billion In Three Months On ‘Contingency’ Without House Of Assembly Approval
We have read the report published on SaharaReporters news platform claiming that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, spent N7.3billion in three months while he was on medical vacation.
In response to the concerns raised across various social media platforms, we wish to provide clarification for the sake of transparency and accountability, which are values synonymous with the Akeredolu-led administration.
It is important to state unequivocally that the referenced N7.3 billion constituted the cumulative amount of palliative funds received from the federal government. These funds were allocated under the contingency sub-heading to address unforeseen expenses not initially budgeted for but deemed necessary during the fiscal year.
While the original contingency fund in the 2023 budget was N1,069,000,000.00, the additional N7 billion represents funds received from the federal government labeled as “Infrastructure Support Fund,” specifically for palliatives meant to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
In accordance with the Ondo State Public Finance Management Law 2017, the establishment of a Contingency Fund is outlined in Part five, subsection (i) and (ii). It states: A contingency Fund is hereby established. (ii) The contingency Fund may be utilised for making money available to meet emergency expenditure (other than statutory expenditure) which is not provided for in the Appropriation Law for the current year and which although otherwise failing to be met out of the consolidated Revenue Fund or Capital Expenditure and Development Fund cannot without serious injury to the public interest be postponed until a Supplementary Appropriation Law providing for it can be enacted.”
Contingency funds are designed to address emergency expenditures not provided for in the current year’s Appropriation Law, but crucial to the public interest and requiring immediate attention.
Governor Akeredolu did not personally spend the N7.3billion; rather, these funds were appropriately utilised for palliatives. The funds were released to the state by the federal government as part of the efforts to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal nationwide.
Our administration remains committed to the highest standards of financial responsibility. Any claim of impropriety is unfounded. We encourage the public to rely on accurate information and refrain from being swayed by sensational claims lacking factual basis.
The Palliative committee will in due course avail members of the public the details of the expenditure of the palliative fund.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 21, 2023.
STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT
PDP, ATIKU RAISING FALSE ALARM
In separate statements, the Peoples Democratic Party and the spokesman of Atiku Abubakar, its defeated Presidential candidate, threw caution to the winds as they assaulted the integrity of the judiciary and made wild and libellous allegations against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the wake of the poor run of some elected governors of the party at the appeal court, the PDP and former Vice President and his spokesman have become overtly desperate to hang their woes on President Tinubu and the judiciary, an important arm of government in Nigeria.
In blaming others, Atiku and his party have failed to demonstrate whether they had done any soul-searching before going public with their weighty, specious, reckless, and irresponsible allegations.
While we do not hold brief for the judiciary, we urge Nigerians to discountenance the malicious allegations by the PDP and its candidate that President Tinubu as governor of Lagos, silenced the opposition and corrupted the judiciary and that he is planning to foist a one-party state on the country by appointing “loyalists” as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs).
President Tinubu is a democrat to the core. We make bold to say that as president, he has not interfered with the judgment of the judiciary. We had witnessed how under his watch, the PDP governor in Osun defeated the APC at the Supreme Court.
Similarly, the PDP Governor in Bauchi also won his case in the Appeal court, beating the APC.
President Tinubu is also not planning to impose a one-party state as Atiku has serially alleged and his party and spokesman have now parroted.
These allegations are deliberately aimed at unnecessarily heating up the polity and causing disenchantment in our country.
They exist only in the imagination of the PDP and the former vice-president.
Unlike Atiku Abubakar, President Tinubu’s record as a democrat par excellence and a strong advocate of the rule of law have been globally acknowledged.
His record of service as governor, which witnessed giant strides in various facets of the state, was responsible for the dominance of his political structure in Lagos and not by any undemocratic conduct, as Atiku Abubakar wants the public to believe.
In contrast, it is on record that Atiku Abubakar recently confessed about the electoral heist his party executed in the South West in 2003, in , which Tinubu survived out of the six Governors of the defunct Alliance for Democracy.
While Atiku and PDP are now crying wolf over the Appeal Court rulings on governorship polls in Plateau, Zamfara and Nasarawa States, we hasten to ask the former Vice President where he was in 2019 when the court ruled against All Progressives Congress in Zamfara State. The court then awarded all the positions won by the APC to PDP.
Where was Atiku also in 2019 when in Rivers State, the court stopped APC from fielding any candidate in both the Governorship and House of Assembly elections?.
Where were Atiku and the PDP in 2019, when on the eve of the swearing-in of Bayelsa governor-elect, David Lyon, the Supreme Court handed the victory of the APC to the candidate of the PDP, Governor Diri who was earlier rejected at the poll by the people of Bayelsa?.
Atiku and PDP then savoured all these court-handed trophies as sweet victories for PDP and celebrated the courts as protectors of democracy.
Now that the same courts are annulling PDP victories, based on the blatant violations of the law by the lawless party, the party is mudslinging the judiciary and President Tinubu.
We once again implore Atiku and PDP to stop their campaign of calumny and blackmail against the judiciary and the honourable judges and justices. Judgments are based on law and evidence. In election petition cases, they are based on the Electoral Act and the Constitution, not on sentiments and emotions.
It is irresponsible and a disservice to our country for the opposition, after failing to observe the letters and spirits of the law, to now turn around to tear down an important arm of our government.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy
November 20, 2023
November 20, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Congratulates Former President Goodluck Jonathan at 66
…Says He is an Icon of Democracy
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family celebrates former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR as he marks his 66th birthday today.
President Jonathan continues to stand out as a National Icon of Democracy and International Statesman; a sincere, selfless, humble, courageous and patriotic leader who, as a product of the PDP, remains steadfast to his commitment towards the peace, unity, stability and development of our dear nation.
Nigerians across all divides celebrate President Jonathan for his unwavering commitment in upholding democracy tenets of Rule of Law, Separation of Powers, constitutionally guaranteed freedom and rights of citizens, the principles of justice, equity and fairness; dedication to free, fair and credible election in Nigeria in line with the manifesto and policy thrust of the PDP; credentials that are indelible in our national annals.
Dr. Jonathan is celebrated for his efforts in strengthening the bond of unity, love, harmonious living, mutual respect and understanding among Nigerians as well as creating an atmosphere for free enterprise, which enabled our nation to thrive in all sectors under his watch.
Our Party is proud of President Jonathan’s unprecedented achievements and massive economic productivity in all sectors through which the PDP administration under his Presidency bequeathed a $550 billion economy (largest in Africa and 26th globally) at the end of his successful tenure in 2015.
Sadly, these achievements have been reversed by the incompetent and massively corrupt All Progressives Congress (APC) administrations.
The PDP relishes the fact that in recognition of his democratic credentials, Dr. Jonathan’s continues to be saddled with foreign engagements including superintending over election observation and peace negotiation missions across the globe where he excels to the admiration of all.
The PDP family celebrates Dr. Jonathan on this auspicious occasion and prays to God to grant him more wisdom, good health and happiness in his service to our dear country and humanity.
Happy Birthday, Mr. President!
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
November 20, 2023
Press Statement
Plateau: PDP Demands CJN’s Probe of APC’s Judiciary Control Claim
…Fingers Two Fmr. APC Governors, Ministers as Facilitators
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) calls on the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to defend the integrity of the judiciary by immediately setting up a Judicial Panel of Inquiry to probe the public boasting by leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that the APC has persons in the judiciary, particularly at the Appeal and Supreme Court levels to do APC’s bidding on election cases before the Courts.
Nigerians were appalled by such boastings as also contained in a viral video by an APC leader, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, a member of the House of Representatives from Plateau State wherein he said “We have gone to Appeal Court and the final destination is the Supreme Court and we will meet there. That is where we will know whom they know and they will know whom we know”.
The above statement by Hon. Gagdi further confirms the suspicion in the public domain that the APC has set up a special team comprising of two former Governors of the APC who are also serving cabinet ministers and a prominent APC leader from the North East Zone with the mandate to ensure the inducement of certain judicial officers to deliver judgments against the PDP as being witnessed in the series of bias judgments by the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel.
This statement by Hon. Gagdi also lends credence to allegations that a former Governor of the APC reportedly induced members of the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel with the sum of $5 million to deliver a bias judgment against Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s victory at the poll contrary to the position of the law on nomination of candidates and already established pronouncement of the Supreme Court that a Political Party cannot interfere in the internal affairs of another Party.
Hon. Gagdi’s declaration perhaps explains why the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel snatched the victories won by PDP candidates in the National Assembly elections in the State and awarded same to defeated APC candidates in varying, contradictory and conflicting judgments in Appeals with the same subject matter, same facts, same circumstances and same applicable laws.
It is therefore not surprising that the current Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel which has been accused of bias with many Nigerians calling for its disbandment is the only Panel dedicated “Solely” to all Election Appeals from Plateau State, contrary to practice.
The conduct of the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel and the boastings of the APC is eroding integrity, potency and confidence of Nigerians in the time-tested saying that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man.
More worrisome is that the public claim by the APC that it has persons even at the Supreme Court has directly put the integrity and honour of the highest temple of Justice in our country at stake.
The loss of public confidence being generated by this claim has the capacity to push Nigerians to resort to self-help which is a recipe for anarchy, chaos and breakdown of Law and Order in our country.
The outcome of the Appeals decided by the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel is generating serious tension in Plateau State as the citizens are already taking to the streets in protest. Our concern is that the situation is capable of escalating into a full-blown crisis in Plateau and other States of the federation if not immediately addressed.
Insisting that the Judiciary remains the last line of defence for our nation’s democracy and political stability, the PDP demands that the CJN, as the head of the Judiciary, set up a high-powered panel to probe the claims by the APC of having persons in both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court as well as investigate the bribery allegations against the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel.
What Nigerians expect at this moment is for the judiciary to come clean on these grave allegations as well as uphold the primacy of pronouncements by the Supreme Court in the dispensation of justice on election matters.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary