Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has mocked the ousted national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, who was said to have danced when the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party passed vote of confidence on Senator Iyorchia Ayu, the embattled PDP national chairman.
Governor Wike said decision by NEC will not dissuade him and others from insisting that the prevailing structural imbalance within party must be addressed.
The governor spoke at the 11th Hour homecoming and reception organised for decampees from various political parties who have joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, which held at the Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
“I was listening and watching, they said there is one man they call Secondus. They said he was dancing, celebrating that NEC gave their person vote of confidence. He forgets history. Ask him the same NEC through Aliyu Babangida moved a motion of vote of confidence supported by the same person, Ndudi Elumelu. They gave you (Secondus) a vote of confidence, what happened? You left office.
“We don’t fight and go back. If you like you can have as many 20 votes of confidence, it’s not my business. My business is to make sure the right thing is done, and the right thing must be done. Whether today or tomorrow.”
He said despite the heightening political aligning and negotiations that are going on, his administration has not abandoned governance in the State.
The governor explained that it is the love that he has for the State that has made him to remain devoted to providing good governance until the last day of his tenure.
“I’m not going to play party with the interest of my people. Rivers State is paramount to me first before any other person or group.
“So, the eyes can see what we have done. Up till today, we have never abandoned governance. So many people are already rounding up, taking the last they have but yet, we are still committed in commissioning, and flagging off projects.
“Because of the love we have for our people, we will continue to serve you till May 29, when by the grace of God, Siminialaye Fubara will be inaugurated the governor of Rivers State.”
Governor Wike commended the decampees for their courage to rejoin their political family because it is true that there is no other political party that can win election in Rivers State except the PDP.
“PDP is a household name in Rivers State. Let me assure you that we will all work with you. Nothing like somebody who has been there since and somebody who has just come back. The more the merrier.
“So, all of us must put hands together to make sure our governorship candidate, the National Assembly candidates, the House of Assembly candidates, at least from Rivers State, we return them 100 percent. That’s our primary duty.”
The governor dismissed efforts by other political candidates as mere attempt to appear on the ballot because there is no hope of winning for them.
Governor Wike enthused that the chance of winning that PDP has is hinged on the fact that the party and his administration has served to protect the interest of the State courageously.
“If God gives you the ticket of PDP in this State, go home and sew your cloth for the inauguration day.
“Because, what will any Rivers man or woman be saying that he or she wants to vote for any other person in Rivers State. As a party, we have kept faith with our people. As a party we have stood for our people. As a party, we have never allowed intimidation from any quarter and that is what we are talking about the interest of Rivers State.
“Remember, before I came on board, one state had our property with them. As I came in as governor, with support and prayer of our people we took all our property back.”
Speaking further, governor Wike said a new strategy will be adopted for the coming political season in which political ‘bigmen’ will be replaced with people who are domicile among their people in various communities. According to him, those who are domicile with their people will be utilised to deliver their units and wards during the general elections.
Rivers State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Desmond Akawor said the party is presenting a certificate to acknowledge excellence performance of governor Wike because he has surpassed their expectations.
Ambassador Akawor stated that the decampees from the other political parties have witnessed the unequal transformational performance of governor Wike in office.
He listed the establishment of the Nabo Graham Douglas campus of Nigerian Law School in the State, the Real Madrid Academy and Dr. Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases Diagnostics and Treatment Centre among other reputable projects for the reasons why the decampees have returned to the PDP.
Speaking on behalf of decampees from Rivers South East Senatorial District, a former member of All Progressives Congress, APC Board of Trustees, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja said they had a regrettable unsuccessful political expedition while in their former parties, but have retraced their steps back to the PDP on self-volition.
Dr. Jaja described Governor Wike as a compassionate, loving and graceful leader who was created to do good for the people.
He pledged their 100 per cent loyalty and stated that they will join the PDP to uplift the oppressed, reengineer the new phase of transformation of the state and help the needy to grow.
On behalf of decampees from Rivers East Senatorial District, Princewill Dike said he was a sad man while he served as chief propagandist for the APC because the numerous developmental strides of governor Wike were too visible to be a lie.
Speaking on behalf of decampees from Rivers West Senatorial District, former Commissioner for Transportation in the Chibuike Amaechi’s administration, George Tolofari, said they are happy to be back home in the PDP.
Similarly, a former chairman of Akuku Toru Local Government, Dr. Theodore Georgewill apologised that they left PDP when they were most needed.
He said they have returned with the assurance that APC is dead, and are determined to deliver 90 percent of the votes because they believe in the leadership of governor Wike.

Strike: SERAP sues Buhari, wants court to declare refusal to meet ASUU’s demands illegal

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and five university students have filed a lawsuit against President Muhammadu Buhari, asking the court to “declare unlawful the refusal by the Federal Government to meet ASUU’s demands, which has occasioned the prolonged strike action and violated the students’ right to quality education.”

Joined in the suit as Defendants are the Minister of Labour, Employment and Productivity, Chris Ngige, and Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.

The suit followed the apparent lack of commitment by the Federal Government to implement the agreements with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and to end the over seven-month-old industrial action by the union, and the threat by the government to implement its “no work, no pay” policy.

In the suit number NICN/ABJ/269/2022 filed last week at the National Industrial Court, Abuja, SERAP and the students are seeking: “an order directing President Buhari and Mr Ngige to immediately implement all the agreements with ASUU in order to end the strike action and violation of the students’ right to quality education.”

According to SERAP and the students: “Disruption of classes undermines both the quality and duration of students’ education. This situation has aggravated existing disparities in access to university education in the country, further marginalizing economically disadvantaged parents and students.”

The suit filed on behalf of SERAP and the students by their lawyer Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, read in part: “The Federal Government has failed to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the right to quality education, and the right to freedom of association through the principle of collective bargaining.”

“Although Nigeria has ratified several human rights treaties, which guarantee the right to quality education of Nigerian students, the Federal Government has over the years refused to meet the demands by ASUU, and to address the poor environment in the country’s universities.”

“The students who are co-claimants in the suit are Dongo Daniel Davou; Oyebode Joshua Babafemi; Ejie Kemkanma; Peter Itohowo Aniefiok; and Imam Naziru. They are students of Plateau State University, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Port Harcourt, University of Uyo, and University of Ibadan, respectively.”

“The failure to implement the agreements with ASUU is also a fundamental breach of the right to education without discrimination or exclusion, as strike actions continue to penalize economically disadvantaged parents who have no means or capacity to send their children to private schools.”

“Equal access of Nigerian children and young people to quality and uninterrupted education including at the university level would contribute to producing citizens who are fundamentally equal and people who actively participate in society.”

“It would enable people to enjoy the rights as well as fulfil obligations that are associated with citizenship.”

“SERAP had earlier advised President Buhari to recover the N105.7 billion stolen public funds and utilize same in addition to specified percentages of the N3.6 billion feeding and travels allowances for the President and the N134 billion allocated to the National Assembly in the 2022 Budget to meet the legitimate demands by ASUU.”

“Apart from being a right in itself, the right to education is also an enabling right. Education is a public good.”

“Education creates the ‘voice’ through which rights can be claimed and protected, and without education people lack the capacity to achieve valuable functioning as part of the living.”

“Nigeria’s public tertiary institutions have continued to experience a steady decline. The quality of public education offered is low and standards have continued to drop. The learning environment does not promote effective learning.”

“The right to bargain freely with employers with respect to conditions of work constitutes an essential element in freedom of association, and trade unions including ASUU should have the right to seek to improve the living and working conditions of those whom they represent.”

“The Federal Government has continued to ignore the plights of teeming undergraduates, who have been denied access to quality education due to the lingering strike action occasioned by the continued reluctance of the Defendants and their agents to implement the agreements with ASUU.”

“The breach of the agreements by the Federal Government clearly provides a reasonable basis for ASUU members to exercise their right to strike as a last resort. It is unlawful to punish the members simply for peacefully exercising their right.”

“Nigerian students in public universities have suffered many years of disruption as a result of the failure of governments to address the root causes of strike action by ASUU and to faithfully implement the agreements reached with the union, leading to devastating consequences on the right to equal and quality higher education.”

“The Federal Government has breached the explicit right to equal access to higher education of Nigerian children and young people, as provided for by article 13(2)(c) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.”

“Providing Nigerian children and young people equal access to education should be the core public service functions of the Federal Government.”

“Owing to poor funding, poor remuneration system, unconducive learning and training environments in public tertiary institutions in Nigeria, ASUU after a protracted strike action concluded the FGN-ASUU 2009 Agreement in October 2009.”

“According to reports and available evidence, the FGN-ASUU Initialled 2009 Agreement sought among others, the resolution of the following underlying issues: proper funding of public tertiary institutions to the tune of N1.3 trillion to be implemented across a period of 4 years between 2009 and 2013.”

“It was agreed that the N1.3 trillion funding of Government-owned tertiary institutions would span between years 2014 and 2018. It was also agreed that the sum of N200 billion Naira would be released to public tertiary institutions in 2013 while a tranche of N220 billion Naira was to be paid yearly between 2014 and 2018.”

“However, according to reports, only the sum of N200 billion Naira was released in 2014 and no other sum, apart from the sum of N20 billion Naira released in 2019 was paid to the institutions.”

SERAP and the students are also seeking the following reliefs:

1. A DECLARATION that the refusal of the Defendants to implement the terms of the FGN-ASUU Renegotiated 2009 Agreements and the 2020 Memorandum of Action which has occasioned the prolonged strike action is unlawful, inconsistent and incompatible with Nigeria’s human rights obligations and violates the students’ right to quality education.
2. A DECLARATION that the acts of the Defendants and their agents in withholding the remunerations of the members of ASUU for the period of the strike while at the same time paying members of sister staff unions is discriminatory and in violation of ASUU members’ right to freedom of association, right to strike and collective bargaining.
3. AN ORDER directing the Defendants and their agents to implement forthwith the terms of the Renegotiated 2009 Agreement and the 2020 Memorandum of Action in order to put an end to the strike action and desist from further violation of the rights of the Nigerian students to quality education.
4. AN ORDER mandating the Defendants and their agents to immediately release and pay all the withheld and outstanding remunerations, salary, allowances and other emoluments both for the period and outside the period of the current strike action to all members of ASUU.
5. AN ORDER OF PERPETUAL INJUNCTION restraining the Defendants and their agents from unlawfully reneging, rescinding and/or refusing to implement the Renegotiated FGN-ASUU 2009 Agreement and the 2020 Memorandum.
6. SUCH FURTHER orders the Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances of this suit.

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
11/9/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202

PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS VETERAN BROADCASTER, CHIEF TIMAWUS MATHIAS
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with Government and people of Adamawa State over the passing of an illustrious son, Chief Timawus Mathias, 73, who served the country as a broadcaster, writer and media consultant for more than fifty years.
President Buhari shares the pain of loss with family members, particularly his wife of close to five decades, Betty, the Hama Bachama and the Bachama Council where he holds the title of a spokesman, friends and professional colleagues in the media.
The President extols Chief Mathias for dedicating his life to service of the country, starting out at a young age with Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, before moving to the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA and hitting the limelight with Verdict’83 in 1983.
President Buhari believes the multi-talented journalist, whose versatility stretched into music, contributed to the vibrancy and dynamism of Nigerian media, remaining relevant in writing columns for newspapers and treads on social media, while providing expert guidance on communication to many public and private institutions.
The President affirms that the veteran journalist, who has two media stations in Yola, NTA and AIT, named after him will always be remembered for the value he added to the lives of many, home and abroad.
President Buhari prays that Almighty God will accept the soul of Chief Mathias and comfort his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 9, 2022

DESPITE STRONG HEADWINDS, NIGERIA’S ECONOMY CONTINUES TO GROW, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI AS HE INAUGURATES COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL ECONOMY
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in State House Abuja stated that despite the disruptions in global economy and internal troubles, the Nigerian economy has continued to be resilient and maintains an upward trajectory.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Presidential Committee on the National Economy, President Buhari said the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the loss of substantial volumes of oil have had negative impacts on the Nigerian economy.
“Starting with COVID-19 and now the conflict in Ukraine, the past three years have been turbulent ones for the global economy. Global interdependence has become more apparent as we have had to deal with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity.
“In this period, challenges faced by the world have been many including: (i) lockdowns as COVID-19 raged; (ii) disruptions to supply chains around the world; and (iii) sharp fluctuations in prices.
“Just as the world was beginning to recover from the coronavirus, the conflict in the Black Sea region between Ukraine and Russia worsened the challenges already being faced and created additional problems to which policy makers are having to respond.
“Our economy continues to grow despite the adverse effects of rising interest rates, a stronger US dollar and higher inflation across the world,” he said.
President Buhari noted, however, that some of the problems could be addressed internally, making the constitution of the seasoned economic experts expedient:
“It is however important to note that some of the issues we must address are peculiar to us. For example, the decline in our production of crude oil. It is estimated that last month, August 2022, we produced less than 1mn barrels. The fall in production is essentially due to economic sabotage.
“With the high price of oil in the world markets, producing at about half our OPEC quota has deprived us of much needed revenue and foreign exchange. Government is working tirelessly to reverse this situation.”
President Buhari, however, assured Nigerians that despite these hiccups, necessitating borrowings from financial sources, the current administration remains committed to the welfare of the citizens, especially the implementation of the Social Investment Programmes.
According to him, “While citizen concern about borrowing is well understood, our resort to borrowing must also be appreciated in the context of the resources required to deliver on the infrastructure, health and other socio-economic needs of our citizens.
“It remains a major goal of this Administration to continue pursuing its social protection programmes. These programmes provide support to the most vulnerable of our citizens.”
The Nigerian leader stressed the need to upscale resource mobilization and utilization in the country as more could be achieved in this direction.
“This Administration is also not unaware of the debates about resource mobilisation and utilisation. On resource mobilisation, our performance as a nation continues to be a source of concern.
“Tax revenues are approximately 8 per cent of our output. This compares very badly with those countries against which we measure ourselves that achieve 15-25 per cent. In the absence of revenue, our ability to deliver the most basic services is limited.”
President Buhari said that while he understands the concerns arising from the huge expenditure on fuel subsidy, it is expedient that a right balance be struck not to scare away investors:
“With respect to expenditure, our objective remains to ensure that spending is efficient and result oriented. In this regard, the debate around fuel subsidies is well noted. However, the right balance needs to be struck to ensure that as we protect our citizens, we do not leave room for inefficiencies and leakages.
“It is also important to ensure that our national investment environment is such that local and international private investors can be attracted and retained. Sustainably dealing with the challenge of policy predictability and coherence is an important element in this regard.”
On the mandate and constitution of the Committee under his headship with representations from State Governors, the President said he is convinced that it will deliver as expected for the benefit of the populace:
“The Presidential Committee of the National Economy, which I am inaugurating today, aims to bring together all policy makers responsible for the economy. In this way, we share a common understanding and approach to resolving the issues I have identified and many more.
“This Committee, will provide our nation an opportunity to be bold, more proactive, and innovative in tackling persistent challenges. The work with which I have tasked the assembled team will enable us respond more swiftly and efficiently.”
Presentations were made at the event by Dr Doyin Salami, Chief Economic Adviser to the President, Mrs Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as Mr Godwin Emefiele, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria.
Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, represented Chairman of the Governors Forum.
The Presidential Committee on the Economy is chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari and has as members the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo SAN; Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum; Dr. Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, Honourable Minister for Finance, Budget, and National Planning; Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment; and Chief Timipre Sylva, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum.
Other members include Mr. Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Chief of Staff to the President; Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and Dr. Mohammed Sagagi, Vice Chairman of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council.
The Chief Economic Adviser to the President, Dr. Doyin Salami, is Member/Secretary of the Committee.
The Presidential Committee will review the national economic situation and propose measures to ensure our national economy improves and can meet the government’s objectives. The Committee will also receive regular updates on economic conditions in the country, identify issues that require urgent intervention to improve macroeconomic and fiscal conditions, review the impact of existing and new policies on the Nigerian economy and provide directions to relevant institutions responsible for fiscal, monetary, and any other relevant policies.
Against the background of recent developments in the global economy and its impact on Nigeria’s economic trajectory, this Presidential Committee is another clear demonstration of Mr. President’s total commitment to ensuring that the Nigerian economy successfully navigates through these difficult times. It will be an “economic emergency room” that will work towards keeping Nigeria on the path of economic recovery and growth, global competitiveness as well as inclusive development and sustainability.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 9, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS THE DEMISE OF THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND
President Muhammadu Buhari received with immense sadness news of the passing of Queen Elizabeth ll of the United Kingdom.
“My family and I, and the more than 200 million Nigerians have learned with immense sadness of the passing of the Queen and the end of her unique and wonderful 70 year reign. Her late Majesty was the only British Sovereign known to 90 percent of our population.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom and the entire Commonwealth as we join the entire world in mourning her loss.
“The story of modern Nigeria will never be complete without a chapter on Queen Elizabeth ll, a towering global personality and an outstanding leader. She dedicated her life to making her nation, the Commonwealth and the entire world a better place.”
The President welcomes Your Majesty’s ascension to the throne in line with tradition and prays King Charles the Third’s reign will witness the continuing robust and sisterly relations between our two nations.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH BISHOP FRANCIS WALE-OKE ON 66TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale-Oke on his 66th birthday, joining family, friends and the Body of Christ to celebrate with the religious leader, who has stayed on a shining path.
President Buhari notes the sacrifices, selflessness and dedication of the President and Founder of The Sword of the Spirit to his calling to teach and preach the gospel, and win souls for the Kingdom, and live an exemplary life of charity and kindness as required by the scriptures.
The President salutes the visionary and charismatic leadership style of Bishop Wale-Oke that has influenced many lives in Nigeria and abroad on fear of God, setting up health and educational institutions across the country, and providing support for the underprivileged and vulnerable.
As the founder of the Christ Life Church turns 66, the President prays for his wellbeing, that of his family, and the flock of Christians he leads.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 8, 2022

IN LAGOS, PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES NIGERIANS TO HAVE FAITH IN THE ARMED FORCES, VOWS TO SUSTAIN OPERATIONAL TEMPO ON SECURITY
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Lagos urged Nigerians to believe in the capability of the armed forces to safeguard and bring long-lasting peace and stability to the country.
Declaring open the 12th Nigerian Navy Games, LAGOS 2022, the President assured Nigerians that the armed forces would continue to sustain their operational tempo to contain the security challenges in the country.
He said the security agencies would continue to ensure that all appropriate measures were in place for the safety of Nigerians.
The President also re-emphasized the importance of synergy between the armed forces, other security agencies and the general population for peace and security.
President Buhari, who also commissioned the newly constructed Nigerian Navy Sports Complex, commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, for investing in sports development.
‘‘Over the years, sports have remained a tool to strengthen the ties between troops, instilling discipline and readiness to serve a common cause in the military. I am sure that these Games will create the forum for the Nigerian Navy to achieve these objectives and more.
‘‘The construction of this sports complex has provided a standard venue for the Nigerian Navy to host major games as well as an appropriate venue for naval personnel within Lagos to use for training and other recreational purposes.
‘‘I am therefore confident that besides the conduct of the Games, the Nigerian Navy and its personnel will continue to make good use of the facilities in this complex,’’ he said.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces expressed the hope that the Games would provide the needed platform and avenue for the discovery of new talents that will represent the Navy and Nigeria in international competitions.
He, therefore, urged all participating athletes to inculcate fair play and exhibit a high level of decorum during the competition.
‘‘I note that all commands in the Nigerian Navy are participating in the Games.
‘‘This means that the Nigerian Navy can take stock of the level of preparedness of its personnel while encouraging the development of team spirit amongst its personnel.
‘‘The Games should therefore provide a glimpse of what Nigerians expect from the Nigerian Navy; dedication, commitment, unity, oneness and comradeship,’’ President Buhari said, assuring that the Federal Government will continue to encourage sporting activities in view of its importance towards national cohesiveness and unity.
The President also thanked the Lagos State government for supporting the Games and cooperating with the military in the State, describing the goodwill as highly commendable.
In his goodwill message, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos described the Nigerian Navy as a strategic partner to the ‘‘coastal State of Lagos’’ on security of lives and property.
He, therefore, thanked the President for approving the establishment of a new Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Lekki axis, one of the fastest growing industrial, commercial and residential development areas in West Africa.
‘‘Lekki is also home to the largest deep-sea port in Africa, which Mr President will commission soon, it is home to the largest private refinery, among other landmark investments in our country,’’ he said.
The Lagos Governor wished the over 1,800 Naval athletes participating in the Games success, charging them to display the full spirit of sportsmanship and fair play in the eight-day competition.
The Chief of Naval Staff pledged that the Navy would sustain the fight against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes, ensuring that the country maintains its delisting from nations of high piracy risks.
He expressed delight that Nigeria exited from the International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy List early in the year and no incidence of piracy has been recorded in the last one year, adding that this attests to the Nigerian Navy’s willingness and resilience to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.
The Naval Chief also used the occasion to thank the President for his unquantifiable support to the Nigerian Navy, saying:
‘‘The President within the last year approved the acquisition of two 76m High Endurance Offshore Patrol Vessels and 3 helicopters to join the recently acquired hydrographic survey ship and the Landing Ship Transport, including numerous fast attack craft to boost maritime security operations.
‘‘Mr President, it is pertinent to state that induction of Landing Ship Tank, Nigerian Navy Ship KADA into the Fleet has further enhanced Nigerian Navy’s naval power projection, within the region and beyond.’’
‘‘Significantly, the ship embarked on its first official trip last month, with military hardware and logistics for the Nigerian Contingent deployed for ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission at Guinea Bissau. This further confirms your administration’s commitment towards regional stability in furtherance of our foreign and defence policy objectives.’’
On the ultra-modern Complex commissioned by the President, the Naval Chief explained that it is equipped with the state-of-the-art indoors sporting equipment, a world class gymnasium, swimming pool and a standard football pitch as well as tracks for athletics events.
He recounted that the ultra-modern edifice was conceptualised and constructed by the immediate past Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd).
According to him, the retired Admiral’s plan was to invite the President to commission the Complex at the end of 2020, however, the commissioning could not be actualized due to restrictions imposed by the COVID – 19 pandemic.
The Naval Chief noted that contemporary warfare generally described as being volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, places a huge demand on personnel combat readiness and thus necessitates the need to sustain high levels of physical fitness and mental alertness.
He added that physical fitness and mental alertness of personnel has become key considerations for armed forces to meet increasing demands of current operations environment of the Nigerian Navy, which has recorded significant appearances at local and international competitions.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI EXTOLS CHAIRMAN OF NDLEA, MOHAMMED BUBA MARWA AT 69
President Muhammadu Buhari celebrates with Chairman of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), on his 69th birthday, September 9, 2022.
President Buhari affirms the dynamic leadership roles the Chairman of NDLEA has played in shaping the history of the country as Governor of Borno State, and Military Administrator of Lagos State, leaving behind lasting legacies of investment in people and infrastructure that keep memories of his service fresh and commendable.
The President hails the initiative and reforms that Marwa has instituted in NDLEA, borne out of his passion for a purposeful, result oriented and motivated agency that places the health and safety of the society first, particularly the youths, and networks with other security outfits, home and abroad, to rid the country of drug traffickers.
President Buhari recognizes the arduous task before the Chairman and his team, believing the same patriotism and diligence that he has displayed over many years in the military and after retirement will continue to yield results.
The President prays that the Almighty God will grant the Chairman of NDLEA more courage, strength and wisdom as he serves the country.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 8, 2022

HOW NIGERIA, POLAND CAN HAVE A WIN-WIN RELATIONSHIP, BY PRESIDENT BUHARI
Nigeria and Poland on Tuesday in Abuja signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Agriculture, while pledging their willingness to enlarge the fields of economic cooperation in the energy and manufacturing sectors.
The signing took place during the State Visit of President Andrezej Duda of Poland, the first by a Polish leader to Nigeria since the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries in 1961.
Addressing a joint press conference with the visiting Head of State, President Buhari said Nigeria is gratified by the existing fruitful cooperation with Poland in the fields of maritime, education and defence.
On agriculture, which is one of the priority areas of the Nigerian government, the President said cooperation in this area will be a win-win for the two countries, especially in the context of global food insecurity occasioned by the conflict in Ukraine.
He noted that in view of the numerous global challenges, Nigeria would like to develop new mechanisms for cooperation including regular strategic dialogues and political consultations to cover not only bilateral relations but also to address regional and international issues.
‘‘Our cooperation in education has a long history and we wish to encourage the extension of that cooperation to the sharing of knowledge and experience between our educational institutions in areas such as science and technology as well as Information and Communication Technology, in order to help drive innovation in our countries in this competitive global knowledge economy,’’ the Nigerian leader said.
Describing the two-day visit of the Polish President as significant, underscoring the cordial relations that exist between both countries, President Buhari commended the efforts of the Government of Poland in providing assistance to the large number of refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, including a significant number of Nigerians.
‘‘I also wish to express our sincere gratitude for the kind and generous support extended during our government’s evacuation of our fleeing nationals.
‘‘We also appreciate greatly the opportunity given to some of our nationals to remain in Poland to continue with their studies.
‘‘As regards trade relations, we would like to see an increase in the level of trade, as it remains relatively low in spite of the long period of relations between our two countries,’’ he said.
The Nigerian leader welcomed the hosting of a Dialogue that will bring together various members of the business sectors of Nigeria and Poland, during the State Visit, adding that it is an excellent initiative to increase the level of trade between both countries.
Duda said Nigeria was the only African country Poland has signed an agreement of strategic dialogue with, which includes the MoU on agriculture cooperation.
‘‘What was pivotal in our conversation today both in our tete-a-tete as well as the plenary session was how to provide food and energy security.
‘‘It is important to us to strengthen the relations between Poland and Nigeria and the MOU we have signed is very important for the future of both nations on food security,’’ the Polish president said through an interpreter.
On energy security, he lauded the delivery of liquefied natural gas to Poland from Nigeria, as well as shipments of crude oil.
‘‘We want to further this cooperation and we want to increase the supplies from Nigeria to Poland and by this way we want to contribute to the development of economic cooperation between the two countries,’’ he said.
President Duda noted that Nigeria and Poland have enjoyed excellent bilateral relations in the last 60 years, buoyed at the people-to-people level with the presence of many Nigerians at Polish higher institutions of learning as well as the input of Polish engineers and scientists in the building of infrastructure in Nigeria.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 6, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES BRITISH PRIME MINISTER, LIZ TRUSS
On behalf of the citizens and Government of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the new Prime Minister of Britain, Liz Truss, on her assumption of this trusted position of leadership.
The President rejoices with the former Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, whose antecedents in government, politics and diplomacy will further shape and strengthen relations with Nigeria and other nations.
He affirms that the shared ties between Nigeria and Britain remains strong, positive and mutually beneficial, while working with Prime Minister Liz Truss to deepen that relationship in the interest of both countries.
President Buhari appreciates the warmth and friendliness of the immediate past Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, wishing him the best in his future endeavours.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 6, 2022

September 7, 2022

Press Statement

Yahaya Bello’s Inciting Video, an Act of Terrorism -PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is alarmed by the disturbing video of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State inciting his supporters, threatening to burn and unleash maximum violence on Nigerians during the 2023 general elections.

In the video, Governor Bello was heard issuing terrorism threats in which he said, “I will personally light a fierce fire in my hand whoever want it we shall use it to burn them, whoever survive it will thank God… Whoever is against us we will make him or her join my mother and lie with her (my mother) in grave.”

By FBI definition, terrorism is the “unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives”.

This brazen threat by Governor Yahaya Bello raises apprehensions in the public space of the existence of a killer squad established to inflict violence on Nigerians ahead of the 2023 general elections just because they have rejected the corrupt, divisive and rudderless All Progressives Congress (APC), which failure is most manifest by Yahaya Bello’s abysmal performance in Kogi State.

From his outburst, Nigerians now know the individuals who engineered the gruesome killing of many of our citizens including the PDP Woman Leader in Kogi State, Mrs. Salome Abu, who was burnt alive in her house in 2019,

Also, Nigerians now have more insight into the disappearance of Hon. Adelabu Musa, the PDP Chairman in Okene Local Government Area for over three years now.

Furthermore, the PDP recalls how the Bello-led Kogi State Government was accused of breeding and arming thugs as well as fake security operatives to harass and attack Nigerians in Kogi State during the 2019 general elections.

This threat to violence and actual violence to Nigerians especially at this time have the capacity to cause a breach of public peace, truncate the 2023 electoral process and derail our democracy.

The PDP therefore calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately call Governor Yahaya Bello to order and place him and his supporters on security watch list as threat to democracy ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Our Party also charges the Inspector General of Police to immediately commence a comprehensive investigation into the activities of Governor Yahaya Bello with a view to nipping this ugly trend in the bud as well as prosecuting him at the end of his tenure as Governor of Kogi State.

We urge Nigerians, especially those in Kogi State not to be deterred by Yahaya Bello whose days in office are numbered but remain vigilant and continue to rally with the PDP in the determination to liberate our nation from the stranglehold of the APC and the likes of Yahaya Bello, come 2023.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

27th August, 2022

*UPHOLDING CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS IS THE BEDROCK OF THE RULE OF LAW AND CIVILITY; OKPE UNION CANNOT BE DIFFERENT.*

When government officers are sworn in, their oaths of office entail an affirmation that they would abide by the Constitution and laws of the state. Similarly, when elected officers of organisations whether social groups, ethnic unions and others, are sworn into office, they take oath or swear to abide by the respective constitutions of the associations.

Any deviation from those oaths of offices is condemnable and even impeachable in many instances. We therefore call on all Okpe people to support and defend members of the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union for standing firm in the face of the autocratic, and unwarranted attempt to forcefully take over the administration of the Okpe Union by imposing non members of the Okpe Union to take over the administration of the over ninety two years old organisation which has had a history of peaceful democratic transfer of its leadership. Succeeding in undemocratically taking over the administration of the Okpe Union would result in the enslavement of the Okpe masses.

We therefore call on Okpe people and lovers of democracy and justice to support the legal actions embarked upon by the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe to stop the impostors from parading themselves as the leadership of the Okpe Union.

Allowing traditional and political leaders to hijack the Okpe Union as against the constitutional and historical position that only members of the union through delegates from branches in a General Assembly Meeting choose its leadership, would amount to the Okpe people allowing themselves into slavery. The Okpe Union is historically funded by membership dues to avoid control by politicians and self serving personalities.

May God save the Okpe Nation. Amen!

Akpederin K.E. Esq.,
*General Secretary, the Okpe Union.*

8th September, 2022.

*BEWARE OF FALSE PROPAGANDA BY THE PROMOTER OF WADO CITY APROKO FACEBOOK ACCOUNT THAT OKPE UNION NATIONAL LEADERSHIP IS DECLARED ENEMIES OF THE OKPE NATION*

The attention of the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union has been drawn to a post by the Wado City Aproko Facebook page alleging that the Palace of the Orodje of Okpe as well as the Udogun Okpe has declared members of the leadership of the Okpe Union as enemies of Okpe. Despite the obvious fact that the promoter of the faceless Facebook account never quoted any sources nor made any reference to any publication from the Udogun Okpe or Palace of the Orodje of Okpe, many persons have begun sharing or reposting the said fabricated post.

It was brought to our notice that the promoter of the Wado City Aproko Facebook account also posted on his personal page on the 27th of August, 2022 that the Okpe Union elected National Executive Council has been sacked by the Palace. He rejoiced in that post that it was victory for Urhobo as, according to him, the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe has been promoting a struggle for Okpe to be recognised by the government as a distinct Ethnic Nationality. As that particular post only contained false claims and not necessarily defamatory contents, he could post it on his personal Facebook account. However, as the current one not only has false contents but also outrightly defamatory allegations which are actionable in court, he cowardly only posted it on his faceless Facebook account but which many gullible persons have begun sharing or reposting.

Let the public be aware that any decisions by the Okpe Palace or Udogun Okpe is communicated by the Secretary of the Udogun Okpe who also doubles as the secretary of the Palace. To show how false the said publication by the Wado City Aproko is, it added the late Elder Shedrack Idjeneba (former President of the Okpe Union who passed on last year) as one of those declared “Enemies of Okpe”. The appropriate officials of the Udogun Okpe and the Palace of the Orodje of Okpe are reachable to confirm or deny if any such position was reached.

This release is to enjoin all branches of the Okpe Union to go about their normal activities of promoting the Okpe Union which is the organisation that will continually promote the interest of the common Okpe man and woman. The Okpe Union remains an autonomous organisation with its constitution which contains how its National Executive Council is elected by the General Assembly of delegates from its various branches.

We also ask Okpe nationals at home and in Diaspora to always promote Okpe unity and the position of the Okpe Nation as the bridge for a united Delta State. Reading from the Wado City Aproko post, it is clear that the motive of the promoter is to pit Okpe people against Urhobo people on the one hand and cause confusion about the relationship between the Okpe people and their Itsekiri neighbours on the other hand. It clearly has a sinister political motive. Let us all work continually for the unity and development of the Okpe Nation.

May God bless the Okpe Union!
May God bless the Orodje of Okpe!
May God bless the Okpe Nation.

*Issued by:*

*Okpe Union Publicity Department.*

…………………………………………………….
Communique Issued at the End of the 97th National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Held Today, Thursday, September 8, 2022 at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great Party at its 97th meeting extensively deliberated on issues of urgent national importance as well as the preparation of our Party for the 2023 general elections and resolved as follows:
1. NEC unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Sen. Dr. Iyorchia Ayu for effectively managing the affairs of the Party and restated its confidence in the NWC to lead the PDP to victory in the 2023 general elections.
2. NEC received and accepted the resignation of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sen. Walid Jibrin and accepted the nomination of Sen. Adolphus Wabara, the Secretary of the BoT, as Acting Chairman of the BoT.
3. NEC thanked Sen. Jibrin for his loyalty and commitment towards the unity, stability and success of the Party at all times and urged him not to relent in his service to the Party and the Nation at large.
4. NEC congratulated the Party as well as the Osun State Governor-Elect, Sen. Ademola Adeleke for our victory in the July 16, 2022 Osun Governorship election
5. NEC commended the NWC, the Board of Trustees, PDP Governors’ Forum, National Assembly Caucus, Zonal and State Caucuses, other leaders, critical stakeholders and all organs of the Party for the successful conduct of the 2022 National Convention as well as all primaries for the election of our candidates for the 2023 General Elections.
6. NEC unanimously ratified the list of candidates of the PDP as submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by the NWC.
7. NEC congratulated H.E Atiku Abubakar and H.E Ifeanyi Okowa on their emergence as Presidential and the Vice Presidential Candidates of the PDP for the 2023 Presidential election, respectively.
8. NEC also congratulated all the Governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly Candidates of the PDP for their emergence as flagbearers of our Party at various levels.
9. NEC commended all leaders, members, critical stakeholders and supporters of our Party across the country for their continued steadfastness in the PDP’s mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the nightmarish misrule of the failed APC.
State of The Nation:
10. NEC strongly decried the worsening state of the nation’s economy with attendant excruciating hardship occasioned by the corruption, insensitivity, incompetence and harsh economic policies of the inhumane and vicious APC.
11. NEC is also appalled by the worsening insecurity in the country occasioned by the obvious complicity of the APC administration which continues to condone and enable acts of terrorism in various parts of the country.
12. NEC lamented the failure of the APC government to address the industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). NEC lamented that the APC is relishing the agony, pain and suffering of parents and students in Nigerian public universities due to the prolonged strike action.
13. NEC condemned the constant display of arrogance by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu in handling the issue of ASUU strike and called for a more constructive engagement by stakeholders to resolve the matter.
14. NEC also condemned in the strongest terms the appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari of card-carrying members of the APC as INEC Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs).
This unpatriotic act is a brazen plot by the APC to manipulate and rig the 2023 general elections against the Will of Nigerians. The PDP demands that President Buhari immediately withdraws the APC members nominated as RECs, failure of which has the capacity to trigger serious political crisis that can threaten the 2023 general elections and derail our democratic process
Campaign Structure
15. NEC approved a unified campaign Structures across the country for the PDP for the 2023 general elections which will focus more on the grass root.
16. NEC approved the proposed Structure and Organogram of the National Campaign Council as well as the National Campaign Management Council for the 2023 general elections.
17. NEC also approved the Structures for Campaign Councils at the States, Local Government, Ward and Unit levels.
18. NEC unanimously empowered the NWC to modify and adjust the structures of the Campaign Councils as and when the need arises.
19. NEC received and approved the proposed structure for Zonal Reconciliation Committees to be set up to ensure that our Party presents a common front ahead of the 2023 general elections.
20. NEC also received and approved the composition of the Manifesto Review Committee to review the Manifesto of the PDP ahead of the 2023 general elections.
21. NEC charged Nigerians to remain united in rallying towards the success of the PDP at the 2023 general elections and start the onerous task of rescuing and rebuilding our nation.
Thank you.
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

Court extends order stopping Buhari, NBC from shutting down 53 broadcast stations

The Federal High Court in Lagos has extended the order stopping President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from revoking the licenses of 53 broadcast stations in the country, and shutting down the stations for allegedly failing to renew their licenses.

Honourable Justice Akintayo Aluko (Court 8) had on 29 August 2022 granted an order of interim injunction following the hearing of an argument on motion exparte by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE).

The order was granted pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction.

When the case came up before the Court for hearing today, Honourable Justice Daniel Emeka Osiagor extended the order of interim injunction pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice, and adjourned the case to 26th October 2022 for the hearing of the originating summons.

The Court extended the order of interim injunction following the hearing of an argument by SERAP and NGE counsel, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN.

SERAP and NGE had in August filed a lawsuit against Buhari and NBC, asking the court for “a declaration that section 10(a) of the Third Schedule to the NBC Act used by NBC to threaten to revoke the licenses of 53 broadcast stations and to shut down the stations is unconstitutional and unlawful, as it violates freedom of expression.”

In the suit, SERAP and NGE had asked the court for “an order of interim injunction restraining Buhari and NBC, their agents from revoking the licenses of 53 broadcast stations in the country and shutting their down operations, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed contemporaneously in this suit.”

The suit followed the decision by the NBC to revoke the licenses of the 53 broadcast stations and shut down their operations within 24 hours over alleged N2.6 billion debt.

In the suit number FHC/L/CS/1582/2022, SERAP and NGE are asking the court to determine “whether section 10(a) of the Third Schedule to the NBC Act used by NBC to threaten revoke the licenses of 53 broadcast stations and shut them down is not in inconsistent with freedom of expression and access to information.”

SERAP and NGE are also seeking “a declaration that section 10(a) of the National Broadcasting Act used by NBC to unilaterally revoke the licenses of the broadcast stations and shutdown the stations is a violation of the constitutionally and internationally guaranteed right to fair hearing.”

The suit, read in part: “The provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties on freedom of expression indicate that this right can be exercised through any medium.”

“Effectively, these provisions recognize that every individual has the right to an equal opportunity to receive, seek and impart information through any communication medium without discrimination.”

“The use of NBC Act and Code in this case would inadmissibly open the door to arbitrariness and would fundamentally restrict the freedom of expression that is an integral part of the public order protected the Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party.”

“The media plays an essential role as a vehicle or instrument for the exercise of freedom of expression and information – in its individual and collective aspects – in a democratic society.”

“Indeed, the media has the task of distributing all varieties of information and opinion on matters of general interest.”

“The public has a right to receive and assess this information and opinion independently. Therefore, the existence of a free, independent, vigorous, pluralistic, and diverse media is essential for the proper functioning of a democratic society.”

“According to the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa adopted by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ‘licensing processes shall seek to promote diversity in broadcasting. Any registration system for the media shall not impose substantive restrictions on the right to freedom of expression.’”

“Revoking the licenses of 53 broadcast stations and shutting down their operations because they have not renewed their licenses would both seriously undermine the rights of millions of Nigerians to express their thoughts, and their right to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas of all kinds, in any medium they choose.”

“Freedom of expression includes the public’s right to receive, and the right of those who express themselves through a medium of communication, to impart the greatest possible diversity of information and ideas.”

“The media including the affected 53 broadcast stations play an essential role, as they allow millions of Nigerians to access both the relevant information and a variety of perspectives that are necessary for reaching reasonable and informed conclusions on matters of public interest.”

“The Plaintiffs recognize the mandates of NBC to regulate broadcasting. However, the exercise of such mandates including renewals or revocation of licenses must follow the thresholds and guidelines set by the right to freedom of expression.”

“The free circulation of ideas and news is not possible except in the context of a plurality of sources of information and media outlets. The lack of plurality in sources of information is a serious obstacle for the functioning of democracy.”

“The NBC Act and Broadcasting Code cannot and should not be used in a manner that is inconsistent and incompatible with plurality of voices, diversity of voices, non-discrimination, and just demands of a democratic society, as well as the public interest.”

“Broadcasting is a means of exercising freedom of expression. Any restrictions on freedom of expression must meet the requirements of legality, necessity, and proportionality.”

“The regulation of broadcasting must aspire to promote and expand the scope of the right to freedom of expression, not restrict it.”

Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202

Iyobosa Uwugiaren
General Secretary
Nigerian Guild of Editors
+2348033143902

8/9/2022