•Celebrates Akure Anglican Diocese @40
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, has charged Christians to be fervent in evangelism and winning souls to God’s Kingdom.
The Governor gave the charge on Sunday at St David’s Cathedral Church, Ijomu, Akure, during the 40th Anniversary Thanksgiving service of the Diocese of Akure, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion.
The event also marked the 10th Consecration Anniversary of the Archbishop of Ondo Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Revd Dr. Simon Oluwole Borokini.
Governor Akeredolu said by prioritising evangelism, the people would be fulfilling God’s word which says “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
He attributed the success and existence of the Church for 40 years to the grace and mercy of God.
The Governor congratulated the diocese and the Diocesan Bishop and Archbishop of Ondo Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev’d Borokini and Princess Christianah Borokini on their 10th Consecration Anniversary. He said God has been faithful to his church.
Governor Akeredolu graced the Thanksgiving service alongside his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and other members of the State Executive Council.
Earlier, In his homily, the Diocesan Bishop, Ogbomoso Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev’d Dr. Titus Olayinka who spoke on “What Shall I Render To God”, said God has been so faithful to the diocese in the last 40 years.
He said the celebration is a reflection of the diocese’s past, evaluation of the present and projection of the future.
The Celebrant, Diocesan Bishop/Archbishop of Ondo Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev’d Borokini appreciated thanked God and members of the diocese for their commitment towards the growth of the church.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
March 26, 2023.

WE’VE EXPENDED HUGE INVESTMENT ON EDUCATION – GOV AKEREDOLU
•Salutes Late Olusegun Agagu For Establishing OAUSTECH
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, on Saturday disclosed that his administration has expended huge investment on education in the last six years.
The Governor noted that education is one of the cardinal responsibilities of his administration, saying it is a social debt to the people.
Governor Akeredolu spoke at the maiden convocation ceremony of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OAUSTECH) held at the University main Auditorium.
A total of 982 graduands from six sets, 2014/2015, 2015/2016, 2016/2017, 2017/2018, 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 sessions earned the University’s first degrees. A total of 26 graduands made First Class.
Governor Akeredolu said his administration at inception was alarmed with the deplorable condition of things in the University especially in terms of roads, buildings and other essential facilities connected to a conducive learning environment.
“This informed our resolve to change the narrative, by immediately commencing a gradual, radical and systematic implementation of the State Government’s Strategic Plan for the university.
“I am delighted to recall that within our 100 days in office, we facilitated the asphalt overlay of the first phase of the university road network and inaugurated same for use. We have also recently approved the construction of a 2.5 kilometre road network for the University which has achieved about 75% level of completion.” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu stressed that as part of his administration’s intervention, he has released funds for the completion of some major building projects which were abandoned for almost a decade.
According to him, the projects completed include the University Senate Building, the University Library and the University Auditorium.
He declared his resolve to open up other similar abandoned projects which shall be completed in batches as the state’s finances improve.
Governor Akeredolu, who said it is a new era in OAUSTECH, assured that his administration has not relented in supporting the university in all spheres.
“To this end, our administration has tremendously supported in the university’s quest for TETFund funding. Today, we are all happy that the university has started to have the presence of TETFund projects while more opportunities are underway.
“We have also noted that within the last six years of our administration, OAUSTECH, which used to offer courses only in the School of Science, has added courses in two additional schools: School of Engineering and Engineering Technology and the School of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.
“All courses offered by the university in the three schools have been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). I commend the university management and Council for these achievements”, the Governor said.
The combined Convocation ceremony also had in attendance, some members of the State Executive Council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Professor Akinbo Adesomoju; Governing Council members; Vice Chancellor, Professor Temi Ologunorisa; Principal officials; invited guests; other members of staff; graduands; parents and other dignitaries.
Governor Akeredolu specifically lauded former Governor of the State, late Dr. Olusegun Agagu, adding that his special passion, commitment and magnanimity had made the establishment of the university a reality for the benefit of the entire people of Ondo State and the people of the Ondo State Southern Senatorial District in particular.
While congratulating the graduating students and their parents on the occasion, Governor Akeredolu charged the graduands to go out and project, distil and exhibit the glowing tendencies that they have adopted while in school.
“I expect that by now, you all have the capacity and the emotional intelligence to handle every situation of life. There is no doubt in my mind that all of you have the potential to transform our State and indeed our country by putting to use and continuing to develop the training and experiences which you have garnered during your stay in this university.” the Governor stressed.
Earlier in his address, the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Professor Akinbo Adesomoju, took time to commend the Visitor to the University and Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for his non- relenting efforts at improving the institution through many interventions, especially in terms of infrastructural developments.
He said the present administration has been able to complete several previously abandoned capital projects in the University including the Main Auditorium, development of internal road network among several others.
The combined Convocation also witnessed conferment of a Postgraduate Degree of Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa) of the University on the Chancellor of the institution and Olugbo of Ugboland, Oba (Dr) Frederick Akinruntan, in recognition of his success stories in the global business environment.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
March 25, 2023

Saturday, March 25th, 2023
PRESS STATEMENT ON PLANNED PROTESTS BY OPPOSITION PARTIES: OUR SILENCE IS NOT COWARDICE
We have watched with great concern the condemnable activities of some persons and groups who are desirous of truncating our democracy. For reasons best known to them, these persons have remained embittered that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was declared winner of the 2023 General Elections. Repeatedly, but unfortunately, these misguided individuals have called for either the cancellation of the results or that the President-elect should not be inaugurated on the 29th of May, 2023.
We wish to reiterate and emphasise that these positions are not in tandem with our constitutional provisions or our electoral laws. We would have taken these as mere wishful thinking, however because of their implications for national security and public order, we have therefore considered it necessary, if not expedient, to call them to order.
We are aware of the intentions of those engaged in these treasonable and subversive acts. We also know those involved in the many plots being contrived to undermine the transition in particular and democracy in general. They are fixated with an Interim Government. They have done it in this country before and it threw the country into avoidable crises for many years and they want to do it again. They are bent on delegitimizing the new government. Some have made treasonable insinuations and openly called for military take-over. It is for these reasons that they are desperate to incite the people against the incoming Government.
It is perplexing to see that those contesting the results want to be in the courts and on the streets at the same time. However, if their intention is to truncate the inauguration of the President-elect and Vice-President elect, they should immediately bury the thought. It is gratifying to note that the President has set in motion steps for the actualisation of the swearing-in ceremonies. In this regard, the Presidential Transition Council has remained focused and committed to its Terms of Reference in respect of organizing a hitch-free handover.
On many occasions after the declaration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the winner of the election, his public speeches and utterances have centered on reconciliation, forgiveness and greater vision for Nigeria. He has pledged fairness as the basis for his present and future engagements. He has unequivocally stated that he would not accord favour to those that supported him, neither would he mistreat those who did not vote for him. This is statesmanly and patrotic. We all watched the President-elect as Governor of Lagos for eight ( years. He never undermined any person or tribe. He championed people-oriented policies. It is common knowledge that he is a welfarist and a pacifist. This is even more so that millions of citizens have spoken through the ballot box in his favour.
By being declared winners, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Kashim Shettima are legally entitled to be inaugurated into office AS PROVIDED for by law and AS WE HAVE PRACTICED SINCE 1999, whilst those that feel otherwise have the right to seek legal redress in court. Why should their situation be different from what we have practiced since 1999?
Those who are dissatisfied with the declaration MUST conduct themselves within the ambits of the law. Nigeria is not a lawless country and should not be portrayed as such no matter the frustrations as presently being exhibited by some bad losers.
Those who are stoking the embers of hate, division and falsehoods as well as peddling misleading narratives through some compromised media outlets should detract from such. It amounts to campaigning after elections. Hate speeches, fake news and propaganda at a time like this are needless because Nigerians have already made their choice. Those who are bent on scuttling the process will ignite the fire of destruction and run away. But they should not even start.
We simply wish that peace reigns in the country. It does not make sense that some persons who should know better are encouraging violence and are so determined to achieve that. We know these persons and their sponsors from within and outside Nigeria and we shall be working closely with the security agencies to apprehend them and bring them to book. Our concern is that everyday Nigerians who are unaware of the evil intentions of these persons should not be used as cannon fodders. Enough is enough. Their continuous determination to dare us should cease forthwith. We are not lacking in capabilities and capacities. Our silence should not be taken for cowardice. We should come together for the peace of our beloved country. It is better.
Thank you.
FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN, FCIArb(UK)
• Director, Public Affairs of the President-Elect
• Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
THE PRESIDENT NEVER SAID HE WON’T HAND OVER TO ELECTED TINUBU
The Presidency wishes to denounce as outrageous and fake, and condemns the fake news brigade for attributing a false quote to President Muhammadu Buhari and circulating it.
How can you vigorously campaign for somebody, vote for him and then say you won’t hand over to him? This beggars belief.
The situation of the Sahara Reporters is pretty pathetic since their ownership is politically partisan in today’s politics, in fact a loser in the presidential election. Instead of talking about issues, they repeatedly sell lies in the hope that people believe them as truth.
The government is already in transition phase. The Transition Committee, made up of representatives of the outgoing administration and the incoming one is meeting on an almost daily basis planning the handover to the Tinubu/Shettima administration. Thirteen committees as offshoots of the main committee, some, to arrange military drills and pulling out of President Buhari, are either all at work or soon to be. So far, everything is going very well and there is no indication of any hitches.
As for the President, the Daura community has begun their preparations to receive their son back after the successful administration of the country for two terms of eight years. He, for his part, is eager to return home to enjoy his retirement.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 24, 2023

PRESS RELEASE
March 25, 2023
Nigerian American Coalition for Justice & Democracy is a Partisan Peter Obi group of supporters – APC-USA
The All Progressives Congress, United States Chapter has described the so-called Nigerian American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) as a group of Peter Obi supporters (“Obidients”) masquerading themselves as a non-partisan political activist group. In a statement issued in New York, APC-USA condemned NACJD and their promoters for circulating in the social media a flyer and a statement about a planned “World Press Conference and a Protest” in Washington DC about the outcome of the February 25th Nigerian presidential election. APC-USA described the group’s actions as being politically and tribally motivated, and borne out of mischief and ignorance. APC-USA restated that the February 25, 2023 presidential election was free, fair and transparent, and the APC presidential ticket of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Kashim Shettima won the election clean and clear.
APC-USA condemned one Franklin Ekechukwu for circulating a false statement about the February 25th presidential election and misleading unsuspecting members of the public of the letters he and his ethnic jingoists allegedly sent to the White House and the US Congress. APC-USA stated that there was no evidence that such letters were written, delivered and acknowledged by the White House and the US Congress. APC-USA stated that the United States and many other countries have congratulated the President-Elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his victory at the polls.APC-USA said that the so-called press conference and the protest are just another attempt by the Obidients to discredit the outcome of the presidential election and the person of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. APC-USA described the people behind the so-called NACJDas sore losers who are finding it difficult to accept the outcome of the presidential election. APC USA wondered why they are not protesting against the outcome of the National Assembly, the Governorship and the House of Assembly elections that were similarly conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
APC-USA alleged that the planned actions of NACJD are purely partisan, purely tribalistic, and are intended to discredit the presidential election and the country in the eye of the international community, and also cause disaffection among Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora.
APC-USA again expressed its satisfaction with the February 25th presidential election and described it as unprecedented in the history of the country. The Chapter reminded the world that it was the first election in Nigeria where the party of the sitting president lost the home state of the president, and the winner of the presidential election lost his home state where he had been winning all elections since 1999. APC-USA stated that there is no country in the world where there is a perfect election, but that as long as any alleged infractions would not affect the outcome of the election, the people and the courts will not overturn the election. “Even in the United States, we are not immuned from election controversies, disputes and conflicts which were recently evident in the 2020 presidential election”, the statement added.
APC-USA advised the general public and the credible media outlets to disregard and ignore the so-called world press conference and protest as they are another dubious efforts to misrepresent the facts and the truth about the February 25th presidential election, and continue to cause unnecessary controversies over the election that was widely acclaimed to be free and fair. APC-USA advised the Obidients and other Nigerians to join hands with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to build a new Nigeria where peace, prosperity, justice and equity will reign.
APC-USA however promised to continue to defend the outcome of the February 25th presidential election, and challenge any person or group of persons that are bent on fanning embers of hatred and disunity among Nigerians, and disparage the image of Nigeria in the United States.
Signed:
Dr. Ismaila Maigyara
National Publicity Secretary, APC-USA Chapter
Professor Adesegun Labinjo
National Chairman APC-USA
Chief Emeka Molokwu
APC-USA Deputy National Chairman, South
Mr. Abdullahi Gambo
APC-USA Deputy National Chairman, North
Mr. Feyi Tijani
National Secretary, APC-USA
Judge Dele Alade
Chairman BOT/NAC, APC-USA

PRESS RELEASE
DSS ALERTS OF PLANNED VIOLENT ACTION; WARNS AGAINST DESPERATION TO IGNITE VIOLENCE IN THE COUNTRY
The Department of State Service (DSS), again, alerts the public of plans to violently disrupt peace in the country. The Service hereby warns those desperate to cause a breakdown of law and order to desist from that. It would be recalled that the Service had earlier advised political players to abide by the rules of engagement as well as approach the courts for redress, if and where there are suspicions of infractions on extant electoral laws. It is evident that some aggrieved politicians are already taking advantage of this legal process. This, without doubt, is the beauty of democracy. It is strongly believed that this approach enhances peace and security. All and sundry should cherish it.
Be that as it may, the DSS will not tolerate a situation where persons and/or groups take laws into their hands and champion anarchy. Those peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives as basis to ignite violence or pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the Federal, State and Parliamentary levels, should stop forthwith. Those inciting violence have nothing to gain as doing so will not only consume them but also the innocent. It is otherwise disturbing to see respected personalities use their platforms to mislead or incite citizens. This, to say the least, does not augur well for peaceful coexistence and general order.
Therefore, the Service will continue to take necessary measures to checkmate these elements who do not wish the country well. This is to ensure that the conducive environment is provided for citizens and residents to pursue their legitimate businesses. A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. Let all be guided.
Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi
Public Relations Officer
Department Of State Services
National Headquarters
Abuja.
25th March, 2023

PRESIDENT BUHARI PAYS TRIBUTE TO GENERAL DIYA
President Muhammadu Buhari mourns the passing on Sunday of Lt. General Oladipo Diya, who served as Chief of General Staff from 1993 to 1997 and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1994.
The President pays tribute to General Diya’s bold and courageous career in the Nigeria military and dedicated service to the country as General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Commandant, National War College (1991–1993), Chief of Defence Staff and Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985.
The President recalls that Diya was known for his brilliance, exceptional organizational skills and discipline, and he displayed these virtues in the important roles he held in office as a military officer.
The President salutes the former Chief of General Staff for his love, belief and loyalty to the country he cherished so much and fought gallantly on the frontlines to defend her unity.
On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt condolences to Diya’s family, friends and colleagues.
President Buhari prays that General Diya’s soul finds rest with his Creator, and may his contributions to the nation never be forgotten.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 26, 2023

HISTORY WILL BE KIND TO PRESIDENT BUHARI, SAYS AMBASSADOR EZE N. EBERE
Posterity will be fair and kind to President Muhammadu Buhari by the time an account is taken of his services to the country, says National Patron of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ambassador Eze N. Ebere.
Chief Ebere spoke at the State House, Abuja, Thursday, during a courtesy call to laud the 2023 presidential election, and its outcome.
Received by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Ambassador Ebere said he came to thank the President, “because you have kept the faith by allowing the will of the people to prevail both in the party primary and in the general election.
“Mr President, I am here to assure you that posterity and history will remember you for all your good works and intentions for the betterment of the country.
“You have organized free, fair, credible elections, which is according to the will of God, and the will of Nigerians.”
He charged the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to serve Nigerians faithfully when inaugurated, according to the Renewed Hope mantra he campaigned on.
“Mr President-elect, please work hard to renew the hope of Nigerians as you have promised. As soon as you are inaugurated, please bring in competent hands that will help you to achieve your promises,” Ambassador Ebere said.
He also commended the statesmanship of all the other contestants for Presidency who did not win, urging them to continue to prevail on their supporters to keep the peace while the legal processes play out in the courts.
Ambassador Ebere was accompanied on the visit by Messrs Adekunle Badru , Olujimi Shobayo, and Tijani Temitope.

March 23, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Sets Up Katsina State Caretaker Committee
The National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has, on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), pursuant to Sections 29(2)(b) and 31(2)(e) of our the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017), approved the composition of the Katsina State Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the Katsina State chapter for a period not exceeding 90 days (3 months).
The Members of the Katsina State PDP Caretaker Committee are;
1. Dr. Abdulrahman Usman – Chairman
2. Hon. Nura Shehu Giwa – Member
3. Hon. Haruna Jami – Member
4. Lawal I Safana – Member
5. Sanusi Audu Fari – Member
6. Nura Ahmadu Kurfi – Member
7. Sani Abdullahi Daba – Member
8. Magajiya Lawal Matazu – Member
9. Ado Dan Turai – Member
10. Hon. Hamza Yunusa Jibia – Member
11. Abdulhamid Danbatta – Member
12. Aisha Medinat Ibrahim – Member
13. Halima Zubairu Abdulhamid – Secretary.
The NWC urges all leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of our Party in Katsina State to remain united and continue to work together for the task ahead.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

March 23, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Refers Ortom to Disciplinary Committee, Suspends Fayose, Shema, Anyim, Others
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has after very extensive review of the affairs of our Party in the country and pursuant to the provisions of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017) referred the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom to the National Disciplinary Committee over his reported involvement in anti-party activities.
The NWC also approved the suspension of the following from the Party with effect from today, Thursday, March 23, 2023.
1. Ayodele Fayose (Ekiti State)
2. Ibrahim Shema (Katsina)
3. Sen. Pius Anyim (Ebonyi State)
4. Prof. Dennis Ityavyar (Benue State)
5. Dr. Aslam Aliyu (Zamfara State)
The PDP urges all leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of our Party across the country to remain united and focused at this critical time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

Election violence: Investigate governors, deputies or face legal action, SERAP tells INEC

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to “urgently seek the appointment of an independent counsel to investigate allegations of electoral violence and other electoral offences including bribery against any state governors and their deputies during the just concluded general elections.”

SERAP also urged him to “promptly and effectively investigate reports of electoral violence and other electoral offences committed during the general elections, and to identify suspected perpetrators and their sponsors, and ensure their effective prosecution, regardless of their political status or affiliations.”

In the letter dated 25 March 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “By allegedly engaging in electoral violence and other electoral offences in so blatant a fashion, suspected perpetrators and their sponsors have clearly acted in violation of constitutional provisions, international standards and the Electoral Act.”

SERAP said, “Section 52 of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, allows INEC to seek the appointment of an independent counsel to investigate allegations of electoral violence and other electoral offences such as bribery that may have been committed by any state governors and/or their deputies.”

According to SERAP, “INEC should promptly collaborate with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other law enforcement agencies to identify any politicians and their sponsors suspected to be responsible for electoral violence and other electoral offences during the elections.”

The letter, read in part: “Identifying, arresting, investigating and prosecuting those suspected of perpetrating electoral violence and other electoral offences during the 2023 general elections would act as a deterrent against electoral violence in future elections.”

“We would be grateful if immediate steps are taken to implement the recommended measures within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel INEC to comply with our request in the public interest.”

“Acting swiftly to address the brazen impunity and reports of electoral violence and other electoral offences during the 2023 general elections would also send a strong message to politicians that the INEC under your leadership would not tolerate any infringement of the electoral process.”

“Electoral violence is a threat to fair and representative elections. It is inconsistent and incompatible with the principles of democracy, the rule of law, transparency and accountability for politicians to allegedly use violence to disrupt the electoral process.”

“When politicians and their sponsors decide to engage in electoral violence and other electoral offences rather than contest fairly for people’s votes, there are possibilities that such politicians will show a disregard for democratic rules and a disposition to adopt illegal means becomes inevitable.”

“If voting is as important as INEC always claims it is, now is the time to take meaningful steps and action to end impunity for electoral violence and other electoral offences during elections.”

“Ending impunity for electoral violence and other electoral offences promote accountability of suspected perpetrators and their sponsors, ensure justice for victims, and ultimately advance the people’s right to vote and to participate in their own government, as well as bolster voter confidence in the electoral process.”

“Identifying, investigating, naming and shaming those suspected to be involved in electoral violence and other electoral offences during the 2023 general elections will also send a powerful message to politicians and their sponsors that they will not get away with their crime against the Nigerian people.”

“Electoral violence and other electoral offences reportedly committed during the 2023 general elections are contrary to the express provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, the Electoral Act and international standards.”

“Electoral violence and other electoral offences undermine the ability of INEC to discharge its responsibilities under Section 153 of the Nigerian Constitution and paragraph 15(a) of the third schedule of the Constitution, and the Electoral Act 2022.”

“The Nigerian Constitution provides in Section 14(1)(c) that, ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’”

“Sections 121 and 127 of the Electoral Act prohibit electoral bribery and undue influence before, during and after any election. Section 145(2) provides that, ‘a prosecution under this Act shall be undertaken by legal officers of the Commission or any legal practitioner appointed by it.’ Under section 2(b), the commission ‘shall have power to promote knowledge of sound democratic election processes.’”

“According to our information, the just concluded presidential and national assembly elections and governorship elections in some states witnessed widespread reports of voter suppression, voter intimidation and the destruction or theft of election materials by political party agents and thugs across all six geopolitical zones.”

“According to a report by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), several polling units recorded violence and/or fighting across the country.”

“These violent incidents were often focused in political strongholds of opposition or perceived opponents which suggest that the use of BVAS – which limits overvoting when properly used – has resulted in a more concerted effort to stymie citizens casting their votes in opponent’s strongholds.”

“Similar incidents of intimidation were reported in all geo-political zones.”

“In several states, political thugs, apparently with the support of law enforcement officials, disrupted and sent back voters intending to vote for opposition parties. Party agents were reported to be directing people who to vote for while those unwilling to do as directed were denied ballot papers and forced to leave the polling units.”

“There were reports of destruction of used ballot papers and vandalization of entire polling units in some states. Violence was also used to target BVAS machines in order to disrupt the process and ensure the cancellation of results.”

“According to the CDD, there are reports of vote trading in zones across the country, with both cash and goods used by all political parties in an effort to entice voters to cast their ballots at their direction. The CDD noted vote buying at polling units during the elections across the country.”

Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
26/3/2023
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

Accept defeat, congratulate Oborevwori, Delta PDP tells Omo-Agege

Delta State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege to accept the outcome of the Governorship Election in the state and congratulate the PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori who is already coasting home to victory.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu made the call in a statement on Monday in Asaba.

He said contrary to the wrongful assertion by the APC, the Delta State Governorship and House of Assembly elections followed due process and was conducted in consonance with relevant laws chiefly among is the Electoral Act 2022 as amended.

The results duly collated from the various units, wards and local government areas have so far been adjudged as free, fair, credible and transparent and winners have been emerging across the State Constituencies.
It is however disturbing that the APC that unleashed terror on innocent voters in Ughelli North and parts of Ethiope west could turn around to point accusing fingers at others

So far, 23 local government areas have been duly collated and the PDP won in 19 LGAs while the APC won in 4 LGAs.

The APC having won 6 State Constituencies cannot turn around to describe the election as non complying with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 as amended.

We thank Deltans for their unalloyed support and solidarity with the PDP even as we promised to continue delivering on the Okowa mandate till the last day of this administration.

We therefore call on the APC Governorship Candidate and Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege to do the needful expected of democrats and call on his brother, the PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to congratulate him on his well deserved victory at the polls.

Charles Aniagwu
Honourable Commissioner for Information
Delta State
March 20, 2023.

Delta Guber: Okowa congratulates Oborevwori, thanks Deltans

Delta Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed gratitude to people in the state for using their ballots to give Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, victory in Saturday’s governorship election.

The governor, at a Thanksgiving Service at Government House Chapel in Asaba, shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oborevwori as governor-elect on Monday, attributed the party’s victory to God’s grace.

Okowa charged the governor-elect and his deputy, Chief Monday Onyeme, to put God first in all activities, and assured them that they would record successes if they governed with the fear of God.

He disclosed that the presidential and governorship elections brought forth new lessons for him, and promised to offer the best of advice to the in-coming administration in the state.

“Today is a glorious day in the sight of God because of what we went through since Saturday, March 18. We thank God for leading us to victory.

“I thank all Deltans who have been out there campaigning for us, the PDP. I thank all of you for coming to rejoice with the governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and the deputy governor-elect, Sir Monday Onyeme.

“So, l thank you all for coming. As you go back home, remember to continue to give thanks to God for what He has done in our lives and in our state.

“We have come here to dance and to sing praises to God for what He has done in our lives. I thank all our leaders, our women and all our youth for working so hard towards the victory of our party (PDP).

“My greatest joy today is that l am sure that this altar of God will stay alive” Okowa said.

To House of Assembly members-elect, leadership of the PDP and other stakeholders, he called on them to rally round Oborevwori to enable him achieve set goals.

While commending Deltans for their support in the last eight years, he promised to remain committed to doing more till his last day in office as governor.

“As l thank you all, l must also thank Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan for the roles he played in uniting aggrieved members of the party in the build-up to the elections.

“In these last two weeks, God has taught me a lot of lessons and it is my prayer that you (the governor-elect) will not make some of the mistakes that we made,” he added.

To those that defected before and during the electoral contest, he wished them well, emphasizing that he held no grudge against anyone.

Congratulating the governor-elect and his deputy, the governor urged them to relate more with the people at the grassroots, even as he implored them to trust in the Lord for He alone would endow them with what they need to succeed.

He also urged Deltans to work with the governor-elect and his deputy so as to sustain the tempo of sustainable socio-economic and infrastructural growth and development in the state.

In an interview, the governor-elect, said he was overwhelmed by the support of Deltans at the polls, and promised to justify the confidence reposed in him.

Dignitaries at the special thanksgiving service were Wife of the Governor, Dame Edith Okowa; former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan; the governor-elect, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore; his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, among others.

Oborevwori’s victory’ll enhance sustainable development in Delta – Aniagwu

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu on Tuesday said that the victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori would further sustain the development trajectory in the state.

Speaking at a news conference in Asaba, Aniagwu said the party and the state government were grateful to Deltans for their overwhelming support which culminated in Oborevwori’s victory.

According to him, Oborevwori would continue with ongoing programmes and policy of the Okowa administration while also introducing its own programmes.

“The Governor and the Governor-Elect and indeed the PDP are all grateful to Deltans for this show of love and for the appreciation of the sterling performance of the administration of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the street credibility of Sheriff Oborevwori and the fact that PDP is in the DNA of Deltans.

“What has happened in this election is that Deltans have been able to repel surgically the incursion into our political DNA. As an administration and the incoming administration will not take this for granted.

“We are happy that we won fair and square in all the Senatorial Districts and that we got overwhelming support of Deltans and those who live here with us in the Northern, Southern and Central Senatorial Districts.

“This victory will spur the PDP to not only sustain the development trajectory that has characterised the Okowa led administration but to embark on a process that will indeed bring more development just like the Agenda of Sheriff Oborevwori.

“A good number of the programmes that the Okowa led administration pursued will be sustained even as new programmes and policies will also be brought on board for the purpose of reaching out to our people,” he said.

He said the administration and the party have learnt lessons in the course of the electioneering campaign and the election proper and promised to make amends for the good of the people.

“We have learnt lessons in the course of this electioneering period, we have seen the need to further connect with our people in the rural communities, to further empower our youths, and by providing more laudable projects for the people and pursuing a more united Delta agenda.

“We congratulate our opponents for putting up a strong fight and we urge them to join hands with Sheriff Oborevwori and Monday Onyeme to leave a Delta that is more developed and united than it is now.

“We have as an administration done quite some laudable projects across the state and we can beat our chest that we will be leaving the state on May 29 far far better than we met it.

“We are quite convinced that Sheriff Oborevwori is capable of sustaining these development trajectory and pushing forward a Delta that is far more developed in the nearest future,”

The Information Commissioner further said “the electioneering period have come and gone, although a victor has emerged but for us there is no vanquished.

“We believe that with the support of our brothers who contested with us we can put behind us the bitter experiences that characterised the campaign, the mudslinging that came majorly from the opposition APC and let’s move together in unity to develop our state.

“As an administration we have forgiven those who cast aspersions at us and those who lied by way of propaganda by projecting stories that were at variance with reality.

“Those we may have also offended in the course of the campaign we also plead with them to forgive us and take it as part of the election campaign.

“We appreciate all Deltans for the way they came out to vote and we also appreciate INEC for a better outing than we had in the February 25 Presidential and National Assembly elections.”

On the visit of the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance APGA, Chief Great Ogboru to Government House, Aniagwu described it as laudable and worthy trait from a committee democrat.

“Chief Great Ogboru is a democrat and what he demonstrated yesterday is what was expected of democrats globally.

“Yesterday he was in the Government House because they told him Sheriff Oborevwori was in the Government House. So he came there to congratulate him and wish him well.

“We must commend Ogboru for displaying this very rare trait of a democrat and we are also calling on Senator Ovie Omo-Agege to do same by congratulating Oborevwori so that the state can move forward,” Aniagwu added.

PDP accuses INEC of frustrating procedure for CTC issuance

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters for directing Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) in states and the FCT to ensure comparison with IREV data before issuance of Certified True Copies of form EC8A.

Spokesman of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Mr Charles Aniagwu made the disclosure at a news conference in Asaba and urged INEC to do right thing by allowing the States which are the original source of the documents to issue same without comparing with the IREV data.

Aniagwu pointed out that the reason PDP was seeking the CTC of the form EC8A was to enable it prove its case at the Presidential election tribunal, adding that INEC’s directive to State RECs to compare with IREV figures would be detrimental to its case since the party was already disputing the contents of the IREV data.

According to him, the Presidential election has come and gone but because our party isn’t satisfied with the conduct of the election, we felt that there is need to challenge the outcome in the court of law.

“We were able to get a court judgement asking INEC to avail us all relevant documents that will assist us in proving our case.

“We are however taken aback that INEC in an unsigned document sent to State Resident Electoral Commissioners directed them not to issue the form EC8A without comparing with IREV records at the Commission’s headquarters.

“This directive is a departure from the usual procedure for the issuance of Certified True Copies of form EC8A which has to do with results from the states.

“The most important data here is the primary data which are domiciled with the Resident Electoral Commissioners of states and INEC knows that the directive is not the right procedure hence they refused to sign the document,” Aniagwu stated.

He said the delays in upload and manipulation of the results on the IREV portal were already being interrogated by the party and hence would not rely on data from the IREV portal.

“We want to plead with the leadership of INEC in the interest of country, justice and Nigerians who filed out to vote to do the right thing by allowing the RECs to issue the CTC of EC8A without having to compare with what they have on the IREV.

“The IREV data in this instance is a secondary data because the primary data which is the form EC8A is domiciled with the Resident Electoral Commissioners.

“We cannot at this moment believe that what was uploaded in the IREV data will be what actually transpired because of the delay in the upload of the data.

“In the actual fact it is INEC headquarters that is supposed to confirm from the states and not the other way round because the primary source of the form EC8A is the States,”

On the Governorship Election in Delta, Aniagwu said the All Progressives Congress APC in the state had no case with the elections as Sheriff Oborevwori won fair and square.

“The Delta State Governorship election was won fair and square and for Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and the APC to run to the media claiming manipulations in parts of the state, particularly the 21 local governments the PDP won is preposterous and we urge him to go and prepare for 2027.

“This election is won and lost and they know because they brought forward a candidate that is not acceptable to Deltans.

“So we advise the APC in Delta to begin to organise themselves possibly for 2027 because the governorship election result is a true reflection of what happened on ground,” he added.

Okowa congratulates Uduaghan on UNN award

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has congratulated his predecessor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, on his conferment with award of Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa) by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charles Igwe, the management and Governing Council of the University for honouring Uduaghan with the prestigious award.

He said that it was not surprising that UNN honoured the former governor considering his contributions to the growth and development of the university, especially his tenure as Governor of Delta.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate and rejoice with you, our dear leader and former Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, CON, on your confernment with Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa) by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

“As an administration we are extremely proud of this honour bestowed on you, particularly as we remember with gratitude, your administration’s donation of the Sociology Department building to the university in honour of an illustrious Deltan and first Students Union Government President, late Professor B.I.C. Ijomah.

“I, also on behalf of the state government, commend the management of UNN for finding you worthy of this prestigious honour.

“It is our prayer that God will continue to bless you with long life and good health to reap the fruit of your service to God and humanity,” Okowa stated.

PRESS STATEMENT*

*CHIEF IWUANYANWU’S PROVOCATIVE AND IRRESPONSIBLE OUTBURST*

Our attention has been drawn to the comments made by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the Chairman, Council of Elders of Ohaneze Ndigbo in a video clip that has gone viral. Chief Iwuanyanwu made these comments on Saturday, March 25th at a ceremony in Anambra State where he was a special guest of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s one-year commemoration in office.

In the video, Chief Iwuanyanwu said, “I want our people in Lagos to know that on Wednesday, I called a meeting of the Ohaneze Council of Elders worldwide and we x-rayed the events in Lagos…We have resolved that never, never again can we allow anybody to take the life of an innocent Igbo person. All of us are going to fight the person. Never again. We are going to fight the person.”

“We are in Nigeria. And we have invested in Nigeria. Our investments are so much. We are not going to take the pressure of people telling us to go. We are not going anywhere. And I want to tell those in Lagos to realize that there’s no war between us and Yorubas. Yorubas are just political rascals. And we’re going to handle them.”

Although it is tempting to go toe-to-toe with Chief Iwuanyawu in what we believe was a deliberately made provocative, irresponsible, and condescending statement in our response, which would also have disparaged the entire Igbo people. But we won’t.

We would have blamed Chief Iwuanyanwu’s outburst on some cheap whiskey taken at the event where he made this negative, utterly annoying remarks. Or perhaps his morbidly obese body constitution could be the culprit as this might be affecting his capacity to think clearly and speak intelligently. But we wager that what happened at the Soludo event was another one of those predetermined, calculated attempts to draw the ire of the Yoruba people in order to create an unstable sociopolitical atmosphere in the polity to achieve their pathological fixation for an Interim government. We’re too discerning to fall for that bait.

The invective of Chief Iwuanyanwu, and by extension, his Ohaneze Ndigbo clan against a people whose only sin is the fact that they are too loving and accommodating for their liking (because they lack these virtues) should be seen within the context of someone having a withdrawal symptom after working himself into a frenzy for so long that his candidate would win the recently concluded presidential election without any empirical and intelligent political permutations to justify his delusion.

We should therefore brace ourselves for more of this senseless and idiotic vituperation as the inauguration of President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu draws closer.

We urge our people to resist any attempt to be provoked because their overarching game plan is to create a crisis atmosphere so that our democracy can be truncated. They know that their court case is wooly at best. Let us continue to take the insults and abuses from the likes of Chief Iwuanyanwu and his Igbo travelers while Asiwaju and his team concentrate on an inauguration that will usher in a new dawn of unprecedented accomplishments across the country as he did in Lagos, which gave them the platform for their much-touted and overdramatized investments, towards a more perfect nation.

*FEMI ODERE*
_Spokesperson_
Tinubu/Southwest Media Veterans Support Group

Sunday, March 26, 2023

PRESS STATEMENT

25TH MARCH, 2023

DELTA PDP CONGRATULATES DR. UDUAGHAN ON AWARD OF DOCTORATE (HONORIS CAUSA) FROM UNN

Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has warmly felicitated His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State, on the award of the prestigious Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa) by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

The salutation was contained in a congratulatory message issued by the State PDP Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “Your Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP heartily congratulates you on the conferment of the Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa) award, by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

“We are indeed not surprised that the famous University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, has found in you, a worthy recipient of this prestigious award, long after you left office and honorably side-stepped out of the national spotlight, with admirable decorum, dignity, and equanimity.

Your leadership track record as a two-term PDP Governor, hallmarked by your exceptional disposition towards peacebuilding as the core substructure for a development-driven society, which indeed was one of the cardinal elements of your visionary Three Point Agenda, complemented by the other components of Infrastructure and Human Capital Development, speaks volumes for the sustainable peace Delta State enjoyed, during your tenure and the collective unity and harmony amongst many members of our party, in the run-up to the 2023 general elections.

We also recall with great pride, the brilliant maiden paper you delivered during the annual lecture series graciously endowed in your name, for the Professor B.I.C Ijomah Centre for Policy Studies and Research, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in 2019, which still resonates with great import, clarity, and relevance in our national polity, four years after.

Congratulations once again, Your Excellency, on this well-deserved recognition by one of the leading tertiary institutions of learning in our country. We have no doubts whatsoever that this award, the precursor of many to come, will greatly energize your impressive efforts and advocacy in the pursuit of sustainable peace in our society.

We are indeed proud and humbled, to embrace you as one of our very own; leader, mentor, and elder statesman, in the PDP Family.

God Bless You, Sir.

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
Ebireri Henry Ovie Mobile: 2348036977194.

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU MOURNS EX-CGS, OLADIPO DIYA

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passage of former Chief of General Staff, Lt.-General Oladipo Diya.

Sanwo-Olu described the death of Diya, a former Chief of Defence Staff and ex-Military Governor of Ogun State, as a great loss to the country.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described the late Diya, as a gallant soldier and elder statesman, who served the country meritoriously as a military officer, Governor of Ogun State and Chief of General Staff.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commiserated with Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the entire people of the State, especially indigenes of Odogbolu, on the demise of their illustrious son.

He said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, the Nigerian Army and associates of the late Lt.-General Oladipo Diya, over the death of the former Chief of General Staff and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council.

“I also commiserate with my brother, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the people of Odogbolu town and Ogun State over the death of their former governor and illustrious son. I pray that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

“The death of Lt.-General Oladipo Diya is a colossal loss to the country. He made lots of positive impact and contribution during his lifetime to the growth and development of Nigeria, especially in the Nigeria Army.

“He fought, along with several other patriots tirelessly for a united Nigeria during his days in the Nigerian Army, especially during the Civil War. He also held positions in the Armed Forces and rose to the position of the Chief of General Staff, (de facto Vice President of Nigeria) under the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha.

“I pray that God will grant him eternal rest and give his immediate family, friends, associates and the people of Ogun State, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
26 MARCH 2023