Obasanjo , the big masquerade of my re – election - Amosun

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has acknowledged the immense role
of ex – President Olusegun Obasanjo in his re – election success .
Amosun who was appreciating the people of the state for their support
that ensured the success of his first term tenure as well as the re –
election at the polls last April 11 , described Obasanjo as the “ big
masquerade ” whose support brought much goodwill to him( Amosun) .
The Governor spoke while addressing thousands of supporters at the MKO
Abiola International stadium , Abeokuta, shortly after his inauguration for
another round of four years .
He said Obasanjo deserved a special mention and commendation.
Obasanjo whose name elicited deafening ovation when Amosun mentioned
him for commendation, was not at the stadium but his wife , Mrs Bola
Obasanjo , was in attendance .
Amosun said : ” but , as Yoruba use to say , that Egun Nla lo n gbe yin Igbale
( the big masquerade is the last at the shrine ) let me specially appreciated
our Baba , former President , Baba Olusegun Obasanjo ” he could not
finished his remarks before the crowd went into frenzy .
“ He could not be here , because he is in Abuja , but , we have his wife ; our
mother with us here . I say you are recognized Mama . ”
The political relationship between Obasanjo and Amosun was rekindled
following what the former President openly admitted as the Governor ’ s
impressive performance in the areas of infrastural development , urban
renewal , palpable security, clean and safer environment of Ogun state
Also , the Director General of the Sen . Ibikunle Amosun Campaign
Organization during the 2015 electioneering period, Chief Bode Mustapha,
lauded Obasanjo for the Amosun re – election .
“ In Yorubaland , we always respect and appreciate elders who stand and
hold on to the truth . Despite being in different political party , Baba never
hidden his admiration for the wonderful performance of the governor.
“ He is not sentimental about the positive rebuilding mission in the state ,
and that is Obasanjo for you . So , for the people of Ogun state to have
given him that cheers , it is a lesson for all that there is always reward for
everything , ” Mustapha said .

Nigeria has entered a new dispensation; no more business as usual – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his willingness to work
with any leader of the National Assembly that the process throws up,
irrespective of what part of the country he or she comes from.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr. Buhari said that this has
become necessary in view of the continued name-dropping in some circles
linking his name to some candidates.
“I am prepared to work with any leaders that the House or Senate selects,”
Mr. Buhari said in the earlier statement two weeks ago. “It doesn’t matter
who the person is or where he or she is from.”
He added: “there is due process for the selection of leaders of the National
Assembly, and I will not interfere in that process”.
The has been controversy over the election of new leaders of the Senate
and House of Representatives, as the All Progressives Congress which has
the majority seats has failed so far to allocate the offices to different regions of
the country.
Sources in the party say the delay is apparently because Mr. Buhari has refused to approve any formula for the election.
Leaders of the party say the APC will not jettison zoning, but add that the
party will consider merit first.
The president-elect has insisted he will not back any candidate.
In his statement Wednesday, Mr. Buhari said the media and the public
should begin to get used to no more “business as usual”.
“Nigeria has indeed entered a new dispensation,” he said. “My
administration does not intend to repeat the same mistakes made by
previous governments.”

PROBE: I’m not scared of Buhari, says Okonjo-Iweala

Immediate past Minister of Finance Ngozi Onkojo-
Iweala on Thursday said that she is not scared of
President Muhammadu Buhari probing her.
Okonjo-Iweala spoke in a statement while
responding to some allegations raised by the Edo
state Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
She said: “There is no substance in the wild
allegations that any money is missing from the
account or that finances of the country under my
watch have not been well managed.”
“I have no reason to fear Buhari. Those who cannot
adequately explain what they did with the resources
of their states and are begging for bailout are those
who should to be scared,” she added.
Okonjo-Iweala also denied claims by Oshiomhole
that she has been speaking out lately because of
the “fear of Buhari”.
She said, “if there is any minister whose voice has
been strong on the right issues over the past four
years, it is Okonjo-Iweala.”
She also reiterated that she has no apologies for
insisting that a claim of N159 billion for Forex
differentials by the marketers out of a total bill of
N200 billion should go through an additional
verification process.
“When 80 per cent of a subsidy claim is made up
of Forex differentials and not the value of the
amount of fuel supplied, the right and proper thing
to do is to take extra steps to ensure that the
country is not being cheated. That is what Okonjo-
Iweala did,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

Wikipedia updates Buhari ‘s profile

Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, has updated the profile of Nigeria’s to-be president, Muhammadu Buhari.
The platform which publishes the biography of personalities around the world, now refers to Buhari as the current President of Nigeria, few hours before inauguration.
It identifies him as “a retired Major General in the Nigerian Army who was Head of State of Nigeria from 31 December 1983 to 27 August 1985, after taking power in a military coup d’état.
The term Buharism is ascribed to the Buhari military government.
“He ran unsuccessfully for the office of President in the 2003, 2007 and 2011 elections. In December 2014, he emerged as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the March 2015 elections.
‘Buhari won the 2015 general election, defeating the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. When he took office on 29 May 2015, it marked the first time in Nigeria’s history that an incumbent elected President peacefully transferred power to an elected leader of the opposition.
‘Buhari has stated that he takes responsibility for whatever happened under his watch during his military rule, saying that he cannot change the past. He also describes himself as a ‘converted democrat’.” Wikipedia says.

Nigerians will not regret giving us their mandate - Buhari

During his inaugural speech, President Muhammadu Buhari said Nigerians will not regret giving his administration their mandate. He appreciated the immediate Past President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat during the election. On Boko Haram, he said this will be tackled head on. He said the group is a group of small fire causing a big fire. He said the Command and Control center of the Nigerian Army will be in Maiduguri Borno state until Boko Haram is defeated.

He said his government will do everything within its power to rescue the Chibok girls. He said the Federal government will commission a study that will determine the origin, sponsors and foreign collaborators of Boko Haram once they have been subdued.


He said nobody belongs to him and he does not belong to anybody. He said unemployment, particularly youth unemployment will be addressed. He said relationship between the state and the Federal government must be clarified to serve Nigeria better. He said states are Independent but the Federal government cannot close its eyes when they go wrong. He said he will operate according to the constitution.

He acknowledged the support of the Labor, Private sector and press and Civil Society Organization. He appealed to the media, particularly the social media to be responsible in the discharge of its service.

He said it is a national shame that a country of over 120 million generates only 4000MW of electricity.

He said his government will revive Agriculture, Mining and provide investments for SMEs. He said asides Boko Haram, kidnapping and other vices will be addressed. He appreciated all those who participated in campaigning for him.

Nigeria's first son Yusuf Buhari at his father's inauguration (photos)

Yusuf Buhari pictured at his dad's inauguration this morning... with friends

INAUGURATION UPDATES from Eagle Square

Muhammadu Buhari being sworn in as President of Nigeria

New President on parade inspection,  cheered at the Eagles Square.

*11.12am
Ex-President Jonathan leaves inauguration venue
*  10.47am
President-elect to take oath of office
The President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, has been invited to the podium to take his oath of office

• 10.37am
• CJN administers oath of office on vice-president elect
• The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmoud Muhammed, has just administered oath of office on the Vice President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo

           *10.25am

      Presidential inauguration begins with a prayer

President of Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, prayed for success of the incoming administration and asked God to protect and help the outgoing President    and his deputy.

The Deputy Chief Imam of the National Mosque also offered prayer for the country.

• 10.18am
• President Jonathan arrives
• The outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan has arrived the inauguration venue

• 9.59am

President-elect arrives

The President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, has just entered the Eagles Square venue of the presidential inauguration.

•  9.49am

Osinbajo in inauguration venue

The in-coming Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has just strolled into the Eagles Square.

• 9.44am

Sambo arrives Eagles Square

The outgoing Vice President Namadi Sambo has just entered the inauguration venue

• 9.38am

U.S Secretary of State Kerry arrives 

The United States Secretary of State, Mr. John Kerry, has just arrived the Eagle Square venue of Friday’s presidential inauguration.

• 9:03 a.m

Obasanjo arrives venue
Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo arrives venue of the Presidential inauguration, greeting fellow former Head of States.

• 8:15 a.m

By David Lawal

Tinubu arrives inauguration venue

Asiwaju Bola Hammed Tinubu, former governor of Lagos state has just been spotted arriving the Eagle Square, venue of the inauguration ceremony for Nigeria’s next president, Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari is taking over the mantle of leadership from President Goodluck Jonathan

• 8:01am

Danjuma arrives Eagle Square
Augustine Ehikioya

Former Minister of Defence, Theophilus  Danjuma has just arrived Eagle Square, venue of the Presidential Inauguration in Abuja.

As at the moment of filing this report, nothing less than 20 former Nigerian leader are currently at the venue to grace the occasion.

• 7:15 am

Jacob Zuma of South Africa arrives first
President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, was the first supreme leader to arrive Eagle Square, venue of the Presidential inauguration in Abuja.
Zuma arrived the venue to a beautiful welcome of the well decorated Eagle Square.

Catch some laugh...LOLLLLLZZZZZZZZZZ

 Jonathan & his  Slaves

Children’s Day: Chibok Girls Ambassadors Stage Sit-out In Honour Of Schoolgirls

The Chibok Girls Ambassador angered by the fact that the abducted 219 Chibok girls have not yet been rescued and could not celebrate another Children’s Day with the nation, staged a sitout at the Unity Fountain, Abuja, yesterday.
Speaking during the event yesterday, the leader of the Girls’ Ambassador, Maryam Ahmed expressed the group’s disapointment that the abducted girls were still in captivity for over a year and still counting.
“It is for this reason that the Chibok Girls Ambassadors stand here before you to remind the government to do everything in its power to bring back our girls, now,” she said.
Ahmed stated that the children in the country were not convinced that the Nigerian government is providing adequate security for children against violence as 408 days have passed without the abducted girls being rescued.
Ahmed however expressed hope that as Nigeria moves into a new democratic dispensation, the incoming government will put all effort into bringing back the missing girls to their family who are anxiously waiting for them.
“Our prayer is that the new government will focus with immediate effect on bringing back our girls now and alive. It is our hope that from this moment forward, there will be renewed opportunities for all girls in Nigeria such that the whole country will wake up to the reality of our potential.
“Being a girl in Nigeria will no longer be a weakness but will be our source of strength. We say very loudly and clearly that we were not put on this earth to be invisible and forgotten, neither were we born to this world just so that we can belong to someone else or sold in modern day slavery,” she said. While calling on the political leaders in the country to remember and recognise the plight of the abducted girls and the urgency of bringing them back, Ahmed expressed hope that the incoming government will usher in an era where girls in the country will be allowed to reach their potentials.
“We asks them to remove those social barrier that limit or hurt girls and implement laws and policies that protect our rights. With voices loud and clear, we remind you that protecting the rights of Nigerian girls is the smartest decision for sustainable Nigeria,” sha said.
Speaking during the event, the leader of the BBOG group, Dr Oby Ezekwesili while expressing sadness over the aducted girls still in the hands of their captors, stated that if by May 29, 2015, the girls are not yet rescued, the group will seek a public engagement within one week of inauguration of new government to receive an update on the federal government plans for the rescue of the girls.

Outgoing Administration and the Incoming Administration.

Oshoala Scoops BBC Women’s Player Of The Year Award

Super Falcons’ forward Asisat Oshoala has been named the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Women’s Player of the Year.
Oshoala, who plays her club football for Liverpool Ladies FC of England, was presented with the award on Monday evening after the international friendly game between Nigeria and Canada at the Kia Training Ground, Toronto, which ended 0-0.
Oshoala won the maiden edition of the coveted award ahead of Spain’s Veronica Boquete, Germany’s Nadine Kessler, Scotland’s Kim Little and Brazilian forward Marta.
It is yet another feather in the cap of the 20-year old, who was named the African Woman Player of the Year and African Youth Player at the Glo-CAF African Football Awards in Lagos in January this year.
Last year, the nimble-footed forward was also named the Most Valuable Player of the FIFA U-20 Women World Cup in Canada and, also, the top scorer of the tournament in which Nigeria got to the final.
Oshoala was again named Most Valuable Player at the African Women Championship in Namibia in October 2014, as Nigeria won her seventh title and also finished as the second best scorer with four goals, coming second only to another powerful forward, Super Falcons’ Desire Oparanozie, who scored five.
Oshoala started her career with FC Robo Queens of Lagos in 2009, where she played for four years, before moving to Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt. Last year, she won the League and Cup double with the Angels, before she was snapped up by Liverpool Ladies FC of England early this year.
Ekpo, Omokaro, Others React
Following Oshoala’s win ex-internationals and football chiefs in the country have commended her for the deserving award.
Former ex-international, Friday Ekpo lauded Oshoala for her achievement as the first winner of the award.
Ekpo said it was a well-deserved honour for the player, country and the African continent at large; one which would serve as a motivation for other female players in Nigeria and the continent.
“I must congratulate Asisat for this great development and I hope other female players will follow suit by giving all their best when playing,’’ he said.
Also, the chairman of the Edo State Football Association, Frank Ilaboya, said Oshoala’s victory was a reward for the good football qualities she possessed.
Ilaboya was sure that the win will bring about development which would impact on the Super Falcons’ performance at the forthcoming FIFA Women World Cup holding in Canada in June.
“This news is cheering for us in Nigeria, we are proud of her and we will continue to support her with prayers.
“Our girls will be motivated in Canada and we hope they won’t disappoint the country,’’ he said.
Another ex-international, Bright Omokaro, said that he was hopeful the award will ensure that the government pays more attention to female football in the country.
Omokaro congratulated Oshoala for writing her name in the book of football history.
“This is good news for female football in Nigeria. I hope the government will provide an enabling environment for female footballers to further develop in the country.” he said.

Singer, Akon Launches Academy In Africa

Senegalese-American musician, Akon, whose “Akon Lighting Africa’’ initiative is aimed at bringing electricity to some 600 million Africans on Tuesday declared the launch of new “Solar Academy’’.
The academy, according to a statement by the group investing in solar power for the future could help to implant a viable platform to power homes that lacked electricity.
The institution is scheduled to open this summer in Bamako, Mali’s capital.
It would try to give African engineers and entrepreneurs the skills needed to develop solar power.
European experts will help to supply training equipment and programmes.
“We have the sun and innovative technologies to bring electricity to homes and communities.
“We now need to consolidate African expertise,’’ said Samba Baithily, who founded Akon Lighting Africa with Akon and Thione Niang.
“The academy will aim to teach people how to install and maintain solar-powered electricity systems as well as micro-grids,’’ which are really taking off in rural Africa,’’Akon Lighting Africa said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Akon is the performing name of the Senegalese-American singer Aliaune Thiam, whose 2004 debut album, Trouble, spawned the hit singles “Locked Up’’ and “Lonely’’.
He is the son of jazz percussionist Mor Thiam, Akon spent his childhood in the U.S.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar Represents President-Elect, Muhammadu Buhari At The Presidential Inauguration Special Jumu'at Prayers At The National Mosque In Abuja

Alhaji Atiku and FCT minister, Bala Muhammed

Atiku Abubakar and Danjuma Goje

from the right; V.P Nnamadi Sambo,Atiku & Goje after the prayer session

Cross Section of Dignities at the mosque

Adesina Wins AfDB Presidency, Assumes Office September 1

Former minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina has been elected the new president of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

He was elected at the AfDB summit presently ongoing in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast.
Report from Reuters said that Adesina, who contested along with seven other prominent Africans, was announced winner by the AfDB on its Twitter account.
Adesina will take over from outgoing bank president, Mr Donald Kaberuka on September 1, 2015, to become the AfDB’s eighth president.
Former minster of finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, also confirmed result of the elections on her personal twitter handle @NOIweala.
Okonjo-Iweala hailed Adesina, saying he is great and labelling his campaign as strong and great.
Speaking on his election, Adesina tweeted: “I am honoured and humbled by the support I have received and the confidence placed in me. Our best days are ahead.”
He also said that as President, he would not let Africans down.

Don’t single me out for probe, Jonathan tells Buhari

President Goodluck Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday advised the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, not to single out his administration in any probe he may want to carry out after his inauguration on Friday.

He said all those advising Buhari to probe his administration must also advise him to extend his probe beyond his regime or else, the probe will be seen as a witch-hunt.

Jonathan made his position known at the valedictory session of the Federal Executive Council which he presided over at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He also said those calling for his administration’s probe should add that the probe should be extended to the way oil wells and fields were allocated in the past.

A former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, had over the weekend joined the growing number of persons calling on Buhari to probe the Jonathan administration.

Jonathan said, “Some people are even calling for the probe of this government. I agree that in Nigeria, there are a number of things that we will probe; very many things.

“Even debts owed by states and this nation from 1960 up to this time. They are saying it is Jonathan’s administration that is owing all the debts.

“I believe that anybody calling for probe must ensure that these probes are extended beyond the Jonathan administration, otherwise to me, it will be a witch-hunt. If you are very sincere, then it is not just the Jonathan’s administration that should be probed.

“A number of things have gone wrong and we have done our best to fix them. The Attorney General is aware of the massive judgement debts, if we aggregate all of them, it is about $1bn. How did we come to this kind of huge judgement debts? These issues should be probed.

“How do you allocate our oil wells, oil fields, marginal wells and others? Do we follow our laws? All these should be probed. I believe all these and many more areas should be looked at.”

Jonathan said regardless of what critics might say about his administration, he and his team had done well under a difficult situation.

He advised those who criticise him to endeavour to compare his administration’s performance with those of the administrations before him on a sector-by-sector basis.

The President listed some of the daunting challenges faced by his administration to include the prolonged industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, terror attacks and the ongoing fuel scarcity.

Jonathan described the ongoing fuel scarcity as an act of sabotage.

The president claimed that those who felt they must bring his government to its knees were the ones behind the scarcity.

He wondered why marketers would choose to go on strike a few days to the end of his administration.

“Even this last fuel scarcity, to me one can clearly say it was an act of sabotage. This government has few days to go, that is definitely not the time you expect massive strikes, using marketers and unions. Unions asking for increase in salaries at a time oil prices have dropped and volumes have dropped,” he said.

The President made it clear that he had not dissolved his cabinet as all ministers were expected to attend the inauguration dinner on Thursday in their official capacity.

Earlier, the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo, had thanked Jonathan for finding him worthy to be his running mate in 2011 and 2015. He said he did not at any time lobby the President for the position.

He promised to remain a member of the Jonathan family and his ambassador anywhere he found himself.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke (SAN), said the administration had impacted on the lives of millions of Nigerians.

credit: punchng

Democracy Day: Fayose congratulates Buhari, Jonathan

Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose

Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has felicitated with Nigerians and people of Ekiti State as the nation marks another democracy day.

The governor also congratulated the new President, Muhammadu Buhari, and the outgoing president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, for making history.

Fayose, according to a press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, and made available in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, congratulated Ekiti people for being part of this historic event.

He said Ekiti State had witnessed remarkable growth and development in the democratic dispensation over the last 16 years, urging the people to consolidate the democratic gains and continue to imbibe the essential democratic tenets for a more prosperous state.

The governor counseled anybody or group who may want to hide under the celebration to ignite violence to have a rethink because they would regret their actions.

He urged all Ekiti people to pursue the ideals and actions that would strengthen, rather than undermine, democratic values‎ in our polity.

The Governor, while calling on the police and the security agencies to ensure proper maintenance of law and order, said the call had become necessary as some people had seen the swearing in ceremony as opportunity to foment  trouble and attack innocent people.

He stated, “Dear compatriots, as your duly elected Governor, I am more than determined to protect the democratic norms and values in our state. The unity, peace and stability of our state as well as the protection of lives and property are non-negotiable.

“Ekiti people are known as a strong, resilient and courageous people, therefore, we must all rise in unison with patriotic zeal and collective determination to overcome various challenges confronting our dear state.

“As a state, we have our good and bad days, but it is important to understand that rancour poses a serious threat to the development and sustenance of democracy.

“Despite the challenges we face in Ekiti State, we must commend all peace-loving people of the state for opposing forces of evil who are the enemies of democracy, determined to truncate the electoral wishes of the people.”

Court dismisses bid to stop Buhari’s inauguration

ADVERTISEMENT

Ahead of Friday’s inauguration of the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday dismissed an application seeking to stop the swearing-in ceremony.

A non-governmental organisation,  Advocacy for Societal Rights Advancement and Development Initiative, had on Tuesday filed a suit as well as an ex parte application seeking an interim injunction restraining the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed from swearing Buhari in on Friday.

 

The application was adjourned till Thursday for hearing following the failure of the representative of the plaintiff or its lawyer, Mr. Philip Ekpo, to show up in court on Wednesday when the application was initially fixed for hearing.

After hearing the plaintiff’s lawyer on Thursday, Justice Ahmed Mohammed, dismissed the application for lacking in merit.

 
Justice Ahmed held, “The Presidential election in which the 1st defendant (Buhari) emerged winner took place on March 28, 2015; today is May 28. It is now two months after the election took place. Now, I sincerely ask, how can a court grant an interim injunction on the issue. “Where was the plaintiff/applicant before and after the election? Is it that the applicant did not know about the Presidential election of March 28 or what?
“The inauguration of the 1st defendant will be held on Friday and the applicant is talking about urgency.
“This motion ex parte is a clear case of self induced urgency. Therefore this application is devoid of merit and accordingly dismissed.”

 

The judge adjourned the suit till June 24.

 

Punchng

E-voting: Unilorin students elect new exco

The University of Ilorin Students’ Union last Tuesday (May 19,2015) again proved its Better-by-far status with the successful adoption of the electronic voting system it initiated last year to elect its new leaders.

In the keenly contested election, Mr. Alao Idris Ibrahim aka OBSERVATION , a 400 Level student of the Faculty of Law, emerged the new Students’ Union President for the 2015/2016 academic session.

Alao, fondly called “Observation”, polled a total of 6,508 votes to defeat his two rivals, Mr. Ebunoluwa Zion Ashonibare and Mr. Adedeji Adeyemi Ahmed, who polled 4,793 and 1,395 respectively.

Announcing the results of the election conducted through the University e-voting portal from 6:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. last Tuesday (May 19, 2015), the Chairman, Independent Students Electoral Committee (ISEC), Mr. John Ogedengbe, declared, “Mr. Alao Idris Ibrahim, having satisfied the conditions stipulated in the constitution for the position of the President, is hereby declared winner.”

Mr. Ogedengbe also declared both Miss Imman Lawal and Miss Afuye Olubunmi Olusola Vice-Presidents for Permanent Site (PS) and the College of Health Sciences (COHS) respectively. While Miss Lawal polled 6, 174 votes to defeat both Miss Oseni Adenike and Miss Saidu Sabdat Queen,  who polled 2, 616 and 1, 026 votes respectively, Miss Afuye got 345 votes to defeat her only rival, Miss Uzonwanne Benita Adandy, who had 305 votes.

For the position of General Secretary, Mr. Akano Ifeoluwa Thomas was declared winner with 4,452 votes ahead of three other contestants while Miss Sulaimon Saidat Tunrayo became the Assistant General Secretary with 4, 488votes ahead of her only rival, Miss Anisere Khadijat Adejoke, who got 4, 316 votes.

Also elected were Miss Oyekan Oluwadamilola Olasubomi, Financial Secretary with 5, 146 votes; Mr. Abdulrasheed Mahmud Olatunji, Welfare Secretary (PS) with 3, 092 votes; Mr. Ganiyu Kehinde Oyindamola, Welfare Secretary (COHS) with 299 votes; Mr. Aondongusha Tersoo Isaac, Social Secretary with 7,572 votes; Mr. Joel Karimu Ikazuwagbe, Sports Secretary with 7, 324 votes and Adeyemi Ademola Oluwaseye, Public Relations Officer with 2, 032 votes.

The election result was announced in the presence of the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Olubunmi Abayomi Omotesho; the Director of the Center for Computer Sciences and Information Technology (COMSIT), Prof Musa Isiaku Ahmed, and amid tight security provided by security  personnel from within and outside the University.

Speaking on the integrity of the electoral process, Prof. Ahmed, in a chat with Unilorin Bulletin shortly before the announcement of the results, disclosed that registered voters, list originated from the database of COMSIT and contain only registered students for this academic session.

Prof. Ahmed said, “To be sure of the credibility of the process, COMSIT collates list of registered students and print out same for the Vice-Chancellor who releases it to the Dean, Student Affairs and the ISEC to verify and authenticate. It is after their validation that we set to work”.

The COMSIT Director stated further, “That aside, we set up a complaint desk managed wholly by the 28-member ISEC but with technical support from COMSIT staff while election was in progress”. He noted that the common complaints were network congestion and inability to log in by very few students who were still able to vote during the stipulated election period”.

Prof. Ahmed further explained that several filters are in the database to separate students into groups so that those who are not of a particular group cannot watch let alone participate in the activities of other groups. For instance, students of the College of Health Sciences campus cannot see, monitor or vote for positions exclusively reserved for Permanent Site students and vice-versa. Also students in a particular hall of residence are restricted to activities in their area.

Credit: unilorin.edu.ng

NDLEA refuses to vacate Kashamu’s home

  MAY 28

 The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency on Thursday, beefed up its presence around the Lekki, Lagos residence of the embattled Senator-elect for Ogun East Senatorial District, Buruji Kashamu‎, despite its promise on Wednesday to obey the court order, ordering the agency to vacate the place. A Federal High Court in Lagos had mandated the operatives of the agency to vacate Kashamu’s mansion on Oladipo Omotosho Street, Lagos. Another court judgment on Wednesday restrained the NDLEA and other security agencies in Nigeria from unlawfully arresting Kashamu ‎and extraditing him to the United States over drug-related offences. Our correspondent, who was at the area as of 3.30pm on Thursday, observed that the number of the operatives had increased compared to the number of NDLEA officials that were on the ground on Wednesday. The operatives were fully on the alert while vehicular and human movement have been completely restricted on the street. Kashamu has been at loggerheads with the NDLEA over an order claimed by the latter to have been received from the United States Government, requesting extradition of the Peoples Democratic Party chieftain for drug-related‎ offences The agency, in a statement by its spokesperson, Mitchell Ofoyeju, had on Wednesday, promised to obey the court order. The statement was however silent on when it would leave the residence.

REFORMATION OF YESTERDAY SECURES A BETTER TOMORROW.

Law students Society, UNILORIN branch, 20th Edition of the Annual Law journal "THE JURIST" Launched in honour of Mr.Layi Babatunde {SAN},Editor in chief,Supreme Law Reports.

 A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Ogunde Wemimo has submitted that the reformation of yesterday is to definitely ensure better tomorrow. The SAN made this submission recently while delivering lecture at the Public Presentation of the 20th Annual Journal of the Law Students’ Society of the University of Ilorin, (Unilorin). “THE JURIST” Essay in honour of Mr. Layi Babatunde (SAN) Editor in Chief Judgment of the Supreme Court (S.C. Reports). The event featured presentation of the Law Students’ Society Journal. In the lecture, entitled: “The three days of a Lawyer life” He said that the journey of life is in three phases the Yesterday, today and the future. He said, “Yesterday consist of the degree of errors both from the bar and the bench some of these error s might have resulted in convictions, deprivation of settled rights and some acts of misfortune. He stressed that the beauty of today is that it prevent a repetition of perpetration of such error bringing about new life for tomorrow which are evident in law reforms, judicial activisms and intellectual reviews. He added that there must be constant reflection on yesterday both at an individual and institutional level.” He noted “The legal and judicial system must constantly face the scrutiny that every yesterday deserves, when there is no confrontation of our yesterday by our today becomes sterile and with the sterility hides unfold danger not just for the lawyer and the individual but also for the institution and system in which we participate.” He stressed “the Lawyer who is today seeks a reformation of yesterday must definitely expect a better tomorrow which will come not by prophecy but by diligence.” In his address, the Dean of the Faculty of law, Dr. Arowosaiye described the honoree as a “Role model and personality guided by justice and as a man of laudable achievements and indelible footprints.” The Dean pointed out that the faculty is in excellence shape and vibrant has seen recently with the resounding verdict by the council of legal education in which University of Ilorin Faculty of law described “the best in the country” in the August 2014 Bar Examinations of the Nigerian Law School by being the first among Top five Nigerian Universities. He said that the Faculty of law is well determined to sustain the achievements. The Dean of Law hence, urged the Final Year Law Students to maintain the achievements. In his address, the President Law Students’ Society lmran Mujeeb described the honoree as world class lawyer whose credibility and laudable achievements has distinguished him to deserve the honour. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services) Prof. Y.M Fakunle said that the Faculty of Law have done the University Proud for the past three Years. He Stressed that this has shown in the Students resounding performance in the Bar final Examinations of the Nigerian Law School since the Past three Years. He commended the Law Student for their laudable achievements and Intellectual Dynamism. He thus urged the Law Students to sustain the success. In his remarks, the Chairman, Hon. Justice Isa Ayo Salami (Former President Court of Appeal). He commended the laudable achievements of the honoree towards development of law in the country. He noted “Law profession seek not for money but seek to maintain law and order in the society.” He thus, admonished the law students to bear this in mind and be conscious of their roles in the Society which include defending the rights of the people. In his address, the honoree pointed out that the students are preparing themselves while in school to belong to the team that will make a different in the country. He stressed that the law Profession aim to ensure the well being of the society. This the University is preparing the Students towards. The event was graced by dignitaries including the honoree Mr Layi Babatunde, Chairman Hon. Justice Isa Ayo Salami, Prof. Y.M Fakunle, who represented Vice Chancellor Prof. Abdul Ganiyu Ambali and the Dean of the Faculty of Law Dr. Arowosaiye. Others include, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association as well as members of the Bar and the Bench from without and within Kwara State.

 written by;
 Ogunlade Kehinde a 200Level Law student.

READ THE SYNOPSIS OF "ROMEO AND JULIET" BY WILLIAMS SHAKESPARE

The story begins with servants of the Montagues and Capulets fighting in the streets. The Prince is tired of the ongoing feud between these two familes and swears banishment or penalty of death if they are caught fighting again. Romeo, Mercutio, and Benvolio attend the Capulets' masquerade party, univited. Romeo falls instantly in love with Juliet. After the party, he spends the night vowing his love to Juliet below her balcony. Romeo and Juliet secretly seek Friar Laurence to marry them, hoping this will put an end to the feud between their families. Romeo returns from his secret wedding and finds Mercutio and Tybalt arguing. Tybalt is a Capulet. Tybalt kills Mercutio. Enraged, Romeo kills Tybalt. Then, he realizes he will have to flee Verona. Lord Capulet has promised Juliet's hand in marriage to the Prince. Juliet seeks the help of Friar Laurence who gives her a sleeping potion that will cause her to appear dead. However, Romeo does not get the message and returns thinking his beloved Juliet is dead. He drinks poison. Juliet awakes and kills herself with Romeo's dagger. The two families realize a little too late what the feud has done to their children: The Montagues and Capulets promise to end their hostilities, which have caused the deaths of their only children.

50 presidents to attend Buhari ’s inauguration

 

No fewer than 50 presidents and heads of
government across the globe will attend the
inauguration ceremony of the incoming administration
of President - elect , Muhammadu Buhari .
The Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-
Committee of the Presidential Inauguration Planning
Committee, Chief Edem Duke , disclosed this yesterday
while briefing journalists in Abuja on the preparations
for the event .
The one- week programme began yesterday with
Jumaat prayer at the National Central Mosque , Abuja .
According to him, invitation cards have been
dispatched to all the 54 countries in the African
continent and other countries around the world.
Duke , who is also the Minister of Culture and
Tourism , said: “ As we speak , the 54 countries of the
continent of Africa have been invited. Very many of
the heads of state will be coming .
“ There has been a huge interest , especially from
heads of countries in Europe , to attend this
inauguration. At the last count , I think we must have
in excess of 50 heads of state and delegations
expected at this inauguration. ”
Stressing that a high security strategy is being put in
place for a hitch - free inauguration, he said that all
invitees for the various segments of the inauguration
will be subjected to thorough screening .
He said some roads in the Federal Capital Territory
( FCT) will be blocked on the inauguration day to
ensure smooth movement to and from the Eagle
Square venue of the inauguration.
He said : “ The security agencies are working in close
concert to ensure that there is absolutely no threat to
the security of this inauguration . ”
“ Arrangements are being made to screen all the
invitees long before they access the perimeters of the
location . ”
He also pointed out that not all residents of the city
need to throng the venue of the inauguration as big
screens will be stationed at various points of the city
to beam live proceedings of the inauguration.
“ There is also a plan that in some locations within the
city, there might be big screens for members of the
public to follow the swearing- in especially. So , people
don ’ t need to come to the Eagle Square if they don ’ t
have invitation cards . ”
The Minister also denied the media report claiming
that the inauguration will gulp N 3 billion. According
to him, less than N 2 billion will be spent for a
befitting inauguration.
Co - Chairman of the sub- committee , Chief Pius
Akinyelure said that everything is being put in place
to achieve the overall objectives of the committee .
On his part , a member of the committee , Senator -
elect Dino Malaye said: “ We are very ready and we
have worked with the outgoing government to ensure
we have a befitting inauguration. ”

The Girl

9-year-old Pupil Writes Book On Terrorism

Troubled by the effects on children of the insurgency in parts of the North East of the country after a visit to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kuchingoro in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), little Miss Splendour Joe King set about writing a book titled The Effects of Terrorism on Children.

Just nine years of age, the year 5 student of Unique Blossom Schools in Maitama, Abuja was inspired to take on the topic that even adult scholars might have difficulty tackling, following a visit she and her family made to an IDPs camp in the FCT, where she interviewed a number of people, including children.

The book is scheduled to be launched on June 18 2015, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja.

LEADERSHIP encountered the very self-confident young lady when she paid a visit to its corporate headquarters in Abuja, accompanied by her father, Mr Abisoye Joe King and senator-elect Ahmed Abubakar (Adamawa South).

Front page of the book

Book title: The Effects of Terrorism on Children

Impressed by Splendour’s candour and boldness when she insisted on meeting him at the ICC to enquire what it would take for her to book the venue for the launch and by the book effort itself, Senator Ahmed brought her to meet the chairman, LEADERSHIP Newspapers, Mr Sam Nda-Isaiah. Splendour had written a letter to Nda-Isaiah requesting to see him to discuss her book, which she confidently ended with ‘I know you will give me this opportunity. Thank you for your kindness’.

Senator Abubakar also promptly secured the ICC for Splendour as the venue of the book launch.

When asked why she decided to write a book on a subject many might consider too intense for a child her age to have to be bothered with, Splendour said, “These terrorists we see today were once children like us. I want to catch children young now, so their lives won’t be miserable in the future.”

In the book, which is fully illustrated and about 20 pages long, Splendour defines terrorism, who a terrorist is and what child terrorism is. She explains the different types of terrorism, why people go into terrorism and the effects of terrorism on children. The book further includes a brief interview with a child victim of terrorism she met in the camp that reveals the sad plight of children and the trauma they are going through as a result of the harrowing experience of terrorism.

With a surprising understanding of her treatise way beyond her years, Splendour, in her book, offers advice on how to help child victims of the various ravages of terrorism and what the government and society should do to reduce terrorism and violence in the society at all levels.

Her advice in the book includes the need for proper upbringing of children at home and also addresses the role of religious leaders and the government in ensuring that children can grow and live free from the negative influences of radicalisation and terrorism.

Splendour has personally reached out to the president-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, to serve as the special guest of honour at the launch, while she has the chairman of the LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group, Mr Sam Nda-Isaiah penned down to serve as the book reviewer for the day.

While she awaits a response from the president-elect, she has a colourful list of dignitaries she hopes to reach out to with invitations for them to grace the occasion. It includes Gen T.Y Danjuma (rtd) as chairman, Atiku Abubakar as father of the day, wife of Senator Ahmed Abubakar as mother of the day and business mogul Aliko Dangote as chief launcher. Also on her list are the emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II as royal father of the day, Gen Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), Senator Saraki, the FCT minister as chief host and all state governors.

Splendour, who hopes to be a lawyer in the future to defend children, told LEADERSHIP that she is starting a foundation for children and victims of terrorism, that will defend them, give them education scholarships and take care of their health issues.

Credit: LEADERSHIP

‘I’m competent to be Senate President’

‘I’m competent to be Senate President’

Buhari’s due process stance favours Yobe senator
Chairman of Senate Public Account Committee Senator Ahmad Lawan is favoured going by the declaration of President-elect Muhammadu Buhari that “due process” will be followed in the election of the principal officers of the National Assembly, some ranking senators said yesterday.  
According to the senators, who had a brainstorming session yesterday, if due process is followed in the elections, “Senator Lawan is the aspirant to beat.”
Order 3 rule 2 of the Senate Standing Order states:
 ”Nomination of senators to serve as presiding officers of the Senate or on any Parliamentary delegations shall be in accordance with the ranking of senators. In determining ranking, the following order shall apply;(i)Senators returning based on numbers of time re-elected; (ii)Senators who had been members of the House of Representatives and (iii)Senators elected as senators for the first time.”
The senators added that going by the Order, Senator Lawan is the most qualified among the aspirants for senate president having spent 16 years as a federal lawmaker – split eight years each between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Other aspirants like Senators Bukola Saraki and George Akume, would have spent a period of eight years each as federal lawmakers at the end of the soon to take off eighth Assembly.
“In fact, Senator Lawan is the highest ranking APC senator in the eighth Assembly and we have no doubt that both President-elect Muhammadu Buhari and our party will be guided accordingly,” a member of the group said last night.    
The ranking senators-elect advised the in-coming administration to abide by its change mantra, which means that it would be no business as usual.
The added that even under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) controlled Seventh Senate session, extant rules of the upper chamber were not compromised.
“It should dawn on the party that there is the urgent need to adhere to parliamentary culture already in place in the conduct of the primaries and elections into National Assembly positions,” the ranking senators-elect said.
•Lawan explains why Northeast should produce
number three citizen
ALL Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Senator Ahmad Lawan yesterday reflected on the battle for the Senate President, saying that he is fit to succeed out-going Senate President David Mark next month.
The senator from Yobe North also explained why the Northeast should fill the slot in the next dispensation, stressing that it will give the zone a sense of belonging.
Lawan, who noted that public expectation about the incoming administration of Muhammadu Buhari is high, said the country deserved a Senate President, who can assist the next president to accomplish his anti-corruption drive, push for economic revival and security.
Describing himself as a cosmopolitan legislator, he said he has acquired experience in the National Assembly in the last 16 years as a member of the House of Representatives for eight years and senator for another eight years before his recent re-election into the Upper Chamber.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts ruled out the possibility of emerging as a rubber-stamp Senate President, clarifying that he would only be a partner in progress with the executive in an atmosphere of cooperative governance.
Unfolding his vision for the Senate, Lawan, who holds a doctorate degree in Geographical Information Science, said: “I want to provide a 21st century Senate Presidency; a leadership that will ensure that we have a bi-partisan approach to legislative business. I will bring incorruptibility and credibility to the administration. Buhari was elected based on three issues – anti-corruption, fight against insurgency and economic revival. I can complement the anti-corruption stance of the President.
“Nigeria needs a serious anti-corruption fight. If we don’t fight corruption, the resources will go into private pockets. We need to block leakages. My public accounts background will be of help. The judicious financial management of our resources is a priority. We are coming to power at a time of dwindling resources. Those who pillage the treasury will have to be brought to book.”
Lawan maintained that he is qualified to serve as the Senate President because he has the pedigree, competence and experience.
He said: “I have worked in the two chambers. I know the sentiments, tendencies, and sensibilities of the two Houses. The 16 years of experience have enabled me to work with three Speakers – Buhari Salisu, Ghali Na’aba and Bello Masari.

“I have learned to be a team player. I like to work on the basis of consensus. This is required to build a bridge of understanding among political parties in the National Assembly. Good governance must be supported by the National Assembly. There must be service delivery.
“The 20 per cent capital expenditure/70 per cent recurrent expenditure ratio is not acceptable to Nigerians. We must balance the budget and reduce recurrent expenditure to have a pro-people budget.
“We need to enforce our oversight functions. We should have statutory or mandatory period for oversight for every committee to go and monitor the usage of funds allocated to all sectors. This will curb embezzlement. We need a Senate that is focused. We need a pro-poor Senate leadership.”
Lawan said the slot should be zoned to the Northeast as a reward for its massive votes for the APC in the recent election and compensation for the disruption of its socio-economic life by the dreadful Boko Haram sect in the last three years.
He added: “I have what it takes to be the President of Senate. Coming from the Northeast is also an advantage. The Northeast has gone through severe troubles; it has been ravaged and marginalised. The Senate Presidency will bring back the Northeast to Nigeria. At a time, we were taken out of Nigeria by Boko Haram, which declared a Sultanate.”
On zoning, the senator said it is up to the APC leadership to decide, adding that the Northeast will also try to convince the party to zone the slot to the region.
He explained that, since the insurgency started, no capital project has been executed in the Northeast because the zone has not been safe.
He added that he has a bright chance because he has been endorsed by the Northwest and Southwest APC Senate caucus, adding that he also has a good rapport with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members from other zones.
The senator rejected the notion that he was being sponsored by President-elect Muhammadu Buhari and the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Noting that the two eminent Nigerians wield influence, he said they have not anointed any candidate. Lawan however, said their “backing is crucial because they are respected leaders of the party”.
He added: “I am seeking the support of our leaders. They deserve respect.”

Forgive me for the mistakes I

made – Jonathan appeals to

Nigerians

President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday appealed
to Nigerians who he might have offended in the
process of taking decisions during his tenure in
office to forgive him.
Jonathan made the appeal during a farewell service
organized for him and his family at the Aso Villa
Chapel, Abuja.
He explained that since nobody was perfect, there
was no way he would not have done some things
that some people would found annoying, adding
that he did not do such things deliberately.
According to him, there are certain times a person
would take a decision in the best interest of all but
even friends would misunderstand the situation.
The President pleaded for understanding from all
Nigerians.

May 29 handover: Jonathan relocates to Glass

House as renovation of President’s residence

reaches advanced stage

President Goodluck Jonathan has relocated from his main official residence at
the Presidential Villa to another section of the vast complex,preparatory to his
exit from office in less than two weeks.
He and his family have moved to the Glass House to allow for the renovation of
the main official residence of the president for its next occupan, General
Muhammadu Buhari, investigation has shown.
President Jonathan is scheduled to conduct Buhari and Vice President-
electYemi Osinbajo round the complex on Thursday, May 27.
Reliable sources said the President and his wife have moved their personal
belongings out of the official residence to their Otuoke,Bayelsa State residence.
The movement of their belongings commenced soon after the release of the
result of the March 28 presidential election.
One of the sources said: “ I can confirm to you that most of the first family’s
property have left the State House.
“The President is now staying in the Glass House with very few belongings.
“Intensive renovation of the President’s residence is going on now. Minor
repairs are going on in some parts of the house. Cleaning and repainting of the
entire residence with white paint is in progress.”
The furnishing aspect of the renovation will wait until the incoming president
takes over.
He will be the one to determine the kind of furniture he wants .
The source applies to the flowers around the residence.
Renovation of the President’s office, according to another source, will also wait
until Buhari assumes office.
The colour of the painting and furniture for the office will be done to his taste.
Another source said: ”The State House staff are in high spirit, waiting and
hoping that the promised change of the incoming government will benefit them
and the nation at large.”
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati was not in the
office yesterday afternoon and could not be reached on telephone to get his
views on the latest development.

LAST MINUTE IMPEACHMENT ON GOV.RAMALAN YERO

The All Progressive Congress caucus of the Kaduna state
House of Assembly lawmakers, on Friday, threatened to
impeach the outgoing state Governor, Ramalan Yero.
This is coming just two weeks to the handover of
government to the newly elected governor of Kaduna
state, Nasir El-Rufai.
Mr. Yero, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, was
defeated in the April 11 election by Mr. El-Rufai of the
APC.
The APC caucus, made of 14 lawmakers, disclosed this at
an emergency press briefing at the state assembly.
The caucus was led by the deputy minority leader in the
house, Aminu Shagari.
The lawmakers accused Mr. Yero of last minute looting
and squandering of public funds.
“The out-going government is in a rush to appropriate
and disburse the SURE-P funds of the 23 local
governments that was unused,” Mr. Shagari said.
“A request submitted this week by the executive arm to
the honourable house to appropriate the 2014 Sure-P
Funds of the 23 local government to the tune of
N2.744billion is not only improper but gross financial
recklessness.
“There is no how a local government council can
judiciously execute any meaningful project within two
weeks considering the fact that diligent due process and
financial has to be followed.”
The members alleged that ceding 50 per cent of the said
fund to be used for road project was in total violation of
the laid down regulations regarding the SURE-P funds,
and the fact that it was indicated in the handover note of the outgoing
government suggested an attempt at last minute looting.
The group said an attempt was made to discuss the issue and pass it by the
assembly.
“A resolution was made during an executive session that the funds should
not be appropriated and disbursed,” Mr. Shagari said. “We hereby state
categorically that we are not a party to such financial recklessness and
dissociate ourselves with the move.”

 BOKO HARAM RECAPTURES BORNO BORDER TOWN

 
Marte, the border town in the northern flank of Borno
state has again fallen to the Boko Haram sect, security
sources and government officials have confirmed.
Security sources said the terrorists, most of whom had
fled Sambisa forests and their other strongholds across
Borno State, have now regrouped in Marte, a town
112km north of Maiduguri, the state capital.
The deputy governor of Borno State, Zannah Mustapha,
confirmed that Marte was seized on Friday.
The news came as soldiers sustained a 24-hour curfew
imposed on Maiduguri, the state capital on Thursday
after Boko Haram terrorists attempted an invasion of the
city on Wednesday night.
Intelligence obtained after the Wednesday attack
suggested that at least 600 females had accompanied the
Boko Haram terrorists with a mission to carry out
multiple suicide bombing in the metropolis.
Three of the women had detonated their suicide belts at
the frontline on Wednesday, killing three members of
the civilian-JTF and injured several others.
Borno State deputy governor, Mr. Mustapha, on Friday
also confirmed to newsmen that 600 women and girls
have been kitted by Boko Haram terrorist as suicide
bombers with the aim of causing multiple explosions in
the town.
The deputy governor said residents must be patient with
the security agencies in spite the attendant hardships
caused by the dusk to dawn curfew.
“It is unfortunate that we are experiencing yet another
attack in Maiduguri at this time that we are thinking that
the insurgency should have subsided following the taking
over of Sambisa forest by the military,” said the deputy
governor.
“Our thinking was that every other place should have
been blocked so that the insurgency would be curtailed
to a restricted area. But that has not been the case,
because the insurgents have been fleeing to other
communities.
“Initially we were opposed to the suggestion made by the
military; but when we received a security report that about 600 women
have been kitted as suicide bombers and are to be sneaked into Maiduguri
during the attack, coupled with the gory pictures of some of the women
who detonated themselves during the attack, we had no option than to
okay the curfew.
The deputy governor had also confirmed the recapture of Marte by Boko
Haram terrorists.
“It is sad as we have been made to understand that Marte is today
completely fallen under the control of the insurgents, which to us is a very
huge set back”, he said.

Obasanjo Gives Buhari Clues On Security, Power, Others

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday gave the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari the strategies for solving the nation’s major problems of security, power, education, economy and infrastructure.
Obasanjo’s prescriptions were contained in a strategy report submitted to the former military head of state.
The former president had, four months ago, set up an independent think-tank group headed by Prof. Akin Mabogunje of the Obasanjo Presidential Library with the aim of carrying out a study on the challenges facing the country.
Presenting volumes of the report to Buhari on behalf of Obasanjo think-thank team at the Buhari Support Organisation Campaign Office, Wuse 2, Abuja, yesterday, the vice chairman of the committee and former minister of Finance, Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, said: “The whole idea was that Obasanjo set up his own think- tank with the aim of carrying out a study on challenges facing the country in five key areas of education, power sector, economy, security and infrastructure. The study was commissioned four months ago so that the outcome will be made available to the incoming administration after the election”.
Also, Dr Christopher Kolade, who heads the power committee, gave various stages of the proposed power sector development plan to include short term, medium term and long term solutions.
He said under the short term solution, the plan seeks to raise country’s power generation to 10,000 MW within a very short period of time.
In his response, an appreciative Buhari expressed gratitude to the former president and his team, describing their intervention as a great impetus for the incoming government.
The president-elect lamented that the outgoing government that is supposed to give him tips on how to take off had done nothing so far.
He thanked Obasanjo’s team for its gesture, assuring it that his administration would be needing its advice as time goes on.
Speaking about the occasion, Prof Akin Maboguje said: “The Centre for Human Security of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library is working on a number of critical issues for the development of this country and they have now sent a delegation of those who’ve been involved with the preparation of those policy documents to talk to the president-elect.
“We’ve looked at education, security, economy, power and infrastructure. Those are the areas we’ve made recommendations and which we hope the new administration will be able to work on.
“He (Buhari) was very happy that we’ve been thinking about how to help him hit the ground running and he expressed his appreciation for what we’ve been doing.”
Boko Haram: President Yayi Assures Buhari Of Support
…Says 55 % Benin population are Nigerians…
The president of neighbouring Republic of Benin, Boni Yayi, yesterday assured President-elect Muhammadu Buhari of his country’s support in tackling the problem of insecurity in the country.
The Beninoise president also disclosed that 55 percent of his country’s population are Nigerians.
President Yayi stated this yesterday in Abuja when he visited Buhari at Defence House.
On cooperation, Yayi said there was need for the two countries to strengthen their ties as they share common culture.
He said: “Benin is the 37th state of Nigeria and Nigeria is the 7th department of Benin. Fifty-five per cent of the population of Benin comes from Nigeria; and at home here, my brothers and sisters in Nigeria have recently chosen my senior, President Buhari, as their president in order to lead their destiny.
“He is well known to people for his integrity, his experience as a former head of state of Nigeria, his patriotism and his ability to take up the challenges in Nigeria and our sub region are facing today, mainly Boko Haram issue, peace issue, ECOWAS issue. Mainly, Nigeria’s economy has been hanging the sub region’s economy.
“Mr President, you are an able man; you can deal with all the issues. May almighty Allah lead your step so that your mandate is successful to Nigeria, the sub region and the world.”
While congratulating the president-elect on his electoral victory, he noted that “Benin and Nigeria are very close in the area of culture, tradition and the two countries are bound together. We will always be by your side and support the great people of Nigeria. After his inauguration I will come back and together we will examine the status of our cooperation. We need to strengthen our cooperation.”
In his response, Buhari thanked the visiting president for identifying with Nigeria during it security challenges.
“I am truly impressed with the prepared speech delivered by the President of Benin and we thank him very much for identifying with Nigeria. Being so close a neighbour and with the ethnic and cultural affiliations which he identified, is making it easy for Nigeria, especially on the security aspect.
“He has identified himself and his country with our major problem, the security challenges in the North East and Boko Haram – and he has voluntarily identified himself with the sub region of Chad Basin and being part of it in trying to stamp out the insurgency in the North East, which Nigeria is taking the biggest punishment so to speak in terms of the security and how it affects commerce and industry.”
… Praises Jonathan For Conducting Free, Fair Elections
The Benin Republic president also poured encomium on President Goodluck Jonathan for conducting what he described as very transparent and peaceful polls this year.
Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with Jonathan at the presidential villa, Abuja, Yayi commended his Nigerian counterpart for setting an exemplary leadership style on the African continent.
He recalled that Jonathan played outstanding leadership role in Africa by mediating in crisis that threatened many African countries, including Mali and Guinea Bissau.