FG may cut car import tariff

Two years after the introduction of a new automotive policy, which imposed a higher tariff on imported vehicles, a review may be in the offing, RASHEED BISIRIYU writes

Reprieve appears underway for car dealers and buyers following plans by the Federal Government to review its import tariff on vehicles. This is expected to bring down the cost of new vehicles and increase the tempo of business in the nation’s automotive sector.

Sources at the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment gave the indication on Sunday that the current 70 per cent tariff on imported cars could get a downward review as a way to force down the prices of vehicles.

Although the National Automotive Design and Development Council, an agency under the ministry, said on Friday that 14 out of the 25 registered automakers had started assembling vehicles in the country, Nigerians have yet to enjoy the expected benefits of the new policy as the prices of vehicles are still high.

Even car dealers have had to adopt different strategies to encourage buyers and boost sales.

The sources, however, said the planned review, which is in tandem with the change mantra of the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration, should not be interpreted as an outright cancellation of the auto policy, which was announced in September 2013.

“It is likely to come in the form of a review of the import tariff on vehicles so as make it easy for people to buy new cars. The decision on the entire auto policy is expected to be part of the economic policy of the government, which will be unveiled as soon as the new ministers settle down,” one of the sources said.

Car prices were increased last year by about 60 per cent shortly after the import tariff went up from 22 per cent to 70 per cent, a situation, which made it difficult for many to buy new cars, just as fleet buyers such as corporate firms have had to cut down on the number of vehicles purchased.

The imposition of the new import tariff, which also affects imported used vehicles, according to the government, is to encourage local assembling/production of vehicles, with the attendant benefits of creating more jobs and boosting the nation’s economy.

A zero per cent was announced as tariff on imported vehicle components (Completely Knocked Down units) and auto assemblers are also allowed to bring in fully built vehicles at very low import tariff.

But some stakeholders, including major dealers such as Toyota Nigeria Limited, had complained about the timing of the policy and the seeming poor state of the needed infrastructural facilities for the sustenance of local assembly plants.

The Chairman of the automotive group, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Oseme Oigiagbe, confirmed that the group had written to the Presidency and suggested a number of proposals on the implementation of the auto policy, and recently participated in some meeting sessions called by relevant government agencies/officials on the issue.

In an interview with our correspondent, he specifically called attention to the issue of unstable power supply and the commencement date for the new import tariff as contentious issues that needed to be urgently reviewed.

An auto expert and consultant, Dr. Oscar Odiboh, said the review of the tariff was expected, arguing that it was hurriedly put in place by the last regime and should, therefore, be suspended.

“The high tariff (on imported vehicles) should make itself necessary; it should not be forced down on the people. It should be suspended and introduced in phases – one to a five-year period,” he said.

Odiboh, who is the Managing Director, Newsletters Nigeria Limited, however, said the auto policy was a necessity for the development of the nation’s industry and the good of the economy.

“The project will take Nigeria from a lower stage to the next level and sit us among top economies of the world,” he stated.

But he warned that unless the implementation of the policy was made systemic and allowed to follow due process, it could derail the project.

He said, “Since this government says it has come to change things, it must change the policy. It is not a yam and beans policy. You must give people time.

“It requires certain basic things to be put in place. Power is necessary. There are other infrastructural facilities that will make the system run efficiently. Those things must be in place before enforcing the import tariff.”

Odiboh alleged that some firms had obtained the auto assembly plant licences to enable them to bring in fully built vehicles at low tariff and labelling those vehicles as being locally assembled.

But the Stallion Auto Group, currently assembling Nissan, Hyundai and Ashok Leyland brands of vehicles, and Dana Motors doing the Kia vehicles locally are optimistic that any review of the auto policy will not in any way affect their plants and business operations in Nigeria.

For instance, the Managing Director, Stallion NMN Limited, Mr. Parvir Sighn, said, “As far as the group is concerned, we have no doubt that the government will sustain the policy. Anywhere in the world, the automobile industry is a high contributor to the Gross Domestic Product. It is also a significant employer of labour. The state of the auto development of a nation is a reflection of the development of that country.

“The policy will be sustained. There is no shortcut to it. You need a robust industry to support the high demand for vehicles in the country. The demand is there.”

The spokesperson for Kia Motors Nigeria, Mr. Olawale Jimoh, said the company had in conjunction with its technical partners, Kia Motor Corporation, invested billions of naira in the local assembly plant and had in the process created jobs for Nigerians.

The government said the response of the automakers to the auto policy, particularly the call for the establishment of assembly plants in Nigeria, had been overwhelming.

Indeed, the NADDC said on Friday that the “response to the policy so far has exceeded our expectations.”

This must have prompted the Director-General of the NADDC, Mr. Aminu Jalal, to announce the suspension of licence issuance to new auto assembly plants.

He said the decision was taken to enable the council to set up some test centres that would “ensure that imported vehicles and components meet international safety and environmental standards.”

But the LCCI said the 70 per cent tariff on imported cars would bring about a higher transport cost.

The President, LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, said in a statement, “Vehicle ownership will be put further beyond the reach of the Nigerian middle class, especially in the face of poor credit access and high lending rates in the economy.”

He called for the development of ancillary industries for the production of batteries, glass, radiators, tyres and other vehicle components as well as affordable finance for the investors.

The LCCI president stated that the auto industry should be predicated on strong engineering infrastructure, including the production of flat sheets, foundries and fabrication of components needed in vehicle production.

When contacted, the Special Adviser to the President on Media, Mr. Femi Adesina, said he had no information on the auto policy, while the Special Assistant on Media to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Mr. Laolu Akande, promised to get back to our correspondent on the matter but never did up till the time of filing this report.

New salaries for Buhari, govs, senators, others ready

THE Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission has put together a new remuneration package for President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, ministers and members of the National Assembly, The PUNCH has learnt.

Our correspondent gathered in Abuja that commissioners at he RMAFC would spend most of next week to debate and ratify the new salaries and allowances for public officers as prepared by a committee set up by the commission.

The remuneration panel, which worked on the new remuneration package, was headed by Mr. Abdullahi Inde.

Also to be affected by the new remuneration regime for public office holders are governors, members of the states’ Houses of Assembly, local government chairmen and their councillors, judges, commissioners, special advisers, special assistants, chairmen of constitutional bodies and other political office holders.

Although the report of the committee is still a secret, Chairman of RMAFC, Mr. Elias Mbam, confirmed on the telephone that the commissioners would sit in plenary on the report between October 25 and 28.

Each state of the federation is represented by a commissioner at the revenue mobilisation agency, which has the responsibility for determining the remuneration of political and judicial office holders across the country.

Our correspondent learnt that while the committee concentrated more on the allowances of political and judicial office holders, the proposed salary package would not be significantly different from what it is currently.

The new package is also said to include a significant reduction in the number of aides and assistants that lawmakers are entitled to as well as a few other allowances that had attracted condemnation from Nigerians.

For the President, Vice President, governors and deputy governors, the committee is said not to have made any fundamental adjustments, our correspondent learnt.

This is because most of the allowances of key members of the executives at the federal and state levels were not monetised but provided for by the state.

The annualised salary and allowances of the President is N14, 058,820 while that of his deputy is N12, 126,290.

Apart from salary, the regular allowances that are monetised for the President are only the hardship allowance, put at N1, 757,350.50 per annum; and consistency allowance, N8, 786,762:50 per annum.

For the Vice President, the hardship allowance is N1, 515,786.25 per annum while the consistency allowance is N7, 578,931:25 per annum.

The irregular allowances for the President are the severance allowance – 300 per cent of the annual salary or 10,544,115; and leave allowance, 10 per cent of the annual salary or N351, 470:50.

The irregular allowances of the Vice President are the severance allowance, 300 per cent of the annual salary or N9, 094,717.50; and leave allowance, 10 per cent of the annual salary or N303, 157.25.

Other allowances that the President and the deputy are supposed to enjoy but which are not provided in monetary terms include motor vehicle fuelling and maintenance, special assistants, and personal assistants. Others are domestic staff, entertainment, utilities, security and newspapers/periodical allowances.

There are also accommodation, furniture, duty tour, estacode, medical, and severance/gratuity.

Buhari and Osinbajo had soon after assumption of office announced their decision to take only 50 per cent of the salary and allowances approved for them.

For a senator, the salaries and allowances add up to N20, 669,280 per annum. Those of a member of the House of Representatives add up to N17, 271,347.75.

For a minister, the salary and allowances add up to N14,705,164, while those of presidential aides add up to N14, 085,843.75.

Each minister is also entitled to a furniture allowance of N6, 079,200 as well as a motor vehicle loan of N7, 830,320.

Apart from these irregular allowances, there are other regular perks of office that are paid to lawmakers on a monthly basis. These include motor vehicle maintenance and fuelling. This is pegged at 75 per cent of their monthly salary.

Others are personal assistant, 25 per cent; domestic staff, 75 per cent; entertainment, 30 per cent; utilities, 30 per cent; newspapers/periodicals, 15 per cent; wardrobe, 25 per cent; house maintenance, five per cent; and constituency, 250 per cent, among other payments.

The RMAFC had in June this year set in motion the process for the downward review of the existing salaries and allowances of political, public and judicial office holders when it set up a committee chaired by Inde.

At the inaugurationof the committee, Mbam had urged the members to be conscious of the prevailing economic situation and the need to reduce cost of governance so as to free more funds for development.

After the final approval by plenary on October 28, the report would be presented to the Federal Executive Council, which has the responsibility to table it before the National Assembly for enactment as an Act of Parliament.

The current remuneration of public office holders is guided by the Remuneration Act of 2008.

A review became imperative following dwindling government revenues caused by falling prices of oil in the international oil market.

Suicide bombers kill 12 in Adamawa village

Twelve persons were on Saturday night killed when two female suicide bombers attacked Dar village in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The two suicide bombers were suspected members of the Boko Haram sect.

In the incident, residents told newsmen that the two suicide bombers, who detonated Improvised Explosive Devices they had strapped on themselves killed 12 persons including three children.

The spokesperson for the Adamawa Police Command, DSP Othman Abubakar, confirmed the incident. He, however, said that eleven persons were killed in the attack, adding that three houses were burnt while many of the wounded were receiving treatment at a hospital in Yola.

But a former administrator of Madagali Local Government, Maina Ularamu, insisted that 12 people excluding the suicide bombers were killed.

He was quoted as saying that suspected Boko Haram fighters had invaded the village at about 8.30pm on Saturday night shooting at fleeing residents.

He explained that the villagers ran into the bush for safety.

But unknown to them, the two female suicide bombers, who disguised as members of the community, joined the fleeing residents in a crowded safe location in the bush where they detonated the IEDs.

“The suicide bombers were blown up while 12 villagers were killed and many others were injured.

“Residents had fled to the bush and after a moment, two women who disguised as fleeing locals blew themselves up at a crowded place in the bush while the gunmen shot at survivors. So far, 12 corpses have been found,” the former council boss said.

Boko Haram militants have been launching attacks on villages since Madagali was liberated from the grip of Boko Haram sect by Nigerian troops in February.

Consequently, residents had been calling for deployment of soldiers in surrounding villages and forest believed to be the hideouts of the terrorists.

Military authorities in Yola could not be reached for comment as of the time of filing this report.

Falae identifies kidnappers, 5 docked

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, who was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on his 77th birthday and released after paying N5m ransom four days after, has identified his abductors who were paraded before him by the police.  Falae on Tuesday, identified three of the suspects as those who kidnapped him and threatened to kill him if he failed to pay the ransom. Chief Falae, according to a police source, also identified one of the kidnappers who was kind to him.

This came as the Police, Wednesday evening, recovered N137m from robbers who raided a new generation bank on Trans-Amadi Road in Port Harcourt.

Suspected kidnappers of Chief Falae with their leader Abubakar Auta holding N823,900 of the ransom in Akure

Falae’s abductors

Five of Falae’s kidnappers were arraigned, yesterday, before an Akure High Court, Ondo and Chief Falae will be a star witness when the trial commences November 10.

The suspects, who were docked for kidnapping, conspiracy and armed robbery 24 days after abduction were Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibrahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal.

Three of the kidnappers admitted that their share from the N5m ransom collected was N100,000 each. The accused persons could not speak English and were ordered to be remanded in prison custody by the high court judge, Justice Rotimi Olamide till November 10 when the case would be heard.

The service of an interpreter, Bassey Victor who is a security operative was sought by the court.

Another leader of the gang, Abubakar Auta was also arrested in Niger State with N823,900 cash, part  of the ransom money by Police Special Intelligence Response team put up by the Inspector-General of Police.

The cash with the wrappers of a commercial bank in Akure, the Ondo State capital paid as ransom for the release of the former Finance Minister was discovered in the booth of the vehicle being driven by the suspect before his arrest.

The accused person, who spoke with newsmen before his arraignment, confessed that they kidnapped the septuagenarian politician.

They were arraigned on a five-count charge of procuring or counseling another for the purpose of kidnapping and abducting, aiding and abetting, contrary to Section 2 of Anti-kidnapping and Anti-Abduction Law of Ondo State, 2010.

The charges

However, when the charge was read to the suspects in court, they all pleaded not guilty.

The charge reads: “That you, Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed, Idris Lawal and others now at large, on or about Monday, September 21, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did give information for the purpose of kidnapping and abducting Chief Samuel Oluyemi Falae.

“Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal, and others now at large, on or about Monday, September 21, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did aid the kidnapping and abduction of Chief Samuel Oluyemi Falae.

“Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal, and others now at large, on or about Monday, September 21, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did Kidnapped Chief Oluyemi Falae, the Former Secretary to the Government of  the Federation and did not release him until N5,000,000 ransom was paid.

“Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal, and others now at large, on or about Monday, September 21, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did conspire to commit a felony to wit armed robbery.

“Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal, and others now at large, on or about Monday, September 21, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did rob Chief Olu Falae of N15, 000 and his handset while armed with guns, cutlasses and other dangerous weapons”.

The offence, according to the prosecution, is contrary to Section 2 of Anti-Kidnapping and Anti-Abduction Law, 5(1)(a) of the Anti-Kidnapping and Anti-Abduction Laws, Section3(11)(b) of the Anti-Kidnapping and Abduction Law, Section 6(b) of the Robbery and Firearms(Special Provision) Act,Cap R11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Section 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act,Cap R11, Vol. 14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Vanguard was informed by a top police source that Abubakar Auta was arrested in Niger State; Idris Lawan, Masahudu Muhammed and Bello Jannu were arrested in Ekiti, while Umar Ibrahim was picked up in Ondo State.

Two other suspects, Usman Kato and Babawuro are already in the custody of the Directorate of State Service,DSS. Babawuro was arrested in Lokoja, while two other members of the kidnap gang are still on the run.

The exhibits

Exhibits recovered from the gang leader Abubakar Auta include  cash of N823,990:00, 12 SIM cards, a phone used for negotiating the ransom of Chief Falae and a Red Bajaj Motorcycle with Reg No; KER 385 QA which was used to convey Chief Olu Falae to their camp when he got tired of walking in the bush.

During interview, Umaru Ibrahim said they have a boss called Baba Uro who they have not met but who sent the N100,000 to them after the ransom was paid by Chief Falae’s family.

He said that their boss lives in Abuja and that he has only spoken with him once.

Ibrahim told newsmen that he paid a debt of N60,000 from his own share of the ransom.

Also, Idris Lawal confirmed that he received N100,000. He said that they spent five days in the bush and that they are eight in number. He confessed that he hails from Katsina State and he is a herdsman.

The fourth suspect, Masahudu Muhammed declined to tell newsmen how much his share of the ransom was.

It will be recalled that Chief Falae was abducted by Fulani herdsmen on Monday, September 21, 2015, the day he clocked 77 at his farm in Ilado, Akure North council area of Ondo State.

He was released four days later.

Police recover N137m from fleeing robbers in Rivers

A statement released Wednesday night by the Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, DSP Ahmad Muhammad said the Police got a distress call at about 5.12pm on Wednesday that robbers were operating at the bank, and they immediately mobilised to the scene.

Part of the N137m recovered from fleeing robbers in Port Harcourt. Photos Jimitota Onoyume.

He said before the Police got to the bank, the robbers had driven out but they pursued and caught up with them.

DSP Muhammad said during an exchange of fire, two policemen sustained bullet wounds, adding that they were responding to treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt.

Continuing, he said among items recovered from the robbers were N137 million, one AK-47 rifle, a rocket, a pistol and six magazines.

He said the items were found in a vehicle abandoned by the fleeing robbers who could not stand the fire power of the police.

He said: “At about 5.15 pm, we received a distress call that some criminals robbed a new generation bank at Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt. Instant action and hot chase by our men forced the armed robbers to abandon their operational vehicle, a Lexus SUV and escaped with gunshot wounds. Items recovered from the vehicles include the stolen money to the tune of N137m, one AK-47rifle, rocket, an English-made pistol and six magazines”.

The fleeing robbers, according to the Police, also abandoned another Lexus SUV at Rukpokwu area of the state capital.

The Police PRO said the Police will not sleep until those behind the robbery were brought to book.

SENATE MINISTERIAL SCREENING: ROTIMI AMAECHI IS THE HERO OF APC CHANGE VICTORY, THE POLITICAL LION OF THE NIGER-DELTA AND A PROGRESSIVE GROOMED TO SERVE NIGERIA.

Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges’ has presented their report to the Senate for consideration and our amiable and superlative Rotimi Amaechi scaled the hurdle of character assassination and political victimization. He will be screened by the Senate on Tuesday next week.

Amaechi pioneered a political change revolution as a seating PDP governor in Rivers State and was able to convince some other governors to key into the Change mantra of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by working closely with the National Leader of our great party, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu (fondly refer to as the Architect of Nigeria’s modern democracy) and other party leaders to crack the solid walls of the then ruling party, the PDP.

Amaechi’s political swag got “reddish, sophisticated and infectious", championing a course he very well believes will terminate the 16 years misrule of the PDP. He faced acute and virile attacks  from left, right and center mainly from the media machinery of the ruling party.

He and other PDP Chieftains who joined the struggle to free Nigeria from socioeconomic slavery occasioned by the reckless and mismanagement of our commonwealth were heavily bombarded by PDP loyalists from across the world. In all of these, Amaechi remained focused, calm and calculated, moved on with the CHANGE message of the progressives.

Amaechi gallantly championed a course that is today referred to as the ‘POLITICAL TSUNAMI” that finally created a deep cut and incurable injury in PDP political might and supremacy, to the extent that the 50 years target of the party to rule Nigeria was messed up by the combined efforts of the Progressives headed by Leader Asiwaju Tinubu on the one hand and sagacious Rotimi Amaechi and his group of the then “New PDP”.  It was that tantalizing.

The result is here for us to see and appreciate. Buhari is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and APC is the ruling party in Nigeria. Kudos to Amaechi and other progressives all over the world.

No doubt, the Amaechi’s scenario will be very interesting by the time he eventually bows and face our distinguished senators. First, the PDP Senators will certainly call for his head because of the roles he played while the New PDP faction of the party stole the minds of vast majority of Nigerians for several months in the political landscape. He will for sure receive battery of questions which may last close to an hour or more. I stand to be corrected.

The second point to be considered is the absolute loyalty of APC Senators who at the moment constitutes majority in the Senate. To this effect, if all APC Senators truly lobby their friends in PDP in favour of Amaechi and our party, what will play out next Tuesday at the screening and confirmation of our political super star Rotimi Amaechi as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will portray the 8th Assembly as a team of patriotic country men and women who are desirous of deepening our unity and democracy.

It is a truism that Amaechi deserves to be confirmed today because of the enviable roles he played towards the victory of our party and President Buhari.  Majority of Nigerians strongly believe that Amaechi is a forthright democrat who is always on the side of justice and equity. He preached the message of power shifting to the North so as to effectively balance the democratic power sharing equation at a time this nation needed truth and patriotism from all and sundry.

Amaechi also made the Niger-Delta people proud for his sagacity and bravery pointing to show that there are men of honour, integrity and unshakable pedigree in the game of progressive and reasonable politics. He stood his ground and damned the consequences even though the wife of the then President, Dame Patience Jonathan hailed from Rivers State. He fought gallantly for the CHANGE victory which today is turning around the socioeconomic fortunes of our nation for the good of all.

Truly, Amaechi is the political Lion of the Niger-Delta, worthy of emulation by young and upcoming politicians in our country. I see in Amaechi what I also see in President Buhari, Leader Tinubu, Comrade Governor Oshiomole, Chief Ogbonaya Onu, Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, Lai Mohammed and many other strong characters in our great party who took high degree risk to prompt the timely exit of the PDP so as to rebuild our country that suffered monumental socioeconomic and political setbacks for 16 years.

I urge our distinguished and highly respected Senators to do the needful, irrespective of political party affiliations to screen and confirm Rotimi Amaechi as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria without much ado.

MINISTERIAL SCREENING: AMAECHI IS WELL GROOMED TO SERVE NIGERIA.

SENATE MINISTERIAL SCREENING:  ROTIMI AMAECHI IS THE HERO OF APC CHANGE VICTORY, THE POLITICAL LION OF THE NIGER-DELTA AND A PROGRESSIVE GROOMED TO SERVE NIGERIA.
Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges’ has presented their report to the Senate for consideration and our amiable and superlative Rotimi Amaechi scaled the hurdle of character assassination and political victimization. He will be screened by the Senate on Tuesday next week. Amaechi pioneered a political change revolution as a seating PDP governor in Rivers State and was able to convince some other governors to key into the Change mantra of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by working closely with the National Leader of our great party, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu (fondly refer to as the Architect of Nigeria’s modern democracy) and other party leaders to crack the solid walls of the then ruling party, the PDP.
Amaechi’s political swag got “reddish, sophisticated and infectious", championing a course he very well believes will terminate the 16 years misrule of the PDP. He faced acute and virile attacks  from left, right and center mainly from the media machinery of the ruling party.
He and other PDP Chieftains who joined the struggle to free Nigeria from socioeconomic slavery occasioned by the reckless and mismanagement of our commonwealth were heavily bombarded by PDP loyalists from across the world. In all of these, Amaechi remained focused, calm and calculated, moved on with the CHANGE message of the progressives.
Amaechi gallantly championed a course that is today referred to as the ‘POLITICAL TSUNAMI” that finally created a deep cut and incurable injury in PDP political might and supremacy, to the extent that the 50 years target of the party to rule Nigeria was messed up by the combined efforts of the Progressives headed by Leader Asiwaju Tinubu on the one hand and sagacious Rotimi Amaechi and his group of the then “New PDP”.  It was that tantalizing.
The result is here for us to see and appreciate. Buhari is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and APC is the ruling party in Nigeria. Kudos to Amaechi and other progressives all over the world.
No doubt, the Amaechi’s scenario will be very interesting by the time he eventually bows and face our distinguished senators. First, the PDP Senators will certainly call for his head because of the roles he played while the New PDP faction of the party stole the minds of vast majority of Nigerians for several months in the political landscape. He will for sure receive battery of questions which may last close to an hour or more. I stand to be corrected.
The second point to be considered is the absolute loyalty of APC Senators who at the moment constitutes majority in the Senate. To this effect, if all APC Senators truly lobby their friends in PDP in favour of Amaechi and our party, what will play out next Tuesday at the screening and confirmation of our political super star Rotimi Amaechi as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will portray the 8th Assembly as a team of patriotic country men and women who are desirous of deepening our unity and democracy.
It is a truism that Amaechi deserves to be confirmed today because of the enviable roles he played towards the victory of our party and President Buhari.  Majority of Nigerians strongly believe that Amaechi is a forthright democrat who is always on the side of justice and equity. He preached the message of power shifting to the North so as to effectively balance the democratic power sharing equation at a time this nation needed truth and patriotism from all and sundry.
Amaechi also made the Niger-Delta people proud for his sagacity and bravery pointing to show that there are men of honour, integrity and unshakable pedigree in the game of progressive and reasonable politics. He stood his ground and damned the consequences even though the wife of the then President, Dame Patience Jonathan hailed from Rivers State. He fought gallantly for the CHANGE victory which today is turning around the socioeconomic fortunes of our nation for the good of all.
Truly, Amaechi is the political Lion of the Niger-Delta, worthy of emulation by young and upcoming politicians in our country. I see in Amaechi what I also see in President Buhari, Leader Tinubu, Comrade Governor Oshiomole, Chief Ogbonaya Onu, Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, Lai Mohammed and many other strong characters in our great party who took high degree risk to prompt the timely exit of the PDP so as to rebuild our country that suffered monumental socioeconomic and political setbacks for 16 years.
I urge our distinguished and highly respected Senators to do the needful, irrespective of political party affiliations to screen and confirm Rotimi Amaechi as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria without much ado

Buhari's Ministerial nominee Indicted of Fraud

Information available to Elomba.com indicates that Professor Anthony Anwukah, President Buhari’s Ministerial nominee from Imo State has a case of fraud round his neck following his indictment by a government white paper on his tenure as Vice Chancellor of Imo State University, Owerri.
The white paper found Professor Anwukah, a former Secretary to the government of Imo State guilty of fraud, states an online report.

According The Agenda online which got an exclusively copy of the White Paper, Chapter fifteen (XV, page 35) of the White Paper described Anwukah as having laid the foundation for the rot plaguing the University and directed his immediate dismissal from the University.

Professor Anwukah is an in-law to Governor Roachs Okorocha.

Okorocha has recommended Anwukah to President Buhari for appointment as Minister from Imo State, having failed in his earlier bid to get him appointed as Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Following the damning recommendations of the Visitation Panel, the state government directed the Governing Council of the University to immediately retire Professor Anthony Anwukah from the services of Imo State University, as against outright dismissal, as recommended by the panel.

It would be recalled that former governor of the state, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, through a letter with Ref. No. SGI/S.0928/T.3/X of 16th April, 2008, set up a Ten-man visitation Panel into the Affairs of Imo State University from 2004 to 2009.

Members of the Panel were: Hon. Justice S.A. Nsofor JCA (Rtd)-Chairman; Professor Nnamdi Asika, Barrister Mike Ezeala, Dr. Obi Njoku, Barrister Chidi Nworka, Major General S.A. Owuama (Rtd), Chief Mrs. Janet Okwara, Mr. George Emeghara, K.C. Nwokorie Esq and Mr. A.C.A. Duru.

Part of the Terms of Reference of the Visitation Panel were: to investigate the award of contracts in the University; to investigate the process and modalities of employment and promotion of staff in the University; to investigate the process and modalities for the conduct of post UME Examination at the University and to identify the revenue sources of the University and the amount accruing therefrom and to compare the total revenue with the total budgeted running cost of the University.

Others were: to investigate the procedure for admission and the administration of Pre-Degree Programmes; to investigate the procedure and management of admission into the University after conduct of Post UME and Pre-Degree examinations; generally make an all-embracing fact finding exercise into the affairs of the university from 2004-2009, among others.

“The Panel found that he laid the foundation for most of the rot that now plague Imo State University. Admission racketeering, which included admitting much more than the carrying capacity of the University and charging of fees from students for file jackets and processing; award of contracts with utter disregard to due process, for instance, a controversial contract for the rebuilding of the perimeter fence round his official residence, which he awarded by telephone from USA; the use and abuse of “personal/special assistants to circumvent the bursary in the furnishing of the Vice-chancellor’s (Anwukah’s) official residence, which he attempted to deny before the Panel", stated the Panel Report as approved by the White Paper.

"He revealed himself to be a man who has grown bigger than the people he works with and is not amenable to control. He displayed insubordination to constituted authority in his department and faculty by arrogating to himself the power to choose which course and which students to teach, in total disdain of the faculty’s schedule, with its attendant breakdown of discipline.”

“His testimony before the Panel revealed a man who was rather economical with the truth. He bought and took away a brand new Mercedes Benz 15-seater bus at the end of his tenure, claiming that it was his legitimate retirement entitlement. This, the Panel found, is not true. It is stipulated in the approved remuneration/welfare package/end of tenure-retiring benefits for the Vice Chancellor/other principal officers of the Imo State University, Owerri, made by the Governing Council of the University on the 3rd day of December, 2004, that the vice chancellor shall be allowed to take away one official car on successful completion of his tenure of five years. That law did not permit a vice chancellor to buy and take home a bus as his end of tenure car, while still hanging on to his official car. Professor Anwukah, having fraudulently converted the said bus, should pay back to the university forthwith, the admitted value of the said bus which he himself put at N3.8m. There is need to examine critically the source of the wealth and opulence that Prof. Anwukah is basking in shortly after his tenure as vice chancellor.”

“The Panel was not at all satisfied with the explanation he gave as to how he acquired the fabulous house he resides in at Akanchawa Road, Owerri, particularly, given the fact that he also owns several other buildings in Owerri and Uli, Anambra State all acquired within the past ten years. He single-handedly terminated police investigation into the forged school fees receipt scandal involving some bursary staff, thereby shielding the culprits from possible prosecution. He should be dismissed from the University.”

Despite the indictment and a subsisting Court order, Professor Anwukah served as Secretary to the State Government –SSG under Governor Rochas Okorocha during his first tenure as executive governor of the state, a development many described as impunity.

Okorocha’s disobedience to Court Order

A non-governmental organization, Every Child Education and Advancement Foundation - ECEAF later obtained an order of Imo State High Court when Prof. Anwukah was appointed SSG, directing his sack, following the indictment, an order Okorocha refused to obey, The Agenda stated.

Sources close to governor Okorocha revealed to The Agenda online that Okorocha came under pressure in his first tenure to relieve his in-law, Professor Anwukah of his position as Secretary to the State Government, following his indictment for fraud by a White Paper on his tenure as Vice Chancellor of Imo State University, Owerri and a subsequent Court ruling on same.

In a petition to the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, dated 2nd March, 2013 entitled: “Sack Anwuka and others now and save our democracy,” a non-governmental organization, Every Child Education and Advancement Foundation - ECEAF made a case for obedience of a Court order directing the sack of the then SSG, Anthony Anwuka.

The petition, signed by the Foundation’s Executive Director and Secretary, urged the State Assembly to step into the matter, with a view to ensuring that the order of the Court was obeyed.

“We have waited patiently to see the government led by His Excellency Owelle Rochas Okorocha obey the Court ruling given by a reputable Judge of Imo State High Court on the 29th of January 2013 which ordered the sack of all those indicted by the Imo State University –IMSU White Paper in this present administration, to no avail.”

“As a Non-Governmental Organization, we have been adversely affected by the appointment of such people who were indicted by the IMSU White Paper. Our thematic area, which is helping to build on the morality of the Nigerian child has had so many set-backs since the appointment of such persons into positions of public trust as the youths now reference such people as a case study to justify crime and immorality, believing that there is reward in criminality, considering the appointment of such persons as Prof. Anthony Anwukah and others who were indicted of fraud. It is indeed contradictory to the project of sanitizing the moral decadence amongst our youths,” the petition reads in part.

All efforts to reach Professor Anwukah for comments proved abortive, as his mobile line could not be reached.

Stakeholders have frowned at governor Okorocha’s choice of Professor Anwuka for recommendation as Imo’s candidate for Ministerial slot in President Buhari’s cabinet.

A non-governmental organization, Human Rights and Transparency Watch sees the development as an embarrassment to the Buhari administration and warned that it will challenge same in court if the Senate goes ahead to confirm him.

Coordinator of the group, Frankly Nwaorisa, who bared his mind during a telephone chat with The Agenda online urged the President to reconsider the candidate, in the interest of his administration’s image.

According to him, appointing persons indicted for corruption into the same cabinet that is expected to have zero tolerance for corruption makes mockery of the entire idea and does not suggest any seriousness on the part of Buhari in his so-much talked about anti-graft war.

Other citizens, particularly, APC stakeholders took turns to lambast the choice of Professor Anwuka, describing governor Okorocha’s motive as selfish and unacceptable

Nigerian Army Will End Boko Haram Insurgency By December - Buhari

ABOVE PHOTO: President Muhammadu Buhari receiving delegations from Columbia at state house on 12/10/2015

President Muhammadu Buhari said Wednesday in Abuja that he remained fully confident that by the end of this year, Boko Haram's ability to attack, seize, ravage and hold any Nigerian territory will have been completely obliterated.

Buhari stated this several hours after four people were killed when three suicide bombers blew themselves up in a suburb of the northeastern Nigerian city of Maiduguri, the army said on Wednesday.

 "The explosions occurred at three-minute intervals and seven people were confirmed dead, including the three suicide terrorists," said army spokesman Colonel Sani Usman. Eleven others sustained "various degrees of injuries", he added.

Speaking at an audience with the  Commander of United States Africa Command, Gen David Rodriguez, President Buhari said that with greater support from his administration in terms of improved training, equipment, logistics and welfare, the Nigerian Armed Forces were now well positioned to meet the December deadline which they have been given to end the Boko Haram insurgency. 

 In a State House Press Release dated 14 October 2015 and signed by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President, (Media & Publicity), the President seized the opportunity of General Rodriquez's visit to restate his appreciation of the United States' support for Nigeria's efforts to overcome terrorism and insurgency.

"We must thank the United States of America for sending training teams and equipment to us. The positive results of our collaboration are evident.  

"Structured attacks by the insurgents have reduced and by the end of the year, we should see the final routing of Boko Haram as an organized fighting force, " the President said.

President Buhari  appealed, however,  for greater cooperation from the United States  in securing  the Gulf of Guinea through which stolen Nigerian crude oil is shipped abroad.

Decrying the severe revenue losses which Nigeria suffers from crude oil theft, President Buhari said that his administration was determined to end this criminal practice and would welcome more support from the international community in this regard.

General  Rodriguez told President Buhari that  he was in the country to strengthen Nigeria/United States  military relations, and also explore further options  for assisting the Multinational Joint Task Force established by Nigeria and her neighbours, to fight Boko Haram. 

At least 1,320 people have been killed in attacks blamed on Boko Haram militants since President Muhammadu Buhari came to power in May 2015 (AFP Photo/)

The jihadist group Boko Haram has been blamed for a spate of attacks in Maiduguri and the wider northeast, aiming at "soft" civilian targets such as mosques, markets and bus stations. 

Yesterday's blasts happened in quick succession in the Ajilari Cross area of the city from 8:10 pm (1910 GMT) on Tuesday, according to local residents.  Ajilari Cross, located close to Maiduguri Airport and a military base on a main route into the city, has been targeted twice in the last month in similar attacks.

On October 1, at least 10 people were killed when four suicide bombers blew themselves up. On September 20, at least 117 were killed in a wave of bomb attacks. More than 1,320 people have now been killed in Boko Haram violence since Muhammadu Buhari became president on May 29, according to an AFP tally.

The majority of attacks have been in Borno state, of which Maiduguri is the capital, with this month seeing an increase in the frequency of suicide bomb attacks.

Three suicide bombers blew themselves up in two satellite towns near the capital Abuja on October 2, killing 18. The police on Tuesday said they had arrested the two suspected masterminds.

Usman also said that 10 suspected militants were killed on Tuesday when troops laid ambush to rebels who attacked the military and Geidam town in the northeastern state of Yobe last week. "They were ambushed while returning from an attack on Gajiram near Ngollom village," he said.

Two suspected militants and a soldier were killed while another soldier was wounded on Tuesday morning in clashes at a location in Okene city in central Kogi state, Usman added

Election Tribunals across the nation

As the deadline for the expiration of Election Petition Tribunals sitting across the country draws nearer, results emanating from the Tribunals has so far shown mixed feelings among the various political parties fighting their cases after the 2015 general elections.
While the Court of Appeal is regarded as the last resort for National and State legislative election petitions, presidential and governorship election petitions terminates at the Supreme Court.
The various petitions presently going on at the tribunals are expected to be decided this month ahead of the 180 day time limit stipulated by the Electoral Act after the declaration of election results by the Independent Electoral Commission, (INEC).
So far, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) seems to be at the losing end especially at the National Assembly election petitions that has been delivered across the states by the Tribunal. The PDP has also gained in some of the petitions that has been decided.
Some of the petitions that has been delivered by the Tribunals includes that of Abia, Enugu, Ogun and Kogi states.
The All Progressives Congress, (APC) has also lost some seats in the National Assembly petitions that has been delivered so far even though the number is not as much as that of the PDP.

Sen. Eyinnaya Abaribe --- Abia PDP lost
The election of Enyinnaya Abaribe was nullified by the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia. Delivering the judgement, the lead judge stated that the election of Senator Abaribe was inconclusive due to irregularities in two local government areas namely Obi gnaw and Ugwunagbo.
The candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chris Nkwonta, had petitioned the tribunal seeking nullification of Abaribe’s election on the basis of electoral irregularities.
Senator Abaribe, a three-term senator has been in the Senate representing Abia-South since 2007.


Senator Gilbert Nnaji --- Enugu PDP lost
The National Assembly Election Tribunal led by Justice M.O Adewara in Enugu state nullified the election of Gilbert Nnaji of the PDP and ordered INEC to conduct a fresh election in 90days for Enugu East Senatorial District.
Delivering the lead judgement, Adewara of Kwara State High Court agreed with the petitioner that the March 30, 2015 Enugu East senatorial election that produced Nnaji was marred by gross irregularities and that the petitioner which is the former Governor, Chimaroke Nnamani of the Peoples Democratic Change, (PDC), tendered enough evidence to show there was over voting and falsification of electoral sheets.
Senator Buruji Kashamu --- Ogun PDP lost
The Election Tribunal in Ogun State nullified the election of Buruji Kashamu and ordered a re-run in 110 polling units where irregularities were established.
Prince Dapo Abiodun, candidate of the APC, Ogun East Senatorial candidate in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly Election challenged Kashamu’s victory at the tribunal claiming that Kashamu was not validly elected.
Delivering the judgement, Justice Tobi Ebimowei said that there were some irregularities, anomalies in the election that threw up Senator Kashamu.
Ebimowei disclosed that Ijebu Ode local government area was the only local government out of the nine in Ogun East that election results were not cancelled because the irregularities were minimal.
He however stated that having perused all the evidences before the tribunal,37,008 votes was declared unlawful on grounds of proven irregularities.
Ebimowei also said the total valid and lawful votes for the first respondent after the deduction and adjustment is now 75,856 compared to 99,540 declared by INEC.
Senator Ike Ekweremadu --- Won by PDP
The election of the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu was upheld by Justice Michael Edem maintaining that the APC Senatorial Candidate for Enugu West, Chief Philip Eze's petition lacked substantial evidence and awarded a sum of 60thousand in favour of Ekweremadu and INEC the last respondent.
Edem said the petitioner failed to prove his case, adding that the evidence adduced in the trial showed that the petitioner was included and not “excluded” in the senatorial election which held on March 28, 2015.
At the conclusion of the election, INEC had declared Ekweremadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winner. Unsatisfied, Eze had approached tribunal complaining that he was excluded from the election.

Senator Abdulrahman Abubakar --- Kogi APC lost
Senator Abdulrahman Abubakar of the APC lost his senatorial seat to Attai Aidoko of the PDP after the Kogi State Elections Petition Tribunal ruled in favour of the PDP.
The Kogi State Elections Petition Tribunal handling petitions in the State ruled that Senator Abubakar should cede his seat to Aidoko because he is the legitimate winner of the April 11 the legislative election in the State.

Senator Bukola Saraki --- Won by PDP
The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki is one of the latest Senators who had his election upheld by the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital,
Saraki who is the President of the Senate had his election challenged for Kwara Central Senatorial District by the PDP candidate, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
The claims by the PDP Candidate that the there was an improper conduct was dismissed and it therefore means Saraki remains the president of the county’s upper chamber.


House of Representatives
Ogun State --- PDP lost
Adekoya Adesegun Majid, the candidate of the PDP for Ijebu East, Ijebu North and Ogun waterside at the last March 28, 2015 National Assembly elections had his election annulled just as the Senator representing the zone, Buruji Kashamu.
Justice Tobi Ebimowei led three man tribunal panel ordered fresh election in 222 units where irregularities were noticed, following the successful challenge by Biyi Ismail of the APC.
Ismail had approached the court to declare him winner of the March 28 ,2015 National Assembly election in the state.
The tribunal stated that the petitioner presented 21 witnesses while the respondent called 15 witnesses.
The petitioner adduced that many irregularities and non compliance marred the election and thereby called for the annulment of the election.
Total votes adduced to the respondent after deduction was 14,371 while the respondent had 14,234. With the majority votes being a slim 137 votes the Judge said it was much lower than the cancelled votes.

Anambra State --- PDP won
The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal for Anambra state declared Tony Nwoye of the PDP the winner in a petition brought against the election of Peter Madubueze of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
According to the judgement delivered by Justice Nayai Aganaba in Awka, he declared Mr. Nwoye as the duly elected candidate for the House of Representatives for Anambra East and West constituency.
Mr. Nwonye had approached the tribunal asking it to set aside the election of the APGA candidate because the elections had been rigged in several polling units in his strongholds at Nsugbe Ward I and ll in Anambra East local government area.
The tribunal sided with Mr. Nwoye and declared him winner by awarding him 3,003 votes from Nsugbe "Ward l" that was initially denied him during the April 11 National and State Assemblies elections in Nigeria

Rivers state --- APC lost
It was a major setback for APC members in Rivers state as Justice Pindinga refused to annul the elections of 6House of Representatives members and that of Rivers East Senatorial District.
The PDP lawmakers whose elections were upheld by the tribunal were Senator George Sekibo, representing Rivers East Senatorial District; Jerome Eke (Etche/Omuma federal constituency); Bright Gogo Tamuno (Okrika/Ogu-Bolu); Boniface Emerengwe, (Ikwerre/Emeouha), Kingsley Chinda (Obio/ Akpor) and Mrs. Blessing Nsiegbe for PHALGA 2.

DR FRED OGHENESIVBE TO HEAD APC 'RESCUE DELTA MEDIA GROUP'

A new media group that will effectively evaluate and objectively articulate the various socioeconomic programmes, success and failures of the government of Delta State will soon be inaugurated in Asaba, the state capital.

The group which is to be known as RESCUE DELTA MEDIA GROUP (RDMG) promises to be a leading voice in political communication in the state with focus on advocacy, symposium, media networking and projection of events and activities of Delta APC in the state and beyond.

A statement by the group's Director of Strategic Communication, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe said the birth of APC-RDMG will add tonic to the party's impact creating and strategic political communication to sensitize Nigerians and Deltans in particular about the day to day happenings in the administration of Delta State so as to avoid fraudulent political propaganda and misinformation by the opposition party, the PDP.

He asserted that as the name implies, the group other task will be to disseminate credible socioeconomic and political information that will consolidate the stronghold of the APC party and at the same time tackle the opposition party during the anticipated rerun election after the governorship election tribunal vedict expected to be delivered before the end of October, this year.

Oghenesivbe doubles as the Director of Media to APC Delta Governorship candidate, Olorogun Otega Emerhor (OON) disclosed that the best brains within the APC media team will be assembled, trained and equipped for the huge task of information gathering, processing and dissemination, pointing out that five resource persons will be recruited from each of the twenty five local governments to constitute RDMG, bringing the workforce to a total of 125 correspondents across the state. He said their duties will also include government project monitoring and reporting at the state and local government levels.

APC absolute desire to take over Delta State from the PDP through credible democratic process in the near future is a target that must be achieved which is why RDMG is constituted to serve as the media engine room to process and shun out vital information that Deltans requires to competently take strategic socioeconomic and political decisions that will liberate the state from the misrule of PDP, the statement added.

Names Of Delta State New Commissioners Under Gov Okowa

The #Delta State House of Assembly on Wednesday September 9, 2015 screened and confirmed eight nominees of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as commissioners and members of the #state executive council.
Here are the names of the 8 new #commissioners:
1. Mr. David Edevbie,
2. Mr. Mofe Pirah,
3. Henry Siakpra,
4. Dan Okenyi,
5. Jude Sinebe,
6. Asupa Forteta,
7. Chika Ossai,
8. Patrick Ukah.
Meanwhile, the governor of #Delta State, Senator #Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday July 3rd, 2015 in the state capital, Asaba, sworn in twelve (12) new Commissioners and five Special Advisers.
Here are the names of the new commissioners:
1. Barr. Mrs Mary Iyasere (Commerce and Industry).
2. Hon. John Nani (Environment),
3. Dr. Kingsley Emu(Economic Planning),
4. Chief James Augoye (Works),
5. Mr. Vincent Uduaghan (Transport),
6. Mr. Newworld Safugha (Energy),
7. Mr. Joseph Ogeh (Housing),
8. Mr. Fidelis Tilije (Water Resources Development),
9. Rev. Mrs. Omashola Williams (Women Affairs),
10. Mr. Austin Chikezie (Agriculture and Natural Resources),
11. Hon. Joyce Overah (Science and Technology)
12. Mr. Chiedu Ebie(Basic and Secondary Education).
The special advisers are:
1. Mr Emmanuel Ogidi (Rural Development and Peace Building),
2. Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo (Infrastructure and Housing Development),
3. Rt. Hon. Martins Okonta (Land Resources and Legislative Matters),
4. Hon. Pascal Adigwe (National Assembly Matters and Inter-governmental Liaison),
5. Comrade Mike Okeme (Labour Relations).

Names of Ogun state new commissioners under Amosun

Governor #Ibikunle Amosun of #Ogun State on Tuesday forwarded three more names to the Ogun State House of Assembly for screening as #commissioners.
Names of Ogun State New Commissioners:
1. Mr. Rotimi Durojaiye,
2. Mrs. Nike Osoba,
3. Mr. Adebola Adeife
A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Mr. Adejuwon Soyinka, states that “the additional list brings the number of commissioner-nominees, whose names had been forwarded to the State House of Assembly for screening, to 19.
“They are all to appear before the Assembly on Wednesday.”14/10/2015(today).

Lagos State: Gov Ambode Commissioners’ List

The governor of #Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi #Ambode, has named his cabinet.
The list of would-be cabinet members was presented to the #State House of Assembly for screening by the governor on September 21, 2015, with the Clerk of the House, Mr. Ganiyu Abiru, reading the names on the floor to members.
Here are the names of the commissioners:
1. Gbolahan Lawal,
2. Dr. Jide Idris,
3. Folarin Coker,
4. Seye Oladejo,
5. Engr. Ganiyu Johnson
6. Babatunde Hunpe.
7. Mrs. Yetunde Onabolu,
8. Fela Bank-Olemoh,
9. Akinyemi Ashade,
10. Steve Ayorinde,
11. Alhaja Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf,
12. Kehinde Joseph,
13. Prof. Ademola Abass,
14. Dr. Akintola Benson,
15. Dr. Abdul-Hakeem Abdul-Lateef,
16. Dr. Mohammed Akinkunmi,
17. Dr. Babatunde Adejare,
18. Dr. Femi Onanuga,
19. Dr. Dayo Mobereola,
20. Engr. Ade Akinsanya,
21. Arch. Wasiu Anifowoshe,
22. Mrs. Lola Akande,
23. Agboola Dabiri,
24. Ganiu Okanlomo Sanni,
25. Anofi Elegushi,
26. Rotimi Ogunleye,
27. Mrs. Adebimpe Akinsola,
28. Femi Odubiyi,
29. Alhaji Musiliu Folami,
30. Adeniji Kazeem,
31. Adeyemi Labinjo,
32. Toyin Suarau,
33. Babatunde Durosinmi-Etti,
34. Deji Tinubu,
35. Mrs. Mudirat Giwanson
36. Kehinde Bamigbetan.
The screening of the #commissioners list is expected to commence immediately after the Sallah holidays, while cleared cabinet members would likely be sworn in to resume the task of governance by Monday, October 5, 2015.
Meanwhile, on the 16th of August, 2015, we brought you a report that contained the probable list of persons who may make the cabinet of the governor.
Here was the tentative list of those we speculated to likely make the governor’s cabinet:
1. Mr. Ganiyu John (Ministry of Works and Infrastructure)
2. Mr. Idowu Ajanaku (Ministry of Information and Strategy)
3. Gbolahan Lawal (Ministry of Environment)
4. Mr. Abdullateef Abdulkareem (Ministry of Home Affairs)
5. Mr. Sulaimon Oriyomi ( Local Government and Community Affairs)
6. Prof. Ademola Abass (Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment)
7. Mr. Tunji Bello (Secretary to the State Government)
8. Mr. Samuel Ojo (the Chief of Staff)
9. Mr. Abiodun Bamgboye (Principal Private Secretary)
10. Mr. Habib Aruna (Chief Press Secretary)
11. Ms. Ramotallahi Akinola-Hassan
12. Mr. Kazeem Adeniyi
13. Mr. Adekunle Salvador
14. Mrs. Modupe Akinsola (Commissioner for Tourism)
15. Folarin Coker (Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development)
16. Paul Kalejaiye (Commissioner for Agriculture)
17. Mrs. Lola Akande (Commissioner of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation)
18. Dr. Dayo Mobereola (Commissioner for Transportation)
19. Mr. Mohammed Kabiru

Senate releases criteria to screen ministerial nominees

The Senate of the 8th National Assembly on Thursday October 8, 2015 released the criteria it will follow to screen the 21 President #Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial nominees.
7 Criteria Senate will use to screen #Buhari‘s ministerial nominees:
1. Every ministerial nominee must declare their assets,
2. Ministerial nominees must have a certificate of proof that they have declared their assets,
3. Ministerial nominees must be given certificates of proof by the Code of Conduct Bureau,
4. Ministerial nominees must have the support of two senators from their respective states,
5. Ministerial nominees, who are former members of the National Assembly, will be screened before non-members,
6. Ministerial nominees must have a clean bill of health from public petitions,
7. Ministerial nominees, who are former members of the National Assembly, will only be questioned by the president of the Senate.

Chief E.K Clark quits politics, calls Jonathan a weakling

A former Federal Commissioner of Information, Chief Edwin Clark, on Wednesday October 8, 2015 announced his decision to retire from politics, saying that he was no longer a member of the opposition #Peoples Democratic Party.

Speaking to a group, Think Nigeria First Initiative, during a courtesy visit to his #Abuja residence, the Ijaw Leaders debunked speculations that he was joining the #All Progressives Congress.
He said, “I no longer belong to the #PDP. I won’t go to the #APC either, but I will continue to talk as an elder statesman and leader of this country. I have left politics.
“If anyone comes to me to say he’s running for any elective position in the PDP or the APC, I won’t support you. I’m not a member of the PDP anymore.”
Meanwhile, Clark has taken a swipe at former president Goodluck Jonathan.
According to him, “Jonathan didn’t have the political will to fight corruption.” He added: “He’s a gentleman. Drivers of yesterday are living in palatial buildings now under his government.”
“In advanced countries, when you are living above your means, people query you. That’s not so in Nigeria. Former governors, lawmakers are now asking for immunity.”

Ethiope East APC Chairman Gets Vote Of Confidence

The Chairman of the #All Progressives Congress in Ethiope East Local Government Area of #Delta State, Pastor Stephen Eruotor, was on Tuesday October 13, 2015 given a vote of confidence by the #party.
The vote of confidence was passed on the chairman by members of the party during its general meeting which took place in Oviore, Ethiope East Local government area, Delta state.
The vote of confidence passed on the chairman was necessary following the internal crisis that has plagued the party in the past couple of months.

Pastor Stephen Eruotor: The #APC Chairman in Ethiope East LGA during the party’s meeting

Newsbeatportal.com recalls that the chairman was reported to have embezzled the 2015 #election fund sent to the local government by president #Muhammadu Buhari.
However, following investigations on the issue, fresh findings have shown that the reports of embezzlement levied against the chairman were fallacious.
The following APC Chieftains were in attendance: Chief Philip Eyagomare, Emanovwe Freeborn, Chief Pius Oseruvwoja, Akpode Igho, Goodluck Ogbemudia, Hon Ofuevu Idibie, Erukeme Anthony, Ogheneovo Moses, Ohwemu Richard.
Several APC delegates from Sapele, Udu, and Ethiope West Local government areas, were also in attendance

CHIEF FRANK OVIE KOKORI REMAINS LEADER OF APC IN ETHIOPE EAST, PHIILIP EYAGOMARE IS UNKNOWN TO THE PARTY.

I am directed by the leadership of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State to debunk the rumours making the rounds that our amiable elder Statesman and leader, Chief Frank Ovie Kokori has been removed as Leader of the APC in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The falsehood published in newsbeatportal.com is the handiwork of unscrupulous elements who cannot be identified as authentic member of our party and not known to the leadership of the APC in Delta State.

The said online publication mentioned one Mr. Philip Eyagomare as the new leader of APC in Ethiope East LGA, a development that is not only laughable but amounts to criminal impersonation and disgraceful political rascality.

Information reaching us tends to point fingers at certain members of the party who carted away N7,000,000 (Severn Million Naira) of our party monies during the 2015 general election. These gang of suspects will soon  face criminal prosecution.

It is this group of disgruntled elements that are joining local champion forces to cause unnecessary tension to divert attention from criminal prosecution. They will soon be arraigned in Court.

Members of the press and the public as well as APC supporters and party faithful should disregard the rumour and the said online publication.

Chief Frank Ovie Kokori is the only authentic leader of APC in Ethiope East and he is at the moment in Abuja for a very important national assignment for our great party.

Ministerial Screening: "Buhari set to personally beg Wike, Fayose and Obiano." - Source

ABOVE PHOTO: When the chips are down, democracy bends strong men. Buhari begging Saraki to clear his ministerial nominees. Begging is part of democracy
A source told media: 'He has asked Tambuwal to arrange a meeting.  That's if the rivers senators still decide to stand in the way.'
Adding: 'Tambuwal is working with former senator  Ita Enang'
Gov. Akpabio has agreed to endorse Udo Udoma--so he has no issues
Rotimi is the biggest problem-- the AG of the state Aguma showed me really disturbing evidences of sheer looting including a bank statement showing the transfer of $53m to Sahara Energy captured as "Repayment of Loan" -- no loan was ever taken. For now, the 3 senators have been instructed by Wike to block his clearance-- As it is, it is impossible for Amaechi to scale --  Except a bargain is reached---
Details soon.

Watch Live: Senate screens Buhari's ministers (Day 2)

Some Nigerian newpapers like the Daily Trust today have headlines like "Senate screens Ministers", but did any screening occur? The process - a noun, is defined, inter alia as "...the evaluation or investigation of something as part of a methodical survey, to assess suitability for a particular role or purpose"

Did this happen? Was anyone of those who appeared "evaluated"?

"It seems that what actually happened was that the ministerial nominees screened the Senate members instead and took a bow. And those who feared they might be screened - Lai Mohammed, for example, made some bland speeches as if pleading for forgiveness of past transgressions", commented an observer.

Another person added: "What happened was essentially a celebration of a banana republic. An attempt at doing a pre-appointment hearing with a nominee whose potential portfolio is not attached to the nomination is essentially a symptom of mental ill health. May God help Nigeria."

Where is the "thorough" tough screening promised by Senator Dino Melaye?

Briefing newsmen on preparations for Screening of nominees by the Senate, the Chairman Ad hoc Committee on Media and publicity, on October 8, Senator Dino Melaye said the screening process would be rigorous, tough and expeditious.

"I addressed you earlier, and told you that the era of take a bow and go is over. We are still going to maintain that, except with slight modification as regards former senators and former members of the National Assembly but we maintain that the screening exercise will be rigorous, will be expeditious, and it will be thorough", Melaye stated.

But yesterday at the red chambers, it was 'Bow and Go' all the way:

Ministerial nominee from Akwa Ibom, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, set the ball rolling. He was asked to take a “bow and go.”

The next nominee to enter the podium is a former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.

Rights activist, Shehu Sanni, asked the ex-governor if truly he escaped through an unconventional border during the late Gen. Sani Abacha era.

He was also asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The next nominee to face the senators is Chief Audu Ogbeh.

The ex-National chairman of the PDP was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The next ministerial nominee was Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.

After acknowledging cheers from the senators he was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The next ministerial nominee was Dr. Osagie Ehanire from Edo State.

He took questions from senators.

The nominee was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The sixth nominee, Lt. Gen.Abdulrahman Danbazzau (rtd), took to the podium to take questions from senators.

Lt. Gen. Danbazzau was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The APC National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, was the next nominee to face the senators.

He took SIX bows before the lawmakers – three for Saraki and three for the Senators.

Mohammed was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

Next was female ministerial nominee, Amina Mohammed who addressed the Senators and got ready to take questions from the lawmakers.

But after taking few questions, she was asked to take a ” bow and go.”

The ninth nominee, Suleiman Adamu, also addressed the senators, Adamu and was also asked to take a ” bow and go.”

Admittedly, there were things during the Ministerial Screening that Senate did differently from previous screening.

• Senators led by Bukola Saraki are allowing more participation from Nigerians by taking questions from the public via their social media handles and the official handle of the Senate, @NGRsenate
• Different platforms are tapping into the feed from National Assembly TV station that was abandoned in different regimes
• Senate social media account is giving real time update.
• The CV’S were presented to the public before screening to enable those that know the nominees to raise objections
• There is a balance of working to get the president’s nominees passed and same time making sure Senate is not a rubber stamp
• We had the sign language person.

Yet, Dino Melaye had led Nigerians to believe a more serious process was in the offing.

Senator Dino Melaye said the screening process would be rigorous, tough and expeditious.

Melaye had stated last week the Senate would consider petitions so far received against some of the, affirming that such petitions would be treated along with the screening exercise, saying QUOTE:

"We are saying that...Section 120 of the Standing Rules of the Senate will be another major instrument in the consideration and screening of ministerial nominees. 

"Section 120 of the Standing Rules of the Senate reads as follows: That the Senate shall not consider the nomination of any person, who has held any public office as contained in Part 2 of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution prior to his nomination unless there is a written evidence that he has declared his assets and liabilities as required by Section 11(1) of Part 1 of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; such declaration shall be required for scrutiny by the senators. 

"What this Section is saying is that every ministerial nominee must produce, actual proof of compliance as required by the Constitution and the Rules of the Senate, you must declare your assets, and you must have a certificate of proof that you have declared your assets, and that you are given a certificate of proof by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). So, this is another condition that we are going to be exercising during the screening exercise.

"We also, in line with our convention, agreed that for you to be cleared as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, minimum of two senators from your state must, at least, show support for your nomination. It's a convention by the Senate, and we have decided to uphold that convention in the sanctity of the integrity of the Senate.

"I addressed you earlier, and told you that the era of take a bow and go is over. We are still going to maintain that, except with slight modification as regards former senators and former members of the National Assembly but we maintain that the screening exercise will be rigorous, will be expeditious, and it will be thorough".

In the end, what we witnessed yesterday in the Senate was a comedy Theatre in a Banana republic called ministerial screening!

Ministerial screening: Again, Fashola clears air on N78m website

Former Lagos State Governor has once again cleared the air over the controversial  N78 million spent for the upgrade of the website – www.tundefashola.com  Lagos State Government under his watch as Governor in the state, spent the sum of N78 million for the upgrade of the website – www.tundefashola.com.

The former governor, who indirectly addressed the issue after the question, ”Did you really open a Website with 78Million Naira?” was raised by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe at the senate while he, Fashola was undergoing screening as a ministerial nominee at the senate chambers said he doesn’t sign checks or award contracts.

He added, “I don’t fix contract prices, it is an institutional process. The only training I have is that of a lawyer, But in order to execute works on a project we need the input of architect, quantity surveyors, structural engineer and we have consulting ministries; For civil works it is the Ministry of Works, for science it is the Ministry of Science and Technology among others.

Now periodically, they do market surveys with the Ministry of Economic Planning , the Statisticians are there to fix prices from biro to Iron rod to cement it is approved and it becomes the  benchmark price of government procurement, nobody can award any other contract over that benchmark.”

The unfortunate things about money is that it often raises suspicions even among brothers. Nobody have alleged that I have corruptly enriched myself, I could not be the master of computers and technology, I need something to do my work. or award contracts.