DTN-4-6-19 by Dailytimes

Zamfara: APC expels Yari, Shuaibu, Marafa, others Says ex-Gov, Dep National chairman responsible for its electoral misfortune

Accuses Sen Marafa, ex-Gov Yariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dep, Rep Jaji of engaging in anti-party activities

Mathew Dadiya and Tunde Opalana, Abuja Immediate past governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari, has been expelled from the All Progressives Congress (APC) for scuttling the partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chances in Zamfara State. Also expelled is the Deputy National Chairman (North) https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

dailytimesnigeria

www.facebook.com/dailytimesngr

of the APC, Lawali Shuaibu, for conniving with Yari to sabotage the National Working Committee of the party during the botched primary Elections of the state. In a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Alhaji Sirajo Garba Maikatako and the Publicity Secretary, Continued on page 3

TUESDAY, JUNE 4, 2019

VOL. 3

From all of us at Folio Communications Plc

NO. 961

N100

Your days are numbered, Buhari warns kidnappers, robbers g 5

Urges Muslims to promote religious harmony Commends Nigerians, INEC for peaceful elections

President Muhammadu Buhari in a handshake with the British High commissioner to Nigeria, Mrs. Catriona Laing CB. Others from left are Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Mustapha Lawal Sulaiman and Head of Diplomatic Corps and Cameroon High Commissioner to Nigeria, Salaheddine Abbas Ibrahim during the breaking of Ramadan Fast with Diplomats at the State House, Abuja... on Monday

Buhari has not approved state police, says Presidency g 3

Imo Assembly passes g5 resolution to probe Okorocha

Eid-el-Fitri: Saraki, Secondus urge Nigerians to embrace peace, unity g6

2nd term: Archbishop Martins sets agenda for President g 6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

RC 103022

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

Muti-national joint task force kills 20 ISWAP members Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force on Monday neutralised 20 terrorists in the ongoing offensive operations to clear Islamic State terrorists from the Lake Chad area. MNJTF’s Chief of Military Public Information, Col. Timothy Antigha, who confirmed this in a statement, said the terrorists were killed by troops operating around Arege, Malkonory and Tumbum Rego general area. According to Col. Antigha, several gun trucks, arms and ammunitions, as well as a

vehicle borne improvised explosive devices meant to disrupt troops advance were destroyed. “Unfortunately, four personnel of the MNJTF were wounded during the fire fight and have been evacuated for urgent medical attention. “The MNJTF remains committed to delivering the mandate of the force and therefore, urges continuous support and solidarity of the good people of the Lake Chad region,” he said. The joint task force with headquarters in N’Djamena,

Chad in February launched a new operation code-named ‘Operation Yancin Tafki’ to push back Boko Haram insurgents to the Lake Chad fringes. This new operation is a follow up to the summit of governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, including Cameroon Republic, Chad, Nigeria and the Niger Republic last year in N’Djamena. The summit led by President Muhammadu Buhari agreed to fine-tune bilateral relations and agreement aimed at dealing with the Boko Haram problem.

Short News

Eid-el-Fitr: NSCDC deploys 1, 000 personnel in Kano

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano Command has deployed no less than 1, 000 personnel to strategic points ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in the state. This command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Isah, said this in a statement made available to newsmen in Kano on Monday. He said the personnel deployed include, those in a special unit on joint task operations with sister security agencies to provide security at border corridors with neighbouring states. According to him, the command had also deployed a number of its personnel at some strategic places in the metropolis to enhance security in the areas. Isah warned miscreants, popularly known as ‘Yan’daba,’ who might want to use the period of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations to cause trouble, to refrain from doing so or face the wrath of the law. The public relations officer also called on the public to cooperate with security personnel by reporting suspected miscreants to them for prompt action. He said that the corps and other security agencies in the state were at alert to ensure that residents had hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

...deploys 1, 500 personnel in Jigawa

Jigawa state Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has deployed 1,500 personnel to ensure hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration in the state. The NSCDC Spokesman in the state, Adamu Shehu, made this known in an interview in Dutse on Monday. Shehu said that the state Commandant of the corps, Alhaji Garba Muhammad had ordered the immediate deployment of officers and men from various departments and units, including special armed squad, counter terrorism, intelligence operations, disaster management and medical unit. He explained that the deployment would cover all the 27 local government areas of the state, adding that “emphasis will however, be given to strategic places such as Eid grounds, durbar routes, recreational centres, markets, malls, government installations as well as other identified vulnerable areas.” The spokesman said that the commandant charged the personnel to discharge their duties diligently and professionally and urged the people to be law-abiding and security conscious. He also appealed to motorists and other road users cooperate with the NSCDC and other security personnel on duty during the period and beyond to avert road crashes. “We urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious movement to the nearest security formation within their localities. The command wishes the good people of Jigawa happy and hitch-free Sallah celebrations,” he said.

Eid-el-Fitr: FRSC promises free traffic flow in Plateau L-R: Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu; Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Hon. Yinka Ogundimu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Tayo Ayinde during the signing of the Y2019 Appropriation bill and three others into law at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja on Monday. Behind them are Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Gboyega Soyannwo and Chairman, House Committee on Establishment, Training and Pensions, Hon. Moji Meranda.

N136m fraud: Ex-NIMASA boss bags 42-year- jail term Andrew Orolua, Abuja The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos on Monday sentenced a former acting DirectorGeneral, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Calistus Obi, to 42 years imprisonment. The court also sentenced Alu Dismas Adoon, an aide to Patrick Akpobolokemi, a former NIMASA director-general to 42 years imprisonment. Obi and Dismas were found guilty on counts two, three, four, six, seven and eight. The court accordingly, convicted them and sentenced them to seven years imprisonment each on each count. Passing the sentence, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun however, gave the convicts an option of fine of N42 million on each of the count and also, imposed a N10 million fine on the third and fourth convicts; Global Sea Investment and Grand Pact Limited.

The convicts were arraigned on April 12, 2016 on an eightcount charge bordering on conspiracy, conversion, and money laundering amounting to N136 million. One of the counts reads: “That you, Callistus Nwabueze Obi and Dismas Alu Adoon, on or about August 5, 2014 in Lagos, did conspire amongst yourselves to commit an offence to wit; conversion of N111, 000, 000.00 property of NIMASA knowing that the said sums were proceeds of stealing and thereby, committed an offence.” They both pleaded not guilty to the charges, thereby setting the stage for their trial. During the course of trial, the prosecution called eight witnesses and tendered several documents, which were admitted in evidence by the court. When the sentencing hearing began, prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo urged the court to pronounce sentence prohibiting the crime and

impose maximum sentence on the convicts, having allowed the court to go through the rigours of full scale trial without taking advantage of Section 270 which would have saved the time of the court through accelerating hearing of the matter. He also told the court that Section 15(3) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act has limited the discretion of the court in sentencing the convicts, explaining that the crime committed by the convicts attracts the maximum sentence of not more 14 years and not less than seven years in prison. He urged the court to order the convicts to make restitution or make compensation to the victim of the crime, which is NIMASA and order the return of the embezzled funds and a company, LA Diva Hotels and Events Limited situated at Plot 12, Phase 4, Cora Area, Asaba, Delta state belonging to the first defendant, which forms part of the proceeds of crime.

Ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau state has promised to ensure the free flow of traffic in the state. The corps’ Public Education Officer in the state, Andrew Bala, disclosed this in an interview in Jos on Monday. Bala said that the command had deployed reasonable number of officers and marshals for special patrol to ensure free movement of vehicles during the festive period. According to him, the deployment is aimed at minimising road traffic accidents on major routes in the state. “We have deployed a reasonable number of officers, regular and special marshals for social patrol to ensure free flow of traffic in the state during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration in the state. “The mission of the operation is to ensure free flow of traffic, provide prompt rescue services and timely clearance of obstructions on all major roads and key traffic routes in the state “Also, the deployment is aimed at minimising road traffic crashes on highways in the state,” he said. Bala added that during the special patrol, the command would clampdown on erring drivers. He therefore, warned that FRSC would fine any motorist found guilty of violating traffic rules and regulations.

Taraba inaugurates 9th Assembly, elects speaker Okerafor Athanatius, Jalingo The Taraba state House of Assembly has inaugurated its 9th Assembly with Abel Peter Diah emerging as the speaker. The inaugural ceremony of the 9th Assembly and the subsequent emergence of Diah as the speaker and Mohammed Gwampo as deputy speaker took place at the state Assembly complex in Jalingo. According to our correspondent, all aspirants for position of principal officers were returned unopposed. Accordingly, Mark Useni from Takum II Constituency nominated Peter Diah for the position of speaker and was supported by John Kizito Bonzena from Zing Constituency. The former Deputy Speaker, Mohammed Danladi Gwampo was returned unopposed following his nomination by Charles Maijankai of Karim Lamido I Constituency and was supported by Habilla Anderifun from Ussa state Constituency. The oath of office was administered by the Clerk of the House, Mella Orngu. In his acceptance speech, the Speaker, Peter Diah thanked the 9th Assembly members for what he described as ‘a show of love showered upon him.” While pledging his unalloyed service to the people of the state with his other colleagues, the speaker said he will not take the renewal of his mandate for granted. “By this epoch -making event of the inauguration of the 9th Assembly, we promise within the four years to make laws that will positively transform the lives of the good people of the state,

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

10 News

Court adjourns suit seeking Gbajabiamila’s Short News Eid el fitir: Police deploys 3, 067 officers in Bauchi disqualification to June 7 Andrew Orolua, Abuja The legal action seeking an order of the Federal High Court to disqualify House of Representatives Leader, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila from contesting the post of speaker of the 9th National Assembly has been adjourned to June 7. Justice Iyang Ekwo adjourned the matter till Friday following the inability of the plaintiff, Philip Undie to serve the court processes on the lawmaker as required by law. Undie had approached the federal high court praying for an order of the court to restrain Rep. Gbajabiamila from presenting himself for the election as speaker of the House of Representatives. His grouse is that Gbajabiamila, who represents Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos, was once convicted by the Supreme Court of Georgia in the United States for fraudulent practices. The plaintiff stated that by the conviction, Rep. Gbajabiamila, who is among those favoured to win the position of speaker, was no longer qualified and eligible for the House of Representatives as well as the speakership of the House. However, when the matter came up in court, Rep. Gbajabiamila was not in court and was not represented by any legal practitioner. Counsel to Undie, Ayodele Justice

informed the court that he has not being able to serve Gbajabiamila with the court process. Justice Iyang Ekwo, who was not impressed with the failure of the counsel to serve the lawmaker with the court documents, warned the plaintiff that either he gets ready for the matter or withdraws the suit. He said that the court action by its nature is of public interest and must be accorded speedy hearing, adding that since May 21 when the suit was filed, the plaintiff ought to have made good efforts to serve the lawmaker with the court processes. Plaintiff counsel however, told the judge that he would apply for a

substituted service against the lawmaker on the adjourned date. But, in a dramatic turn another member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Raoul Igbokwe indicated interest to be joined in the suit as an interested party. It is not clear if he wanted to join as a plaintiff or defendant, but Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter to June 7 for mention and for hearing in the application for substituted service. Meanwhile, counsel to the plaintiff Ayodele has denied media report that his client had withdrawn the suit, insisting that his client has not withdrawn the suit and that his presence in court is an indication that the suit is alive.

Samuel Luka, Bauchi

Ahead of the Eid El Fitir celebration, the Bauchi state Police Command has assured of its readiness to protect the lives and property of innocent citizens in the state. The state Police Commissioner, Habu Sani, who gave the assurance on Monday in a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kamal Datti, said that the command will collaborate with sister security agencies and all critical stakeholders to ensure that the celebration is peaceful and hitch-free. “I have ordered the deployment of 3, 067 officers and men comprising conventional police and other tactical teams of the command as well as necessary logistics to all praying grounds and venues of events across the state. “The personnel deployed for this critical assignment are under strict instruction of the commissioner of police to be civil, but firm in the discharge of their duties,” the statement said. He added that the police in the state is prepared to deal with hoodlums, political thugs and other disgruntled elements who may attempt to cause a breakdown of law and order before, during and after the festive period.

Ihedioha gives 24-hour ultimatum for proper handover Val Okara, Owerri Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo state has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Head of Service, Mrs. Ama Eluwa and the Principal Secretary to the former Governor Rochas Okoro, Emeka Duru to handover all government property in their possession. The governor directed that the said property should be handed over to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Uche Onyeagocha and Chief of Staff, Chief Chris Okewulonu.

Ihedioha, who give the directives on Monday during the swearing -in of the SSG and the chief of staff, said that his administration was five days behind from the day he was sworn in. He said that “I direct both of you to ensure complete handover of all government property that the last administration utilized on behalf of the people of Imo state. I want the process to be completed by midnight tomorrow.” The governor emphasized that the work of the SSG is very tasking and central to the administration as his office coordinates all

government activities, major appointments and contacts with relevant institutions. Gov. Ihedioha expressed confidence in the newly appointment officers, saying that the affected appointees had the capacity to understand the direction of the government. He therefore, solicited the support of the people of the state to enable the appointees perform creditably. Responding on behalf of his colleague, Chief Onyeagocha assured the governor that they would ensure that his administration delivers on the electioneering campaign promises made to the people of the state.

News 11

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

Stop intimidating Obasanjo, CAN tells FG Short News Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed to the federal government to stop intimidating former President Olusegun Obasanjo for speaking out on national issues especially as it affects Christians. CAN said rather than criticize Obasanjo, the Buhari administration should take his observations seriously and bridge the gap where necessary. Daily Times recalls that the former President last week accused the Buhari led government of planning to Islamize the country and promote Fulani hegemony. Speaking through its National Director, Legal and Public Affairs, Evang. Kwamkur Samuel Vondip, yesterday in Jos, the Plateau state capital, the Christian body said the federal government is always quick to shut up Obasanjo whenever he speaks the truth. “CAN believes that the foundation for Islamization of Nigeria has since been laid by the makers of the Nigerian constitution and some previous leaders of Nigeria. “Particular examples are the provisions made in the constitution for the operation of Sharia laws and courts. This makes the common law and the Sharia law to be operating in the same constitution. This naturally has divided the nation into two and sets the tone for Islamization. The implication of this scenario is confusion. “Furthermore, as we have said before the registration of Nigeria (a secular state)

as a member of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) by military fiat is a further confirmation of the deliberate Islamization of the country. This calls for review if our leaders are sincere with their claims that nobody is Islamizing the country,” Evang Vondip said. The Christian body commended former President Obasanjo for speaking against the aforementioned plan, adding that “we commend sincerely the position of the former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo for opening up against the planned Islamization of Nigeria. The former President simply repeated what many of our CAN leaders have said before. “We had even taken this in written form to the Presidency for immediate attention. If what Obasanjo said should be doubted, what is the justification for the community cleansing by killer Fulani herdsmen who jump on innocent communities in the night killing them and taking over their communities? “We never saw any far -reaching steps taken to bring these killer herdsmen to book. What is the justification for the federal government efforts to create and maintain cattle routes or colony for Fulani herders despite their level of impunity? “How can you justify the federal government’s establishment of a radio station for the Fulani? Even though this is being denied recently that is was established for nomadic education. “Why can’t strict security measures that silenced IPOB be taken against Boko Haram and killer Fulani herdsmen?”

Laying credence to the spate of killings and other violent crimes being committed under the watch of the government, CAN said the “level of insecurity in the nation, the increase and expansion of the activities of insurgencies, armed bandits, armed robbery, kidnappers and killer Fulani herdsmen seem to have continued unabated.

“We expect the government to be bold enough to take responsibility and be sincere in providing convincing lasting solutions. The situation whereby the government will be denying the increasing rate of insecurity while the security budget keeps swelling with increase in casualties amongst security operatives, increase in number of victims and cry by communities is worrisome and calls for serious reflection. “The inability of the federal government to ensure the release of Leah Sharibu and other abducted victims of Boko Haram leaves us sleeplessness. “One of the cardinal promises of the Buhari administration is the end to the reign of terrorism and ensuring the release of captured victims of insurgents, but the first tenure ended without achieving maximally such result. “We pray and hope that President Buhari will do everything within his ability to achieve this goal if he is to be taken more seriously.”

Sallah: FAAN assures comfort, security Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

As Nigerians get ready for the Eid-El-Fitr celebrations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN says it has upgraded and strengthened its airport security and logistics for a hitch-free celebration. With the expected increase in passenger traffic, Spokesperson for FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu explained that during the celebrations and beyond, the VIP protocol lounge at the terminals in Lagos and Abuja, have been refurbished to give maximum comfort and value to customers. According Mrs. Yakubu, facilities at all airports have been generally improved upon and are functioning optimally. “New directional display units have been provided to guide travellers, especially new ones, at our airports. Airport dos and don’ts banners have also been displayed at strategic locations to educate newcomers.” She advised the general public and intended travellers to make early preparations towards completing their travel requirements in good time.

Lagos residents protest installation of high tension cables Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Residents of Gladys Kalesanwo Street at Agura-/Gberigbe, Ikorodu, area of Lagos have protested over the planned installation of high tension cables on the street by the Ewu-Agbo Community Development Association area. The residents also accused officials of Ikeja Distribution Company (IKDC) of conniving with the Ewu-Agbo Community in attempting to install the illegal cables by allegedly issuing the Ewu-Agbo community approval without following due process. A petition obtained by our correspondent with the caption: “Save our soul on dangerous erection of high tension cables,” dated May 27and signed by Fatai Adebayo and Michael Obiorah, chairman and general secretary respectively, accused the Ewu-Agbo Community of attempting to put the lives of residents in danger by insisting on mounting the high tension cables on the street despite its illegality. In the petition, the residents insist that the approval was illegal as the street the officials of the power distribution company in conjunction with the Ewu-Agbo Community want to mount the high tension cables is less than 30ft wide, as against the 60ft approved by law.

Delta APC faction appeals Appeal Court ruling Nosa Akenzua, Asaba This may not be the best of times for embattled All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator-elect, Ovie Omo-Agege as the Supreme Court is set to determine who the authentic candidate of the party is between the serving senator and Olorogun O’tega Emerhor. The lingering legal tussle over the leadership of the APC in Delta state has now moved to the Supreme Court, leaving Omo-Agege senatorial seat hanging in the balance. The Chief Cyril Ogodo led faction of the party has asked the apex court to set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal which had sacked it and reinstated the Jones Erue leadership of the party in the State. Counsel to the Ogodo led state executive committee, O.J. Oghenejakpor has approached the Supreme Court asking it to set aside the judgment of the appellate court on grounds that the Court of Appeal erred in law when it held that the appellants have abandoned their preliminary objection and thereby refused to entertain the preliminary objection properly raised before them and ended up striking same out without considering it.

Okowa swears-in Ebie as SSG Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, proclaiming the 9th Rivers State House of Assembly at the Assembly Complex, Port Harcourt on Monday.

Lawyer condemns interference in NASS leadership race

Ahead of the inauguration of the 9th National Assembly, a constitutional lawyer, Dr. Kayode Ajulo has condemned the undue external interference of who becomes the presiding officer of the two chambers of the National Assembly. Ajulo, who spoke on Monday in Abuja, opined that there should be respect for the principle of separation of powers. The lawyer said that people in both chambers should be made to have a say in who emerges as their leaders, stressing that it should not be through imposition. “I don’t think there should be external interference; that is why there is separation of powers which is the executive, legislature and the judiciary. “Now, this is the legislature, let them fix themselves and mind you it is just the importance

we give to most of these principal officers, they are all equal. “So whosoever they believe they want as their leaders, they should allow them choose, they should however, be guided by the rules of the House, the constitution and by their conscience.’’ Ajulo said that for a party or anybody to foist leadership on another arm of government would be disrespectful to the office they were elected into. He said that although such move can be allowed and expected in a democracy, however, it should not be used to erode the basic principle of the country’s constitutionalism and the role of the legislature. According to him, the lawmakers should be able to choose those they believe would lead them, adding that “what happened during Bukola Saraki emergence as the Senate president was the beauty of

democracy, this one too should be as smooth as that.’’ Saraki had in 2015 defied the party’s choice of Sen. Ahmed Lawan to emerge as the Senate president with the votes of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators. Ajulo said that there should be some possible contending forces for and against the seat of the Senate president, noting that when the best emerges, “it is for the good of the country. What I always insist as a lawyer is that the rule of law is allowed to take its course on anything.’’ The constitutional lawyer noted that in democracy, the opposition contributed in no small measures to making it work; which eventually would make life better for the people, asserting however, that the overall objective of the struggle for power is for the people and not the president.

Delta state Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has sworn-in the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chiedu Ebie, saying that those who will work with him as appointees must avoid nepotism and sectionalism. Ebie’s swearing-in ceremony which was attended by prominent Deltans, took place at the Unity Hall, Asaba on Monday According to Gov. Okowa, who spoke shortly after the oath of office was administered on the SSG, “sectionalism and nepotism must not have a place in the thoughts, choices and actions of those who will work with me. “I want to assure all Deltans that this administration will continue to run an all-inclusive government whether in terms of appointments or projects distribution; we have only just started. “Deltans should trust us to do the right thing and do it we shall, and I wish to emphasize that appointments into this administration will be based on merit and geographical spread, not on emotions, sentiments or for the sole purpose of political patronage. “We are in a hurry to get things done and cannot afford to lose precious time; therefore, this is not the time for apprenticeship, we shall be going for men and women, who are conversant with governance, understand our policy direction and require minimal supervision to do their work. “It shall be a good combination of youth and experience to ensure that governance goes on seamlessly.”

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

12 News

Zamfara governor spends Short News N83m on Sallah cows

Foundation gives hope to children living with autism, disabilities

Our reporter

The Zamfara state Governor, Mohammed Mattawale is spending N83 million on the purchase of cows for the coming Eid-el-Fitr celebration which commences today. According to a statement by the state’s Director, Press Affairs, Idris Yusuf Gusau, the money is meant for the purchase of 750

cows which are to be distributed to the less privileged, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), orphans and widows in the state as part of the administration’s commitment to improve the welfare of the people. The statement said that the governor urged the people of the state to use the ongoing Ramadan fast and the coming Eid-El-Fitr periods to pray for peace, stability and development of the state. He appealed to corporate

organisations and well meaning individuals in the state to assist the less privileged in the state to complement government’s efforts at cushioning their hardship. The statement added that the cows will be distributed across the 147 wards in the 14 local government areas, and are to be slaughtered and shared to enable the beneficiaries celebrate the Eid- el- Fitr celebrations despite the current economic crunch in the state.

Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

In furtherance of the upgrading and upliftment of the wellbeing of children with autism and other disabilities, Talklove Africa Foundation in collaboration with the University of Houston Clear Lake and the Centre For Developmental Disability, Texas, has organised a free autism and applied behaviour analysis training in Port Harcourt. The training had in attendance 80 participants among which were doctors, therapists and caregivers, among others. Coordinator of the programne and founder of Talklove Africa Foundation, Cynthia Obinwanne, said that the non- governmental organization stands for the total well being of the underprivileged in society with its core focus on the first five sustainable development goals of no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well being, quality education and gender equality. The coordinator said that every participant in the training has a huge role to play in the lives of autistic children, stating that gone were the days when children suffering from the ailment were locked up in their rooms. She said: “It is time for us all to stand together as one to make the lives of people living with autism a meaningful one by supporting them towards achieving their dreams. There is ability in every disability.” The training was conducted by Loukia Tsami, a representative of the University of Houston, Centre for Autism and Developmental Disability as participants were shown inspiring and motivating videos and charts. One of the videos showed a blind autistic boy who scaled all the hurdles of life to achieve his dreams with the help of his mother who never gave up on him, but was determined to bring out the best in her son. Highlight of the training was the award of certificates to the participants.

Cleric tasks FG, states on security, good leadership Haruna Usman, Birnin Kebbi

Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State, in a handshake with Chief of Staff, Government House, Chris Okewulonu, shortly after taking his oath of office in Owerri ...on Monday.

Wike seeks collaboration with 9th House of Assembly Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state on Monday proclaimed the 9th state House of Assembly, urging the lawmakers to work for the development of their constituencies and the state. Performing the constitutional of issuing the proclamation for the assembly to commence its official business, the governor urged the state lawmakers to work with the executive arm to ensure the implementation of policies and programmes for the good of Rivers people. “As we usher in the new term of this August House, I pray and hope that your deliberations will be constructive, democratic, progressive and people-oriented. And that you will continue to strive hard with total commitment and sense of accountability, and facilitate the implementation of our policies and programmes to enable us set new benchmarks for development and shared prosperity for our people. “On this positive note, it is my singular honour and privilege to officially proclaim the first session of the 9th legislative assembly of Rivers state,” he stated. The governor assured the lawmakers that his

administration would continue to promote the independence of the legislature as a separate arm of government while advocating for mutual respect, partnership, and progress among all arms of government. “I am proud to say that since inception, the Rivers state House of Assembly has been known for its high sense of decorum in the conduct of its proceedings, and I hope this August House will continue with this tradition and uphold its honour and dignity,” he prayed. Gov. Wike appealed to the state lawmakers to partner with his administration to enhance security, good governance and improved living standards for the people. “You will agree with us that our plan for the next four years is comprehensive in scope and realistic in terms of deliverables. But, it is our constitutional responsibility to make collective efforts towards achieving these plans and goals for the benefit of our people. “And so over the next four years, we will not only be working with you as partners to meet the yearnings and aspirations of our people for good governance, peace, security, and improved conditions of living; but we will also require from you effective legislative measures and policy initiatives that will put the State on a new

trajectory of growth and prosperity,” he stated. According to him, the objective of his administration is to promote and achieve socioeconomic prosperity and full employment for all through structured and targeted strategies, programmes and projects. “It is also our plan to continue to execute key infrastructural projects in roads, schools, hospitals, electricity, environmental protection, urban development and housing to bridge the existing gap in physical infrastructure and enhance the economic development of the state. “And for those lawless and criminal elements that may continue to disturb our peace and security with their criminal activities, I want to reiterate our firm resolve to tackle such activities with the full might of the state,” the governor added. Governor Wike said that with the proclamation of the State House of Assembly, all arms of government had been constituted to move the state forward. The state House of Assembly has 30 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with two lawmakers coming from other parties. Also, out of the 32 members of the House, only nine are new.

A renowned Islamic cleric Birnin Kebbi has called on the federal and state governments to urgently tackle the worsening security situation in the country. Sheik Muhammad Nasir gave the charge during the closing ceremony of Ramadan tafsir. The spiritual leader was particular about the prevalence of kidnappings along the Abuja/Kaduna high which he said is an indication that the federal government is not doing enough to put a stop to the insecurity problem. He added that killings in Zamfara and Katsina states are issues of concern to every reasonable Nigeria, maintaining that the deployment of soldiers hasn’t stopped the escalating level of violence meted on innocent and hapless Nigerians as the killings have continued unabated. Sheik appealed to Governor Atiku Bagudu to lift the people of Kebbi state out of poverty, just as he lauded his achievements in agriculture, road construction and a host of others. He stated that human development should be pursued by the state government because of its positive impact on the people and charged youth in the state to shun drug addiction, theft and other anti -social behaviours.

Obiano reshuffles cabinet as 6 commissioners swap roles Nkiru Nwagbo, Awka

Anambra state Governor, Chief Willie Obiano yesterday reshuffled his cabinet resulting in six returning commissioners swapping roles in the shake-up. According to the Commissioner for Information, Don Adinuba, the Commissioner for Environment, Micheal Okonkwo is now in charge of Housing while Obi Nwankwo is now the commissioner for environment. The former Commissioner for Agriculture, Afam Ogene is now incharge of the youth and creative ministry, just as the Commissioner for Youth, Bonventure Emenali is now the commissioner for lands while Emeka Ezenwanne, who was the housing commissioner before the shakeup is now the new commissioner for utilities. Lastly, the Commissioner for Utilities, Nnamdi Onukwuba is now in -charge of agriculture.

Ramadan: Cleric tasks faithful to pray for nation’s dev

Founder and the National Missioner, As-samad Muslim Organisation, Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Bello has charged Muslim faithful to seek God’s favour and pray for the nation’s development during and after the Ramadan. Bello gave the advice during the 22nd Lailatul Qadr Ramadan lecture with its theme: “The significance of Ramadan” and the vigil held from dusk on Sunday till dawn on Monday. The cleric said that Muslims need to pray fervently so that they would know the originality and reality of God by invoking his name, adding that “if we don’t take prayers in the right position such prayers will lack merits. “Muslims are expected to increase their prayers during and after the Ramadan; to dedicate themselves and engage in prayers for the development of the nation,’’ Bello said. He said that there was no way a faithful Muslim could seek knowledge if he or she did not take his or her prayers seriously. According to the cleric, a believer can be knowledgeable in Islamic issues, but if he or she lacks the prayer habit, such will be far from the word of God. He also tasked leaders in positions of authority to seek and ask God for proper direction through prayer so that they would be able to take the country to the promise land.

Labour Times Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

FG sets up c’ttee on 2019 Global Youth Employment Forum Ukpono Ukpong, Abuja As part of preparations for the centenary anniversary celebration of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the Federal Government has set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Planning of the 2019 Global Youth Empowerment Forum (GYEF). Inaugurating the Committee in Abuja, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, William Alo, said the Forum which is scheduled to hold in Abuja from 1st to 3rd August, 2019, would attract no fewer than 250 delegates from across the globe, bringing together youth, policy makers, and social partners to exchange views, share experiences and provide ideas on how to foster decent work for the youths. He said the Forum will further create a platform for young people to engage in participatory and in-depth discussions on the most burning issues surrounding youth employment. The Permanent Secretary noted that the constitution of the Inter-Ministerial Committee is as a result of FG’s commitment to ensuring the success of the international event. Speaking further, he said that in considering Nigeria for the GYEF, the ILO took into consideration the country’s leadership role in youth-led development initiatives across Africa. The terms of reference for the Committee are: to make adequate security arrangement for the Forum; provide and ease immigration services for international delegates to the Forum, facilitate protocol arrangements for officials of ILO member states and other United Nations Agencies expected at the GYEF, and to work with the ILO Country office in Nigeria in the coordination and harmonization of the activities of the GYEF, among others. The Permanent Secretary charged members of the committee to employ dedication, integrity and conscientiousness in discharging the task given them. “This is a rare privilege extended to us as a nation and we have the responsibility to justify the confidence reposed on us.” He said In his remarks, the ILO Country Director, Dennis Zulu, whic was represented by represented by Dino Corell, revealed that this is the first time GYEF would be held in any part of the world outside Geneva. “The last one was held in 2012 in Geneva. Hosting of the GYEF in Nigeria is of historic importance as Nigeria would be the first outside Europe to host the event. “As the most populous African nation, it would be an opportunity to showcase Nigeria positively in terms of innovations in digital technology and entrepreneurial skills.” He further disclosed that the Director-General of ILO, Geneva, Mr Guy Ryder, and other high-level dignitaries, including United Nations

President Muhammadu Buhari Secretary-General’s Envoy for Youth, and Ministers from various countries were expected at the event. “Mr Ryder’s attendance will make it his first visit to Nigeria and the second time in the history of Nigeria to have the presence of the DG ILO in the country after 1959 when the ILO Office was opened in Nigeria”, he added. The committee has as Chairman, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, William

Alo; Secretary, Director, Productivity and Labour Standards, Mr Daniel Neburagho, while members are drawn from the following organisations: Ministries of Labour and Employment, Youth and Sport, and Foreign Affairs; Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Security (DSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and International Labour Organisation (ILO).

g13

Policy on occupational safety, health essential for workers’ protection – Ngige

The erstwhile Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, has said that a well-articulated National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health is essential for the safety and health protection of the nation’s Labour force. Ngige stated this in Abuja during the flagged-off of a One-Day Stakeholders’ Consultative Meeting for the Validation of the Draft Revised National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health. He described the review as “the next step towards facilitating improvement of Occupational Safety and Health performance nationwide, through providing the framework for participative Occupational Safety and Health protection of workers.” Ngige who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, William Alo, tasked the stakeholders to produce a validated policy that would accommodate all interests and be acceptable to all. According to him, “the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention C. 155 on Occupational Safety and Health and the Work Environment establishes Occupational Safety and Health Policy as the entry point of a standard national effort with regards to Occupational Safety and Health.” “The revised Policy will incorporate global best practices of Occupational Safety and Health, and also accommodate recent technological advancements”, and would constitute an effective instrument for positive change in Occupational Safety and Health service delivery across the country. Earlier, in a welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, William Alo, said the Meeting constituted the final stage of the process of reviewing the existing National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health. He added that the review process would harmonize all efforts into ensuring safe and healthy work places in the country for the protection of the nation’s workforce, and the promotion of productivity for a more virile national economy. In a goodwill messages, the International Labour Organisation, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Society for Occupational and Organisation Health of Nigeria, Trade Union Congress (TUC), Safety Institute of Nigeria, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and other social partners pledged total commitment to the review of the Policy aimed at achieving Occupational Safety and Health for workers. The National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health, going through the process of review, was put in place in 2006 through a collaborative process to provide a general framework for regular improvement of working conditions, work processes and the work environment.

FG inaugurates Chairman, Vice-Chairman Immortalise late Comrade Johnson, Labour Correspondents tells NNPC, PENGASSAN of Industrial Arbitration Panel The Federal Government has inaugurated Hon. Barrister Aniazoka Chukwujeke-Zokas and Barrister Helen Oloja as the Chairman and ViceChairman of the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) respectively. Performing the inauguration in Abuja, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, said that the IAP was established to cater for arbitration matters, which is one of the stages of trade dispute resolution. He disclosed the Trade Disputes Act CAP T8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria stipulates the stages of trade resolution as internal mechanism/ mediation; conciliation, Arbitration, and Judicial Adjudication. According to him, “the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) is one of the organs of Government that enables the Ministry discharge its mandate and therefore is a great concern of the tripartite partners in the Labour industry, and as such witnessing this function today is a major step in the right direction.” Ngige said, “The law provides for the Minister of Labour and Employment, in Section 9 of the Trade Dispute Act of 2004 to appoint a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman, and to also appoint the arbitrators themselves. The idea

being that we want to resolve as many disputes as possible without people going to waste time in court.” He said the IAP evolved from being a Tribunal to a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, disclosing that “we have an amendment Bill to get the IAP to the status of a Commission, which the 9th Assembly will likely effect.” The Minister stated that Government has decentralized IAP from the headquarters in Abuja and Lagos, and expanded to Kano, Umuahia and Taraba, Sokoto and Port Harcourt to increase the number to the areas with a lot of workers, industries, adding that there would also be a corresponding increase in the number of arbitrators. He then enjoined members of IAP to cooperate with the in-coming officers to build a strong and progressive Panel. In his response, the new Chairman of the IAP, Hon. Barrister Aniazoka Michael Chukwujeke-Zokas, appreciated the appointment and requested more support to enable them discharge their duties effectively. He pledged that at the end of their tenure, the IAP would have evolved positively.

Labour Correspondents Association of Nigeria (LACAN), the umbrella body for journalists reporting the Labour and Employment sector in Nigeria, has called on theNigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) to immortalise the late PENGASSAN President, Francis Johnson, as a means of appreciating his efforts towards sustaining industrial peace and harmony in the country during his lifetime. In a statement issued on Monday, the LACAN Chairman, Oche Michael, described late Comrade Johnson as a consummate labour leader who strived to ensure government do the needful in terms of workers welfare as well as interface with workers to understand the position of government and employers thus, avoiding industrial action in the sector. “The Exco, and Members of the Labour Correspondents Association of Nigeria, LACAN which is an umbrella body for journalists reporting the Labour and employment sector in Nigeria, wish to extend our sympathy to the Group Managing Director, NNPC, Maikanti Baru, Management and Staff as well as the Officials and members of the Petroleum and Natural Gas senior staff association of Nigeria over the tragic loss of your staff, PENGASSAN president Francis Olabode Johnson on Friday, May 31st, 2019. “LACAN cannot hold back tears for the many lives F.O Johnson has impacted in our association. “LACAN appreciates a great deal the very peaceful and cordial working relationship that existed between journalists, and the Late F.O Johnson. “We call on the NNPC and PENGASSAN not to forget the family of F.O Johnson, it is our opinion that he should be Immortalized by his union naming the PENGASSAN head office after F.O. Johnson and also by the NNPC by naming strategic places/buildings after him.” He said.

Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

POLITICS TIMES g Read more on: www.dailytimes.ng

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Whether in majority or minority party in parliament, my focus is to work for my constituents - Nakwada Hon. Musa Wakili Nakwada is the House of Assembly member-elect representing Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State. In this interview with Daily Times Correspondent, SAMUEL LUKA, he speaks on his plans for the People of his constituency. He also berated the 8th Assembly in the state for passing a bill repealing an existing law that allows for the recovery of public properties stolen by government officials and other issues. Honourable, having been elected to represent your constituency, what do you have in stock for them? First of all, let me thank God for giving me the great opportunity to represent my people at the State Assembly. I developed passion for politics, I think right from my childhood, my father have been a politician since those days. I was born in that family, and I saw my father helping people and so I felt let me also follow his footsteps. I have been a civil servant who has served government for twenty Six years. Even though as a civil servant, in those days you are not suppose to fully be in politics, but politics is a vast kind of thing, lobbying people, coming closer to people. If you want to be a politician I think you have to embrace the people. So, I have this vision of helping people, coming together with people, discussing with people, wanting people to really come together and discuss issues. So, seeing that you cannot gather people, you cannot be that popular without being a politician, and seeing the way my father was doing, the way he was interacting with people not minding the ethnicity, the religion, you know, in politics everybody is your own, people of different religion, people of different tribe, you will be with them, you will discuss with them, you mingle with them, so, I felt you can help your people more if you are a politician. Because sometimes if you are not a politician you have reservations, some people will not even be open with you, they will not come closer to you, but as a politician, even people that you are not in the same party with them, they will come closer to you, they will not feel free to ask you questions, to ask you for assistance. I think a politician can assist more, compared to people that are not politicians. As a politician, your doors should always be open for everybody, the children, your age group, your seniors, the elders, the youths and also the old ones, they can come to you at any time. So, you can talk to people, mingle with people. In occasions people will see you, interact with them, so I have that zeal, and definitely I have the passion for helping people in many ways, especially these days that employment is becoming very difficult. So, as a politician you can assist people to maybe go through training so that they can acquire skills so that our youths can be self-reliant. So, I joined politics to make me develop a lot of people. You are taking over from somebody.

Where do you intend to start from going by what your predecessor has done or started? To me anything that is good is good and anything that is bad is bad. Where the previous government did things that are right we will continue from there, those that are not right we will abandon them. I know that every government usually come with its own intention, for example, if the previous government is building a school and is not completed I will not say let us abandon it and do a new one, all the projects started that are beneficial to our people will be prioritised, what we have at heart is Bauchi State and its entire citizens. I don’t like a system where if someone is doing something good another government will come and say it will start afresh, this is not a good way of doing things. If somebody is doing a good thing it should be completed. Our problem is what does the people of Bauchi State need. For example, if the people of Bauchi are crying for school and somebody say okay, let us go and buy aeroplane, I don’t think that is what the people of Bauchi State want. So we will make sure that we do the needful by ensuring that what our people want is what we will do and not those projects that are not necessary. I will only be a party to decisions that will uplift the living condition of my people. Your predecessor served only one term of four years and was changed by your people. What did he do that you intend to do different? I think the issue of leadership, especially somebody that came to power through election, it is the people that elected the previous lawmaker, so people still felt that he was not performing well, that was why they replaced him after spending four years. I am taking over from somebody who spent only four years, and in my local government this is the only time a member will spend only four years, most of the members have been spending eight years. But the situation is, if you see things like that, that means the person have performed below the expectations of the electorates, because if he performed to their expectations I don’t think he would have spent only four years and they decided not to vote for him again. I think it depends on ones’ performance. So, I am praying that God will help me to do the needful. I did campaign and I know what I told them and I want to do more than what I promised them.

A party is just a platform that helps a politician to be elected, you cannot be elected until you come through a political party, but a member is a member and to me my main aim and vision is ‎to see how Bauchi State will be developed, the issue of party does not even arise because as members, for example, a speaker can come from any party, not minding whether he is from the PDP or from the APC, whether the PDP have the majority, or the APC has the majority

he wants. So, these are things that will have a direct bearing on your people. So, I have a lot of things in my mind that I will come with it. There are some laws that when you come with it, for example, I read forestry, people can go there, destroying trees, you can see problem of erosion, problem of desertification, so when you come up with a law that will guard against cutting of trees , you will discover that it has a direct benefit to our people. So, in making laws, there are laws that when you come with, it will definitely help the people.

Nakwada What do you think endeared the people of your constituency to vote for you? You know, if you are a man of the people and you are always with them and they can access you at the time they want, the time they want to see you and you avail yourself, there are some things they want you to do and you are doing it, that will give them confidence, that will make them to give you their votes. The votes that I received from my constituency is beyond expectation, because my opponent, that is the person that contested under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress at that time, I think the difference in my votes and his own is more than nine thousand, because he got about eight thousand and something while I got about seventeen thousand votes, I cannot tell you the number actually, but I know that is the figure. So, I think my people really supported me seriously and they know me very well, I will be accessible and I will try my best. The constitutional responsibility of legislators is to make laws, put the executive arm to checks and what have you. What should the people of your constituency expect from you? There are a lot of things that they can benefit from me. You know, before you even talk about developmental projects, at the National or state Assembly, there are a lot of laws that you come with that will have a direct bearing on your people, you approve budgets, without the budget being approved most of these projects will not be executed. So, you see a kind of the determination of maybe the governor, what

You are coming to the Assembly that is dominated by APC, don’t you think it will pose a serious challenge to you in such a way that your voice would not be heard? Well, to me that is not a challenge. A party is just a platform that helps a politician to be elected, you cannot be elected until you come through a political party, but a member is a member and to me my main aim and vision is to see how Bauchi State will be developed, the issue of party does not even arise because as members, for example, a speaker can come from any party, not minding whether he is from the PDP or from the APC, whether the PDP have the majority, or the APC has the majority, if the members know what they are doing they will elect somebody that will really keep the house in order and again facilitate to make sure that we develop our state and our constituencies. So, issue of party is not a challenge to me. Recently, 13 out of 31 state lawmakers passed a bill repealing an existing law that allows for the recovery of public properties stolen by government officials. What is your reaction to that? I cannot be a party to that one. To me, that is, let me say a childish play. There is no how, we are talking about transparency, any person that executes a particular project and decided that nobody should now check on him I don’t think that is the right thing to do. If to say, most of the governments that were there before them did like that, I can say that after I serve I will go away with the government house , government house will belong to me, so I think that law should not be assented to. One of the constitutional responsibilities of legislators is not only to make laws, but to also check the excesses of the executive arm. How prepared are you to join your fellow house members in carrying out such task? I will not be a party to anything ‎that will be done in negative, so anything that will be done positively that will really make my state to move ahead is what I will do and I have to supervise most of the things that belongs to my constituency, be it their rights, their belongings, I wouldn’t like a situation whereby my constituency will be shortchanged in anything, I will not be a party to that.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, June 4, 2019

QUOTABLE QUOTES

A friend is one who knows you and loves you just the same. Elbert Hubbard https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

dailytimesnigeria

www.facebook.com/dailytimesngr

APC and its midnight children

Sports TUESDAY, JUNE 4, 2019

VOL. 3

NO. 961

N100

Times Guest Columnst

By Dame Julie Okah-Donli The custom in most African societies forbid whistling at night. Man is presumed to exercise dominion only over day. The ungodly hours are, in turn, conceded to dark creatures and fearsome principalities. So, it is thought that any unnatural sound may arouse the wrath of the gods of the night, thereby rupturing the harmony and balance of the social space. In folklore, deviants of this ancestral norm are characterized as a curse on the community. But to be sure, these are not to be mistaken for the loftier characters in Salman Rushdie’s magic-realist novel, Midnight Children. The magical exploits of Rushdie’s own fictive Saleem bear striking semblance with postcolonial India in turmoil. Though losing his power of telepathy after a medical procedure, Saleem instead gains a powerful sense of smell. However, unlike the sometimes transformative magic of Rushdie’s incarnation, the midnight children in the referenced African fable revel in mischief, malice and pettiness. In contemporary Nigeria, no one presents a more compelling parallel than All Progressive Congress. On the eve of its supposed hour of glory, the ruling party is in the news across the federation for the wrong reasons — troubles stirred by its own mutation of the metaphorical midnight children, increasingly constituting a nightmare to the nation at large. So, even as resolute mother APC seeks to forge ahead in the communal market, her preoccupation now partly seems how to rein the wayward hands of the child on her back into the girdle, lest they scatter the merchandise on display sideways. Nowhere is this anxiety better dramatized than Ogun where people have been forced to watch the comic folly of the Governor Ibikunle Amosun seeking to hide behind a finger. Though still wearing APC colours, it is open secret that the departing Ogun governor is funding the cases of all APM candidates at the election tribunal against APC members — from those elected into the state assembly to the governor-elect. Still, bitterness over the defeat of his anointed (Adekunle Akinlade) by Dapo Abiodun in the last governorship polls has turned Amosun to a squirrel digging holes all over Abeokuta, curiously on the eve of his exit. And whenever he bites his own finger to ventilate that seething rage, his anger is probably compounded realizing that what hits him back instead is physical pain and that no blood drips from the swollen bite-mark. When Abiodun’s people protested the festering plague of holes in Abeokuta, Amosun told another cheap lie to defend the first one. The man with the distinctive machete cap or “Fila-defia” (a jocular allusion to America’s Philadelphia city of highrises, “fila” being Yoruba word for hat) said he was only sprucing the state capital up ahead of the visit by President Muhammadu Buhari to commission his legacy projects, as well as prepare the grounds for the subsequent inauguration of the governor-in-waiting on May 29. If that was the sincere intention, you would expect that drab walls be painted anew and gaping potholes filled instead. But in Amosun’s warped logic, you dig holes to make a city more alluring. Worse, while the governor’s towncriers were busy parroting that spin last weekend in response to public outcry, they did not seem to realize that what was left unsaid showcased them in squalid lights. One, transition of this nature is supposed to be a collaboration between officials of the

outgoing administration and nominees of the incoming. Instead, magisterial Amosun was said to have made public buildings and vehicles inaccessible to the committee raised by Abiodun to midwife his inauguration. Besides, not a single kobo was said to have been made available by the Amosun administration for Abiodun’s team to work with. So desperate have matters become that Abiodun’s people have had to make contigency arrangements on some necessities. For instance, this writer reliably gathered that his team had to travel to Osun State to borrow an open-back jeep for the customary parade at the inauguration. Since Amosun has continued to hold tight to Ogun’s, insisting on deploying same for an elaborate “pull-out” ceremony he was arranging for himself on May 28. Apart from digging craters, Amosun’s mischievous caterpillars were also reportedly deployed to either crack the soil in some communities or cannibalize the royal institutions across Ogun. In a desperate craving for public applause, the governor was also sighted performing “flag-off” rites for road projects amid dancing and praise-singing by paid drummers in a mindlessly elaborate exercise in public deceit barely a week to his departure! Of course, everyone knows that even the drivers of the emergency earthmovers would soon leave with Amosun. While such ground-breaking event may soon be forgotten, not so with the royal gerrymandering Amosun has inflicted. No fewer than 73 chiefs who had lent themselves to Amosun as political hirelings were unilaterally upgraded to Oba status without due consultation in what is widely seen as a vicious slap on the Alake of Egbaland and the Awujale of Ijebuland. So, it is obvious that the incoming Abiodun administration will be inheriting a royal crisis. In Zamfara, it is a case of shortlived revelry. Fumbling Governor Abdulaziz Yari would be made to realize rather too late the limit of the power of American dollars. Under him, the ruling party has made history as the one who supposedly won landslide victory at the polls but denied the trophy eventually. The story we heard initially was that the state chapter of the ruling party failed to meet INEC’s deadline for primaries. When told this bitter truth, the deluded emperor in turn threatened to literally plunge everyone standing in his way to foisting all his stooges on Zamfara into the grave, not excluding himself. First resorting to the sorcery of a cartel of shifty judges, Yari pushed himself over the first hurdle by securing assorted “black-market” court orders. Then, he fell for the sweet tongues of some Ponzi conmen lurking around Abuja. The whiff of American dollars in uncountable sacks apparently proved too irresistible at the party headquarters. In fact, the fixers with itchy fingers and wearing necklace made of glutton’s teeth hardly thought twice before surrendering the entire booklet of party tickets to the dollars Sheik from Gusau. But just when Yari probably began to visualize Zamfara in his grotesque image beyond the midnight of May 28 (when his second tenure would end), came the rude shocker from Supreme Court last weekend pronouncing a regicide of sorts against all those elected on APC platform in the last general elections. In what could only have been inspired by a sense of sardonic humour, the court further slapped him with a fine of N10m (American dollars?). With that, Yari’s earlier bluster to

dispense political euthanasia freely would now seem to have partly turned a selffulfillig prophesy. Yari’s career bofoonery is perhaps only matched by Rochas Okorocha’s epic fawning in Imo State. For a man who rode to power eight years ago chanting “Rescue Mission”, how ironic that he himself is ending at the terminus politically wounded, his political empire in utter disarray, after a failed experiment at monarchism (“iberiberism”?). While a sulking Okorocha would today lament a high conspiracy against him, what he would not admit is that he was actually outbidded in the sleazy bazaar camouflaged as party primaries last October, from where the rain truly began to beat him. As the popular account goes, someone supplied four times the amount of American dollars Okorocha allegedly offered to have his son-in-law made APC candidate in the governorship polls. Now, aside the eternal shame of not having his son-in-law succeed him as governor after all the public boast, Okorocha faces additional trauma of a hostile takeover of the Douglas House with EFCC Rottweilers already barking ferociously at the gates. In Oyo, we are listening to the bitter ending of the “Koseleri” panegyrics. When Abiola Ajimobi took over in 2011, workers jubilated. But he is leaving office amid labour strike. Being the first to win a second term democratically after a long succession of governors apparently got him so intoxicated as to arrogantly proclaim himself “the constituted authority” when some poor students heckled him for a more humane administration of their institution. Those still in doubt were taken into the literary appreciation of the term, “Koseleri” (it has never happened before). But beaten silly in the subsequent polls and apparently afraid history might not remember him afterall, Ajimobi has embarked on perhaps the most bizarre pursuit of self-validation — a cynical attempt at self-immortalization. By not seeing any shame in rushing to name a major street after himself in Ibandan few days to his exit, Ajimobi has only ended up portraying himself as another incurably insecure megalomaniac seeking to preempt the verdict of the posterity. In Lagos, sadly, Akinwunmi Ambode appears too traumatized, too disoriented by the loss of second term ticket last October to sustain his earlier presence of mind and finish strong. Nothing perhaps tells the tale of his diminished shadow better than the staccato of discordant tunes around his last days. The magnificence of the new Oshodi bus interchange is, for instance, tainted by the side-talk that what President Buhari commissioned in April was a halfcompleted job. The allure of a section of the International Airport Road reconstructed is, in turn, smeared by the deepening squalor of the equally important Lagos-Badagry expressway. So much that last week, thousands of protesting residents of the axis poured onto the now famished road completely forsaken in the past four years. Again, the transformation of Epe to a scenic wonder is contrasted by the continuing degradation of Apapa today. Added to that is a rather disturbing and yet undischarged allegation of squandering a staggering N49b of taxpayers’ money on the eve of Ambode’s exit from power. Everything considered, it will, therefore, not be incorrect to say that these midnight children of APC are exiting the stage not in a blaze of glory, but with the whimper of a broken whistle.

Michel Platini blasts Gianni Infantino, says he has ‘no legitimacy’ The former head of European football Michel Platini has blasted FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of his re-election saying he has “no legitimacy” and that he previously mocked women’s football. “He has no legitimacy, he is not credible as FIFA president,” Platini said in an interview with French sports daily L’Equipe and several other European newspapers. There is no love lost between Platini, who was banned from football activities over a two million Swiss francs (1.8 million euros, $2 million) payment from FIFA, and Infantino, his former right-hand man. Platini claimed that when Infantino was in his previous job as UEFA secretary-general “everyone knew that he was always criticising

FIFA”. With the women’s World Cup set to kick off in France on Friday, Platini even claimed that Infantino, when they worked together at UEFA, never supported the development of women’s football. “How can he promote women’s football when he always used to make fun of it? He never believed in it,” Platini said. Infantino, who became FIFA chief in 2015 after the scandal-tainted reign of Sepp Blatter, is set to be re-elected unopposed to a second term at a FIFA congress in Paris on Wednesday. Platini, who starred as a player for Saint Etienne and Italian giants Juventus, is now campaigning for FIFA to lift his four-year ban from the sport.

Jose Mourinho: AFCON title would help Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances Jose Mourinho believes Mohamed Salah has the quality to challenge for the Ballon d’Or, but thinks the Liverpool star needs to win the Africa Cup of Nations to help his cause. Salah has been an important part of Jurgen Klopp’s team over the last two seasons, taking home the Premier League Golden Boot twice while winning the EPL Player of the Year award in 2017-18. His penalty and a late strike from substitute Divock Origi earned the Reds their sixth Champions League triumph against Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid. However, he has yet to crack the mix for the Ballon d’Or, an award won by either Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi every season since 2008 until Lukas Modric ended the run in 2018. Mourinho believes the two-time African Player of the Year has the talent of those two giants of the game, but thinks he must win the 2019 Afcon to be considered as for the individual gong. “Salah has to win the African Cup of Nations if he wants to compete for the Ballon

d’Or,” told beIN Sports. “The tournament is taking place in Egypt, which makes it a demand that has to be achieved.” After a failed mission at the 2018 Fifa World Cup Russia, the Pharaohs would be gunning for their eighth continental crown when they host the rest of Africa. Javier Aguirre’s side have been zoned in Group A alongside Zimbabwe, DR Congo and Uganda. They begin their campaign against the Warriors in Cairo on June 21.

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS Plc. Corporate Office: 9 Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja Email: info@dailytimes.ng; DTNcontent@gmail.com Managing Editor: BONAVENTURE MELAH, Tel: 08036062975. Ag. Editor: SAM NZEH, Tel: 08050220692, Email: samnzeh2015@gmail.com

Advert Hotlines 0803 302 0395 0705 094 1800