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In a bid to ensure a victorious outing in the September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship Election, stakeholders of the Labour Party under the aegis of the Labour Party Forum for Justice, Equity and Fairness have called on the party leadership to adopt Barr. Ken Imasuangbon as the gubernatorial candidate and Olumide Akpata as his deputy.

According to Dr. Ben Osage, in a press statement, the move is aimed at upholding the principles of equity, justice, and fairness, which are the hallmarks of the Labour Party. He noted that the party’s chances of winning the election are threatened by the current ticket, which has been marred by controversy and legal challenges.

Osage argued that the party’s failure to adhere to the principles of power rotation and inclusiveness could lead to a loss of credibility and electoral defeat. He pointed out that other political parties have demonstrated a commitment to equity and fairness in their selection of candidates, and the Labour Party should follow suit.

The stakeholders’ position is that Barr. Ken Imasuangbon, from Edo Central, should be the party’s gubernatorial candidate, while Olumide Akpata should serve as his deputy. This, they believe, will ensure a united and formidable campaign that can secure victory for the party.

The statement also commended the efforts of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reconcile all interests and reorganize the party for effective participation in the democratic process. However, the stakeholders emphasized that genuine reconciliation must prioritize justice, equity, and fairness.

With the election drawing near, the Labour Party faces a critical decision that will determine its fate in the poll. Will the party heed the call of its stakeholders and adopt a ticket that embodies the principles of equity, justice, and fairness? Only time will tell.

CSOs Give Reasons Nigerians Should Support Cyber Security Levy

Members of Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis of Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) have urged the federal government to reintroduce the Cyber Security Levy considering the advantages of enhancer security framework of financial operations in the country.

According the CSOs ,advantages of the cyber security Levy far outweighs the excuses given for revoking it.

Nigeria’s central bank did withdraw the controversial 0.5% cybersecurity levy on electronic transfers three days before it was supposed to take effect.

The levy was seen as “regressive” by financial industry experts due to the increase in the cost of an electronic transaction amidst the country’s highest inflation rate in thirty years and a cost of living crisis. Following mounting pressure from labour unions, the federal government suspended the levy and said it would be reviewed on Tuesday

The Civil Society Organisations in
a Communique issued after a one-day Review Meeting held at Arewa Auditorium today on with the theme: “Economic implications of Revoking the Cyber Security Levy vis-a-vis the advantages” backed the reintroduction of the Levy,since it’s in line with internationally best practices .

In the communique jointly signed by the National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara,members of the CSOs across 28 States of Nigeria reviewed the pros and cons and agree that the cyber security levy will enhance the security framework of financial operations.

While insisting that the Cyber Security Levy should be Re-Introduced considering the advantages, the CSOs said there is no alternate to a secured and trustworthy electronic transaction environment which will promote economic growth and digital financial inclusion.

According to the groups, considering the country’s battered image globally, the Levy will help fund the development of a robust cybersecurity infrastructure . Stressing,”Cyber funding has become a veritable means of funding for terrorists and there’s no way to combat terrorism successfully without denying them there sources of funding.

Further explaining reasons for supporting CBN over the Cyber Security Levy is the implementation of advanced security measures; protecting financial institutions and customers from cyber threats and attacks by the so called ,”Yahoo Boys” .Adding that Cyber crimes have destroyed the lives of many young people and must be discouraged.

The communique further reads: “That in Compliance with Global Standards, the levy will help Nigeria align with international best practices in cybersecurity; enhancing the country’s reputation and attract foreign investment, as investors will be assured of a secure environment for their investments.

“Against this background,We have strongly come out to support the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) circular and letter to all banks dated June25,2018(Ref:BPS/DlR/GEN/ClR/05/008)October5,2018(Ref:BSD/DIR/GEN/LAB/11/023) respectively on compliance with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015 refer.

“We did concur in line with the enactment of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) (Amendment) Act 2024 and pursuant to the provision of Section 44 (2)(a) of the Act, “a levy of 0.5% (0.005) equivalent to a half per cent of all electronic transactions value by the business specified in the Second Schedule of the Act’, which is to be remitted to the National Cybersecurity Fund (NCF), which shall be administered by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

“This because, the implementation of the Levy will no doubt enhance National Security and guarantee strengthening of cybersecurity; protecting critical infrastructure and sensitive information.”

In an unprecedented show of solidarity, the Arewa Youth Assembly For Good Leadership (AYAGL) and Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) have rallied behind the Minister of State, Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, against what they describe as “political wolves” trying to bring him down.

The youth groups have condemned the recent sponsored protests against Matawalle, calling them a “nefarious attempt” to tarnish his reputation and distract him from his good work. According to them, Matawalle’s commitment to the progress and development of Northern Nigeria has made him a target for “political predators” who want to see him fail.

The groups praised Matawalle’s performance as Minister, citing the recent promotion exercise in the Nigerian Navy as an example of his fairness and patriotism. They also passed a vote of confidence in him, describing him as a “beacon of hope” for the people of Northern Nigeria.

The youth groups warned those behind the sponsored protests to desist, saying “No Youth of Northern Extraction should allow himself to be used against this selfless public servant. Matawalle’s love for progress and development of Zamfara State and Northern Nigeria has no bound, therefore, all hands must be on deck to support him and to encourage him.”

This bold move by the youth groups has sent a clear message to those who want to bring Matawalle down: “We stand with our champion!” And with this, the stage is set for a showdown between the forces of good and the forces of evil. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell!

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has given a resounding endorsement to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), praising its unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. This glowing tribute comes on the heels of presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent comments acknowledging INEC’s integrity.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima lauded INEC for its unrelenting efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process, emphasizing that the commission’s credibility and impartiality are crucial to the country’s progress. He commended INEC for its dedication to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and protecting citizens’ democratic rights.

The forum also condemned judicial interference in electoral affairs, urging the judiciary to respect the boundaries of its role and allow INEC to perform its constitutional duties without hindrance. Excessive judicial interference, the AYCF warned, poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundations.

The AYCF called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to support INEC’s independence in conducting credible elections. It also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively participate in the electoral process to safeguard democratic principles.

By praising INEC’s commitment to democracy and condemning judicial overreach, the AYCF aims to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria’s electoral system.

By Dattijo Sani Rano PhD

The grand conspiracy from Northern Nigeria against the reemergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term that was hinted at by the President’s loyal political allies in the region is gradually but surely coming into the open.
The recent open declaration by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) that the North would work against Tinubu in 2027 is a clear indication that there are powerful forces at work to undermine the President’s second term chances and set the stage for a carefully orchestrated plot against him.
This bold and unequivocal statement by the NEF has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as it reveals a clear intent to thwart Tinubu’s ambitions. The fact that such a group has openly declared its opposition to Tinubu’s bid speaks volumes about the deep-seated opposition and resistance he faces from outside and within his own political circles. It is further evidence that there are powerful forces at play who are determined to derail his political aspirations with a concerted effort to block his path to a second term.
The alignment of key players like the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces against him further highlights the depth of this conspiracy. The connivance of leaders from the North and the self-serving greed of those within the Presidential Villa are enabling this plot to take root and thrive.
The emergence of key figures such as Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda and Prof Khalifa Dikwa, who have openly criticized Tinubu’s administration and suggested Kashim Shettima as alternative candidate for the presidency, sheds light on the depth of the conspiracy. These individuals, along with the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces, are actively working to undermine Tinubu’s drive and pave the way for their own agendas.
In the midst of this sinister plot, Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, along with other key figures such as Prof Khalifa Dikwa, have expressed their support for the North East Forum’s position regarding the potential replacement of President Tinubu. Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, the arrowhead for the Northwestern plank of the plan, has even gone so far as to suggest Vice President Kashim Shettima as a likely preferred candidate.
This stance was further solidified by Prof Khalifa Dikwa, the Dean of Borno Elders Forum, who has raised false concerns about the perceived weaknesses and lopsided nature of President Tinubu’s appointments. These individuals seem to be united in their belief that a change in leadership is necessary.
The insidious nature of this conspiracy is further exemplified by the awarding of a 147 billion naira contract to a Katsina opposition party strongman by a serving minister in the administration. This blatant display of betrayal and manipulation underscores the extent to which those within President Tinubu’s inner circle are willing to go to advance their own interests at the expense of the nation.
It is clear that President Tinubu is facing a formidable challenge from within his own ranks. The power struggle and backstabbing taking place behind the scenes threaten to derail his administration and undermine his legacy.
He must take immediate action to counteract the machinations of those seeking to undermine his aspiration. He must surround himself and listen to loyal and competent friends like the former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje who have lots of useful insight to share.
It is time for Tinubu to identify and remove the Judases within his camp, and forge ahead with a team of individuals that is dedicated to upholding the values of justice and honest enterprise.
It is imperative that President Tinubu takes swift and decisive action to counteract these malicious maneuvers. The recent award of a 140 billion naira contract to an opposition member by a serving minister is a glaring example of the subversion taking place within his own administration.
The warning signals from high-ranking northern appointees in the Tinubu administration must therefore not be ignored. The President must heed the advice of his remaining two vigorous supporters and allies before it is too late. The time for complacency is over; President Tinubu must act decisively to protect his presidency and ensure the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.
Tinubu should be aware of the challenges he is facing from an emerging opposition that aims to weaken his support base in the northern region of the country. Already, several of his loyal friends and partners, such as Nasir Elrufai, Yahaya Bello, and Aminu Bello Masari, have been marginalized through the opposition’s manipulative tactics.
The only two allies left standing, Ganduje and Matawalle, are also under constant attack and defamation, with the ultimate goal of eroding Tinubu’s influence in the north. This concerted effort to dismantle Tinubu’s support base is a clear indication of the threat posed by this emerging opposition.
Tinubu must take note of these developments and take necessary steps to safeguard his political interests in the northern region. It is imperative that he strengthens his alliances, engages in strategic planning, and remains vigilant against any attempts to undermine his position.
It is time to rise to the occasion, take control of the narrative, and assert his authority over those seeking to undermine him. The success of his administration and the future of the nation depend on his ability to navigate these treacherous waters and emerge victorious against the forces seeking to derail his leadership and future chances.
Only by remaining vigilant and steadfast in the face of adversity can he secure his place in history as a leader who stood firm against the forces of division and discord.
(Rano, a political analyst, writes from Kano and can be reached at: DrRanoMD@gmail.com)

The Yoruba Youth Council, YYC, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack the Chief of Naval Staff, CNS, Emmanuel Ogalla for allegations of supporting oil thieves levelled against him. Besides, it passed a vote of no confidence on Ogalla, and called on the President to order a thorough investigation of the CNS, in view of what it described as recurring allegations of large-scale corruption and support for oil theft syndicates against him.

In a statement on Sunday by its National President Comrade Eric Oluwole, the coalition, which is an umbrella body of Yoruba youths nationwide, accused the CNS of sabotaging the President’s efforts against oil theft in view of allegations levelled against him.

The coalition spoke against the backdrop of allegations by another group of Nigerians of large-scale corruption and involvement in procurement fraud and contract splitting, in violation of the Procurement Act against the CNS. That group in January had levelled the allegations against the CNS in a petition to the Federal Government Tunubu led administration, who had vowed the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption.

The YYC said that it was disturbed that allegations were still flying around that the CNS is sabotaging Mr President’s efforts in fighting oil theft. For instance, it said there are allegations that a ship recently arrested by private security for oil theft was released to its owners after series of agitation by stakeholders; and that tank vessels were being allowed to evacuate or dilute exhibit in the name of taking samples, which ideally are taken in small bottles for laboratory tests.

The YYC said it gathered that the President had ordered the re-arrest of the said ship and sanctioned full investigation. It named the vessels involved in the alleged recent oil theft incident tagged MT PRESITGOUS AT BONNY ANCHORAGE.

Oluwole said: “It is in view of these disturbing allegations, and a strongly-worded petition to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in January that we the YYC call on the President to sack the CNS and order a full-scale probe into his activities while in office.

“We are fully in support of the ongoing efforts of the President and his administration to fight head-on oil theft, and stop its long-term bleeding of the Nigerian economy.

“Therefore we call on the President to remove any stumbling block on his path to successfully fight this monster called oil theft which he inherited, and sanitise the entire oil sector.”

A group of concerned Nigerians comprising of lawyers, human rights activists and anti-corruption crusaders, had in January petitioned Federal Government expressing concerns over some allegations against the CNS.

According to their petition: “At a time when the country is grappling with significant revenue losses due to crude oil theft, it is distressing to discover that the Chief of Naval Staff, whose primary responsibility it is to safeguard Nigeria’s waterways against oil theft and other forms of criminality, is allegedly colluding with the perpetrators of these heinous crimes against the Nigerian state.”

Group under aegis of Forum For Good Governance (FGGN), has come out strongly to defend the President’s Son,Mr. Seyi Tinubu after former Vice President,Alhaji Atiku Abubakar faulted the award of contract to a company he serves as a board member.

The former Vice President had accused the federal government of awarding construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway to Hitech Construction Company Ltd.

He did allege that Seyi is a director on the board of CDK Integrated Industries, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group, which is a parent company of Hitech.

However ,In a press Statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara, the group said the fact that Seyi’s father is the President should not deny him access to pursue legitimate business interests within and outside the country.

While stating that the gigantic projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway would no doubt boost the economy; engender growth and development, it noted, “Seyi Tinubu an adult,who has a right to do business in as much as ,it’s within the limits of the law.”

The Statement further reads: “From the information we gathered, Seyi joined the Board of Directors of CDK in 2018 as an investor, with a good record of performance. So ,why deny such investor with capacity right to business patronage because, his father is the president.

“Unfortunately for Atiku who raised the issue, the Chairman of CDK and the highest shareholder of the company is General T.Y. Danjuma (retd.) and not Seyi Tinubu, who has been involved in business several years,before the father became President.

“The big question we are asking Atiku is , ” How has Seyi as an investor on the board of CDK, conflicts with Hitech Construction Company’s work on Lagos-Calabar Coastal superhighway.

“He who must come to equity must come with clean hands. If Atiku raised an issue of conflict of interest,what we do say of him during his days as the vice-president, established Intels Nigeria with an Italian entrepreneur while serving in the Nigeria Customs Service .

“When he was Vice President of Nigeria between 1999-2007, he maintained his business links with Intels that won major port concession deals in Nigeria.”

A maelstrom of outrage is brewing in the Niger Delta region as Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, a venerable Igbo socio-cultural organization, exposes the egregious oil theft scandal perpetuated by the very individuals sworn to protect the nation’s resources. Despite the formidable presence of naval officials, oil thieves operate with brazen impunity, leaving Nigerians in a state of utter despair. Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has issued a thunderous call for a radical overhaul of the Naval high command, citing the incessant allegations of oil theft and the glaring complicity of naval officials. The recent incident involving MT MONTAGU and MT PRESTIGIOUS has laid bare the shocking extent of the corruption, with naval officials releasing a ship carrying stolen crude oil despite a counter order to re-arrest it. “This is a stinging rebuke to President Tinubu’s anti-corruption crusade!” Okwu exclaimed. “How can we entrust the Naval high command with our oil resources when they are complicit in the theft?” The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has thrown its weight behind President Tinubu’s efforts to vanquish corruption, but warns that the current Naval hierarchy is a formidable obstacle to progress. “We urge the President to take decisive action and appoint an Igbo officer as replacement to restore integrity and transparency in the oil production chain,” Okwu said. As Nigerians continue to suffer the excruciating pangs of corruption, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has vowed to stand firm against the rot in the system. “We will not rest until sanity is restored to the oil production chain and the corrupt elements in the Naval hierarchy are brought to justice,” Okwu declared. The clock is ticking, and the nation holds its breath as it awaits President Tinubu’s response to this clarion call. Will he heed the warning and take bold action to address the corruption in the Naval high command, or will the status quo continue to prevail? Only time will tell.

In a dramatic move, the Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has passed a vote of no confidence in the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, amid allegations of economic sabotage and criminal activities within the Navy. This bold action has sent shockwaves through the nation, as the NDYC condemned the Navy’s involvement in crude oil theft, diversion, and providing security escorts for oil thieves, labeling it a betrayal of the nation’s trust.

The NDYC has demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations, including the recent incident involving MT PRESTIGIOUS and MT MONTAGU, and is calling for those found guilty to face justice. As Nigeria struggles with economic challenges, the NDYC emphasized that such activities only worsen the suffering of the Nigerian people. They urged the government to take immediate action to address the situation and promote lawful maritime activities for the benefit of all Nigerians.

This development puts pressure on the government to take action against the alleged criminal activities within the Navy and ensure accountability among its leadership. The fate of the Navy’s leadership hangs in the balance, as the nation awaits a response to this crisis. Will the government take decisive action, or will they succumb to pressure? The nation waits with bated breath as the situation unfolds.

Akatu Odeh Olonta

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has come hard on those who staged a protest against the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle.

A group of people were spotted at the Abuja office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, demanding re-opening of investigation against the former Zamfara governor.

Reacting to the development, the National President of the Ohanaeze Youths, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said the protest was in a chain of actions lined up to discredit the minister for standing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Okwu recalled that he had earlier raised the alarm over the plot by some Northerners opposed to Tinubu’s leadership to slam Matawalle’s image, having seen him as the rallying point for Mr President in the North.

He said, “It is, therefore, not a surprise that early Friday morning, the same people recruited people from the outskirts of Abuja and moved them to the city centre to protest against the minister. 

“There was no doubt that most of the said protesters were ignorant of their mission to the EFCC office; they merely came to deliver on the job they were assembled to do.

“We therefore, once more retrait our advice to His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu not to be deceived by the same people who have vowed to truncate his second term in 2027.

“We urge Mr President to be wary of these desperadoes who are hellbent on destroying any good person around his government. They should not be given any space at all to thrive in their evil machinations.” 

“Once more, we stand solidly behind the Defence Minister and urge him to continue the good work he is doing, as could be seen in the improved security across the country,” Okwu stated.

He vowed that a time would soon come when “we will expose all those behind this desperate attempt to discredit the current government.”