Just In:Fayose announces arrival at EFCC office

FTwGoPintLin

The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, on Tuesday announced his arrival at the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja.

Fayose made this known on his Twitter handle @GovAyoFayose.

He posted a picture of himself wearing a customized T-shirt with the inscription “EFCC I’m Here”

He said: “I’m now in the custody of EFCC. While I’m here, my media aide, @OlayinkaLere will operate this twitter handle.”

WE DIDN'T ENDORSE ATIKU - Bishop Kukah Explains Picture In Circulation

WE DID NOT ENDORSE ATIKU!  THE PHOTO OPS WAS STAGED!!!*

*FMR. PRESIDENT OBASANJO & ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR: A RECONCILIATION NOT AN ENDORSEMENT.*

*Bishop Matthew Hassan KUKAH*

I have deliberately made this explanatory note long because I think it is necessary that people make up their minds based on the facts, given my central role in the event. I note that Sheikh Gumi has already told his own side of the story. I feel obliged to state my own side so that Nigerians can have a clearer picture of my own involvement. Sadly, I personally did not read President Obasanjo’s statement until two days later on the Internet since I was not physically in the hall.

Although trying to reconcile President Obasanjo and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar was something I had been working on intermittently in the last few years, nothing could have prepared me for the way things finally shaped up. My focus all along had been with President Obasanjo and I had never brought Alhaji Abubakar into what I was doing. Quite fortuitously, a chance meeting changed the tide in favour of reconciliation.

Understandably, the pictures of the four of us (President Obasanjo, Alhaji Abubakar, Shaikh Gumi and I) literally lit up the social media and elicited divergent reactions from the general public. Although over 99% of the reactions that have come to me have been largely those of commendation, with people focusing, rightly, on the reconciliation, there have been others whose focus has been on an isolated development that had absolutely nothing to do with what I had in mind all these years, namely, the endorsement.

I must say that I am eternally grateful to God that this reconciliation finally happened. The focus of attention has been on the endorsement of Alhaji Abubakar by President Obasanjo, a development that I can call the third leg of the process which I initiated. I am not sure of President Obasanjo’s other interlocutors after we agreed to meet leading to the participation of other actors and so, I will only clear the air on what I can take full responsibility for.

Let me state first that I am a priest of the Catholic Church and by the grace of God, a Bishop. I have more than a passing knowledge of our discipline and doctrine in matters relating to the role of a Catholic priest in political engagement. My doctoral thesis was on Religion and Politics in
Nigeria. So, this is an area that I have written and spoken extensively about for over thirty years.

I am therefore very clear about the boundaries, the slippery slopes and the contexts. Unlike Shaikh Gumi and Rev. Oyedepo who were invited to this event, I am a central actor. So let me explain what really happened.

On Tuesday, October 9th, 2018 I had the honor of being the Guest Speaker for the annual Conference of the Four Square Gospel Church in Alagomeji, Lagos. (The Presidential Spokesman, Femi Adesina, a member of this Church had first invited me some years back but I could not honour the invitation). President Obasanjo was the Chairman of the occasion. At the end of the lecture, he indicated that he would have to leave because he had a scheduled meeting.

I told him I needed to see him briefly and he obliged. I brought up again the issue of what he thought of his reconciliation with Alhaji Atiku.
My last discussion with him this year was either January or February. His response was still negative and he told me what he later told the media. I reminded him that I was not interested in the politics of reconciliation but the spiritual angle. After all, I said to him, ‘as a Christian, this is an important thing for you to do’. He was quiet and then said he would speak with me later that evening on his final decision. We parted, he to his car and I returned to the Church to end the event.

At about 9pm the same Tuesday, he called to say that he had thought over the issues I had raised and finally decided to accept my suggestion and that yes, he would be happy to reconcile with Alhaji Abubakar. When did he think we could meet then, I asked him? He said he would look at his diary and get back to me later. Then, just before 11pm the same Tuesday, I received another call from him saying his diary was full, that the earliest date for him was October 21st. I accepted happily and told him that I would try and reach Alhaji Abubakar either directly, or through his aides to convey the news.

My initial intention had been to return to Abuja that same evening from Lagos, but my hosts at the Four Square Gospel had suggested that I should get some rest. Next morning, Wednesday October 10th, after I had finished celebrating the Holy Mass, I received a call from President Obasanjo: ‘Bishop, listen, I have changed my mind’. My heart nearly sank, but before I could ask why, he said: ‘Let us do it tomorrow if you can reach Atiku. I am going to deliver a lecture in Ife and will be back home before 1pm. So, tell him to come at 1pm’. I started frantic efforts to reach Alhaji Atiku without luck. I reached one of his aides, Paul Ibe, and asked him to please let him know I am trying to reach him. Finally, at about 1pm, I received a call from him. I told him what had happened with President Obasanjo. He agreed and said he would be in Abeokuta for 1pm on Thursday.

I got back to my hosts, the Four Square Gospel Church to tell them about the change in my travelling plans especially as I had no car to take me to Abeokuta. I didn’t want to ask President Obasanjo’s people to send me a vehicle because I believed I needed a leeway of independence and trust. My hosts were exceedingly gracious in making a vehicle available, a driver and an aide to take me to Abeokuta. Earlier that morning, President Obasanjo had called me a second time and told me that he wanted Alhaji Abubakar to come with the Chairman of the PDP, and two or three others. He also told me he had also invited both Shaikh Gumi and Rev. Oyedepo. This was welcome news- Rev. Oyedepo is a kinsman of his, and the presence of Shaikh Gumi made sense.

I was a bit nervous, seeing that the circle was getting larger for something I thought was between three of us.I arrived Abeokuta about 12.15pm ahead of both President Obasanjo and Alhaji Abubakar and his team. Alhaji Abubakar and his team arrived, and then I saw more and more people coming in.

I saw familiar faces of different people who turned out to be the leaders of Afenifere. All these years, whenever I brought up this matter of reconciliation, my idea has always been for the three of us to sit down together. I still believed that the meeting would be between the two of them and the three religious leaders.

When President Obasanjo appeared, I walked up to him and said I wanted to know the protocol for the meeting. He suggested that we would meet in a hall and that I should say a few words about how we got here. I declined because it seemed again that at this point, we were in small forest of politics and I had no wish to be caught in it. I was happy that what I wanted to achieve had been achieved, namely, getting these two men to put the past behind them. My personal preoccupation was a pastoral one, and not a political one. I was uncomfortable with this and I decided to make my position clear. I offered a different proposal to help us sift the moral grain from the chaff of politics via a three-step process so as to insulate the three of us from the political fallout.

I proposed that the first step would be for he and Alhaji Abubakar to sit down behind closed doors, sort out their issues and then the next step would be for both Sheikh Gumi and I to go in and listen to the two of them as Rev. Oyedepo had not arrived. After that, I said, they could continue with the third phase which from what I could see was high wire politics and I had no wish to be caught in the web. After they both finished their brief meeting, Sheikh Gumi and I went in and sat down with the two of them. We had some small briefing and then both of us spoke briefly on what they had done, encouraging them to ensure that this reconciliation holds. I even said jokingly that I am a Catholic priest and our marriage vows are indissoluble! After that, we prayed and then took what has now become the famous photograph behind closed doors.

At this point, I felt that my spiritual duties had been achieved and I was prepared to maintain my independence. Sheikh Gumi and I shook hands and although I was hungry and food was being laid out, I skipped lunch. I quietly let myself out by the side door, got into the Four Square Gospel car and we drove off to Lagos. Despite the dread of Lagos traffic and the disruption of flights at the Airport in Lagos, I had declined the offer of a seat in the Aircrafts which had flown them to Abeokuta. Although flying with them was the best (and most convenient) assurance I had of getting to Abuja in time for a speaking engagement at an event with the Sultan and Cardinal Onaiyekan for 9am the next day, it was necessary to ensure that I took no favours from any of the two parties.

I was not in Abeokuta to endorse Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party. I perfectly understand the feelings of many of my friends and members of the opposition who believe that I travelled with Alhaji Abubakar and his team to attend his endorsement by President Obasanjo, but I reiterate that this was not the case. All the bills for my travel were settled by the Four Square Gospel hosts for the earlier dated programme who had bought my tickets, booked accommodation for me and took care to get me to the airport for my flight to Abuja and Sokoto.

I am a strong believer in a peaceful and united Nigeria, ideals for which I have striven and served my entire adult life as a thinker and a priest. My instincts for reconciliation and peace were sharpened during my involvement and experience with the Oputa Panel. When the Generals refused to respond to the invitation of Oputa Panel, I personally undertook to visit both General Babangida and Buhari (he was not at home) at a time that today’s latter day Buharists were asking the Panel to compel them to come or risk being blacked out of national life.

Objective-minded people will remember that back in 2001, when the Christian community and many of President Buhari’s opponents claimed that General Buhari had said that Muslims should vote only for Muslims, many people in the Christian community were disappointed that I wrote a long article to explain the context of what he had said after speaking with the General. His party, the ANPP later used part of my article for their 2003 campaigns! My faith and experience have taught me to learn to suspend judgment till I have heard both sides of a story, no matter what.

I hope that this clarification helps to allay the concerns of those who may have seen all of these in a different light. Many minds will remain set no matter the reasonableness of my comments here, and this is to be expected- one can not please everyone. This is why it is often best to seek to please only one’s own conscience, and here, mine is very clear.

I have been involved in a few behind-the-scene shuttle diplomacy for years, largely on my own initiative, taking advantage of my knowledge of those engaged in the conflict or at the invitation of third parties. Some have succeeded and some have not. As priest, it is not in my place to publicise what we have achieved.

I am the Convener of the National Peace Committee. This alone is enough to place a moral boundary which I am bound to respect. The NPC able to accomplish much because of trust and that is not what I can treat lightly. When it became clear that both President Obasanjo and Abubakar were on the verge of making peace, I alerted the Chairman of the NPC, General Abdusalam. Since I happen to be in Lagos, I drove to the Ikoyi home of Chief Emeka Anyaoku and alerted him. I spoke to my Metropolitan, the Archbishop of Kaduna, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso. All in all, everyone believed this was a very good move if we could achieve it. None of us imagined the third phase of this meeting.

Both theoretically and practically, I have come to know that peace making is a very risky business and often a thankless job. I recall listening to the late Kofi Anan speak about his on two different occasions. Anyone involved in peace making from domestic quarrels to larger battles, must be ready for the good, the bad and the ugly. In the end, we must wear the shoes of the long distance runner, believing and trusting that the truth never ever sinks to the bottom of the sea. The truth will always have a stubborn way of defying the hostile elements and popping up at the right time, no matter how long it takes.

I perfectly understand that with Alhaji Abubakar having just picked up the Presidential ticket of his Party, without providing this context, definitely, I can appreciate why many people will have a lot of anxieties. They will definitely be right to question my neutrality. However, I have far too many friends across party lines for me to openly endorse one candidate or party against the other.

It will be against the principles of the Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church which regulates our public life in the political space. The President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference has signed a statement to the effect that no altar of the Catholic Church must ever be open to any politician, something we have all taken seriously. I therefore hope that this clarification helps those whose minds are open.

I am thankful to God and quite pleased that this reconciliation took place and that I was a small instrument in making it happen. However, I am sorry that it has been given a different colouration and doubts to many people. Its timing was purely fortuitous and purely circumstantial not a contrivance. Personally, I will never relent in the very urgent task of making peace and reconciliation across the spectrum of our country.

Photo: NGO/CSO Clarion Golden visits Director BOSCO Egunjobi in Agege

Photo News: 2019: The executives of Clarion Golden Organization, CGO, a Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO and top Civil Society Organization, CSO in Lagos visited the Executive Chairman of Agege LGA and Director, CSOs, NGOs & Students of the Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu Campaign Organization, BOSCO, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi in his office.

The team pledged to drum support for the Lagos APC governorship candidate, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The chairman CGO, Prince Fola Moses Adewambe said that the NGO will partner with the office of Hon. Ganiyu Egunjobi to mobilse campaign strategies that would ensure Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu emerged as Governor of Lagos State come 2019.

IT’S TIME TO VIGOROUSLY TACKLE DELAY IN JUSTICE DELIVERY, AMBODE TELLS JUDGES

…Says Justice System Must Be Sound, Fair, Effective

…Attends New Legal Year Service

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday tasked the judiciary to come up with innovative models to vigorously tackle delay in justice delivery, saying it was time for all stakeholders to engender speedy and efficient administration of justice system in the country.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at a Special Service held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, to mark the official commencement of 2018/2019 Legal Year of Lagos State Judiciary, said the issue of delay in justice delivery was still a major concern, and that it was time for all hands to be on deck to enhance confidence in the legal system.


He said Lagos, being the economic hub of Africa, must be at the vanguard of judicial reforms, adding that the State’s justice sector must be sound, fair and effective.

“As our State remains the cynosure of excellence and the economic hub of Africa, our judiciary must continue to be at the forefront of judicial reforms to meet the expectations of the modern day justice sector. My lords, we bear the responsibility of 24million people who look up to you and I to protect them with the law. Our justice system must remain sound, fair and effective.

“The plague of delay in justice delivery is still of major concern. All stakeholders in the sector must ensure that the issue of delay is tackled vigorously by creating innovative models for achieving speedy and efficient justice delivery system which can be replicated more broadly across the country.



“The fact is this; the expectation of the citizens is huge and it requires all stakeholders to work continuously to enhance confidence in the legal system, promote the rule of law, and guarantee the protection of lives and property,” Governor Ambode said.



He said since the commencement of his administration, conscious efforts and initiatives have been put in place to enhance justice delivery, as well as respect the constitutionally roles of the three arms of government.



“Our administration recognizes the separate but interwoven roles of the three arms of government and part of our own commitment to a lawful and orderly society is to respect the limits of those constitutional roles which we have always done.



“One of the cardinal policies of our government has been the enthronement of law and order and today, I stand a happy man knowing we have delivered on those promises,” he said.

Speaking on some of the initiatives of his administration in the justice sector, the Governor said due to the increased work load and number of cases in the courts, more judges and magistrates were appointed, as well as construction of more court houses and renovation of existing courts to befit the judiciary, together with improved welfare for judicial officers in the State.

He added: “The introduction of the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre further enhanced the quality of justice delivery in the State and we have also developed policies and legislations that will aid speedy dispensation of justice.”

While congratulating members of judiciary on the commencement of the New Legal Year and wishing them fruitful deliberations, the Governor equally assured of his continued support and partnership to further enhance justice delivery in the State.

In his sermon at the service, Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt Rev Humphrey Olumakaiye commended judges for the role they have been playing in national development but admonished them to dispense justice without fear or favour and always uphold justice.

He said judges, being distinguished and eminent people in the society, must know that it was God's blessings that enriches, and as such, they should eschew injustice which he said could lead to chaos, disaster and maladministration, among others.

"Righteousness exalts a nation but since is the reproach. To be successful, judges must do the right thing moment by moment and day by day. The only thing that can sustain you at the top is godly character and integrity.

"Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to have been done. Justice must be dispensed without fear or favour. Let justice be done though heavens fall. We all must know that we shall give account of our stewardship on the day of reckoning," Olumakaiye said.

On 2019 elections, the clergyman prayed for God's will to be done in Nigeria, just as he said the nation needs strong moral foundation at all levels.

"Let us go back to the path of honesty, love, sincerity, dignity of labour, righteousness, discipline, integrity, hard work, excellence, zeal for result, among others," he said.

Besides, Olumakaiye commended Governor Ambode for the good work being done in the State, saying the Church was proud of the sterling performance and would continue to support and pray for him.

Presidency disowns names of 50 persons on travel ban

The Presidency yesterday denied releasing the names of the 50 persons placed on travel ban over corruption cases.

The Federal Government had on Saturday announced the banning of 50 high profile persons from traveling abroad over corruption cases.  The ban was sequel to the directive by President Muhammadu Buhari for the full implementation of Executive Order 6

Daily Trust reports that in the statement announcing the ban, there was no names of the affected persons. However, a list has been on circulation in some national dailies (excluding this paper).

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu said the presidency has not released any list and won’t do so.

“On the so-called list you asked for confirmation, I want to confirm to you that we have not issued any list and we are not doing so, “ he said.

Describing the Executive Order as revolutionary, he said its very essence was to make for speedy trials and conclusion of graft cases in the country.

“These high profile cases we are talking about have been ongoing for between seven to 10 years with no end in sight. These case were mostly originated by administrations other than this one.

“What is clear is that the access to these resources by the suspects has enabled them to be in a composition to sometime compromise investigation, prosecution and trial. In most of the cases, the courts are held in a helpless position by legal acrobatics paid for from corrupt enrichment by the suspects,” he said.

He said the new measures put in place should compel everyone involved to make for a speedy conclusion of the cases.

“If it is your money, you have it back. If it belongs to the public, it goes back to the treasury,” he said.

He said the question of the constitutionality of the restriction order was answered by the fact that a court of the land has given government a clean chit.

“The Executive Order is legal and constitutional and therefore implementable. One of the cardinal objectives of the government under our constitution is to fight corruption. Fighting corruption is a responsibility and obligation upon the government.

“The Immigration Service and other security agencies have the mandate of the President to carry out enforcement and they will do so giving due respects to individual rights, in line with the constitution,” he said.

We pay N100 daily to sleep under Oshodi Bridge – miscreants

 By Evelyn Usman

 One of the 62 miscreants arrested during a raid at Oshodi and its environs by the Lagos State Task Force, weekend, Gani Yusuf, 35, disclosed that they paid N100 everyday to their ring leader for a space to sleep under the Oshodi Bridge.

Miscreants Another, Gbenga Ololade, 38, who came from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, said he had been sleeping under Oshodi Bridge for three years, saying he was initiated into cultism with a particular tattoo on his face by their group leader, under the bridge.

The raid, according to Chairman of the Task Force, CSP Yinka Egbeyemi, was part of ongoing efforts to flush out miscreants and other criminal elements out of Oshodi in particular and the state in general, adding that it was done on the directive of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal, who expressed concern over the spate of criminal activities in some parts of the state.  

 He said: “Many of them have different tattoos on their arms indicating they belong to a particular sect or cult. Others chain smokers among them rob residents and pedestrians of their valuables such as phones, wallets and jewelleries, early morning and late at night.” The Chairman added that the suspects were screened, during which the minors, who were between 12 and 17 years, were referred to the juvenile homes for rehabilitation.

 Informing that the suspects had been charged to court on the directive of Edgal, Egbeyemi hinted that after the completion of all ongoing projects by Lagos State government around Oshodi, there would no longer be any hideout for criminals to unleash terror on innocent members of the public again.

Vanguard

2019 presidency: I did not endorse Atiku — OYEDEPO

PRESIDENT of the Living Faith Church, aka Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, yesterday, denied endorsing the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for the 2019 presidential election.

 Bishop Oyedepo Speaking at a Sunday church service in Canaan Land Ota, Ogun State, Oyedepo said he was invited to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s residence for a peace parley.

His words: “I am aware Winners are in every political party in Nigeria but I don’t belong to any party. I was only invited to make peace. I don’t force myself on people because I am too busy.”

He, however, lamented the rising rate of killings in some parts of the country especially in Plateau State.

Vanguard

I’ll Always Be With You, Fayose Promises Residents As He Leaves Ekiti

The outgoing Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose , has promised to always be with the people.

He also urged them to trust in God for a better future for him and the state .

The governor said this during a thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Government House chapel on Sunday morning , after which he traveled out of the state .

And , as Fayose left the state on Sunday afternoon, residents trooped out, hailing him in an emotional farewell .

He had earlier on Saturday embarked on a ‘ Thank you walk ’ around major streets of Ado Ekiti where he received accolades from traders , artisans and other residents of the state .

Tears rolled down the cheeks of many who lined up the streets to bid him farewell en route the Akure Airport , Ondo State, where he had to catch a flight.

The second term of the governor ends midnight of Monday , while he has a date to keep with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Tuesday by 1 .00 pm.

Earlier at a thanksgiving held in his honour at the Government’ s House chapel, Fayose , in an emotion laden voice, thanked the people for their support while he was in office .

He told the people that he would always be with them , urging them to trust in God for a better future for him and the state .

Hon. JS Babatunde Reiterates Commitment To Alleviating Poverty In Orile Agege

...Says People Must Feel Impact of Govt At the Grassroot

...Empowers 20 Community Youths with  N100k each, 60 widows with Foodstuff, Cash

...Distributes Utility Vehicles to League of Imam, Christian Community, CDC, Market Women, others

AgegePulse Magazine

The Executuve Chairman of Orile Agege Local Council Development Area, Hon. Johnson Sunday Babatunde has reiterated that he would stop at nothing to ensure that the standard of living of Orile Agege people is drastically improved across all sectors under his watch.

Hon. Babatunde stated this at the official handing over of Utility Buses to Orile Agege Stakeholders' Executives cum Empowerment of Youths and Distribution of Foodstuff to widows at the council's secretariat in Orile Agege.


Also, the council boss presented 20 youths with N100,000 each and 60 widows with foodstuff and cash as part of his empowerment programme, urging them to engage in petty trading that would improve quality of their living.

According to the Chairman, "this event is a continuation of our mission to restore and rebuild Orile Agege. This initiavte will be a monthly activity in order to reach all the nooks and crannies of Orile Agege LCDA."

"The utility buses are necessary for smooth execution of official tasks while the empowerment is to compliment the physical infrastructures we are putting in place across the council." Hon Babatunde noted.

Beneficiaries of the gesture include the CDC Exco, Muslim Council, Orile Agege, Christian Association of Nigeria, Orile Agege branch, Oba in Council and Market Executives.

Speaking with AgegePulse, some of the beneficiaries thanked the Executive Chairman and his team for their quality leadership style aimed towards the well-being of people under his jurisdiction.

Dignitaries at the event included, the Vice Chairman of Orile Agege, Leader of House, Councilors, Managment Staff, Royal Fathers , Baales, Chiefs, Exco members, APC Party Leaders, Members of Management, NULGE Reps and the entire Staff of Orile Agege LCDA.

Baba Sala: Family Announces Burial Date

AgegePulse Magazine

Family of the Late (Baba Sala), has announced Dec. 6 and 7 as dates for the burial ceremony of the icon.

His son, a Performing Officer at the National Troupe of Nigeria, Emmanuel Adejumo popularly called “Boisala’’ told NAN that the family had decided on the date for the burial.

The late Adejumo, a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), comedian, dramatist and actor died on Oct. 7 at 81 in Ilesa, Osun State.

His body has since been deposited at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex Annex, (Wesley Guild Hospital) in Ilesa.

Copied

Buhari Bans '50 High-Profile' Persons From Travelling Out of Nigeria

Below are the names of the High-Profile Persons

_*1. Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd)*_
_*2  AVM. Alex Badeh*_
_*3. Air Marshal Adesola Amosu*_
_*4. Malam Isa Yuguda*_
_*5. Saminu Turaki(Jigawa)*_
_*6. Murtala Nyako (Adamawa)*_
_*7. Adebayo Alao-Akala (Oyo)*_
_*8. Gabriel Suswam (Benue)*_
_*9.  Rasheed Ladoja (Oyo)*_
_*10. Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia)*_
_*11. Danjuma Goje (Gombe)*_
_*12. Attahiru Bafarawa (Sokoto)*_
_*13. Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger)*_
_*14. Chimaroke Nnamani (Enugu);*_
_*15. Sule Lamido (Jigawa);*_
_*16. Gbenga Daniel (Ogun);*_
_*17. Ibrahim Shehu Shema (Katsina)*_
_*18. Nenadi Usman*_
_*19.  Bashir Yuguda*_
_*20. Jumoke Akinjide;*_
_*21.  Bala Mohammed;*_
_*22. Abba Moro;*_
_*23. Femi Fani-Kayode;*_
_*24. Ahmadu Fintiri.*_
_*25. Vice Admiral A. D. Jibrin*_
_*26. Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar;*_
_*27. Inspector-General of Police, Sunday Ehindero*_
_*28. High Chief Raymond Dokpesi;*_
_*29. Waripamowei Dudafa*_
_*39. Justice Innocent Umezulike (former Chief Judge of Enugu State,)*_
_*31. Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia;*_
_*32. Olisa Metuh*_
_*33. Chief Jide Omokore*_
_*34. Ricky Tarfa;*_
_*35. Dele Belgore (SAN).*_
_*36. SOLOMON WOMBO*_
_*37. RICHARD GBANDE*_
_*38. BILLIAMINU ABDULLAHI*_
_*39. SHOLOLA OMOLARA*_
_*40. CHUKWUDUMEME ONWUAMADIKE “EVANS*_
_*41. DR. SA AD AYINLA ALANAMU*_
_*42. PROF. (SENATOR) DAVID IORNEM,*_
_*43. SEN. SANI AHMED YERIMA*_
_*44. SENATOR ADESEYE OGUNLEWE*_
_*45. PROF. OLUSOLA OYEOLE,*_
_*46. MOSES OLUSOLA ILESANMI*_
_*47. ANDREW YAKUBU (former NNPC GMD,)*_
_*48. ALIYU AKWE DOMA*_
_*49. AIR VICE MARSHAL OLUTAYO OGUNTOYIBO*_
_*50. OLUGBENGA OBADINA*_

It's Never Been This Rosy In Orile Agege - Iyaloja General

...Hails Hon. J.S Babatunde Over Presentation of Utility Buses to Market Excos, Others

AgegePulse Magazine

The Iyaloja General and Erelu of Orile Agege Kingdom, Chief Mrs. Bola Orelaru has hailed the Executive Chairman of Orile Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Johnson Sunday Babatunde over the distribution of utility buses to market executives and other stakeholders in the council.

Speaking with AgegePulse, Chief Orelaru acknowledged the tremendous works towards rebuilding and restoring the glory of Orile Agege.


The Erelu of Orile Agege expressed her gratitude to  the council boss for fulfilling his campaign promises to the market men and women by providing them with a new utility vehicle for their activities.


She said the kind gesture will go a long way to ease the hurdles of swift mobility that the executives have been experiencing for the past 15years.

In her usual appreciation style, the Iyaloja on behalf of herself and entire market women and men thanked the Chairman, council management, leaders of the house,  legislators and the leadership of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Orile Agege for fielding a competent candidate with exemplary leadership qualities.

LAGOS OPEN: WE’LL SET UP TENNIS ACADEMY TO ATTRACT GLOBAL ATTENTION- AMBODE

…Says Future Tournaments Can Attract World Class Players

 AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday said the State Government will fully support the setting up of a Lawn Tennis Academy in the State that would make the annual Lagos Open International Tennis Championship attract the global attention that it truly deserves.



Governor Ambode, who spoke at the finals of the 2018 Lagos Open Championship held at the Lawn Tennis Club in Onikan, Lagos, said the State Government has held talks with the State’s Lawn Tennis Association to open up an academy with state-of-the-art facilities that would attract world class players in future competitions.  



“This is the beginning of the support that Lagos State will continue to give to Lagos Open. The whole idea is for us to be able to move away from this particular location and set up a Lawn Tennis Academy that can actually have an upgrade of a world class competition.



“They have actually spoken to us that we need to open an academy. You see, what we have here on this ground is just seven courts, but if you want it to be globally attended and we want this Lagos Open to be globally competitive, we need an academy that would have like 16 courts and have other facilities to attract world class players and that is what Lagos is ready to partner with the association and because we want the name Lagos on the world map, Lagos State Government has to support the idea of a lawn tennis academy and that is where we are going,” he said.



The Governor commended the organisers and officials of the Lawn Tennis Association for sustaining the tradition, adding that the State Government was proud to be partners in progress with the 18-year old competition which was called The Governors Cup before it metamorphosed to the Lagos Open.



“I want to clearly say that I have enjoyed this particular tournament and I don’t think I have actually sat down somewhere for three hours in a long while. I want to congratulate the winners and also commend the officials and organisers and anytime anywhere, I would always come around because I am a lover of lawn tennis,” he said.

Earlier, the Governor displayed his tennis skills when he took part in a demonstration match as part of activities at the championship.



Governor Ambode, who played against the tennis captain of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, specifically showed some of his drop shot, backhand and top spin skills, with the spectators applauding while the match lasted.



Presenting an award of special recognition to Governor Ambode, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the Lagos Open, Chief Pius Akinyelure said the Association deemed it fit to recognise the Governor for his “enviable, untiring and significant support in the last few years towards the success of the competition”.



In the exciting Lagos Open Men’s final match, Jack Draper of Great Britain defeated Tom Jomby from France to emerge winner of the competition.

LAGOS TASK FORCE NABS 62 MISCREANTS AND HOODLUMS AT OSHODI

.
......prosecutes another 18 arrested Street traders around 'Trade Fair' complex

AgegePulse Magazine

The operatives of the Lagos State Task Force over the weekend during an over-night raid operation, nabbed another 62 miscreants and hoodlums around Oshodi and its environ.

The Chairman of Agency, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi disclosed that the mid-night raid operations was part of on-going efforts aimed at flushing out miscreants and other criminal elements out of Oshodi and the State at large.

The Chairman disclosed furher that the Agency acted on the directives of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police CP EDGAL IMOHIMI who expressed concern over the spate of criminal activities in some parts of the State, especially around Oshodi and other identified areas such as Mushin, Fadeyi, Agege, Apapa, Lagos Island, Obalende, Oyingbo, Dopemu amongst others.

CSP Egbeyemi who confirmed that no any  weapon was found on these arrested 62 miscreants and hoodlums but stated that there were strong indications that they are part of the criminals who had been terrorising the entire area particularly those attacking motorists on top Oshodi bridge during peak hours.

"We got to the area as early as 2am, it was an eye-sore to have found these miscreants and hoodlums under the bridge at Oshodi in such odd hours walking aimlessly while some were also caught smoking Indian hemp popularly called 'Marijuana' ".

"Yes many of these arrested miscreants have different tattoos on their arms indicating they belong to a particular sect or cult. While many are chain smokers others robbed residents and pedestrians of their valuables such as phones,wallets and jewelleries both early morning and late night"

The Chairman added that these arrested miscreants and hoodlums had been screened while the under-age ones were referred to the juvenile homes for rehabilitation, adding that most of these 'young miscreant' who are between 12 to 17 years are products of broken homes.

CSP Egbeyemi hinted that after the completions of all the on-going projects by the government around Oshodi, there would no longer be any hideouts for criminals to unleash terror on innocent members of the public again.

He reaffirmed that Governor Akinwunmi Ambode was committed to protecting lives and properties in order to attract  more investors and make life easy for the residents.

While appealing to parents to always consider their children as the 'receiving end' in any family disputes, he however confirmed that all those arrested had been charged to court on the directive of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police CP EDGAL IMOHIMI.

One of the arrested miscreant Gani Yusuf (35yrs) said he paid N100 everyday to their ring leader before he could be given a little space to sleep under the Oshodi bridge.

Another suspect Gbenga Ololade (38yrs) said he came from Ibadan and he has been sleeping under Oshodi bridge in the last 3 years.

Gbenga Ololade claimed that he was initiated to a cult with a particular tattoo on his face by their group leader under the bridge.

Meanwhile, 18 arrested Street traders around 'Trade Fair' complex who were initially released based on a written 'under-taken' with the Agency not to go back to be selling at an unauthorised places around the 'Trade Fair' complex have been re-arrested and charged to court.

These 18 arrested Street trader after their released by the Agency went back to be displaying and selling their wares at same illegal spots around the 'Trade Fair' complex.

After their arraignment at the court, 5 of them were asked to pay a fine of N5000 each to the government while the remaining 13 females were committed to '48 hours Community Service' each as a punishment by the court.

2019 Election: Atiku Picks Peter Obi as Running Mate

A former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has been pencilled down as the running mate of the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the February 14, 2019 election, Atiku Abubakar.

Obi emerged the preferred choice of both the party and the candidate after series of consultations by stakeholders in the party and outside it.

Our correspondent gathered that the name of Obi and that of Atiku will be sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission next week

Punch

AgegePulse Magazine...Headline News

*NEWS HEADLINES FOR FRIDAY 12TH OCTOBER 2018.*



*PUNCH*


Marafa backs INEC, says no candidates in Zamfara APC

Why I wont attend Fayemis inauguration Fayose

2019 polls budget: Senate retains inserted projects

Ohakim, 13 other gov aspirants form new APGA

Pay Omo-Agege his entitlements or appear in court, judge warns Saraki

Primary: Cross River PDP members protest against Ayades election

Family as resource for nurturing mental health in youths

Minister agrees with IMF on Nigerias debt weakness

MMA2: Aviation unions call off strike

Nigeria needs $1tn investment to fix energy Osinbajo

Xpress Payments lures unbanked Nigerians with products, services

Tinubu was mute when herdsmen attacked South West Odumakin

Osinbajo to speak on Nigerias investment drive in Oxford

2019: Mixed reactions as Obasanjo endorses Atiku

Economic benefits of integrated farming

Ekiti Assembly removes Speaker, deputy, suspends 12 lawmakers

Determining which bank account suits you best

Joke with Nigerias unity, have problem with me Buhari

Ladol, Samsung disputell be resolved amicably FG

ICPC discovers FGs N9.8bn hidden in bank, grills MD

Poor facilities, polices causing high port charges LCCI

Nigeriansll choose between a clean candidate and a racketeer APC

Estate surveyors seek proper clean-up of Ogoniland


*VANGUARD*


Meet eSight 3, glasses that can give sight to the blind

Ford to produce vehicles that automatically warn of emergency ahead

Flood: Rice farmers in Edo North, Central lament destruction of farmland By Gabriel Enogholase

WARRI S/WEST: Defeated aspirants urged to eschew bitterness

Why we removed Speaker, Deputy ' Ekiti lawmakers

Fresh crisis looms as Senate vires N189bn
INEC budget from SIP's N500bn

Man arraigned over importation of 1,570 pump action rifles

The Elevation Church celebrates 8th anniversary, set to host Women's Conference

2019 elections: Presidency cries gang-up, as Obasanjo okays Atiku

STATE OF THE NATION: Nigeria'll remain stagnant if', says Ooni of Ife

Nigeria needs $1trn investment to modernise energy infrastructure ' Osinbajo

Atiku'll turn people's fears to hope 'Okotie-Eboh

I never said I graduated with first class from UNN ' Kachikwu

Elizade tutors motorists on vehicle maintenance

PLATEAU: Violent protests trail LG poll results

Kwankwanso vs Shekarau fixture not certain in Kano

The 31 Presidential candidates for 2019

Buhari's conscience in Port-Harcourt

I will not attend Fayemi's inauguration ' Fayose

You will lose together, Buhari tells Obasanjo, Atiku

Uba brothers at war again over Anambra South Senate seat

2019 elections: Nigerians must choose from candidates that can pass integrity test -APC

ARC disburses N11bn to tackle drought in member countries


*THE NATION*


Exit, boss of the bourse
Gang up ll fail, says Buhari as Obasanjo endorses Atiku

Presidency: Obasanjo, Atiku will lose together

Minister: Fed Govt targets $22b foreign investments in two years

Presidency, lawmakers set to clash over N189.2b approved for INEC

Ekiti speaker, deputy sacked

Court upholds Executive Order 6

Senate blocks Durunnguwas nomination as NPC commissioner

Falola calls for Kingship studies in African varsities

Obasanjo, Atiku and 2019 calculations

Ikpeazu: Nnamdi Kanus fatherll return soon

How Sanwo-Olu can succeed, by Olusi

Lagos 2019: How Agbaje emerged PDP flag bearer

Marafa: There was no consensus in Zamfara APC primaries

Nnamdi Kanus father to be home soon Ikpeazu

2019: Vote for a godly man, says CAC president

26m women may lose jobs to technology, IMF warns

Averting economys relapse into recession

Global food pricesdrop amid robust supplies

Frooty Happy Hour now in 100ml pouches

Decent Work Day: ASSBIFI calls for job security

Most Nigerians not meeting fruit intake requirement

9mobile affirms commitment to leveraging power of IoT


*THISDAY*


AWAITING A NEW HISTORY BOOK ON BENIN KINGDOM

Remembering Village Headmaster at 50

Honour for Wizkid in Minnesota

A Star Line-up for 2Baba's Buckwyld 'n' Breathless

Kasala' Mirrors the Lives of Teenage Boys in the Ghetto

Celebrating Fela Posthumously at 80

Omotola Honored as One of 100 Most Influential People Of Black Descent

Niniola to Headline 'The Human Radio' Concert

Abeokuta Experiences Happiness at Laffmattazz

Rohr: Eagles Need All Six Points against Libya


*THE SUN*


Lagos Open Tennis: Prime seeds advance to semifinals

Djokovic wants tennis Super World Cup

My life is upside down -Mbappe

Coutinho rubbishes Barca

Musa: Eagles 'll reply Amrouche against Libya

Libya players injected with vaccines

2019: Obasanjo rates Atiku higher than Buhari

INEC budget: Buhari, Senate head for showdown

Save journalism from dying, Osinbajo tells editors

INEC lists threats to 2019 elections

How to free yourself from fear

Enter the Atiku era
2019: The Battle of Baba 70s

Atiku vs. Buhari: Issues at stake

NIRSAL, CBN and Anchor Borrowers Programme

Primordial republicanism, stereotypism and Igbo leadership syndrome

David Omueya Dafinone (1927-2018)


*GUARDIAN*


In the beginning, Atiku was to succeed Obasanjo

Obasanjo, Buhari and Atiku: The game begins

NLC, TUC threaten fresh strike over minimum wage

Siyavula, 9mobile launch aspire maths portal

Stakeholders urge school girls, women to break barriers to gender equality

Nation needs $1tr to modernise energy infrastructure, says Osinbajo

Real Madrid sue newspaper over Ronaldo rape allegations

Man nabbed for allegedly raping 14-year-old mother

Inventors to unveil 'made-in-Nigeria' car

HarvestPlus canvasses concerted efforts against malnutrition


*DAILY TRUST*


No party has submitted list of candidates ' INEC

What happens to Obasanjo's Coalition for Nigeria

Issues as Marafa backs INEC on Zamfara primaries tussle

Ekiti speaker, deputy impeached, 12 suspended

Sami wants APC intervention in Kebbi South

PDP kicks as APC clears 11 out of 13 Plateau LGs

No APC senatorial primary in Plateau South ' Tallen

2019: Atiku asks APC, BCO, Presidency to stick to issues

I've always wanted to be my own boss' ' Wuraola

ITF graduates 30 youths in Kogi

Living blind is ability in disability

My work announces me ' Ezinne, a beautician

Girl power challenging myths about menstruation

Youths tasked on N/Delta amnesty programme support

The Nigerian youth must make a difference ' clergies

AHF engage's stakeholders to make schools safe for girls

Cowbellpedia: Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa students grab last semi-final slot

Yusuf kicks as Takai emerges 'Kano PDP' gov'ship candidate

Ghana eviction order: Nigerian traders threaten 'reactive steps

Update: Nerves calm as Nigerian participants, others receive IMF update on earthquake

Dubai's Dragon Oil plans $500m in acquisitions in 2019 ' CEO

Tony Blair advises party to vote down May's possible Brexit deal

GUATEMALA: Ex-VP Roxana Baldetti sentenced to 15 years in prison


*TRIBUNE*


FULL SPEECH: I have forgiven you-know-what, Obasanjo tells Atiku

Ooni, Alaafin, Olubadan, Yoruba leaders at Yoruba Unity Forum workshop

Mitigating the effects of population explosion

The efficacy of handwashing to healthy living

Remembering Baba Sala
X-raying campaign styles of PDP presidential hopefuls at Port Harcourt convention

My father was a shy, gentle guy 'BoiSala, Baba Sala's son

Oyo TMC tackles hate speech, gives recipe for peace in Nigeria

2019 elections: Ogun Muslims give political parties, candidates conditions

Ahmad seeks review of conferment of honorary Islamic titles


*LEADERSHIP*


Those Benefitting From Boko Haram Want The War To Continue

Who Will Vote For Buhari Or Atiku

China: Celebrating 40 Years Of Robust Engagement With The World

SWOT Analysis Of Eagle 75 Vs Eagle 72

A Tale Of Two Conventions: Winners And Losers

Reps Seek To Arm NASS Security

No Primaries, No Consensus Candidates in Zamfara ' Sen Marafa

The Political Rainfall In Niger State: How Mohammed Sani Musa Led The Onslaught

World Food Day: FG Committed To Zero Hunger ' Lokpobiri

NSCDC Boss Warns Officers Against Criminal Offences


*DAILY INDEPENDENT*


Ijede Residents Beg Ambode To Fix Bad Roads

Ekiti Monarch Gets Staff Of Office

Ado-Ekiti Ex-Convicts Bag Four-Year Jail Term

Oyo Celebrates Twins Festival Tomorrow

Yoruba Group Sets Agenda For Atiku

Ajimobi Tasks Stakeholders On Agric Development

Amosun Named TAMPAN Man Of The Year

Alapomu Stool In Osun Still Vacant, Ruling House Claims

Moses' Bench Role In Chelsea And Issues Therein

Atiku Has Redisovered, Repositioned Himself 'Obasanjo


*BUSINESSDAY*


BusinessDay 12 Oct 2018
The first casualty of trade war is truth

Ondo govt partners NGOs, CSOs on 2019 budget preparation

IMF recommends tight monetary policy, non-oil mobilisation for Nigeria

Lessons for Nigeria from Germany on circular economy, waste management

Poor storage of Oxytocin endangers lives of women at childbirth

Building Africa's laboratory workforce, key to quality healthcare

Cost-effective cancer control solutions advocated by experts

LASG to promote inclusive healthcare delivery as social health insurance take root in Lagos

Ondo targets zero child morbidity, mortality through 'Agbomola

Gunshots As Rival Gangs Clash In Fadeyi Area Of Lagos.

AgegePulse Magazine

Officers attached to the Lagos State Police Command have restored law and order in Fadeyi area of Lagos after rival gangs temporarily disturbed commercial and vehicular movement in the area this morning.

The hoodlums attacked themselves with various weapons including guns and machetes, according to reports.

About six suspects have been arrested while Police officers of the Lagos State Police Command involving divisional offices around the area, Rapid Response Squad, and Lagos State Taskforce are presently in the area to prevent further crisis.

Lagos Reporters

Why I chose to forgive Atiku – Obasanjo

(Full text of the remarks made by former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the reconciliatory visit by the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to Abeokuta on October 11, 2018.)

I am happy to welcome the distinguished leaders of goodwill who have led the PDP Presidential Candidate and my former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, to my humble abode and I welcome the Presidential Candidate himself.

Let me start by congratulating President-to-be, Atiku Abubakar, for his success at the recent PDP Primary and I took note of his gracious remarks in his acceptance speech that it all started here.

Yes, when it started, it was meant for Atiku to succeed Obasanjo. In the presence of these distinguished leaders of goodwill today, let me say it openly that we have reviewed what went wrong on the side of Atiku. And in all honesty, my former Vice-President has re-discovered and re-positioned himself. As I have repeatedly said, it is not so much what you did against me that was the issue but what you did against the Party, the Government and the country.



I took the stand I had taken based on the character and attributes you exhibited in the position you found yourself. I strongly believe that I was right. It was in the overall interest of everyone and everything to take such a position.

From what transpired in the last couple of hours or so, you have shown remorse; you have asked for forgiveness and you have indicated that you have learnt some good lessons and you will mend fences and make amends as necessary and as desirable.


Whenever or wherever you might have offended me, as a Christian who asks for God’s forgiveness of my sins and inadequacies on daily basis, I forgive and I sincerely advise you to learn from the past and do what is right and it will be well with you. Obviously, you have mended fences with the Party and fully reconciled with the Party. That’s why today, you are the Presidential Candidate of the Party. In addition to appreciating all that the Party has done for you, may I advise you to work together with all those who contested for the Party’s flag with you as a team for your campaign.

There are still areas, nationally and internationally, where you have to mend fences and make amends.



You will know how to handle what is already out and what may yet be put out by the opposition. But, I am convinced that if you continue with the attitude that brought you here with these distinguished leaders of goodwill, with remorse and contrite heart, the rest of the coast within and outside the country can be cleared. And if there is anything I can do and you want me to do in that respect, I will do.

I am sure with the right attitude for change where necessary, and by putting lessons learned by you to work, you will get the understanding, cooperation, support and mandate – all at the national level. With Nigerians voting for you, it will mean that you secure their forgiveness and regain their confidence. It will be with the hope or assurance of a Paul on the road to Damascus Conversion. After all, change and conversion are of man. I believe that with a contrite heart, change is possible in everybody’s life and situation.

For me, relatively and of all the aspirants in the PDP, you have the widest and greatest exposure, experience, outreach and possibly the best machinery and preparation for seeing the tough and likely dirty campaign ahead through. From what I personally know of you, you have capacity to perform better than the incumbent. You surely understand the economy better; you have business experience, which can make your administration business-friendly and boost the economy and provide jobs.



You have better outreach nationally and internationally and that can translate to better management of foreign affairs. You are more accessible and less inflexible and more open to all parts of the country in many ways. As Pastor Bakare, one-time running mate of the incumbent President said, “You are a wazobia man.” And that should help you in confronting the confrontable and shunning nepotism.

As you know, along the road to where you are today, many leaders and ordinary people cooperated and overtly and covertly worked hard. On your behalf, I thank them all. May their coast continue to be expanded. And when you become Nigerian President which, insha-Allah, you will be, remember what we did together in government – we ran an administration by Nigerians for all Nigerians where merit and performance count more than blood relationship, friendship or kith and kin. Although some time and ground have been lost, you should endeavour to start from where we stopped and recover some lost ground, if not time.

Please uphold truth, integrity, principles, morality and fight corruption, crimes and insurgency. The fundamental law of the land, our constitution must be scrupulously defended. I make one demand and one demand on you today, I need you to say before God and man that you will always remain irrevocably committed to upholding ALL the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the whole country will remain your single indivisible constituency.

Constitutionalism, popular participation and inclusiveness are pre-conditions for reversing the deficits of the past three and half years. They will ensure abiding faith in our indivisibility, oneness and faith in the survival of all against none.

The fundamentals for our development, economic growth and progress are hard and soft infrastructure. Remember to always give adequate places in your administration to our youth and women.

Punch

Choose Fani-Kayode as running mate, group tells Atiku, PDP

Christian group, Christians in Power Network, CIPN, has advised the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its flagbearer at the forthcoming 2019 general elections, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, to choose a former minister of aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, as their vice presidential candidate.

In a statement signed by Apostle Chikezie Onyekere and Pastor Solomon Ayuba, the organisation’s Coordinator and Secretary respectively, the group said “we predicate our advice on the fact that Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, unlike many Christians, is the one man who has stood firmly for the faith and has suffered immense persecution in the hands of the establishment because of this. He is one man many Christians believe has been ordained by God to rescue us from the hands of our relentless traducers and murderers”.

The statement continues: “The population and spread of Christians in Nigeria cut across regions and ethnicity. The greatest fear of Christians today is that of insecurity where priests, pastors and their members are wantonly killed, our churches continuously desecrated and destroyed, and our sources of livelihood wasted, we as Christians will not vote for any party that parades a Christian who cannot effectively represent our cause at the highest levels.

“Apart from the votes that Fani-Kayode would get from the southwest as one from there, he will also get massive votes across the nation and everywhere Christians are found because we have come to see him as our voice, not just us but also evry oppressed Nigerian irrespective of religion, ethnicity or party affiliation.

“This will be the masterstroke for both Atiku Abubakar and the PDP”.
“Fani-Kayode is loved for having been consistent in playing the roles of voice for the voiceless and defender of the defenceless without any immunity covering him even while those with one refused to speak up for the people.

“No doubt, an Atiku/Fani-Kayode presidency will be an ideal team that would tackle our economic crises and insecurity satisfactorily. We shall sensitise and mobilize our people massively to vote for the PDP at the presidential election should we be sure that we have a strong voice for us there. Fani-Kayode is widely loved across the major religions of the country.

He has spoken up for the Shiite Muslims who have suffered untold hardship in the hands of the current government. He has spoken up for Dasuki, a Fulani Muslim, who is being unjustly held in detention even after multiple valid court orders had granted him bail. He has also spoken up for Sheikh El Zakzaky who is suffering a similar fate to that of Dasuki etc. So no one can accuse him of religious bigotry.

“We pray Alhaji Atiku Abubabkar and PDP to strongly consider this advice if they want to make any inroad among our people with humongous population in the country.”

BREAKING: Obasanjo 'Congratulates President-To-Be Atiku Abubakar'

Obasanjo is set to address the media at the end of the meeting, with his media team confirming to Saharareporters that he had already "congratulated President-To-Be Atiku Abubakar".



Former President Olusegun Obasanjo will be backing Atiku Abubakar, his former deputy, ahead of the 2019 presidential election, having described him as "President-to-be" following a meeting between the two men in Abeokuta, capital of Ogun State, on Thursday.

Joining Atiku at the meeting were his righthand man and former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Uche Secondus, the National Chairman of the party; and, more notably, Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Kukah; islamic preacher, Dr. Ahmad Abubkaar Gumi; and Founder of Winners' Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo.

Sahara reporters

COWLSO DONATES TWO INCUBATOR AMBULANCE TO GBAGADA, ISLAND MATERNITY HOSPITALS

…As Ambode’s Wife Restates Commitment To Zero Infant Mortality

AgegePulse Magazine

Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode on Wednesday said that no effort would be spared, to achieve zero infant mortality in the State.



She made the commitment during the donation of two transport incubator ambulance to Gbagada General Hospital and Lagos Island Maternity, by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), as part of their health intervention project for this year.



A transport incubator ambulance is specially designed to transport ‘pre-mature’ babies to standard medical facilities, equipped with Intensive Care Unit (ICU).



She said that members of the Committee were touched by the high mortality rate of pre-term babies, occurring before they could access intensive care.



The transport incubators according to her would provide a womb-like environment for the baby, with the right temperature and life-saving gadgets, to help the newborn hang unto life till it gets to the ICU.



She said, “The special ambulance can also be used to convey infants with severe post birth complications and others in serious emergency situations. The women of COWLSO reckon that with this intervention, many more newborns, infants and children in Lagos State, will be saved from avoidable deaths with attendant happiness to their parents”.



The Committee also donated two hearing defect management equipment, Portable Otoread OAEs, to Alimosho and Shomolu General Hospitals, also as part of their intervention effort.



Speaking further, she observed that COWLSO was constrained to continue its previous intervention in early detection and management of hearing defects, because of the serious consequences of hearing loss in children.



She recalled that the Committee, two years ago had upgraded the Ear, Nose and Throat Department of the Lagos Island General Hospital, Odan, subsequently followed with the donation of Portable Otoread OAEs equipment to Badagry, Ifako-Ijaiye, Ikorodu and Gbagada General Hospital.



The objective, according to her, was to enable early screening of newborns for possible hearing defects, to eradicate the worrisome menace, which comes with a network of consequences like delayed language development, academic under performance, social isolation and higher risk injuries among others.



The Governor’s wife stressed that the incubator ambulance must be made available for use by other government hospitals.



In his address, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, noted that the Ambode Administration had always promoted the use of appropriate modern technology for delivery of qualitative and affordable healthcare to the people.



According to him, “the donation of Transport Incubator Ambulance to two State general hospitals will help to reduce the neo-natal morbidity and mortality indices of the state significantly”.



He commended the committee for their continual intervention in the healthcare sector, stressing that it had impacted lives, given hope to the downtrodden, empowered women and protected the environment in the State.



The Commissioner urged the lucky beneficiary hospitals, to make good and optimal use of the modern equipment, towards achieving the health objectives of the State Government.



Chairman of Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr. Bayo Aderiye, represented by Dr. Oluwole Tokunbo, commended COWLSO for the series of health interventions over the years.



The Medical Directors of Gbagada General Hospital and Lagos Island Maternity, Dr. Tayo Lawal and Dr. Muyiwa Eniayewun, unanimously thanked COWLSO for the kind humanitarian gesture, noting that it had closed the gap of challenges in the health sector, as it affects children.

AgegePulse Headline News

*NEWS HEADLINES FOR THURSDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2018.*



*PUNCH*


Aisha Buharis brother, Ahmed, wants Adamawa APC gov primary cancelled

YPN presidential aspirant says zoning system designed to fail

APC not jittery over Atiku, says gov forum

Tinubu carpets Afeniferes Odumakin over grazing reserve comment

Waltersmith begins construction of 5,000bpd refinery

IMF cautions Nigeria on external reserves depletion

Odua approves N277.7m dividend for shareholders

Tax evasion: Buhari moves against errant offshore assets owners

AMCON wants Polaris Bank sold in two years

Aviation unions ground activities at MMA2

Uduaghan advises FG on illegal refineries

Nigeria, Afrexim hold talks for increased shareholding

Med-View restructures, sacks 60 workers

Stakeholders urge FG to pass PIB into law

US-China trade war, threat to Nigeria Expert

NESG appoints new chairman

NNPC faces pressure as petrol landing cost hits N205

Financial tips for entrepreneurs launching start-ups

Lagos, eastern ports get busier as more ships arrive

Tricks every entrepreneur must know about successful budgeting

You can make your own rules

Surcharge: Clearing agents threaten to boycott CMA CGM services

Ikeja Electric develops safety app for consumers


*VANGUARD*


Shun unnecessary criticisms, Dokubo tells Niger Deltans

7 soldiers, 76 Boko Haram terrorist die in Borno battle

Ogoni cleanup: Distrust greets FG's $177m

Shekarau lauds APC's automatic tickets

NLNG spends N2.7bn on scholarships, honours beneficiaries

Find Gen Alkali, other missing Nigerians, Senate tells FG

Edo govt to spend Paris Club refund on primary education

Lagos to host biannual Africa Fintech summit in November

C-River retirees send SOS to Ayade, threaten court action

Airlines count losses, as picketing continues today

2019: Atiku has restored our hope 'Osanebi

APC, INEC at war over primaries in Zamfara

Odu'a Investment coy shares N277m dividends to shareholders

UBEC to release N142.5bn to states

2019: President Buhari has very good pedigree, Atiku isno match to him 'Kaita

DELTA SOUTH: I'll sponsor bills to legalise local refineries ' Uduaghan

Court nullifies PDP's expulsion of Senator Kashamu, Ogun state Chairman

2019: We're not jittery over Atiku, APC govs boast

Getting business loans from banks Wema Bank (5)

NACC to advance economic cooperation between Nigeria, US

20 SMEs get Life Progress Booster's N6m grant

Wema Bank partners DBN to fund MSMEs

Stock market: Investors lose N1.8 trn Year to Date as sell pressure persists


*THE NATION*


Rome was built by men and women

Cancer scare
Spray and be jailed

Whither Primary Six
2019: How Buharill battle Atiku, by APC governors

IMF urges Nigeria to increase non-oil revenue

Court voids Rivers APCs list of candidates

Farmers, herders crisis: What Tinubu said

Associates seek role for ex-DSS boss Daura

Battle against illicit financial flows gets more bite in Nigeria

Dokubo: I wont bow to pressure to share Amnesty cash

Abducted oil workers regain freedom

UNICEF holds education conference for north leaders

Court voids PDPs expulsion of Kashamu, Ogun Chairman

My only agreement with Okorocha is make Imo better

Adebanjo: Devolution is the answer

PDP cant retain power in Gombe, says Gwamna

Garba advocates more women in NASS

Makarfi congratulates Atiku

Two Ekiti senatorial aspirants sue apc

APC will definitely field governorship candidate in Zamfara Okorocha

Adefowora Olaide emerges most beautiful girl in Iba 2018

Okey Bakassi to host catholic dinner


*THISDAY*


Ighodalo Named New NESG Board Chair as Bukar Resigns

Lagos Police Arrest Man for Defiling 3 years Old in School

2019: Makarfi Congratulates Atiku, Pledges Support

PDP Loses BOT Member
Plateau Council Elections: PDP, APC Bicker over Irregularities

APC Primaries: Call Oshiomhole to Order Now, Activist Lori-Ogbebor Tasks Buhari, Tinubu

Telecoms Lawyer Weighs Options in Internet Censorship, Regulation

E-Procurement Will Eliminate 90% of Corruption Cases

Telecoms Growth, a Boost to Nigeria's Economy, Says NCC

Expert Calls for Proactive Measure against Cyber Attacks


*THE SUN*


Imo: Court summons APC, INEC over Uzodinma

We are ready to battle governors who are not ready to implement ' Wabba

Rohr: Eagles 'll treat Libya like Cameroon

Kano Pillars, Rangers for 2018 Aiteo Cup final

Iwobi dazzles, mobbed in Uyo

Buhari signs Executive Order 8 against money laundering, tax evasion

Gov Amosun threatens to dump APC over primaries

APC, INEC fight over ban on Zamfara from fielding candidates

Igbo VP' Ebonyi State should exercise the right of first refusal (1)

Atiku versus the rigging machine

Ladoja: Justice delayed or justice denied

Violence as tools by politicians

Kavanaugh and the decline of America

Significance of teachers in the society

Absence of leadership with ideology in Nigeria

Nigeria, young people and mental health

D'Tigress' impressive outing


*GUARDIAN*


One dead as monstrous Hurricane Michael tears into Florida

Energy storage solution wins NLNG's $100,000 science prize

Rivers focuses on job creation for youths to tackle crime

Changes humanity must make to avoid extinction

Eagles' attitude key to Nigeria's success, says Rohr

PDP chieftain slumps in Osun court

Experts urge youths to prioritise skill development

NANNM decries shortage of nurses, midwives in Nigeria

Why we're hosting editors' conference, by Delta State government

Sport activities without education is insufficient, says educationist


*DAILY TRUST*


Kwankwaso threatens to leave PDP

SDP: Jerry Gana faults emergence of Donald Duke

APC, presidency jittery over Atiku's emergence ' PDP

APGA yet to field God's hip candidate in Imo

How 5 Buhari ministers lost APC gov tickets

PDP's expulsion of Kashamu, Dayo unlawful ' Court

Olusola, Oni's petitions can't stop my inauguration ' Fayemi

Kaita, Gumau take oath as new senators

Young movement endorses Nasko for Niger gov'ship

APC should address non conduct of primaries

APC can't field candidates in Zamfara in 2019 ' INEC

Again, Senate rushes to amend Electoral Act

Senate confirms Shonubi as CBN dep gov, Banire as AMCON chair

Senate to approve N143bn elections budget today

FEC approves N5.2bn for Sokoto/Zamfara road

I'm not in a hurry to declare Gumau, Kaita's seats vacant ' Dogara

Passengers stranded as workers picket Lagos Airport terminal

Over 1.4 million PVCs unclaimed in Lagos ' INEC

3 suspected fraudsters forfeit N88.4m to FG

Flood submerges rice farms in Bayelsa

Foundation strives to make school safe for girls

NUC accredits postgraduate science courses for Petroleum University

Atiku's candidacy, ray of hope for Nigerians ' ex-Kogi Gov


*TRIBUNE*


Building our economy
Achieving synergy between the executive and legislature

Why domestic airlines don't last 'Key players

Celebrating the Alaafin of Oyo at 80

Dana Air partners Radisson Blu

Business class passengers on Turkish Airlines can now choose meals before flights

Trouble looms as agents dare CMA-CGM over $400 congestion surcharge

Ship waste: African Circle unveils 16 new trucks

Understanding Alaafin's socio-political influence in Yoruba land

MSC insists there is congestion at Lagos ports


*LEADERSHIP*


Nigeria To Increase Shares In Afrexim Bank

Aspirant Seeks Cancellation Of APC Primary

Royal Father Calls For Cultural Rejuvenation

NGO Urges FCT Youths To Shun Drug Abuse

Imo: Court Summons APC, INEC Over Uzodimma

Criminals Use Proceeds Of Corruption To Capture Power ' GIABA

Understanding The Proceeds Of Crime Bill

When Trial Within Trial Begins, Main Trial Is Suspended

2019: IRI, NDI Urge FG To Fund INEC

2019: Hingah Biem Emerges SDP Benue Guber Candidate

Akeredolu, Mimiko, PDP Mourn Ex-Nigerian Ambassador To Greece

Atiku Will Return Nigeria To Greatness' Makarfi

Senate Swears In 2 APC Senators

Domestic Airlines And Challenges Of Longevity

FG Set To Open Abuja, Port Harcourt Airport Terminals

UBA Seeks Entries For Essay Competition

FG Releases N460bn For Capital Projects

IMF Tasks FG On Priority Spending Of Tax Revenues

Aviation Unions Shut Down MM2

Nigeria's Dwindling Human Capital Ranking

Ending Dangers Inherent In Air Pollution

Why Traditional Rulers Deserve Constitutional Role ' Oba Ajibola

2019 Presidency: The Gladiators And Their Self-assessment


*DAILY INDEPENDENT*


Imo APC Primaries: Not Yet Uhuru

Hugh Taylor Named President Of American Society For Reproductive Medicine

Trump Has Transformed The Republican Party

Can Dokubo Sustain The Peace Momentum In Niger Delta

ANN Denies Partnership With Other Parties

Bauchi Governorship Primaries: The Winners, Losers

INEC's Guidelines And Osun Election Debacle

Oil Sector Reform Delays Will Add To Fiscal Headwinds In Nigeria

AFRIEXIM Has Over $3.2bn Worth Of Investments In Nigeria ' Oramah

TCN, France Partner To Boost Power
Transmission In Abuja With $170m


*BUSINESSDAY*


PH Court nullifies APC congresses; voids guber, assembly nominations

BusinessDay 11 Oct 2018

Stocks may follow historical sell-off path despite Q3 scorecards

2019: Atiku's emergence will strengthen opposition, say Fasehun, Afenifere

FG spends N460bn from 2018 budget on capital projects

Factoring will help Nigerian economy to blossom

Dangote urges deepening of African economy through free trade

Quickteller removes transaction cost for online bill payments

FBN Nigeria Eurobond offering competitive returns to investors

Mypatricia commits to improved e-commerce customers experience