Economy

N30tn CBN Loans: Senate to Probe Buhari Govt, Emefiele

By Web News 459

The Senate on Tuesday resolved to probe how the N30tn Ways and Means loans of the Central Bank of Nigeria were obtained and spent by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ways and Means is a loan facility through which the CBN finances the government’s budget shortfalls.

The senate stated that the reckless spending of the overdraft collected from the CBN under Godwin Emefiele largely accounted for the food and security crises the country was currently facing.

The red chamber then resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate what the N30tn overdraft was spent on by the immediate past government, noting that the details of the spending were deliberately not made available to the National Assembly.

The ad-hoc committee which will be constituted on Wednesday (today) will also probe the N10tn expended on the Anchor Borrowers Scheme, the $2.4bn forex transaction out of the $7bn obligation made for that purpose as well as other intervention programmes.

The development came as a biting food crisis, rising inflation, naira depreciation and worsening insecurity continue to take toll on Nigerians.

President Bola Tinubu and his economic team have come under intense criticism after last year’s fuel subsidy removal and exchange unification policy unleashed harsh economic conditions on citizens.

Tinubu’s cabinet members have continued to argue that the current crises were exacerbated by the gross mismanagement of the Buhari regime, arguing the current reforms were meant to right the wrongs of the past administration.

The latest move by the Senate is expected to unravel the ways the country and its resources were allegedly mismanaged by the Buhari administration.

Buhari had in a letter to the National Assembly in January 2023 requested that the N22.7trn Ways and Means loan should be converted to a 40-year bond with a moratorium of three years.

He also requested approval to borrow an additional N1trn to fund the N819.5 billion 2022 supplementary budget which the lawmakers approved last December.

Following the request, the House of Representatives on May 4, 2023, approved the conversion of the N23.7trn loan to a long-term bond for 40 years at the rate of nine per cent per annum.

The bond has a moratorium of three years.

The lower chamber approved the consideration of the report presented by the House Committees on Finance, Banking and Currency and Aids, Loans and Debt Management.

The Committee of Supply, chaired by the then Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, considered the recommendation in the report and approved it.

But the 9th Senate was thrown into a chaotic session after some lawmakers opposed Buhari’s request to approve the CBN loan as they demanded the details of his proposal.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Adeola Olamilekan, attempted to present the report of the president’s request when Rivers senator, Betty Apiafi, raised a Point of Order and said the president’s request was not constitutional.

She was, however, ruled out of order by the then Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, who asked that Olamilekan present the report before contributions were made.

Citing relevant laws from the Constitution, the CBN Act and the Senate Standing Rules, Rivers senator, George Sekibo, argued that the request was not in line with the Constitution.

‘’It will be a disservice that we have spent that money on behalf of Nigerians. It will be an abuse of our personal sense and against our privileges if we approve this request without details of the expenditure,’’ he insisted.

Many lawmakers who opposed the president’s request either said it was against the laws or wondered why the National Assembly was not notified when the amount was taken from the Central Bank.

Senate’s new probe

However, the Senate’s resolutions on Tuesday followed the consideration of the report of its Joint Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, Finance, National Planning, Agriculture and Appropriation on State of the Economy after interactive sessions held with the Federal  Government economic management team.

However the consideration of the report during the plenary was stormy with accusations and counter-accusations by Senators on how the N22.7tn Ways and Means was passed by the 9th Senate in May 2023.

The lawmakers were also miffed by the passage of N7.2tn on December 30, 2023, by the 10th Senate.

Specifically, the Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume (APC Borno South), in his contribution blamed the Senate for approving the request without details from former President  Buhari.

Ndume said, “When the N22.7trn Ways and Means approval request was brought before the 9th Senate, I insisted that details of spending made with it should be provided before approval but the Senate then went ahead and approved it.”

However, the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, countered that the decision taken then was a collective one with the caveat that the executive should provide details later, which was however not provided.

In his defence, the former Senate President, Lawan, claimed that the Ways and Means was in the past and urged the Senate to focus on the present.

Lawan said, “All of that is in the past, we must focus on the present which is the fact that people are hungry and they are crying. That’s what we should focus on.”

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said as recommended by the committee and supported by most of the Senators, a thorough probe must be carried out on the N22.7tn Ways and Means approved in May 2023 by the 9th Senate which later increased to N30trn, with the passage of the N7.2trn accrued interest forwarded to the senate for passage last December.

Akpabio said, “The food and security crises confronting the nation now are traceable to the way and manner the said Ways and Means were given collected and spent. Details of such spending must be submitted for required scrutiny and possible remedies because what Nigerians want is food on their table which must be given.”

He added, “Other recommendations made by the committee on the need for a thorough investigation of the N10trillion Anchor borrowers program, and other intervention programs running into billions of dollars must be investigated.

“But as rightly recommended by the joint committee, security agencies should, as a matter of national urgency, combat all forms of insecurity across the country for farmers to access their farms for required food production highly needed in the country now.”

According to the executive summary of the report by the Senate’s joint committee, a copy of which was obtained by one of our correspondents on Tuesday, the Nigerian economy is currently facing challenging times “largely caused by distortions resulting from major fiscal and monetary policy actions of previous governments notably the huge direct lending to the Federal Government by the Central Bank of Nigeria to the tune of about N30 trillion, the operation of an opaque fuel subsidy regime and a raft of interventions by the Central Bank which seemed not well targeted.”

The report stated that this had led to rising inflation especially food, and persistent naira depreciation.

In reaction to the current economic hardships being faced by Nigerians, the Joint Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other financial Institutions, Finance, National Planning, Agriculture and Appropriation held an interactive session with the key members of the Federal Government’s economic management team.

The aim was to ascertain the true state of affairs of the country’s economy, the nature of the challenges and measures being put in place to address them within the shortest possible time.

According to the report, what has emerged from the interaction is the urgent need to bring down inflation, boost food production and stabilize the economy through proper coordination of fiscal and monetary policies.

The report further read, “The current state of the country’s economy is very challenging and has resulted in widespread suffering for the average Nigerian across the country. At the forefront of Nigeria’s economic challenges is the alarming surge in inflation rates, with headline inflation soaring to a staggering 28.92 per cent as of December 2023. This inflationary pressure is more evident in the essential sector of food, with food inflation now as high as 33.93 per cent leading to a cost-of-living crisis and rendering necessities increasingly unaffordable for many Nigerians. The inflationary spiral not only erodes the purchasing power of households but also exacerbates poverty and inequality across the nation.

“One of the main drivers of inflation in Nigeria today is the volume of money in circulation. As of December 2023, the country recorded an unprecedented money supply of N78.74tn, and a 51 per cent year-on-year increase when compared to the money supply as of December 2022. One of the driving forces of this significant increase in money supply was the N30tn Ways and Means or the direct financing extended by the CBN to the Federal Government which has only weakened the balance sheet of the central bank. In addition to the inflationary pressures, the country is also battling with acute shortages of food items.”

The report noted that the naira has continued to weaken against the dollar over time, adding that “In January 2024, the naira depreciated against the dollar by 37.6 per cent which has contributed to the inflationary pressures in the country, increased the cost of goods and services and also led to increased foreign exchange speculation.”

The Senate probe panel is expected to begin to summon some key members of the previous administration’s cabinet members.

PDP welcomes probe

The People’s Democratic Party has urged the National Assembly to follow through with the proposed probe and investigate Buhari’s administration

The PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the current hardships facing Nigerians were a result of both “the actions and inactions” of the former President Buhari.

Abdullahi stated, “You know, that’s what we have always clamoured for. If there is any modicum of integrity in this government, then Buhari needs to be probed. It is not just about probing his government; Buhari himself should be probed. I am sure he does not enjoy any immunity now.

“Nigeria cannot continue like this. Fifty years after independence, we are still stuck in the same place. Any Tom, Dick, and Harry will take over leadership for years, and after inflicting untoward hardship on the citizenry like Buhari did in his eight years, then the individual will go free, and nothing will happen.

“The PDP is supportive of the Senate’s proposed probe of Buhari’s government, despite our lack of belief in it. However, it signifies a development aimed at restoring the faith of Nigerians in the system. Buhari should be subjected to a tribunal or panel to account for everything he did during the last eight years.

“Already, Buhari’s actions have been a form of self-investigation. We’ve been witnessing revelations, and some of us have been vocal about it even during his tenure. He was steering Nigeria backwards due to a lack of ideas and offered nothing to Nigerians, yet some forces imposed him on us. We endured a harrowing experience during his eight years in office.

“They claimed he had Nigeria’s best interests at heart. How? The Senate should investigate him, and we support them wholeheartedly, hoping it won’t be another futile arrangement as we’ve seen in the past. Let them match words with action.

“Nigerians are receiving it the hard way now. Everybody is surviving miraculously, insecurity has taken a toll on this country. What we are going through these days, the upheavals in the country and the hardships are the fallout of what Buhari has done with this country within eight years.”

LP speaks

Also, the Labour Party described the Senate’s plan to probe Buhari’s administration as a welcome development, doubting however whether the Senate would follow through.

LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, expressed this view in an interview with one of our correspondents on Tuesday, likening the Senate to an appendage of Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government.

He stated “If they actually want to walk the talk, then it is a welcome development. But also know that Nigerians do not have trust in this present Senate, because they are like an apron to President Bola Tinubu’s government. They have virtually approved any request by Tinubu’s government. So they don’t trust them

“The question is, do they have the political will to investigate APC? This government is a continuation of Buhari’s government and the APC is known for condoning corruption. So it is not likely they will carry out that threat. Because we know they are birds of the same feather and they flock together.

“So in summary the Labour Party thinks it is a good thing, but whether they will carry out that probe, is something else. Because the current Senate leadership does not have the political Will to investigate anybody, not to talk of the past government.”

Meanwhile, attempts to get comments from the former Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, were unsuccessful even as the counsel to Mr Emefiele, Mr Matthew Bukka, did not take calls to his mobile line at press time.

Punch/ Immaculata Justin

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Judiciary

Obasanjo, Jonathan, Yar’Adua, Buhari should account for $5bn Abacha loot – Court

By Web News 398

The Federal High Court, Abuja, has ordered the disclosure of the spending details of about $5 billion Abacha recovered funds by the governments of former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan, and Muhammadu Buhari.

The Freedom Of Information suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/407/2020 from which the order emerged was brought before the court by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project.

Dismissing the objections advanced by the FG, the justice held among others, that SERAP is entitled to the information on the spending details of about $5bn Abacha money, and need not show any special interest in the information sought.

Joined as defendants in the suit are the Minister of Finance and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Delivering judgement, Justice Omotosho granted the following orders of mandamus against the federal government compelling it (through the Ministry of Finance and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice) to provide and disclose the following information to SERAP: Exact amount of money stolen by General Sani Abacha from Nigeria, and the total amount of Abacha loot recovered and all agreements signed on same since the return of democracy in 1999 till date.

The court also directed the FG to disclose details of the projects executed with the recovered funds, locations of any such projects, and the names of companies and contractors that carried or are carrying out the projects.

Moreso, it ordered the disclosure of “details of specific roles played by the World Bank and other partners in the execution of any projects funded with Abacha loot since 1999.”

“Refer any allegations of corruption involving the execution of projects with Abacha money to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for investigation.”

“Ensure that anyone involved in alleged corruption in projects executed with Abacha money is brought to justice if there is relevant and sufficient admissible.”

In his judgment, the Justice on July 3, held that “…the application by SERAP is meritorious and the Federal Government through the Ministry of Finance is hereby ordered to furnish SERAP with the full spending details of about $5bn Abacha loot within 7 days of this judgment.”

Justice Omotosho also held that “The excuse by the Minister of Finance is that the Ministry has searched its records and the details of the exact public funds recovered from Abacha and how the funds have been spent are not held by the Ministry. The excuse has no leg to stand in view of section 7 of the Freedom of Information Act.”

Justice Omotosho’s judgment, read in part: “The failure of the Minister of Finance to write to SERAP informing it of where the said information exists or to transfer the request to public office who has custody of such information is fatal to their case under section 5 of the Freedom of Information Act.”

“The Ministry cannot use a blanket statement that it was not in possession of the said records of about $5bn Abacha money sought by SERAP. The government failed to provide details of the projects executed with the money. It also failed to provide locations of the projects and the names of the companies and contractors that carried out or are carrying out the projects funded with the money.”

“I hold that by the clear wordings of section 7 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, access to information about spending details of $5bn Abacha loot was denied SERAP by the Federal Government.”

“The Federal Government had filed a 14 paragraph Counter Affidavit deposed to by Abah Sunday, Litigation Officer in the office of the Attorney General of the Federation arguing that SERAP’s suit is frivolous, as it has not shown that the government denied it the information it seeks.”

“The Federal Government has also stated that SERAP has not established sufficient interest in its application. The government urged the Court to dismiss the suit.”

“For the sake of emphasis, possession of locus standi has been the bane of the citizens’ advocates, in the public interest litigation, to query transparency and accountability in governance in Nigeria.”

“In a democratic dispensation, such as in Nigeria, the citizens have been proclaimed the owners of sovereignty and mandates that place leaders in the saddle.”

“The requirement is a serious fracture of the citizens’ inalienable right to ventilate their grievances against poor governance vis-à-vis expenditure of public funds generated from their taxes.”

“The sacrosanct provision of Section 1(2) of the Freedom of Information Act, which has ostracised this disturbing requirement, has, admirably, remedied the harmful mischief appurtenant to it.”

“Clearly, section 1 gives a person the right to access any information from any public institution in Nigeria. SERAP is an organization registered in Nigeria and thus a juristic person. As a juristic person, SERAP need not show any specific interest in the spending details of about $5bn Abacha money to be entitled to the same.”

“I therefore hold that SERAP is entitled to the information on the spending details of about $5bn Abacha money, and need not show any special interest in the information sought.”

“The provision of Section 4 of the Freedom of Information Act is quite clear and mandates that public institutions or public officers such as the Minister of Finance and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice must make available the information requested within 7 days of the request.”

In the letter dated 8 July 2023 sent to President Tinubu on the judgment, and signed by SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said, “We urge you to demonstrate your expressed commitment to the rule of law by immediately obeying and respecting the judgment of the Court.”

“By immediately complying with the judgment, your government will be demonstrating to Nigerians that it is different from the Buhari government, which persistently and brazenly defied the country’s judiciary, and sending a powerful message to politicians and others that there will be no impunity for grand corruption.”

“Immediately implementing the judgment will restore trust and confidence in the independence of Nigeria’s judiciary. SERAP urges you to make a clean break with the past and take clear and decisive steps that demonstrate your commitment to the rule of law, transparency, and accountability in the governance processes.”

“SERAP trusts that you will see compliance with this judgment as a central aspect of the rule of law; an essential stepping stone to constructing a basic institutional framework for legality and constitutionality. We, therefore, look forward to your positive response and action on the judgment.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Buhari Departs Eagle Square for Daura

By Web News 1233

The immediate past President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, has departed the Eagle Square, Abuja, for the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, en route to his home town, Daura, Katsina State.

Buhari left the venue immediately Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima were respectively sworn-in as President and Vice President on Monday.

Before his departure, Buhari formally handed over flags and other insignia of office to the new president.

Buhari earlier had dinner in the State House Banquet Hall on Sunday with Tinubu and other dignitaries.

The retired Army General had repeatedly said he would retire to his hometown to take care of his cows after his tenure in office elapses.

Buhari will, on Tuesday, in Daura, be hosted to a Durbar ceremony to mark his return and welcome back home.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Buhari Confers Highest National Honours on Tinubu, Shettima

By Web News 1025

President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima have been honored with the highest national awards of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (GCFR) and the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), respectively.

President Muhammadu Buhari conferred these national honors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja as part of the inauguration activities for the new administration on May 29.

George Akume, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, congratulated the President-elect and expressed optimism that the incoming administration would lead the country into an era of prosperity. He believed that the progressive legacies established by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration would be continued by the incoming administration.

Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), acknowledged President Muhammadu Buhari’s visionary leadership, emphasizing the achievements made in the past eight years. He highlighted the administration’s successful efforts in overcoming obstacles, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure, and the economy.

The SGF emphasized the multifaceted approach employed by President Buhari, which played a pivotal role in lifting the country out of the recession inherited by his administration. Notable accomplishments during President Buhari’s tenure included significant advancements in infrastructure, such as railway lines, road projects, the Second Niger Bridge, and improvements in the power sector.

Overall, these honors reflect the recognition of President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima for their distinguished service to the nation and signify the expectations for continued progress and prosperity under the new administration.

Watch

Oluwaseyi Ajibade

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Economy

Tinubu Govt. will build on success of Dangote refinery – Buhari

By Web News 528

President Muhammadu Buhari said the incoming government will build on the success of the Dangote refinery. 

President Buhari gave this while speaking at the commissioning of the Dangote refinery situated at the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos.

He said, “I am confident that my successor, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will sustain the improvement in our economy and business environment.

Dangote refinery will contribute to the industrialization of our economy and that of our continent.

Buhari, was received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by the President/CEO, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, among other dignitaries.

Five African presidents are expected to attend the inauguration of the Dangote Refinery alongside President Buhari today (Monday).

The dignitaries are President Gnassingbé Eyadéma of Togo, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, President Macky Sall of Senegal, President Mohamed Bazoum of Niger Republic, and President Mahamat Déby of Chad. 

Others are President Paul Kagame of Rwanda who will deliver a goodwill message virtually, amongst other hosts of ambassadors.

Recall that the Dangote Group, in a statement Saturday on Twitter, had said the refinery will be churning out Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), diesel (AGO), aviation jet fuel and Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK), among other refined products.

The CEO Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, Sanjay Gupta, stated that “everything in this plant by way of size is the first. It is the largest single-train refinery in the world”.

“There is no single column that can process 650,000 barrels per day anywhere else,” he stated.

“Everything in this plant by way of size is the first. It is the largest single-train refinery in the world. There is no single column which can process 650,000 barrels per day anywhere else.”

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

Buhari Condemns Benue Bloodbath, Preaches Peace

By Web News 365

President Muhammadu Buhari has called for the swift identification and prosecution of the perpetrators of the recent attacks and killings in Benue State.

Condemning the insensitivity, in which tens of people were killed in the Umogidi community of Entekpa-Adoka in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state, the President calls for an end to using terrorism as a tool in inter-communal conflicts.

In a statement, the President conveys his grief and sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives in the attacks, urging security agencies to enhance surveillance on every front and to immediately review the security management in the affected areas.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those murdered. The entire nation stands united in the fight against the forces of terror and evil,” said the President.

Abdullah Bello

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Politics

President Buhari Jets off to Qatar

By Web News 486

By Abdullah Bello

President Muhammadu Buhari will today leave for the 5th United Nations Conference on Least Developed Countries (LCDs) in Doha, the capital city of Qatar.

A statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, says the President’s visit follows an invitation by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The conference, which is from 5th to 9th March 2023 under the theme: “From Potential to Prosperity,” holds once in a decade and provides an opportunity to garner the support of the international community for accelerating sustainable development in the LDCs as well as assist them to make progress towards achieving prosperity.

In Doha, President Buhari will reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable countries to meet their development challenges, highlighting areas through which the Nigerian government has provided them with various forms of assistance over time.

As most of these countries struggle to find sustainable solutions to challenges of poverty, adverse effects of climate change, food and energy crises, as well as high-debt burdens among others, President Buhari will vigorously reiterate the need for sustainable solutions for countries facing these severe challenges. 

The Summit will be attended by world leaders, the private sector, civil society and youth organisations. 

The statement says the conference aims to share developmental ideas and mobilise political will, solidarity, action and solutions to transform the LDCs, by finding sustainable solutions to the challenges of poverty, food insecurity, hunger, weak or non-existent infrastructure, inadequate health facilities, and climate change, as they struggle to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. 

President Buhari’s delegation includes some Ministers and top government officials, who are expected to use the opportunity of the visit to sign some agreements and Memoranda of Understanding with the Qatari government. 

The President is expected to return to the country on Wednesday, March 8. 

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Politics

PMB Congratulates Bola Tinubu as President-Elect

By Web News 441

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the winner of the just concluded Presidential Election and Candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

The President described Bola Tinubu as the best person for the job and promised to work with him and his team to ensure an orderly and smooth transmission. 

“The election was Africa’s largest democratic exercise. In a region that has undergone backsliding and military coups in recent years, this election demonstrates democracy’s continued relevance and capability to deliver for the people it serves’’ President Buhari noted.

“Within Nigeria, the results reveal democracy’s ripening in our country. Never has the electoral map shifted so drastically in one cycle. In the presidential elections, states in all regions across the nation changed colour. Some of you may have noticed my home state among them. The winning candidate did not carry his own home state either. That happens during a competitive election. Votes and those that cast them cannot be taken for granted. Each must be earned. Competition is good for our democracy. There is no doubt the people’s decision has been rendered in the results we look at today”. President Buhari noted.

President Buhari explained “That is not to say the exercise was without fault. For instance, there were technical problems with the electronic transmission of the results. Of course, there will be areas that need work to bring further transparency and credibility to the voting procedure. However, none of the issues registered represents a challenge to the freeness and fairness of the elections”. 

He called on candidates who believe they can prove the fraud they claim was committed against them, with evidence or want to challenge it, should go to the court, not to the streets. 

President Buhari implored all candidates to remember the peace pledge they signed before the election and not to undermine the credibility of INEC.

President said ”Let us now move forward as one. The people have spoken.” 

Abdullah Bello/Adetutu Adetule

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Security

2023 Poll: Be Professional, Buhari Tells Security Agencies

By Web News 377

President Muhammadu Buhari has charged security agencies that will work with various support services in the 2023 elections to maintain a high sense of professionalism.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Defence Intelligence Agency, DIA, a newly acquired estate in Idu-Karmo, Abuja, the President urged the agencies to handle the distribution and monitoring of classified materials and other logistics professionally and in accordance with Standing Operation Procedures.

Reiterating his earlier directive to security agencies to remain apolitical, the President said they must desist from behaviour that could bring disrepute to their organisations and the country by compromising the democratic process.

On the newly acquired DIA estate, the President said the befitting accommodation would enhance productivity and coordination of activities of the staff of the agency, in view of the increasing number of personnel to face new challenges and responsibilities.

‘‘The significance of today’s occasion can be better understood by making the connection between shelter and productivity. This underpins the administration’s vision for the provision of shelter to improve performance as well as comfort for workers, families and communities.

‘‘This commissioning ceremony further avails another opportunity to reaffirm my confidence in the competence, commitment and achievements of the Defence Intelligence Agency’s giant strides achieved across the nation.

”I am confident that these new premises will yield enormous shelter dividends to the Defence Intelligence Agency staff, their families and to the host locality”. He said.

President Buhari charged the new occupants to ensure the sustenance of the high standard of the facility.

”The agency’s investment in staff accommodation complements our vision of achieving improved national security,’’ he said, commending the Chief of Defence Intelligence, CDI, Major-General Samuel Adebayo, for the laudable achievement.”

The CDI had thanked President Buhari for inaugurating the new estate, while appreciating President Buhari for approving their requests for advanced technological acquisitions, adding that the newly-procured technical equipment had been deployed as they are helping to address security challenges across the country.

Abdullah Bello

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Judiciary

Abacha Loot: SERAP Sues Buhari, Malami

By Web News 519

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Muhammadu Buhari over “the failure to publish copy and details of the agreement the Federal Government recently signed with the United States for the repatriation of $23 million stolen by the late dictator Sani Abacha”.

A statement released on Sunday by the Deputy Director of SERAP, Kolawole Oluwadare revealed the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) was also included in the suit as respondent. 

‘’The United States government had in August signed an agreement with the Federal Government to repatriate $23 million Abacha loot to Nigeria. The $23 m adds to the $311.7 m Abacha loot repatriated from the U.S. to Nigeria in 2020’’, the statement read.

In the suit which was filed on Friday, September 23, 2022 at the Federal High Court, Abuja, SERAP is asking the court to “direct and compel President Buhari and Mr. Abubakar Malami to release and widely publish a copy of the agreement on the Abacha loot with the U.S.”

The Organization is also asking the court to “direct and compel President Buhari and Mr Abubakar Malami to publish details of the transparency and accountability mechanisms that have been put in place to ensure that the repatriated funds are not mismanaged, diverted or re-stolen.”

“The Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], the Freedom of Information Act, and the country’s international obligations impose transparency obligations on the Federal Government to widely publish the agreement on the $23 m Abacha loot”, SERAP argued.

It also argued that “Publishing a copy of the agreement with the U.S. would allow Nigerians to scrutinize it, and to monitor the spending of the repatriated loot to ensure that the money is not mismanaged, diverted or re-stolen.”

According to SERAP, “the repatriated $23 m Abacha loot is vulnerable to corruption and mismanagement; alleging that a substantial part of the estimated $5 bn returned Abacha loot since 1999 may have been mismanaged, diverted, or re-stolen, and in any case, remain unaccounted for”.

The Organization further explained that the Federal Government has a responsibility to ensure transparency and accountability in how any repatriated stolen funds are spent, to reduce vulnerability to corruption and mismanagement.”

SERAP, therefore, urged the court to grant its application for the sake of public interest, and the interest of justice, stressing that Nigerians are entitled to their constitutionally and internationally recognized human right to information”.

Annabel Nwachukwu

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Politics

Ayade Throws in Hat for Presidential Race

By Web News 561

Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade has informed President Muhammadu Buhari of his intention to join the presidential race.
Ayade, who is of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made his intention known after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa today
Ayade, who said he had the longest meeting with the President ever, said Buhari advised him to do more consultations before making a formal declaration.
The Governor who said, he came to seek spiritual and political guidance from the President, on who will take over from him come 2023 for continuity sake, said security, economy, electricity and employment will be his focus should he become the president.
Ayade said he will replicate what he did in Cross River, adding that if the presidency is zoned to the South, he is willing to take up the challenge as the only APC governor in the south south.
Asked to react to unconfirmed report that the APC might present former President, Goodluck Jonathan as the sole candidate for the 2023 presidential election, he said “I have great respect for President Jonathan and so I have no challenges whatsoever.
“I believe that the party leadership will decide on the appropriate candidate that will take our party to victory. And so, if you heard me well, I am just part of the family; absolutely loyal to the president, seeking to run for the president. And I am running. But at any point in time that the political leadership of my party, the APC feels that president Jonathan is the appropriate candidate that will actually take us to victory, I will turn my support for him.
“I am never, ever going to fight the establishment, the institution, the aristocracy, the spiritual vortex of which God has placed a leader of a country. I will never question the powers of the leader of a country. I have never played politics of antagonism or fight.
“I became governor by offering to suppprt whoever the governor (Imoke) wanted and by stroke of luck, I became the candidate.
“By the same token, I am only here to support the president’s candidate and by a stroke of luck, he said, you too go there and join the race and let me see.”
Adewumi Faniran

News

Buhari Mourns Late Soun Of Ogbomosoland 

By Web News 1869

President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the family of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi, Ajagungbade III, on the demise of the highly revered traditional ruler earlier on Sunday.

In a condolence message by his Spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Sunday in Abuja, the President commiserated with the government and people of Oyo State as well as the indigenes of Ogbomoso land on the demise of the frontline traditional ruler.

The president noted that Oyewumi’s reign of 48 years reinforced the town as a land of peace, accommodating and a bastion of history and tradition.

President Buhari also joined the Oyo State Council of Obas in mourning the First Class Traditional ruler.

He affirmed that the deceased would forever be remembered for his counsel and commitment to the unity and harmony within the ranks of the traditional rulers.

He urged sons and daughters of Ogbomoso land to be consoled with the fact that Oba Oyewumi accentuated his reign with the development and progress of the community through enduring peace and extension of hands of fellowship to peoples of other lands

Pulse/Taiwo Akinola

Security

Use Your Military experience to tackle insecurity- Bishop Wale-Oke tells Buhari

By Web News 617

The President of the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Bishop Francis Wale Oke says President Mohammadu Buhari should deploy his experience as a military general during his active days in the military to rescue Nigerians from its dire security challenges.

Bishop Oke stated this while hosting the Lagos State Varsity Union at precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan.

The PFN President noted that the call became imperative in the face of constant kidnapping, banditry, herdsmen attacks and other dangerous security trends plaguing the country.

While welcoming President Buhari on his recent medical trip abroad, Bishop Oke urged him to be a father to all by reassuring Nigerians that his appointments were not made with nepotic intentions.

The 7th newly sworn in PFN president also stated that president Buhari should urgently tackle and douse the agitations for secession by some ethnic groups due to perceived favouritism of the president to a particular section of the country.

He stressed that justice to Nigerians must not only be done but seen to be done.

Bishop Oke maintained that PFN would continue to pray and support the government for the success of the nation.

Jeffery Ahonmisi

Health

President Buhari Tasks Health Workers On Improved Services

By Web News 687

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on health care givers translate the government’s huge investments in procurement of medical infrastructure to improved services for patients.
The president while commissioning six capital projects executed and newly acquired equipment by Federal Medical Centre, Idi Aba, Abeokuta, stated that improved services by health workers will also help to reduce medical tourism to outside Nigeria.
The projects commissioned at the Federal Medical Centre Idi Aba Abeokuta, include an International Conference Centre and Telemedicine Hall named after President Muhammadu Buhari, Radiology complex with Diagnostic Equipment, Oxygen plant and four Wing Clinic Complex.
Others projects executed are patients relatives lodge, pharmacy complex and the gymnasium.
The President represented by the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire explained that there are complaints of poor service delivery from some care givers noting that care givers should more comprehensive care services in line with the equipment being acquired for the medical centres.
The senate President, Ahmed Lawan, represented by the chairman senate committee on Health, Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe in a remark said the senate would give necessary attention to the bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Medicine and Medical Science in Abeokuta being sponsored by the centre.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, commended the infrastructural upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre at Idia Aba in Abeokuta.
Former Governor Olusegun Osoba while speaking thanked the federal government for the huge investments at the centre noting that he had been vilified for transferring the centre to the Federal government.
The State Governor Dapo Abiodun while speaking said necessary assistance would be rendered to the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta to enable it serve the people of the state.
Medical Director of the centre, Professor Adewale Musa-Olomu had earlier called on the state government to tar the road leading to the proposed Federal University of Medicine and Medical Science.
He also called on more philanthropists to assist the centre in provision of more infrastructure for the centre.

Wale Oluokun

Politics

President Buhari Receives Governor Ortom In Abuja

By Web News 621

President Muhammadu Buhari has met with Governor Ortom at the State House, Abuja on Tuesday.

Governor Ortoms convoy was on Saturday, attacked, where an unknown group, FUMAN, took responsibility.

Speaking with newsmen after a closed-door meeting with President Buhari, the Governor said everyone must contribute to the fight against crime.

He urged the citizenry to ignore ethnicity, politics, and sectionalism, and work together to attain the much-needed tranquility in the country.

The Governor also refuted that he stage managed his attack to whip sentiment towards his political ambition.

Governor Ortom commended President Buhari for the measures he had taken thus far to ensure peace in the country.

Abdallah Bello

Politics

President Buhari To Okonjo-Iweala: We’re Happy You MAde It, But You Also Earned It.

By Web News 524

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday hosted in audience Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, newly appointed Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), telling her that despite the robust support Nigeria gave to her candidacy for the position, “You also earned it. We are happy you made it, but you earned it with your record of performance both at home and abroad.”
The President said Dr Okonjo-Iweala was putting Nigeria more on the world map, “and I congratulate you, as well as the country. I know you will represent us so well.”
President Buhari lauded Nigerian women once again, pointing to key positions they hold like Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, and many others. He said the same way, government would encourage the youths, “so that they can be ready for the challenges of the future.”
The new WTO DG thanked President Buhari for the pulsating support she received from her own country in the race for the position.
“You nominated me, you wrote hundreds of letters, called up hundreds of world leaders. Without your personal and direct intervention, it may not have worked. The people of Nigeria also supported me massively. The youths were wonderful, always encouraging, backing me up on social media.
“Mr President, the world recognizes what you have done. Since its establishment, only men have led the WTO. Now, a woman has emerged for the first time, and she’s a Nigerian. We are so honoured,” Dr Okonjo-Iweala said.
She apprised the President of the opportunities for Nigeria in the global organization, as well as the challenges, stressing that “WTO will do more to help Nigeria, but we need to add value to our products in order to trade more. We should exploit all the opportunities in front of us.”
She added that the support and leadership of President Buhari will help her a lot in her position as DG.
Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala assumed office on March 1, 2021 as the first female DG of the World Trade Organization.

Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
March 15, 2021

Economy

BREAKING: Buhari, Okonjo-Iweala Meet In Aso Rock

By Web News 540

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently meeting with the new Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, at the State House in Abuja.

The WTO Chief Executive Officer, who assumed office on March 1, 2021, is visiting Nigeria for the first time since she took office in Geneva, Switzerland.

She arrived at the Presidential Villa at about 2:45 pm and was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo as well as the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Ambassador Maryam Katagum.

Also on the delegation are some officials of the World Trade Organisation.

The WTO DG, Dr Okonjo-Iweala, who had served as the Minister of Finance and Supervising Minister of the Economy was received by the Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari.

The Nation

Crime

Updated] Niger School Abduction: Ensure Immediate, Safe Return Of All Captives, Buhari Tells Security Agencies

By Web News 653

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday gave marching orders to security agencies to as a matter of urgency ensure the immediate and safe return of all those abducted by gunmen at the Government Science College, Kagara, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State. President Buhari’s directive came when he received reports of the brazen attack on the school in which an unspecified number of staff and students were reportedly abducted.

A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu in Abuja said, “Following these reports, the President has directed the Armed Forces and Police, to ensure the immediate and safe return of all the captives.

“The President has also dispatched to Minna, Niger State a team of security chiefs to coordinate the rescue operation and meet with state officials, community leaders, as well as parents and staff of the College.” President Buhari assured of the support of his administration to the Armed Forces in their brave struggle against terrorism and banditry and urged them to do all that can be done to bring an end to this saga, and avoid such cowardly attacks on schools in the future. “Our prayers are with families of the victims of this attack,” said the President as he condemned as cowardly the attack on innocent school children.

Vanguard

News Yoruba

Aare Buhari Jeje Aabo To Gbopon Fun Gbogbo Omo Ile Yi

By Web News 1043

Aare Muhammadu Buhari ti seleri lati daabobo gbogbo eya ati esin nile yi.

O war o awon Gomina ati awon Oba Alaye lati dena ikunsinu to lee yorisi faa kaja.

Aare Buhari soro yi ninu atejade ti Oluranlowo Pataki lori oro iroyin ati ipolongo re, Mallam Garba Shehu fi sita.

Aare kilo pe oun o ni faaye gba eya tabi esin Kankan lati da wahala sile.

O soro yi bi ijaeleyameya ati rogbodiyan ti se n be sile lawon apa ibikan nile yi nitori iwa odaran tawon daran-daran kan nhu.

Aare bu enu ate lu iru iwa rogbodiyan yi to wa fid a awon eniyan loju wipe ijoba to nlewaju re yio gbe igbese to to lati dena itankale isu awon iwa odaran wonyi.

Net/Dada

Politics

President Buhari Vows To Protect Religious, Ethnic Groups

By Web News 794

President Muhammadu Buhari has re-stated his administration’s resolve to protect religious and ethnic groups in line with its responsibility under the constitution.

This is contained in a statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

The statement is in reaction to reports of breakout of violence in some parts of the country by some ethnic and sectional groups.

It warns that the government will not allow any ethnic or religious group to stoke up hatred and violence against other groups.

The President condemns such acts of violence and gives assurance that the government will act decisively to stop the spread of any such violence.

He appeals to religious and traditional leaders, as well governors and other elected leaders across the country to join hands with the Federal Government to ensure that communities in their domain are not splintered along ethnic and other primordial lines.

Abdullah Bello

Yoruba

Aare Buhari F’awon Agunbaniro Tofakoyo Ni Ise

By Web News 707

Aare Muhammadu Buhari ti fun awon agubaniro tootoo ogorun kan ati mewa, nise nileese ijoba apapo ati ebun eko ofe lati le keko siwajusi, lati keko gba oye omowe, leyi keyi ile-eko giga ni Nigeria.

Aare buhari, enito  soro yi, nibi eto, ifami eye danilola fawon agunbaniro towaye lori eto ayelujara fodun 2018-2019, to situn kede ebun owo fun awon agunbaniro tele kan.

O wa kesi awon lajo-lajo ijoba tooro kan, lati ridajupe won tete sise lori awon amin eye naa.

Aare wa kesi awon, to gba amin eye, lati maase kara ninu iwa omoluabi to mu gba amin eye naa.

Adenitan/Idogbe

Politics

Presidential Award for Ex-Corps Members: Ekiti Indigene Amongst Beneficiaries

By Web News 705

An Ekiti state born Bachelor of Biology Education graduate from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Ayodele Olubusayo Abidemi has emerged one of the beneficiaries of the Presidential Award for Ex-Corps member by President Muhammad Buhari.

Ayodele olubusayo Abidemi had her PPA at the Abubakar TaTari Ali Polytechnic Secondary School, Bauchi and did a project at Rafin Makaranta Primary School, Bauchi.

During the presentation of the award in Abuja, President Muhammad Buhari offered scholarship and automatic employment to the 110 ex-corps members for their exemplary service and commitment to their fatherland. 

Olufisoye Adenitan

Politics

Buhari appoints Marwa as NDLEA chair

By Web News 675


President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of former Military Administrator of Lagos and Borno states, Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (retd), as Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, confirming the report while responding to a media enquiry on Saturday, said the President had given a nod to the appointment.
“It’s true. The President has approved General Marwa as the new NDLEA Chairman,” he said in a text message.

Before this appointment, Marwa was the Chairman of, Presidential Advisory Committee for the Elimination of Drug Abuse, PACEDA, between 2018 and December 2020, at which time he presided over the development of a blueprint on how to end drug abuse in Nigeria.
A graduate of the Nigerian Military School and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, Marwa also has a master’s degree in Public Administration from Harvard University and another master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh.
The appointment is with immediate effect

The Nation

News Yoruba

Àarẹ Muhammadu Buhari pè fún lílọ́wọ́ àwọn ọ̀dọ́ sẹ́ka ètò ọ̀gbìn ìgbàlódé.

By Web News 692

Àarẹ orílẹ̀dè yíì Muhammadu Buhari ti ké sáwọn àjọ tọ́rọkàn lẹ́ka ètò ọ̀gbìn láti lọ́wọ́ àwọn ọ̀dọ́ sáwọn ìlànà ètò ọ̀gbìn ìgbàlódé lẹ́ka náà.

 Ìlú Abuja láarẹ ti sísọ lójú ọ̀rọ̀ yíì lákokò tón sèfilọ́lẹ̀ ètò kan tóníse pẹ̀láwọn àgbẹ̀ òde ìwòyí, èyí tẹ́ka tónrísí ìdàgbásókè ilẹ̀ ọ̀gbìn sagbátẹrù rẹ̀, láti lè jẹ́ káwọn ọ̀dọ́ túbọ̀ máà fìfẹ́ hàn sí isẹ́ àgbẹ̀.

Ó wá mú dáwọn ọ̀dọ́ tó bá nífẹ sísẹ́ àgbẹ̀ náà lójú pé, òun yóò pèsè àyíká tó rọrùn, fún kíkópa wọn.

Àarẹ Buhari kò sài sọ́ọ̀di mímọ̀ pé, igi lẹ́yìn ọgbà ẹ̀ka ètò ọrọ̀ ajé ilẹ̀ Nàijírìa sìni isẹ́ ọ̀gbìn jẹ́, nítorí bó se jẹ́ ẹ̀ka kan gbogi tó ń pèsè àwọn ǹnkan tó pọ̀jù lórí iye owó tíwọ́n ńpa, lórí àwọn ọjà tíwọ́n ǹpèsè lábẹ́lé.

Ó wá fìrètí rẹ̀ hàn pé sísàgbénde NALDA, yóò mú kóunjẹ pọ̀ lọ́pọ̀yanturu nílẹ̀ Nàijírìa, tíwọn yóò sì máà rówó pawọlé lábẹ́lé látara àwọn óunjẹ tíwọ́n bá ńtà sáwọn ilẹ̀ òkèrè, nígbà ta bá fi rọ́dún diẹ sákokò tawà yíì.

Net/Wojuade 

Economy

President Buhari to Present 2021 Budget on Thursday

By Web News 639

President Muhammadu Buhari will present the 2021 Appropriation Bill to the joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday this week.

This was contained in a letter from the Executive read by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan during plenary in Abuja.

The letter reads: “May I crave the kind indulgence of the Distinguished Senate to grant me the slot of 11:00hrs on Thursday, 8th October, 2020, to formally present the 2021 Appropriation bill to the Joint Session of the National Assembly.

“While I look forward to addressing the Joint session, please, accept Mr. Senate President, the assurances of my highest regard.”

FRCN, Abuja