“I have a right to vote as a delegate,But my influence is minimal" . Wike tells PDP presidential aspirants.

Governor Nyesom Wike of River state has made a crucial statement ahead of PDP convention in an interview conducted by Vanguard but monitored and transcripts by me for publication.  

He said: “I have a right to vote as a delegate. But my influence is minimal. Those talking about this dont have the facts. Are you saying that as governor of Rivers state, I will place a gun on the head of all delegates to vote a particular candidate.

“I cannot compel all the 14 governors to vote a particular aspirant. You mean you can change the views and opinions of all the states?” he said.

It was also learned that the governor said that he would work with other leaders to ensure that the national convention is transparent and credible.

He also stated that from credible intelligence it has been revealed that the APC has imported thugs into the state with the aim of disrupting the Convention. He categorically asserted: 

“As at Thursday, APC brought hoodlums to create an atmosphere of insecurity in Rivers state. It is not a mere allegation. We have it on good authority “, he said.

He said despite the plot of the APC, everything has been done to ensure that the national convention ends successfully.

He noted that whoever emerges as the party’s presidential candidate should team up with other leaders to sack the failed APC federal government.

The governor stressed that his interest is not in the outcome of the National Convention, but the economy of the state.

Leaked confidential letter written by Gov El-Rufai to Presi Buhari detailing the many sins of Senator Shehu Sani.

This is the leaked confidential letter written by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Executive Governor of Kaduna State to His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari, detailing the "many sins" of Senator Shehu Sani and why he doesn't deserve the ticket of the Party and the support of the President, he has denigrated since the inception of the Government in 2015. 

This letter dated 02 October, 2018, apparently was before the conduct of the APC Primaries for Senatorial Districts, which Senator Sani was returned UNOPPOSED. Sadly, Governor El-Rufai's "anointed Candidate", Uba Sani was disqualified from contesting.

PDP presidential primary: Saraki speaks on ‘stepping down’ for Atiku

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has made it clear he will not step down for former vice-president, Atiku Abubakar, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares to hold its presidential primary this weekend.
There have been speculations that Saraki is under pressure to withdraw from the race and support Atiku’s ambition.

However, in a phone chat, Yusuph Olaniyonu, the media aide to the Senate President, rubbishes such stories.

“Please, please, please.. what kind of story is that?
“How can a leading candidate step down for somebody else? I have never heard of that before.

“You can go to Port Harcourt and see for yourself, that Saraki is a top contender for the ticket,” Olaniyonu said.

PDP’s presidential primary is scheduled to hold on Saturday, September 6 to Sunday, September 7 in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.

Other aspirants still left in the race as at press time, include Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; Sule Lamido, former Governor of Jigawa State and former Foreign Affairs Minister; David Mark, a former Senate President and Ibrahim Dankwambo, the outgoing Governor of Gombe State.

Presidency: 7,000 APC delegates to ratify Buhari’s nomination as sole candidate

The All Progressives Congress (APC), says no fewer than 7,000 delegates will on Saturday, at the Eagle Square, ratify the nomination of President Muhammadu Buhari as the party’s Presidential candidate for 2019 election.

Gov. Kashim Shettima of Borno and Deputy Chairman of the APC Presidential Convention Planning Committee made this known while briefing newsmen on the party’s preparations ahead of Saturday’s convention in Abuja.

Shettima said the delegates were drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He disclosed that the convention committee on security was working closely with security agencies to ensure a hitch-free exercise.

Shettima, who said that the convention would commence at 2.00 p.m, added that its transport committee was making arrangements to reduce to the barest minimum, inconveniences it might cause Abuja residents.

“We moved the convention time from 9.00 a.m to 2.00 p.m deliberately to accommodate delegates that are coming from far and near.

“Incidentally, people from Kogi for instance, can leave and be in Abuja within three hours, but believe me, all our delegates will be on ground by 2.00 p.m,” he said.

Shettima stressed that the presidential convention was to ratify the nomination of President Buhari as the APC presidential candidate for the 2019 election.

“Let me assure you that the nomination and ratification of the candidacy of President Buhari is a commitment to service, progress and quality change.

“The convention is a special one for the emergence of our presidential flag bearer; no other issue will be tabled.

“In subsequent conventions, and the National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings, other issues can be discussed and sorted out,” he said.

The committee deputy chairman, while speaking on the challenges that followed the party’s primaries in some states of the federation, said the NWC was working round the clock to ensure that the issues were amicably resolved.

“Despite some of the problems we have encountered during the primaries in our various states, the NWC is working assiduously to resolve all the issues.

“It is a family quarrel, and we are going to sort things out amicably,” he said.

Shettima added that vote cast for President Buhari during the party’s recent presidential primaries held across the federation and the FCT would be revealed at the convention.

The APC Expression of Interest and Nomination forms were purchased for President Buhari by the Nigeria Consolidation Ambassadors’ Network on Sept. 5, at the cost of 45 million.

Buhari had in April declared his intention to seek re-election at the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

The President, who is the APC sole presidential aspirant, while submitting the forms, on Sept. 12, said; “I am taking this step with all humility, sense of responsibility and unquestionable desire to serve and protect the interest of all Nigerians.

“Let me today, appeal to party members not to be complacent but to pre, strategize and win 2019 elections.”

Violent confrontations, gunshots marred Benue PDP senatorial primaries

Violent confrontations and gunshots have marred the senatorial primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party in Makurdi, during which at least 10 persons were reportedly injured.

Several people on Thursday night sustained severe injuries, with over 20 vehicles badly damaged during the party’s Benue South senatorial district primary elections, held at Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

Punch reporter  who monitored the situation observed that thugs barricaded the entrance to the venue of the primary for the state and national assemblies in Benue South senatorial district.

Earlier, on Tuesday, the PDP senatorial primary could not hold in Otukpo, senatorial headquarters, on ground of “falsification of delegates’ lists,” hence, the electoral committee members shifted the venue to Makurdi to forestall crisis.

However, on Thursday night, trouble started when accreditation of delegates was on going and some persons protested against the list of delegates from Ohimini Local Government Area.

It was in the process that some young people suspected to be thugs working for various aspirants started hauling stones at delegates, which forced the security agents to shoot into the air to disperse the crowd.

But as hard as police tried, some hoodlums, most of whom were said to be armed, responded with gunshots, leading to violent confrontations.

The hoodlums seized the opportunity to wreak havoc on facilities at the stadium, they destroyed cars while people scampered for safety.

At the time our correspondent was leaving the stadium, a team of policemen were sighted in four Hilux vehicles driven to the venue.

The command spokesman, DSP Moses Yamu, when contacted on phone on Friday, said he was not aware of the incident.

Speaking to newsmen before the pandemonium, the state deputy governor, Benson Abounu, expressed dissatisfaction with the way and manner the primary was conducted.

“It is not right that the exercise could not hold in Otukpo and shifted to Makurdi, yet people are still fighting themselves to ensure that the exercise was disrupted.

“This action is condemnable and undemocratic.”

Quilox night club boss, Shina Peller wins APC ticket for the 2019 House of Reps seat in Oyo state.

 Quilox night club boss, Shina Peller has won the All Progressive Congress (APC) ticket for the 2019 House of Representatives election seat of Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency.

He made the announcement saying; 'My special thanks goes to His Excellency, Governor Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi, the party leaders and stakeholders of the four local governments in our constituency, particularly the delegates whose informed decisions yesterday led to my emergence as the candidate.

 I am humbled by the trust you have reposed in me, and I promise that I will not betray it, as I accept your nomination wholeheartedly.

To my co-contestants, we have all done well, nobody is a loser, we are all winners as I have only emerged to represent our party in the forthcoming general election, and subsequently, by God's grace at the House of Representatives in 2019.So, now is the time for us all to remain together as one big family that we are, move forward and strategize together for the greater challenge ahead of us, which is winning the main election, not for me, but for our great party and the people.To all our teeming supporters and electorates in Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency, I congratulate you as this moment symbolizes the beginning of a new dawn for us all. The ugly old ways are ending, it is almost a time for healing.Give me your supports, by joining me in the quest to making our constituency a point of good reference to all and sundry. Thank you all.

TBoss’s Sister, Wendy And Baby Daddy Call Off Engagement And Here Is Why!

Wendy, the sister to Big Brother Naija star, TBoss who got engaged to her baby daddy, Dameon on the night her sister was evicted from the Big Brother Reality Show, has ended their relationship.

Revealing why she broke up with her baby daddy, Wendy who has been dating Dameon for over 10 years, wrote on Instagram;

“So last night I did not sleep at all. Like I saw the sun come up. I danced for a good 5hr to release my stress. It worked for a little while. Today I’m done with all that. I know what is important to me, My family and my money.
I can’t play these games with you no more. You piss me off I do the same and it goes on and on with no ending. Yesterday you did the one thing I can’t forgive. You entered my friends inbox You knew I would find out but you did it anyways with no respect to me.
I was mad but you know what,Everyone is grown and can do what the fuck they want and with who.

I have no Energy to fight and I keep putting my work aside for unimportant things.
And the truth is what I was always afraid of still happened.
We both have our stories and as much as you want people to think you are innocent God knows better and the best part is you know better. You know what you always did. People love to act innocent.
I don’t speak to you cause I’m hurt and can’t lie that I still do love you.
But I pick me. I’m sorry if that does not work with your plans but I’m done.
I cried all my tears .
So keep fighting me in secret but you will be doing it on your own. Take what is left from me and it’s still ok. I don’t blame you and I forgive you.
Live and be happy with who you picked. Create your memories with them. You sure had no problem moving on so now be happy. It’s all ok”

TBoss’ sister also warned people to stop sending her photos of Dameon who seems to have moved on, with another lady.

See her posts below:

Ex-NDDC boss, Timi Alaibe dumps APC, returns to PDP

Former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, has ditched the All Progressives Congress, APC, and returned to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for tomorrow in Port Harcourt.

At a closed-door ceremony held in his honour at the Government house, Yenagoa, on Friday, Chief Alaibe was received by Governor Seriake Dickson and leaders of the PDP.

Elated Chief Alaibe lauded Gov. Dickson for his ”grandiose” projects in the state, his leadership style and his role in uniting the Ijaw nation.

In his words: “I want to thank you for the continuous commitment that has inspired some of us to continue to remain as a people in the space called Nigeria.

“You have maintained a disciplined PDP to the envy of others, which is why we are here today.

“Your leadership will continue to celebrate that PDP has become the home of ijaw people and for the people of Bayelsa.”

Commenting on his sojourn to the APC, Chief Alaibe noted it was ‘expedient’ at that time but he is back to help build the PDP and Bayelsa state.

He stressed that PDP is home and there is no place like home.

According to him: “all politics is local and as such, a host of us, politicians in Bayelsa are from PDP, so we cannot be out there in the wilderness.

“And so we took this very fundamental decision without looking back; we want to come and support our Governor and the PDP for progress and for the sustainable development of our land the pride of Ijaw people, Bayelsa state.”

He was warmly received by the Governor of Bayelsa state and the occasion was well attended by members of the national assembly, traditional rulers among other dignitaries.

Saraki reacts to police invitation of Senators over PDP protest

President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has reacted to a press release issued by the Nigeria Police over the protest staged by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Saraki’s reaction was contained in a statement by Yusuph Olaniyonu, his Special Adviser on Media.

He said police made various forms of spurious, unfounded and false claims about the protest in which they singled out three senators, Saraki, Senators Dino Melaye and Ben Murray-Bruce, of the many leaders of the PDP, including three Governors, a former Governor, presidential aspirants and members of the national working committees, and accused them of involvement “in the disturbance of public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari Way.”

He said: “After carefully reading the Police statement, one cannot but describe the claims made in it as laughable, crude and and another low point in the posture of the police against the opposition in the country.

“In exercise of their constitutional rights of assembly, expression and movement, leaders of the PDP decided to stage a peaceful procession from the party’s campaign office on Ibrahim Babangida Way to INEC and Police Headquarters. The procession consisted of the Senate President, the party national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, presidential aspirants, members of the National Assembly, Governors of Ekiti and Sokoto States. Later, the Governors of Taraba and Gombe States joined the procession,

“The purpose was to express the opposition of the PDP to the manner in which the electoral body and the security agencies had been colluding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate election results and subvert the will of the people, as evidenced by the conduct of the gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun State. We wanted to send a clear signal that such official subversion of the will of the people in favour of the APC should not be repeated in the 2019 elections.

“At the INEC secretariat, the procession spent over 40 minutes where the various leaders addressed the crowd in the presence of two national commissioners of INEC, including the one in charge of legal matters, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu. The two INEC commissioners equally responded to the complaints raised by the PDP leaders. It was a civilised, frank and enlightened exchange, devoid of any rancour.

“The procession then headed towards the Police Headquarters while being hailed on the streets by ordinary Nigerians who came out to cheer the leaders standing in an open van. From the Eagles Square end, the procession was on the other side of the road going to Police Headquarters. The procession did not even get to the point where it will turn to the side where the Police Force Headquarters is located when the police rained tear gas on the people. They deliberately targettted the open vans in which the Senate President and other VIPs were standing.

“The procession quickly diverted to the Area 11 Junction leading to FCDA. The diversion was done to avoid a repeat of the 2003 event in which a similar tear gassing event led to the death of a former Senate President, Senator Chuba Okadigbo.

“Let it be known that the hostile, brutal, needlesss, tactless and uncivil response of the Police under the present leadership of Mr. Ibrahim Kpotum Idris to the peaceful, lawful and justified procession was in contrast to how the same police responded to a similar protest by the opposition in 2014.

“In 2014, the protesters then led by the Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), the candidate of the opposition party, were not attacked. They were tolerated and their grievances listened to by the police leadership. In 2014, it was the same Nigeria Police as we have today. The difference is the temperament and democratic credentials of the then administration, in general, and that of the Police leadership, in particular.

“The fabrications by the Police as contained in their press statement only show the new police leadership as mere jesters trying to hone their skills in comic script-writing. Every move of the PDP procession today was recorded by the media – Television, print, radio and online -, citizens, members of the civil society and the international community. These independent observers know that nothing is far from the truth than the claims made by the Police in their statement.

“It should be noted that the Police under Idris are simply setting the stage for another onslaught on members of the Nigerian Senate and that is why they singled out the Senate President and two other Senators as the people being invited and accused of all these false charges.

“It is clear that the Idris-led Police are intent on turning Nigeria into a police state and destroying members of the opposition at all cost and that that is why they specialize in framing up leaders of the opposition and other outspoken legislators on false charges.

“This fresh attempt will fail. The invited Senators and their party will exercise their right at all times and in all cases. We know that Nigeria has not turned to Banana Republic and we will not allow the Police under the present leadership to turn it to one, no matter the expertise for evil being displayed by its top personnel.”

APC sacks Zamfara party executives, warns Gov Yari

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sacked the Party executives in Zamfara State at all levels.

This was contained in a statement Friday night by the national publicity secretary, Yekini Nabena.

“By this decision all supposed Party factions in Zamfara State stands dissolved”, he said.

“The NWC-inaugurated committee for Zamfara State are to conduct the Governorship and Legislative primaries in the State.

“Hence, the Zamfara State Governor, H.E. Alh. Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari and the dissolved executives in the state should not interfere in the primary elections in the State.

“The Governorship and legislative primaries will hold from Saturday, October 6, 2018 – Sunday, October 7, 2018,” he said.

Profile of Senator Dr David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark GCON,Fnim,Fnipr.

PROFILE OF HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR (DR) DAVID ALECHENU BONAVENTURE MARK GCON, Fnim, Fnipr, PRESIDENT OF THE 6TH AND 7TH SENATE, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

Senator (Dr) David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark’s place as a patriot, a true nationalist, a detribalized Nigerian, a social and political strategist of no mean standing is unarguably assured in the annals of Nigerian history.
Till date, Senator Mark holds the record of being the longest serving Senator in Nigeria having been elected an unprecedented six times by his Benue South Constituency of Benue state: 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2016.
He also possesses the enviable record of being the longest serving President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, having presided over the affairs of 6th and 7th Senate between 2007 and 2015 unblemished.
During this time, Senator Mark demonstrated considerable maturity in leading his colleagues and managing national issues. These earned him the soubriquet “Mr. Stability” for stabilizing the senate and the National Assembly that was hitherto a theatre of musical chairs.

Born on the 8th day of April 1948 in the serene and rural Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State of Nigeria, Senator Mark started his elementary education at St. Francis Catholic Practicing School, Otukpo from 1956-1961. He then proceeded to the prestigious Nigerian Military School, Zaria from 1962-1966 and in the process set off for achieving his ambition for a military career. Young David Mark was later admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Regular Course 3 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in 1970.

Senator Mark surged for further professional training in the United Kingdom and India from 1971-1976 and bagged a Bachelors Degree in Telecommunications Engineering. Between 1978 and 1979, he was a student at the Command and Staff College, Jaji and between 1990 and 1991, he was at the National Defence University in Washington DC and later at Harvard University, Boston, USA from 1991-1992.

During a sterling military career, Senator Mark held various Staff, Command and Administrative appointments in the Nigerian Army. Some of these include but not limited to Directing Staff, Command and Staff College, Commander Corps of Signals and Faculty Director, National War College (NWC), now National Defence College (NDC), Abuja.

Senator David Mark also held extra-curricular appointments while in the military. He was appointed the Chairman of the very challenging Abandoned Properties Implementation Committee in 1976. In his capacity as Chairman, he effectively supervised the implementation of the Federal Government White Paper on the controversial abandoned properties in the old Eastern Region, now the South South (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers) and South Eastern States (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo).
As a Lieutenant Colonel, he was appointed Military Governor of Niger State in 1984. His tenure was characterized by the conceptualisation and implementation of brilliant ideas, bold actions and courageous initiatives which set Niger State on the path of development. Pertinent to note, is the introduction of the compulsory girl-child education, an initiative that earned Niger state the Number one position in the promotion of the girl-child education. Till date, Niger State has the highest number of Educated female among the 19 Northern States of Nigeria on the account of the education policy introduced by David Mark.

Appointed Minister of Communications in 1988, Senator Mark set the tone for the modernization of the communications sector in Nigeria by introducing mobile phones and digital telephone system in the country. He also reorganized NIPOST and started the city coding system. The Nigeria Telecommunications (NITEL) was removed from the Civil Service Structure and staff welfare package was improved significantly. He also built two ultra-modern digital earth stations in Lagos and Enugu from internally generated revenue without recourse to Federal Government allocation. 
He retired from the Army as a Brigadier-General in 1993.

Senator David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark returned to Nigeria from self exile in 1998 to a thunderous home coming reception by his Idoma people of Benue State. They instantly declared him their political leader and he immediately responded to the yearnings and aspirations of his people. He joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and had the honour and privilege to contest election into the Senate. He was successfully elected as the Senator for Benue South Senatorial District in 1999. As evidence of the love his people have for him, he was re-elected in 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2016.
Prior to his emergence as President of the Senate in June 2007, Senator Mark served as chairman of the Senate Committees on:
• Communications

• Banking and Currency

• Police Affairs

• Science and Technology

He also served as a Member of the following Senate Committees:
• Governmental Affairs

• Internal Affairs

• Police Affairs

• Security and Intelligence

• Cooperation and Integration in Africa

• Defence

• Local and Foreign Debt

In June 2007, Senator David Mark emerged as the Senate President of the 6th Senate thereby making him the Twelfth President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His tenure was characterised by the provision of solutions to complex national issues.

It will be recalled that his invocation of the “Doctrine of Necessity” ended the political logjam that had gripped the nation prior to the emergence of a new leadership of the country in 2010.

His tenure as President of the Senate also witnessed the only successful amendment of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since the return of democracy to Nigeria in 1999, the first successful amendment of the Constitution of the country in a democratic dispensation in 50 years.
In the Senate, Senator David Mark is widely popular for his belief in true democracy and the rule of law. As President of the Senate, his dexterity in superintending the affairs of the Red Chamber ensured that he carried every one along; and left no one in doubt as to his belief that the success of the Assembly lay in team work. His firm belief in the maxim that majority would have its way and the minority must have its say. ensured that the collective yearnings and aspirations of all Nigerians as expressed by their representatives in the Upper Chamber were always given paramount considerations at all times.

As a great believer in education, Senator David Mark established a scholarship scheme under David Mark Scholarship Foundation, which awards scholarships ranging from primary to university level education. No fewer than 20,000 students, most of them indigents have benefitted from the annual scholarship scheme since its inception in 2005. In addition, Senator David Mark has renovated many schools in his constituency. He single-handedly built and donated a multi-million naira complex to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Otukpo study centre in 2010. To his credit, all the nine local government areas in his Benue South Senatorial district enjoys medical services via the health Centres he facilitated. In addition, he runs an interest free revolving loan to small scale enterprises for his constituents.

Through wife, Mrs. Helen Mark, the Senator runs a Women Skill Acquisition Centre in Otukpo for women and girls free of charge. On completion of training in various skills such as Tailoring, Hair dressing, soap making and shoe making, the beneficiaries are provided with equipment and stipends as start - ups. No fewer than 10,000 have benefitted from the PROGRAMME since its inception in 2007.

As a sports enthusiast, he has in place an annual David Mark Secondary School football competition for the youths. As an avid lover and player of the game of golf, Senator Mark has an 18-hole Green Golf Course at Otukpo, open to the public free-of-charge. He also hosts an annual basket ball tournament tagged “Mark D’ Ball. These have not only given sports a boost in the State but have also given employment to several people.
A communicator and a promoter of effective and grassroots communication, Senator David Mark established the first private radio station in North Central Nigeria, Joy FM 96.5 in Otukpo; again offering employment to well over 50 Nigerians. This has promoted grassroots communication, education, enlightenment, peace and harmony among the people.
Senator David Mark is a man of undoubted national acclaim and an asset. Little wonder then, that he has been decorated and honoured with several awards across the country among which are:

• Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)

• psc+ fwc fss

• Doctorate Degrees (Honoris Causa) from several UniversitiesØ across the country including but not limited to: National Open University of Nigeria, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Benue State University, Nasarawa State University, University of Agriculture Makurdi, Federal University of Technology, Minna and Novena University, Delta State.

• Fellow, Auchi Polythenic, Auchi, Edo State

• Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Management (Fnim) 

• Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (Fnipr) 

• Public Officer of the Year, 2011 Award by African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc (publishers of Nigerian Tribune Newspapers)

• Man of the year award 2015 by Daily Independent Newspapers Limited.
• Fellow of Legislation and Law by the by the Nigeria Institute of Legislative Studies (NILS), among others.

. Senator of the decade award by the NIGERIAN Senate Press Corps

. Leadership award by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa state chapter among others.

Undoubtedly a pragmatist, an outstanding Senator, Africa’s finest parliamentarian, a man fiercely devoted to the social, economic and political growth and development of Nigeria, a shrewd and excellent politician and one of the best managers of our democracy. Senator Mark is a man who has all his life displayed vigor without vanity, strength without insolence and courage without ferocity and all the virtues of a natural leader without its vices.

Ends....

Police man firing tear gas at Saraki and other PDP protesters today . Photos

This happened today during the PDP  protest in Abuja.....The police man was seen firing tear gas at the people....

He was so serious 

Jimi Agbaje: wins PDP governorship ticket in Lagos, to battle Sanwo-Olu

Mr Jimi Agbaje was on Friday declared winner of the governorship primary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Agbaje, who was the party’s flag bearer in the 2015 election, will be taking another shot at the Lagos oval house, come 2019. He will face Babajide Sanwo-Olu, candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Agbaje, 61 years old, was declared winner of the primary after polling 1100 votes to defeat Mr Adedeji Doherty, who scored 742 votes.

Announcing the results at about 4.40pm, the Chairman of the Primary Electoral Committee, Sen.Victor Oyofo, said that the party had demonstrated democracy in action with the successful conduct of the primary.

He commended both men for the way they conducted themselves throughout the process, saying that the party was proud of them.

“I Senator Victor Kassim Oyofo, with all humility, announce the results of the PDP primary for the office of governor in Lagos State, which took place yesterday and was concluded this afternoon.

“There were two contestants, One Chief Olujimi Agbaje and Chief Adedeji Oluwagbemiga Doherty.

“It was a keenly contested election, very fair. In my view, an example of what democracy should be.

“They fought a good fight, the process was open, everyone expressed their desires and the votes have counted.

“At the end of the exercise, Agbaje had a total score of 1100 votes, and the runner up, Engineer Adedeji Doherty, had a healthy 742 votes.

“By the powers conferred on me by the electoral Act and the Constitution of our party, I wish to announce and declare Mr Jimi Agbaje as winner of this contest,” he said.

Oyofo congratulated Agbaje as well as his counterpart, saying he had no doubt the party was on the path to win Lagos.

Agbaje, in his speech, said he accepted the victory and congratulated Doherty for giving a good fight.

“Let me first of all formally accept to be the gubernatorial candidate of our party in the 2019 election.

“So , I will of course congratulate specially Engineer Adedeji Doherty, for the keen contest we have just concluded.

“When you are in a race, you must know you either win or lose. Deji has demonstrated the capacity to accept what has happened.

“I congratulate you once again and I will be soliciting your support in the months ahead,” he said

Agbaje said his mission was to take Lagos to greater heights, and called for the support of all party members in pursuing the goal.

Earlier, Doherty congratulated Agbaje, saying that his victory was not for him alone, but for all members of the party.
He said the race to claim Lagos was worth it to bring more development to the state, promising to work with Agbaje to achieve the goal.

Agbaje was born 2 March 1957 in Lagos. He attended St. Gregory’s College in Lagos and later Obafemi Awolowo University(then known as University of Ife), where he studied pharmacy.

He is the second child among his siblings, one of whom is the Lagos banker, Segun Agbaje.

He first ran for the office of governor in 2007 as candidate of Democratic Party Alliance. He lost. Later he abandoned DPA and joined the PDP in 2011.

In 2015, he became the PDP candidate in the governorship election in Lagos, which he also lost to the incumbent, Akinwunmi Ambode of the APC.

NAN

After infecting her with STI, lawmaker batters wife for confronting him .

Gabriel Kago Mukuha, a Kenyan member of Parliament, has been accused of battering his wife, Wanjiku, black and blue at their home in Loswan Estate, Kiambu Road, on Friday night.

According to sources privy to the incident, Mukuha arrived home in a drunken stupor and descended on the lactating mother of 4, with an ironing box, causing serious injuries all over the body

Family sources claim that the lawmaker was angered when his wife – who is a medical practitioner, asked him how it was possible she had been treated for an STI three times in under a year despite remaining faithful to him.

Wanjiku’s family further alleges that this is not the first time the MP had assaulted her and she has on several occasions been forced to seek asylum with her family.
In one instance early this year, the MP’s mistress reportedly ambushed and attacked Wanjiku at a supermarket.
When she returned home after the confrontation with the mistress, Mukuha allegedly beat and inflicted further serious bodily injuries on her. The mistress, with whom the MP has sired a child, is said to be his wife’s relative.

Wanjiku has since recorded a statement with the police and obtained a P3 form indicating that she sustained injuries on several parts including the neck, scalp, thighs, upper back and pain while swallowing.

Police Attack: Nobody Can Cow Us -PDP.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemns as dastardly, unwarranted and unprovoked, today's unleashing of violence on our leaders, including the Senate President and state governors, by the Police.

The PDP however vows that no amount of attacks, aggression or acts of intimidation will deter it from confronting and dismantling the rigging machinery of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and coast to victory in 2019.
The whole world was shocked when the Police physically assaulted, fired teargas cannisters and violently dispersed our party leaders who were on peaceful protest to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, over the use of police by the APC to rig elections, particularly the September 22, 2018 Osun State Governorship election.

Acting on "orders from above", the Police assaulted our elected leaders, including our national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, Senate President Bukola Saraki, Ekiti Governor, Chief Ayo Fayose, our presidential aspirants, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, Bar. Kabiru Tanimu, Mallam Sule Lamido, among others.
This unwarranted attack has left no one in doubt that our Police has finally been turned into a militant wing of the APC, with direct orders to use force to repress opposition and turn our nation into a one party state.

It has also shown that the Police, under President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, has officially declared war on the opposition and there is no way our safety is guaranteed under the current police leadership.

If the Police, which ought to protect the people, the law and the democratic process, could show such violent aggression on notable leaders, then it can no longer be trusted with the welfare and safety of regular citizens.

One can only imagine the level of violence that is being daily unleashed on our citizens by the APC- control Federal Police.

It is completely reprehensible that the same APC leaders, Including President Buhari, who were allowed to freely hold protests under the PDP administration, could now turn around to approve police brutality and aggression against the opposition.
We know that the essence of such attacks is to instil fear and siege mentality on the people so as to cow them to submission ahead of the 2019 general election.

The PDP therefore calls on all Nigerians and the international community to rise up in direct condemnation of APC's use of state apparatus of Power against law abiding citizens and groups.
On our own part, the PDP lists this particular violent attack as a wake up call to all Nigerians to rise in defense of our democracy.
This country belongs to all of us and the PDP will never allow anybody, no matter how highly placed, to in any way whatsoever, intimidate or subjugate us ahead of the 2019 elections.
We are now determined to face all force of intimidation until we return our nation to the path of rule of law, good governance and national cohesion.


Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

Nigerian House of Reps aspirant refuses to resign position as city council member in US

Lanshima said that unlike in Kentucky, residency was not a requirement to run for office in Nigeria.
A Nigerian man, Vitalis Lanshima has been embroiled in controversy for seeking political office in Nigeria while still an active city council member in Kentucky, United States.

Lanshima is currently a city council member in Louisville, but is also contesting for a seat at the Federal House of Representatives in Nigeria. Newsroom‘s findings reveal he is contesting on the platform of the APC.

Lanshima was selected as council member following the ouster of another member who was battling sexual misconduct allegations. He was not elected.

Reports say his tenure as council member will come to an end in November, when the candidate whom he later lost the Democrats’ primary election to, will be sworn in.

His colleagues at the city council are already calling for an investigation into whether his House of Reps bid violates Kentucky state law and makes him ineligible to continue serving as a city official.

Lanshima, who has earned almost $40,000 (over N14 million) despite missing council meetings due to his political ambition in Nigeria, has labelled those calling for his resignation from the council, particularly his colleagues, “sore losers or sore winners”.

Lanshima, Fox reports, also said the criticism directed at him for attempting to hold two official positions in two different countries was “manufactured crisis”.

He is quoted as saying his critics should “please stop being obsessed” with him.

“There are many things for us to worry about in Louisville. … We do not have to be obsessed with me,” Lanshima told reporters during a news conference.

The Kentucky statute states that a member of a local government council like Louisville Metro Council must “be resident within the territory of the consolidated local government and the district that he or she seeks to represent for at least one (1) year immediately prior to the person’s election”.

Louisville Courier Journal reports that Lanshima, on Wednesday, claimed that unlike in Kentucky, residency was not a requirement to run for office in Nigeria.

He claims not to have a house in Nigeria, although he planned to relocate to the country after his Louisville Metro Council term expires.

Lanshima had, according to INEC’s records, registered to vote in Nigeria on July 3, 2018 while “vacationing”. He says on a Facebook page, ‘Forward Nigeria – Vote Vitalis’, that he hopes to “lead the change in Jos North – Bassa Constituency”.

Nigeria’s general election does not hold until February 2019.

BREAKING NEWS : Police Invites Senate President Bukola Saraki,Sen Dino Melaye and Sen Ben Bruce over public disturbance and road blockage during protest in Abuja to report at the force headquarters . PRESS RELEASE.

Press Release:
DISPERSAL OF UNRULY AND VIOLENT PROTESTERS WHO ATTACKED POLICE PERSONNEL ON DUTY IN FRONT OF THE FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA.

* Senator Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Ben Bruce who were captured on camera to have been involved in the disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety and violent attack on Policemen posted to ensure security of the Force Headquarters, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties are hereby invited to report themselves to the IGP Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters on Monday, 8th October, 2018 for investigation.

Today at about 1330Hrs, unruly and violent protesters who are members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in their hundreds with thugs and miscreants inside several trucks and vehicles blocked the Shehu Shagari way in front of the Nigeria Police Force, Headquarters creating a gridlock of traffic on the highway and preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on Shehu Shagari way thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety, suddenly the unruly/violent protesters surge and rushed violently on the Policemen posted to ensure safety of the Force Headquarters premises, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties.

2. The Police team headed by a very Senior Police Officer despite the provocation, after issuing words of proclamation, warning this unruly PDP protesters who were chanting war songs of ”we no go gree o, we no go gree, we no go gree”, charged the Police personnel who used minimum force and dispersed them.

3. Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce and others yet to be identified were recorded on Camera pushing Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to damage and destroy Police equipment and Government properties while Senator Bukola Saraki was at the scene of the attack in his car also captured on camera along with hundreds of miscreants and thugs in the acts of disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety.

4. The Inspector General of Police has directed immediate investigation into this unprovoked and unwarranted attack on the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Force Headquarters premises which is against the law and condemnable. The Force will do everything within the law to bring all perpetrators of this crime to justice, no matter how highly placed.

5. Consequently, Senator Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Ben Bruce who were captured on camera to have been involved in the disturbance of public peace and public safety, unlawful blockade of Shehu Shagari way for several hours preventing motorists, road users and other members of the public from having access and passage on the highway thereby disturbing public peace and public safety and causing innocent people to scamper for safety and violent attack on Policemen posted to ensure security of the Force Headquarters, pushing and hitting the Policemen to forcefully enter the Force Headquarters to cause damage to Police equipment and Government properties are hereby invited to report themselves to the IGP Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters on Monday, 8th October, 2018 for investigation.

6. Members of the public in the FCT are implored to remain calm as the situation is under control. Further development will be communicated to the public soon.
Ag. DCP JIMOH MOSHOODFORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERFORCE HEADQUARTERS

Governance is a serious business,stop unguarded utterances about the National convention .....Mark

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential contender, Senator David Mark has cautioned some aspirants and their supporters making unguarded statements about the National Convention not to reduce the exercise to a joke saying that the quest to be president of Nigeria is a serious business.

“This is serious business. Those who have nothing to offer should honorably quit from the race instead of degenerating to purveyors of fake news and rumour peddlers”.

Read Also DAVID MARK: A SYMBOL OF NATIONAL STABILITY BY ADIKWU SAMUEL EBO

Senator Mark was reacting to some insinuations from one of the presidential aspirants that named him and two others to have stepped down for the said aspirant.

He stated: “Those who are afraid of contest have no business in the race. I came into the race well prepared after due consultations with various groups. The positive outcome of my consultations across the country and the overwhelming endorsements encouraged me to vie.

“The PDP is a big family. Nobody should insinuate what does not exist. I’m not aware of any meeting where it was discussed or agreed that any one should step down for another. What I’m aware of is that delegates should vote and let the votes count”.

He therefore urged delegates to be steadfast with him because “I have a clear road map on how the nation can get out of the woods and restore the pride and dignity of Nigeria before the global community once more”.




Signed:
Paul Mumeh

Media Assistant to Senator David Mark.

Is this not a movie.? 19year old Boy weds 39year old woman in an Arabian themed Wedding.

Photos currently making the rounds on social media shows a 19 year old boy getting married to a lady 20 years older than him.
Sharing photos of the lovely couple by a Facebook user identified as Akulo Sam’s Ochens, he wrote:

“Age is just a number. 19yrs old boy got married to a 39yrs old lady. love is beautiful. Cong’s.”

The photos show the groom dressed in the popular white Arabian attire and the bride rocking a peach colored Lacey wedding dress for their wedding.
There were other photos showing the couple as they live their lives after tying the knot.

See the lovely photos below;

...

Spray Naira at parties, to go to jail for six months

A new resolve by the Central Bank of Nigeria and commercial banks may soon see Nigerians getting arrested for spraying naira notes at parties.
According to a report by TheCable, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and commercial banks have resolved to introduce mobile courts to arrest currency hawkers and people who spray at parties.

Hamda Ambah, managing director, FSDH Merchant Bank, made this known on Thursday while briefing journalists on the resolutions of the Bankers’ Committee.
“We are going to be disseminating information on the right way to handle the naira so that people do not handle the money incorrectly,” she said.

“And specifically, one of the things we are frowning on and action is to be taken on people who sell the currency.

“In the near future, there is going to be an introduction of mobile court to handle such situation and those caught would be dealt with on the spot.”

Providing more information on the resolution, Isaac Okorafor, CBN’s director of corporate communications, said the apex bank is empowered by its 2007 Act to punish cases of naira abuse with a fine of N50,000, a six-month jail term or both.






“We are collaborating with every agency of government, the Ministry of Justice, judiciary and the Nigeria Police and we would insist that those who abuse the naira would be punished,” the bank’s spokesman said.

“So it is not only hawking, if at a party, someone dances upon the naira or sprays it, that person may instantly go to jail from that party reception. Nigerians should bear that in mind. We are serious about it.”

Herbert Wigwe, the chief executive officer of Access Bank, said the committee also resolved to provide more support for agriculture and manufacturing so that the CBN can reduce forex allocation to some items.

“It was resolved at the Bankers’ Committee that discretionary Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) that has been built over time should be channeled towards agriculture in a very impactful manner,” he said.

“The deliberations were that most of the monies should also be channeled towards the manufacturing sector so basically looking at the entire value chain of the manufacturing sector.

“The idea was that if it was done properly in the way it is being pursued, very soon or sometime in the future the central bank may start looking at ways to reduce allocations to specific items because we would have been producing sufficient locally to enable us restrict imports. That way, the pressure on our reserves would be reduced.”

At present, the apex bank does not provide forex for the importation of 41 items including cosmetics and toothpicks.

Sen.Dino Melaye seen confronting men of the Nigerian Police during their protest at INEC Hqtrs. PHOTOS

Pictures show Dino Melaye confronting men of the Nigerian Police Force when they clashed with PDP members at the INEC Headquarters where members were protesting. 

David Mark: A Symbol of National Stability By Adikwu Samuel Ebo

Those who are singled out for recognition as heroes, accomplishers are people who saw a situation that demanded action and without procrastination became proactive, “walks the talk” and leap into action. This is one of my core reasons for being around great personages.

In essence, to be around accomplished people in an environment that is saturated with mental energy and ambitions turn me on and raise my morale to greater heights.The immediate past president of the senate, Senator David Mark is emphatically an uncommon quintessential statesman. He is a leader who has fortified his intellect and temperament with carapace of humility, uprightness, audacity and radiating charisma.

Although, David Mark has been part of large open and in-house gathering but one of the things he rarely seen doing is putting himself on the podium of achievement before a rented audience which is purely a deviation from what is trending in the society nowadays as most people are fond of trumpeting their achievements.

One of the greatest traits and sermons of David Mark, that always attracts me to his political fortress is the fact that he is an ardent peace lover, a subscriber to the principle of stability of this nation and unity among leaders whose responsibilities are to pilot the affairs of this nation and give vision to the younger ones as a tool for effective utilization of our untapped resources. He recognizes the fact that nothing strives in a precarious environment as according to him the end of war is always devastation, hunger, penury and squalor. He never believes life to be a whirlwind of killings, destructions and adoptions of alien traits.

As a tactful and pragmatic leader, he is decisive on his core principles of tolerant with his followers and takes cognizance of the assertion that no great achievement will ever be made on a solitude terrain. He advocates tenaciously to the spirit of teamwork, peaceful, alluring dialogue and harmonious relationship as a tool for religious, political stability and conflict resolutions.

His speeches have always left his audience with hope, inspiration, good sense of humour but he never failed to make a serious point on ethics, discipline, respect for human rights and privileges whenever and wherever he communicates. He is a man with few words who has great distaste for cheap blackmail and back biting.Mark has always exhibited leadership traits that stood him out as a beacon in any position he occupied.To the admiration of his superior officers and indeed the nation, decades ago, as a young Major in the Nigerian Army during the administration of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, he headed the abandoned property, implementation committee as a result of the over the 30 months old fratricidal civil war. It was to his credit that Gen. Gowon’s administration implemented the Reconstruction, Resettlement and Reconciliation Policy, otherwise referred to as 3Rs to re-integrate, reunite the defunct Biafrans into Nigerian society.

When providence bestowed on him in 1984 – 1986 as Military governor of Niger State, his tenure was characterized by brilliant ideas, bold actions and courageous initiatives.He is a dogged fighter, a man of character, a fearless tactician who was determined to achieve good results at all times.Sequentially, because of his quest to achieve results, he is always against ant-masses policies, red-tape, and other mundane considerations. He is more of an anthropocentric leader whose policy formulations is focused on the benefits of the majority.

Once the programme is for the benefits of the masses, he hit the ground running and ploughed into action.As then Governor of Niger State, he provided ample, veritable, epoch – making platform for employment, educational transformation, and renovation of health institutions, agriculture, sporting activities, infrastructural re-engineering, industrialization and destiny reformation.One of such remarkable events was his regular visits to the state leprosarium at Chanchaga. An area which was so stigmatized and deserted by the people. Mark in his coat of kindness and social charisma ensured that their welfare and wellbeing were properly addressed.

Also, as a Governor, he introduced free and compulsory education for the girl-child that was hitherto restricted from acquiring education. He enacted an edict that prohibited girl-child of school age from hawking. Many parents who indulged in this were reprimanded. Today, Niger state ranks amongst the states with the highest number of female graduates in Northern Nigeria. His philosophy is never stop doing good to others no matter how little because sometimes those little things change their fortunes. He left a positive footprint on the sand of time in Niger State.

As the then Communication Minister, Mark transformed Nigeria Telecommunication (NITEL) with his hyper-tech engineering skills. He re-organized Nigeria Postal Services (NIPOST) and started the city coding system. Under his meticulous watch on NITEL, the organization built two ultra – modern digital earth stations in Lagos and Enugu. Unarguably, services improved, internally generated revenue increased and the organization became buoyant and independent without having to rely on government for subventions.

Transcending from the military background which no matter how efficient and plausible the working system, cannot be compared with the worst democratic dispensation, we thought the gene of autocratic, dictatorship, capricious tyranny which are the modus operandi and hallmark of the military government will manifest in his political administrative assignment but ironically, and to our dismay, he is always calm, cautious, tactful, slow to anger and meticulous with choice of words while discharging his core obligations without belly aching his pears.

The extra-caution that he exercised in the management of the Senate by not acting avariciously, stood him on firm ground and isolated him far away from the proverbial “banana peel”.As the President of the Senate, he often called his fellow Senators “my bosses” to display his stewardship and humility. There was a time in the National Assembly when he was harassed and assaulted by a House of Representatives member but in his usual characteristic. he did not react and still forgave the offender.

As a nationalist and a detribalized Nigerian, during his tenure as the Senate president, different tribes co-habited effectively and were appointed as his Special Advisers (SA) and legislative aides without tribal sentiments. He was often described by his colleagues as a democrat per excellence and soldier of democracy.In almost every critical situation the nation had found herself since the return to a democratic rule in 1999, there has always been a Nigerian, a David Mark there to rescue the hitherto sinking ship.

It could be recalled that it was his invocation of the Doctrine of Necessity in February 2010 that pulled the country out of the brink of precipice by ensuring that President Goodluck Jonathan, was sworn in as Acting President of Nigeria.Also, Mark’s intervention in the January 2012 public outcry and wild protest against the removal of petroleum subsidy that put the socio-political and economic life of Nigerians in disarray remains a reference point in our contemporary history.

Furthermore, we should also refresh our memory on the lingering disagreement between the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), their polytechnic counterparts (ASUP) with the federal government that kept our students off from school for almost a year was effectively handled, managed and amicably resolved when Mark wore his wisdom cap and stepped-in. The reconciliation rekindled hope for our students and brought them back to schools.

It’s also worthy of note and highly commendable that, if it’s not the unwavering nature of Mark, by now the country would have been known for ungodly, unhealthy alien, and uncultured behaviors called same sex or Gay-marriage. It was Mark’s firmness and that of his colleagues that passed anti-gay bill irrespective of whose OX is gored.

Posterity will not forgive us if we forget in a hurry the outbreak of a deadly virus called ‘EBOLA’ disease which occurred concomitantly with the strikes of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). Then, our doctors were off the hospitals at these critical times when their services were so much needed due to certain allowances that were not paid to them and other logistics that they could not agree upon with the Federal government.

Mark called the leadership of NMA, led by Doctor Kayode Obemide and persuades them to see reasons to call off the strike and answer to national call to duty. Though, their allowances then were yet-paid, but after extensive meetings and deliberations, they called off the strike and resumed duty immediately.He has sponsored the bills for the establishment of the University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State to reduce the dearth of medical doctors in the country. He has the vision to re invigorate our primary health care to reduce the pressure on our Doctors.

Mark is a fountain of knowledge for the old and younger generations to tap from. He matters to us as individual and the nation at large. He has given his shoulders to Nigeria and Nigerians to lean on no matter the odds.Our society is in dire needs of such leader to be at the helm of the affairs and in position of resources to support and encourage others to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.Mark is a leader who live his life as if his act could become a universal law for all people because he practices leadership etiquette of prudence, justice and benevolence. As a patriotic flag waver, he believes that his candle cannot go dim or shortened by lightening other candles.

Now the country is infested with demonic clashes between Fulani herdsmen and crop production farmers, religious and political trauma, endemic hate speeches, buck passing syndrome, blames games, terrorism, eruption of kidnapping groups, war drums and trumpets, array of unemployed graduates hovering the streets, juvenile prostitution, armed robbery and cultism, moral bankruptcy, heinous crimes and other unwholesome vices, compendium of agitators from all regions of the country.

We have reached a water shed in the history of our country and the time to move forward has come. A time to collectively elect a leader who will optimally harness our potentials for greatness, peace and stability have come.Who will God use to resolve these issues for us? Who has the answers to these conflicting puzzles? Where is the transparent-middleman that will mediate between the North, East, South and West?It’s only an ignorant person that will doubt proves and will not know that experience and precedence count greatly in all circumstances.

This ship (Nigeria) must not be allowed to sink; Let Nigerians be more focused on a leader (sailor) who will save the ship from sinking irrespective of political or religious affiliations.Let issue-based and winning spirit be our priority, just like we are always united in the football pitch.

The pleasant scenario is that David Mark is aspiring for the position of president federal Republic of Nigeria under the platform of people's Democratic party, PDP. My prayer to PDP delegates and stakeholders is for them to rethink and be mindful of David Mark's statement on April 8th, 2015, when he vowed not to defect to any party, even if he's the last man standing, he will not leave the party. He believes in PDP's manifestos and he will use his time, energy and resources to redeem the lost glory of the party.

As a steadfast leader, he kept to his vows despite all odds and joined hands with others to rebuild, rebrand and restructure the party. Now that the party is being rebranded, I really don't want to sound impolitely, but if justice, fairness and modesty should prevail and be considered, it will be cacophonous to give the presidential ticket of PDP to political hedonists or others who ran away when the party's Chips were down.Fortunately, Sen. Mark has promised Nigerians that he will address the grey areas and Cankerworm destroying the wealth and corporality of this country in 730 days if elected as the president of the country. I so believed that leadership and honour comes from God but for the sake of posterity and generation yet unborn, let's PDP play their parts and elect David Mark as their presidential flag bearer in the forthcoming election.

DICON Partners EPAIL to Manufacture Defense Equipment Locally

L-R; Company Secretary and Legal Counsel, Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL), Barrister Yahaya Yahaya; the Chairman, Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL), Engr. Kola Balogun; the Director General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Major General Bamidele Ogunkale and the Secretary & Legal Adviser, Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Mrs Kikelomo Bello during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EPAIL & DICON at the EPAIL factory in Mowe, Ogun State


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Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), a parastatal under the Ministry of Defence has entered into a strategic arrangement with Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL) for the production of defence equipment which include ballistic vests, ballistic helmets among other defence related equipment or items.

This was disclosed during a visit by DICON leadership team headed by the Director General, DICON, Major General, Bamidele Ogunkale to EPAIL facility located at Lagos Ibadan Expressway, Ogun state recently.

EPAIL is an affiliate of MOMAS group of companies that is responsible for the provision of security solutions to essential assets and infrastructure nationwide.


Shortly after the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the two parties (DICON & EPAIL) that would see to the production of military hardware for the Nigerian military.

According to the joint venture agreement signed by both parties, the arrangement would ensure local manufacture and production of critical military items and defence related equipment as well as transfer of technologies especially in the areas of tool and tooling production which would be needed by the Nigerian military and other security agencies.

Ogunkale therefore praised the EPAIL team for what he described as a world class facility capable of meeting the essential needs of the Nigerian Military.

He said “We are impressed with what we have seen so far particularly with the level of investment in the facility and the fact that it is an indigenous company. In fact, we are proud to be associated with this company as it has given us opportunity to look inward to address the issue of insufficient military hardware”.

He noted that the two companies (DICON & EPAIL) would complement each other by combining technical knowhow with the facility with a view to ensure all the essential defence related equipment are readily made available locally thereby removing a lot of encumbrances associated with importing security equipment into the country.

He said” We are happy to be here and glad that you have the space and the facility. Although the joint venture agreement may not be as deep as you would think, we are hoping that going forward it would expand. For us, we are excited to kick start the agreement as soon as possible. More so, we are glad that EPAIL is ready to provide certification and verification for the security equipment. We believe our partnership with you would be a win-win situation.



“As we speak, some other paramilitary forces such as Civil Defence, Immigration are making great demand for some of the essential defence related items. So, the challenge for us is to meet such increasing demand. I just hope that you as our partner do not delay in providing the essential security items.

“If I may add, I believe with the state of the art research and development facilities we have on ground, your company should be able to work together with us to help bring about new innovations. I believe as we go on, we would have more areas of collaboration”.

In his remarks, the Chairman of EPAIL, Engineer Kola Balogun described the partnership between the company and DICON as a sign of good things to come for Nigeria stressing that EPAIL is ready and prepared to meet the increasing demand of military hardware.

While commending the leadership team of DICON for their commitment to ensure a well-equipped military force, Engineer Balogun stated that he is delighted that the defence parastatal was exploring possible ways to provide military hardware that would be needed to combat hydra-headed security challenges confronting the nation.

“We are happy to be a dependable partner in assisting government to produce military hardware locally. We really appreciate the confidence reposed in us to supply this equipment. It is a clear demonstration of government’s belief on the capacity of local companies to deliver as well as the political will on the part of Buhari’s administration to contain over dependence on unwilling international partners to provide the equipment. We are delighted that this opportunity would not only boost local capacities but also help in making the proposed Military Industrial Complex a reality,” he said.