ICANN releases 3rd Report on Global Legislative and Regulatory Developments - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has released its third report on global legislative and regulatory developments, (GLRD) reports ITREALMS.

This report, ITREALMS gathered, highlighted a limited list of recent and pending legislative and regulatory initiatives on privacy/data protection and cybersecurity across the world.

Also, the report, ICANN said, is a continuation of the initiative launched last year to identify legislative efforts across the globe early-on, to raise awareness within ICANN, and consider potential impacts.

Moving forward, the global legislative and regulatory developments reports will be published three times a year, parallel to the publishing of the ICANN Organization Report to the Board.

ICANN further appreciated everyone who has provided feedback on the previous two reports.

“We look forward to hearing from you about any high-impact developments in the e-privacy and cybersecurity ecosystem that should be tracked in future reports. You can send your comments and/or information about new developments in your region to trackingfeedback@icann.org,” official statement from ICANN and made available to ITREALMS read.

ITREALMS recalls that ICANN's mission is to help ensure a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. To reach another person on the Internet, you have to type an address into your computer - a name or a number. That address has to be unique, so computers know where to find each other. ICANN helps coordinate and support these unique identifiers across the world. ICANN was formed in 1998 as a not-for-profit public-benefit corporation and a community with participants from all over the world.

Chuks Egbune/DoP

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GW4AO preaches violent-free campaigns @2019 elections - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Obviously worried by the increasing spate of politically-motivated violence in parts of the country in the build up to the forthcoming general elections, the Grassroots Women for Atiku/Obi (GW4AO), has called on political actors to eschew violence and embrace peace in their campaigns, reports ITREALMS.

The group in a presentation made along with the wife of the Senate President, Mrs Toyin Ojora Saraki, at the recent UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, said it rose from a PDP National Women's Conference held in Abuja “with a new hope for women's political and democratic engagement.”

GW4AO also said, “We feel compelled to raise awareness of the urgent need to stem the apparently rising rate of politically-motivated violence. In the last couple of weeks alone, we have seen reports of campaign violence occurring in Lagos State, Imo State, Kogi State, and Kwara State, with many cases of grievous injuries and deaths.”

UN Women was established by the United Nations as the global champion for women and girls to accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide. Its cardinal areas of focus include women’s economic empowerment, ending violence against women, the pursuit of peace and security as well as promoting and supporting youth leadership, among others.

On the backdrop of those goals, the Grassroots Women for Atiku/Obi in a statement by its Director-General, Ms Amina Jambo and made available to ITREALMS, expressed concern over what it described as “the growing level of violence during and at campaigns venue,” and warned that unless politicians preach peace and encourage their followers to focus on issue-based campaigns, such growing spate of violence was capable of impacting the outcome of the elections negatively.”

“This gives us great concern for the safety and security, and indeed the human right to democratic suffrage of civilian citizens,” it stated, adding that such acts “of wilful impunity” are capable of affecting voter-turnout “particularly for women and youth.”

The GW4AO stated further: “As Nigeria prepares to choose its next leaders, gender-based violence and election violence should be firmly condemned by all, citizens and observers alike.

“We have thus encouraged members of the Grassroots Women Campaign, which we support and advise, to immediately adopt an ‘End Election Violence Advocacy,’ as a prerequisite to free and fair elections, and to guarantee citizens’ rights to live and choose their leaders, in dignity, safety and security without fear of intimidation, suppression or retribution from desperate power-seekers.”

The Grassroots Women for Atiku/Obi’s mission is “to empower individual citizens to take a more active role” in the governance and the political processes.

“These individuals are commonly referred to as ‘the grassroots’ made up of largely women and young people living in the rural and semi-urban areas, and they represent 65-70 per cent of the electorate,” GW4AO explained, adding “We know that there is a critical need to activate this group of voters in order to obtain success.”

But while mobilisation of voters at the grassroots is its primary focus, GW4AO said it is disturbed that as the days roll by for the general elections “there has been an unusual increase in the violence happening on campaign venues, around politicians and political actors in a growing number of areas across the country.

“This disturbing trend calls for concern because we are still at the campaign level, it is not yet the election day proper, and we are witnessing this. What then are we to expect on election days and on election grounds proper?” the group wondered.

“We are even more worried when considered that when violence is perpetrated, it is the women and children – the core of our membership target - that suffer the most. Consider the direct impact of violence on women and children, be it psychological or physical, the results are unpalatable.

“We therefore call on politicians, their supporters and political actors across the country to exercise caution, preach peace and engage in issue-based campaign so that Nigeria can have free, fair, credible and violent-free elections,” GW4AO implored.

Uj. N. Dominic/Editor

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2019 election: INEC seeks collaboration with FRSC - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Towards the success of the forthcoming 2019 general elections, the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmoud Yakubu today addressed the Commanding Officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) with plea for collaboration. 

Speaking as a guest speaker at the FRSC Commanding Officers' Strategy Session held at the FRSC National Headquarters Abuja, Professor Yakubu explained the safety and security challenges of the elections, saying security agencies must collaborate with INEC in order to secure lives and property of the voters and voting materials to ensure the credibility of the process.

According to a statement issued by the FRSC spokesman, Bisi Kazeem, INEC Chairman commended the FRSC for its consistent support to the Commission, which led to the successes recorded in the past elections.

He assured that the commission has put all necessary measures in place to deliver a free, fair and credible election in the coming general elections, noting that all hands must remain on the deck to sustain people's trust and confidence in the Commission.

He enumerated the measures so far taken by the Commission to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.

These includes authentication of the numbers of the registered voters and political parties, the collation of the total numbers of constituencies nationwide, collation of the positions being contested for at the federal and state levels and the challenges which court cases poses to the Corps, but which are being tackled head-on as well as prompt release of the election timetable since January last year.

The Chairman further assured the nation that INEC is very much ready for the forthcoming elections expected to commence on 16 February, 2019 with the Presidential and National Assembly positions, culminating in gubernatorial and State Houses of Assembly elections in March which would be followed by Area Councils elections in the case of FCT.

He particularly tasked the FRSC to assist the Commission in specific areas of security including the screening of the selected drivers that would drive the vehicles to convey the election materials as well as inspection of the vehicles; deployment of the FRSC patrol teams on the election day to guide against violation of restriction order on movement people and vehicles and providing easy access to vehicles conveying INEC materials, liaising with the Police and other law enforcement pp for orderly and secured electoral process.

Others were appeal to the Corps for the utilisation of its call centre for prompt report of distress messages on election day as well as ensuring free movement of traffic for voters and passage of electoral materials.

In his own remarks, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi commended the INEC Chairman for taking time out of his tight schedules to address the Commanding Officers and sharing with them the Commission's expectations of their roles in the forthcoming general elections. He assured the Commission that like before, the FRSC will live up to expectations by playing its own roles in the elections most diligently.

He further stressed that towards ensuring active participation of the FRSC personnel in the nation's electoral system, the participating staff have been properly enlightened and trained at the various levels, while collaboration with the Nigeria Police and office of the National Security adviser for necessary synergy is ongoing. Oyeyemi added that FRSC as a non partisan organisation will continue to work closely with relevant security agencies on how to discharge its responsibilities through provision of safe and secured environment for voting.

He assured that FRSC will continue to work with INEC at all levels to provide necessary enlightenment on the expectations of their roles.

Furthermore, the Corps Marshal commended the Commanding Officers on the successes recorded by the FRSC in the last end of year special patrol which recorded minimal cases of casualties, and called on them to sustain the tempo of activities in the new year.

He outlined a number of areas where the Corps would emphasise in its operational strategies for the new year to include campaigns again overloading, speeding and violation against use of speed limiting devices and thanked the President, Comnader-In-Chief of the Armed Forces for his consistent support for the Corps.

The ommanding Officers Strategy Session is a platform which the Corps Marshal, members of his Management team and Commanding Officers use to set the FRSC strategic goals for the new year and take time within the year to review in order to time to determine its successes and failures with a view to modifying them towards achieving the Corps' set goals.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Arewa community promises to give Sanwo-Olu 3 million votes - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Arewa community in Lagos State has endorsed the state’s All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to be elected as the next governor, reports ITREALMS.

Members of the Hausa community who trooped out in solidarity in thousands made the pledge to deliver over 1 million votes out of the over 6million registered voters in Lagos at an endorsement rally on Wednesday at the National Stadium in Surulere.

Sanwo-Olu assured members of the Arewa community that his administration would not marginalise any ethnic group in the state, reiterating that his resolve to lead an all-inclusive government if elected.

The APC candidate, accompanied by his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said all the concerns raised by the Arewa community would be addressed, promising that his government would upgrade markets in the state to an enviable standard.

He said: “The Arewa community has been part of our journey since we started campaign. We will continue to value your support. I want to assure you that all of us in Lagos are together. We will not discriminate against any ethnic group.

“We embarked on wide consultations across the state to meet with stakeholders. During our consultative meeting with the Arewa leadership, we have listened to your concerns and we are ready to address them. The concern about markets will be addressed. We will upgrade all the markets to meet the standards you want,” Sanwo-Olu promised.

Sanwo-Olu urged members of the Arewa community to extend the same support to candidates of the party vying for various positions in the state and federal government.

While also addressing the crowd, Dr. Hamzat urged members of the group to reject the candidates of the main opposition party- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) - which, he said, destroyed the country for 16 years.

The chairman of Arewa Community in Lagos, Alhaji Mohammad Dandamma Yabo, who spoke in Hausa, said members endorsed the candidacy of Sanwo-Olu because of the resolves to address the marginalization of the Arewa people in Lagos.

He also said the Arewa community would mobilise members to vote for President Muhammadu Buhari and other APC candidates.

Chairman of Amalgamated Foodstuff Seller in Lagos, Alhaji Shehu Usman, said: ”The votes of Arewa people will be significant in the coming election. We want the incoming governor to keep to his promise of upgrading the Mile 12 Market and other markets to meet the international standards.”

Alhaji Jubril Magaji, the Wakilu Nupe in the state, was also at the event.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Pix: L-R: Former Minister of Interior and Leader, All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, Senator Demola Seriki; APC Gubernatorial Candidate in Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his Running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and Chairman, Arewa Community in Lagos State, Alhaji Mohammad Dandama Yabo and Seriki Hausa in Lagos, Alhaji Abdullahi Gafar, during a campaign rally and formal endorsement of Mr Sanwo-Olu, by the Arewa Community in Lagos, at National Stadium, Surulere.

Declare your assets now, CSO tells Tanko Mohammed - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), has requested the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mr. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed to declare his assets with immediate effect, reports ITREALMS.

AFRICMIL, a non-governmental organization focused on good governance and the promotion of accountability has applied to the Code of conduct Bureau (CCB) for the asset declaration of the new Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed JSC.

In a letter to the Chairman of the CCB and signed by its coordinator, Chido Onumah, AFRICMIL stated that in making the request, it relied on Paragraph 11, Part 1 of the Fifth Schedule to the 1999 Constitution as amended, which states that “Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, every public officer shall within three months of the coming into force of this Code of Conduct and immediately after taking office and thereafter – (a) at the end of the every four years; and (b) at the end of his term of office, submit to the Code of Conduct Bureau a written declaration of all his properties, assets, and liabilities and those of his unmarried children under the age of eighteen years.”

“Pursuant to the aforementioned provision of the 1999 constitution, as amended, and Section 1(1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2011 which states that, “Notwithstanding anything contained in any other Act, law or regulation, the right of any person to access and request information, whether or not contained in any written form, which is in the custody or possession of any public official, agency or institution howsoever described, is hereby established,” we humbly request to be allowed to inspect and obtain copies of the following documents, the letter noted:

The asset declaration of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed JSC on his elevation as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria; The asset declaration of the Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed JSC on his appointment as Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria by President Muhammadu Buhari.

In its concerted effort at advocating for increased transparent and accountable governance in Nigeria’s public service, AFRICMIL, on July 28, 2011, sent a Freedom of Information request to the CCB asking “to be allowed to inspect and obtain copies of the 2007 asset declaration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan; the asset declaration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan after the end of his tenure on May 28, 2011; and his asset declaration when he assumed office on May 29, 2011.”

On January 17, 2017, AFRICMIL in partnership with the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) submitted Freedom of Information requests to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) for the declaration of assets of certain elected and appointed political office holders, including the current president and vice president, their immediate predecessors, past and current principal officers of the National Assembly, past and current governors of the 36 states of the country as well as past and current ministers since May 2011.

Although both organizations made these requests under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, the CCB failed to respond to any of these requests within the time stipulated in the Act, thereby leading to the filing of cases before the Federal High Court requesting judicial action aimed at getting the Code of Conduct to do the needful, in relation to the aforementioned FoI requests of both institutions.

It is the sole responsibility of the Code of Conduct Bureau to ensure that all public officers declare their assets at the beginning and the end of their tenure in office. It is also their responsibility to ensure that the assets declared are verified to ensure compliance with the provisions of the law and also to establish possible cases of misconduct or corrupt enrichment, with a view to ensuring such culprits face the full wrath of the law.

The CCB has the constitutional responsibility to retain custody of such asset declaration forms and make them available and accessible for inspection by any citizen of Nigeria on such terms and conditions as the National Assembly may prescribe.

By enacting The Freedom of Information Act, 2011, the 7th National Assembly gave effect to the constitutionally guaranteed right of the public to access public documents held by public institutions and relevant private entities in Nigeria and this includes asset declaration forms of public officials, which are public documents within the meaning of the FoI Act, 2011.

On April 3, 2017, Justice Abdu Kafarati, sitting in Court 2, Federal High Court, Abuja granted the two civil society organizations leave to bring substantive suits against the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The grant of leave followed the hearing of the Motion Ex-parte filed by AFRICMIL and PPDC on the failure of the CCB to provide information on the asset declaration of elected and appointed office holders in the Jonathan and Buhari administrations under the Freedom of Information Act 2011.

Justice Kafarati eventually gave judgement declining the reliefs sought by the applicants in the respective cases.AFRICMIL and PPDC appealed the judgement and the cases have been slated for hearing at the Court of Appeal on February 20 and 21, 2019.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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FRSC restricts Trailers, Tankers from entering Lagos - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has mounted a four-day restriction of movement of trailers, tankers and other articulated vehicles into the centre of excellence, Lagos, beginning from tomorrow, Friday, February 1, 2019, reports ITREALMS.

The Lagos state Sector Commander, FRSC, Hyginus Omeje confirmed this to ITREALMS saying there will be restrictions of movement for trailers, tankers and other articulated vehicles into Lagos State on "1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th February, 2019."

He also said in a press statement made available to ITREALMS that the decision was reached at the end of the meeting of heads of security and traffic management agencies in the state held on 29 January, 2019 at Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

Omeje adduced reasons for such decision and urged for compliance, saying that Lagos State is playing host to 2019 Access Bank International Marathon scheduled to hold on 1st and 2nd, February, 2019. As a result, the road will be busier than usual.

"This decision is in the general interest of the motoring public and also targeted at ensuring free flow of traffic and forestall security breaches on the highways and other roads on the stated days".

Accordingly, a joint team of traffic and security agencies have been set up to ensure strict compliance with this directive and the affected motorists found wanting will be severely reprimanded.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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LGA Rally: 10,000 match for Ihedioha @Oguta - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

No Fewer than ten thousand (10,000) anxious voters are expected to receive the Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party-PDP, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha as he visits Oguta Local Government Area on Friday, reports ITREALMS.

Confirming the development, Oguta-born Deputy Governorship candidate of the PDP in Imo State, Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona described the visit as a “triumphant entry” to the Local Government.

Irona, who is also a former member of the House of Representatives representing Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta/Oru West Federal Constituency, expressed confidence that the PDP will coast to victory in the forthcoming elections.

“Yes! I can confirm to you that the campaign train of Rt. Hon. Chukwuemeka Nkem Ihedioha will hit Oguta Local Government Area on Friday, 1^st February, 2019. The visit can best be likened to a triumphant entry, as Oguta LGA is PDP. You can be sure that no fewer than ten thousand (10,000) persons will be on ground to receive the PDP delegation. Our incoming Governor, Rt. Hon. Ihedioha is coming to interact with people of the LGA. He wants to discuss with our people on how best to make life more meaningful for the people. Oguta is PDP. We love Hon. Ihedioha. He is a listening leader. He is visionary. He is courageous and has capacity to implement the blueprint to take Imo to the promised land.”

Highlights of the visit shall include: boundary reception, meeting with Traditional Rulers, Town Hall meeting at Oguta Civic Center, Campaign Rally at Trinity High School, Oguta, special traditional dances, among others.   

It would be recalled that the choice of Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona as the PDP Deputy Governorship candidate in Imo was greeted with excitement from many parts of the state, particularly, Orlu Senatorial zone of the state.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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More OPS to be involved for better Lagos says Sanwo-Olu - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his resolve to allow private sector participation in the provision of infrastructure and other programmes that will make life better for Lagosians when he wins the coming governorship election in March, reports ITREALMS.

Sanwo-Olu stated this Sunday night during the interactive session of the Grand House Reception, GHR, held in his honour at the upscale Niteshift Coliseum in Lagos.

Addressing the distinguished audience comprised captains of industry, policy makers, key entertainment stakeholders and Lagosians from all walks of life, the Lagos APC standard bearer said his administration will involve more of the private sector in achieving their vision of taking Lagos to a greater height.

Sanwo-Olu, who highlighted his significant exposure to diverse assignments and responsibilities in the governance process, leading to his various appointments as three-time commissioner and immediate managing director of LSPDC among others, gave insight into is planned articulated solutions to traffic gridlocks around Lagos, and on housing, tourism, health and infrastructure.

He explained how his T.H.E.M.E Agenda will bring new jobs and wealth creation opportunities that would benefit entire Lagosians with no one left behind.

According to the three time commissioner in Lagos State, the T.H.E.ME. agenda stands for Traffic management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and technology, Making Lagos a 21st century economy as well as Entertainment and tourism.

Speaking earlier, the Chief host and Guv’nor of Niteshift Coliseum, Mr. Ken Calebs-Olumese, appreciated the APC candidate and his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamsat, for their sincere desire to serve the people of Lagos.

He wished them all the very best in the forthcoming election, while hoping to host him again as an elected Governor of Lagos State.

At the well attended event, Mr Sanwo-Olu was treated to the Niteshift Coliseum renowned hospitality started with a one-hour lavish reception on an almost 500-square meter red carpet spreading around the courtyard of the event venue, while the Lagos APC candidate mingled with high profile guests present.

In a message after the event, elated Sanwo-Olu tweeted: “Tonight,@drobafemihamzat & I were honoured by Mr. Ken Calebs-Olumese & The Niteshift Coliseum team at a Grand House Reception. The event was a good opportunity to share my experience & plans #ForAGreaterLagos with distinguished patrons and invited guests.”

Ayo Midele/DoP

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Fayemi tasks newly reconstituted councils to reposition institutions - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has tasked the newly reconstituted governing councils in the state to reposition the institutions, reports ITREALMS.

Inaugurating the governing councils on Tuesday, for the state’s tertiary institutions and the Broadcasting Corporation, with a charge to the council members to reposition the institutions to their pride of place.

The institutions are the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti; College of Education Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), College of Health Sciences and Technology and the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES).

Governor Fayemi said the inauguration is to complete the circle and ensure successful implementation of the recommendations of the panels set up last year on the affected institutions.

The Governor stated that the new governing councils are expected to give direction to the institutions in line with the vision of his administration; adding that their appointment is not a “call to come and chop”.

“The restoration agenda of this administration is a task that must be achieved. You are expected to key in to the programmes and make your own positive impact at value restoration for our people. Our people deserve the best. You were chosen to enhance the performance of your various sectors and make working, learning and information dissemination more responsive, interesting and encouraging for all and sundry”, he said.

While explaining the rationale behind the reconstitution of the governing councils, the governor said there was an urgent need for “each of the reports to be implemented verbatim to quickly address the rot and the decadence pervading the various institutions”.

Fayemi noted that similar panels had been set up in the past for the affected institutions but their reports were “nowhere to be found” let alone being implemented; adding that the essence of the various panels “would have been defeated if the recommendations were tucked somewhere to gather dust”.

In his remarks, the chairman of the governing council of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Tale Omole promised on behalf of the other governing councils that the affairs of the institutions will be run with probity, integrity and accountability.

Omole, a former Vice chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University stated that Fayemi had got workers who would complement his efforts in the “unfinished business” which he had returned to do in Ekiti to reposition the State.

Nenye Dom/DoP

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ALTON, NCC advised MTN to pay disputed taxes, seek legal redress - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have advised the MTN Nigeria Communications Limited, to pay the revised N50,000,000 (Fifty million naira) Social Services Contribution Levy (SSCL) to the Kogi State revenue agency and seek legal redress in court afterwards, reports ITREALMS.

This, ITREALMS is in a bid to resolve the current impasse between MTN and the Kogi State Government over disputed taxes, which led to the shutdown of MTN base stations across the state.

Disclosing this, ALTON chairman, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo told ITREALMS in Lagos, urging both parties to prioritize national interest and always explore dialogue or seek legal resolution of contentious matters.

He stressed that NCC had similarly advised MTN to pay the revised sum and seek legal redress.

In a press statement also made available to ITREALMS, ALTON recalled that Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) had sealed MTN sites in the state capital and other locations on Tuesday last week over claims that MTN has refused to pay the N120,000,000 Social Services Contribution Levy (SSCL) due to the state in 2017 and 2018. The state government further reviewed the total figure down to N50million during the course of discussions with MTN.

On the other hand, MTN repeatedly claimed that the levy was illegal because it was arbitrarily fixed by the State Government even though the powers to determine such rates reside with the Hon. Minister of Finance, as contained in the Taxes and Levies Act.

ALTON Chairman further called on both parties to remain law abiding and thread with caution in the interest to security and socio-political stability of the country.

“We would like to remind all stakeholders that telecommunications facilities play very important roles in security and economy, hence their classification as, Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).

“As the general elections approach the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will rely on telecommunications facilities of all GSM Operators to transmit election results across the country for collation. The nation cannot afford to have running disputes between telecommunications operators and state governments.

“ALTON is glad that MTN and other operators are up to date on all other undisputed taxes and levies due to State Governments. We therefore advise our members to continue to remain law abiding as they have been.

“We commend the Kogi State Government for agreeing to hold further dialogue in a bid to resolve this issue. We humbly advise State Governments across the country to work closely with telecommunications operators and build strong partnerships for the mutual benefit of all stakeholders,” he submitted.

Chuks Egbune/DoP

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MAPinAfrica calls on African leaders to stop pedophiles - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Media Against Pedophiles in Africa (MAPinAfrica) has made its debut campaign on social with a call on African leader to stop the increasing worrisome pedophile enclave on the continent, reports ITREALMS.

Pedophilia also spelt paedophilia is a psychiatric disorder in which an adult or older adolescent experiences a primary or exclusive sexual attraction to prepubescent children. Prepubescent relates to or in the period preceding puberty for either boy or girl.

@MAPinAfrica, an African media response to rise in pedophilia threats on the continent, said in a press statement made available to newsmen that its worried over the rise of pedophiles and demanded tangile steps from African leaders under the auspices of African Union (AU).

The press statement endorsed by the duo of the @MAPinAfrica’s Admin Faculty, Ms Onneile Setlalekgosi and Mr. Remmy Nweke, described the frequency of pedophilia in Africa a big threat that demands urgent and consistent attention both from the media and African leaders.

They noted that nowadays, paedophiles target children in poor countries for online abuse, outside the socio-cultural encumbrances.

According to them, a situation where some African kings and rich individuals across gender use their privilege positions to marry an underage girl child is not acceptable.

Pointing out that there have been cases of female pedophiles tormenting children and girl-child in particular, stressing that this act has to stop.

Where the culture abrogates that to certain king, as in some parts of Africa, MAPinAfrica wants that abolished immediately as pedophilia is anti-development and anti-people especially children which it endangers.

The main aim of MAPinAfrica campaign, the group said, is to advocate for policies and programmes to help meet basic needs of children and families who are victims of pedophilia.

In addition, MAPinAfrica tends to collaborate with other organisations of similar objectives to provide trainings and public education to young girls and ensuring that Africans know that stopping child sexual abuse is everyone’s responsibility.

“With all the efforts children will be able to resist abusive behaviour directed at them by any offenders, both online or offline,” the faculty said.

Equally, MAPinAfrica said they realises that reducing sexual abuse of children also begins with training caregivers, parents and other professionals to guide their mind-set in responding to sexually reactive behaviour.

Further, the duo said that MAPinAfrica will work towards ensuring that counselling services are available to needy families affected by child sexual abuse and pedophilia. While enjoining media practitioners in Africa to join hands with them start with following MAPinAfrica on twitter among other social media handles.

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NJC to Onnoghen, Tanko Muhammad: You have 7 days to respond - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has told the duo of Hon. Justices Walter Nkanu Onnoghen, and Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, they have seven (7) days to make their responses on the petitions against them before the council, reports ITREALMS.

Rising from emergency session Wednesday, NJC through the Director, Information, Soji Oye, Esq in a press statement made availble to ITREALMS, said that both have 7 days to respond instead of the usual 14 days in the bid to resolve the judicial quagmire occasioned by the suspension of Onnoghen by President Muhammadu Buhari last Friday.

The suspension has been largely critised by both members of the bar and bench as well as the international community.

According to Oye, the Council refered the petition against Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Chairman, Danladi Yakubu Umar to the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC).

NJC, he said, would reconvene on 11th February, 2019 on the two petitions and should have received responses from Onnoghen and Tanko Muhammad.

At the emergency meeting Oye said, they considered four (4) petitions filed at its Secretariat, including the petition against Hon. Mr. Justice W.S.N. Onnoghen, GCON by Zikhrillahi Ibrahim of Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civil Education; Petition against Hon. Mr. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, CFR by Centre for Justice and Peace Initiative;

Petition against Hon. Mr. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, CFR by Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, OON; and Petition against Hon. Danladi Yakubu Umar, Chairman, Code of Conduct Tribunal by Centre for Justice and Peace Initiative.

"In view of the gravity of the matters involved, Council abridged the usual response period from fourteen (14) to seven (7) working days for the Hon. Justices to respond," Oye said, while the duo involved recused themselves from the meeting.

Consequently, Council elected Hon. Mr. Justice Umaru Abdullahi, former President of the Court of Appeal as Interim Chairman to preside over the meeting.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Pix: Justices Tanko and Onnoghen

Anglican Centenary: TY Danjuma unveils logo, advocates housing, transport system - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The former Chief of Army Staff, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (Rtd.) has unveiled the logo of the Anglican centenary, advocated for good housing and transportation system as most important needs of urban residents, reports ITREALMS,

Speaking at the unveiling and inauguration of Divine Mandate Partners of the Diocese of Lagos (Anglican Communion) Centenary anniversary celebration held in Lagos, at the weekend, Danjuma applauded the church for taking care of the spiritual well-being, and the physical needs of the people.

Danjuma, who is the Grand Patron of the Centenary Anniversary celebration also said he was deeply humbled and grateful for the honour done to him by the appointment

He appreciated the Centenary City that would be built by the Diocese of Lagos (Anglican Communion) at Ibeju Lekki Area of Lagos for accommodating low income housing that would solve the housing problem of the poor and needy in the society.

“Among other facilities, I observe that the proposed Centenary City will have low income housing estate. In fact, that is very good because housing and transportation are the most important needs for urbanization. People wake up as early as 5am to go to work in Lagos due to transportation challenges” he said.

Commending the leaders of the Diocese, especially, the Diocesan and Bishop, Rt. Rev Humphrey Olumakaiye for efforts in ensuring that peace and progress are achieved among members, Danjuma said “Bishop Olumakaiye is on the right track. May God bless your ministry and give you the grace to achieve all the aims and objectives of the centenary celebrations.”

Pledging his support for the project, Danjuma advised the Diocese to ensure that funds for the project are raised and used judiciously.

Also speaking on the occasion, Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. (Dr.) Ephraim A. Ademowo commended the Grand Patron, Rtd. Gen. Danjuma for his spirit of magnanimity.

He said the progress made so far by the Lagos Diocese (Anglican Communion) was a tip of the iceberg.

“I pray for progress galore for all. Calamity will never be our portion. The boats of our lives in this new year will not capsize”, he prayed.

The Bishop, Lagos Diocese, Rt. Rev. Humphrey Olumakaiye expressed gratitude to God for the grace he gave to the diocese to attain a hundred years.

He said the centenary celebration has wide and interesting activities for the physical and spiritual needs of the church and Lagos residents at large.

“Our mandate for the Diocese is Priestly, Pastoral, Prophetic, Prayer and Praise Ministries. And we shall exist to glorify God, edify believers and multiply disciples for our Lord Jesus Christ”, he stated.

Olumakaiye further hinted that the centenary city would have empowerment and youth development centre, rehabilitation centre, games village and sporting centre, convention ground, garden of Gethsemane, retreat centre, St. Luke’s Global Hospital, Women empowerment centre, resorts, amusement park and low income housing estate.

“By the grace of God, our Diocese will continue to impact the society and influence our nation for good as we pray that the forthcoming election in Nigeria will be free and credible leaders will be elected”, he said.

In her address, Chairman of the Centenary Anniversary Committee, Hon Justice Adedayo Oyebanji explained that the above projects will be executed in phases and will commence by end of 2019. “The first phase will cost N5billion,” she said.

She also highlighted activities lined up for the Centenary anniversary to include children’s camp, memorial 21 days fasting and prayers, mega prayer convocation, choir festival/ competition, Bishop’s cup / football competition, Health walk, , gallery, Lagos City wide unity crusade, cultural day anniversary lecture, festival of faith, thanksgiving, gala nite/ celebration of Heroes and legends of the diocese, thanksgiving, synod, among other things.

Hinting that the programmes would run from January- December 2019, Oyebanji called on all to key into the laudable objective.

"The grand finale of the centenary anniversary will be on 10th December, 2019. So, all are encouraged to attend all the events," she said.

Kayode Ajiboye/Editor

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Pix: L-R: Grand Patron, Centenary Anniversary, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (Rtd.); his wife, Senator Daisy Danjuma; Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev’d. (Dr.) Humphrey Olumakaiye; his wife, Prof. Motunrayo Olumakaiye; and Immediate past Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev’d Prof. Adebola Ademowo: his wife, Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo, during the unveiling of centenary logo of the Anglican Communion in Lagos at the Weekend.

Sanwo-Olu assures workers of labour friendly govt - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured labour in the state that they will be on priority list of his government if elected, reports ITREALMS.

Sanwo-Olu said no worker in the state would be denied his lawful benefits, promising that the proposed minimum wage of N30,000 would be fully implemented by his administration.

The APC candidate spoke at an interactive session held by the organised labour union, including Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and United Labour Congress (ULC), National Union of Teachers (NUT), and Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), among others.

Sanwo-Olu, who was accompanied to the meeting by his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said his government would not be harsh on workers. He said his ambition to govern the state was anchored on the objective to deliver a Lagos that would be greater than the current level of development.

While answering questions posed to him by the workers, Sanwo-Olu spoke on how his government would solve the notorious Apapa gridlock, which the workers said had contributed to low productivity and ill-health. The APC candidate explained that work had been ongoing on the construction of a parking lot by the Federal Government for the heavy trucks that ply the route, pointing out that his government would re-visit the plan to create state-controlled parking lot for the trucks.

He said: “My running mate and I have met with the Minister for Power, Works and Housing, who assured that the ministry is meeting with Dangote Group that took up the construction of the Apapa Highway. As a way of proffering lasting solution to the gridlock; when we form the next government, by the grace of God , we will bring back the idea of industrial park for these trucks. Rather than obstructing the road while waiting for their turn, the truck drivers can go there and park their vehicles.”

Sanwo-Olu said his government would consider introducing a housing scheme in partnership with the organised labour, noting that the scheme would be beneficial to both the government and the workers. He stressed that all workers, irrespective of level, deserved better welfare and living condition.

Responding to the workers’ concern raised on the difficulty in getting Certificate of Occupancy from the government, Sanwo-Olu promised that his administration, if elected, would review the process of the issuance of the Certicate of Occupancy, with the aim to remove the red tape that is slowing down the process.

He assured the workers that his government would improve transportation in the state, noting that the capacity of ferry service plying the waterways would be strengthened to complement that road transportation and reduce travel time.

His government, Sanwo-Olu said, will not discontinue the quarterly meeting which the governor usually has with a joint workers’ congress, while also promising that he would sustain the Office of Special Adviser on Labour Matters.

Ayo Midele/GEE

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Pix: L-R: APC Deputy Governorship Candidate in Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Gubernatorial Candidate, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his wife Dr. Ibijoke and the Board of Trustee Member, Nitechift Colliseum, Olorogun Dr. Sunny Kuku, during a grand house reception in honour of Mr. Sanwo-Olu, by the Coliseum board of Trustees, in Lagos…

Ambode faces impeachment from LSHA - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

At the end of business on Monday, ITREALMS reports that the Lagos State House of Assembly (LSHA) has commenced the impeachment process against the State governor, Mr. Akin Ambode.

ITREALMS also gathered that LSHA is alleging gross misconduct, misappropriation of fund and abuse of office.

The lawmakers according to live stream monitored in Lagos, the Lagos lawmakers outlined some of the Ambode’s alleged offences to include misappropriation of public fund.

Stay tuned for details …

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FG says threat of mass action will not deter course of justice - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Federal Government (FG) has declared that the threat of mass action will not deter it or undermine the course of justice over the impromptu sack of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Nkanu Onnoghen at the weekend, reports ITREALMS.

FG made this position known through the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed during a press conference in Abuja, Monday.

ITREALMS recalls that President Muhammadu Buhari last Friday purported complied with the order of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, directing the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon Justice Walter Onnoghen, pending the determination of the cases against him at the Code of Conduct Tribunal and several fora relating to his alleged breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.

Reacting to the outcry over the suspension, FG said the threat of mass action by some groups cannot undermine the course of justice, stressing that more Nigerians are with them than are with the opposition on this issue, going by the feelers that they are getting from across the country.

“Those who want to protest against the suspension of the CJN should feel free to exercise their rights, within the limits of the law,” he said.

According to him, contrary to the cacophony of voices that have been muddying the waters, the CCT was acting within its powers in ordering the suspension of Justice Onnoghen as Chief Justice of Nigeria, and President Muhammadu Buhari was right in carrying out the order.

“The suspension of Justice Onnoghen is a consequence of his breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and has nothing to do with the forthcoming elections, neither does it signify the onset of dictatorship or tyranny as some have insinuated. It amounts to irresponsible extrapolation to say that the suspension of Justice Onnoghen is the onset of dictatorship,” he said.

The minister blamed the media, alleging “a section of the media shirked their agenda-setting role by failing to objectively lead the discourse on the issue of the allegation facing Justice Onnoghen and his subsequent suspension.”

He pointed out that certain editorials crossed the acceptable limit of decent discourse, and did little or nothing to enlighten the public on the issue at stake.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Sanwo-Olu promises more funds for Lagos tech startups - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Technology startups and entrepreneurs operating in Lagos State will have a better time to improve their businesses and take their skills to another level if the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Lagos, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is elected to govern the state, reports ITREALMS.

The APC candidate said his government would increase the funds dedicated for the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and lessen the conditions to access the funds at the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF). This, he said, is in line with his drive to make Lagos economy smart and a 21st-Century economy.

LSETF was established to provide financial support to SMEs and entrepreneurs to tackle unemployment through jobs and wealth creation.

Sanwo-Olu spoke before a large number of young entrepreneurs and tech startups at the Lagos Enterprise Summit held at Harbour Point on the Victoria Island. The event had the theme: The Enterprise Initiative: Job for Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu also urged successful SME operators to take up and train interns for mentoring purpose, saying the such action would have multiplier effect on young people’s productivity and economic development.

He said: “Lagos has recorded successes and positive interventions through Employment Trust Funds. Many entrepreneurs have accessed these funds to improve their business. We are going to double the funding for this agency to reach more entrepreneurs and startups. We will also review the conditions for getting start-up loans, with the aim to lessen them for more people to access the funds.”

The APC candidate, who was accompanied to the summit by his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and their wives, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, urged the entrepreneurs not to rest on their oars in bringing out innovations to improve their business and skills, noting that economic growth in the modern times was being anchored on problem-solving innovations.

Sanwo-Olu said his government, if elected, would be initiating policies that would be geared towards making working and living in Lagos safe, adding that his thematic programmes codenamed “THEME” would create atmosphere for the entrepreneurs to flourish.

He said: “Our programmes ‘THEME’ is strategically designed to solve the challenges most of our entrepreneurs are facing. We are coming to make your businesses thrive and create policies that will make you the strategic partners in making Lagos a smart economy. We believe solving traffic problems would empower entrepreneurs and SMEs to deliver their products and services on time.

“We are going to complete the light rail projects, which are projected to bring about seamless and rapid transportation in Lagos. The use of light rail will also lessen the burden on our roads.”

The APC candidate also said the environment policies of his administration would create wealth from the tonnes of waste generated in the state. He said women would play key role in driving his government’s waste management ideas.

The convener of the summit, Tonya Lawani-Okojie, said the event was organised with the objective to foster partnership between policymakers in the public sectors and entrepreneurs for economic growth.

Nenye Dom/DoP

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Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, All Progressives Party governorship candidate, Miss Omoshalewa Olusanya, Tonya Lawani-Okojie, Convener of the Lagos Enterprise Summit, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, deputy governorship candidate and his wife, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat after the summit. 

Winners Chapel gathers materials for IDP camps - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Members of the Living Faith Church Worldwide also known as Winners Chapel this Sunday gathered items which incuded clothing, foods, shoes, bedding and many more to demonstrate their loe for the displaced Nigerians being housed in about 87 camps for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) cross the country, reports ITREALMS.

Th items soon to be dispatched to the camps came in large numbers as members demonstrated their love for God and humanity in line with the biblical injunction of giving to the needy through a generous donation of gift items ranging from clothing, foodstuff and cash.

The Apostle of the church, Bishop David Oyedepo had on Sunday, January 20, enjoined members of the church on the need to give to the needy especially now that the annual 21 days of prayers and fasting of the church ends this Sunday.

Taking his text from Psalms 41 verses 1-3,Bishop Oyedepo stressed the need for Christians to give to those around them especially those at various IDP camps across the country.

According to him; “They are not there by their making but forced out of their ancestral homes. Giving is an avenue for open doors”.

He blessed members for their steadfastness and response to the call as members of the church were seen ferrying various bags of gift items to the designated collation centres around the church. The humanitarian gifts are expected to be shared across 87 IDP camps in 10 states in the country this week.

Ayo Midele/DoP

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Ekiti to arrest parents of pupils hawking at school hours - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has warned that henceforth, government will arrest parents of pupils found hawking during school hours; stressing that parents must take advantage of the free education policy of his government to reduce the number of out-of-school children, reports ITREALMS.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti at an Education Stakeholders’ meeting at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s office in Ado-Ekiti on Friday, the Governor said all hands must be on deck to checkmate the declining school enrolment rate in the State so that the State’s slogan- ‘Fountain of Knowledge’ does not become an exaggeration.

Governor Fayemi, had shortly after his inauguration last year October declared free education from primary school to senior secondary school in the state and abolished all education levies and the education tax introduced by the immediate past administration in the state.

He lamented at the meeting, which was well attended by all stakeholders in the education sector, that many parents were yet to take full advantage of the free and qualitative education policy of the administration, adding that part of the responsibilities of government is to ensure that children and youth- who are the future of the nation- were properly groomed through qualitative education that will prepare them for the future.

The Governor said the current school enrolment rate of 55 per cent as against 96 per cent recorded in 2014 was unacceptable to his government, adding that something must be done urgently to reverse the ugly trend.

A press statement made available to ITREALMS by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Dr Fayemi also disclosed that government has started compiling the records of retired teachers, with a view to determining available vacancies in the teaching service.

He added that his administration will soon commence recruitment of competent and qualified teachers who will help to raise the standard of education in the State.

The Governor also disclosed that the administration had commenced the process of returning mission schools to their original owners, but stressed that government would continue to monitor them to ensure that the schools do not decline in standard.

Earlier in their remarks, the highly elated stakeholders in the education sector had commended the Governor for the various steps already taken by the administration in restoring the lost glory of the education sector.

Representative of the State chapter of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, Mr Babatunde Abegunde, said the abrogation of education levies had taken off the burden of debts of school fees from parents; adding that many parents could not afford to pay their children’s school fees as salaries were not regular.

Abegunde urged Governor Fayemi to look into issues of multiple taxations in the education sector, which according to him, had hindered many school owners from undertaking infrastructure development in their schools.

In his remarks, the chairman of the State chapter of the Parent-Teacher-Association (PTA), Chief Adeola Osadare, lauded Governor Fayemi for paying the 2019 WAEC fee of about 14,000 students in the public schools across the State.

Osadare said the gesture will help many students who had dropped out of school to re-enrol, as there is hope of free school certificate examination registration under Fayemi’s watch.

Other stakeholders such as the chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, Mr Samuel Olugbesan also thanked the Governor for prioritizing the welfare of teachers.

Olugbesan declared the second coming of Fayemi has been a huge blessing to teachers because “things that directly affect teachers are being addressed and given priority attention by the Governor”

Uj. N. Dom/Editor

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PDP advises Tanko to quit the Bench now - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has noted the illegal swearing in of members of the election petitions tribunal judges by Justice Mohammed Tanko and surmised that his action was a complete nullity, reports ITREALMS.

Kola Ologbondiyans, the National Publicity Secretary and Director, Media & Publicity
PDP Presidential Campaign Organization,The PDP insists that in the face of our law, Justice Tanko cannot function as a Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), as there is no vacancy in that office since the 1999 Constitution (as amended) has no provision for two Chief Justices of Nigeria at any particular time.  Justice Walter Onnoghen is still in charge as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The PDP therefore charges Justice Tanko to note that he is allowing himself to be used by despotic forces in their bid to truncate our hard-earned democracy.

It is also imperative for Justice Tanko to agree that, having allowed himself to be used to desecrate the hallowed temple of justice, his oath of office and oath of allegiance, the only option left for him is to quit the bench.

The PDP reminds Justice Tanko of his membership of the panel set up by the National Judicial Council (NJC), which on March 14, 2018, forced Justice Obisike Orji to quit the bench and go on a compulsory retirement, for allowing himself to be sworn in as the Acting Chief Judge of Abia State without the statutory recommendation of the NJC.

From Justice Tanko’s first illegal assignment, which is the swearing-in of election tribunal Justices for the forthcoming elections, Nigerians can now see the raison d’etre for his illegal appointment. This action is in itself a nullity and we caution the said justices to be reminded of the popular maxim that something cannot be built on nothing. 

Nigerians can recall that the PDP had always alerted that President Buhari is bent on removing Justice Onnoghen so as to replace him with a pliable CJN that would help him uphold his rigging plots and achieve his self-succession bid, having realized that he cannot win in any free and fair electoral contest.

The PDP invites the world to note that when Nigerians were in the trenches for this democracy, General Muhammadu Buhari, as he was then known, was in cahoots with the last dictator against the will the people. It is therefore not strange that today, President Buhari, once again, wants to subdue our democracy and subvert the rule of law.
  
However, the PDP wants President Buhari to know that Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, creed or political leaning, will never allow anybody, no matter how highly placed, to push our nation to the abyss of anarchy.

Ayo Midele/Editor

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