NUJ Passes Vote Of Confidence On Iorpev, Pledges Support To Alia For Information Dissemination

By Comr. Solo Dzuah

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council has passed a vote of confidence on Chief Hon. Solomon Iorpev, Technical Advisor to the Governor of Benue State on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, pledges support to Gov. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

The men of the pen profession in the state held their first congress of the year on January 8, 2025, at the NUJ House in Makurdi, anchored by the council chairman, Comr. Bemdoo Ugber where the decision was taken.

The confidence was unanimously passed on Chief Iorpev, the veteran journalist for his effective communication strategies in projecting the policies and programs of the government, and his Principal, Gov. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

Equally, the union pledged its continued and unalloyed support to the Governor by effectively disseminating information about his administration’s programs and activities for the pleasure of the state and beyond.

Fidei Polytechnic Makes History With Third Consecutive JAMB CBT Accreditation

ByJoshua Tersoo

Fidei Polytechnic has once again proven its commitment to excellence in education, as it has successfully passed the JAMB CBT accreditation test for the third time in a row.

The polytechnic's CBT center, which has been in operation since 2022, has consistently demonstrated its ability to meet the rigorous standards set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

The accreditation test, which was conducted by JAMB officials, assessed the center's technical infrastructure, security measures, and administrative capacity.

Fidei Polytechnic's CBT center scored high marks in all areas, impressing the JAMB officials with its state-of-the-art facilities, robust security systems, and efficient administrative processes.

With its accreditation renewed for the third consecutive time, Fidei Polytechnic's CBT center is now awaiting registration from prospective candidates.

The polytechnic's management has assured the public that its CBT center is fully equipped and ready to provide a seamless registration experience for all candidates.

"We are proud of our achievement and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in our CBT center," said the Centre Administrator.

"We look forward to welcoming prospective candidates and providing them with a smooth and efficient registration process."

Prospective candidates can visit the Polytechnic website or contact the polytechnic's CBT for more information on the registration process.

Aholu of Kweme Denies Installing Seriki of Fulani in Badagry

 By Jumoke Owoola 

The Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Sejiro James, has refuted claims circulating on social media suggesting that he installed the Seriki Fulani in Badagry.  

Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Badagry, the traditional ruler clarified his role in the event, stating that he was merely an invited guest alongside other monarchs. Oba Sejiro expressed shock at the reports, emphasizing that it is beyond the jurisdiction of any single king out of the 16 traditional rulers in Badagry to install the Seriki Fulani.  

“The turbaning of the Seriki Fulani was carried out by representatives of the Sarkin Fulani of Lagos and the Chairman of the Council of Fulani Chiefs, Southwest,” Oba Sejiro explained. “The installation has been done long before my arrival at the ceremony,”  the monarch added 

The monarch acknowledged the viral photograph of him presenting beads to the new Seriki Fulani but clarified the gesture. “The new Seriki is from Sito Gbethrome, which falls under Kweme Kingdom. That was the context of the presentation,” he said.  

He further noted that he was not the only Oba present at the event, nor was he the only one who gave advice to the new Seriki.  

Oba Sejiro also provided historical context to the Fulani leadership structure in Badagry, highlighting that the tradition dates back decades.  

“The first Seriki Fulani in Badagry, Alhaji Mohammed Usman, was installed in the early 1960s. After his passing, Alhaji Umar Umaru Mohammed was installed in 1981, followed by Alhaji Usman Umar in 2012,” the monarch stated. “I have no authority, as one of the 16 Obas, to install the Seriki Fulani in Badagry.”  

The royal father urged the public to dismiss the misleading reports and focus on fostering unity and understanding within the community.

Shamseldeen Ogunjimi Not Qualified to Apply for Position of Accountant General - Groups Raises Alarm

... .Calls on Head of Service to Preserve Institutional Reforms

BY Dansu Peter 

The Advocates of Social Justice for All (ASJA) has raised alarm over the participation  of Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi in the exercise for appointment of   Accountant-General of the Federation, citing concerns over his qualifications, integrity and suitability for the position.

In a letter to the Head of Service, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, the group questioned Ogunjimi's credentials, alleging inconsistencies in his academic and professional records.

According to the letter signed by its Executive Director, Dauda Yakubu, they claimed that Ogunjimi's academic trajectory raises significant questions, particularly his claim of obtaining a Master's Degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos within the same timeframe as his Bachelor's Degree.

The group also expressed concerns over Ogunjimi's professional certifications, which they claim lack practical application in his public service record.

The letter described his tenure as Director of Funds at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation and as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as underwhelming.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All further alleged that Ogunjimi's career has been marred by allegations of inefficiency, poor performance, and financial impropriety.

They claimed that his reliance on financial inducements to advance his career raises ethical concerns.

The group emphasised that the position of Accountant-General of the Federation is critical to the nation's public trust and economic health, requiring the highest standards of scrutiny, merit, and ethical consideration.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All urged the Head of Service to reconsider Ogunjimi's appointment and establish a transparent, merit-based process for selecting the next Accountant-General. 

The group warned that appointing an individual with questionable credentials and integrity could jeopardize Nigeria's financial stability and undermine public trust in government institutions.

The Advocates of Social Justice for All called on the Head of Service to preserve institutional reforms by ensuring that appointments to critical positions are based on merit, integrity, and transparency.

"We believe that the integrity of Nigeria’s financial management system is too important to be compromised by an individual whose competence, integrity, and qualifications are in question," the letter added.

"Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi’s appointment as Acting Accountant-General is a mistake that must be corrected to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s financial management system.

"We implore your office to act swiftly to guarantee that only the most capable, moral, and qualified applicants are taken into consideration for this position. The integrity of this process is crucial to Nigeria's economic future and the confidence of its people.

"By doing these things, you will not only protect the AG-F office's reputation but also strengthen public confidence in the government's dedication to accountability and sound governance.

"We trust that you will give this letter the attention it deserves and act in the best interest of our nation."

Prioritise Crude Oil Supply to Dangote, Other Local Refineries Before Foreign Partners - Group Tells NNPCL

By Dansu Peter 

A group of concerned Nigerian citizens has called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to prioritise crude oil supply to local refineries, including the Dangote Refinery, over foreign partners.

At a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, the group expressed concern over reports that the NNPCL plans to cut down on crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery from 300,000 barrels per day.

In an address by its national coordinator, Obinna Francis, the group alleged that this move is part of a larger scheme to monopolise the oil sector and frustrate local investors.

Francis noted that the removal of fuel subsidies has led to increased hardship and suffering for Nigerians, with a hike in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) leading to a rise in the prices of goods and services across the country.

The citizens also expressed concern over the NNPCL's claim that the Warri and Port Harcourt Refineries are operational and producing at 60-70% capacity.

They questioned the basis for this claim, noting that the refineries have not produced a single liter of fuel.

Francis argued that the Dangote Refinery has been making efforts to make petroleum products affordable for Nigerians and that reducing its crude oil supply would undermine this effort.

The refinery's operations, they noted, are not a burden to taxpayers, unlike the government-owned refineries.

The citizens called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter, stating that the NNPCL's actions may be misconstrued as having the president's consent.

Francis added: "Citizens are no longer surprised that the NNPCL has been insisting that the Warri and Port Harcourt Refineries are operating at between 60 to 70 per cent operational capacity. It is clear now that the game from the beginning was to pave the way and create an angle of plausible engagement aimed at reducing the quota of crude that is expected to go the Dangote Refinery.

"We argued that the coming upstream of the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries is not expected to cut down allocation to local refineries. The naira for the crude agreement was purely an intervention at the time to boost local production and then provide some cushion from the volatility of the foreign exchange market. It was not so much about the crude but the FX.

"If the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries are coming on stream, it is expected that it will make the price of petrol affordable for Nigerians and not become a stumbling block and a basis for adjustments of crude.

"Citizens will also want to inform the world that while Dangote Refinery is operating at no cost to the taxpayer, the NNPCL is embarking on Project Leopard, the operation, will enable the company to raise $2bn in total exchange for crude oil, thereby pushing the volume of loans for crude to $8bn within four years, with consequential adversity and growing debts for the nation.

"Few months ago, Oando loaned the NNPC $500m as part of another syndicated loan operation called Project Gazelle. Swiss group, Gunvor International and Nigeria’s Sahara Energy Resources, also took part in the $3.175bn operation, which was arranged by Afreximbank. These deals have continued despite complaints from domestic refineries that the national oil firm is not meeting its quota. The country’s average daily production stood at 1.8m barrels per day as of November 2024.

"There is overwhelming evidence that the private sector has served the Nigerian public and stakeholders better than government-owned and operated utilities and parastatals. Let us examine two recent examples: the power and telecommunications sectors before we return to the refineries.

"The federal government sold power-generating companies to the private sector some years ago. In the telecommunications sector, the government liberalised the industry in 2001 by selling GSM licences but retained ownership of the key operator.

"In each of the above examples, continued operation by the public sector led to billions of naira being lost on poorly managed entities. These entities deprived Nigerians of important services, fostered corruption and deprived important budget items, like education and health, of vital funds; in each case, privatisation or liberalisation – allowing competition from private business – solved the problem, and ensured the greater common good.

"On the refineries, we have also been down the road of reversing privatisation and retaining public ownership of these assets. In 2007, attempts by the administration to facilitate the sale of the refineries were reversed due to pressure by the unions and management renewed its commitment to revamp the refineries.

"Yet, in 2011 alone, Nigeria reportedly spent $760 million on refinery maintenance, and the operational capacity of the refineries hardly changed. In the five years since the reversal, we have spent over US$30 billion in oil subsidies. These sums spent on Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) could have collectively funded our health and education budget for three years.

"Under the Greenfield Refinery initiative, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) now Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) planned to undertake a public-private partnership project to expand local refining capacity, eventually settling on establishing a 350 000 BPD refinery in Lagos."

Wishing You A Fraudulent-Free 2025: USD5 Trillion Economy Is Possible By 2030 – Dr. Gashinbaki

....the year is going be Prosperous God's willing, CIFCFIN Kicks Off 2025 with Renewed Commitment to Tracking Corruption and Fraud in Nigeria.

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) has ushered in the new year with a strong message of commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth and development. As the nation strives to achieve a USD5-Trillion-dollar economy by 2030, CIFCFIN recognizes the critical role that tackling corruption and fraud plays in realizing this vision.

In a statement released by the Founder/Pioneer President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. I.B Gashinbaki, the Institute outlined its focus areas for the next five years.

These include enhancing transparency and accountability in public financial management to combat budgeting fraud, promoting integrity and fairness in procurement processes to prevent public procurement malfeasance, and optimizing revenue collection and minimizing leakages to address revenue management-related frauds.

Stakeholders to join CIFCFIN in this quest, underscoring the need for a collaborative approach to addressing the complex challenges of corruption and fraud

Dr. Gashinbaki emphasized the importance of collective effort in achieving a corruption-free Nigeria, where every naira counts towards the nation’s collective prosperity. He invited all stakeholders to join CIFCFIN in this quest, underscoring the need for a collaborative approach to addressing the complex challenges of corruption and fraud.

The Institute’s commitment to building resilience, capacity, and institutional strengthening through forensics, fraud investigation, and anti-corruption measures is a welcome development, given the significant barriers to progress and multiple challenges faced in 2024. Dr. Gashinbaki expressed his sincere appreciation to members of the Governing Council, Registrar/CEO, Members of the Board of Diplomates, State Chairpersons, Committee Members, and all members of the Institute for their dedication and support.

As Nigeria embarks on a new year, CIFCFIN’s message of hope and determination is a timely reminder of the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in achieving economic growth and development. With its renewed commitment to tackling corruption and fraud, the Institute is poised to play a critical role in supporting Nigeria’s vision for a prosperous and corruption-free future.

Wishing you a fraudulent-free and prosperous 2025! serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians to join forces in the fight against corruption and fraud

Dr. Gashinbaki’s parting words, “Wishing you a fraudulent-free and prosperous 2025!” serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians to join forces in the fight against corruption and fraud, and to work towards a brighter future for the nation.

Delta PDP Leaders Tasks Governor Sheriff Oborevwori On Defection Plans

By Dauda Zhin

Concerned leaders of People's Democratic Party PDP in Delta state has accused Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta state of his conclusion to defect to All Progressives Congress APC.

A statement issued on Saturday jointly signed by Theophelius Ekiyor,  Ochuko Oghenekome, and Ezekiel Chukwudi in an open letter to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori tagged "We, the CONCERNED LEADERS OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP)

 in Delta State, are compelled to address you in this open letter  regarding the very disturbing rumours of your alleged plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), to secure your governorship seat ahead of 2027 general elections. "

The ripe rumour mill going round the town has given credence to your intentions to cross carpet to ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC).

It is also obvious that you have been secretly romancing with the Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu which gave impetus to the rumour.

According to the Concerned Delta state PDP Leaders said you are now point man to Mr President which included his Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Lagos state governor , Babajide Sanwo-Olu working to perfect your meeting with President Tinubu .

You already have the desire to cross carpet, join the All Progressives Congress, APC in the shortest possible time, PDP stakeholders in Delta state stated.

We are therefore demanding a clarification and quick response to the growing allegations on your defection rumour already going round .

It is already obvious your yuletide romance and coordination of the activities of Mr President was an impetus to the purported rumour.

The statement further reads ...

CONCERNED LEADERS OF PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP), DELTA STATE CHAPTER

80, UZEVA ROAD, OLEH, ISOKO SOUTH LGA, DELTA STATE

OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNOR SHERIFF OBOREVWORI TO CONFIRM THE RUMOURS  OF HIS PLANNED DEFECTION TO THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC).

"We, the CONCERNED LEADERS OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP)

 in Delta State, are compelled to address you in this open letter  regarding the very disturbing rumours of your alleged plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), to secure your governorship seat ahead of 2027 general elections."

*The rumour mills are agog with stories of your intention of cross-carpeting to the ruling party at the centre, the All Progressives Congress (APC).*

 "That you have been secretly romancing top aides to His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

"Top presidential aide and allies of the President, mentioned as your point men for your new venture, include; the Chief of Staff to the President, Alhaji Femi Gbajabiamila and the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who are now working to facilitate a meeting between you and President Tinubu on this self-seeking agenda."

"Your ultimate goal, as pointed out by those close to you, is to obtain approval to join the APC."

 "In this regard, we are deeply troubled by these flying and unconfirmed rumours."

 "We therefore demand prompt clarification from you to put us in the picture."

 "A delayed response could be considered  as glaring  evidence of your compromised position."

"Your recent private  yuletide meeting with aforementioned presidentiap aides and others, in Lagos, moment after the general meeting of the states' governors  with the nation's number one citizen,  where your alleged defection plans were reportedly hatched  and extensively discussed, has left many of us feeling betrayed and confused."

 "We urge you to come clean of your intentions and provide us reassurance about our future in the PDP."

"Furthermore, we are aware that you have been fraternizing with some factional leaders of the APC in Delta State. This move is said to be a strategic move to weaken the strong  voices within the APC in the state over your intention."

*We therefore demand that you state in clear terms why you are clandestinely holding nocturnal engagements with a handful of leaders of APC in the State?"

"Additionally, there are complaints of your sponsoring dissident groups within the APC in the state.*

"This tactic is believed to be aimed at creating more divisions within the party to pave the way for your eventual defection."

"We are also aware that some top leaders of the APC in the State Working Committee are on your payroll. Some of these leaders have received appointments for their boys and regularly get financial gratification, in exchange for their loyalty and support."

 *We are very disappointed for this betrayal of trust and confidence. "

"Moreso, the majority of us in PDP who toiled  for your emergence as governor are yet to be rewarded in whatever form in almost two years of your reign."

"We condemn your regular liaisons with members of APC within and outside the state."

"Please desist from it. You should be told in clear terms that it's anti-party."

*You recently caused us huge embarrassment at  Urhobo Progressives Union (UPU) gathering, when you openly endorsed President Tinubu's policies and programmes - this has raised eyebrows within the PDP. "

"Your statement, "If President Tinubu fails, I also fail," has no other interpretation. It is a clear indication of your intention to join the APC."

 "It is sad that you are openly identifying with the opposition in the state ."

" How can a governor elected under the platform of the PDP be doing this?*

"It's sad that this is coming from you, Your Excellency, who was  resoundly elected on the platform of PDP". 

"You openly  betrayed the trust of our teeming party members when you canvassed support for a President, whose failure in governance was monumental. "

*An apparently naive  media aide of your's  narrowly escaped being relieved of his appointment recently, when having wrongly interpreted your body language, criticised  the inhuman policies and programmes of APC, nay Tinubu's government. "

"The embattled aide was considered a spoiler in the planned odyssey."

"It took the intervention of well-meaning Deltans for the media aide to escape the sledge-hammers."

"What evidence do we need to confirm your defection talks with APC after the experience of the media aide?"

 "It's more worrisome  because the same your very self has been keeping grudges with party faithfuls found to be remotely associating with opposition elements."

*In your case, no one can challenge the boss."

"Why your sudden loss of faith in PDP? Is it because you knew that you could not win the return ticket on the platform of our party in view of your abysmal performance and policy of exclusion and winner takes all?"

"With the government of "family affairs" deeply entrenched and policy of use and dump of especially,  the critical elements who facilitated your emergence as the flagbearer of our party, you surely have a cause to worry about your fate in 2027. "

*But you missed the point by considering APC as a safe haven.

As the leader of our great party in the state, your body language and actions have serious implications for our collective future."

 "We cannot afford to have our party's fortunes decimated and undermined by your personal ambition. "

*Our greatest worries are the teeming PDP representatives in various elective positions and other party faithfuls, who are desirous of contesting elections in 2027."

"Now that you, as governor and leader of the party, is planning to abandon it to contest under the APC, under what party should they express their aspirations? Or are they going to move along with you to the APC?"

"These are mind bugling questions you must resolve quickly for everyone to know where they belong.

 You can no longer keep us in the dark or be silent about your intentions.*

"In this respect, we demand transparency and openness, over your intent to jump ship.

 "We are entitled to know the truth. We ask that you address these grapevine stories and provide reassurance of your commitment to the PDP.*

"The PDP has remained a beacon of hope and point of anchor for the people of Delta State since 1999. "

*We have worked tirelessly to build the party into a formidable force in the state."

 *We therefore won't allow anyone to scuttle our well- earned place in the hearts of the people."

*We will not stand idly and watch, while the party's fortunes are undermined and frittered away through your inordinate desperation to remain as governor at all cost."

"In light of the foregoing, we urge you to clear the air and reassure us of your loyalty, integrity and unwavering commitment to the PDP. *

"We await your prompt response.

We will not accept to be treated like pawns in your political chess game. We deserve respect and transparency from you.*

"In view of these developments, we urge you to reconsider your actions and reaffirm your commitment to the PDP. We are willing to work with you to resolve all issues that may be driving your desire to defect."

"However, if you refuse to address these concerns and continue on the path, we shall be forced to take necessary actions to protect the interests of the party.

We hope that you will take our concerns seriously and respond immediately."

SINCERELY YOUR'S SIR,

SIGNED:

MR. THEOPHILUS EKIYOR

MR. OCHUKO OGHENEKOME 

MR. EZEKIEL CHUKWUDI 

FOR CONCERNED LEADERS OF PDP,  DELTA STATE  CHAPTER

Ortom Lacks Moral Onions To Make Inciting Statements Against Governor Hyacinth Alia: A Call And Time For Samuel Ortom To Provide Proofs Of His Accumulated Defamatory Allegations Against Rev. Fr. Alia

On the 3rd of January,2025, I read a post by Mr. Terver Akase who supposedly writes on behalf of Samuel Ortom. 

In the said write up,Ortom through Mr Terver Akase was cited to have referred to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia as “unnecessarily heating up the political atmosphere in Benue State.Wherein Mr. Terver Akase stated as thus:

“ His Excellency wishes to advice his” predecessor”(which later corrected to successor after his grammatical error was identified by me) to take chill pill and refrain from unnecessarily heating up the political atmosphere”(Samuel Ortom,3rd January,2025)

Let it be noted by Mr. Terver Akase and Samuel Ortom that they both lack the moral and political onions to rise up against Governor Hyacinth Alia with deliberate incitements and negative mobilization. 

The issues raised by  Mr. Tersoo Kula against Samuel Ortom and the failure of the Ortom Administration on the lives and existence of the good people of Benue State are issues that are in the public domain as recorded by history, time and minds of the people and too early to be forgotten or swept under the carpet because of Ortom’s sudden unholy alliance with the SGF, who is not even in the same party with the SGF ,and who at different points and times did everything possible to place the SGF in a position of political humiliation and near extinction. It is instructive for Samuel Ortom to note that in the whole of this regrettable matrix, Governor Hyacinth Alia was not and wouldn’t have part and parcel of his shenenigan. 

I find it repulsive that Samuel Ortom whose administration recorded the most calamitous dividends of an irresponsible government with unexplained recorded failures in infrastructural projects, insecurity, non payment of salaries to the public sector led economy of the state, high financial recklessness and squandermania,gross decapitalization of the state resources into private hands and lack of respect for human dignity would rise up from the corners of evil to describe Governor Hyacinth Alia as causing unnecessary heat in the political atmosphere??? What can be worse than the fresh wounds of the iniquities,nefariousness and obscenity of the Ortom Administration on the lives of the people of Benue in the recent past,least of all political tension?? 

We cannot be talking of peace in APC in Benue State, when Samuel Ortom in PDP, who sponsored and carried out and is still carrying out all manner of campaigns of calumny and court cases against the APC and Rev. Fr. Alia in Benue State,is seen today with the SGF and even allowed to be making inciting public speeches against an APC Governor,in person of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia in Benue State. 

We challenge Samuel Ortom to provide evidence of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s involvement in creating political tension in Benue State, including the recorded defamatory video of Ortom describing Fr. Alia as a 419er, a married man, etc.We seek evidence of these allegations by Samuel Ortom or we would seek legal means to compel him to provide such evidence. 

One fundamental truth for the records is that ,the Benue people who voted Governor Hyacinth Alia,voted him on the strength of their personal convictions in the charismatic prowess and sagacity of the Catholic Priest in whom they wanted  an all round translation of it of Godly calling an ordained servant of God into a political leadership that sees the governance of people beyond selfishness,personal aggrandizement and political enslavement of the masses. To this effect, and as far Governor Alia   has consistently continued to address the ever emerging challenges of the good people of his state, the people will not go astray by sheer conspiracies of evil men! 

Meanwhile,we wish to assure all political evil conspirators that Governor Hyacinth Alia occupies a constitutional mandate to govern the good people of Benue State,anyone or group of persons who may wish to work against this constitutional mandate, will certainly not be spared of the ample  legal and statutory measures of state -response in curtailing such excessses. 

Dr. Mkor Aondona Donatus 

Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Benue State on Research,Documentation and Strategy

The Untold Story: How Tinubu's Secret Recordings in the 1990s Asylum Exposed Abacha's Looting – Ojudu

By Dansu Peter 

A riveting account has emerged from Babafemi Ojudu, a former senator and journalist, detailing how President Bola Tinubu played a pivotal role in exposing the corruption of Nigeria's former military ruler, Sani Abacha, during the 1990s. Ojudu, in a recent interview, recounted how Tinubu’s secret recordings of a Jewish lawyer revealed the extent of Abacha’s looting.  

At the time, Tinubu was living in exile in the United Kingdom, and Ojudu was working as a journalist. According to Ojudu, Tinubu orchestrated a meeting with a Jewish lawyer who possessed critical information about Abacha's embezzlement and those complicit in the scheme.  

“The lawyer disclosed how Abacha was diverting public funds and identified key collaborators, including the Chagoury brothers,” Ojudu shared. “As a journalist, I was thrilled to be in the room listening to such revelations.”  

What stood out, however, was Tinubu’s calculated move to secretly record the conversation. Ojudu narrated Tinubu’s strategy: “He told me, ‘Don’t worry, I had a tape recorder hidden. When I went to the bathroom, I flipped the tape to the other side and flushed the toilet to mask the sound.’”  

Despite Tinubu’s initial reluctance to release the recordings, Ojudu managed to obtain the tape and publish the explosive revelations. “Tinubu was asleep when I took the tape. Later, he called, asking where it was. When I told him I planned to publish it, he warned me I could be killed. I told him, ‘Let them kill me; I will publish it.’”  

Back in Nigeria, Ojudu and his team authenticated the information and ran the story, causing a national uproar that rattled Abacha’s regime.  

Reflecting on the incident, Ojudu praised Tinubu's strategic mind: “He is a strategist who finds solutions no matter the odds. I admire working with such people.”  

Ojudu shared these revelations while discussing his new book, *Adventures of a Guerrilla Journalist*, underscoring the daring efforts that challenged Abacha’s dictatorship.

Nationalists Movement Back Obasanjo on Port Harcourt Refinery

... Says NNPCL Has Squandered the Nation's Wealth on a Blending Plant

By Dansu Peter 

The Nationalists Movement (NM) has thrown its weight behind former President Olusegun Obasanjo's recent claims about the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited's (NNPCL) mismanagement of the nation's refineries.

In a statement signed by Elder Ogbor Awuru, the group said Obasanjo's revelation that over $2 billion has been squandered on the refineries, which still remain non-functional, is a damning indictment of the NNPCL's leadership.

The movement agreed with the ex-president that the NNPCL's decision to reject Aliko Dangote's $750 million offer to manage the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries in 2007 was a gross misjudgment.

According to Awuru, this decision has led to billions of dollars being squandered on the refineries without achieving any meaningful results.

Contrary to the NNPCL's claims, he noted that Port Harcourt refinery is merely blending and not refining crude oil.

Awuru lamented that this deception is unacceptable and highlights the need for urgent action to address the corruption and mismanagement that have plagued the NNPCL.

"The Nationalists Movement is throwing its weight behind former President Olusegun Obasanjo's recent claims about the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited's (NNPCL) mismanagement of the nation's refineries," the statement said.

"Obasanjo's revelation that over $2 billion has been squandered on the refineries, which still remain non-functional, is a damning indictment of the NNPCL's leadership.

"We concur with Obasanjo that the NNPCL's decision to reject Aliko Dangote's $750 million offer to manage the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries in 2007 was a gross misjudgment.

"It is even more appalling that the NNPCL has gone on to squander billions of dollars on the refineries without achieving any meaningful results. The NNPCL's claim that the Port Harcourt refinery has commenced crude oil processing has proven incorrect.

"The truth is that the refinery is merely blending and not refining. This level of deception is unacceptable and underscores the need for urgent action to address the corruption and mismanagement that have plagued the NNPCL."

The group also raised concerns over Mele Kyari's tenure as the NNPCL's Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) which it said has been marred by mismanagement, corruption, and a blatant disregard for accountability.

Aware said: "His leadership style is defined by a lack of transparency and a reluctance to confront the systemic problems plaguing the oil and gas industry.

"Kyari's handling of the Port Harcourt Refinery issue is a prime example of his modus operandi: using elaborate publicity stunts to mask underlying failures.

"We call on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to address the corruption and mismanagement at the NNPCL. The Nigerian people deserve better, and it is time for the government to take decisive action to ensure that the nation's resources are managed efficiently and effectively."

Transparency Group Calls for Disciplinary Action Against Shamseldeen Ogunjimi

By Our Reporter 

The Intersociety for Change and Transparency (ICT) has called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action against Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, a director with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, over allegations of corruption, forgery, and other crimes.

According to the group, Ogunjimi's behaviour is a blatant disregard for ethics and the law and he has no place in the civil service.

In a statement signed by Segun Badamosi Thomas, the group highlighted the systemic failures that have enabled Ogunjimi's misconduct despite his questionable character.

Thomas called for a thorough investigation into Ogunjimi's activities and disciplinary action to ensure he was held accountable.

Furthermore, they urged that Ogunjimi be prevented from holding any public office in the future, citing his presence in the civil service as a toxic influence that undermines the institution's integrity.

"We are compelled to bring to the attention of President Bola Tinubu a grave matter of concern regarding the egregious misconduct of Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, a director with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs," the statement said. 

"Ogunjimi's reprehensible behaviour, marked by corruption, forgery, and other crimes, is an affront to the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability that the civil service is supposed to uphold.

"Individuals like Ogunjimi, whose actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for ethics and the law, have no place in the civil service. It is unconscionable that someone with such a tainted record has been allowed to occupy a position of trust and responsibility.

"The fact that Ogunjimi has been able to manipulate the system to his advantage, despite his questionable character, is a damning indictment of the systemic failures that have enabled his misconduct.

"We urge President Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to address this matter. A thorough investigation into Ogunjimi's activities must be conducted, and disciplinary action must be taken to ensure that he is held accountable for his misconduct.

"Furthermore, we demand that Ogunjimi be prevented from holding any public office in the future, as his presence in the civil service is a toxic influence that undermines the integrity of the institution.

"The Nigerian people deserve better. They deserve a civil service that is characterized by transparency, accountability, and integrity. By taking swift and decisive action against Ogunjimi, President Tinubu can demonstrate his commitment to these values and send a strong message that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated in the civil service.

"We await the President's prompt action on this matter. The integrity of the civil service is at stake, and it is imperative that decisive action is taken to address this egregious misconduct."

Group calls on President Tinubu to rethink the appointment of Shamseldeen Babatunde as acting AGF

By Dansu Peter 

The National Accountability Crusade Vanguard (NACV) has called on President Ahmed Tinubu to urgently rethink the decision of appointing Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation.

In a release signed personally and made available to the media,  the Executive Director of the group Dr. Kamarudeen Salu described Ogunjimi as an opportunist and a misfit for the office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

The group described the several years of Mr. Ogunjimi public service in financial management across the public and private sectors as an extensive merry-go-round and a waste, as he has added nothing but only became Publilius Syrus, rolling stone that gathers no moss. He cannot therefore sow in Samaria and expect to reap in Jerusalem. 

The statement drew the attention of Mr. President to all the positions held, including Director of Funds at the OAGF and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affair reiterating that all those positions have only led to monumental waste of public funds and goodwill, as he has woefully refused to successfully deliver on his mandates and schedules of duties.

They also drew the President’s attention to the Annual Performance Evaluation Records (APER) form and series of promotional examinations, where Ogunjimi refused to measure up to both the grading and the eligibility scores for any of the promotional examinations, but had to buy his way over at each point. Describing such as a very bad example to the lower officers.

A chartered accountant, certified fraud examiner, chartered stockbroker, and chartered security and investment specialist, Mr. Ogunjimi failed miserably in juxtaposing his ascribed knowledge to the everyday running of his schedules. It is very clear that his academic qualifications; both the Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.) in Accountancy and a Master’s in Finance and Accounting, were either a factor of calculated mistake or a testimony to the fallen standard of education, as he is unable through the discharge of his duties to give proper account of those scholarships.

Mr Ogunjimi lacks competence, trustworthiness, integrity and the necessary basic transparency demanding of such office, and can therefore not be able to effectively manage nor advance the economic reform agenda of the present government. 

The group questioned the possibility of obtaining the West African School Certificate in 1985 from the Government College, Ikorodu, and graduating from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy, within a period of four years, in a country bedeviled by constant strikes and educational dislocations. They also wondered how within the same period he equally obtained his Master’s Degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos.

While doubting his entire credentials, they describe as farcical and a fluke or the subject of the cash-and-carry syndrome in our educational system his several credentials. Consequently, they strongly believe that such character lacks the moral imperative and fortitude to effectively and efficiently drive the fiscal reforms and ensure transparency in government finance.

“How can someone who came into the civil service in 2000 become the AG-F in January, 2025, a period of just 24 years in service? They questioned. Stating that, he lacks the basic bureaucratic experience and competencies for such lofty and tasking office.

He has spent all his life and career in the questionable private sector from 1991, where he is assumed to have worked as an accountant at Humana Diagnostic and Heart Centre in Lagos and only came into the Civil service in 2000 and it is therefore unfair to come in and pick the highest office” they stated.

“We finally state that, Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi is unfit to occupy the position of Accountant General of the Federation. We therefore unequivocally call on Mr.  President to rethink the decision but allow only capable personalities to fill the vacancy when Madein finally bows out of office” they concluded.

Iorpev Implores Gemade Unity Wives To Extend The Pledged Support To His Principal, As They Pay Homage

By Comr. Solo Dzuah

The Technical Advisor to the Governor of Benue State on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, The Akinde u Konshisha, Chief Hon. Solomon Iorpev has implored the wives of Chief Mrs Vickie Gemade to extend the political support, loyalty pledged to him to his Principal, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia who is the Chief Executive of the state.

Chief Iorpev gave the charge yesterday at his Tse Agberagba residence when the Executive Officers of Vickie Gemade Unity wives paid him courtesy call to congratulate and affirm their support and loyalty in all spheres, they added that due to his sterling disposition to their father Senator Gemade, they have thrown totally their weight behind Iorpev, and they would proceed same unalloyed support to his Principal, Gov. Alia as he requested.

In their separate, but unanimous views, the Chairman of Unity wives, and former Konshisha local government contender, Chief Mrs Esther Nyajo maintained that as David emerged and surmounted Goliath, so shall the Lord give Iorpev the strength to emancipate his people and the entire Gaav women, including their organization, she added that his starting is on sound footing.

The Gemade Unity Mothers offered special prayers on their son for prosperity on his job to his Principal, prayed to God to bless him more, and in turn give them more strength to stand solidly behind him in all fronts and at all times.

Chief Iorpev says he is overwhelmed with joy for their visit and pledged to worked with them for the Governor, extolled them and promised to carry them along in all his political outings when they is special need, promised them to pray to God to strengthen and continue to guide the Governor to continue with the good governance he is delivering to the state.