Cardoso's Women Scandals: A Tale of Two Most Powerful Women Consultants Who Earn More Than 15 CBN Directors Combined With Impunity

By Our Reporter

A storm is brewing within the hallowed halls of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), one that has set tongues wagging and raised eyebrows in disbelief. At the heart of this tempest is Governor Olayemi Cardoso and two women whose unchecked influence and staggering earnings have turned the nation’s apex bank into a stage for financial impunity.

Meet Nkiru Balonwu and Daphne Dafinone, two consultants whose monthly take-home pay eclipses the combined salaries of more than 15 CBN directors. Their extraordinary remuneration and unprecedented access to power have left career bureaucrats sidelined and senior officials grumbling in frustration.

A New Power Structure in the CBN

When Cardoso assumed office on September 22, 2023, he brought with him—or was quickly joined by—these two influential women. Since then, they have entrenched themselves in the highest decision-making circles of the bank, wielding authority that even deputy governors now acknowledge with uneasy deference.

While Nigeria’s economy struggles with inflation, naira devaluation, and dwindling investor confidence, Balonwu and Dafinone operate from plush offices on the eleventh floor of the CBN headquarters, issuing directives that override long-established bureaucratic channels. Their consultancy roles, nebulous in nature but extravagant in compensation, have raised serious concerns about governance and transparency within the apex bank.

Unprecedented Earnings and Questionable Appointments

The sheer scale of their remuneration is staggering. Ms. Balonwu, a communications consultant, reportedly earns N50 million monthly—an amount that dwarfs even the governor’s salary. Meanwhile, Ms. Dafinone, a chartered accountant, rakes in N35 million per month, despite the bank having an array of qualified professionals already handling its financial operations.

Balonwu’s appointment is particularly perplexing given that the CBN already has a robust corporate communications department led by a seasoned director. Yet, she has been handed a role that not only overlaps with existing structures but also significantly outpays them.

Dafinone’s position is even more contentious. Lacking clear deliverables, she has allegedly taken on roles beyond her remit, most notably spearheading the bank’s controversial ‘early exit programme,’ which forced over 1,000 employees into premature retirement. Her actions, bypassing the bank’s Human Resources Department, have raised serious ethical and procedural concerns.

A Bank in Disarray

A once-respected institution, the CBN is now a battleground of discontent, with insiders lamenting the erosion of due process.

“They are the real power behind the throne,” a senior director confided. “Cardoso is merely a figurehead—these women run the show.”

Even under the controversial tenure of former Governor Godwin Emefiele, the bank maintained a semblance of procedural order. However, Cardoso’s leadership has seen a breakdown of accountability, with favoritism and unchecked privilege taking center stage.

Flouting Procurement Laws

Beyond the ethical concerns, these appointments appear to violate the Public Procurement Act of 2007, which mandates competitive and transparent hiring processes for government agencies. The Act requires advertisements, clear terms of reference, and proper vetting of candidates—none of which were seemingly followed in these consultancy appointments.

Further complicating matters, one of these powerful consultants, Daphne Dafinone, is currently embroiled in a N100 million fraud case, facing allegations of duping a real estate buyer in Lagos. Yet, despite this legal cloud, she continues to enjoy unrestricted access to CBN’s highest levels of decision-making.

A Crisis of Confidence

The implications of this unfolding scandal extend beyond the CBN’s walls. As Nigeria’s financial sector grapples with policy instability and regulatory uncertainty, confidence in the nation’s apex bank is rapidly eroding.

“It sends the wrong message,” noted a leading economist. “If the regulatory body is itself mired in financial recklessness and cronyism, what hope is there for enforcing discipline within commercial banks?”

With over 29 directors, 170 deputy directors, and 400 PhD holders on its payroll, why does the CBN require these high-priced consultants with questionable impact? The answer, many believe, lies in a culture of impunity that has allowed a privileged few to profit at the expense of the institution’s credibility.

A Call for Accountability

The CBN is not a private estate to be carved up by a select few—it is a national institution tasked with upholding Nigeria’s monetary stability. If Governor Cardoso cannot rein in this financial recklessness and restore credibility, many believe his time at the helm should be cut short.

“This cannot continue unchecked,” declared a veteran banker. “If Cardoso cannot restore order, then he must go.”

As whispers of discontent turn into demands for accountability, one question looms large: will Nigeria allow its apex bank to remain a playground for financial excess, or will those responsible be held to account? The nation watches and waits.

Culled from The CapitalNG

1,000 PDP Groups Throw Weight Behind Senator Anyanwu As National Secretary

 ... Warn Against Influence of Desperate Power Mongers

By Akonasu Gbedozin 

Over 1,000 groups within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have rallied behind Senator Samuel Anyanwu, reaffirming their support for him as the National Secretary of the party. This move comes amidst the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP.

The PDP Youth Frontiers Network, representing progressive-minded youth groups within the party, made this known at a press briefing in Abuja to address the crisis.

They emphasised that Senator Anyanwu remains the legitimate National Secretary, and any attempt to remove him and replace him with Sunday Udeh-Okoye, Deputy National Secretary, is unacceptable.

In his address, national coordinator Hon. Henry Owolabi said PDP Governors' Forum and the Board of Trustees (BoT) have overstepped their bounds by advising the National Working Committee (NWC) to swear in Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary.

This decision, Owolabi argue, is at variance with the party's constitution and ignores the fact that Senator Anyanwu was elected at a convention.

The group also pointed out that Senator Anyanwu has appealed the judgment at the Supreme Court, and therefore, the status quo should be maintained pending the determination of the substantive application.

They warned against the influence of desperate power mongers, stating that the actions of the Governors' Forum and the BoT are "illegal, deliberately mischievous, and uncomplimentary" to the party.

The group also threatened to mobilize their members and supporters to block judicial premises and take civil actions if the warning is ignored.

Owolabi added: "We consider it an imperative and dire need of the hour that, as a Party we must begin by building consensus and form once more a united, formidable and strong Party, striving to preserve the PDP as a veritable platform for good governance in Nigeria and not continue in the path of self-interest, self-distraught, myopic divisiveness and pristine bickering which has not helped us but has become viable and fertile ground for the opposition to hatch inroads and poach into us destroying our very fabrics.

"We, therefore, join our voices and affirm unequivocal, unflinching and unwavering support and loyalty of our organization and that of all party supporters to the ideals of the party and by extension to the office of the National Secretary.

"That Senator Anyanwu remains the National Secretary and the attempt to remove him and replace him with a judiciary-imposed secretary, without any Congress or legitimate procedural ratification of any organ of the party is hereby totally rejected.

"We warn all detractors and perpetrators and indeed the Judiciary to steer clear of the internal workings of our great party and henceforth refrain from issuing illegal, baseless, porous, judgments that lack legal foundation and are immoral.

"We are poised to mobilize all our members and teeming supporters to block all judicial premises and ensure civil actions that will lead to compliance with this warning if it is flaunted."

Arewa Youths Petition IGP, DSS Over Threat to National Stability by Amaechi and Others

By Dansu Peter 

The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria (RAYCN) has petitioned the Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services, accusing Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State and former Minister of Transportation, and Attahiru Bafarawa, former Governor of Sokoto State, of plotting to destabilize Nigeria.

According to the group, Amaechi and Bafarawa are planning a series of mass protests across the northern region, starting from Bafarawa's village and spreading to Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Katsina States. 

The petition signed by its national president, Bilal Abdulahi said the protests, disguised as expressions of grievances over hunger and economic hardship, aim to incite chaos and undermine the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. 

The group further claimed that Amaechi is financing Bafarawa, who is in turn funding and mobilizing resources to implement the protests. 

The group described this plot as a "treasonous activity" that must not be tolerated in any democratic society.

The petition calls on the Department of State Services to investigate the plot and those behind it, emphasizing that their actions constitute a clear threat to national security. 

“Despite Nigeria's economic challenges, which stem from past misgovernance by figures like Amaechi and Bafarawa, President Tinubu has demonstrated a commitment to resolving these issues,” the petition added. 

“His support for industrial growth, food security, energy stability, and investment show his dedication to long-term prosperity for all Nigerians. Citizens cannot afford for this to be jeopardised.

“Amaechi and Bafarawa are not interested in national progress. Their goal is to plunge Nigeria into a crisis that will enable them to bargain for relevance. 

“They do not care about the millions of Nigerians who will suffer from the economic downturns that may arise from instability. 

“They do not care about the investors who will be discouraged, the businesses that will be affected, or the security threats that may emerge from their unreasonable reckless actions.

“Consequently, we urge the security agencies to investigate this plot and those behind it. If their behaviour continues unchecked, it might be disastrous for our nation’s peace and harmony because they are actively gathering resources to carry out their evil schemes, which is no longer just conjecture but verified intelligence.

“Treasonous activities must not be tolerated in any democratic society. Every nation has laws that safeguard its sovereignty, and Nigeria must not be an exception. 

“Amaechi and Bafarawa must be held accountable for their attempts to manipulate the populace into causing anarchy. Their actions constitute a clear threat to national security, and the full weight of the law must be brought upon them.“

The group reaffirms its commitment to the unity, progress, and security of Nigeria, urging all well-meaning Nigerians to support President Tinubu's administration and reject the agents of destruction.

Arewa Youths Raise Alarm Over Alleged Plot By Amaechi, 3 Others to Destabilize Tinubu's Administration

 By Dansu Peter 

The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria (RAYCN) has raised concerns over an alleged plot by Rotimi Amaechi, Attahiru Bafarawa, and Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi to destabilise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.

At a press conference on Thursday, the group claimed that the trio is working together with foreign elements and other national and international disgruntled elements to replicate the undemocratic overthrow of democratically elected authorities in parts of the sub-region.

The alleged plot is said to involve the stockpiling of sophisticated firearms, covert actions, and massive protests across the North West, starting from Bafarawa's village and spreading to Sokoto, Zamfara, and other states.

National President, Bilal Abdulahi, also claimed that Amaechi is providing resources for Bafarawa, who is in turn funding and mobilising Shinkafi to run a campaign of calumny against the administration.

He added: "It is clear that their intention and their several meetings is aimed at intimidating the government President Tinubu, and the various organs of government and make the citizens feel that the government and her various organs are not doing sufficient enough to take the people to prosperity.

"This is a matter of utmost state security concern. Its propensity and devastation can be better imagined. The country and indeed national security is under serious threat by the activities of these marauding tripartite, and we cannot fold our arms until we are submerged or over awe by their evil machination and subterfuge. "

The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria called on security agencies to investigate the matter immediately and take decisive action against the alleged plotters.

The group also urged youths, religious organisations, and lovers of peace and democracy to stand against the alleged plot and support President Tinubu's administration in its efforts to reform the country.

Abdulahi said: "This is nothing short of an attempt to overawe and possibly topple a Democratic institution, it is a treasonable felony and must be resisted with all necessary state powers.

"It is clear that ever since their shameful and incontrovertible defeat at the polls by President Bola Tinubu, these three elements have not hidden their hate and disdain but for the person and organs of the various governments. 

"It is however unfortunate that this hatred and disdain is pushing them to act against the office of the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and becoming direct threat to our democracy and the rule of law. The must consequently be stopped with all might and not be allowed to go further, as this will serve as deterrence."

Yahaya Bello's Home Coming

...in the eyes of his  people 

By Paul Efanga..... Abuja.

The detention and release of the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello over alleged financial impropriety , has been a subject of discussion in the public space.

Besides , the heavy  reception accorded him on his return goes to show that the former Governor is still popular amongst his people. This according to the people is a  measure of his acceptance and political relevance in the confluence state .

When asked what the political relevance of the former governor is .... political stalwart Amos Omajale, said " the former governor is now more relevant politically then he was previously.  Omajale stated " GYB  is a courageous man, who has no failure in his dictionary.

"On the day of his return from Kuje ,  country men and women across the divide were  waiting by the road sides from all angles in Okene as early as 8 am,  to catch a glimpse of the Yahaya Bello they described as a  hero and the father of modern politics in Kogi  state.  A very courageous leader who has no failure in his dictionary".

In a display of solidarity , citizens of Kogi State, led by Governor Usman Ododo,  jubilated  following the return of GYB  from Kuje Correctional Facility. The  reception was  a carnival with cheering crowds, mostly politicians celebrating the 'triumphant' homecoming of a man whose tenure left the state on a mission to greatness and solid Development. 

GYB had scored first in so many sectors of the economy. The first ever flyover in the state was built by him and the first governor to to establish two functional universities in a record time of less than four years. This has not happened anywhere in Nigeria. The GYP model secondary schools across the three Senatorial districts of the state is another feat achieved by the former Governor.

In order to stop medical tourism in Kogi state and Nigeria as a whole, the former Governor built a state of the art hospital, that can compete favourable with any other one across the globe.

Governor Usman Ododo described his predecessor as a quintessential leader of men and women and a pathfinder who lifted children of the less privileged to prominence and led the state to a prosperous pedestal in the eight years of his administration.

In his goodwill message of  to the former Governor on his 49th birthday, Governor  Ododo commended him  for his exemplary leadership and extraordinary vision that led to the transformation of the state to an enviable height on which the current administration is consolidating to sustain the legacies of a worthy leader.

Ododo stated : “On the occasion of the 49th birthday of my leader and mentor, I am filled with gratitude for the courage you exemplified, the sacrifices you made for us to be where we are today and the legacies you bequeathed on our state and our people.

“I wish you many more years in good health and prosperity as you will be surrounded by your children and the children of many people whose lives you have transformed as you celebrate the anniversary of your birthday".

No doubt, the Ex-Governor Bello while receiving rousing welcome from kinsmen, calls for unity, support for President Tinubu

Lokoja, the Kogi State Capital, Kogi Central Senatorial District and beyond stood still  as residents trooped out en masse to welcome the immediate past Governor of the state, who was home for the yuletide celebrations.

Koton-karfe/Lokoja road was literally under siege as supporters, kinsmen and well wishers stormed the roads to join the former governor’s convoy amid cheers.

It took the former governor about six hours to finally access the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty Tijani Ahmed Anaje.

Ex-Governor Bello was granted bail on December 19, 2024 and released after meeting his bail conditions in the alleged money laundering case instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). 

Kinsmen and supporters, who had been waiting for the big entry of former governor and the incumbent governor, stormed the streets, chanting solidarity songs and praying for the continuous upliftment of the state under the new administration.

Many of those who spoke at the events , praised Bello and assured him that their prayers were with them. They also thanked him for giving them a governor like Ododo as his  successor.

They said, they had been waiting since 9am to welcome home their son, whom they said opened Kogi up for meaningful developments.

The former Governor, accompanied by Ododo  and other past and present political office holders  first made a stop at the resting place of his late mother for a special prayer for the departed.

Speaking at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, in Okene,  Yahaya Bello, called for unity among the people of the state, assuring that the current administration, led by Ododo, would deliver more dividends of democracy to all parts of the state.

Bello also sought the support and prayers of Nigerians for the President Bola Tinubu administration.

He urged citizens to exercise patience and pray specially for the President to be able to continue executing his laudable plans and programmes for the country, saying that, in the end, Nigeria and Nigerians would be better for it.

The former governor expressed strong confidence in  the policies of the current administration to take the country to the promised land.

Addressing the mammoth crowd, the Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, said former Governor Yahaya Bello had laid a solid foundation for the sustainable growth and development of the state.

Ododo pointed out that the ability of the Yahaya Bello administration to reform the state’s Civil Service and institute a productive workforce was a solid foundation on which the current administration is thriving.

According to Governor Ododo, the prompt payment of salaries by his administration is the outcome of the efforts and foresight of the Yahaya Bello administration.

“I attribute the ability of my administration to pay prompt salaries at both state and local government levels to the solid foundation for resource and economic development put in place by the administration of my predecessor,  Yahaya Bello.

“The success of my administration today was borne out of the commitment and good foundations laid down by my immediate predecessor and the support and encouragement he often gives to us.

“For us to succeed, we need the support of our people because I am ready to serve you and I will continue to do my best to unite the people of the state,”Ododo said.

The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Tijani Ahmed Anaje in his remarks, charged the people of Ebiraland at home and in diaspora to embrace peace, speak with one voice and prioritise the interest of Ebiraland over any personal interest.

The Royal Father, who offered prayers for Ebiraland and Kogi State in general, solicited support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to enable him achieve more developments for the state.

In his speech, the Chairman, Kogi State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, described former Governor Bello as the one who had laid a solid foundation for the state in the area of infrastructure and human capital development.

He assured that, based on the activities of the Governor Ododo-led administration, Year 2025 would usher in peace, unity and development to Kogi State.

Speaking also,  Otunba Irikiti James Ogah, described Yahaya Bello, "The Political Maestro Of Our Generation.

"As a people, we owe him an everlasting thank-you for daring the unthinkable, changing the narrative for good and paying the huge price against all odds. 

"Available statistics have it that Yahaya Bello's eight years administration as the governor of Kogi State was greeted with huge human Capital developments and monumental state of the art projects that have direct impact on the people of the state. 

"These achievements, according to records, made GYB one of the best governors to ever serve the state.

"Today, the travail of the former governor, has made him even more acceptable even by his hitherto enemies. This recent happenings has clearly shown that former Governor Yahaya Bello is now more relevant in the Nigeria political space more than ever before. As the situation unfolds, the fighting spirit of  Yahaya Bello will become more visible.

Paul Efanga wrote from Abuja

Tinubu, Tompolo Stable of Niger Delta Development; Peter Black

A Prominent Niger Deltan, Peter Dunia ,aka Peter Black has expressed deep joy and admiration on the decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign into law the 2025 Act enabling the establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta state.

In a letter of appreciation tagged Thank you, Mr President and Kudos to the GOC , released on Friday and signed by Mr Peter Dunia. the philantrophist described President Tinubu as a visionary leader and a turning point for the full take of the University.

While expressing his elation for been part of the occasion, and acknowledged the historic and great achievement.

He lauded the administration's devotion and determination of the Niger Delta development in this singular act , saying NMU will not only promote academic excellence, and research, but innovations among many others.

The positive development according to Peter Dunia will also engender socioeconomic development of the catchment area.

Peter Black also eulogises the Chairman , Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited TSSNL, Ekpemukpolo Government Tompolo for his complimentary roles in ensuring the success of the institution.

According to Peter Dunia , the provision of the initial infrastructure needed for the take off of the University by Tompolo was an impetus to the current feat .

He further described Tompolo as the ray of hope of Niger Deltans, with genuine demands for good governance and inclusiveness.

The legal backing occasioned by the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the GOC , Ekpemukpolo Government Tompolo that brought to reality the ivory tower has become a rallying point to Niger Deltan, and the best that will happen to Niger Delta.

He also prayed that the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to attract good things to Nigerians , stating that Almighty God will continue to shield him .

The letter further reads...

"THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT 

KUDOS TO THE GOC"

"I am prompted with a heart full of joy and admiration for our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing into law the 2025 Act, enabling the establishment of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State. "

"The decision symbolized Mr. President's visionary leadership, and has become the turning point for a full take off of the university."

 "I am therefore honoured to witness and acknowledge this great achievement."

"Mr. President, sir, your administration's devotion to the development of the Niger Delta is evident in this singular act. The Nigeria Maritime University will surely promote academic excellence, research and innovations in the region."

"It will also engender socio-economic development of its catchment areas."

"In the same vein, I also seize this opportunity to appreciate our "General Officer Commanding (GOC)", High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo, the Chairman/Chief Executive of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) for his instrumental role in ensuring the success of the institution. "

"His provision of the initial infrastructure for the takeoff of the institution is commendable."

 "Tompolo has been the ray of hope for the region- championing their demand for good  governance inclusiveness."

"The people of the region shall continue to be grateful to him. "

"Particularly, GOC's contributions, and that of, Mr. President, in ensuring that NMU become legally operational are invaluable and will remain etched in our hearts. "

"Mr. President's commitment to giving priority to matters concerning the Niger Delta is unalloyed."

"And as a loyal son of the region, I pledge my continued support for this administration."

 "I am confident that Mr. President's leadership will continue to bring significant development to the region."

"May the Almighty God protect and guide Mr. President and High Chief Tompolo, as they give listening ears to the needs of the Niger Delta."

"Accept the assurances of my unreserved gratitude."

Yours faithfully,

SIGNED:

MR. PETER OMOH DUNIA (ALIAS PETER BLACK)

Maritime University; We Appreciate Your Magnanimous Gesture: Government Ekpemukpolo Tompolo Commends President Tinubu

The Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), and Ibe Ebidouwei of Ijaw nation, High Chief (Dr) Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo has sent a message of gratitude to Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the signing into law an act establishing the  Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta state.

In a letter of appreciation released on Wednesday and signed by the security expert , he lauded the political will of the President on behalf of especially, His Majesty  Pere Oboro- Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba,

Council of Chiefs and proud citizens of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

Ekpemukpolo stated that for the Presidential assent that gave full legal backing to the institution, a validation words are not enough to express.

The security magnet maintained that Nigeria's leadership has once again proved and displayed the love he had for the region and magnanimity towards the unwavering commitment and desire to learning, development of its people.

He described the President's action as timely, and came at a time all hope was almost lost .

For having put behind us the pains of over one decade bordering on the legal framework, appears and a testament of good leadership, with a promise of a good followership from the region.

He restated .

He expressed joy that all legal encumbrances has been resolved that will pave way for the full development of the Maritime University.

Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo said the government decision will promote education in the region and the country at large .

He recalled that Ghana has only Maritime University, but with President Tinubu proactiveness, Nigeria has now joined the league of promoters of Maritime programs .

He said the development of oil and gas, employment opportunities, deter youth restivenes in the region.

Tompolo recalled that the administration's commitment to the development of Education, advancement of learning, promoting academic, professional, research and innovation programs .

 The release further states..

LETTER OF GRATITUDE TO HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR, FOR SIGNING INTO LAW THE ACT ESTABLISHING THE NIGERIA MARITIME UNIVERSITY, OKERENKOKO, DELTA STATE

His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,

President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

Aso Rock Villa,

Abuja.

DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, WE CANT THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR THIS HEART-WARMING GESTURE 

"I am writing on behalf of  the good people of the Niger Delta, especially, His Majesty  Pere Oboro- Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba,

Council of Chiefs and proud citizens of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, 

to express our most profound gratitude and reverence, for your historic endorsement of the 2025 ACT, establishing the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State."

" It gave full legal backing to the institution, a validation we can't find enough words to express appreciation."

"This magnanimous gesture, thus symbolizes your goodwill towards the region and the unwavering commitment to the advancement of learning and development of its people."

" It is an act that came in the nick of time, when all hope was almost exhausted."

 "Thank you Mr. President, you touched base with us, with this act of courage."

"The Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko,  established in 2014, has been existence, but the absence of an enabling Act hindered its full operationalization and potentials."

 "For a decade, the institution functioned, but without full legal status. It was on a life support, gasping for desired breath to stay alive."

*Therefore, your unexpected approval and signing of the Bill into law caught us unaware and brought with it a total feeling of euphoria."

 "Now, the ACT will provide the necessary legal framework for the university to thrive."

"This milestone ratification will undoubtedly promote education not only amongst indigenes of the Niger Delta, but Nigeria in its entirety, bridging the knowledge gap in the nation's maritime sector."

"Nothing skips Mr. President's constantly roving attention."

 "As you are aware, Ghana was the only country in the West African subregion with a Maritime University. As it is, your visionary stewardship has bridged this gap, and Nigeria is now poised to improve its capacity and manpower in the maritime sector. "

"The university will not only bring development to the oil and gas communities in the Niger Delta, but also curb the pervading youth restiveness in the region. It will create employment opportunities for our teeming youths, and others across the country."

"The objectives of the university, as outlined in the Act, align with your administration's commitment to encouraging the advancement of learning, developing and offering academic and professional programmes, and promoting research and innovation.'

"Mr. President, your signing of the Bill into law is indeed a testament to your friendship and dedication to the growth and development of the South/South zone ."

 "Indeed, it authenticates and validates your mantra of RENEWED HOPE, for all Nigerians, no matter where they are domiciled."

"I recalled that when you visited Oporoza, the ancestral  headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, on Friday, November 25th, 2022,  you made a pledge to our people to sign the  Act  establishing the university into law upon your  election as  President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

"This is promise made and promise fulfilled."

*Once again, let me express our  sincere appreciation for this landmark achievement. "

"Your leadership has rekindled enthusiasm amongst Niger Deltans.*

" It's on this note that I also wish to congratulate and salute all of us in the  South/South belt.  Mr. President has done this for all of us.  Let us continue to sustain the prevailing peace in our region and unite behind Mr. President in order to attract more development strides to our zone. "

 "Our dear Iyelawei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, we are confident that your government will continue to prioritize the development of the Niger Delta."

"Your Excellency,  sir, you have in this regard engraved your name in the hearts of the citizens of the Niger Delta, through this decision."

 "Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and unwavering support for your administration."

Yours sincerely,

HIGH CHIEF (DR.) GOVERNMENT OWEIZIDE EKPEMUPOLO (ALIAS TOMPOLO) IBE-EBIDOUWEI OF IJAW NATION & CHAIRMAN, TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED (TSSNL).

Kaduna Group Condemns El-Rufai 's Alleged Plots To Harras, Destabilise Gov Uba Sani Govt

By Dansu Peter 

The Kaduna Good Governance Forum (KGGF) has condemned former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai's alleged attempts to rewrite history and assert himself as the owner of the state. 

The group accused el-Rufai of harassment and distraction of incumbent Governor Uba Sani while threatening him with the 2027 General Elections.

According to the forum, el-Rufai's actions smack of desperation to rewrite history and suit his narrative. 

They argued that his threats towards Governor Sani are a threat to democracy, as only the people of Kaduna state have the right to decide their leader.

In a statement signed by Comrade Richard Amos, the forum praised Governor Sani's efforts in healing the wounds of insecurity and corruption inflicted during el-Rufai's tenure. 

They criticized el-Rufai's alleged role in perpetuating insecurity in the northwest and called for authorities to investigate his administration's malfeasance.

The Kaduna Good Governance Forum demanded that el-Rufai stop his alleged revisionism and allow the current administration to continue its work in restoring peace and unity to Kaduna State.

"For a man who, as governor, precipitated the insecurity that now ravages the entire northwest by placing terrorists and bandits on salary, we have concerned that the threat to Governor Uba Sani is not just about politics," the statement added. 

"We have cause to worry that el-Rufai will deploy the state’s funds in his possession to unleash these terrorists on the state consistent with his strategy of seeking to destroy that which he cannot control.

"This potential to undermine the security of the state and the whole of Nigeria is enough reason for the authorities to speed up identifying and prosecuting the aides he used to steal and launder Kaduna state’s money to retrieve these funds from them and keep the state and the country safe. 

"We earnestly hope that the probe of the malfeasance that dominated his administration will be taken beyond his aides, who were mere errand boys, to include el-Rufai himself.

"This malfeasance and his suspected role as a terrorist sponsor must be the core of the security report that ensured he was not confirmed as a minister, even though President Bola Tinubu magnanimously nominated him as one. 

"It is the reason he is now a retired former politician who is traipsing the country, trying to form a collective of those who had failed in public office and are too bitter at being rejected.

"We urge el-Rufai to desist from any further threats and allow the current administration to continue its work in restoring peace and unity to Kaduna State while focusing on how to explain the theft of Kaduna State money stolen under his watch.

"The Kaduna Good Governance Forum demands that el-Rufai immediately stop his attempt at revisionism, as the people are too enlightened to fall for such a cheap trick. "