Wednesday, 31 January 2018

PDP: APC’s Report on Restructuring Is a Deception

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the report of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on restructuring as a ruse and fresh attempt to beguile Nigerians with another round of lies, empty proposals and hollow promises, ahead of 2019 elections, just as it did in 2015.

The party also said the report is another calculated ploy by the failed President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to divert public attention from the woes of a worsening economy, unrelenting killings, corruption and the endless litany of afflictions occasioned by their almost three years of dysfunctional governance.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Wednesday, said it amounts to outright depravity that the same APC leaders who at assumption of office, rejected restructuring will now suddenly turn around to pose as fathers of a restructured Nigeria simply because the 2019 general elections beckon.

The PDP said the fact that the APC has no littlest intention of implementing any form of restructuring is completely manifest in the attitude and body language of its leaders including President Buhari, who in his 2018 new year address, rejected the idea of restructuring, by declaring that “When all the aggregates of nationwide opinions are considered, my firm view is that our problems are more to do with process than structure.”

Even Kaduna state governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, who eventually became the Chairman of the APC panel on restructuring, had also on June 29, 2017, during an interview on Channels TV, denied that the APC promised restructuring and described Nigerians, who were taking his party to task on the issue, as “political opportunists and irresponsible” people.

This is in addition to declaration by the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who in a Radio Nigeria (FRCN) interview programme on June 9, 2017, stated that restructuring is not President Buhari’s priority.

From Borno state governor, Kashim Shettima, who was quoted to have said “to hell with restructuring,” to the totality of APC leaders, none believes in either true federalism or restructuring by any name called.

As a matter of fact, it is instructive to note that the APC refused to rally its members in the National Assembly to support or vote for any amendment that dwelt on restructuring when the federal legislature voted on sections of the constitution where amendments have been proposed in the direction of restructuring.

If anything, APC leaders have consistently criticized any amendment that spoke or have a semblance of restructuring or true federalism.

It is therefore deceptive that in the wake of their rejection by the people, the discredited APC and its dysfunctional government have suddenly woken up to parade as champions of a restructured Nigeria. This is a callous and wicked attempt to once again take Nigerians on a trip to the land of fantasy.

We therefore urge Nigerians to reject the new ploy by the APC to deceive them for their votes in 2019.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

Tuesday, 30 January 2018

PDP: Buhari As Anti-Corruption Champion, A Joke of the Year

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the reported naming of President Muhammed Buhari as African Union (AU) anti-corruption champion as laughable, derisory and eminently qualified as Africa’s joke of the year.

The party said it was clear that leaders of the African Union were not well briefed on happenings in Nigeria, including the heavy sleazes going on around the Buhari presidency and was misled by the APC Federal Government, which plans to use the naming as face-saving stunt for the administration.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Monday, said it was embarrassing that the Presidency, in its desperation to launder its irredeemably battered image, would resort to exporting its deceptive proclivities to the international arena.

The party said the AU would not have honoured President Buhari if it knew that what obtains in Nigeria is direct persecution of opposition under the guise of war against corruption, while officials of his government swim head deep in corruption under the overt protection of the Presidency.

“As we speak, those receiving accolades as champions of anti corruption have not yet cleared the air on the leaked memo detailing underhand oil contracts to the tune of N9 trillion ($25billion dollars) at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources which are under President Buhari’s direct supervision as minister.

“They are yet to offer any explanation on series of reported fraud in the oil sector including allegation of the use of 18 unregistered companies to lift and divert N1.1trillion worth of crude oil in the last one year to service APC interests.

“This is a government which has provided cover for its corrupt officials including former state governors, who were indicted of looting funds belonging to their states to sponsor their presidential election in 2015 as well as cronies openly indicted for other various sharp practices, including padding of federal budget, secret oil subsidy deals and stealing of funds meant for fight against insurgency and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

“Perhaps AU leaders need to know that the Presidency has virtually failed to do anything regarding the heinous diversion of N5 billion meant for the IDPs under the Presidential Initiative on the Northeast for which the Senate mounted a stiff investigation, only because officials of APC government was indicted.

“They might also need to be shown the motion by Senator Baba Kaka Garba from Borno Central, who exposed how some individuals, known to have connections with the APC, fraudulently cornered N1.2 billion from the Federal Government under the guise of supplying items to IDPs, only for the money to be diverted for other purposes which are related to APC interests.

“Furthermore, the AU might need to know that the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who was openly indicted by the Senate for stealing funds meant for IDP activities, was only arrested after a public outcry but was quickly released with a pat on the wrist, while opposition members facing similar charges are being detained and persecuted with spurious charges in various courts. 

“The truth lies bare that the Buhari administration is not engaging in any fight against corruption but political witch-hunt of opposition, while his government reeks with corruption,” the PDP submitted.

Signed:


Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

Monday, 29 January 2018

KOGI WEST 2019: A documentable note of commitment to my People-Omoluabi


As we approach another deciding moment of our collective destiny, I find it instructive to make a few words out to you great but severally betrayed and deeply cheated people of Kogi West.

Beyond the lucre of the office, beyond the acruing benefits that comes with it, beyond the perishable juices from the table and beyond the avalanche of opportunities many sees, I truly have the unquenchable passion, indissoluble willpower and irresistible calling to serve the people not minding if the atmosphere makes them understand or appreciate it.


In the words of Peter the Hero of Hugh Walpole's novel titled "Fortitude" he said "It's not life itself that matters but the courage you bring to it"
I make bold to say that not the walls of prison or the barricade of the bars can stop the immutable WILL and the eternal SPIRIT of a man from reaching the farthest distance.

Evangelism is a work of service of a man who has seen the light and genuinely desires that others may see same. We are therefore on political evangelism that may bring so many unexpected and unpleasant occurrences but the driving force remains the light you desire others to see, the paradise you desire others to make and the place you wish the people to be.

We are therefore encouraged more than ever to carry the cross to the very end, no matter what happens along the journey, no matter what the end seem to be and regardless of the economic, material, mental and physical expenses it requires.

One thing is sure and unequivocally true, it is that the spirit of him that called us into this assignment remains constantly with us and the spirit of those we hope to bring better life to, will always abide with us in this journey. The journey therefore is achievable, yes it is, first with the WILL and sincerity of our heart, then with your support and readiness. These are all it takes to effect the needed change and return power to you.

 Support the mission for the  people today.

See you at the shining end when we will chorus the song of victory together.

God bless Kogi West
God bless Nigeria.

Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi
Senatorial Aspirant,
Kogi West, Nigeria.

Sunday, 28 January 2018

FG dumps 'Cattle colonies', asks states to tackle herdsmen attacks their own way- Source.

The 10-man working committee constituted few days ago by the National Economic Council to end attacks by herdsmen has decided that every state should, by a rigorous consultative process with all stakeholders, design its own solutions.

The committee, headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, comprises the governors of Zamfara, Kaduna, Adamawa, Benue, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Ebonyi and Oyo States. A highly placed Presidency official privy to the activities of the committee, revealed to State House correspondents on Sunday that the committee had resolved that the Federal Government would not impose any solution on any states.

The official disclosed that Osinbajo, at a recent meeting of the committee, assured that the Federal Government would certainly not impose its ideas on the states. The official, who craved anonymity, said the vice president noted that fears being expressed on the cattle colonies proposed to establish by the Federal Government were misplaced.

He said the committee also resolved to work with the Federal Government to strengthen law enforcement as well ad all security and intelligence agencies so that they could coordinate better in dealing with the crisis and preventing it from further escalation. He said the committee also resolved that decisive military force be fully engaged to deal with bandits "behind the killings in parts of the country especially regarding the crisis often associated with herdsmen." "The role of bandits and suspected mercenaries in what has become known as herdsmen/ farmer clashes and violence may have provoked the need for a fresh approach to dealing with the crisis," the official stated.

He also said that the military was already engaged and would soon begin to take decisive steps to address the situation. He said the police and other security agencies had also been directed to recruit more rank and file to beef up security in the troubled spots in particular and the country in general.

Source: Daily Trust Newspaper

Opinion:Two years disastrous outing under Yahaya Bello misdirection and inexperience

 it two years when Alhaji Yahaya Bello under most controversial circumstances was installed governor of kogi, that day kogi experienced political volcanic eruption that consumed everything logical on its path, since then kogi and kogites have not known peace nor make progress. Many kogites were excited and celebrated the emergence of AYB for various reasons ranging from powershift agitation, tribal sentiments to emergence of a young man as governor.

Many of us received the development with  caution for obvious reasons, AYB was neither  prepared for the arduous task ahead nor possess the requisite administrative experience. He never participated in the rigorous campaign effort that preceded the election, which provides an opportunity to cross-fertilise ideas with other team members and learn things that would have helped, he was not on the campaign tours which would have avail him opportunity to see things for himself and to have understood the basis of our campaign promises,  an outlook required to succeed as a governor, but the excitement that a young man from another senatorial is been inaugurated as a governor overwhelmed other rational thinking and considerations.

Not long after the inauguration tell tale signs abound that forces outside kogi state had impossed an incompetent and visionless man who finds himself wearing over-sized shoes of governance. He finds himself doing a job he was least prepared for. In less than one year in office it was obvious that he will fail as governor, and to compound the situation he was not ready to listen to superior arguments nor give room for productive  engagement before decisions are taken or policy statements are made. Despite the abundant human resources and pool of experienced administrators available to him, AYB chose to hire unqualified and inexperienced people into his cabinet, they end up trivializing serious business of governance like juvenile indulging in extravagance and arrogance, lacking in strategic thinking and initiative.

The administration is bogged down with unending staff screening exercise, which despite their claim to have substantially discovered and eliminated thousands of ghost workers, leaving many civil servants and pensioners unpaid for several months with many in limbo as they cannot ascertain their employment status till date, the current wage bill remain the same with previous administration or even higher.

Despite the huge resources accessed by AYB (Paris refunds, bailout fund, federal allocations, ecological fund and refund for road projects executed under Wada) there is nothing to show for it; no visible capital projects executed in two years,  salaries and pensions remained largely unpaid, our tertiary institutions and labour are constantly at loggerheads with government with many months lost to unnecessary strike action over unpaid salaries and wages, educational funding is almost non-existent as teachers don't get paid fully, with near zero investment on educational infrastructure at all levels, roads across the state have completely collapsed and yearning for attention, the security situation is worrisome as evidenced with constant kidnapping and armed robbery attacks across the state. In contrast the same government is quick to release funds for mega rallies, cash and vehicle  donation to masquerades, repainting of already commissioned  projects, demolition of roundabouts and appointment of hordes of SA and SSA most of them without portfolio, how does these efforts add value to the life of the common man on the street?

The consequence is what we see and experience in Kogi today, instead of enjoying dividends of democracy inline with our campaign promises, kogites are inflicted with pain, distress, agony, misery, torture, despair, deaths  and even suicides. Impunity, harassment, terror and bad governance has become the guiding principles for AYB administration. Never in the history of the state have Kogites been subjected to hardship and humiliation of the magnitude they are currently experiencing, it has never been this bad. The cries, anguish, complaints and murmurings in the land are unprecedented and regrettable.

It is really sad that instead of delivering on  campaign promises made by us to kogites before the November 2015 gubernatorial election and consolidating on the political gain for APC, AYB has succeeded in eroding the goodwill and support freely given to us through bad governance, arrogance and recklessness.

Recent developments in the Nigeria political landscape has confirmed that future electoral victory will be driven solely by achievement recorded while in office, the case of kogi state will not be different in 2019. He who have ears, let them hear and be guided appropriately.

Senator Melaye wins 2017 Parliamentarian Award

The Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District has been nominated for the Parliamentarian Award following his tremendous success and achievement as the most outstanding senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

For the nomination, according to the organisers, the parliamentarian for the award must be a democrat and a bridge between overreaching national interest and local dynamics and interests. He must also be an effective and efficient communicator bringing the highest clarity and civility in discourse. He should be very responsive and alert to the yearnings and aspirations of his constituency. And Senator Dino was adjudged to have met the requirements.

The senator representing Kogi west senatorial district in the 8th senate has been nominated after over 10 months public opinion survey by the award body in the National Assembly.

The Broomplatform is a grade A support group officially recognised and registered by the APC national secretariat and a member of the coalition of APC Support groups.

The group is a media inclined specialised support group, while the Citizens of Repute International centre is providing the technical support for the award.

As part of the agenda for the prestigious award ceremony, the award body will be presenting the maiden edition of the "Quotable Quotes on the Nigerian senate 2017" , a public lecture and a high class pictorial exhibitions on the constituency projects of senator Dino Melaye.

The event is scheduled for 12th February,2018 at the Ladi Kwali conference centre, Sheraton hotel and towers Abuja.


Signed:
GIDEON AYODELE
S.A. Media to Sen. Dino Melaye

Friday, 26 January 2018

Second year anniversary :Senator Ogembe congratulates Gov. Yahaya Bello

The Senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district at the red chamber of the National Assembly ,  Senator Ahmed Salau Ogembe, has congratulated the governor of Kogi State Alhaji Yahaya Bello on the second year anniversary of his New Direction Administration.

The senator noted that the  first two years  in office of Governor Yahaya Bello was no doubt full of challenges and successes owing to the governor's  determination to put in his  best to transform the State.

Senator Ogembe  prayed  for  continued God guidance and protection for the governor  in the years ahead.

The senator also expressed confidence in the ability of the governor to  take  Kogi State to an enviable height.

CELEBRATING TWO YEARS IN OFFICE OF THE NEW DIRECTION BLUEPRINT.


  1. The enterprising, innovative, development inclined and highly resourceful people of Yagba East State Constituency and my family congratulate His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello,   " White Lion ", Executive Governor of Kogi State on the auspicious occasion of your 2nd year anniversary in office.


It is imperative to state clearly that your " New Direction " mantra on assumption of office is yielding dividends for all to see and feel.

Albeit, there are more grounds yet to be covered, but our people are optimistic that you are steering the ship in the right direction in anticipation of a prosperous future.

Your Excellency, may Allah continue to grant you more wisdom to serve us right; the strength to wrong the right of the past and the strong will to turn around the fortunes of the State, thereby ensuring a glorious economic growth and development.

Once again, congratulations sir!

Hon. Musa Jimoh Omiata,
Member representing Yagba East State Constituency.

THE NEW DIRECTION FAMILY IS TWO YEARS OLD.

On behalf of the accommodating people of Dekina - Okura State Constituency and my family, I would like to extend sincere  congratulations on the occasion of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, Executive Governor of Kogi State 2nd year ascension in office.


 I wish you and proactive members of your cabinet continued good health and much happiness, as well as success and prosperity to pilot the affair of Kogi state.

Ever since Kogi creation years ago, embarking on a positive and having the will - power to change the status quo has always been a herculean task, but with you,a new Kogi started evolving.

Today, we are very proud of the deep and purpose - driven leadership,we are bound by common values on the political arena, which form a solid foundation for our work towards the general welfare of Kogi State.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances and warmest congratulations.

SIGNED:
Rt. Hon. Hassan Abdullahi Baiwa,
Deputy Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly, member representing Dekina - Okura State Constituency.

Elder Leke Abejide Commiserates with Ikuborije's family over death of late Oba

Former House of Representatives Aspirant, business mogul and the ASIWAJU OF ALULAND  Elder Leke Abejide has commiserated with the IKUBORIJE'S Family,  people of Isanlu, Okunland And Kogi State at large over the death of LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE, THE AGBANA OF ISANLU, saying; the people and the entire family should be consoled by the fact that the king lived a fulfilled and exemplary life.

LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU died few days ago.

Elder Leke who reacted to LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE'S death , prayed that God in His infinite mercies will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the Ikuborije's family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.


His words; "I ELDER LEKE ABEJIDE, THE ASIWAJU OF ALULAND COMMISERATE WITH ENTIRE FAMILY OF IKUBORIJE, ISANLU LAND IN PARTICULAR, OKUN TRADITIONAL COUNCIL,KOGI STATE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL AND MORE IMPORTANTLY YAGBA EAST TRADITIONAL COUNCIL ON THE IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU. MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE,AMEN"

Elder Leke Abejide Commiserates with Ikuborijie's family over death of late Oba


Former House of Representatives Aspirant, business mogul and the ASIWAJU OF ALULAND  Elder Leke Abejide has commiserated with the IKUBORIJE'S Family,  people of Isanlu, Okunland And Kogi State at large over the death of LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE, THE AGBANA OF ISANLU, saying; the people and the entire family should be consoled by the fact that the king lived a fulfilled and exemplary life.


LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU died few days ago.
Elder Leke who reacted to LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE'S death , prayed that God in His infinite mercies will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the Ikuborije's family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.


His words; "I ELDER LEKE ABEJIDE, THE ASIWAJU OF ALULAND COMMISERATE WITH ENTIRE FAMILY OF IKUBORIJE, ISANLU LAND IN PARTICULAR, OKUN TRADITIONAL COUNCIL,KOGI STATE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL AND MORE IMPORTANTLY YAGBA EAST TRADITIONAL COUNCIL ON THE IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU. MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE,AMEN"

Elder Leke Abejide Commiserates with Ikuboji's family over death of late Oba

Former House of Representatives Aspirant, business mogul and the ASIWAJU OF ALULAND  Elder Leke Abejide has commiserated with the IKUBORIJE'S Family,  people of Isanlu, Okunland And Kogi State at large over the death of LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE, THE AGBANA OF ISANLU, saying; the people and the entire family should be consoled by the fact that the king lived a fulfilled and exemplary life.


LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU died few days ago.

Elder Leke who reacted to LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE'S death , prayed that God in His infinite mercies will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the Ikuborije's family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.


His words; "I ELDER LEKE ABEJIDE, THE ASIWAJU OF ALULAND COMMISERATE WITH ENTIRE FAMILY OF IKUBORIJE, ISANLU LAND IN PARTICULAR, OKUN TRADITIONAL COUNCIL,KOGI STATE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL AND MORE IMPORTANTLY YAGBA EAST TRADITIONAL COUNCIL ON THE IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU. MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE,AMEN"

Elder Leke Abejide Commiserates with Ikuboji's family over death of late Oba

Former House of Representatives Aspirant, business mogul and the ASIWAJU OF ALULAND  Elder Leke Abejide has commiserated with the IKUBORIJE'S Family,  people of Isanlu, Okunland And Kogi State at large over the death of LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE, THE AGBANA OF ISANLU, saying; the people and the entire family should be consoled by the fact that the king lived a fulfilled and exemplary life.


LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU died few days ago.

Elder Leke who reacted to LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE'S death , prayed that God in His infinite mercies will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the Ikuborije's family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.


His words; "I ELDER LEKE ABEJIDE, THE ASIWAJU OF ALULAND COMMISERATE WITH ENTIRE FAMILY OF IKUBORIJE, ISANLU LAND IN PARTICULAR, OKUN TRADITIONAL COUNCIL,KOGI STATE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL AND MORE IMPORTANTLY YAGBA EAST TRADITIONAL COUNCIL ON THE IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF LATE OBA A.A.IKUBORIJE , THE AGBANA OF ISANLU. MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE,AMEN"

Thursday, 25 January 2018

COLONEL (BARRISTER) ABAYOMI DARE JOINS KOGI WEST SENATORIAL RACE

As the nation gears up for the eagerly anticipated 2019 General Elections, a renowned Legal practitioner and retired military officer,Colonel Abayomi Dare, has declared his intention to vie-for the Kogi West Senatorial District seat.


  If given the mandate to serve, Col (Barr) Abayomi who is from Kabba, in the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has expressed his determination to collaborate with the State and Federal Governments to take development to every part of his constituency.


Yomi who is contesting under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has also pledged to create employment opportunities, enhance youth empowerment, attract basic infrastructure through good representation among others.

He further expressed his readiness to promote constituency projects that would reflect the basic need of the people as well as sponsor bills that will enhance the welfare of the people.


Yomi was born in Bornu State. For his elementary education, he attended St Georges Primary School, Zaria, St Georges School Falomo, lagos and Holy Trinity Transferred School Lokoja, between 1966 and 1972. For his secondary education, he attended Ijumu Anglican Secondary School. Iyara, Government Secondary School. Koton-Karfe, Crowther Memorial College Lokoja, between 1972 and 1977.


He started his military career in 1979, after gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 26th Regular Combatant Course.  He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1982. His initial posting was to 29 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, Nguru, Bornu State. From there, he was posted to 123 Guards Battalion, Ikeja Cantonment, Lagos. As a young officer, he served as Aide de camp to former Military Governors of Oyo State between 1985 – 1988.



The renowned barrister is a holder of the Nigerian Defence Academy Certificate of Education, Bachelor of Law, Masters in International Affairs and Diplomacy and Masters in Strategic Studies from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and the University of Ibadan, respectively.


He is also an Alumnus of the Defence Institute of International Legal Studies, Newport, Rhode Island, USA, where he studied legal Aspects of combating Terrorism, Military Law development Programme and Peace Keeping in accordance with the Rule of Law.


Yomi Served in the Nigerian Contingent in ECOMOG as a Prosecuting Counsel. During the course of his Military Career, he had the privilege of holding several appointments and also served in various locations both within and outside Nigeria. He later rose to the position of Director of Army Legal Services of the Nigerian Army.



As a Major, YOMI gave a good account of himself in 1996, as the Commander of the Multi National Military Police Force under the United Nations Mission Assistance to Rwanda. Among others, he was saddled with the responsibility of the security of lives and properties of members of the United Nations and other international communities in Rwanda. He was awarded the United Nations Medal on completion of his tour of duty.




  Yomi is an ardent believer and fighter for Equity, Justice and Rule of Law. He detests corruption and injustice in all its ramifications. He has to his credit, published and unpublished works. He served in the Nigerian Army for a period of 36years, 5months and 19days, from 28th June 1979 to 16th December 2015. He was awarded certificate of Military service in recognition of a meritorious service to Nigeria.
 Yomi is a well decorated officer and a gentleman. His Decorations include - Forces Service Star [FSS], Meritorious Service Star [MSS], Distinguished Service Star [DSS], Silver Jubilee Medal [SJM], Golden jubilee Medal [GJM], Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group [ECOMOG] United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda medal, Passed Staff College [PSC], and fellow of the National War College [FWC].


He has attended several workshops and seminars within and outside Nigeria. He is a member of some notable professional and social organisations, amongst which are; Nigerian Bar Association, World Justice Forum, American Society of Industrial Security, to mention but a few.


Yomi enjoys discussing contemporary current local and international topics. He appears on the Channels TV, discussing National Security issues and advising on way forward.


Presently, Colonel Abayomi Dare (Retired), is the Principal Partner in the Law Firm of Yomi Dare And Co. He is also a Security Consultant. He is based in Lagos, with presence in all the states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The Federation Of Yagba Students (FYS National) Mourns The Death Of His Royal Majesty Oba A.A Ikuborije.

It is with rude shock and heavy heart that we received the passing on of our royal father, an elder statesman, His Royal Majesty Oba A.A Ikuborije the Agbana Of Isanlu land, While death is a door every living soul must pass through, the news of his death comes to us as a great loss and irreplaceable exit at times like now when Yagba, Kogi and the entire nation is in dire need of the support and service of reputable father in gearing our agitation as Yagba entity in producing the next senator that will represent Kogi west senatorial district at the red chamber come 2019.
While we cannot question God as to why and how his death is taking place at a critical time as now, we call on the good people of Yagba East and the entire Yagba federal constituency to reflect and live life on the ideals of the departed royal father. It is our conviction that God has counted him among the dwellers of eternal delight.
Hence, on behalf of the entire Federation of Yagba Students both home and abroad and the entire members of Yagba For Senate 2019 Initiatives, we pray for his soul and equally condole with the good people of Isanlu land, as well as the good people of Kogi West senatorial district and the entire lovers of the family. May his good legacies live on.

Signed:
Comr. Omosona T. Olakunle, aka TYDot
National President Federation of Yagba Students and the Convener YAGBA For Senate 2019 Initiatives.

Late Agbana was a statesmen and traditional Icon-Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi(OBA)

The leading Kogi West Senatorial Aspirant and Media entrepreneur, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi  (OBA) has described the late Agbana of Isanlu, Oba A.A Ikuborije as a statesman and compassionate traditional Icon.

While reacting to the news of the departure of the royal icon and selfless Nigerian of the royal order, he expressed shock, pain and sense of loss over kabiyesi's transition.
In a release made available to the press and personally signed, Omoluabi recounts his several encounters with the royal father and describes them as inspiring, supportive and sacrificing. Omoluabi recounted how he met Kabiyesi for the first as a Primary 5 pupil, later as a students leader and afterwards as a Community leader.

In his words, " I was privileged to benefit from Kabiyesi's kindness and love as a Primary 5 Best pupil award recipient almost thirty years ago. Kabiyesi was also available to advise, help and correct during my days as students and youth leader.  I'm a product of his wisdom, generosity, love and selflessness. We however thank God for a life of great service, exploits, giant strides and fulfilment our royal majesty lived" Omoluabi says.
Late Oba A.A Ikuborije until his transition was the Agbana of Isanlu and Chairman, Yagba East traditional council.  His reign witnessed peace, rapid community development and progress.

Tuesday, 23 January 2018

2019: Chief Obasanjo’s counsel has rekindled the fate of the people,Insists PDP is the only way out- Kola Ologbodiyan

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the counsel by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that President Muhammadu Buhari should not seek a re-election in 2019 as courageous, timeous and patriotic, adding that such has vindicated its position on President Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

 The party however rejected the call by Chief Obasanjo for a third force saying that such would amount to repeating the same blunder that brought in the ideologically vacuous APC and the Buhari Presidency which has now wrecked havoc on the nation in its almost three years of governance.

 PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Tuesday, said the fact that President Buhari and the APC have irredeemably failed our nation is obvious to all, adding that Nigerians have already taken an irrevocable position against them ahead of the 2019 elections.

 According to the PDP, Chief Obasanjo’s counsel has rekindled the fate of the people in the democratic process, stressing however that the solution does not lie in creating another political quicksand in a third force but consolidating on a rescue mission with the repositioned PDP which Nigerians have already embraced.

 It said Nigerians would recall that in the heat of 2015 elections, many citizens, who claimed to have become tired of the PDP and its government, opted for a coalition of strange bedfellows who had little or no experience in governance as a vehicle for electoral victory. Expectedly, in their confusion, they have plunged us into this regrettable situation that has brought our nation to its knees.

PDP maintained that repeating the old mistake of congregating political strangers cannot help our nation at this time, more so, when the few concerns raised by the former President about the PDP no longer obtain under the refocused and rebranded PDP.

The PDP is now standing on a truly democratic ground that perfectly represents and reflects the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians irrespective of their class, creed or tribe.

That is why our great party has now, more than ever before, become a center of the new patriotic and broad-based engagements by well-meaning Nigerians and coalitions across board, including past leaders, in rekindling our democratic process that places priority on returning power to the people.

The fact is that Nigerians overrated President Buhari in 2015 but they have now seen that he never possessed the capacity and the required aptitude to effectively govern our great nation and pilot a healthy economy.

This accounts for the reason former President Obasanjo, just like most Nigerians today, are concerned about the quality of presidential candidates to be presented by various parties for the 2019 election.

The fact is that while the APC is already caught up with President Buhari, the PDP is open for a new engagement that will throw up the President, which our nation truly deserves at this crucial moment.

We therefore call on Nigerians, including all our leaders across board, to come together to rebuild our nation on PDP’s consolidated base rather than traversing on another learning curve. 

Signed:



Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary




2019: PDP Says Obasanjo’s Advice Vindicates Its Position On Buhari, APC...Insists PDP is the only way out

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the counsel by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that President Muhammadu Buhari should not seek a re-election in 2019 as courageous, timeous and patriotic, adding that such has vindicated its position on President Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

 The party however rejected the call by Chief Obasanjo for a third force saying that such would amount to repeating the same blunder that brought in the ideologically vacuous APC and the Buhari Presidency which has now wrecked havoc on the nation in its almost three years of governance.

 PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Tuesday, said the fact that President Buhari and the APC have irredeemably failed our nation is obvious to all, adding that Nigerians have already taken an irrevocable position against them ahead of the 2019 elections.

 According to the PDP, Chief Obasanjo’s counsel has rekindled the fate of the people in the democratic process, stressing however that the solution does not lie in creating another political quicksand in a third force but consolidating on a rescue mission with the repositioned PDP which Nigerians have already embraced.

 It said Nigerians would recall that in the heat of 2015 elections, many citizens, who claimed to have become tired of the PDP and its government, opted for a coalition of strange bedfellows who had little or no experience in governance as a vehicle for electoral victory. Expectedly, in their confusion, they have plunged us into this regrettable situation that has brought our nation to its knees.

PDP maintained that repeating the old mistake of congregating political strangers cannot help our nation at this time, more so, when the few concerns raised by the former President about the PDP no longer obtain under the refocused and rebranded PDP.

The PDP is now standing on a truly democratic ground that perfectly represents and reflects the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians irrespective of their class, creed or tribe.

That is why our great party has now, more than ever before, become a center of the new patriotic and broad-based engagements by well-meaning Nigerians and coalitions across board, including past leaders, in rekindling our democratic process that places priority on returning power to the people.

The fact is that Nigerians overrated President Buhari in 2015 but they have now seen that he never possessed the capacity and the required aptitude to effectively govern our great nation and pilot a healthy economy.

This accounts for the reason former President Obasanjo, just like most Nigerians today, are concerned about the quality of presidential candidates to be presented by various parties for the 2019 election.

The fact is that while the APC is already caught up with President Buhari, the PDP is open for a new engagement that will throw up the President, which our nation truly deserves at this crucial moment.

We therefore call on Nigerians, including all our leaders across board, to come together to rebuild our nation on PDP’s consolidated base rather than traversing on another learning curve. 

Signed:



Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

Monday, 22 January 2018

A RAPE OF OUR COLLECTIVE SENSIBILITY IN BUNU LAND.

On the  night of Sunday 21st of January 2018, at about midnight,  we got a report that a trailer load of Fulanis invaded our district. They were sighted along the road close to Iluke at the heart of Bunu district. Bunu is a district in Kabba-Bunu local government area of Kogi state in Nigeria. Amongst her endowments is a large and fertile landmass, peace-loving people and  a serene environment, despite the underdevelopment and apparent marginalization, especially in infrastructural facilities. Agriculture is the foremost occupation.
       The innocent farmers,traditional leaders and even ,the vigilantes in the village had no prior information or knowledge of this strange migrants' movement into the town. They are in excess of a hundred, mostly women and children, they came in with their food, beddings, herdsmen's sticks, and other household things. They said; they have a letter of authority (the letter written in Hausa language was sighted and was instructive to their relocating to our land for settlement from a certain  seriki  in Bwari AMAC and that their male adults  were said to be on their way. Another report said; they claimed to be going to another village within our district on the invitation of another seriki, but the said _seriki replied enquiry that he is not aware of their coming.



This worrisome incident happened, after the governor of Kogi State offered Kogi State to be the pilot state for the implementation of  "cattle colony" and after various groups in Kogi including Okun Development Association, Bunu Peoples' Forum and Bunu Interest Group came out openly to say NO to cattle colony on Okun land.

The Nigeria constitution does not give freedom to a group of people to settle anywhere they like without consultation with the host community and modalities agreed upon. We consider this invasion of Fulanis on our land a great security threat to our existence, especially  farming,fishing,hunting, timbering etc at this crucial security  moment in which  the  federal Government of Nigeria confirmed to have identified some  terrorists in Kogi,Benue and Edo states respectively.

       We, therefore, call on all meaningful  Nigerians within and in diaspora, lovers of Bunu people,  alongside international human rights and security bodies to come to our aid.

       Bunu district,which is made up of forty four villages without a single functioning police station, talk much of an Army barracks. Only two villages have epileptic power supply,while  our road networks are  poor and nothing to write home about. If the government can not help us, they should not compound our problems as we are law abiding citizens and don't deserve tension and hostile decisions as our dividend of democracy.

#Bunu People says no to colony.

*Bunu Peoples' Forum*

*bunuforum@gmail.com*

2019: APC Stuck With Unpopular Presidential Candidate…PDP Decries Demolition of Borno Secretariat

Press Release by PDP National Publicity Secretary.

Gentlemen of the press, we have invited you here today to alert Nigerians and lovers of democracy all over the world of a very dangerous design by APC interests, which is inimical to the survival of our hard-earned democracy and the stability of our nation.

As we address you today, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the desperation to cling to power has finally commenced its onslaught against our democratic order. The constitutionally guaranteed rights to freely associate is now under attack even as our nation is being pushed to the brinks.

Also we bring to the attention of the world, the various constitutional violations of the APC; her unrelenting persecution, arrests, detention and harried trial of opposition members as well as perceived opponents of government, including innocent business concerns, all in line with the grand plot to discredit and stifle opposition in Nigeria.

The APC, having realized that its chances of winning the 2019 elections get slimmer by the day and petrified by the popularity of the repositioned PDP across Nigeria, has now resorted to a vicious plot to physically attack our members and offices, as well as deploying force and orchestrated violence in an attempt to destabilize our structure across the country.

As you may be aware, on Sunday January 21, 2018, the APC unleashed terror on the PDP by sending its agents under the instructions of the Borno state governor, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, to demolish the PDP secretariat along Dandal Way in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.

This horrendous, beastly and hateful act of desperation is a direct assault on our nation’s democracy, a gross effrontery against the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended, and further exposes the intensity of the fear and trepidation in the APC over the reawakened popularity of the PDP ahead of the 2019 elections.

It is already in the public domain that the APC government in Borno state, for fear of the increasing popularity of the PDP, had mounted pressure on the owner of the building to eject our party, but frustrated by the refusal of the landlord, the governor issued a revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy on the property and immediately instructed the agents of his government to demolish a house belonging to a citizen without any authorization of a court of competent jurisdiction.

We invite all lovers of democracy in Nigeria and across the world to note and collectively condemn this height of callousness from a government that vainly prides itself as the product of a progressive party.

Nigerians have not forgotten the political tension created by the APC in PDP strongholds in various states, including the recent attacks on our members, such as the attack on those holding a lawful meeting in Idanre, Ondo state.

Also, the increasing unwarranted attacks by APC controlled security forces on journalists, media houses and other well-meaning Nigerians carrying out their legitimate duties simply because they hold different opinions from those of APC interests speak volume of the desperation on the APC government.

We know that the APC is already suffering from a pre-election fever because of the failures of the President Mohammadu Buhari-led government for which they will face an inevitable defeat in 2019.

The unfortunate fact is that the APC is stuck with a demystified and poorly performed presidential candidate and is now afraid that the PDP is poised to present a more popular, nationally-oriented candidate who has compassion for the people and who also has the capacity and liberal-mindedness to urgently bring the nation out of the current APC inflicted national woes.

However, we want to inform the APC that they are fighting a lost battle. Let it be known to all that the PDP under this new leadership will never be cowed. This country belongs to all of us and we are fully rallied across board to call up our members to avail themselves of all provisions available in a democracy and within the law to defend our nation’s democracy.

While we have directed our Borno state chapter to immediately seek redress in the court of law, we shall explore all processes within a democracy to ensure that Governor Shetima rebuilds the house, and that his government is made to face the spirit and letters of the law.

The PDP wants peace but not at the expense of direct violation of the nation’s democratic tenets and principles, which we successfully nourished and nurtured in our 16 years in office.

While we charge our members to be at alert and continue to work with our leaders at all levels, we invite all Nigerians and the international community to note the developments in our land and stand in defence of democracy. The world must hold the APC responsible should there be any political violence in any part of the country at this critical time.

Thank you.



Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

Okun Yoruba Reject Cattle Colonies

The Yoruba people on Kogi State under the aegis of the Okun Development Association (ODA) have rejected the proposal to establish cattle colonies for Fulani herdsmen in any part of their six local government areas.

Rising from a well attended emergency national congress in Kabba at the weekend, the Okun people said the idea of opening cattle colonies as disclosed by Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Chief Audi Ogbeh was repulsive and repugnant to equity, fairness and natural justice.
The Okun people who are in Kabba-Bunu, Ijumu, Lokoja, Yagba West, Yagba East and Mopamuro Local Government Areas of the state said any proposal to appropriate their land for the promotion of the private business interests of Fulani herdsmen would deny them their right to their ancestral land and would amount to an avoidable time bomb.

In a communique issued at the end of the congress, the ODA said the cattle colony concept was a disservice to the people's past, present and future and was as such unacceptable.
Described in whatever way, the document said the cattle colony was distasteful, dangerous and with a huge potential to snowball into a major national disaster.

The state government, last week, announced that it had embraced the new policy and volunteered to pioneer the model.
Governor Yahaya Bello also invited the Fulani who may be facing difficulties elsewhere in the country to feel free to relocate to the state with a directive to the different levels of administration in the state to accommodate them and issue certificates of indigeneship to those among them who want it.

However, the ODA in the communique signed by its National President, Chief Femi Mokikan and the National Secretary, Mr. Ayo Abereoran rejected the state government's position which it said was not in the best interest of the Okun people.
It said cattle rearing was a private business and that the nation's statutes had adequate provisions guiding the way owners should conduct their businesses.
The cattle colonies, it added, were a thinly veiled way of subsidizing the private businesses of herdsmen.

The ODA said most of the herdsmen in Okunland had at will and usually unprovoked, launched attacks on their hosts adding that the situation arose because of the general belief that they were emboldened by the tacit support they seemed to enjoy in certain official quarters.
As a result of such continued threats, it said Okun farmers had almost abandoned farming for fear of attacks by herdsmen.
Noting that the herdsmen crisis was real and could not be wished away, the association recalled that there were in the past ranches in Kabba, Mokwa (Niger State) and Akunnu in today's Ondo State, the ODA advised government to take steps to revive such facilities and encourage herdsmen to set up similar ones for their use.

Such ranches it said, would reduce tension between the herdsmen and farmers, encourage the establishment of allied industries to produce cattle feeds and promote the application of modern technology.
The ODA also enjoined the state government to, in future, take into consideration, the long term overall interests of the people above other interests in its decisions and actions.

Okun Position on Cattle Colony in Okunland

THE POSITION OF THE OKUN DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION ON FULANI HERDSMEN, CATTLE COLONY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LASTING, WIN-WIN, PEACEFUL SOLUTION

BACKGROUND

THE OKUN PEOPLE ARE A SUB-NATIONAL GROUP OF THE YORUBA NATION PREDOMINANTLY LOCATED IN KABBA/BUNU, IJUMU, MOPAMURO, OWORO,YAGBA EAST, AND YAGBA WEST IN KOGI STATE, AN AREA OF ABOUT 35% OF THE LAND AREA OF THE STATE .
OKUN PEOPLE ARE NATURALLY LOVING, PEACEFUL AND ACCOMMODATING. 
THE ODA IS THE UMBRELLA SOCIO-CULTURAL AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION THAT IS THE SOLE ORGAN OF THE OKUN PEOPLE WITH AUTHORITY TO SPEAK FOR AND ACT ON BEHALF OF THE OKUN YORUBA OF THE STATE ON MATTERS AFFECTING THE WAY WE ARE GOVERNED, OUR DEVELOPMENT AND THE SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOOD OF OUR PEOPLE
IT IS IN THE ABOVE CAPACITY THAT THE ODA MAKES THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS AS THE STAND OF OKUN PEOPLE ON THE DECLARED POSITION OF THE STATE GOVERNMENT ON FULANI HERDSMEN AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED CATTLE COLONY.
THIS STATEMENT REPRESENTS THE AGGREGATE VIEWS OF OUR PEOPLE AFTER WIDE AND COMPREHENSIVE CONSULTATION WITH ALL INTEREST GROUPS IN OKUNLAND, INCLUDING OUR REVERED TRADITIONAL RULERS, VARIOUS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATIONS, PROFESSIONALS, ELECTED AND APPOINTED POLITICIANS, STUDENTS, OKUN MEN AND WOMEN ACROSS ALL OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS, AND OKUNS IN THE DIASPORA. THE CONSULTATION CULMINATED IN A MEETING OF THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THESE GROUPS IN KABBA ON SATURDAY 20TH JANUARY, 2018.
WHAT WE KNOW ON THE STATE GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON FULANI HERDSMEN AND CATTLE COLONY
FROM THE VARIOUS ACCOUNT IN THE MAINSTREAM AND SOCIAL MEDIA, THE ODA HAS LEARNT OF THE STATE GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON FULANI HERDSMEN AND THE CATTLE COLONY
FROM MEDIA ACCOUNT, WE UNDERSTAND THE FOLLOWING:
1) THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS FLUNG THE DOORS OF THE STATE OPEN TO FULANI HERDSMEN;
2) THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS EXTENDED INVITATIONS TO ANY FULANI IN OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY HAVING DIFFICULTIES FINDING A PLACE OF ABODE OR FACING POSSIBILITY OF EJECTION FROM WHERE THEY CURRENTLY OPERATE FOR WHATEVER REASONS TO COME TO KOGI STATE.
3) THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS DIRECTED THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF ADMINISTRATION IN THE STATE, INCLUDING, STATE, LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND TRADITIONAL COUNCILS, TO ACCOMMODATE THE FULANIS IN THEIR ADMINISTRATIVE MACHINERY.
4) THAT THOUGH THIS DIRECTIVE DID NOT GO DOWN WELL WITH MANY OF THOSE TO IMPLEMENT IT. THEY ARE CONSTRAINED IN RAISING ANY OBJECTIONS AND SOME HAVE STARTED THE PROCESS OF IMPLEMENTING IT;
5) THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS DIRECTED THAT FULANI HERDSMEN SHOULD BE GIVEN CERTIFICATE OF INDIGINE; AND
6) THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS NOT ONLY ENTHUSIASTICALLY EMBRACED THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED CATTLE COLONY POLICY BUT IT HAS GONE AHEAD TO VOLUNTEER THE STATE AS THE STATE TO PIONEER THE CATTLE COLONY MODEL
ODA’S THOUGHTS ON THESE
THE ODA HAS REMAINED DEEPLY WORRIED AND TROUBLED ABOUT THESE DECLARED POSITIONS SINCE THEY WERE MADE PUBLIC.
THE ODA DOES NOT KNOW THE DEGREE OF CONSULTATION THAT TOOK PLACE BEFORE THESE POSITIONS WERE ADOPTED.
WHATEVER IT WAS, WE RESPECTFULLY URGE THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE A LOOK AT THESE POSITIONS AGAIN IN THE INTEREST OF THE PEOPLE IT IS SITTING IN GOVERNMENT OVER.
THESE POSITIONS ARE CLEARLY NOT IN THE BEST INTEREST OF OUR PEOPLE IN OKUNLAND.
WHILE WE CONCEDE THAT THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, AS AMENDED, GUARANTEES SOME CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS FOR EVERY NIGERIAN CITIZEN, INCLUDING RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT, RIGHT TO OWN PROPERTIES, RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION, ETC; THESE RIGHTS ARE NOT WITHOUT LIMITS. THEY ARE NOT ABSOLUTE. THE SAME CONSTITUTION ALSO PRESCRIBES WHEN THESE RIGHTS CAN BE CURTAILED.
OUR EXPERIENCE IN OKUNLAND WITH FULANI HERDSMEN.
THE FULANI HERDSMEN’S FORAY INTO OKUNLAND CAN BE TRACED BACK TO MANY YEARS. AT THE BEGINNING, THE FULANI HERDSMEN RECIPROCATED THE PEACEFUL, LOVING AND ACCOMODATING NATURE OF OKUN PEOPLE.
THEY WERE THEN KNOWN TO CARRY ONLY STICKS, KETTLES AND SOME PERSONAL BELONGINGS.
THEY WOULD DO ALL THAT WAS POSSIBLE TO GET THEIR CATTLE OUT OF PEOPLE’S FARMS OR THE COMMUNITY’S SOURCE OF DRINKING WATER.
WITH TIME, THEY BECAME MORE FAMILIAR WITH THE BUSHES AND AREAS OUTSIDE THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES, EVEN MORE THAN THE COMMUNITY LANDOWNERS.
WITH THIS, THEY BECAME MORE DARING, MORE AGGRESSIVE, AND STARTED TO SHOW THAT THERE WERE SEVERAL SIDES TO THEM.
TODAY, THEY HAVE COMPLETELY REVEALED WHAT THEY TRULY ARE, ENBOLDENED BY THE TACIT SUPPORT THEY SEEM TO ENJOY AS THEY UNLEASH MAYHEM ON THEIR HOST COMMUNITIES. NO ONE IS IN DOUBT ANY MORE. THEY DELIBRATELY MARCH THEIR HERDS OF COW INTO PEOPLE’S FARMS, AND YOU DARE NOT CHALLENGE THEM. OUR PEOPLE HAVE ALMOST TOTALLY ABANDONED FARMING FOR FEAR OF ATTACK BY THESE HERDSMEN AS THEY NO LONGER FEEL SAFE IN THEIR FARMS. AND YET FARMING IS THE ONLY MEANS OF LIVELIHOOD OF OUR PEOPLE.
THE THREAT THEY POSE TO THE SECURITY OF LIVES OF FARMERS AND THEIR HARVESTED AND YET TO BE HARVESTED FARM PRODUCE IS REAL AND SHOULD NOT BE UNDERSTIMATED.
MANY OF OUR PEOPLE IN EACH OF THE SIX LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS WHERE OKUN PEOPLE ARE FOUND HAVE HAD TO PAY THE ULTIMATE PRICE ON ACCOUNT OF ATTACKS BY FULANI HERDSMEN WHO INVADE THEIR FARMLANDS, DESTROYING EVERYTHING IN SIGHT, INCLUDING SUBJECTING THEM TO SLOW, HUMILIATING AND AGONISING DEATHS.
WE RECALL WITH SORROW THAT THE FOLLOWING OF SUCH DEATHS WERE RECORDED. IN YAGBA EAST 5, MOPAMURO 3, YAGBA WEST 4, IJUMU 5, AND BUNU 2

OUR FEARS AS A PEOPLE

WE NOTE WITH DEEP CONCERN THAT THE WIDESPREAD CRISIS THAT WE SEE TODAY BETWEEN THE HERDSMEN AND SOME PARTS OF THE NORTHERN STATES HAD THEIR SEEDS SOWN SEVERAL YEARS AGO, LONG BEFORE SOME OF THEIR VICTIMS WERE BORN.
WHO KNOWS, IF OUR FOREFATHERS DID IN THEIR DAYS WHAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTING TO DOING TODAY, WE MIGHT HAVE BEEN SUFFERING THE SAME FATE AS THE UNFORTUNATE PEOPLE OF BENUE, TARABA AND OTHER AFFECTED STATES.
THE PRESENT GENERATION OF OKUN PEOPLE DO NOT WANT OUR CHILDREN, OUR GRANDCHILREN AND THEIR OWN, TO LOOK BACK AT US, THE PRESENT GENERATION, WITH REGRET, ANGER AND AGONY OF VIOLENT DEATHS IN THE HANDS OF HERDSMEN.
THE FULANI HERDSMEN CRISIS IS REAL. WISHING IT AWAY WITHOUT A WELL THOUGHT OUT PLAN WILL NOT HELP MATTERS

ODA’S POSITION

THE ODA CONSIDERS THE CONCEPT OF A CATTLE COLONY, WHICHEVER WAY IT IS DEFINED, REPULSIVE AND REPUGNANT TO FAIRNESS, EQUITY AND NATURAL JUSTICE AND REMINDS US OF OUR DARK DAYS UNDER THE COLONIAL MASTERS WHICH NO ONE SHOULD BRING BACK TO MEMORY
THE ODA BELIEVES THAT CREATING A CATTLE COLONY UNDER ANY STATUTE, THAT WILL FORCEFULLY APPROPRIATE ANY PORTION OF OKUNLAND FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROMOTING THE BUSINES INTERESTS OF SOME PRIVATE INDIVIDUALS, DENY THE PEOPLE THEIR RIGHTS OVER THEIR ANCESTRAL LAND AND POPULATE THE COLONIES WITH THE FULANI HERDSMEN, IS A CLEAR DANGER THAT IS ONLY COMPARABLE TO A TIME BOMB.
THE ODA SUBMITS THAT A CATTLE COLONY ON ANY PART OF OKUNLAND IS A DISSERVICE TO OUR PAST, OUR PRESENT AND OUR FUTURE IN OKUNLAND AND AS SUCH UNACCEPTABLE TO US.
THE ODA IS OF THE VIEW THAT A CATTLE COLONY, DEFINED IN WHATEVER WAY, IS DISTATEFUL, DANGEROUS, AND WITH POTENTIAL TO SNOWBALL INTO A MAJOR NATIONAL DISASTER
THE ODA, FOR THE ABOVE REASONS AND MORE, REJECTS IN ITS TOTALITY THE STATE GOVERNMENT POSITION ON THE FULANI HERDSMEN AND THE PROPOSED FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S CATTLE COLONY. 
THE AVERAGE FULANI HERDSMAN IS ECONOMICALLY MORE EMPOWERED THAN AN AVERAGE FARMER IN OKUNLAND. HE ONLY NEEDS TO SELL A FEW OF HIS CATTLE.
IT IS ON ACCOUNT OF THIS THAT WE CALL ON THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO URGENTLY REVIEW ITS DECLARED POSITION ON THE FULANI HERDSMEN AND CATTLE COLONY IN THE STATE
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
WHILE STATING HER  POSITION AS ENUNCIATED ABOVE, THE ODA WILL LIKE TO MAKE SOME

RECCOMMENDATIONS TOWARDS AN ENDURING WIN-WIN PEACEFUL SOLUTIONS

CATTLE REARING IS A PRIVATE BUSINESS LIKE ANY OTHERS SUCH AS MANUFACTURING, TRADING OR SERVICES. THERE ARE REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES IN OUR STATUTE BOOKS GUIDING THE WAY THESE OTHER PRIVATE BUSINESSES AND THEIR OWNERS BEHAVE. WHY SHOULD THE BUSINESS OF CATTLE REARING BE DIFFERENT?
FROM OUR FINDINGS, THE OWNERS OF THESE HERDS OF COW ARE NOT THE HERDSMEN THAT WE SEE. THE OWNERS ARE THE BIG AND THE MIGHTY IN THE SOCIETY ACROSS ALL DIVIDES.
THIS IS WHERE THE SECRET BEHIND THE CRISIS LIES.
THE PRESENT APPROACH TO CATTLE REARING IS AN INDIRECT WAY OF PROVIDING AN UNDUE AND UNDESERVED SUBSIDY TO THESE PRIVATE BUSINESSMEN.
HISTORY HAS IT THAT IN THE EARLY DAYS OF THIS COUNTRY, THERE WERE CATTLE RANCHES IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE COUNTRY. THE FIRST OF THESE WAS THE OBUDU CATTLE RANCH IN THE SOUTH SOUTH. THERE WAS THE MOKWA RANCH IN THE NOTHERN REGION. AND THERE WAS THE AKUNNUN RANCH IN THE WESTERN REGION. WE GREW UP TO KNOW A CATTLE RANCH IN KABBA THAT WAS UNDER THE MANAGEMENT OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, KABBA.
THE HERDS OF COW IN THESE RANCHES WERE ROBUST AND GOOD LOOKING AS THEY DID NOT HAVE TO DO THE LIFE-SAPPING, ENERGY-DRAINING CROSS COUNTRY JOURNEY..
THE ODA STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE STATE GOVERNMENT AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TAKE NECESSARY STEPS URGENTLY TO REACTIVATE THESE RANCHES AND ENCOURAGE CATTLE OWNERS TO SET UP MORE RANCHES WHERE POSSIBLE FOR THEIR PRIVATE USE.
RANCHES WILL CREATE MORE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES AND BENEFITS FOR THE STATE AND THE COUNTRY AS IT WILL ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO GO INTO THE BUSINESS OF PROVIDING FEEDS FOR THESE ANIMALS. IT WILL REDUCE TENSION BETWEEN THE HERDSMEN AND FARMERS. IT WILL MAKE THE APPLICATION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY POSSIBLE AND EASIER. THE HERDSMEN THEMSELVES WILL BE ABLE TO TRAIN THEIR CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS FOR A BETTER FUTURE FOR THEM, AND SUCH OTHER BENEFITS

CONCLUSION

IN CONCLUSION, THE ODA WILL LIKE TO APPEAL TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO, IN FUTURE, TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION, THROUGH ADEQUATE CONSULTATIONS, THE LONG TERM OVERALL INTERESTS OF ITS CITIZENS ABOVE ANY OTHER INTERESTS, IN ALL ITS DECISIONS AND ACTIONS
AGAIN THE ODA EMPHASISES THAT THE OKUN PEOPLE ARE NATURALLY VERY LOVING PEACEFUL AND ACCOMMODATING.
THE STATE GOVERNMENT MUST HELP US TO REMAIN SO
THANK YOU

BARRISTER FEMI MOKIKAN                                      NATIONAL PRESIDENT

PASTOR BEN AYO ABEREORAN                                  NATIONAL SECRETARY                                                                                                                             

OKUN DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

Sunday, 21 January 2018

Controversy as NAOS elect Margaret Olupehin as Senate President.

Delegates casting their votes. 
There was mild drama at the National Association Of Okun Students(NAOS) National Convention as Margaret Olupehin finally emerges as the National Senate President of the Union.

The rescheduled convention was to take place at Iyara in Ijumu LGA but was moved to another venue in Kabba due to what the students described as harassment and intimidation by the security men.

Trouble started when the Electoral Committee members insisted on conducting election as against the wish of Kogi state House of Assembly Speaker, Prince Kolawole Mathew who was said to have provided logistics for the election not to hold but wanted only a mere announcement of his preferred unpopular candidates for the office of senate president.

There was an altercation as one of the students insisted on conducting proper election, the students also raise objection of the heavy presence of armed security men, a situation the students described as unacceptable to the students body.

The security agencies attempted to arrest the students who raise objection but they were resisted by the obviously angry students.

This led to sporadic gunshot by the security agencies and the students were dispatch from the venue.



Few hours later the students, led by the Electoral Committee Chairman Comrade Obasun Emmanuel regrouped at the Kabba Township stadium where election was conducted and Ajagun Opeyemi Samuel, Margaret Olupehin and Adeigba Mosope John were elected as National President, Senate President and Secretary General respectively.

Below is the statement from the Electoral Committee(Elcom)

National Association Of Okun Students(NAOS)

Electoral Committee(Elcom)
Election result.

After a well attended National Convention/Election of NAOS held on the 20th January 2018 at Kabba in Kabba/Bunu LGA. The results of the election is as follows:

1. National President

Ajagun Opeyemi Samuel

Returned unoppose as the constitutional elected National President of NAOS.


2.National Senate President

Magareth Olupehin-51Votes

Oloruntoba Juwon moses-8Votes
Number of void votes-1

3. National Secretary General.

Adeigba Mosope john-44votes

Mercy Aiyenigba-13votes

Number of void votes-3

The electoral committee therefore In accordance with the provisions of the constitution declared the following candidates  returned elected:

National President- Ajagun Opeyemi Samuel

National Senate President-
Margaret Olupehim

National Secretary General-
Adeigba Mosope John

Signed

Obasun Emmanuel
Electoral Committee Chairman

Obanibi Michael (Brass)
Elcom Treasurer

Comr Yomi Kabir
Elcom P.R.O

Alepa Vincent Cephas
Elcom member






Friday, 19 January 2018

Students raises alarm over plot to manipulate KSU SUG polls

A student of Kogi State University, Usman Adamu has accused the Kogi State Government of concluding plans to manipulate the forth-coming Students Union Election in the University.
According to Usman, “as at now,  the state government has sent directives to all the security agents in the state and to the University management on the government preferred candidates who are to fill the elective position in the coming SUG elections hence we have no faith in the outcome of that elections. 
Directives from the state government to school management on preferred candidates for the SUG elections.


Speaking earlier today to our correspondent, Usman who observed that there may be no SUG elections in the University because plans for Government to imposed their candidates on the entire students has been perfected and the students have no confidence in the integrity of the forthcoming polls. He accused top officials of the government, notably the senior special assistant on students matters, of working closely with other government stooges  to ensure that a predetermined outcome is achieved.

Thursday, 18 January 2018

Arch. Salman Idris gave Jamb scholarship to 70 candidate in Kabba-Bunu/ Ijumu


The annual Arch Salman Idris Jamb scholarship was held yesterday at St. Augustine College Kabba, Kogi State.

Arch Salman Idris, a member of institute of Architectural Council of Nigeria and a dedicated philanthropist, respected, hard working and a generous young man that never cease doing his people proud and He is serving as a bridge between the old and the young generation, as well as a positive agent of change who is working timeless towards the end to marginalization of his people by been strong advocate of power shift through Kogi Equity Initiative Forum.

The scholarship which was given to the less privilege students under the National Association of Okun Students Educational Development Program covered three axis in Kogi West which are Kabba, Bunu and Ijumu and a transport fare was given to each candidate after completed their registration at jamb center in Kabba.

The coordinator of the program, Mr. Femi Oloye said this is not the first time Arch. Salman has been given Jamb Scholarship to the less privilege because he is a man that believes that the future of our youth must be adequately secured through acquisition of qualitative Education that is why Arch Salman demonstrated the love for the youth by sponsoring the payment of 2018 Jamb registration fees for seventy (70) candidate and not only that out of his generosity he also gave each candidate a transport fare back to their respective home.

Speaking at the center a beneficiary candidate, Mr. Ekundayo Peter from Kabba/Bunu Local Government said he can’t stop thanking Arch. Salman narrated how he has been thinking on how to obtain jamb form this year but God did it in a miraculous way through Arch. Salman Idris ” I pray God will grant him his heart desire in Jesus name, Salman all the way” he said.

Also a beneficiary candidate, Miss Ologe Esther from Iyah Gbede Ijumu Local government with what Arch. Salman has been doing for the past few years and he has not stop doing it which make people within and outside his community never seized saying positive thing about him ” initially i thought it was a scam like the way others politician use to deceive us but a scam now became a reality I prayed God will make him flourish in his doing.” she prayed.

Speaking concerning the program, Arch. Salman Idris said ”We are not successful until we can put a smile on the face of people we love”

Cc:

Omoluabi Distributes 7000 Exercise Books, promises Education Development.

All is set for the students and pupils in the public secondary and primary schools in Kogi west to receive educational development support as the Kogi West leading Senatorial Aspirant, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi (OBA) distributes exercise books to support their educational pursuit. Our correspondence gathered that over seven thousand  (7000) exercise books have been printed and ready for distribution in the public schools across the senatorial district. This giant strides is part of his campaign promises fulfilment ahead of the 2019 Senatorial election.
The bold step has been described as unprecedented in the annals of electioneering promises in Kogi West as no aspirant has achieved such feat before being elected.
Apart from the exercise books, he has also promised to make provision of text books in compulsory subjects to all the public schools in Kogi West before the end of third quarter of 2018.
It will be recalled that Omoluabi commenced distribution of Youths/ Women skills acquisition and entrepreneurial empowerment development forms across the senatorial district through the traditional, political, religious and community leaders across the seven LGAs of Kogi West.  The forms are meant to admit One thousand and five hundred Youths and Women for the Skills acquisition that commences in February 2018.
The beneficiaries are to be trained in the area of Soap and Paints making, Digital photography, Make-up artistry, Cake making, Events Management and Decoration. 
The people of Kogi west have described these uncommon and great steps as a departure from the lies from politicians of the past.
In his words Omoluabi says "Our aspiration is not one of such that seeks to satisfy personal desires and pecuniary gains but a true course to serve the people who have been politically and developmentally raped, deceived and impoverished.
Every single promise will receive noticeable fulfilment even before election.
Education in Kogi West is a departure from the past and a shadow of the old glory. We are set to distribute seven thousand exercise books to schools across the seven LGAs even as we are making efforts to purchase textbooks of compulsory subjects before the third quarter of 2018. With this, the students' desire for learning will resurge and our lost glory will be restored.  All we need is your prayers for enablement and vote to get there in order to do more.
We will surely make you proud in due course"

Benue Killings: You Are Hypocrites, PDP Tells APC Govs, Ministers


Press Statement



The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors and some serving federal ministers following their silence on the failure of President Muhammadu Buhari to visit Benue state over the killings of scores of citizens in the state by bandits.

The party said it is a tragic failure of character and an act of hypocrisy that the same APC governors who, in 2013, unleashed insults on the PDP and its Federal Government for allegedly delaying in visiting the fronts of Borno at the heat of insurgency attacks, have lost their voices now that President Buhari has refused to visit Benue, Taraba or Kadnuna to condole the people.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Thursday, invited Nigerians to note that neither the APC governors nor any federal delegation had visited Benue, Taraba or Kaduna since the unabating killings and the traumatizing mass burial of victims.

It is unfortunate that the same APC leaders, who heavily criticized the PDP and wrongly accused it of staying away from troubled parts of the country, have become dumb under President Buhari in spite of his daily failures in governance and heartrending indifference to the plight of Nigerians.

Today, Nigerians are heartbroken to realize that those they thought were patriots and messiahs never had any iota of goodwill towards them.

The question are, why have the APC governors and ministers suddenly lost their voices now that President Buhari has refused to visit Benue or show any form of empathy to the plight of Nigerians? Have Benue and Taraba now become ‘no go areas’ for President Buhari? Indeed, this indifference calls for deeper reflection by Nigerians.

We challenge the APC governors to have a change of attitude towards Nigerians and at least show that they also are human, especially at this trying time,  which the inept APC government has plunged the nation into.


Stating that it will continue to be on the side of Nigerians against the unfeeling and inept APC government, the PDP urged Nigerians not to despair as the APC misrule will soon come to an end with the return of the PDP in 2019.


Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

Kogi West can not be used for cattle colonies, Dino warn Bello




Senator Dino Melaye of Kogi West senatorial district has warn Gov. Bello to perish the thought of making any part of Kogi West a cattle colony.
In a statement, the senator assured the Governor that Kogi West will resist any establishment of cattle colony.

Read statement below

It is not surprising that the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, will quickly but strangely meet with the Minister of Agriculture in order to make our dear Confluence State as a Pilot State for the proposed Cattle Colonies in the country.


The governor's latest shenanigans is not surprising in the sense that money is involved. The Federal Government will definitely make funds available to Bello to kick-start the pilot scheme in Kogi State.


Therefore, as a true representative of the people of Kogi West senatorial zone and on behalf of my constituents, we warn in strong terms that our soil, land, water and air cannot be used for cattle colonies.


Let it be clear to all the insensitive people behind the idea that Kogi West will resist the establishment of any cattle colony within our domain politically, spiritually,traditionally and with any means available within the ambit of the law.


Signed:
Senator Dino Melaye
Kogi West
National Assembly Complex
Abuja.