Kabba-Bunu 2019: Assembly Aspirant Pays WAEC, JAMB Fees For Prison Inmates

Mr Sheyi Babaeko, an House of Assembly aspirant in Kogi State has made provision to pay WAEC and JAMB fees for four inmates of Kabba Minimum Security Prison who signified interest to further their education after serving their respective jail terms.

Babaeko, who is contesting under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) told newsmen that his visit to Kabba prison was in line his vision to make the society better society especially to people who had been unfortunate in their dealings in life.

He also announced the setting up of legal aid to assist 15 prison inmates who were detained over failure to pay bail charges and compensation to persons they offended.

“It is quite worrisome that some of these inmates were still kept in the prison over inability to pay just five thousands naira fine or bail. It is worrisome.

“There are also situation of people who just have to pay a compensation of less than fifty thousand naira to regain their freedom, yet they can’t afford it.

“I have taken it upon myself to offset those bills so that these inmates can regain their freedom and returned to the society with the hope of still having a better life.

“Though President Buhari had harped on prison reform and decongestion, but its obvious the Federal Government cannot do it alone. Individuals must come to the aid of these inmates, especially in the reintegration of these people to the society,” he said.

The Kabba Minimum Security prison was built in 2008 with a capacity to cater for 200 inmates.

Bello-Melaye Political Feud Stalls Olujumu’s Coronation

The political feud between Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello and Senator representing Kogi West senatorial district, Otunba Dino Melaye has taken its toll on the traditional institution of Ijumu Kingdom as the presentation of staff of office and coronation of Olujumu of Ijumu, HRM Oba Williams Olusegun Ayeni has been put on hold indefinitely.
The presentation of staff of office to the monarch was earlier stated to hold on the 1st of December 2018 in which the state governor is expected to be in attendance for the presentation of staff of office.
A statement jointly issued by the Olujumu coronation committee by Elder A.P.S. Arogundade and Mr. Julius Atibioke stated that apart from the state Governor, the Administrator of Ijumu Local Government Area, Alhaji Taofiq Isa, the Senior Special Adviser to the state Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Engr Ohere and other personalities are expected to grace the event.
However, the coronation took a new twist when the organising committee issued a press statement postponing
 the event.
According to the statement, the committee said the postponement was hinged on non-availability of the Governor to grace the event.
The statement further revealed that the State Governor will be traveling outside the country, adding that the coronation has been postponed indefinitely.
A very reliable source revealed that the indefinite postponement is as a result of the insistence of Senator Dino Melaye to be present at the event despite entreaties by the traditional council of the area appealing to him not to attend to avoid any security challenge his presence might cause.
The source further revealed that Senator Melaye was taken aback by their appeals.
The Senator who told them that as a son of the kingdom, it would be a insult on his personality to be away from the event.
Senator Melaye reportedly retorted that as a stakeholder and as political leader in the senatorial district, he would not abdicate his responsibility.
According to the source, the traditional council’s inability to convince Senator Melaye not to come made them to postpone the event indefinitely.
The Council did not want a repeat of what happened during the celebration of 2017 Kabba Day that witnessed a confrontation between the state governor supporters and the Senator which nearly marred the event.
Equally, they feared that the event may be hijacked by supporters of Senator Melaye and Senator Smart Adeyemi to score political points. The duo are from the same local government area and senatorial candidates contesting on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) respectively.
Senator Adeyemi is from Iyara while Senator Melaye is Aiyertoro Gdede about 15 kilometres from each other.
It will be recalled the a similar event played out last year when the Olu of Ayetoro Gdede, HRH Oba Ehindero was coronated.
Senator Melaye was prevailed upon not to attend the event despite that he is an indigene of the town. After much persuasions, he stayed away but the state Governor that was billed to present staff of office was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Folashade Arike.
The postponement has generated a lot of concern by some indigenes of the area. They opined that it is high time traditional institution is freed from intrigues of politicians.

Senators Melaye, Aidoko Kicks Against Kogi Govt.’S $500m Loan Without Approval

The Senate has directed its Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to investigate allegation that the Kogi State is on the verge of borrowing the sum of $500 million (about N180 billion) from the United Arab Emirates.

This was sequel to a motion raised by Senator Dino Melaye, who also pointed out that the State is already indebted to the sum of N40 billion.

Melaye, who rose under Orders 42 and 52, added that the loan has been christened Loan of Debt Refinancing to avoid the Kogi State Government from approaching the National Assembly for approval.

Melaye alleged that the loan would be used to fund the Kogi State and Presidential elections.

He particularly expressed concern that a State, whose debt already stands at N40 billion, is borrowing N180 billion.

“What it means is that the Government is borrowing to pay borrowed money,” he added.

In his contribution, Senator Attai Aidoko said that it is unacceptable for the Kogi State people to accept an illegal borrowing.

Aidoko added that it is also unacceptable for the Senate to allow the alleged borrowing.

He pointed out that there are no capital projects going on in Kogi State in addition to unpaid salaries that are still being owed by the government of Mr. Yahaya Bello.

“This is unacceptable, this State is in so much debt. There is no law that allows a Governor to withdraw $500Million without approval from the Senate.

“The State has not been paying salaries, where is all this money going? Let us do the needful and put these loans to an end,” Senator Aidoko said.

In his remarks, the Senate President, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, assigned the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to investigate and establish, if the loan has been taken. He charged the Committee to establish the approach being used to access the loan.

“There are comments and allegations that we must first decide. We must refer it to the Committee on Local and Foreign Debt and we are supposed to set up an Ad-hoc Committee and give them a maximum of 48 hours to report back on whether this loan has been taken, the process to which these loans have been taken and that such actions should be suspended until we establish it them,” he said.

Senate resolved to refer the point of order to the Committee on Local and Foreign Debt to come back with a report within 48 hours or a maximum of 5 days.

Kogireports 

WE WILL CONTINUE TO DEMAND FOR QUALITY EDUCATION IN OKUNLAND ~~Comrade Ajagun

The National president of the National Association of Okun Students(NAOS),  Comrade Ajagun Opeyemi Samuel has insisted on demanding for good and quality education for okun students. 

Ajagun who has been advocating for a good educational program in Okunland has stated that it seems the government and Okun Leaders are turning deaf ears to our plea to improve on the bad condition of education in Okunland. 

"The welfare of our students in Okun Land is our first priority. We have reach out through different ways such as can be seen in our articles, recent consultations and productive agitations urge the government and our leader, the importance and values of quality education. But it seems all our agitations have fallen on deaf ears or rather the concerned felt we are just like toothless dogs.

However, we will not rest until the right thing is done.

We will not rest until the State Government sees quality education as a right of every child and not a privilege.

We will not rest until education is made affordable to the common man.

No, we will continue to talk until our schools are in good conditions.

"Many times, we begin to wonder are these not the schools where our present leaders passed through? 

Same schools they didn't pay a dime throughout their educational sojourn! Same schools they eat free lunch during the break!

Same schools, where they learnt using adequate apparatus which made learning process easy!

Current records has shown that Education has been under funded right from the inception of this administration.

A lot of our schools both Primary and Secondary are short of teachers. Pupils and Students had to skip some subjects because the teachers are not available.

It is even sad to note that those on the job are not paid regularly for their services"

Ajagun complain about the dilapidated condition of schools in Okunland, he emphasized on the needs for the government to provide adequate facility/teachers that can bring about quality education for the students. 

"We won't continue to serve a government that does not understand the value of education, if the State government chose not to work on these rot in our educational system.

Our Primary and Secondary schools must be well equipped with furniture and laboratory equipments for conducive learning.

Education must be made absolute free, it must henceforth be seen as a right and not a privilege"

He extol Elder Leke Abejide, an ADC Candidate for Yagba federal constituency who paid WAEC  fees of 2,000 students in the constituency, he noted that his administration will continue to encourage/commend anybody or organization who make inputs in educational system of Okun land. 

Ajagun Calls on the state government and Okun Leaders and elders to put together and revive the already crumbled educational system of the state. 

"We hereby want to call on the State Government to do the right thing or else face students unrest in every part of the State"

VOTE CANDIDATES WITH DEMONSTRATED CAPACITY - LANLEHIN OYO STATE ADC GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE.

Oyo State ADC governorship candidate, Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (SOLAN) has charged the people of Oyo State to ensure they vote in the coming elections only for candidates who have demonstrated capacity to deliver dividends of democracy, and the ability to use occupied office to better their lot.

Senator Lanlehin said this while addressing newsmen shortly after meeting some members of the ADC Caucus in the Oyo State House of Assembly. 

Senator Lanlehin who was on a courtesy visit to honourable members whom he described as colleagues, added that he came around to give and receive words of encouragement, especially being election time.

On what the chances of ADC were given the crisis the party is currently experiencing, Senator Lanlehin explained that there was really no crisis as it were, as other political parties have one crisis or the other too. 

"All parties have crisis, depending on your perception, in fact, we have the least of crisis, and I tell you it's being attended to, and it's nearly over", he said.

When asked about reconciliatory talks with fellow ADC governorship aspirants, Senator Lanlehin replied that talks were on going, and that it will soon end well. 

In his words, "all other aspirants are very experienced politicians, and these are normal occurrences after nomination, but we're talking, and I can assure that very soon, all will be over."  

Recall that the Oyo ADC Caucus in the House of Assembly comprises 13 honourable members, five members were unavoidably absent.

In attendance were the Deputy Speaker, Hon Musah Abdulwasi, Hon Gbenga Oyekola, Hon Muideen Olagunju and Hon Afeez Adeleke. 

Others included Honourable-Asiwaju Bolaji Badmos, Hon Ganiyu Oseni, Hon Fatai Adesina and Hon Lasun Oguntade.

Ogidi Development Association to hold Annual General Meeting Dec. 26th.

The apex Social Cultural Group In Ogidi-Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Ogidi Development Association(ODA) has slated 26th December 2018 to hold her Annual General Meeting(AGM).

The event will hold at St. John’s primary school Ogidi by 10:00Am. 

Hon. Fehinti Dada is expected to be the Guest Speaker while Rt.Rev Dr.olanrewaju Ojo is the Special Guest.

The guest speaker shall talk on youths Involvements in Election and the need to shun election violence.

There will also be a lot of cultural display and entertainment as the event serves to create another opportunity for members of the community who are not residing in Kogi to meet, discuss and deliberate on ways to move the community forward.

The Chairman, Organizing Commitee, Mr. Akinola Kolawole made this known to one of our reporter in Abuja yesterday. 

More Details of the event will soon be unveiled. 

Opinion: All hail Sen Melaye

After watching this video,  Sen Dino is a genius, an uncommon character, a political marketing guru of the first order!

 May I totally disagree with your rigid, conservative perspective because life is drama, and Sen Dino ventilates candour with poetic licence; he magnets attention, keeps his audience spell bound, and delivers his message with such childish, youthful, innocent, and lively ambience, that the message sticks forever, in the minds and consciousness of the receiver.

Of great import is the fact that Nigeria have a very youthful population; indeed the youths at heart between the ages of 18/50 years are more than 70 percent of the voting population, and if you add the voting strength of our women then be rest assured that Sen Dino is effectively communicating to about 90 percent of voters, with brutal frankness, and dramatic extravaganza par excellence!

During my university days in the university of port Harcourt, I was taught by Prof Nnoli, Prof Bell Gam, etc, and indeed our famous Prof Ola Rotimi (elective courses ) that the easiest way to market and communicate a brand sustainably is to use drama and infuse it with music and humour!

Sen Dino have combined both mediums with such brutal effect that he will always get his mainly over stressed Nigerian audience, presently anguished with economic hardship overtly excited and humoured!

Your conservative believe that a Senator need not combine drama, humour and music to communicate is out dated; it does not factor the demographic youthfulness of Nigerians, and the fact that there is so much stress living in Nigeria, hence Sen Dino Malayes modus operandi is appreciated and adored by about 90 percent of Nigerians, religious, tribal, class distinction, notwithstanding!

Thanks for your time!

Philip Elueme Sec-Gen, SPON.

Kogi United Youth Forum Elects/Affirms New Excos.

Kogi United Youth Forum has elected new officials to pilot the affairs of the council for the five years in the state.

The election held on Sunday 18th November 2018 in Lokoja, Kogi State Capital. 

Declaring the result of the election, the chairman of the electoral panel Hon.  Ibrahim Abubakar from Lokoja local government declares Comrade Musa Otigba the President General of the forum after unanimous affirmation by the delegates.

Three Vice President General(VPG) and other officials were also returned elected and affirmed after the election.

Comrade Akeku Ahmad Abubakar from Okene(VPG Kogi Central), Alamoh Kehinde Samuel from Ijumu(VPG Kogi West) and Prince Momoh Enema from Olamaboro(VPG Kogi East).

Speaking shortly after the election Comrade Otigba described his victory as the beginning of new era in Kogi state Youth affairs saying efforts will be made to unite all Kogites in the overall interest of the state. 

He said this victory has bestowed on him the onerous task of rebuilding the youth and to make the forum virile like other youth groups across the nation by stamping out quackery in the state.

“I appreciate all the delegates, media practitioners and members of the forum for their supports and I want to assure that we shall compliment their efforts by uniting our people to enhance peace and progress in Kogi”, he said.

Finally he said the inauguration date will be announced soon. 

The hall which was filled to the brim with delegates and youth leaders across the state and beyond came in buses and seve cars parked around the venue of the event in Lokoja.

See photos:

KOGI WEST 2019: Chikara,Gegu & Koto Youths/Women endorse Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi

It was a moment of excitement and hope rekindled when the leading candidate for Kogi West Senatori election, Omoluabi paid unscheduled visit to the communities of Chikara, Gegu and Koto in Koto Karfe LGA. Despite the fact that no prior notice was given to these excited and joyous youths, they kept trooping in in their numbers to receive the Senatorial candidate of their choice and a young man like them.

The youths and Women at varios polling units in these communities expressed their readiness to go with Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi in the coming general election. At a meeting in the Gegu township, a youth leader popularly known as Seriki Samari spoke on behalf of the youth of the area, he describe Omoluabi as youthful and of their own generation who will change the face of representation. Seriki Samari further expressed disappointment and greatest displeasure in the represrntatives they have been voting in the last 12 years. He said the people have nothing to show for their efforts of the past, he therefore said that a vote for Omoluabi will be a vote for the emancipation of the youth, he promised to mobilize his contemporaries to support, campain and vote Omoluabi for Senate.

At another location in the Gegu township, women in their numbers under the"Let them Say Women Association" spoke glowingly of the confidence, eloquence and readiness of Omoluabi to rescue them and their children from the shackles of bad representations they have experienced over the years, they promised to give their total support to Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi.

While arriving Koto township, Omoluabi was received by the ADC Party executives of Koto Karfi LGA, after which they went into crucial meeting that lasted for more than an hour. During the meeting, Omoluabi thanked the party officials for their support during the last primary election as he promised not to disappoint them for their support. He described the perenial flooding that destroys farm, properties and valuables in Koto land as unacceptable, he said it is an evidence of bad representation and promised to use legislative lobby to find lasting solution to the challenge.

NAOS National Leadership Crisis, The Need For True Reconciliation.

This is to notify the general public especially the leaders,stakeholders and students of Okun land at large that after due and wide consultation it has become pertinent and urgently necessary that the leadership crisis rocking the once peaceful National Association Of Okun Students be amicably resolved and immediately proffer the way forward.

In this regard a reconciliation committee is being set up to look into the crisis, find a common ground and harmonize all parties involved.
The issue of factional government that has been in existence for almost a year in NAOS should be resolved and the reconciliation committee are expected to discharge their duties between this day *22nd Nov 2018* to 2nd *December 2018*.
Below are the names of the reconciliation committee members.


1. Comrade Ampitan Segun Babs- Chairman

2. Comrade Alonge Isreal Femi - Secretary

3. Comrade Rowland Tosin- Member

4. Comrade Alepa Cephas- Member

5. Comrade Akinola Oluropo- Member

6. Comrade Obanibi Michael Brass- Member

Let it be noted that all the stated committee members are to discharge their duties without the interference of any political office holder, philanthropist and any other individual who he or she is not a member of the committee.
Thanks and God bless.

Note that Comrade Kunle Ola, a member of the commitee has been replaced by Rowland Tosin due to notice of his refusal to be part be part of the commitee, which he posted on a social media platform.

 Comrade Adeyemi Emmanuel Gbenga.
Announcing on behalf of all stakeholders and in the interest of NAOS.

2019 General Election ; Comr.Ajagun advises Okun Students And Electorates To Vote Wisely.

The National President of Okun Students Union, Comrade Ajagun Samuel Opeyemi popularly know as Okun Boy has advised Okun students and the electorates to cast their votes for a leader who will lift the glory of Okunland up.

Ajagun gave this advise while interacting with news men at Kabba the headquarters of Okunland yesterday.

According to Ajagun, Okunland has witnessed underdevelopment over some years ago, this he described is as a result of bad leadership and incompetent representation by Okun leaders.

Ajagun Said, "Our leaders have not tried to develop our land. Okun land never enjoyed the dividends of Democracy despite all the promises to turn our fortunes around. Rather, situations and our positions get worsen each day"

"The general elections is fast approaching. We are again being greeted by the melodious political jingles, another year has come, suddenly they need our votes again, new and fresh promises have started rolling in and out.
Some suddenly remember they can distribute Rice for Christmas, some of them now results to petty empowerment" he said.

"If we must be frank with ourselves , the people of Okun land has not benefitted from our representatives at the National Assembly and State Assembly.
The students at the Tertiary institutions can't even boast of a year bursary or scholarship, constituency projects are abandoned, infrastructures are in comatose"

"How long shall we continue to repeat this same set of people? How long shall we continue to live in lack when we live in the midst of plenty?

In an infuriated mode, Ajagun bemoaned the negligence of some roads which have claimed the lives of the people in Okun land,  he said " the condition of our roads in Okun land is very irritating and it has turned to death trap for our people. Our leaders should put heads together and declare a state of emergency on those roads that have claimed the life of our beloved ones especially the Aiyetoro-Mopa-Isanlu-Egbe roads that the federal government always budgeted/approve every year without execution.

Ajagun enjoined the students and the electorates to change any representative who hasn't done well by giving back to the society through their Votes.

He advised the youth not be a tool of destruction, political thugs in the hands of politicians because according to him, youths form seventy percent of the voting strength of any population, yet they're are still being short changed, they often allow themselves to be instruments in the hands of desperate politicians. They should wise up and take their destiny by themselves.

The time is now to say no to this desperate and hungry for power politicians. We shouldn't allow ourselves to be used as thugs.
Also, let's be mindful of our conscience. Money should not be used to buy our conscience

He extols Okun students for their resolved to be peaceful and be violence free in the forthcoming 2019 general election, he further reiterated his commitment to put the interest of Okun students above any interest.

Senator Taiwo Weds His Long time Heartthrob Omolade Nov. 30th

A former Okun Students National Senate President, Kogi Students Leader and a graduate of Archaeology, Ahmadu Bello University(ABU), Senator Taiwo Olorunhudo will on 30th Nov and Dec 1st wed his long time heartthrob OLIYE OMOLADE SANDRA.

While posting their pre-wedding pictures Senator Taiwo said ‘’That evening on December 12th 2007 was the day our eyes met. After few weeks, we connected our hands and united our hearts. I have loved you long before the beginning of times and I will always love you even when the memories of us will be erased from the face of earth. How can I describe what I feel for you with words? In all languages of the world, I will whisper to you that I love you now and forever.

OLIYE OMOLADE SANDRA, a graduate of sociology, Kogi State University(KSU) will say yes I do to SENATOR OLORUNHUDO SAMUEL TAIWO 30th Nov and 1st Dec, 2018 at ECWA Primary School Surulere and God’s grace event hall Kabba respectively.
Keep a date with the couples. 

See more pre-wedding photos.

2019 Elections: Only competent hands must be elected – Akinwale

A former PDP House of Assembly aspirant, Mr Akinwale Samuel Aledare, has said that only competent hands would be elected in the 2019 General Elections.

Speaking with Newsmen in Abuja on Monday, Aledare said that Nigerians had become aware of the importance of voting incompetent people to occupy position.

The former aspirants stressed that having monitored the primary elections and its processes, the PDP conducted better primary election and fielded the most competent candidates.

To this end, the young politician said that he would be backing all the candidates of the PDP to ensure that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was defeated.

He urged Nigerians to be very careful in choosing their leaders and to ensure that that they were not swayed by sentiments and unfounded allegations but they should rather focus on issues and solutions.

"As a loyal party man, I stand by the choice of the party. I will support His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar for president, Senator Dino Melaye for senate Kogi West, Hon Teejay Yusuf for House of Representatives kabba-bunu/ijumu Federal Constituency and Hon Alfred Bello for Kogi House of Assembly Kabba/bunu,”he said.

He said that the youths of Kabba/Bunu had made the party proud stressing that they would continue to be loyal to the party and ensure that the PDP votes are protected.

 “We in Kabba/Bunu local government of Kogi state have made PDP proud in previous elections and we shall continue to perform even beyond the expectations of the party.

“We have a great decision before us in few months’ time and we must put in our best at ensuring we get it right,” he said.

He also called on the leadership of the party as well as its members and supporters to stay united and work for the victory of all the party’s candidates in the 2019 election.

With specific reference to the Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency, Akinwale assured that the elctions would be duly monitored and right decisions taken.

He reminded the people of the untold hardship they have suffered in the last couple of years due to poor electoral choices and urged them not to repeat such mistakes in 2019.

Promise Delivered As Elder Leke Pays WAEC Fees Of Almost 2000 Secondary School Students In Yagba Land.

 

There was Jubilation in Yagba land over the weekend as Elder Leke Abejide Stormed the three Local Governments in Yagba land to present bank draft for payment of almost two thousand(2000) Students WAEC Fees to all Secondary School in Yagba Land

The WAEC candidates increased from the earlier 1,397 to almost 2000 candidates due to adjustments and inclusion of those not captured initially.

The turn out at the events was massive and unprecedented in the history of Yagbaland as parents and guardians were filled with joy over payments of their Children and Wards WAEC Fees.

Speaking at the event, the Director General, Elder Leke Abejide Foundation, Honorable Shola Adebola Gaddafi reinstated the foundation commitment to seeing to the overall welfare of Yagba people. He said ‘’What is happening here today is indeed a display of a promise made and promise delivered by Elder Leke Abejide’’

He emphasized that Elder Leke Abejide never had access to government funds neither work under any government at any level but still doing all the good work we are seeing here today from his hard earned money.

Despite coming from a poor background, Elder Leke Abejide was able to work hard to success. His parents gave him two cardinals objective in life which impacted on him. Hard work  and Fear of Almighty God.

The DG Highlighted objectives of Leke Abejide foundation as being non political, Non tribal, Non religion and neither non profits making organization.

In 2004 Leke Abejide came back to Alu community and Igbo -Ero were he came from, he then saw the reason why he should pay the school fees of every students in the school from JSS1 down to SSS3. Since then all the students that are in the schools were enjoying free education since 2004, so this initiative started even before he joined politics, this is to clear some insinuation that leke is doing this purposely because of politics, he said.

Meanwhile, Elder Leke Abejide who came with his lovely wife thanked and prayed for everyone that grace the event mostly the royal fathers. 

He appeal to the principal of schools to ensure they get the tellers in exchange of the bank drafts whenever they visited the bank. He said all the administrative charges will be paid directly to the school account.

Elder Leke said this will sure put end to sending students away from school because of administrative charges.

‘’In 2014, We gave empowerment the women with N20,000, Ten(10) persons per wards across yagba federal constituency

We are appealing to parents to be more sincere because, the free WAEC project is going to be continuous project.
Another phase will be out. I also appeal to the beneficiaries to read very hard so that success we be for all of us at the end.

The project of operation free WAEC fees is for five years. We have the data of names of all the students right from JSS1 down to SSS3. I want the public school to be more significant and attractive to people like it was in the distance years.

Finally, he said this is not a campaign arena and this is not for politics purpose 

Elder Leke Abejide acknowledged the Former PDP state chairman, Hon. Alhaji Hassan T.  Salawudeen. Hon. Ayo Benjamin, Former Chairman Kogi State Civil Service Commission, Hon and Mrs A. A. Olusegun Former Education Secretary and host of others. He prayed for long life, more blessings and protection for all. 

Elder LEKE ABEJIDE, The flag bearer of African Democratic

 Congress (ADC) for YAGBA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY was also decorated by members of Nigeria Automobile Technician Association (NATA) as their PATRON.

More photos.

Abuja Hosts 2-day Vigilante Security Summit from Monday

By Gideon Ayodele

A two-day Vigilante National Security Summit will hold in Abuja from Monday, November 19, 2018 to Tuesday, aimed at building capacities for vigilante officials and creating public awareness on their work in Nigeria.


According to the organisers of the event, Osjones International Services Ltd, a management consultancy services provider, in collaboration with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), the summit will be declared open at 11am at M & M Events Centre in Abuja.


A statement signed by the CEO of Osjones International Services and programme coordinator, Oluyemi Samuel Olaiya, at the weekend, said the two-day summit is themed "Vigilante as integral part of Nigeria's security architecture: a core value for community policing".


Olaiya said there will be award presentations to friends and supporters of vigilante works in Nigeria even as he added that resource persons are expected from Police, Civil Defence and other security experts.


Minister of Interior, Abdulrahaman Danbazau, FCT minister, Mohammed Bello and the Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Idris are expected as special guests.

On the importance of the event, which is the second in the series, Olaiya said: "Vigilante is a community based security policing organisation saddled with the responsibility to scoop intelligence information for onward dissemination to other security agencies."

"The summit is to create public awaress on what vigilantes stand for. And further rekindle their knowledge on security activities and how to manage and disseminate intelligence information without distorting same.


"Essentially the event is for capacity building and to showcase the numerical strength of the vigilantes in Nigeria in order to correct the errorneous belief that it is for illiterates or dropouts," he added.

Don't miss the Interactive Forum/Annual General Assembly, ODA charges Okun Sons and Daughters

By Gideon Ayodele

The National Executive of Okun Development Association, led by Barrister Femi Mokikan has sent a special call to all Okun Sons and daughters to ensure that they are part of the forthcoming Interactive Forum/Annual General Assembly slated to hold between 2nd and 23rd November, 2018, it promises to witness Community Engagement being re written in Okun land.

The president however stated reasons why the event must not be missed. According to him, the  forum will avail Okun Sons and daughter an opportunity for interaction with those of our brethren that have put themselves forward to represent us in the various elective offices at national and state levels.

He also stated that Conversations on what to do to become an employer of labor as against searching for that elusive office job. Or if anyone just started his/her own business, want to know how to grow such business, the various papers and lectures will expose them to the opportunities that abound. MaKing examples of Dangote who started as a one man business, employing a handful of individuals and Seven- Up. Today both companies, he said are multi plants operations with employees in their thousands.

Another reason why the meeting must not be missed is that members must hold the Executive  elected into office a little over a year ago accountabile. How did they manage the funds and other resources you entrusted in their care during this period? These he said should be of interest and concern for all members.

Mokikan said that the Executive also need all members at the Forum/AGA so that they can guide them more in our collective journey into the future

Hon James Faleke Third Term Bid Is A Done Deal.

Hon James Faleke Third Term Bid Is A Done Deal.

One of the interesting political characters in the political space of Lagos State is Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, representing the Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Faleke, who hails from the Ijumu Local government area of Kogi State, is seeking to return to the House, where he has been a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus, on which platform he sought election.

The lawmaker, it would be recalled, was the running mate of the late Abubakar Audu, the APC governorship candidate during the 2015 election in Kogi State. They were coasting home to victory when his principal suddenly died as the announcement of the election results was still in progress.



However, Hon. Yahaya Bello, one of those who contested the primary with Audu, emerged as the party’s candidate and subsequently became the Kogi State governor. Faleke returned to his Ikeja Federal Constituency seat at the House of Representatives to continue his role as a lawmaker.

As the nation prepares for the 2019 general elections, Faleke is seeking a return to the House to continue to once more represent the people of Ikeja. The APC in his constituency has already given him the ticket during its primaries.

In giving him the ticket, the party considered that Faleke has provided a lot of employment opportunities to his constituents, sponsored several youths in various skills acquisition and many students are on scholarship due to his philanthropy.

Also to be considered is that many people within the constituency have come to the realisation that Faleke, as the protector of the masses in Ikeja Federal Constituency, his interest is geared towards making the constituency the pride of the nation’s foremost industrious hub.

As a lawmaker, Faleke has garnered the needed experience. Among those who contested the primaries with him and those seeking election from the other parties, Faleke is more experienced than his opponents. This is because, he has been a distinguished member of the National Assembly, well exposed and is versatile in parliamentary works and legislative practice. This has placed him in an advantageous position for re-election.



Faleke, who also has had a long experience in the private sector before becoming a legislator, has performed creditably well in the legislature. This could be seen in the numerous bills and motions he introduced in the House. He has also continued to perform his oversight functions through the House Committees he finds himself.

Since he has been representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, the area has witnessed several developmental projects. Some of them include a yearly empowerment programme, which featured distribution of empowerment items like tricycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, vehicles, among his constituents.

Faleke also has been carrying out medical outreaches for his constituents, which included medical check-ups and treatments and eye checks, during which the people are given eye glasses.

The lawmaker has been facilitating the employment of several youths by federal and state agencies and establishments. Faleke has also sponsored several vocational and skill acquisition programmes with cash empowerment for the beneficiaries as take-off funds.

As one who is touched by the condition of the poor, several indigent students have benefited from Faleke’s scholarship programme, while some are still enjoying theirs in various institutions. He has also been paying school fees for myriads of students, even as he assists them to meet their various needs.

One of the areas Ikeja Federal Constituency has witnessed Faleke’s Midas touch is in constituency projects. The area has indeed has seen several of them since he mounted the saddle as their representative in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly. They include provision of boreholes in Alausa Police Station, Adesina Street, Ikeja; Mosafejo, in Onigbongbo, Adekunle Village, Adeniyi Jones and Yakoyo market.

Others include provision of transformers in Oluyemi Erinoso and Ogunsola streets in Aguda; Araromi street, Akiode, Ajao road, Obanta street, Oke Ira and Jogunosinmi street, Alausa.

Hon. Faleke also sponsored provision of solar powered street lights in Alhaji Jimoh street, Adekunle Village, Ikeja; Isola Bello street, Akiode, also in Ikeja; Yetunde Morgan street, Ojodu, Olaleke Taiwo street, also in Ojodu; Olorunfunmi street, Olusosun, and Adeyemi street, Wasimi.

Faleke also facilitated the construction of three blocks of classrooms at Ogba Primary School, three blocks of classrooms at Central Primary School, GRA, three blocks of classrooms at Onilekere Junior Secondary School. This is in addition to the construction of pedestrian bridges in Berger and Onilekere as well as the reconstruction of Lagos/Ibadan expressway.



As a very active legislator, Faleke sponsored and moved several bills and motions during plenary. Some notable ones include the ‘National Youth Service Corps Act Bill (Amendment)’, which sought to provide life Insurance coverage for NYSC members and ‘Prohibition of Sale and Unauthorised Use of Uniforms of Law Enforcement Agencies Bill’.

Others are ‘Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill’, ‘Chartered Institute of Auctioneers of Nigeria Bill’, ‘Western Development Commission Bill and Eastern Development Commission Bill’, ‘Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal (Amendment) Bill’, on the decentralisation of the CCB courts.

Also, under his name are the ‘University of Lagos Act (Amendment) Bill’ on reconstitution of the Governing Board of the institution, ‘Centre for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine Bill’, ‘Estate Agent Bill’ and the ‘National Broadcasting Commission Act (Amendment) Bill’.

Faleke also sponsored several motions at the House. These include ‘Motion on Need to Provide Legal Backing for the Nine Federal Universities’, that had been operating without legal backing. In sponsoring the motion, Faleke emphasised that doing so would make degree acquired in such institutions authentic.

He also moved a motion calling on all National Security Agencies to address the lingering border insecurity in the 1,400 illegal border routes; motion on the need to investigate the handling of import duty revenue, waivers and bonds on import duties collected by the Nigeria Custom Service from 2010 to date.

Faleke also sponsored ‘Motion On the Need To Bail Out Ailing Industries’ to enable them absorb the teeming unemployed graduates, motion on the ‘Need to Review the Cost of the United Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Application Form’, ‘Motion on Need to Address the Ecological Catastrophe and Humanitarian Crises in the Lake Chad Basin’ and the ‘Motion on Need to Construct More Pedestrian Bridges on Major Highways in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)’, among others.

Faleke’s constituents believe that his performances stand him out as a dependable representative and an ally. Having executed so many projects and sponsored such number of bills and motions which impact positively on the people, it will be an understatement to say that his scorecard and records are outstanding.

Come the 2019 elections, available records show that Faleke may not find it difficult to be re-elected as a member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. The people of Ikeja will be rooting for continuity if they return Faleke. He is indeed the man to beat.



Credit: Daily Independent.