I Am Still A Frontline Governorship Aspirant in APC – Usman Jibrin declares

Kogi State frontline Governorship Aspirant, Vice Admiral Jibrin Oyibe Usman Rtd has denied claim made by the Kogi State Chief of Staff, Edward Onoja that he has dumbed All Progressives Congress, APC for the African Democratic Congress, ADC to actualize his governorship aspiration.

Edward Onoja had accused several times that the formal Naval Chief is no longer contesting the November Governorship election under APC because of the rumored imaginary emergence of Governor Yahaya Bello as the sole endorsed and preferred flag bearer of the APC for the Governorship election in Kogi state.

But Jibrin in a statement issued by his media team, described the claim by the Chief of Staff as unfounded and baseless.

The attention of Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman media office has been drawn to a report by Kogi State Chief of Staff claiming that the leading Govenorship aspirant has dumped the All Progressives Congress, APC for African Democratic Congress, ADC.

“Just as I have said severally, let me re-emphasized that, I remain a full fledge member on the platform of APC in Kogi State and I am running for the office of Governor. The recent report that I, Jibrin Oyibe Usman have dumped the APC for the ADC is another of such endless and wicked campaign against me. I remain a member of the APC. I remain committed to the party and to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Secondly, our attention has equally been drawn to speculations making the rounds that the Kogi East Elders ably led by Sen. Ahmadu Ali has zoned the governorship to Idah Local Government.

This is false, baseless and mischievous because there is no where the highly revered Kogi East Elders made such statement, the Governorship election is open to all bonafide Igala sons and daughters including those from the Central and Western Districts of the State who have the interest to run and not zoned to any particular local government.

“We know that such calculated misinformation in the public domain is coming from the usual quarters to confuse Usman Jibrin supporters who have remained firm, resolute and insisted on justice, equity, and fair play in Kogi APC.

Usman Jibrin remain the frontline choice of Kogi APC and battle ready to deliver victory to the party come November 2019 elections hence so much efforts, resources and energy have been expended on a futile mission to obliterate that reality.

I am in APC till I deliver victory to the party and take Yahaya Bello out of Lugard house for non performance. APC can not lose Kogi State to any opposition party but we can afford to loose Yahaya Bello because of his abysmal performance in the state.

This sponsored campaign of hate and calumny is part of that effort and like every pack of lies, it will collapse in the fullness of time” he said.

Kogi 2019: Gov. Bello Needs Help – Bayo Adobanyin Averehi, PDP Guber Aspirant

A Peoples Democratic Party Aspirant says Gov. Yahaya Bello needs help moving forward, described his best as not good enough for another term.

Speaking to newsmen at the PDP state Secretariat where he formally declared his intention to seek the position of governor in the forthcoming governorship election, Bayo Adobanyin Averehi, says enough of trial and error, says he has what it takes to move the state forward.

He said that the incumbent has given all his best,with nothing left in him to offer the people.

“The Governor has tried his best, that is all he has to offer. You cannot give what you don’t have, he definitely needs help and I am ready to provide that help by wrestling power from him to better the life of my people” he said.

According to Bayo Averehi, his entrance into the governorship race is to redefine democratic government in the state by correcting the prevailing wrong perception about democracy, says enough of authoritarian and dictatorship, says enough of tyranny, inimical to democracy.

While noting that democracy is about the people, urged Kogi people to use their thumb to entrench good governance, accountability, which he represent.
He noted that if given the PDP ticket, the people would not just exit, but would live life where they can afford the basic necessities of life, security of life and properties and would create jobs for the teeming youths.



The guber hopeful promised to establish structures that would promote sustainable unity and good governance, promised to also enhance continuous progress and development even beyond his tenure of service.
He promised to make his words his bond, promised that in four years when elected, he would the state around, says he is not in the race because of godfatherism, nor family political history.

He hinged his believe to secure the PDP ticket on God, said he needs the people to join hands with him to turn around the negative fortune of Kogi state.

Bayo Averehi lamented that for a state that is abundantly blessed with human and capital resource, promised to maximize the rich arable land for prosperity.

He described his vision and aspiration as his propelling force, urged delegates of the PDP to see in him the vital leadership qualities that is needed to make the state an envy, solicited the PDP and the peoples overwhelming support to actualize quality governance in the state

Just In: I won’t contest Kogi Governorship-Faleke

Member of the House of Representatives, Hon James Abiodun Faleke, has finally declared he won’t be contesting for the Kogi governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forth coming governorship election.

He spoke at the Kogi West stakeholder’s meeting on Friday in Abuja that he has decided to back out and face representation in Ikeja but asked the people to choose a candidate Who can do better than him.

There are alots of Faleke in Kogi West, he said.

Speaking Faleke told his people that he would support any candidate selected by them, but would not support anyone who helped in truncating the aspiration of the Okun nation to become Kogi Governor 

He said he had received several calls from his people asking him to contest the party ticket, pointing out that it is better to tell the people my stands now. 

Due to the suffering of his people, I bowed to pressure two years ago to reach out to Governor Yahaya Bello on the need to address the suffering of the people of the state but the governor paid deaf ears, showing no interest in reconciliation.

The people of Kogi West voted for Senator Dino Melaye during the last election as a way of protesting against  Governor Yahaya Bello, he said. 

Details shortly

Appeal Court Verdict: Henry Ambimbola Has No Interest In The Progress of Yagba-Hon. Leke Abejide

After the Appeal Court final verdict on Yagba House of Representatives Election In favour of Elder Leke Abejide, the member representing Yagba federal constituency has expressed his disappointments over the unnecessary legal steps taken by his major opponent, Henry Ambimbola, challenging in tribunal an election he credibly and overwhelmingly won thereby putting to waste resources which he would have used for Widow’s welfare outreach in the constituency.

The Honorable member described his election as one of the most credible, fair and violence free election that ever took place in the history of Yagba.

Hon. Leke who contested under a new political party(ADC) won Mr Henry Abimbola of APC with a wide margin of about 6000 votes which was convincingly enough.

Whilst expressing his displeasure about the steps Mr. Abimbola embarked on after the election, Hon. Leke said his opponent made him waste resources which would have been more useful for the Widows Welfare and other impactful projects.

Mr. Abimbola who refused to concede defeat, approach the election tribunal up to appeal court which finally dismissed his case for lacking merit.

Hon. Leke expresses  disappointments over the lies being told by his opponent that he had rigged him out in his ward and other areas of his stronghold.

Hon. Leke vowed to enforce the court judgement compelling Henry Ambimbola to pay for all the financial damages incurred.

“Mr. Abimbola is indebted to me and my party, therefore we will surely enforce the Judgement and compel him to pay.

I want THE GOOD PEOPLE OF YAGBA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY to know Abimbola is not interested about their welfare or progress from his actions. If he does, how to contribute his quota for the development of the area should have been paramount to him rather than chasing shadow of something he knows is not right”

Hon. Elder Leke in his statement gives his unalloyed appreciation to every one that supported him and his party throughout the period of the court case and promised to continuing doing his best to bring the needed development to Yagba land through a purposeful representation.

Yagba Election: Appeal Court Dismisses APC Case Against ADC Candidate.*

Abraham Ibukun Eunice, Abuja.

Immediately after the general elections, Mr Henry T Abimbola has petitioned the victory of Hon. Elder Leke Abejide who was elected as the member to represent the people of Yagba Federal Constituency,  at the tribunal,  Mr Abimbola who was a co-contender during the  election of  the House of Representative Yagba Federal Constituency seat under the All Progressive Congress (APC) thereby approached a tribunal court seating in Abuja to petition and challenge the victory of Hon. Elder Leke Abejide the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the winner of the Yagba House of Representative election.

Mr Abimbola who is challenging the outcome of the Feb. 23 national assembly polls, had alleged gross irregularities in the conduct of the election.

After the court hearing at the tribunal the case was dismissed because his case  lacks substantial evidence and has no merit grounds in his favor.

Afterwards,  Henry.T. Abimbola  filed for an appeal, the final verdict of the appeal was decided today, where his case suffered yet another down troll in court, as the judge dismissed his case against the African Democratic Congress ADC candidate for lack of merit.

The victory came in favour of Hon. Elder Leke who has been declared as the legitimate winner of during the polls. He said the declaration of INEC stands, as Hon. Leke is the winner during the Elections and should remain, as proclaimed by the presiding judge.
As at today, Hon. Elder Leke Abejide stands tall as the member representing Yagba Constituency at the green chambers.

KOGI WEST Vs AEDC : Court declined defendant's PO, Orders AEDC, NERC, MINISTER OF POWER to enter DEFENSE...

I will not entertain delay tactics, says the trial judge...

Monday 24th June, 2019 was greeted with a lot of hope for electricity users in the ongoing suit instituted in public interest against the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Minister of Power by the former Kogi West Senatorial Candidate of ADC in the just concluded 2019 General election, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi (OBA) at the Federal High Court, Lokoja.


Omoluabi had approached the court against the backdrop of illegal sales of prepaid meters, wrongful estimated billing and several other infractions as contained in the process. The litigant is seeking an order of the court for all electricity users to be given the Prepaid meter free of charge as contained in the extant laws, a compensation of seven billion naira in total sum as the illegal money collected from poor and unsuspecting electricity consumers since the regime of AEDC commenced.


While hearing a preliminary objection filed by the defendants asking the court to strike out the case, the trial judge describes the preliminary objections as stale and attempt to delay the prosecution of the case. He further said that the rule of the Supreme Court forbids the attempt, arguing further, the defendant lawyer said that such PO is recognized pursuant to acceptable legal practice, the trial judge however ruled that the objections be made to be part of the statement of defense to the substantive suit.


Trial judge frowned at any attempt to delay the
matter and warned counsels on deliberate delay tactics, that he is fully ready to adjudicate over the matter.


However the counsel to the Minister of Power was absent, the applicant, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi and his legal team were present in the court. The matter has been adjourned for defense.


While addressing the press, the applicant in the matter, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi says that there is no sacrifice that is too much to fight for the people, he vowed to pursue the case to its logical end, in the interest of the people. He expressed confidence in the ability and courage of the judge to deliver justice in public interest and assure that his legal team is doing all things possible to come out victorious

RCCG His Unity Sanctuary Area Headquarters marks 9th anniversary, celebrate world widows day

By Gideon Ayodele

The Redeem Christian Church of God, His Unity Sanctuary Area Headquarters, kubwa off pipeline Abuja today marks her 9th year of existence in a 3 days activies parked events tittled "Jesus in Pipeline Carnival".

According to Pastor Yemi Ayodele,  pastor in charge of the Area, over the years, God has always given the church reasons to celebrate as the church grows both spiritually, physically, structurally to the His glory.

The theme of the anniversary "Unusual visitation" was extensively treated by all the speakers at the event.

Pastor Sam Osamolu who ministered at the grand finale of the anniversary today emphasised on  various biblical stories where God visited His people in unusual ways.

According to him, unusual visitation terminates generational limitation. He said that God has the power to roll back time as well as fast forward time when His appointed time to visit his people is due.

He encouraged the worshipers to have confidence in God and His words with the expectation of miracles and testimonies that will positively affect people around them.

Pastor Yemi Ayodele while addressing newsmen after the service encouraged both the government, the  society and the church especially to be more concerned about the welfare of the widows.

He said that the giving adequate attention to widows in the society will help them live better being a component of the society.

He stated that taking care of the widows is a social responsibility of the Redeem Christian Church of God. He charged both the government and the church in particular to support the widows in such a challenging phase of life, lest they lose their mind and even their faith.

Bello, APC Factions’ closed-door reconciliation meeting ends in stalemate

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello and the two faction of All Progressives Congress(APC) in the state met behind closed doors on Saturday in Abuja.

The meeting which was held at the Kogi House in Abuja, had Haddy Ametuo faction, Abdullahi Bello Faction, APC lawmakers and other stakeholders in attendance and lasted for hours.

The meeting which was held at the instance of the Governor was aimed at settling the ongoing factional crisis ahead of the APC governorship primaries in the state.

Reliable source revealed that the Haddy Ametuo-led faction who had gone to court seeking reinstatement as the authentic APC state exco agreed to meet with the Governor in the overall interest of the party believing that they will be able to find solution to the problem.

The Governor who addressed both factions pleaded that the Haddy Ametuo faction withdraw the case at the court before 12pm on Monday in the interest of the party and in turn agreed to meet with yet to be known demands of the group.

Responding to the Governor plea, the Haddy Ametuo group said he and other excos had accepted the Governor invitation to the meeting in the interest of the party ahead of the coming elections but regarding withdrawal of the case at the court, the group said the governor will have to allow them make wide consultation with over 200,000 members of the group before any decision could be made.  Meanwhile the group embraced each other and took photograph together as one indivisible party in the state.

Kogi Guber 2019: APC Faction Adoption of indirect primaries, an exercise in futility.

The All Progressives Congress leadership crisis in Kogi State appears not to have come to an end as Abdullahi Bello faction of the party in support of Governor Bello recently adopted indirect primaries as a form of selecting candidate ahead of the November 2019 gubernatorial election.

Recall the Haddy Ametuo-led faction of the party had gone to court seeking reinstatement as the authentic APC state exco. 

The questions now begging for answers is, which of the state executives has the legal backing to adopt or make request for the mode of primaries for the coming Guber election in the state.

Is it the Legitimate Hardy Ametuo or the illegitimate self imposed Abdullahi Bello factional leadership of the party, obviously  the Hardy Ametuo remain the undisputed authentic State Excos of the party, thus the recent adoption of indirect mode of primaries in the state by usurpers remain an exercise in futility and waste of Kogi scarce resources.

While its now certain that a self imposed faction of Abdullahi Bello can not decide for the National Working Committee(NWC) of the party or for the gubernatorial aspirants whom are major players in the primaries and other stakeholders in the state, what is clear is that the Ametuo led faction presently holds the ace in the coming party primary election.

Without careful handling of the matter, the Zamfara Scenario may definitely playout in Kogi State hence the party must ensure all card carrying members of the party decides who fly the party ticket for the coming Guber election. 

However, it’s imperative to educate the ignorants that only the NWC of the party can give the directives on mode of primaries to be adopted, the state chapter of  party can only make a request to the NWC of the party in Abuja and such request is subjected to approval by the NWC. 

Recalled that some state chapters of the party, including Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Imo and Bauchi, had adopted indirect primaries for their Guber primaries but the NWC committee opted for direct primaries to save the party from implosion, such implosion will ofcourse be averted in Kogi State.

Note that, In a situation of factional leadership crisis among party leaders, stakeholders and aspirants, as its currently bedeviling Kogi APC, the NWC of the party reserves the right to adopt a mode of primaries that will entrench peace, unity and cohesion within the party and not the kangaroo and divisive factional adoption led by Abdullahi Bello. 

9th National Assembly: Hon(ELD) Leke Abejide Promises Better Deal for Yagba Constituents.

By Abraham Ibukun Eunice
Abuja.

It was a very warm reception, as  families, friends, party members and other respected  delegations who came to show their unflinching support to  Hon. Elder Leke Abejide the member representing Yagba federal constituency.

Hon. Leke who joined the people moments after the election of the principal officials at the National Assembly, as they all celebrate with all utmost gladness.

In his address, he appreciated everyone for their steadfastness and commitment from day one. He said the mandate was achieved through the grace of God and their cooperation ( working together as a team) which is a case of divine providence.

He emphasized that the purpose of governance in a simple term is to make the people happy; Maximize their pleasure and minimize their  pain to bring the best representation and tackle underdevelopment within Yagba federal constituency.

He gave the assurance of an outstanding representation by lobbying other members to key into a revolutionary developmental stride he has, stressing on the need for better deals for the people by working with the outline of the thematic areas he has design in other to make the people experience  the imprint of a working legacy to reshape our communities to fulfil the legitimate expectations of our people.

While congratulating all the elected members and the principal office holders, he mentioned that The 9th Assembly will be impactful and insightful on well meaning Nigerians, he enjoined everyone to promote peace and unity in the country.

In his closing remark, he appreciated every one for their support, giving the assurance that Yagba people will smile again.

NFIU Policy: PDP Frowns At Further Indebtedness Through Granting N3billion Loans To Eight Kogi Councils.

The Kogi State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has warned a particular Commercial Bank in the state from granting N3billion loans each to eight local government areas of the state, pointing out that it has it on good authority that despite its initial outcry against granting the loans, the bank has allegedly granted the loans.

The PDP in a statement signed by Bode Ogunmola, Publicity Secretary of the Party, lamented that the loans to each of the eight local government areas of the state is really not for development but aimed at circumventing the NFIU policy aimed at paying money directly to local government account.

The PDP called on the Federal Government and the CBN to monitor the transaction of the various local government areas of the state, pointing out that circumventing the NFIU policy to make local government areas still earn percentage salaries is regrettable.

The PDP called on the leadership of NULGE in the state to be aware of the planned plunging of local government in the state into further debt at the detriment of their salaries and welfare, described the on going advertisements of tender for projects to be executed by some local government areas of the state in some National Dailies as a hoax, and not really for development but to circumvent NFIU policy.

The party notes that with the present financial predicaments of the local government areas as it relate to their salaries that is been paid in percentages, frowned at further indebtedness of the local councils in the state.

Princess Olayemi Joledo bags Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Platinum Leadership Award.

All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Aspirant for Kogi West in the 2019 General elections, Princess Olayemi Joledo on Wednesday, 12th of June, 2019 was presented the ' Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Platinum Leadership Award by Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria.
The event held at Nigeria National Merit House, Maitama, Abuja according to the organizers was in recognition of Princess Olayemi Joledo's undying passion for Nation Building, Education, Youth Empowerment, Humanitarian Services, Project Nigeria, Purposeful Leadership and Societal Transformation for the benefit of Country and Humanity.
Her favourable consideration for the Award among other things according to the Organizers is to further enhance her passion for Youth and Women Development in the rural areas with the hope that it will spur Princess Olayemi Joledo to enhance her capacity and reach in others the belief that strength of a lifetime is not in the length of it but how positively the lives of others can be impacted in the minutest of ways.
In her reaction, Princess Olayemi Joledo expressed her appreciation for the honour and reiterated her commitment to the core values that earned her the recognition and award.

Princess Olayemi Joledo Congratulates Nigerians on Democracy Celebration, canvases Support for President Buhari.

Politician, Entrepreneur and Youth/Women Development Advocate, Princess Olayemi Joledo has congratulated Nigerians on the first Official Celebration of Democracy Day on June 12th.
In her interaction with Pressmen shortly after being presented with the Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Platinum Leadership Award in Abuja, Princess Olayemi Joledo urged Nigerians to support President Muhammadu Buhari in the tasking quest to take the country to the 'Next Level' of development.
The peaceful and transparent manner with which the new leadership of the National Assembly emerged according to her gives hope that the needed harmonious relationship between the Executive and Legislature at the Federal level has been achieved which should translate to quick implementation of programs and policies of government for the benefit of the country and its people.
Princess Olayemi Joledo prayed that the wisdom, health and zeal to tackle the numerous challenges facing the country, God Almighty will grant the President and those he will appoint to assist him.
She equally admonished all and sundry to promote love and peaceful coexistence so that the present spate of insecurity in the country will be rooted out.

Anti-GYB Protesters Storm APC National Secretariat

Concerned Kogi APC Members, Monday, besieged the national secretariat of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to protest against Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state.

The group also passed a vote of confidence on the APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomole.

The Anti-Bello group, led by Jubril Yusuf, while addressing journalists, charged the party leadership to provide a level playing ground for all governorship aspirants in the state ahead of the governorship election.

Yusuf said the Governor had nothing to show despite allegedly receiving N344 billion after 38 months in office covering statutory allocation, Internally Generated Revenue, allocation to local governments, Paris Club refund 1, 2 and 3, as well as refunds on road construction by the previous government.

In his words: “Despite the non-performance of the government of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, he still wants to go for another four years.

“Kogi State under Governor Yahaya Bello will disappear from the map of Nigeria.”

Engineering expert, Mathew Ajigi celebrates Birthday With Thanksgiving.

Rave of the moment in Engineering, Engr. Mathew Ajigi was in high spirits today Monday as he celebrated another year on planet earth. 

The Kabba-Kogi Born Engineer has a huge clientele base that transcends his native state with patronage spread all over the country. His distinctive style and deep knowledge have netted him among the best hands in Kogi State.

Engr. Ajigi, a graduate of University of Jos and an expert in underground water development and solar installations has used his wealth of experience to immensely affect positively the lives of his people back home. 

He used his special day to show love and care as he celebrates with friends, political and bussiness associates, family members and well wishers. .

His generous gesture was borne out of his belief that the best way to celebrate oneself is to impact others.

He thanked God for adding another year to his days on earth and as well reassure his people to continue in his selfless service to humanity. 

STOP THE MANHUNT AND HARASSMENT OF THE GUARDIAN'S RALPH OMOLOLU-AGBANA

STOP THE MANHUNT AND HARASSMENT OF THE GUARDIAN'S RALPH OMOLOLU-AGBANA

Debo Alabi
By

On Friday May 31, 2019, the public domain in Kogi State was greeted by the news (true or fake) that Edward Onoja, the self-styled Chief of Staff to Governor Yahaya Bello, had been arrested by security agents, following a report by Admiral Jibrin Usman, former Chief of Naval Staff; that Intelligence sources had picked credible evidence to the effect that a group of Niger Delta ex-militants were planning an attack on the person of Admiral Usman, who is an aspirant for the gubernatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC, at the August 2019 governorship primaries; that upon the arrest and interrogation of the militants, they  volunteered in their confessional statements that they were acting on the instructions of Onoja. Those familiar with the trajectory of Onoja know his stint in public office in Kogi State has been characterised by serial controversies bothering on desperate brigandage, crude thuggery, raw violence and high-handedned authoritarianism.
Admiral Usman would not take chances, against the backdrop of the broad-daylight murder of Air Chief Marshal Alexander Sabundu Badeh, the former Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, just about six months ago, without the arrest or prosecution of suspects. He reported the security threat to the appropriate security agency which took in Onoja for 24 hours beginning Friday May 31, 2019. It took the fervid intervention of Onoja's boss, Gov Bello, who pulled every string available to ensure the release of his agent, Onoja on bail, on Saturday June 1, 2019.
Onoja's arrest was in the public domain, so news outlets, particularly the terrestrial ones, published the story.
The Guardian newspaper, the flagship of Nigerian journalism, refrained from publishing the story within the first 72 hours after it broke, until confirmation came from the potential victim himself, Admiral Jibrin Usman. He made the point that retired military officers have become an endangered specie in the hands of desperate politicians, as evidenced by the yet unresolved killing of ACM Badeh. There is indeed the issue of the September 2018 elimination of Maj Gen Idris Alkali in Plateau State.
On Tuesday June 4, 2019, The Guardian published the story. The correspondent who filed the story, Ralph Omololu-Agbana, who has grossed over two decades on the reportorial beat, garnering experience through Thisday and The Guardian, respectively, is very highly regarded by his employers for factual, in-depth and professional reportage and analysis. Speculation, sensationalism and frivolity have never been aspects of his authorial style.
On June 5, 2019, however, the DSS issued a rebuttal, signed by PN Afunanya, to the effect that Onoja was not arrested and not remanded in custody. It was a new spin to the saga.

On June 6, 2019, P F Joseph, a partner in Femjoe Associates (legal practitioners), with its office in Kabba, Kogi State, sent a petition to the Kogi Commissioner of Police, calling for the arrest and arraignment of Omololu-Agbana for 'cyber-stalking, public incitement and criminal defamation.'
Since this multi-pronged hunt for the typically easy-going unassuming correspondent of The Guardian, his whereabouts have remained unknown, fuelling fears and anxiety about his security and safety.
In all of these, however, pertinent questions arise requiring immediate answers:

* Is this a continuation of the graduated clampdown on the media by the incumbent administration? The Abuja offices of Daily Trust were invaded by security agents January 6, 2019, because the newspaper published a report that the Nigerian military was planning to retake Baga in Borno State, whereas the military had earlier claimed that no part of the Borno State territory was in the grips of Boko Haram terrorists. Uthman Abubakar and Ibrahim Sawab, North East regional editor and Borno State correspondent of Daily Trust respectively, were arrested, same day.
Just last week on June 6, 2019, the federal government clamped down on Daar Communications Ltd, owners of Raypower Radio and African Independent Television, AIT, for allegedly violating certain aspects of the broadcasting code of ethics.

* Why has Ralph Omololu-Agbana been specifically targeted in this manhunt? Or is it because he has elected to tow the path of uncompromising reportage which has continually unsettled the Bello administration?

* Why hasn't Admiral Jibrin Usman himself, issued a statement or addressed a press conference illuminating the present controversy, especially since he is the subject of it all? Omololu-Agbana didn't report in a vacuum. He spoke with the former CNS.

* Why haven't the security services questioned Admiral Jibrin Usman if they think a false alarm was raised in the media concerning him?

* Why haven't the security services and the legal representatives of Omololu-Agbana engaged his employers, The Guardian, in all of these? Omololu-Agbana works for The Guardian, the news medium which published the story, by the way.

* Why must the security services allow themselves to be procured in the grand cover-up of a matter in the public court? Is Onoja above being questioned  for alleged criminal conspiracy to attack a distinguished Nigerian or for any crime whatsoever?

All well-meaning Nigerians and people of Kogi State alike, must join in the wholesale condemnation of this latest round of fascist clampdown on the media and the unnecessary manhunt for The Guardian's Ralph Omololu-Agbana, which is capable of heating up the polity and precipitating unfathomable backlash.
It must stop, forthwith.

*Debo Alabi, a legal practitioner/indigene of Kogi State writes from Lekki, Lagos.

Letter To Yahaya Bello: Save Kogi State University From Cultism.

Gory sight of a Student recently killed by cultists in KSU

His Excellency,
Alhaji Yahaya Bello
Executive Governor of Kogi State,
Government House,
Lokoja.

Your Excellency,

OPEN APPEAL TO THE GOVERNMENT TO #SAVEKSU

We write to draw your immediate attention to the plight of the students of Kogi State University, particularly in the area insecurity on its campus and the menace.

The high rate of cultism in KSU should be urgently looked into from all angles with a view to eradicating it by the government.

Cultism has become one of the greatest problems confronting our tertiary institutions as at today in Nigeria. Their activities and presences in our schools have become rampant and it is no more news that they have expanded their territories into vices such as drug abuse, armed robbery, murder without respect for the rule of law and amongst others.

Recently, there have been spate of killings, robbery and all sorts of crimes in and around Kogi State University campus. Just about a week ago, a girl was stabbed by an unknown person in her hostel and this is not the first, nor the second of such case, it has become a reoccurring trend.

This year alone, about 10 students have been reportedly killed and many more left injured and others robbed of their personal belongings.

Early this year gunshots were heard inside the school environment, which apparently was a gun salute for a cultist who graduated. The "Mr and Miss Campus" that held inside the campus was ended with gunshots. This is unheard of and should not be condoned by your administration which places so much value on the lives and safety of its citizens.

These cult guys no longer hide nor pretend about their activities on campus. The menace of cultism has eaten deep in Kogi State University as we write. The students no longer feel safe in a place where they should feel safe the most. How can they genuinely learn when they are constantly worried about their safety?

Your Excellency Sir, one of your outstanding achievements as our Governor is in the area of security, the more reason we write to draw your rasp attention to this anomaly currently on going in KSU for the students to feel save again, within and outside the campus.

We thereby call on your government to #SaveKSU from impending disaster.

The Government should ensure that adequate security is provided for students on campus, provision of more decent hostel accommodations be built on our campuses.

This effort will discourage cultism and the school management will be able to dissuade studeo from staying off campus, and their activities monitored.

The government should also ensure the completion of the campus fence and steps should be taken to block the numerous illegal entry points into the school. Student's ID cards should be enforced by the school management and school security.

We appeal to your government to ensure that any member of the society, no matter how highly placed, found linked with the activities of cultism on campus should be tracked down and brought to book and students caught be expelled immediately.

Government should initiate and encourage campaigns against cultism in the institution and promote extra curricular activities on campus.

All these we plead.

Thank you Your Excellency.

......

FG SHUTS DOWN AIT, RAYPOWER AND FAAJI FM

Nigeria's broadcast regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has announced indefinite suspension of the broadcast license issued DAAR Communications PLC, owners and operators of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raypower FM and Faaji FM

Director-General of the Commission, Kawu Moddibbo, told newsmen that the decision was taken after several warnings to the the media outfit on "perceived  lopsided and divisive contents in its programmes". The Commission specifically accused the media conglomerate of relying on contents from social media to make analysis in its programmes.

According to Kawu, " DAAR Communications will have to walk through a narrow path to get its licence back". AIT and Raypower FM are the second largest broadcast networks in the country.

Founder of the media conglomerate, High Chief Aleogho Dokpesi had earlier on Thursday called for the resignation of the Commission's DG over what he described as repeated attempts overtime to gag the television and radio networks. Dokpesi who accused the Commission of singling out AIT and Raypower for intimidation led a protest to the National Assembly where he submitted a petition to the lawmakers.

Security operatives including officers and men of the Department of State Services, the Army and Nigeria Police Force may be deployed by the Federal Government to enforce to closure of the two media stations and take over its facilities across the country.

The management of the media conglomerate is expected to react to the development which is about the second of its kind in the history of the over 20-year old broadcast outfit

PRESS RELEASE EDWARD ONOJA, NOT ARRESTED BY THE DSS

The attention of the DSS has been drawn to a false story by the Lokoja Correspondent of the Guardian to the effect that the Service arrested Edward Onoja, an aide to the Governor of Kogi State, over his alleged plot to attack the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (rtd).

The said news (relating to the arrest of Onoja) is fake and misleading and should be disregarded as the DSS never carried out such operation.

The Service recognizes that the media is a strategic partner in nation building and hopes that cordiality and  mutual respectability are maintained in the relationship between them.

In this vein, it wishes to advise that stories are verified or authenticated before their publication.

It, however, warns that persons or organizations that  falsely use the name of the Service will be liable to prosecution.

The DSS will, no doubt, continue to collaborate with all well meaning stakeholders to ensure that peace and order are maintained, not only in Kogi State but every part of the country.

PN. AFUNANYA
Public Relations Officer,
Department of State Services,
National Headquarters,
Abuja.
5th June, 2019

Eid-El-Fitri: Admiral Jibrin Usman Felicitates With People Of Kogi State

Eid-El-Fitri: Admiral Jibrin Usman Felicitates With People Of Kogi State

A famous chieftain of the APC and stellar aspirant in the gubernatorial race in Kogi State, Admiral Jibrin Oyibe Usman felicitates with the people of Kogi State on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri, an important religious occasion celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

In a Sallah message personally signed by Admiral Usman and made available to journalists in Lokoja, he called on the people of Kogi State to imbibe the spirit of empathy, sacrifice and love, which is the cardinal teaching of Prophet Muhammed (SAW). He also enjoins all Muslims to show love for others and live a life of piety, charity and be considerate in their dealings with everyone.

The statement reads:

“Dear Kogites,

It gives me great joy to offer you all, particularly the Muslim faithful my heartfelt felicitations and good wishes on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri at the conclusion of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting, prayer and helping the poor.

We have every reason to profusely thank Almighty Allah for the grace and strength to successfully go through the Holy Month of Ramadan in good health. As faithful Muslims, we have all  devoted thirty days to worshipping Allah with piety, perseverance and kindness to our neighbours, besides avoiding other sinful acts.

May Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala accept our fasting, our prayers, our worship and all our good deeds done in the blessed month of Ramadan. The Month of Ramadan serves as a season of spiritual renewal and gratitude for the bounties bestowed upon all human beings. It is a month in which families become closer, communities strengthen their foundations and individuals reaffirm their spiritual roots.

Therefore, as we celebrate the Eid-el-Fitri to mark the end of the Holy Month, I wish to call on you all to continue to imbibe the spirits of empathy, sacrifice and love, which are the cardinal teachings of Prophet Muhammed (Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam).

Kogi State needs the sacrifice and understanding of all and sundry at this time to bolster our corporate security, social harmony, peaceful coexistence and welfare. As people who have faith in the Almighty Allah, the Creator of all beings, I beseech the Muslim Ummah to show love for others and live life of piety, charity and care.   On behalf of my family and loved ones, I wish the entire Muslim Ummah in Kogi State and Nigeria a blissful, peaceful, and joyous Eid-el-Fitri celebration.

Signed:

Admiral Jibrin Oyibe Usman CFR.

Sen. Dino Melaye attacks Gov. Bello for hugging traditional ruler

Senator Dino Melaye on Tuesday lambasted Kogi State Gov. Yahaya Bello, for hugging a traditional ruler describing the action as a mark of disrespect to the traditional institution.

Dino who took to his Instagram page criticise Bello’s action also accused him of being rude.

“Very disrespectful and rude Governor Yahaya Bello, hugging his paramount traditional ruler Alhaji Ado Ibrahim who is over 90 years.

*“Can Gov. Tabuwal hug the Sultan? Or will Gov. El-rufai hug the Emir of Zaria?* If this disobedient child will not respect the seat of Ohinoyi, he should respect the age of HRM.

“Home training is not a gift,” Melaye posted on his Instagram page.

*Home training is not a gift,”* Melaye posted on his Instagram page.

It would be recalled that Senator Dino Melaye had over the weekend announced his intention to contest for the seat of Kogi State governor.

Melaye represents Kogi West in the Senate, and would be contesting the November 16 poll under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) if he eventually secures the party’s ticket at the primary election.

DSS arrests, releases Bello’s aide over alleged plot to attack ex-naval chief

The Department of State Security Services (DSS) at the weekend reportedly took into custody the Chief of Staff to Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, Edward Onoja, over alleged plot to attack a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (rtd).

However, he denied that he was arrested, saying it was fake news.

His suspected arrest and detention followed a tip-off of an impending attack on Usman by mercenaries identified as ex-Niger Delta militants.

Preliminary confessional statements obtained from the apprehended gang members allegedly fingered Onoja as mastermind of the planned attack.

Onoja, who was said to have been detained on Friday till the early hours of Saturday, was however released after the intervention of his boss, The Guardian gathered. 

A source close to the retired naval chief said the plot was still at infancy when two of the militants were rounded up by DSS officials.

Sallah: There will be paradigm shift in Yagba-Hon(ELD) Leke Abejide.

Dear Good people of Yagba Federal Constituency,

Happy Eid-el-fitr to our Muslim brothers and sisters. I pray that you shall be able to keep the lessons learnt during the Ramadan and equally keep your closeness to Almighty Allah to shape your lives better than before.

I also want to use this period to remind us to keep praying for the progress of Yagbaland, Kogi State and Nigeria at large as prayer is the key to challenges and problems beyond human knowledge.

Let me also reassure you all of my commitment to good representation as I will be taking the mantle of leadership as your Representative in the next few days. As I always maintained, there will be a paradigm shift in approach to governance God willing which shall reflect in improvement in the quality of life of our people both young and old.

Once again, happy celebration!!!

HON. LEKE ABEJIDE, MHR

ADMIRAL JIBRIN IS NEXT GOVERNOR, YOUR CONCOCTED LIES WILL NOT STOP HIM, Kogi Women tell Yahaya Bello...

Says Bello's days in government are numbered...


A group of women in Kogi state under the auspices of Kogi Women professionals in Politics have come out to warn the Governor of Kogi state, Alh Yahaya Bello against sponsored propaganda he is engaging in to discredit and malign the name and profile of the incoming Governor of Kogi state, Admiral Usman Jibrin CFR. The group which was responding to a press release made by a fictitious group and published by the notorious online publication, Sahara Reporters that is known for peddling propaganda.

Speaking on behalf of the members of the association, Dr (Mrs) Otaliki Bridget warned that the governor should stop his campaign of columny against the man coming to save the state from the maladministration he has plunged the state into. Dr Otaliki notes that Kogi is in a very precarious and pitiable state that only experienced administrator and very contented leader can rescue it. She describes Governor Yahaya Bello as  a waster of resources, unconcerned dictator and unguided juvenile whose government has impoverished the people. She describes non payment of salaries, absence of visible projects and wicked leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello as the worst experience Kogi people have ever had. She therefore said the people from East, Central and West have rejected Bello and will massively vote him out by November.

The group however said that the entrance of Admiral Usman Jibrin CFR into the race is as a result of pressure mounted on him by the people that truly desire change. "it took us several months to get Admiral Jibrin to conceive the ambition because we know his make up and we are confident that he will not fail us. On the issue of EFCC, we want to advise the Governor to visit the commission and confirm the status of the fake allegation leveled against Admiral and he will know that the latest propaganda has failed on arrival. Admiral Jibrin ran the most transparent Navy, he did not owe a kobo as salary like Yahaya Bello, NAVAL officials were getting better instead of committing suicide like it is happening to civil servants under Bello, it is therefore important to assure the public that Admiral Jibrin has no case with EFCC as the purported Navy issues has since been discovered to be a ruse by the EFCC and he has since been left off" Dr Otaliki says

The group says that they understand that the popularity and accessibility of Admiral Jibrin since he joined the race has been unassailable and has created fears in the government circle and that is why they want to tarnish his image at all cost. The group however assured Kogites that the ambition of Admiral Jibrin is one that will rescue the state from the failure of Governor Bello.