An Italian-Nigerian player, King Paul Akpan becomes first footballer to contact Coronavirus.

An Italian-Nigerian player, King Paul Akpan Udoh, has become the first professional footballer to be diagnosed with the deadly coronavirus.

King Paul who currently plays for Italian Serie C side Pianese was diagnosed with the disease on February 27 and has been quarantined.

The 22-year-old forward started his career with Reggiana before moving to Juventus in 2011 where he was loaned back for a year.

After progressing through the youth ranks of Juventus, Udoh secured a loan move to Virtus Lanciano, a Serie B side in 2016 with an option to buy at the end of the season.

Failing to impress, he was returned to Juve, and then loaned to Lega Pro side Pontedera later the same year.

He had a loan stint with Pontedera, Fernana, Fano and Viareggio before joining Pianese on July 14, 2019.

Coronavirus: Stop all flights from affected countries, Atiku tells Buhari

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has advised the President, Maj. Gen Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), to stop all flights from countries facing coronavirus outbreak.

Atiku, who was the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the last election said Nigeria should fight the disease the same way it was able to tackle the outbreak of Ebola in 2014.

He said in a Facebook post that since Buhari had been able to shut land borders to protect the economy, it would not be too difficult to stop flights from countries facing the coronavirus scourge.

The former Vice-President added, “Nigeria needs firm and decisive actions to prevent an escalation of the scourge. Recently, we closed our borders as an act against economic sabotage. Perhaps now is the time to temporarily halt flights to and from any nation with a prevalence of this scourge. It is more important to secure human lives than to secure an economy. We also need to invest in early detection facilities at our airports.

“But above all, Nigeria must not panic, whether at government or individual levels. We have defeated Ebola before, and we can defeat this present predicament

First case of Coronavirus in Nigeria Hits Lagos, Man test positive to killer disease.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has recorded its first case of the deadly coronavirus disease.

In a statement, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) says : "The Honourable Minister of Health (Osagie Ehanire) has announced a confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) case in Lagos State.

"The case, which was confirmed on the 27th of February, 2020, is the first case to be reported in Nigeria since the beginning of the outbreak in China in January 2020.

"The patient is clinically stable and is being managed at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba.

"We assure all Nigerians that measures are in place to respond appropriately.

"We are working with the Lagos Ministry of Health to identify contacts and initiate response accordingly. "

The coronavirus has killed nearly 3,000 people and infected over 80,000 globally.

Most of the victims are in mainland China.

The hemorrhagic disease was first diagnosed in the Chinese city of Wuhan, with a population of 11 million residents, and has spread to 12 countries since that time.

Sporting events and summits have been cancelled or rescheduled as the disease ravages the world.

The coronavirus is airborne and symptoms begin to manifest after 14 days. You could transmit the disease before symptoms begin to manifest.

Precautions include regular hand washing, using a hand sanitizer, using a nose mask and avoiding contact or proximity with infected persons.

Lagos has a population of 20 million people and is Nigeria's economic capital.

Meet OLUWAKAYODE ESEYIN(1212), Kabba/Bunu Motivational Grassroot Chairmanship aspirant

OLUWAKAYODE ESEYIN, although very young is a household name in Nigeria politics. Since over 15 years ago that he started participating actively in politics, he has grown through the ranks to become a prominent and famous member of the opposition People's Democratic Party, he currently occupies the office of the party LGA Youth Leader.

He is a stable and consistent political Juggernaut who grew through the ranks of PDP. Even when his works were not appreciated at some point by his party, he remained resolute and committed to his beliefs till this moment that he is a celebrated figure in the party.

His vision is to change the aged mindset of the average Kabba/Bunu youth, who relies completely on government to survive. To achieve this, he intend to train the youths on various trades, businesses, vocation, support them educationally and ensure Kabba/Bunu which is the headquarters of of Kogi West Senatorial District becomes a hub for investors.

An administrator per excellent, a graduate of kogi state university Ayingba. He attended St. Augustine College and Saint Mary primary school also in kabba.

As a special assistance to Hon Taiwo Ojo Nathaniel, former chairman of Kabba/Bunu L.G.A, Hon. OLUWAKAYODE ESEYIN build a computer training center in Okedayo in honour of Late Arc. Steven Ojo Olorunfemi
has a dividends of democracy for his people.

This is now a critical time for our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with the recently just concluded governorship election in kogi state, it has become imperative for men of honor, virtues, integrity and unflinching loyalty to turn around the recent condition of our party the PDP, especially at the grassroots.

My conviction for aspiring is born of my unalloyed commitment and dogged loyalty to the party, and most especially, my capacity to turn around the political fortunes of the party.
My capacity to deliver is embedded in my antecedent of previous engagement for the party and the Government of His Excellency Capt. Idris Wada as can be attested to by the prominent political stakeholders in Kabba/Bunu L.G.A.

I will be appreciative of your support in my quest to reposition our party, the PDP to make it take its pride of place once more in our Nation's political space.

He is the former special assistance to the Ex Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Capt. Idris Wada. He is also the former youth empowerment coordinator of Kabba/Bunu under his Excellency Governor Ibrahim Idris, and the former special assistance on youth and student to Hon. Taiwo Ojo Nathaniel, also former special assistance on student affairs and youth to Hon. Segun modeyin. He has be a delegate to a party Congresses(PDP) both locally and internationally and the vice chairman of the PDP youth leaders in Kogi State.

Kogi: Court nullifies PDP governorship primaries

A Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party primaries in Kogi State on grounds of incomplete process.
One of the aspirants for the primaries had approached the Court claiming that the Kogi State chapter of the PDP manipulated the primary election in favour of a particular aspirant who eventually emerged as the party’s candidate after the process was militarized and ballots boxes destroyed by thugs.

He thus demanded for the cancellation of the result of the election.

BREAKING NEWS: Court overturn Achuba's impeachment in Kogi State

Court sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State has ruled that Simon Achuba's removal from office as deputy Governor via impeachment was unconstitutional, null and void.

It will be recalled that the deputy governor of Kogi state was removed by the house of assembly after he was accused of gross misconduct. The deputy governor was replaced with Edward Onoja who was later nominated as Governor Bello running mate in the last election.

Details soon.

Four NSCDC officers kidnapped in Kogi

The police in Kogi State have confirmed the kidnap of four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) by unknown gunmen.

The spokesman of the police in the state, William Aya, a deputy superintendent of police, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lokoja that the officers were kidnapped at a spot in Alo-Offoke community on the Itobe-Ayingba road.

The officials were said to be travelling to Makurdi for promotion examination when their vehicles were stopped by the kidnappers.

“Information gathered reveals that four civil defence personnel were among the kidnapped victims,” Mr Aya said, indicating that those kidnapped may be more than four.

He said that three other persons that sustained injuries during the attack were currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

Mr Aya explained that the police responded immediately it received distress calls that some armed men were operating between Alo- Offoke and Ayingba.

” The Divisional Police Officer in charge immediately mobilised his personnel to the scene where they met two abandoned vehicles, one Volkswagen Sharon bus with registration number Kogi KNA 220 LG and a Volkswagen Gulf car with registration number Lagos EZ 376 SMK.

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” Both vehicles were riddled with bullets and occupants suspected to have been abducted while 20 expended AK47 ammunitions and civil defence kits were recovered from the scene,” he said.

To stem the tide of kidnapping and armed robbery activities currently rocking the state, Mr Aya said that the command had flagged off aerial surveillance patrol of Obajana axis and other black spots.

He said the operation also involved ground troops consisting of police and military personnel who are now combing the bush to rescue victims.

He said that the new operation was being led by the state Commissioner of Police, Ayuba Ekpeji.

(NAN)

Late Audu Son, Muhammed Arrested by EFCC over alleged fraud.

Mr Audu, a son of former Kogi governor Abubakar Audu, was taken into custody by operatives on February 18 after a probe of public sports funding showed he was allegedly linked to a multi-billion fraud at the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

The alleged loot was in dollars and naira, officials said, estimating it to the tune of multi-billion naira. The precise amount would be disclosed in the coming days, operatives said.

The sources requested anonymity because they were not authorised to disclose the arrest.

Mr Audu, who has become a top politician in Kogi and contested for governor there last year, was accused of using his entertainment businesses, Mediterranean Hotels Limited and Mediterranean Sports, to divert the funds.

Efforts have commenced to charge the suspect to court promptly, according to two officials familiar with the arrest.

It was not immediately clear whether Mr Audu has contacted his lawyer following the arrest.

More details later…

Source : Premium Time

TeeJay Empowers Constituents, Artisans In Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu(PHOTOS)

Lawmaker representing Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu at the lower chamber of the National Assembly, Hon Tajudeen Yusuf has once again delivered the dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of his constituents as he distributed empowerment equipments to artisans in the Constituency.

Hon. Teejay Yusuf last weekend, Saturday 15th February, 2020 facilitated the distributions of various artisans tools worth millions of naira.

The event which took place in Kabba on Saturday had all the artisans from Kabba-Bunu/ Ijumu Federal Constituency gathered to receive tools ranging from Welding Machines (15 Nos), Electric Hand Grinders (15 Nos), Mechanic Tools boxes (15), Tractor Tools Boxes (10) and Blacksmith Tools Kits (12).
Mechanic tool box (15)

While bringing the event to an end, the leaders of these various artisan associations prayed that God will continue to be the guide and strength of Hon. Teejay.

• The distribution of materials worth of hundred millions of naira came on the heels of the free JAMB forms distribution to students of the Constituency also sponsored by the lawmaker.

Speaking, Hon. Teejay stated that the distribution of equipment is part of his commitment towards making sure all his constituents reap the dividends of democracy and vowed to do more for the people

Reacting shortly after receiving equipment, one of the beneficiaries thanked the lawmaker for giving him and colleagues the opportunity to be independent people and valuable individuals in the community.

LGA POLL: Only Bunu Axis Eligible To Contest Chairmanship In Kabba/Bunu LGA Election-APC

By Sunday Ajayi, Lokoja.

The leadership of Kabba/Bunu All Progressive Congress (APC) which comprises of the Local Government Executives, Ward Chairmen, Women leader, Ward Party Secretaries, Ward Youth leaders and critical stakeholders across the 15 wards have zoned the Chairmanship position to Bunu District.

This was disclosed by the party chairman, Hon Elisha Olorunmosule after a meeting held yesterday in Lokoja, the State Capital. According to him, APC as a party is one big family in the local government, noting that there is no faction in the party and called on those who are hell bent on dividing the party to stay clear. He said in the spirit of brotherliness, love and peaceful coexistence, the leadership of the party in the local government has decided after much deliberation to zone the chairmanship position to Bunu since the House of Assembly is still in Kabba aside the fact that the House of Representatives position is also still in Kabba district.

He said the two districts have been living in harmony due to the age long mutual understanding of rotation of political offices which was established by late leader Of Kabba/Bunu, Dr Stephen Olorunfemi of blessed memory, stressing that the party has decided to stand by the existing rotation of political positions in the Local Government.

He said it is good to note that the leadership of the party in Bunu has also sub-zoned the Chairmanship position to Kiri axis in Bunu District since the Commissioner and State Security Adviser are in Bunu central, while Bunu south has the LGA Administrator, and had produced Executive Chairman, House of Representatives, House of Assembly and others from the zone in the last 17 years. READ  Interview: Edward Onoja is 'Breeding' Development and Not Thugs He noted that Kabba District has also zoned the Vice Chairmanship position to the 6 wards of Kabba metropolis while the 3 wards of Ikowaopa would produce Secretary. He further said the leadership has adopted the existing rotation arrangements in various wards and urged all leaders at Ward levels to uphold such arrangements to avoid unnecessary tension as the party would not tolerate the imposition of any candidate in any ward in the local government. He eulogized the leadership qualities of Rt Hon Prince Matthew Kolawole, under whose the party has flourished to become the darling of all and sundry.

He also commended Commander Jerry Omodara, State Security Adviser, the newly inaugurated Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon Wemi Jones, Hon Duro Meseko, Chief Julius Arokoyo, Hon Jethro Funsho Oni, Hon Kehinde Oloruntoba, Hon Ade Olamife, Barr. Ola Odano, Mrs Bimpe Alfred, Hon. Nathaniel Taiwo, Hon Fred Aiyenale, LGA Party Secretary, Hon Charles Olorunmaiye, Chief Boyega Aka and others for their untiring efforts to move the party forward. He charged all party members to continue to work for the progress of the party.

___Kogireports 

Kogi West Student Leaders Holds Press Conference, Urges Leke Abejide To Extend Educational Support To Senatorial District.

The Leadership of Kogi West Students has made a clarion call on member representating Yagba Federal Constituency, Hon(Eld) Leke Abejide to extend the free WAEC payment to other local government areas in Kogi West.

The Students Leaders came under one umbrella body named Coalition of Kogi West Students Leader to release the statement on Friday in Lokoja.

The coalition led by the National President of National Association Of Okun Student, Comr. Seun Bello said the press conference is urgently needed to salvage the worst condition of the educational sector in Kogi West occasioned by economic hardship on parents to sponsor their wards to Secondary school level.

Seun Bello said It is no longer news, the lackadaisical attitude of our supposed philanthropists, community leaders and public office holders toward this genuine and noble cause of the students.

Seun Bello said the Lawmaker educational support include WAEC, NABTEB & FEDERAL LABOUR for Technical schools and ADMINISTRATIVE CHARGES for all PUBLIC and PRIVATE SCHOOLS across Yagba Federal Constituency amounting to over 72 Million Naira.

He said such educational support scheme is urgently needed in Kogi West and the press conference is to urge the lawmaker to consider other local governments from Kogi West district.

The following urgent resolution were made by the coalition:

1. That as a matter of urgency, the Presidency of National Association of Okun Students (NAOS) behalf of the coalition sends this as a CLARION CALL on HON. LEKE ABEJIDE to subsequently Extend the "FREE WAEC PAYMENT" To Four other Local Government In Kogi West.

2. That just like Elder Leke Abejide, every of the 7 LG Administrator of Kogi west senatorial district initiate an Education support/ Students' welfare initiative.

3. That other Honorable Representatives (Both at State and Federal level) intensify more, and/or initiate more Educational development and students welfare support schemes to emulate Elder Leke Abejide.

4. That the Kogi State and Federal Government intensify and give more consideration to Educational, Entrepreneurial and ICT development in the implementation of the year budget, to aid affordable/Quality Education and effective Students' welfare support.

Present at the press conference includes Comrade Ayokanmi Ayomikun(NATIONAL PRESIDENT , IJUMU STUDENTS UNION ISU), Comr. Fanope Lawrence(National President, Kabba Students' Union KSU), Comrade Otaru Andah Abdulkareem, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS (NANS) Kogi State JCC Chairman, Alibest Mayaki, Students leader Lokoja/Kogi LGAs (IPP NALOKOS) and SSA on Student Affairs to the Administrator of Lokoja local Government Area, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, Association of Lokoja/Koton-Karfe Students, Comrade Ahmad Musa Kpakpazi, General Secretary, Association of Lokoja/Koto-Karfee LGA Students Union (KSP) and Rtr., Comr. Nayo Jude Babatunde-Uyi, Director
COALITION OF KOGI WEST STUDENT LEADERS FORUM and Chairman NAOS NATIONAL EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT INITIATIVEs (ESIs) Strategic & Working committee. 

Conclusively, the coalition send profound gratitude to Elder Leke Abejide for his outstanding performance in office within the short period he got elected while they awaits his response to their pleas.

Considering the dilapidated, obsolete and unaffordable educational system in our dear state and poor Students' welfare scheme, with little or no impact, it has become imperative to state, recognize and applaud the recent robust commitment of over 72 Million Naira by Hon. Leke Abejide into Educational development in Yagba Federal Constituency.

History also will never forget the few ones who have consistently been showing commitments to community development and human development.

Teejay Yusuf Gives Free JAMB Forms To Hundreds of Constituents in Kogi

The lawmaker representing the good people of Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf has set machinery in motion for the free distribution hundreds of JAMB forms to his constituents.

The beneficiaries of the form distribution will cut across the thirty(30) political wards and students union associations. The registration is currently ongoing at St. Augustine College Kabba.
The lawmaker said the gesture was aimed at mentoring the younger generation to an enviable height in life.
The lawmaker media aide, in a statement made available, urged prospective applicants from the Federal Constituency and its environment to key into the programme.

The lawmaker who has numerous people's oriented bills sponsored, maintained that he has the desire to raise more medical doctors, engineers, bankers, business moguls, pilot, entrepreneurs, politicians, vice chancellors, lawyers, journalists of Kogi State extraction.”

The statement disclosed further that the total JAMB form support he gave to the constituents, which included online registration, was in line with the patriotic leadership he has been displaying for many years back as a way of providing succour to the less-privileged in the quest for quality education for their children.

However, as a politician who believes in the educational development and grassroot outreach, the lawmaker also consider constituents who requested to be beneficiaries of the free JAMB forms through text messages, visits and phone calls to him.

Boko Haram strikes again in Borno after Buhari’s visit [VIDEO]

A number of Borno State residents fled their homes Wednesday evening.

This followed an attack by Boko Haram at Jiddari-Polo area, near Maiduguri, the state capital.

A video on social media shows people of different ages trekking inward the city centre, away from the violence.

The fresh battle occured few hours after President Muhammadu Buhari left Borno on a sympathy visit.

Buhari, was booed, during the visit.

Security forces have been drafted to the area and are exchanging fire with the terrorists.

A resident of the area told DAILY POST that his brother, a security operative, called him on phone with a warning not to return home soon.

Also, a staff of a non-governmental organisation living in the area, said they were advised to remain indoors and hide.

“I just received a text from our security manager that we should not to cone out but remain indoors and ensure we find safest area in the house to hide”, he disclosed.

Another resident stated that he had fled his home to Pompomari at the far end of the city.

“I came in from office and wanted to take a bath when I started hearing sound of gun shots. You know our area has always been their (Boko Haram) route to Maiduguri.

“Immediately, I grabbed my car key and fled before the clash with soldiers. I learnt that they have been repelled but I am sleeping somewhere else tonight,” he said.

Attempts to get response from both the military and the Police in Maiduguri proved abortive as their phones were off as at press time

Sourced from Dailypost

Kogi LG poll: Bello appoints electoral commission

In fulfillment of his plans to conduct local government elections, Governor Bello has approved the composition of the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Galacticus, indicated that the Governor forwarded the names of eight individuals to the House of Assembly for consideration as chairman and members of the commission.

Below are the names
1 - Lawal Shiru, Chairman Lokoja/Koto Federal Constituency

2 - Ozovehe John Enesi Secretary Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency

3 - Adaji Ainoko, Member Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency

4 - Musa Adama (Babakeke), Member Idah Federal Constituency

5 - Hon. Funsho Olorunfemi, Member Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency

6 - Chogudo Yakubu Musa, Member Okene/Ogori Magongo Federal Constituency

7 - Hon. Labaran Yahaya Oyigebe, Member Ankpa Federal Constituency

8 - Abdulkarim Jamiu, Member Ajaokuta Federal Constituency

The Governor’s recommendation is based on section 197, sub-section 1(b) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The responsibility of the SIEC is to conduct free, fair and credible Local Government and Council polls in the state.

Hon. Leke Celebrates Chief Kola Jamodu, CFR, A Distinguished Man of Honour.

I consider this day to be a very special one, you have tutored a good number of youths towards excellence. In such a humble way you have given an unparalleled leadership display. A man who has distinguished himself as a defender of truth and an astute encomium with great potentials.

Hon. Leke Abejide applauds Chief Jamodu on this special day- Chief Kolawole Jamodu, CFR, the 1st indigenous Chief Executive of PZ Cussons, Plc; Former President of Manufacturer Association of Nigeria (MAN); Former Board Member of Nigeria Customs Services; Former Board Member of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta; Former Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman of Bells University of Technology, Ota; Member of Board Trustees of Bells University; a retired Non-Executive Director of United Bank for Africa;
 Chairman of British-American Tobacco Company Foundation; Chairman of Nigeria Breweries Plc; Chairman of PZ Cussons Plc; Chairman of KM&RF Investments; Chairman of Kola Jamodu Foundation.

Chief Kola Jamodu is a Chartered Global Management Accountant, CGMA; Fellow Chartered Accountant of Nigeria; Fellow Chartered Bankers of Nigeria; Fellow Administrator and Secretary, Nigeria; Fellow Chartered Taxation, Nigeria; Distinguished Fellow Chartered Directors; Fellow Management; Past President of Alumni of Harvard Business School, Nigeria.

With these rich and excellent profile, it shows you have exhibited a high leadership both Home and Diaspora.

More also, a high profiled classy Chief the Aare of Odo-Ere, Aare of Eruku, and Babalaje of Lagos. Just to mention a few of his titles around the globe, Also a member of numerous Presidential Committees in Nigeria and member of numerous Clubs with men and women of influential characters.

You have attributed so much into different commitments and social development in all works of life. You are an example people will not stop looking up to, a meticulous achiever.

More strength and wealth be added to you on this special day, Happy Birthday Icon, a prominent man of honour.
Wishing you more enviable cliffs.

Obaro of Kabba: Kogi Gov’t to build modern palace for monarch

The administration of Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello is set to build a modern palace befitting of the stool of the Obaro of Kabba.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Momodu Ozigi disclosed this when he paid an official visit to the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi in his palace.

Barr. Ozigi who said the traditional stool is held in high esteem by the present state government revealed that the noble project will be actualized even in the face of state limited resources.

The Commissioner said constructing an independent palace for the Obaro stool is long overdue; adding that Governor Yahaya Bello will soon do the needful.

Responding, Oba Solomon Owonoyi thanked the Commissioner for the visit and commended Governor Bello for correcting past injustices in the appointments of traditional rulers in Okun land.

He assured the government of the people’s support, while also appealing to the governor to upgrade deserving stools and fill up vacant ones in the area.

At the palace of the Maigari of Lokoja, the commissioner praised the royal father, Alhaji Muhammad Maikarfi III for maintaining peace in his domain.

He enjoined the Maigari to synergize with his ministry to consolidate on the existing peace for steady progress in the state.

The Maigari who prayed for the success of the present administration called on politicians to have the fear of Allah in the discharge of their duties to humanity.

The commissioner also paid a similar visit to the Ohimege-Igu of Kotokarfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, where he lauded the hospitality of the people; saying it is worthy of emulation.

The Ohimege-Igu, who appreciated the visit advised Kogi indigenes to uphold their tribal affiliations as a bond in moving the state forward.

He prayed for the success of the Yahaya Bello-led administration, adding that he will always offer useful advises whenever contacted.

In his remarks at the palaces of the royal fathers, the state ALGON chairman, Alhaji Taofiq Isah thanked the traditional rulers for standing by Governor Yahaya Bello in the last governorship election.

Bar. Ozigi was accompanied to the Obaro’s palace by the twenty-one Local Government Administrators in the state.

Reps uncover N 63.6bn under remitted revenue by FAAN in six years

By James Kwen

The House of Representatives has uncovered N63.6 billion worth revenue under-remitted revenue by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) between 2014 and 2019.

The House discovered this Tuesday during an investigative hearing meeting between the Committee on Finance and FAAN at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Chairman, House Committee on Finance, James Faleke disclosed that out of total sum of N74.663 billion expected revenue from FAAN between 2014 to 2019, the sum of N9 billion was remitted within the period under review.

Faleke explained that out of total sum of N9.48 billion expected revenue from FAAN, it remitted N500 million in 2014; remitted N2.15 billion out of N10.89 billiin in 2015 and N1.565 billion remitted out of N11.6 billion expected revenue in 2016.

He said, FAAN remitted the total sums of N1.511 billion, N1.778 billion and N1.539 billion against N13.19 billion, N14 billion and N15.49 billion expected revenues for 2017, 2018 and 2019 fiscal years respectively.

The Committee queried the FAAN management over the discrepancies between the internally generated revenue realized by FAAN and the records provided by the Auditor General of the Federation and demanded for original copies of all the receipts of payments.

Thus, the Committee directed the FAAN Managing Director to provide relevant documents of remittances made so far and reasons why the agency defaulted in meeting its financial obligations as provided by the financial regulations within one week.

It further directed that all outstanding revenue should be paid into government coffer without further delay and expressed dismay over the level of disregard and impunity by previous FAAN management.

Responding to various allegations on the under-remittances, FAAN Managing Director, Rabiu Yadudu declined that the agency cannot afford to comply with the extant financial regulations on remittance of 25% operating surplus.

Yadudu explained that out of the 23 existing airports, 18 are not viable while the revenue accruing from the three viable airports are used to subsidize the others.

He stated that relevant documents which highlights various constraints facing the agency have been submitted to the supervisory Ministry of Aviation for onward transmission to the President.

GYB's RUSSIAN EMBASSY VISIT: A patriotic move with a tripartite result for accelerated development in steel, energy and agriculture-Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi*

APC Stalwart in Kogi West, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi says Governor Yahaya Bello has continued to demonstrate unequalled pragmatism, astute leadership and responsive governance for a rapid development of the state. He made the statement in reaction to the recent official visit Governor Yahaya Bello made to the Russian Embassy in Nigeria to consolidate on the gains of the bilateral agreement recently signed between Nigeria and Russia on the resuscitation the much talked about AJAOKUTA steel Company.


He says the move is not only a strategic international engagement to demonstrate GYB's responsiveness to the people's most ambitious desire, but also a visit that has brought a tripartite benefit to the people and economy of Kogi State and Nigeria by extension. He says this is  the most audacious way to demonstrate patriotism, leadership and performance in governance and it has capacity to engender rapid economic transformation of Kogi State and her people.


Omoluabi contend that although it was a visit that was aimed at expressing the readiness of Kogi People to receive the Russians for work to begin on about the biggest industrial site on the continent, it was also meant to be a confidence building and assurance giving meeting on the about to begin industrial revolution, but the smart, articulate and patriotic Governor Yahaya Bello used the opportunity to strike new alliance, corporation and agreement for Russian to develop the Agriculture and Energy sector of Kogi State. Omoluabi says there is no better way to describe a thinking, pragmatic and cerebral leader.


He says the move of the Governor to woo Russians on Agriculture and Energy sector development will instigate Agricultural growth, engender youth employment, guarantee food security and improve the economy of Kogi State. Omoluabi further says the idea to expand our economic  frontiers through international bilateral relationship and engagement is the smartest way for a state like Kogi to survive in the face of excruciating economic reality of the country.


*I received the news of my Governor's visit to the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria with great excitement for a number of reasons, Russia as one of the eleven largest economy in the world has got a lot of trade, expertise and collaborative benefits for Nigeria and indeed Kogi State, also as a major exporter of energy, we have strong opportunity to have Russian energy coys springing up in Kogi which has great potential to positively engage our youths in gainful employment and also the state has a lot to benefit in terms of Agricultural investment, as a state with vast and fertile land for agricultural industrial renaissance require such engagements to thrive. All of these are what Governor Bello's visit hope to bring to Kogi and I'm particularly excited about it, Governor Yahaya Bello is actually acting as an informed administrator who has a clear knowledge of the challenges of his people and doing all to address them through his unassailable economic, administrative and leadership blueprints* Omoluabi says


It will be recalled that Governor Yahaya Bello paid an official visit to the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Alexey Shebarshin in Abuja to cement the existing bilateral agreement between Nigeria and Russian on AJAOKUTA steel Company and also to woo Russian investors to turnaround the Agriculture and Energy sector of Kogi State.

ALLEGED PETITION AGAINT SENATOR DINO MELAYE

....Face your indicting record and leave Senator Smart Adeyemi alone, group tells Sen Dino.


*We have details of your conspiracy with contractors against our people*.... says group




Kogi West APC Advocates, a pro-good governance network have warned erstwhile Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye to face his indicting record over fraudulent diversion of funds meant for constituency projects and stop dragging the performing Senator Smart Adeyemi into his indictment saga.


The group which spoke to newsmen through its spokesperson Bamidele Yinka Martins says Senator Dino Melaye should be ashamed of his indicting and incriminating misdemeanour while he notoriously represented the people of Kogi West rather than resorting to propaganda to mislead the unsuspecting public over the issue at hand.


Yinka Martin's says incontrovertible facts have emerged that Senator Dino Melaye has been involving in conspiracy of diversion of federal government approved zonal intervention and capital projects since 2016, reduction in bill of quantity, duplication of constituency projects, criminal collaboration with contractors and other sundry issues. We have credible evidence that suggests that contractors have paid Senator Dino Melaye upfront, incredible percentage of the contract sum of most of the jobs, an action that has been ongoing since 2016.


As a Senator, Dino Melaye audaciously ran a very incriminating representation that all available records shows the obvious, having realized that the game was up, having seen that  the collaborating contractors gave revelations of how a good part of Kogi West  constituency projects  have been cornered. The divine emergence of Senator Smart Adeyemi bursted the bubbles as he took over from office, contractors willingly came on their own to open up to the new Senator in view of the fact that majority of the said money was paid in advance of award of contracts.


Upon assumption of office, Senator Smart Adeyemi received the shocking attention of the contractors who were begging for help as regards the project they already paid for. It was at this point the truth came out, but being a matured and very responsible adult, the Senator refused to make noise about it but only directed the contractor to return to site and execute their contracts according to specifications, that he was going to follow the matter up, should the jobs hitherto be poorly done or abandoned.


It is however surprising and incredibly unimaginable for same person to shout to the public of persecution or attempt to indict him, we are further disturbed that the former Senator is trying to whip public sentiment against Senator Smart Adeyemi despite overwhelming evidences against the drowning Senator.


*I therefore call on the general public to be circumspect of the propaganda tendencies of the former Senator as the accountability check against him continue. It is clear that he has an unclean record, he has involved in dirty economic activities and now that his tenure is called to question, he wants to whip usual public sentiment, but it has failed this time. For instance, we have records showing funny dealings in the 2016 and 2017 ZIP for Kogi West according to what is contained in the budget of the years under review, all these must be diligently proved* Yinka Martin's says.

HON. LEKE ABEJIDE IS A SERVANT LEADER.

Hon. Leke has undoubtedly created an inspiring vision of the future, he has motivated people to key into this inspiring future. He is leading beyond the context of this

His sphere of influence is very substantial and has touched a good number of individuals. Considering his qualities of leadership, it is crystal clear that to say he is setting the best momentum for development.

He is a man with a focused attitude to work, and dutiful.
ADC as a party is blessed to have someone like Hon. Leke Abejide; his integrity, versatility, patriotism, and uncommon ability to create a balance between party politics and real politics itself; people first, have in all aspects attracts blessings to ADC as a party and most importantly, to the people he has chosen to stand for; come what may.

These from Hon. Abejide has indicated that with love, we can all relate with each other irrespective of our political differences, party affiliation, religious background, ethnic groups and social status. No wonder in any public function or place Hon. Leke hails every one irrespective of their religion and beliefs. He doesn't discriminate against any group or individuals. He respects all Clergy not minding their religious inclination.

He is making things to happen, giving back to the people, he has given the best returns of this saying that "to who much is given, much more should be expected". He is giving back beyond the expectations of his constituents and he is bent to do more.

Indeed, Hon. Leke is a servant leader, conscious of the needs of his people and ready to serve them to attract success to our lands in Yagba.

Abraham Ibukun Eunice.

THE ZULUM OF YAGBA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY.

Going to school was not a funny experience to me especially when I was in Secondary School. A son of a pesant farmer and a hunter in a remote village will surely not find it rosy paying for a whopping sum of fifty naira (N50) as school fees per term in early 80s.

 The actual tution fee was N40 while N10 goes for PTA. My father will sell most of his farm produce to pay the tuition fee (N40) and I will still be sent out of school for the balance of N10 especially when Exams is approaching. This trend affected my performance in no small measure then.
Fear to continue my academic career came when our WAEC fee was announced. We were asked to pay the sum of two hundred and eighty naira(N280)..........I wish Hon. Leke Abejide was my Rep member then who knows, the tubers of Yams and Cassavas lost to paying for my WEAC fees might have been used to improve the standard of living in my family.

This is not about Tunde Usman growing up but a man called Elder Leke Abejide popularly referred to as Elder Leke or "Oko Opo"(husband to widows)
This political enigma needs no introduction in Yagba federal constituency and Kogi State at large. He is the Asiwaju of Alu and the present Honourable Member representing Yagba federal constituency at Green Chamber of National Assembly.

The most difficult task I hate doing is praise-singing Nigeria politicians in my write up but lately, Zulum and Elder Leke Abejide are two of a kind one must encouraged.

Hon. Leke Abejide is the only hope of any common man in Kogi State right now. He is showing the dumb-heads masquerading as our political leaders that good governance is not a rocket science but been selfless and sensitive to the plight of the electorates makes a good leader.
There are lots of life-touching projects he embarked on before becoming House of Rep. Member and to the chagrin of the doubting Thomases, He is doing more of those projects from his pocket.
Hon. Elder Leke Abejide just paid the sum of 72 million naira for all SS3 Students across the three Local Government Area of Yagba federal constituency getting set to write the next West African Examinations Exams coming up later this year. This same sum of money in the hand of our Nollywood brother and our former "sinnator" would have been a deposit for another automobile to be displayed on his Instagram page soon.

Nigeria electorates are not blind, they know and can differentiate between a true representative at any level of government and a blockhead that is out to fill his/her insatiable ego with our common patrimony.

Hon. Elder Leke Abejide, time will not permit me to roll out all your life-touching projects but be rest assured that our parents are praying for you, our brothers and sisters in Yagba federal constituency and beyond are praying for you, God Almighty is blessing you already and HE will continue to bless you and your family.

People of Kogi West Senatorial District are gossiping you right now. They are really discussing you.
May God spare our lives. Enough of noise-making in the Red Chambers of National Assembly. We need actions and results.

May God bless you for your good heart.

©Tunde Usman.

5 Abuja residents arrested over claims of contracting coronavirus

By Omeiza Ajayi – Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory FCT Command of the Nigerian Police Force has arrested five Abuja residents who invaded the Wuse General Hospital with false claims of having contracted the Novel Coronavirus.

Parading the suspects at the Wuse Zone 3 Divisional Police Station, Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Anjuguri Manza said the suspects namely Peggy Shandi (M), Abayomi Adedoyin (M), David Gold Enemigin (M) Priscilla AJesola (F) and Jacob Oji (M) claimed to be playing out a script about the virus without the knowledge or authorization of the relevant authorities of the FCTA.

The alleged pranksters had reportedly gone to the Wuse District Hospital claiming that one of them had been infected by the Coronavirus, an action which led to panic and confusion as well as a disruption of normal health service delivery at the hospital.

According to Manza, investigations into the activities of the suspects were ongoing.

However, the FCT Department of Public Health has once more reiterated that there is no confirmed case of Coronavirus in the FCT and advised residents to remain calm.

Director of Public Health in the FCT, Dr Josephine Okechukwu who disclosed this during the parade of the suspects said the FCT and indeed the country is free of the coronavirus as there is no confirmed case of the disease anywhere in Nigeria.

One of the suspects Peggy Shandi said their action was merely a prank about the coronavirus, but the FCT Police Command said it was still investigating the case and on the conclusion, the suspects would be charged to court.


She described the action of the alleged pranksters as very wrong as it was capable of creating pandemonium especially in a hospital environment where the action took place.

According to her, if such false information was released on social media, it would do great damage not just to the FCT but the country at large

On his part, Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Media, Malam Sani Abubakar noted that the FCT Administration had taken steps to ensure that all contagious diseases were well contained within the FCT. He described the actions of the suspects as appalling as it disrupted the normal health service delivery process in the hospital and was capable of spreading fear and panic across the FCT and indeed the country.

He insisted that if found guilty of a crime, the full weight of the law should be brought to bear on the suspects so as to serve as a deterrent to others who might want to tow a similar line.

Vanguard News.

Whoever opposes Amotekun will die mysteriously — Gani Adams

…Says Southwest will not condone threats from anyone

By Shina Abubakar Osogbo

Are Ona kakanfo of  Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams has disclosed that people of southwest would not tolerate any form of threat from any individual or groups over its decision to safeguard the region.

He added that the masses in the region would stand by the South West governors in their bid to rid the region of criminality through the Western Nigeria Security Outfit codenamed “Operation Amotekun”.

He spoke at the South-West Security Stakeholders Group summit at The Grand Place event centre Osogbo on Friday.

Adams, who convened the meeting said anyone who opposes the Amotekun initiative would not survive the wrath of the gods of the land.

He urged the different groups who were involved in local security not to be bothered by the states government inability to engage everyone for the outfit but to prioritise curbing insecurity in the region.

He said no state government has the capacity to engage above 1000 locals for the outfit, but stressed that the challenge of insecurity is a task for the entire populace.

The Yoruba generalissimo emphasised the need for all the groups to consider socio-economic effect of insecurity as a reason to get involved in the project rather than emphasising material gains.

“We want everyone out there to know that the people of this region would not tolerate any form of threats from any individual or groups in relations to the issues of insecurity and the birth of Amotekun”.

“As you have seen events unfolding in recent times that the people of the southwest are behind the governors on the Amotekun project. Whoever opposes it would die mysteriously and the gods of Yorubaland would soon visit its wrath on its betrayers”.

It is nauseating that a group, Miyetti Allah was giving orders that Amotekun should not be allowed to stay in the region.

“We are using this medium to tell any group with criminal tendencies to leave the region. Yoruba is not known for hostility, the race is accommodating and we love to live in peace and harmony with other race, but we should not be pushed to reacting to criminality against our people, such as kidnapping, banditry, destroying farms and raping women”, he said.

He frowned at the imbalance in the nation’s polity, wondering the rationale behind the existence of security outfits in some parts of the country, while it is termed illegal in other parts.

He said it is pertinent for security groups not to take laws into their hands, but work with the police and other security agencies in ridding the nation of criminals.