Tuesday, 31 October 2023
Your Ambition To Be President Not Greater Than Nigeria – APC Tells Atiku (Full Text)
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has replied the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, following his comment on the Supreme Court verdict which affirmed the election of President Bola Tinubu.
makeitupnews reports that Atiku held a press conference on Monday at the PDP National Secretariat where he accused the President of forging his academic certificate.
He also insisted that Tinubu, the then candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was not qualified to contest the February 2023 presidential poll.
Reacting in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC told the Atiku that the nation is greater than his unrealized ambition to be president, saying that Nigeria has moved on.
The ruling party wondered why it is difficult for Atiku to “accept the popular choice of the electorate and the valid decisions of the courts.”
It claimed that the PDP candidate has missed the opportunity to use his press conference to “redeem his prestige as an elder and statesman by rising above political pettiness, and offer befitting congratulations to President Tinubu on his electoral victory.”
The party added that rather than vindicate him, history will not forget Atiku’s unwillingness to put the country first and above his personal political ambition.
Read full statement below:
ATIKU ABUBAKAR SHOULD ACCEPT DEFEAT AS A STATESMAN
Still bemoaning his electoral loss, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, earlier today, staged a press conference at which he delivered a long, windy, incoherent and preposterous speech unbefitting of a former Vice President.
In his foggy and contemptuous perspective, the Supreme Court “implies by its judgment that crime is good and should be rewarded.” Atiku regurgitated his illusory claim that President Bola Tinubu did not win the February 25, 2023 presidential election. Rather, he soliloquized that they “showed irrefutable evidence of gross irregularities, violence and manipulations during the elections”, allegations that were roundly dismissed by the Presidential Election Petitions Court and the Supreme Court as unsubstantiated and unproven. Strikingly, nowhere in his long epistle of a press statement did Atiku state that he won the election, corroborating the courts’ finding and decision that he did not, in fact, win the election.
It is delusional for Atiku, and his degenerate PDP, to have expected the courts to rely on their bogus, flimsy, unverifiable, uncorroborated, illogical and hearsay evidence to upturn an election that was conducted in substantial compliance with the Constitution and electoral laws of our land. Thankfully,it does not lie in Atiku’s mouth to declare what constitutes “incontrovertible evidence”. That is the constitutional duty of the courts and which they have discharged honorably and creditably.
For a serial election loser whose life ambition is to rule the country, we understand how pained and utterly distraught Atiku must be. However, to continue to deny and disrespect the collective will of Nigerians, disparage the judiciary, incite rage and call our democratic institutions into question is beyond the pale.
Why is it so hard for Atiku to accept the popular choice of the electorate and the valid decisions of the courts? How is it that a man of his stature can be so befuddled to this disturbing level of election and judicial denialism? Would Atiku vilify the judiciary as he is doing had he won the election and upheld by the courts as winner?
Atiku, you are right that this is not and cannot be all about you. Yes, it is about our country Nigeria. Nigeria is greater than your unrealized ambition to be president. Nigeria must move and has moved on.
Regrettably, you missed the opportunity of your press conference to redeem your prestige as an elder and statesman by rising above political pettiness, and offer befitting congratulations to President Tinubu on his electoral victory. Rather than vindicate you, history will not forget your unwillingness to put the country first and above your personal political ambition.
Signed:
Felix Morka, Esq.
National Publicity Secretary
All Progressives Congress (APC)
Reactions As Policewoman Recites National Anthem Wrongly (Video)
A policewoman has gone viral after she missed the lyrics of the National Anthem while reciting it at the Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Imo State.
During the event, which was aired live on Monday, the policewoman stood on the stage to render the National Anthem before the acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.
But while reciting, she sang the wrong lyrics, and this led to knocks from netizens. See some of the reactions below.
@Elina_Ene wrote: “Maybe it’s fear. Some people will be bold enough to criticise, and they cannot also sing the lyrics correctly. If I hear pimm.”
@brotherbarth wrote: “I bet you’ll soon hear that being able to recite the National Anthem does not determine a good Police Officer. I weep for my dear country!”
@activistfemi wrote: “What’s the penalty for this national embarrassment?@Princemoye1″
@Diji_O wrote: “She should have ended it with.. “I am not the Singer”
@KenUttih wrote: “Quite unfortunate. Wrong lyrics, wrong positioning, and she’s a policewoman. Unacceptable.”
@Chrisdaramola wrote: “It’s not her fault, How many adults can recite the National Anthem correctly?”
@codshalom77 wrote: “Chim ooo! 😂🤣😂🤣I just feel for her, in all honesty!”
@kogi_priest wrote: “What do you expect from a country where her number one citizen is using the certificate he got from a photocopy machine to govern the citizens 😂The national embarrassment that’s coming is even bigger😂”
@timotiro wrote: “As funny as this is, it’s also sad because it shows how unpatriotic most of us are. We are working for survival and not patriotism. This is another example of just how our institutions have failed us. Even our senators can’t recite the 1st, let alone 2nd, stanza of our national anthem.”
@teekaykush wrote: “We undermine competence In almost everything we do … They must have concluded that she’s good-looking and has a fairly nice voice … let’s give her the stage. Lobatan!”
Fix The Road Instead Of Buying New Cars – Mayorkun To Lawmakers
Popular singer, Adewale Mayowa Emmanuel aka Mayorkun has called on the National Assembly to fix the roads in the country instead of purchasing luxury vehicles for themselves.
makeitupnews recalls that the legislators have come under heavy backlash after they announced the plan to purchase 2023 model Toyota Prado for 469 members of the Assembly.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Services, Sunday Karimi, had justified the purchase of the vehicles in a chat with journalists, saying “Nigerian roads are bad.”
Reacting via his Snapchat page recently, singer Mayorkun urged the lawmakers to fix Nigerian roads instead of buying vehicles for themselves. He wrote, “Road no good, una dey buy new SUV. “Fix the f**king rLekki Epe Express is Terrible!. Appalling sh*t!
“Nothing like I can drive’ in this country o, I sabi road’ is a better compliment.”
I Will Love To Be A Single Mum In A Movie – Tems Speaks On Acting Meanwhile, Nigerian singer, Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has expressed hope of acting in a movie someday soon.
The Grammy-award-winning singer said during an interview with BBC in London that she would love to play single-mum roles in movies.
makeitupnews understands that Tems was raised by a single mother in Lagos, Nigeria.
“I’m ready to act in movies. Not ready right now but I’m already good at acting.
“The first character I would love to play is a single mum. It doesn’t need to be struggling. It could be like a fun single mum or a single mum that has mysteries. A gangster,” the Oscar-nominated diva said.
Tems has now joined the likes of Davido, Wizkid, and Mr Eazi, who have also spoken about joining the movie industry in the past though not as actors but as executives.
Monday, 30 October 2023
I Will Love To Be A Single Mum In A Movie – Tems Speaks On Acting
Nigerian singer, Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has expressed hope of acting in a movie someday soon. The Grammy-award-winning singer said during an interview with BBC in London that she would love to play single-mum roles in movies.
makeitupnews understands that Tems was raised by a single mother in Lagos, Nigeria.
“I’m ready to act in movies. Not ready right now but I’m already good at acting.
“The first character I would love to play is a single mum. It doesn’t need to be struggling. It could be like a fun single mum or a single mum that has mysteries. A gangster,” the Oscar-nominated diva said.
Tems has now joined the likes of Davido, Wizkid, and Mr Eazi, who have also spoken about joining the movie industry in the past though not as actors but as executives.
Actor Ninalowo Speaks On Ex-Wife Being A Mistake Of His Life
Meanwhile, Nollywood actor, Bolanle Ninalowo, has said that his ex-wife, Bunmi, was not a mistake in his life, adding that her presence in it was divine.
Ninalowo made this known in an interview on TVC’s Your View, posted Friday on Instagram. According to the actor, he is a unique being who walks with God’s grace and thus attracts divine beings.
“I’m a very special person,” Ninalowo said, adding he said, “I’m anointed. I’m grateful and very spiritual.
“My ex-wife was not a mistake in my life; it was divine, and the next woman I will meet will also be divine. You can not have a destination without a journey.
“I’m not interested in a million women. When I see the woman, I will know.”
Ninalowo and Bunmi were married for 17 years before going their separate ways. They have two children.
Sunday, 29 October 2023
Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu Send Message To Oba Of Lagos On His 80th Birthday
President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State have felicitated Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos on his 80th birthday. In a statement on Saturday issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu described the revered monarch as a fountain of wisdom and knowledge.
President Tinubu also described the monarch as his confidant and a staunch custodian of the rich culture and traditions of Lagos. The President thanked the Oba of Lagos for his unceasing prayers and support, recalling his interventions over the years, even in trying times.
He said: “Oba Akiolu and I have come a long way. He is my confidant. He is a dear friend I hold in high esteem for his integrity, honour, and forthrightness. He is always generous with his wise counsel and always willing to offer his fatherly guidance. “Baba is a defender of the truth and his people. My achievements as Lagos State Governor are partly due to his support and counsel. His Majesty’s reign has brought peace, progress, and development to the good people of Lagos.
“Today, I celebrate an extraordinary monarch whose wit and foresight are peerless. May His Majesty live long, and may his reign on the throne of his fathers continue to be prosperous.”
The statement further described Oba of Lagos as a monarch of many achievements, who rose to the pinnacle of his professional career, retiring as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police.
Sanwo-Olu Greets Oba Akiolu
Also extolling the monarch’s virtues, Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his spokesman, Gboyega, Akosile, described him as a visionary and vibrant leader.
The governor said the monarch is the epitome of dedication and selflessness in public and community service.
Sanwo-Olu said Oba Akiolu has brought quality leadership to his subjects since his ascension to the throne of his forefathers in 2003.
He said: “On behalf of my wife and family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, on the auspicious occasion of his 80th birthday. It is with great delight that I join Oba Akiolu’s family, friends, associates and subjects to celebrate his 80th birthday.
“We celebrate Oba Akiolu for the impactful and purposeful life that he has lived, especially in the last 20 years of his reign as the Oba of Lagos. He is the epitome of dedication and selflessness in public and community service.
“Oba Akiolu used his elevated positions in the Police to uplift the standards of life of the people he served. As an Assistant Inspector General of Police, he discharged his duties with the utmost professionalism, competence and dedication. He left the Nigerian Police in 2002 with impeccable records, exhibiting the true spirit of royalty He is an epitome of dedication and selflessness in public and community service.
“Since ascending the throne of his forefathers as Oba of Lagos in 2003, Oba Rilwan Akiolu has displayed exemplary leadership in Lagos. I salute his passion and commitment to the growth and development of Lagos State. Indeed, the people of Lagos are lucky to have a disciplinarian like Oba Akiolu as their paramount ruler. He is a visionary and vibrant monarch, who is always at the forefront of the fight for justice, equity and fairness for the people of Lagos, the Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
“As the Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Akiolu has used his wealth of experience and knowledge to contribute to the peace, progress and development of Lagos State. His commitment to the preservation and promotion of our rich cultural heritage and history is unparalleled.
“As Oba Akiolu joins the Octogenarian Club, it is my prayer that the Almighty God will continue to bestow on him, good health, wisdom, knowledge and understanding for a continuous reign of peace, prosperity and love in Lagos. He will witness many more fruitful years on the throne of his forefathers for the continuous service to humanity, Lagos and our dear country, Nigeria.”
Rinsola Babajide Speaks On Playing For Nigeria
Rinsola Babajide, who currently plays as a winger for Spanish Liga F team, UDG Tenerife, is overjoyed to have finally made her Super Falcons debut.
Rinsola Babajide was born in London to Nigerian parents and had the hope of playing for the Lionesses of England, but that didn’t happen. However, the 25-year-old former Liverpool and Brighton winger played for England up to the Under-21 level before she started considering switching her allegiance to her ancestral home.
Babajide’s opportunity to finally play for the Super Falcons came when she was invited to play a part in the Super Falcons’ 2024 Olympic Games Women’s qualifier against Ethiopia. During the game, which went down last Wednesday, October 25, Rinsola Babajide replaced Uchenna Kanu in the 70th minute of the encounter.
She played a part in ensuring that the Super Falcons left Ethiopia with at least a point, as the game ended in a 1-1 draw at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa. After the clash, Babajide took to her X page to acknowledge that making her debut for the Super Eagles of Nigeria is a proud moment for her and her family.
“Proud moment for me and my family making my debut. 25.10.23, a date to cherish forever”, she wrote. Rinsola Babajide would be looking forward to playing her second game for the Super Falcons when Nigeria takes on Ethiopia at Moshood Abiola National Stadium for the second leg of the 2024 Olympic Games qualifier.
If the Super Falcons knockout Ethiopia, the Nigerian team will face either Cameroon or Uganda in the next round of the qualification series.
Gov Bello Sends Message To Tinubu, Ganduje Ahead Of Kogi Guber Election
Kogi State incumbent Governor, Yahaya Bello, has told President Bola Tinubu and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, not to worry about the forthcoming governorship election in Kogi.
Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had fixed November 11 for the off-cycle governorship election in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo State.
Addressing APC supporters in Okene on Saturday, Governor Bello assured that no violence would be recorded during the poll. He assured President Tinubu and Ganduje that APC will win the election, saying he is in charge.
Bello said: “From Kogi East to Kogi West to Kogi Central, today, I am in charge.
“I am assuring you, Mr. President, I am assuring you, our National Chairman, Your Excellency, Umar Abdullahi Ghandouje, that in Kogi State, there will be no violence.
“We are going to win overwhelmingly. We have started in Kogi East. You saw the crowd. [In] Kogi West, you saw the crowd, and today Kogi Central.
“I am in charge in Kogi State. Your Excellency, your son, your loyal son, your dedicated son, your capacity son, in the name of Governor Yahaya Bello, aka the White Lion. “I am in charge in Kogi State. Kogi people are not going to allow anybody to truncate it. We are going to follow in your footsteps. Let nobody truncate it. Kogi is won by APC. Let nobody truncate it.”
Mohbad: My Brother Is Being Detained To Appease Nigerians — Naira Marley’s Sister
Shubomi Fashola, the sister of Nigerian rapper, Azeez Fashola aka Naira Marley, has claimed that her sibling is being detained to please Nigerians.
makeitupnews recalls that a magistrate court in Yaba, Lagos State, on October 4, 2023, remanded Naira Marley and popular socialite Balogun Eletu, also known as Sam Larry, over allegations of bullying the late former Marlian Music signee Mohbad.
Speaking on her brother’s continuous detention, Shubomi argued that keeping him in “detention for nearly 30 days, with no charge, no evidence, no sufficient witness, is a violation of his human rights.
She lamented that her brother was being detained to “appease” a social media mob.
Speaking via her Instagram story, she wrote, “Keeping someone who willingly travelled back to help in detention for nearly 30 days with no charge, no evidence, no sufficient witness is a violation of his human rights. Keeping him in custody to appease social media and the internet mob is crazy.
“If you have evidence against him for anything he’s been accused of, charge him! But if you don’t, release him. It shouldn’t take this long for the investigation to be done.
“We all want the truth! We all want justice. What is the delay? We’ve already lost one person; trying to lynch another is not going to bring about justice. I pray nobody experiences being accused of an atrocity you have no hand in. God is in control!”
Saturday, 28 October 2023
‘I Am Not Surprised At Your Lies, After All You Once Claimed You Do Not Like Money’ – Usman Slams Amaechi
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy, Hadiza Bala Usman, has responded to some allegations levelled against her by the former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi.
makeitupnews recalls that Amaechi on Thursday had accused Usman of documenting false narrative in her book titled, ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority’.
The former Rivers State Governor went on to make fresh claims against the former NPA boss, accusing her of awarding a contract worth N2.8 billion.
Reacting to Amaechi claims on Saturday, Usman urged the former governor to grow up and stop telling lies.
She, however, stated that Amaechi claims did not come as a surprise to her.
Usman alleged that the former Minister is notorious for the fluidity with which he tells lies, manipulates facts, and talks out of turn.
She argued that Amaechi once claimed he has no interest in money even when his public conduct says the opposite.
Her statement read in part, “Amaechi should please grow up and stop all these lies
“Recent newspaper reports of false claims attributed to the eternally petty ex-Minister of Transportation, His Excellency Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, about me did not come to me as a surprise.
“In his over two decades in public office, Nigerians must be used to the fluidity with which he tells lies, manipulates facts, and talks out of turn.
“Here is someone who once brazenly told Nigerians that he doesn’t like money, even when his public conduct contradicts this assertion. That must be the most fantastic lie that any public official, living or dead, has ever told Nigerians and so, nothing he says should astonish us.
“Aside from exaggerations, manipulation of the truth, and outright lies which he threw at his audience on Thursday, the former Minister said nothing that I did not already reveal in my memoirs: Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority.
“The book has been on sale since April 2023, but has he even read it to understand that I didn’t hide anything from Nigerians about the events surrounding my “stepping aside,” and eventual exit as Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority?
“Mr Amaechi in his rant alleged that I awarded a contract worth N2.8b. This is false. I don’t know where the former Minister got his N2.8b figure from since this accusation was nowhere in the list of infractions conveyed to me in a query arising from the reports of the Administrative Panel of Inquiry he set up.
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“The only issue relating to a contract award in the query was about the emergency purchase of operational vehicles following the vandalization of the premises of the Marina, Lagos headquarters of the NPA on October 21, 2020.”
‘Mohbad’s Father Asking Why Late Singer Bought Property In His Son’s Name’ – Iyabo Ojo
Popular Nigerian actress, Iyabo Ojo, on Friday alleged that James Aloba, the father of late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, also known as Mohbad, is aggrieved that his late son bought some property in his six-month-old son, Liam’s name.
She claimed that there is a disagreement between the family of Mohbad and that of his wife over the inheritance.
Ojo made this in an interview with media personality, Daddy Freeze, on Friday.
She said, “I’ve spoken to Mohbad’s wife. I’ve spoken to Mohbad’s mum. And Mohbad’s dad also called me and told me some things. From what Mohbad’s dad said I know that there’s an issue going on between the dad and the wife’s family.
“He said he would like me to ask Mohbad’s wife’s mother some questions which are personal family questions. Most of it is based on properties and money. And one of them was like… He said to me, ‘I bought my own property with my name so why will Mohbad buy his own property in his son’s name?’ Don’t I think it was shady?
“There’s a property that Mohbad bought in his son’s name.”
James Aloba, on Wednesday, told the Coroner’s Inquest that his son told him before he died that his mother-in-law had his landed property and others.
How NDLEA Seized 6,668 Tonnes Of Illicit Drugs Across Nigeria
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has claimed to have successfully confiscated a minimum of 6,668 tonnes of illegal substances within two years.
In a statement released on Friday, NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, revealed that the agency has apprehended and prosecuted over 36,096 suspects and 6,043 individuals, respectively, during the same timeframe.
The disclosure was made by the Chairman of the anti-narcotics agency, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), in response to Governor Dikko Radda’s request for collaboration and increased deployment of NDLEA officers throughout Katsina State to combat the issue of drug abuse.
“The drug menace is a huge issue and has destroyed the lives of our youths and communities. It is the public enemy number one, and especially the criminal aspect of it. Ninety-nine per cent of the criminals must first have access to drugs and be under the influence to perpetrate some of their acts.
“That is why the NDLEA, under the collective support of the directorates and the management, has put all efforts towards operation ‘offensive action.’ This involves going out to seize all drugs cultivated, imported or on the verge of being exported out of the country.
“Over 6,668 tonnes of illicit substances have been seized in two years, and we assure you that we will continue relentlessly until the streets are clean of drugs. This is the drug supply reduction aspect, where we arrest the perpetrators of the act, and over 36,096 suspects have been arrested and more than 6,043 already prosecuted and convicted within this period,” Marwa was quoted.
Mr Ibu’s Ex-Manager Debunks Reports Of Actor’s Death
A former manager of veteran actor, John Okafor popularly known as Mr Ibu, Chochoo has debunked rumours that the actor is dead.
Chochoo in an interview with Daily Trust said contrary to the news making rounds on social media the actor who is currently ill is alive.
He further stated that Mr Ibu is expected to go for surgery on Saturday or early Sunday morning.
According to Chochoo, people have ‘killed the actor online several times in the past two months’.
Chochoo said, “He has been dying online for about two months now. I don’t know where they are getting the news from because online he is already dead but offline he is still alive. He is having another operation either today or tomorrow morning. I was his former manager but we are still very close. Online he is dead already but he is very much alive in reality.”
Speaking on the issue of amputation of the actor’s leg due to diabetes, he said it is only two toes which are affected that may be cut off. In his words, the toes were ‘getting rotten’.
Chochoo added, “He has had some complications based on his health but this time he is battling with diabetes. Contrary to reports online that they want to cut off his leg, the doctors advised him to cut off two toes because they have been affected by the illness because they were getting rotten.”
Tinubu will work with Atiku, Obi, says FG, SANs hail S’Court
The Federal Government has said that in spite of Thursday’s judgment that affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu, he is open to working with the major contenders in the February 25 presidential election; Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said this on Friday as a sequel to Thursday’s Supreme Court judgment that affirmed Tinubu as the winner of the election while dismissing the appeals filed by Obi and Atiku.
The apex court on Thursday upheld the September 6 ruling of the Presidential Election Petitions Court.
The five-member panel of the PEPC, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani, in a unanimous judgment, dismissed the petitions by Atiku, Obi and the Allied People’s Movement challenging Tinubu’s victory.
Dissatisfied by the ruling of the PEPC, the PDP and LP presidential candidates filed an appeal before the Supreme Court. They respectively asked the apex court to annul Tinubu’s victory and declare them as winners.
The seven-man panel of the Supreme Court was led by Justice Inyang Okoro, while other justices on the panel were Uwani Aji, Mohammed Garba, Ibrahim Saulawa, Adamu Jauro, Abubakar Tijjani, and Emmanuel Agim agreed with the lead judgment dismissing Atiku and Obi’s appeals.
But following the Supreme Court’s Thursday ruling that brought the litigation to a conclusive end, the minister in an interview with one of our correspondents on Friday night said the President remained open to work with the opposition.
Asked if Tinubu would be ready to work with both Atiku and Obi, Idris stated, “Since the President won this election, he has always invited people to come and join him for the good of Nigeria. Mr President is not the kind of person to say ‘I have become president, everybody should go away’. No. They (Atiku and Obi) are the ones that have not heeded that call.
“Anytime any of them is willing to join hands with the President, why not? The President is open and willing to accommodate everybody, irrespective of religious, social and political affiliation so that we can all join hands for Nigeria to go forward.”
Earlier at a news conference in Abuja on Friday, he called on Nigerians to put the election matters behind them and join hands together with the government to tackle the myriads of challenges confronting the nation.
He said the President had made it clear that he would be a President for all Nigerians, irrespective of their regional, ethnic, partisan or religious affiliations. He added that Tinubu, since assuming office on May 29, had been working tirelessly to actualise the Renewed Hope Agenda that formed the basis of his campaign.
He stated further, “The courts have spoken and the President and the governing party, the All Progressives Congress, have welcomed this judicial victory as pronounced. We thank the judiciary for the painstaking work that they have done and for rising up to the occasion in fulfilment of their constitutional mandate as the final arbiters of electoral proceedings in the country.
“Now that the legal contest regarding the outcome of the presidential election is now behind us, it is time for all of us to
come together and move forward, into a season of governing that is without distraction.
Tinubu will work with Atiku, Obi, says FG, SANs hail S’Court
28th October 2023
Tinubu, Obi and Atiku
Tinubu, Obi and Atiku
Tunde Ajaja, Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Godfrey George, Ayoola Olasupo, Daniel Ayantoye, Muhammed Lawal and Daniels Igoni
Govt planning national discourse on unity – Minister
Jonathan visits Aso Villa, ex-VP deserves rest, says aide
The Federal Government has said that in spite of Thursday’s judgment that affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu, he is open to working with the major contenders in the February 25 presidential election; Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said this on Friday as a sequel to Thursday’s Supreme Court judgment that affirmed Tinubu as the winner of the election while dismissing the appeals filed by Obi and Atiku.
The apex court on Thursday upheld the September 6 ruling of the Presidential Election Petitions Court.
The five-member panel of the PEPC, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani, in a unanimous judgment, dismissed the petitions by Atiku, Obi and the Allied People’s Movement challenging Tinubu’s victory.
Dissatisfied by the ruling of the PEPC, the PDP and LP presidential candidates filed an appeal before the Supreme Court. They respectively asked the apex court to annul Tinubu’s victory and declare them as winners.
The seven-man panel of the Supreme Court was led by Justice Inyang Okoro, while other justices on the panel were Uwani Aji, Mohammed Garba, Ibrahim Saulawa, Adamu Jauro, Abubakar Tijjani, and Emmanuel Agim agreed with the lead judgment dismissing Atiku and Obi’s appeals.
But following the Supreme Court’s Thursday ruling that brought the litigation to a conclusive end, the minister in an interview with one of our correspondents on Friday night said the President remained open to work with the opposition.
Asked if Tinubu would be ready to work with both Atiku and Obi, Idris stated, “Since the President won this election, he has always invited people to come and join him for the good of Nigeria. Mr President is not the kind of person to say ‘I have become president, everybody should go away’. No. They (Atiku and Obi) are the ones that have not heeded that call.
“Anytime any of them is willing to join hands with the President, why not? The President is open and willing to accommodate everybody, irrespective of religious, social and political affiliation so that we can all join hands for Nigeria to go forward.”
Earlier at a news conference in Abuja on Friday, he called on Nigerians to put the election matters behind them and join hands together with the government to tackle the myriads of challenges confronting the nation.
He said the President had made it clear that he would be a President for all Nigerians, irrespective of their regional, ethnic, partisan or religious affiliations. He added that Tinubu, since assuming office on May 29, had been working tirelessly to actualise the Renewed Hope Agenda that formed the basis of his campaign.
He stated further, “The courts have spoken and the President and the governing party, the All Progressives Congress, have welcomed this judicial victory as pronounced. We thank the judiciary for the painstaking work that they have done and for rising up to the occasion in fulfilment of their constitutional mandate as the final arbiters of electoral proceedings in the country.
“Now that the legal contest regarding the outcome of the presidential election is now behind us, it is time for all of us to come together and move forward, into a season of governing that is without distraction.
“These are indeed challenging economic times, not just for Nigeria, but also for many countries around the world, and all hands must be on deck to tackle the challenges confronting us.”
Govt plans discourse
In a related development, the minister said the Federal Government was planning a national discourse to address the issues of national values and unity. He stressed that the discourse would be distinct from the constitutional conference organised by previous governments, saying this had nothing to do with the constitution but national orientation.
He stated in the interview, “It’s true the Federal Government is planning a national discourse for national orientation. It’s a discourse for us to look at our nation again and decide where we want to be as a nation, and citizens and everybody would key into that.
“Everybody knows what they are expecting from Nigeria and citizens can also do a lot for their country. We need to agree on the kind of nation we want to build. What our founding fathers left for us is gradually being eroded. Trust in the leadership has waned over the years and that is clear.
“We must agree on what we want as a country, where we want to be and then work collectively towards achieving that. There would be a national discourse so that Nigerians would have the consciousness about their country and strive towards keeping that for the benefit of all.”
Asked when the discourse would hold, he said the decision had yet to be taken but that it would hold soon, noting, “The previous ones were for constitutional reforms but this one is about all the key segments of the society coming together; youth, women, elders, religious leaders, professionals. There will be representation. We will come together to agree on the set values that we want to promote as a country so that everybody will move in that direction. The difference is that this is about value orientation that all of us will collectively agree on.”
Hardship temporary – Minister
The minister also said the President had implemented reforms that would yield benefits for all and serve as the necessary foundation for economic growth and prosperity Nigerians deserve, noting that the pain being experienced would only last a short time.
He noted that the removal of petrol subsidy, envisaged by the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 was freeing up significant resources for federal and state governments to invest in infrastructure and welfare programmes for the citizens.
He said the harmonisation of the foreign exchange regime was to close loopholes that had been exploited over the years, leading to the loss of billions of dollars.
He added, “The combined impact of these reforms, no doubt, has produced pain for many of our citizens, which the President and the administration have never shied away from acknowledging. No serious government seeks to inflict burdens on its people.
“We are very clear in explaining that these pains being felt are a short-term sacrifice to make for the kind of country that we want and that we deserve.”
He outlined some of the efforts so far made in the short and medium term, including the monthly provisional wage increment of N35,000 for six months, establishment of an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas that would create an enabling environment for businesses; launch of a N100bn CNG bus rollout programme to deliver CNG-powered buses and establishment of a presidential committee to drive implementation.
APC, Onanuga speak
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also said the President had never hidden his intention to work harmoniously with the opposition.
He stated, “If you read the president’s statement yesterday (Thursday), you will notice he extended out an olive branch to them, saying he will welcome their participation in his government. This has been consistent with his declaration on May 29 when he came in.
“He said he sees it as a normal thing in democracy for them to contest his victory and still regard all of them as brothers, members of the same family living in the same house but in different rooms.
“The President stands by that declaration and will always welcome them. You remember he said he was not a ‘superman’ but a human being that will always welcome alternative ideas that the opposition may also provide. The ball is now in their court to take the olive branch President Tinubu has extended to them.”
He said they observed that 24 hours after the Supreme Court judgment, both Atiku and Obi had kept mute.
When reminded that Obi was not in the country, the presidential aide said distance was not an obstacle, adding, “The world is a global village. Wherever Obi is at the moment, nothing stops him from congratulating the President. That will be his demonstration that he has forgotten all about this election matter and is ready to uphold the verdict of the Supreme Court, which we know is also final.”
Speaking on reports that Tinubu might use the reconciliation process as a smokescreen to go after his political opponents after the judgment, Onanuga dismissed the notion, saying, “President Tinubu is a democrat who won the election free and fair. He is also an accommodating president who welcomes ideas. The President is not someone who believes anybody with a contrary opinion must be alienated. No, they are Nigerians too.”
Also, the APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said Tinubu deserved to be commended for walking his talks, adding that the appointment of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, were a testament that he was indeed running an inclusive government.
He added, “It goes without saying that the APC is a progressive party. Right from the very beginning, the President has made it very clear that he wants to carry everyone along. The idea is to renew the hope of Nigerians and give them a new sense of belonging and direction.
“Regardless of where you belong, as long as you have something to contribute to the progress of Nigeria, you will be welcome by the president and the ruling party. What Atiku and others have done by going to court instead of resorting to the use of cutlass is a welcome democratic process. But now that the Supreme Court has affirmed the legitimacy of the president, it is for them to be good sportsmen by coming on board and contributing to the progress of Nigeria.”
Jonathan visits Villa
Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday visited Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, saying with the elections over, past and present leaders and the electorate must work together for a better future.
“Elections are over and so we must move forward. Yes, we have challenges economically now, but we still have what it takes to lead Africa,” Jonathan affirmed while speaking to State House Correspondents after he emerged from closed-door talks with the President.
Referring to his active role in peace and diplomacy in West Africa and across the continent, the former President said he had been actively involved in regional dialogues with plans to visit Kenya and Liberia in the coming days.
Commenting on the court judgment, Jonathan said, “We need to bring all our political leaders together. If top leaders continue fighting, they might not suffer that much, but the downtrodden will.”
Diri explains visit
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Friday, clarified his visit to the Villa on Thursday, where he was seen felicitating with the President in his office after the Supreme Court judgment.
Speaking at Igbedi community in Constituency 2 of Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state during the visit of the PDP governorship campaign on Friday, Diri said he was at liberty to congratulate the President following the Supreme Court verdict on the presidential election.
A statement by his spokesperson and member of the Publicity Directorate of the Bayelsa PDP Governorship Campaign Council, Mr Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying he was at the presidential villa to discuss serious state matters with the president, whom he said attended to the issues positively.
He stated, “Yesterday (Thursday), I was in Abuja and most of you saw the video trending. The opposition is now jittery and is telling lies. Of course, that is in their character. As a sitting governor, there is a sitting President and I do not owe them any explanation about my visit to the president.
“If the Supreme Court affirms the president of the country, as a sitting governor, I reserve all the rights to visit him. But beyond that, I went for very serious state business and I can tell you that Mr President attended to all the issues I raised. Those whose names have been delisted by amendment number one of INEC can no longer sleep. They will continue to have sleepless nights.”
SANs hail judgment
Some senior lawyers on Friday hailed the Supreme Court judgment, as some of them also demanded accountability from the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Lagos-based Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, said the judgment of the apex court was in tandem with the law of the land, adding, “I think the judgment generally represents the position of the law in accordance with electoral jurisprudence, which is quite a technical aspect of the law that is difficult to assail. Even if the lawyers of the petitioners were changed to represent the respondents, the result would have been the same.
“The problem with this is that the people who are challenging the elections don’t have access to the election materials because they are in the hands of the electoral umpire.”
He added that the statement made by one of the Justices that INEC’s failure to upload election results affected confidence in the system was a weighty one, noting that the declaration showed a lack of capacity and failure on the part of INEC. He said there should be a penalty for such an infraction.
He said, “This is such a serious thing that affected a good number of Nigerians who came out to vote because they believed the process would be credible and transparent. It would be devoid of manipulation by human agents. By this, the head of INEC should not be allowed to conduct elections.”
Another senior lawyer, Mr Isiaka Olagunju (SAN), corroborating Adegboruwa’s stance, said the judgment was simply a restatement of the position of the law.
He added, “There is nothing novel about what the apex court said. Even the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal restated that position, which is the position of the law. It is very unfortunate if a lawyer who has been involved in election petition cases says that a judge or justice who made such a decision has been compromised.
“Thursday’s judgment was clearly the position of the law. There are several cases which followed that precedence. If you read the Oyetola Vs Adeleke judgment, you would see that there is really nothing different from what the Supreme Court said. How can you confer special status on the FCT? The Supreme Court did justice to the law, and its decision should put everyone to rest,” he said.
Another senior lawyer, Mr Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), said the judgment had been able to settle a lot of issues regarding the electoral process, noting that the verdict was unassailable.
He added, “They established that the IReV is not a collation centre and that the FCT is not special in Nigeria. All votes are equal and so there is nothing like a special voting requirement for Abuja. They have also demonstrated that we need to do much more in order to show that there is non-compliance in an election.
“You have to give particulars and see how it can substantially affect the outcome of the result. More particularly, they have been able to hold the key point that you must also show your own scores as an alternative to the one INEC announced. The petitioners’ cases are abysmally poor and so it was quite expected that the outcome could not be other than what the Supreme Court decided.”
Falana faults INEC
Meanwhile, Mr Femi Falana (SAN) said the failure of INEC to conduct credible elections created the avenue for the judiciary to be part of the process.
Falana who stated this during a Friday interview on a programme on Channels TV, said, “It is very clear that Nigerians have a long way to go in terms of ensuring that credible elections are conducted. Nigerians need elections that will be devoid of acrimony, one that everyone would be proud of.
“We are still a long way from there even with the Thursday judgement. For now, the presidential election is concluded. It should have been concluded in February but it has just been concluded by the Supreme Court and it shouldn’t be so.
“The judiciary should not determine the winners of elections. Judges are not suited to determine the winners of elections. That is a job reserved for INEC if things are done properly. That is why we must put an end to the shame that becomes our law in terms of conducting elections.”
Friday, 27 October 2023
IGP Mandates Treatment Of Gunshot Victims Without Police Reports
The acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has mandated the treatment of gunshot victims without police report.
makeitupNews reports that the police boss, gave the order in a police internal memo signed by the Force Principal Staff Officer, Olatunji Disu, dated October 25, 2023.
In the memo addressed to all Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and the Commandants of Police Colleges in Ikeja, Kaduna, Oji-River, Maiduguri and EnuguEnugu, the IGP explained that the directive was in line with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017.
According to him, the Act, which came into effect on the eve of 2018, mandates all health facilities to accept victims of gunshot for immediate treatment without a police report.
The memo read, “I forward herewith a copy of letter HMSH&SW/IG/CTCV/ 10/2023 dated 3rd October, 2023 received from Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare on the above-underlined subject, and write to convey the directive of the Inspector-General of Police that you comply with and enforce the provisions of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017 without any hesitation.
“The Inspector-General of Police further directs that you make this a subject of lecture and circulate widely for the members of the public to be aware of our compliance with the National Law.”
This platform understands that in an attached letter from the Minstry of Health and Social Welfare, the Minister of State, Olatunji Alausa, had called the IGP’s attention to the low compliance of the act.
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The minister attributed the low compliance to the provision of the law to poor awareness among policemen and sympathisers who may fear being implicated.
Actor Ninalowo Speaks On Ex-Wife Being A Mistake Of His Life
Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo has said that his ex-wife, Bunmi, was not a mistake in his life, adding that her presence in it was divine.
Ninalowo made this known in an interview on TVC’s Your View, posted Friday on Instagram.
According to the actor, he is a unique being who walks with God’s grace and thus attracts divine beings.
‘I’m a very special person,” Ninalowo began. He continued, “I’m anointed. I’m graceful and very spiritual.
“My ex-wife was not a mistake in my life; it was divine, and the next woman I will meet will also be divine. You can not have a destination without a journey.
“I’m not interested in a million women. When I see the woman, I will know.”
Ninalowo and Bunmi were married for 17 years before going their separate ways. They have two children.
‘I Was Cheating, Breaking Her Heart’ – Bolanle Ninalowo
Recall, the actor in the interview with media personality, Chude Jideonwo, said there was a time he was cheating and breaking his wife’s heart because he was feeling young.
The actor revealed he was unavailable to his family and was busy pursuing his dreams.
Bolanle Ninalowo said he had to make amends after realizing he had lost control over his wife because she eventually started to perceive him as an outsider in their home.
He said, “The years when I was feeling too young and cheating all day, breaking her heart and everything to the years when I wasn’t there and pursuing my dreams.
“But I forgot this was a human being that was taking records and taking experiences of her life as well. So, I became somebody that she didn’t recognise anymore.
“At some point, I couldn’t call her to pick up my call. The woman I had control over, I had no more control because she outgrew me.”
Davido Responds To Dammy Krane’s Debt Allegations
Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has responded to the debt allegation of his colleague, Oyindamola Emmanuel, better known as Dammy Krane.
makeitupnews reports that Dammy Krane has consistently accused Davido of being reluctant to settle the debt for his songwriting contribution to an earlier released track, even after contacting the DMW boss privately.
On Friday morning, he took to his X handle to troll Davido and list out the things Davido owes him, stressing he filed a petition against the singer at a police station about a year ago.
Responding, Davido stated that he never got paid for the three verses he sang on Dammy Krane’s song nine years ago, including the royalties.
He wrote: “I never got paid for that also my 3 verses I’ve gifted you all your dead careeer … .. oh yea plus my royalties, we charge now so that’s about $150 k x3 a verse.. also house rent and food when u stayed in my house in Atlanta when you were homeless ..”
Businessman, Abu Salami Accuses Davido Of Running With His N218 Million
Meanwhile, Davido, has been accused of breaching a financial agreement between him and a businessman, known as Abusalami, on Instagram.
makeitupnews understands that Abusalami took to his Instagram page to allege that the renowned musician breached the agreement in relation to a children’s project. The complainant claimed he paid Davido the sum of 218 million naira, out of a total project cost of 326 million naira, but that the singer did not fulfil his obligations.
In a detailed statement shared on his Instagram page, Abusalami explains that the project, which involved young talents from 20 different states, was scheduled but ultimately cancelled by Davido, resulting in a financial loss of 42 million naira for Abusalami.
Abusalami also claimed that he requested Davido to do a commercial about the project, which the singer refused to do. He stressed that the singer went away with his money without delivering the project, labelling Davido as a “thief.”
He also highlighted his own financial difficulties and the potential negative impact on the young players who were supposed to benefit from the project.
Details Of Goodluck Jonathan’s Meeting With Tinubu Emerge
Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, on Friday, met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Jonathan, while speaking at the end of the meeting, described himself as a “roving ambassador”.
The former President spoke while fielding questions from State House reporters after a closed door meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Jonathan revealed that he came to brief President Tinubu on his regional, continental, and international assignments.
He further stated that he used the visit to congratulate him on his victory at the apex court.
Jonathan said, “I have been involved in a number of things in West Africa and Africa. In fact, tomorrow (Saturday), I will be in Kenya and on the 14th of November I will be in Liberia, so I am like a roving Ambassador seeing how we can bring peace to the subregion and the continent.”
Speaking on how Nigeria could lead Africa with the successful transition of power, Jonathan said: “That is what all Africans are saying, I had a programme on democracy dialogue and Prof Lumumba spoke there, he emphasized the need for Nigeria to take a lead in Africa. Yes, we have challenges economically now but we still have what it takes to lead Africa.
“These are some of the issues I will continue to have conversations with Mr President, including briefing him on all my foreign programmes. They are not personal issues, traditionally, former presidents when they go outside the country for continental or regional programmes and even some international. When you come home, you brief the president that is the tradition.
“When you see me here, what we come to do, to move Nigeria forward and to move ECOWAS forward and to move the African continent forward.”
#BBNaija: Why I Slammed Ilebaye – Doyin Spills
Big Brother Naija reality star Doyin David has opened up on the reason she lashed out at her fellow all-star housemate, Ilebaye.
Doyin revealed this during an Instagram live session on Thursday after a follower queried her over her altercation with the Gen Z Baddie.
Speaking about her behavior, Doyin said she lashed out at Ilebaye because she did not return the favour of fighting for her after she defended the latter against Venita and other housemates who attacked Ilebaye.
She said, “So what thing you people need to understand is sometimes that outspoken strong person also needs somebody to be there for them and that’s the truth there is no human being that doesn’t need somebody to be there for them.
“What you people saw was me lashing out, I want you to paint a scenario where you stand up for your friend against some other people and that same person you are standing up for against some other people you see them kiking with the people that you fought them for, I was pained.
“I didn’t feel like I had a friend, I also needed a friend, I don’t think you people even have an idea what I went through in that house and how mentally draining it was feeling like I did not have anybody so forgive me if I’m a human being and I feel let down and I’m lashing out that doesn’t make me a bad person it just makes me a human and that was it, I was lashing out.”
Thursday, 26 October 2023
IGP Decorates 12 AIGs, 19 CPs (Photos)
The acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, decorated 12 Assistant Inspectors General of Police and 19 Commissioners of Police with their new ranks.
Naija News gathered that the ceremony took place at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The Force Headquarters said the event followed the approval by the Police Service Commission of the NPF recommendation for the promotion of the 31 AIGs and CPs, as well as 5,687 other dedicated senior officers within the Nigeria Police Force.
The 12 former CPs now decorated AIGs are, Ogundele Ayodeji, Patrick Edung, Badru Lawal; Bartholomew Onyeka; Suleiman Yusuf; Idowu Owohunwa; Rhoda Olofu; Godwin Aghaulor; Effiom Ekot, Stanley Ude; Longe Patrick; and Ndu Anene.
The occasion had in attendance the Governors of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Kogi, and Lagos States, Dame Patience Ebele Jonathan, IG Usman Baba (retd.) and his wife; the Senator representing Kogi Central, and royal fathers from Kogi and Lagos States, members of the Force Management Team; and other senior police officers, relatives and loved ones of the promotees, and well-wishers.
The spokesperson of the force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed this in a statement made available to newsmen.
Adejobi noted, “The IGP, in his address, charged the promotees to continue to exhibit the core values of service, sacrifice, and selflessness in the discharge of their duties. He also commended their dedication and hard work, which has earned them these well-deserved promotions.
“He noted that the newly decorated officers have demonstrated exceptional commitment to maintaining law and order in their respective duty posts, and as such, the new ranks symbolise their added responsibilities and the trust placed in them to continue leading by example.
“The Inspector General of Police congratulates all the promoted officers and encourages them to redouble their efforts in service to our great nation.
“He also appreciates the Police Service Commission for their thorough and objective evaluation of the officers’ performances assuring of improved collaborative efforts to deepen excellence and uphold the NPF’s duty to serve and protect the people of Nigeria.”
See photos below:
“BULLETPROOF” Davido Reacts Amid Allegations of Unpaid Debt from Blessing CEO, Samklef, Dammy Krane, Others
Davido recently resorted to Twitter to offer his genuine gratitude to his devoted supporters in the midst of a cloud of allegations. In an act of thanks, he sent a tweet to those devoted followers who have stood by his side during this trying time. This gesture was made to thank his devoted fanbase and demonstrate the ongoing support he receives.
In the last few days, Davido has been hit with a slew of charges, the majority of which center on him owing people money.
The most prominent of these claims came from AbuSalam, who made a staggering revelation that Davido owed him a substantial 218 million Naira, stemming from a deal that had not been fulfilled. AbuSalam’s assertion included the disheartening detail that Davido had not repaid the money as promised.
This revelation set off a chain reaction of additional allegations. Blessing CEO, for instance, disclosed that Davido was in debt to a car dealer, to the tune of 4.5 million Naira. This amount related to the purchase of a vehicle for one of Davido’s aides, Israel. The failure to settle this debt had sparked growing frustration.
Even fellow artist SamKlef added to the mounting chorus of voices claiming that Davido owed some people money. Samklef had revealed that some people had slid into his dms to talk to him about the singer owing them.
However, in response to this torrent of accusations, Davido has opted to address the situation through his social media presence. His choice of words in his tweets carries a powerful message of resilience. By asserting that he is “bulletproof,” Davido conveys the unwavering determination to withstand the allegations and emerge unscathed. It is a statement that reaffirms his unwavering commitment to his stance, despite the mounting pressures.
Furthermore, Davido’s tweet, “joy is coming,” hints at a sense of optimism and anticipation for brighter days ahead. It underscores his belief that the allegations and controversies that have surrounded him will not deter him. In fact, they seem to inspire him to look forward to a future filled with positivity and happiness.
Buhari Reacts As Supreme Court Affirms Tinubu’s Victory
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has welcomed the ruling of the Supreme Court which dismissed the appeals against the election of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement on Thursday by his media aide, Garba Shehu, the former President said the decision of the apex court to dismiss the appeals by Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), is a welcome relief to him.
He said the affirmation of Tinubu’s victory by the apex court was a reaffirmation of the will of the majority of the people against the determined will of a hard-fighting minority.
The former President, therefore, wished the President and his team a successful term in office.
He said: “Former President Muhammadu Buhari says the decision to dismiss the appeals by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), by the Supreme Court, is a welcome relief to him and to a majority of the citizens of Nigeria.
“The former President repeated what he said on the earlier 6 September verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court, which affirmed President @officialABAT’s victory, that the welcome decision is “a reaffirmation of the will of the majority of the people against the determined will of a hard-fighting minority.”
“Now that we have arrived at the last bus-stop, after a tortuous 8-months of expensive legal journey, the nation deserves a break. The opposition has fought a good fight. Having now exhausted their rights as constitutionally allowed, they should take the hand of fellowship extended by the Tinubu/Shettima @OfficialAPCNg government. Let them allow the Government to run their administration and the people to enjoy the full benefits of the promises the All Progressives Congress (APC) made.”
“The former President expressed concern over low voting percentages all over the country, especially in urban areas, and said this should change, given the acceptance and vibrancy of democracy in Nigeria.
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“He wishes the President and his team a successful term in office.”
Why Mohbad Refused To Open Up About Naira Marley, Sam Larry’s Assaults – Mother
Abosede, the mother of the late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has revealed the reason her son refused to open up on the several assaults and bullying by his former label boss, Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley and his ally, Sam Larry.
Recall that Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27 and was buried the following day.
The singer’s death generated mixed reactions in the entertainment industry as well as among the general public, which prompted the Lagos State Government to direct a coroner’s inquest into the death.
Naija News reports that Mohbad’s mother, on Wednesday, during the Coroner’s Inquest, said her son was shielding her from being killed by Naira Marley and Sam Larry.
According to her, the late singer lived in fear due to the constant harassment from the former record boss, adding she is uncertain about police inviting Naira Marley for questioning after the case was reported.
She said, “He always mentioned Naira Marley and Sammy Larry, and he was always shaking. I begged him several times to allow me to speak with them, but he refused, saying he didn’t want them to kill me.
“The last time he travelled for a show, after he came back, he mentioned to me that Naira Marley came to attack him, he reported the case to the police but I don’t know if the police invited Naira Marley.”
What Mohbad Told Me About Naira Marley Before He Died
Meanwhile, Mr Aloba Joseph, disclosed on Wednesday what his late son told him about popular singer, Azeez Fashola (a.k.a Naira Marley) before he passed away.
Testifying at a coroner’s court today, the late singer’s father, Mr Aloba, who acknowledged that his deceased son had been living with Naira Marley since December 2019, said Mohbad had told him that he could settle his misunderstandings with the Marlian record label boss.
Mohbad’s father further told the Coroner, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi, that he and his son lived together for 18 years. He claimed not to know the exact house in which his late son was living with Naira Marley until he passed away.
While testifying that his son left his (Joseph‘s) house at the age of consent and began to assist Marley while embarking on his own career in music, Joseph said that he saw the deceased three days before his death.
He added that he saw the deceased’s casket only in a picture. Joseph further asserted that the deceased’s landed property was in the custody of his mother-in-law, adding that the deceased often told him about his possessions held by his wife and her family.
BREAKING: Supreme Court Passes Final Judgement, Dismisses Peter Obi’s Appeal On Double Nomination
The Supreme Court has dismissed the petition of the Labour Party and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, challenging President Bola Tinubu’s election victory on double nomination.
Naija News reports that the Supreme Court passed a final judgement on all petitions filed before it challenging the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal election, which declared Tinubu as the winner of the February 25th poll conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Earlier, the Supreme Court, presided by Justice John Okoro, dismissed the petitions filed by candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, on the ground that they lacked merit.
It subsequently, ruled out all petitions by Obi, saying they were related to the appeal by his PDP counterpart and hence lacked merit. More details shortly…
Supreme Court Verdict: ‘Rise Up, Congratulate Tinubu’ – Presidency Tells Atiku
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the Febuary 25th election, Atiku Abubakar, to congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after the Supreme Court dismissed his appeal challenging the 2023 presidential election.
makeitupnews reports that Atiku had argued that Tinubu submitted forged documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and asked the court to allow him to file the evidence obtained from Tinubu’s record at Chicago State University.But Tinubu objected on the grounds that Atiku made the plea outside the 180-days stipulated period.
The seven-man panel led by Justice Inyang Okoro, in his ruling on Thursday, held that Atiku’s appeal lacked merit and “is hereby dismissed.” Reacting to the verdict, the presidential aide, in a post via X, urged Atiku to act as a true statesman and boldly congratulate President Tinubu on his victory at the 2023 poll.
Temitope noted that considering the court ruling, it was evident that Tinubu won the majority of lawful votes and was validly elected as Nigeria’s president.
He wrote: “Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar should now rise up, act true to type, as a statesman and congratulate President Bola Tinubu, his old ally and friend. From the Supreme Court proceedings so far, it is clear that President Tinubu won the majority of lawful votes and was validly elected as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Supreme Court: It’s Over For Atiku, Write Your Long Delayed Congratulatory Message To Tinubu – Onanuga
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has mocked the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the February 25 election, Atiku Abubakar, as the Supreme Court failed to admit fresh evidence of a forgery case against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Naija News earlier reported that the court held that the Electoral Act prohibits the amendment of an election petition in such a manner, and hence, Atiku’s motion can’t be granted.
Justice John Okoro held that the time fixed for tendering of evidence has passed and cannot be extended. He added that the 180 days imposed for hearing of election petitions is immutable and cannot be extended.
According to him, the Supreme Court can not invoke section 22 of its act after the 180 days for the trial court to deliver judgment has lapsed.
In reading his judgement, Justice Okoro chose to first determine the merit of the motion by Atiku and the PDP to supply fresh evidence in the form of documents obtained from the Chicago State University on President Bola Tinubu’s academic records.
He highlighted the importance of ascertaining whether the nation’s law allows the court to accept fresh evidence at this stage of the petition. In a post via X, Onanuga said it is over for Atiku following the court ruling on his ‘so-called’ new evidence against Tinubu.
He urged the former Vice President to write his long-delayed congratulatory message to Tinubu, his old-time friend.
He wrote: “Supreme Court has spoken: Atiku’s so-called new evidence runs foul of the Electoral Act and the constitution. It’s all over for the PDP presidential candidate.
“The Waziri should write his long delayed congratulatory message to his old friend.”
Supreme Court Takes Final Decision On Need For 25% In Abuja To Win Presidential Election
The Supreme Court on Thursday considered the controversial issue of the mandatory need to secure 25 percent of votes in Abuja to be declared the winner of the presidential election in Nigeria.
The apex court in its ruling however submitted that a presidential candidate does not need to secure 25 percent in Abuja to win an election.
The Supreme Court said it did not see anything wrong in the position of the Court of Appeal that a presidential candidate needs not secure 25 percent in Abuja once he satisfied one-quarter in two-thirds of the state.
The apex court gave the verdict while delivering judgement in the case by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar against the victory of President Bola Tinubu at the February 25 elections and his affirmation by the Presidential Election Petition Court.
The court held that there is no merit in the issue of the requirement to secure 25 percent in Abuja and therefore resolved the matter against the appellants.
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