I Support Strong States-Prof Osinbanjo

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July 2, 2018

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on Friday advocated stronger and autonomous states in the country’s federal system with some powers devolved to them.He said strong states would help to eradicate poverty in the country.

Osinbajo made the remarks while delivering a lecture at the special parliamentary session in commemoration of the 3rd anniversary of the 8th Assembly of Lagos State House of Assembly held at its hallowed chambers in Alausa, Ikeja.

He spoke on “Strengthening Legislative Institutions: Panacea for Eradicating Democracy.”

The vice-president said: “As against the general belief that the creation of a conducive environment for business by the government for business to thrive to checkmate mass poverty, poverty can be eradicated by having strong states with a strong judiciary, executive and legislature.

“They will in turn channel the resources of the state to creating wealth for the citizens and eradicate poverty.

“The three arms of government in the states must work proactively for the economic development of its citizens.

“To achieve this, there must be devolution of powers to the states to enable them control their resources.”

Osinbajo recalled the feat achieved by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who as Premier of Western Region, recorded achievements that were acknowledged worldwide and most of which had remained enduring relying solely on revenue from taxes and cocoa.

He said that although he supported devolution of power and restructuring, he believed that even without restructuring it was possible to create a strong state without any major constitutional changes.

He cited how collaboration among the three arms of government in Lagos State right from the administration of ex-Gov. Bola Tinubu to the incumbent (Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode), the state was able to win many cases instituted against the Federal Government at the Supreme Court.

According to the professor of law, this had given more powers to not just to Lagos State but to other states.

“The Lagos Assembly had pushed the frontiers of federalism by passing laws which have strengthened federalism in Nigeria.”

For outstanding economic growth, Osinbajo said there was a need to focus more on education, healthcare and provision of jobs through deliberate programmes and investing more in the sectors for the common good of the people.

The vice-president said the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration was working hard to create an enabling environment for businesses to grow especially micro-credit schemes for those at the bottom of the economic ladder to lift them out of poverty.

He commended the Lagos State Government for creating exemplary institutions for economic growth and development.

On security, Osinbajo restated his call for state police to tackle the security challenges confronting the nation, saying “local policing is very important as part of security architecture.”

In his remarks, Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode praised the leadership of the state assembly for what he called team dynamics and massive infrastructure development at the assembly complex.

According to Ambode, the three arms of government in the state have always worked together and have strived to show good examples of promoting the tenets of democracy and what growth and development should be.

“With the collaboration, we will take Lagos to where it is supposed to be.”

Earlier in his address of welcome, the Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, said in three years, the Assembly had passed 28 bills and over 100 resolutions on education, health, power, transport, security and environment for the well-being of the people.

Obasa commended Ambode for a good job being done which he described as visible to all.

“He has turned the whole state to one construction site.”

While stressing the important role of the legislature in a democracy, Obasa said the executive should ensure its survival by playing the role of a “father” and ensuring a cordial relationship between the arms to avert instability and anarchy.

Dignitaries at the event include the House of Representatives Majority Leader, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, APC Southwest Women Leader, Chief Mrs Kemi Nelson, APC National Legal Adviser, Mr Babatunde Ogala,

Others are human rights activist and lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tunji Bello, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy Mr Kehinde Bamigbetan and other members of the state Executive Council as well as body of Permanent Secretaries and traditional rulers.

source : social media

JUST IN: Court grants ex-NSA, Sambo Dasuki bail

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bvichannel1

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July 2, 2018

A Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, on Monday, granted bail to the former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd).

Dasuki had been on trial for alleged diversion of funds meant for procurement of arms to combat the Boko Haram menace to the 2015 President campaign of then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The bail granted the embattled former presidential aide, on Monday, would be the sixth such bail granted him since trial.

The trial judge, Justice Ojukwu, described the continuous detention of the Dasuki for the last two and half years as ‘an aberration to the rule of law and the contrition’.

She, therefore, grated the former NSA bail in the sum of N200 million and two sureties.

The sureties according to her, must not be lower than grade 16 in the civil service and where they are private citizens they must be owners of landed properties in Asokoro, Maitama, Utako or Garki area of Abuja.

source :Sun

The Other Side Of Okada Ban In Awka and Onitsha ,Anambra State.

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bvichannel1

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July 2, 2018

Every afternoon beside my office around Kwatta in Awka,tens of Okada Riders assemble to patronize Mama -Put Food Vendor. About 70% Customers of this road side food vendor come from Okada Riders.The reason is obvious; Okada Riders can easily make a thousand naira within few hours to go for N250 plate of fufu food.

We need to understand what powers the economy .It is the micro economic activities of business units that keep the circular flow of income ,consumption and expenditure afloat.

Effective this morning ,the policy on Okada ban within Awka and Onitsha will affect the purchasing powersk of many households.Not just among the Okada Riders but to that woman beside my office ,to the Ugu sellers inside eke Awka market,fish sellers etc

This policy tends to reduce accident causalities within these two cities as well as stopping street robbery ,however,government should have implemented a complementary policy before today to cushion the effect of a gap between demand and supply .Every economic policy comes with certain degree of pains but responsible government all over the world considers the welfare of the ordinary people before policy execution.

Gov Obiano Administration has announced a credit facility for 1000 shuttle buses as an alternate measure to cushion effect the ban will have on the Okada Riders.The problem with this laudable measure lies on the sincerity of the Government Agents in ensuring that the right thing is done.

Sadly,there is a wide communication gap between those in power and the poor masses.Ask your self,why should people go into Okada riding business? Because Government has failed to create investment friendly environment viz power and micro funding.With an increasing population, businesses and factories are shutting down because of frustrating and unfriendly operational business environment.

As an economist,I know that Anambra State Government will create another economic problems with dire consequences if prompt actions are not taken to narrow the gap that will surface because of the implementation of Okada ban within Awka and Onitsha.However,the gap will create other business opportunities which will be dissected in days to come.

Ndubuisi Anaenugwu is an economist and a Director in BVIChannel 1

Coalition of Pro Biafra Groups Meets With Diaspora Leaders

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June 28, 2018

The Coalition of pro Biafra groups, on Wednesday, met in Enugu State, with the prime minister of Biafra Government in Exile (BGIE) and some other Diaspora leaders of other pro-Biafra groups in Europe where they resolved to work together as one family fighting for one course of Biafra restoration.

Our Reporters gathered that groups had also resolved to move under a collegiate leadership with the spirit of oneness and brotherhood.

Mr. Uchenna Madu,One of the Leaders of the Coalition, who confirmed the meeting said that it lasted till early hours of Wednesday, with full of hope and confidence as the collegiate leadership of pro-Biafra coalitions groups at home and Diaspora deliberated extensively on the ideological approaches and differences on pursuit of Biafra restoration.

Madu said, “We later resolved to work together as comrades fighting for the same course”.

“The Diaspora leadership of pro Biafra coalitions groups and Biafra government in Exile (BGIE) hails the true reflection of unity, love and brotherhood exhibited by the members of coalition.

“They specifically commend the coalition on the successful Biafra day anniversary celebration.

“The prime Minister noted that this coalition of pro Biafra is one of the best development in history of the current agitation for the restoration of Biafra.

“The details of other issues discussed which includes the conscious security of Biafra land, 2019 general election and international diplomatic contacts will not be exposed now”.

He said that the coalition met with the leadership of Ambazonia Republic from Southern Cameroon where it discussed bilateral relationship.

“The coalition meeting also entered into a handshake discourse with the representatives of the interim government of Southern Cameroon (Ambazonian Republic).

“We discussed on the processes of building a diplomatic and bilateral relationship that will enhance the interest of Biafra and Ambazonia (Southern Cameroon)”.

“The two emerging African States resolved to work together for a sustainable and effective diplomatic processes of achieving full sovereignty and total independence from Nigeria and Cameroon,” Madu stated.

Source : Sun

Plateau Massacre: Task Force troops parade 3 suspects

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bvichannel1

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June 28, 2018

The Special Military Task Force, Operation Save Haven, yesterday paraded three suspects in connection with the latest killings in Plateau State.

The three men were said to have been captured at Gashish District in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects were paraded in Jos, alongside 14 others who were arrested over the killings in which people described as herdsmen were believed to have massacred over 200 people, mainly locals and farmers, between Saturday and Sunday dawn of June 24.

At least, 11 villages in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area and its environs were affected in the onslaught in which property worth billions of naira were also destroyed.

Parading the suspects, spokesman of the STF, Major Umar Adams, said the suspects were arrested while they had in their possession sophisticated rifles.

Adams said two of the suspects were Fulani herders and one Berom, a minority ethnic group in Plateau.

Adams said the suspects were arrested in the course of the attacks.

“We all know that some days back, some villages in Barkin Ladi were attacked and these three suspects were arrested in connection with that.

“As our men were repelling the attacks in those areas, we arrested these suspects with four rifles, three locally made guns and one AK-47.

“The other 14 people were arrested in connection with civil unrest recently experienced in the state.”

Adams said that the suspects were still being investigated and that more arrests would be made.

Source :Sun

Sen Ben Bruce, Kema Chikwe, Ikoku, others for Women Leadership Conferenc

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June 28, 2018

The Women Leadership Institute, Abuja will be holding its inaugural conference on Thursday, 28th June 2018.

According to information from the Programme Manager, Amaka Chijioke, the theme for the Conference is ‘Transforming Africa Through Women Leadership’.

Speakers for the event include Ms Eugenia Abu, Ms Mary Ikoku, Ms Aisha Aliyu and Dr Akilu Sani Indabawa.

Others are Professor Chudi Uwazurike, Udo Maryann Okonjo, Crochelle Harris-Hussein and Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji,

The official launch and opening of the Institute will be performed by the Special Guest of Honour, Senator Ben Bruce and Mr Anthony Ubani, while the welcome address will be presented by its founder, Ambassador Kema Chikwe, a former Minister of Aviation.

A Video Documentary of the Institute will also be aired while Closing Remarks will be done by Ms. Somachi Kachikwu.

Conference sessions will be divided into three, with the following topics to be discussed: The Courage to Lead, Mobilizing the Power of Women to Lead, and Next Steps.

Venue for the conference is National Universities Commission, Abuja and time is 9am prompt.

Anambra Government Releases Areas Affected By Okada Ban

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bvichannel1

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June 25, 2018

HERE ARE THE AREAS AFFECTED BY OKADA BAN STARTING FROM JULY 1

The Anambra State Government won’t be going back on its stand to ban Okada within Onitsha and Awka, as from July 1st, 2018.

According to the public service announcement on the enforcement order signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu, the areas affected by the ban are as follows:

GREATER ONITSHA AREA

Onitsha Urban (Onitsha North and South LGAs)

Okpoko

Ogbaru Metro

3/3 Area

Obosi/ Awada Area

Nkpor Area up to Ugwunwasike/ New Tarzan

Ogidi Urban

Oba Urban

GREATER AWKA AREA

Awka Metro (including all adjourning streets within the town)

Amawbia Metro (including all adjourning streets in the town)

Nibo Metro

Okpuno

Amansea

SPECIAL AREAS

All major highways from Head Bridge (Onitsha) to Amansea (including the Expressway and Old Road)

All major highways from Head Bridge (Onitsha) to Upper Iweka, to Owerri road and Oba Junction.

The order further called on affected persons to seek alternative means of livelihood as eligible persons may as well take advantage of the loan scheme for the purchase of mini busses as provided by the government through the Anambra Small Business Agency (ASBA).

The various security agencies have also been mandate to arrest and prosecute motorcyclists flouting the order while their motorcycles are impounded and forfeited therewith.

The government thereby calls on Ndị Anambra to support its effort in sanitizing the transport system and sustaining the security in the state.

Stop Professional Praise Singers-Ndubuisi Advises Political Leaders

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bvichannel1

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June 25, 2018

I feel so sad that our present crop of political leaders at all levels have not learnt anything from recent history.I really feel that there is indeed evil spirit attacking our political Leaders whenever they get into political office .Reuben Abati once told battered Nigerians that strong evil powers abound inside Aso Villa.Many called him names then.

From my personal research ,I have been able to deduct that the evil spirit is the people outside power.Let me say that I sympathize with the President,The Governors,The Senators, The Honorable Members .You need to sympathize with these people.The condition of our political Leaders is like driving a Bus whose body was built and constructed with wooden materials instead of metal.The Conductor and few passengers are enjoying the drive but the Driver is afraid of the obvious but could not stop since many are not complaining of the danger ahead .The Passengers and Conductor are professional praise singers !

The kind of professional praise singers we have within the political circle is rather most unprecedented. Have we actually lost our senses! I am bothered that even those who should know better ,those who have travelled to foreign countries to study the way of white people are all guilty of praise singing directly or indirectly. As Head of Operations in the Bank then,I have always advised my Staffers to criticize me,my work strategy and style.I have always encouraged them to feel free to question my actions.

Presently ,I always caution those with praise singing altitude around me.Be real and do your work .Let your good work speak for you.This cankerworm called Praise Singing is the evil spirit is the villa and Governors’ lodges.As human,you are bound to get confused .

Those who attended townhall meeting organised by Anambra State Association of Town Unions at Dora Akunyili conference centre,Awka last Saturday for Anambra Central Senatorial Zone would agree with me that the people on the floor were never given opportunity to express their views on the topic of that day- Democracy,The People,and Our Collective Aspirations.As usual,it turned out to be a platform for self glorification and a platform for praise singing,at the end,nobody gave microphone to the ordinary people that had to forgo other important engagements to be part of town hall meeting.I will remain indebted to internet for given my poor self a platform to express my views on certain issues bothering us as a people.

I have a lot to say but it is important to note that Nigeria as a country is fraudulently packaged to favour just few people.The first to be done is massive reorientation of our people on the skewed political and economic structures in Nigeria and Igbo agenda while in Nigeria.These men spoke in line with my thought during the town hall meeting viz Prof Pita Ejiofo,Chief Damian Okeke- Ogene,Dr Jude Okolo and few others.

Going forward,those organizing Town hall meeting should note that it is an opportunity to secure feedback from the people because NaThemBeGovernment .

Ndubuisi is the Coordinator of OurMumuDondo Movement in Anambra State

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Halt Okada Ban For Now-OMPAN Advises Obiano

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June 25, 2018

OMPAN ANAMBRA STATE CHAPTER URGES ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNOR TO EXTEND THE DATE ON BAN OF OKADA TO DECEMBER 31

Leaders and members of the trail blazing Association, Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter has urged Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State to urgently revert the proposed date of July 1st given to commercial motorcyclists in some of the major cities (Awka and Onitsha) in the state to stop operating.

The Chairman of OMPAN Anambra State Chapter, Comrade Mike Nwachukuwu during the general meeting of the Association on Sunday 24th June, 2018 said it is in the best interest of Ndi Anambra both home and abroad that enough time be given to the okada people, as this is the source of livelihood for many them.

He equally stated that most of them could not afford the N100,000 Which the state government slated for the leasing of the mini shuttle and requested they been given from now till December 31st in order to save up money especially now the country is experiencing economic downturn.

However; Comrade Nwachukwu led his team to an Okada park in GRA, Onitsha metropolis where the entire OMPAN team interacted with some of the motorcycle operators.

Speaking to OMPAN, Mr Innocent Amudu, a motorcyclist in Onitsha lamented on the July 1 deadline saying that the notice was too short for them as he is a family man with five children and the Okada business is the only source of his livelihood.

Another motorcyclist , Mr Onyekachi Eze noted that the N100,000 bus scheme by the state government is a good development but 90% of Okada people cannot even afford that amount and to get a civil servant worker to surety him has been a problem.

Mr Eze who said he worked as a polling agent officer during the November 18th general election urged Gov. Obiano to extend the time to December 31 to give them time to save up enough money.

Also speaking to OMPAN, the Chairman of the Okada Association GRA branch, Mr Chima John appreciated OMPAN for the visit while explaining that the decision of the government might not improve security.

According to him, most of the Commercial cyclists are law abiding citizens who went into Okada business to support their various families.

He explained that he has used the business to train his children in school, help his aged mother and train his six (6) children.

He further requested the government to give them enough time to plan out new business model to venture in.

Meanwhile, OMPAN members took turns in interviewing them and some passerby who make use of motorcycle for their daily activities.

OMPAN Anambra State Chapter promise to keep the general public updated on event concerning the ban as we believe that the government will reconsider her decision.

Breaking News-Nnamdi Kanu Co:-Defendants Granted Bail!

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bvichannel1

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June 25, 2018

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, the nation’s capital, has on Monday, granted bail to four pro-Biafra agitators- Bright Chimezie, Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi.

The Biafra agitators were hitherto facing treasonable felony charge alongside the ‘missing’ leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.

Trial Justice, Binta Nyako granted the defendants bail to the tune of N10million each with two sureties in like sum.

The presiding judge also directed that the money should be deposited in cash to the Chief Registrar of the Court, even as she ordered the defendants to surrender all their travelling documents and not travel without leave of the court.