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Rivers Crisis: Wike’s Camp, APC Head For Court As Governor Fubara Swears In Local Government Chairmen

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The Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress factions on Sunday rejected the conduct and outcome of the local government election, stating that no election was held in the state on Saturday.

The Rivers PDP loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, described the poll as “an exercise in futility,” vowing to challenge it in court.

This came as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, swore in the newly elected council chairmen of the 23 local government areas of the state.

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Sunday at the Executive Council Chamber of the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital, shortly after the chairmen received certificates of return from the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Adolphus Enebeli.

Saturday’s council election, which saw instances of explosions and gunfire, was won largely by the Action Peoples Party, which secured 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions, with the Action Alliance winning one seat.

The APP also took 314 of the 319 councillorship seats in the 23 local government areas.

The election’s results were shaped by the political power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.

After losing control of the PDP to Wike, Fubara’s supporters turned to the APP, securing positions in their local government areas.

  • PDP Challenges Poll

In an interview with The PUNCH, Rivers PDP Publicity Secretary, Kenneth Yowika, reaffirmed the party’s stance to challenge the election in court. He emphasized that the ruling party in the state had long insisted on the Federal High Court judgment, which barred the conduct of the election, describing the government’s actions as illegal.

Yowika said, “We are pressing further through the courts to ensure that justice is done and seen to have been done… We stand by the ruling of the Federal High Court which said that election should not go on.”

Similarly, Chibuike Ikenga, Publicity Secretary of the APC faction led by Chief Tony Okocha, also upheld the Federal High Court judgment, criticizing the state government’s decision to go ahead with the poll despite the court ruling.

Ikenga said, “As a party, we insist on obeying the decisions of the Federal High Court under Justice Peter Lifu… Our position is that you cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand.”

The APC faction loyal to former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, however, expressed satisfaction with the election, noting that the party would not contest the outcome.

Chizi Enyi, Chief of Staff to the APC Chairman, Emeka Beke, said the party “won the council slot” and was pleased with the election results.

Sydney Gbara, Rivers State Commissioner for Environment and former PDP Publicity Secretary, echoed this sentiment, describing the election as “the freest and fairest” in the state’s history, noting the peaceful atmosphere despite the absence of police security.

  • Governor Fubara Admonishes Chairmen

Speaking to the newly sworn-in chairmen, Fubara emphasized the importance of humility and service, urging them to be “servants” rather than “emperors.” He reminded them that leadership is about bringing people together and working for the development of the state’s 23 local government areas.

Fubara warned them against greed and the misuse of power, adding that his administration would monitor the activities of the local governments closely to ensure accountability and progress.

He further expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support and commended Rivers residents for their resilience during the election process.

  • Election Results and Reactions

Justice Adolphus Enebeli, RSIEC Chairman, presented the certificates of return to the elected chairmen and vice-chairmen, emphasizing the power of the ballot over violence, stating that “the ballot paper in the hands of the people is stronger than arms and ammunition.”

In total, the APP secured 314 out of the 319 councillorship seats, while the APC, Boot Party, Labour Party, Social Democratic Party, and Young People’s Party won the remaining five.

In a congratulatory message, the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, praised Fubara and the people of Rivers State for rejecting “the machinations of self-serving godfathers” and urged the newly elected chairmen to focus on residents’ welfare.

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Kenneth Minimah (retd), also commended the election process, calling it a “significant milestone” for the state. He urged politicians to prioritize the welfare of the people.

Meanwhile, the Ogonis in the Diaspora, under the aegis of Greater Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation, condemned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his handling of the political crisis in the state, calling for his resignation and threatening to take him to the International Criminal Court if the situation persists.

 

Credit: The Punch

BIG STORY

JUST IN: Soldiers Attack KAI Officials For Demolishing Their Building In Yaba [VIDEO]

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Men of the Nigerian army attacked officers of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps while they were carrying out their duty in Yaba.

According to the Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, the officers were attacked for demolishing a structure built by soldiers near the perimeter fence of Yaba College of Technology.

Wahab stated, ‘’Earlier today, officers of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), lawfully engaged in their duties in Yaba, were subjected to an unprovoked attack by personnel of the Nigerian Army under the directive of Major Adebiyi and Captain Gowon.’’

He also extended gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General T. Lagbaja, and the Director of Chaplain Services, Lt. Col. T.E. Ogbonyomi, for their swift intervention, which allowed KAI officers to continue their responsibilities without further disruption.

Wahab condemned the assault, stating, ‘’We strongly condemn this unwarranted and unacceptable assault on officers executing their lawful duties.’’ He also emphasized that such acts would not be tolerated in the future and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to ensuring a #CleanerLagos by upholding safety and sanitation standards.

 

See video below (viewers discretion advised)

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BIG STORY

CBN Weighs In: Responds To Attempts To Misinform The Banking Public And Reasserts Its Role As Apex Banking Authority

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In a show of strong support for GTCO and move to debunk false allegations being levelled against the GTCO and its Executive Management by faceless and unqualified entities using the media, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), issued a Press Release today reassuring the public that their deposits with Nigerian Banks are safe.

The Statement titled, “CBN Reaffirms Commitment to Financial System Stability, Safety of Depositors’ Funds” and signed by Ag. Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali (Mrs.), begins with a firm assurance: “The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) wishes to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment to ensuring the stability and reliability of the Nigerian financial system.” It further stated, “The CBN recognises the crucial role that confidence plays in banking operations and wants to affirm that all deposits in Nigerian banks are secure. The CBN actively ensures that banks adhere to established regulations and best practices to maintain the integrity of our financial system. Regular stress testing is conducted to identify potential vulnerabilities, helping to ensure that our financial institutions are resilient.”

On how the Monetary Authority fulfills its oversight responsibility, ensuring system-wide monitoring of licensed Banks in Nigeria as well as their offshore operations, the Statement says, “In addition, the CBN has implemented Early Warning Systems that proactively detect and address emerging risks, allowing us to provide timely solutions to any foreseen issues. The Bank’s approach to Risk-Based Supervision ensures that it focuses its regulatory efforts on institutions that may pose the highest risk to the financial system. This targeted strategy allows it to maintain a robust oversight mechanism while promoting the overall health of the banking sector. Furthermore, the CBN has established Memoranda of Understanding with the various countries where Nigerian banks’ subsidiaries are located. This collaboration enhances regulatory coordination and ensures that our banks operate within a safe and sound framework in accordance with banking regulations, both domestically and internationally.”

In closing, the Ag. Director said, “The CBN remains dedicated to fostering a secure banking environment where depositors can be fully confident in the safety of their funds. It will continue to monitor and adapt strategies to safeguard the financial interests of all Nigerians and stakeholders in our financial system.

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BIG STORY

Nigeria’s Leading Female Entrepreneurs Gather At WHATRYBE 2.0 To Empower Women [PHOTOS]

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…harp on the need for women to seize business initiatives

The 2024 edition of edition of the Women High Achievers Trybe (WHATRYBE) recently held at the highbrow Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos on October 3, 2024 with some of the leading female entrepreneurs in Nigeria on hand to give business nuggets and ideas to the over 500 women entrepreneurs in attendance. Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited and Abimbola Balogun of So Fresh Limited delivered the keynote addresses.

Key highlights of the event included:

– Panel Session 1: “Money Moves” – Etemore Glover, Sola Adesakin, and Grace Ofure discussed funding opportunities for businesses, including strategies to attract angel investors and securing financial stability for women entrepreneurs.

– Interactive Break – Attendees participated in a “Find the Clue” game, with winners walking away with exciting freebies during the tea break.

– Panel Session 2: “Brand Magnetism” – Tolulope Medebem and Dr. Olatunde Samson led discussions on the importance of creating excellent customer experiences and leveraging digital marketing for business growth.

– Grants and Prizes – Two women won grants of ₦100,000 for their businesses, and three others received free business registrations, highlighting the conference’s commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs.

– Panel Session 3: “Flame Keepers” – Mounfiq Raiyan Abu, a life sync expert, took attendees through a motivational journey, emphasizing the importance of staying aligned with one’s purpose: “Sync, not sink.” Damilola Saula, a photographer, followed with a hands-on tutorial on content creation, proving that high-quality work can be achieved without expensive equipment.

– Health Talk – Dr. Ede Edokpolo wrapped up the sessions with a health-focused discussion on managing stress and maintaining overall well-being, offering essential tips for busy women professionals.

Hosted by the charismatic Olive Emodi, the conference provided not only knowledge and inspiration but also practical tools to help women break through their challenges and build bridges to greater opportunities.

This year’s conference underscored the strength and unity of women in business and leadership, leaving attendees inspired and equipped to continue breaking barriers and building bridges in their respective fields.

The annual conference convened by fashion icon and entrepreneur; Mrs. Kiki Okewale of Hope by Kiki saw more than 500 business entrepreneurs in attendance. The event saw passionate exchanges and impactful moments as attendees explored how women can thrive in business, leadership, and personal development.

In her opening address, Mrs. Okewale charged the women to look beyond limitations and change their focus about challenges, according to her, “We all face obstacles: limited access to funding, opportunities that feel out of reach, and networks that sometimes seem exclusive. But let’s reframe how we see these challenges… When women thrive, our communities blossom.” Her words set the tone for the event, urging women to collaborate and uplift one another in business and life.

The day kicked off with a powerful meditation session led by Clinical Hypnotherapist Adeola Kingsley-James, which moved many attendees emotionally, allowing them to embrace healing and prepare for the day’s events.

The keynote address by Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited, focused on “Building Generational Wealth.” She shared insights on breaking barriers and building lasting legacies, urging women to think strategically about long-term success. The other keynote address was by Abimbola Balogun of So Fresh Limited.

Key highlights of the event included:

– Panel Session 1: “Money Moves” – Etemore Glover, Sola Adesakin, and Grace Ofure discussed funding opportunities for businesses, including strategies to attract angel investors and securing financial stability for women entrepreneurs.

– Interactive Break – Attendees participated in a “Find the Clue” game, with winners walking away with exciting freebies during the tea break.

– Panel Session 2: “Brand Magnetism” – Tolulope Medebem and Dr. Olatunde Samson led discussions on the importance of creating excellent customer experiences and leveraging digital marketing for business growth.

– Grants and Prizes – Two women won grants of ₦100,000 for their businesses, and three others received free business registrations, highlighting the conference’s commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs.

– Panel Session 3: “Flame Keepers” – Mounfiq Raiyan Abu, a life sync expert, took attendees through a motivational journey, emphasizing the importance of staying aligned with one’s purpose: “Sync, not sink.” Damilola Saula, a photographer, followed with a hands-on tutorial on content creation, proving that high-quality work can be achieved without expensive equipment.

– Health Talk – Dr. Ede Edokpolo wrapped up the sessions with a health-focused discussion on managing stress and maintaining overall well-being, offering essential tips for busy women professionals.

Hosted by the charismatic Olive Emodi, the conference provided not only knowledge and inspiration but also practical tools to help women break through their challenges and build bridges to greater opportunities.

This year’s conference underscored the strength and unity of women in business and leadership, leaving attendees inspired and equipped to continue breaking barriers and building bridges in their respective fields.

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